We earnestly hope that the steps taken in the future in the work in San Francisco will be steps of progress. The work that has been done there is but a beginning. San Francisco is a world in itself, and the Lord’s work there is to be broader and deeper. Souls are to be sought for. The Word of the Lord is to be declared, that His name may be glorified. (16LtMs, Ms 2, 1901, 12)

God will use consecrated ability in His service. As His servants impart to others that which they have received, He will entrust them with more to impart. And as they are enabled through His grace to accomplish good, they ascribe all the glory to Him who is the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last. Thus divinity and humanity work together. Men become laborers together with God, working out their own salvation with fear and trembling, realizing always that it is God who works in them, to will and to do of His good pleasure. (16LtMs, Ms 2, 1901, 13)

There is a great work to be done in San Francisco and Oakland. The Lord will use humble men in these great cities. He can work with those who will labor in His fear. He will give evidence of His power to sincere workers and to sincere inquirers after the truth who desire not only to know, but to perform His will. (16LtMs, Ms 2, 1901, 14)

There are men and women whom the Lord, through peculiar circumstances, will bring to the front in His work. These will be men and women who have consecrated themselves to Him. As they walk before Him in faith and trust, He will lead them to places of usefulness and honor. He is a present help in every time of need to those who rely on Him. The Lord will qualify those who honor His name for important and perilous service, although they may not have time to obtain all the education they desire. The great Teacher understands. What He calls for is the willing devotion of heart and mind. When this is given Him, He will fit the givers for His service, in spite of apparent difficulties and obstacles. In His name and in His strength they will go forth to conquer. (16LtMs, Ms 2, 1901, 15)

God is testing the motives and principles of men and women. Strong faith and much prayer will bring heavenly angels to our side. By patient continuance in well doing, we become channels of light. (16LtMs, Ms 2, 1901, 16)

Those who are willing to be emptied of self will be fitted for the good work before all who will deny self and lift the cross. Through the help of the Holy Spirit they gain the victories God wishes them to gain. Wisdom and strength will award energy and perseverance. These are God’s gifts to the diligent, humble worker. (16LtMs, Ms 2, 1901, 17)

Ms 3, 1901

Notes of Work
NP
December 3, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 17MR 47-49. +

Here I am in San Francisco. Two weeks ago Elder Corliss came up to St. Helena and urged me to go to San Francisco and help in the meetings during the Week of Prayer. (16LtMs, Ms 3, 1901, 1)

A few weeks ago I visited this place and spoke to a church full of people who had ears to hear and hearts to understand. They seemed to be hungering for the Word of the Lord, and we believe they heard to a purpose. As I spoke in plain, simple language the word of life, I knew that Christ was with us, softening and subduing hearts. The Holy Spirit was evidently at work. Oh, how my heart yearned for the precious souls whom I was inviting to look and live. (16LtMs, Ms 3, 1901, 2)

After the meeting Elder Corliss invited all who wished to give themselves to Jesus to come forward. There was a quick and happy response, and I was told that nearly two hundred people came forward. Men and women, youth and children, pressed into the front seats. This is a work the Lord would have done in every church. (16LtMs, Ms 3, 1901, 3)

Many could not come forward because the house was so crowded, yet the animated countenances and tearful eyes testified to the determination, “I will be on the Lord’s side. From this time I will seek earnestly to reach a higher standard.” (16LtMs, Ms 3, 1901, 4)

The most earnest efforts should be made to lead the older and younger members of our churches to take hold of the work where they are. The Lord will use all who will give themselves to Him in deed and in truth. The who give themselves to the work of teaching the truth and laboring for the conversion of souls should first be vitalized by the Holy Spirit; and then they should go forth without the camp into the most unpromising places. The Lord has not given to those of little experience the work of preaching to the churches. The message is to be proclaimed in the highways and hedges. (16LtMs, Ms 3, 1901, 5)

Where are the men who know how to organize? You are needed just now. Only those who are themselves guided by the great principles of the truth, who have themselves felt the power of the grace of God, can be a blessing to others. These are the ones who can labor for who are living in carelessness. Those who, on their knees and with the Bible before them, seek for a living connection with the source of all power will gain an experience which will be of more value to them than gold. (16LtMs, Ms 3, 1901, 6)

Careful management on all points is needed so that we shall neither run into the fire of fanaticism nor drift into formalism, which will freeze our own souls and the souls of others. We need more of the good, old-fashioned religion which leads a man to walk humbly before God. He who possesses this religion brings into his work an awakened intellect. He grasps the theory of truth, but he does not stop there. He co-operates with God by using in His service all the gifts entrusted to him. He spends much time with God in prayer, and divine power comes to him, enabling him to understand the sacred art of saving souls. (16LtMs, Ms 3, 1901, 7)

There is no need of our making continual blunders in the work of the Lord. Ministers need the guiding philosophy which gives them strength to save souls ready to perish. This philosophy is necessary in the work of God. But how little effort is put forth to educate the youth before they go out into God’s vineyard. Little genuine zeal is shown in the work of educating and training the inexperienced disciple to seek for souls as he that must give an account. (16LtMs, Ms 3, 1901, 8)

I beseech those who have received the light of truth to do all in their power to carry out the commission given by Christ to His disciples. Let ministers understand that they are to impart that which they receive. Let them remember that their success comes from God, who is always ready to give a fresh supply of grace . Let them live in the light and love of God, improving the opportunities presented to them, and drawing into the web threads which will help to make the perfect pattern. Each human being is weaving his own web, and each throw of the shuttle helps to decide his destiny, . (16LtMs, Ms 3, 1901, 9)

The church is in great need of purification. There are sins which are unrepented of and unconfessed. The poison of sin the church. Many have been so deceived, their principles have been so corrupted, that the Word of God, has no power over their lives. God will test character. In the day of final judgment, when every man shall be judged according to the deeds he has done in the body, nothing will seem to have existence but character and the law of God. Man will be stripped of everything but the character he has formed. All will be seen to be either righteous or unrighteous. (16LtMs, Ms 3, 1901, 10)

Now pretense and semblance reign in the world. But God’s law calls for more than words. An imperative voice says, “By their fruits ye shall know them.” [Matthew 7:20.] God calls for works. Our future happiness depends on active faith and good works. (16LtMs, Ms 3, 1901, 11)

Christ created human beings, and then, by a life of suffering and humiliation and a death of agony and shame, He redeemed them from sin. O sinner, the Saviour endured all this for you. He died that you might be led to see the sinfulness of sin . (16LtMs, Ms 3, 1901, 12)

Ms 4, 1901

The Need and Importance of Voice Culture
NP
January 15, 1901 [date typed]
Portions of this manuscript are published in AH 435. +

In all our schools great attention should be paid to voice culture. Good readers are rare. Reading classes should be formed in which each student is given a thorough drill in pronunciation and emphasis. This is necessary if in the future the students are successful in communicating to others that which they have learned. The student who leaves school unable to read and speak correctly is not half-prepared for a position in the service of God. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 1)

Students should be taught to read and speak in an acceptable manner, pronouncing their words clearly and distinctly, and giving proper emphasis and expression to the thoughts. They should be taught how to control and modulate the voice, letting it rise and fall at the proper times. No tame, expressionless reading should be permitted. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 2)

Vocal culture should be made one of the most important branches of education in our schools. In order for this to be done the teachers must themselves understand the art of reading and speaking. Those who help to prepare students for God’s great work should be men and women who understand and appreciate the value of voice culture, who have studied this themselves and know how to instruct others. If teachers are defective in this respect, their work is of little value compared with what it would be if they knew how to read and speak aright. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 3)

Let this matter be no longer neglected by the teachers in our schools. Let them teach the students how to read in clear, full tones, and how to give the proper emphasis and expression to the thoughts. And let the students themselves strive perseveringly to become good readers. In every part of the student’s life, voice culture is of the greatest consequence. The intellect is of double value when there is joined with it the power to use the voice as it should be used. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 4)

We may have knowledge, but unless we know how to use the voice correctly, our work will be a failure. Unless we can clothe our ideas in appropriate language, of what avail is our education? All the knowledge we may gain will be of little advantage to us unless we cultivate the talent of speech, that the door of the lips may open to allow ideas to go forth to bless others. Knowledge is a wonderful power when combined with the ability to speak wise, helpful words, and to speak them in a way that will command attention. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 5)

We are bound by all holy motives to do what is in our power to meet the necessities for this time. Let us cultivate the talent of speech so that it will be a power in winning souls to Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 6)

Students who expect to become workers in the cause of God should be trained to speak in a clear, straightforward manner, else they will be shorn of half their influence for good. The ability to speak plainly and clearly, in full, round tones, is invaluable in any line of work. This qualification is indispensable in those who desire to become ministers, evangelists, Bible workers, or canvassers. Those who are planning to enter these lines of work should be taught to use the voice in such a way that when they speak to people about the truth, a decided impression for good will be made. The truth must not be marred by being communicated through defective channels. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 7)

The canvasser who can speak clearly and distinctly about the merits of the book he wishes to sell will find that this is a great help to him in selling the book. He may have an opportunity to read a chapter of the book, and by the music of his voice and the emphasis placed on the words, he can make the scene presented stand out as clearly before the mind of the listener as though it could in reality be seen. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 8)

The one who gives Bible readings should be able to read with a soft, musical cadence which will charm the hearers. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 9)

Ministers of the gospel should know how to speak with power and expression, making the words of eternal life so expressive and impressive that the hearers cannot help but feel their weight. I am pained as I hear the defective voices of many of our ministers. Such ministers rob God of the glory He might have if they had trained themselves to speak the word with power. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 10)

To be able to speak correctly is the life and health of a speaker. In speaking, the strain of the work should not be put upon the throat and lungs. The abdominal muscles are to do the heaviest share of the labor, the throat being used as the channel. Many have died who might have lived had they in the schoolroom been taught that the voice is a precious talent and must be used with the greatest care. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 11)

No man should consider himself qualified to enter the ministry until by persevering effort he has overcome every defect in his utterance. If he attempts to speak to the people without knowing how to use the talent of speech, half his influence is lost; for he has little power to hold the attention of a congregation. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 12)

Those who are engaged in mechanical lines of work will find it greatly to their advantage to cultivate the talent of speech. Thus they can make a success of their work, when, did they neglect to speak correctly, they would make a failure. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 13)

Those who are planning to engage in business lines need to learn how to control the voice, so that when they go forth into their work, they will not, if something goes wrong, speak in tones that will stir the worst passions of the human heart. Too often the speaker and the one spoken to, speak sharply and harshly. Sharp, dictatorial words, uttered in hard, rasping tones, have separated friends and resulted in the loss of souls. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 14)

Instruction in vocal culture should be given in the home circle. Parents should teach their children to speak so plainly that those who are listening can understand every word that is said. They should teach them to read the Bible in in a way that will honor God. And let not those who kneel round the family altar put their faces in their hands when they address God. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 15)

Parents, train yourselves to speak in a way that will be a blessing to your children. Women need to be educated in this respect. There are many busy mothers who have never had time to go back and pick up the dropped stitches; but even these, if they will, can cultivate the talent of speech, and can teach their children to read and speak correctly. Let working men and working women remember that it is never too late for them to improve. God calls upon parents to bring all the perfection possible into the home circle. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 16)

In the social meeting there is especial need of clear, distinct utterance, that all may hear and be benefited by the testimonies borne. Difficulties are removed and help is given as God’s people relate their experiences in social meeting. But too often the testimonies are borne with faulty, indistinct utterance; and it is impossible to gain a correct idea of what is said. The blessing is lost through a failure to use rightly the talent of speech. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 17)

We have given altogether too little attention to this subject. Let those who speak and those who pray pronounce their words properly and speak in plain, distinct, even tones. Prayer, if properly offered, is a power for good. It is one of the means used by the Lord to communicate the precious treasures of truth to the people. But prayer is not what it should be, because of the defective voices of those who utter it. Satan rejoices when the prayers offered to God are almost inaudible. Church members should be taught to speak and pray in a way that will properly represent the great truths they possess. Let the testimonies borne and the prayers offered be clear and distinct. Then the social meeting will be a place where God will be glorified. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 18)

Let all make the most of the talent of speech, remembering that the voice has been given to them by God to be improved and used in His service. Let there be a reformation among us in regard to the way in which we use this talent. Let all take hold of this matter in earnest. God calls for a higher, more perfect ministry. He is dishonored by the imperfect service of the one who by painstaking effort could be an acceptable mouthpiece for Him. The truth is too often marred by the channel through which it passes. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 19)

The Lord calls upon all who are connected with His service to give proper attention to the cultivation of the voice, that they may utter acceptably the great and solemn truths He has entrusted to them. He calls upon them not to attempt to hold forth the word of life to others unless they can do this work in a way that will honor Him. Let them not mar the truth by defective utterance. Let not those who have neglected to cultivate the talent of speech suppose that they are qualified to minister, for they have yet to obtain the power to communicate. Let those who in the past have not felt it their duty to try to improve the voice, begin this work now, before any more time passes away. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 20)

When you speak, let every word be full and well rounded, every sentence clear and distinct, down to the very last word. Many, as they approach the end of the sentence, drop the voice, speaking so indistinctly, with such weakness of utterance, that the force of what they say is destroyed. Words that are worth speaking at all are worthy of being spoken in a clear, distinct voice, with emphasis and expression. But never search for words that will give the impression that you are learned. The greater your simplicity, the better will your words be understood. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 21)

Has God placed in your hearts, young men and young women, a desire to do service for Him? Then by all means cultivate the voice to the utmost of your ability, so that you can make plain to others the precious truth. Do not fall into the habit of praying so indistinctly and in such a low tone that your prayers need an interpreter. Pray simply, but clearly and distinctly. To let the voice sink so low that it cannot be heard is no evidence of humility. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 22)

Learn how to offer up your intercessions in an acceptable manner. First consider your great need, and do not think it necessary to tell God a long list of things about yourself, as though He did not know. Come right to the point. In a voice of urgent entreaty, make known your great need. Be as earnest as a child is when asking its parents for something it very much desires. Mingle joyous thanksgiving with your requests. Thank the Lord for His great love and mercy toward His redeemed by the great sacrifice of the only begotten Son of God. Ask Him to help you to be His instrument in saving souls. Ask for wisdom and grace to know how to approach your fellow men. And let your heart always be filled with sincere gratitude for God’s great gift, even the gift of His only begotten Son. Has not God given His Son to die for you? And with this gift has He not given all heaven? Contemplate this subject, and your heart will burn within you as you think of the infinite sacrifice made in your behalf. Oh, put your heart, all broken and subdued, into your petitions. Do not, when you approach your heavenly Father, to plead for the salvation of your own soul and the salvation of those around you, offer up a petition that is as prosy as a chapter of an uninteresting book. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 23)

All that is done in the service of God should be done with wholeheartedness. Let ministers and teachers pray with hearts overflowing with love for God. The people become weary of listening to prayers that are as dry, as destitute of moisture, as the hills of Gilboa were destitute of dew and rain. It is hard to imagine anything more icy, more devoid of fervor, than many of the prayers offered by ministers whose petitions ought to be warm with the fire of God’s love. Tame, spiritless prayers are a sign of a Christless heart. He whose heart is softened and subdued by the love of God will pray with fervency and zeal. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 24)

But let no one try to make eloquent prayers. Such prayers God does not acknowledge. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 25)

Prayer is an expression of the needs of the soul. Our prayers should never be set and formal, but full of tenderness and love. Yearning for a deeper, broader realization of the Saviour’s matchless love, we should cry to God for more wisdom. If there was ever need for soul-stirring prayers and discourses, it is now. The end of all things is at hand. Those who pray now should pray with sincerity and under the moving of the Holy Spirit. O that we could see as we should the necessity of seeking the Lord with all the heart. Then we should find Him. Our hearts need to be cleansed from all selfishness. So much of this great evil is cherished that the Lord cannot find room to enter. May the Lord teach His people how to pray. Let the teachers in our schools and the ministers in our churches learn daily in the school of Christ. Then they will pray with earnestness and fervor, and their prayers will be heard and answered, even as were the prayers of Daniel. Then the Word will be proclaimed with power. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 26)

Let us learn how to pray in the Spirit. Let there be no more formal prayers. Let us learn how to love God with heart, and soul, and mind, and strength; and our neighbor as ourselves. Let us read and practice the instruction contained in the fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah. Then we shall offer prayers which will bear the evidence of God’s inditing. And such prayers will be heard and answered. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 27)

“Thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy: I dwell in the high and holy place, 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.” [Isaiah 57:15.] (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 28)

To those who are planning to enter God’s work as ministers I would say, Strive with determination to be perfect in speech. Ask God to help you to accomplish this great object. When in the congregation you offer prayer, remember that you are addressing God, and that He desires you to speak so that all who are present can hear and can blend their supplications with yours. A prayer uttered so hurriedly that the words are jumbled together, does the hearers no good and is no honor to God. Let ministers and all who offer public prayer learn to pray in such a way that God will be glorified and the hearers will be blessed. Let them speak slowly and distinctly and in tones loud enough to be heard by all, so that the people may unite in saying, Amen. (16LtMs, Ms 4, 1901, 29)

Ms 5, 1901

A Very Present Help
NP
January 15, 1901 [date typed]
Portions of this manuscript are published in Ev 524; TDG 23. +

God desires His people to remember the message given to the church at Ephesus: “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. But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitanes, which I also hate. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches, To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life which is in the midst of the paradise of God.” [Revelation 2:1-7.] (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 1)

“Behold, I come quickly, and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” [Revelation 22:12-14.] (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 2)

John was commanded to write this wonderful message for us. Why has it not more influence in our lives? Why are we satisfied with a low standard, when such wonderful incentives are presented to lead us to reach the standard of perfection? Is not the reward held out sufficiently attractive to lead us to heed every word of God? (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 3)

If those who enter the service of God would strive earnestly to increase in fervency and genuine love, what a powerful and convincing evidence in favor of the truth would be given to the world. Hearts would be knit together. The believers would search the Scriptures daily, as did the noble Bereans. Their faith would rest upon a sure foundation, even the tried stone, which sustains the whole structure of Christianity. Founded upon truth, their convictions would not be shaken by storm or tempest. They would not depend on feeling, knowing that feelings are changeable. Their faith would lay hold of eternal unchangeable truth. (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 4)

When God gave Christ to our world, He endowed human beings with imperishable riches. John writes of Christ, “And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks. And in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to his feet, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. 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. And he had in his right hand seven stars; and out of his mouth went a sharp, twoedged sword; and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last; I am he that liveth and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter; the mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches; and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.” [Revelation 1:12-20.] (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 5)

This is the One who says to us today, “Him that cometh to me, I will in no wise cast out.” [John 6:37.] Then cling to the mighty One. Do not, I beseech you, dishonor your Redeemer by turning from Him to seek help from human beings. Help those who are weak in faith by showing firm confidence in God. Do not encourage these souls to lean on any human prop. Do not insult the Saviour by turning from His promises, from the fullness of His love and assurance, to human resources. Trace not a word of doubt in the One who loves you, whose you are by creation and by redemption. Go not for help to those who are just as dependent as you. Christ has declared, “Without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] Christians, is not this promise of value? Had there been a surer way of finding rest, would not the Lord have pointed it out to His weary, fainting children? But He has told us of no way in which to find rest except by wearing His yoke. “Take my yoke upon you,” He says, “and learn of me, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” And the dear Saviour adds, “My yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Verses 29, 30.] (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 6)

I wish to say to my friends here and in foreign countries, Do not waste time and money by writing to your friends for something with which to satisfy your soul-hunger. Christ says, “I am the bread of life.” [John 6:35.] (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 7)

Read the record of how the Saviour fed the multitude with five loaves and two fishes. He took the bread, and when He had given thanks, He gave it to His disciples, bidding them distribute it among the people. The food taken from the hands of the Saviour was given to the people till all were satisfied. Then the command was given, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [Verse 12.] (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 8)

Jesus placed the provision in the hands of His disciples to give to those who had become faint with hunger. This merciful provision for temporal need helped to fasten in the minds of the people the gracious words of truth which He had spoken. (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 9)

This miracle contains lessons of deep import, which, though they lie beneath the surface, will be discerned and appreciated by those who have cultivated their perceptive faculties. This miracle is an object lesson for us. Thus God would teach us how to work. We are to receive from Him, not to hoard up for self-glorification, but to impart to others. And as we give to others, let us not suppose that we are to receive the glory. All the glory is to be given to the great Master worker. The disciples were not to receive glory for the miracle. They were only instruments used by the Lord to feed the people. (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 10)

By this miracle Christ would teach us the truth of the words, “Without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] He is the source of all power, the Giver of all temporal and spiritual blessings. He employs human beings as co-workers, giving them a part to act with Him as His helping hand. By the work of the disciples He illustrated the work His disciples are to do in all ages. They are to receive from Him the precious truth that they may give it to those who are fainting by the wayside. And as they empty their hands in giving to the hungry, Christ gives them more to impart. (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 11)

In this miracle Christ has shown how medical missionary work is to be bound up with the ministry of the Word. His disciples are to take the bread of life and the water of salvation, and give it to those who are longing for spiritual help. And as there is need, they are to feed the hungry and clothe the naked. Thus they do double service for the Master. The beauty and utility of the work we do for God consists in its symmetry and harmony and in its all-round adaptability and efficiency. (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 12)

After this miracle the people who had been fed desired to make Jesus king, but sending the multitude away, and bidding His disciples take the boat and go across the lake, He went up into the mountain to pray. During the night a storm arose, and while the disciples were trying in vain to manage the tempest-tossed boat, Jesus appeared, walking through the darkness upon the white-capped billows. (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 13)

“The day following, when the people which stood on the other side of the sea saw that there was none other boat there, save that one whereinto the disciples were entered, and that Jesus went not with his disciples into the boat, but that his disciples were gone away alone, ... they also took shipping, and came to Capernaum, seeking for Jesus. And when they had found him on the other side of the sea, they said unto him, Rabbi, when camest thou hither? Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves and were filled. Labor not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you; for him hath God the Father sealed. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.” [John 6:22, 24-29.] (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 14)

“They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work? Our fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat.” [Verses 30, 31.] Christ understood that the people sought Him because they wished Him to provide for them that which would sustain physical life, and He said to them, “Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life; he that cometh to me shall never hunger, and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.” [Verses 32-35.] (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 15)

Some of those who had been fed by the miraculous power of God failed entirely to learn the lesson He desired to teach. Let us not fall into this error. Christ desires us to realize that the meat which perishes is of very little value when compared with that which endures to everlasting life. (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 16)

All are invited to partake of the bread of life. It is for our present and eternal happiness to accept this invitation. When we are in need of help, let us go directly to the One who says, “I know thy works.” [Revelation 2:2.] He knows just how to assist poor, trembling souls. Do not turn from the loving, compassionate Redeemer to human friends, who though they give you the best they have, may lead you into harm. Take all your troubles to Jesus. Cast your helpless soul upon Him who will not only take your burdens, but will receive you and strengthen and comfort you. He is the great Healer of all maladies. Then why do you not trust Him? (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 17)

The Lord desires His children to act well their part, at peace with one another through Christ, the peace-giver. When Christ abides in the heart, the powers of the harmony. The reason and the affections, knowing how to act their parts, labor together unitedly. Like a king upon his throne, reason rules the working machinery. (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 18)

It may be that much work needs to be done in your character building, that you are a rough stone which must be squared and polished before it is fit to fill a place in God’s temple. You need not be surprised if with hammer and chisel God cuts away your defects of character, until you are prepared to fill the place He has ready for you. No human being can accomplish this work. Only by God can it be done. And be assured that He will not strike one useless blow. His every blow is struck in love, for your eternal good and happiness. He knows your infirmities, and works to restore, not to destroy. (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 19)

Why do we turn from divine wisdom to human wisdom? God sees the dishonor we do Him. He knows that in humanity we shall find no solace for our woe, and He pities us because we are so needy, yet so unwilling to make Him our confidant, our burden-bearer. He sees human beings slighting the love and mercy provided for them, and He says sadly, “Ye will not come unto me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 20)

Our distrust is an insult to the One who has done so much for us. He will never neglect those who come to Him. Of the poor, fainting soul, tired of looking to humanity only to be betrayed and forgotten, Christ says, “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me, and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 21)

Christ desires to say of His people as He said of Israel of old, “Thy renown went forth among the heathen for thy beauty; for it was perfect through my comeliness, which I had put upon thee, saith the Lord God.” [Ezekiel 16:14.] (16LtMs, Ms 5, 1901, 22)

Ms 6, 1901

Words to Teachers
NP
January 16, 1901 [date typed]
Previously unpublished.

The teachers in our schools should give careful attention to the subject of how to make the studies most profitable for students who can only attend for one year. There are many whose circumstances will not allow them to remain in school longer than this. And though they may not, in this time, be able to gain a complete preparation for work in literary or business lines, yet they have received a start. If they will to do it, they can continually increase their knowledge by training the mental powers. (16LtMs, Ms 6, 1901, 1)

Our schools need practical men as teachers. Much depends on the teacher as he outlines the course of study which the student shall follow. The student should be advised to take those studies which will best prepare him for the work for which he is adapted. The education which he receives at the school should prepare him to make advancement without a teacher. If he can take away with him the fear of the Lord, which is the beginning of wisdom, he will make steady progress. In the Word of God he has a lesson book which will be to him as the leaves of the tree of life. If he taxes his perceptive faculties in an effort to understand the Scriptures, if he trains the mind to take up difficult problems and wrestle with them until they are mastered, the reasoning powers will be strengthened. The mental development made is always proportionate to the purity of the food given to the mind. (16LtMs, Ms 6, 1901, 2)

Teachers should never allow the student to take too many studies, even though the student himself and his unwise parents shall urge this. The studies students shall take and the hours they shall study each day are matters to be decided by the teachers after careful consideration with reference to the physical and mental health of the students. (16LtMs, Ms 6, 1901, 3)

During his stay at the school, the student should obtain knowledge which he can carry away with him to impart to others. Under the supervision of wise teachers, he should learn to impart to others. While in the school he should be given opportunity to instruct others less advanced than himself, while at the same time he himself is receiving instruction. Thus the student will learn far more than if he had nothing of this kind to do. This is an excellent mental discipline, and has important results. By it the faculties are awakened to action. (16LtMs, Ms 6, 1901, 4)

Ms 7, 1901

Camp-Meetings
NP
January 21, 1901
Previously unpublished. +

For many years light has been given that camp-meetings should be held yearly in places where the people have not a knowledge of the truth for this time. The tents should be pitched in the most healthful location, and on high ground, so that if heavy rains come, the campers will not be flooded out. (16LtMs, Ms 7, 1901, 1)

Our people should not exchange tents for rooms, because the very best impression is made upon those who visit the campground by the home life in the city of tents. (16LtMs, Ms 7, 1901, 2)

A large tent should be pitched as a tabernacle, where the people may assemble to be educated in regard to what saith the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 7, 1901, 3)

The gospel invitation is to be given to all. The work is not to be confined to the lowest grades of society in our large cities. When the work is done in this way, it is impossible for it to advance in God’s order. The light of the third angel’s message is to spread from country to country and from city to city. (16LtMs, Ms 7, 1901, 4)

Thousands of people who could be reached in no other way will be drawn to a camp-meeting. And as the truth is presented in clear, straight lines, they are amazed at the wonderful things brought from the Word. At one meeting, as a lady was attempting to follow in her Bible the references given by the speaker, someone said to her, “It is of no use for you to try. The Seventh-day Adventist Bible is not like the Bible we have.” Few of the listeners at our meetings had any idea before that the precious truths presented were in the Bible. (16LtMs, Ms 7, 1901, 5)

For this reason we should make every exertion to keep up our camp-meetings, and to hold them in different places. In America, in order to save expense, camp-meetings have been held year after year in the same place. Thus cities which ought to have had the light have been deprived of an opportunity to hear the last message of mercy. This is an economy which means loss in the end. (16LtMs, Ms 7, 1901, 6)

God calls upon us to give to the world the light He has given us. “Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets,” Christ said, “I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven; but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.] This message is to be given to those nigh and afar off. (16LtMs, Ms 7, 1901, 7)

“Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled.” [Verse 18.] This statement, made by Him who is the Alpha and the Omega, will in the day of judgment confront every transgressor of the law of God. How shall they escape who neglect so great salvation? (16LtMs, Ms 7, 1901, 8)

We need to exalt God’s memorial of creation at the very beginning of the camp-meeting. Let the message come with such startling abruptness that it will arouse those who otherwise would not be stirred. The impression made will deepen, and the meeting will assume a new significance. Be assured that the best way is to with as much force as possible. Let the people see that it means something to them to receive or reject the truth. The people who attend our camp meetings expect something surprising. Give them the truth as it is in Daniel and Revelation. Let nothing take the place of the testing message for this time. (16LtMs, Ms 7, 1901, 9)

Ms 8, 1901

Re Elder Haskell
Refiled as Ms 199, 1898.

Ms 9, 1901

Diary/“We, Sara, W. C. White...”
Refiled as Ms 174, 1898.

Ms 10, 1901

“We are sorry that ...”
St. Helena, California
January 4, 1901
Previously unpublished. +

We are sorry that [A. R. Henry] is so tempted by the enemy to do great harm to God’s institution. May the Lord give him power from the snare to go. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 1)

God has given decided instruction on this point in the sixth chapter of first Corinthians. “Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unjust, and not before the saints? Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life? If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are least esteemed in the church. I speak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren? But brother goeth to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers. Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? Why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded? Nay, ye do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren.” [Verses 1-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 2)

Thus the Lord hath spoken against His people going to law before the unjust. Christians should settle their differences among themselves. They should not appeal to civil tribunals. There are lawyers who are dishonest, who for gain would deal unjustly. And when those who have had great light depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, there is nothing to hinder them from going to great lengths in unrighteousness. They will link up with men who are ready to help them oppress the people of God. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 3)

This is not a personal matter. It is not men who are being robbed. Finite human beings, influenced by Satanic agencies, are bringing confusion and distress upon those who as stewards in trust are guarding the interests of the work and treasure of God. It is not men that [Henry] has set himself against, but the God of heaven, He who gives human beings all they have, in order to test and try them. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 4)

Those who are serving in our institutions in any country are not dealing with their own property. They are not even owners of themselves; for God’s Word declares, “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.” [Verses 19, 20.] This great sacrifice was made to rescue men from the bondage of sin and Satan. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 5)

To every man is given a work. God has a position for each one to occupy. All are to honor Him, showing a faithful regard for the interests of His cause. They are to jealously guard these interests, faithfully discharging the duties laid upon them. All are to abide in God, working in union with Him. They are to labor in such a way that they will win His approbation and enjoy His favor. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 6)

But there are men who have lost all love for God out of their hearts. They have barred the door of the heart against all righteous principles. They will not be reasoned with. And in order to be revenged of some wrong men have done them, they set themselves, in their hatred, at variance with God. They are determined to co-operate with Satan in robbing, not individuals, but the treasury of God, taking from it the supply with which His work is to be sustained and His kingdom built up. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 7)

These things are to be carefully considered, and God’s people are to withstand Satanic agencies as far as duty seems to indicate that they should. Let men esteemed by God take these matters to Him in prayer, asking for wisdom to know just what course to pursue. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 8)

That which is to distinguish Christians from all others is their union with Christ. This union is their strength and their efficiency. It leads them to love Jesus, to pray to Him, and to honor Him by doing His commandments. The fruit of this union is seen in their love for one another. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 9)

I address words to you which are of consequence to you. Have you not, while professedly working for the advancement of the cause of God, linked up with persons whose hearts, filled with covetousness and selfishness, were estranged from God? A certain work was given them to do, but they moved from impulse and abused their trust. Their course of action weakened the influence of Seventh-day Adventists. By deception, unrighteous principles were carried out, and God’s cause was losing its distinctive characteristics of self-denial and self-sacrifice. God sent warnings and appeals and entreaties, but these were disregarded. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 10)

Those who are governed by holy principles will overcome selfishness and covetousness. They will realize that they are under a most solemn obligation to fit themselves in body and mind for the best discharge of the duties they owe to God and to their fellow men. We are God’s property, and He requires us to follow the sacred principles of honesty in all that we do, so that we shall not misrepresent Him. The business transactions in God’s institutions are to be such that they will glorify Christ. Those who, while professedly working for God, plan and devise for their own selfish interests, place themselves under the control of the wily foe, who in the heavenly courts apostatized from God and was expelled from heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 11)

Men who are working in an underhand manner, who suppose themselves to be sharp and keen, have been connected with the work of God when they were ignorant of themselves and of the results to which their course was tending. To serve certain ends they have been employed to do certain lines of work, and they were paid for doing this work, when at the same time they were carrying on their own underhand work. These men had opportunity to be enlightened by the Spirit of God and healed of their errors. They could have united with the true, sincere believers in serving their Creator and Redeemer with full purpose of heart, regarding Him as their rightful proprietor and rendering Him the homage of their hearts. Oh that these men had remembered that their underhand work was of the same nature as the work of Satan when in the heavenly courts he plotted against God! Oh that they could have seen that the heavenly angels were watching them, making a record of every transaction! What terror would have filled their minds as they saw their guiltiness and its sure result. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 12)

In their blindness they decided that their actions were not wrong, that they would not injure themselves. But men are to look at their actions in the clear light of righteous principles. They are to study how these actions will affect others, remembering that in the great day of God they will be held accountable for a failure to inculcate pure, unselfish motives and to do unselfish deeds. They should work in such a way that each action will honor God. They should cherish the love which leads to self-denial for the sake of doing good to others. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 13)

Two men whom God loved were connected together to do a certain work for the prosperity and healthfulness and continual advancement of God’s institutions. They could not fail to do unselfish work without sinning against God, who requires of a steward that he be found faithful. Satan tempted these men to carry the work so as to make a good thing for themselves. Thus God’s cause was made to suffer. It was not man they were planning to outwit; it was God. And the details of every transaction in which they took part, and every word they uttered, are written in God’s book of records. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 14)

Oh, how many ministers of the gospel have been wronged by these combined forces, who drew in other persons by their deceptive statements. They were working to distill suspicion and by false statements to divert means from God’s treasury. Their decisions brought sadness to many hearts which should have been relieved and made glad. Those in whose favor these men were prejudiced were dealt with more favorably, but those for whom they had any dislike were made to feel the weight of injustice. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 15)

“Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock? Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the same also? For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen? Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written; that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope. If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things? If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ. Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.” [1 Corinthians 9:7-14.] (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 16)

The apostle presents these principles for the benefit of those who labor in spiritual things. For our sakes this is written, to show that it is the will of God that ministers of the gospel should receive support from those for whom they labor. All who preach the gospel, whether men or women, are entitled to a just reward for their services. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 17)

The Lord has been greatly dishonored by those who have been retained in positions of trust while proving themselves to be unfaithful stewards. Their consciences were not tender. By the introduction of wrong principles they sowed the seeds of evil. They did not do in righteousness the work for which they received wages. They did not do justly. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 18)

Let those who now make efforts to extort means from the treasury remember that they are robbing God. They are not dealing with men, but with God. It is God’s work they have hindered and made to suffer. If they could only see this as it is, they would make every effort in their power to repent and be converted, and to build up that which they have tried to tear down. These men have an account to settle with God. Their work should now be to make restitution; for they have involved the cause of God in financial embarrassment. But they seek to deepen their sin by still further impoverishing the treasury. Those who have done this work and still continue to do it will not care to meet their record in the great day of final retribution. They professed to be friends of the cause. They were given positions of influence, but they followed their own pernicious ways, and by reason of them the truth has been evil spoken of. (16LtMs, Ms 10, 1901, 19)

Ms 11, 1901

Words of Instruction to the Church at Healdsburg
St. Helena, California
February 5, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in AH 37; 6BC 1102; 7BC 968; ML 341; 1MR 323-324. +

In the wonderful prayer which Christ offered for His disciples and for us just before His crucifixion, He said, “I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world; thine they were, and thou gavest them me, and they have kept thy word. Now they have known that all things whatsoever thou hast given me are of thee. For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me. I pray for them; I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine. And all thine are mine, and mine are thine; and I am glorified in them. And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.” [John 17:6-11.] (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 1)

“This is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” [Verse 3.] These words are of the greatest importance to us. Every member of the church of God should manifest a deep, earnest anxiety to be like the Redeemer in character. Believers should dwell upon Christ and His character. Then they will be changed into His likeness. Let each examine himself critically, to see whether in the home, in the church, and in the world he is revealing the Christlikeness, so that the Saviour can say of him, “I am glorified in him.” (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 2)

“I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world,” Christ continued, “but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.” [Verse 15.] Church members should exercise every ability God has given them to answer this prayer. They are to ask God earnestly and frequently to keep them from the evil that is in the world. Christ has charged His followers to pray without ceasing. Never fail to importune with God in private prayer. Never cease to intercede with Him; for when you fail to pray you are strengthless to resist Satan’s temptations. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 3)

Our sanctification is the work of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. It is the fulfilment of the covenant God has made with those who bind themselves up with Him, to stand with Him, His Son, and His Spirit in holy fellowship. Have you been born again? Have you become a new being in Christ Jesus? Then co-operate with the three great powers of heaven who are working in your behalf. Thus you will reveal to the world the principles of righteousness. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 4)

As we strive to represent Christ to the world we must exercise faith in Him. He says, “According to your faith be it unto you.” [Matthew 9:29.] It was by faith that Enoch walked with God. Do not ask others to exercise faith in your behalf. You are yourself to obtain a daily experience in the things of God. You are yourself to realize the truth of the words, “All things are possible to him that believeth.” [Mark 9:23.] (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 5)

When you accept Christ, you are in one sense cut away from the world. You are dead to its ambitions, dead to its greed for advantage over your brethren and neighbors. God says, “Come out from among them, and be ye 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.] This is the pledge of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit made to you if you will keep your baptismal vow, and touch not the unclean thing. You are to turn aside from all that would pervert the pure, sacred principles of truth. You are to enter into no intrigue. Sharp practice, with believer or unbeliever, is an offence in God’s sight. It is a sin which places those who commit it in connection with the father of all sin. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 6)

It becomes every son and daughter of God to remember daily that a wrong done to a fellow being places the doer where he is a transgressor of the law. He needs to understand the words, “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul,” transforming the character from disobedience to obedience. [Psalm 19:7.] (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 7)

Those who come out of the world in spirit and in all practice may regard themselves as sons and daughters of God. They may believe His word as a child believes every word of his parents. Every promise is sure to him that believes. Those who unite with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, who show by their lives that they are no longer following the course they followed before they united with these divine instrumentalities, will receive wisdom from above. They will not depend on human wisdom. In order to deal righteously with the world, as members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King, Christians must feel their need of a power which comes only from the heavenly agencies who have pledged themselves to work in their behalf. After we have formed a union with the great threefold power, we shall regard our duty toward the members of God’s family with a much more sacred awe than we have ever done before. This is a phase of religious reform that very few appreciate. Those who seek to answer the prayer, “Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven” [Matthew 6:10], will seek by living pure, sanctified lives to show to the world how the will of God is done in heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 8)

“Enoch walked with God; and he was not; for God took him.” [Genesis 5:24.] And when God takes the members of His church to heaven, it will be because they have walked with Him here on this earth, receiving from above strength and wisdom which enables them to serve Him aright. Those who are taken to God will be men and women who now pray in humility and contrition, whose hearts are not lifted up unto vanity. In their dealing with believers and unbelievers they represent Christ. Those who dishonor God in the church, acting like those of the world, are one with the world. They will at the last great day be found among the number who knew their Lord’s will and did it not. Full of evil in heart and practice, they readily discern defects in the course of others. They treat their own precious souls meanly. They have no real confidence in themselves, and are therefore very quick to see the mistakes made by others. They make all the capital they possibly can out of the errors of their brethren. As they judge, so they will be judged. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 9)

The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit call upon those who have united with them, who have pledged themselves to die to the world and live unto God, to properly represent their profession of faith. If they are partakers of the divine nature, the principles of sacred brotherhood will be sacredly cherished by them. They will manifest tenderness, sympathy and compassion for the children and youth. They will treat them as the younger members of the Lord’s family. With hearts filled with Christlike love they will come close to the children of believers and unbelievers. By patience, hope and persevering effort they will win them to Jesus Christ. They will treat those who have grown old in the faith with Christian politeness and courtesy. This will not be merely worldly politeness, but politeness after the divine similitude. They will reveal Christ’s longing to receive the members of His family and to feed their hungry souls with the bread of life. It is as necessary that attention should be paid to the cry of the soul for spiritual food as that attention should be paid to the cry of a hungry child for temporal food. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 10)

It is God’s desire that greater attention shall be paid to the spiritual necessities of the children and youth in the Healdsburg school and in all our schools. When the managers of our schools make up their minds to carry out the principles which for years God has been presenting to them, they will be far better prepared to give attention to the spiritual needs of the students. If in the past those in charge of the Healdsburg school had had spiritual foresight, they would have secured the land near the school home which is now occupied by houses. The failure to furnish the students with outdoor employment, in the cultivation of the soil, is making their advancement in spirituality very slow and imperfect. The result of this neglect should lead the teachers to be wise unto salvation. It is a mistake for so many dwelling-houses to be crowded close to the school home. This is working greatly to the disadvantage of the students. A lack of wisdom was shown by the failure to secure the land round the school home. This will make the work of preserving order and maintaining discipline harder than it otherwise would be. But order must be preserved at any cost, and the workers in the school must plan how this shall be done most successfully. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 11)

The Lord will give all needed wisdom to those who ask Him aright. The teachers in our schools are to be pure and noble in character and disposition. They are to rise above all pettish impatience. In their lives they are to reveal the Christian graces. Their only safety is in daily walking humbly with God, faithfully doing His will. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 12)

Teachers, remember that as laborers together with God you must show your true relationship to Him by doing His will. Those who accept Christ, who believe in Him as the Lord their Righteousness, who delight to do His will, will never be disappointed when they ask for wisdom. They will find that Christ is a very present help in every time of need. Let us show more pure, living faith in Christ. It is a great astonishment to the heavenly universe that we place so little dependence upon Christ. Only those who walk with Christ will walk safely. It is only such who will not lift up their souls unto vanity. We are to live as seeing Him who is invisible. Nothing but the righteousness of Christ will entitle us to the blessings of the covenant of grace. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 13)

The Lord calls upon His people to unify. This is especially necessary in Healdsburg, because in that place there has been little understanding of this matter. “And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.” [John 3:19.] The first chapter of second Peter contains so much precious instruction that those who do not place themselves where they can understand the difference between the principles of God’s kingdom and the principles of the world, would be condemned if there were no other instruction in God’s Word. The apostle says, “Add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [Verses 5-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 14)

Why do not men and women place themselves under the control of Christ? Many professing Christians know so little of practical godliness that in their business transactions they are on the side of the world rather than on the side of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 15)

The greatest events in this world’s history have hung upon apparently small things. The desire for a single gratification of appetite introduced sin into our world, with all its horrible consequences. Disobedience to God’s express command banished Adam and Eve from Paradise. Disobedience caused the old world to be destroyed by a flood. Our salvation depends upon our full and entire obedience. We need spiritual knowledge in order to obey, and this knowledge we can obtain only by studying the living oracles of God. Teachers must study this Word if they would have spiritual understanding. And in order to impart what they receive, they must take time to talk with the students. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 16)

Teachers, study the words, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:17-19.] Look back over the past showing, and do not repeat the mistakes that have been made. Let not wrong impressions be made upon the minds of the students. Keep in mind the words, “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word.” [Verse 20.] The testimony that true Christians bear will bring many to a belief of the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 17)

“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.” [Verse 21.] These words present the great result of unity. The believers are to be one in Christ. By their unity they bear witness to the world that Christ is the Sent of God. All true disciples will realize that this is the standard they must reach. They will strive continually to help one another. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 18)

Christ is the greatest Teacher the world has ever known. From Him teachers must learn what to teach, that by their lessons they may show that they are striving to answer His prayer. The fruits of His rich grace will appear as they receive His glory, or character. Their unity will be complete. Their lives, hid with Christ in God, will be made perfect in one. The excellence of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit will appear in them as, in conformity with their baptismal vows, they give themselves to obedience to God’s will. The Redeemer gives them the glory given to Him. The three great Instrumentalities of heaven co-operate for their complete and perfect unity, that the world may see in their lives the fruit of heaven and the excellence of the principles of truth. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 19)

Men may claim to believe the theory of truth, but unless they sanctify themselves, that through their example others may be sanctified, they fail as utterly as did ancient Israel of being God’s light-bearers. It is by the exemplification of pure and undefiled religion that souls are won to Christ. An experimental knowledge of Him who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life is declared to be eternal life to the receiver, if he holds the beginning of his confidence firm unto the end. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 20)

Christ says, “I am the bread of life.... This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die.... Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father, so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me.... It is the spirit that quickeneth, the flesh profiteth nothing; the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit and they are life.” [John 6:35, 50, 54-57, 63.] We have been given the opportunity of eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of Man. Those who do this grow up into the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 21)

The soul needs spiritual food and drink. This is supplied in the words of Christ. Those who receive Him as a personal Saviour, and look constantly to Him, receive nourishment sufficient for all the needs of the soul. Those who are united with Christ through the daily, hourly exercise of the faith which works by love and purifies the soul, receive the forgiveness of their sins, and are sanctified unto eternal life. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 22)

These are the great truths essential for this time. Let us walk in the light which is shining upon our pathway. Christ pronounced a terrible woe upon those cities in which many of His mighty works had been done, because though they had been given every opportunity and advantage, they made no change for the better. Their assent to the wonderful truths they heard wrought no change in them. They received Christ courteously, and listened to His words with apparent interest, but they did not hear with a living faith. It is possible for us to have the Bible and all the light God sends through the testimonies of His Spirit, and yet fail to reveal Christ in our lives. Today many are ignorant of the knowledge of God and Christ and of the manifestation of the Spirit which molds and fashions the character after the divine similitude. This is not because they are not warned, because they do not know how to gain eternal life, but because they encourage a combative spirit, and oppose all that does not harmonize with their unsanctified, unholy practices. Their eyes are blinded. The heart has lost its sensitiveness. It is not humble and contrite. They are controlled by self-indulgence and a desire to contend. They fight over the Scriptures when nothing but their own ideas is at stake. Through debating and cavilling they lose opportunities to receive precious jewels of truth, which would make them rich unto eternal life. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 23)

The way to heaven is through Jesus Christ. He is the light which lighteneth every man that cometh into the world. He has given us most precious truths. But there are many who have not a right appreciation of what it is essential for them to know and practice. Let not the people of God spend precious time on side issues which are of no importance. Let not the teachers in our schools introduce these side issues to the students. Let us instead strive to reveal to the world that love for Christ and the truth has knit our hearts together in unity and love, and that this leads us to obey God’s commandments. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 24)

The only question asked in the judgment will be, “Are they obedient to My commandments?” The petty strife and contention over questions of no importance is an education which our people do not need. Let them seek instead to answer the prayer , “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 17:21.] (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 25)

“And 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.” [Verses 22, 23.] Then why are not men afraid to place themselves on the enemy’s side by their contentions and bickerings over questions which are of no profit? A knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ, this is what all need to obtain by practical experience. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 26)

“I pray for them; I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me.” [Verse 9.] They are on My side. They stand under My banner. By receiving Me as their personal Saviour they have pledged themselves to keep My holy law, to reveal Me in all their transactions in the church and in the world. I have purchased them by My manifestation in their behalf of My power and love. I have sanctified Myself in their behalf to the work Thou hast appointed Me, that they also may be sanctified to the work Thou hast appointed them, that by their union with Me and with one another they may reveal to the world that Thou didst send Me into the world to save sinners. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 27)

It is the duty of those who have received a knowledge of the truth to seek to realize the grave responsibility resting upon them to impart the truth to those in their families, line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little. The first work of Christians is to be united in the family. Then the work is to extend to their neighbors nigh and afar off. Those who have received light are to let the light shine forth in clear rays. Their words, fragrant with the love of Christ, are to be a savor of life unto life. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 28)

Please take to heart that which God has given me to say to you. There are many things to be set in order, not only in the Healdsburg church, but in the churches throughout California. Missionary work is to be carried forward in all its purity. It is to enter every family and be carried into every church. Christ is the greatest physician, of the body as well as the soul, that the world has ever known. He came to give health to diseased Christians. I am instructed to say that our institutions in California need this precious healing in all its fulness. The remedies that heaven has provided are sufficient. The church must rely upon the great Physician. They have not in the past taken the prescription given in the Word of God, or else they have counteracted its effect by their neglect to do the work God has given them. They have opened the windows of the soul earthward when they should have opened them heavenward. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 29)

When the church is purified from all evil speaking, there will be a growth in grace. If the soul is nourished by an intelligent belief of the truth, if it makes a personal appropriation of the principles of truth, it will reveal before the family, the church, and the world the effect of these principles on the life. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 30)

In Paul’s epistle to Titus, the Holy Spirit has given important instruction to the church. The apostle writes, “A bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not self-willed, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; but a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. For there are many unruly and vain talkers, especially they of the circumcision; whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre’s sake.” [Titus 1:7-11.] (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 31)

The members of the church in Healdsburg are to strive continually for improvement, that in this place, where our school is located, spiritual healthfulness may be seen. The souls of the church members are to be sanctified through the truth. The practice of the pure truth of God’s word never degrades; it always elevates and refines. God calls upon the Healdsburg church to get ready for the coming of Christ. There are many who, should they be suddenly called to meet death, would not be ready to close their earthly history. In the great day of judgment they would be weighed in the balances and found wanting. God forbid that they should by their evil practices continue to pervert His Word. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 32)

The world needs to see a correct presentation of the principles of the gospel. As the people of God, it is our solemn duty to show by our unity that the principles of truth are uplifting and sanctifying. We have a great work to do, and oh, we need so much to close the windows of the soul earthward, and open them heavenward. God will keep the current of His grace flowing earthward to those who will become channels of light. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 33)

Will the church in Healdsburg dig deeper and make their foundation sure, riveting their souls to the eternal Rock? As they strive to love God supremely, they will learn what it means to love their neighbor as themselves. Rich blessing will flow to them from the throne of God. All will labor for the souls ready to perish. Brother Leininger will be fairly dealt with. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 34)

In regard to the case of Brother Leininger, I have been cited to the history of David. He had almost reached the close of his long reign, but he felt that he could not lie down in the grave without making an appeal in behalf of the sanctuary which was to be built for the Lord. After telling the people what was needed, he said, “Who then is willing to consecrate his service this day unto the Lord?” [1 Chronicles 29:5.] (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 35)

“Then the chief of the fathers and princes of the tribes of Israel, and the captains of thousands and of hundreds with the rulers of the king’s work, offered willingly.” [Verse 6.] The people answered David’s call as a band of devoted warriors would respond to the trumpet peal of loyalty. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 36)

That was a good day for Israel. Songs of praise and thanksgiving echoed through the congregation. David’s heart was made glad as he saw the evidence of the people’s willingness to give. He knew that God was impressing their hearts to return to Him His own, and to God he gave all the glory. He praised God, saying, “Now, therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name.” [Verse 13.] (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 37)

God’s people in Healdsburg would have received great blessing if they had shown less selfishness and greater love for their brethren. God is not glorified by their delinquencies. They should now redeem the past by repentance and confession. When they are sanctified through the truth, they will show a willingness to give back to Him a portion of what He has given them, saying with David, “All things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee.” [Verse 14.] (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 38)

If one man gives to another, he ceases to have any claim on what he has given. But when a man gives to God’s cause, and is afterward reduced to poverty, having no means of making a livelihood, his brethren should relieve his necessity, remembering that he is the Lord’s child. They should say, He is our brother, and we must divide with him the blessings our Father has left in our possession. Our brother has made many gifts to the work of God. We will now return to him a portion of the benefits we have received through his gift. (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 39)

Thus the people of God did after the Spirit had descended upon them on the day of Pentecost. “Neither said any of them that ought of the things which he possessed was his own.” [Acts 4:32.] (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 40)

Those who give to the cause of God belong to God, and He is displeased when He looks down from heaven and sees that one who has given liberally to His work in a time of necessity has been allowed to fall into poverty, while his brethren have permitted him to descend step after step in humiliation without doing anything to help. Will our brethren make the case of Brother Leininger their own? Will they act toward him as they would wish their brethren to act toward them were they in his place? (16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, 41)

Ms 12, 1901

The Living Water
NP
February 7, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in Ev 267-268; UL 52; 3MR 431-433. +

“Jesus therefore, being wearied with his journey, sat thus on the well; and it was about the sixth hour. There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink.... Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? For the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep; from whence then hast thou that living water? Art thou greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children and his cattle? Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again; but whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water, springing up into everlasting life.” [John 4:6, 7, 9-14.] (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 1)

While the woman was extolling Jacob’s well, Christ was speaking to her of the water of everlasting life. “He who drinks of the water of Jacob’s well shall thirst again,” He said; “but he who drinks of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst.” [Verses 13, 14.] (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 2)

Instead of disparaging Jacob’s well, Christ presented something infinitely better. “If thou knewest the gift of God,” He said, “and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.” [Verse 10.] He turned the conversation to the treasure He had to bestow, the living water, which will satisfy the craving of mind and heart. He offered the woman something better than anything she possessed, even living water, the joy and hope of the gospel of His kingdom. (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 3)

This is an illustration of the way in which we are to work. It is of little use for us to go to pleasure-lovers, theatre-goers, horse-racers, drunkards, gamblers, and scathingly rebuke them for their sins. This will do no good. We must offer them something better than that which they have, even the peace of Christ, which passeth all understanding. We must make it as plain as possible to them that the law of God is binding upon all human beings, and that this law is a transcript of His character, an expression of what He wants men and women to become. Tell them that Christ has 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.” [Luke 10:27.] Tell them of Christ’s love for sinners. (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 4)

These poor souls are engaged in a wild chase after worldly pleasure and earthly riches. They have no knowledge of anything more desirable. But games, theatres, horse-races, will not satisfy the soul. Human beings were not created to be satisfied in this way, to spend their money for that which is not bread. Show them how infinitely superior to the fleeting joys and pleasures of the world is the imperishable glory of heaven. Seek to convince them of the freedom and hope and rest and peace there is in the gospel. “Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst,” Christ declared. [John 4:14.] (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 5)

God’s people, young and old, are to lift up Jesus, crying, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] He alone can satisfy the restless craving of the human heart and give repose to the mind. Wealth cannot do this. Intoxicating drink cannot do it. Worldly pleasure cannot do it. Title, rank, learning, power, all are worthless unless the name is enrolled in the Lamb’s book of life. (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 6)

In the prayer which Christ offered to His Father just before His crucifixion, He said, “This is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.] Only the religion that comes from God will lead to God. “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.” [John 3:36.] There is in his heart a well of living water, the influence of which is felt by all with whom he is associated. (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 7)

To the weary and heavy laden, Christ says, “Come unto me, ... and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] Restless, craving, exhausted heart, think of the Saviour’s words, “Whosoever drinketh of this water that I shall give him shall never thirst.” Drink from the wells of worldly pleasure, and you will thirst again. Drink of the water of life, and you will be satisfied and refreshed. It will be in you “a well of water, springing up into everlasting life.” [John 4:14.] Love and light and truth and life are found in the everlasting gospel. Come, ye who labor and are heavy laden, come to the living water. “Let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” [Revelation 22:17.] (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 8)

“Search the Scriptures.” (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 9)

This is the Word which comes to us from Christ. If it had been essential for us to search the Fathers, Christ would have told us so. But the Fathers do not all speak the same thing. Which of them shall we choose as a guide? There is no need for us to trust to uncertainty. We pass by the Fathers to learn of God out of His Word. This is life eternal, to know God. Oh, how thankful we should be that the Bible is the inspired Word of God. Holy men of old wrote this Word as they were moved by the Spirit. God did not leave His Word to be preserved in the memories of men and handed down from generation to generation by oral transmission and traditional unfolding. Had He done this, the Word would gradually have been added to by men. We would have been asked to receive that which is not inspired. Let us thank God for His written Word. (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 10)

The commentaries written about the Word do not all agree. Often they come into collision with one another. God does not ask us to be guided by them. It is His Word with which we have to deal. All can search this Word for themselves. And they may know that the teaching of this precious book is unchangeable. The opinions of human beings differ, but the Bible always says the same thing. The Word of God is from everlasting to everlasting. (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 11)

The Bible was not given only for ministers and learned men. Every man, woman, and child should read the Scriptures for himself or herself. Do not depend on the minister to read it for you. The Bible is God’s word to you. The poor man needs it as much as the rich man, the unlearned as much as the learned. And Christ has made this Word so plain that in reading it no one need stumble. Let the humble cottager read and understand the Word given by the wisest Teacher the world has ever known; and among kings, governors, statesmen, and the world’s most highly educated men, there is none greater than He. (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 12)

“Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life.” [John 5:39.] To search means to look diligently for something which has been lost. Search yourself for the hidden treasure. Do not leave this work to the minister. You cannot afford to be ignorant of the Word of God. Study the difficult passages, comparing verse with verse, and you will find that Scripture is the key which unlocks Scripture. Those who prayerfully study the Scriptures go from their study wiser than when they opened the Bible. Some of their difficulties have been solved; for the Holy Spirit has done the work spoken of in the fourteenth chapter of John: “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.” [Verse 26.] (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 13)

Nothing worth having is obtained without earnest, persevering effort. In business life, only those men who have a will to do see successful results. Christians cannot expect to obtain a knowledge of spiritual things without earnest toil. Those who obtain the jewels of truth must dig for them as a miner digs for the precious ore hidden in the earth. Those who work indifferently and half-heartedly will never succeed. Young and old should read the Word of God; and not only should they read it, they should study it with diligent earnestness, praying, believing, and searching. Thus they will find the hidden treasure; for the Lord will quicken the understanding. (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 14)

“It is expedient for you that I go away,” Christ said; “for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.” [John 16:7.] Christ’s ascension to heaven was the time which, in the order of heaven, it had been arranged that His representative, the Holy Spirit, should come to this world. This was the plan of the divine government. Thus the Redeemer designed to show His union with the Father and with men. (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 15)

“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.... If a man love me, he will keep my words; and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” [John 14:21, 23.] “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love, even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:10, 11.] (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 16)

Lay at the door of investigation your preconceived opinions and your hereditary and cultivated ideas. You will never reach the truth if you search the Scriptures to vindicate your own ideas. Leave these at the door, and with a contrite heart go in to hear what God has to say to you. As the humble seeker for truth sits at Christ’s feet and learns of Him, the Word gives him understanding. To those who are too wise in their own conceit to study the Word, Christ says, You must become meek and lowly in heart if you desire to become wise unto salvation. (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 17)

Do not carry your creed to the Bible and read the Word in the light of your former opinions. Do not try to make everything agree with your creed. Search the Word carefully and prayerfully, with a mind free from prejudice. If as you read, conviction comes, and you see that your most cherished opinions are not in harmony with the Word, do not try to make the Word fit these opinions. Make your opinions fit the Word. Do not allow what you have believed or practiced in the past to control your understanding. Open the eyes of your mind to behold wondrous things out of the law. Find out what is written, and then plant your feet on the eternal Rock. (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 18)

Our salvation depends upon our knowledge of God’s will as it is contained in His Word. Never cease asking and searching for truth. You need to know what is truth. You need to know your duty. You need to know what you shall do in order to be saved. And it is God’s will that you should know what He has said to you. But you must exercise faith. As you search God’s Word, you must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those that diligently seek Him. (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 19)

Search, search the Bible with a heart hungry for spiritual food. Dig into the Word as the miner digs into the earth to find the veins of gold. Do not give up your search till you have ascertained your relation to God and His will concerning you. Christ says to you, “Whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” “If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it.” [John 14:13; 15:7; 14:14.] (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 20)

**********

The Lord has given to the school in Cooranbong the labors of Brother and Sister Haskell. They have been teaching His Word, and thus great light has been received. But in this work others must co-operate with them. The Lord does not design that one man’s mind and one man’s ideas and one man’s presentation of the Word shall always control, even if the talents of others are not so valuable in the understanding of the Scriptures. He would have different minds mingle with the students. Men of a different mold should be given an opportunity to teach the Word in the school, to give to the students the impressions the Lord has given them. There is need of a union of different minds in the school, that the students may receive the strength of the varied talents. (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 21)

Daniel and Revelation should be prepared to be placed in the hands of the people. These books should be small, such as can be used after a tent effort. They should contain the precious light that has been given to the students, that afterward they may refresh their minds. (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 22)

The Lord has a work for Brother Haskell to do in our large meetings. He is not to take the whole burden, but is to stand in his lot and place in connection with his ministering brethren. In the Lord’s work there is a diversity of gifts. All minds are not of the same mold, neither do they present the same truths in the same way. One man’s method is not to be regarded as the method which all men shall follow. Different minds compose the body of believers. All God’s workers have not been given the same talents. (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 23)

In the fourth chapter of Ephesians we are shown that one man is not to be looked upon as a complete whole. This chapter contains instruction which we need to understand. “He gave some apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 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 fulness of Christ; that we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; but speaking the truth in love may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ; from whom the whole body fitly joined together, and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.” [Verses 11-16.] (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 24)

This is the Lord’s arrangement for the work of those who have united in church capacity. He has given apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. These are to work in fellowship with one another. The Lord has committed to them talents according to their several ability, that they may stand in their lot and place as laborers together with God. (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 25)

“Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, able also to admonish one another. Nevertheless, brethren, I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God.” [Romans 15:13-15.] (16LtMs, Ms 12, 1901, 26)

Ms 12a, 1901

To Those Who Are Worried Over Minor Matters
St. Helena, California
February 12, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 5MR 343.
To those who are worried over minor matters—

Christ says, “I am that bread of life.... This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof and not die.... Whoso eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For My flesh is meat indeed, and My blood is drink indeed. He that eateth My flesh, and drinketh My blood, dwelleth in Me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent Me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth Me, even he shall live by Me.... It is the Spirit that quickeneth, the flesh profiteth nothing; the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” John 6:48-63. We have been given the opportunity of eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of man. Those who do this grow up into the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. (16LtMs, Ms 12a, 1901, 1)

The soul needs spiritual food and drink. This is supplied in the words of Christ. Those who receive Him as a personal Saviour, and look constantly to Him, receive nourishment sufficient for all the needs of the soul. Those who are united with Christ through the daily, hourly exercise of the faith which works by love and purifies the soul, receive the forgiveness of their sins and are sanctified unto eternal life. These are the great truths essential for this time. Let us walk in the light which is shining upon our pathway. (16LtMs, Ms 12a, 1901, 2)

Christ pronounced a terrible woe upon those cities in which many of His mighty works had been done because, though they had been given every opportunity and advantage, they made no change for the better. It is possible for us to have the Bible and all the light God sends through the testimonies of His Spirit, and yet fail to reveal Christ in our lives. Today many are ignorant of the knowledge of God and of the manifestation of the Spirit which molds and fashions the character after the divine similitude. This is not because they are not warned, not because they do not know how to gain eternal life, but because they encourage a combative spirit, and oppose all that does not harmonize with their unsanctified, unholy practices. Their eyes are blinded. The heart has lost its sensitiveness. It is not humble and contrite. They are controlled by self-indulgence and a desire to contend. They fight over the Scriptures when nothing but their own ideas are at stake. Through debating and cavilling, they lose opportunities to receive precious jewels of truth, which would make them rich unto eternal life. (16LtMs, Ms 12a, 1901, 3)

The way to heaven is through Jesus Christ. He is the light which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. He has given us most precious truths. But there are many who have not a right appreciation of what is essential for them to know and practice. Let not the people of God spend precious time on side issues which are of no importance. Let them instead strive to reveal that love for Christ and the truth [that] has knit their hearts together in unity and love, and that leads them to obey God’s commandments. (16LtMs, Ms 12a, 1901, 4)

The only question asked in the judgment will be, “Are they obedient to My commandments?” The petty strife and contention over questions of no importance is an education which our people do not need. Let them seek instead to answer the prayer, “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. (16LtMs, Ms 12a, 1901, 5)

“And 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 hath loved them as Thou hast loved Me.” John 17:21-23. (16LtMs, Ms 12a, 1901, 6)

Why are not men afraid to place themselves on the enemy’s side by their contentions and bickerings over questions which are of no profit? A knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ, this is what all need to obtain by practical experience. (16LtMs, Ms 12a, 1901, 7)

Ms 13, 1901

Diary/Medical Missionary Work & the Minister
Refiled as Ms 175, 1898.

Ms 14, 1901

Diary/“The Lord has appointed his work ...”
NP
February 21, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 2SM 158-160; CD 271; Te 245-246; 6BC 1078; 2MR 41-42; 1NL 62. +

The Lord has appointed His work to go forward in missionary lines in such a way as to extend the knowledge of the truth for these last days. A deception has certainly been on those who ought to have been wide awake to see the great, grand work to be done by the people who bear God’s sign as represented in Exodus 31:12-18. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 1)

The Lord desires faithful stewards to measure the fields to be worked, and then use wisely His means in advancing the work in these fields. God has a people, and a ministry, who are to co-operate with Him. The judgment of the Lord’s ministers has been set aside as unworthy of notice. The Lord will not allow these things to go as they have been going in the past. The promised outpouring of God’s life-giving Spirit has been and is still, the great hope of God’s people. It is the hope and glory of Zion. In this time of spiritual declension, God’s ministry is to stand in dignity, efficiency, and power. Wickedness and opposition are seen on every side. God does not direct His work in such a way that those whom He has appointed as His stewards shall link up with men who do not bear the sign of obedience, who walk and work in a way that dishonors God. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 2)

I cannot sleep. My mind is not at rest. I awake at eleven o’clock with a warning given me. I am warned, Thus saith the Lord: “Tell My people that they must be cautious. The enemy will control minds that are not subdued by the grace of God. In times of test and trial there will be those who will walk and work in strange paths. Every sentinel must now be wide awake; for many have closed their eyes, lest they should see, and be converted, and I should heal them. If in these times of declension those whom I have in the past sustained as My instruments in doing My work, do not choose to carry out My purposes or to be freed from their delusions, make no compromise with them. Warn My people. Tell them that what they are handling is not their own creation, but is My property.” The skill and tact God has given for the benefit of His people in special emergencies is not to be selfishly retained by those to whom they have been entrusted, and they are not to be used as men shall please. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 3)

“He to whom I have given skill is My servant as long as he will serve Me, co-operating with Me in helping My people. When he takes the Lord’s inventions as his own, when he claims as his own the skill and wisdom I have given him, he is practicing robbery toward God, and is making his fellow men amenable to a finite man who has received God’s gifts to impart to others.” (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 4)

The question was asked, “What have My agents that they have not received at My hand? Will they take their endowments and use them for their own advantage, as though they were not a gift? This is the way of the Gentiles, but not the way of the Lord.” (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 5)

The Lord is continually blessing His people. He has given certain ones special qualifications for doing certain lines of work. He fits them to accomplish that which will be a blessing to His people. He says, “I have placed no patent right upon the endowment of skill for the manufacture of certain goods; and neither are those to whom I have entrusted this line of work to do this. I designed that this work should be a blessing to those who would receive it as such.” (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 6)

Thus it was with the manna given to the children of Israel as they journeyed through the wilderness. Man did eat angels’ food. And the strangers connected with the Israelites, who complied with the conditions, who did not profane God’s Sabbath, were to share the goods of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 7)

The light God has given is for the benefit of all who will receive and act upon the light. God will not bless any institution or any human agents who deprive humanity of foods that would be a blessing to them. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 8)

The production of foods is not the work of one mind. Many minds have been wrought upon to produce healthful food, so that God’s people, by discarding the flesh and fat and all that pertains to animal food, might not be exposed to the diseases which are upon the unbelieving world. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 9)

The food question has not yet reached perfection. There is still much to learn in this line. The Lord desires the minds of His people all over the world to be in such a condition that they can receive His impressions regarding the combining of certain articles in the production of foods which will be a necessity, but are not yet produced. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 10)

One man is not to suppose that by himself, by different experiments, he has originated the food question. There has been a gathering of ideas, and then experiments have been made which have placed the food question upon the basis on which it now stands. And the Lord has much more for those who will use the knowledge He shall give. The Lord will give understanding to many minds. No man, after receiving knowledge from God, is to put a price upon that knowledge, and so bind the movements of his fellow men that he himself will receive the benefit. This is the world’s way. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 11)

I have been instructed that our institutions are to be left as free to experiment upon the food question as Dr. Kellogg has been, but they are to be guarded. They are not to put a price upon the knowledge which comes from God to be used for the benefit of suffering humanity. As famine and want and distress shall increase more and more in the world, the production of the health foods will be greatly simplified. Those who are engaged in this work should learn constantly of the great Teacher, who loves His people, and keeps their good ever in view. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 12)

God calls upon His servants to be clothed with His salvation, to arise and shine, to reveal to all men that their God is a good and merciful God, who hates oppression. His servants are not to allow themselves to be intimidated by threatenings or overcome by despondency. They are to seek from God the working of the Holy Spirit. With repentance, obedience, and earnest intercession this great gift is to be sought. God will hear the prayers of His people as He heard the prayers of Daniel, and will come to their deliverance and make known to them as He did to Daniel the things which are shortly to take place. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 13)

It cannot now be said to the Lord’s servants as it was to Daniel, “And the time of the fulfilment of the vision was long.” [Daniel 10:1.] It is now but a short time till the witnesses of God will have done their work in preparing the way of the Lord. God calls upon them to arise and shine. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 14)

The impartation of Christ’s righteousness is the sum of all blessings. Christ invites all to come to Him, to link themselves up with Him, to receive His justifying righteousness, which at a great cost to Himself He has provided to be given without money and without price to men and women. It fills every heart that will receive it with thanksgiving and praise. The Lord has the richest blessings in store for His faithful witnesses. The whole earth is to be filled with the glory of God as the waters cover the sea. The praise and thanksgiving that will go forth from human lips will be a sign that whose who keep the commandments are chosen and precious in the sight of God. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 15)

The progress of the kingdom of God in our world is a continual sign of His infinite wisdom and power. “I am the Lord, and there is none else, there is no God beside me. I girded thee, when thou hast not known me; that they may know from the rising of the sun, and from the west, that there is none beside me. I am the Lord, and there is none else. I form the light, and create darkness; I make peace, and create evil. I the Lord do all these things. Drop down, ye heavens, from above, and let the skies pour down righteousness; let the earth open, and let them bring forth salvation, and let righteousness spring up together. I the Lord have created it.” [Isaiah 45:5-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 16)

We have a great work to do in our world. If ministers and doctors will work in God’s lines, He will work with them. But they must change, decidedly change, in spirit and character. They must remember that they are not the only ones to whom the Lord will give wisdom. If His people will not follow in His way, the Lord will employ heathen princes to do His will. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 17)

Man’s ability to reason concerning God and His works and ways comes from Him who is the source of all knowledge. The knowledge of heavenly things is not opened to the ambitious and the proud, but to the poor in spirit. God takes notice of those who have a kind and thankful heart. He is mighty, and He will not withhold anything from those who will conscientiously do righteousness, following in His ways, cutting away from their work all selfishness and all sense of superiority. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 18)

The talent of means is to be looked upon as sacred, to be used in helping God’s children. Money wisely used is a golden link which binds man more closely to God and his fellow men. The Lord’s money is not to be lavishly expended by a few, to exalt their ambitious plans. All comes from God, and all is to be returned to God. Man is not to seek for the glory or to seek to lord it over God’s heritage. The Lord desires His ministers to advocate right principles. One is not to be exalted, while his brother ministers are humbled in the dust in poverty and suffering, carrying heavy loads, yet unappreciated. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 19)

Those who are ambitious to be distinguished would draw upon God’s money to build monuments to distinguish themselves. God reads every purpose of the heart. He knows every thought that comes into the mind of man; therefore let us be careful to deal justly. Let us not do anything that God does not require. Oh, can I by any means present this as it really exists? There are those who are called upon at a great sacrifice to help the medical missionary work. But the souls of the children of God are more precious in His sight than those who, once possessing talent and intelligence, have ruined themselves by self-indulgence, who have corrupted themselves, soul, body, and spirit. The Lord does not pass over His faithful ones, who choose rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 20)

The Lord has given the counsel, Do good. “But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For every man shall bear his own burden. Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Be not deceived; God is not mocked; for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to the flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” [Galatians 6:4-10.] (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 21)

By an offer of gratuitous pardon God calls the members of the sinful human family to Himself, to be bound up with Him. He will not sanction the least lifting up of man above his fellow men. “I am God,” He says. “I will speak and reprove and correct in judgment. But wherein is man to be accounted; for he hath received everything at My hand. Does he think that it is his privilege to lift up and cast down? Man’s devises. In his ambitious mind he fashions a thing that I have not directed, and it becomes his idol. He worships the work of his own hands.” (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 22)

The good and evil actions of men are so under God’s control that He accomplishes His purposes and wise counsels by making plain the contrast between righteousness and unrighteousness. No man is forced to be righteous. God permits men to pursue a course which will reveal the spirit which controls their actions. All are amenable to God. By Him all will be called upon to give an account of their actions. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 23)

Why cannot man see that he is only a finite being, possessing capabilities and gifts that are to be used to the glory of God’s name? Oh, how inconsistent it is for men to contend against God’s dealings with them, as if they could sit in judgment upon God, and say, “Why do ye so?” God possesses absolute and supreme authority over the hearts and minds of all men, and He will exercise His authority throughout eternity. Those human beings, who use the powers of the mind on the wrong side, do this to their sure destruction. God has pledged Himself to humble every human being who oppresses His people. When men think they are secure, then it is that they are in the greatest peril. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 24)

The forty-eighth chapter of Isaiah is an illustration of the experience of the publishing institutions. “Hearken unto me, O Jacob and Israel, my called; I am he; I am the first, I also am the last.... I, even I, have spoken; yea, I have called him; I have brought him, and he shall make his way prosperous. Come ye near unto me, hear ye this; I have not spoken in secret from the beginning; from the time that it was, there am I; and now the Lord God, and his Spirit hath sent me. Thus saith the Lord, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel: I am the Lord thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadest thee by the way that thou shouldest go. O that thou hadst hearkened unto my commandments! Then had thy peace been as a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea.” [Verses 12, 15-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 25)

The Lord desires His people to understand that their prosperity is hid with Him in Christ, and that it is dependent on their humility and meekness, their wholehearted obedience and devotion to Him. But nothing is so difficult for the human agent to learn as this . When the Lord does great things for a man, that man then supposes that he is necessary to the Lord, that God must have his abilities. He forgets that he was once purged from his old sins. He is blind and cannot see afar off. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 26)

The Lord will work for His people if they will submit to be worked by the Holy Spirit, not thinking that they must work the Spirit. “And now, Israel, what doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, to keep the commandments of the Lord, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good? Behold the heaven and the heaven of heavens is the Lord’s thy God, the earth also, with all that therein is. Only the Lord had a delight in thy fathers to love them, and he chose their seed after them, even you above all people, as it is this day.... The Lord your God is a God of gods, the Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward; He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment. Love ye therefore the stranger; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name. He is thy praise, and he is thy God, that hath done for thee these great and terrible things, which thine eyes have seen.” [Deuteronomy 10:12-15, 17-21.] (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 27)

God’s commandments express His will and man’s duty. Those whose hearts are softened and subdued by the Holy Spirit will place themselves under God’s control. They will see that the fierce passion they have manifested in the past is a grievous sin. God is no respecter of persons. He knows of the course men pursue, whether they serve Him in truth and righteousness, or act in opposition to His will. Men are accounted holy because they are stewards in trust, not because of any outward distinction or profession. God judges according to incorruptible principles, principles that cannot be bought or sold. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 28)

In His law God has made known His will, to lead human beings to be righteous in thought, word, and deed. God’s ministers have a most solemn, sacred work to do in our world. The end is near. The message of truth must go. As faithful shepherds of the flock, God’s servants are to bear a clear, sharp testimony. There is to be no perverting of the truth. Divine grace never leads away from mercy and the love of God. It is the power of Satan that does this. When Christ preached, His message was like a sharp, two-edged sword, piercing the consciences of men, and revealing their inmost thoughts. The work that Christ did, His faithful messengers will have to do. In simplicity, purity, and the strictest integrity, they are to preach the Word. Those who labor in word and doctrine are to be faithful to their charge. They are to watch for souls as they that must give an account. Never are they to clothe a “Thus saith the Lord” with enticing words of man’s wisdom. Thus they destroy its living energy, making it weak and powerless, so that it fails to convict of sin. Every word spoken by the direction of the Holy Spirit will be full of the deepest solicitude for the salvation of souls. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 29)

The minister’s acceptance with God depends not on outward show, but on his faithful discharge of duty. Christ’s road to exaltation lay through the deepest humiliation. Those who are partakers with Christ in His sufferings, who follow cheerfully in His footsteps, will be partakers with Him in His glory. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 30)

It has been the continual endeavor of the enemy to introduce into the church persons who assent to much that is truth, but who are not converted. Professed Christians who are false to their trust are channels through whom Satan works. He can use unconverted church members to advance his own ideas and retard the work of God. Their influence is always on the side of wrong. They place criticism and doubt as stumbling blocks in the way of reform. They introduce unbelief because they have closed their eyes to the righteousness of Christ and have not the glory of the Lord as their rereward. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 31)

Unity is the strength of the church. Satan knows this, and he employs his whole force to bring in dissension. He desires to see a lack of harmony among the members of the church of God. Greater attention should be given to the subject of unity. What is the recipe for the cure of the leprosy of strife and dissension? Obedience to the commandments of God. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 32)

This morning, June, 1900, God has been teaching me that we are not to dwell upon the differences which weaken the church. He prescribes a remedy for strife. By keeping His Sabbath holy we are to show that we are His people. His word declares the Sabbath to be a sign by which to distinguish the commandment-keeping people. Thus God’s people are to preserve among them a knowledge of Him as their Creator. Those who keep the law of God will be one with Him in the great controversy commenced in heaven between Satan and God. Disloyalty to God means contention and strife against the principles of God’s law. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 33)

Everything connected with the cause of God is sacred and is to be thus regarded by His people. The councils that have any reference to the cause of God are sacred. Christ gave His life to bring a sinful world to repentance. Those who are imbued with the Spirit that dwelt in Christ will work as God’s husbandmen in caring for His vineyard. They will not merely work in spots which they may choose. They are to be wise managers and faithful workers, making it their highest aim to fulfill the commission which Christ has given. Just before His ascension, the Saviour told His disciples that beginning at Jerusalem they must go to all nations, kindreds, tongues, and peoples. And He added, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.] (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 34)

*****

I am much burdened in regard to the way in which the work is being swayed in Battle Creek. The chief physician in any of our sanitariums is not to have his mind occupied with a variety of business. He should not have so many things to absorb his attention that many things are not done as they ought to be done. If he allows his mind to be taken off his work to answer calls from various places, to speak to the people and create an interest in the health question, his influence is not where it should be. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 35)

We have this difficulty to meet in Australia. Dr. Caro supposes that he must go here and there to superintend the work of the whole field. But this is not his work. He is not fitted to establish sanitariums or to gather money for sanitariums. His work is to build up the interests of the sanitarium where he is located. He should prepare the way for the patients to have ministerial advantages. He should not think that he can supply all that the patients need in this line. There should be those who can speak to them upon temperance from a Bible standpoint, and other subjects with which Dr. Caro is not thoroughly acquainted. A much wider field will thus be opened before the patients than if Dr. Caro were to do all the work in this line. Much good that might have been done has not been done because Dr. Caro has assumed responsibilities which he was not fitted to carry. The talks of others are needed just as much as his own talks. Here a mistake has been made. Dr. Caro has his work to do, but he must make room for the ministers to whom the Lord has been giving light, who have just as great an interest in the health of the soul as he has in the health of the body. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 36)

In spiritual lines our sanitariums are not to be under the control of the physicians. This work needs men of thought, men of tact, men who have a broad acquaintance with Bible subjects. Such men should be brought in connection with our sanitariums, which have not had the benefit they should have had from gospel ministers. The institutions have needed these men, but a way has not been made for them. Why are our sanitariums established? Over and over again the reason has been given—to relieve suffering humanity, and to bring men and women to a knowledge of the truth for this time. Dr. Caro should bring into connection with the Sanitarium in Australia men with varied spiritual gifts, through whom the Lord will work to make the truth a blessing to many minds. Dr. Caro needs to remember that he has not yet proved himself capable of conducting a sanitarium as it should be conducted. Therefore in his spiritual inexperience, he should exercise the greatest caution. He should have a humble opinion of his own efficiency. He should remember that he is on trial before the heavenly universe, before the church, and before the world. Now is his opportunity to be taught by God. He needs to read the Sermon on the Mount, and practice the instruction it contains. The course he pursued after the Maitland camp-meeting shows that in a crisis he could not be depended on to conduct matters wisely. He is in danger of depending on his own wisdom. Thus he will hurt his own influence and will misrepresent the work of Seventh-day Adventists. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 37)

The light given me is that the course pursued by Dr. Caro after the Maitland camp-meeting and later at Parramatta and Sydney must not be repeated. This course of action showed the wisdom of Dr. Caro, not the wisdom of God. These erratic movements have a deleterious influence upon the cause. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 38)

The Lord has a place and work for thousands of men in connection with His cause. But when men feel that they can go on a warfare at their own charges, the Lord is left on one side, and they exhibit themselves. What is the result? A failure; for Christ says, “Without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] When a minister or a physician feels that by his smartness and tact he can represent the cause of God, he leaves the side of Christ and runs ahead of Him. He will learn to his sorrow that the divine presence and power is wanting in his work, that without the Lord Jesus his labors are worthless. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 39)

Dr. Caro should indeed feel that he has lessons to learn, lessons which he has supposed were not essential. Precious truth will bear away the victory. When a man accepts the truth only as a makeshift, and then takes himself into his own hands and yokes up with men who have no interest in the truth, seeking for human influence, he exchanges the presence and companionship of Christ for an influence that will retard, that will never help him as he needs to be helped. But when the truth is stamped upon the soul, it makes its impress upon the whole being. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 40)

These things must be spoken, to my great sorrow. Things have occurred which have hurt us as a people. Wounds have been made which will never be healed. From the light given me, there is too much at stake to thus endanger the principles of truth. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 41)

I have been given instruction that in our sanitariums our ministers, who labor in word and doctrine, should give short talks upon the principles of temperance, showing that the body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, and bringing to the minds of the people the responsibility resting upon them as God’s purchased possession to make the body a holy temple, fit for the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. As this instruction is given, the people will become interested in Bible doctrine. There must also be presented the moral pestilence that is making the inhabitants of the world today like the inhabitants of the world before the flood, bold, blasphemous, intemperate, corrupted. The sins that are practiced are making this earth a lazar house of corruption. These sins must be sternly rebuked. Those who preach must uplift the standard of temperance from a Christian standpoint. As temperance is presented as a part of the gospel, many will see their need of reform. They will see the evil of intoxicating liquor. Total abstinence is the only platform on which God’s people can conscientiously stand. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 42)

May the Lord help His physicians, who are exposed to temptations, to abstain from the very appearance of evil. May he help the ministers also, who preach the gospel, to be careful of their words, their deportment, their actions. The ministers of the gospel and the physicians in our institutions are to practice the truth on every point. Let them remember their human weakness, and that there are two kinds of human agencies who will be tested and tried, whose true value will be proved in the furnace of trial, in the battle of Christian life—those who serve God with all the heart because they know Him whom to know aright is life eternal, and they who are seeking with all the heart for a knowledge of God, realizing that they do not know Him. Those who are saved must have a revelation of Christ, a daily experience which harmonizes with His teaching. Truth must be planted in the heart if it controls the life and forms a character that shall speak to the world of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 43)

All who are partakers of the divine nature will realize that the Holy Spirit works with them, taking the truth from the sacred Word, where Christ has placed it, and stamping it upon the soul. But we are in great peril of keeping the truth in the outer court, neglecting to bring it into the sanctuary of the soul. Earnestly and solemnly we should prepare ourselves for the cleansing of the soul-temple, remembering that we are a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men. This work, when thoroughly done, will cleanse the heart from all disunion, all strife, all desire for the supremacy. Contention, strife, evil thinking and evil speaking are the enemy’s tares, which he plants in the human heart to spring up and bear a baleful crop. An evil work always follows selfish superiority. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 44)

“And I heard, but I understood not: then said I, O my Lord, what shall be the end of these things? And he said, Go thy way, Daniel; for the words are closed up and sealed till the time of the end. Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly; and none of the wicked shall understand, but the wise shall understand.” [Daniel 12:8-10.] This is the work that is to be done for this time. Let ministers and physicians remember that their only safety is in being bound up together with Christ in God. They are to do their work by the Lord’s appointment, and both occupy the same field. (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 45)

Christ was the foundation of the whole Jewish economy. In the service of the Jewish priesthood we are continually reminded of the sacrifice and intercession of Christ. All who come to Christ today are to remember that His merit is the incense that mingles with the prayers of those who repent of their sins and receive pardon and mercy and grace. Our need of Christ’s intercession is constant. Day by day, morning and evening, the humble heart needs to offer up prayers to which will be returned answers of grace and peace and joy. “By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to his name. But to do good and to communicate forget not; for with such sacrifice God is well pleased.” [Hebrews 13:15, 16.] (16LtMs, Ms 14, 1901, 46)

Ms 15, 1901

Diary/“Last night in a meeting ...”
NP
May, 1900
Portions of this manuscript are published in 12MR 150. +

Last night in a meeting matters were presented to me which have taxed my strength and taken my courage. I am weak and astonished. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 1)

The Spirit of the Lord is grieved, and I am given a message to bear to you. The Lord is looking upon every movement you make. You stand in a position where, unless you are guarded, you can and will be worked in a way that will bring harm instead of blessing to the cause of God. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 2)

One year ago you caught a glimpse of yourself. This was in accordance with God’s purpose. He desired you to make an entire change in your course of action. But you have set aside the testimony as untrue. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 3)

Christ said to Nicodemus, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” [John 3:3.] This is the experience you need to gain. You have had warnings; you have had the counsel of God; but you have put your own construction upon these testimonies, and of late you have made the testimonies of the Spirit of God of none effect by your traditions. Notwithstanding the view given you by the Lord concerning yourself, you have refused to be instructed by His word. To you the counsel of God has been as an idle tale. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 4)

It is not the message of Sister White which you have warped and misconstrued, mingling common and sacred fire, but the messages of God. These messages have been coming to you for years, and have saved you from making great mistakes, but now, because they do not endorse the way in which you have carried the work, you refuse their instruction. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 5)

The Lord does not endorse any such transactions as have been carried out in this meeting. He hates robbery and unjust dealing. As surely as this work has been done by those who know not God or Jesus Christ, so surely will the Lord punish because of it. Take back that work; take it back. Other work similar to this has been done. Take it all back; for your soul’s sake, take it back. God will not permit such transactions to be woven into the work as a representation of Him. These transactions will be brought to naught. God’s hand will be stretched out to bring low all the pride and self-exaltation of man. He is prepared to come out of His place to punish the inhabitants of the world for their iniquity. Then the earth shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 6)

It is by drawing threads of selfishness into the web that the figure is spoiled. Such a web the Lord will not accept. He discards everything which bears the devices and conceptions of those who work contrary to His commandments. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 7)

Every school organized among us should labor to bring in principles untainted by selfishness and to reveal pure, noble, sanctified work, which will bear the test of trial. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 8)

The Old Testament Scriptures are not acted upon because they are not carefully and prayerfully studied. From the pillar of cloud our Redeemer gave directions to Moses to be given to the people, and these principles should be followed now as strictly as in the day when the divine, invisible Leader gave them to Israel. It is because those in our institutions have not heeded these principles that prosperity has not attended the work. God’s people have not given to the world the representation He designed them to give. Heavenly angels have not been able to work in union with those who have stood in responsible places, . (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 9)

No one will enter the mansion above who does not bring into his business dealing the principles God has given, principles which are light and life and holiness. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 10)

God is deferring the bringing of His judgment upon the earth in order that those who are supposed to be His people, but who have been bringing in the very things He has condemned , working according to methods He will not accept, may get ready to meet Him in peace. Those who have been selfish, covetous principles, and taking credit to themselves for their sharpness, will never see the kingdom of God, unless they are decidedly changed in character; for selfishness is an abomination in the sight of the Lord, and is a dishonor to Christ, their Creator and Redeemer, whose name they claim. God says, “I will thoroughly purge my floor of all chaff. I will sift my people as in a sieve. Those who name my name must be thoroughly cleansed from all false and corrupting principles. Those whom I claim as my heritage will even now be wondered at as a peculiar people, cleansed from all fraud, all injustice. Those who enter the city of God will here have worked righteousness, revealing to the world the principles of heaven.” (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 11)

The spirit of levity, of mockery, of sarcasm, brought into this meeting, has hurt Christ, and made Him ashamed to call those manifesting it His brethren. Those who here continue to reveal such a spirit can never enter heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 12)

One turned to J. H. Kellogg, saying, “I gave you talents of ability. I gave you honor, not for your sake, but for the glory of My name. But you have lifted up your soul unto vanity, and have put forth the finger to oppress. Will I not judge for these things?” (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 13)

God has permitted this action to be revealed as one of many similar actions which have been done, but not in such a distinct, pronounced manner. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 14)

God has not given to His people the work of showing the greatest sympathy for the wicked, closing their hearts and minds to mercy, justice, and the love of God . (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 15)

I have many things to say, things which have been presented to me, but I cannot say them now; for my strength is small, and such things as this wrench my soul as though it were in the agonies of death. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 16)

I have light that I must give, , which was presented to me on another occasion. Because the ministers did not take up the line of work in which Dr. Kellogg was engaged, he has spoken of them in a criticizing, condemnatory manner. But God did not give Dr. Kellogg this line of work , neither has His Spirit led him to conduct it as it has been conducted. Words have been spoken on public occasions against the Lord’s delegated ministers. The influence of these ministers has not always been perfect . Because of the difficulties created through the various phases of the so-called medical missionary work, they have not known how to manage matters. This work has brought upon the cause of God burdens which never should have existed. God pities His people who are trying to carry on the work in its different lines, while the medical missionary work is conducted in the way in which it is, . They cannot bind up with it, for God does not intend that they should. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 17)

A work has been carried forward which has consumed much means. There are fields which have long waited to be worked. And in some places God’s servants have lost their lives by over-exertion in endeavoring to start the work with insufficient facilities. Their prayers, their tears, their perplexity, their physical and mental suffering, have come up before God. Is He glorified by the way in which His money has been appropriated? No; no! Could the curtain be rolled back and the results be seen which have come as a consequence of the money expended contrary to God’s order, while fields all ready for the harvest were ignored, changes of such a decided character would be made that God would accept the reformation. Such a reformation will have to come before some are brought to their senses. They act like blind men, who cannot study from cause to effect. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 18)

The Lord has given instruction that medical missionary organizations are never to become an oppressive power, but a helping hand to the gospel. The Lord makes not man His teacher. As God, He is to educate and direct man. Christ is the true Teacher, the true Leader. We must follow in His footsteps and listen to His words. He who has the fullest knowledge of Jesus Christ will have the most complete acquaintance with human and divine character. Christ can give men knowledge of how to treat their fellow men under all circumstances. Under His discipline, and through the impartation of His grace, we can become complete in Him. He will reward every man according to his works. We are not called upon to render obedience to man, but to God’s Word, which is to be received into the soul, as verily as the food we eat is received into the physical system. Then we shall be doers of the Word, not hearers only. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 19)

Those who have influence over their fellow men are never to feel that they are to rule, to exercise authority. “All ye are brethren.” [Matthew 23:8.] Our churches and our institutions are not to be conducted according to the ideas and plans of men, but according to the directions and principles God has given in His Word. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 20)

The characters of God’s people are to be formed after the divine similitude, in accordance with the example left us in the life of Christ. The direction given Moses to give to the children of Israel was that all things were to be made according to the pattern shown them in the mount. Study closely the directions given by Christ to Moses to give to the people. Compare the teachings of Christ in the New Testament with the instructions given by Him in the Old Testament in regard to the two great principles of the law—supreme love to God and unselfish love for our neighbor. Upon these two great arms hang all the law and the prophets. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 21)

“The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, Ye shall be holy; for I am holy.... When ye reap the harvest of your land, thou shalt not wholly reap the corners of thy field, neither shalt thou gather the gleanings of thy harvest. And thou shalt not glean thy vineyard, neither shalt thou gather every grape of thy vineyard; thou shalt leave them for the poor and stranger: I am the Lord your God.... Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment; thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honor the person of the mighty; but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbor. Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people; neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbor; I am the Lord. Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart; thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbor, and not suffer sin upon him. Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself: I am the Lord.” [Leviticus 19:1, 2, 9, 10, 15-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 22)

Remember that Christ our Saviour, the One who at the fall took the position of Redeemer of the fallen race, is the speaker of these words. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 23)

Those who love God supremely will love their fellow men as themselves, because “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.] And Christ says to us, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 24)

Christ’s love for His people is as unchanging as His character. The new commandment which He gave His disciples was in every sense new in its application to their practice as Christians. As yet they did not seem to understand the wonderful love shown for them. But after the resurrection they were better able to measure the love which led Christ to suffer and die for them and for all the world. As the Holy Spirit came to them, bringing to their remembrance all things which He had spoken unto them, they were better able to understand the instruction He had given them. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 25)

Unless men are purified from selfishness and love of the world, they will, like Judas, prove false to their Master. We prove the sincerity of our discipleship by following in word and deed the example of Christ, by practicing His lessons, by revealing His humility, His condescension, His love for human beings. The manifestation of Christlike love will bind our hearts up with the Saviour. Those who love one another as He has loved them, have His mind. They believe His words and show their faith by their works. Self is dethroned. Christ is made first and last and best in everything. They reveal their trust in Him by bearing witness to all with whom they come in contact that they have taken His yoke upon them and have brought the will into subjection to His will. They represent Him by obeying His commandments. They refuse to be led by Satan into the broad path of disobedience. The life they now live they live by faith in the Son of God. Keeping the commandments, they experience the blessedness of learning daily the meekness and lowliness of Christ. They are partakers with Him of the love which He expressed for the human race. No selfish pride or ambitious projects, well clothed with Satan’s specious artifice, draw them into the path of transgression. Christ died to save the world, and as they take His yoke upon them, they love one another as Christ has loved them. By their actions they show that their love is genuine. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 26)

The love that brethren in the faith are to show for one another has been revealed by Christ. Those who have this love will work in union with Christ and with one another. The Saviour is deeply grieved when His followers fail of being a help to one another, when they are suspicious, jealous, fault-finding, and unsympathetic. They make themselves channels through which Satan pours his spirit. By their perversity, their wrong influence, they hurt the souls for whom Christ has died. In the place of being a help, a strength, a comfort, examples of true godliness, they are stumbling blocks. They bring reproach upon the truth, and crucify afresh Him who is the light and life of the world. They fail of revealing the Christlikeness by unselfish dealing, truthfulness, and courtesy. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 27)

The greatest evidence a man can give of true conversion is love for his brethren. He who is truly converted will not draw apart from his brethren in the faith, but will love them, and will show his love for them by unselfish, benevolent actions. If he happens to be placed where he has the advantage, he will not oppress or intimidate in word or deed. (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 28)

“As I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” [Verse 34.] Wonderful statement; but oh, how poorly practiced! (16LtMs, Ms 15, 1901, 29)

Ms 16, 1901

Testimony to the Battle Creek Church
NP
February 25, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 1SM 112-115; UL 70; ChL 15. +

The church in Battle Creek has become very large. The Lord is not pleased to have it thus. When the spirit of self-denial and self-sacrifice shall come into the church, when the Holy Spirit is received, there will be seen decided reforms. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 1)

A spirit of criticism regarding health reform has entered the Battle Creek church. The members, though living right at the heart of the work, have not received the light on this subject. They have made the work of those conducting the medical missionary work exceedingly hard, notwithstanding they have professed to believe the testimonies in regard to the reformatory work which must be carried forward in all lines of the work. The Spirit of the Lord has been grieved by the position many have maintained. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 2)

Had the school been moved away from Battle Creek years ago, the temptation to move into Battle Creek would not have been ever at work with families. The school could have been moved away from the rush and crowd and many other things which have been unfavorable to its spiritual advancement. But one excuse after another was urged against moving the school, and these excuses controlled matters. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 3)

Had the Battle Creek school been divided and located in different sections, where the students could have been given opportunity to cultivate the soil and to gain an education in other practical lines of work, they would have had far less temptation to meet. There would have been fewer members in the Battle Creek church to look after. And plants would have been made in several places. This would have been more in the order of the Lord than the course which has been followed. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 4)

Every student should pay a reasonable sum for his tuition. The managers of the school should not allow debts to accumulate. In the school he who gives instruction on the Scriptures should be paid from the tithe; for his labor is in every way as essential as that of the minister. The laborer is worthy of his hire. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 5)

For his own benefit and for the benefit of the students, the Bible teacher should engage in physical labor. This will help him physically and mentally, and will enable him to encourage the students and teach them how to put forth their powers to good advantage. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 6)

The great trouble in the Battle Creek school for some years was that health reform was not taken up as it should have been. The diet question was not managed in accordance with the principles of health reform. Had all the teachers been taught by God, things would have been different, but there was a lack of unity among the teachers. The difference of their views on minor matters brought in more or less division, as circumstances revealed the sentiments of different ones. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 7)

All held one Lord and one baptism, but on the different lines of study and on the diet question the teachers were not in harmony. The principles of health reform were neglected at a time when Dr. Kellogg was making every effort possible to educate students regarding these principles. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 8)

There was not a burden of soul regarding the difference of opinion on the vital points which called for decided unity and earnest missionary effort. The variety of ideas cherished brought in a spirit of opposition. This did not tend to unite teachers and students, but instead brought in a spirit of repulsion, dividing teachers and students. Some said, I am of Paul; others, I am of Apollos; others, I am of Cephas. Had the hearts of all been submitted to Christ, these differences would have disappeared as down before wind. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 9)

At times there would be seen a drawing together and unifying. Then some little matter would again give rise to criticism and variance. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 10)

The Bible was opened to the students, but the teachers needed to wear the yoke of Christ, to do His will and His way, to learn in His school meekness and lowliness of heart. Had they done this, selfishness, jealousy, and evil-surmising would have been given up as expensive lines of goods, unprofitable to trade upon. Had they complied with the invitation, “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me” [Matthew 11:29], they would during the school term have gained an experience of the highest value. While wearing the yoke of Christ and lifting His burdens, laboring together with Him, they would have lost themselves in Him. Seeking to strengthen and bless and uplift one another, they would have forgotten their supposed differences. Trying to exert a right influence upon one another, they would have brought to the foundation not hay, wood, and stubble—differences and selfishness—but gold, silver, and precious stones—Christlike words and deeds—which will stand the test of fire, for they are imperishable. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 11)

If in word and work the teachers had expressed the love shown by Christ, what a different showing there would now be. But God’s hand is not yet withdrawn. It is stretched out still, bearing the brightest beams of His glory, the marks of the crucifixion. In the short period of time left in which to repent and be converted, He desires those who claim to be His children to take His outstretched hand, saying, “In my hands no price I bring; simply to thy cross I cling.” Then a great work will be done among God’s people. Those in our institutions will bow unreasonable, untamable self before the Desire of Ages. There is a deeper experience to be gained, an experience which leads to the words, “All of Christ and none of self.” The Saviour desires those who claim to be His servants to carry out His will. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 12)

Christ was the great Medical Missionary to our world. He calls for volunteers who will co-operate with Him in the great work of sowing the world with truth. God’s workers are to plant the standard of the truth in every place to which they can gain access. The world needs restoring. It is lying in wickedness and in the greatest peril. God’s work for those out of Christ should broaden and extend. God calls upon His people to labor diligently for Him, so that Christian efficiency shall become widespread. His kingdom is to be enlarged. Memorials for Him are to be raised in America and in foreign countries. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 13)

The work of health reform, connected with the present truth for this time, is a power for good. It is the right hand of the gospel, and often opens fields for the entrance of the gospel. But let it ever be remembered that the work must move solidly and in complete harmony with God’s plan of organization. Churches are to be organized, and in no case are these churches to divorce themselves from the medical missionary work. Neither is the medical missionary work to be divorced from the gospel ministry. When this is done, both are one-sided. Neither is a complete whole. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 14)

The work for this time is to appeal to the Christian’s mind as the most important work that can be done. It is the question of cultivating the Lord’s vineyard. In this vineyard every man has a lot and a place which the Lord has assigned him. And the success of each depends on his individual relationship to the one divine Head. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 15)

The grace and love of our Lord Jesus Christ and His tender relationship to His church on earth are to be revealed by the growth of His work and the evangelization of people in many places. The heavenly principles of truth and righteousness are to be seen more and still more plainly in the lives of Christ’s followers. More unselfishness and uncovetousness is to be seen in business transactions than has been seen in the churches since the pouring out of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost. Not a vestige of the influence of selfish, worldly monopolies is to make the slightest impression on the people who are watching and working and praying for the second coming of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 16)

As a people we are not ready for the Lord’s appearing. If we would close the windows of the soul earthward and open them heavenward, every institution established would be a bright and shining light in the world. Each member of the church, if he lived the great, elevated, ennobling truths for this time, would be a bright, light. God’s people cannot please Him unless they are surcharged with the Holy Spirit’s efficiency. So pure and true is to be their relationship to one another that by their words, their affections, their attributes, they will show that they are one with Christ. They are to be as signs and wonders in our world, carrying forward intelligently every line of the work. And the different parts of the work are to be so harmoniously related to one another that all will move like well-regulated machinery. Then will the joy of Christ’s salvation be understood. There will then be none of the representation now made by those who have been given the light of truth to communicate, but who have not revealed the principles of truth in their association with one another, who have not done the Lord’s work in a way that glorifies Him. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 17)

It is professed believers who need converting. God calls upon those who stand in responsible positions in our institutions to represent the principles of truth in every business transaction. In all their dealings with those connected with them they are to show in word and deed and spirit that they esteem others better than themselves. They are to come down from their self-bestowed exaltation, so that in practical life they may live out the words, “All ye are brethren.” [Matthew 23:8.] When, like the apostles on the day of Pentecost, they are all of one accord, the glory of the Lord will be revealed. Of the experience of the apostles at that time we read: “When the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” [Acts 2:1-4.] (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 18)

After Christ rose from the dead, He proclaimed over the sepulcher, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] Christ, the risen Saviour, is our life. As Christ becomes the life of the soul, the change is felt, but language cannot describe it. All claims to knowledge, to influence, to power are worthless without the perfume of Christ’s character. Christ must be the very life of the soul, as the blood is the life of the body. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 19)

The apostle Peter writes, “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, according as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue; whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises, that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure; for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall; for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” [2 Peter 1:2-11.] (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 20)

Working on the plan of addition here outlined, we are to make constant improvement. There is no time to be lost. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 21)

The standard of character which Christ has made it possible for us to reach can be compared with nothing else. It is a perfect standard. In trying to measure [up to] it, the senses become confused. The question is asked, “Who by searching can find out God?” [Job 11:7.] Yet He has made it possible for us to become like Him in character. Oh, what will impress men and women with their need of that transformation which will enable them to reflect the divine image? (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 22)

Many who claim to follow Christ present to the world an inferior representation of Christianity because they do not reach the standard which makes them the elect of God. He who fails to keep constantly before him the standard of God’s holy law creates a standard of his own. He becomes destitute of the life-giving principles of the gospel. He is an unprofitable servant, for he lives and works on a low plane of action. Christ’s presence does not sustain him, and his spiritual representations are deformed. His life is a farce. He does not draw the higher life from God, and is unfitted to become a member of the royal family, a child of the heavenly King. Spiritually he is dead, for he does not assimilate into his own life the life which Christ has provided. He does not grasp the power which heaven has provided to enable him to be an overcomer. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 23)

No one can take to heaven his natural and cultivated traits of character. He who has carried these traits with him through his period of probation has misrepresented Christ by acting upon principles which God cannot endorse. The principles of true spiritual life are not understood by those who know the truth, but fail to practice it. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 24)

The Lord calls for reforms, marked, distinct reforms. Those in whose hearts Christ dwells will reveal His presence in their dealings with their fellow men. But the principles of some have been so long perverted that they have lost their discernment, and the arrow seldom reaches its mark. How can this be cured? Only by heeding Christ’s prayer, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. [And for their sakes I sanctify myself,] that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:17-19.] There is no roundabout way in which the work of sanctification can take place. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 25)

I tell you in the name of the Lord that Israel has sinned. Those handling sacred responsibilities have done strange things. The Lord has not been able to send the dew and showers of His grace; for before He can do this, there must be a change of principles and actions. The Lord longs to see reformatory repentance and good works, that He may send showers of grace to bless His work in every place. He has sent the message, “O Israel, return thou unto the Lord thy God.” [Hosea 14:1.] He does not want to send His judgments. He wants to descend as the gentle showers and refreshing dew, that He may revive the spiritual life of His people. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 26)

“O Israel, return unto the Lord thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord; say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously, so will we render the calves of our lips.... I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely; for mine anger is turned away from him. I will be as the dew unto Israel; he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon.... They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn and grow as the vine; the scent thereof shall be as the wine of Lebanon. Ephraim shall say, What have I to do any more with idols; I have heard him, and observed him; I am like a green fir tree. From me is thy fruit found. Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them; but the transgressors shall fall therein.” [Verses 1, 2, 4, 5, 7-9.] (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 27)

Heed this instruction, and be wise. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 28)

“Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word.” [John 17:20.] O precious, blessed Saviour, I thank Thee for Thy Word. I praise Thy holy name. We are all included in that prayer. “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.” [Verse 21.] This is the purpose which God wishes to see fulfilled. All heaven is longing to see men turning from their unrighteousness, their crooked ways, and seeking grace from the Spirit of Jesus Christ, that each may work from pure, unselfish motives. Love for God and the Redeemer, and tender regard for one another, which leads to unselfish effort to help and bless, these are the credentials Christians are to bear to the world that God sent His Son to this earth that all might believe in Him and be saved. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 29)

Let us remember that variance and sharp dealing never serve the cause or enrich God’s institutions. By His providences God takes away the money gained by sharp devices. By sharp practice dissatisfaction and disunion are created. Lack of confidence comes in. There is a constant impression that someone is trying to get the best of someone else in trade. There are those who try to make terms that are not just and righteous, because they think they can do this . Let the wrong principles which have been coming in for years now be cut out by the roots. Let brotherly love prevail. Those who think by sharp practice and worldly policy to get gain for the cause do not glorify God. He will not accept a jot or tittle of such offerings. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 30)

Holiness to the Lord means having Christ enthroned in the soul, His life circulating through the being just as the blood circulates through the veins. When the Saviour reigns in the hearts of His professed followers, there will be no sharpers in the church. The Lord has no need of these. Let none suppose that they are co-operating with God when in any way they take the least advantage of their brethren. Remember that God will not vindicate the least selfishness toward your brethren. Remember that in all your dealing with your brethren, you are dealing with Christ in the person of His saints. Every block placed in the way of their success is a block placed in the way of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 31)

True love for God and for one another is that which distinguishes true Christianity from the false sentiments and false sympathies which are by some called good works. The lump must be holy if the evidences appear which show that gold, silver, and precious stones are being brought to the foundation. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 32)

It is a life and death question which is before us. The way in which we settle this question will decide our eternal destiny. God help us, by our unity with Christ and with one another, to present to the world unmistakable evidence that God has wrought a miracle in our lives, removing from them all guile, all hypocrisy, all evil work. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 33)

“And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one.” This is the standard—to reveal the oneness which exists between the Father and the Son. “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.” [Verses 22, 23.] Who will now seek to reform in character, to answer the prayer of Christ by being made perfect in one, that by this tender, Christlike union the world may be assured of the miracle-working power of Him whom God sent into the world? (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 34)

In this work of transformation, all our institutions should act their part, now, just now, making no excuse. They should see that by their lack of unity and Christlike love they are encouraging positive unbelief. Shall not this hindrance to the advancement and upbuilding of Christ’s kingdom be removed at once? Will not men, women, and youth repent and be converted, that their sins may be blotted out, and that they may begin to live an elevated, spiritual life, in harmony with Christ’s standard? (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 35)

We have no time, not a moment, to consider self. God calls for proof of a change of heart. There has been such a departure from Christlike sympathy and tenderness, and so much conformity to worldly policy and selfish principles that the high standard of righteousness has been lowered. The members of the church have so long neglected to eat the bread of heaven that many of them have lost all relish for the celestial food. By their actions they say, “Our soul loatheth this light bread.” [Numbers 21:5.] The food is provided from the Lord’s own table, but they have no desire for it; because depraved appetite clamors for the gratification of unholy practices. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 36)

Will you study your Bibles? The principles of heaven are unchangeable. Our safety lies in studying the Word of God. Eat it; digest it; for it is as the leaves of the Tree of Life. It is the life of the soul, but it is this only as its teachings are practiced. The Bible furnishes us with intellectual and spiritual feasts as we bring its sacred, elevating treasures into the soul-temple. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 37)

Faith is the clasping of the hand of Christ in every place, in every emergency. “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me, and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] Every soul may take hold of the efficiency of Christ. The Saviour will never disappoint the one who trusts in Him. Those who are renewed unto righteousness will always bear good fruit, the fruit of the Spirit—good words and works. But before the fruit can be good the tree must be made good. The fruit of righteousness is shown forth by pleasant words, true courtesy, unselfish actions. Thus the character is made fragrant. The life is freed from all signs of overbearing and oppression. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 38)

“The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance; against such there is no law” to bring them into bondage. “And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.” This is the evidence of true conversion. “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.” [Galatians 5:22-26.] (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 39)

Good works! How much we need to understand what constitutes good works! These can only proceed from a heart under the control of the Holy Spirit. They spring from a living faith in the Word of God. They are the evidence of transformation of character. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 40)

Many fail to practice the Word of God because it bars the way of their ambitious plans and projects. They refuse to work for the glory of God, and take upon themselves the responsibility of being their own judge in matters which they propose to carry forward. This may appear right in their own eyes. They may have strong faith in their own methods. But saving faith will never lead men to do evil that good may come. A pure faith, clothed with the righteousness of Christ, works by love and sanctifies the soul. Under its influence every action is performed for the advancement of the kingdom of God in accordance with the divine thoughts and plans. The faith that is sanctified by Christ never places her delicate feet upon questionable ground. Man must have a conscientious faith, proceeding from a good conscience, a faith which works for justification and sanctification, before he can perform good works with an eye single to the glory of God. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 41)

The man who makes the standard of the world his pattern may be in many respects outwardly fair, but his inward principles will not stand the test of the judgment. When his motives are scrutinized by the One who sees not as man sees, he will appear as he really is. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so is the Lord’s standard of character higher than man’s standard of character. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 42)

Those who are connected with the service of God must be purified from every thread of selfishness. All is to be done in accordance with the injunction, “Whatsoever ye do, in word or deed, do all to the glory of God.” [1 Corinthians 10:31; Colossians 3:17.] God’s laws of justice and equity must be strictly obeyed in the transactions between neighbor and neighbor, brother and brother. We are to seek for perfect order and perfect righteousness after God’s own similitude. On these grounds alone will our works bear the test of the judgment. In Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avail anything, but a faith which works by love and purifies the soul from all earthliness. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 43)

There is a work to be done, for God is in earnest with us. “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him, and to our God; for he will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are my ways your ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.” [Isaiah 55:6-9.] (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 44)

Christianity is the revealing of the tenderest affection for one another. The Christian life is made up of Christian duties and Christian privileges. Christ in His wisdom gave to His church in its infancy a system of sacrifices and offerings, of which He Himself was the foundation, and by which His death was prefigured. Every sacrifice pointed to Him as the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world, that all might understand that the wages of sin is death. In Him was no sin, yet He died for our sins. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 45)

The symbolic system of ceremonies worked to one end—the vindication of the law of God, that all who believe in Christ might 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 fulness of Christ.” [Ephesians 4:13.] In Christian work there is ample room for the activity of all the gifts God has given. All are to be united in carrying out God’s requirements, revealing at every advance step that faith which works by love and purifies the soul. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 46)

Christ is to receive supreme love from the beings He has created. And He requires also that man shall cherish a sacred regard for His fellow beings. Every soul saved will be saved through love, which begins with God. True conversion is a change from selfishness to sanctified affection for God and for one another. Will Seventh-day Adventists now make a thorough reformation, that their sin-stained souls may be cleansed from the leprosy of selfishness? (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 47)

I must speak the truth to all. Those who have accepted the light from God’s Word are never, never to leave an impression upon human minds that God will serve with their sins. His Word defines sin as the transgression of the law. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 48)

“Behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? And he 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, Thou hast answered right; this do, and thou shalt live.” [Luke 10:25-28.] (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 49)

As a people, many are transgressing the law of God. Many to whom God has entrusted great responsibilities have ventured to become a law unto themselves. Those who strive to keep the commandments of God in deed and in truth will find that they have lessons to learn in regard to their attitude toward their fellow men of which they never dreamed. The high and holy One, who inhabiteth eternity, recognizes as His representatives those who bow before Him in humility and contrition. But He will show displeasure against those who in word and action have been indifferent to their fellow men, working to hurt, and destroy, and tear down. God calls for repentance and conversion. (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 50)

In one of His last lessons, Christ said to His disciples, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another, as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.] Might we not better without delay realize that we have fallen far short of loving one another as Christ has loved us? (16LtMs, Ms 16, 1901, 51)

Ms 17, 1901

Testimony to the Battle Creek Church
NP
February 26, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in UL 71; WM 255; 8MR 302. +

Testimony to the Battle Creek Church. Neglected Duties.

The light of truth must shine forth to the world. Those who love God and keep His commandments are called to aggressive warfare, not against one another, but against the armies of the invisible foe. There is to be no such thing as laying off the armor. At no time are those who claim to be Christ’s disciples to feel at ease in their church capacity, content to do nothing to rescue fallen human beings, and bring them back to their loyalty. (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 1)

Heavenly angels are constantly ascending and descending between heaven and earth, engaged in unselfish service for the building up of the kingdom of Christ. Where are the men and women who will unite with these heavenly messengers? Where are those who will use their abilities in co-operation with divine power? (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 2)

Think of what God has done for you. When you were perishing out of Christ, did not the warning message come to you, convincing you of sin and arousing you to repentance? Did not Christ reveal Himself to you as a sin-pardoning Saviour? And in the light and glory of your first love, were you not full of unselfish love to impart to others the grace which gave you newness of life in Christ? (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 3)

Do not allow your zeal for Christ to decrease. Now that you have become the helping hand of Christ, you are to work earnestly for those who before your conversion you looked upon with indifference. Remember that they are in as favorable a condition as you were to be brought to repentance, and that their salvation may be of higher value to the church than yours was. Grudge not earnest, tender words and kindly deeds. Draw those around you to the cross of Calvary. Be so greatly in love with the truth that you will daily receive fresh grace to impart. Open the windows of the soul heavenward, that the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness may shine into your hearts. “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 4)

Truth, precious, essential truth will open before all who will keep their souls in the love of God. Duty and sacrifice will be precious to them, because of their love for the purchase of the blood of Christ. Human beings upon whom they would once scarcely look now assume a preciousness in their eyes. Once they had no interest in them; now they are united with Christ, and they are bound up in love with His heritage. The heart once frozen by icy selfishness is now melted by the influence of the Spirit. They rejoice that these poor souls are accepted in the Beloved. (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 5)

The time of the end is crowded with successive scenes in process of fulfillment, all working to bring about that great day when Christ shall be revealed in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. Every brain and every voice is to be enlisted in this work. The trumpet is to give a certain sound, summoning all to that work in which those who are connected with Christ will engage. (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 6)

Let the soldiers in Christ’s army remember that while they are under His banner, they can never be conquered; for angels from the heavenly courts are fighting beside them. And remember, “we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” [Ephesians 6:12.] What are our orders? “Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.” [Verses 13-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 7)

This is the work to which you are called. It is not for you to sit and listen to discourse after discourse, feeling content to do nothing, making no use of the Word you hear, and often criticizing the ministers. Close the windows of the soul earthward, and open them heavenward. Go to work, helping on the right hand and on the left. Visit your neighbors in a friendly way, and become acquainted with them. Use every favorable opportunity, in co-operation with the heavenly agencies, to draw them under Christ’s banner. (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 8)

Those who do not take up this work, those who act with the indifference that some have manifested, will soon lose their first love, and will begin to censure, criticize, and condemn their own brethren. (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 9)

The Lord has a work for every one to do. Every stone in His building is to be instinct with life. As God’s people act their part with faithfulness, the light will shine forth, extending farther and farther, from neighborhood to neighborhood. In places nigh and afar off there will be revivals and conversions. The light and power of the message will be seen and felt. (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 10)

The Lord designs that the churches and sanitariums established among us shall unite in His work, strengthening one another. All heaven is waiting for this. The Lord calls for men and women, with hearts softened by the Holy Spirit, to do a work similar to the work done when the medical missionary work was first entered upon. This work was proffered to the church, but they were in the position represented by those who have lost their first love. They have not kept step with the message and work for the present time. Many have lost their first love, and therefore have manifested a spirit of cold indifference. The message of the second chapter of Revelation is applicable to the church as she has stood for years. Read the warning given by Him who is the Alpha and the Omega. Notwithstanding that some have excellent qualifications, He says, “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.” [Verses 4, 5.] (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 11)

Instruction was given me that every church should be wide-awake to co-operate with Dr. Kellogg upon health reform. But there has been little co-operation with Dr. Kellogg. Many have been as indifferent regarding the important question of diet as though no message had come to them. But thank the Lord, some have been true and faithful. Those who have been so unwilling to receive the light upon health reform have displeased the Lord. Their untrue, unchristian influence is the cause of so great a lack of spiritual discernment. (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 12)

Cautions and warnings have been given on the right hand and on the left. Instruction was given that a work was to be done by the church in medical missionary lines in accordance with the Lord’s plans. But there has been so large a number who have not been a help, but a hindrance, to the doctor, that he has had no confidence that they would take hold in earnest to do anything. Dr. Kellogg is human, and he has felt deeply and keenly his disappointment in his ministering brethren. Certainly some advancement has been made, but instead of one or two places receiving all the labor, the work should have been established in many places. Throughout all her borders the church should have done the work given her by the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 13)

Many things have been presented to me. I was shown that there is a work to be done for the most depraved class, but that this matter must be most carefully guarded, so that the labor put forth shall not be in vain. Young men and young women should not be exposed, as many have been, in meeting the abandoned classes. Decided restraints are to be made, for there are positive dangers to be met. There is need of sacredly guarding the work. (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 14)

In the work for the lower class, the strongest precautions should be observed. There are many who should not go into the large cities to work for the most depraved. There is a work to be done not after the order of the work which has been done. Medical missionary work will become diseased if left to run to such lengths as it has been carried in some places. (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 15)

And work for the outcasts is not the only work that is to be done. It is not the Lord’s will that the greatest amount of labor shall be put forth for those who all their lives have been abusing their physical, mental, and moral powers, till they have injured themselves almost beyond recovery. They have been piling upon the foundation wood, hay, and stubble, which will all be consumed; and if they themselves are saved, it will be as by fire. (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 16)

In many places, too little work is being done for a class that the work of God needs, who will stand right royally for the truth. The Lord will not approve of passing carelessly over His vineyard, leaving unharvested the most promising crops. There are fields all ripe for the harvest. Camp-meetings are to be held in different localities. In this way people are to be reached who will give influence to the work for this time. (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 17)

The Lord has presented things to me which I can interpret, and which those who have the mind of Christ can understand. Education is essential—that kind of education which is not perverted. There are strong traits of character which under the control of the Spirit of God bear good fruit. But when self is considered, when appetite is indulged, when the inclination to evil is not restrained by moral and religious principles—which lead men to look beyond present, transitory gratification and momentary indulgence to the future—the battle is lost. Wood, hay, and stubble are brought to the foundation. And although at times there may be flashes of goodness, they pass away quickly like the morning dew. (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 18)

The religion of Christ never degrades the receiver. It never makes him coarse or rough or uncourteous. It leads him to prepare for the heaven he is trying to win, which, if he is faithful, will be his dwelling place. In word and deed he tries to represent his Redeemer. As he receives the wisdom of God, he is enabled to advance onward and upward. The heart beats with new hopes and with heavenly warmth. (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 19)

Those who receive the knowledge of God and Jesus Christ become as humble as a little child. They are softened and subdued. Heavenly love and benevolence expand heart and mind. Those who are truly converted are eager to communicate the knowledge of God. They feel the strength of the cords which connect humanity with humanity, and bind men and women to Christ in loving, faithful service. (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 20)

There should now be no indifference, for we are living amid the perils of the last day. Each must act his part in extending and enlarging the knowledge of God. Every effort made by the human agent to co-operate with the Holy Spirit prepares him to accomplish the work God has been fitting him through His grace to do. God desires His people to use all their talents in His service. He wants them with humble minds to do all-round work for Him. He wants them to seek for and labor for those in the churches. Christ wants them to improve their capabilities, that they may become wise unto salvation, and by contemplating their duty to Him and to their fellow men, learn how to help others. Workers are to be raised up who will, in their turn, help and educate others. Thus will the good work be extended, and whole communities will be blessed. Men and women will be brought into the fold at the eleventh hour, and if they are in earnest, the Lord will accept them and work through them. As they put on Christ, their minds are enlarged by the higher education. They give to others the treasures of heavenly truth, to be given to still others. And in the parable they are represented as being paid as much as those who first entered the field. (16LtMs, Ms 17, 1901, 21)

Ms 18, 1901

Canvassing for Christ’s Object Lessons
NP
February 27, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in OHC 306; UL 72; 8MR 263.

I am very much pleased with the way in which Christ’s Object Lessons is being handled. It gives me great satisfaction to see the earnest efforts which are being made to free our schools from debt. This is according to the Lord’s plan. Much is being accomplished in this effort. Those engaged in it are learning how to push the canvassing work. I read the reports regarding this effort with great joy, because I know that in the experience the workers are gaining, they are receiving an education in canvassing. Those who will do their best as the Lord’s helping hand to circulate Christ’s Object Lessons will obtain an experience which will enable them to handle our larger books, which the people need so much. Many are gaining an experience which will be of great value to them. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 1)

And at the same time, the best reading matter is being placed in the hands of a large number who, if this effort had not been made, would never have seen Christ’s Object Lessons. I know these will be blessed in reading the book. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 2)

In the work of canvassing for Christ’s Object Lessons, as field after field is entered by those who are selling the book, new methods and new plans will spring from new circumstances. New thoughts will come with the new workers who give themselves to the work. Souls will be converted, and money will come in. The workers find waste places of the Lord’s vineyard lying beside fields that have been worked. Every field shows new places to win for the Lord. All that is done shows how much more still remains to be done. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 3)

The Lord will give favor and blessing and success to those who will handle this book. He will inspire them with new thoughts, and will open their eyes to see what to do next. The Lord calls for young men and young women to enter His service. The youth are receptive, fresh, ardent, hopeful. When once they have tasted the spirit of self-sacrifice, they will not be satisfied unless they are learning constantly of the great Teacher. The Lord will open ways before those who will engage in His service. They will give the facilities, and He will work with them, giving them power and success. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 4)

As we work in connection with the great Teacher, our experience improves. The faculties of the mind are enlarged. The conscience is under divine guidance. Christ takes the entire being under His control. We are safe only as we allow Him to do this; for there is another close by, watching for an opportunity to come in and begin his destructive, ensnaring work. Then, as we enter the service of God, let Him take possession of the whole being, body, soul, and spirit. “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, 20.] (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 5)

No one can be truly united to Christ, practicing His lessons, submitting to His yoke of restraint, without realizing that which he can never express in words. New, rich thoughts come to him. Light is given to the intellect, determination to the will, tenderness to the conscience, purity to the imagination. In the life there is seen that which no words can express—true, faithful, loving devotion of heart, mind, soul, and strength to the service of the Master. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 6)

From the success of the effort made to sell Christ’s Object Lessons, we see that we might just as well obey the requirements of God today as to wait for what we think would be a more favorable opportunity. First, we are to make an unreserved surrender to God. Then we are to pray without ceasing, and we are always to live our prayers. We are to be born of faith, and thus we are to live the spiritual life. Faith will greatly increase by exercise. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. It reaches out to grasp the hand of Christ, knowing that He will hold more firmly than it is possible for the human hand to hold, and that He will never let go. While the human agent is willing to be led, Christ will lead him. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 7)

Will those who are canvassing for Christ’s Object Lessons learn the lessons taught in the book for which they are working? Remember that you have been given a most precious opportunity to do good to souls by the faithful exercise of your God-given capabilities. Learn of Christ. Have faith in His power to help and save you. Faith is the very life-blood of the soul. Its presence gives warmth, health, consistency, and sound judgment. Its vitality and vigor exert a powerful though unconscious influence. The life of Christ in the soul is as a well of water, springing up unto everlasting life. It leads to a constant cultivation of the heavenly graces and to a kindly submission in all things to the Lord. It enables us to reveal that Christ is abiding in the soul. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 8)

I speak to the workers, young and old, who are handling our books, and especially to those who are canvassing for the book which is now doing its errand of mercy. Exemplify in the life the lessons given by Christ in His Sermon on the Mount. This will have a more lasting influence and will make a deeper impression upon minds than the sermons given from the pulpit. You may not be able to speak eloquently to the souls you desire to help, but if you speak modestly, hiding self in Christ, your words will be dictated by the Holy Spirit, and Christ, with whom you are co-operating, will make an impression on human hearts. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 9)

Exercise that faith which works by love and sanctifies the soul. Then you will certainly advance in the knowledge of God and in the knowledge of the best way in which to reach the people. Let all who possibly can join the workers who are already selling Christ’s Object Lessons. You will have many opportunities to contend for the faith once delivered to the saints. As you help and comfort those who are suffering from sickness, you will learn better than you have ever done before how to approach God in and through the faith of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 10)

The handling of the book placed in your hands by the Lord is to be your educator. The lamp is in your hand. Let its light shine forth brightly. Never let your interest flag. Let it rather increase, until every institution is free from the curse of debt. And even then do not give up the work. Keep at it; for a fund should be raised to send to school those who are desirous to fit themselves for service in the Lord’s work, but are unable to pay their own way. Let there be money in hand to be used for this purpose. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 11)

It is the Lord’s design that Christ’s Object Lessons, with its precious instruction, shall unify the believers. There is a great work before us, and we hope and pray that it will be taken up in all countries. We greatly desire that the publishing house in Australia shall make liberal terms in the publication of Christ’s Object Lessons, and that there will be no tardiness in the work of circulating this book. Let our people ever bear in mind that the Lord has designated Christ’s Object Lessons as a book which is to prove a great blessing to our institutions. The Echo Office, if it co-operates with God, will be as greatly blessed as our institutions in America. But if our people in Australia hold back from acting their part in this matter, they will deprive themselves of the rich blessings which the Lord will give them if they will yoke up with Him. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 12)

I am waiting and longing to hear what our people in Australia will do in the work of freeing the school from debt by the sale of the book which the Lord has provided for this purpose. The Echo Office, of course, will take up the work nobly, and act its part. The Lord has greatly blessed this institution, and it should present to Him a thank offering by making no stinted donation to help in the work of freeing the school from debt. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 13)

Move out in this work, my brethren in Australia. Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Have we not proved this in the past as we have moved out in faith to produce the things now seen. God has said that the school in New South Wales should be an object lesson to our people in all other parts of the world. Discouraging, faithless words regarding the poverty of the location which we had chosen for our school and the barrenness of the land, echoed from some in Australia to our brethren in America and Africa; yet we went straight ahead. The Lord said, “They have borne false witness against the land. But be not intimidated. Have faith in Me. Go forward in faith. I can set a table in the wilderness.” (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 14)

As this word, spoken to us in the darkest hour and under the most discouraging circumstances, has been obeyed in faith, have we not seen results? Things unseen, except by the eye of faith, have become things seen. As we have walked and worked by faith, God has indeed fulfilled every word He has spoken. The evidence we have of the fulfilment of His word should check every word of unbelief. It is a sin to doubt, and we do not believe that our brethren in Australia will be guilty of such wickedness. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 15)

Do not, by a lack of faith, let the enemy obtain the victory. The Lord has done much for you all through your borders. Come up to His help. Lift up your heads and look on the fields which are white for the harvest. Remember that the Lord has honored the faith of every one who has worked with unquestioning belief in the words, “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” [Hebrews 11:1.] Shall not our people in Australia have faith in God? Did not faith bring victory to us who labored so hard under difficulties, our work made harder by the false reports sent from Australia to Europe, Africa, and America, reports which weakened those who as God’s helping hand should have sustained us? Those who have been connected with us in the work in Australia should praise God that His word has been verified beyond all their conception of the unseen. The reality is before them. But the vision, in its height and depth and breadth, is not yet in substance standing out before us. The knowledge, wisdom, grace, and joy of the Lord are to be greatly enlarged. Great events may be expected, and how these events will affect the commandment-keeping people of God will depend upon their sincere, implicit faith in God. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 16)

Faith is not only to look forward to things unseen; it is to be confirmed by looking at past experience, at tangible results, the verification of God’s word. I would say to our people in Australia, Thank God that you can see the fulfilment of His word. Would it not be a great sin for any one now to begin to talk unbelief? Let the printing press groan under its burden of producing the book which the Lord has designated as His means of freeing our schools and institutions from debt. Let our people all through Australia have faith in God and move forward. Your faith needs to be strengthened. Brethren and sisters, pray, Lord, increase my faith. Faith quickens the senses to work diligently to produce results. Faith elevates and ennobles the powers of the soul, enabling it to lay hold upon the unseen. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 17)

I call upon our people to enter earnestly and interestedly upon the work of freeing the school from debt. Do all you possibly can to make the sale of Christ’s Object Lessons a success. God will bless you in this work. If you will restrain words of unbelief, and by hopeful words and prompt movements strengthen your own faith and the faith of others, your vision will grow clearer. The pure atmosphere of heaven will surround your souls. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 18)

Notwithstanding the unbelief of some, God has given the work in Australia prosperity far beyond the expectation. Let none now make the Lord ashamed of them because of their unbelief. Sloth and despondency will accomplish nothing. Entanglements in secular business are sometimes permitted by God to stir the sluggish faculties to more than common action, that he may honor faith by the bestowal of rich blessings. This is a means of advancing His work. But those who are without faith will never learn. By unbelief they dishonor their Lord. Unless they are converted, they will make shipwreck of their faith. They stand in the way of advancement, and this the Lord will not tolerate. He desires His people, even in the darkest shadow, to trust in Him. Satan is permitted to throw his shadow across their pathway, that their dormant faith may be aroused to pierce the cloud and find light and courage and life beyond. Those who do not do this choose darkness instead of light. Constantly they weave unbelief into the web. They do nothing to recommend the religion of Christ, for they have no light or peace or joy in the Lord. Their spiritual light is dim, and life grows darker and darker. They talk darkness. They pour out the flood of their unbelief, and chill themselves to death. They give up the faith, and then blame others for their ruin. But in the books of heaven it is written, “Thou hast destroyed thyself.” [Hosea 13:9.] (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 19)

Can we wonder that they are swept away by temptation, that like some of the Saviour’s followers, they become offended at the plain words of truth, and turn away from Christ, to walk no more with Him? (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 20)

Let it not be thus with any of us. Looking unto Jesus, not only as our Example, but as the Author and Finisher of our faith, let us go forward, having confidence that He will supply us with all the strength that is needed for every duty. (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 21)

Eternal life is presented to us. Let us do all in our power to gain it. To us has been given the privilege of co-operating with Jesus in His work of saving lost souls. Those who do this work with self-denial and self-sacrifice are the elect of God. From Him they will one day receive the benediction, “Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:21.] (16LtMs, Ms 18, 1901, 22)

Ms 18a, 1901

“I have been instructed that all ...”
NP
ND
Portions of this manuscript are published in CM 89.

I have been instructed that all should appreciate Christ’s Object Lessons, for it is the very book needed by the people everywhere. When the debts are lifted from our institutions, do not fold your hands and think that there is no call for further effort. Press forward in the work. Do not fail nor be discouraged. Continue the work, remembering that facilities will be needed. Many enterprises will call for money. Work, yes, work; and the Lord will work with you. (16LtMs, Ms 18a, 1901, 1)

To those who are handling Christ’s Object Lessons—ministers, teachers, students, fathers, mothers, young men and young women—I would say, Lose not your interest. Parents and children, give heed to the lessons contained in this book; for they are as the leaves of the tree of life. Young men, you who have thoughts of entering the ministry, take up the work before you. Help in the circulation of Christ’s Object Lessons. Thus you will obtain a valuable discipline. You can be a great blessing to the families with whom you come in contact. Remember that you are doing service for the Lord. And there is no objection to your canvassing at the same time for our larger works, Daniel and the Revelation, Great Controversy, Patriarchs and Prophets, and Desire of Ages. (16LtMs, Ms 18a, 1901, 2)

God is calling you to enter His service. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Bring into the work an earnest desire to learn how to bear responsibilities. With strong arms and brave hearts go forth into the conflict all must enter, a conflict which will grow more and more severe as we approach the closing struggle. (16LtMs, Ms 18a, 1901, 3)

Young men need wisdom. Wisdom is indeed an ornament for hoary heads, but for young men and young women it is a crown of glory. Paul addressed Timothy, saying: “Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in the Lord Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” 2 Timothy 2:1, 2. Here is a thought that we would do well to ponder. Timothy was to make the very best use of his powers in hearing the words of Paul, which he was to faithfully preserve to be entrusted to men who would be able to give these principles of truth to others. (16LtMs, Ms 18a, 1901, 4)

“Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; and that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.” 2 Timothy 2:22-26. (16LtMs, Ms 18a, 1901, 5)

“Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded. In all things showing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.” Titus 2:6-8. (16LtMs, Ms 18a, 1901, 6)

These words have been recorded for the benefit of every youth. Young men, be sober minded. Remember that you have been bought with a price, and that you are therefore to glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are His. You are to be co-workers with Christ. Faith triumphs when it recognizes a new and respected authority. God calls upon every youth to yield obedience to Him. (16LtMs, Ms 18a, 1901, 7)

Canvassers should be sent out two and two. Then they can converse together and study the Word of life together, praying with and for one another. Inexperienced canvassers should be sent out with those of more experience who can help them. They can pray together, and both the elder and the younger Christian can receive the blessing of God. (16LtMs, Ms 18a, 1901, 8)

You have no time to lose. You need to strive continually for perfection of character. And when you obtain a victory, when the blessing of God rests upon you, when you have an interesting experience, write a report of it for our papers, that others may be encouraged. (16LtMs, Ms 18a, 1901, 9)

May God strengthen every worker, and crown their efforts with success. All the resources of heaven are open to the humble, believing youth. Having chosen God as your portion, His Word abides in you. This Word is quick and powerful, and will give you strength and knowledge and understanding. Then move forward. Sow the seeds of truth. And at the same time as you sow, you may lift up your eyes and see fields all ripe for the harvest. (16LtMs, Ms 18a, 1901, 10)

In every place that you visit, you will find the sick and suffering. Relieve them if possible, even if by so doing, you are detained some little time. If you have been instructed as all our canvassers should be instructed, you can give relief to those who would have been sick for a much longer time if you had not known what to do for them. The use of simple means in the treatment of the sick would be an object lesson. If at all consistent, pray for the sick one. God may raise him up, and this will be a witness for the truth. Tell the families you visit what they must do to keep well. Take with you some pamphlets bearing on health reform, and leave them with the people. Thus you can sow the seeds of truth. (16LtMs, Ms 18a, 1901, 11)

In your diet, stand firmly by the principles of health reform. Touch not flesh meat of any kind. Tell those with whom you stay that you are a health reformer. You can do this modestly and yet firmly. (16LtMs, Ms 18a, 1901, 12)

Ms 19, 1901

Help for Our Scandinavian Institutions
NP
February 27, 1901
Previously unpublished.

Help for Our Scandinavian Institutions. (16LtMs, Ms 19, 1901, 1)

I appeal to our people in the name of the Lord. Let there be a consecrated, united effort made to lift our institutions in Scandinavia out of the difficulty into which they have fallen. Let all rally to this work. Let all that is done be done in faith. Do not allow the name of Christ to be reproached. Do not begin to censure and condemn. God’s institutions are in peril, and all who can should act their part without delay in delivering them. Those who do this work with faithfulness will be among the number to whom the words apply, “Every one that is of the truth heareth my words.” [John 18:37.] Christ’s life was a life of pure, disinterested benevolence. He assumed our human nature for no other purpose than to display the glory of God in the happiness of man. To accomplish this, He gave His life. (16LtMs, Ms 19, 1901, 2)

The Lord will certainly be dishonored if our institutions are allowed to fall into decay for want of the money which He has entrusted to His stewards. All Christ is, He is to the true believers. All Christ has, He has for us. We are heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ. Therefore those who have means should at once return to the Lord His own to help the institutions out of their embarrassment. God calls upon His people to use for His glory the goods He has lent them. (16LtMs, Ms 19, 1901, 3)

Let all try to do something. Delay not for a day or an hour. Look over your affairs and see what you can do to co-operate with the Lord in helping His suffering institutions. These institutions call for your help. Will you give it to them? There are those who have little faith, who with some flimsy excuse, will try to discourage others from doing anything. It only needs a discouraging word to raise and strengthen selfishness in the soul. Do not listen to those who would tempt you. Do what you can now to help those who need help. Waive the questions that will arise as to how the difficulty has come about. It is sufficient for us to know that distress has come upon our brethren, in whom we have confidence as the Lord’s servants. Act toward them as you would act toward Christ. Large sums are needed for the relief of the institutions. But if you can only give a small sum, remember that the Lord will accept your gift. Remember that you are placing this money in the hands of Christ in the person of His afflicted brethren. Thus God regards it. (16LtMs, Ms 19, 1901, 4)

My brethren, the Lord is soon to come, and every talent He has entrusted to us is to be returned to Him with usury. There is a great work to be done for Him in Europe. The cause of God there is not to become a stone of stumbling or a rock of offence to unbelievers. The institutions there are not to be closed up or given into the hands of those not of our faith. The Lord’s servants in Europe are to rally to recover what has been lost, and the Lord will work with them. And I call upon our people in America to co-operate with their brethren in Europe in this effort. We can and should work with heart and mind and soul to preserve our institutions in Scandinavia. (16LtMs, Ms 19, 1901, 5)

Promptness of decision and action is necessary in this work. At the Week of Prayer there should have been a clear understanding of this matter in every church, and with the appeal before them the people should have given their offerings to the place where holy interests are imperilled. Why are not our ministers and church members prompt in their decisions in regard to the subject of the greatest need? When the Lord places before us an appeal to be responded to, just at the time when offerings are made by our people, let the ministers and church officers take up the matter earnestly and vigorously. Let them as stewards of God decide what is to be done, and then do it. This is absolutely necessary when our institutions are in absolute peril. (16LtMs, Ms 19, 1901, 6)

Let all who love the Lord now act their part. Let those in responsible positions set a right example. Let the people of God think of the eternal consequence of rightly employing their property. Let them bring their means to the Lord, saying, Lord, we who have been entrusted with Thy goods freely give Thee of Thine own. Thus we show that we realize that our brethren in Europe will be sorely tried if their facilities are cut off. (16LtMs, Ms 19, 1901, 7)

The embarrassment of the Scandinavian institutions should have been thoroughly understood. Prompt measures should have been taken to relieve these institutions, which are just as sacred in the sight of the Lord as our institutions in America. The hands of those connected with these institutions should not be weakened because of their embarrassment. Let all take hold and do what they can, and the difficulty will soon be in the past, no more to harass the cause of God. I hope and pray that everything that can be done will be done. Every noble, Christian instinct in the men in responsible positions should lead them to devise and plan with greater earnestness for the relief of our institutions in Europe than if their own property were at stake. (16LtMs, Ms 19, 1901, 8)

Those who love and serve the Lord should feel the deepest interest in all that concerns the glory of His name. Who could bear to see the institutions where the truth has been magnified, where the Lord has often revealed His presence, where instruction has been given by the messengers of God, where the truth has been sent forth in publications which have accomplished great good, passing into the hands of worldlings to be used as common? Should this happen, men would say that it was because the Lord was not able to prevent it. (16LtMs, Ms 19, 1901, 9)

These things mean much to our brethren and sisters in Scandinavia. Let us make an effort to prevent them from falling into discouragement and depression. The Lord will not give His glory to another, or His praise to graven images. (16LtMs, Ms 19, 1901, 10)

We often fail of doing things in the way that the Lord has planned because we insist on carrying out some whim of our own. I pray that the Lord will fill our hearts with an intense desire to know His will and to carry out His will. From unfeigned lips let the prayer go forth, “Let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel.” [1 Kings 18:36.] God’s purpose will be accomplished if men and women will act their part in His great plan. Let us now be God’s helping hand, and as such, relieve our institutions in Scandinavia. (16LtMs, Ms 19, 1901, 11)

Ms 20, 1901

“The canvassing work is one of...”
Refiled as Ms 174, 1899.

Ms 21, 1901

Diary/“I am awakened this morning ...”
NP
March 3, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 1SM 43-45. +

I am awakened this morning at one o’clock with a message to bear to my brethren in America. I seemed to be in a meeting where there were a large number of ministers. The Spirit of the Lord came upon me, and I said, I have a message from the Lord to you. “I charge thee therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom, Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 1)

Men who are not established and settled in the present truth, who, having a superficial understanding of God’s Word, are ready to feed on fables, will work among the churches. They will present to the people a mass of rubbish, which would never proceed from the minds of those possessing a knowledge of Jesus Christ. I have received letters expressing great anxiety. Someone has been teaching those in our churches that men and women with grey hair cannot be saved—[along] with other foolish theories. It seems singular that those who have their Bibles do not have a decided message for those who teach these fables. (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 2)

Such teachers are described in Paul’s words, “Evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived.” The apostle says, “Continue thou in the things which thou hast learned, and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; ... All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:13, 14, 16, 17.] If our minds are open to receive the truth, we shall not be misled by the false messages which come to us. (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 3)

One man, Nelson by name, came all the way from Michigan with a special message for Sister White. He said that Sister White had been appointed by God to occupy the position occupied by Moses, and that he, Nelson, was to occupy the position of Joshua. Thus the work was to be carried forward. Sister White’s work was to be united with his work, and we were to proclaim the truth with power. (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 4)

This man took the liberty, as many others have done, to mingle a great deal of Scripture with his message, quoting passages which he applied to Seventh-day Adventists. During my connection with the work, many such men have arisen. They have selected and arranged Scriptures which they made applicable to the people of God. Mr. Nelson read with a loud, strong voice the passages he had selected, declaring them to be applicable to us as a people. He said that I must see that he was right, for was it not the Bible he was reading? (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 5)

“Yes,” I said, “you have selected and put these Scriptures together, but like many who have arisen as you have, you are wresting the Scriptures, interpreting them to mean thus and so, when I know they do not apply as you have applied them. You, or any other deluded person, could arranged certain Scriptures of great force, and apply them according to your own ideas. Any man could misinterpret and misapply God’s Word, denouncing people and things, and then take the position that those who refused to receive his message had rejected the message of God and decided their destiny for eternity.” (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 6)

Again, this man to give Sister White a message from _____ that she was hard upon her workers. God had sent him, he said, in behalf of this poor soul, to tell me that I had done wrong to my workers. (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 7)

Had I been in the least inclined to receive the man’s message, this charge would have decided against it. I told him that if I had been in any doubt before as to the character of his message, the charge that I was hard upon my workers would have been sufficient to convince me that his message was not true. I would leave my workers to testify at a proper time against his charge. When a man claims to have a message to set Sister White in order, and then speaks words which he has received from one whom I sincerely pity, but whose representations are entirely false, all his burden is of human invention. God has not sent him. (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 8)

I would not make reference to this man and his message did I not know that it is now time to do so, that the minds which he has deceived may be disabused. I know that God has not sent Brother Nelson with the message he claims to have received. Any man can take words of Scripture, and say, This belongs to a certain class. But it is only human judgment that makes this application. God has not given any such message. We know that the time has now come to say, Wherever Brother Nelson may attempt to bring in his message, receive him not; for God has not sent him. I feel very sorry for this poor brother, for he is certainly not in his right mind. God has not given him a message for the churches. He is deceived. We know that there is much chaff among the wheat, and that there are those claiming to believe the truth who do not practice the truth. These do injury to the cause of God. (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 9)

I hope the Lord will give understanding to His people in every place where this man may go, so that they may understand that he misinterprets the Scriptures, applying them where they do not apply at all. He denounces persons and things, thinking in his deluded mind that he has been sent by the Lord to bring about a great reformation. I have received letters from those who sustain him in his delusion. To all honest, deceived souls I would say, Believe not that God has given Brother Nelson his message, for I know that he is not in his right mind. His message is not from God. Believe him not. (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 10)

From the various letters which have come to me, I see that when such men as Nelson, claiming to be sent by God, go to those who are more or less isolated from our people, these souls are ready to grasp anything that purports to be of heavenly origin. Letters come to me entreating an answer; for men take the testimonies the Lord has given, and apply them as they suppose they should be applied, picking out a sentence here and there, taking it from its proper connection, and applying it according to their idea. Thus poor souls become bewildered when, could they read in order all that has been given, they would see the true application and would not become confused. Much that purports to be a message from Sister White serves the purpose of misrepresenting Sister White, making her testify in favor of things that are not in accordance with her mind or judgment. This makes her work very trying. Reports fly from one to another regarding what Sister White has said. Each time the report is repeated, it grows larger. If Sister White has anything to say, leave her to say it. No one is called upon to be a mouthpiece for Sister White. (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 11)

I scarcely dare hold a conversation with my ministerial friends; for my words are reported in a way that does harm, leaving a false impression on minds. Then letters come to me, asking me if I have said so and so, and I have to take the burden of stating the matter correctly. Will my brethren be more zealous to keep their tongues as with a bridle? Will they think of the great mischief that is done by unadvised words? (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 12)

My friends must not be surprised if I refuse to engage in private conversation with them, for I know not what interpretation will be put upon my words. It is not safe for me or for the cause which I am striving with all my powers to advance. The cause of God is sacred to me. When my ministering brethren or the lay members of the church, in order to carry a point, select a few sentences from words I have spoken or from a letter I have written, and use these sentences out of their connection, they are doing me injustice. Please let Sister White bear her own message. It will come with a better grace from her than from the one who reports her. (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 13)

I am obliged to say that I do not think I am safe even in writing to my brethren and must cut off this source of danger, so that my words shall not be misapplied. I do not wish one jot of my influence to be used to the injury of souls. For my brethren to catch a word or expression that I may make, and translate it to mean something I never meant, hurts my soul most cruelly. How do they suppose I can fulfil the mission given me by God when they interpose between the work God has given me and the souls I desire to help. Silence is eloquence. (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 14)

I now wish to say to my brethren, I shall not feel at liberty to express either in council meetings or in private conversations that which I would be glad to say. I must not give the least chance for my words to be misinterpreted and used as a whip to hurt some of my brethren. I think, my brethren, that a live coal from off the altar should touch your lips. Then pure, sanctified, unselfish words would be spoken, words bearing the approval of God. Let us all seek the Lord, and He will help us and strengthen in us right principles and purposes. Let us pray more and talk less. (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 15)

“The servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; and that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil; who are taken captive by him at his will.” [2 Timothy 2:24-26.] (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 16)

“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world; 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.” [Titus 2:11-14.] (16LtMs, Ms 21, 1901, 17)

Ms 22, 1901

Diary/“I thank my heavenly Father that ...”
NP
March 3, 1901 [typed]
Portions of this manuscript are published in Ev 516-517; UL 76. +

I thank my heavenly Father that I was greatly blessed and refreshed by being enabled to sleep till half past three this morning. After offering up my thanksgiving to God and my request that His grace and love may abide in my heart today, I commence writing at four o’clock. (16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, 1)

I am burdened as a cart beneath sheaves. I read: “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people; but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee.” [Isaiah 60:1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, 2)

There is a work to be done in our world, but there is danger of this work being one-sided. It has already become this. The Lord only can work in behalf of His people in America. Many duties are left undone in the Southern field, and a great deal is being done for the outcasts in the large cities. The work must move forward more solidly, occupying higher ground. The Lord will work with and through every one who will give up his own will and way, submitting to the Holy Spirit. (16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, 3)

Restitution must be made to the Southern field, not only of the money which was withheld, but of the sympathy which was due to every worker in that most unpromising portion of the Lord’s vineyard. Because of unreasonable, unwarrantable prejudice, the Southern field seems at the present time to be closed, but there is work enough to be done by those who will take hold of the work. It is with deep regret that I think of the way in which this field has been neglected, and of the failure of our brethren to give sympathy and encouragement to the workers whom God accepted by giving them success beyond their expectation. They needed your sympathy, they needed your prayers, they needed the help of your means. (16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, 4)

Friday, June 16, 1899

During the past night I have been blessed with sleep. I will bring to the Lord my gratitude offering of praise and thanksgiving for the goodness and love He has shown me. I have much writing to do today. (16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, 5)

“And I saw another angel fly 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, saying with a loud voice, 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. And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication. And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, 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, and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb.” [Revelation 14:6-10.] (16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, 6)

This is the message of present truth. The first, second, and third angels’ messages are to be proclaimed at this time. These messages are not to be eclipsed by any other fancied specialties. Their force and efficiency are to continue as long as time is given for repentance. (16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, 7)

Our Lord is soon to come, and I see so little missionary work being done as unworked fields are laid out before me. All whose eyes are open must see that a work should be done which is not being done. Ministers are devoting time to church members who ought to have root and life in themselves. God’s servants should go into new places to proclaim the message. What answer will the church give to the Lord in that great day when her neglected work stands forth to reproach her for her slothfulness and her silence, when she knew how much was at stake? (16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, 8)

The fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah contains present truth for the people of God. Here we see how medical missionary work and the gospel ministry are to be bound together as the message is given to the world. Upon those who keep the Sabbath of the Lord is laid the responsibility of doing a work of mercy and benevolence. Medical missionary work is to be bound up with the message and sealed with the seal of God. (16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, 9)

The Lord speaks to those who turn away their feet from the Sabbath. This is the Sabbath spoken of in the thirty-first chapter of Exodus, which God declares is a sign between Him and His people. By keeping this day holy, we show to the world that we recognize God as the One who created the world in six days, and rested on the seventh. Earnestly and untiringly we are to bear the message given us, lest time shall pass and people be left unwarned. (16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, 10)

My heart aches almost to breaking as I see so much left undone that ought to be done. God’s ambassadors are to maintain a living connection with Him. They are to enlarge their borders and extend their labors. Their lives are to be made pure, holy, ready for the great day soon to come upon the world. When they are imbued with the Spirit of the Master, they will see all around them souls, for whom Christ gave His life, perishing in sin; and they will make every effort to save those nigh—even in their own households—and those afar off. Earnest, consecrated effort for those who are out of the fold leaves no time for criticism or questioning. (16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, 11)

There must be no compromise with selfishness, for selfishness leads to idolatry. Minds that are in the darkness of ignorance in regard to the truth of the Word of God must be enlightened. A breach has been made in the law of God by the transgression of the fourth commandment. The Sabbath command is to be given its rightful position in the law of God, and by those who see and realize its importance, it is to be presented to the world. Those who work unitedly, who act faithfully their part in raising the foundation of many generations with patient, persevering effort will be called Repairers of the breach, Restorers of paths to dwell in. (16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, 12)

There is no excuse for those who have the light of present truth, and yet fail to impart this light to others. God calls for workers. We have a great work to do in co-operating with Him as His helping hand and helping voice. Satan is casting his hellish shadow across the pathway of every soul, seeking to eclipse the testing truths for these last days. We are to sound the message of warning to a guilty race. We are to present to men the binding claims of God’s law, so that when Christ comes they will not be found in disloyalty, on the side of the Apostate. We must now prepare the way of the Lord. We must make plain in the desert a highway for our God. (16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, 13)

God calls not only for the voice, but for helping human hands. He calls upon His people to bring zeal into His work, using the faculties He has given them in an effort to place the standard of truth in every place. Much more honor must be given to the Sabbath than is now revealed, if God’s people wish the experience spoken of in Isaiah brought into their lives as a reality. (16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, 14)

“The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily, my Sabbaths ye shall keep; for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations, that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you; every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death; for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord; whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever; for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.” [Verses 12-17.] (16LtMs, Ms 22, 1901, 15)

Ms 23, 1901

Diary/“I slept until half past two...”
Refiled as Ms 172, 1899.

Ms 24, 1901

“This afternoon I had a conversation ...”
NP
March 4, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 1MCP 327-328; OHC 106. +

This afternoon I had a conversation with Brother Taylor in regard to the work that has been done in Healdsburg. I thank the Lord that in His great mercy and love He has visited the Healdsburg church. We sincerely hope that the members will not now settle down and make no advance movements, supposing that all has been done that can be done. The work has but just begun. It is to be carried on from victory to victory. Remember that Christ is the author and the finisher of our faith. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 1)

I feel very sorry that Brother McElhaney has not done thorough work. He will not stand justified before God until he sees his error, confesses his wrong, and does all in his power to make restitution. In connection with Brother Bond, in his work as real estate agent, he has done that which he will not wish to meet in the judgment. Brother Leininger has stood before his brethren, those who have done him a great wrong, striving by the hardest kind of work to support his family. He has stood before them as a Christian man whom God loves, who, through the untruthful course of his brethren, lost his all. Of these men the words are written clearly and distinctly in the books of heaven, Unfaithful stewards. Will they allow time to pass until it is too late for wrongs to be righted? God help them, while mercy’s sweet voice is still heard, to see their error and do thorough work in restitution. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 2)

As Brother McElhaney now stands, he is not accepted of God, neither can he be while he utterly ignores his past course of action. God says, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” [Matthew 25:40.] If Brother McElhaney had cleansed the soul-temple, his course would not now be as it is represented to be, disapproved by God. If he continues in the business in which he is now engaged, he will be drawn into temptation, and his understanding of the truth will be perverted. In principle he is not a Bible Christian. Measured by worldly policy he will pass, but let him look into the mirror of God’s law, the transcript of God’s character, and he will see how far short he falls of meeting the requirements of God. Unless he repents, he will be weighed in the balances and found wanting. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 3)

From the light given me, I know that Brother McElhaney has looked into the mirror and has read there the words, “Weighed in the balances of the sanctuary and found wanting.” [Daniel 5:27.] He has been deeply convicted. He has seen that the laws of worldly policy are not to be the criterion of the people of God, unless these laws are in strict conformity with the law of God. But he has gone on in his own way, forgetting what manner of man he was. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 4)

Will our brother, holding a position in the church and in the Sabbath school, continue to set such an example before the church and the world? (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 5)

“What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” a lawyer asked Christ. There were a large number of Pharisees present waiting to hear how Christ would answer this important question. They hoped to hear Him say something which they might construe to hurt His influence or destroy His life. Christ understood the situation, and He put the burden of the answer upon the one who asked the question. “What is written in the law? how readest thou?” He asked. The lawyer answered, “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.” “Thou hast answered right,” Christ said. “This do, and thou shalt live.” [Luke 10:25-28.] (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 6)

This question has been answered for all time and will decide the case of everyone who in the last great day will stand before the bar of God. The law of Jehovah, not human policy and human inventions, will decide the destiny of men and women. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 7)

John writes, “I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened; and another book was opened, which is the book of life; and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.” [Revelation 20:11, 12.] (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 8)

“Behold, I come quickly,” unexpectedly, Christ says, “and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his works shall be.” [Revelation 22:12.] The books of heaven bear the record of every life. Men will be judged by the way in which they have treated their fellow men and the way in which they have treated God, whose they are by creation and by redemption. Unless man keeps his heart with all diligence, he will rob God of His rightful claims. He will keep the Lord’s portion, the tithe, upon which the Lord has laid His hand, saying, It is mine. The tithe is the Lord’s money, by which He designs to sustain His work in the world. Those who keep back the tithe are robbing God of that which He has declared to be His, to be used in advancing His work. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 9)

All the world is under tribute to God. He supplies man with all that he enjoys. By returning to Him the portion which He has specified as His own, we are to acknowledge His claims upon us. Those who are dishonest in their dealing with God will one day be called upon to give an account for their unfaithful stewardship. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 10)

We are familiar with the prayer, “Thy will be done in earth, as it is done in heaven.” [Matthew 6:10.] Do we individually try to act so that the Lord’s will may be done in earth as it is done in heaven? How does the third chapter of Malachi present itself to the minds of the members of the Healdsburg church? Do you all pay a faithful tithe, that the work of proclaiming the gospel message may go forward with power? Thus you may do the will of God on earth as it is done in heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 11)

Let the whole of this chapter be read slowly, solemnly, and with proper emphasis, in the Healdsburg church. The terms which God makes with His people are positive and clearly defined. All who disobey will be without excuse. God’s claims are clearly stated. The result of dealing falsely with God and with one another is plainly pointed out. God says, I who know your selfishness and your covetousness, which is idolatry, “will come near you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not me.... For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.” [Verses 5, 6.] (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 12)

What does this mean? “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.] It was God’s decision that a probation should be granted to men, in which they would be tested and tried. Thus He would prove whether they would choose to live the life of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 13)

Will fallen man avail himself of the opportunities and privileges granted him? By complete obedience to God’s requirements, man shows that he has accepted the life of Christ. Through faith in His power and grace, he may resist the temptations of the enemy and overcome his hereditary and cultivated tendencies to evil. Looking to Jesus, beholding His character, seeking by faith to work the works of Christ, he becomes a partaker of the divine nature, having overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust. “Wherefore, seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.” [Hebrews 12:1, 2.] A lack of faith in Christ as our sufficiency is the sin which so often and so easily besets us, causing the fall of many. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 14)

The longsuffering of God, expressed in the words, “For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed,” means a great deal to us. [Malachi 3:6.] The Lord is slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit the wicked. The longsuffering of God is wonderful, because it means that God puts a constraint upon His own attributes. It is Omnipotence exerted over Omnipotence. Do we realize that it is owing to God’s divine forbearance that our lives are prolonged? Had the Lord acted toward us as we have acted toward one another, what would have become of us? God is to be honored and glorified, in that He has not cut us asunder and appointed us our portion with the hypocrites and unbelievers. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 15)

But there is in human nature a tendency to be unappreciative of the longsuffering of God. Men show this lack of appreciation by continuing in sin, by not hating the awful thing that made it necessary for Christ to offer Himself as a sacrifice. He died to save the sinner, not in transgression, but from transgression. But “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.] “The wicked will do wickedly, and none of the wicked shall understand.” [Daniel 12:10.] (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 16)

There are limits even to the forbearance of God. It is possible to so far presume upon His mercy as to exhaust it, and then His protecting care is removed. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 17)

If sin were immediately punished, there would be a change in the moral government of God. Instantaneous retribution would produce a fear of the sure consequences; but God delays the punishment of sin, because He would give the sinner ample time to turn from sin and seek righteousness. In His great mercy God does not at once consume the transgressor, yet punishment is no less certain to fall upon the impenitent. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 18)

David said, “It is time, O Lord, for thee to work; for they have made void thy law.” [Psalm 119:126.] The world refuses to receive the law of God as a rule of life, and the same spirit has entered the church. There are in the churches wheat and tares. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 19)

“Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them. Return unto me, and I will return unto you.” He does not leave them hopeless and discouraged. “Return unto me, and I will return unto you, saith the Lord of hosts.” [Malachi 3:7.] (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 20)

“But ye said, Wherein shall we return?” [Verse 8.] Blind in regard to spiritual things, they vindicate their course as though there were no need of such language being addressed to them. They are righteous in their own estimation. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 21)

“Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee?” Had they read the Scriptures, they would have known where they were robbing God. When they asked, “Wherein have we robbed thee?” God answered, “In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse; for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruit of your ground, neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts. And all nations shall call you blessed, for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the Lord of hosts.” [Verses 8-12.] (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 22)

O what beautiful words, and how encouraging! (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 23)

“Your words have been stout against me, saith the Lord, yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against thee? Ye have said, It is vain to serve God; and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the Lord of hosts? Yea, now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered.” [Verses 13-15.] (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 24)

Those who are robbing God do not receive His favor, because they are not walking honestly before Him. They fail to return to the Lord His specified portion, and then murmur and complain because He does not recognize them as they think He should. But the Lord sees in them nothing of good works, of self-denial, of love. They do not work as His helping hand in ministering to the needy. They are not rich in good works. Constantly they draw into the pattern they are weaving the threads of their own selfish thoughts and plans. They close their hearts and minds against those they should help and bless. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 25)

The Lord looks beneath the surface. He reads every purpose of the mind, and He says to these delinquents, who are robbing Him and neglecting the work of mercy He has given them, “Ye have wearied the Lord with your words. Yet ye say, Wherein have we wearied Him? When ye say, Every one that doeth evil is good in the sight of the Lord, and he delighteth in them, or, Where is the God of judgment?” “I will come near to you in judgment, and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not me, saith the Lord of hosts.” [Malachi 2:17; 3:5.] (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 26)

At this very time, in contrast to the picture of those whose hearts and minds are blinded by selfishness, a more pleasant picture is presented. “Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another; and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.” [Verses 16, 17.] (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 27)

When this takes place, the difference between the two parties in our world is made manifest. That which many cannot now see or understand is made plain. “Then shall ye return and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God, and him that serveth him not.” [Verse 18.] (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 28)

We need to pray earnestly for the purifying, refining influence of the Spirit of God. The Jews had long been waiting for the Messiah, but when He came, they rejected Him, as prophecy had foretold. They had become unfaithful, and they would not be brought to true repentance. They would not confess their wrongs. They could not endure the searching purity of the Saviour’s doctrines, and they crucified Him. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 29)

Many today claim to be standing in a position of exalted righteousness. They pray for the revealing of Christ’s presence, but when He sends messages to them, they are unwilling to have their sins pointed out, and they continue to work in accordance with the principles condemned by the Word of God. If they will not repent and confess their sins, and be converted, they will be a hindrance to the outpouring of the Spirit of God. O, it would be for the good of the church in Healdsburg if those who have long believed the Word would cut away all selfishness from their hearts, no longer retaining their objectionable traits of character. If they would receive the Holy Spirit and make a radical change in the life-practice, I know that many souls would be converted. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 30)

It is God’s plan to have a spiritual priesthood, who can bring to the Lord an offering in righteousness. A solemn responsibility rests upon those who have been long in the truth. By their piety, their unselfishness, their good works, they are to be object lessons to others. It makes every difference to the church whether they do good or evil. If they are unfaithful in regard to the tithe, they give those newly come to the truth an excuse for being unfaithful. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 31)

If those who profess to believe the truth enter into the real estate business, buying and selling for worldly gain, they place themselves in positions where they are tempted to mislead and prevaricate. They are not true to God or to their fellow men. They call evil good and good evil. They are on the losing side for time and for eternity. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 32)

Those of our brethren who are engaged in this business should give it up, and thus close the door firmly against temptation. Then the truth will triumph. They are doing their part in the work of saving their own souls. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 33)

God says, “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” [Philippians 2:12.] This work needs to be done by the members of the Healdsburg church. When their spiritual discernment is revived, they will fear and tremble as they see that they were standing on the brink of perdition, ready to perish. For years I have seen their danger, and I pray that the Lord will open their eyes before it is everlastingly too late. Do thorough work in purifying the soul; “for it is God which worketh in you, both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” [Verse 13.] “Ye are God’s husbandry; ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 34)

Every room in the soul temple has become more or less defiled and needs cleansing. The cobwebbed closet of conscience is to be entered. The windows of the soul are to be closed earthward, and thrown wide open heavenward, that the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness may have free access. The memory is to be refreshed by Bible principles. The mind is to be kept clear and pure, that it may distinguish between good and evil. As you repeat the prayer Christ taught His disciples, and then strive to answer it in the daily life, the Holy Spirit will renew the mind and heart, and will give you strength to carry out high and holy purposes. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 35)

The rubbish of questionable principles and practices is to be swept away. The Lord desires the mind to be renovated, and the heart filled with the treasures of truth. He can and will give His people sanctified memories, that they may work to His honor and glory. But how can He work with those whose spiritual perceptions are so beclouded that they cannot see the duties so plainly stated in the third chapter of Malachi? (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 36)

The Lord is in earnest with us. We must carefully study His Word, lest we turn aside from His express commands. The mind must be well stored with sacred counsel, that the instruction given may combine to make a complete whole. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 37)

God’s people must follow holy, uplifting principles. The education of the intellect and of the heart must be combined to make a perfect character. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 38)

Much has been said about the college and the church standing distinct and separate. This cannot be. The same education is necessary in the church as in the school. The gospel preached in the sanctuary is to be the gospel taught in the school. Those who attend the school are to be fitted for service in the church. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 39)

The church is not to stand aloof from the school as a separate affair. When God sees fit to establish a church and a school in the same part of His vineyard, it means that great light is to shine forth from that place. The school and the church are to uplift each other. They are not to militate against one another; for they both worship in the same temple, where God meets with His people. In the church and in the school there are young men and young women who are to be educated to act as missionaries at home and abroad. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 40)

With the school should be connected different lines of mechanical work, such as blacksmithing and carpentering. And the medical education is to be given a place of honor in the school. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 41)

In many schools the playground is a place where children learn lessons which have results which are far from good. There wicked things are done. Crooked principles are practiced. The children learn to cheat and deceive, and their hearts become fixed in deception. Wrong traits of character are developed. The twig of evil develop firm fibers of great strength, till it is almost impossible to bend it. Habits formed during school life remain through manhood and womanhood. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 42)

Let teachers remember that a sacred responsibility rests upon them. They are to so mold the habits of the students that they will form characters that will influence others for good. This world is God’s school for His people, and it is His design that families shall locate where their children shall be under saving, reformatory influences. The work of the teacher is made very difficult when parents do not co-operate with them in their work. Let parents remember that they are educating their children for eternal bliss or for eternal death. The parents residing in Healdsburg can, by their indifference and want of spirituality, work on Satan’s side of the question. By injudicious words, by criticizing and questioning, they can destroy the confidence of their children in their teachers. They can do much harm by taking sides with certain talkative ones, of whom—were the apostle in Healdsburg—he would say, “Whose mouths must be stopped.” [Titus 1:11.] (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 43)

The church and the school in Healdsburg are to be bound together, working earnestly to glorify God. They are to reach the high standard of perfection in Christ. Let the history of the past never be repeated. By devotion and spirituality the church should help the school and the school should help the church. The members of the school faculty should show by their lives what it means to follow Jesus. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 44)

The members of the church must reach a higher grade in strength of mind, soul, and body. Those in the school should constantly improve. They are to be bound together. Their hearts are to be knit together in the bonds of love for Christ and for perishing souls. Children and teachers are to be bound together, bringing love and fellowship into every line of their work. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 45)

In all humility of mind the stronger must support the weaker. Each must work in holy Christian love for the good of the other. Then the fruit of good words, fitly spoken, will be seen. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 46)

If parents felt more travail of soul for the salvation of their children, they would have more of the Lord’s blessing. My brethren and sisters, This is the best opportunity you could have to seek for the straying lambs. Rest not until every child is brought into the fold. Begin with your own little flock. Take special pains to make the home pleasant and cheerful. May the Lord help fathers and mothers to understand that they are dealing with their children for time and for eternity. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 47)

The world is the Lord’s photograph office. Every day your likeness is taken in the books of heaven. If you have been walking apart from God, this is plainly shown in His books. If during the entire lifetime the character has been deformed by crooked works, the crooked lines can never be made straight. Some repent, but the crooked lines of a God-dishonoring lifetime can never be straightened. Every man will be judged according to his works. Christ is ready to pardon the sincere, repentant sinner, even though he has but a few more hours to live, but who is willing to run the risk? He who knew his Lord’s will, and did it not, will be beaten with many stripes. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 48)

Remember that by your course of action many souls will be blessed or injured. In the judgment those who are now fretful and accusing, who strive for preference and supremacy, will appear just as they are. Let all remember that they are working for eternity. Let the prayer daily ascend, “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” [Psalm 51:10.] Seek earnestly for that repentance that needeth not to be repented of. The only safe way is to keep all crookedness out of every business transaction. Let not Satan make his marks upon your character. Learn the lesson, “All things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them; for this is the law and the prophets.” [Matthew 7:12.] Christ’s disciples must be honest men, men who are determined to make the most of themselves for Christ’s sake. Their business transactions must show that they are in harmony with the principles of that law which is a transcript of the law of Jehovah. (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 49)

“Ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath; but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men; knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be free or bond. And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening; knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him. Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.” [Ephesians 6:4-10.] (16LtMs, Ms 24, 1901, 50)

Ms 25, 1901

Diary/“Dealing in mining stocks...”
Refiled as Ms 26, 1890.

Ms 26, 1901

The Canvassing Work and the Scandinavian
NP
March 5, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in CM 31, 32, 47; LDE 76; 1SM 174-175; 7MR 315-316. +

The Canvassing Work and the Scandinavian Institutions. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 1)

I have had special light in regard to the canvassing work, and the impression and burden does not leave me. This work is a means of education. It is an excellent school for those who are qualifying themselves to enter the ministry. Those who take up this work as they should, place themselves where they learn of Christ and follow His example. Angels are commissioned to go forth with those who take up this work in true humility. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 2)

Those who engage in the canvassing work should first give themselves wholly and unreservedly to God. Christ has invited them, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 3)

It is a mistake to send young and inexperienced men to labor among the churches. Thus they are placed in a hard position, as though standing on exhibition to be criticized. This will spoil young men who are filled with conceit and spiritual pride. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 4)

Conscientious young men, who are truly converted, will feel a burden of soul to impart that which they have received. They will be given ability to speak upon Bible subjects, because they feel a desire to help those who have not a knowledge of the truth. Drink deeply of the precious water of life. Study the Word of God, that it may be in you a well of water, springing up unto everlasting life. Act your part as a humble servant of the Master. Seek to do good to those around you. Place yourselves where there are hearts to be won. Then you will see good accomplished by your efforts. The Lord has instructed me that the time will come when men, women, and youth will be imbued with the spirit of the last message of mercy to be given to our world. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 5)

Many of those who have had the advantage of an education in our schools have not increased in spirituality and soul-culture because they have been indolent. Many missionary enterprises have been crippled by the work of slothful servants. This is the judgment recorded in the books of heaven. Oh, there are many men and women whom the Lord would use if they would enter His vineyard with a sincere desire to do Him service. But they are do-nothings. They ignore all personal responsibility, because of the inconvenience of carrying it. Their record, as far as regards their work for God, is a mournful blank. They are fruitless trees, darkening by their unproductive branches, ground which should be occupied by fruit-bearing trees. They know the truth, but practice it not. The Lord passes them by because they do not draw from Him the nourishment which would enable them to bear good fruit. Let all beware of the evil heart . (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 6)

God has given to every man his work. He passes by those who have had His choice gifts, but have failed to improve them, and accepts those who have not had so many advantages, but who have been willing to do what they could in co-operating with Christ as His helping hand. They may feel that they are doing very little, but as they earnestly and honestly do what they can, God will help them. No one can co-operate with Christ without receiving wisdom and understanding. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 7)

I write these particulars for the Scandinavian field especially. My brethren, will you take hold of the work God has given you? Will you labor to the utmost of your ability to relieve the embarrassed institutions in your field? Do not look on in despair, saying, “We can do nothing.” Take hold, where you are. Do you remember when Sister White was with you at _____, in the meeting held at that place, how often it was repeated, “We cannot sell books. We cannot canvass as they do in America”? My interpreter sat by my side and repeated to me every word that was spoken. As soon as all others had spoken, I rose and said, “But you can sell books. It is not right for you to talk unbelief, and thus close the door of faith. Close the windows of the soul earthward, and open them heavenward, that the light of heaven may shine in.” Thus through my interpreter I spoke to you. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 8)

Have you not entered into covenant relation with God? Did you not, at your baptism, make an entire surrender to Him? Were you not baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit? Did not all heaven hear your vows as you died to the world and were buried with Christ? Were you not raised to walk in newness of life? Is not your life hid with Christ in God? Then show to the world that you are living men, that you have a duty to perform, a work to do that will redound to the glory of God and minister to the enlightenment of your fellow men. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 9)

Elder Matteson, who now sleeps in Jesus, united with the Saviour as His helping hand, and organized a school. And under his direction the students worked nobly. What a work has been done! What a of books were sold! And how many there were who united with the church! (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 10)

Cease now to talk discouragement. Take hold of the arm of infinite Power. Remember that we at this end of the line are taking hold with you. We assure you that we will lift with you. Do not fail or be discouraged. The Lord is your helper. He will uphold the workers in Scandinavia if they will act their part in faith, in prayer, in hopefulness, doing all they can to advance His cause and hasten His coming. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 11)

Remember that the nearer we approach Christ’s coming, the more earnestly and firmly we are to work; for the whole synagogue of Satan is opposed to us. We do not need feverish excitement, but that faith and courage which is born of genuine faith. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 12)

The opportunity for helping the work in Scandinavia at the last Week of Prayer in America should have been improved, and it would have been, had the men in positions of responsibility been wide awake to place the situation clearly before the people and call for donations to relieve the institutions in Denmark and Norway. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 13)

We hope that a most earnest effort will be made by our people in England to inspire their brethren in Scandinavia with courage and faith. Brethren, we must come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty. Do not, by words of unbelief, call down the denunciation . Do not act like the priest and Levite, who looked at the wounded man lying in his grievous condition, and passed by on the other side. Wake up, brethren. Let the work move forward with power. May the Lord help His people to do their best. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 14)

I call upon all to take a more decided interest in the work of circulating Christ’s Object Lessons. Let not this work drop. Carry it forward. Let our canvassers in all parts of Europe be encouraged to take hold of this book and help in its sale. The sale of this book will do much more than to procure funds to help in freeing our institutions from debt. It will open the way for our larger books to find a ready market. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 15)

The Lord moved upon my heart to give this book as a means of freeing our institutions from debt. And it is the Lord who moves upon His people to make the sale of this book a success. Canvassers will gain an experience that will be of the greatest advantage to them as they carry this book to those who need the instruction it contains. The lessons drawn in this book from the parables of our Saviour will be to many souls as the leaves of the tree of life. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 16)

The prospect of Christ’s near coming is not to hinder God’s people from being industrious. None are to be idle. All are to be industrious for God. “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” [Matthew 6:33.] We are to be perfect in our work even as God is perfect in His work. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 17)

Christ declared that when He comes, some of His waiting people will be engaged in business transactions. Some will be sowing in the field, others reaping and gathering in the harvest, and others grinding at the mill. It is not God’s will that His elect shall abandon life’s duties and responsibilities and give themselves up to idle contemplation, living in a religious dream. They are to be “not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.” [Romans 12:11.] (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 18)

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. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 19)

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?” [Luke 10:25, 26.] (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 20)

Christ’s coming is nearer than when we first believed. The signs of the times show us that the end of all things is at hand. All are now to work for Christ. The heaviest responsibility rests on that worker whose opportunities and privileges have been greatest. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 21)

I desire to refer once more to the canvassing work. The workers in England should take hold of Christ’s Object Lessons and should do all they possibly can with this book, that a school may be established in England. My brethren in England, France, Switzerland, and all places where the light of truth is shining, take hold of this work. Let this book be translated into the different languages and circulated in the different countries of Europe. What will the result be? The truth will reach many who otherwise would not receive it. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 22)

God help you to make the most of His donation to you of this book. There are souls in desolate places who should be reached by this effort. The angels of God will make an impression on minds as the workers go forth in faith. All who enter this work will gain an experience that will enable them to be successful laborers for God. As they seek the Lord for help, He will communicate with them. They will receive plans devised by the Lord Himself. When the religious denominations unite with the papacy to oppress, places where there is religious freedom will be opened by evangelistic canvassing. If in one place the oppression becomes severe, do as Christ has told you to do. When they persecute you in one place, go to another place, and if persecution comes there, go to still another. God will lead His people, making them a blessing in many places. Were it not for persecution, God’s people would not be scattered abroad to proclaim the truth. And Christ declares, “Ye shall not have gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.” [Matthew 10:23.] Then take hold of the work of evangelistic canvassing. (16LtMs, Ms 26, 1901, 23)

Ms 27, 1901

Talk/“I will present to you ...”
Vicksburg, Mississippi
March 16, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in GH 03/1901. +

Talk given by Mrs. E. G. White to the church in Vicksburg.

I will present to you this morning the instruction contained in the fourteenth chapter of John. Christ was about to leave His disciples to enter upon His great trial, which to them would be a terrible test. He knew the temptations they would meet, the grief and discouragement that would come to their hearts as they saw Him, their Teacher, the Son of God, as they believed, treated with contempt and abuse. He saw that they were in trouble, and He said to them, “Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions.” [Verse 1.] Think of this. Here we have no home, or very poor ones. Christ says to us, “In my Father’s house are many mansions. If it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And 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.” [Verses 2, 3.] We believe these words. We are looking forward to the coming of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 1)

Christ was to suffer in our behalf, standing at the head of humanity as representative of the race. He was to work out the character which every follower of His is to work out through the provision He has made, His infinite sacrifice, His life and death on earth. (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 2)

Christ sought to guard His disciples against becoming discouraged after He should leave them, when the powers of darkness, evil agencies, the synagogue of Satan, should array themselves against them. He spoke to them words of comfort, assuring them that He would come again and take them to Himself. He knew that they would remember these words after His trial and after His resurrection and ascension. These events were to impress them with the power of truth, leading them to realize that Christ is the foundation of faith, the cornerstone of the building of truth. (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 3)

“And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.” Thomas, always inclined to unbelief, said doubtingly, “Lord, we know not whither thou goest, and how can we know the way?” Jesus answered, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” [Verses 4-6.] These words are for you. When you are in perplexity, go right to the Word of God. Read about Christ, His character, His work; and do as He would were He in your place. Christ could not, in word or practice, testify to wrong; for He is truth itself. (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 4)

“I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also, and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.” Then Philip asked, “Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us.” [Verses 6-8.] Grieved at His disciple’s lack of faith, Christ answered, “Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father? Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself; but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works. Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me; or else believe me for the very works’ sake. (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 5)

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the work that I do shall he do also, and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.” [Verses 9-12.] Christ desired the disciples to understand that they were not to be bereft of power because He was going to His Father. The promise He made to them is for us. If we will take it just as it reads, we shall feel such confidence and such trust in God and the truth that He will be able to reveal His power through us. By our good works we shall show our faith. We can receive power and grace from Christ to enable us to work the works of God. And let us ever remember that we are never to take any credit to ourselves for the work we do. There is nothing good in us; therefore we should not seek to glorify ourselves. God is to receive all the glory. (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 6)

We are to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God which worketh in us. Constantly we are to strive to elevate ourselves and others in accordance with the directions of the Word of God. With all the power we have we are to seek to reach the standard of character Christ has set before us. This is what God wants us to do. When in humble faith we rely on Christ as our sufficiency, our strength, our all and in all, then it is that the power of God rests upon our work. (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 7)

Christ’s words show that there is a close connection between heaven and earth; that to those who believe in the power of truth, God manifests Himself as He does not to the world. There are those who seem to think that if the minister leaves them, they will be stranded. Why do they not hang their helpless souls on Christ? Why do they not believe that although they have no minister, Jesus is with them? Let them follow the ministers into the field with their prayers. Christ has told them that the works He has done they may do also. He says, “Whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in his Son.” [Verse 13.] But He does not say this to those who do not abide in Him. (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 8)

Do not depend upon human beings for spiritual help. Resist the temptation to make flesh your arm. Look to God as children look to an earthly Father. Believe that He loves you and that He will help you, even as He has promised. If you will believe, you will have confidence, trust, reliance, because you will realize that Christ is the foundation of your faith. (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 9)

“If ye love me, keep my commandments.” Obedience is the test of true love. “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever.” Although I am going away, My Representative will still be with you. He will never leave you. “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.” [Verses 15-17.] This promise God has made to you. When you get discouraged, do not depend on human beings for aid. Christ declares, The Comforter shall be with you. Go right to God in prayer. Bow before Him, saying, “Lord, help me; for I am in difficulty, and I do not know what to do. You have promised to give your children what they ask in Your name. We ask for strength to resist the temptations of the enemy.” (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 10)

Thus you will obtain a most valuable experience. As you follow on to know the Lord, you will know that His goings forth are prepared as the morning. And when you receive help and comfort, sing to the praise of God. Talk with God. Thus you will become a friend of God. You will rely on Him. You will obtain a faith that will trust whether you feel like trusting or not. Remember that feeling is not an evidence that you are a Christian. Implicit faith in God shows that you are His child. Trust in God. He will never disappoint you. He says, “I will not leave you comfortless; I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me; because I live, ye shall live also.” [Verses 18, 19.] We do not see Christ in person. It is by faith that we behold Him. Our faith grasps His promises. Thus it was that Enoch walked with God. (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 11)

“Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me; because I live, ye shall live also.” [Verse 19.] Over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, Christ proclaimed, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] Because He lives, His children shall live. “At that day,” He says, “Ye shall know that I am in my Father, and he in me, and I in you.” [John 14:20.] (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 12)

“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.” [Verse 21.] Many set aside their Saviour, and write to me to know whether they have any evidence that they are Christians. They do not put confidence in God. They ought to sing and rejoice in the love of their Saviour; but they say, “I do not feel like it.” Has not Christ said, “He that loveth me shall be loved of my Father; and I will love him and will manifest myself to him”? (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 13)

Why tell human beings about your soul-trouble? They cannot take the place of God. Why put Christ in the background? He wants us to believe in Him as children believe in an earthly father. He can give us peace that the world can neither give nor take away. This is the hope of the Christian. Trust not in feeling. If your faith is wavering, remember that Christ is not lying in the tomb, but is making intercession for you in the heavenly courts. (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 14)

“Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself to us, and not unto the world? Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words, and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” [Verses 22, 23.] He in whose heart Christ abides is not one day on the mountaintop, and the next day in the shadow. He has a calm, trusting faith in the Redeemer’s love. (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 15)

“He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings, and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me.” [Verse 24.] Look into the mirror of God’s law, and see whether you are conforming to the divine requirements. If you see that your character is defective, do not go away and forget what manner of person you are. Strive earnestly to overcome your faults. As you do this, the joy of heaven will fill your heart. There is strength in the Saviour. He wants His children to banish all selfishness from the heart, that He may enter as an abiding guest, that His righteousness may go before them, and the glory of God be their rearward. (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 16)

“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.” [Verse 26.] You are the children of God. He has adopted you, and He desires you to form characters here that will give you entrance into the heavenly family. Remembering this, you will be able to bear the trials which you meet here. In heaven there will be no color line; for all will be as white as Christ Himself. Let us thank God that we can be members of the royal family. (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 17)

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you, not as the world giveth give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. You have heard that I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father; for my Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe.” [Verses 27-29.] (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 18)

I want you to realize that Christ is a personal Saviour. Show to the world what He can do even through the weakest of human beings. Work out before the world the principles of righteousness. Obey the commandments. Demonstrate the power of truth. This is the most powerful witness you can bear in favor of the truth. But you are not to do this in your own strength. You are to work in the strength and grace that God gives. Thus you can walk in His footsteps. Cling to the mighty Redeemer, who is also your Elder Brother. God desires us to seek earnestly for a place among the number who will stand around His throne. To every sincere follower, white or black, He will say, “Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” [Matthew 25:34.] Whatever you may be called upon to suffer, remember that Christ has said, “I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [John 14:3.] Have faith in God, and day by day He will give you the victory. (16LtMs, Ms 27, 1901, 19)

Ms 28, 1901

Talk/“I am thankful to the Lord ...”
“Sanitarium,” Battle Creek, Michigan
March 27, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 2SAT 145-150. +

Talk given by Mrs. E. G. White at the Sanitarium, March 27, 1901.

I am thankful to the Lord for the privilege of meeting my friends here once more, some of whom I have met before, many of whom I have never seen. We are pleased to become acquainted with one another, and the better we are acquainted with the Lord, the more we shall appreciate those for whom He has given His life. (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 1)

We should constantly appreciate and honor Him who has so honored us as to encircle us with His long human arm, while with His divine arm He grasps the throne of the Infinite. Thus He has connected finite man with the infinite God. This world by sin was separated from heaven. Christ died that the gulf might be bridged. The only way in which men and women could come into possession of eternal life was for Christ to live and die on this earth. (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 2)

I love my Saviour. I have given my life to His service, and never have I seen the moment when I could be ashamed of Him. I loved Him because I have proved Him, and I know that He will do all that He has promised to do. He gave His life for me, and I have given all that I have to Him. I know that He accepts it. I feel so grateful that though I am seventy three years old, I still have strength to serve God by speaking of His love to those who know Him and those who know Him not. (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 3)

Just before Christ left His disciples, anticipating the trial and disappointment they would meet because of their belief that He was going to reign on the throne of David as Israel’s king, He told them of what He was to endure, and entreated them not to be troubled. He knew how sore their disappointment would be as they saw Him suffering insult and mockery as He stepped lower and lower in the path of humiliation. He thought of His disciples, not of Himself. Would the trial be too great for them? He sought to comfort them by speaking words of hope and courage. “Let not your heart be troubled,” He said; “ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” [John 14:1, 2.] What a comfort these words should be to us. Think of the work Christ is now doing in heaven—preparing mansions for His children. He wants us to prepare to dwell in these mansions. This we can do by co-operating with Him. If we form characters after the divine similitude, we shall inherit the mansions Christ is preparing. (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 4)

“And if I go and prepare a place for you,” He continues, “I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” [Verse 3.] (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 5)

In the last chapter of Revelation we are told something about the home Christ is preparing for His faithful ones. John writes, “And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month, and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.” [Revelation 22:1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 6)

Christ says, “I am the bread of life.... Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” It is our privilege to eat the bread of life. Christ says, “The flesh profiteth nothing; the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” [John 6:35, 54, 63.] As we believe and practice the words of Christ, bringing them into the every-day experience, we become “partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” [2 Peter 1:4.] (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 7)

Speaking of the city of God, John continues, “And there shall be no more curse; but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him.” And then come words which comfort me continually. “And they shall see his face, and his name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light; and they shall reign forever and ever.” [Revelation 22:3-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 8)

All through the Word of God are the most precious promises, but we must dig for them as the miner digs for the precious ore. We need to understand and practice the truth. As we are purified through the truth, we stand on vantage ground with God, because Christ has taken away our sins. As John saw the Saviour, he exclaimed, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] Christ had no sin, and therefore He was able to bear our sins. That He might make an offering for the human race, that they might be members of the royal family, heirs of God and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ, He laid aside His kingly crown and royal robe, and stepped down from His high command, clothing His divinity with humanity. (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 9)

How anxious we should be not to disappoint the Saviour. For our sakes He became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich. It is possible for us to be overcomers. Through the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony, we may obtain a glorious victory. But the enemy will try to cast His dark shadow between our souls and God. He presents every possible inducement to lead us to be false to our Maker. He tries to gain control of the appetite, so that men and women shall make a god of the stomach. He knows that if they do this, their senses will become beclouded by overeating. He offers them stimulants and narcotics, hoping to lead them in the use of these things to forget God. Let us remember that these are the devices of the enemy to lead us to forget the advantages we may gain by every day eating the bread of life. Physically we are built up from what we eat. And so it is with the mind. If we make the Bible our guide and counsellor, we shall be strengthened and built up. Our faith must cleave the shadow the glory beyond. God says, “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me, and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 10)

This present life is full of disappointment and trial, affliction and suffering. But let us ever remember that our Saviour is the greatest of all medical missionaries. He sympathizes with the members of the human family in their affliction. He wants us to trust in Him, so fully believing His words that we shall bring heaven into our lives here below. We can make heaven as we pass along if our lives are hid with Christ in God. Thus we can bring joy and comfort into the lives of others. Christ’s joy will remain in us, and our joy will be full. (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 11)

I see wonderful glory in the prospect before us, when Christ shall come in all His glory, to be admired in all them that believe. I want to be among the number who welcome the Redeemer with joy, among the number who will see His face. Moses asked to see God’s face, but the Lord told him that he could not see His face and live. He told him that He would hide him in the cleft of the rock, and cover him with His hand, and would then pass by before him and proclaim His name. And He passed by and proclaimed, “The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth.” [Exodus 34:6.] This is God’s character. And those who see His face must be like Him in character. (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 12)

Christ continues, “And 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. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.” Thomas, always inclined to unbelief, though loving his Saviour, said doubtfully, “Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?” [John 14:3-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 13)

Are there any here who like Thomas do not know the way? Listen to the Saviour’s words. “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also; and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. Philip saith unto him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen me hath seen the Father, and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father? Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? The words that I speak unto you, I speak not of myself; but the Father that dwelleth in me, He doeth the works. Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me; or else believe me for the very works’ sake. Verily, verily I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also.” Thus we become laborers together with God. “And greater works than these shall he do, because I go to my Father.” [Verses 6-12.] What is Christ doing in heaven? He is interceding for us. By His work the threshold of heaven is flushed with the glory of God which will shine upon every soul who will open the windows of the soul heavenward. As the prayers of the sincere and contrite ones ascend to heaven, Christ says to the Father, “I will take their sins. Let them stand before You innocent.” As He takes their sins from them, He fills their hearts with the glorious light of truth and love. (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 14)

Christ loves us with a love that no language can express, no balances measure. His love is beyond comparison. He desires us to love perishing human beings as He has loved us. He wants us to be missionaries for Him. We are to do all in our power to relieve suffering and misery. If we can do no more than speak a word of cheer, let us do that. Christ will co-operate with us. He says, “Whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” [Verse 13.] (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 15)

“If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever.” [Verses 15, 16.] That Comforter is with us today. Letters come to me in which the writers ask me to pray for them. But Christ is praying for them. All they need is to carry their soul-distress to Jesus. He says, “I am at thy right hand to help thee.” [See Isaiah 41:13.] This is what I try to write to them. I tell them not to go to any human being for the help that Christ alone can give. He says, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] These words are spoken to you. When you fall into perplexity, read this promise, and talk with God. Tell Him about your troubles and difficulties. He will never tell you that you are foolish for not understanding better. The Word declares, “If any one of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” [James 1:5.] (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 16)

Why do we not remember that Christ is our light, our salvation? He gave His own precious life that we might be guided, strengthened, and sustained. Why do we not go to Him as a child goes to its father. He is our Helper, our Sufficiency, our all and in all. If we go to Him in faith, we shall never fail to receive comfort. He will deal gently with us in our infirmities; for He has been tempted in all points like as we are. (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 17)

I have been sick since the beginning of my journey from California, and as I lay in my compartment on the train, with no one with me, how precious it was to commune with God. I was alone with Him, and if I ever realized His presence in suffering and distress, I did then. I felt that the everlasting arms were underneath me. I realized the comfort of the Saviour’s love. (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 18)

Do you not want to be among the number of whom Christ says, “I have a few names even in Sardis that have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white, for they are worthy.” [Revelation 3:4.] (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 19)

Christ is the greatest medical missionary that ever lived. He never lost a case. He understands how to give strength and guidance to the physicians in this institution. He stands beside them as they perform their difficult surgical operations. We know that this is so. He has saved lives that might have been lost had the knife swerved a hair’s breadth. Angels of God are constantly ministering to those for whom Christ has given His life. (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 20)

God gives the physicians of this institution skills and efficiency because they are serving Him. They know that their skill is not their own, that it comes from above. They realize that there is beside them a divine Watcher, who gives wisdom to His physicians, enabling them to move intelligently in their work. It was by His order that this Sanitarium was established here. We are so thankful that there is a place where medical missionary work may be carried on under the supervision of the great Medical Missionary. (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 21)

God is above all, and He loves us all. He has a care for the work of His hands. We are to do our part by carrying out the instruction contained in His Word. We are to take proper care of the machinery of the human frame, which is so wonderful that David was led to exclaim, “I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” [Psalm 139:14.] (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 22)

Do not, I beg of you, mar the precious workmanship of God by improper eating, drinking, or dressing. Do not put any impediment in God’s way. Act in accordance with the intelligence God has given you. He will keep you in health if you will do His will. He is the Restorer. These words have been spoken to me when the physicians have despaired of my life. On one occasion my physician said, “Unless there is some change, you have only three days to live.” In the night season, One stood by my bedside and said to me, “Christ is the Restorer; Satan is the destroyer. I am your Redeemer, and I will heal you.” From that moment I began to recover, and when the physician came, he said, “Mrs. White, you are better. There is a sparkle in your eye which must be there in order for you to have health.” (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 23)

I love Jesus, and I want you to love Him. If you depend upon the power that is above every human power, you will gain the victory. Have faith in God. Human expectations may fail, but there is no failure in the promises of God. They are Yea and Amen in Christ. I claim God’s promises, and I know that He will respond to my faith. He will do just as He has said He will do. I want you to have the comfort of the grace of God. I want you to feel that you are not alone, that you have a Comforter. (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 24)

May God bless the suffering ones, and may they have hope and courage. This they will have if they will cast their helpless souls upon Jesus. His help will enable you to work out your own salvation and to help others. May God bless you all, is my most earnest desire and prayer. (16LtMs, Ms 28, 1901, 25)

Ms 29, 1901

Talk/“I feel an intense desire ...”
Battle Creek, Michigan
March 28, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 2SAT 151-155. +

Talk by Mrs. White at the Publisher’s Convention

I feel an intense desire that at this meeting we shall come into right relation with God. We may have great ambition, all the ambition it is possible for us to have; we may have all the activity it is essential for us to have; but unless we are close to our Saviour, unless His power and grace are with us individually, we may be sure that we shall go from this place thinking that we have not had a very wonderful meeting. It rests with us individually to decide what this meeting shall be to us. Since the last time we assembled in General Conference, we have all been making our record, and at this meeting we shall continue to make our record. Every time we assemble together, angels of God are here. Evil angels are also here. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 1)

If we have neglected our duties, if we have come up to this meeting unprepared to meet with God, unprepared to worship Him in the spirit of truth and in the beauty of holiness, let us, at the very beginning of the meeting, humble our hearts before God and put away everything that interposes between our souls and Him. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 2)

As I was coming over from Australia, during the long weeks that I spent on the ocean, I had some precious experiences. Some things were opened before me, of which I will speak to you later. The words were spoken to me, “Enter into no controversy. Take no part in any strife or in anything that would divert the mind from God. I have a message for you to bear, and as this message is given to the people, it is not for you to try to make them believe it. That is not your work. You are to go straight forward in the work I have given you. I will strengthen you to do this work.” (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 3)

On the way over I was in great perplexity as to how my health would stand the voyage. The passengers smoked and drank continually. And night after night they danced till twelve o’clock on the deck over my head. All the response they made to my appeals for quietude was, “Let Mrs. White go somewhere else.” I tried to go “somewhere else.” I went to the deck of the second cabin, but there I found smoking and drinking and noise. There was no “somewhere else” for me. A few days before we were to enter port, Willie came to me, and said, “We are nearing the last night of the trip, when we shall have more noise than ever before; but I am praying for a storm.” “So am I,” I said. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 4)

The night before the passengers were to have their carousal, I went into a little anteroom, and lay down. I fell asleep, and presently I was awakened by a voice speaking to me. I knew as soon as I awoke what this meant; for the room was filled with a sweet fragrance, as of beautiful flowers. I fell asleep once more, and was wakened again the same way. Then words were spoken to me, assuring me that the Lord would protect me—that He had a work for me to do. Comfort, encouragement, and direction were given to me, and I was greatly blessed. I felt then that I would make no more complaints in regard to the noise and the smoking. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 5)

And lo, the next morning a storm arose, and continued till just before we entered the harbor. The passengers, instead of dancing and singing, were lying in their berths. The boat rocked and tossed, and I lay in my berth all day, not even daring to turn over lest I should be sick. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 6)

I felt very grateful for that storm. It lasted long enough to prevent any carousal. And just before we entered the harbor, it cleared away, and the sea became as smooth as it had been all the way over. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 7)

I feel an intense desire that this shall be a meeting where God can preside. This is an important time, a very important time. There is a great work to do. But whether the meeting shall be a success depends on us individually. We can make a heaven here during this meeting. We may make a heaven or a hell for ourselves, just as we choose. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 8)

Light has been given me that this is the wrong time of the year to hold the General Conference. Everything in nature is sere and brown. It is God’s desire that when His people assemble for spiritual exercises, they should have the best and highest thoughts. He wants them to be in the very best condition of mind and body. They should choose the very best season of the year for a meeting of this kind. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 9)

Plans are now to be laid for the advancement of God’s work, and if ever there was a time when God’s people should be strictly guarded in their diet, it is now. I am going to say this almost every time I speak to you, so I shall begin now. When you sit down to your meals, do not eat half a dozen different kinds of food. Eat only two or three kinds. If you have not yet learned to be health reformers—and there are some who have stood right in the way of health reform—it is time that you did learn. It is time for you to understand what health reform means. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 10)

Many have lost their spiritual discernment by making an idol of the stomach. The poor stomach does not care to be idolized in this way. It wants a chance to carry forward its work in the beautiful order which God has established. It will do this work if man will act like a rational being. The food which is taken into the stomach should be of a character to promote health, intelligence, and spirituality. Dyspeptics have a dyspeptic religion. Those who overload the stomach, and then, without taking any special exercise, come to meeting, will find that they are unable to keep awake. Because of the condition of the stomach, many place themselves on the negative side when they should be on the affirmative. Meetings are often hindered by resolutions which, occasioned by dyspepsia, should never have seen the light of day. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 11)

God desires us to worship Him in holiness, glorifying His name. He wants you to remember, when you eat, to partake of food that will help you to serve Him. Because there is a variety of food placed before you, do not eat some of all the different kinds, and then go to meeting with an overloaded stomach, unprepared to make correct decisions, unprepared to have your mental machinery worked by the Spirit of God. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 12)

If you are not learning by self-denial and self-sacrifice to take care of the human machinery, you are not following Christ, but another leader. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 13)

There are solemn and important decisions to be made at this meeting, and God wants every one of us to stand in right relation to Him. He wants us to do a great deal more praying and less talking. He wants us to keep the windows of the soul opened heavenward. The threshold of heaven is flooded with the light of God’s glory, and God will let this light shine into the heart of everyone who at this meeting will stand in right relation to Him. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 14)

Some have said that they thought that at this meeting several days ought to be spent in prayer to God for the Holy Spirit, as at the day of Pentecost. I wish to say to you that the business which may be carried on at this meeting is just as much a part of the service of God as prayer. The business meeting is to be just as much under the dictation of the Spirit as the prayer meeting. There is danger of our getting a sentimental, impulsive religion. Let the business transacted at this meeting stand forth in such sacredness that the heavenly host can approve it. We are to guard most sacredly the business lines of our work. Every line of business carried on here is to be in accordance with the principles of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 15)

God wants you to stand in position where He can breathe upon you the Holy Spirit, where Christ can abide in the heart. He wants you at the beginning of this meeting to lay off whatever of controversy, of strife, of dissension, of murmuring, you have been carrying. What we need is a great deal more of Christ and none of self. The Saviour says, “Without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 16)

I did not mean to say these words today, but I feel that it is time for us to seek the Lord more earnestly. My most precious time for communing with God is in the morning. I plead with Him for help, and I feel—no, I do not trust to feeling—I know that He will answer me. I trust in the word of the living God. I make this word my constant dependence. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 17)

We have come to a point where God is going to work for His people. He wishes them to be a representative people, distinct from all other peoples in our world. He wants them to stand on vantage ground, because He gave His life that they might stand there. Do not disappoint the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 18)

Remember that you will make this meeting what it is. You can have heaven as you come and as you go. But in order for this to be, self must be lost in Christ. We must eat the bread of heaven. This is like taking each day the leaves of the tree of life. These will restore in us the moral image of God. This image has been obliterated, but it can be restored by the eating of the bread of life. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 19)

I pray that this may indeed be a crisis in our work, when we shall step over the gulf and lay hold of God’s strength. He says, “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me, and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 20)

In the place of going to your rooms, as was done when I was here ten years ago, and talking of difficulties, talking the Holy Spirit away, talk with God, and He will be with you. Hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. I know that God wants you to have something to say to the churches, and what you say is to be like apples of gold in pictures of silver. No cheap words are to be uttered. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 21)

We have a heaven of treasure, for when God gave Christ to our world, He gave us all heaven. And if you do not draw from heaven power and grace and treasures of truth to give to the people, then, for Christ’s sake, stop your work till you realize the importance of a close union with God. What we need is to be elevated and sanctified and purified. Then the righteousness of Christ will go before us, and the glory of God will be our rereward. Let us come into close touch with God, that we may see more clearly His purity and holiness, and rise higher and higher at each meeting. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 22)

If some of you, though having reached the physical stature of men, have brought with you your childish ideas and childish dispositions, now put away all childishness, and get the grace of God. Let us grasp the great and rich treasures God has for us. God is willing to do great things for us. But we carry with us such a load of deformity that we have no room for the Saviour. He cannot sit on the throne of the heart, because there is no place for Him. Give Him a place. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 23)

He is knocking, knocking at your heart. Open the door and let Him in. Empty the heart of all selfishness by living right, eating right, thinking right. Enthrone the Saviour in the heart. With His long human arm, He encircles the race, while with His divine arm He grasps the throne of the Infinite. I am hungry for the Spirit of God. Are you, brethren? My soul longs for it. May the Lord help us to take steps heavenward. (16LtMs, Ms 29, 1901, 24)

Ms 30, 1901

Reply to H. T. Nelson
NP
March, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in RH 07/30/1901. +

Mrs. E. G. White’s reply to H. T. Nelson. (16LtMs, Ms 30, 1901, 1)

When Brother Nelson came to my home in California with his message, I gave him all the time I could. I think he spoke for an hour face to face with me. I listened to what he had to say, but I told him that God had not given him his message. He brought the message that God had appointed me to act as Moses, and that he was to connect with me in the work as Joshua. But if God had made this appointment, I should have known something about it. God Himself would have given me instruction. (16LtMs, Ms 30, 1901, 2)

God has not given Brother Nelson the work of acting as Joshua in connection with His people. From the light that I have had, this could not be. It is an impossibility. (16LtMs, Ms 30, 1901, 3)

Brother Nelson bore me the message also that I had not treated my workers well, that I had been hard with them. But this is the last thing any one who knows me would say against me. This message is false, every word of it. The position I occupy in regard to my workers is a position of tenderness and care. My family know that Brother Nelson’s testimony regarding my treatment of them is entirely false. I am willing that they should bear their testimony concerning this. Sometimes I have to call them up at five o’clock in the morning to prepare matter to be sent out in the mail. They take hold cheerfully and willingly, and then when the mail has gone, I say to them, “You have been hurried with this work. You may spend the rest of the day as you please.” I believe in guarding the health of my workers. Those in my household will bear witness that I watch them as a careful guardian. (16LtMs, Ms 30, 1901, 4)

That I have been hard upon my workers I utterly deny. It is true that at times the work has been hard upon them as they have helped me in getting the light before the people. (16LtMs, Ms 30, 1901, 5)

When the Lord gives a man a message, He gives with it something whereby His people may know that the message is from Him. God does not ask His people to believe every one who comes to them with a message. (16LtMs, Ms 30, 1901, 6)

The Lord sends warnings to His people, not to destroy them, but to correct their errors. I have never been given the testimony to bear to any one, “You have committed the unpardonable sin.” God never told any one to say to a fellow being, “You have committed the unpardonable sin.” He has not given Brother Nelson this message to bear to Elder Breed, Elder Irwin, or Elder A. T. Jones. (16LtMs, Ms 30, 1901, 7)

I know that God never gave mortal man such a message as that which Brother Nelson has borne concerning his brethren. It is not like our God. After the disappointment of 1844 there were those who would say to others, “You are lost; you have gone too far to be saved.” Then I was brought to my feet to bid them in the name of the Lord to cease their condemnation. God has never empowered one mortal to say to another mortal, “You are lost.” We are all human beings. We are on this earth to form characters which will fit us to inherit eternal life. If we heed the word of the Lord, He will correct us and guide us. (16LtMs, Ms 30, 1901, 8)

Since I have been here I have had messages to bear to different persons, but words like those uttered by Mr. Nelson have never escaped my lips. Brethren, we are to hold together. The Satanic agencies are working to destroy, and God calls upon His servants to stand together, and to be meek and lowly in heart. We are to be kind and gentle in our treatment of one another. (16LtMs, Ms 30, 1901, 9)

We are living in perilous times. From the light I have, I know that Satan is trying to bring in that which will make people think they have a wonderful work to do. But when God gives a man a message, that man, by his meekness and lowliness, will give evidence that God is working through him. God lives and reigns, and He desires us to walk before Him in humility. He does not wish this man Nelson to force himself before a congregation. He does not want this element to come into our meetings to create disturbance. God has not given Brother Nelson this work to do. It is the means whereby the enemy is trying to divert the minds of the people from the work which God has said must be done. (16LtMs, Ms 30, 1901, 10)

Mistakes have been made. There must be reorganization. God desires to carry forward the work of perfecting a people who will shine in the kingdom of glory. He is opening doors which His people can enter to work for the salvation of souls. It is that we may co-operate with Him in His work that we are here. We are not going to be interrupted in meeting after meeting by those who claim they have a message to deliver. He who presses himself forward into a place where he is not wanted is not doing the work of God. We are to work like soldiers in an army. We are not to step out of the ranks and begin to work on our own account. (16LtMs, Ms 30, 1901, 11)

We have a very solemn, important work to do in this Conference, and we need to pray and search our hearts. We are to work in perfect harmony and order. As we obey the commands of Christ, moving forward in unity, we shall see the salvation of God. (16LtMs, Ms 30, 1901, 12)

We have come here at great expense to set things in order. There are those who have been working in one place for too long a time. They should have a change. They must go where they can see what God is doing outside of Battle Creek. We do not say to them, because they have made mistakes, “You have committed the unpardonable sin.” We say, “Brethren, let us take hold together. Let us counsel together. Let us stand in our lot and in our place, and work for the whole field.” (16LtMs, Ms 30, 1901, 13)

We love our brother. We want him to be saved, but we cannot allow him to take the time of this Conference. It is not his time. God has given us a work to do, and we intend to do it under His supervision, that souls may be brought to a knowledge of present truth. (16LtMs, Ms 30, 1901, 14)

Ms 31, 1901

Sermon/The Christian Life
“Tabernacle,” Battle Creek, Michigan
April 14, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 1SAT 318-329.

Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White in the Tabernacle, April 14, 1901.

“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” [Matthew 6:19-21.] (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 1)

“The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light. But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness.” [Verse 22.] (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 2)

Christ is the light of the world. In all that we do, let us walk in this light. In the Word of God our work is laid out before us. Let us not think that the Lord has given us talents to use in whatever way we please. Our talents are given us to hold in trust for Him. Our money is His. In its use we are to remember that Christ gave His precious life that we might have a probation in which to make a suitable preparation for the future life. “Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are his.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 3)

This present life is our time of test and trial. God placed Adam and Eve in the beautiful garden of Eden, saying to them, “Of every tree in the garden thou mayest freely eat.” But there was one prohibition. “Of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it; for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” [Genesis 2:16, 17.] God wished to test and try the beings He had made, to see if they would be loyal and true to Him. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 4)

In this prohibition Satan saw a chance to misrepresent God. Disguised as a serpent he came to Adam and Eve, saying, “The reason God has forbidden you to eat of that fruit is because He knows that if you do eat of it, you will be as gods. You will become wise.” [Genesis 3:5.] And they did become wise—wise in knowing the evil which God meant them never to know. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 5)

After Adam and Eve had yielded to the tempter, the covering of light, their garment of innocence, was taken from them. “The eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.” In the past they had been glad to see their Creator when He came to walk and talk with them. Now in their sinfulness they were afraid to meet Him. Hearing the voice of God in the garden, they “hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden. And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou? And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.” “Who told thee that thou wast naked?” God asked. “Hast thou eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat?” And then Adam did that which it is natural for all human beings to do. He threw the blame on someone else. “The woman whom thou gavest to be with me,” he said, “she gave me of the tree, and I did eat.” [Verses 7-12.] (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 6)

God told Adam that because of his disobedience the ground should be cursed. “In sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth unto thee.... In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken; for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.” [Verses 17-19.] (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 7)

The floodgates of woe were opened upon our world. All nature must feel the effects of sin. But God did not leave Adam without a ray of hope. He gave him the promise which ever since has brightened the pathway of the faithful. He 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.” [Verse 15.] (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 8)

Good and evil are set before us. Which are we choosing? Are we serving and glorifying self, losing sight of the light of the world, or are we denying self and following the Redeemer? Christ is the propitiation for our sins. Laying aside His royal robe and kingly crown, He stepped from His high command, and clothed His divinity with humanity. For our sakes He became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 9)

To us has been given the privilege of laying up treasure in heaven. This we may do by following Christ. He came to our world to demonstrate to the universe that man, his eyes fixed upon God, can be an overcomer. Thus was fulfilled the promise that the seed of the woman should bruise the serpent’s head. Christ humiliated Himself to stand at the head of humanity, that we might be heirs to an immortal inheritance in the kingdom of glory. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 10)

When Christ came to John for baptism, John refused to baptize Him, saying, “I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me?” “Suffer it to be so now,” Christ said; “for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness.” [Matthew 3:14, 15.] Provision has been made that when man repents and takes the steps requisite in conversion, he shall be forgiven. When he is baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, these three great powers are pledged to work in his behalf. And man on his part, as he goes down into the water, to be buried in the likeness of Christ’s death and raised in the likeness of His resurrection, pledges himself to worship the true and living God, to come out from the world and be separate, to keep the law of Jehovah. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 11)

When Christ bowed on the banks of Jordan and offered up prayer to heaven, it was in our behalf that He prayed. And as He prayed, the heavens were opened, and the glory of God like a dove of burnished gold rested upon Him, while from the highest heaven was heard a voice, saying, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” [Verses 16, 17.] This is heaven’s pledge in behalf of humanity. Christ’s prayer was offered for us. We are accepted in the Beloved. What an incentive this should be to us to strive earnestly and perseveringly to please the Saviour, to live so that He shall not have died for us in vain! (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 12)

Think of the possibilities and probabilities before us. We can have all the strength of heaven; for when God gave Christ to our world, He gave all heaven. The Saviour’s long human arm encircles the race, while with His divine arm He grasps the throne of the Infinite. We are sinful, but Christ is sinless, and through Him we may stand on vantage ground with God. “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.] There is no excuse for any man or woman to lose eternal life. Every one can gain heaven, but God will not force any one to accept the provisions He has made. God forces no one to obey. Neither does He place any one in a position where he will be tempted above that he is able to bear. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 13)

We have everything to be thankful for. Never ought Christians to move along like a band of mourners in a funeral train. God does not require this of His followers. He does not ask them to spread sackcloth and ashes under them. “Is it such a fast that I have chosen?” He asks; “a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable day unto the Lord?” God tells us what kind of a fast He has chosen. “Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?” This is the fast He wishes us to observe. “Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?” [Isaiah 58:5-7.] In these words our duty is outlined. God shows us where we should place our treasures. As we follow in the path of self-denial and self-sacrifice, helping the needy and suffering, we shall lay up treasure before the throne of God. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 14)

The advantage this will be to us is shown in the following words: “Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily; and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rereward. Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am.” [Verses 8, 9.] Here is shown action and re-action. As we impart the goods the Lord has lent us on trust, we receive more to impart, and blessing comes to us. As we take hold upon Christ as a personal Saviour, we are enabled to do “all things.” [Philippians 4:13.] (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 15)

Christ is not dead. He has proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] Satan has thrown his dark shadow across our pathway, but let not our faith falter. Rather let it cleave through the shadow to the place where Christ sits as our Intercessor. Satan is trying to hide the light of heaven from us, but he cannot do this if we will cling to the mighty One. Call upon the Lord, and He will answer, “Here am I.” [Isaiah 58:9.] Co-operate with God in striving against the enemy. Put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and be determined that you will be temperate in all things. Remember that there is a world to save. We are to act our part, standing close by the side of Christ as His co-laborers. He is the head; we are His helping hand. He designs that we, by doing medical missionary work, shall undo the heavy burdens and let the oppressed go free. Let us not close our eyes to the misery around us or our ears to the cries of distress which are continually ascending. Christ is the greatest missionary the world has ever known. He came to uplift and cheer the sorrowing and distressed, and in this work we are to co-operate with Him. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 16)

Intemperance is seen on every side. What are you doing to overcome it? What are you doing to baffle the efforts of the enemy? Are you standing for the right as did Daniel in the courts of Babylon? He was tempted, but he would not swerve from the principles of right. He refused to partake of the food and wine from the king’s table, and requested that he and his companions be allowed a simpler diet. His request was granted, and ten days’ trial revealed that the Hebrew youth possessed health and fairness of countenance which were not possessed by those who had eaten of the food from the king’s table. Let us be Daniels in this world of temptation and trial, standing steadfastly for the right because it is right. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 17)

“No man can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” [Matthew 6:24.] If you center your thoughts upon the world, you will be worldly; you cannot help but be. But if you weave into the life the principles of heaven, keeping your attention fixed on Christ, you will be prepared for association with the angels. Remember that God wants you to bring Christ into your business transactions just as surely as into the house of prayer. He wants us to bear the testimony that in a world corrupted by sin, human beings can live untainted by worldliness. He wants us to show that we are standing under the bloodstained banner of prince Emmanuel. He does not tell us that the path to heaven is a smooth one. He takes us to an eminence and shows us the powers of darkness arrayed against us. But He tells us that more than men are in the army fighting on the side of right. “Be of good cheer,” He says. “I have overcome the world.” [John 16:33.] (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 18)

After assuring us that we cannot serve two masters, Christ says, “Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?” [Matthew 6:25.] What we need is the robe of Christ’s righteousness. Christ says that He will take away our sins, and cover us with His righteousness. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 19)

Fathers and mothers, under your care God has placed the younger members of His family. Are you fitting them to live that life which measures with the life of God? Are you teaching them by example to hide the life with Christ in God, to believe in Him, to love Him? God said of Abraham, “I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment.” [Genesis 18:19.] Now, as then, this is what God requires from parents. He wants them to educate their children in such a way that when they go forth into the world, they will resist the temptations which beset them on every side. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 20)

Parents, God desires you to make your family a sample of the family in heaven. Guard your children. Be kind and tender with them. Father, mother, and children are to be joined together with the golden links of love. One well-ordered, well-disciplined family is a greater power in demonstrating the efficiency of Christianity than all the sermons in the world. When fathers and mothers realize how their children copy them, they will watch carefully every word and gesture. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 21)

Educate your children from their babyhood to be cheerful and obedient. Teach them to help you. Tell them that they are a part of the firm, and that you need their help, so that you will be spared to care for them. “Oh,” say some mothers, “my children bother me when they try to help me.” So did mine, but do you think I let them know it? Praise your children. Teach them, line upon line, precept upon precept. This is better than reading novels, better than making calls, better than following the fashions of the world. We shall go through this life but once. We cannot afford to fail of reaching the goal for which Christ has told us to strive. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 22)

Do you teach your children to pray? It pays to be a praying household. The world is given up to horse racing and games. Are you teaching your children to run with patience the race for the crown of life? Those who run in the races of this world are temperate in all things, knowing that if they succeed they must keep the powers of the body in the best condition. How important, then, that those who are running the race for immortality be temperate in all things, that they may serve God acceptably. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 23)

Close the windows of the soul earthward and open them wide heavenward. If you let the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness flood the soul temple, you will not be cross or irritable in your home. If you put away from you tobacco and liquor and all that tends to intemperance, the Lord will help you to be cheerful and serene. He does not want us to live on the flesh of animals. He has something better for us—fruits and grains. He wants us to be strictly temperate. He wants us to teach our children to be temperate, to practice self-denial. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 24)

Let us make straight paths for our feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way. If we allow our children to associate with evil companions, they will by beholding become changed. They will lose the sense of repulsion to evil. Let us do all in our power to keep them from the evil that is in the world. Some years ago, while rowing on Lake Goguac with my husband, we saw a beautiful lily. I asked my husband to get it for me, and to pluck it with as long a stem as he could. He did so, and I examined it. In the stem was a channel through which flowed the nourishment best suited to the development of the lily. This nourishment it took, refusing the vileness with which it was surrounded. It had a connection with the sand far below the surface, and from there drew the sustenance which caused it to develop in its loveliness. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 25)

Christ says, “Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin; and yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.” No artist can produce the beautiful tints which God gives to the flowers. “Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?” [Matthew 6:28-30.] (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 26)

Nature is our lesson book. Christ used the objects of nature to impress truth on the minds of His hearers. Let us point our children to these things. When they are impatient and fretful, take them into the garden, and teach them the lessons found in the flowers and fruits. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 27)

“Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? ... for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow; for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” [Verses 31-34.] (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 28)

Let us do all we can to show our children that there is a heaven to win and a hell to shun. Let us teach them to strive for everlasting life. And remember that you will not help them by scolding. This stirs up the worst passions of the human heart. Make home pleasant. Be kind and gentle, but at the same time, be firm, requiring obedience. I have brought up children who by others were pronounced incorrigible. I never struck them a blow. I won their love and their confidence. They knew that I would ask them to do nothing but what was for their happiness. I did not whip them, knowing that this would not make them righteous. Prayer was my strength. Bring your children up in the admonition of the Lord, and you have fitted them to work in the church, you have fitted them to go forth into missionary fields, you have fitted them to shine in the courts of the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 29)

Parents, do not try to follow the ever-changing fashions of this degenerate age. It does not pay. At the last day God will ask you, “What have you done with my flock, my beautiful flock?” [See Jeremiah 13:20.] How will you answer Him if you have betrayed your trust? For Christ’s sake I beseech of you to guard your children. Do not be cross or hasty. Give them happy things to think of. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 30)

Christ gave His life for our children and for us, because He desired us to form characters after the divine similitude, that we may enter in through the gates into the holy city, and hear from the divine lips the benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] Do you not want to hear these words? Strive with all the power God has given you to gain the crown of everlasting life, that you may cast it at the feet of the Redeemer, and touching the golden harp, fill all heaven with rich music. God help you to gain eternal life, that you may see His face. (16LtMs, Ms 31, 1901, 31)

Ms 32, 1901

Medical Missionary Work
NP
April 16, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in MM 315-318. +

The Lord has a special work for His servants to do in the preparation of a people to stand in the great day of the Lord. This work is to commence in our own hearts. We need the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 1)

“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. And 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 12:1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 2)

We are to ask ourselves the question, “How is it with my soul?” A healthy soul in a healthy body makes a man or woman more precious than gold and silver, even as the Lord has said, “I will make a man more precious than fine gold, even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir.” [Isaiah 13:12.] (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 3)

By the mighty cleaver of truth God has taken us out of the world and brought us into His workshop, that with hammer and chisel He may cut away the rough edges and polish us for a place in His temple. (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 4)

“What man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him, even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God; for they are foolishness unto him, neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, but he himself is judged of no man. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.” [1 Corinthians 2:11-16.] (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 5)

Grand and ennobling truths have been given us. By the precious economy of grace, the exhibition of divine love, God strives to produce love in human beings. As we look unto Jesus, beholding the glorious spectacle of the love and tenderness of God, there springs up in our hearts a desire to engage in active service for the Master. The riches of the grace of Christ are without limit. They are sufficient to fill every heart with wisdom and sanctified judgment, creating an atmosphere of grace, real and enjoyable. This experience is gained by eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of God. Christ declares, “Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life.” [John 6:54.] (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 6)

Christ’s work was to take the things of God and show them to men. Heaven is brought into the home by eating the bread of life, receiving and practicing Christ’s Word. “The flesh profiteth nothing;” He said, “the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit and they are life.” [Verse 63.] The Word of God is life, eternal life, to the receiver. As the human elements in the soul are softened and subdued by the lessons of Christ, the great love wherewith He has loved us fills the mind with gratitude, which finds expression in thanksgiving and in praise. To the believing soul the Lord will give His peace and His grace, which cannot be measured. His Word is to be an active element in the family circle. It is a real part of Christ. Its influence is to be diffused to the household. Then the light in the candlestick gives light to all. Not only does it reveal Christ in the home. Its bright rays extend beyond the home to the neighborhood. Through practice the truth becomes spirit and life. The heart is imbued with the Holy Spirit, and the gratitude which springs up must find expression. Loving sympathy is manifested in word and action. Christ is revealed in word and spirit. A Christlike influence is exerted by all who love and serve the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 7)

“Is not this the fast that I have chosen, to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily, and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rereward.” [Isaiah 58:6-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 8)

This is the work that Christ did, and the work that He has placed in the hands of all who believe in Him. His heart was drawn out to the needy, dependent souls around Him. Bible truth was acted and became spirit and life. God’s great love for fallen man is expressed in His gift for the salvation of the human race. The contemplation of the love of God as shown in the Saviour is the means of producing Christlike love in the beholder. In him the glorious spectacle becomes a living principle. He sees and reflects the light of truth, wearing the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit. (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 9)

What an advantage it is to us to have Christ’s righteousness to go before us. As we follow in His footsteps, what a precious relationship we have to our divine Friend. The impress of God is placed upon our characters. “Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am.” [Verse 9.] “Follow in my footsteps, and you are safe. I am at your right hand to help you.” (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 10)

These promises, like all others, are made on condition. “If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity; and if thou wilt draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noon day. And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones. And thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places, thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations, and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.” [Verses 9-12.] (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 11)

The following words show the specified conditions: “If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honorable, and shalt honor him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words: then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth, and feed thee with the heritage of Jacob thy father; for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.” [Verses 13, 14.] (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 12)

These definite statements are the Word of the Lord. Those addressed are engaged in elevating the fourth commandment, which has been trodden under foot. The rich promises of God’s Word are for all who are engaged in medical missionary work. A work is to be done for the world. The love of Christ fills the heart with love for the Saviour and for those for whom He has given His life, that through obedience they might become loyal subjects of His kingdom. There is felt an earnest desire to impart the blessings which have been received. (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 13)

One who believes in Jesus Christ as a personal Saviour is to be a co-worker with Him, bound up with His heart of infinite love, co-operating with Him in works of self-denial and benevolence. He to whom Christ has revealed His pardoning grace will, in practicing the works of Christ, find himself linked up with Christ. God calls upon those for whom He has made such an infinite sacrifice to take their position as laborers together with Him in developing the gracious operations of God’s divine benevolence. (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 14)

Christ has withdrawn Himself from the earth, but His followers are still left in the world. His church, consisting of those who love Him, are to give in word and action, in their unselfish love and benevolence, a representation of Christ’s love. They are to be the means, by practicing self-denial and bearing the cross, of implanting the principle of love in the hearts of those who are unacquainted with the Saviour by experimental knowledge. (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 15)

Upon all who believe, God has placed the burden of raising up churches for the express purpose of educating men and women to use their entrusted capabilities for the benefit of the world, employing the means He has lent, for His glory. He has made human beings His stewards. Gladly and generously they are to use the means in their possession for the advancement of righteousness and truth. They are to employ His entrusted talents in building up His work and enlarging His kingdom. Our churches, large and small, are not to be treated in such a way that they will be helplessly dependent upon ministerial aid. The members are to be so established in the faith that they will have an intelligent knowledge of medical missionary work. They are to follow Christ’s example, ministering to those around them. Faithfully they are to fulfil the vows made at their baptism, the vow that they will practice the lessons taught in the life of Christ. Through sanctification of the truth as it is in Jesus they are to plant in hearts the living principles of saving faith. They are to work together to keep alive in the church the principles of self-denial and self-sacrifice, which Christ—His divinity clothed with humanity—followed in His medical missionary work. It is imparting the knowledge of Christ’s love and tenderness that gives efficiency to missionary operations. (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 16)

The Lord Jesus desires the members of His church to be an army of workers, laboring for Him according to their varied capabilities, and carrying out the principles of self-denial and self-sacrifice, preserving that love for God which drew them away from the world, and which will draw them together, away from separate confederacies, from distant, detached parties. The work is to be one grand, harmonious whole in Christ Jesus. The faith that works by love and purifies the soul is the holy, uplifting, sanctifying agency which is to soften and subdue jarring human nature. The love of Christ is to constrain the believers, causing them to blend in harmonious action at the cross of Calvary. As they live the principles which separated them from the world, they will be bound to one another by the sacred cords of Christian love. (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 17)

With grace in their hearts, believers are to work the works of Christ, placing themselves, soul, body, and spirit, on His side, as His human hand, to impart His love to those who are out of the fold. Believers are to associate together in Christian fellowship, regarding one another as brothers and sisters in the Lord. They are to love one another as Christ loves them. They are to be lights for God, shining in the church and in the world, receiving grace for grace, as they impart to others. Thus they are constantly kept in spiritual nearness to God. They reflect the image of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 18)

Sanctified love is diffusive, refusing to be bound by the home or the church. It seeks to save perishing souls. Every heart that has felt the love of a sin-forgiving Saviour finds itself allied to every other Christian heart. True believers will unite with one another in working for souls ready to perish. Let not our ministers expend time and energy in laboring for those who know the truth. Let them instead seek for those outside the fold, and each should stimulate the other to earnest action in well-defined, sanctified efforts to save the poor souls who are perishing in their sins. (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 19)

When our churches will fulfil the duty resting upon them, they will be living, working agencies for the Master. The manifestation of Christian love will fill the soul with a deeper, more earnest fervor to work for Him who gave His life to save the world. By being good and doing good Christ’s followers expel selfishness from the soul. To them the most costly sacrifice seems too cheap to give. They see a large vineyard to be worked, and they realize that they must be prepared by divine grace to labor patiently, earnestly, in season and out of season, in a sphere which knows no boundaries. They obtain victory after victory, increasing in experience and efficiency, extending on all sides their earnest efforts to win souls for Christ. They use to the best advantage their increasing experience, their hearts are melted by the love of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 20)

We shall see the medical missionary work broadening and deepening at every point of its progress, because of the inflowing of hundreds and thousands of streams, until the whole earth is covered as the waters cover the sea. Our ministers are displeasing God by their feeble efforts to let the truths of His Word shine forth to the world. Nothing so strengthens the churches as to see the work progressing in other portions of the vineyard. When the ministers understand the great blessing to be derived from laboring for those who know not the truth, they will leave the churches, after impressing upon them the importance of devising plans and methods whereby they can do within their borders the same kind of work that the ministers of the gospel are doing in the regions beyond. (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 21)

All can labor for the salvation of those who are out of the ark of safety. When church members stand pledged to the service of God, pledged to do missionary work, when they take hold of the work unselfishly, because they love the souls for whom Christ has died, and are desirous of uniting with the great Medical Missionary, the Lord will come very near to them, to instruct them. Life is full of opportunities for practical missionaries. Every man, woman, and child can sow each day the seeds of kind words and unselfish deeds. The world is not a croquet ground, on which we are to amuse ourselves; it is a school where we are to study earnestly and thoroughly the lessons given in the Word of God. There they may learn how to receive and how to impart. There they may learn how to seek for souls in the highways and byways of life. (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 22)

How earnestly the games of this world are engaged in! If those who engage in them would strive as earnestly for the crown of life, which fadeth not away, what victories they would gain. They would become medical missionaries, and they would see how much they could do to relieve suffering humanity. What a blessing they would be. What we need is practical education. Ministers and people, practice the lessons Christ has given in His Word, and you will become Christlike in character. (16LtMs, Ms 32, 1901, 23)

Ms 33, 1901

Diary/“I am not able to sleep past ...”
NP
April 19, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in MM 33-34, 240-241, 249-250, 312; Ev 518; 1MR 228. +

I am not able to sleep past one o’clock. I promised to speak to the students at nine o’clock this morning; therefore I did not attend the early morning meeting. I remained to the council meeting, and was requested to give the brethren all the light the Lord had given me in regard to the carrying forward of the work on correct lines. The matter of Dr. Kress and his wife’s coming to Australia and unitedly engaging in work in the Sydney Sanitarium was introduced. Much was said in favor of their coming. I have been instructed that there should be connected with this Sanitarium a physician and his wife who have the work and cause of God at heart. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 1)

“Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” [Matthew 6:33.] This is the condition God has made. This is the foundation stone upon which we must build. This is to be our very first work. “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness.” The work of seeking includes much. In it the heart, mind, soul, and strength are to be enlisted. This affects the entire character, as is shown in the first chapter of second Peter. All who will follow the principles outlined in this chapter secure for themselves life insurance papers as they seek for the righteousness of Christ. They become one with the Saviour. They are made partakers of the divine nature. The character is molded after the similitude of Christ. It grows into a holy temple for the Lord. Through them light shines forth to the church and to the world. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 2)

The sanitariums that shall be established are to be God’s memorials, agencies in the conversion of many souls. A Christlike influence is to go forth from these institutions to all who are connected with them, an influence which will speak in their favor, which is as a light shining in a dark place. And there is to be no concealment of the Source of grace and power. The Lord has a great work to do in our world, and He desires that the influence which is imparted by the great Healer shall be brought to bear upon suffering humanity. The Source of strength is within the reach of every one who will seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. It is for all; but all do not avail themselves of the advantages which are so broad and deep and full. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 3)

I have been instructed that some good has been accomplished at the Sanitarium in Summer Hill, but this good has been small in comparison with what it might have been. A physician and his wife, persons of age and experience, who will stand in right authority, should be placed in connection with that institution. Then the influence of spiritual intelligence and experience will be felt. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 4)

Physicians who cultivate a sense of the presence of God will impress their patients with the influence of truth. As they show that they truly believe the words, “I know that my Redeemer lives to make intercession for me, and that because He lives, I shall live also,” the influence of this is felt. [Job 19:25; Hebrews 7:25.] Physicians little know the power they will have in the sickroom if they recognize the presence of God. Their words will be of such a character that impressions for good will be made upon minds. God desires the sanitariums which are established to be a power for good. Let those who are connected with them remember the words, “Ye are God’s husbandry; ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] Let the Christian, represented by the building, open every window heavenward, welcoming the bright, heavenly rays of the Sun of Righteousness. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” [Psalm 111:10.] Living and working under the constant impression, “Lo, God is here,” brings a hallowed influence, which the Spirit is ever impressing on heart and mind. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 5)

God desires all who are connected with the sick in our institutions to have in their hearts the peace of Christ. Their words and works are to be such that they will shine as lights in the world. “In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and confidence shall be your strength.” [Isaiah 30:15.] “Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him; fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.... The meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.... The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment. The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.” [Psalm 37:7, 8, 11, 30, 31.] This is the instruction that should be given to those working in our sanitariums. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 6)

The light given me by the Lord is that wherever camp-meetings are held, the gospel is to be proclaimed in clear lines. Medical missionary work is to exert a decided influence. Those who are being educated in medical missionary lines should realize the this is a work which calls their knowledge into action in its fullest extent; therefore they are never to feel that it is unnecessary for them to put to the stretch every capability, in accordance with reason and the love of God, to work the works of Christ, to rescue from evil those who will show forth the praises of Him who hath called them out of darkness into His marvellous light. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 7)

Follow the principles which will give character to your work. Look beyond the present. Turn away from the transitory things of this life, from selfish pursuits and gratifications. For what purpose are you seeking an education? Is it not that you may be able to impart knowledge to the ignorant? Is it not that you may relieve suffering humanity? (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 8)

To our medical missionary workers in Australia, I would say, Although you have not the educational advantages which can be secured at the Sanitarium in Battle Creek, under the supervision of Dr. Kellogg’s wise experience, yet if you will put your powers to the tax, and study diligently, you may learn much. Depend upon God. Ask Him to make the powers of your mind keen and clear that you may learn to work as Christ worked. Follow on to know the Lord, striving earnestly for knowledge to impart to those who are ignorant. Tell the Lord that you want to help suffering humanity. You may have full confidence that God will give you knowledge, even as He gave knowledge to Daniel and his companions. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 9)

As the mind is enlarged by true knowledge, the heart is warmed by a sense of the goodness, compassion, and love of God. The soul is filled with an earnest longing to tell others how they may co-operate with the great Master-worker. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 10)

Put your whole being into the work of helping others, and God will give you skill and understanding. Students do much for themselves as they impart the knowledge they receive. Thus they gain more excellent knowledge to impart. Thus their ability to work for God is increased. The grosser parts of our nature need to be subdued by the knowledge of truth and righteousness. Words cannot describe the quickening influence of the Holy Spirit on mind and character. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 11)

The Lord has given much light in regard to the necessity of His people’s practicing temperance in all things. The light regarding health reform has been kept before us for the last fifty years. Those who realize all that medical missionary work includes will be laborers together with God in advancing this work. Whether engaged as canvassers, evangelists, or ministers, they will strive to act as God’s helping hand in relieving the sufferings of mind and body. Our church members are not to hold themselves aloof from medical missionary work. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 12)

All medical missionary workers should be set apart as gospel workers. They may never preach a discourse, but in most cases they will open their lips to impart knowledge. Solemnly and publicly they are to be recognized before they are sent forth as gospel workers. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 13)

Men and women are to study how they can best reach the people. Then let them go forth as consecrated, spiritual workers. Let them in some city hire a place in which to live, and at once begin their work. They will find enough suffering ones to whom they can present themselves as medical missionaries. In some places the medical missionary will be better received if he has credentials to show that he has been set apart for gospel work. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 14)

It is medical missionaries that are needed all through the field. Canvassers should improve every opportunity granted them to learn how to treat disease. Physicians should remember that they will often be required to perform the duties of a minister. Medical missionaries come under the head of evangelists. The workers should go forth two by two, that they may pray and consult together. Never should they be sent out alone. The Lord Jesus Christ sent forth His disciples two and two into all the cities of Israel. He gave them the commission, “Heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, The kingdom of God has come nigh unto you.” [Luke 10:9.] (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 15)

We are instructed in the Word of God that an evangelist is a teacher. He should also be a medical missionary. But all are not given the same work. “He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ.” [Ephesians 4:11, 12.] (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 16)

We now ask those who shall be chosen as presidents of our conferences to make a right beginning in places where nothing has been done. Recognize the medical missionary work as God’s helping hand. As His appointed agency it is to have room and encouragement. Medical missionaries are to have as much encouragement as any accredited evangelist. Pray with these workers. Counsel with them if they need counsel. Do not dampen their zeal and energy. Be sure by your own consecration and devotion to keep a high standard before them. Laborers are greatly needed in the Lord’s vineyard, and not a word of discouragement should be spoken to those who consecrate themselves to the work. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 17)

Those who labor in our conferences as ministers should become acquainted with the work of ministering to the sick. No minister should be proud that he is ignorant where he should be wise. Medical missionary work connects men with his fellow men and with God. The manifestation of sympathy and confidence is not to be limited by time or space. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 18)

The work that Dr. Kellogg has been doing is much larger than he should embrace. He is in positive danger of falling under the pressure of so many responsibilities. But that over which he feels the deepest is that Seventh-day Adventists have made his work so hard. They have not taken any pains to become acquainted with his earnest, determined effort to train and educate workers. He has made his home an asylum for orphans, taking the forsaken and unfortunate to his mind and heart, loving them, caring for them, feeding and clothing them. He carries a fearful responsibility as he performs his important operations, not only at the Sanitarium, but nigh and afar off. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 19)

All who have reasoning minds ought to have seen that his work is far ahead of anything they have done or could do. They should have been very careful how they placed additional burdens on him by ignoring the work which they should have been forward to share. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 20)

The Lord has warned Dr. Kellogg that he was endangering his life by an endless round of wearing responsibilities. He was told that he must not take up so much work. But the work has not been so grievous to him as the efforts made to ignore medical missionary work. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 21)

The light of health reform has been presented to our churches in America, but some of the oldest members have taken a wrong position, counteracting the efforts Dr. Kellogg has made to advance health reform. Those who should have been forward to sanction Dr. Kellogg’s work as God’s appointed physician, to help him carry his responsibility, have stood to bar his way. They have worked against the principles which the Lord has declared every church should be educated in accordance with which every Christian should educate his family and neighbors. Dr. Kellogg has been trying to teach and practice health reform, but by their example church members have made light of his work. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 22)

Speaking by the inspiration of the Spirit of God, the apostle exhorts us, “Add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure; for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall.” [2 Peter 1:5-10.] (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 23)

I have many fears for our ministering brethren, because I have seen that many of them are unreasonably prejudiced. If they can see, as they suppose, that Dr. Kellogg is moving unadvisedly, they make the most of it. I am intensely anxious that Dr. Kellogg shall not give them the slightest reason to vindicate the course they have pursued. Dr. Kellogg has been put to his wit’s end to know how to escape the evils confronting him. The Lord understands the strait places in which His servant has been placed. He can weigh every word and action in just balances. I have not a particle of sympathy with the blindness which for so long has been upon our brethren. They have made a world of an atom and an atom of a world. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 24)

But this is enough of this part of the story. The Lord’s tender love and care is over Dr. Kellogg. He will not allow him to become the sport of Satan’s temptations. He is not pleased with those who by their attitude have made the way difficult for him. Their opposition has made it exceedingly hard for the doctor. But when I come before the people in Conference I shall bear a testimony that will set matters in a true light. I looked to see what kind of work has been done by those who had been so prejudiced against Dr. Kellogg, and I was made heartsick as I saw how much there is to be done in the barren places of the Lord’s vineyard. The members of our committees and the presidents of our conferences have not felt the real burden of souls, and the Lord calls for a change. There must be a different administration. No longer must the matter be deferred. Earnest efforts must be made to set things right. The medical missionary work must stand forth in its pure, sacred character. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 25)

Great care should be taken in working for the outcasts. Neither young men nor young women should be sent into the lowest places of our cities. The sight of the eyes and the hearing of the ears should be kept from evil. There is much that the youth can do for the Master. If they will watch and pray and make God their trust, they will be prepared to do excellent work under the supervision of experienced laborers. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 26)

Medical missionary work must have its representatives in our cities. Centers must be made and missions established on right lines. Ministers of the gospel are to unite with the medical missionary work, which has ever been presented to me as the work which is to break down the prejudice which exists in our world against the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 27)

The medical missionary work is growing in importance and claims the attention of the churches. It is a part of the gospel message and must receive recognition. It is the heaven-ordained means of finding entrance to the hearts of people. It is the duty of our church members in every place to follow the instruction of the great Teacher. The gospel is to be preached in every city; for this is in accordance with the example of Christ and His disciples. Medical missionaries are to seek patiently and earnestly to reach the higher classes. If this work is faithfully done, professional men will become trained evangelists. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 28)

I have been cautioned not to open this matter abruptly to Dr. Kellogg; for he may be led to add to his already too numerous burdens. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 29)

The study of surgery and other medical science receives much attention in the world, but the true science of medical missionary work, carried forward as Christ carried it, is new and strange to the denominational churches and to the world. But it will find its rightful place when, as a people who have had great light, Seventh-day Adventists awaken to their responsibilities . (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 30)

Young men and young women must be fitted to engage in medical missionary work as physicians and nurses. But before these workers are sent into the field, they must give evidence that they have the spirit of service, that they are breathing a medical missionary atmosphere, that they are prepared for evangelical work. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 31)

Students should be prepared for pioneer missionary work. The medical missionaries who are sent to foreign countries should first receive a most careful education. They are Christ’s ambassadors, and they are to work for Him with all the skill they have, praying fervently that the great Physician will pity and save by His miraculous power. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 32)

Dr. Kellogg is working in the lines of God’s appointment in keeping in touch with the educated, noble men of the medical profession. He will be sustained in preserving his faith in the love of the truth. If he will make God his trust, he will be sustained as a genuine, devoted believer. In his association with other physicians, he need not say all he believes. This is not required. But in the past his faith in the Word of God has not been a hindrance, but a help to him, and thus it will be in the future. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 33)

There are some who have no special inclination to devote themselves to evangelistic work. Let these take up the study of surgery. If they grasp the saving truths for this time, they will be able to present the simple lessons of the Bible. They should enter into no theological discussion or controversy, but should show great wisdom and skill, realizing that by speaking and praying and singing the truth, they are freeing the minds of their fellow men from error. In all humility of mind they should exercise themselves unto godliness. (16LtMs, Ms 33, 1901, 34)

Ms 34, 1901

Our Aged Workers
NP
April 20, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in RY 34-35; ChL 18. +

I call upon my brethren assembled in Conference to remember that the church militant is not the church triumphant. Let our younger ministers show great respect for the men of grey hairs, who have had an experience in the development of the work from stage to stage. These wrestlers should be greatly appreciated. As they become worn, unable to bear taxation, give them attention and respect and a place in your councils in connection with the work. (16LtMs, Ms 34, 1901, 1)

When John was old and grey-headed he was given a message to bear to the persecuted churches. Read and appreciate the first epistle of John. Study the principles presented. From the lips of the aged disciple there constantly fell words which magnified the Saviour as he related his experience in connection with Him. (16LtMs, Ms 34, 1901, 2)

Because of the false accusations made by the Jews against John, the Roman power tried to take his life. But his time to die had not come. The Lord said, “Let him live. I who created him will be with him and guard him.” The Jews made several attempts to take John’s life, but this they could not do. Constantly he bore testimony for the Master. In beautiful language and with musical voice he told of the words and works of Christ, speaking in a way that impressed the hearts of all who heard him. (16LtMs, Ms 34, 1901, 3)

John was sent as an exile to Patmos, and the Jews thought that they had certainly rid themselves of him. But Christ visited him in his exile and communicated to him the grand truths found in the Revelation. (16LtMs, Ms 34, 1901, 4)

The Lord gives special grace and knowledge to the aged men who have had an experience in the work from its earliest history, and have watched it develop in its various lines of progress. Let these men be appreciated and respected. Let not in the past they have sacrificed everything to advance the work. Because they are growing old is no reason why they should cease to exert an influence superior to the influence of the men who have had far less study of the Word, far less experience in divine things, far less knowledge of the communications of Christ to His people. (16LtMs, Ms 34, 1901, 5)

I have been instructed that no indifference or disrespect is to be shown to these burden-bearing pioneers in the work. They are God’s workmen and have acted a prominent part in the building up [of] the work which today ought to bear the similitude of the pattern shown them in the mount. But the principles of right have been perverted; worldly plans have been brought in, greatly to the detriment of the purity, sanctification, and holiness of the work in its various branches. God calls for decided reformations. Men who at this time are placed in office should be regarded as on trial for not more than six months or one year, to develop their specific qualifications for the line of work they are to carry. Those who are entrusted with the management of the more important districts should have solid ability. They should be men who are able to carry responsibilities. (16LtMs, Ms 34, 1901, 6)

It would be wisdom for men to take this work. One man should not be left to oversee the important but neglected fields. With the testimonies before them, our ministers have passed by on the other side, to seek more favorable places where churches have been raised up. Slothful work has been done. The Lord calls for persevering, determined effort. He will not accept or bless the workers who do not manifest a determined effort to be producers as well as consumers. Men must be chosen as leaders who are benevolent, who will take in the situation. A genuine experience is a growing experience. He who has this experience increases daily in ability. His trust is in God, and he is given strength to devise and plan, multiplying powers of usefulness. (16LtMs, Ms 34, 1901, 7)

The young convert must advance in the knowledge of truth and of the love of God in order to keep the place he has reached. If he does not increase in knowledge, gaining greater wisdom day by day, as his responsibilities increase and new fields open before him, his light will become dim and will finally flicker into darkness. The Lord has made every provision for men to gain strength and maturity. Let all remember that they are on trial before the heavenly intelligences, that they must be faithful armor bearers. (16LtMs, Ms 34, 1901, 8)

The minister is placed where he must be an example to others. Those who are placed in a position of responsibility should work with an eye single to the glory of God. This must be if their profiting appears unto all. The idea of being once in grace, always in grace, will not bear the test. Men may be thrown off their guard. They may not, when entrusted with responsibilities, make the Lord their dependence. We must all remember that this world is not heaven. The faith of those who comprehend the situation, who work with all their God-given energy, will be tried, because there are so few who work in such a way as to uplift and save perishing souls. Let the vain and envious talkers be converted. Let them come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty powers of darkness. The enemy of God and man will be glad to receive the strength of your influence, which you give to him when you fail to use aright your God-given talents. Do not use the talent of speech to misrepresent, misjudge, and depreciate. By doing this work many have been growing weak in spirituality and in brotherly love, until the candlestick is terribly shaken, and, unless they repent, will be moved out of its place. (16LtMs, Ms 34, 1901, 9)

God has given every one a part in the work of defeating the enemy. Let us not, by thinking and speaking evil, sow seed which will produce a harvest we shall not care to reap. God calls upon His people to use the tongue in speaking words of hope and encouragement. (16LtMs, Ms 34, 1901, 10)

Let the backsliders humble their poor, sin-sick hearts before the throne of God. Wrestle with God as Jacob wrestled with the angel, until you realize that He will have mercy and not sacrifice. Do you see much that you interpret as selfishness, much that you think cannot be approved by God? Apply your keen, sharp measurement of perfection to your individual self. Be sure that you are doing better work than the one you criticize. Be sure that you are diligent in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. Be sure that you set a better example than the one with whom you find fault. Be sure that your words with reference to the defects of your brethren are few and well-chosen. Remember that men and women are justified by faith and judged by works. What are you doing? Let the complainers and faultfinders cease doing the work that suits the enemy so well. Devote the talent of speech to blessing and strengthening, not to weakening and destroying. Let every one who has had the privilege of knowing the truth ask himself the question, “Am I investing my influence, my time, and my means in God’s way? Is my whole life an evidence that I love my Lord and the souls for whom He gave His life?” Let each one say, “I am the possessor of some trust, and I will probe my own motives and scrutinize my own actions.” (16LtMs, Ms 34, 1901, 11)

To one God gives five talents, to another two, and to another one. To every one is given some gift. There is no person living who has not received a talent from God; and God holds him responsible to make the most of that gift, to sanctify it to the Master’s use. God has given talents to the entire human family, from the highest to the lowest. All our talents belong to Him. They are to be used in blessing our fellow beings. The church of Christ is made up of talents large and small. All are to use their capabilities and powers in doing good. Continually they are to increase in usefulness, by seeking to bless and help others. (16LtMs, Ms 34, 1901, 12)

Those who misapply the gifts of grace, so that they do not accomplish what they should for the benefit of others, are consumers, but not producers. God requires His own with usury. He keeps an account with every individual. Let no one use his influence to disparage the work of another, which they cannot understand because they have never felt a burden of responsibility. Weakness and indecision, self-indulgence and selfish ambition, are carrying church members to spiritual imbecility. The fruits of righteousness do not appear in them. They apply selfish motives to the earnest worker, because it seems an impossibility for them to do the work others are doing. O, how dangerous is such a position! How much such lose of the precious fragrance of Christ’s love! (16LtMs, Ms 34, 1901, 13)

Are you condemning your brother, while at the same time you fail to examine yourself? The word of the Lord to you is, “Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged; and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.” [Matthew 7:1-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 34, 1901, 14)

Ms 35, 1901

Consumers, but not Producers
NP
April 25, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 17MR 244-251. +

It should be made a part of gospel labor to help forward promising young men who give evidence that the love of truth and righteousness has a constraining influence upon them, leading them to dedicate themselves to the work of God as medical missionaries, as canvassers, as evangelists. Let a fund be established to carry this work forward. Then let those who have received help go forth to minister to the sick and suffering. This work will surely open the way for the balm of Gilead to be applied to sin-sick souls. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 1)

Much instruction is given in the Scriptures regarding the necessity of the work of helping one another. When on earth our Saviour manifested the tenderest pity for physical suffering, and while giving physical relief, He never failed to minister to the spiritual necessities. This example is to guide all who shall engage in God’s service. His children are to follow in His footsteps. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 2)

The gospel is the manifestation of the grace of God to fallen man. Those who obey the Word of God will understand that by bearing much fruit they testify to the power of God. The tame, spiritless work which produces no fruit is no evidence of a living connection with God. Without heart-religion, a love for God that is all-absorbing, how can men and women labor for souls, doing the work essential for genuine conversion? Until the heart is humble and contrite before God, until the sins which the Word of God denounces are put away, God’s blessing cannot be given. Those who work successfully for God must learn the first principles of Christianity. Those who find that they do not love God with heart, soul, strength, and mind might better go apart and rest awhile. They might better take up some other work until they breathe a higher, purer atmosphere, for God will not work with them until their hearts are purified through obeying His Word. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 3)

It is those who have the least evidence of the true working of the Spirit of God in their labors who feel the most self-exaltation. These will repress and count of little esteem those to whom God has given the precious truths for which His flock is starving—the bread of life, which will satisfy their soul-hunger. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 4)

There have been many who have not given encouragement to the principles of health reform. They have not encouraged the medical missionary work. Why? Let them answer this question themselves. They refused to become acquainted with the medical missionary work within their own borders. For no well-defined reason, they brought it into disrepute, refusing to give it their sympathy and co-operation. The Lord has marked the motives of those who have bound about the work in its various lines. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 5)

Evangelistic work has been done by some who have not been regarded as qualified for the ministry. These persons have moved forward as the Lord has made known to them their duty, and have done a noble work. Brother _____ has been doing missionary work for many years. To all intents and purposes he has practiced the gospel. It is not sermonizing that makes a minister. This is where men have failed who from lack of spiritual discernment have failed to judge righteously. Brother _____ has established churches and built meetinghouses in various places. When he has in one place carried the interest as far as he felt warranted, he passed on to another place to which the truth had never been carried, leaving behind a large number converted to the truth, with a place of worship in which to meet. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 6)

Those who audit the accounts of the workers should not settle with such workers as Brother _____ according to the precise time they have spent in preaching sermons. Their practical work is of more value than any number of sermons, for it is the gospel lived, the gospel acted. The manner in which Brother Shireman has been treated needs correction. The time he has spent in establishing schools and building meetinghouses is not to be counted out. In his practical work he was preparing minds to understand the truth as it is in Jesus. It is such men as this that God has honored. But the work He has originated and blessed, men have passed by with scarcely a word of encouragement. Workers He has sent out have been settled with by the auditing committee in a way not proportionate to the work they have done. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 7)

The Lord calls for workers, not for sermonizers, for men who will do real work. The time is coming when we shall take a retrospective view of the work we have done in this life. Then every man’s work will stand at its true value. Then those who have souls to show as a result of their labor will receive recognition from God. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 8)

If those who have criticized had gone forth into the dark places of the earth, where the light of truth has never shone, and had worked earnestly for the Master, they would today have been standing on vantage ground. God would have enabled them to do acceptable service for Him. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 9)

Many today are rejoicing in the truth, full of thankfulness and hope, who would never have been reached if the Lord had not put into the hearts of human instrumentalities a longing desire to save souls for Christ. He enabled them to impart a knowledge of the truth to other souls. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 10)

The field has been presented to me. Not a few, but many souls will be saved as a result of men’s looking to Jesus for their ordination and orders. Such men have taken up work in the hardest parts of the field, and have labored successfully for the Master. What we need is men who will labor for those who know not the truth, who will go out to rescue those who are out of the fold. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 11)

Let our experienced ministers take young men with them into the field. The camp-meeting season is right upon us. At these meetings men are to learn to labor for souls as they that must give an account. There are thousands and thousands dead in trespasses and sins. Thousands are passing into the grave unwarned and unconverted. Who will render an account for the many souls uncared for without God and without hope in the world? (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 12)

When ministers, teachers and managers breathe the breath of God, a high and holy consecration will be manifest. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 13)

Men have lost the life of God by opposing those who have received a message from heaven. God calls for workers who will wrestle earnestly for the prize of eternal life. The Spirit of God must come to every gospel worker, to every church member, if those who are perishing in sin are saved to Christ. The crown of life is gained by those who run with patience the race set before them. Brethren, God forbid that you should lose this prize. God is not pleased with your inefficiency. You are doing nothing to gain a high, noble spirituality. The torpor of spiritual death has been long upon you. It is not your orthodox theories, not your membership in the church, not the diligent performance of a certain round of duties, that gives evidence of life. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 14)

In an ancient tower in Switzerland I saw the image of a man moved by machinery. It looked like a living man, and I whispered when I came near, as if it would hear me. But though the image looked lifelike, it had no real life. It was moved by machinery. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 15)

Motion is not necessarily life. We may go through all the forms and ceremonies of religion, but unless we are alive in Christ, our work is worthless. The Lord calls for living, truth-loving, Bible-believing Christians. There are hundreds who, though professedly following the Lord, have no light from heaven to reflect to the dark parts of the earth. Oh, if we realized how the Lord looks upon the attitude in which some have stood for years, we would change at once, and earnestly seek the Lord. I say to you in the name of the Lord, Repent, repent, repent. Humble your hearts as you have not done for years. God knows that you are in need of a power out of and away from yourselves. You should be alarmed at your deficiency and unchristlikeness. Be thankful that it is not too late for wrongs to be righted. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 16)

There are many in the ministry who are consumers and not producers. All have been bought with a price, and all should use in God’s service the energy which they have received from Him. Christ says, “It is my Father’s good pleasure that ye bear much fruit.” [John 15:8.] (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 17)

God desires His ministers to deal wisely with all who are connected with His work. He abhors careless dealing, giving faithful workers little reward, while those who produce nothing receive much. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 18)

“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 on 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 same 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.” [Revelation 3:1-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 19)

God calls for sincere, earnest, persevering laborers. We have considered the tithe to be a blessing. God forbid that through the perversity of men it should become a snare to those who receive it. It means much for men who are sustained by the tithe to be consumers and not producers, failing to show any fruit for their labor. The workers must make a better record than they have done in the past. They are not doing justice to themselves or to the cause of God. Work, brethren. Go into the vineyard of the Lord and labor for souls. Consider no work too taxing. God sees that selfishness is being cherished by some who for years have been in the cause as paid workmen. They have wasted the opportunities given them. By inaction they have weakened their spiritual sinews and muscles. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 20)

Those who would become successful wrestlers must put to the tax brain, bone, and muscle. Improvement is needed in many lines of the work. New lines of work must be organized. New workers must go into the field to labor for souls. These workers are to dig in God’s Word for the precious ore of truth. As they search the Word, the truth will appear to them in a new aspect. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 21)

“Search the Scriptures,” said the divine Teacher; “for in them ye think ye have eternal life, and they are they which testify of me.” “It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing; the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit and they are life.” [John 5:39; 6:63.] (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 22)

The members of the church of God need to be instructed and educated, line upon line, as a Bible class. Nine tenths of our people, including many of our teachers and ministers, are content with surface truths. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 23)

In the Bible the truth is compared to treasure hid in a field, “the which, when a man hath found, he hideth; and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.” [Matthew 13:44.] He desires the privilege of searching every part of the field, that he may make himself the possessor of all its treasures. I call upon my brethren in the name of the Lord to sink the shaft deep into the mines of truth. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 24)

The Lord declares that His church is not to be governed by human rules or precedents. Men are not capable of ruling the church. God is our Ruler. I am oppressed with the thought of the objectionable human management seen in our work. God says, Hands off. Rule yourselves before you attempt to rule others. Strange things have been done, things that God abhors. For men to claim that the voice of their councils is the voice of God seems to me to be almost blasphemy. (16LtMs, Ms 35, 1901, 25)

Ms 36, 1901

Diary/“Last night I spoke in the College ...”
NP
April 26, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in Ev 333.

Last night I spoke in the College library. I had very plain things to say, but I have not yet discharged my whole duty. It has been presented to me that a certain power has been trying to rule in Battle Creek. Some have possessed a spirit similar to that possessed by the priests and rulers in Christ’s day. As it was presented to me, there was a kingly power which wished to rule, and if things did not come into line, there was a desire to repress men who were being enlightened by the Holy Spirit, men who had His word, who had been given a message to bear to the people. Many of the members of our committees have lifted up their hearts unto vanity and boasting. Prejudice has been shown against the medical missionary work, and against the men God has been leading and guiding, giving them power to give the trumpet a certain sound. The shepherds have not been doing the work God has given them. They have not been establishing the truth in new places. Earnest study of the Word of Christ would have given them a message for the churches, to arouse them from spiritual slumber. “But the men of experience, who have the word of the Lord, were not wanted in your camp-meetings or council meetings,” saith the Lord. “Yet I had a work for them to do. There have been those who have despised the message of the Lord, and in their supposed superiority have lifted up their souls unto vanity. I will not accept their service. I will put other men in their place; for I am greatly displeased with their words and works.” (16LtMs, Ms 36, 1901, 1)

“Thus saith the Lord of hosts, Hearken not unto the words of the prophets that prophesy unto you; they make you vain: they speak a vision of their own heart, and not out of the mouth of the Lord. They say still unto them that despise me, The Lord hath said, Ye shall have peace; and they say unto every one that walketh after the imagination of his own heart, No evil shall come upon you. For who hath stood in the counsel of the Lord, and hath perceived and heard his word? who hath marked his word, and heard it? Behold, a whirlwind of the Lord is gone forth in fury, even a grievous whirlwind: it shall fall grievously upon the head of the wicked. The anger of the Lord shall not return, until he have executed, until he have performed the thoughts of his heart: in the latter days ye shall consider it perfectly. I have not sent these prophets, yet they ran; I have not spoken to them, yet they prophesied. But if they had stood in my counsel, and had caused my people to hear my words, then they should have turned them from their evil way, and from the evil of their doings. Am I a God at hand, saith the Lord, and not a God afar off? Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the Lord. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the Lord.” Jeremiah 23:16-24. (16LtMs, Ms 36, 1901, 2)

The Lord will not serve with your methods and plans. There needs to be connected with the work men who have a right spirit, who will be faithful stewards and faithful watchmen, who will not sleep on the walls of Zion. The Laodicean message is applicable to many of the ministers and many of the churches to which they have ministered. “These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God: I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: 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. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked; 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. As many as I love I rebuke and chasten; be zealous therefore, and repent.” [Revelation 3:14-19.] (16LtMs, Ms 36, 1901, 3)

A round of sermons is preached, but as the church members have little interest to practice what they hear, evils are imperceptibly coming in. During the last twenty years many have failed to gain the experience which would enable them to sway the work in right lines. Little has been done to branch out, to prepare men to do evangelistic medical missionary work. Is this lack of genuine work, with its sad results, to continue? Let ministers and people answer, No. By the help of God we will seek His face, repent of our sins, and become converted. We will learn every day from our Bibles how to succeed in becoming missionaries of whom Christ shall not be ashamed. (16LtMs, Ms 36, 1901, 4)

Let us improve the privileges given us by God. Let us increase our intelligence by working together with Him. Let us go forth in the meekness and simplicity of Christ to win souls for Him. Thus we shall establish those in the faith. We are to work for the sick, the afflicted, and the suffering. As medical missionary work and the preaching of the Word are combined, the cause will move forward. Every worker is to strive to gain by practical experience the tact, skill, and knowledge necessary for the work. Let those who know the truth labor to convert those for whom Christ has died. Let them relate their own experience in the faith. Some can make no special appeals to history and science in witnessing for Christ. But from their own experience they can bear weighty testimonies, testimonies which will be much more powerful than long sermons and long prayers. He who does his best in missionary work, using his ability in practical effort, is preparing a solid foundation on which to build. As he labors with Christ, his faith is built upon knowledge. He feels that the Saviour is close by his side, teaching him how to wear his yoke and how to carry his burden restfully, trustingly, cheerfully. By the experience which he is gaining, he is bringing to the foundation gold, silver, and precious stones. (16LtMs, Ms 36, 1901, 5)

These are the things I have been instructed to present to those who are about to commence a new and untried work. As, by imparting to others, they put into use the knowledge they have gained, they are solidifying their faith, preparing themselves for test and trial. The work of winning souls needs constant study of the Word, that the precious jewels that reward the diligent searcher may be found. There are some who fall into the error of thinking that they can have Christ in the soul without studying the Word. They neglect the Bible, comforting themselves with the thought, I can commune with God without referring to His Word. It is the duty of all to search the Bible, that they may establish their faith upon a “Thus saith the Lord.” Lessons should be given from the Bible. This is Christ’s life, a picture of His words and of His work. There will be no vague sentiments or idle dreaming when the Bible is made the study book. As the worker goes forth with the precious volume in his hand, he becomes more and more built upon true knowledge. There is seen an increase of ability to work. All who co-operate with Christ will have this experience. As they follow on to know the Lord, they will know that His going forth is prepared as the morning. They will become constantly better able to represent Christ. They are continually strengthened by practical work in God’s service. They are strengthened in faith and confirmed in knowledge. They can present to unbelievers proof of the fulness of grace and love which is in Christ. Thus they become complete in Him. Such men acquire an education by prayer and earnest soul hunger. As they eat the words of Christ, the treasure house of the mind is filled with precious truths, from which they can draw to supply the needs of others. They know how to lead. They can teach others, relating to them their own experience. (16LtMs, Ms 36, 1901, 6)

Earnest, diligent exercise in spiritual things gives spiritual strength to sinew and muscle, enabling a man to endure the seeing of Him who is invisible. The presence of Christ becomes more and more a certainty, and gives to the words an intensity of thought. The life blood of Christ circulates through the soul. As he lives on the bread of heaven, Christ is formed within, the hope of glory. The spiritual strength and knowledge he acquires enables him to bear a powerful testimony to the efficiency of the grace of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 36, 1901, 7)

By the exercise of the muscles, the blood is carried to every part of the human frame. The different parts of the machinery are brought into harmonious action. There is no discord to cause pain. Thus it is with the Christian experience. The words of Christ are as the leaves of the tree of life, which are for the healing of all spiritual woe, even in this life. (16LtMs, Ms 36, 1901, 8)

I am instructed to urge every soul to seek most earnestly to impart the light of the knowledge of God to those who know Him not. God has given to human beings talents upon which they are to trade. By using aright the Lord’s entrusted gifts, they are to bring precious souls into harmony with truth and righteousness. Every gift is to be put out to the exchangers, that souls may be won for the Redeemer. Angels of God work with those who seek to impart light to those who, in receiving the truth, will be producers of much fruit. The way in which the truth is presented has much to do with its acceptance. Many ministers give discourses, but few know what it is to watch for souls as they that must give an account. Watching means seeking, working—speaking words in season to those that are weary. Christ is the first in the thoughts of the Christian. He has disciplined himself to make the Saviour first and last and best in everything. And the souls converted through his labors receive the gift and in their turn seek to save souls ready to perish. A rich reward will be given to the true workers, who put all there is of them into the work. There is no greater bliss on this side of heaven than in winning souls to Christ. Joy fills the heart as the workers realize that this great miracle could never have been wrought by human agencies, but only through the One who loves souls ready to perish. The divine presence is close beside every true worker, making souls penitent. Thus the Christian brotherhood is formed. The worker and those worked for are touched with the love of Christ. Heart touches heart, and the blending of soul with soul is like the heavenly intercourse between ministering angels. (16LtMs, Ms 36, 1901, 9)

Ms 37, 1901

Talk/Regarding the Southern Work
Battle Creek, Michigan
April, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 2SAT 156-162.

Regarding the Southern Work. Talk by Mrs. E. G. White in the Review Chapel. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 1)

We stand in a very responsible position before God. We claim to have advanced light. We claim to be giving the most solemn message ever borne to the world. For some years, as the field has been opened before me, I have felt a great sadness. God designs that there shall be means in His treasury to sustain the work in all its branches. It is represented to me that the barren places in the Lord’s vineyard are as a reflection cast upon Him. The contrast between what should be done and what is not done is plain, and upon God is thrown the blame of the neglect. The wickedness of the places in which no standard is raised for God cries out against those who have neglected to advance the work, who have hovered over the churches when the members should be educated to rely upon God and have root in themselves. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 2)

This is why I said that Elder Jones’ place is not in the editorial chair. He has a message to bear and power with which to bear this message, and he should enter the fields where the need is greatest and open the truths of the Word of God to the people. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 3)

Field after field has been opened before me. The English-speaking field in Europe is a very important field. In it people will be raised up who will carry the truth to others. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 4)

These things have been opened before us. Over and over again has been given the message, Enter new territory. Plant the standard in new places. Do not leave any portion of the Lord’s vineyard unworked. It casts reflection upon God to leave His children without light. In the day of judgment, this reflection will be cast back upon those who have neglected their God-given work. The responsibility of those handling sacred truth has always been presented to me in such a solemn light that I have felt like bearing the message again and again; and this I have done. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 5)

The idea that our ministers must hover over the churches might just as well be given up now as later. The members of the churches must be taught to keep themselves at work, showing the intelligence and spirituality God requires in those who claim to be members of His church. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 6)

What is going to give life to the churches? Nothing can do this like seeing the work advancing in the harvest field. And in this work the members of the churches can all take part. They may not preach, but they can help in many other ways. Many can work as Brother Shireman has worked. God has given us Brother Shireman’s work as an object lesson. God has encouraged Brother Shireman in his work. The Spirit of the Lord has guided and blessed him. There are others who can and should work as he has worked. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 7)

For some time the Southern field has been represented to me as a sick child. I have been shown that our people have turned away from this sick child, who needed help and attention, to those who were not sick. If there are any people in the world who cannot help themselves, it is the people of the South—a portion of the whites as well as the colored race. The necessity for work among the poor whites is just as great as the necessity for work among the colored people. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 8)

The colored people need someone to devise and plan for them. We cannot say, Do this, or, Do that, to those who do not yet know their A B C’s. A casual work will not help these people. A worker goes there, looks at the field, sees the objectionable features, and leaves. This has been done over and over again. How much does it help? Thus one thing after another has hindered the work. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 9)

Recently some work has been done in the Southern field. Some schools have been established. But I am talking about the field when nothing was done, when my son and Brother Palmer began to work. From the commencement of their work, their efforts should have been encouraged by the prayer and counsel of their brethren. But was this done? (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 10)

It was understood that the Gospel Primer was to be published to help the work in the Southern field. The way in which this book was handled has brought the reproach of God upon those who took part in this matter. In the place of taking hold to do what they might have done to help the Southern field, men allowed the selfishness, which God abhors, to enter, because they saw that there was money to be made through the sale of the Primer. Every scheme that could be laid was laid to divert the proceeds of this book from the Southern field. I have not said this before, even to Edson, but I felt that it ought to be presented this morning. An underhand work was done. God desires every one to realize that He hates and despises underhand work. He will never give prosperity to those who engage in it. But work of this kind has been done. Things were brought to bear upon Edson and Brother Palmer in such a way that it was too much for them. If I had been on the ground, I could have told them what to do. I could have stood with them. And I would have stood with them to the last had I been here. But I was not here, and no one dared to say to the men at the heart of the work, Why do ye thus? (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 11)

The matter of the Gospel Primer is not healed. This matter is presented to me again and again. A patchwork effort has been made to set things right, but this effort the Lord does not accept. Unless the men who took part in this work learn the meaning of true principle, unless they have eyes to see and ears to hear and hearts to understand, unless they realize that God’s work is sacred in His sight, they might better sever their connection with the work. The reproach of God rests upon the effort made to keep back funds from the Southern field. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 12)

The Southern field must be worked intelligently. Some have thought that because the people in the South are so ignorant, it did not matter what kind of workers were sent there. But the fact that the people are so ignorant makes it necessary to send the most capable workers, workers who know how to deal with human minds. Those who work successfully for people who have sunk as low as the colored people in the South must be men and women who will not labor foolishly, who will not work a little while and then get tired and go home. This field needs workers who will say, I will not fail or be discouraged. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 13)

When I was living in Cooranbong, the need of the Southern field was opened before me. In the night season I was standing before a large congregation, making an appeal to them. That night I arose at eleven o’clock and began to write out this appeal. The money raised in response to this appeal was not to be sent to places which had received help. It was to be sent to the field where a beginning must be made, where everything was wrong, where help must be given in order for anything to be done. About eleven thousand dollars was raised in response to this appeal, and I waited and waited to see what was done with this money. Edson kept writing to me, saying that he wanted to do this and that to start the work, but could not for want of means. In this work he found people who needed clothing, and he longed to be able to relieve their necessities; but his wages were small, and he had very little money to do anything with. I tried to help him, giving him an order on the Review and Herald for $400, which money he was to use in clothing the naked and feeding the hungry. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 14)

Where did the money go that was raised for the Southern field? How long has it been since that money was raised? It was raised five years ago; but I do not know where it went, and if there is anyone here who has knowledge on this point, I wish he would tell me. Those who kept back the money that was raised for the Southern field in response to my appeal are accountable to God, for He led me to make this appeal. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 15)

Brother Palmer was taken from the field. He was needed to stand by Edson. They had little enough help in the field. But he was taken away to engage in other work. This move was not successful, and I knew that it would not be. It was not favorable to Brother Palmer’s spirituality. My great fear has been that under the pressure that was put upon him, he would backslide altogether. I was afraid that he would leave the truth. But the Lord gave me light that He would keep Brother Palmer and establish him in the place from which he was taken. But I did not design to say anything of this to Brother Palmer until he himself made the proposition to return to the work in the South. Things are coming about in accordance with God’s design. He desires Edson and Brother Palmer to stand together. He designed them to stand together years ago. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 16)

The night before last I only slept for one hour. I was revolving over and over in my mind the matters of which I have spoken this morning. I asked myself, Will I be free when I go from this place if I say nothing about them? Will I stand free before God? I did not mean to say a word. I thought that when the Spirit of God came into our meetings, there would be those who would understand that they had something to say in order to remove the reproach of heaven, which for years has rested upon the work here. Many of those who acted a prominent part in the wrongs done are not here, but there are those here who have been following the same principles of wrong. To forsake right principles is like taking away the foundation of a house. If men who have grown to manhood cannot understand what pure principles mean, they might better go apart and meditate and pray until they understand this. From the light which I have had, I know that principles which do not meet the approval of heaven have been followed. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 17)

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. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 18)

These things have kept my soul in great distress. At times I rise above it a little, and yet I know that the wound is not cured; because if it were, the matter would not be continually presented to me. A thing that is healed, is healed. I was referred to the case of Achan. The entire congregation of Israel was affected by Achan’s sin. Because of it God could not help them, and when they went out to battle they were beaten by their enemies. Joshua prostrated himself before the Lord, and asked, What does it mean that the children of Israel flee before their enemies? God told him that there was an accursed thing in the camp, that spoil had been taken from the enemies of Israel. He told him that there was robbery and dissembling in the camp, and that His blessing could not rest on the people till these things were cleansed from them. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 19)

These sins have been practiced in the work that has been done here. That God could bear with those who acted a part in this work as long as He has done, is a marvel to me. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 20)

Before I came here God told me what course I was to pursue. I was to bear a straight testimony. I was to bear it without making any excuse as to why it was given. Then my work would be done. The responsibility would rest upon those to whom the testimony had been given. If they did not act upon it, the guilt would be theirs. Guilt would not rest upon me if I did my duty. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 21)

There have been those who have tried to undermine the influence of Edson White. They forgot while they were doing this that much more might have been done to undermine their influence. They have spoken of Edson with a sneer, with expressed contempt. My son did not know that I was going to speak of this. But I feel that it [is] my duty to speak these words this morning. It is a sin against God for men to treat a fellow worker as some have treated Edson. God has said of him, My angel shall go before him, and lead him if he will walk humbly before Me. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 22)

I told my son to be very careful what course he took, because if he made mistakes there would be those who would say, It is of no use to place confidence in Edson White. They would be watching for a chance to criticize him. The angel put his hand on his shoulder and told him to work and walk very discreetly, because there were those who stood ready to hinder his work in the South if they could possibly do this. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 23)

God is not with those who criticize and find fault, and I wish all to know it. If those who had criticized had gone to the Southern field, and had talked with Edson as brother should with brother, counselling and praying with him, how much better it would have been. But instead of doing this, they stood off and fired shots at his work, making things out to be as bad as possible. Why did they not go over the field for themselves, so that they could make a true report? They had opportunity to do this, but instead, they took the reports which had been brought by some one else. We read in the Psalms that the one who will stand in the courts of the Lord is the man who takes not up a reproach against his neighbor. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 24)

I do not know but that I have said enough for you to work upon. But I wish to say again that there is a work to be done in the Southern field. Very little can be done in the cities of the South until sanitariums are established there. Let this work be commenced at once. A beginning has been made at Nashville. A sanitarium must be established there. A school must be started, not in the city, but at a distance from it. Schools must be established in different places in the South. And colored teachers must work for the colored people under the supervision of well-qualified men who have the spirit of mercy and love. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 25)

I wish to say also that the Southern field is a world of its own. The work there will have to be carried forward independently, to a large degree, of the Conference here. The workers in the field will have to exercise judgment as to the best way of advancing. And those who begin this work in any part of the Lord’s vineyard are not to feel that they cannot make advance moves without consulting those in Battle Creek. Those at the heart of the work, if they hear that a worker is not doing as he should, are not to remove him without learning the real facts in the case. God wants His people to act sensibly. If you hear that a worker is not doing as he ought, find out wherein he is lacking. Talk with him in regard to his course, and plead with him to improve. Show him the best way in which to work. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 26)

We have reached the time when the work cannot advance while wrong principles are cherished. Two or three voices are not to control everything in the whole field. No, indeed. In every field God has men of capability. He does not mean that these men, when they wish to take advance steps, shall send to Battle Creek in order to find out the best way in which to move. The Lord says, I will break up this plan of working. I will sever these connections. Every field shall bear its own responsibility. (16LtMs, Ms 37, 1901, 27)

Ms 38, 1901

Sermon/The Unity of the Spirit
Des Moines, Iowa
May 6, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in HP 321.

Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White in the Des Moines Church.

“And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience; among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:1-6.] (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 1)

God desires His children to show the world what it means to sit together in heavenly places in Christ, “that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” [Verse 7.] This kindness He expects us to bring into our dealings with one another. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 2)

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God; not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” [Verses 8-10.] (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 3)

“I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” [Ephesians 4:1-3.] Here is something we are to do. We are to be practical Christians. We are to endeavor to keep the unity of the Spirit. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 4)

“There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.” [Verses 4-7.] How many of us comprehend these words—“According to the measure of the gift of Christ”? When God gave Christ to our world, He gave all heaven. That gift places at our command all the facilities and powers of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 5)

“Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.... And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers.” [Verses 8, 11.] All these gifts are needed. One is not sufficient. God gives varied gifts to His servants that they may accomplish the work entrusted to them. Different gifts, different capabilities, are necessary 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 fulness of Christ; that we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive.” [Verses 12-14.] We are not to bring childishness with us as we advance in years. But many of us are doing this. Into our religious experience we weave the objectionable traits of character which in our earlier years we have failed to overcome. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 6)

Parents cannot too earnestly warn their children against cherishing hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong which, unless overcome, will spoil their Christian experience. Many, when they join the church, bring with them the inconsistencies and foolishness of childhood. Without thinking, they say the things which come first into the mind. Thus they wound their brethren and sisters, and stir up the worst passions of the human heart. This grieves the Spirit of God. The Lord desires His children to esteem one another as the purchase of the blood of Christ. When they do this, they will know what it means to sit together in heavenly places in Christ. Our lips need to be sanctified with a live coal from the altar of God. Then we shall speak words that are elevating, refining, ennobling; words that are filled with the fragrance of Christ’s righteousness; words that are a savor of life unto life. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 7)

Christ wants His followers to be like Him, because He desires to be correctly represented in the family circle, in the church, and in the world. He wants us to attend to ourselves. When we do this, we shall find that we have enough to keep us busy. We are to accept Christ as our efficiency, our strength, that we may reveal His character to the world. This is the work resting upon us as Christians. We are to witness to the power of heavenly grace. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 8)

But are there not many who are not clothed with the garment of Christ’s righteousness, who are like a chestnut burr, hurting those with whom they come in contact? Might they not better speak sanctified words? Might they not better remember that the talent of speech is given them by God for the blessing of those around them? Those who represent Christ will not speak harshly. Their words will be pleasant and helpful. “Speaking the truth in love,” we “grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ; from whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.” [Verses 15, 16.] (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 9)

Do we read this Scripture as often as we should? I wish you would all commit it to memory. It contains the essence of religion. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 10)

“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice; and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” [Verses 29-32.] (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 11)

“Be ye therefore followers of God as dear children; and walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savor. But fornication and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient; but rather giving of thanks.” [Ephesians 5:1-4.] (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 12)

Have we not abundant reason for giving thanks? Why should we not thus honor God? Why should we not show the world how thankful we are for the great goodness of our heavenly Father? (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 13)

And now I want to tell you about our conference in Battle Creek. It was a great trial for me to leave my home in California and take the long journey across the continent. And to save me this journey in midwinter, the brethren decided to hold the conference in California. But in the night season I was addressing congregations in Battle Creek. The Spirit of the Lord was striving with me, and I knew that I must go to Battle Creek. Therefore it was decided to hold the conference in that place. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 14)

The journey was trying, but the Lord sustained me, as He did also during the conference. At times, when I arose to address the vast congregation assembled in the Tabernacle, I feared that I would not have strength to speak. But I committed myself to the Lord, and He strengthened me. His presence was manifest in our meetings, and through His grace precious victories were gained. It was a conference after God’s order, a conference such as has never before been held by our people. Some thought that the meeting would bring a terrible crisis, but the Lord overruled for His glory. He worked to unite His people. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 15)

After the conference it was proposed that I visit Indianapolis on my way home. I was so weak that I feared I could not do this. I had slept but little for three nights. But I decided to trust in the Lord for strength. The morning I left, just before going to the train, I called on Judge Arthur, who had been anxious for me to visit his family. I had very little time, and I told him I thought that a season of prayer would be the best visit we could have. His children had come in from school to be present, and together we sought the Lord. While I was praying, peace and comfort from on high came to me. I rose from my knees quite ready to go to Indianapolis. On the way there, our train stopped at every station on the line. People were constantly getting off and on the car. This has usually tired me, but this time it did not affect me in the least. The Lord’s blessing was with me all the way, and He helped me to speak twice to the church in Indianapolis. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 16)

The Lord gave me strength to come here, and I praise His holy name. I wish to say that some among our people have regarded Dr. Kellogg with unreasoning prejudice. Few realize how much Dr. Kellogg has done to advance the principles of truth. He has labored unceasingly and earnestly to educate young men and young women to engage in medical missionary work. He has accomplished a work which our people might well study carefully before they begin to criticize him. I know the feeling which has been cherished by many in Iowa against Dr. Kellogg. I hope this feeling will be cherished no longer. I do not say that Dr. Kellogg has not made mistakes, because I think he has. But who is there who has not made mistakes? Dr. Kellogg has stood in a very trying position. He has had few to sympathize with him, while many have stood by to criticize and condemn, instead of aiding him in his God-given work. He has been trying to live out the principles of truth. Why, then, have his brethren made it so hard for him? (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 17)

Dr. Kellogg has for a long time stood under a heavy load. Things have been told about him of which one-twentieth part may be near the truth, while the rest is false. Someone has heard something and has told some one else. Thus reports have been carried. Thus the churches have nourished criticism, robbing themselves of heaven’s richest blessing. The spirit of criticism which has sprung up in Iowa is an offence to God. Those who have cherished this spirit cannot prosper until it is cleansed from their hearts. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 18)

God wants His people in Iowa to come into order. He wants to do great things for them, and this He will do if they will take a correct position. He wants them to look at their own defects instead of at the defects of some one else. Remember the words of the Saviour when the Pharisees brought to Him a woman taken in adultery. “He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone,” He said. [John 8:7.] Then, bending down, He wrote on the ground. As the accusers of the woman pressed forward to see what He wrote, they read the record of their own sins, and one after another, ashamed and confounded, they went away. Remember the sin in your own heart. Then you will not be so ready to throw stones at some one else. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 19)

I speak to our people in Iowa. I hope you will carry what I have said to the whole conference. Tell our people that God wants them to come into working order. Tell them that He wants them to take up the work they have neglected. This neglect has thrown upon Dr. Kellogg a burden which he should never have had to carry, a burden which he would not have had to carry if our people had done their appointed work. Not till you begin to do the work Dr. Kellogg has done will it be time for you to criticize him. But it is never right to find fault. If you hear that some one has done wrong, go to him, and find out whether he is really at fault. Have you done this in the past, or have you said, “Report, and we will report it”? [Jeremiah 20:10.] May the converting power of God come upon His people in Iowa, for they need this power. The work in this State ought to be much farther advanced than it is. Let those who leave their own work undone to criticize the work of another remember that all they say is written in the records of heaven, and that by their words they will be either justified or condemned. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 20)

Christ is the greatest Missionary the world has ever known. When He was on this earth, He went from city to city, preaching the gospel and healing the sick. When the people of a city urged Him to remain with them, He would answer, I must go to other cities also. He came to our world as the great Restorer. He wants His people to do the work He has left for them. Are those who claim to be laborers together with God working as Christ worked? Are you helping and blessing those around you, or are you criticizing and finding fault? I beg of you for Christ’s sake to banish all criticism from your hearts. Let your words and actions be sanctified by the love of Christ. When you are tempted to think that some one else is doing wrong, ask yourself if all you are doing is right. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 21)

There is work for the Iowa Conference to do. When they do this work, they will have no time for fault-finding or complaining. Christ said, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:18, 19.] This is our work. God calls upon His people to be working Christians. They are to improve by right use of the talents He has entrusted to them. Let us not be like the slothful servant who hid his one talent in the earth. Let us rather be like the servant who doubled his talents, to whom his Lord said, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] Shall we not live so that the “Well done” shall be spoken to us? If we expect to sit with the Man of Calvary on His throne, we must here work as He worked. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 22)

Christ has paid a costly price for your service, and He expects you to consecrate all you have and are to Him. Will you do this? Will you take up medical missionary work? To do medical missionary work as Christ did it means to have Christ formed within, to work for the good of humanity with a heart filled with unselfish love. Take up this work, that the curse of God may not rest on you, as it rested on Meroz, for not coming up to His help. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 23)

Those who strive for an earthly prize are temperate and earnest. We claim to be Christians, seeking for a crown of immortality. Is our earnestness proportionate to the value of the object for which we are seeking? God help us to see that it is time for us to pay some attention to ourselves, to be temperate in all things, to practice the principles of health reform. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 24)

In the name of the Lord I beseech you to humble your hearts before Him. Criticize yourselves, but do not criticize others. Christ wants you to help one another. Open the door of the heart, and let the Saviour in. When He abides in the heart, you will do all in your power to strengthen and encourage those for whom He gave His life. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 25)

Suppose that Christ were coming today! Are you ready to meet Him? Is your character without spot or wrinkle or any such thing? Could you look up and say, “This is the Lord, we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation”? [Isaiah 25:9.] May God help and bless and sanctify you. May He cleanse you from all impurity, that you may enter in through the gates into the city. God forbid that any of you should be weighed in the balances and found wanting. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 26)

God wants His sons and daughters to reveal before the synagogue of Satan, before the heavenly universe, before the world, the power of His grace, that men and angels may know that Christ has not died in vain. Let us show the world that we have power from on high. I beseech you for Christ’s sake to be reconciled to God. Beware lest at the last great day you are found without God and without hope in the world. It is time that we sought the Lord with the whole heart, that we may find Him. Ask Him to fill your heart with His grace and sweetness. May God help His people to get out of the rut into which they have fallen, and come to the place where they can walk and talk with God. Then, as they reflect the light and joy of heaven, God Himself will rejoice over them with singing. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 27)

God gave me this message to bear to His people in Iowa. He said to me, “You are to enter into no controversy. Bear the testimony as I give it to you. Do not try to make the people believe it. I have not laid this burden upon you. All you are to do is to deliver the message. I am beside you. I will work with you.” (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 28)

I have now given you the message in the name of the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 38, 1901, 29)

Ms 39, 1901

Sermon/Living for Christ
Denver, Colorado
May 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in TMK 149.

Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White in the Denver Church.

“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.... Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 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. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” [Colossians 3:1-4, 12-16.] (16LtMs, Ms 39, 1901, 1)

This is what we need in our households. There is in it no faultfinding, no harshness; but peace and joy and rest in the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 39, 1901, 2)

“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.” [Verse 17.] Let us not forget that our time here is short. We shall pass through this world but once, and as we pass along, let us make the most we can of ourselves. This we may do by cultivating the graces of the Spirit, which make us as a savor of life unto life to those with whom we come in contact. There are many in this world who are in sorrow and trouble. Speak words of sympathy to them. This will make their burden lighter. (16LtMs, Ms 39, 1901, 3)

God calls for loving service. He calls upon parents to speak lovingly and tenderly to their children. Let them see that you think they help you. Give them responsibilities to bear, small ones at first, and larger ones as they grow older. Never, never let them hear you say of them, “They hinder me more than they help me.” (16LtMs, Ms 39, 1901, 4)

Parents, God calls upon you to repent of your sins. He calls upon those who have neglected to train their children in His fear to awaken to their responsibility. How few parents there are who realize the accountability resting upon them. How many there are who forget that the home is a school in which children are trained to work either for Christ or Satan. Fathers and mothers, remember that every word you speak in the hearing of your children has an influence upon them, an influence either for good or for ill. Remember that if you find fault with one another, you are educating your children to find fault. (16LtMs, Ms 39, 1901, 5)

With your children around you, bow before the Father in heaven. Ask Him for help to guard the trust He has given you. Let your petitions be short and earnest. Say, “Heavenly Father, I want my children to be saved. Grant me the aid of thy Spirit that I may so train them that they may be counted worthy to inherit eternal life.” Train your children to offer their simple words of prayer. Tell them that God delights to have them call upon Him. (16LtMs, Ms 39, 1901, 6)

We can subdue our children only as we subdue ourselves. But there are so many parents who have brought with them into the home life their hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong. They have not left their childishness behind. They scold their children for things which should never be noticed. Parents, never scold your children. Deal firmly but kindly with them. Keep them busy. Make them feel that they are a part of the family firm, that they can help mother and father. Thank them for what they do for you. (16LtMs, Ms 39, 1901, 7)

Let your home be a place where God is loved and honored. Think of the love God manifested for us when He gave His Son to die for us. In this gift the Father gave Himself. And in return, He wants us to give to others the blessings He has bestowed on us. God forbid that we should be content to grasp only for ourselves the great promise of salvation. Let us seek rather to work as did the great medical missionary who went about doing good. Thus we shall bring the fragrance of His character into our own lives and into the lives of others. Our joy will be full and the Saviour will be honored. (16LtMs, Ms 39, 1901, 8)

We need to praise God more than we do. We should offer Him more thanksgiving. As we show that we are glad in the Lord, the heavenly universe will recognize our offering and will rejoice over us with singing. How often we hedge up our own way and give ourselves into the hands of the enemy by talking of his power. Let us talk instead of the power of the Almighty. Do not honor Satan by speaking of his greatness. God is infinitely greater than Satan. His righteousness goes before His believing ones, and His glory is their rearward. (16LtMs, Ms 39, 1901, 9)

God’s promises are full and free. Then shall not His people praise Him? Oh, how I would like to see your countenances lit up with the out-shining of God’s glory, the result of closing the windows earthward and opening them heavenward. The threshold of heaven is flooded with the glory with which God desires to illuminate the hearts and minds of His people. (16LtMs, Ms 39, 1901, 10)

God wants His people to be quick of understanding. He will help them if they will help themselves. He says to them, “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.] All heaven is waiting for us to call for the help we need. The angelic hosts are waiting for channels through which to work. But God cannot use as channels for His grace those who are absorbed in the things of this world, who refuse to let the Saviour take possession of the heart. (16LtMs, Ms 39, 1901, 11)

What is God’s Word to us? Christ has told us: “The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit and they are life.” [John 6:63.] We shall be filled with grace if we eat the words of the Saviour. Belief in the Word of God will lead us to realize that we are fearfully and wonderfully made, and that God requires us to give the human machinery intelligent care. A neglect to do this gives Satan an opportunity to enter and defile. This will keep us out of heaven; for nothing that defiles can ever enter there. (16LtMs, Ms 39, 1901, 12)

Christ has purchased us with His blood, and He does not want us to throw ourselves away. He wants us to put on the whole armor of God, that we may be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. How important, then, that we put on every piece of the armor. (16LtMs, Ms 39, 1901, 13)

God wants us to use in His service all the tact and ability He has given us. He wants us to receive His rich grace, that we may impart to others. From Him we receive every blessing we enjoy. Is it surprising that the Lord wants us to give to others, and so return to Him, a portion of the bounty He has bestowed on us? There is a world to be warned, and to us God has committed this work. “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, 20.] I call upon you, in the name of the Lord, to give of your substance for the advancement of His work. There are in the darkness of error those whose souls are just as precious in the sight of God as yours; and at the last great day God will ask, What did you do to save them? (16LtMs, Ms 39, 1901, 14)

Run with patience the race set before you. Practice self-denial. If you win the race in which you are running, your reward will not be a fading laurel, but a crown of everlasting life. Satan is playing the game of life for your souls. In the name of Jesus of Nazareth resist him, and receive the blessing of God. Work for the salvation of those around you. May the blessing of God rest upon you all. Be faithful to your baptismal vows. Press forward in the path of self-denial. Then you will at last see the King in His beauty, and hear from His lips the benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant.... Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] (16LtMs, Ms 39, 1901, 15)

Ms 40, 1901

An Appeal for the Southern Field
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 2, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in PM 194; Ev 88. +

There is much that should be done in the Southern field. This long-neglected field must be given attention. Again and again the needs of this field have been pointed out, but very little has been done to redeem the neglect of the past. We hope that there will now be a decided awakening, and that our people will remove the reproach by doing the work God has so decidedly laid upon them. (16LtMs, Ms 40, 1901, 1)

Schools and sanitariums must be established in the South. No time should be wasted before this work is taken up. There is need also of a well-equipped printing press, that books may be published for the use of the workers in the South. I have been instructed that the publication of books suitable for use in this field is essential. Something in this line must be done without delay. (16LtMs, Ms 40, 1901, 2)

I visited Vicksburg on my way to the General Conference, and I saw that in the buildings erected by the workers there, a good object lesson has been given to the people. Economy has been practiced in every line. The buildings are inexpensive, yet neat and tasteful. (16LtMs, Ms 40, 1901, 3)

At Nashville I was surprised to find a printing office filled with busy workers. This office, with its furnishings, has been purchased at as little cost as possible. Everything about it is neat and orderly. The countenances of the workers express intelligence and ability, and the work they do is a valuable object lesson. But a larger building is needed, for many lines of business will open up as the work is carried forward. There is much work to be done in the South, and in order to do this work, the laborers must have suitable literature, books telling the truth in simple language and abundantly illustrated. This class of literature will be the most effective means of keeping the truth before the people. A sermon may be preached and soon forgotten, but a book remains. (16LtMs, Ms 40, 1901, 4)

The Lord has placed means in the hands of His people to be used in this work. I call upon my brethren and sisters to give of their means to provide a suitable publishing house for the Southern field. It is needed for this purpose. (16LtMs, Ms 40, 1901, 5)

God has placed us in a world which He Himself has described as full of His goodness. The blessings which He has provided are without number, amply sufficient for the carrying forward of the work of letting the light of truth shine forth to the world. Sin has prevailed and has marred and seared the world with its curse, but still the Lord in His mercy is working out His divine plan for filling the earth with His glory. His bounty is inexhaustible. (16LtMs, Ms 40, 1901, 6)

I appeal to those who know the truth to help the work in the Southern field. This is my burden. I am instructed to call upon those who have means to give of their money to the Southern field, that the Lord’s work be not hindered. (16LtMs, Ms 40, 1901, 7)

Nashville is to be made a center for the work. From this place will go forth an influence which will establish the work as the Lord may prepare the way . Let those who labor in the interests of the cause of God lay the necessities of the work in the South before the wealthy men of the world. Do this judiciously. Tell them what you are trying to do. Solicit donations from them. It is God’s means which they have, means which should be used in enlightening the world. There are stored up in the earth large treasures of gold and silver. Men’s riches have accumulated. Go to these men with a heart filled with love for Christ and suffering humanity, and ask them to help you in the work you are trying to do for the Master. As they see that you reveal the sentiments of God’s benevolence, a chord will be touched in their hearts. They will realize that they can be Christ’s helping hand by doing medical missionary work. They will be led to co-operate with God, to provide the facilities necessary to set in operation the work that needs to be done. (16LtMs, Ms 40, 1901, 8)

For God’s people to be selfish with their means at this time would be to give the victory to Satan. Covetousness is idolatry. It cannot grow and strengthen without great loss of souls to Christ. God has done great things for us. Should not every heart expand with generous emotion, filled with a determination to return to the Lord His entrusted talents, that the work of restoring His moral image in man may be accomplished? (16LtMs, Ms 40, 1901, 9)

Will our brethren awaken to a sense of their responsibility? Will they give liberally, that the work in the South may be so established that it may be self-sustaining? This world was established and is supported by the charity of a benevolent Creator. We are supported by charity. God is the donor of all we have. He calls upon us to return to Him of the abundance He has bestowed upon us. Think of the care He gives the earth, sending the rain and the sunshine in their season, to cause vegetation to flourish. It is the great husbandman who gives life to the seeds planted in the earth. He bestows His favors on the just and on the unjust. Shall not the recipients of His blessings show their gratitude to Him by giving of their bounties to help suffering humanity? (16LtMs, Ms 40, 1901, 10)

Will you not strive to be like Jesus? Will you not be His helping hand? Will you not, who claim to be sons and daughters of God, members of the royal family, show the world that truth expels selfishness from the heart? (16LtMs, Ms 40, 1901, 11)

We may well feel that it is a privilege to be laborers together with God, to trade upon His goods by setting in operation that which will carry out His purposes in our world. Should we, receiving day by day the tokens of God’s love and goodness and compassion, use our time and strength in selfish interests, while the cause of God is languishing, and provision is not made for carrying forward to completion His purpose for the sanctification of the beings He has created and redeemed? (16LtMs, Ms 40, 1901, 12)

The Lord Jesus calls upon me to set these things before believers and unbelievers. Be merciful, even as your Father in heaven is merciful. Think of the great gift God has made you, even the gift of His Son. Think of what He has done to secure your salvation. Your sinful condition demanded a sacrifice. In your spiritual destitution you had nothing to offer. Christ came to this world and on the cross offered Himself as a sacrifice for you. You are not your own, for you have been bought with a price; “therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] He “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.] (16LtMs, Ms 40, 1901, 13)

Behold the substitute which heaven has provided for you! Herein is love! God has given you an amazing proof of His love, a proof which defies all computation. We have no line with which to measure it, no standard with which to compare it. God gave His beloved Son as a propitiation for our sins. (16LtMs, Ms 40, 1901, 14)

What more can I say! Can we refuse the request of Him who has done so much for us? God invites us to let our gratitude flow forth in gifts and offerings. He calls upon us to be His merciful helping hand, to bear His blessings to needy, perishing souls. He who gave up His only begotten Son to save you from eternal death, asks you to give to His work your worldly possessions. He asks for loving, compassionate service. This He does to test you, and in asking, He calls only for His own; for all you have is His. To test your allegiance to Him, He permits you to handle His goods. He wants you to make all you possibly can of yourself, because then you will have more capabilities to return to Him. You will impart and receive to impart. Call to mind each day what God is to you. Talk of His perfection, of His glory, and with this in mind, ask yourself what you can do for Him. Remember that He has entrusted you with His goods. Repeat over and over, “This God is my God forever and ever.” Those who in this life give willingly and cheerfully to God are laying up treasure in heaven. They will at last come into possession of an eternal weight of glory. (16LtMs, Ms 40, 1901, 15)

Ms 41, 1901

Instruction to those who are working in the Southern Field
NP
1901
Previously unpublished.

The experiences of the late General conference should be to us a savor of life unto life. They should teach us the value of unity of action and show us that controversies never heal difficulties. In a remarkable manner we have seen the salvation of God. Let the Lord be praised and exalted! (16LtMs, Ms 41, 1901, 1)

A decided reformation is needed in our churches. Worldly policy has been encouraged. Thus selfishness has strengthened and has become interwoven with the work. There seems to be a growing desire to obtain advantages for which no equivalent is given. There is woven into the web a selfishness which God abhors. Let this kind of weaving cease. Remember that God calls upon His people today to work as the apostles worked under the dictation of the Holy Spirit. Read of the witness they bore to the power of the gospel as they worked as God’s helping hand, strengthening and enlarging the church. (16LtMs, Ms 41, 1901, 2)

By the erection of expensive buildings, and by the endeavor of some connected with our institutions to get gain, the work has been greatly hindered. Selfishness goes hand in hand with covetousness. Those who while connected with the work have made keen, sharp bargains may have supposed that they were doing God service, but their sharpness has rendered them useless in strengthening the church. (16LtMs, Ms 41, 1901, 3)

In our institutions the world has found the keenest competitors for advantage in trade, and it has to a large degree lost the conviction that Seventh-day Adventists are a people peculiarly loyal to God. It has taken knowledge of those who ought to have been patterns of good works, but whose practice has left them weighed in the balances and found wanting. There are those in our institutions whose actions bear witness that they love the sharp practices of the world. Because of this they have lost their spiritual eyesight. (16LtMs, Ms 41, 1901, 4)

The spirit which controls the world has controlled some handling sacred responsibilities. God calls for a reformation. He calls upon them to return to their first love, lest they sleep the sleep that knows no awakening. May the Holy Spirit work upon hearts, leading men to see these things as the Lord has presented them, that the reformation may be thorough and all defiling practices be put away. (16LtMs, Ms 41, 1901, 5)

Let not these who have lost their first love justify their past doings. Let them not vindicate the course which has brought to our institutions a want of justice, mercy, and the love of God. The Lord calls upon them to repent. If they do not obey, He will certainly remove their candlestick out of its place. (16LtMs, Ms 41, 1901, 6)

Union conferences have been formed, and I entreat those who compose them, and those to whom their management has been entrusted, to remember that the Lord will not tolerate the handling of His interests as they have been handled in the past. There is to be no rivalry among the Lord’s institutions. The business transactions connected with His cause are to be conducted in accordance with the high principles of integrity. It is the Lord’s design that His institutions shall be related to one another in the closest bonds of friendship and loyalty. They are to be true to one another. (16LtMs, Ms 41, 1901, 7)

The customs and practices of worldlings are not to be followed by those in Christ’s service. It is God’s design that His church shall demonstrate to the world that through the grace of Christ the law can be kept. Amid the awful confederacy of evil now existing in the world, He desires His people to stand firmly and bravely for Him, protesting by blameless lives against the prevailing apostasy. That He might “purify unto himself a peculiar people” Christ left the royal courts above and clothed His divinity with humanity. [Titus 2:14.] He lived in the world the principles of the law, showing that His grace has power to redeem men and women and raise them to a position of moral integrity. He desires to sanctify and glorify His people. (16LtMs, Ms 41, 1901, 8)

I speak to the laborers in the Southern field. Unfairness in deal has its origin with Satan. It defiles the whole man. Never think that in order to be successful you must be sharpers. God hates such work. He has given men talents that they may use them for the spiritual ends for which they were bestowed. His people are to be distinct from the world. They are to vindicate His supremacy as owner [of] all in the earth. They are to testify to the reality of Bible religion. For the church to ape the world [by] cherishing selfishness and covetousness is to put Christ to open shame. God’s people are to esteem the reproach of Christ greater riches than all the treasures of Egypt. (16LtMs, Ms 41, 1901, 9)

I am much pleased with your earnest simplicity. I assure you that if you work in right lines, God will make your enemies to be at peace with you. God desires the Southern Conference to profit by the instruction which He has given. Do not become stirred up by the inconsistencies you may see in others. Do not worry over the difficulties which present themselves. Keep the way of the Lord, and He will bring to pass His will. His righteousness will go before you, and His glory will be your rearward. Do not lose self-command. Guard your words, that no strong speeches may be heard. Do not put undue force upon the supposed neglect of others. Do not use the talent of speech as a whip with which to lash others. Remember that a soft answer turneth away wrath. In dealing with one another do not use exaggerated expressions. Such language is not according to the Spirit of the Master. (16LtMs, Ms 41, 1901, 10)

Walk humbly with God. He is your strength. He will uphold and sustain you. Cultivate the patience and forbearance of Christ. Remember that those who err in human judgment have the hardest time. Bring sweetness and pleasant words into the letters you write. Show that Christ is formed within, the hope of glory. A revengeful speech never heals, never makes one feel that he has gained a victory. (16LtMs, Ms 41, 1901, 11)

Strive for the mastery over self. Watch unto prayer. Exert the influence that Christ desires you to exert. Let all with whom you are connected see that the thoughts of your heart are under the softening, subduing influence of the Holy Spirit. (16LtMs, Ms 41, 1901, 12)

Your present happiness and success and your future well-being depend upon the ascendancy which the spiritual gains over the temporal. Make a solemn covenant with God that you will govern your words. “If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.” [James 3:2.] Let your words be such that they will exert a divine influence. Keep your souls in the love of God. Let Christ speak and breathe through you. Do not lose the blessings that come from thinking no evil. Prayer, humble, contrite prayer is your strength. (16LtMs, Ms 41, 1901, 13)

It is the privilege of each one of you to be a pattern of good works. Help one another. Make straight paths for your feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way. Be strictly vigilant over self. Let the Holy Spirit work upon souls. Let each one connected with the Southern work surprise the other by the manifestation of Christ’s meekness and lowliness. Yoke up with Christ and learn of Him; for His yoke is easy and His burden is light. (16LtMs, Ms 41, 1901, 14)

Ms 42, 1901

Revealing the Christlikeness
NP
June 2, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in TMK 199; 1BC 1110; 3BC 1149; 4BC 1148; 7BC 928-930; Ev 653-654; 6MR 119-121; 7MR 183; 8MR 192.

The Lord has a work for each one to do. We are to find out for ourselves what this work is, that we may have the assurance that we are working under the authority of God, as His appointed agencies. No one is excusable for remaining in ignorance. Every man should know his post of duty. He should stand in his lot and in his place, working unselfishly, earnestly, devotedly, with an eye single to the glory of God. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 1)

The instruction given by Christ is clear and easy to be understood. It is the duty of every soul to understand for himself his appointed work. He is not to grope his way along in darkness and uncertainty, depending on human guidance. Christ has said, “I am the light of the world. He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] Let God’s workmen feel that every hour they are in need of divine guidance. Those who have not been looking to Jesus, inquiring, “Is this the way of the Lord?” should commence at once to do this. We are daily to realize that God has given us a part in His great work, and that He expects us to act intelligently. We are not to try to get up something new and singular, something odd and strange, in order to create a sensation. We are to be perfectly content to give the instruction Christ has given. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 2)

Let each one in the service of Christ feel the need of His grace. As we study His lessons, line upon line, precept upon precept, we shall gain from them encouragement and strength. Do not seek to rise above the simplicity of Christ. Make Him your pattern, your confidant. In your simplicity lies your safety. When you strive to rise above the meekness and lowliness of the Saviour, you are weakness itself. Remember that you are to advance in the path which Christ has marked out for you. He says, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Matthew 16:24.] (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 3)

The uncultivated, non-producing wastes in the Lord’s vineyard are a sad testimony to unfaithful service. The Lord’s voice is heard, calling, “Go, work today in my vineyard.” [Matthew 21:28.] Self-denial and self-sacrifice are to be brought into the daily experience of those who work for the Master. Then the parts of the Lord’s vineyard which are now so barren and unproductive will be sown with the seeds of truth. Souls will be won to Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 4)

Every servant of God is to be guided by the Holy Spirit. It is not in man that walketh to direct his steps. Our path, however rugged it may be, is marked out for us by the Lord; and in it we must walk. We must believe in Christ as a personal, sympathizing Saviour. He loves us and gave Himself for us. He doeth all things well. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 5)

Our faith must pierce beyond the veil, seeing things that are invisible. No one else can look for you. You must behold for yourself. In the place of murmuring for blessings that are withheld, let us remember and appreciate the blessings already bestowed. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 6)

God calls for human instrumentalities through which to work out His divine purposes. And while His messengers go forth into the harvest field, let those who remain at home give themselves to prayer. Let them, by speaking encouraging words, hold up the hands of those engaged in breaking the bread of life to hungry souls. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 7)

Those in the home field must not think themselves capable of making decisions for those in foreign fields, when they do not understand the situation. It is their duty to say to their fellow workers in foreign fields, “You are on the ground. You know better than we what should be done in an emergency. Take counsel among yourselves. The Lord has given you a certain work to do. Ask help from Him who ‘giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not.’ ‘If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, ... and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.’ [James 1:5-7.]” (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 8)

More dependence has been placed in erring men than in the living God. Thus the ministry has become weak and the churches under their care have become weak. The idea that has prevailed—that when those in foreign fields desire to make advance steps, they must ask permission of a board or committee thousands of miles away—is not according to the will of the Lord. At such a distance it is not possible for the members of the board to comprehend the situation. The work has been greatly marred by unwise counsel, because those on the ground were not willing to take the responsibility of deciding certain questions. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 9)

Those in foreign fields should be encouraged to make God their Counsellor, to believe that He is at their right hand to help them. So many mistakes would not be made if the workers would make God their dependence, believing that He who never makes a mistake will prepare their way before them. In every place there should be men wise in counsel, who are able to handle the matters that will come up for decision. And God must be consulted at every step. He knows the great necessities of the different fields, and He will guide all who desire to understand His will and follow in His footsteps. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 10)

Canvassing-evangelists will open the work in many new places, remote from any church. These workers should have all authority to work for the conversion of souls and to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, those who believe. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 11)

“There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.... Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief.” [Hebrews 4:9, 11.] The rest here spoken of is the rest of grace, obtained by following the prescription, “Labor diligently.” Those who learn of Jesus His meekness and lowliness find rest in the experience of practicing His lessons. It is not in indolence, in selfish ease and pleasure-seeking, that rest is obtained. Those who are unwilling to give the Lord faithful, earnest, loving service will not find spiritual rest in this life or in the life to come. Only from earnest labor comes peace and joy in the Holy Spirit—happiness on earth and glory hereafter. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 12)

Let us therefore labor. Speak often words that will be a strength and an inspiration to those who hear. We are altogether too indifferent in regard to one another. We forget that our fellow laborers are often in need of words of hope and cheer. When one is in trouble, call upon him and speak comforting words to him. This is true friendship. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 13)

Labor for those who are loitering away their lives, accomplishing only half of what they might for the Master. Strive to arouse them to a sense of their responsibility. Pray for and exhort one another, and so much the more as ye see the day approaching. Let brother say to brother and sister to sister, “Come, my fellow laborer, let us put all earnestness into our work; for the night is at hand, wherein no man can work.” Let no one lose minutes by talking when he should be working. Let the talkative man remember that there are times when he has no right to talk. There are those who take time to stand still. Let the voice of the faithful sentinel be heard, “Not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.” [Romans 12:11.] Have you work to do for the Master? Is it building a house in which His work may be carried forward? Close your lips. Make not others idle by tempting them to listen to your talk. The time of many is lost when a man uses his tongue instead of his tools. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 14)

Brethren, the present is our time for work. Let those who work for the Lord, in whatever line it may be, put all diligence into their labor. Pray for grace to overcome shiftlessness in temporal and spiritual matters. Rise above indolence. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 15)

Faith in God and a love for souls gives men a genuine motive for faithfulness. It leads them to work faithfully that others may not be ruined by the example of unbelief which has ruined so many souls. Some will depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils. Why? Because they failed to work diligently. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 16)

Let us heed the words of the apostle, “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.” [Ephesians 6:16-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 17)

“The word of God is quick and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight; but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.” [Hebrews 4:12, 13.] (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 18)

The truths of the Bible, treasured in the heart and mind and obeyed in the life, convince and convert the soul, transform the character, and comfort and uplift the heart. “Though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh; for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds; casting down imaginations and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” [2 Corinthians 10:3-5.] The Word makes the proud humble, the perverse meek and contrite, the disobedient obedient. The sinful habits natural to man are interwoven with the daily practice. But the Word cuts away the fleshly lusts. It is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the mind. It divides the joints and marrow, cutting away the lusts of the flesh, making men willing to suffer for their Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 19)

Some to whom conviction comes refuse to change their way of life, because to change would be an acknowledgment that they had been wrong. To them the conviction is useless. They do not allow it to work in them true reformation. In order to repent, the sinner must see himself as he is. He must realize that by following wrong principles he has marred the work God has given him to do. When he is willing to see in God’s light all that the Lord presents to him, he will be filled with shame, distress, and humiliation. Then God will come to his relief. He will be led to look to Jesus, and, beholding the sacredness of the Saviour’s office and the perfection of His character, he will humble himself before Him, filled with remorse to think that in working against his own spiritual health and the spiritual health of others, he has worked against Christ. As he looks into the Word, as into a mirror, and sees his character as it is, he abhors himself. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 20)

It is Christ who searches the hearts and tries the reins of the children of men. “All things are naked and open before the eyes of him with whom we have to do,” “neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight.” [Hebrews 4:13.] In the days of ancient Israel the sacrifices brought to the high priest were cut open to the backbone to see if they were sound at heart. So the sacrifices we bring today are laid open before the piercing eye of our great High Priest. He opens and inspects every sacrifice brought by the human race, that He may prove whether it is worthy of being presented to the Father. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 21)

In Christ, divinity and humanity are united; therefore “he is able to succor all who are tempted,” “able to save to the uttermost all who come to God by Him.” [Hebrews 2:18; 7:25.] “He was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” [Hebrews 4:15.] Though so high and holy, He pities our weakness and stoops to succor us, “for it pleased the Lord to bruise him.” [Isaiah 53:10.] Satan assailed Him in every point, yet He sinned not in thought, word, or deed. “He did no violence, neither was guile found in his mouth.” [Isaiah 53:9; 1 Peter 2:22.] Walking in the midst of sin, He was “holy, harmless, undefiled.” [Hebrews 7:26.] He was wrongfully accused, yet He opened not His mouth to justify Himself. How many now, when accused of that of which they are not guilty, feel that there is a time when forbearance ceases to be a virtue, and losing their temper, speak words which grieve the Holy Spirit? (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 22)

“Seeing then that we have a great high priest that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.” [Hebrews 4:14.] What is our profession? We profess to be following Christ. We claim to be Christians. Do we, then, reveal the Christlikeness? Do we serve the Saviour intelligently? Does the love of God continually flow from us to others? Do we in word and action, confess our Redeemer? Do we conform our lives to His holy principles? Are we pure and undefiled? Christians must hold the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end. It is not enough to profess the faith. There must be a patient endurance of all trials and a brave resistance to all temptations. Faith can be maintained only by bringing the Christian religion to the test of practice, thus demonstrating its transforming power and the faithfulness of its promises. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 23)

“We have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in every time of need.” [Verses 15, 16.] (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 24)

In order that no one need make a mistake in his life work, God has placed before us the perfect example of Christ. The Son of God died that men might not perish, but have everlasting life. He has fulfilled His pledge, and has passed into the heavens, to take upon Him the government of the heavenly host. He fulfilled one phase of His priesthood by dying on the cross for the fallen race. He is now fulfilling another phase by pleading before the Father the case of the repenting, believing sinner, presenting to God the offerings of His people. Having taken human nature, and in this nature having overcome the temptations of the enemy, and having divine perfection, to Him has been committed the judgment of the world. The case of each one will be brought in review before Him. He will pronounce judgment, rendering to every man according to his works. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 25)

God’s workers are to be united in the bonds of sympathy and kindness. Those who minister in Christ’s stead must ever manifest tender compassion for those who need help. They must show the sympathy of Jesus for those who are out of the way. They must put far from them every selfish consideration. They must remember that they are to be faithful stewards, having compassion on those who are committing sins of ignorance. Those who are connected with our institutions are to cultivate patience, brotherly kindness, forbearance. The spirit which has led to acts of oppression, which injure and bruise those who should be treated with Christian love and tenderness, is an offence to God. It is Satan who leads men to be unfeeling, without compassion or tenderness. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 26)

Paul writes, “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy and understand all mysteries and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.” [1 Corinthians 13:1-6.] (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 27)

Those in responsible positions are to be subdued, converted, sanctified by obedience to the truth. Of Christ it is written, “Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; and being made perfect he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him.” [Hebrews 5:8, 9.] Those who are engaged in Christ’s service will not want to hurt and condemn. Instead of destroying, they will seek to restore. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 28)

Reverence for a “Thus saith the Lord” has been so poorly shown that hearts have become steeled in indifference. There is sharpness in deal between brother and brother. God is much displeased. He will not tolerate this spirit. “Therefore, seeing we have received this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; but have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.” [2 Corinthians 4:1, 2.] Let the hidden things of dishonesty be no longer cherished as virtues. Let those who have practiced craftiness in trade, thinking to do God service, know that He despises all such work. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 29)

Christ has been greatly dishonored because the truths which His people have known have not sanctified their lives. When they see themselves as they are, they will despise the sight as a representation entirely unchristlike. Through the operation of the Spirit they will be brought into conformity to the mind of Christ. They will represent the Saviour in word and deed. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 30)

“We all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.” [2 Corinthians 3:18; 4:6, 7.] (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 31)

Let those who occupy positions of trust rid themselves of the unmerciful spirit which so greatly offends God. Justice and judgment are the habitation of His throne. Let no one suppose that God has given to men the power of ruling their fellow men. He will accept the service of no man who hurts and discourages Christ’s heritage. Now is the time for every man to examine himself, to prove himself, that he may see whether he is in the faith. Investigate closely the motives which prompt you to action. We are engaged in the work of the Most High. Let us not weave into the web of our work one thread of selfishness. Let us rise to a higher plane in our daily experience. God will not serve with the sins of any man. (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 32)

“We are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” [Ephesians 2:10.] “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.” [Ephesians 3:14-21.] (16LtMs, Ms 42, 1901, 33)

Ms 43, 1901

Talk/“I would prefer not to speak today ...”
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 1, 1901
See variants Ms 43a, 1901; Ms 43b, 1901; Ms 43c, 1901; Ms 43d, 1901. This manuscript is published in entirety in 13MR 192-207. +

Talk by Mrs. E. G. White in College Library, April 1, 1901.

I would prefer not to speak today, though not because I have nothing to say. I have something to say. The state of things that has existed in the Conference is not clearly understood by some who occupy positions in the Conference or by others who bear responsibilities in other lines of the work. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 1)

The work has been increasing; it has been growing. The light that I have had from the Lord has been expressed over and over again, not to as many as there are here today, but to different individuals. The plans upon which God wishes us to work have been laid down. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 2)

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 say what plans shall be followed. The burden of the work in this broad field should not rest upon two or three men. We are not reaching the high standard which, with the great and important truth we are handling, God expects us to reach. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 3)

Over and over again men have said, “The voice of the Conference is the voice of God; therefore everything must be referred to the Conference. The Conference must permit or restrict in the various lines of work.” As the matter has been presented to me, there is a narrow compass, and within this narrow compass, all the entrances to which are locked, are those who would like to exercise kingly power. But the work carried on all over the field demands an entirely different course of action. There is need of the laying of a foundation different from the foundation which has been laid in the past. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 4)

We have heard much about everything moving in the regular lines. When we see that the “regular lines” are purified and refined, that they bear the mold of the God of heaven, then it will be time to endorse these lines. But when we see that message after message given by God has been received and accepted, yet no change has been made, we know that new power must be brought into the regular lines. The management of the regular lines must be entirely changed, newly organized. There must be a committee, not composed of half a dozen men, but of representatives from all lines of our work, from our publishing houses, from our educational institutions, and from our sanitariums, which have life in them, which are constantly working, constantly broadening. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 5)

I have been shown the fields which should have been opened in America. But where in California or Michigan, the two great centers of the work, is aggressive work being done? Where is seen the wrestling in new fields? (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 6)

God desires that His work shall be a rising, broadening, enlarging power. But the management of the work is becoming confused in itself. Not that anyone wishes to be wrong or to do wrong, but the principles are wrong. These principles are so foreign to God’s principles that God cannot bless those who work upon them. What must be done is to bring in other minds. Those who have been at work in the same channels for years have been discouraged and confused. We cannot entrust to such as these the tremendous responsibilities which are now to be handled. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 7)

Instruction has constantly been given as to the sacred, elevating, ennobling principles which should control in our institutions. The interests of the General Conference and all that concerns the handling of the work require minds that are controlled by the Holy Spirit. Unless those who have charge of the work give evidence that they are controlled by the Holy Spirit, unless they give evidence that they receive power from God to impart to the responsibilities with which they are connected, a change should be made without delay. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 8)

God forbid, brethren, that this conference should close as our conferences have closed in the past, with the same management, the same tone, the same order. The Lord wants those who have a knowledge of the truth to come to their senses. He wants them to arouse. It is time for us to arise and shine because our light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon us. If we are not going to do this, we might just as well close our conference today as later. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 9)

From the light God has given me, everything connected with this conference is to be regarded as most sacred. Why? Because at this time the work is to be placed upon a proper basis. Wrong principles have been followed. For the last fifteen years wrong decisions have been made, and now God calls for a change. He wants in His work men of faith and capability, men who realize that there is a ladder for them to climb round by round, and that those who climb this ladder will finally step off it into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Let us move heavenward. Let every thread of selfishness that has been woven into the work be now cut out. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 10)

The work should stand a hundred percent higher than it stands today. The satanic agencies are working with all their power to weaken and destroy us, and unless there is a waking up among the people of God, the enemy will gain the victory. God calls upon us to arouse, to take hold of His work, and labor for time and for eternity. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 11)

Many are treading over and over again the same ground. Our large churches ought to be turning out men who are educated and trained and disciplined, prepared to enter the Lord’s vineyard; but what are they doing? The barren fields, specially in the South, are crying to God for help. These fields have scarcely been touched, notwithstanding the message that God has been giving for a number of years. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 12)

It is high time that this came to an end. Let the work be woven after the same pattern that it has in the past, and it will finally come to naught. God calls for a decided change. Do not wait until the conference is over and then gather up the forces to see what can be done. Let us see what can be done now. Find out what power and intelligence there is that can be brought into the Conference. Let all unite in taking hold of the work intelligently. This is what is needed. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 13)

Every institution should have a voice in the working of the cause in which they have an interest. God wants us to come to the place where we shall be united in the work, where the whole burden will not be laid on two or three men. Unless a change is made, Brother Irwin will soon be where he cannot work at all. He needs support. He has been in the work of wrestling so long that he must have a change, or else he will break down. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 14)

We need men who will stand as true to principle as the needle to the pole. God will test the men who are given responsibilities in His work, and unless they show that they have a true idea of what Christlike principles are, He will remove them and put others in their place. God wants us to know what it means to work on the principles of heaven. He wants those in the office to know what it means for everyone to stand in his lot and place, obeying the words, “Add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.” Brethren, let us hang these words in the chambers of the mind. If we live on the plan here outlined, we “shall never fall; for so an entrance shall be ministered unto us abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” [2 Peter 1:5-7, 10, 11.] (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 15)

God is in earnest with us. He has seen the close dealing, and it is contemptible in His sight. It leaves men where, if they do not change, they will never see the kingdom of God. They are as destitute of the nobility, the generosity, the tenderness, the compassion, the love of Christ, as the hills of Gilboa were destitute of dew and rain. They cannot be aroused to see their condition. Enough has been said, but it does not lead them to reform. The message from heaven is professedly accepted, but no change is made. This is what alarms me. I see that unless there is more tenderness, more compassion, more of the love of God, the blessing of heaven will be withdrawn. John knew what he was talking about when he said, “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.” [Revelation 2:4, 5.] (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 16)

We need to study what John has written about the love of God. This love has not been cultivated, and when it is not cultivated, the opposite attribute is developed. The love of God has not been manifested in our publishing houses. Those who have practiced sharp dealings have flattered themselves that they are keen businessmen, but they have been losing instead of gaining, and unless they change, their light will be removed. They fail to realize that it is for the interests of the institution with which they are connected for them to act nobly every time, to come up to the help of the Lord. God will never acquit us till His principles are followed in our institutions. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 17)

God means what He says. He calls for a change. The same things are being repeated, the same ideas followed, the same committees appointed. In a small section a king reigns, and all others are secondary, when there are other men who are better able to do the work, because they have not been working on narrow plans. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 18)

I feel intensely over this matter. I do not want to talk in this way. If you will melt under the tenderness of God, breaking your hearts before Him, and placing yourselves where you will not mislead, you will see that He hates selfishness. When you bring selfishness into the management of His cause, it makes the crime one-hundred-fold greater. It makes God ashamed of you. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 19)

You are to be representatives of Jesus Christ, representatives of His character. You are to show that you are carrying out the living principles of heaven in every line of action. God will not accept your common fire. He wants you to use the sacred fire which He has kindled on the divine altar. It is His desire that this fire shall consume all commonness, all selfishness, all cheapness. These things must be purged from the men who are helping to prepare a people to stand in the last great conflict, which is just upon us. Self must be hid in Christ. When this is done, Christ will appear. Christ will be seen as the Great Worker. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 20)

God desires the committees which have been handling the same things for so long to be relieved of their command. They should have a chance for life, to see if they cannot get out of the rut into which they have fallen. I have no hope that they will do this without a thorough change, because the Spirit of God has been working with them, yet the wrong, unreformed is still there. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 21)

The Lord desires His Holy Spirit to come into this meeting. He declares that every vestige of sharpness in dealing must be removed, for He hates it. No sharpness is to be exercised toward His servants who are working for Him, bringing the tithe into the treasury that His cause may be sustained. God’s treasury is to be supplied by the tithe, which is to be regarded as a sacred fund. It is God’s, and it is to be liberally given, that the work may be sustained. Those in responsible places are to act in such a way that the people will have firm confidence in them. These men should not be afraid to open to the light of day everything in the management of the work. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 22)

When the cause was younger, my husband used to counsel with men who had sound judgment. The work was much smaller [then] than it is now, but he did not feel able to manage it alone. He chose counsellors from among those bearing responsibility in all parts of the work. And, after counseling together, these men would go back to their work feeling a still greater responsibility to carry the work forward in right lines, to uplift, to purify, to solidify, so that the cause of God might move forward in strength. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 23)

We should be filled with joy and gladness to think that God has given us the privilege of being co-laborers with Him. We may have all the power which God has pledged Himself to give us when we consecrate ourselves to Him. In heaven the pledge was made that all the facilities and riches of heaven would be imparted to every sincere, faithful worker who feels his entire dependence upon God. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 24)

When you leave God out of the question, and allow your hereditary and cultivated tendencies to come into your work, you are on very slippery ground. You are not making straight paths for your feet, but crooked paths. We cannot afford to do this. Our redemption cost too much. Christ laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown, and stepped down from His high command, in order that He, divinity and humanity combined, might make Himself a steppingstone whereby man might reach heaven. This He did that men might stand on vantage ground with God. His holiness imbues the life of everyone who eats the bread of life and drinks the water of salvation. He who receives and practices the words of Christ has eternal life. This life is in him, because he is in Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 25)

How can the Lord bless those who manifest a spirit of “I don’t care”—spirit which leads them to walk contrary to the light which the Lord has given them? But I do not ask you to take my words. Lay Sister White to one side. Do not quote my words again as long as you live until you can obey the Bible. When you make the Bible your food, your meat and your drink, when you make its principles the elements of your character, you will know better how to receive counsel from God. I exalt the precious Word before you today. Do not repeat what I have said, saying, “Sister White said this,” and “Sister White said that.” Find out what the Lord God of Israel says, and then do what He commands. Christ said, “I must work the works of Him that sent Me.” [John 9:4.] (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 26)

We are to follow the principles God has laid down in dealing with one another; for we are the purchase of the blood of Christ. Think of it! The purchase of the blood of Christ! We cost His life. He was crucified for us, and yet those whom He desires to see standing next to [Him in] heaven, giving unmistakable evidence that they are receiving the light of His glory, are walking in darkness. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 27)

It is not emotion that we need, but a living faith in the living Word of a living Saviour, a Saviour who proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] He wants us to live His principles. But there are those in positions of responsibility who do not appreciate these principles. They have been tested and tried. A change must be made. Let them have an opportunity to get out into the field and see what it means to wrestle for the cause as some of God’s servants have wrestled. Let them see what it means to build up the work, what it means to establish something out of nothing. Then they will understand that it is God’s desire that His servants shall be linked together, that every part of His work shall be connected with every other part, all being joined together by the golden links of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 28)

There are to be no kings in our work, no man who will put out his hand and say to God’s workmen, “You cannot go there. We will not support you if you go there.” “We!” What have they to do with the supporting? Is the means of support theirs? The money comes from the people, and God has instructed me to tell those who are working in destitute fields to go to the people and tell them their necessity. They are to draw from the people means to build up the work in the field where they are. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 29)

There is a world to be warned. Are we to have committees which will bind about the work? As we look over the cities of America, where are the monuments for God? Where are the churches to glorify His name? I thank God for the medical missionary work. God will call for every soul who is educated to work in this line [into] connection with the gospel ministry. He has places for them. Let not one stone be placed in the way of those who are striving to teach our youth how to do this work. The Lord will show that He will work with those who will work. He says, “Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 30)

My heart ached when I was in California. There are young men there laboring among the churches, but where is the power to open new fields? Where are those who will say, “We are not to stay with those who know the truth, but are to go to new fields”? There is a world to be saved, as far as men and women will yield to the claims of truth. The seeds of truth must be sown. “Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields,” Christ said; “for they are white already to harvest.” [John 4:35.] He wants us to see the condition of the field. And then are you to feel at ease and travel from place to place visiting the churches? No, no! God help you by giving you the spirit of the message, that you may yearn after souls and not let go until they are converted. This is the work God desires to see done; and till this spirit takes hold of every man and every conference, the work cannot go forward in power. The Lord desires His people to adopt the light on health reform, leading out in paths of self-denial and self-sacrifice. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 31)

Oh, how it has hurt me to have blocks thrown in my way in regard to this subject. Some have said, “Sister White eats cheese, and therefore we are at liberty to eat cheese.” I have tasted cheese once or twice, but that is a different thing from making it an article of diet. Once when at Minneapolis, I sat down at a table on which there was some cheese. I was quite sick at the time, and some of my brethren told me that they thought if I ate a little cheese, it might do me good. I ate a small piece, and from then it has been reported in large assemblies that Sister White eats cheese. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 32)

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 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.” [1 Corinthians 3:17.] (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 33)

I want you to think of these things. Do not make any human being 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. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 34)

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. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 35)

Do not refer to what Sister White has said. I do not ask you to do this. God has told me that my testimony must be borne to this conference, and that I must not try to make men believe it. My work is to leave the truth with the people, and those who appreciate the light from heaven will accept the truth. God wants you to make straight paths for your feet, lest the lame shall be turned out of the way. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 36)

The Lord desires that with the Conference shall be connected the ability He has given Dr. Kellogg. He wants His people to make the most of the ability He has bestowed on His servants. He did not wish the medical missionary work to be separated from the gospel work, or the gospel work separated from the medical missionary work. These are to blend. The medical missionary work is to be regarded as the pioneer work. It is to be the means of breaking down prejudice. As the right arm, it is to open doors for the gospel message. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 37)

God wants His workers to stand shoulder to shoulder with Dr. Kellogg, who at times has been almost desperate and has almost lost his reason because of the positions taken by some. Many have thrown stones before the car to hinder its advance, when they should have realized that God wants the medical missionary work to go forward. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 38)

Before I came to this conference, I was in doubt as to where to stay during the meeting. Dr. Kellogg had courteously invited me to make his house my home. The question arose, “It will be said that Dr. Kellogg has influenced me.” But I thought, “Let people say this if they wish to. They have said it before, when there was no more reason for it than there is now.” Still, as I wished to remove every possible excuse for talk, I decided not to go to the doctor’s. On Friday evening, at our season of worship, I was asking the Lord to direct me where to stay. I had been sick, and was still sick. I did not wish to attend the conference at all, because I knew that the exertion would be a terrible strain on me. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 39)

As I was praying, a soft light filled the room, bringing with it a fragrance as of beautiful flowers. Then a voice seemed to say, “Accept the invitation of My servant, John Kellogg, to make his house your home. I have appointed him as My physician, and you can be an encouragement to him.” This is why I am staying at Dr. Kellogg’s house. I wish in every possible way to treat Dr. Kellogg as God’s appointed physician. This I am going to do. And I want my brethren to put their unjust sayings far away from them. Inquire, What saith the Lord? Go to Him for help. Depend not on the opinions of human beings, for they are liable to err. Go to the Lord God of Israel. He will give you understanding and knowledge. You are not to lean on any human being. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 40)

At our season of prayer that evening the whole family was broken down. Though they knew nothing of what I had seen, yet they realized that the Spirit of the Lord was among us. The blessing of God flowed through the room like a tidal wave. The Spirit took hold upon us, and Brother and Sister Druillard wept and praised the Lord. We did indeed have an outpouring of the Spirit. Such things are more precious to me than gold or silver. I want to say to you, For Christ’s sake, unify. We cannot reform ourselves by putting our fingers on the wrongs of some one else. Christ says that we must love one another, that we must deal honestly, justly, and truly with one another. He says, “I hate your false weights and measures.” He knows every one of us, and He wants us to come into close connection with Him. He told Cornelius where to find Peter. He knew just where Peter was to be found. The angel of the Lord could have given Cornelius the message, but this is not God’s way. He wished to bring about a connection between Peter and Cornelius. The light He had given Peter was to be given by Peter to Cornelius. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 41)

My brethren, let the Lord God of Israel in among you. Give Him room. Instead of manifesting hatred, manifest the love of God. God help us all to take a right position. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 42)

I believe that God is here today. If I did not believe this, I would not say what I have said. I believe He can send what I have said home to your hearts. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 43)

There is a work to be done, not by standing aloof from one another, but by working on God’s principles. The Lord wants you to stand in this strength. He wants you to open the windows of the soul heavenward and close them earthward. He wants to reveal His salvation. He wants the medical missionary work and the gospel to be inseparably bound together. His work is to be a united whole. God wants the talents He has given Dr. Kellogg. He wants the talents that are in our institutions to be connected with the management of His work. Committees are to be formed which will have an interest in every part of the work. Then the work will be managed on a higher grade than it has yet been managed. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 44)

Medical missionary work opens the way for the gospel. I wish to say that God has not blessed the work as He would have blessed [it] had there been an appreciation of the work that he is carrying on. I thank God that Dr. Kellogg has not sunk into despair and infidelity, as I was afraid he would. Dr. Kellogg, it may be that I have written to you too strongly, but I felt that I must get hold of you, and hold you with all the power I had. I appreciate the work that is being carried on in medical missionary lines. How any one can see this work, and not realize that God is working, is a mystery to me. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 45)

It is God’s design that Dr. Kellogg shall stand in his place to give character to the work by reaching the higher classes. God’s people ought to feel honored that He has given them instrumentalities whereby the higher classes may be reached. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 46)

I wish to say that I want to take hold of the medical missionary work to the utmost of my ability. We have done the best we could in this line of work in Australia. I thank the Lord that His blessing has accompanied our work. Christ’s ministers must stand in an altogether different position. They must be evangelists, they must be medical missionaries. They must take hold of the work intelligently. But it is of no use for them to think that they can do this while they drop the work which God has said should be connected with the gospel. If they drop out the medical missionary work, they need not think that they can carry forward their work successfully, for they have only half the necessary facilities. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 47)

The Lord loves us yet. Let us praise Him for this. Let us take hold of the work in a new way, with heart, and mind, and strength. Do not any longer pick flaws in your brethren. I see enough vultures watching for dead bodies. Let us have nothing of this nature in our work. Let there be no picking flaws. Attend to yourselves, and you will have all you can do. When you purify your souls by obeying the truth, you will have something to impart. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 48)

May God help you all and help me. I want help and strength and power. But do not quote Sister White till you stand on vantage ground, where you know what you are doing. Take the Word of God. It is full of meat and drink. Study the Bible, and you will know more of God than you do now. You will have something fresh to impart to others. You will not go over the same ground again and again. You will realize that there is a world to save. I ask you to put on the whole armor, and be sure that your feet are shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. (16LtMs, Ms 43, 1901, 49)

Ms 43a, 1901

Talk/“Elder A. G. Daniells in the Chair ...”
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 1, 1901
One of four variants of Ms 43, 1901. Transcript of notes taken by C. C. Crisler.

Talk of Mrs. E. G. White, before representative brethren, in the College Library, April 1, 1901; 2:30 p.m. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 1)

Elder A. G. Daniells in the Chair. Elder M. C. Wilcox led in prayer. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 2)

The Chair: A small meeting was held here last evening to consider some matters; and while the question was being considered, it was decided to adjourn the meeting until this afternoon at 2:30 o’clock. It was thought that during the interval we ought to counsel with Sister White regarding the situation at the present time, and give her an invitation to be present and place before us any light that she might have for us. It was also thought that it would be well to enlarge the meeting, and invite others who are bearing responsibilities, that they might be present with us. During the forenoon, Brother Irwin, Brother Haskell, Brother Olsen, and myself have had some counsel with Sister White, and she has consented to be present with us and lay some matters before us that have been opened up to her mind. We are very thankful indeed to have her present, and will invoke the blessing of our Father upon her during this occasion. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 3)

Mrs. E. G. White: I did not expect to lead out in this meeting. I thought I would let you lead out, and then if I had anything to say, I would say it. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 4)

A. G. Daniells: Well, it seemed to me (and I think to all of us who counseled with you this morning) that we had said about as much as we wished to until we heard from you. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 5)

Talk of Mrs. E. G. White.

I would prefer not to speak today, but still not because I have not anything to say, because I have. I have something to say, and the state of things as has existed in our Conference and the leading responsibilities are not really understood in their influence by themselves or by those that are taking responsibilities in the work. The work has been increasing. It has been growing, and from the light that I have had for some time, has been expressed, has been expressed over and over again—not to all there are here—but has been expressed to individuals, and the plans that God would have all to work from, that never should one mind or two minds or three minds or four minds, or a few minds, I should say, be considered of sufficient wisdom and power to control and mark out plans, and let it rest upon the mind of one or two or three in regard to the field—this broad, broad field that we have; that we are not coming up to reach that high standard with the great and important truths which we are handling, that God expects us to reach. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 6)

There are minds which must be brought into altogether more lively action than they are at the present time; and in reference to our Conference, it is repeated o’er and o’er and o’er again that it is the voice of God, and therefore everything must be referred to the Conference, and have the Conference’s voice in regard to permission or restriction, or what shall be and what shall not be done in the various fields. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 7)

Now, from the light that I have, as it was presented to me in figures, there was a narrow compass here [drawing a circle on a book with her hand]. There within that narrow compass in a kingly, ruling power; here the outlets are locked, and the work carried on all over our field demands an entirely different course of action than we have had. That there needs to be the laying of a foundation that is different from what we have had. We have heard enough, [an] abundance, about “Everything must go around in the regular lines.” When we see [that] the regular lines are impressed and purified and refined, and the God of the heavens’ mold is upon the regular lines, then it is our business to establish the regular lines. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 8)

But when we see that message after message that God has given, has been taken and accepted, but no change—just the same as it was before—then we know that there is new blood [that] must be brought into the regular lines. The managers of the regular lines, they must have an entire change, an entire new organization, and have a committee that shall take in not merely a half a dozen that are to be a ruling and a controlling power, but it is to have the voice of those that are placed in responsibilities in our educational interests, in our Sanitarium that is working, and the life in them constantly at work, constantly broadening, constantly giving to the field the talent that has come to it. The comparison has been presented to me: Where are the fields that have been opened? Where are the new fields that have been opened here in America? Where is it in California? Where is it here at the great heart of the work? And here are the two great centers: where is the wrestling to get into fields, whether it costs or does not cost, whatever way it shall be? (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 9)

God has His treasures that He has given to our world. He has His treasure in the hills; He has His treasure in every district, He has His treasures in every place and in every country, and all these countries, and all these countries far and near, He wants to be a widening, broadening, enlarging power. And the management is becoming confused in itself—not that anyone means to be wrong or to do wrong. But the principle is wrong, and the principles have become so mixed and so foreign from what God’s principles are, and the message has been going constantly in regard to principles, sacred, holy, elevated, ennobling, in every institution, in the publishing house and in all the interests of the General Conference—everything that concerns the handling of the work requires minds that are worked by the Holy Spirit of God. Unless that evidence is given, unless that it is, or something that there is a power that shows that they are accepting from God to impart to the responsibilities that have to be handled, then there should be a renovation without any delay. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 10)

To have this Conference pass on and close up as the Conferences have done, with the same manipulating, with the very same tone and the same order—God forbid! God forbid, brethren. He wants every living power that has a knowledge of the truth, to come to their senses. He wants every living power to arouse, and we are just about as much dilly-dallying, and it is time that we arise and shine, because our light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon us; and until this shall come, we might just as well close up the Conference today as any other day; but what we must have is taking in of other minds. Why, there are minds here that have been at work, minds that have been at work in the same chain, in the same channel; they have become discouraged, and they have become confused. Well, now, we cannot trust to such as that in such tremendous responsibilities as have got to be handled here. Why, from the light that God has given me, everything about this Conference should be the most sacred. Why? Why, because it is to put ideas and plans and work upon its proper basis, and this thing has been acted and reacted for the last fifteen years or more, and God calls for a change. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 11)

God wants that men of capabilities and of mind should understand there is a ladder for them to climb, round after round, and if they climb this ladder round after round, why, they will step off finally into the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. We want our course heavenward, and we want that all the selfishness, every thread of it, that has been woven into the pattern, every thread of this selfishness is to be cut out. And here is a work that, from the light that God has given me, it should stand, yes, a hundred percent higher than it stands today. Here are our enemies, here are those Satanic agencies that are at work with all their power and with all their capability to weaken and to destroy, and unless there is a wakening up from every working agency, let me tell you that the enemy is getting a victory all the time. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 12)

God wants us to arouse. God wants us to take hold of this work—every human agency, and He wants us to work for time and for eternity. The treading over and over and over and over and over the same ground—here are our large churches, and they ought to be turning out men, educating and training and disciplining; and there ought to be those who should connect with the responsibilities, that shall go out into fields to carry the message, and the barren fields that have been, O, so barren, more especially in the Southern field, that is scarcely touched, notwithstanding the message has come from God for the last, I might say—well, I do not know how many years. It is quite a number of years that these things. Our standstill has got to come to an end; but yet every Conference, it is woven after the very same pattern. It is the very same loom that carries it, and finally it will come to naught. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 13)

Now God wants a change, and it is high time, it is high time that there [be] ability that should connect with the Conference, with the General Conference, right here in its sitting—not wait till it is done, and then find—not wait till it is all done and over with, and then gather up the forces and see what can be done. We want to know what can be done right here, what can be done right now, and what power and intellect that there is that shall be brought into this work, and that they shall unite their powers and take hold of it intelligently, and that God can work with them. Now this is what we want, and we want that every institution, that bears a responsibility, bear a voice in the working of this cause which they have a decided interest in. And God wants that we shall every one come into a position where we shall work, that we will not lay off the burden on two or three men and let them carry it. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 14)

Brother Irwin soon will be where he cannot work at all. He wants supporters, and he has been in this work of wrestling and discouragement till he should have a change. He should have some one come in his place, unless that you expect that he is going to give all out. It cannot be. We must have responsible men, and we want men that shall stand just as true as the compass to the pole; and God will test these men, and unless they can show a better idea of what principle is, what sanctified and Heaven and Christlike principle is, why then they will have to be changed, and try another. But God is going to have a change. He wants us to know what it means to work on the principles of Heaven. He wants officers know what it means for [them] to stand in their lot and in their place, and every soul that has had the responsibility, that they should have been guardians, that they should have been shepherds, that they should have had a patience, just as it is represented—“add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.” [2 Peter 1:5-7.] (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 15)

Brethren, we all need these letters written and hung into the chambers of the mind; and the one that doeth these things, if you will believe on this principle, you will “never fall: for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” [Verses 10, 11.] (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 16)

Now God is in earnest with us, and He has seen the close—O, I cannot tell how it is. It is contemptible in the sight of God, contemptible. It is so close, for fear I shall not get all I ought to have, and it leaves the man where that he cannot, if that he considers is the principles of Heaven—why, it leaves the man where he will never get into heaven; he could not get in there. The nobility, the generosity, the tenderness, the compassion, the love of Christ—why, they are as destitute of it as the hills of Gilboa that had no dew nor rain—just as destitute of it; and you could not arouse them to it. Enough has been said; enough has been said over and over and over again, but it does not make any difference; they go right on just the same, professedly accepting it, but they do not make any change. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 17)

Well, now that is what burdens me; that is what burdens me. It burdens me because that I see unless there is more tenderness, more compassion, more of the love of God—the Lord knew what He was talking about when He gave the message to Daniel—“You have lost your first love,” you have lost it. [Revelation 2:4.] (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 18)

S. N. Haskell: It was John. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 19)

Mrs. E. G. White: He tells you to repent speedily, or He will remove the candlestick out of his place, and regain the first love. What you want is to study all through John, and see what was said about the love of God, and the love that we should express; and that love has not been cultivated, and if it is not cultivated, the opposite attributes are cultivated. Well now, it has not been cultivated in our institutions of publication, and in the little sharpness that can be exercised, that they think they are going to gain a little something—they lose fourfold, yes, tenfold in that little transaction, until the light is ruled out of his place. They do not know when it is for the interests of the institution to act nobly. Every time act nobly, and to come up to the help of the Lord, to have a new creation of sentiment. Well, now, God never will acquit us until that is there, until it is right in our institutions, every one of them; and God means just what He says. He wants a change here. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 20)

Well, to think that this same thing is going over the very same ideas, the same committees, and here is a little throne, the king is reigning in here, and others, why, they are all secondary; when there are minds that are as much sharper, because they have not been working on this narrow, conceited plan. Why, I feel intensely. I did not want to talk so, but I dare not hold my peace. I feel this business, and if you should melt under the tenderness of God and break your hears before Him, and ever come where you can see things clearly, you will see God hates selfishness, and when you bring it into His cause, O, it makes the crime a hundredfold greater when you bring that selfishness in, as though you were going to benefit the cause. You do not benefit a particle. It makes God ashamed of you. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 21)

Well, what are we? We are to be representatives of Jesus Christ. We are to be representatives of his character. We are to show that we are carrying out the living principles in every line, in action, in every country everywhere, and in every place that has anything to do with God’s service. He will not accept your common fire. He wants you to take the sacred fire that He kindles on the divine altar, and He wants you to walk, and that fire to consume all your commonness, all your intemperance, all your selfishness, all your cheap ideas, all licentiousness—O, this lust, He wants it taken away from all people that are trying to fashion a people to stand in the last great conflict which is just before us. Self must be hid in God. When self is hid in God, then will the Lord God appear, and not self. He will appear as the great Worker, that when you think to improve on God’s plans by your narrowness, by your conceited ideas, and by your planning and grasping and thinking you are going to gain something, why, if you have not learned now, you will have to learn; and we want that these—God wants, I should say, that these committees that have been so long handling the same things, should be relieved of their command, and have a chance for their life, and see if they cannot get out of this rut that they are in, which I have no hope of their getting out of—not a bit, because the Spirit of God has been working and working, and yet it clings there still. Now the Lord wants His Spirit should come in. He wants the Holy Ghost to come in. He wants everything of this sharpness, that it shall not be exercised toward outsiders, it shall not be exercised toward the strangers that are within our gates; that it shall not be exercised toward one that is trying to serve God and trying to exercise all his power to serve Him, that is bringing in the tithes here to sustain the ministry. He has a treasury, and that treasury is to be sustained by the [tithe] and that tithe is to be a sacred tithe, and it is to be God’s tithe, and that tithe is to be so liberal that it will sustain the work largely, and they are to act in their capacity in such a way that the confidence of the whole people will be established in them, and that they will not be afraid to open everything just as light as day to all that are in connection with the work of God and the people. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 22)

I know my husband used to work hard every way. He would sit down with this man that he thought had good judgment, and that man, and the other man, and the other man—that was when the cause was young. He did not feel that he was capable of carrying the Conference when it was young, but he had these men, these committees that were brought in from places all around. It was not just in Battle Creek, but it was in places, in different places that those who felt the responsibility of the work would go home and feel a larger responsibility of the work to carry it on in right lines, in even lines, in purity, in holiness, in uplifted uprightness, in solidity, so that the cause of God should be that which would make every one of us joyful and proud that God had given us the privilege to be colaborers with Jesus Christ. Now there is all that power that was pledged to us when we pledged ourselves to God. That power, that all the provision was made in heaven, all the facilities, all the riches of the grace of God were to be imparted to every worker that was connected with the cause; and every one of these is wholly dependent upon God; and when you leave God out of the question, and Jesus Christ out of the question, and let the hereditary and cultivated traits of character come in, let me tell you, we are on very slippery ground; we are making not straight paths for our feet, but crooked paths, that the lame shall be turned out of the way; and we cannot afford it, we cannot afford it. It has cost too much to Heaven to give us Jesus. It has cost too much to Heaven for Christ to lay aside His royal robe, to lay aside His royal crown and to step down from His high command, the Prince of Life from glory, in order that he might make himself in humanity and divinity combined a steppingstone for man to step on. It was not humanity, but humanity and divinity combined, and that man could step on that steppingstone, and that he will be on vantage ground with God, because the perfume, because the sanctified and holy character of God imbues the life of every soul that eats of the bread of life and drinks of the water of salvation; and every one that eats of Christ, that takes His Word and practices it, hath eternal life; it is in him, because he is in Christ and Christ is in him. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 23)

Now here is the way the matter is represented; but when there is “I do not care,” and going right contrary to the light that God has given in His Word—I do not ask you to take my word; I do not ask you to do it; lay Sister White right to one side; you lay her right to one side. Do you not—never quote my words again as long as you live, until you can obey the Bible. When you take the Bible and make that, make that your food, your meat, and your drink, and make that the elements of your character—when you can do that, then you will know better how to receive some counsel from God. But here the Word, the precious Word, I exalt it before you today; and do not go and repeat any more what Sister White said—“Sister White said this,” and “Sister White said that,” and “Sister White said the other thing;” you say, “What saith the Lord God of Israel?” and then you [not] do just what the Lord God of Israel does and what He says. Christ says: “I do the works of my Father; the works that I see Him do I do.” [John 5:19.] Well now, the works and sentiments and the principles that you have seen, that God has manifested in dealing with one another, the purchase of the blood of Christ—why, only think of it. Here we are the purchase of the blood of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. You just think of it. We cost His life. He was crucified for us, and yet here are the very instrumentalities that God would have stand next to Heaven, that God would have stand where the light of His glory can shine upon them in unmistakable rays, and they know that the light of Heaven is with them. It is no emotion, it is a living faith that is founded on the living words of a living God, of a Saviour that proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, “I am the resurrection and the life” [John 11:25]; and here He wants you to eat His principles, to live His principles; but those that are now there never will appreciate it. They have had their test; they have had their trial; they have had their warnings. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 24)

Now there must be a change. Give them an opportunity to go out and see what it means to wrestle in the cause of God as some of His workmen have. Let them see what it means to build up. Let them go in the waste places of the earth. Let them begin to see what it means to establish things out of nothing. When they do this, they will understand that God means that His servants shall be linked in one, that every part of the work—one part has connection with another part, and another part, and another part, and another part; and there it is joined together by the golden links of heaven, and there are to be no kings here ruling at all. There is to be no man that is going to put his hand out and say, “No, you cannot go there; we cannot support you if you go there.” We ask, Have we to do with their supporting? Did they create the means? The means come from the people, and those that are in the destitute fields, the voice of God has told me to instruct them to go to the people, and to tell them their necessities, to draw from the people, and to work just where they can find a place to work, to build up the work in every place that they possibly can. There is a world to be saved, and we want to know if we have got our committees that have got a bind about the work? And we look over the cities—where are the monuments? Where, I ask you, are the churches that were left to glorify God? Where are the workers? I thank God that there is a work going on, and I thank God for the medical missionary work, and every soul that shall obtain that education in connection with the gospel of Jesus Christ, God will call for you; God has a place for you; and those who are laboring for the youth in any line in our schools, in the Sanitarium, and wherever they are at work, don’t you put one stone in their way. The Lord will reveal that He will work with those who do work. “Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] Here are the churches. My heart ached when I was in California. There are young men treading right round and round in the churches; but where’s the power? Where’s the power to open the fields for them, and to say, “Here, we are not to stay here with the people that know the truth.” Here is a world that knows nothing about it, and this world is to be converted and educated just as far as they will yield to the truth; but the seed of truth must be sown. Lift up your heads, said Christ, for the fields are all ripe to harvest. Well, He wanted them to look at it, and He wanted them to see it, and He wants every one of you to see it; and to fold your hands and to feel at ease, and to travel from place to place, and place to place, to look after the churches—God help you by giving you the spirit of the message, that your soul shall yearn after other souls, and you will not let go until they are converted. This is the work we want to see done, and until that spirit comes in and takes hold of every man in every Conference, that they are educated, that they are adopting the very light, that should be health reform, that they are living out in paths of self-denial and self-sacrifice. O, my soul, how it has hurt me to have the blocks thrown in the way in regard to myself! They will tell, “Sister White said this.” “Sister White ate cheese, and therefore we are all at liberty to eat cheese.” Well, who told them I ate cheese? Who told them? I never have cheese on my table. There was but one time—I was at Minneapolis—one or two times I have tasted of cheese. That is a different thing from making it a diet, entirely different thing. I have tasted of very bitter herbs on special occasions, when I would not make it a diet. But there was a special occasion in Minneapolis where that I could get nothing, and there were some little bits of cheese cut up on the table, and the brethren were there, and one of them had told me, “If you eat a little of that cheese, it will change the condition;” and I did. I took a bit of that cheese. I do not think that I touched it again the second time. Another says: “Sister White drinks tea, and you can drink tea.” Who of my brethren has ever made that statement? Who has ever heard it, to ever made it of me? I never have tea in my house, and I never set it before any one. Sister White has not had meat in her house or cooked it in any line, or any dead flesh, for years and years. And here is the health reform. “Now I have told you Sister White did not eat meat. Now I want you not to eat meat, because Sister White does not eat it.” Well, I would not give—I would not care a farthing for anything like that. If you have not got any better conviction—you won’t eat meat because Sister White does not eat any—if I am the authority, I would not give a farthing for your health reform. What I want is that every one of you should stand in your individual dignity before God, in your individual consecration to God, that the soul-temple shall be dedicated to God. “Whosoever defileth the temple of God, him will God destroy.” [Verse 17.] Now I want you to think of these things, and do not make any human being your criterion. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 25)

What you want—you have got a body here wonderfully made, and you want that that body should be O so carefully dealt with. I have seen, or it has been represented to me, the finest machinery was in the body, and a good thing you can carry too far, like inhaling too much and swelling out. God did not make these precious organs to be swelled like a balloon. He never made it for that, and He wants nobody to be presumptuous on any of these things; and He wants every living soul to deal with His machinery as God’s machinery, that they must keep in perfect order to keep the brain nerve power all right. The brain must work, and every burden that you put upon your stomach, which should not be in your stomach, will just becloud the brain. You come into a Conference like this, you sit down, and you eat too hearty meals, and not exercise, and then go into the meeting, and you are all sleepy. Your ideas are not good for anything, and you do not really know what you are sent to. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 26)

Now God wants every soul here should sharpen up. He wants every soul here shall have His converting power. You need not refer once to what Sister White has seen. I do not want you to do it. God has told me that my testimony must be borne straight to this Conference, and that I am not to try to make a soul believe it; that my work is to leave the truth with human minds, and those that can have the truth in the Word of God and will appreciate it, will appreciate every light that God has given for poor lame souls, that they should not be turned out of the way; and He wants you to make straight paths for your feet, lest the lame shall be turned out of the way. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 27)

Now we want that in the Conference we shall have, that the ability that God has given to Dr. Kellogg—I do not suppose he is here, I do not know that he is, but at any rate— (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 28)

A. G. Daniells: Yes, he is here. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 29)

Mrs. E. G. White: Well, I cannot see. I have to have congregational glasses that I can discern the faces; but I cannot see; but I want to say that the Lord wants you to make the most of the capabilities that He is using in every part of the work. He does not want the medical missionary work separated from the gospel work, nor the gospel work separated from the medical missionary work. He wants them to build up together, and He wants that this, the educating power of the medical missionary work, should be considered as the pioneer work, the breaking-up plow, the breaking down of prejudice that has existed; and nothing will break it down like it; and God wants every soul to stand shoulder to shoulder with Dr. Kellogg. He has become all but desperate, and come nearly, I might say, losing his life, because of the positions that have been taken, and every one throwing a stone right before the car, so that it should not advance. Now God wants the health and missionary work to advance. He wants God’s work to be carried on. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 30)

I did not know, really, when I came here, I did not know what to do. Courteously, Dr. Kellogg had asked me to come to his house and let them give me treatment a week or two before the Conference, that I should be able to enter the Conference. Then comes up the question, Here, what about—they will say, “Well, Dr. Kellogg has manipulated you.” Let them say it if [they] want to. They said it enough when there was not a particle of ground for it, so now let them say it. But I was going to give them—I was going to take all difficulty out of the way, so I sent word, Find me a place somewhere. Dr. Kellogg has opened kindly to me, but to remove all occasion for talk, I decided that I would not go there. Now find me a place. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 31)

Friday night I was kneeling down praying. “O Lord, tell me where to go and what to do.” There I have been sick, and was still sick, and—why, I did not choose to come to Battle Creek. [For] I knew that it would be a terrible trial to me. This is the third winter I am passing through. I passed through one in Australia, I have passed through one in California, and I am passing through the third here; and now you can judge that all this tells upon my system. And then the heated houses, when there is no more need of having it heated in California—but there is the house heated, and here I was brought down in a terrible condition of malaria, and I have had it ever since Christmas upon me; and then the very crisis came when I was at Los Angeles, and there I knew nothing—after I had spoken on Sabbath I did not know anything about it, and then it was that this awfulness that I had had in my head passed through the whole channel of the body, and that brought on the bloody flux, and I have been traveling all this time up to the time I came here, with that terrible disorder, the bloody flux—could not sit up at all hardly—had to lie all the time. And yet I have not disappointed a single place; but once in Los Angeles I got up and stood on my feet in the strength of God. At Vicksburg I spoke twice, and at Nashville I spoke twice, and at Memphis I spoke once, and at Chicago I spoke twice; and God helped me to speak. And then I came here, and I have been speaking ever since I have been here, nearly all the time and at every place. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 32)

Now you see I was afraid of all this, and I did not want to sacrifice my life, and so I said I could not come here. I could not come across the plains there. I could not do it. I was afraid. I nearly melted my kidneys when I went in cold winter, and there were coils right under where I was lying, and I never got over it to this day—and that is when I went to Texas on my way to Australia. And there I was afraid, and so I said I could not come; and they said then they would have the Conference in Oakland. But in the night season I was talking to you just as I am today. I was bearing a message night after night, and night after night, and then I would get up and write it. I would get up at one o’clock, and would get up at twelve o’clock; I would get up at two o’clock, and I would write out the message that I had, and it was then, while I was considering these things, came the messages from London, how that they hoped that they could—would see me and meet me, but now they could not come so far, and cost so much; and I heard it would cost from five to eight thousand dollars, the difference; and then I said, We have got no such money to spare, and if I sacrifice my life, I will try it. I will try it, anyhow. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 33)

Well, Dr. Kellogg never persuaded me at all to come. When I told him the particulars—the cold weather, “Why,” he said, “would it make any difference if”—the only, the only word he spoke to me, “would it make any difference if the time could be changed a few weeks.” Said I, It would. Then I began to think upon that plan after he had gone. Well now, what I want to say, what we want is to be sensible people. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 34)

W. C. White: You started to tell about your prayer Saturday night. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 35)

Mrs. E. G. White: O yes! We knelt down to pray, and I was asking the Lord where I should go and what I should do. I was for backing out and not going. I knew—Sara says, “You are not fit to go anywhere. You should not go anywhere; and O,” says she, “I dread it for you.” Well, while I was praying and was sending up my petition, there was, as has been a hundred times or more, a soft light circling around in the room, and a fragrance like the fragrance of flowers, of a beautiful scent of flowers; and then the voice seemed to speak gently and said that I was to accept the invitation of My servant, John Kellogg, and make his home my home. Then the word was, “I have appointed him as My physician. You can be an encouragement to him.” (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 36)

That is why I am here, and that is why I am there at [his] home. Now I want in every way possible, if I can, to treat Dr. Kellogg as God’s appointed physician, and I am going to do it. And I want that my brethren where they have had “They say, they say, they say, they say, they say,”—you just put the “they says” right straight away from you. You inquire, “What saith the Lord?” and you look to the Lord, and don’t you look to any human power and get their mind, and they are nothing but human, they are nothing but failing [humans]; but you just look to the Lord God of Israel, and He will give you understanding, and He will give you knowledge. But you are not to lean your helpless soul on any other human being. You have got a character to form for your individual self, and God has given you ample encouragement that character should be after God’s order. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 37)

Now in addition to this that I tell you, the next night—no, that night, I went to sleep very happy. I was—the whole family was melted and broken down. They knew nothing what I had in my mind, nothing at all what I had seen; but the Spirit of God was there. There they were all weeping, all broken, and the blessing of God was flowing right through our room like a tidal wave. Why, the Spirit of God had taken hold upon us, and Sister Druillard was just weeping and praising God, and Brother Druillard was praising God, and we all there had an outpouring of the Spirit of God. Such things are more precious to me than the gold of Ophir. O, I appreciate the movings of the Spirit of God. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 38)

Now I want to say, Let us, for Christ’s sake, unify. Let us put away—we cannot reform ourselves by putting our fingers upon somebody else’s wrong, and think that is going to cover our wrong. God says we must love one another. God says we must deal gently and justly and righteously with one another. He says, “I hate your false weights and your false measures.” He tells us that He knows us in the very testimony that He has given in other cases. The Lord wants us to come into close connection with Him. You know He told Cornelius all about [sending for Peter]; He knew just where Peter lived, and He told him all about these things, every particular, how he was with one who was a tanner, and here it was all worked up. The angel of God could have told Cornelius all about this message. But no. God’s church must connect together, and the light that God had imparted to Peter was to be imparted to Cornelius and all his family. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 39)

Well now, that is the way God works, and He expects everyone of us to come to Him; and why we are all weak as we are, is because we are [crippled] over somebody else. Now let the Lord God of Israel come into our midst. Give Him room, give Him place, and let us begin to exercise the love of God in our hearts, instead of hatred. Just as soon as you begin to build up yourself, you begin to hate others. God help us to come into right positions; and I believe He is here today. If I did not believe He was here, I would not want to say the things I have said; but I believe He can set these things home to hearts, and there can be a heart work done here—not of your standing right off and doing nothing, but you work right on Christ’s principles, and when you work on the principles of heaven, you will see the salvation of God revealed. And God wants you to stand in His strength; He wants you to have open the windows heavenward, and close them earthward. He wants the salvation of God should be revealed. He wants the medical missionary work and the gospel bound up together just as fast together and inseparable, and He wants that this work shall blend, and that they should be a united whole with this people. He wants the talent that is in Dr. Kellogg, He wants the talent that is in the school, He wants the talent that is in every institution, to be connected with the management of His work, of His churches. He does not want two or three minds to sit as kings, and the rest of them, why, they must be amenable to these two or three minds. He wants that there shall be committees that are holding a part of every part of His work; and then the foreign missionary work, you will understand, will be worked upon a higher grade than it ever has been working yet. God wants it worked. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 40)

I have seen the people ready to impart. Why, some say, why they have had more than their proportion, [more] than others have, in Australia. We have had none too much, only we ought to have had ten times [as much] to begin with, that we could establish something that would be an entrance, something that would be a pioneer to the work, that will take everywhere. No use to shut down [something] that it will take everywhere. There is no place but what the missionary work, the medical missionary work, will take, and it will open the way for the gospel. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 41)

Now, I want to say, God has not blessed as He would have blessed had there been an appreciation of the work that He is carrying on. I thank God that Dr. Kellogg has not sunk into despondency and infidelity. I have been afraid of it, and I have written some very straight things to him, and it may be, Dr. Kellogg (if he is here), that I have written too strong; for I felt as though I must get hold of you and hold you by the power of all the might I had. But I have seen the work, I see the work that is being carried on, and how can anybody see it and not see that God is at work? That is the mystery to me. I cannot understand it. I cannot explain it, that those that shall have any knowledge of work here, right here—where God designed that he should be, that he should stand to give character to the work, and the higher classes, that they might be reached; and every soul of you ought to feel honored before God, that He has given you instrumentalities that the higher classes could be reached, and that the wealthy classes should be reached. You should feel to thank God for the honor that He has bestowed; and I want to say that I want to take hold to the very utmost of my ability. Well, I have done the very best I could do in the medical missionary line. I have helped at the right hand, I have helped at the left. I have clothed—well, I will not tell of it; no, I will not say anything about it more; but I want to tell you we have found poverty, we have had to relieve clear up to the last moment when we left Australia. It was poverty, poverty, poverty all the way through that we meet with everywhere; but I thank God that His blessing has accompanied it. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 42)

And now I think for the present I may have said enough. But God’s ministers must come in altogether a different position. They must be evangelists, they must be medical missionaries, they must take hold of the work intelligently. They must press the work in the places—and it is no use to think of their doing it, if God has given some a work to connect with the gospel, and they drop that work and take up the gospel, why, then you need not expect that you are going to be full men to do the work, because you have not got more than half the facilities that God wants you to have. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 43)

But the Lord loves us yet. Now let us praise God for that. Now let us take hold of the work in a new way. Let us take hold of the work with heart and mind and soul. Do not pick flaws any more. O, I see enough buzzards, and I see enough vultures that are trying and watching for dead bodies; but we want nothing of that. We want no picking and picking and picking of flaws in others. Attend to Number One, and you have got all that you have got to do. If you attend to Number One, and if you will purify your souls by obeying the truth, you will have something to impart, you will have a power to give to others. God help you! I beseech of Him to help you, every one of you, and to help me. I want help. I want strength. I want power. But don’t you ever quote Sister White. I do not want you to ever quote Sister White until you get up on vantage ground where you know what you are about. Go quote the Bible. Take the Bible. It is full of meat, it is full of fatness. Carry it right out in your life, and you will know more of the Bible than you know now. You will have fresh matter. O, you will have precious matter. You won’t be going over and over the same ground, and you will see a world to save. You will see souls for whom Christ has died; and I ask you to put on the armor, every piece of it, and be sure that your feet are shod with the preparation of the gospel. (16LtMs, Ms 43a, 1901, 44)

Ms 43b, 1901

Talk/“I would prefer not to speak today ...”
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 1, 1901
One of four variants of Ms 43, 1901. This copy was prepared by Mrs. White’s secretary.

Talk by Mrs. E. G. White in College Library, April 1, 1901.

I would prefer not to speak today though not because I have nothing to say. I have something to say. The state of things that has existed in the Conference and leading responsibilities is not clearly understood by the men who occupy positions in these responsibilities, or by those who are taking responsibilities in other lines of the work. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 1)

The work has been increasing; it has been growing. The light that I have had from the Lord has been expressed over and over again, not to as many as there are here today, but to different individuals. The plans which God wishes us to work upon have been laid down. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 2)

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 say what plans shall be followed. The burden of the work in this broad field should not rest upon two or three men. We are not reaching the high standard which, with the great and important truths we are handling, God expects us to reach. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 3)

Over and over again men have said, “The voice of the Conference is the voice of God; therefore everything must be referred to the Conference. The Conference must permit or restrict in the various lines of the work.” As the matter has been presented to me, there is a narrow compass, and within this narrow compass, all the entrances of which are locked, are those who would like to exercise kingly power. But the work carried on all over the field demands an entirely different course of action. There is need of the laying of a foundation different from the foundation which has been laid in the past. We have heard much about everything moving in the regular lines. When we see that the “regular lines” are purified and refined, that they bear the mold of the God of heaven, then it will be time to endorse these lines. But when we see that message after message given by God has been received and accepted, yet no change made, we know that new blood must be brought into the regular lines. But when we see that the “regular lines” are purified and refined, that they bear the mold of the God of heaven, then it will be time to endorse these lines. But when we see that message after message given by God has been received and accepted, yet no change made, we know that new blood must be brought into the regular lines. The management of the regular lines must be entirely changed, newly organized. There must be a committee, not composed of half a dozen men, but of representatives from all lines of our work, from our publishing houses, from our educational institutions, and from our sanitariums, which have life in them, which are constantly working, constantly broadening. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 4)

I have been shown the fields which have opened in America. But there in California or Michigan, the two great centers of the work, is aggressive work being done? Where is the wrestling in new fields? (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 5)

God desires His work to be a rising, broadening, enlarging power. But the management of the work is becoming confused in itself. Not that any one wishes to be wrong or to do wrong; but the principles are wrong. These principles are so foreign from God’s principles that God cannot bless those who work upon them. What must be done is to bring in other minds. Those who have been at work in the same channels for years have been discouraged and confused. We cannot entrust to such as these the tremendous responsibilities which are now to be handled. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 6)

Instruction has constantly been given as to the sacred, elevating, ennobling principles which should control in our institutions. The interests of the General Conference and all that concerns the handling of the work require minds that are worked by the Holy Spirit. Unless those who have charge of the work give evidence that they are controlled by the Holy Spirit, unless they give evidence that they receive power from God to impart to the responsibilities with which they are connected, a change should be made without any delay. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 7)

God forbid, brethren, that this Conference should close as our Conferences have closed in the past, with the same management, the same tone, the same order. The Lord wants those who have a knowledge of the truth to come to their senses. He wants them to arouse. We are almost like dead men. It is time for us to arise and shine because our light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon us. If we are not going to do this, we might just as well close our Conference today as any other day. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 8)

From the light God has given me, everything connected with this Conference is to be most sacred. Why? Because at this time the work is to be placed upon a proper basis. Wrong principles have been followed. For the last fifteen years the same thing has been acted and re-acted; and now God calls for a change. He wants in His work men of capability, men who realize that there is a ladder for them to climb round by round, and that those who climb this ladder will finally step off it into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Let us move heavenward. Let every thread of selfishness that has been woven into the work be now cut out. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 9)

The work should stand a hundred percent higher than it stands today. The Satanic agencies are working with all their power to weaken and destroy us, and unless there is a waking-up among the people of God, the enemy will gain the victory. God calls upon us to arouse, to take hold of his work, and labor for time and for eternity. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 10)

We are treading over and over in the same ground. Our large churches ought to be turning out men who are educated and trained and disciplined, prepared to enter the Lord’s vineyard; but what are they doing? The barren fields, especially in the South, are crying to God for help. These fields have scarcely been touched, notwithstanding the message that God has been giving for a number of years. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 11)

It is high time that this came to an end. Let the work be woven after the same pattern that it has been in the past, and it will finally come to nought. God calls for a change. Do not wait till the Conference is over, and then gather up the forces to see what can be done. Let us see what can be done now. Find out what power and intelligence there is that can be brought into the Conference. Let all unite in taking hold of the work intelligently. This is what is needed. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 12)

Every institution should have a voice in the working of the cause in which they have an interest. God wants us to come to the place where we shall work, where the whole burden will not be laid on two or three men. Brother Irwin will soon be where he cannot work at all, unless a change is made. He needs support. He has been in the work of wrestling so long that he must have a change, or else he will break down. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 13)

We need men who will stand as true to principle as the needle to the pole. God will test the men who are given responsibilities in His work, and unless they show that they have a true idea of what Christlike principles are, He will remove them and put others in their place. God wants us to know what it means to work on the principles of heaven. He wants those in the office to know what it means for every one to stand in his lot and place, obeying the words, “Add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.” [2 Peter 1:5-7.] Brethren, let us hang these words in the chambers of the mind. If we live on the plan here outlined, we shall never fall; for so an entrance shall be ministered unto us abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 14)

God is in earnest with us. He has seen the close dealing, and it is contemptible in his sight. It leaves men where, if they do not change, they will never see the kingdom of God. They are as destitute of the nobility, the generosity, the tenderness, the compassion, the love of Christ as the hills of Gilboa were destitute of dew and rain. They cannot be aroused to see their condition. Enough has been said, but it does not lead them to reform. The message from heaven is professedly accepted, but no change is made. This is what frightens me. I see that unless these is more tenderness, more compassion, more of the love of God, the blessing of heaven will be withdrawn. John knew what he was talking about when he said, “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.” [Revelation 2:4, 5.] We need to study what John has written about the love of God. This love has not been cultivated, and when it is not cultivated, the opposite attribute is developed. The love of God has not been manifested in our publishing houses. Those who have practiced sharp dealings, thinking thus to gain something, will lose tenfold, and unless they change, their light will be removed. They fail to realize that it is for the interests of the institution with which they are connected to act nobly every tie, to come up to the help of the Lord. God will never acquit us till His principles are followed in our institutions. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 15)

God means what He says. He calls for a change. The same things are being repeated, the same ideas followed, the same committees appointed. In a small section a king reigns, and all others are secondary, when there are other men who are better able to do the work, because they have not been working on narrow plans. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 16)

I feel intensely over this matter. I do not want to talk in this way. If you will melt under the tenderness of God, breaking your hearts before Him, and placing yourselves where you will not mislead, you will see that He hates selfishness. When you bring selfishness into the management of His cause, it makes the crime one hundredfold greater. It makes God ashamed of you. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 17)

You are to be representatives of Jesus Christ, representatives of His character. You are to show that you are carrying out the living principles of heaven in every line of action. God will not accept your common fire. He wants you to use the sacred fire which He has kindled on the divine altar. It is His desire that this fire shall consume all commonness, all selfishness, all cheapness. These things must be taken away from the men who are helping to prepare a people to stand in the last great conflict, which is just upon us. Self must be hid in Christ. When this is done, Christ will appear. Christ will be seen as the great Worker. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 18)

God desires that the committees which have been handling the same things for so long be relieved of their command. They should have a chance for life, to see if they cannot get out of the rut into which they have fallen. I have no hope that they will do this without a thorough change, because the Spirit of God has been working with them, yet the wrong is still there. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 19)

The Lord desires His Holy Spirit to come into this meeting. He declares that every vestige of sharpness in dealing must be removed. No sharpness is to be exercised toward His servants who are working for Him, bringing the tithe into the treasury that His cause may be sustained. God’s treasury is to be supplied by the tithe, which is to be regarded as a sacred fund. It is God’s, and it is to be liberally given, that the work may be sustained. Those in responsible places are to act in such a way that the people will have firm confidence in them. These men should not be afraid to open everything in the management of the work to the light of day. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 20)

When the cause was younger, my husband used to counsel with men who had sound judgment. The work was much smaller than it is now, but he did not feel able to manage it alone. He chose his counsellors from among those bearing responsibility in all parts of the work. And after counselling together, these men would go back to their work feeling a still greater responsibility to carry the work forward in right lines, to uplift, to purify, to solidify, so that the cause of God might move forward in strength. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 21)

We should be filled with joy and gladness to think that God has given us the privilege of being co-laborers with Him. We may have all the power which God pledged Himself to give us when we consecrated ourselves to Him. In heaven the pledge was made that all the facilities and riches of heaven would be imparted to every sincere, faithful worker, who feels his entire dependence upon God. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 22)

When you leave God out of the question, and allow your hereditary and cultivated tendencies to come into your work, you are on very slippery ground. You are not making straight paths for your feet, but crooked paths. We cannot afford to do this. Our redemption cost too much. Christ laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown, and stepped down from His high command, in order that He, divinity and humanity combined, might make Himself a steppingstone whereby man could reach heaven. This He did that men might stand on vantage round with God. His holiness imbues the life of every one who eats the bread of life and drinks the water of salvation. He who receives and practices the words of Christ has eternal life. This life is in him, because he is in Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 23)

How can the Lord bless those who manifest a spirit of “I don’t care,” a spirit which leads them to walk contrary to the light which the Lord has given them? But I do not ask you to take my words. Lay Sister White on one side. Do not quote my words again as long as you live till you can obey the Bible. When you make the Bible your food, your meat and your drink, when you make its principles the elements of your character, you will know better how to receive counsel from God. I exalt the precious Word before you today. Do not repeat what I have said, saying, “Sister White said this,” and, “Sister White said that.” Find out what the Lord God of Israel says, and then do what He commands. Christ said, “I must work the works of him that sent me.” [John 9:4.] (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 24)

We are to follow the principles God has laid down in dealing with one another; for we are the purchase of the blood of Christ. Think of it!—the purchase of the blood of Christ! We cost His life. He was crucified for us, and yet those whom He desires to see standing next to heaven, giving unmistakable evidence that they are receiving the light of His glory, are walking in darkness. It is not emotion that we need, but a living faith in the living word of a living Saviour, a Saviour who proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] He wants us to live His principles. But there are those in positions of responsibility who do not appreciate these principles. They have been tested and tried. A change must be made. Let them have an opportunity to go out into the field and see what it means to wrestle for the cause as some of God’s servants have wrestled. Let them see what it means to build up the work, what it means to establish something out of nothing. Then they will understand that it is God’s desire that His servants shall be linked together, that every part of His work shall be connected with every other part, all being joined together by the golden links of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 25)

There are to be no kings in our work, no man who will put out his hand and say, “No, you cannot go there. We will not support you if you go there.” “We!” What have they to do with the supporting? Is the means of support theirs? The money comes from the people, and God has instructed me to tell those who are working in destitute fields to go to the people and tell them their necessity. They are to draw from the people means to build up the work in the field where they are. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 26)

There is a world to be warned. Are we to have committees which will bind about the work? As we look over the cities of America, where are the monuments for God? Where are the churches to glorify His name. I thank God for the medical missionary work. God will call for every soul who is educated to work in this line in connection with the gospel ministry. He has places for them. Let not one stone be placed in the way of those who are striving to teach our youth how to do this work. The Lord will show that He will work with those who will work. He says, “Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 27)

My heart ached when I was in California. There are there young men laboring among the churches, but where is the power to open new fields. Where are those who say, “We are not to stay with those who know the truth, but are to go to new fields”? There is a world to be saved, as far as men and women will yield to the claims of the truth. The seeds of truth must be sown. “Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields,” Christ said; “for they are white already to harvest.” [John 4:35.] He wants us to see the condition of the field. And then are you to fold your hands and feel at ease, and travel from place to place visiting the churches? No; no! God help you by giving you the spirit of the message, that you may yearn after souls, and not let go till they are converted. This is the work God desires to see done, and till this spirit takes hold of every man and every Conference, the work cannot go forward in power. The Lord desires His people to adopt the light on health reform, leading out in paths of self-denial and self-sacrifice. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 28)

Oh, how it has hurt me to have blocks thrown in my way in regard to this subject. Some have said, “Sister White eats cheese, and therefore we are at liberty to eat cheese.” I have tasted cheese once or twice, but that is a different thing from making it an article of diet. Once when at a camp-meeting I sat down at a table on which there was some cheese. I was quite sick at the time, and some of my brethren told me that they thought if I ate a little cheese, it might do me good. I ate a small piece, and from then it has been said that Sister White eats cheese. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 29)

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.” [1 Corinthians 3:17.] (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 30)

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. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 31)

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. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 32)

Do not refer to what Sister White has said. I do not ask you to do this. God has told me that my testimony must be borne to this Conference, and that I must not try to make men believe it. My work is to leave the truth with minds, and those who appreciate the light from heaven will accept the truth. God wants you to make straight paths for your feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 33)

The Lord desires that with the Conference shall be connected the ability He has given Dr. Kellogg. He wants His people to make the most of the ability He was bestowed on His servants. He does not wish the medical missionary work to be separated from the gospel work, nor the gospel work separated from the medical missionary work. These are to blend. The medical missionary work is to be regarded as the pioneer work. It is the be the means of breaking down prejudice. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 34)

God wants every one of you to stand shoulder to shoulder with Dr. Kellogg, who has become desperate and has nearly lost his life because of the positions taken by some. Many have thrown stones before the car to hinder its advance, when they should have realized that God wants the medical missionary work to go forward. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 35)

Before I came to this Conference, I was in doubt as to where to stay during the meeting. Dr. Kellogg has courteously invited me to make his house my home. But the question arose, “It will be said that Dr. Kellogg has influenced me.” But I thought, Let people say this if they wish to. They have said it before, when there was no more reason for it than there is now. Still, as I wished to remove every possible excuse for talk, I decided not to go to the doctor’s. On Friday evening, at our season of worship, I was asking the Lord to direct me where to stay. I had been sick, and was still sick. I did not wish to attend the Conference at all, because I knew that the exertion would be a terrible strain on me. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 36)

As I was praying, a soft light filled the room, bringing with it a fragrance as of beautiful flowers. Then a voice seemed to say, “Accept the invitation of my servant, John Kellogg, to make his house your home. I have appointed him as My physician, and you can be an encouragement to him.” This is why I am staying at Dr. Kellogg’s house. I wish in every possible way to treat Dr. Kellogg as God’s appointed physician. This I am going to do. And I want my brethren to put all “They say” far away from them. Inquire, What saith the Lord? Go to Him for help Depend not on the opinions of human beings; for they are liable to err. Go to the Lord God of Israel. He will give you understanding and knowledge. You are not to lean on any human being. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 37)

At our season of prayer that evening the whole family was broken down. Though they knew nothing of what I had seen, yet they realized that the Spirit of the Lord was among us. The blessing of God flowed through the room like a tidal wave. The Spirit took hold upon us, and Brother and Sister Druillard wept and praised the Lord. We did indeed have an outpouring of the Spirit. Such things are more precious to me than gold or silver. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 38)

I want to say to you, For Christ’s sake, unify. We cannot reform ourselves by putting our fingers on the wrongs of some one else. Christ says that we must love one another, that we must deal honestly, justly, truly with one another. He says, “I hate your false weights and measures.” He knows every one of us, and He wants us to come into close connection with Him. He told Cornelius where to find Peter. He knew just where Peter was to be found. The angel of the Lord could have given Cornelius the message, but this is not God’s way. He wished to bring about a connection between Peter and Cornelius. The light He had given Peter was to be given to Cornelius. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 39)

My brethren, let the Lord God of Israel in among us. Give Him room. Instead of manifesting hatred, manifest the love of God. God help us to take a right position. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 40)

I believe that God is here today. If I did not believe this, I would not want to say what I have said. I believe He can send what I have said home to your hearts. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 41)

There is a work to be done, not by standing aloof from one another, but by working on God’s principles. The Lord wants you to stand in His strength. He wants you to open the windows of the soul heavenward and close them earthward. He wants to reveal His salvation. He wants the medical missionary work and the gospel to be inseparably bound together. His work is to be a united whole. God wants the talents that He has given Dr. Kellogg. He wants the talents that are in our institutions to be connected with the management of His power. He does not want two or three men to sit as kings, controlling the work. Committees are to be formed which will have an interest in every part of the work. Then the work will be managed on a higher grade than it has yet been managed. medical missionary work opens the way for the gospel. I wish to say that God has not blessed as He would have blessed had there been an appreciation of the work he is carrying on. I thank God that Dr. Kellogg has not sunk into despair and infidelity, as I was afraid that he would. Dr. Kellogg, it may be that I have written to you too strongly, but I felt that I must get hold of you, and hold you with all the power I had. I appreciate the work that is being carried on in medical missionary lines. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 42)

How any one can see this work, and not realize that God is working, is a mystery to me. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 43)

It is God’s design that Dr. Kellogg shall stand in his place to give character to the work by reaching the higher classes. God’s people ought to feel honored that He has given them instrumentalities whereby the higher classes may be reached. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 44)

I wish to say that I want to take hold of the medical missionary work to the utmost of my ability. We have done the best we could in this line of work in Australia. I thank the Lord that His blessing has accompanied our work. Christ’s ministers must stand in an altogether different position. They must be evangelists, they must be medical missionaries. They must take hold of the work intelligently. But it is of no use for them to think that they can do this while they drop the work which God has said should be connected with the gospel. If they drop out the medical missionary work, they need not think that they can carry forward their work successfully, for they have only half the necessary facilities. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 45)

The Lord loves us yet. Let us praise Him for that. Let us take hold of the work in a new way, with heart and mind and strength. Do not any longer pick flaws in your brethren. I see enough vultures watching for dead bodies. Let us have nothing of this nature in our work. Let there be no picking flaws. Attend to yourself, and you will have all you can do. When you purify your souls by obeying the truth, you will have something to impart. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 46)

May God help you all and help me. I want help and strength and power. But do not quote Sister White till you stand on vantage ground, where you know what you are doing. Take the Word of God. It is full of meat and drink. Study the Bible, and you will know more of God than you do now. You will have something fresh to impart to others. You will not go over the same ground again and again. You will realize that there is a world to save. I ask you to put on the whole armor, and be sure that your feet are shoed with the preparation of the gospel of peace. (16LtMs, Ms 43b, 1901, 47)

Ms 43c, 1901

Talk/“I would prefer not to speak today ...”
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 1, 1901
One of four variants of Ms 43, 1901. This copy was reported by J. H. Kellogg.

Sister White: I would prefer not to speak today, but still not because I have nothing to say, because I have; I have something to say. And the state of things as has existed in our conference and the leading responsibilities are not nearly understood in their influence by themselves or by those that are taking responsibilities in the work. The work has been increasing; it has been growing; and from the light that I have had for some time and has been expressed, has been expressed over and over again, not to all there are here, but has been expressed to individuals, and the plans that God would have all to work from, that never should one mind or two minds or three minds nor four minds, or a few minds I should say, be considered of sufficient wisdom and power to control and mark out plans and let it rest upon the minds of one or two or three in regard to this broad, broad field that we have; that we are not coming up to reach that high standard with the great and important truths that we are handling, that God expects us to reach. There are minds which must be brought into altogether more lively action than they are at the present time. And in reference to our conference, it is repeated o’er and o’er and o’er again, that it is the voice of God, and therefore everything must be referred to the Conference and have the conference-voice in regard to permission or restriction or what shall be and what shall not be done in the various fields. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 1)

Now from the light that I have, as it was presented to me in figures: There was a narrow compass here; there within that narrow compass is a king-like, a kingly ruling power. Here the outlets are blocked. And the work all over our field demands an entirely different course of action than we have had; that there needs a laying of a foundation that is different from what we have had. We have heard enough, abundance, about that “everything must go around in the regular lines.” (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 2)

When we see the regular lines are altered and purified and refined, and the God of the Heavens’ mold is upon the regular lines, then it is our business to establish the regular lines. But when we see message after message that God has given has been accepted, but no change, just the same as it was before, then it is evident that new blood must be brought into the regular lines. The leaders of the regular lines, they must have an entire change, an entire new organization, and to have a committee that shall take in not merely half a dozen, that is to be a ruling and controlling power, but it is to have representatives of those that are placed in responsibility in our educational interests, in our sanitariums, that are working, and the life in them, constantly at work, constantly adding, constantly giving to the field the talent that has come from it. And then the comparison that has been presented to me: Where the fields are that have been opened: Where are the fields that have been opened here, the new fields in America? Where is it in California? Where is it here at the great heart of the work? And here are the two great centers—where is the wrestling to get new fields, whether it costs or whether it does not cost, whatever way it shall be. God has His treasures that He has given to the work. He has His treasures in the hills; He has His treasures in every place and in every country, and in all these countries, far and near, He wants to be an arousing, broadening, enlarging power. And a management which is getting confused in itself, not that anyone is wrong or means to be wrong, but the principle is wrong, and the principles have become so mixed, and so fallen from what God’s principles are, and the message has been coming constantly in regard to the principles, sacred, holy, elevating, ennobling, in every institution, in the publishing houses, and in all the interests of the denomination, everything that concerns the handling of the work, it requires minds that are worked by the Holy Spirit of God, and unless that evidence is given, unless there is a power that shows that they are accepted by God to impart to the responsibilities that have to be handled, then there should be a renovation without any delay. To have this conference pass on and close up as the conferences have done, with the same manipulating, with the very same tone, and the same order—God forbid! (“Amen.”) God forbid, Brethren. (Amen.) He wants every living soul that has a knowledge of the truth to come to his senses. He wants every living power to arouse—and we are just about the same thing as dead men. And it is time that we should arise and shine because our time has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon us, and until this shall come we might just as well close up the conference today as any other day. But what we must have is the taking-in of other minds. Where there are minds that have been at work, minds that have been at work in the same tone, and in the same channel, they have become discouraged and they have become confused. Well, now, we cannot trust to such as that in such tremendous responsibilities as are going to be handled here. Why, from the light that God has given me, everything about this conference should be the most sacred. Why? Why because it is to put ideas and plans and work upon their proper basis. And this thing has been continued and renewed for the last 15 years or more, and God calls for a change. God wants that men of capabilities and of mind should understand there is a ladder for them to climb, round after round, and if they climb this ladder, round after round, why they will step off finally into the Kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. We want our course Heavenward. And we want that all the selfishness, every thread of it, that has been woven into the pattern, that every thread of this selfishness is to be got out, and here is a work that, from the light that God has given me, it should stand, yes a hundred per cent higher than it stands today. Here are our enemies. Here are those Satanic agencies that are at work. There is a waking-up on the part of every working agency. Let me tell you that the enemy is getting the victory all the time. God wants us to arouse. God wants us to take hold of this work, every human agency, and He wants us to work for time and for eternity. And treading over and over and over just the same ground—here are our churches, our large churches, and they ought to be turning out men, educating, and training, and disciplining, and there ought to be those that should connect with them here bearing responsibilities that should go on into fields to carry the message into the barren places that have been oh so barren, especially the Southern field, that is closely touched, notwithstanding the message as come from God for the last—I might say—well I do not know how many years, it is quite a number of years, but these things have been told, and this standstill has got to come to an end, but yet every conference has woven after the same pattern. It is the very same loom that carries it, and finally, why, it will come to naught. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 3)

Now God wants a change, and it is high time—it is high time that there was ability that should connect with the Conference, with the General Conference, right here in this city. Not wait until it is done and then find—not wait till it is all done and over with, and then gather up the forces and see what can be done. We want to know what can be done right here; we want to know what can be done right now, and what power and intellect that there is that shall be brought into this work and that they shall unite their powers and take hold of it intelligently, and then God can work with them. Now this is what they want and you want, that every institution that bears a responsibility, bears a voice in the working of this cause. They have a decided interest in it, and God wants that we shall, every one, come into a position where that we shall work; that we will not lay off the burden upon two or three men, and let them carry it all. Bro. Irwin will soon be where he cannot work at all. He wants supporters, and he has been in this work of wrestling and discouragement until he should have a change. He should have some one come in his place, or he is going to give all out. It cannot be. We must have responsible men, and we want men that shall stand just as true as the compass to the pole, and God will test these men, and unless they can show a better idea of what principle is, what sanctified and living and Christlike principle is, then they will have to be changed and try another. But God is going to have a change. He wants us to know what it means to work on the principles of Heaven. He wants that all of us should know what it means to stand in their light, and stand in their place, and every soul that has had a responsibility, that they should have been workers, that they should have had these principles, that they should have had patience, just as it is reported, “Add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.” 2 Peter 1:5-7. Brethren, we all need these letters written and hung in the chambers of the mind, and to him that doeth these things—if you live on this principle you will never fail, “for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” [Verses 10, 11.] (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 4)

Now God is in earnest with us, and He says He calls—Oh, I cannot tell how it is. It is contemptible in the sight of God—contemptible. They pause for fear they are not going to get all that they ought to have, and it leaves a man where he cannot—if he considers that as the principles of Heaven, why it leaves the man where he will never get into Heaven. He cannot get in there. The nobility, the generosity, the tenderness, the compassion, the love of Christ—why they are as destitute of it as the Hills of Gilboa, that had not dew nor rain—just as destitute of it, and we cannot rouse them from it. Enough has been said, over and over and over again, but it did not make any difference. The light shone upon them, just the same, professedly accepting it, but they did not make any change. That is what frightens me. It frightens me because that I saw unless there was more tenderness, more compassion, more of the love of God—the Lord knew what He was talking about when He was talking to the church at Ephesus, “Ye have lost your first love,” and tells them to repent speedily or He will remove the candlestick out of its place. [Revelation 2:4, 5.] (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 5)

What we want is to study all through John and see what is said about the love of God and the love that we should express; but that love has not been cultivated, and if it is not being cultivated the opposite attribute is being cultivated. Now it has not be cultivated in our institutions of publication, and when by every little sharpness that can be exercised by them, by which they think that they are going to gain a little something, they lose fourfold, yes, tenfold in that little transaction, until the light will soon be moved out of its place. They don’t know when it is for the interests of the institution, but God knoweth. Every one God knoweth, and should come right up to the help of the Lord, and to have a new creation of sentiment. Now God never will acquit us until that is there; until this is taught in our institutions, every one of them, and God means what He says, and He says, “I want a change here.” Will it be the same thing, going over and over the same ideas, the same committees—and here is the little throne—the king is in there, and these others are all secondary—those minds that are no much sharper because they have not been working on this narrow, conceited plane. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 6)

I feel intensely in this matter: I did not want to talk here, but I dare not hold my peace. I feel this condition. I think we should hold for the tenderness of God and break your hearts before him, and if you get where you can see these things clearly, you will see that God hates selfishness, and when we bring it into His cause, oh, it makes the crime a hundredfold greater, and when we bring that selfishness in as though we were going to benefit the cause, we do not benefit it at all—it makes God ashamed of you. We are to be representatives of Jesus Christ: We are to be representatives of His character. We are so to do that we are carrying out the living principles in every line of action everywhere, in every country, everywhere, and in every place that there is anything to do with God’s service. He will not accept your common fire. He wants you to take sacred fire that He kindles on the Divine altar, and He wants you to work, and that fire to consume all your commonness, all your intemperance, all your selfishness, all your cheap ideas, all your licentiousness, all this lust—He wants it taken away from a people that are trying to fashion a people to stand in the last great conflict, which is just before us. Self must be hid in God. And when self is hid in God, then will the Lord God appear, and not self. He will appear as the great Worker. And when you think to improve upon God’s plans by your narrowness, by your conceited ideas, and by your planning and grasping and thinking you are going to gain something—and if you have not learned better than that now you will have to learn. God wants that these committees that have been handling things for so long should be relieved of their command and have a chance for their life and see if they cannot get out of this rut that they are in, which I have no hope of their getting out of, because the Spirit of God has been working, and working, and yet the king is there still. Now the Lord wants His Spirit to come in. He wants the Holy Ghost king. He wants everything of the sharpness, that it shall not be exercised toward outsiders, it shall not be exercised toward the strangers within thy gates; that it shall not be exercised toward one that is trying to serve God and trying to exercise all his power to serve Him, that is bringing his tithes here to sustain the ministry; He has a treasury, and that treasury is to be sustained by the tithe, and that tithe is to be a sacred tithe, and it is to be God’s tithe, and that tithe is to be so liberal that it will sustain the work largely; each one to act in his capacity in such a way that the confidence of the whole people will be established in them, and that they will not be afraid, but see everything just as light as day until they are in connection with the work of God and the people. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 7)

I know my husband used to work in that way. He would sit down with this man that he thought had good judgment, and with that man, and with the other man, and with another man—that was when the cause was young; he did not feel that he was capable of carrying the Conference when it was very young. But he had these men, these committees, that were brought in from places all around. It was not just in Battle Creek, but it was in different places, that those that felt a responsibility for the work would go home and feel a larger responsibility for the work. To carry it on in right lines, in Heaven’s lines, in purity, in holiness, in uplifting, in solidity, to the glory of God, should be that which would make every one of us to be joyful and proud that God has given us the privilege to be co-workers with Jesus Christ. Now there is all that power that was pledged to us when we pledged ourselves to God. What power that [was when] all the provision was made in Heaven, all the facilities, all the riches of the grace of God were to be imparted to every worker that was connected with the cause; and every one of these was wholly dependent upon God; and when we leave God out of the question, and leave Jesus Christ out of the question, and allow hereditary and cultivated traits of character to come in, let me tell you, we are on very slippery ground. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 8)

We are making, not straight paths for our feet, but crooked paths that the lame shall be turned out of the way—and we cannot afford it. It has cost too much to Heaven to give us Jesus; it has cost too much to Heaven for Christ to lay aside His royal robe, to lay aside His royal crown, and to step down from His high command, the Prince of Life and Glory, in order that He might make Himself in humanity, and in order that He might the better combine the human with the divine, as a steppingstone for man to step on. It was not humanity, but humanity and divinity combined, and man could step on that steppingstone, and he would be [on] vantage ground with God, because of the perfume—because the sanctified and holy character of God imbues the life of every soul that eats of the Bread of Life and drinks the water of salvation. And every one that eats of Christ, that takes His Word and practices it, should have eternal life. It is in him, because it is in Christ, and Christ is in him. Now here is the way the matter is presented. But when there is a ... I don’t care, I am going right contrary to the law that God has given in His Word, I don’t ask him to take my word, I don’t ask him to do it. Lay Sister White right to one side; lay her to one side; don’t you ever quote my words again as long as you live until you can obey the Bible! When you take the Bible and make that your food, and your meat, and your drink, and make those the elements of your character, when you can do that, you will know better how to receive some counsel from God. But here is the Word, the precious Word, exalted before you today. And don’t you give a rap any more what “Sister White said”—“Sister White said” this, and “Sister White said” that, and “Sister White said” the other thing. But say, “Thus saith the Lord God of Israel,” and then you do just what the Lord God of Israel does, and what He says. Christ says, “I do the works of my Father. The works that I saw him do, I do.” [John 5:19.] Now the works and the sentiments and the principles that we have seen, that God has manifested in dealing with one another, the purchase of the blood of Christ—only think of it. Here we are, the purchase of the blood of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. You just think of it. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 9)

It cost His life. He was crucified for us, and yet here is the very instrumentality that God would have stand next to Heaven, that God would have stand where the light of His glory can shine upon them in unmistakable rays, and they know that the light of heaven is with them. It is no emotion, but it is a living faith that is founded on a living Word and a living God, and the Saviour, who proclaimed over the sepulchre of Joseph, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] He wants you to eat His principles; to live His principles—but those that are there now never will appreciate it. They have had their test, they have had their trial, they have had their warnings, and now there must be a change. Give them an opportunity to go out and see what it means to wrestle in the grace of God as some of His workmen have. Let them see what it means to build up. Let them go into the waste places of earth; let them begin to see what it means to establish things out of nothing. When they do this they will understand that God hath His servants,—his church, established in the earth, composed of many members, but of one body; that in every part of the work one part must work as connected with another part, and that with another part, and with another part, and these are joined together by the golden links of Heaven, and there are to be no kings here in their midst at all. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 10)

There is to be no man that has the right to put his hand out and say, No, you cannot go there, we won’t support you if you go there. Why, what have you to do with the supporting? Did they create the means? The means come from the people and those who are in destitute fields. The voice of God has told me to instruct them to go to the people and to tell them their necessities, and to draw all the people to work just where they can find a place to work, to build up the work in every place they can. There is a work to be done. And we want to know if you have been doing the work, with your committees: Here are the committees—where are the monuments? (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 11)

As we look over the cities—where are the monuments? Where, I ask you, are the churches that are left to glorify God? There are the workers. I thank God that there is a work going on, and I thank God for the medical missionary work; and every soul that shall obtain that education in connection with the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ, God will call for you. God has a place for you. And those that are laboring for the youth in any line in our schools, in the Sanitarium, and wherever they are at work, don’t you put one stone in their way! The Lord has revealed that He will work with those who work. Ye are laborers together with God. Where are the churches? My heart ached when I was in California. There are young men travelling around and around in the churches, but where is the power, where is the power to open the fields for them, and to say, Here, we are not to stay here with the people that know the truth, here is a field that knows nothing about it, and this field is to be converted and educated, as far as they will yield to the truth. But the seeds of truth must be sown. Lift up your heads, for the fields are all ripe for the harvest. But He wanted them to look at it; and He wanted them to see; and He wants every one of you to see it and to fill your hands full. But these who travel from place to place, and from place to place, to look after the churches, God help you by giving you the spirit of the message that your souls shall yearn after other souls, and you will not let go until they are converted. This is the work we want to see done, and until that spirit comes in and takes hold of every mind in every conference that they are conducting, that they are elevating the very light that should be elevated—health reform—that they are elevating by their self-denial and self-sacrifice. Oh my soul, how it has hurt me to have the blocks thrown in the way in regard to myself. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 12)

They will tell you that Sister White did this, or Sister White did that—for instance, “Sister White ate cheese, and so we are all at liberty to eat cheese.” Who told them that I ate cheese? I never have cheese on my table. There was one time when I was at Minneapolis—one or two times I tasted it, but that is a different thing from making it a diet—entirely a different thing. I have tasted of very bitter herbs on special occasions, but I would not make a diet of them. But there was a special occasion in Minneapolis where I could get nothing else, and there were some small bits of cheese on the table, and my brethren were there, and one of them had told me that if I would eat a little of that it would change my condition, and I did. I took a bit of that cheese, and I do not think I touched it again the second time. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 13)

Another says, “Sister White drinks tea, and we can drink tea.” Who of my brethren has made that statement? Who has ever heard it of me? I never have tea in my home or set it before anyone. Now I have not eaten any meat for years and years. Now for instance some one may tell you that Sister White does not eat meat. “Now I want you not to eat it because Sister White doesn’t eat it.” Well, I wouldn’t cure a farthing for anything like that. If you haven’t got any better conviction, that you won’t eat meat just because Sister White does not eat it, I would not give one farthing for your health reform. But I want every one of you to stand on your individual dignity, in your individual consecration to God; that the soul-temple shall be dedicated to God. Whosoever defileth the temple of God, him will God destroy. Now I want you to see these things, and not to make any human being your criterion. What you want is this: You have got a body here, wonderfully made, and you want that that body should be oh so carefully dealt with. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 14)

I have seen—it has been represented to me—the finest machinery was in this body—and a good thing we can carry too far, like inhaling too much and swelling out. God did not make these precious organs to be swelled like a balloon, He never made them for that, and He wants every living soul to deal with this machinery as God’s machinery, that they must keep in perfect order to keep the brain power all right. The brain must work, and every burden you put upon your stomach which should not be in your stomach will just becloud the brain. You go into a conference like this—you sit down and eat hearty meals and neglect to exercise, and then come into the conference meeting, and you are all sleepy; your ideas are not good for anything, and you really do not know what you are consenting to. Now God wants every soul here to sharpen up. He wants every soul here [to] have His converting power. You need not refer once to Sister White, I don’t ask you to do it. God has told me that my testimony must be borne straight to this conference, and that I am not to try to make a soul believe; that my work is to leave the truth with human minds, and those having found the truth in the Word of God will appreciate it, and will appreciate every ray of light that God has given for poor lame souls that they should not be turned out of the way, and I want you to make straight the paths for your feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way. Now we want that in the conference we shall have the ability that God has given unto Dr. Kellogg—I don’t suppose he is here—I don’t know that he is, at any rate (“Yes, he is here.”) I can’t see without my congregational glasses—but I want to say that the Lord wants you to make the most of the capabilities that He is using in every part of the work. He does not mean the medical missionary work separated from the gospel work, nor the gospel work separated from the medical missionary work. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 15)

He wants them to blend together and He wants that this educating power of the medical missionary work shall be considered as the pioneer work, the breaking-up plow, for the breaking down of the prejudices that have existed and that nothing will break down like it; and God wants every soul to stand shoulder to shoulder with Dr. Kellogg. He has become all but desperate, and came nearly—almost losing his life because of the positions that have been taken, and everyone throwing a stone right before the car so that it should not advance. Now God wants the health and missionary work to advance. He wants His work to be carried on. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 16)

Really, when I came here I did not know what to do. Courteously, Dr. Kellogg had asked me to come to his house and let them give me treatment a week or two before the conference, that I should be able to attend the conference. Then came up the question, Here, what about this: They will say that Dr. Kellogg has manipulated you. Let them say it if they want to, they have said it enough when there was not a particle of ground for it. But I was going to take all the difficulty out of the way, so I sent word, “Find me a place.” Dr. Kellogg has kindly opened his place to me, but to remove all occasion for talk I decided that I would not go there. Now find me a place. On Friday night I was knelt in prayer, saying, “O Lord, tell me where to go and what to do.” There I had been sick, and was still sick—and why I didn’t choose to come to Battle Creek to the conference was, that I knew it would be a terrible trial for me. This is the third winter I am passing through. I passed through one in Australia, one in California, and I am passing the third here. And now you can judge that all this tells upon my system. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 17)

Then the heated houses, when there was no more need for having it heated than there was in California, but they were heated, and so brought me down into a terrible condition of malaria, and I have had it here ever since Christmas, and then the very crisis came when I was at Los Angeles, and there I knew nothing—after I had been speaking on Sunday I didn’t know anything more until two o’clock the next morning, when I found them all working over me—and I didn’t know anything about it, or about what had been done, or anything about it, and then it was that the fullness that I had had in my head passed through the whole channel of the body. And that brought on the bloody flux, and I have been travelling all this time up to the time I came here, with that terrible disorder, the bloody flux. I couldn’t sit up at all, only lie down all the time—and yet I have not disappointed a single place but one since leaving Los Angeles. I got up, stood on my feet, and the strength of God held me up. At Vicksburg I spoke twice, at Nashville I spoke twice, at Memphis I spoke once, and at Chicago I spoke twice, and God help me to speak. And then I came here, and I have been speaking ever since I came here. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 18)

Now you see I was afraid of all this, and I didn’t want to sacrifice my life, and so I said that I couldn’t come here. I couldn’t come across the plains. I was afraid. I nearly melted the tendons during the cold weather when I was travelling because of a heated coil running right under where I was lying on the way across from Australia. So I said I couldn’t come. Then they said they would have the conference in Oakland. But in the night season I was talking to you just as I am here today. I was bearing a message night after night and night after night and then I would get up and write it out, and I would get up at 12 o’clock, and 1 o’clock, and 2 o’clock, and write out the message that I had. And it was then, while I was considering these things, came messages from London, that they had hoped that they could see me and meet me, but now they couldn’t come so far, and it cost so much, and I heard it would cost from five to eight thousand dollars more, and then I said, “We have got no such money to spare, and if I sacrifice my life, I will try it, anyway.” (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 19)

Well, Dr. Kellogg never persuaded me at all to come here. When I spoke of the particulars, the cold weather, “Why,” he said, “would it make any difference if”—the only words he spoke to me—“would it make any difference if the conference could be changed to a few weeks later?” I said, “It would.” Then I began to think on that plan, after he had gone. Well, we knelt down to pray, and I was asking the Lord where I should go and what I should do. I was for backing out and not going anywhere. Sadie says, “You are not fit to go anywhere. You are not fit to go anywhere.” Well, while I was praying and was sending up my petition there was, as at other times—I saw a light circling right around in the room, and a fragrance like the fragrance of flowers, and the beautiful scent of flowers, and then the voice seemed to speak gently, and said that I was to “accept the invitation of My servant, John Kellogg, and make his house my home.” Then the word was, “I have appointed him as My physician. You can be an encouragement to him.” That is why I am here, and that is why I am at his home. Now I want in every way possible, if I can, to treat Dr. Kellogg as God’s appointed physician, and I am going to do it. And I want that my brethren—that they should unite. “They say, they say, they say.” You just put the “they-says” right away from you. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 20)

“Watch,” saith the Lord, “to hear what he will say.” You look to the Lord, and don’t you look to any human power and get their mind, for they are nothing but human, they are nothing but evil; but you just look to the Lord God of Israel and He will give you understanding, and He will give you knowledge. But you are not to lean your helpless soul on any other human being. You have got a character to form for your own individual self, and that character God has given every encouragement should be after God’s order. Now in addition to this that I tell you, the next night—that night I slept happy, very happy. The whole family was melted and broken down. They knew nothing of what I had in my mind at all, nothing at all that I had seen, but the Spirit of God was there. They were all weeping and broken, and the blessing of God was flowing through that room like a tidal wave. The Spirit of God had taken hold upon us and Sister Druillard was just weeping and praising God, and Bro. Druillard was praising God and we all there had an outpouring of the Spirit of God. Such things are more precious to me than the gold of Ophir. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 21)

Now I want to say, for Christ’s sake, let’s unify. Let us put away—we cannot reform ourselves by putting our fingers on somebody else’s wrongs and think that is going to cover our own. God says we must love one another. God says we must deal justly, honestly, and truly with one another. God says, “I hate your false weights and your false measures.” But He tells us that He knows us in every testimony that He has given in other cases. It is the Lord wants us to come into the closest connection with Him. You know He told Cornelius all about where Peter was. He knew just where to look, and He told him all about these things—how he was with one who was a tanner—and here it was all worked out. The Angel of God could have told Cornelius all about this message, but, No, God’s church must connect together, and the law that God had imparted to Peter was to be imparted to Cornelius and all his family. Now that is what God wants, and He speaks to everyone of us to come to Him, and while we are as weak as we are, because we are crippling over somebody else. Now let the Lord God of Israel come into our place. Give Him room. Give Him place, and let us begin to exercise the love of God in our hearts instead of hatred. Just as soon as you begin to build up yourself, you begin to hate others. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 22)

God help us to come into right positions, and I believe He is here today. If I didn’t believe He was here I would not be saying the things I have said. But I believe you can take these things home to your hearts. And there must be a heartwork done here. Not doing nothing, but work right out on Christ’s principles, and when you work on the principles of Heaven you see the salvation of God revealed, and God wants you to stand ready to strike. He wants you to open the windows Heavenward and close them Earthward. He wants the salvation of God to be revealed. He wants the medical missionary work and the gospel combined and bound up together just as fast together that they will be inseparable. And He wants that this work shall blend, and that there should be a united whole with this people. He wants the talent that is in Dr. Kellogg; He wants the talent that is in the school; He wants what is in every institution to be connected with the management of His work and His churches. He does not want two or three minds to set themselves as kings and the rest of them—to be managed by these two or three minds. He wants that there shall be committees that are holding a part in every part of His work. And then the medical missionary work, you understand, will be wrought upon a higher grade than it has ever been wrought before. God wants it wrought. I have seen people ready to. “Why,” some say, “Why, they have had more than their proportion of what others have had in Australia.” We have had none too much, only we ought to have had ten times what we had to begin with, that we could establish something that would be an entrance, something that would a pioneer to the work. That will take everywhere. There is no use to shut it down, it will take everywhere. There is not a place but what medical missionary work will take, and it will open the way for the gospel. Now God has not blessed us as He would have blessed us had there been an appreciation of the work that he is carrying on. I thank God that Dr. Kellogg has not sunk into despondency and infidelity. I have been afraid of it, and I have written some very straight things to him, and it may be, Dr. Kellogg, if he is here, that I have written too strong, for I felt as though I must get hold of you and hold you by the power of all the might I had. But I have seen the work, I have seen the work that has been carried on, and how can anybody see it and not see that God is at work? That is the mystery to me. I cannot understand it. I cannot explain it. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 23)

That those that shall have any knowledge of the work wrought here, should be the men that should represent it; that they should stand to give character to the work, and to the higher classes, [that] they may be reached. And every soul of you ought to feel honored before God that He has given you instrumentalities that the higher classes may be reached, and that the wealthy classes should be reached. You should feel to thank God for the honor that He has bestowed. And I want to say that I want to take hold to the utmost of my ability—Well, I have done the very best I could in the medical missionary line. We have helped. But I won’t tell you. I won’t say anything about it more, but I want to tell you we have found poverty that we have had to relieve clear up to the last moment when we left Australia. It has been poverty, poverty, poverty all the way through that we met with everywhere, but I thank God that His blessing has accomplished it. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 24)

And now I think that for the present time I have said enough. But God’s ministers must come into altogether a different position. They must be evangelists. They must be medical missionaries. They must take hold of the work intelligently. They must press the work into far-off places—and it is of no use to think they are doing it if God has given us a work in connection with the gospel, and they drop that work and take up the gospel, then you need not expect that you are going to be filled with intensity because you have not more than one-half of the facilities that God wants you to have. But the Lord loves us yet. Now let us praise God for that. Now let us take hold of the work in a new way. Let us take hold of the work with heart and mind and soul. Do not pick flaws any more. Oh, I see a lot of buzzards, and I see a lot of vultures that are watching and waiting for dead bodies, and we don’t want anything of that. We want no picking of flaws in others. Attend to No. 1, and you have got all that you can do. If you attend to No. 1, and if you purify your souls by obeying the truth, you will have something to impart. You will have a power to give to others. God help you; I beseech of Him to help you, every one of you, and to help me. I want help; I want strength; I want power. But don’t you ever quote Sister White. I don’t want you ever to quote Sister White until you get up on vantage ground where you know where you are. Quote the Bible. Talk the Bible. It is full of meat, full of fatness. Carry it right out in your life, and you will know more Bible than you know now. You will have fresh matter—O, you will have precious matter; you won’t be going over and over the same ground, and you will see a world saved. You will see souls for whom Christ has died. And I ask you to put on the armor, every piece of it, and be sure that your feet are shod with the preparation of the gospel. (16LtMs, Ms 43c, 1901, 25)

Ms 43d, 1901

Talk/“I would prefer not to speak today ...”
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 1, 1901
One of four variants of Ms 43, 1901. This copy was reported by the General Conference.

Talk of Mrs. E. G. White, before representative brethren, in the College Library, April 1, 1901, 2:30 p.m. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 1)

Elder A. G. Daniells in the Chair. Elder M. C. Wilcox led in prayer. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 2)

A. G. Daniells: A small meeting was held here last evening to consider some matters; and while the question was being considered, it was decided to adjourn the meeting until this afternoon at 2:30 o’clock. It was thought that during the interval we ought to counsel with Sister White regarding the situation at the present time, and give her an invitation to be present and place before us any light that she might have for us. It was also thought that it would be well to enlarge the meeting, and invite others who are bearing responsibilities, that they might be present with us. During the forenoon, Brother Irwin, Brother Haskell, Brother Olsen, and myself have had some counsel with Sister White, and she has consented to be present with us and lay some matters before us that have been opened up to her mind. We are very thankful indeed to have her present, and will invoke the blessing of our Father upon her during this occasion. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 3)

Mrs. E. G. White: I did not expect to lead out in this meeting. I thought I would let you lead out, and then if I had anything to say, I would say it. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 4)

A. G. Daniells: Well, it seemed to me (and I think to all of us who counseled with you this morning) that we had said about as much as we wished to until we heard from you. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 5)

Mrs. E. G. White: I would prefer not to speak today, but still not because I have not anything to say, because I have. I have something to say, and the state of things as has existed in our Conference and the leading responsibilities, are not really understood in their influence by themselves or by those that are taking responsibilities in the work. The work has been increasing. It has been growing, and from the light that I have had for some time, has been expressed, has been expressed over and over again—not to all there are here—but has been expressed to individuals, and the plans that God would have all to work from, that never should one mind or two minds or three minds or four minds, or a few minds, I should say, be considered of sufficient wisdom and power to control and mark out plans, and let it rest upon the mind of one or two or three in regard to the field—this broad, broad field that we have; that we are not coming up to reach that high standard with the great and important truths which we are handling, that God expects us to reach. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 6)

There are minds which must be brought into altogether more lively action than they are at the present time; and in reference to our Conference, it is repeated o’er and o’er and o’er again that it is the voice of God, and therefore everything must be referred to the Conference, and have the Conference’s voice in regard to permission or restriction, or what shall be and what shall not be done in the various fields. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 7)

Now from the light that I have, as it was presented to me in figures; and there was a narrow compass here [drawing a circle on a book with her hand]; there within that narrow compass is a kingly, ruling power; here the outlets are locked; and the work carried on all over our field demands an entirely different course of action than we have had; that there needs to be the laying of a foundation that is different from what we have had. We have heard enough, abundance about, Everything must go around in the regular lines. When we see the regular lines are impressed and purified and refined, and the God of the Heavens’ mold is upon the regular lines, then it is our business to establish the regular lines. But when we see that message after message that God has given has been taken and accepted, but no change—just the same as it was before, then we know that there is new blood [that] must be brought into the regular lines. The managers of the regular lines, they must have an entire change, an entire new organization, and to have a Committee that shall take in not merely a half a dozen that is to be a ruling and a controlling power, but it is to have the voice of those that are placed in responsibilities in our educational interests, in our Sanitarium that is working, and the life in them constantly at work, constantly broadening, constantly giving to the field the talent that has come to it—and then the comparison that has been presented to me, of where the fields are that have been opened, where are the new fields that have been opened here in America? Where is it in California? Where is it here at the great heart of the work? And here are the two great centers; where is the wrestling to get into fields, whether it costs or does not cost, whatever way it shall be? God has His treasures that He has given to our world. He has His treasure in the hills; He has His treasure in every district, He has His treasures in every place and in every country, and all these countries, and all these countries far and near, He wants to be a widening, broadening, enlarging power. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 8)

And the management, it is becoming confused in itself—not that any one means to be wrong or to do wrong; but the principle is wrong, and the principles have become so mixed and so foreign from what God’s principles are, and the message has been going constantly in regard to principles, sacred, holy, elevated, ennobling, in every institution, in the publishing house, and in all the interests of the General Conference—everything that concerns the handling of the work, it requires minds that are worked by the Holy Spirit of God; and unless that evidence is given, unless that it is, or something that there is a power that shows that they are accepting from God to impart to the responsibilities that have to be handled, then there should be a renovation without any delay. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 9)

To have this Conference pass on and close up as the Conferences have done, with the same manipulating, with the very same tone and the same order—God forbid! God forbid, brethren. He wants every living power that has a knowledge of the truth to come to their senses. He wants every living power to arouse, and we are just about as much dilly-dallying, and it is time that we arise and shine, because our light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon us; and until [unless] this shall come, we might just as well close up the Conference today as any other day; but what we must have is taking in of other minds. Why, there are minds here that have been at work, minds that have been at work in the same chain, in the same channel; they have become discouraged, and they have become confused. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 10)

Well, now, we cannot trust to such as that in such tremendous responsibilities as have got to be handled here. Why, from the light that God has given me, everything about this Conference should be the most sacred. Why?—Why, because it is to put ideas and plans and work upon their proper basis, and this thing has been acted and reacted for the last fifteen years or more, and God calls for a change. God wants that men of capabilities and of mind should understand there is a ladder for them to climb, round after round, and if they climb this ladder round after round, why, they will step off finally into the kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. We want our course heavenward, and we want that all the selfishness, every thread of it, that has been woven into the pattern, every thread of this selfishness is to be cut out. And here is a work that, from the light that God has given me, it should stand, yes, a hundred per cent higher than it stands today. Here are our enemies, here are those Satanic agencies that are at work with all their power and with all their capability to weaken and to destroy, and unless there is a wakening up from every working agency, let me tell you that the enemy is getting a victory all the time. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 11)

God wants us to arouse. God wants us to take hold of this work—every human agency, and He wants us to work for time and for eternity. The treading over and over and over and over the same ground—here are our large churches, and they ought to be turning out men, educating and training and disciplining; and there ought to be those who should connect with the responsibilities, that shall go out into fields to carry the message, and the barren fields that have been, oh, so barren, more especially in the Southern field, that is scarcely touched, notwithstanding the message has come from God for the last, I might say—well, I do not know how many years—it is quite a number of years, and these things [have been told]. Our standstill has got to come to an end; but yet every Conference, it is woven after the very same pattern. It is the very same loom that carries it, and finally it will come to naught. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 12)

Now God wants a change, and it is high time, it is high time that there were ability that should connect with the Conference, with the General Conference, right here in its sitting—not wait till it is done, and then find—not wait till it is all done and over with, and then gather up the forces [to] see what can be done. We want to know what can be done right here, what can be done right now, and what power and intellect that there is that shall be brought into this work, and that they shall unite their powers and take hold of it intelligently, and that God can work with them. Now this is what we want, and we want that every institution that bears a responsibility bears a voice in the working of this cause which they have a decided interest in. And God wants that we shall every one come into a position where we shall work, that we will not lay off the burden on two or three men and let them carry it. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 13)

Brother Irwin soon will be where he cannot work at all. He wants supporters, and he has been in this work of wrestling and discouragement till he should have a change. He should have some one come in his place, unless that you expect that he is going to give all out. It cannot be. We must have responsible men, and we want men that shall stand just as true as the compass to the pole; and God will test these men, and unless they can show a better idea of what principle is, what sanctified and heavenly and Christlike principle is, why then they will have to be changed, and try another. But God is going to have a change. He wants us to know what it means to work on the principles of Heaven. He wants officers to know what it means for every one to stand in his lot and in his place, and every soul that has had the responsibility, that he should have been a guardian, that he should have been a shepherd, that he should have had patience, just as it is represented—“add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.” Brethren, we all need these letters written and hung into the chambers of the mind; and the one that doeth these things, if you will believe on this principle, you will “never fall: for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” [2 Peter 1:5-7, 10, 11.] (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 14)

Now God is in earnest with us, and He has seen the close—O, I cannot tell how it is. It is contemptible in the sight of God, contemptible. It is so close, for fear I shall not get all I ought to have, and it leaves the man where that he cannot, if that he considers the principles of Heaven—why, it leaves the man where he will never get into Heaven; he could not get in there. The nobility, the generosity, the tenderness, the compassion, the love of Christ—why, they are as destitute of [them] as the hills of Gilboa that had no dew nor rain—just as destitute of [them]; and you could not arouse [him] to [them]. Enough has been said; enough has been said over and over and over again, but it does not make any difference; they go right on just the same, professedly accepting it, but they do not make any change. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 15)

Well, now that is what burdens me; that is what burdens me. It burdens me because that I see unless there is more tenderness, more compassion, more of the love of God—the Lord knew what He was talking about when He gave the message to Daniel—“You have lost your first love, you have lost it.” [Revelation 2:4.] (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 16)

S. N. Haskell: It was John. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 17)

Mrs. E. G. White: He tells you to repent speedily, or He will remove the candlestick out of his place, and regain the first love. What you want is to study all through John, and see what was said about the love of God, and the love that we should express; and that love has not been cultivated, and if it is not cultivated, the opposite attributes are cultivated. Well now, it has not been cultivated in our institutions of publication, and in the little sharpness that can be exercised, that they think they are going to gain a little something—they lose fourfold, yes, tenfold in that little transaction, until the light is ruled out of his place. They do not know when it is for the interests of the institution to act nobly, every time act nobly, and to come up to the help of the Lord, to have a new creation of sentiment. Well now, God never will acquit us until that is there, until it is right in our institutions, every one of them; and God means just what He says. He wants a change here. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 18)

Well, to think that this same thing is [happening] over the very same ideas, the same committees; and here is a little throne, the king is reigning in here, and others, why, they are all secondary; when there are minds that are as much sharper, because they have not been working on this narrow, conceited plan. Why, I feel intensely. I did not want to talk so, but I dare not hold my peace. I feel this business—and if you should melt under the tenderness of God and break your hearts before him, and ever come where you can see things clearly, you will see God hates selfishness, and when you bring it into his cause, O, it makes the crime a hundredfold greater when you bring that selfishness in, as though you were going to benefit the cause. You do not benefit [it] a particle. It makes God ashamed of you. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 19)

Well, what are we? We are to be representatives of Jesus Christ. We are to be representatives of His character. We are to show that we are carrying out the living principles in every line, in action, in every country everywhere, and in every place that has anything to do with God’s service. He will not accept your common fire. He wants you to take the sacred fire that He kindles on the divine altar, and He wants you to [work], and that fire to consume all your commonness, all your intemperance, all your selfishness, all your cheap ideas, all licentiousness—O, this lust, He wants it taken away from all people that are trying to fashion a people to stand in the last great conflict which is just before us. Self must be hid in God. When self is hid in God, then will the Lord God appear, and not self. He will appear as the great Worker, that when you think to improve on God’s plans by your narrowness, by your conceited ideas, and by your planning and grasping and thinking you are going to gain something, why, if you have not learned now, you will have to learn; and we want that these—God wants, I should say, that these committees that have been so long handling the same things, should be relieved of their command, and have a chance for their life, and see if they cannot get out of this rut that they are in, which I have no hope of their getting out of—not a bit, because the Spirit of God has been working and working, and yet it clings there still. Now the Lord wants His Spirit should come in. He wants the Holy Ghost to come in. He wants everything of this sharpness, that it shall not be exercised toward outsiders, it shall not be exercised toward the strangers that are within our gates; that it shall not be exercised toward one that is trying to serve God and trying to exercise all his power to serve Him, that is bringing in the tithes here to sustain the ministry. He has a treasury, and that treasury is to be sustained by the tithe, and that tithe is to be a sacred tithe, and it is to be God’s tithe, and that tithe is to be so liberal that it will sustain the work largely, and they are to act in their capacity in such a way that the confidence of the whole people will be established in them, and that they will not be afraid to open everything just as light as day to all that are in connection with the work of God and the people. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 20)

I know my husband used to work hard every way. He would sit down with this man that he thought had good judgment, and that man, and the other man, and the other man—that was when the cause was young. He did not feel that he was capable of carrying the Conference when it was young, but he had these men, these committees that were brought in from places all around. It was not just in Battle Creek, but it was in places, in different places that those who felt the responsibility of the work would go home and feel a larger responsibility of the work to carry it on in right lines, in even lines, in purity, in holiness, in uplifted [uprightness], in solidity, so that the cause of God should be that which would make every one of us joyful and proud that God had given us the privilege to be colaborers with Jesus Christ. Now there is all that power that was pledged to us when we pledged ourselves to God. That power, all the provision that was made in heaven, all the facilities, all the riches of the grace of God were to be imparted to every worker that was connected with the cause; and every one of these is wholly dependent upon God; and when you leave God out of the question, and Jesus Christ out of the question, and let the hereditary and cultivated traits of character come in, let me tell you, we are on very slippery ground; we are not making straight paths for our feet, but crooked paths, that the lame shall be turned out of the way; and we cannot afford it, we cannot afford it. It has cost too much to Heaven to give us Jesus. It has cost too much to Heaven for Christ to lay aside His royal robe, to lay aside His royal crown, and to step down from His high command, the Prince of Life from glory, in order that He might make Himself in humanity and divinity combined a steppingstone for man to step on. It was not humanity, but humanity and divinity combined, and that man could step on that steppingstone, and that he would be on vantage ground with God, because the perfume, because the sanctified and holy character of God imbues the life of every soul that eats of the Bread of Life and drinks of the water of salvation; and every one that eats of Christ, that takes His Word and practices it, hath eternal life; it is in him, because he is in Christ, and Christ is in him. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 21)

Now here is the way the matter [is] represented; but when there is “I do not care,” and going right contrary to the light that God has given in His Word—I do not ask you to take my word; I do not ask you to do it; lay Sister White right to one side; you lay her right to one side. Do you not—never quote my words again as long as you live, until you can obey the Bible. When you take the Bible and make that, make that your food, your meat, and your drink, and make that the elements of your character—when you can do that, then you will know better how to receive some counsel from God. But here the Word, the precious Word, I exalt it before you today; and do not go and repeat any more what Sister White said—“Sister White said this,” and “Sister White said that,” and “Sister White said the other thing;” you say, “What saith the Lord God of Israel?” and then you do just what the Lord God of Israel does and what He says. Christ says: “I do the works of my Father; the works that I see him do, I do.” [John 5:19.] (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 22)

Well now, the works and sentiments and the principles that you have seen, that God has manifested in dealing with one another, the purchase of the blood of Christ—why, only think of it. Here we are, the purchase of the blood of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. You just think of it. We cost His life. He was crucified for us, and yet here are the very instrumentalities that God would have stand next to Heaven, that God would have stand where the light of His glory can shine upon them in unmistakable rays, and they know that the light of Heaven is with them. It is no emotion, it is a living faith that is founded on the living words of a living God, of a Saviour that proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, “I am the resurrection and the life” [John 11:25]; and here He wants you to eat His principles, to live His principles; but those that are now there never will appreciate it. They have had their test; they have had their trial; they have had their warnings. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 23)

Now there must be a change. Give them an opportunity to go out and see what it means to wrestle in the cause of God as some of His workmen have. Let them see what it means to build up. Let them go in the waste places of the earth. Let them begin to see what it means to establish things out of nothing. When they do this, they will understand that God means that His servants shall be linked in one, that every part of the work—one part has connection with another part, and another part, and another part, and another part; and there it is joined together by the golden links of Heaven, and there are to be no kings here ruling at all. There is to be no man that is going to put his hand out and say, “No, you could [can]not go there; we could [can]not support you if you go there.” We ask, Have we to do with their supporting? Did they [you] create the means? The means come from the people, and those that are in the destitute fields, the voice of God has told me to instruct them to go to the people, and to tell them their necessities, to draw from the people, and to work just where they can find a place to work, to build up the work in every place that they possibly can. There is a world to be saved, and we want to know if we have got our committees that have got a bind about the work? And we look over the cities—where are the monuments? Where, I ask you, are the churches that were left to glorify God? Where are the workers? I thank God that there is a work going on, and I thank God for the medical missionary work, and every soul that shall obtain that education in connection with the gospel of Jesus Christ, God will call for you; God has a place for you; and those who are laboring for the youth in any line in our schools, in the Sanitarium, and wherever they are at work, don’t you put one stone in their way. The Lord will reveal that He will work with those who do work. “Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 24)

Here are the churches. My heart ached when I was in California. There are young men treading right round and round in the churches; but where’s the power? Where’s the power to open the fields for them, and to say, “here, we are not to stay here with the people that know the truth”? Here is a world that knows nothing about it, and this world is to be converted and educated just as far [fast] as it will yield to the truth; but the seed of truth must be sown. Lift up your heads, said Christ, for the fields are all ripe to harvest. Well, He wanted them to look at it, and He wanted them to see it, and He wants every one of you to see it; and to fold your hands and to feel at ease, and to travel from place to place, and place to place, to look after the churches—God help you by giving you the spirit of the message, that you soul shall yearn after other souls, and you will not let go until they are converted. This is the work we want to see done, and until that spirit comes in and takes hold of every man in every Conference, that they are educated, that they are adopting the very light—[and] that should [include] health reform, that they are living out in paths of self-denial and self-sacrifice. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 25)

O, my soul, how it has hurt me to have the blocks thrown in the way in regard to myself! They will tell, “Sister White said this.” “Sister White ate cheese, and therefore we are all at liberty to eat cheese.” Well, who told them I ate cheese? Who told them? I never have cheese on my table. There was but one time—I was at Minneapolis—one or two times I have tasted of cheese. That is a different thing from making it a diet, entirely different thing. I have tasted of very bitter herbs on special occasions, when I would not make it a diet. But there was a special occasion in Minneapolis where that I could get nothing, and there were some little bits of cheese cut up on the table, and the brethren were there, and one of them had told me, “If you eat a little of that cheese, it will change the condition;” and I did. I took a bit of that cheese. I do not think that I touched it again the second time. Another says: “Sister White drinks tea, and you can drink tea.” Who of my brethren has ever made that statement? Who has ever heard it, or ever made it of me? I never have tea in my house, and I never set it before any one. Sister White has not had meat in her house or cooked it in any line, or any dead flesh, for years and years. And here is the health reform. “Now I have told you Sister White did not eat meat. Now I want you not to eat meat, because Sister White does not eat it.” Well, I would not give—I would not care a farthing for anything like that. If you have not got any better conviction—you won’t eat meat because Sister White does not eat any—if I am the authority, I would not give a farthing for your health reform. What I want [is] that every one of you should stand in your individual dignity before God, in your individual consecration to God, that the soul-temple shall be dedicated to God. “Whosoever defileth the temple of God, him will God destroy.” [Verse 17.] Now I want you to think of these things, and do not make any human being your criterion. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 26)

What you want—you have got a body here wonderfully made, and you want that that body should be, oh, so carefully dealt with. I have seen, or it has been represented to me, the finest machinery was in the body, and a good thing you can carry too far, like inhaling too much and swelling out. God did not make these precious organs to be swelled like a balloon. He never made it for that, and He wants nobody to be presumptuous on any of these things; and He wants every living soul to deal with his machinery as good [God’s?] machinery, that they must keep in perfect order to keep the brain nerve power all right. The brain must work, and every burden that you put upon your stomach which should not be in your stomach will just becloud the brain. You come into a Conference like this, you sit down, and you eat too hearty meals, and not exercise, and then go into the meeting, and you are all sleepy. Your ideas are not good for anything, and you do not really know what you are sent to. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 27)

Now God wants every soul here should sharpen up. He wants every soul here shall have His converting power. You need not refer once to what Sister White has seen. I do not want you to do it. God has told me that my testimony must be borne straight to this Conference, and that I am not to try to make a soul believe it; that my work is to leave the truth with human minds, and those that can have the truth in the Word of God and will appreciate it, will appreciate every light that God has given for poor lame souls, that they should not be turned out of the way; and He wants you to make straight paths for your feet, lest the lame should be turned out of the way. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 28)

Now we want that in the Conference we shall have, that the ability that God has given to Dr. Kellogg—I do not suppose he is here, I do not know that he is, but at any rate— (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 29)

A. G. Daniells: Yes, he is here. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 30)

Mrs. E. G. White: Well, I cannot see. I have to have congregational glasses that I can discern the faces; but I cannot see; but I want to say that the Lord wants you to make the most of the capabilities that He is using in every part of the work. He does not want the medical missionary work separated from the gospel work, nor the gospel work separated from the medical missionary work. He wants them to build up together, and He wants that this, the educating power of the medical missionary work, should be considered as the pioneer work, the breaking-up plow, the breaking down of prejudice that has existed; and nothing will break it down like it; and God wants every soul to stand shoulder to shoulder with Dr. Kellogg. He has become all but desperate, and come nearly, I might say, losing his life, because of the positions that have been taken, and every one throwing a stone right before the car, so that it should not advance. Now God wants the health and missionary work to advance. He wants God’s work to be carried on. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 31)

I did not know, really, when I came here, I did not know what to do. Courteously, Dr. Kellogg had asked me to come to his house and let them give me treatment a week or two before the Conference, that I should be able to enter the Conference. Then comes up the question, Here, what about—they will say, “Well, Dr. Kellogg has manipulated you.” Let them say it if [they] want to. They said it enough when there was not a particle of ground for it, so now let them say it. But I was going to give them—I was going to take all difficulty out of the way, so I sent word, Find me a place somewhere. Dr. Kellogg has opened kindly to me, but to remove all occasion for talk, I decided that I would not go there. Now find me a place. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 32)

Friday night I was kneeling down praying. “O Lord, tell me where to go and what to do.” There I have been sick, and was still sick, and—why, I did not choose to come to Battle Creek. (For) I knew that it would be a terrible trial to me. This is the third winter I am passing through. I passed through one in Australia, I have passed through one in California, and I am passing through the third here; and now you can judge that all this tells upon my system. And then the heated houses, when there is no more need of having it heated in California—but there is the house heated, and here I was brought down in a terrible condition of malaria, and I have had it over since Christmas upon me; and then the very crisis came when I was at Los Angeles, and there I knew nothing—after I had spoken on Sabbath I did not know anything about it, and then it was that this awfulness that I had had in my head passed through the whole channel of the body, and that brought on the bloody flux, and I have been traveling all this time up to the time I came here, with that terrible disorder, the bloody flux—could not sit up at all hardly—had to lie all the time. And yet I have not disappointed a single place; but once in Los Angeles I got up and stood on my feet in the strength of God. At Vicksburg I spoke twice, and at Nashville I spoke twice, and at Memphis I spoke once, and at Chicago I spoke twice; and God helped me to speak. And then I came here, and I have been speaking over since I have been here, nearly all the time and at every place. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 33)

Now you see I was afraid of all this, and I did not want to sacrifice my life, and so I said I could not come here. I could not come across the plains there. I could not do it. I was afraid. I nearly melted my kidneys when I went in cold weather, and there were coils right under where I was lying, and I never got over it to this day—and that is when I went to Texas on my way to Australia. And there I was afraid, and so I said I could not come; and they said then they would have the Conference in Oakland. But in the night season I was talking to you just as I am today. I was bearing a message night after night, and night after night, and then I would get up and write it. I would get up at one o’clock, and would get up at twelve o’clock; I would get up at two o’clock, and I would write out the message that I had, and it was then, while I was considering these things, came the messages from London, how that they hoped that they could—would see me and meet me, but now they could not come so far, and cost so much; and I heard it would cost from five to eight thousand dollars, the difference; and then I said, We have got no such money to spare, and if I sacrifice my life, I will try it. I will try it, anyhow. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 34)

Well, Dr. Kellogg never persuaded me at all to come. When I told him the particulars—the cold weather, “Why,” he said, “would it make any difference if”—the only, the only word he spoke to me, “would it make any difference if the time could be changed a few weeks?” Said I, It would. Then I began to think upon that plan after he had gone. Well now, what I want to say, what we want is to be sensible people. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 35)

W. C. White: You started to tell about your prayer Saturday night. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 36)

Mrs. E. G. White: O yes! We knelt down to pray, and I was asking the Lord where I should go and what I should do. I was for backing out and not going. I knew—Sara says, “You are not fit to go anywhere. You should not go anywhere; and O,” says she, “I dread it for you.” Well, while I was praying and was sending up my petition, there was, as has been a hundred times or more, a soft light circling around in the room, and a fragrance like the fragrance of flowers, of a beautiful scent of flowers; and then the voice seemed to speak gently and said that I was to accept the invitation of My servant, John Kellogg, and make his home my home. Then the word was, “I have appointed him as My physician. You can be an encouragement to him.” (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 37)

That is why I am here, and that is why I am there at the home there. Now I want in every way possible, if I can, to treat Dr. Kellogg as God’s appointed physician, and I am going to do it, and I want that my brethren where they have had “They say, they say, they say, they say, they say,”—you just put the “they says” right straight away from you. You inquire, “What saith the Lord?” and you look to the Lord, and don’t you look to any human power and get their mind, and they are nothing but human, they are nothing but failing; but you just look to the Lord God of Israel, and He will give you understanding, and He will give you knowledge. But you are not to lean your helpless soul on any other human being. You have got a character to form for your individual self, and that character God has given you ample encouragement should be after God’s order. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 38)

Now in addition to this that I tell you, the next night—no, that night, I went to sleep very happy. I was—the whole family was melted and broken down. They knew nothing what I had in my mind, nothing at all what I had seen; but the Spirit of God was there. There they were all weeping, all broken, and the blessing of God was flowing right through our room like a tidal wave. Why, the Spirit of God had taken hold upon us, and Sister Druillard was just weeping and praising God, and Brother Druillard was praising God, and we all there had an outpouring of the Spirit of God. Such things are more precious to me than the gold of Ophir. O, I appreciate the movings of the Spirit of God. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 39)

Now I want to say, Let us, for Christ’s sake, unify. Let us put away—we cannot reform ourselves by putting our fingers upon somebody else’s wrong, and think that is going to cover our wrong. God says we must love one another. God says we must deal gently and justly and righteously with one another. He says, “I hate your false weights and your false measures.” He tells us that He knows us in the very testimony that He has given in other cases. It is, the Lord wants us to come into close connection with Him. You know He told Cornelius all about [where Peter was]; He knew just where Peter lived, and He told him all about these things, every particular, how he was with one who was a tanner, and here it was all worked [out]. The angel of God could have told Cornelius all about this message. But no. God’s church must connect together, and the light that God had imparted to Peter was to be imparted to Cornelius and all his family. Well now, that is the way God works, and He expects every one of us to come to Him; and why we are all weak as we are, is because we are crippling over somebody else. Now let the Lord God of Israel come into our midst. Give Him room, give Him place, and let us begin to exercise the love of God in our hearts, instead of hatred. Just as soon as you begin to build up yourself, you begin to hate others. God help us to come into right positions; and I believe He is here today. If I did not believe He were here, I would not want to say the things I have said; but I believe He can set these things home to hearts, and there can be a heartwork done here—not of your standing right off and doing nothing, but you work right on Christ’s principles, and when you work on the principles of heaven, you will see the salvation of God revealed. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 40)

And God wants you to stand in His strength; He wants you to have open the windows heavenward, and close them earthward. He wants the salvation of God [to] be revealed. He wants the medical missionary work and the gospel bound up together just as fast and inseparable, and He wants that this work shall blend, and that they should be a united whole with this people. He wants the talent that is in Dr. Kellogg, He wants the talent that is in the school, He wants the talent that is in every institution, to be connected with the management of His work, of His churches. He does not want two or three minds to sit as kings, and the rest of them, why, they must be amenable to these two or three minds. He wants that there shall be committees that are holding a part of every part of His work; and then the foreign missionary work, you will understand, will be worked upon a higher grade than it ever has been working yet. God wants it worked. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 41)

I have seen the people ready to impart. Why, some say, “Why, they have had more than their proportion, than others have, at Australia.” We have had none too much, only we ought to have had ten times [what we] had to begin with, that we could establish something that would be an entrance, something that would be a pioneer to the work, that will take everywhere. No use to shut [it] down, it will take everywhere. There is no place but what the missionary work, the medical missionary work will take, and it will open the way for the gospel. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 42)

Now I want to say, God has not blessed as He would have blessed had there been an appreciation of the work that He was carrying on. I thank God that Dr. Kellogg has not sunk into despondency and infidelity. I have been afraid of it, and I have written some very straight things to him, and it may be, Dr. Kellogg, (if he is here) that I have written too strong; for I felt as though I must get hold of you and hold you by the power of all the might I had. But I have seen the work, I see the work that is being carried on, and how can anybody see it and not see that God is at work? That is the mystery to me. I cannot understand it. I cannot explain it, that those that shall have any knowledge of work here, right here—where God designed that he should be, that he should stand to give character to the work, and the higher classes, that they might be reached; and every soul of you ought to feel honored before God, that He has given you instrumentalities that the higher classes could be reached, and that the wealthy classes should be reached. You should feel to thank God for the honor that He has bestowed; and I want to say that I want to take hold to the very utmost of my ability. Well, I have done the very best I could do in the medical missionary line. I have helped at the right hand, I have helped at the left. I have clothed—well, I will not tell of it; no, I will not say anything about it more; but I want to tell you we have found poverty, we have had to relieve clear up to the last moment when we left Australia. It was poverty, poverty, poverty all the way through that we meet with everywhere; but I thank God that His blessing has accompanied it. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 43)

And now I think, for the present, I may have said enough. But God’s ministers must come in altogether a different position. They must be evangelists, they must be medical missionaries, they must take hold of the work intelligently. They must press the work in the places—and it is no use to think of their doing it, if God has given some a work to connect with the gospel, and they drop that work and take up the gospel, why, then you need not expect that you are going to be full, [could not hear] men to do the work, because you have not got more than half the facilities that God wants you to have. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 44)

But the Lord loves us yet. Now let us praise God for that. Now let us take hold of the work in a new way. Let us take hold of the work with heart and mind and soul. Do not pick flaws any more. O, I see enough buzzards, and I see enough vultures that are trying and watching for dead bodies; but we do not want anything of that. We want no picking and picking and picking of flaws in others. Attend to Number One, and you have got all that you have got to do. If you attend to Number One, and if you will purify your souls by obeying the truth, you will have something to impart, you will have a power to give to others. God help you! I beseech of Him to help you, every one of you, and to help me. I want help. I want strength. I want power. But don’t you ever quote Sister White. I do not want you to ever quote Sister White until you get up on vantage ground where you know what you are about. Go quote the Bible. Take the Bible. It is full of meat, it is full of fatness. Carry it right out in your life, and you will know more of the Bible than you know now. You will have fresh matter. O, you will have precious matter. You won’t be going over and over the same ground, and you will see a world to save. You will see souls for whom Christ has died, and [He asks] you to put on the armor, every piece of it, and be sure that your feet are shod with the preparation of the gospel. (16LtMs, Ms 43d, 1901, 45)

Ms 44, 1901

Instruction to Believers
NP
June 4, 1901 [Typed]
This manuscript is published in entirety in 15MR 253-257.

The first chapter of Colossians is a decided address to every believer. The Holy Spirit indited this instruction for the help of those who should afterward compose the church, as well as for those to whom Paul addressed his letter. (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 1)

The apostle writes: “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timotheus our brother, to the saints and faithful brethren which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. We give thanks to God, and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all saints, for the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth; as ye also learned of Epaphras; our dear fellow servant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ; who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit. (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 2)

“For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness.” [Verses 1-11.] (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 3)

This Scripture speaks of the vital union which should exist between Christ and His disciples. Constantly we are to strive to obtain this union. The religion which consists only of profession is but a pretense. Those whose union with Christ ends with the writing of their names on the church roll are not channels of light. (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 4)

“Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light; who hath delivered us from the powers of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son.” [Verses 12, 13.] The great object for which Christ came to our world was to demonstrate the falsity of Satan’s claim to the sovereignty of the world and to reassert the original and supreme ownership of God and His supreme authority. As the Restorer and Life-giver, Christ placed Himself in the enemy’s pathway. He planted His cross midway between heaven and earth, that He might wrestle with and overcome the powers of darkness. He gave His life for the life of sinners, and Satan, the prince of the world, was cast out. (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 5)

“We have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins; who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature; for by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers; all things were created by him, and for him; and he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. For it pleased the Father that in him should all fullness dwell; and, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight; if ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature under heaven.” [Verses 14-23.] (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 6)

We have been taught by God concerning the great plan of redemption. This should be to us a matter of earnest thanksgiving. God’s promises will never fail if we constantly watch unto prayer. Having learned the excellent way, we are to be sanctified body, soul, and spirit. We are to be purified and cleansed through the washing of the Word. I am instructed to say that it is the privilege of every one to be grounded and settled in the faith. No one who exercises that faith which works by love and purifies the soul will be moved away from the Hope of the gospel. (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 7)

Cherishing goodness in the heart is a work which many have strangely neglected. Those whose hearts are sanctified and cleansed will follow no sharp practices. God despises a selfish, covetous spirit. Evil passions fill the heart that is actuated by selfishness. Selfishness leads to oppression, and as acts of oppression are repeated, the intellect is corrupted and fails to make correct decisions. (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 8)

In no case will Christ serve with unfair, unfaithful dealing. “You, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight.” [Verses 21, 22.] God calls for intelligent Christians, for men and women who are filled with the knowledge of His will. We need to feel the converting power of truth. This will remove the arbitrary exactions which have done such harm, casting a cloud over the minds of men. The Lord calls for men and women who by their good works show that the truth has brought about a change in their lives. His workers are now to draw out the threads of selfishness which have marred the pattern. (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 9)

Our knowledge should give spirituality to the understanding. Our knowledge of the Scriptures should be practical. The Lord is pleased when those who are connected with Him are filled with a knowledge of His will. His servants should daily gain more knowledge of Him. Daily they should grow in grace and in spiritual understanding, strengthened with might according to His glorious power. They are to increase in spiritual efficiency, that they may give strength to the people of God. (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 10)

God does not ask sinners to enter His service with their natural traits of character, to make a failure before the heavenly universe and before the world. He does not ask a man who is unconverted to attempt to serve Him. Those who have not been brought under the control of the law of justice and mercy might better step down from their position of authority until they learn that the Lord will have mercy and not sacrifice. (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 11)

The hard, cruel spirit which judges and condemns has left the trace of the enemy upon everything. But mercy is to come in and lay her broad impress upon every plan. The world is to see principles different from those which have hitherto been presented. Christ has erected the cross. He does not call upon any man to manufacture tests and crosses for His people. He presents His requirements before them and gives them the invitation, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] Wear My yoke, and in your daily experience you will find the rest which comes only to the obedient. (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 12)

Christ invites all to come to Him, but when they come, they are to lay aside their sins. All their vices and follies, all their pride and worldliness, are to be laid at His cross. This He requires because He loves them and desires to save them, not in their sins, but from their sins. He who accepts the truth longs for transformation, and the light comes to him in bright rays. (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 13)

The truth is to be believed and practiced, because Christ asserts it to be the Word of the living God. The brightest beams of light from the threshold of heaven are thrown on the pathway in which God requires His people to walk. When sinners accept Christ as their personal Saviour, they realize the greatness of God’s gift to them, and praise and thanksgiving flow to the divine Giver. The recovery of souls from sin is to be a revenue of goodness to men and of glory to God. (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 14)

But how many offer praise and thanksgiving to God? How many, by thanking the Giver, show that they appreciate their blessings? How many give thanks to the Father, “which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light”? We have redemption through His blood. He has delivered us from the power of darkness, and has translated us into the kingdom of His Son. [Colossians 1:12-14.] The heavenly angels are constantly engaged in serving us, bringing to us the most wonderful opportunities. Why then should we be so slow to express our thanksgiving? Whoso offereth praise glorifieth God. A fragrant atmosphere surrounds the believing, thankful soul who offers grateful praise to his heavenly Father. Let all appreciate the blessings of the Lord. We reflect bright beams of light when in the home and in the church we express our appreciation of the Lord’s goodness. (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 15)

“Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory; whom we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus; whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Verses 26-29.] Through His human instrumentalities God desires to demonstrate the power of His grace. By His saints He would make known among the Gentiles the riches of His plan of redemption. (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 16)

In all wisdom people are to be warned and taught. Those who are seeking to win souls to Christ must be guarded in every action, lest they make a wrong impression on those for whom they are working. The Lord will give success to those who in spiritual and temporal lines will deal faithfully with human minds. Let those who work for Christ put on Christ. Then there will be a continual advancement in knowledge and understanding, an advancement that will make an impression on the world. Those who are daily learning of Christ will become so meek and lowly that Christ can lead them. He will go before them as their righteousness. As they follow in His footsteps, fulfilling His requirements, many will take knowledge of them that they have been with Christ. Their lives are conformed to the truth, and as they reveal the Saviour’s character in their lives, they are doing the work that He did. As they behold Christ they are changed from glory to glory, from character to character. Such believers will move the world. Let us strive for Christ’s peace and gentleness, that it may be said of us as it was said of Him, “Thy gentleness hath made me great.” [Psalm 18:35.] (16LtMs, Ms 44, 1901, 17)

Ms 45, 1901

“Comfort ye, comfort ye my people ...”
NP
1901
Previously unpublished.

“Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned; for she hath received of the Lord’s hand double for all her sins. The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain: and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together; for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it. The voice said, Cry. And he said, What shall I cry? All flesh is grass, and all the godliness thereof is as the flower of the field. The grass withereth, the flower fadeth; because the spirit of the Lord bloweth upon it; surely the people is grass. The grass withereth, the flower fadeth; but the word of our God shall stand forever. O Zion, that bringeth good tidings, get thee up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, that bringest good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength; lift it up, be not afraid; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God! Behold, the Lord will come with strong hand, and his arm shall rule for him: behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him. He shall feed his flock like a shepherd; he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.... Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard? that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall; but they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk and not faint.” [Isaiah 40:1-11, 28-31.] (16LtMs, Ms 45, 1901, 1)

“Behold my servant, whom I uphold, mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him; he shall bring forth judgment unto the Gentiles. He shall not cry, nor lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the streets. A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench; he shall bring forth judgment unto truth. He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth; and the isles shall wait for his law.... I the Lord have called thee in righteousness and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles; to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.” [Isaiah 42:1-4, 6, 7.] (16LtMs, Ms 45, 1901, 2)

“Break forth into joy, sing together, ye waste places of Jerusalem; for the Lord hath comforted his people, he hath redeemed Jerusalem. The Lord hath made bare his holy arm in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God. Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from thence, touch no unclean thing; go ye out of the midst of her; be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the Lord. For ye shall not go out with haste, nor go out by flight; for the Lord will go before you; and the God of Israel will be your rereward. Behold, my servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high. As many were astonied at thee; his visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men; so shall he sprinkle many nations; the kings shall shut their mouths at him; for that which had not been told them shall they see; and that which they had not heard shall they consider.” [Isaiah 52:9-15.] (16LtMs, Ms 45, 1901, 3)

Let all who believe read and study these eloquent words. What is the great object of divine compassion?—the uplifting of fallen humanity. For this purpose messengers from the throne of God are sent to this earth. In second Kings we read how holy angels came on a mission to guard the Lord’s chosen servants. The prophet Elisha was in Dothan, and thither the King of Syria sent horses and chariots and a great host to take him. “And when the servant of the man of God was risen early and gone forth, behold, an host compassed the city with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do? And he answered, Fear not; for they that are with us are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw; and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about.” [2 Kings 6:15-17.] (16LtMs, Ms 45, 1901, 4)

Angels of God came down in mighty power, not to consume, not to despise, not to rule or exact homage, but to minister to those who should be heirs of salvation. They came in mighty power to encamp round about the Lord’s weak and helpless ones. (16LtMs, Ms 45, 1901, 5)

Some look with contempt upon those whom the Lord honors. They regard them with indifference because they have not had the advantages of education they themselves have enjoyed. But though not highly educated, these children of God are consecrated to His service and work for Him with self-denial, and in His sight they are much farther advanced than many who have had greater opportunities and have been entrusted with a greater number of talents. Let us rejoice that the Lord does not measure the workers in His vineyard by their learning or the educational advantages they have had. The tree is judged by the fruit it bears. The Lord will co-operate with those who co-operate with Him, even though, judged by the world’s standard, they may not be educated. (16LtMs, Ms 45, 1901, 6)

Whoever works unselfishly for the Lord, planting the seed of truth in waste places, will garner an abundant harvest. They will see first the blade, then the ear, then the full corn in the ear. (16LtMs, Ms 45, 1901, 7)

There are many souls to be brought to a saving knowledge of the truth. The prodigal is far from his father’s house, perishing with hunger. He is to be the object of our compassion. Do you ask, How does God regard those who are perishing in their sins? I point you to Calvary! “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins,” “and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” [1 John 4:10; 2:2.] (16LtMs, Ms 45, 1901, 8)

We have been chosen as laborers together with God. Then shall we not give the gospel plan our entire sympathy and co-operation? Shall we not, by self-denial, do all we can to advance God’s enterprise of mercy? Shall we not refrain from spending our money for needless or expensive things? For our sakes Christ “became poor that we through his poverty might be made rich.” [2 Corinthians 8:9.] Can we behold the divine condescension, the suffering endured by the Son of God, without being filled with a desire to sacrifice something for Him? Is it not a high honor to be allowed to co-operate with Him? The Lord is our Shepherd. He left His heavenly home to seek for us. Shall we not become His under-shepherds, to seek for the lost, straying sheep? Shall we not reveal in our lives His divine tenderness and compassion? (16LtMs, Ms 45, 1901, 9)

Ms 46, 1901

“This Conference is an important ...”
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 1901
Previously unpublished.

This Conference is an important meeting, and we who are attending need to understand that the experience we gain while here depends on how we treat ourselves. A vast amount of injury is done to the human organism by the willing ignorance of ministers and people. Those who minister in word and doctrine need to learn how to eat properly, how to work properly, and how to breathe properly. They need to make as much as possible of the talent of speech. They are to form correct habits, that the physical, mental, and moral powers may be preserved. The Lord desires every man to do his best, and we are to appreciate the talents entrusted to us and use them to the very best advantage. By a contemplation of the way of the Lord we are to learn how to meet every emergency and how to bear the responsibilities placed on us. He desires us to co-operate with the great Physician in healing ourselves, by obedience to the law of God. It is our life to obey this law. (16LtMs, Ms 46, 1901, 1)

The happiness and welfare of families depend upon their habits and practices. When the appetites and tastes are brought into conformity to an intelligent knowledge of how to treat the human system, a great reformation will be seen. All that belongs to the living machinery is to be carefully studied. Each one is to prayerfully ask the question, “What shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” [Mark 10:17.] (16LtMs, Ms 46, 1901, 2)

Each human being is deciding his own destiny. If man brings the attributes of Christ into his practical life, co-operating with God by conscientiously following His will; if he learns daily of the great Teacher, living in close connection with Him, his mind is enlarged and broadened by true knowledge. Correct ideas are cherished and true principles obeyed. The power of true enjoyment increases and he uses his powers to help and uplift others. He is prepared to accomplish the great and good work which the Lord is qualifying him to do. (16LtMs, Ms 46, 1901, 3)

For the last thirty years light has been shining forth on the subject of health reform. Through His testimonies the Lord has made plain the duty which man owes to himself and to his fellow man. But spirituality has been greatly hindered by the way in which ministers and people have treated this light. They have refused to wear Christ’s yoke of self-denial, and by their example they have led others in false paths. A growth of the grosser qualities of the mind is the sure result of overeating and of eating unhealthful food. Thus the spiritual life is deformed and the message of truth made of none effect. “Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward, how shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him.” [Hebrews 2:1-3.] (16LtMs, Ms 46, 1901, 4)

There is abundance of knowledge within the reach of all, but many refuse to be refined by accepting and practicing this knowledge. The refining, sanctifying influence of the truth is not seen in their lives; they are not prepared to work under the guidance of the Holy Spirit for the accomplishment of the high and holy purpose for which man was created. (16LtMs, Ms 46, 1901, 5)

There are many at this meeting; and we have something to say to the church members in Battle Creek who entertain those in attendance. We entreat every family to leave sweet cakes out of the bill of fare. Place only a few kinds of food on the table at each meal. No woman should deprive herself of the meetings in order to provide a variety of rich dishes for her guests. Let all eat to live, not live to eat. Let the food placed on the table be simple, wholesome, and palatable. Let there be an abundance of fruit, cooked or uncooked. As the meeting progresses, let the healthful living seen in every family be a constant sermon. Bring spirituality into the preparation of food, so that no one will be tempted to overeat. These cautions are positively necessary for the health of those who are entertained and those who entertain. (16LtMs, Ms 46, 1901, 6)

We have assembled together, not to indulge appetite, but to worship God in the beauty of holiness. Let no one at this time place temptation before their guests. Let each meal be an educational feast. (16LtMs, Ms 46, 1901, 7)

In a most distinct, impressive manner God has opened before me the harm done by the food eaten at our general meetings. Those to whom God has given the light on health reform have not honored this light. Eating heartily and then going to meeting to sit in heated rooms, many have become sleepy and almost unconscious. The enemy is well pleased to have the perceptive powers of the people of God so paralyzed that they cannot possibly comprehend the questions it is highly important they should understand. (16LtMs, Ms 46, 1901, 8)

We need to have a just appreciation of the value of human life, that in our experience we may reach a high standard and draw others upward with us, making straight paths for our feet lest the lame be turned out of the way. (16LtMs, Ms 46, 1901, 9)

In many conferences which have been held the Lord has not been glorified. The Lord desires the conference now in session to be of an entirely different character. He desires each one in attendance to walk before Him in the spirit of prayer and contrition. “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy, I dwell in the high and holy place, 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.” [Isaiah 57:15.] “The Lord is nigh unto all them that are of a contrite heart, and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” [Psalm 34:18.] (16LtMs, Ms 46, 1901, 10)

This is a meeting at which all who have that faith which works by love and purifies the soul will work the works of God. And if those who have not lived in the light of the truth have any desire for salvation, let them divest themselves of all prejudice against those who are doing medical missionary work to save perishing souls. Let them be converted, that God may use them in His service. (16LtMs, Ms 46, 1901, 11)

Many in the world and in the denominational churches are in advance of those who claim to believe the truth, in regard to eating and drinking. All classes are being reached by the promulgation of the principles of health reform. And in connection with this work the third angel’s message is finding its way into many hearts. The grace of Christ cannot be locked up in the heart that has received it. It must and will break all barriers. God’s servants are to receive to impart. The truth is as far-reaching as eternity. In its working it is not limited by time or space. (16LtMs, Ms 46, 1901, 12)

Ms 47, 1901

“Then opened he their understanding ...”
NP
June 12, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in RH 01/07/1902.

“Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, and said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day; and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, 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. And he led them out as far as Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” [Luke 24:45-53.] (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 1)

What has prevented this promise of the gospel from being fulfilled in all who believe in Christ? Why has not the truth of the living God filled the hearts of church members with power and gone forth to all nations, kindreds, tongues, and peoples? Why has not the plan of divine benevolence, with its saving, restoring qualities, brought a much larger number to loyalty to God? The reason is the unfaithfulness of those who have a knowledge of the truth. These have not fulfilled the commission given them by Christ. They have not taken the truth to those who are in the darkness of error. By their selfishness they have placed the candlestick of truth under a bushel. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 2)

The condition of the world today is represented by the condition of the world in Noah’s day. Then, we read, “The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence. And God looked upon the earth, and, behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth.... And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.... And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth.... Behold, I, even I, do bring a flood of waters upon the earth, to destroy all flesh, wherein is the breath of life, from under heaven; and every thing that is in the earth shall die. But with thee will I establish my covenant; and thou shalt come into the ark, thou, and thy sons, and thy wife, and thy sons’ wives with thee.” [Genesis 6:11, 12, 5, 6, 13, 17, 18.] (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 3)

The forms of wickedness existing in Noah’s day are current in the world today. There are no new evils. God’s Word declares, “As the days of Noah were, so also shall 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.] (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 4)

Noah was given a message to give to the antediluvians, but they scorned his warning. So today the message that God has sent to be given to a world steeped in corruption will not be received. But this message must be given. All our interests are to be made secondary to the message God has given to be proclaimed. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 5)

Every provision has been made for the salvation of the fallen race. All power was given to Him who offered Himself as a sacrifice to redeem every son and daughter of Adam who would accept Him as a personal Saviour. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:12.] Christ came to this world and stood before men with the hoarded love of eternity. The whole ocean of divine love was flowing forth from its great center. The Godhead—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit—were working in behalf of man. Every power in the heavenly universe was put into activity to carry forward the plan of redemption. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 6)

The cross of Calvary was erected, and while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. The Just suffered for the unjust, that He might become the justifier of all who believe in Him. During His life on this earth, He pleased not Himself. All that He did was done to restore and save. He assumed human nature that He might be a partaker with us in all our temptations. He clothed His divinity with humanity that by enduring the agony of the cross He might make His soul an offering for sin. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 7)

Christ is the Light of the world. He has opened His heart in love and pity and sympathy for the whole world, and He invites the fallen sons and daughters of Adam to come to Him and receive free and full forgiveness. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 8)

The Lord has given to His people the privilege of carrying forward in the earth the work which He did while here. He calls upon us to co-operate with Him in restoring and saving our fellow men. Who will now unite with us in helping to spread the truth in the Southern field? Christ died to save a selfish world from the sure consequences of selfishness. His character stands before the heavenly universe free from every taint of selfishness. He has made a complete sacrifice to bring to men and women that benevolence which dwells in His own heart. He has sent His Holy Spirit to impress the heart and mind, that His grace shall become a living principle, leading men to love their fellow men as Christ has loved them. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 9)

Christ desires, by the fullness of His power, to so strengthen His church that the whole world will be encircled with an atmosphere of grace. Infinite benevolence is pouring out all its treasures for the saving of souls from sin, that man may be made one with God. God calls upon human agencies to co-operate with Him in the carrying out of His great purpose. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 10)

The work of restoring and uplifting has been begun in the South. Will you who read this appeal become laborers together with God by giving of your means to help in this work? Will you shake off the tameness and coldness that has come into your lives? Will you give what you can, smaller or larger sums, to provide buildings and other necessary facilities, that the work which has been well begun may be successfully carried forward? As you give to the Lord, your hearts will glow with the benevolence imparted by Him who is the owner of all that you have and are. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 11)

God wants those who have accepted the truth and have identified themselves as His chosen people, elect and precious, to unite with Christ in His work of drawing men, women, and children to the cross of Calvary. The cross teaches the lesson of self-sacrifice. As by faith men behold the royal Sufferer, the conviction comes to them that the sure result of sin is death. Behold the Man who said, “I lay down my life for the sin of the world.” He rose from the dead, and over the rent sepulcher of Joseph proclaimed, “I am the resurrection and the life. I was dead, but behold, I am alive for evermore.” [John 11:25; Revelation 1:18.] (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 12)

Then let the believing soul stand beside the cross of Calvary, and with a heart swelling with grateful love, cry, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] Behold Him. Say it with heart and soul and voice. Induce the sinner to look. When his gaze is arrested, amazed at such wonderful condescension, he steps nearer, his eyes are holden, and he learns of the Saviour the lesson all must learn, the lesson of meekness and lowliness. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 13)

Christ loves the human race and has expressed this love in every action of His life. And He calls upon men to love one another as He has loved them. His saving power and love is ever to be the theme of those who believe in God. The believing soul sees Jesus as He is, and beholding, he is changed into His image. The experience of those who are truly converted testifies that God is the author of eternal salvation, and that the grace of Christ is wisdom and power. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 14)

Just before His ascension, Christ gave to His disciples the commission, “Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you, and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:19, 20.] (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 15)

To the disciples was given a most precious trust. They were to be the executors of the will in which Christ had bequeathed to the world the treasure of eternal life. They realized the responsibility of their work. They knew that they held in their hands the bread of life for a famishing world, and they went everywhere preaching the Word. The love of Christ constrained them, and they could not forbear breaking the bread of life to all who were in need. The last words of the Saviour were constantly sounding in their ears. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 16)

In the trust given to the first disciples, each believer has a share. Each one is to be an executor of the Saviour’s will. Each one has been given sacred truth to give to the hungry. The Lord is full of riches and grace, and every believer is to labor together with Him. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 17)

I appeal to all who claim to believe the truth to realize the importance of the message God has given you to bear to the world. In city after city self-sacrificing work must be done. Province after province must be enlightened. The truth is to go forth as a lamp that burneth. Those who profess to know God and Jesus Christ, whom He has sent, must not fall into the cold, selfish practices of the world. Their zeal must not die. They must not allow spiritual declension, with all its baleful influences, to come in. The church is presented to me as in great danger of failing to realize the responsibility resting upon her. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 18)

The members are in danger of forgetting the peculiar benefits and blessings which have been bestowed upon them, in danger of turning away from Christ and allowing their thoughts to run in worldly channels for the sake of gain. The gospel will triumph; it will not sustain a final defeat. But for years it has been evident that selfishness under the form of godliness has been entering the church. The perverse ways of Satan have taken the place of love. Unholy difference of opinion, under the garb of zeal for God, has come in. By bigotry and narrowness, professing Christians have violated the principles which should ever be sacredly cherished. Criticism and denunciation have taken the place of sympathy and forbearance. An inquisition has been set up among those who should be free from all overbearing. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 19)

God calls for the extinction of all this Satanic devising. The love of Christ in the heart forbids all oppression. Remember His words to the disciples when they desired Him to permit them to call down fire from heaven upon those who did not give Him due honor. “He turned and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of.” [Luke 9:55.] Those who work for the Redeemer must cultivate love. But for years some even among those who claim to believe present truth have acted in an oppressive manner, cherishing in the heart that fearful, hateful thing which has led them to exclude their brethren from their fellowship and their counsels, because they supposed them wanting in some respects;as though the Lord had made them judges of character. The spirit has been entertained which presumes to limit the Holy One in the judicial working of His grace. In the place of coming close to those through whom the Lord has seen fit to work, men have stood apart, saying, “I am holier than thou. I cannot connect with you in religious service. Your ways and my ways do not agree.” (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 20)

The Lord Jesus Christ is our judge and our lawgiver. Let not those in God’s service reveal defects caused by hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong. Let them turn from everything which will mar their usefulness. A hasty temper, a lack of patience, an inclination to speak hastily, these are things against which the Lord’s ministers must guard. They must remember that He who has appointed them their work, says to them, “Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord.” [Isaiah 52:11.] The irritable temper must be crucified. The Lord God of Israel forbids a foolish exhibition of self in any of His servants. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 21)

Be very careful how you attempt to number Israel. Not to you or to any other man has God given this work. You make a great mistake when you put your human measurement upon any of your ministering brethren. You cannot read the heart. It is more than possible that the one with whom you find fault is more righteous in the sight of God than are you. “For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.” “For there is no respect of persons with God. For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law; and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law; ... in the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel.” [Romans 2:11-13, 16.] (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 22)

“Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God, and knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law; and art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the blind, a light of them which are in darkness, an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, which hast the form of knowledge and of the truth in the law. Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest that a man should not steal, dost thou steal? Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege? thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonorest thou God? For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written. For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy circumcision is made uncircumcision. Therefore if the uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his uncircumcision be counted for circumcision? And shall not uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the letter and circumcision dost transgress the law? For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh; but he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.” [Verses 17-29.] (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 23)

This instruction is for those who are living amid the perils of these last days. Be careful how you measure your brother. Take heed to yourself, and put no occasion of stumbling in your brother’s way. “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.] The great Physician, whose work it is to restore the moral image of God in man, has prescribed for us all the food of the Word. Physical life is dependent upon the food eaten and the air breathed. If our food is good and the air we breathe pure, we shall be strong and well. So also if we give the mind the food God has provided, and if the atmosphere surrounding the soul is pure and holy, the life will be fragrant with good works. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 24)

Let us make diligent efforts to serve God. We need to reach a higher standard. The truth must not be kept in the outer court. Bring its principles into the inner sanctuary of the soul. Make Christ the guide of every action. Separate all selfishness from soul, body, and spirit. Hate it; for it is the destroyer of peace and godliness. “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.” [Colossians 3:17.] The grace of our Saviour is the grand, healing influence which conforms the life to the life of God. (16LtMs, Ms 47, 1901, 25)

Ms 48, 1901

Bring an Offering to the Lord
St. Helena, California
June 23, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in RH 11/26/1901. +

I appeal to my brethren and sisters in America and Europe to help the Lord’s institutions in Scandinavia, which at the present time are greatly in need of assistance. (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 1)

During the General Conference the Lord wrought mightily for His people. Every time I think of that meeting, a sweet solemnity comes over me and sends a glow of gratitude to my soul. We have seen the stately steppings of the Lord our Redeemer. We praise His holy name; for He has brought deliverance to His people. (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 2)

“For Zion’s sake will I not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, until the righteousness thereof go forth as brightness, and the salvation thereof as a lamp that burneth. And the Gentiles shall see thy righteousness, and all kings thy glory; and thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of the Lord shall name. Thou shalt also be a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God. Thou shalt no more be termed Forsaken; neither shall thy land be termed Desolate; but thou shalt be called Hephzibah, and thy land Beulah; for the Lord delighteth in thee, and thy land shall be married.” [Isaiah 62:1-4.] (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 3)

“He saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor; therefore his arm brought salvation unto him; and his righteousness, it sustained him. For he put on righteousness as a breastplate, and an helmet of salvation upon his head; and he put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloak. According to their deeds, accordingly he will repay, fury to his adversaries, recompense to his enemies; to the islands he will repay recompense. So shall they fear the name of the Lord from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him.” [Isaiah 59:16-19.] (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 4)

We thank the Lord that He has wrought among us by His Spirit during the General Conference. Let His people offer Him praise and thanksgiving. Let them bring to Him their offerings of gratitude, that His work may go forward with power. (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 5)

Think of the work the Redeemer has accomplished in our behalf. Behold the cross of Calvary erected to save us from eternal death. Above it, as though traced in characters of gold, shine the words, “For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ.” [1 Thessalonians 5:9.] Then shall we not offer Him praise and thanksgiving, in word and deed? He gives us talents to be employed in His service. We should gratefully return to Him a faithful tithe, with gifts and offerings, saying, “Of thine own we freely give thee.” [See 1 Chronicles 29:14.] This we should do that His work in all parts of the vineyard may be sustained, that His name may be glorified by the memorials established for Him in every place. (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 6)

Our hearts must be filled with unselfishness before we can enter the city of God. God’s people should bring their offerings to Him in much greater abundance and with much more cheerfulness. Man is permitted to handle the Lord’s goods. Thus he is tested and proved. His heart must be perfumed with the incense of Christ’s righteousness, the Saviour must work in him to will and to do of His good pleasure in order for the handling of the goods intrusted to him to bear the endorsement of the God of heaven. Let us reveal Christ by the way in which we use His goods. Let us in every instance do as He would do. “For there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” [Acts 4:12.] (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 7)

To men and women God has given varied talents, and to each one He says, “Use my gifts for the saving of souls.” Man is ever to remember that he is to act as God’s helping hand in behalf of the human race. He is not to use selfishly that which the Lord has intrusted to him for the carrying forward of the divine enterprise of mercy. He is to take the Lord’s suggestions and work upon them for the blessing of those around him. Constantly he is to stand before his Lord in the attitude of obedience, saying in word and action, “I delight to do thy will, O my God.” [Psalm 40:8.] (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 8)

Every temporal and spiritual blessing comes from the great First Cause. God declares, “I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.” [Revelation 22:13.] He is the benefactor of the universe. His tender mercies are over all His works. “The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season. Thou openest thine hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing.” [Psalm 145:15, 16.] (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 9)

It is His will that man shall proclaim the benevolence of His character. In word and deed His people are to reveal His merciful designs, calling attention to His compassionate government. It is His desire that the world shall see, in believers who make it their first aim to fulfil the will of Christ, a true representation of Christianity. (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 10)

If God’s will had been carried out, there would be no need to call for help for the institutions in Scandinavia. But there is robbery of God among Seventh-day Adventists. For years this great evil has been increasing, till it seems as though the people had lost their connection with Jehovah. The money which should be returned to the Lord in tithes and offerings is spent for useless purposes, such as producing pictures of human faces. The many, many photographs seen in your houses are a decided dishonor to God. They bear silent witness that you have backslidden from righteousness. I look to heaven and cry, “Lord, how long shall this evil divert means from Thy treasury?” (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 11)

Think of the money which for the last few years has been spent for photographs! Think of the good it would have done if invested in the cause of God! Had the money God has entrusted to His people been used in accordance with His will, His institutions would not now be loaded down with debt. (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 12)

I speak as I am instructed. I have a message for every family that has been robbing God of larger or smaller sums. Repent! Humble your hearts before God. Crucify self and selfishness. No longer use your entrusted means for selfish indulgence. Do all in your power to redeem the past. Show your friends and neighbors and your children that you regard money as too precious to be used for selfish purposes. Give for the relief of the Lord’s suffering institutions the money you would otherwise spend for photographs. (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 13)

Christ desires, by the fulness of His power, to so strengthen His church that the whole world will be encircled with an atmosphere of grace. Infinite benevolence is pouring out its treasures for the saving of souls from sin, that man may be made one with God. The Lord calls upon us to co-operate with Him in the carrying out of His great purpose. He has given us the privilege of carrying forward in the earth the work that He did while here. (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 14)

There are many souls to be brought to a saving knowledge of the truth. Sinners are far from the Father’s house, perishing with hunger. Do you ask, How does God regard those dead in trespasses and sins? I point you to Calvary! “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” “And not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” [1 John 4:10; 2:2.] (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 15)

We have been chosen as laborers together with God. Then shall we not give the gospel plan our sympathy and co-operation? Shall we not, by denying self, advance God’s enterprise of mercy? Shall we not refrain from spending money needlessly and selfishly, that we may bring to the Lord an offering in righteousness? Christ became poor, that through His poverty we might come into possession of eternal riches. Can we behold the suffering endured in our behalf by the Son of God without being filled with a desire to sacrifice something for Him? He left His home to die for us. Shall we not reveal to others His tenderness and compassion? (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 16)

I call upon my brethren and sisters to bring an offering to the Lord, that that the debt resting upon His institutions in Scandinavia may be lifted. Bring a large offering if you can. But if your offering must be small, remember that the Lord will richly bless you in doing your best. (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 17)

We are to be God’s helping hand. We are not to move fitfully or capriciously, but as wise almoners of the Father’s bounty. He has specified the institutions in Scandinavia as in need of our assistance. Then let us make a united effort to relieve them of all embarrassment that they may stand on vantage ground before the world. (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 18)

The debts on these institutions must be lifted. This is the “I will” of God. I believe you will do your best in this work. (16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, 19)

Ms 49, 1901

Work Out Your Own Salvation
NP
June 26, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in AH 201-202, 235-236, 268; CG 79, 276-277, 498; 6MR 16-18; 7MR 11-12.

“Work Out Your Own Salvation.” (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 1)

“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.] (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 2)

Willing and doing are bound together. The salvation of the soul requires the blending of human and divine strength. God does not propose to do the work that man can do to meet the standard of righteousness. Man has a part to act. Humanity must unite and co-operate with divinity. Grace and sufficiency have been abundantly provided for every soul. But in order to receive this, man must unite with his divine Helper. Unless of his own accord man consents to renounce his sinful practices, Christ cannot take away his sin. Man must heartily co-operate with God, willingly obeying His laws, showing that he appreciates the great gift of grace. Feeling his dependence upon God, having faith in Christ as his personal Saviour, expecting efficiency and success only as he shall keep the Lord ever before him—it is thus that man complies with the injunction, “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” [Verse 12.] (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 3)

But human effort is not sufficient. Human effort avails nothing without divine power. Of himself man has not strength to wrestle with the powers of darkness. Therefore Christ clothed His divinity with humanity and came to this earth that He might co-operate with man. To those who will receive Him and trust in His power to save, He imparts the virtue of His righteousness. He gives them power to become the sons of God. “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, ... full of grace and truth.... And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.” [John 1:12-14, 16.] (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 4)

The human agent must remember that he has in himself no merits to present to God. Christ is the fountain of life, the only security for man’s salvation, the one great source of immortality. He is the Author and Finisher of our faith. The great, grand work of perfecting character cannot be accomplished without the help that heaven is always ready to supply. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 5)

He who desires to grow in physical, mental, and moral power must feel every moment his dependence upon the One who provides efficiency for growth. In the work of perfecting the strength and activity of the faculties of mind and body, man must constantly receive power from on high. The Lord is watching with earnest interest to see how man will conduct himself in the life which has been given him. Be not careless and indifferent in regard to the grand union work to be done by man and God. On your part you are to believe, receive the grace of God, and honor Christ in your life. On His part, He dwells in your heart, supplying you with divine strength, working in you to will and to do of His good pleasure. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 6)

Parents are to co-operate with God by bringing their children up in His love and fear. They cannot displease Him more than by neglecting to train their children aright. God has given them these children as a sacred trust, to educate for Him. In a sense they stand in the place of God to their children. They are to work out the salvation of those who are too young to understand the difference between good and evil. They are in no case to think that good will naturally predominate in the hearts of their children. They are to carefully guard the words and actions of their little ones, lest the enemy shall gain an influence over them. This he is intensely desirous of doing, that he may counterwork the purpose of God. Kindly, interestedly, tenderly, parents are to work for their children, cultivating every good thing and repressing every evil thing which develops in the characters of their little ones. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 7)

Parents should never fail to be constant learners. They need freshness and power, that with the simplicity of Christ they may teach the younger members of God’s family the knowledge of His will. They are to reiterate His lessons, line upon line, precept upon precept. They should be diligent students of the Bible, that they may be apt in the tillage of the garden of the heart. With persevering care they are to cultivate the hearts of the children placed in their care. God will help them in every patient, faithful effort. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 8)

In the earliest years of the child’s life, the soil of the heart should be carefully prepared for the showers of God’s grace. Then the seeds of truth are to be carefully sown and diligently tended. And God, who rewards every effort made in His name, will put life into the seed sown, and there will appear first the blade, then the ear, then the full corn in the ear. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 9)

Too often, because of the wicked neglect of parents, Satan sows his seeds in the hearts of children, and a harvest of shame and sorrow is borne. The world today is destitute of true goodness because parents have failed to gather their children to themselves in the home. They have not kept them from association with the careless and reckless. Therefore the children have gone forth into the world to sow the seeds of death. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 10)

In the cultivation of the garden of the heart, the efforts of parents must be unceasing, or unsightly weeds will spring up and choke the good seed. The weeds which spring up, the natural imperfections which appear, must be removed. Day by day parents are to watch vigilantly and correct wisely, insisting upon prompt obedience. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 11)

Parents, give your time to your children. Teach them to form careful habits. Some parents allow their children to be destructive, to use as playthings that which they have no right to touch. Children should be taught that they must not handle the property of other people. For the comfort and happiness of the family they must be taught to observe the rules of propriety. Children are no happier because they are allowed to handle everything they see. If they are not educated to be care-taking, they will grow up with unlovely, destructive traits of character. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 12)

The greatest suffering has come upon the human family because parents have departed from the divine plan to follow their own imaginings and imperfectly developed ideas. Many parents follow impulse. They forget that the present and future good of their children requires intelligent discipline. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 13)

Parents do their children great wrong when they allow them to scream and cry. They should not be allowed to be careless and boisterous. If these objectionable traits of character are not checked in their early years, they will take them with them, strengthened and developed, into the religious and business life. Children will be just as happy if they are taught to be quiet in the house. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 14)

Fathers and mothers, be sensible. Teach your children that they must be subordinate to law. Do not allow them to think that because they are children, it is their privilege to make all the noise they wish in the house. Wise rules and regulations must be made and enforced, that the beauty of the home life may not be spoiled. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 15)

Children will be happier, far happier, under proper discipline than if left to do as their untrained impulses shall suggest. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 16)

If when parents had first begun to live upon the earth there had been a firm adherence to the laws of God, the world would now be filled with well-ordered families. From age to age, right habits and customs would have been handed down from parents to children, and God would have been loved and honored. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 17)

The wickedness which exists in the world today may be traced to the neglect of parents to discipline themselves and their children. Thousands upon thousands of Satan’s victims are what they are because of the injudicious way in which they were managed during their childhood. The stern rebuke of God is upon this mismanagement. The records of heaven show the awful history of the men and women who as children were left to follow their own way. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 18)

Upon parents rests the responsibility of developing in their children those capabilities which will enable them to do good service for God. To do this work acceptably, parents must exercise self-control. They must choose the good and decidedly refuse the evil. There are many parents who themselves need to be converted. Their untrained characters make them unfit for the great work of training their children. When a child reveals the wrong traits which it has inherited from its parents, shall they storm over this reproduction of their own defects? No, no! Let parents keep a careful watch over themselves, guarding against all coarseness and roughness, lest these defects be seen more and more in their children. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 19)

Boys and girls may early reveal deep and symmetrical piety if the means which God has ordained for the guidance of every family is followed in His fear and love. They will demonstrate the value of correct training and discipline. But the impression made upon the mind of children by the words of the teacher of truth is often counteracted by the words and actions of the parents. The susceptible though wayward hearts of children are often impressed by the truth, but often temptations come to them through father or mother, and they fall a prey to Satan’s devices. It is almost impossible to set the feet of children in safe paths when the parents do not co-operate. Evil sentiments falling from the lips of injudicious parents are the chief hindrance to genuine conversions among children. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 20)

The mother is especially the educator of her children. “The hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that moves the world.” God sees all the possibilities in that mite of humanity. He sees that with proper training the child will become a power for good in the world. He watches with anxious interest to see whether the parents will carry out His plan or whether by mistaken kindness they will destroy His purpose, indulging the child to its present and eternal ruin. To transform this helpless and apparently insignificant being into a blessing to the world and an honor to God is a great and grand work. Parents should allow nothing to come between them and the obligation they owe to their children. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 21)

The training of children constitutes an important part of God’s plan for demonstrating the power of Christianity. A solemn responsibility rests upon parents to so train their children that when they go forth into the world they will do good and not evil to those with whom they associate. Our children are to be educated line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little. From babyhood the character of the child is to be molded and fashioned in accordance with the divine plan. Virtues are to be instilled into its opening mind. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 22)

In the management of their children, parents are to be in perfect harmony with the divine plan. The rules and regulations of the home life must be in strict accordance with a “Thus saith the Lord.” The rules God has given for the government of His church are the rules parents are to follow in the church in the home. It is God’s design that there shall be perfect order in the families on earth, preparatory to their union with the family in heaven. The usefulness of men and women in the church and in the home depends on the discipline and training they receive in the home life. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 23)

The Lord calls upon parents to study and obey His Word. He asks them to so conduct themselves before their children, to so guide and educate these children, that they will rise up and call them blessed. I recommend to parents a study of God’s will and way. I urge them to put on the whole armor of God and gird themselves for the battle. They will be aided and encouraged in every movement they make in the right direction. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 24)

Without human effort, divine effort is in vain. God will work with power when in trustful dependence upon Him parents will awake to the sacred responsibility which rests upon them and seek to train their children aright. He will co-operate with those parents who carefully and prayerfully educate their children, working out their own and their children’s salvation. He will work in them, to will and to do of His own good pleasure. (16LtMs, Ms 49, 1901, 25)

Ms 50, 1901

“What shall we render to God ...”
NP
June 9, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 4BC 1182; UL 174; 3MR 333.

What shall we render to God for all His benefits to us? We are to acknowledge our dependence upon Him by returning to Him a portion of His bounty. At stated times each week we are to lay by in store, according as God has prospered us, something for the advancement of His work. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 1)

“We are laborers together with God; ye are God’s husbandry; ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] Let us remember that all we have is lent to us by God, to be used in His service. Did men and women remember this more faithfully, the selfishness which exists in so many hearts would be uprooted. But men refuse to give themselves to God. They act as though they had not been bought by Him with the blood of His only begotten Son. They forget that they are indebted to Him for every breath they breathe, for sunshine and shower, for every dollar they possess. They use His money in building houses and adding acre to acre, solely for self-gratification. A just God will call them to account for misapplying His means, robbing His needy children of the necessaries of life in order to gratify their expensive tastes. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 2)

Those who refuse to place themselves on the Lord’s side are robbing Him of the service He claims. What rent are they paying Him for living in His house, this world? They act as though they had created the world, as though they had a right to use what they possess as they please. God marks their misuse of His talents. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 3)

God graciously permits the sinner to live out his probation. But his time is appointed. He is wasting his physical, mental, and moral strength. He is squandering his God-given opportunities. Instead of using brain, bone, and muscle to accomplish all he can for the advancement of the kingdom of God, he is studying how he can indulge and glorify himself. He is closing the door to all improvement of his capabilities. The adoption of false theories has placed him in opposition to the law of God. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 4)

The Scriptures speak of the large class of professors who are not doers. Many who claim to believe in God deny Him by their works. The idolatry of money, houses, and lands marks them as idolators and apostates. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 5)

All selfishness, all covetousness, is idolatry. Many men of the world who have placed their names on the church roll as believers in God and the Bible are worshipping the goods the Lord has entrusted to them that they may be His almoners. They may not literally bow down before their earthly treasure, but, nevertheless, they worship it; for it is their god. They are worshipers of mammon. To the things of this world they offer the homage due to God. He who sees and knows all things records the falsity of their profession. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 6)

From the soul-temple of a worldly Christian, God is excluded in order that worldly policy may have abundant room. His money is his god. It belongs to Jehovah, but he to whom it is entrusted refuses to let it flow forth in deeds of benevolence. Did he appropriate it in accordance with God’s design, the incense of his good works would ascend to heaven, and from thousands of converted souls would be heard songs of praise and thanksgiving. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 7)

To advance God’s kingdom, to arouse those dead in trespasses and sins, to speak to sinners of the healing balm of the Saviour’s love—it is for this that our money should be used. But in houses and lands has been invested the means which should have been used to save perishing souls. God’s money is used by men for self-glorification. Instead of being used to bring souls to a knowledge of God and Christ, thus calling forth praise and gratitude to the Giver of all good, earthly possessions have been the means of eclipsing the glory of God and obscuring the view of heaven. By the wrong use of money, the world is filled with lustful practices. The door of the mind has been closed against the Redeemer. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 8)

God declares, “The gold and the silver is mine.” [See Haggai 2:8.] He keeps a strict account with every son and daughter of Adam, that He may know how they are appropriating His means. Worldly men and worldly women may say, But I am not a Christian. I do not profess to serve God. But does that make them less guilty for burying His means, His resources, in worldly enterprises, to advance their selfish interests? (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 9)

I speak to you who know not God, who may read these words; for in the providence of God they may be brought to your notice. What are you doing with your Lord’s goods? What are you doing with the physical and mental powers He has given you? Have you the power to keep the human machinery in motion? Did God speak but one word, you would at once be still in death. Day by day, hour by hour, minute by minute, God works by His infinite power to keep you alive. It is He who supplies the air which keeps life in the body. Should God neglect man as man neglects God, what would become of the race? Without fresh air to breathe, the lungs, the avenues of life, would be clogged. The food would be a minister of evil, and death would result. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 10)

God spares the life of the sinner until He sees that the life will not be surrendered to Him. The great Medical Missionary has an interest in the work of His hands. He presents before man the peril of closing the door of the heart against the Saviour, saying, “Turn ye, turn ye, for why will ye die?” [Ezekiel 33:11.] (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 11)

We have spoken about the obligation resting upon those who have not accepted Christ as a personal Saviour. But how are they to be convinced of the importance of present truth? Is it not by the work of unselfish, self-sacrificing Christian men and women? “There is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? and how shall they preach except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and that bring glad tidings of good things.” [Romans 10:12-15.] (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 12)

Is it not time for the church to arise and shine because her light has come and the glory of the Lord has risen upon her? (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 13)

In order for us to reflect light to those in darkness, we must be brought into continual contact with the truth of heavenly origin. We must eat the words of Christ. We must breathe His Spirit. It is this that surrounds the soul with the pure atmosphere of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 14)

For the health and vitality of the soul the divine Physician has prescribed communion with Christ. We are to sit at His feet and learn of Him how to be meek and lowly in heart. Spiritual health is dependent on the food given to the mind and on the air which is breathed. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 15)

The soul needs food, and in order to get this food, the Word of God must be studied. Missionary work must be done. Christ declares, “I am the bread of life; he that cometh to me shall never hunger, and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.... I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.... Whoso eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father; so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me.... It is the spirit that quickeneth, the flesh profiteth nothing; the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” [John 6:35, 51, 54-57, 63.] (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 16)

The breathing of pure air is essential for the cure of disease. And it is no less essential that the atmosphere we breathe in the spiritual life shall be pure. This is essential for a healthy growth in grace. Breathe the pure atmosphere which produces pure thoughts and noble words. Choose Christian society. The Christian will not have spiritual health unless he is guarded in regard to his associations. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 17)

The young convert to truth must not always remain a child in spiritual knowledge. A child, however beautiful as a child, is a deformity if it makes no development as years pass by. And every Christian, who is indeed a Christian, must grow. He must constantly increase in wisdom and knowledge. Day by day he must approach more nearly to the full stature of a man in Christ Jesus. In order to be a follower of the Master, he must grow. He must advance into a deeper appreciation of the love of God and a clearer knowledge of His will. If his light does not shine more and more brightly, his faith becomes weak, his love grows feeble; and unless he sees and acknowledges his danger, he is doing the cause of God more harm than an avowed unbeliever. Piety leaves the soul-temple. He turns carelessly away from duties and responsibilities. The Son of God is by him crucified afresh and put to open shame. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 18)

Exercise is essential to growth in grace. When the spiritually diseased are given exercise in spiritual things, there is a transformation of character. The health of the spiritual life is dependent upon exercise. But spirituality cannot grow while the heart is full of the corrupting sores of selfishness. The soul must be cleansed and purified by the refining grace of God. The channel of communication between earth and heaven must be kept free from all obstruction, that the soul may receive from Christ a supply of living water. And every spiritual muscle and sinew must be put to the tax. God has given us many opportunities to work for Him. Unless we improve these opportunities, we cannot be growing Christians. When Christ is formed within, the hope of glory, a decided change will be seen in the religious experience of professing Christians. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 19)

We are living in an age of doubt. The Christian life has become cheapened. Even those who claim to be Seventh-day Adventists are not all true to principle. The truth may be taught with so little life, so coldly and heartlessly, as to make it of no effect. Unless church members arouse and repent and consecrate themselves to God, their influence will do more harm than good to unbelievers. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 20)

“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.” [Revelation 2:1-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 21)

God calls upon us to draw near to Him. As we do this, we resist the devil, and he flees from us. Unless we follow on day by day to know the Lord, unless our faith increases, and holiness comes into our life-experience, we shall lose our first love. Its freshness and power will disappear. The candlestick will be moved out of its place. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 22)

Before we can enter the heavenly courts, we must be refined, purified, elevated, ennobled. In order to preserve the purity which God requires, the truth must be brought into constant contact with mind and heart. God calls upon His people to walk with Him, as did Enoch. Study His Word if you desire to have Christ abiding in you, the life-blood of the soul. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 23)

Is Christ abiding with us? If He is, His holy influence will keep our hearts pure and our minds energetic. The Holy Spirit dwelling in us checks the evil and enables us to separate righteousness from unrighteousness. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 24)

“When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth; for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak; and he will show you things to come.” [John 16:13.] (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 25)

The Christian church needs to be purged and purified. The members must be consecrated to a higher office than they have hitherto occupied. “Go,” said Christ, “and preach the gospel to every creature.” [Mark 16:15.] God calls for a decided reform. You call yourselves Christians. Are you Christians? Are you not afraid that you misrepresent Christ by taking His name, and saying, The temple of the Lord, The temple of the Lord are we, while you allow the love of money to lead you to withhold your tithe and your gifts and offerings, and to keep you from doing the work which the Lord has entrusted to you? The neglect and indifference of professed Christians is cast by the world as a reproach upon God. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 26)

How can we, men and women who have a knowledge of the truth, be so listless and indifferent, so careless in regard to the work to be done in our world to bring the light of truth to the souls perishing in sin? Christians need a clear conviction of duty and the childlike faith which works by love and purifies the soul. Then the deathlike stupor now resting upon the church will be removed. The Lord will work upon mind and heart. The soul-temple will be purified. There will be no fungus growth. Sloth and stupidity will no longer endanger faith. There will be seen spiritual elasticity and vigorous growth. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 27)

God calls for a decided change in His people. Heart-conversion is needed. He calls upon us to reveal to the world the sanctifying power of the truth we profess to believe. He calls upon us to lay ourselves upon His altar, a living sacrifice for Him. All that we have is to be consecrated to His service. (16LtMs, Ms 50, 1901, 28)

Ms 51, 1901

The Need of Self-Examination
NP
June 26, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 1SM 89-93. +

“Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith, prove your own selves.” [2 Corinthians 13:5.] Closely criticize the temper, the disposition, the thoughts, words, inclinations, purposes, and deeds. How can we ask intelligently for the things we need unless we prove by the Scriptures the condition of our spiritual health? (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 1)

Many in their religious life are making crooked paths for their feet. Their prayers are offered in a loose, haphazard manner. He who is placed in a position of responsibility should remember that of himself he is not able to do that which is required of him. Every day he should remember that he is a spectacle unto the world, to angels, and to men. (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 2)

No one is to wait to be borne to fields of labor and provided with costly facilities for doing good. He who serves must cheerfully take up his work, however humble it is, and wherever he may be placed. Christ, our example in all things, was poor, that He might make many rich. (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 3)

He whose heart is filled with the grace of God and love for his perishing fellow men will find opportunity, wherever he may be placed, to speak a word in season to those who are weary. Christians are to work for their Master in meekness and lowliness, holding fast to their integrity amid the noise and bustle of life. (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 4)

God calls upon men to serve Him in every transaction of life. Business is a snare when the law of God are not made the law of the daily life. He who has anything to do with the Master’s work is to maintain unswerving integrity. In all business transactions, as verily as when on bended knees he seeks help from on high, God’s will is to be his will. He is to keep the Lord ever before him, constantly studying the subjects about which the holy Word speaks. Thus, though living amid that which would debase a man of lax principle, the man of piety and stern integrity preserves his Christianity. (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 5)

The world is no more favorable today for the development of Christian character than in Noah’s day. Then wickedness was so widespread that God said, “I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man and beast and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them.” [Genesis 6:7.] (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 6)

“But Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord.... Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.” [Verses 8, 9.] Yes, amid the corruption of that degenerate age, Noah was a pleasure to his Creator. (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 7)

We are living in the last days of this earth’s history, in an age of sin and corruption, and like Noah we are to so live that we shall be a pleasure to God, showing forth the praises of Him “who hath called us out of darkness into his marvellous light.” [1 Peter 2:9.] In the prayer which Christ offered to His Father just before His crucifixion, He said, “I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.” [John 17:15.] (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 8)

When men and women have formed characters which God can endorse, when their self-denial and self-sacrifice have been fully made, when they are ready for the final test, ready to be introduced into God’s family, what service will stand highest in the estimation of Him who gave Himself a willing offering to save a guilty race? What enterprise will be most dear to the heart of infinite love? What work will bring the greatest satisfaction and joy to the Father and the Son?—the salvation of perishing souls. Christ died to bring to men the saving power of the gospel. Those who co-operate with Him in carrying forward His great enterprise of mercy, laboring with all the strength God has given them to save those nigh and afar off, will share in the joy of the Redeemer when the redeemed host stands around the throne of God. (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 9)

God has entrusted means and capabilities to His servants for the doing of a work far higher than that which today He looks upon. “O,” said the heavenly Messenger, “the Lord’s institutions are terribly behind the greatness of the truths which are being fulfilled at the present time. There is a fearful misconception of the claims of duty. The frosty atmosphere in which believers are content to live retards the self-sacrificing movements which should be made to warn the world and save souls. The powers of darkness are working with an intensity of effort, and year by year thousands of people, from all kindreds, nations, and tongues, pass into eternity, unwarned and unready. Our faith must mean something more definite, more decided, more important. (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 10)

“Ask my institutions and churches, ‘Do you believe the word of God? What then are you doing in missionary lines? Are you working with self-denial and self-sacrifice? Do you believe that the word of God means what it says? Your actions show that you do not. How will you meet at the bar of God those who, unwarned, are passing into eternity? Will there be a second probation? No, no. This fallacy might just as well be given up at once. The present probation is all that we shall have. Do you realize that the salvation of fallen human beings must be secured in this present life, or they will be forever lost?’” (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 11)

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 with goods, and have need of nothing”? [Revelation 3:17.] 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? (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 12)

In a clear, determined voice the messenger said, “I ask you, what are you doing? O that you could comprehend! O that you could understand the importance of the warning and what it means to you and to the world! If you did understand, if you were filled with the spirit of the One who gave His life for the life of the world, you would co-operate with Him, making earnest, self-sacrificing efforts to save sinners.” (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 13)

“He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” [1 John 2:4.] A great awakening must come to the church. If we only knew, if we only understood, how quickly the spirit of the message would go from church to church. How willingly would the possessions of believers be given to support the work of God. God calls upon us to pray and watch unto prayer. Cleanse your homes of the picture-idols which have consumed the money that ought to have flowed into the Lord’s treasury. The light must go forth as a lamp that burneth. Those who bear the message to the world should seek the Lord earnestly, that His Holy Spirit may be abundantly bestowed upon them. You have no time to lose. Pray for the power of God, that you may work with success for those nigh and afar off. (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 14)

We must have genuine faith. As yet we scarcely grasp the reality of the truth. We only half believe the Word of God. A man will act out all the faith he has. Notwithstanding that the signs of the time are fulfilling all over the world, faith in the Lord’s coming has been growing feeble. Clear, distinct, certain, the warnings are to be given. At the peril of our souls we are to learn the prescribed conditions under which we are to work out our own salvation, remembering that it is God which worketh in us, both to will and to do of His good pleasure. (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 15)

It will not do for us to float along with the current, guided by tradition and presumptuous fallacies. We are called laborers together with God. Then let us arise and shine. There is no time to spend in controversy. Those who have a knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus must now become one in heart and purpose. All differences must be swept away. The members of the church must work unitedly under the great Head of the church. (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 16)

Let those who have a knowledge of the truth arise and shine. “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet.” [Isaiah 58:1.] No longer mutilate the truth. Let the soul cry out for the living God. “Cease ye from man, whose breath is in his nostrils.” [Isaiah 2:22.] The Comforter will come to you, if you will open the door to Him. “Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feelings of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in every time of need.” [Hebrews 4:14-16.] (16LtMs, Ms 51, 1901, 17)

Ms 52, 1901

“Watch and Pray”
NP
June 26, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in SD 13.

“Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation.” [Matthew 26:41.] When a man enters into a strange work, which in any way affects another to his injury, the Lord looks on and gives evidence of His displeasure; and the consequences will react upon the doer. Men may hold an exalted place as rulers and teachers in the visible church, and yet not make God their counsellor. They then substitute human devising and human methods for God’s methods. They make God’s will secondary, placing their human conceptions as supreme. Let him who is connected with the service of God make the living oracles his study. In dealing with believers or unbelievers, let him follow the principles God has given. He is constantly to search the Scriptures, that he may understand the counsel God has given His people from the beginning of the world. He is to take the place of a learner, depending upon God for guidance. Then he will fulfil the purpose of God for him. He will eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God. In word, in spirit, and in action he will show that he cherishes the eternal principles of justice and righteousness. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 1)

It has been a sorrowful experience for the church of God that men who have not been converted have, by the vote of the body of believers, been placed in positions of great responsibility. These men have not practiced true godliness, but have turned aside from following God to follow corrupt, worldly practices, which should find no place in the management of the work upon which so much depends. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 2)

The church of God is to be the light of the world, shining amid the moral darkness, opposing Satan’s devisings, striving to uproot selfishness. The Lord’s pure, righteous principles are in marked contrast to Satan’s principles, which have made the world what it is today. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 3)

To the people of God comes the injunction, “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation.” [Verse 41.] Temptations born of selfishness and covetousness will come to us constantly, and constantly we are to resist them, strengthened by the grace of God. Those who in reality put on Christ will work out, before a world that is watching Christians, ready to make capital of any erroneous methods, the pure principles of heaven. Christians are to treat their fellow workers as they would wish to be treated, being careful not to take the least advantage of them. They are not to selfishly seize opportunities which will place their brother at a disadvantage. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 4)

Fathers, masters, rulers, are never to take advantage of their position to bring about such a condition of things that questionable principles shall find place. Let nothing unlike Christ be allowed to make the least appearance among the people to whom God has given the work of revealing His character to a world opposed to Him. We are to bring pure principles into all our dealings with those for whom Christ gave His life. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 5)

These things have been presented to me so many times that I must speak to you in the words of the great Teacher, “Watch ye therefore; for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning; lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.” [Mark 13:35-37.] (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 6)

I lift my voice in warning. Heed the words of Jesus. In all business transactions, watch, ministers and presidents of conferences, watch unto prayer. Work out your own prayers, and you will find that you are co-operating with Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 7)

My brethren, you cannot afford to make one move on the wrong side, one move that will in any way vindicate the principles which God condemns. Turn aside from wicked examples, by whosoever they may be set, for they should not be followed. Bow not to human authority. God is at work, calling attention to the laws of His kingdom. Bow to no human authority unless a plain “Thus saith the Lord” makes it safe for you to do this. When those who claim to have authority in business lines deviate in the slightest particular from mercy and justice, do not follow in their ways or seek to vindicate their actions. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 8)

Those who see no evil in acting on anti-Christian principles should be given no part to act in institutions where there are souls to be educated to act in accordance with God’s plan. Those who will be most exalted in the kingdom of God will be those who in this life love the Lord Jesus and their fellow men, who are always ready to honor Him who made so great a sacrifice for them. He laid aside His kingly crown and royal robe, and stepped from His high command to take His place at the head of a fallen race. Clothing His divinity with humanity, He came to a world all seared and marred with the curse, to become one with humanity, to endure in behalf of humanity the temptations of the wily foe. He came to show men that they may stand on vantage ground with God, keeping all the laws of His kingdom, acting out His will in love and kindness and loyalty, doing good and not evil. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 9)

Nothing has been so difficult for the people of God to learn as loyalty to the pure, elevated, unselfish principles of heaven, and as a result sin and suffering make up a large part of their history. The words spoken to Daniel by the angel are positive: “Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly, and none of the wicked shall understand.” [Daniel 12:10.] Be assured that Satan, as a strong man armed, is continually on the watch, seeking to penetrate to the very heart of God’s working force, striving to bring in questionable methods of dealing, and thereby mar the work of God. He works with all his power to bring his specious, evil theories into the business dealing of God’s people. He would be well pleased to eclipse the brightness of God’s principles by the selfishness of the principles on which he works. If he possibly can, he will tarnish the pure gold of character. If he can place the false where the true should be, his object is gained. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 10)

The originator of all evil, he comes with stealthy tread, presenting plausible theories to the people of God, telling them that if they do this or that, even though it may be questionable, they will gain great advantage, and the end will justify the means. He tries to persuade them that the eating of the forbidden fruit will be to them a source of great good. When men listen to him, the spiritual eyesight is dimmed and the power of distinguishing between good and evil weakened. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 11)

The doing of one unrighteous action paves the way for the second. Thus God is dishonored. Satan points to the tarnished principles of His professed followers. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 12)

Satan’s work is represented in the third chapter of Zechariah. We read, “He showed me Joshua, the high priest, standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him. And the Lord said unto Satan, The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan; even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire? Now Joshua (by Satan’s speeches) was clothed with filthy garments, and stood before the angel.” [Verses 1-3.] (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 13)

Satan comes to God’s people with temptation, the temptation gains the victory, and those claiming to follow Christ fall a prey to the devices of the enemy, giving him an excuse to point at God’s people as clothed with filthy garments. He points to the defects of such ones as a sample of what is done by God’s commandment-keeping people. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 14)

The Lord may seem to have forgotten the perils of His church and the injuries done to her by those who follow principles which He cannot endorse. But God has not forgotten. Nothing in this world is so dear to the heart of God as His church. He marks every action of the members. He would not have worldly policy corrupt her record as a representative of heaven. Nothing so offends the heart of Christ as to injure those whom He died to save. His heart of love is grieved when the lame are turned out of the way by the crooked paths made by others. God does not leave His people to be overcome by Satan’s temptations. He will chastise those who misrepresent Him. But He will be gracious to all who sincerely repent. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 15)

“He answered and spake unto those who stood before him, Take away the filthy garments from him. And unto him he said, Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment. And I said, Let them set a fair mitre upon his head. So they set a fair mitre upon his head, and clothed him with garments. And the angel of the Lord stood by. And the angel of the Lord protested unto Joshua, saying, Thus saith the Lord of hosts: If thou wilt walk in my ways, and if thou wilt keep my charge, then thou shalt also judge my house, and shalt also keep my courts, and I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by.” [Verses 4-7.] (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 16)

God will rebuke Satan, refusing to hear his accusations against His church, even though she is far from what she should be. Standing before God in filthy garments, Joshua well represents the condition of God’s ministers and the lay members of the church. They need to be revived and reformed. They need to be sanctified by the Holy Spirit. Those who continue in the service of God will through the revival of God’s appointed agencies return to wholehearted obedience, depending on the merits of a crucified Saviour and trusting in His atonement for salvation. The righteous will continually follow righteousness, because Christ, who is formed within, is righteousness and truth. They will be imbued with a pure, fervent love, a love begotten by the love of God. Their transgressions will be forgiven and their sins pardoned, and God will look upon them with pleasure. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 17)

Christ loves His church. He will give all needed help to those who call upon Him for strength for the development of Christlike character. But His love is not weakness. He will not serve with their sins to give them prosperity while they continue to follow a wrong course of action. Only by faithful repentance will their sins be forgiven; for God will not cover evil with the robe of His righteousness. He will honor faithful service. He will abundantly bless those who reveal to their fellow men His justice, mercy, and love. Let those who are engaged in His service walk before Him in true humility, following faithfully in His footsteps, cherishing the holy principles which will live through the eternal ages. Let them in word and action show that they obey the laws which are obeyed in heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 18)

Remember that those who are truly united to Christ will show Christlike sympathy for one another. Are they not members of His body? Should they not show a kindly interest in their fellow laborer and rejoice in helping him? Such believers will exert that influence which produces the fruits of righteousness. Their light will shine forth to others, and the church will feel the benefit of the sanctifying power of the grace of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 19)

The way of the world is to begin with pomp and boasting, exalting human agents. But all this will come to naught. God’s way is to make the day of small things the beginning of the glorious triumph of truth and righteousness. Bear in mind that human power and human inventions did not establish the church and neither will they destroy her. The Holy Spirit will keep everyone who in faith and trust is committed to His charge. The overflowing fountain of life is for God’s servants to enjoy. It makes them more than conquerors, victorious over all opposition. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 20)

I am instructed to present the following Scripture to those who claim to respect the law of Jehovah: (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 21)

“Listen, O isles, unto me; and hearken, ye people, from far; the Lord hath called me from the womb; from the bowels of my mother hath he made mention of my name. And he hath made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of his hand hath he hid me, and made me a polished shaft; in his quiver hath he hid me; and said unto me, Thou art my servant, O Israel, in whom I will be glorified. Then I said, I have labored in vain, I have spent my strength for nought, and in vain; yet surely my judgment is with the Lord, and my work with my God. And now, saith the Lord that formed me from the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob again to him, though Israel be not gathered, yet shall I be glorious in the eyes of the Lord, and my God shall be my strength. And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant, to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel; I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the ends of the earth. Thus saith the Lord, the Redeemer, and his Holy One, to him whom man despiseth, to him whom the nation abhorreth, to a servant of rulers, Kings shall see and arise, princes also shall worship, because of the Lord that is faithful, and the Holy One of Israel, and he shall choose thee. Thus saith the Lord, In an acceptable time have I heard thee, and in a day of salvation have I helped thee; and I will preserve thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, to establish the earth, to cause to inherit the desolate heritages; that thou mayest say to the prisoners, Go forth; to them that are in darkness, Show yourselves. They shall feed in the ways, and their pastures shall be in all high places. They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them; for he that hath mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall he guide them. And I will make all my mountains a way, and my highways shall be exalted. Behold, these shall come from far; and, lo, these from the north and from the west; and these from the land of Sinim. Sing, O heavens, and be joyful, O earth; and break forth into singing, O mountains; for the Lord hath comforted his people, and will have mercy upon his afflicted. But Zion said, The Lord hath forsaken me, and my Lord hath forgotten me. Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee. Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me.” [Isaiah 49:1-16.] (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 22)

God means every word that He says. He continues to carry forward His work of redemption on the hearts of those who will repent and be converted. The church has failed, sadly failed, to meet the expectations of her Redeemer, and yet the Lord does not withdraw Himself from His people. He bears with them still, not because of any goodness found in them, but that His name shall not be dishonored before the enemies of truth and righteousness, that the satanic agencies may not triumph in their punishment and destruction. He has borne long with their waywardness and unbelief and folly. With wonderful forbearance and compassion He has disciplined them. If they will heed his instruction, He will cleanse away their perverse tendencies, saving them with an everlasting salvation and making them eternal monuments of the power of His grace. Under His superintending care they will carry forward His work without misrepresenting Him in any line. His glorious work, constructed on eternal principles, will never decay. It will shine with the light of the pure principles with which it is illuminated, and there will be shouting of Grace, grace unto it. (16LtMs, Ms 52, 1901, 23)

[signed] Ellen G. White

Ms 53, 1901

“Christ, the Majesty of heaven ...”
NP
June 30, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in UL 195.

Christ, the Majesty of heaven, came to this earth in human flesh, expressing divine benevolence, sympathy and love for the fallen race as He stood at the head of the human family. He came to redeem sinners and clothe them with His righteousness. As the Saviour of the world, He was subject to temptations. The enemy assailed Him on every point. Constantly he came to Him with the suggestion that by compromising with the world, He might gain the world. (16LtMs, Ms 53, 1901, 1)

Christ is our example. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] While He was in the world, He was not of the world. He was not to conform to worldly practices in order to reach the object of His life. He was not to please Himself. The highest standard must be maintained. Deviation from strict moral rectitude would mar His whole life work. (16LtMs, Ms 53, 1901, 2)

In order to save humanity, Christ came down to the level of humanity, as far as worldly advantages were concerned. He came to this earth to be tempted in all points like as human beings are tempted. In the wilderness Satan came to Him and assailed Him on the great points on which he assails man, but the Saviour did not yield to the enemy. Not in a single particular was He overcome. And the temptations were just as real to Him as they are to us today. (16LtMs, Ms 53, 1901, 3)

Constantly the Pharisees tried to lead Christ away from the principles of God’s government. Making a great profession of piety they sought to lead Him to swerve from His allegiance. Satan has persuaded many men to deviate from principle by telling them that the end will justify the means. Reasoning from a human standpoint, they excused themselves for wrongdoing by saying that the cause of God would be the gainer in their unfaithful dealing. This deviation from the holy principles of heaven has placed them in the ranks of the great deceiver. Political men have left the banner of Christ under pretext of serving the cause of God, when in reality they were serving their own lust. (16LtMs, Ms 53, 1901, 4)

Christ came to this earth in human form to inaugurate a spiritual reform. He came to show men how to discard all ostentation and show, how to live upon the pure, vital principles of reform. He came to institute a plan whereby human character might be made pure. By His grace He desires to place men and women close beside the throne of God. (16LtMs, Ms 53, 1901, 5)

The laws of Christ’s kingdom are so simple, so compact, and yet so complete that any manmade additions will create confusion. And the more simple our plans for work in God’s service, the more we shall accomplish. By studying how they can adopt the plans of worldly policy in their work for God, men disarrange God’s plans of humility and simplicity which He desires shall be followed in advancing His kingdom. (16LtMs, Ms 53, 1901, 6)

A deviation from righteousness and true piety led the Pharisees to enact laws which did violence to human nature. They demanded the observance of petty rites until they became lost in their own exactions. Unable to distinguish between the sacred and the common, they treated their human sentiments as though they were divine. Today, human fables are exalted as truth, and the truth is displaced. Manmade laws, taking root, grow and tower above the original requirements of God, usurping the place which belongs to God’s law, casting into the shade the reverence which should ever be given to that law. The reverence of the soul is mingled with the chaff of man’s unauthorized productions, and the spurious is exalted above the true and holy. (16LtMs, Ms 53, 1901, 7)

From first to last the minds of the disciples were confused with regard to the difference between the sacred and the common. This called forth the statement from Christ, “Every plant which my heavenly Father hath not planted shall be rooted up.” [Matthew 15:13.] (16LtMs, Ms 53, 1901, 8)

“Then came together unto him the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes, which came from Jerusalem. And when they saw his disciples eat bread with defiled, that is to say, with unwashen hands, they found fault. For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders. And when they come from the market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have received to hold, as the washing of cups and pots, brasen vessels, and of tables. Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashen hands? He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoreth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of cups and pots; and many other such like things ye do. And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.” [Mark 7:1-9.] (16LtMs, Ms 53, 1901, 9)

Ms 54, 1901

Go Work Today in My Vineyard
NP
July 1, 1901
See variant Ms 54a, 1901. Portions of this manuscript are published in 1MR 262-263. See RH 08/26/1902. +

The perplexing question of means has troubled many. Again and again, by his deceitful, alluring projects, Satan has blocked the way against advance. The church has not stood in dependence upon God, but, yielding to the temptations of the enemy, has tried to carry out plans which called for means far exceeding her revenue. Much money has been invested in a few places. This has deprived missionary fields of the help they should have received. In building up the work in their part of the field, men have drawn from the treasury without thinking that other parts of the vineyard must be supplied with facilities. Thus destitute fields have been left unworked. By rushing on without counting the cost, without taking into consideration how much would be needed to build the tower, men have brought debt, discouragement, and confusion upon the cause. The way of progress in new fields has been hedged up. A kind of frenzy has taken hold of the minds of men, leading them to rush on to do that which would absorb means without any prospect of afterward producing means. By working on wrong plans, men have brought debt upon the cause. Let not this be repeated. Let those at the head of the work move carefully, refusing to bury the cause of God in debt. Let no one move recklessly, heedlessly, thinking, without knowing, that all is well. (16LtMs, Ms 54, 1901, 1)

Undue excitement and interest in the work in one place contributes nothing to the advancement of the work as a whole. When plans are laid to erect a building in one place, give careful consideration to the other places which of money from the treasury for the erection of buildings. Time is short, and while buildings must be erected, let this be done with all due consideration. Let the one who has charge of the work of building be a man of sound, sanctified mind, not one who, in his anxiety to erect a fine piece of architecture, will bring perplexity upon the whole work. (16LtMs, Ms 54, 1901, 2)

God is not the author of confusion, but of peace. Let those who desire to advance His kingdom make haste slowly and build intelligently. Let no one rush on with the stumbling supposition (16LtMs, Ms 54, 1901, 3)

The result of selfish management stands before us today as a representation of the wisdom of men whose minds and hearts needed the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Lord has many ways of trying and proving those who claim to be Christians. With unmistakable accuracy He has traced the effects of human wisdom, showing those who have thought that they were doing great things, that they need to review the past and see that they were not actuated by the Holy Spirit. Had they taken up this work of self-examination at the beginning of their work, years of God-dishonoring service would have been changed to a service of love. Every heart in every household needs to take up the work of self-examination, else men and women will find, as did Saul, that they are appointed to destruction. Every family needs now to seek God. They will not endure the test unless there is a revival and a reformation. The Lord will not admit into the mansions He is preparing for the righteous one soul who is self-sufficient. (16LtMs, Ms 54, 1901, 4)

The members of the church of God are not all converted, but they may be if they will humble their hearts before the Lord. God is not willing that any should perish. He is glorified when men and women accept Him as their personal Saviour. (16LtMs, Ms 54, 1901, 5)

What shall be the future showing in the church? The Lord calls for decided action among those who claim to be His people. There are many ways of promulgating the truth. The Lord is well pleased when those who go forth as missionaries are more anxious for the salvation of souls than they are regarding the wages they shall receive for their work. When Christ’s witnesses work under the Holy Spirit’s guidance, when they are stripped of all selfishness, souls are converted by their earnest, patient, persevering efforts. (16LtMs, Ms 54, 1901, 6)

Let two or more persons start out together in evangelistic work. They may not get any particular encouragement from those at the head of the work that they will be sustained, but nevertheless, let them go forward praying, singing, teaching, living the truth. They may take up the work of canvassing, and in this way introduce the truth into families. As they move forward in their work, they gain a blessed experience. They are humbled by a sense of their poverty and helplessness, but the Lord manifestly goes before them. Among the wealthy and the poor they find favor and help. They come close in friendship to those for whom they work, the one imparting the treasures of the Word, the other imparting temporal sustenance. And both are blessed. Even the poverty of the workers is a means of finding access to the people. As these humble missionaries pass on their way, they are helped in many ways by those to whom they bring spiritual food. Many isolated ones are brought to a knowledge of the truth who, but for these humble teachers, would never have been won to Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 54, 1901, 7)

Self-supporting missionaries are often very successful. Beginning in a small and humble way, their work enlarges under the guidance of the Spirit of God. (16LtMs, Ms 54, 1901, 8)

This work all can do who have received the truth into the heart. Providence opens the way for workers to go to isolated places, and if they bear the message God gives them, their efforts will be crowned with success. (16LtMs, Ms 54, 1901, 9)

God calls for men to enter the whitening harvest field. Shall His workmen wait because the treasury is exhausted, because there is scarcely enough to sustain the workers now in the field? Go forth in faith, and God will be with you. “He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” [Psalm 126:6.] Nothing is so successful as success. Let this be secured, and the work will move forward. New fields will be opened. Many souls will be won to the truth. What is needed is increased faith in God. (16LtMs, Ms 54, 1901, 10)

Ms 54a, 1901

Go, Work Today in My Vineyard
NP
July 1, 1901
Variant of Ms 54, 1901. +

A Wise Distribution of Means.

The perplexing question of means has troubled many. Again and again, by his deceitful, alluring projects, Satan has blocked the way against advance. The church has not stood in dependence upon God, but, yielding to the temptations of the enemy, has tried to carry out plans which called for means exceeding her revenue. Much money has been invested in a few places. This has deprived missionary fields of the help they should have received. In building up the work in their part of the field, men have followed sharp practices, and have drawn means from the Lord’s treasury without remembering that all the revenue is the Lord’s, and that other parts of the vineyard must be supplied. For reasons they will not be pleased to meet in the judgment, they closed their eyes to the needs of their fellow workers. Thus destitute fields have been left unworked. By rushing on to create large buildings without counting the cost, without taking into consideration how much would be needed to build the tower, men have brought debt, discouragement, and confusion upon the cause. The way of progress in new fields has been hedged up. (16LtMs, Ms 54a, 1901, 1)

A kind of frenzy has taken hold of the minds of men, leading them to do that which would absorb means without any prospect of afterward producing peace. Had this money been used in the way God signified it should be, workers would have been raised up and prepared to do the work that must be done before the coming of the Lord. The misappropriation of means shows me the need of the Lord’s warning that His work must not be bound about by human projects, that it must be done in a way that will strengthen His cause. (16LtMs, Ms 54a, 1901, 2)

By working on wrong plans, men have brought debt upon the cause. Let not this be repeated. Let those at the head of the work move cautiously, refusing to bury the cause of God in debt. Let no one move recklessly, heedlessly, thinking, without knowing that all will be well. (16LtMs, Ms 54a, 1901, 3)

Undue excitement and interest in the work in one place contributes nothing to the advancement of the work as a whole. When plans are laid to erect a building in one place, give careful consideration to the other places that are in just as great need of money for the erection of needful buildings. Time is short, and while buildings must be erected, let this be done with due consideration for the other parts of the Lord’s vineyard. Let the one who has charge of the building be a man of sound, sanctified mind, not one who, in his anxiety to erect a fine piece of architecture, will bring perplexity upon the work by expensive investment. (16LtMs, Ms 54a, 1901, 4)

God is not the author of confusion, but of peace. Let those who desire to advance His kingdom make haste slowly and build intelligently. Let no one rush on with a stumbling supposition that means must be invested to make a display. Thus saith the Lord, “it must not be so expanded; for it is at the expense of souls.” (16LtMs, Ms 54a, 1901, 5)

The result of selfish management stands before us today as a representation of the wisdom of men whose minds and hearts needed the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The Lord has many ways of trying and proving those who claim to be Christians. With unmistakable accuracy He has traced the effects of human wisdom, showing those who have thought that they were doing great things, that they need to review the past, and see that they were not actuated by the Holy Spirit, that in many things they refused the counsel of the Lord. Had they taken up this self-examination at the beginning of their work, as the Lord directed them to do, years of God-dishonoring service would have been changed into a service of love. Every heart in every household needs to take up the work of self-examination, else they will find, as did Saul, that they are appointed to destruction. Especially is this applicable to men in positions of responsibility. Saith the Lord, I will not serve with any selfish devising. Every one needs now to seek the Lord. God’s people will not endure the test unless there is a revival and a reformation. The Lord will not admit into the mansions He is preparing for the righteous, one soul who is self-sufficient. (16LtMs, Ms 54a, 1901, 6)

The members of the church of God are not all converted, but they may be if they will humble their hearts before God. God is not willing that any should perish. He is glorified when men and women accept Him as their Leader. (16LtMs, Ms 54a, 1901, 7)

What shall be the future showing in the church? The Lord calls for decided action among those who claim to be His people. There are many ways of promulgating the truth. The Lord is well pleased when those who go forth as missionaries are more anxious for the salvation of souls than they are regarding the wages they shall receive for their work. When Christ’s witnesses work under the Holy Spirit’s guidance, when they are stripped of all selfishness, souls are converted by their earnest, patient, persevering efforts. (16LtMs, Ms 54a, 1901, 8)

Let two or more persons start out together in evangelistic work. They may not get any particular encouragement from those at the head of the work that they will be sustained, but nevertheless, let them go forward, praying, singing, teaching, living the truth. They may take up the important work of canvassing, and in this way introduce the truth into many families. As they move forward in their work, they gain a blessed experience. They are humbled by a sense of their poverty and helplessness, but the Lord manifestly goes before them. Among the wealthy and the poor they find favor and help. They come close in friendship to those for whom they work, the one imparting the treasures of the Word, the other imparting temporal sustenance. And both are blessed. Even the poverty of the workers is a means of finding access to the people. As these humble missionaries pass on their way, they are helped in many ways by those to whom they bring spiritual food. Many isolated ones are brought to a knowledge of the truth who, but for these humble teachers, would never have been won to Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 54a, 1901, 9)

Self-supporting missionaries are often very successful. Beginning in a small, humble way, their work enlarges under the guidance of the Spirit of God. Many will be called to work in this way. Let no man lay his hand upon them, saying, “Why do you thus?” The weakest will be enabled to do the work of the learned. (16LtMs, Ms 54a, 1901, 10)

All who receive the truth into their hearts can work for God. Providence opens the way for workers to go to isolated places, and as they bear the message God gives them, their efforts will be crowned with success. (16LtMs, Ms 54a, 1901, 11)

God calls for men to enter the whitening harvest field. Shall His workmen wait because the treasury is exhausted, because there is scarcely enough to sustain the workers now in the field? Go forth in faith, and God will be with you. “He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” [Psalm 126:6.] Nothing is so successful as success. Let this be secured, and the work will move forward. New fields will be opened. Many souls will be won to the truth. What is needed is increased faith in God. (16LtMs, Ms 54a, 1901, 12)

Ms 55, 1901

Words of Instruction
NP
July 1, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 13MR 208-214. +

I look at the various conferences of America to see what the presidents of these conferences have been doing, and I ask myself, What work have they been engaged in? (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 1)

Souls are perishing in sin because those who have been appointed as shepherds of the flock are not laborers together with God. They neglect to do the very work that should be done. Why are those set apart for the work of the ministry placed on committees and boards? Why are they called upon to attend business meetings at a great distance from their field of labor? Why are not business matters placed in the hands of businessmen? The ministers have not been set apart to do this work. The finances of the cause are to be properly managed. Managing ability is to be brought into the work. But ministers are set apart for a higher work. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 2)

Ministers of the gospel are not to be called hither and thither to attend board meetings to decide common business questions. This has been done in the past, but this is not the work in which the Lord wishes them to engage. Let men who have not been set apart to the sacred work of the ministry take the management of financial matters. Too many financial burdens have been placed upon our ministers. When this is done, the great gospel commission is neglected. God looks upon this as a dishonor to His name. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 3)

The Lord’s great vineyard demands from men that which it has not yet received—earnest, persevering labor for souls. The ministry is becoming weak and feeble, and under their tame service, the churches also are becoming weak. The ministers of our conferences have very little to show in the conversion of souls as a result of their labors. These things are depriving God of the glory which belongs to Him. The truth is not carried into the barren places of the earth. God calls for workers who will be producers. There is a world to be warned. Why are the ministers who should be laboring earnestly to open new fields and raise up new churches, hovering over the churches which have already received great light and many advantages ? (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 4)

During the night season I was speaking in a large congregation. We have been instructed by the Lord that the medical missionary work is to be to the work of the third angel’s message as the right hand to the body. The right hand is used to open doors through which the body may find entrance. This is the part the medical missionary work is to act. It is to largely prepare the way for the reception of the truth for this time. A body without hands is useless. In giving honor to the body, honor must also be given to the helping hands, which are agencies of such importance that without them the body can do nothing. Therefore the body which treats indifferently the right hand, refusing its aid, is able to accomplish nothing. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 5)

In Australia we found that the medical missionary work breaks down prejudice and opens the way for the truth to go with power. And I have now come to America to see if my words will have more power than my letters have had in leading my brethren to a proper appreciation of medical missionary work. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 6)

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.” [Genesis 3:15.] There is much work to be done in the vineyard of the Lord. Never are God’s workmen to accuse one another. Time is short; the end of all things is at hand. Our work is not to repress and hinder, but to encourage and restore. All who will co-operate with the Redeemer in bruising the head of the serpent will be doing the work which the Lord has appointed them. But God has not given men the least intimation that they are to bruise their fellow men. Their warfare is to be directed against the power of Satan. Those who co-operate with Christ will give no place to the devil, but, uniting under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel, will repress every evil word and work. They are never to use their power to weaken the influence of those who are trying to work for God. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 7)

All through this country a work must be done that has not yet been done. The medical missionary work must be recognized. Those who go forth to engage in the work of the ministry must be intelligent upon the subject of health reform. Those men, who after many years’ experience, have yet no appreciation of the medical missionary work, should not be appointed to preside over our churches. They are not walking in the light of present truth for this time. Those who love the truth and appreciate the question of temperance in all its bearings should not be placed in [the] charge of a minister who has not heeded the light God has given . What help can a man be to a church if he is not walking in the light? (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 8)

In new fields no work is so successful as medical missionary work. If our ministers would work earnestly to obtain an education in medical missionary lines, they would be far better fitted to do the work Christ did as a medical missionary. By diligent study and practice, they can become so well acquainted with the principles of health reform, that wherever they go they will be a great blessing <[to] impart information so much needed> to the people they meet. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 9)

For years the necessity of health reform has been held before our people. By the practice of its simple principles, the sick and suffering are relieved, and fields otherwise unapproachable become most interesting fields of action. The seeds of truth, cast into good ground, produce an abundant harvest. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 10)

“They shall build the old wastes, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall repair the waste cities, the desolations of many generations. And strangers shall stand and feed your flocks, and the sons of the alien shall be your plowmen and your vinedressers. But ye shall be named the Priests of the Lord; men shall call you the Ministers of our God; ye shall eat the riches of the Gentiles, and in their glory shall ye boast yourselves. For your shame ye shall have double; and for confusion they shall rejoice in their portion; therefore in their land they shall possess the double; everlasting joy shall be unto them. For I the Lord love judgment, I hate robbery for burnt offering; and I will direct their work in truth, and I will make an everlasting covenant with them. And their seed shall be known among the Gentiles, and their offspring among the people: all that see them shall acknowledge them, that they are the seed which the Lord hath blessed. I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with jewels. For as the earth bringeth forth her bud, and as the garden causeth the things that are sown in it to spring forth, so the Lord God will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before all the nations.” [Isaiah 61:4-11.] (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 11)

Medical missionary work brings to humanity the gospel of release from suffering. It is the pioneer work of the gospel. It is the gospel practiced, the compassion of Christ revealed. Of this work there is great need, and the world is open for it. God grant that the importance of medical missionary work shall be understood, and that new fields may be immediately entered. Then will the work of the ministry be after the Lord’s order; the sick will be healed, and poor, suffering humanity will be blessed. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 12)

Begin to do medical missionary work with the conveniences which you have at hand. You will find that thus the way will open for you to hold Bible readings. The heavenly Father will place you in connection with those who need to know how to treat their sick ones. Put into practice what you know regarding the treatment of disease. Thus suffering will be relieved, and you will have opportunity to break the bread of life to starving souls. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 13)

It is the duty of Christians to convince the world that the religion of Christ disrobes the soul of the garments of heaviness and mourning, and clothes it with joy and gladness. Those who receive Christ as a sin-pardoning Saviour are clothed with His garments of light. He takes away their sin and imparts to them His righteousness. Their joy is full. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 14)

Who has a better right than Christians to sing songs of rejoicing? Have they not the expectation of being members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King? Is not the gospel good tidings of great joy? When the promises of God are freely and fully accepted, heaven’s brightness is brought into the life. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 15)

While we are to be sober, while we are never to relax our watchfulness to become light or frivolous, still we are always to be cheerful. We are to express our appreciation of the Christian’s hope by joyous songs of praise and thanksgiving. Heavenly angels join in these songs. They cannot be silent. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 16)

He who is truly converted will be so filled with the love of God that he will long to impart to others the joy that he himself possesses. The Lord desires His church to hold forth to the world the beauty of holiness. She is to demonstrate the power of Christian religion. Heaven is to be reflected in the character of the Christian. The song of gratitude and praise is to be heard by those in darkness. For the good tidings of the gospel, for its promises and assurances, we are to express our gratitude by seeking to do others good. The doing of medical missionary work brings rays of heavenly brightness to wearied, perplexed, suffering souls. It is as a fountain opened for the wayworn, thirsty traveller. At every work of mercy, every work of love, angels of God are present. Those who live nearest to heaven will reflect the brightness of the Sun of Righteousness. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 17)

Our Saviour allowed nothing to hinder Him in His work of opening the Scriptures to His disciples and the multitudes. Going forth from the wilderness of temptation, “He began to preach and to say, Repent; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. And Jesus, walking by the Sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon, called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets and followed him. And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him. And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness, and all manner of disease among the people. And his fame went throughout all Syria; and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatic, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.” [Matthew 4:17-24.] (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 18)

“And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up; and as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the Sabbath day and stood up for to read. And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written, The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, ... And he arose out of the synagogue, and entered into Simon’s house. And Simon’s wife’s mother was taken with a great fever; and they besought him for her. And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever, and it left her; and immediately she arose and ministered unto them. Now when the sun was setting, all they that had any sick with divers diseases brought them unto him; and he laid his hands on every one of them and healed them. And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ, the Son of God. And he rebuking them, suffered them not to speak; for they knew that he was Christ. And when it was day he departed and went into a desert place; and the people sought him, and came unto him, and stayed him, that he should not depart from them. And he said unto them, I must preach the kingdom of God to other cities also; for therefore am I sent.” [Luke 4:16-18, 38-43.] (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 19)

Read the Scriptures carefully, and you will find that Christ spent the largest part of His ministry in restoring the suffering and afflicted to health. Thus He threw back upon Satan the reproach of the evil which the enemy of all good had originated. Satan is the destroyer; Christ is the restorer. And in our work as Christ’s co-laborers, we shall have success if we work on practical lines. Ministers Do not confine your to giving Bible instruction. Do practical work. Seek to restore the sick to health. This is true ministry. Remember that the restoration of the body prepares the way for the restoration of the soul. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 20)

When one goes out as a physician, gospel teacher, and canvasser, he should be fully empowered to do the work of a minister. When under his labors souls accept the truth and give evidence of true conversion, he is to baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. And such workers should have the sympathy and co-operation of those who remain at home. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 21)

There is much work to be done in foreign fields, but let us not forget the heathen at our own door. The colored people in the Southern States of America have been cruelly neglected by Christians. The great need of this people demands our help. In the shadow of our own doors they are living in sin and degradation. God calls for earnest medical missionaries, who will put the whole soul into the work of saving sinners. Make Christ’s work your example. Constantly He went about doing good, feeding the hungry and healing the sick. No one who came to Him for sympathy was disappointed. The commander of the heavenly courts, He was made flesh and dwelt among us, and His lifework is an example of the work we are to do. His tender, pitying love rebukes our selfishness and heartlessness. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 22)

God pitied the Israelites in their slavery in Egypt, and breaking the yoke of their bondage, He placed Moses at their head to lead them through the wilderness to the promised land. God has placed in our midst a people who in one sense have been freed from slavery, but who are still in the slavery of ignorance because men and women more favored have not taken the pains to lift them from their degradation. He who pitied the Israelites in Egypt is not indifferent to the suffering of the colored people in America. He calls upon those who name His name to take up the work they have neglected. (16LtMs, Ms 55, 1901, 23)

Ms 56, 1901

The Need of Missionary Effort
NP
July 3, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in RH 12/24/1901. +

Missions at home and missions abroad demand much more consideration than has been given to them. Christ came to our world to teach us the importance of missionary work. Laying aside His royal robe and kingly crown, He clothed His divinity with humanity, and came to a world all seared and marred with the curse to rescue the human race from eternal death. For our sakes He became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich. Eternal riches could be obtained for the fallen race only by the heaven-devised plan of redemption. (16LtMs, Ms 56, 1901, 1)

The field of Christ’s missionary toil was the world. He came from heaven to take His position at the head of a fallen order. Humanity and divinity were united in order that all might be done that was essential to be done for the complete recovery of sinners. (16LtMs, Ms 56, 1901, 2)

Christ’s work is an example for all who go forth as missionaries. His long human arm encircled the human race, while with His divine arm He grasped the throne of the Eternal. His work is the model for all missionary endeavor. It calls for unreserved surrender, for the consecration of time and talents. It calls upon us to return to God the goods which He has entrusted to us, with the interest which has come to us as we have traded upon them. All is to be put into the cause, to advance the work Christ came to this world to do. Christ calls upon the recipients of His bounty to impart to Him who has bought them with His blood. (16LtMs, Ms 56, 1901, 3)

We need a closer conformity to the character of Christ, a closer communion with Him who has said, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18-20.] (16LtMs, Ms 56, 1901, 4)

In the night season I have been in a council meeting where we were seeking the Lord in earnest prayer as to the matter of opening new fields when there was little encouragement given by those at the head of the work that financial aid would be forthcoming. One of authority spoke to us words of divine instruction, the substance of which I will trace. (16LtMs, Ms 56, 1901, 5)

Every family that is converted is to act as God’s helping hand. Had every child for centuries in the past been trained to realize his accountability to God and to do missionary work, how different the world would be today. Every morning and evening, sincere, earnest prayer should ascend from every family altar. The Lord will accept individuals from every family for special service, according to their several ability. Fathers and mothers are to act in the place of God to their children, representing Him whose they are by creation and by redemption. Then how particular fathers and mothers should be to train their children in the right way, line upon line, precept upon precept, preparing them to be useful members of the church. (16LtMs, Ms 56, 1901, 6)

In this age of the world, apostasy is the fashion. Therefore constant, untiring efforts are to be made to press upward. Gratitude offerings of praise and prayer are to be offered to God, but these offerings are unacceptable unless serious, prayerful consideration is given to the destitute, unworked fields. What mean these narrow, defective plans upon which Christians are working? Why do parents neglect to train their children to go forth as missionaries? Those families upon whom the light of truth has been shining are to come into close relation with God, so disciplining and training their children that they will exemplify the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 56, 1901, 7)

While the church, in comparison with past years, has made some advance, yet in comparison with what she should be, in comparison with the great sacrifice made in Gethsemane and on the cross of Calvary, she is far behind in the greatest work ever given to mortals. (16LtMs, Ms 56, 1901, 8)

Ms 57, 1901

Robbing God
NP
July 4, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in RH 12/03/1901, 12/10/1901. +

The Lord desires His people to realize that selfishness is the great sin of the world, and that it has also become the prevailing sin of the church. The Lord has been greatly dishonored by the failure of the church to impart of their means for the advancement of the work which He desires to see going forward with power. I entreat my brethren and sisters throughout the world to awaken to the responsibility which rests upon them to pay a faithful tithe. Do not allow lax principles to lead you to rob God. Keep a faithful account with your Creator. Realize fully the importance of being just with Him who has divine foreknowledge. Let every one search his heart diligently. Let him look up his accounts and find out how he stands as related to God. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 1)

He who gave His only begotten Son to die for you has made a covenant with you. He gives you His blessings, and in return He requires you to bring Him your tithes and offerings. No one will ever dare to say that there was no way in which he could understand in regard to this matter. God’s plan regarding tithes and offerings is definitely stated in the third chapter of Malachi. God calls upon His human agents to be true to the contract He has made with them. “Bring ye all the tithes into my storehouse,” He says, “that there may be meat in mine house.” [Verse 10.] (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 2)

Duty is duty and should be performed for its own sake. But the Lord has compassion upon us in our fallen condition and accompanies His commands with promises. He calls upon His people to prove Him, declaring that He will reward obedience with the richest blessings. “Prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes; and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts.” [Verses 10, 11.] He encourages us to give to Him, declaring that the returns He makes to us will be proportionate to our gifts to Him. “He that soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.” [2 Corinthians 9:6.] “God is not unrighteous to forget your work and your labor of love.” [Hebrews 6:10.] (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 3)

How tender, how true God is with us. He has given us in Christ the richest blessings. Through Him He has put His signature upon the contract He has made with us. Are we trifling with God, selfishly robbing Him of the returns He has declared we should make to Him? (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 4)

The Lord speaks, saying, “Ye are cursed with a curse; for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.” “Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them.” [Malachi 3:9, 7.] Souls are perishing in sin because church members are robbing God, lavishing indulgences upon themselves, while the treasury of God is poorly supplied with funds. Thus God is dishonored and His cause is impoverished. There are not means enough in the treasury to supply God’s laborers in the field of service. Christ looks upon a vineyard unworked, a world unwarned, with wickedness increasing on every hand. Men and women are spending the Lord’s goods in selfish gratification, preparing for the fearful punishment which must come upon them unless they repent. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 5)

The treasury must be supplied with funds, that Christian missions may be set in operation and supported. Schools must be established, that the youth may be prepared to stand at the last day. The multitudes going to ruin must be labored for. For the accomplishment of this good work, the tithes and offerings of the people of God are needed. Let church members do their very best in this matter. Withhold not your offering because it is small. If it is given with a willing mind and an understanding heart, the Lord will accept it, and in His hands it will be many times increased. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 6)

Can we not reason from cause to effect? Can we not see that because of our slothfulness in trading on the Lord’s goods, because of our selfishness in refusing to return to Him His own portion, His work is retarded? (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 7)

When Christ made His triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the applause of the multitude was at its height. Hosannas were on the lips of the people; but the Saviour felt no joy. He beheld the city and wept over it, saying, “If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.” [Luke 19:42.] He saw the thousands and thousands soon to be involved in the terrible destruction of the doomed city. How deep must His emotion have been as He thought of the nation which had forged its own fetters, sealed its own doom, gathered about it the cloud of Jehovah’s wrath. “You have defiantly resisted all my pleadings,” He said. “Again and again I have averted the bolts of justice. In love I have waited for your penitence and repentance. I have borne with you as a man beareth with his own son that serveth him. But ye would not come unto me that ye might have life.” (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 8)

But Christ’s agonizing tears were not shed only for Jerusalem. He wept as He thought of the terrible retribution to fall upon an unrepentant world. God says to His people today, “It is my desire that you shall exemplify before a world sunken in sin and selfishness the sinlessness of the Redeemer’s character. By the testimony you bear, men and women are to understand that this is the day of healing, the day of opportunity.” (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 9)

Is not the divine Messenger knocking at the door of the heart for entrance? Is not the Spirit striving with sinners? Has not Christ invited sin-sick souls to sit at His feet and learn of Him, to wear His yoke of submission and obedience? Has He not traversed the length and breadth of the land, scattering blessings in His path? How many who claim to believe on Him have learned His lessons of kindness, of tender pity, of unselfish love? Hear His voice speaking to the weak, the weary, the helpless, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] Will you not let grace soften the heart of stone? There is no wearying of His patience, no repressing of His love. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 10)

Christ calls upon us to labor patiently and perseveringly for the thousands perishing in their sins, scattered in all lands like wrecks on a desert shore. Those who share in Christ’s glory must share also in His ministry. Help the weak, the wretched, the desponding. Over and over again repeat the gracious invitation, “Come unto me, ... and I will give you rest.” [Verse 28.] (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 11)

For our present and eternal good God has given us temporal and spiritual blessings. He expects and enjoins upon us to become servants of His love, to impart to others the grace He has bestowed upon us. We are to act as His helping hand. No narrow, indolent selfishness is to be cherished. We are to inquire, “Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?” [Acts 9:6.] Those who love Christ will love the souls for whom He gave His life, and will daily reveal this love. Cherish not a narrow, self-centered religion. Let the members of the church arouse. Christ calls upon them to be earnest, energetic, persevering workers. Those who truly believe in Christ and truly love Him are drawn by Him to act a part in the great, grand work of heaven’s love, giving thanks to God for His unspeakable gift. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 12)

Think of God’s boundless compassion. He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. Think of the Saviour’s matchless love. While we were yet sinners, Christ died to save us from eternal death. In return for the great love wherewith Christ has loved you, you are to bring to Him your thank offering. You are to make a gratitude offering of yourself—your time, your talents, your affections—all are to flow to the world in a tide of love for the saving of the lost. Jesus has made it possible for you to accept His love, and in happy co-operation with Him, to work under its fragrant influence. He requires you to use your possessions in unselfish service, that His plan for the salvation of souls shall be carried forward with power. He requires you to give your undivided energies to His work. To have your name on the church books does not make you a Christian. You are to bring your gifts to the altar of sacrifice, co-operating with God to the utmost of your ability, that through you He may reveal the beauty of His truth. Withhold nothing from the Saviour. All is His. You would have nothing to give did He not first give to you. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 13)

Men monopolize that which God has lent them, as though it were their own property, to do with as they please. Selfishness has come in and has appropriated to itself that which belongs to God. This is covetousness, which is idolatry. When their power to grasp wealth is gratified, they think that their possessions make them of value in the sight of God. This is a snare, a deception of Satan. What do outward pomp and show avail? What do men and women gain by pride and self-indulgence? “What shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul, or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” [Mark 8:36, 37.] Worldly treasure is fleeting. Only through Christ can we obtain eternal riches. The wealth that He gives is beyond all computation. Having found God, you are supremely rich in the contemplation of His treasure. “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” [1 Corinthians 2:9.] (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 14)

Ask yourself the question, What am I doing with the Lord’s talents? Are you placing yourselves where the words are applicable to you, “Ye are cursed with a curse; for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation?” [Malachi 3:9.] We are living in a time of solemn privilege and sacred trust, a time in which our destiny is being decided for life or for death. Let us come to our senses. You who claim to be children of God, bring your tithes to His treasury. Make your offerings willingly and abundantly, according as God has prospered you. Remember that the Lord has entrusted you with talents, upon which you are to trade diligently for Him. Remember also that the faithful servant takes no credit to himself. All the praise and glory is given to the Lord. “Thou deliveredst unto me thy pound.” [See Luke 19:11-27.] No gain could have been made unless there had first been a deposit. There could have been no interest without the principle. The capital was advanced by the Lord. Success in trading comes from Him, and to Him belongs the glory. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 15)

O, if all who have a knowledge of the truth would only obey the teaching of this truth! O, why is it that men, standing on the very threshold of the eternal world, are so blinded? There is not a dearth of means, generally speaking among Seventh-day Adventists. But many Seventh-day Adventists fail to realize the responsibility which rests upon them to co-operate with God and Christ for the saving of souls. They do not show forth to the world the great interest God has in sinners. They do not make the most of the opportunities granted to them. The leprosy of selfishness has taken hold of the church. The Lord Jesus Christ will heal the church of this terrible disease if she will be healed. The remedy is found in the fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 16)

Let us all work while the day lasts, for the night cometh, in which no man can work. Let us work, “knowing the time that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand; let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day, not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.” [Romans 13:11-14.] (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 17)

To us has been given the greatest wealth of truth ever committed to mortals. God desires us to have a true understanding of the words, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.” [John 17:17, 18.] Enlarge your hearts. Embrace more and still more of the heavenly goods. Work as for your life. Having found the source of true happiness, the heart extends to take in the world. Those who have tasted the joy of salvation long to take to others the same joy. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 18)

What shall we render to God for all His benefits to us? Does the weight of your obligation to your Creator rest heavily upon you? Are you seeking to save the souls who are perishing in sin? Do you realize that now is the time to work for the Master, that now is the time to bring your tithes and offerings into the storehouse? Upon His people God has placed the solemn charge of representing Him in this world. “Ye are the light of the world,” He says to them. “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:14, 16.] If the truth is not carried into new territory, if the warning message is not given to those who are in darkness, the church will be held responsible. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 19)

Rightly appreciate the gifts of influence and property. Rightly estimate the value of the capital entrusted to you. It places you where you are held responsible to see and relieve the needs of God’s cause. Labor for the advancement of the interests which are dearest to the heart of God. With your money, your time, your strength, your influence, work for the upbuilding of these influences. The Lord God of Israel needs the co-operation of every soul, because there is a large field to be worked. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 20)

Hasten, my brethren and sisters, to bring to God a faithful tithe, and to bring Him also a willing thank offering. There are many who will not be blessed till they make restitution of the tithe which they have withheld. God is waiting for you to redeem the past. The hand of the holy law is laid upon every soul who enjoys God’s benefits. Let those who have kept back their tithe make an accurate reckoning, and bring to the Lord that of which they have robbed His work. Make restitution, and bring the Lord peace offerings. “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me, and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] If you acknowledge that you have done wrong in misappropriating His goods, and freely and fully repent, He will forgive your transgression. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 21)

In heaven the angelic beings delight to do the will of God. On earth shall we be backward? God is waiting for you to bring your means to His treasury that there may be meat in His house. First consecrate yourselves to Him; then bring to Him your gifts. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 22)

Wonderful blessing attended the liberality of the early Christian church. Paul writes, “Our hope of you is steadfast, knowing that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation.... Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf. For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.” [2 Corinthians 1:7, 11, 12.] “But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly, and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give, not grudgingly, or of necessity; for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work.... being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving.” [2 Corinthians 9:6-8, 11.] (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 23)

Unselfish liberality threw the early church into a transport of joy. The members knew that thus the power of God was being borne to the needy. Their benevolent energy testified that they had not received the grace of God in vain. What could produce such liberality but the sanctification of the Spirit through the Word? In the eyes of believers and unbelievers it was a miracle of grace. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 24)

We too often fail to tell of God’s faithfulness in rewarding those who obey Him. By murmuring and complaining, men darken their own pathway and the pathway of others. It is to be regretted that the church today feels so little inclination to express thanksgiving to the Lord for enriching her with His grace, for giving her His talent of means, that she may have wherewith to supply His treasury. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 25)

The barren portions of the Lord’s vineyard cry to God, saying, Men have neglected to care for me. By allowing their fellow beings to remain in the bondage of want and degradation, men and women allow Satan to reproach God for permitting His children to suffer for the necessities of life. God is insulted by the indifference of those to whom He has entrusted His goods. His stewards refuse to notice the distress which they might relieve. Thus they bring a reproach upon God. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 26)

Let no one trifle with his responsibilities. Even though you are not trading upon dollars, but only upon cents, remember that the blessing of God rests upon unwearied diligence. He does not despise the day of small things. A wise use of the littles will bring a wonderful increase. One talent wisely used will bring two to God. Interest is expected in proportion to the entrusted capital. God accepts according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 27)

God calls for what you owe Him in tithes and offerings. He calls for consecration in every line of His work. Unite with Christ. Act faithfully your part at your appointed post of duty. Work, remembering that Christ is by your side, planning, devising, and constructing for you. “God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work.” [Verse 8.] Give cheerfully, gladly, willingly, thankful that you are able to do something to advance God’s kingdom in the world. Empty the heart of selfishness, and brace the mind for Christian activity. If you are in close connection with God, you will be willing to make any sacrifice to place eternal life within the reach of the perishing. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 28)

In the name of the Lord, I beseech my brethren and sisters, at this crisis in our work, to come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty. Withholding from God always brings a curse. Spiritual prosperity is closely bound up with Christian liberality. Hunger only for the exaltation of imitating the divine beneficence of the Redeemer. You have the precious assurance that your treasure is going before you to the heavenly courts. Would you make your property secure? Place it in the hand that bears the nail-prints of the crucifixion. Retain all in your possession, and it will be to your eternal loss. Give it to God, and from that moment it bears His inscription. It is sealed with His immutability. Would you enjoy your substance? Then use it for the blessing of the suffering. Would you increase your possessions? “Honor the Lord with your substance, and with the firstfruits of all your increase; so shall your barns be filled with plenty, and your presses shall burst out with new wine.” [Proverbs 3:9, 10.] (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 29)

If all will act their part, the barrenness of the Lord’s vineyard will no longer speak in condemnation of those who profess to follow Christ. Medical missionary work is to open the door for the gospel of present truth. The third angel’s message is to be heard in all places. Economize. Strip yourselves of pride. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 30)

Give to God your earthly treasure. Give what you can now, just now, and as you co-operate with Christ, your hand will open to impart still more. And God will re-fill your hand, that the treasure of truth may be taken to many souls. He will give to you that you may give to others. (16LtMs, Ms 57, 1901, 31)

Ms 58, 1901

A Union of Ministerial & Medical Missionary
NP
July 7, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 14MR 269-272. +

A Union of Ministerial and Medical Missionary Work Essential.

In the night season I am laboring earnestly with persons who do not seem to understand that in the providence of God the medical missionary work is to be as the right hand of the body. Some utterly fail to realize the importance of missionaries being also medical missionaries. A gospel minister will be twice as successful in his work if he understands how to treat disease. (16LtMs, Ms 58, 1901, 1)

Continually increasing light has been given me on this subject. Some who do not see the advantage of educating the youth to be physicians, both of the mind and of the body, say that the tithe should not be used to support medical missionaries who devote their time to treating the sick. In response to such statements as these, I am instructed to say that the mind must not become so narrowed down that it cannot take in the truth of the situation. A minister of the gospel who is also a medical missionary, who can cure physical ailments, is a much more efficient worker than one who cannot do this. His work as a minister of the gospel is much more complete. (16LtMs, Ms 58, 1901, 2)

For many years I have been gathering rays of divine light on this subject. Let those who are being educated for the ministry receive an education in medical missionary lines. The time has come when the minister of the gospel who expects to go to foreign fields should have a knowledge of surgery, that in cases of necessity he will know how to handle medical instruments. This knowledge will open doors for the presentation of the truth to the higher classes, as well as to the most lowly. (16LtMs, Ms 58, 1901, 3)

This sacred, solemn trust should be carefully guarded. Those who understand the principles of the gospel and the work of a physician should be encouraged to seek the Lord, believing that He will give knowledge. Nothing will open doors for the truth like evangelistic medical missionary work. This will find access to hearts and minds, and will be a means of converting many to the truth, (16LtMs, Ms 58, 1901, 4)

The evangelist who is prepared to minister to a diseased body is given the grandest opportunity of ministering to the sin-sick soul. Such an evangelist should be empowered to administer baptism to those who are converted and desire baptism. (16LtMs, Ms 58, 1901, 5)

The gospel is the power of God to every one that believeth, to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. It is God’s purpose that His gospel shall go to all nations, kindreds, tongues, and peoples. And medical missionary work is the right, helping hand of the gospel, to open doors for the proclamation of the message. Preaching the gospel to the heathen means much more than the well-filled churches in more favored lands comprehend. (16LtMs, Ms 58, 1901, 6)

As the medical missionary cares for the sick, if he is well equipped with knowledge and with instruments for putting that knowledge into practice, he will surely break down prejudice. Women should be educated in medical missionary lines, that as they go forth to heathen countries, they may help those of their sisters who need help. In His service the Lord will open doors whereby His Word can find entrance. (16LtMs, Ms 58, 1901, 7)

Living the gospel, maintaining its principles—this is a savor of life unto life. Doors that have been closed to him who merely preaches the gospel will be opened to the intelligent medical missionary. God reaches hearts through the relief of physical suffering. A seed of truth is dropped into the mind and is watered by God. Much patience may be required before this seed shows signs of life, but at last it springs up and bears fruit unto eternal life. (16LtMs, Ms 58, 1901, 8)

How slow men are to understand God’s preparation for the day of His power. God works today to reach hearts in the same way that He worked when Christ was upon this earth. In reading the Word of God, we see that Christ brought medical missionary work into His ministry. Cannot our eyes be opened to discern Christ’s methods? Cannot we understand the commission He gave to His disciples and to us? (16LtMs, Ms 58, 1901, 9)

The world must have an antidote for sin. As the medical missionary works intelligently to relieve suffering and life, hearts are softened. Those who are helped are filled with gratitude. As the medical missionary works upon the body, God works upon the heart. The comforting words that are spoken are as a soothing balm, bringing assurance and trust. Often the skilful operator will have an opportunity to tell of the work Christ did while He was upon this earth. Tell the suffering one the story of God’s love. “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.” [John 3:16.] This gospel message, connected with practical missionary work, will be a savor of life unto life. The soul will be saved through a belief in Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 58, 1901, 10)

Ignorance can appreciate the work of relieving suffering, and minds darkened by prejudice will give way before the God-fearing medical missionary. Thus the gospel will be brought to many souls who otherwise would not be reached. (16LtMs, Ms 58, 1901, 11)

Let no one consider that the medical missionary work is taking the place of the gospel, for it is the gospel practiced, the gospel adapted to the needs of suffering humanity. It prepares the way for the reception of the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 58, 1901, 12)

“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good.” [Isaiah 52:7.] The gospel of Christ is to be preached in its true bearings, as that which saves to the uttermost all who believe. The doing of loving deeds is a helping hand which opens the door for the living Word, making the wilderness and the solitary place to rejoice and blossom as the rose. (16LtMs, Ms 58, 1901, 13)

Ms 60, 1901

Diary/“Today I spoke both in the ...”
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 23, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in OHC 209, 255. +

Today I spoke both in the morning and the afternoon upon the Southern missionary work. Late in the afternoon I spoke to the missionaries going to foreign countries, many of whom were to leave the next day. The Lord gave me much freedom. This was to me a very solemn occasion. Probably I shall never see these friends again until time has ended and the trump of God calls the dead from their graves. My prayers shall ascend to God that these dear souls who are going to their appointed fields of service may have that spiritual sinew and muscle which will enable them to do excellent work for the Master. (16LtMs, Ms 60, 1901, 1)

Christ is our life. The soul in whom He abides will meet the requirements of His principles in thorough devotion and consecration to God. Christ’s personal contact with the soul builds it up, supplying its ever-recurring wants. He is made unto us wisdom and righteousness and sanctification and redemption. He is our sufficiency. Upon Him the spiritual life is dependent. (16LtMs, Ms 60, 1901, 2)

Spiritual joy is the result of a consciousness of Christ’s saving presence. An indwelling Christ is the cause of ever-increasing power. He is the life-blood of the soul. If He abides with us, we may say, “I live, yet not I, but Christ liveth in me.” [Galatians 2:20.] (16LtMs, Ms 60, 1901, 3)

How deep, and broad, and far-reaching was the prayer Christ offered to His Father just before His crucifixion. In this prayer He said, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. 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. And 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. 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.” [John 17:17-24.] (16LtMs, Ms 60, 1901, 4)

This seems to be almost too much for us to expect. But we may believe; for it is Christ who is speaking. His promises are as complete as was His sacrifice. Shall we not try to be complete in Him who has made such a wonderful offering for us? (16LtMs, Ms 60, 1901, 5)

Christ declared, “I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat? Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father, so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. This is that bread which came down from heaven; not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead; he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever.... It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” [John 6:51-58, 63.] Then how diligently we should search the Scriptures, that we may understand every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. (16LtMs, Ms 60, 1901, 6)

In physical life the blood is made up of the food we eat. So in spiritual life, Christ will be formed in us if we eat His Word. He who searches the Scriptures diligently and by prayerful meditation grasps the precious instruction, has spiritual perceptions which are clear beyond the ordinary; for he enjoys the continual development by which Christ rewards the persevering industry of the earnest, determined mind. (16LtMs, Ms 60, 1901, 7)

“The kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field, the which, when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.” [Matthew 13:44.] When Christ abides in us His life renews the soul as the blood in the physical body gives life to the whole being. He says, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.... Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine, no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches; He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit; for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.” [John 15:1, 4-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 60, 1901, 8)

Are we fruit-bearing branches of the true vine? Read and study the fifteenth chapter of John. Bring the life of Christ into your spiritual circulation. The food we eat at one meal does not satisfy us forever. We must daily partake of food. So we must daily eat the Word of God, that the life of the soul may be renewed. In those who feed constantly upon the Word, Christ is formed, the hope of glory. A neglect to read and study the Bible brings spiritual starvation. (16LtMs, Ms 60, 1901, 9)

The first psalm describes a man of true principle. “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. The ungodly are not so; but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the Lord knoweth the way of the righteous; but the way of the ungodly shall perish.” [Verses 1-6.] (16LtMs, Ms 60, 1901, 10)

Christ, the great Physician, has given a prescription for every believer. He must eat the food provided in the Word of God. And the faith that works by love to God and man is dependent not only upon the food we eat but upon the air we breathe. If we associate with those who are evil, we breathe an atmosphere tainted by the malaria of sin. Be sure, by association with the meek and lowly followers of Jesus, to breathe a pure, holy atmosphere. (16LtMs, Ms 60, 1901, 11)

Ms 61, 1901

Diary/“I praise the Lord this morning ...”
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 28, 1901
Previously unpublished.

I praise the Lord this morning! I rested well last night. I spoke in the Tabernacle yesterday and was afraid that I should not rest. After breakfast I called on my children and my nephew and family. I was invited to ride out with Edson, Brother Kilgore, and Brother Palmer in Brother Palmer’s easy carriage. We drove to Bedford, and it was about noon when we returned. (16LtMs, Ms 61, 1901, 1)

In the afternoon Sister Haskell called on me and told me that Sister Breed was very sick, that she seemed almost beside herself, for fear that the Lord had left her, and that she thought that she and her husband were being transferred to Walla Walla because they had done something wrong. (16LtMs, Ms 61, 1901, 2)

On Friday Sister Breed came to see me. She was very nervous. I assured her that she and her husband were not being transferred because they had done wrong; but she would not be pacified. On Friday I wrote her a letter of courage, to inspire her with hope. Sara read her this letter, and then I went to her room and prayed with her. She and her husband then went for a drive with Sister Peck while I went to the Sanitarium and spoke to the patients. I had freedom in speaking words of encouragement and in presenting Christ as our hope and joy and salvation. All seemed to listen with interest, and when I finished speaking, many came forward to introduce themselves to me—one a minister from Boulder, and another a minister from Chicago. As I shook hands with those to whom I was introduced, they told me they had received great help in listening to the words spoken. (16LtMs, Ms 61, 1901, 3)

Sister Breed was so thankful for the ride. Her husband was almost broken-hearted over her condition, but we hope that she is now relieved, and that the blessing of the Lord is felt by them both. (16LtMs, Ms 61, 1901, 4)

April 29

Last night I slept only one hour, and I very much fear for my health and strength. I was instructed during the night that certain contracts which have been presented to be signed are not after the Lord’s order. When I was in Australia cautions were given me that no confederacy was to be entered into. These contracts are supposed by Dr. Kellogg to be a necessity, but they are not. The future is to be adjusted by God. If these agreements are signed, they will in the future be felt as a yoke of bondage, which God does not require His people to wear. (16LtMs, Ms 61, 1901, 5)

This is to be a time of breaking yokes, not of manufacturing them. God alone is to be our guide. He is to direct as to what shall be done with His property. He has ordered and directed His work in the past, and He will do so in the future. (16LtMs, Ms 61, 1901, 6)

“Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? ... Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily; and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rereward. Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity; and if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noon day.” [Isaiah 58:6, 8-10.] (16LtMs, Ms 61, 1901, 7)

Ms 62, 1901

Sermon/“Simon Peter, a servant ...”
Battle Creek, Michigan
July 9, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in CG 120, 489-490, 561; 5MR 17.

Sermon at the General Conference of 1901

“Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, according as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us unto glory and virtue.” [2 Peter 1:1-3.] (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 1)

Peter is addressing those of “like precious faith.” [Verse 1.] Just as soon as those he is addressing take heed to this instruction, they will have the diligence which will lead them to carry to the world the light of the knowledge of the gospel. Christ wants every one of us to be co-laborers with Him. He says, “Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] Therefore the knowledge of Him is of great consequence to us. Is it His will that each Sabbath we shall sit here and listen to the preaching of His Word without doing anything to impart the light to others? Is it for this that you have the Word of God? No, no; the Lord has given His people the light of truth that the knowledge of Christ may be carried to every part of the world. Upon those who receive the gift of God’s grace is placed the responsibility of seeking to save their fellow beings. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 2)

Those who have a true knowledge of God and Christ know what has been done to make it possible for men and women to receive the knowledge of the truth. “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.] (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 3)

Christ wants us to stand on vantage ground with God. He gave His life that His righteousness might be imparted to us, though we are so unworthy. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 4)

John exclaims, “Behold the Lamb of God who taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] When He takes our sins away, He supplies their place with the knowledge of the truth. This is a personal experience that all must obtain who enter in through the gates into the City. God wants us to stand in right relation to Him, because Christ has purchased us. He cut us loose from the enemy, that we might have an opportunity of obtaining a knowledge of God. The best way for you to receive this knowledge is for you to impart to others the light you have received. God will call every souls to account for the way in which they use the light He has given. He will call them to account for the way they have used the precious time He has entrusted to them, time given them to prepare for the mansions which Christ is preparing for them. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 5)

“Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises; that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” It is from this that we get our power. “And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance.” [2 Peter 1:4-6.] This is a very important matter. We are responsible to God for the life God has given us. He requires us to place ourselves in right relation to the laws which govern the human machinery. He who created us understands our frames and knows what we need. He desires us to have a knowledge of how wonderfully we are made. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 6)

Those who walk in the light that they have received will be temperate in all things. They will heed the words, “Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” [1 Corinthians 10:31.] We cannot live to the glory of God if we are controlled by a perverted appetite. Decided warning has been given against indulgence of appetite. For thirty years the light of health reform has been shining upon your pathway. Then if you disregard the light, and disease comes upon you, who is responsible? God’s Word declares that it is your life to keep His precepts and commandments. Your health and prosperity depend on obedience. God declares that if you keep His will, He will care for you and bless you. When will God’s people realize that angels of God are round about them, waiting to give them the holy oil of His Spirit? The angels have come from the throne of God with this oil, but what do they see? They see those upon whom the light of health reform has been shining, indulging appetite till their minds are clouded and confused. They fail to see that in order to follow Christ they must take up the cross and deny self. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 7)

This is the work before us. It is not numbers, let me tell you, that make a people strong. Give me a few devoted Christians who walk with God, “and one shall chase a thousand, and two put ten thousand to flight.” [See Joshua 23:10; Deuteronomy 32:30.] What we need is a firm hold of a “Thus saith the Lord,” to which we will respond, “I will.” Then we shall not yield to perverted appetite. God turns away His face from those who refuse to receive and impart the light. It is high time for us to clear the King’s highway. It is high time that we took up the stumbling blocks that we have placed in the pathway of others, high time that we placed ourselves in right relation to God, so that we can say, “Thou hast said it, and we claim Thy promise as ours. We cling to Thy Word, and Thou art responsible for us, because we keep Thy commandments.” (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 8)

Temperance in all things. This does not mean that when you sit down to a meal, you are to overload your stomach by putting into it all that you can eat. You are to stand forth as people who are looking for their Lord. Let us not eat and drink with drunkards. We are to stand as minutemen, examples in our eating, drinking, dressing, and words of true temperance. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 9)

Is a man temperate who by gluttony wears out his stomach? He has indulged his appetite till he is a dyspeptic, and he has a dyspeptic religion. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 10)

To be patient, we must first be temperate, for an intemperate man cannot be patient. The brain must be clear and the stomach healthy, able to take care of the food placed in it. God did not make the human machinery in order for it to break down. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 11)

There are thousands and thousands who, when they sit down to their meals, eat twice as much as they ought. The stomach tries to care for its load, and after it has done this it is tired. Then the man says, “I am hungry.” But he is not in need of food. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 12)

We are nearing the judgment. Already the plagues of God are beginning to be poured out. Upon some parts of the world God is permitting the plagues to fall. If we would escape these plagues, we must be pure, virtuous, holy, ever remembering that we are God’s property. Because He has redeemed us, He wants us to cleanse the soul-temple from every trace of pollution. He wants His people to be healthy Christians, physically and spiritually. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 13)

“And to patience, godliness.” [2 Peter 1:6.] The Lord desires His people to be godly. That is, they are continually to ask, “How would Christ act if He were in my place?” This is godliness—keeping Christ in view as the pattern, seeking to know the will of God. O, how much we need godliness in every home! (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 14)

“And to godliness, brotherly kindness.” [Verse 7.] Those who have godliness cannot help but have brotherly kindness. But can those who make a practice of overloading their stomachs possess these attributes? Disturbed digestive organs lead to harsh, irritable words. An overloaded stomach makes a man forget in his dealing with his brethren that speech is a talent. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 15)

Let us never forget that God has entrusted to us the gift of speech, and that our words are to be few and well chosen. There are nine hundred and ninety-nine words spoken where six would answer. We need constantly to remember that round about us are good and evil angels. They are present in this room today; and as I am speaking, the evil angels will try to move upon minds to lead them to think that there is no harm in indulgence of appetite. But the good angels are near you, and if you follow on to know the Lord, you will know that His going forth is prepared as the morning. In the morning the light steadily increases till the sun shines forth in all its glory. So will the Son of Righteousness shine forth in His brightness, His glory continually increasing. And God desires His people to reflect this glory. They are not to feel satisfied with a little light. They are to continue to receive till they are established, strengthened, and settled. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 16)

I wish to inquire, How many parents in this congregation look upon their children as a sacred responsibility from God? Have you taught your children from their babyhood to keep the commandments of God? You are responsible for your children. You are to teach them to be obedient. You are to teach them to form characters after the divine similitude, that Christ may reveal Himself to them. He is willing to reveal Himself to children. We know this from the history of Joseph, of Samuel, of Daniel and his companions. Can we not see from the record of their lives what God expects from children and youth? (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 17)

I feel that our only hope of getting new life into the church, to bear the new responsibilities which must be borne, is for fathers and mothers, while it is called today, to awake to the responsibilities resting upon them. Parents, if you lose your opportunity, God pity you; for in the day of judgment God will say, “What have you done with my flock, my beautiful flock?” [See Jeremiah 13:20.] (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 18)

God calls upon parents to wake up. Instead of devoting their time and strength to battling against temperance, let parents use every jot of their influence in advancing health reform. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 19)

Mothers, fathers, your household is to be a place where angels love to dwell; the father a priest in his family, the mother a queen in her home. A well-ordered, well-disciplined family is a greater influence in favor of Christianity than all the sermons that can be preached. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 20)

Mothers, speak kindly and tenderly to your little ones. Remember that you stand in the place of God to them. Let them see that you love them. Bring them up to know that Jesus is their loving Friend and Elder Brother. Every day bow before God in family prayer. I hope that there are no parents here who neglect this duty. However pressing your business, do not fail to gather your family around God’s altar. Ask for the guardianship of holy angels in your home. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 21)

Fathers and mothers are to be perfectly united in the work of training their children. No hasty words are to be spoken. Never are you to get into a passion. You have no right to get angry, for you are educators. You are dealing with human minds. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 22)

[God] gave His only begotten Son to save your children. They are His property. Deal tenderly with them. If you are harsh, you teach them to be harsh. Make the life of your children pleasant, and at the same time teach them to be obedient and helpful, bearing small burdens as you bear larger ones. Educate them to habits of industry, so that the enemy will not make a workshop of their minds. Give your children something to think of, something to do, that they may be fitted for usefulness in this life and in the future life. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 23)

Suppose you should get to heaven and none of your children be there. How could you say to God, “Here am I, Lord, and the children which thou hast given me”? [See Hebrews 2:13.] Heaven marks the neglect of parents. It is recorded in the books of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 24)

God wants you to have happy homes. He wants every Seventh-day Adventist home to be a symbol of the home in heaven. He wants you to prepare your family to enter the higher grade. He wants you to be one with Him, that with your children you may be translated to heaven, there to learn more and still more of God. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 25)

You have so neglected the Bible that very few of you know its teachings. Let those who have begun a study of the book continue their study. It is the Word of Life. Christ says, “I am the bread of life.... Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” [John 6:35, 54.] To study the Bible is like eating the leaves of the tree of life. Get the Word of God into your hearts and into the hearts of your children, and you will find that they will not drift away from you, as so many of the children of our people have done. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 26)

May the Lord convict and convert your souls, that you may clear the King’s highway and make straight in the desert a pathway for our God. Then you can work for those outside. A great work should have been done in Battle Creek, a work which should have extended from Battle Creek to the waste places of the earth. The standard of truth should have been planted in towns and cities. Monuments should have been established in many places. But what have you done, and what are you doing? (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 27)

God wants His people to awake to the situation. He wants them to realize that there are thousands in our world ready to perish in their sins. He wants us to take up the medical missionary work and carry it forward in the highest lines, working as Christ worked. He went from city to city preaching the gospel and healing the sick, and when the people of one city asked Him to stay with them, He said, “I must go to other cities also.” [Luke 4:43.] In His work the gospel and medical missionary work were firmly united. He wants His people to stand where angels of God can stand with them, making an impression on human hearts. He wants you to teach your children to love and keep His commandments. Do not neglect your children to do missionary work. Take them with you, or else leave them with some one who will train them wisely and tenderly. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 28)

Cultivate the grace of charity, which is love. I fear that many fail to understand that this belongs to Christianity. Many forget that it is a part of the gospel. But let me tell you that it is the gospel. “If these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall.” [2 Peter 1:8-10.] Here is your life insurance policy. “If ye do these things ye shall never fall.” Will you study this chapter in your homes? Remember that to you has been given the work of so training your children that they can inherit eternal life. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 29)

“For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth. Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance.” [Verses 11-13.] (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 30)

I wish to say to you, brethren and sisters, Let those who entertain the friends who have come here for Conference remember that God holds them responsible for the food they place on their tables. A large number of people have come to Battle Creek to attend the Conference. If they eat a hearty meal and then go right into meeting, they will go to sleep. Propositions which should be made in the very clearest manner will be bungled over. We need clear stomachs and clear minds. We should eat enough food to sustain strength, but we should never overeat. God has given us reasoning faculties, and He wants us to use them. He wants us to have strong minds and clear brains so that our plans may be plain and clear-cut. He wants to give us in this Conference a blessing that will be as lasting as eternity. No slipshod work is to be done. God has shown me what He can do for us, and what He will do for us if we will remove the obstacles. But many of you have barred the door against the Saviour. He is knocking, knocking for entrance. How long will you let Him wait? Clear away the rubbish from the door of your heart, and let the Saviour in. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 31)

Let your words be few and well-chosen. Remember that speech is a talent. Even if you have been wronged, do not get angry. Keep your temper under the control of the sweet spirit of God. We need sweetness. Christ wants to pour upon us the bright sunshine of His presence. We are here to seek and to find God. Let us humble our hearts before Him and give Him an opportunity to fill our hearts with His grace. Shall we at this meeting dedicate ourselves to God? At your baptism you gave yourself to Him, and the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit pledged themselves to work in your behalf. There is power for you if you will grasp it. Bring the love of Christ into your heart and into your home, and then you will be prepared to stand in your lot and in your place. God knows you by name. He will commission His angels to give you strength and grace if you will work in His name. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 32)

We are homeward bound. Only a little longer and we shall reach the haven. God help us to be Christians. Angels are waiting for channels through which to communicate the grace of God. What are you doing here in Battle Creek, when there are deserted, unworked places in the Lord’s vineyard? These barren places are crying to God against you. God wants you to receive from Him that you may impart to others. A little while longer and the angel will have stepped down from the mercy seat. Then it will be too late, too late. Now is our time for preparation. Christ is preparing heavenly mansions for us. Are we preparing for them? God help us to put on the beautiful garments of Christ’s righteousness and proclaim His warning message in clear, distinct lines for God. (16LtMs, Ms 62, 1901, 33)

Ms 63, 1901

Diary/“I have passed another sleepless ...”
NP
April 30, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in HP 283, 302; 6MR 166. See RH 06/13/1907.
April 30, 1901

I have passed another sleepless night. The Lord has been instructing me. He has means by which to relieve His institutions from debt if His people will walk in His light and honor and glorify Him. He will bring to light His benevolent plans for the restoration of a world sunken in sin and degradation. He has efficiency and power and hidden excellency which will be revealed to all who love Him and trust in Him and depend on Him. When men adhere to His principles of justice, His grace will be felt, producing results that will seem supernatural. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 1)

Through man God desires to reveal His love and grace. Let every church member constantly remember that he is united with Christ, and that no feebleness of character must appear, no lack of self-control be seen; for he is under the supervision of heavenly powers. Nothing unseemly, in word, in spirit, or in disposition, must appear. If the constraining power of Christ fills his heart, this will give him power to triumph over the selfishness of humanity. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 2)

The power of Christianity is to be put to the test. Genuine liberality is to be seen in the church and among unbelievers. Let the people of God humble themselves before Him; and His grace, which bringeth salvation, will be revealed. Brethren will love one another. Their hearts will overflow with Christlike compassion. Then will be seen the unworldly actions which the grace of God alone can produce. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 3)

The church is the object of God’s tenderest love and care. If the members will allow Him, He will reveal His character through them. He says to them, “Ye are the light of the world.” [Matthew 5:14.] Those who walk and talk with God practice the gentleness of Christ. In their lives forbearance, meekness, and self-restraint are united with holy earnestness and diligence. As they advance heavenward, the sharp, rough edges of character are worn off, and godliness is seen. The Holy Spirit, full of grace and power, works upon mind and heart. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 4)

Before genuine Christianity the world stands condemned. The cause of God is not to diminish in importance. The Christian should realize his value in the Lord’s sight. God says, “I will never leave thee nor forsake thee.” [Hebrews 13:5.] Those who love God supremely will realize that they are rich beyond computation in the wealth that God gives them. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 5)

When a new enterprise is presented, the first inquiry should be, “What saith the Lord?” Before listening to any other considerations, take time to meditate and pray, asking, “Lord, what is Thy will in this matter? What wilt thou have me to do?” (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 6)

Man possesses nothing to which he has an exclusive right. He does not even own himself; for he has been bought with a price, even the blood of the Son of God. Christ has a claim on all the property in our world. He can set in operation a train of circumstances which will sweep away the accumulated gain of years. He can also call in needed help for His children. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 7)

The world is the Lord’s and the fulness thereof. It is God who gives man the breath of life. We cannot originate. We can only collect that which God has originated. He is our Guardian, our Counselor; and more than this, from His liberal supply we derive all the skill, tact, and ability that we possess. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 8)

The caution comes to us, Say not, “My power and the might of my hand hath gotten me this wealth. But thou shalt remember the Lord thy God; for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth.” [Deuteronomy 8:17, 18.] All you possess is His gift, for you had nothing with which to create or purchase it. It is given you, not to become a wedge to separate you from Him, but to help you in doing Him service. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 9)

The moment that a man loses sight of the fact that his capabilities and possessions are the Lord’s, that moment he is embezzling his Lord’s goods. He is acting the part of an unjust steward, provoking the Lord to transfer His goods to more faithful hands. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 10)

God calls upon those to whom He has entrusted His goods to handle them faithfully, to show to the world that they are laboring for the salvation of sinners. He calls upon those who profess to be under His supervision not to misrepresent Him in character. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 11)

Thank the Lord, O my soul! Praise His holy name. In Him we can trust. We fear not, neither are we dismayed. He daily loadeth us with benefits. Shall we grasp them all, and bear them away as our own, selfishly consuming them upon ourselves? He “crowneth us with lovingkindness and tender mercy.” [Psalm 103:4.] Wearing the crown of His royal favor, let us glorify Him by imparting to others the abundance He has bestowed upon us. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 12)

O for love, sacred, holy, unselfish love! Let us, as the Lord’s representatives, realize what a terrible thing it is to misrepresent the Saviour by revealing selfishness. God calls upon His sons and daughters to show to the world that He is not selfish, but full of liberal, unselfish plans. He is waiting for channels through which to communicate the wealth of His love. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 13)

The blessings received are to be imparted. There is a demand for the sacred, elevating, sanctifying truths of the gospel. There are barren fields to be worked. Workers are to be employed to sow the seeds of truth and garner the harvest. The standard of truth is to be planted in new places. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 14)

A continual sin is committed by withholding from the Lord that which belongs to Him in tithes and offerings. The money brought to the Lord’s treasury is not sufficient to meet the demand. If God were not robbed, if His portion were not withheld, one hundred times more work could be done for Him. But cheap, inexpensive plans are laid by those engaged in His work. Selfishness and cupidity are indulged. Few realize the necessity of practicing self-denial and self-sacrifice. Did the people of God learn and practice the lessons He is seeking to teach them, the church would today be as the light of the world. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 15)

[May 1,] 1901

During the night I have been greatly distressed. A burden rested upon me. I was taken from house to house, through the homes of our people, and as we went from room to room, my Instructor said, “Behold the idols that have accumulated.” I had been pleading with God to work in behalf of His people. My attention was called to the many photographs which have been produced by God’s entrusted capital. I was instructed that these pictures are as so many idols, taking up the time and thought that should be sacredly devoted to God. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 16)

As I visit our schools and the homes of our people, I see that all the available space on tables, what-nots, and mantelpieces is filled up with photographs. On the right hand and left are seen the pictures of human faces. God desires this order of things to be changed. Were Christ on earth, He would say, “Take these things hence.” [John 2:16.] (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 17)

These photographs cost money. Is it consistent for us, knowing the work that is to be done at this time, to spend God’s money in producing pictures of our own faces and the faces of our friends? Should not every dollar that we can spare be used in the upbuilding of the cause of God? These pictures take money that ought to be sacredly devoted to God’s service. They divert the mind from the truths of God’s Word. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 18)

This making and exchanging photographs is a species of idolatry. Satan is doing all he can to eclipse heaven from our view. Let us not help him by making picture-idols. We need to reach a higher standard than these human faces suggest. The Lord says, “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” [Exodus 20:3.] (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 19)

Those who claim to believe in Christ need to realize that they are to reflect His image. It is His likeness that is to be kept before the mind. The words that are spoken are to be freighted with heavenly inspiration. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 20)

After going from home to home, and seeing the many photographs, I was given the instruction I have given here. Christ looks upon the busy world, filled with the din of merchandise and trade, with the dishonesty and scheming of buyers and sellers. “It is naught, it is naught, saith the buyer; but when he is gone his way, then he boasteth.” [Proverbs 20:14.] (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 21)

Satan has devised a multitude of ways in which to keep men from serving God. He has invented various games into which men enter with such an intensity that one would suppose a crown of eternal life was to reward the winner. Horse races are attended by thousands and thousands. On the racecourse, lives for which Christ shed His blood are thrown away with no more thought than would be given to the life of a dog. What will become of the souls of the men and boys whose lives are extinguished on the racecourse? Will they be counted worthy of the redemption which Christ gave His life to obtain for them? (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 22)

Looking upon these God-dishonoring scenes, Christ lifts up His voice like the trump of God, and seeks to break the spell upon the human race. “What shall it profit a man,” He cries, “if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” [Mark 8:36, 37.] He brings to their attention the nobler world which they have lost from view. He points them to the threshold of heaven, flushed with the glory of the infinite God. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 23)

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? (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 24)

Let there be a reformation among the people of God. “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” [1 Corinthians 10:31.] Those upon whom the Lord has placed the burden of the work are struggling to proclaim the message, that souls perishing in ignorance may be warned. Can you not, by self-denial, do something to help them in their work? Arouse; and show by your unselfish zeal and earnestness that you are converted. Every dollar is required in the work of saving souls. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 25)

The money invested by the professing people of God in getting pictures made of human faces would support several missionaries in the field. Many small streams, when put together, swell into a large river. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 26)

We embezzle our Lord’s goods when we use for selfish pleasure the means which should be used to help forward the proclamation of the last message of warning. If you spend the Lord’s money in this way, can you expect Him to continue to bestow His goods on you? (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 27)

It is important that the truths which God has given us be heralded to the world. The Lord calls for self-denial and self-sacrifice. The gospel demands entire consecration. We have been given the privilege of laboring together with God. Our appointed work is to sow the seeds of truth beside all waters. The necessities of the work demand all that we can give. Our indulgence in photographs has been a selfish gratification on our part, which bears silent witness against us. By this indulgence a large amount of wood, hay, and stubble has been brought to the foundation to be consumed by the fires of the last day. How does the Master regard those who for self-gratification invest His money in photographs? That very money could be used to purchase reading matter to send to those in the darkness of ignorance. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 28)

This much we can do for God. We can put these picture-idols out of sight. They have no power for good, but interpose between God and the soul. They can do nothing to help in sowing the seeds of truth. Christ calls upon those who claim to be converted to put on the whole armor of God. Our educational institutions need to feel the reforming power of the Spirit of God. “If the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.” [Matthew 5:13.] Those who are engaged as teachers in our schools and sanitariums need to reach a higher standard of consecration. And the students in these institutions who are fitting themselves to become missionaries should learn to practice self-denial. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 29)

We are God’s stewards, and “it is required in stewards that a man be found faithful.” [1 Corinthians 4:2.] The money God has entrusted to us is to be carefully husbanded. We are to increase in efficiency by putting to the best use the talents given us, that at God’s coming we may return to Him His own with usury. At every step there is need of self-sacrifice. (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 30)

*****

Why is so much time devoted to useless, common conversation? Is not our time a blood-bought talent? Ought not we to consecrate it to God? (16LtMs, Ms 63, 1901, 31)

Ms 64, 1901

Physicians and Meat-eating
NP
July 17, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in CD 290-291.

Instruction has been given me that physicians who use flesh meat and prescribe it for their patients should not be employed in our institutions, because they fail decidedly in educating the patients to discard that which makes them sick. The physician who uses and prescribes meat does not reason from cause to effect, and instead of acting as a restorer, he leads the patients by his own example to indulge perverted appetite. (16LtMs, Ms 64, 1901, 1)

The physicians employed in our institutions should be reformers in this respect and in every other. Many of the patients are suffering because of errors in diet. They need to be shown the better way. But how can a meat-eating physician do this? By his wrong habits he trammels his work and cripples his usefulness. (16LtMs, Ms 64, 1901, 2)

Many of the patients in our sanitariums have reasoned out for themselves the question of meat-eating, and, desiring to preserve their mental and physical faculties from suffering, have left meat out of their dietary. Thus they have obtained the relief from the ills which have tortured their lives. Many not of our faith have become health reformers because, from a selfish standpoint, they saw the consistency of doing this. Many have conscientiously taken their position on health reform in diet and dress. Will Seventh-day Adventists continue to follow unhealthful practices? Will they not heed the injunction, “Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God”? [1 Corinthians 10:31.] (16LtMs, Ms 64, 1901, 3)

Ms 65, 1901

Sermon/“To every one in this room ...”
NP
July 28, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in VSS 45, 144-145; Ev 498; 4MR 130.

To every one in this room God has committed talents, to every one according to his several ability. Each one is to study to show himself approved by God. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 1)

I feel very grateful to God that it is our privilege to have a personal connection with Him, who so loved us that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. It is your privilege to accept Christ as your personal Saviour. When you do this you, have enlisted in the army of the Lord. You have volunteered as soldiers of the cross. You have left the black banner of the power of darkness to stand under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel. Your constant study will be to show yourselves faithful soldiers. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 2)

There is a battle for every one to fight, for the young as well as the old. All should strive to exert a bright, cheerful influence, for that is the atmosphere of heaven. The youth are to prepare to be members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. In this school they are to prepare for graduation into the higher school. The students before me this morning will never cease to be learners if they secure the heavenly treasure. They are to learn each day how to meet the enemy, who with his host of evil angels is warring against Christ and all who stand under His banner. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 3)

In the warfare against evil, every one has a part. Before the heavenly universe, God’s children are to develop characters which will resist the powers of darkness. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 4)

You can all form characters which God can approve. It may be that in the past you have not striven to do this. You are now given an opportunity to change the traits of character which are not after the similitude of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 5)

The Word of God is the foundation of all true education. Those who take the Word of God as their lesson book will learn the conditions which God has laid down for entrance to the higher school. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 6)

Day by day you are to form Christian characters. You can do this by seeking every day to improve in your words. Speech is a talent. The Word of God declares, “By thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” [Matthew 12:37.] (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 7)

Students, God has given you the talent of speech. He desires you to improve this talent. You can improve the tones of the voice. Be determined to make yourself, through the grace of God, as perfect as possible. If you are correct in speech and action, those who associate with you will be blessed by the association. Those who are hasty and impetuous in speech say a great many things they will not wish to meet in the judgment. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 8)

Do not let a word fall from your lips that will stir up strife in another heart. God desires your words to be of such a character that they will bring sunshine instead of gloom, harmony instead of animosity. Do not encourage the spirit of strife. It will encourage itself. Your work is to resist it. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 9)

As you obtain an education founded on right principles, you are forming characters that God can approve. You have been placed where you can help and bless one another. Those who have gained an experience in religious things are to impart to others what God has given them. Let your lives be hid with Christ in God. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 10)

Because the Jewish people did not let the light which God had given them shine to others, they were scattered in different countries. Daniel and three other youth were taken to Babylon, and the king determined to have them educated to be statesmen in his court. They were given the food and wine from the king’s table as their diet. But Daniel and his companions knew that if they ate the food and drank the wine which the king had provided, their brains would be confused. They would be unable to distinguish between right and wrong, between the sacred and the common. They determined to be true to principle, to eat and drink to God’s glory. God honored their loyalty. He gave them wisdom and understanding, and when at the end of the term of years allotted to study, the king examined them, he found them to be “ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm.” [Daniel 1:20.] (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 11)

The history of Daniel and his fellows is an illustration of what all youth may become in the service of God. Improve the opportunity that is now yours to obtain the very best idea of what constitutes a Christian character. Place yourselves where you can pray to God as Daniel and his fellows prayed to Him. They presented themselves to God as needy and dependent, and God gave them strength. But do you think that Daniel would have been helped as he was if he had yielded to appetite? Had he eaten the king’s food and drunk his wine, he would have been unable to obtain the education necessary to make him a successful Christian statesman. He would not have appreciated the knowledge God had to give. His mind would have been confused. He knew this; for before he came to Babylon, he had received that training which every child before me should receive in the home. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 12)

It is the privilege of every one of you—a privilege which many cannot have—to understand what is meant by healthful food—food that will bring health to body and mind. When you bring the question of right eating and right drinking into your religion, you place yourselves where God can help you to distinguish between right and wrong. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 13)

Because Daniel and his companions kept the fear of God before them, because they refused to indulge appetite, because they were determined to keep the mental machinery in such a condition that they could receive the education that God had to give, they were greatly blessed. Their even tones and kind words showed that they were under the supervision of a power above all human power. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 14)

We may place ourselves in association with those whose minds are filled with cheap nonsense. We may enter into companionship with those whose influence harms our spirituality. But we are not obliged to do this. Let us rather make a friend of God. Thus like Daniel we shall come off triumphant. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 15)

The powers of darkness are arrayed against you. Satan desires to see your footsteps wandering from the path of self-denial. He desires to see your characters becoming warped, so that when you leave school, you will not exert an influence in favor of the truth. God wants you to fight bravely against the suggestions and temptations of the enemy. In His strength you can be “more than conquerors.” [Romans 8:37.] (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 16)

These smaller children will be influenced by the words and spirit of the older students. God has placed us in this world to help one another. He wants the older students to help the younger ones. Christ said, “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] He desires these little children to love Him. He desires those who are older to speak to them words that will be a blessing and a help. Students, improve the opportunity given you to speak words that will point those around you to the Saviour. Do not allow your minds to dwell upon trivial things. Do not speak words you would not be willing to utter in the presence of Jesus and the angels. Could the curtain be rolled back, you would see heavenly angels watching you. They must watch; it is their work to be guardians for the youth. “Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?” [Hebrews 1:14.] Ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of thousands of angels minister to the youth in our world. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 17)

God wants you to be children of light. He wants you to live so that the light of heaven can shine into the chambers of the mind, and from there be reflected to others. He wants you to do deeds of kindness and speak words of cheer. Begin missionary work right where you are. Probably you have already begun this work. Those who are connected with Christ cannot do otherwise. They receive to impart. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 18)

Christ desires to use every student here as His agent. He says, “Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] You are to co-operate with the One who gave His life for you. “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.” [Philippians 2:12, 13.] What rich blessing from above this school will have if the teachers and students will consecrate themselves, heart, mind, soul, and strength to God’s service, as His helping hand. His helping hand—this is what you may be. If you will yield yourselves into His keeping, He will lead you safely, enabling you to make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 19)

All heaven is interested in the education you are receiving. I do ask you in the name of Jesus of Nazareth to watch your words. God desires your words to be life-giving. Not a word of irritation is to be spoken. However provoked you may feel, keep back every word that would stir up the evil in another heart. Speech is a great talent, and God desires every one of you to reach the standard of Christlikeness. Let every word you speak bless and elevate. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 20)

John says, “I write unto you, young men, because ye are strong and have overcome the wicked one.” [1 John 2:13.] If God had not given His children strength and power to overcome, these words would never have been written. When you put your strength on the right side, God and Christ and the heavenly angels are with you. The Lord will give you an experience and enable you to go into mission fields, even in your youth. At eleven years of age, God made me a missionary. He impressed me to plead with my unconverted companions, to pray with them, to try to win them to Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 21)

All of us can so work under the supervision of the Holy Spirit that we shall be prepared to take our place in the royal family. Every one can have the peace of Christ. The apostle says, “Let the peace of God rule in your hearts.” [Colossians 3:15.] When Christ was a child like these children here, He was tempted to sin, but He did not yield to temptation. As He grew older He was tempted, but the songs His mother had taught Him to sing came into His mind, and He would lift His voice in praise. And before His companions were aware of it, they would be singing with Him. God wants us to use every facility which heaven has provided for resisting the enemy. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 22)

Repress your hasty words, for Satan is near. If he can, he will so work upon minds that there will be division where there should be harmony. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 23)

I have a deep interest in the youth. I am a mother of boys. I greatly desire that you shall form characters like the character of God. God needs missionaries. The barren fields in America and Australia and all over the world call to heaven for laborers. If these youth give themselves to God, He will give them knowledge and wisdom; He will prepare them to work for Him. He will co-operate with their efforts if they will consecrate themselves to Him. He will make them vessels unto honor, vessels into which He can pour the precious oil of His Spirit to be communicated to others. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 24)

Shall we not try to make all that we can of ourselves? Shall we not try to reach the standard God has set before us? Satan will try to overcome us. It would please him to see us disappointing the One who has purchased us by humiliation and suffering. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 25)

You have been bought with a price, therefore glorify God in your body and spirit, which are His. Bought with a price. Christ redeemed you from the power of the enemy and placed you on vantage ground, that you might win back through obedience what Adam lost through disobedience. Let the peace of God dwell in your hearts, and be ye thankful—thankful that He has bought you with a price. Be thankful that you are here where you can have God’s blessing. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 26)

When others try to provoke you, keep your mouth as with a bridle. Then your enemies will learn that you have a power which they do not possess. They will see the difference between one who is a Christian and one who is not. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 27)

God will not approve of anything pertaining to Satan’s attributes. Satan works to destroy, to deform. God works to build up, to restore, to reform; and thus He wants us to work. By the calmness of our conversation we can bear good witness for Him. Correct living and correct speaking have a greater influence for good than all the sermons that can be preached. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 28)

God loves the youth, and He has an intense interest in them. He wants you to be saved, He wants you to have eternal life. He wants you to make a success of the life He has given you. If you let your life slip from you in idle dreaming, if you bring to the foundation wood, hay, and stubble, you may through repentance be saved, but where is your treasure? You may be saved as by fire, but all eternity will testify to your loss. (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 29)

As you move forward step by step, inch by inch, adding to your faith virtue, and to virtue knowledge, and to knowledge temperance, God will be with you and you will never fall. While you are working on the plan of addition, Christ is working on the plan of multiplication. You are working for time and for eternity, striving for an imperishable crown. Strive lawfully, serving God with heart, mind, soul, and strength. Then when Christ comes to gather His jewels to Himself, you will hear the words of welcome: “Well done, good and faithful servant; ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] (16LtMs, Ms 65, 1901, 30)

Ms 66, 1901

Fragments/Work in the South
NP
July 28, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 2MCP 390; UL 223. +

Work in the South.

Schools and sanitariums are to be established in the South. Great light has been shining upon us, but how little of this light we reflect to the world. Heavenly angels are waiting for human beings to co-operate with them in the practical carrying out of the principles of the truth. The gospel message is to be united with medical missionary work. The medical missionary work is the right hand which opens doors for the body, the church, enabling it to prosecute its labors. Those who engage in this work should reach a much higher standard. The leaders should be carefully selected, according to the needs of the different fields. (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 1)

*****

A Charge of Unfaithfulness.

“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 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.” [Revelation 2:1-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 2)

The message was sent from God to headquarters that the men occupying positions of responsibility were not accomplishing their work in harmony with the mind of God; that they seemed incapable of appreciating light; that they must no longer be left in their positions. A different order of things must be inaugurated, else the conference and the churches in every place would be weakened. (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 3)

The heart of the work was diseased. Principles were perverted. Notwithstanding the light that God had given, men made no changes, but continued to do the very things which had caused the rebuke of God to come upon them. Some of these men were transferred to other places, but this did not change their ideas. It did not transform them in character. When they were moved, they took with them their wrong principles, and these worked as the leaven of evil. Thus in different places the work has been marred and defects have been seen. (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 4)

Christ told Nicodemus that he must be born again, that he must have a new heart. These words apply to many who are serving in responsible places. They have not the new heart which sends a current of pure, spiritual blood through the system, creating new life and consecrating the will to the service of the Master. (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 5)

*****

God’s Wonderful Love.

He whose heart is filled with the truth will live the principles of truth. The truth refines and sanctifies the entire being. It develops godliness. It enables him who receives it to exert a widespread influence for good. The grace of God in the soul is plainly revealed by efficient work. (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 6)

The Word of God is His revealed will. This is the food man is to give the soul. Without this nourishment the soul cannot grow, the character cannot develop symmetrically. God delights in bestowing blessings. To those who will receive Him, He will be the life of the entire being. (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 7)

“Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” [1 Corinthians 3:11.] “Neither is there salvation in any other; for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved.” [Acts 4:12.] (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 8)

No fanciful goodness of our own, no vague reliance upon God’s mercy, will secure for us access to the throne of grace. But when we come to Jehovah, renouncing ourselves and all our works, presenting our requests as needy and sinful children, relying upon the sacrifice of a crucified and risen Saviour, Christ accepts the prayer, puts with it His merits—the fragrance of His character—and offers it to the Father, saying, “Receive the petition of this poor sinner. He has no merits of his own. Because he is in such need I give him Mine. I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 9)

Christ says to us, “Whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” [John 14:13.] Why do we not take Christ at His word? Why are we so listless and indolent? There is no need for us to rust from inaction. We may receive to impart. (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 10)

God desires us, by strict temperance, to keep the mind clear and keen, that we may be able to distinguish between the sacred and the common. We should strive to understand the wonderful science of the matchless compassion and benevolence of God. Those who eat too largely, and those who eat unhealthful food, bring trouble upon themselves, unfitting themselves for the service of God. It is dangerous to eat meat, for animals are suffering from many deadly diseases. Those who persist in eating the flesh of animals sacrifice spirituality to perverted appetite. Their bodies become full of disease. (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 11)

The love of God is without computation. “Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” “And not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” [1 John 3:1; 4:10; 2:2.] (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 12)

Look at the world, godless and corrupted! How could the Father make such a sacrifice for it? (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 13)

Satan had declared to his synagogue that not a single human soul would maintain his loyalty to God’s commandments. One soul saved would prove this statement to be false. One soul saved would demonstrate the righteousness of God’s government. Created in the image of God, man must not be left for Satan to rule and ruin. Christ came to this earth, and by a life of obedience showed that man could obey. He canceled the guilt resting upon the sinner. That the sinner might stand before God clothed with the robe of righteousness, He clothed Himself with the robe of sorrow. (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 14)

Who can fathom the suffering of Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane as He felt to its fullest extent the weight of the sin of the world? So keenly did He feel the sinfulness of sin that for a moment the cup trembled in His hand, and all heaven heard the agonizing cry, “If it be possible, let this cup pass from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but thine be done.” [Matthew 26:39; Luke 22:42.] And the omnipotent God suffered with His Son. (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 15)

Stand before the cross of Calvary, and learn from it the cost of redemption. With breaking heart the holy Sufferer looks up to God and cries, “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” [Matthew 27:46.] (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 16)

The angels of heaven sympathized with their loved Commander. Gladly would they have broken their ranks and gone to His assistance. But this was not God’s plan. Our Saviour trod the winepress alone, and of the people there was none with Him. (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 17)

The plan of redemption was laid to bring salvation within reach of sinners. Christ has carried out His purpose. His death has brought eternal life to all who will accept Him as a personal Saviour. But many, many of those He died to save refuse to return to their loyalty. The world is fast becoming as it was before the flood. Of the world at that time we read, “The earth was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence. And God looked upon the earth, and, behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth.... And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart. And the Lord said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth, both man and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them.... And God said to Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and behold, I will destroy them with the earth.” [Genesis 6:11, 12, 6, 7, 13.] (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 18)

Christ declares, “As the days of Noah were, so shall also the days 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.] (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 19)

Let not those who have had great light fold their hands, content to do nothing. The condemnation of God rests upon every idler. (16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, 20)

Ms 67, 1901

The Church School
NP
July 29, 1901 [typed]
This manuscript is published in entirety in SpM 183-191.

The Church School. Instruction to Teachers and Parents.

The establishment and location of church schools is a matter of the utmost importance and should receive careful attention. Only after the most wise, judicious plans have been laid, should such a school be established. Mistakes may be made by being in too great haste to locate and establish church schools. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 1)

Very much of the success of a church school depends on the teacher chosen. Church school teachers should not be children, who have not come to maturity, who are able to do only a cheap class of work. The one placed in charge of a church school should be of suitable age; and where the number of students is sufficient, assistants should be selected from the students. Thus the students can gain an experience of great value. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 2)

Church school teachers should be men and women who have a humble estimate of themselves, who are not full of vain conceit. They should be humble, faithful workers, filled with the true missionary spirit, workers who have learned to put their trust in God and to do their work in His name. They should possess the attributes of Christ’s character—patience, kindness, mercy, and love; and into the daily experience they should bring the Saviour’s righteousness and peace and grace. Then, working with fragrant influence, they will give evidence of what grace can do through the weakness of the human agents who make God their dependence and their trust. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 3)

The Lord has shown me what can be done for the younger children of our people, if they are educated in the fear and love of God. Let every church school established be conducted with such order that Christ can honor the schoolroom with His presence. There is much work to do for the Master. He will accept no cheap, shoddy service. Let teachers be learners, putting the whole mind to the task of learning how to do service for the Master. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” [Psalm 111:10.] Let the one who is preparing to labor as a church school teacher learn to work on correct principles. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 4)

“Precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little.” [Isaiah 28:10.] Thus the children attending a church school are to be educated. Let teachers show sympathy and tenderness in dealing with human minds. Let them reveal the love of God. Let the words they speak be kindly and encouraging. Then as they work for their students, what a transformation will be wrought in the rough characters of those who have not been properly educated in the home. The grace of God, revealed in words and works, will touch hearts. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 5)

Teachers should not aspire to do wonderful things in their own strength. In all their service they must reveal the love of Jesus. True self-respect must be mingled with all their work. The Lord can make even youthful teachers channels for the revealing of His grace. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 6)

Teachers are not to allow themselves to be quick-tempered. They should not manifest temper. They should not punish harshly the children that are in need of reform. Let the teacher first know and understand that self must be kept in subjection. Think of the boundless love Christ has bestowed on human beings. Never forget that over you there is a divine Teacher, whose subject you are, and under whose control you are ever to be. Humble the heart before God. It will be softened and subdued by the thought of the riches God has bestowed on His children. You will realize something of the meaning of the words, “You, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight.” [Colossians 1:21, 22.] (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 7)

Sometimes it is found that the school has been established in a church where the disorderly element among the children makes the work very hard. The children who have not received proper training in the home will cause much trouble in the school, and by their perversity will make the heart of the teacher sad. But let not the teacher become discouraged. Test and trial bring experience. If the children are disobedient and unruly, there is all the more need of strenuous effort. The fact that there are children with such characters is one of the reasons why church schools should be established. The children that parents have neglected to educate and discipline aright must be saved. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 8)

Never give up the school work in a place where a church school has been established, unless God plainly directs that this should be done. With God’s help, the teacher may do a grand, saving work in changing the order of things. If the teacher works patiently, earnestly, perseveringly, in Christ’s lines, the reformatory work done in the school will extend to the homes of the children, creating a purer, more refined, more Christlike atmosphere. This is indeed missionary work of the highest order. Teachers who do this work are doing God service for this life and for the life eternal. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 9)

Parents also have a part to act in this work. Let parents remember that much more will be accomplished by the work of the school, if they themselves realize the advantages their children will obtain in such a school. Let them understand that there must be a change in the management of their children before they and their children reveal the peace and love which come with God’s converting grace. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 10)

If parents will only realize that their neglect of duty is a grave sin, which should be repented of; if they will only unite with the teacher who is working for the salvation of their children, a most wonderful work can be done for the children. By prayer, by patience, by forbearance, parents can undo much of the wrong caused by their impatience and unwise indulgence. Let the church school be a place where parents as well as children shall be educated. Let parents and teachers take hold of the work together. Parents, remember that you yourselves will be benefited by the presence of an earnest, God-fearing church school teacher. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 11)

The Lord desires the churches in every place to take hold more diligently of the church school work, giving liberally to sustain the teachers. The question has been asked, “Could not the second tithe be used for the support of the church school work?” It could be used for no better purpose. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 12)

Parents should devise ways and means for keeping their children usefully busy. Let the children be given little pieces of land to cultivate, that they may have something to give as a freewill offering. Parents must never forget that they must work earnestly for themselves and their little ones, if they with them are gathered into the ark of safety. We are still in the enemy’s country. Let parents strive to reach a higher standard, and to carry their children with them. Let them cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 13)

Prove your willingness to make every effort in your power to place your children in the most favorable situation for forming the character that God requires His servants to form. Exercise every spiritual sinew and muscle to save your little flock. The powers of hell will conspire for your destruction. Pray much more than you do. Lovingly, tenderly teach your children to come to God as a heavenly Father. By your example in the management of the home, teach them self-control. Teach them to be helpful in the home. Tell them that Christ lived not to please Himself. The Holy Spirit will fill your mind with the most precious thoughts as you work for your own salvation and the salvation of your children. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 14)

Parents, gather the rays of divine light which are shining upon your pathway. Walk in the light as Christ is in the light. As you take up the work of saving your children and maintaining your position on the highway of holiness, the most provoking trials will come. But do not lose your hold. Cling to Jesus. He says, “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me, and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] Difficulties will arise. You will meet with obstacles. Look constantly to Jesus. When an emergency arises, ask, “Lord, what shall I do now?” If you refuse to storm or fret or scold, the Lord will show you the way through. He will help you to use the talent of speech in such a Christlike way that the precious attributes of patience, comfort, and love will be brought into the home. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 15)

Parents, you have not all obtained victory in the use of the talent of speech. May the Lord save you from lowering yourselves in the estimation of your children by speaking indiscreet, passionate words. Do all in your power to stand on vantage ground before your children. By following a Christlike course of action, holding firmly to the promises of God, you may be evangelists in the home, ministers of grace to your children. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 16)

Learn the lesson which Christ gave after the miracle of feeding the five thousand. “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] The Lord is constantly exercising His miracle-working power in helping parents as they strive to lead their children to Him. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 17)

Fathers and mothers, tell your children about the miracle-working power of God. Take them into the garden and explain to them how He causes the seed sown to grow. As the children study the great lesson book of nature, God will impress their minds. The farmer ploughs his land and sows the seed, but he cannot make the seed grow. He must depend upon God to do that which no human power can do. The Lord puts His own vital Spirit into the seed, causing it to spring forth into life. Under His care the germ of life breaks through the hard crust encasing it and springs up to bear fruit. First appears the blade, then the ear, then the full corn in the ear. As children are told of the work that God does for the seed, they learn the secret of growth in grace. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 18)

Nature is full of lessons of the love of God. Rightly understood, these lessons lead to the Creator. They point from nature to nature’s God, teaching those simple, holy truths which cleanse the mind, bringing it into close touch with God. These lessons emphasize the truth that science and religion cannot be divorced. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 19)

Christ came to this earth to teach men the mysteries of the kingdom of God. But men could not by human reasoning understand His lessons. Man’s wisdom cannot originate the science which is divine. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 20)

The great Teacher came from heaven to plant in this world the tree of life. He calls on nature to reflect to human minds the light that floods the threshold of heaven, that men and women may obey His word. And nature does the bidding of the Creator. To the heart softened by the grace of God, the sun, the moon, the stars, the lofty trees, the flowers of the field, utter their words of counsel and advice. The sowing of the seed carries the mind to spiritual seed-sowing. The tree stands forth declaring that a good tree cannot bear evil fruit, neither can an evil tree bear good fruit. “Ye shall know them by their fruits.” [Matthew 7:16.] Even the tares have a lesson to teach. They are of Satan’s sowing, and if left unchecked, spoil the wheat by their rank growth. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 21)

When man is reconciled to God, nature speaks to him in words of heavenly wisdom, bearing testimony to the eternal truth of God’s Word. As Christ tells us the meaning of the things in nature, the science of true religion flashes forth, explaining the relation of the law of God to the natural and the spiritual world. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 22)

It seems cruel to establish our schools in the cities, where the students are prevented from learning the precious lessons taught by nature. It is a mistake to call families into the city where children and youth breathe an atmosphere of corruption and crime, sin and violence, intemperance and ungodliness. O, it is a terrible mistake to allow children to come in contact with that which makes such a fearful impression on their senses. Children and youth cannot be too carefully guarded from familiarity with the pictures of iniquity so common in all large cities. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 23)

Years ago schools should have been established on large tracts of land, where children could have been educated largely from the book of nature. Had this been done, what a different condition of things there would now be in our churches. We are in need of being uplifted, cleansed, purified. In our conversation we are altogether too cheap and common. There are tares growing among the wheat, and too often the tares over-top the wheat. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 24)

I rejoiced when I heard that the Battle Creek school was to be established in a farming district. I know that there will be less temptation there for the students than there would be in the cities that are fast becoming as Sodom and Gomorrah, preparing for destruction by fire. The popular sentiment is that cities should be chosen as locations for our schools. But God desires us to leave the sin-polluted atmosphere of the cities. It is His design that our schools shall be established where the atmosphere is purer. (16LtMs, Ms 67, 1901, 25)

Ms 68, 1901

Test. to the Members of the Prahran Church
Refiled as Ms 176, 1898.

Ms 69, 1901

The Unity of the Spirit
NP
July 29, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 11MR 276-277.

“And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 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 fulness of Christ.” [Ephesians 4:11-13.] (16LtMs, Ms 69, 1901, 1)

These words describe the work which in the church is to be carried forward to completion. The apostle continues, “That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ; from whom the whole body, fitly joined together, and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.” [Verses 14-16.] (16LtMs, Ms 69, 1901, 2)

Let us study these Scriptures. They tell us that it takes many members to make the church complete. (16LtMs, Ms 69, 1901, 3)

There is need of close self-examination. Let every one ask himself the question, How is it with my soul? Man is naturally inclined to feel displeased if every one does not agree with his methods of conveying truth. But it is not the Spirit of the Lord that leads him to feel thus. From nature we see that all cannot be alike. No two leaves on a tree are precisely the same. In the work of the Lord there are different ways of communicating truth. No one is to refuse to unite with a fellow laborer because his plans are not exactly the same as his own. We are laborers together with God. To measure men by human standards, to choose certain ones as companions because they agree with our ideas, is not Christ’s wisdom, but the wisdom of the world. (16LtMs, Ms 69, 1901, 4)

Those who abide in Christ will reveal His Spirit. They will be branches of the true vine, differing from one another, yet united in Christian love. (16LtMs, Ms 69, 1901, 5)

No haphazard work is to be done by those who are laboring in the ministry or in medical missionary lines. God’s servants must seek to understand the words, “For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office, so we being many are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith. Or ministry, let us wait on our ministry; or he that teacheth on teaching; or he that exhorteth on exhortation; and he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that showeth mercy, with cheerfulness. Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love, in honor preferring one another.” [Romans 12:4-10.] (16LtMs, Ms 69, 1901, 6)

This instruction is of vital importance to every one. At this time, above all other times in the history of the earth, these words should be practiced. But today they are to a great extent left out of the practice of professing Christians. This is the reason why God is dishonored by discord and strife, why He does not give to His people the power He would be pleased to impart. He desires to glorify His name before the world and before the heavenly universe. But church members are not doing the work they should do. (16LtMs, Ms 69, 1901, 7)

“There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.... And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh in us all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; to another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: but all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body; so also is Christ.” [1 Corinthians 12:4, 6-12.] (16LtMs, Ms 69, 1901, 8)

A man should not be loaded down with responsibilities because he is thought by his brethren to be qualified to bear burdens. This is not the Lord’s plan. It is His desire that the leaders in His cause, those who have gained an experience in His work, shall take with them young men to educate and train as burden-bearers. But the young worker must not become so wrapped up in the ideas and opinions of the one in whose charge he is placed, that he will lose his individuality. He must not lose his identity in the one who is instructing him, so that he does not dare to exercise his own judgment, but does what he is told, irrespective of his understanding of what is right and true. It is his privilege to learn of the greatest Teacher the world has ever known. If the one with whom he is working pursues a course which he does not think is in harmony with a “Thus saith the Lord,” let him not report to some outside party. Let him go to his superior in office and lay the matter before him, freely expressing his mind. Thus the learner may be a blessing to the teacher. He must faithfully discharge his duty. God will not hold him guiltless if he connives at a wrong course of action, however great the influence or responsibility of the one who follows this course. He is not to allow anyone to lead him in false paths. With a conscientious regard for the Scriptures, and for the light which God has been pleased to give them [since] the commencement of our work, he is to move forward in the strength of the Almighty. (16LtMs, Ms 69, 1901, 9)

The Lord has declared that no man can be conscience for another man. Let the one who is working for God consecrate himself to His service, looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of his faith. Just as surely as he does this, God will reveal to him His purposes. (16LtMs, Ms 69, 1901, 10)

God calls for earnest, whole-souled, benevolent Christian men and women. All unholy ambition must be crucified. I entreat Seventh-day Adventists to be drawn to the uplifted Saviour, far above the common level of a worldly life. (16LtMs, Ms 69, 1901, 11)

Ms 70, 1901

Diary/“What is the Chaff to the Wheat?”
NP
July 30, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 20MR 335-340. +

There is a special work to be done at this time. Please read and study carefully the first, second, and third chapters of First Corinthians. I present these chapters as of great importance. The Lord desires His people to understand and practice the instruction they contain. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 1)

Paul writes, “I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat; for hitherto ye were not able to bear it.... For ye are yet carnal; for whereas there is among you envying and strife and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?” [1 Corinthians 3:1-3.] (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 2)

Those addressed in these words had not been feeding on Christ, and therefore they were not advanced in spiritual knowledge. Paul said, I have fed you with milk—the plainest, most simple truths, suitable for converts young in the faith; not with meat—the solid, nourishing, spiritual food suited to those who have made progress in a knowledge of divine things. They were living on a low level, dwelling on the surface truths which call for thought, no deep research. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 3)

“For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?” [Verse 4.] Their contentions did not reveal growth in grace, but a narrow, limited comprehension, a worthless, experience. “Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth anything, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one.” [Verses 5-8.] He who is a partaker of the divine nature will not seek to stand at the head of a party. True workers for God will not attract men to themselves, but to Christ. They will preach the truth which makes all men one in Christ Jesus. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 4)

“And every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labor.” [Verse 8.] “Ye shall know them by their fruits,” Christ declared. “Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit, but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.” [Matthew 7:16-19.] (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 5)

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. But the spirit of the world is carnal. “The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God; for they are foolishness unto him; neither can he know them; because they are spiritually discerned.” [1 Corinthians 2:14.] The more spiritual knowledge one has, the better able is he to distinguish between good and evil. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 6)

“The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God.” He is not one with Christ in mind and heart, and he cannot rightly appreciate or enjoy the high, exalted truths of God’s Word. It seems foolishness to him to put on the white garment of Christ’s righteousness. With him the religious experience is a matter of chance. He is not born of the Spirit; therefore he cannot judge correctly concerning spiritual things. Many of those who claim to believe in Christ reveal by their words and actions that they are not partakers of the divine nature. They do not appreciate the truths of eternal value. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 7)

The Lord meets men where they are. The apostle declares, “We are laborers together with God; ye are God’s husbandry; ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] The Holy Spirit teaches those who are willing to be taught, not only what they should impart, but how they should impart. To the believing Christian the highest, purest instruction is given. Heavenly wisdom is imparted to him. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 8)

The sacrifice of Christ as an atonement for sin is the great truth around which all other truths cluster. In order to be rightly understood and appreciated, every truth in the Word of God, from Genesis to Revelation, must be studied in the light which streams from the cross of Calvary, and in connection with the wondrous, central truth of the Saviour’s atonement. Those who study the Redeemer’s wonderful sacrifice grow in grace and knowledge. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 9)

I present before you the great, grand monument of mercy and regeneration, salvation and redemption—the Son of God uplifted on the cross of Calvary. This is to be the theme of every discourse. Christ declares, “And I, if I be lifted up, will draw all men unto me.” [John 12:32.] (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 10)

“God forbid that I should glory,” Paul writes, “save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” [Galatians 6:14.] The more deeply the ministers of God feel their inefficiency and their entire dependence upon Christ for success, the less they will seek head and shoulders above their brethren. Hiding in Christ, self will not appear. Christ will be revealed as the chiefest among ten thousand and the One altogether lovely. They will know the meaning of Paul’s words: (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 11)

“I was with you in weakness and fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit, and of power; that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. Howbeit, we speak wisdom among them that are perfect; yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought; but we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory; which none of the princes of this world knew; for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit; for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.” [1 Corinthians 2:3-10.] (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 12)

If we would love God supremely and our neighbor as ourselves, we must come to Christ, to be imbued with His love. Let every member of the church try to realize what he is and what he may be if he yields to Christ’s control. Under the Saviour’s guidance, he will exert upon others a saving, restoring influence. Christians must be brought into family relationship with Christ. He must be formed within, the hope of glory. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 13)

April 14, 1899

I am awakened this morning at one o’clock. The Spirit of the Lord came upon me in the night season. I was bearing a message to persons assembled in council. I present to you this morning the words of the apostle Paul to the believers at Colosse: “Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the will of God, and Timotheus, our brother, to the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, for the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth; ... for this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; giving thanks to the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light; who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son; in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins.... (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 14)

“You, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable in his sight; if ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister; who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church; whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God, which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God.” [Colossians 1:1-6, 9-14, 21-25.] (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 15)

This is the work we are to do for the saving of the souls ready to perish. We have truth, present truth to give to those in the darkness of error. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 16)

“As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him, rooted and built up in him, and established in the faith as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power.” [Colossians 2:6-10.] These are the vital, practical truths upon which we are to dwell. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 17)

Those who present the truth should be men of solid minds, who will not lead their hearers into a field of thistles, as it were, and there leave them. What is the chaff to the wheat? There are those teaching others who need that one teach them how to labor for the present and eternal good of those they instruct. Some readily catch up trivial theories, calling them truth, and neglecting for them the immortal principles which must be interwoven with the life-experience of him who is saved. They are ready to open the mind to any fallacy that is presented. These are in danger of bringing in vain things, which make of none effect the important truths of God’s Word. This Word is the Lord’s revealed will, given for the instruction of His people. Let no one bring dishonor to the precious truth by mingling with it theories which have no foundation in the Word of God. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 18)

When Christ came to this world He found the Jewish people burdened with a heavy weight of traditions and ceremonies, which the religious teachers had handed down from generation to generation. So great was the mass of tradition brought in that the commandments of God were made of none effect. Today there are those who are doing a work similar to that done by the Jewish teachers. They are dishonoring the Law of God by their extreme teaching. There are those who say that nothing, not even insects, should be killed. God has not entrusted any such message to His people. It is possible to stretch the command, “Thou shalt not kill” [Exodus 20:13], to any limit; but it is not according to sound reasoning to do this. Those who do it have not learned in the school of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 19)

This earth has been cursed because of sin, and in these last days vermin of every kind will multiply. These pests must be killed, or they will annoy and torment and even kill us, and destroy the work of our hands and the fruit of our land. In places there are ants which entirely destroy the woodwork of houses. Should not these be destroyed? Fruit trees must be sprayed, that the insects which would spoil the fruit may be killed. God has given us a part to act, and this part we must act with faithfulness. Then we can leave the rest with the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 20)

God has given no man the message, Kill not ant or flea or moth. Troublesome and harmful insects and reptiles we must guard against and destroy, to preserve ourselves and our possessions from harm. And even if we do our best to exterminate these pests, they will still multiply. At camp-meeting held at Brighton, Australia, the people were obliged to wear veils to keep the poisonous flies from their faces. While speaking, I was obliged to fan myself continually. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 21)

As long as this life shall last, we shall have to fight the evils which have come in as a result of the curse. Evil will cease only when Satan ceases to exist. With the agencies which he has employed to annoy and grieve the people of God, Satan will at last be cast into the lake of fire and brimstone. Then sin will be no more. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 22)

Those who advance the theory that vermin should not be killed know not of what they speak. There is nothing of this order in the teachings of Christ. It is not the Spirit of God that brings such theories as this to the mind. They originate with Satan, who prepares every idle tale he can devise for the itching ears which cannot distinguish between truth and fiction. Discard all such theories for your own good and for the good of those with whom you associate. Those who go to such extremes do great harm. They bring the truth into disrepute. They place principles which are as precious as gold on a level with fables. Men might better rest in the silence of the grave than to speak and teach those things which have no foundation in the Word of God. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 23)

The people of God should not fill their minds with theories which Christ never taught when enshrouded in the pillar of cloud, or when as a man among men He taught in the streets and synagogues of Judea. There is a rich abundance of precious truths in God’s Word—truths which are of vital consequence to the people of God, truths which will fill the mind with fragrant thoughts and provide a solid foundation for character-building. Discard fables and vain imaginings. Present only the words, “It is written.” Let Jesus take possession of mind and heart. Let those who teach be sure that the Word of Christ dwells in them richly. Let them instruct church members and students in the lessons of the Saviour. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 24)

What should we teach? The answer to this question is found in Paul’s dying charge to Timothy, his son in the Gospel: “I charge thee therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom, Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when men will not endure sound doctrine, but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [2 Timothy 4:1-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 25)

Peter declares, “We have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [2 Peter 1:16.] (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 26)

Like the serpent gliding stealthily along, fanaticism has been stealing in, to cause variance and strife, to take the attention of the people of God from elevating, eternal truth. I charge my brethren and sisters not to give heed to fables. Do not put into the minds of others the erroneous theories which should never be entertained. Teach what Christ taught. He said, “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] His lessons contain just what is needed in these last days. There is no need to bring in a mass of rubbish, which in the end will be consumed. Let us not give to the world the impression that we are a body of fanatics. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 27)

The first chapter of second Peter contains instruction which should be given in our schools and churches. The flock of God is to be fed with pure provender, thoroughly winnowed from the chaff. The minds of those who have mixed truth and error, presenting fables as truth, need to be purified and elevated, that they may grasp the immortal truths which concern the soul’s salvation. The work for these last days is a most solemn, important work. No man has a right to give the people of God a message not indited by the Holy Spirit. Those who do this are doing a work which be counterworked. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 28)

I warn my brethren in the educational work not to allow the threads of fanaticism to be interwoven with the church school work. Preach and teach the words of eternal life. In establishing church schools, do not move uncertainly. Let the foundation of your building be solid rock, not shifting sand. Before you attempt to educate, be sure that you have a message bearing the divine credentials. No one can teach others of God who does not first learn in the school of Christ. Leave out everything which will divert the mind from the truth as it is in Jesus. “Preach the Word.” [2 Timothy 4:2.] (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 29)

I have had to deal with fanaticism of every grade. From my first experience in the work I have had to combat fanaticism on the right hand and on the left. God forbid that the closing years of my life should be made sad through having to deal with this evil. (16LtMs, Ms 70, 1901, 30)

Ms 71, 1901

“The Blood of Jesus Christ His Son Cleanseth Us From All Sin”
NP
July 31, 1901
Previously unpublished.

“Who are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they? ... These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” [Revelation 7:13, 14.] (16LtMs, Ms 71, 1901, 1)

My brethren who are waiting for the appearing of our Lord, let us prayerfully consider our position. The age in which we live is one which calls for reformatory action. Intemperance is strong in its evil power. Continued and protracted effort is needed in the conflict with perverted appetite and the unholy habits which defile the soul-temple. Because of the wrong example set by those who are older, the depravity existing among youth and children is rapidly increasing, not only in large cities, but also in towns and villages. Fraud, forgery, and bribery are common. Licentiousness is steadily increasing. There is earnest work to be done, not only by those who open the Scriptures to the people, but by every soul who claims to be a child of God. There is work awaiting every one who will enter the Master’s service. (16LtMs, Ms 71, 1901, 2)

Jesus, the Majesty of heaven, took upon Himself of His own free will the burden of working out the great plan of salvation. He made an atonement for our sins. Being one with the Father, the Son of the infinite God was above all law. Of the holy, created angels it could not be said, as it was said of Christ, “Upon which never came yoke.” [Numbers 19:2.] Angels bear the yoke of duty and obedience, and are God’s delegated messengers. They could not make a sacrifice adequate for the redemption of man. Christ was equal with the Father. He alone was of sufficient value to undertake the suretyship of the fallen race. He was made sin for us. Upon Him was laid the iniquity of us all. (16LtMs, Ms 71, 1901, 3)

In the typical services of the tabernacle, the gospel was set forth before the children of Israel. By the sacrifices they were shown that without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sins. This was the great truth ever kept before them. At the time when the Lord was visiting Egypt in judgment, when Pharaoh was to look upon the dead form of his first-born, the children of Israel were commanded to sprinkle the blood of the slain lamb upon the lintel of their doors, that the death-angel might not enter their dwellings. The Lord declared, “When I see the blood, I will pass over you.” [Exodus 12:13.] (16LtMs, Ms 71, 1901, 4)

Christ is the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. But in the work of vindicating the downtrodden law, the blood of Christ has, to a large extent, been lost sight of. Today the testimony that should be heard in every discourse is, “The blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” [1 John 1:7.] The precious Saviour is to be lifted up. The virtue of the blood of the crucified and risen Saviour is the sinner’s only hope; for it is only through the merits of the Redeemer that the sinner gains salvation. Christ has tasted death for all, that through faith in His name every man may taste and see that the Lord is good. (16LtMs, Ms 71, 1901, 5)

Christ has risen from the dead, and stands constantly at the right hand of God, making intercession for us. He has entered into the most holy place, and with a heart full of unutterable love He invites the defiled and polluted sinner to come to Him. Christ is ever pleading for those He has redeemed with His blood. He will save to the uttermost all who in faith come to Him. His infinite sacrifice loses none of its force or efficacy by the lapse of time. To every sincere seeker He says, “Fear not; ... I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore.” [Revelation 1:17, 18.] (16LtMs, Ms 71, 1901, 6)

It is not sufficient for any soul to have a nominal faith, to merely admit that Christ is the Redeemer of the world. Is He your personal Redeemer? Have you a personal interest in Him? Is your soul hungering and thirsting for salvation? Do you long for a better knowledge of Jesus Christ? Is your soul earnestly and sincerely crying, “Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.... Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free Spirit.” [Psalm 51:7, 10-12.] (16LtMs, Ms 71, 1901, 7)

In the gatherings of the people of God for worship, there has been a mingling of the sacred and the common. Our people certainly make a high profession, but they have lost sight of their Leader. If they realized that He was by their side or just before them; if they were pressing on to keep in His company, light, cheap talk, jesting, joking, and trifling would not, could not exist. It becomes all who profess to believe sacred truth to walk circumspectly as wise men, else Satan will wreck their bark upon unseen rocks. If God’s people could see, as I have seen, the dangers and perils they are in, they would be constantly praying, “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.” [Matthew 6:13.] But while Satan is preparing his snare for their souls, they are full of mirth and glee. They are not imbued with the Spirit of God. Sacred and eternal interests have but little weight in their minds. (16LtMs, Ms 71, 1901, 8)

The oracles of God declare, “The man that shall be unclean, and shall not purify himself, that soul shall be cut off from among the congregation.” [Numbers 19:20.] This statement should be carefully considered. Every true Christian will obtain a knowledge of himself. It is very important that he know his own weakness. There is a work to be done in every church among us—a work of revival, of reformation. Every minister in our ranks and every layman needs to reach a higher standard of righteousness. “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” [Isaiah 1:18.] What promises are these! (16LtMs, Ms 71, 1901, 9)

Ms 72, 1901

True Obedience to the Commandments of God
NP
August 2, 1901 [typed]
Portions of this manuscript are published in 1BC 1086; 5BC 1084; 6BC 1115-1116; 9MR 235-236. +

In the providence of God it is ordained that every human agent should study the life of Christ, and so carefully walk in his Master’s footsteps as to reveal to the world by his daily life the character of the Father as manifested through the Son. Our Saviour has plainly stated, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 1)

Much concerning Christ may be learned from the description given of the transfiguration: “And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, and was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only.” [Matthew 17:1-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 2)

With commanding authority the Lord Jesus has said, “He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.” [Matthew 11:15.] The Excellent Glory commands every son and daughter of Adam to give attention. It is for the eternal interest of every individual to do this. The Lord God summons the world to hear, saying, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” [Matthew 3:17.] Christ stands pre-eminent, above every teacher and authority in the world. Every word He utters is to be obeyed as law, as life. (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 3)

As if enshrouded in a cloud of heavenly brightness, Christ pronounced from the Mount of Beatitudes His benedictions. The words spoken by Him were of an entirely different character from those which had fallen from the lips of the scribes and Pharisees. The ones whom He pronounced blessed were the very ones they would have denounced as cursed of God. To that large concourse of people, He declared that He could dispense the treasures of eternity to whomsoever He willed. Although His divinity was clothed with humanity, He thought it not robbery to be equal with God. In this public manner He described the attributes of those who were to share the eternal rewards. He pointed out in particular those who would suffer persecution for His name’s sake. They were to be richly blessed, becoming heirs of God and joint heirs with Jesus Christ. Great would be their reward in heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 4)

The relation existing between the Father and the Son was not fully understood by the disciples. “Philip saith unto him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father? Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works. Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works’ sake.” [John 14:8-11.] (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 5)

Those who are laboring to make of none effect the law of God try to make it apparent that Christ’s commandments and the commandments of the Father are not the same. They claim that God’s law is abrogated, and that the commandment of Christ is the new commandment recorded in (John 13:34): “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” But all who neglect to be doers of the words of Christ are refusing to be doers of the words of God. (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 6)

After carefully reading the first chapter of First John we are better prepared to understand the second. The beloved disciple writes: “My little children, these things write I unto you,”—that ye continue in sin?—No. That ye transgress the law?—No; but, “that ye sin not.” The Lord is gracious and full of tender compassion. When the sinner has been overcome by Satan’s temptations, the Saviour does not leave him in hopeless despair, but presents hope to the human mind; for “If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: and he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” [1 John 2:1-4.] These are very plain statements. (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 7)

“But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked. Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning. Again, a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth.” [Verses 5-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 8)

When the evidence of truth is presented, many say for effect, “I believe in Jesus. We are not saved by the law, but by Jesus.” Who has told them that it was possible for them to be saved by law? All intelligent human agents fully understand that in the law there is no power to save the transgressors of the law. (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 9)

Concerning this question, Paul relates his experience: “And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have showed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house, testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God.” [Acts 20:20, 21.] Why repentance toward God?—Because when His holy law has been transgressed through sin committed by the human agent, the law which condemns sin in the flesh brings to the sinner the conviction that he is a transgressor of the law, as Paul states: “I was alive without the law once, but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I [Paul] died. And the commandment, which was ordained to life, I found to be unto death.” [Romans 7:9, 10.] (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 10)

All who keep the law of God through moral power obtained from the imputed righteousness of Christ, will find the commandments ordained unto life; for “The man that doeth them shall live in them.” [Galatians 3:12.] “For sin, taking occasion by the commandment, deceived me, and by it slew me. Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin [the transgression of the law], that it might appear sin, working death [to the carnal mind] in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful. For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.” [Romans 7:11-14.] (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 11)

Here is where the condemnation comes in. Although the transgression may be confessed, there is in the law itself no power to save the transgressor. By the expression, “And through faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ,” Paul presents the world’s Redeemer as the only One who has power to save the law-breaker. [Acts 20:21.] Although a person may claim, “I am saved, I am saved, if I only believe in Jesus,” yet he does not love God, neither does he believe in Jesus Christ; for he cannot see to the end of the law of God. Men claim that His law has been abrogated. This is not true. God did not give His Son to a shameful death to make His law of none effect. The Saviour bore the penalty of transgression and sin that through His imputed righteousness the fallen race might be able to keep the law of God and live. Man was given another opportunity to repent of his transgression, return to his loyalty, and keep the commandments by faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Do not forget the words of John, “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” [1 John 2:4.] (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 12)

The ceremonies connected with the services of the temple, prefiguring Christ in types and shadows, were taken away at the time of the crucifixion, because on the cross type met antitype in the death of the true and perfect offering, the Lamb of God. He gave His life, that through faith in Him who taketh away the sin of the world, we might have life eternal. After His death, the sacrificial offerings had no moral efficacy. (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 13)

God did not make the infinite sacrifice of giving His only begotten Son to our world, to secure for man the privilege of breaking the commandments of God in this life and in the future eternal life. This is an infamous lie originated by Satan, which must be made to appear in its false, deceitful character. This law that Satan so much desires to have regarded null and void is the great moral standard of righteousness. Any violation of it is an act of transgression against God, and will be visited with the penalty of the divine law. To all the inhabitants of the world who make void the law of Jehovah, and continue to live in transgression, death must surely come. (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 14)

Until the requirements of the holy law were applied as the rule of life, fallen man could not understand his own guilt nor realize his condemned, lost condition. Jesus made application of the law directly to the soul, and laid under its jurisdiction the will and desires and works of man. Wrongdoing and all thoughts and feelings condemned by the law are to be overcome. (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 15)

The apostle Paul asks, “What say we then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?” He declares, “Where no law is, there is no transgression [sin].” “Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.” [Romans 6:1, 2; 4:15; 3:20.] (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 16)

“What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead.” What is the decision of Paul?—“Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” [Romans 7:7, 8, 12.] (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 17)

How can men who claim to believe the Bible undertake the work of making void the law of God—the very same work which Satan undertook in the courts of heaven, resulting in the expulsion of himself and all his sympathizers? Transgression of God’s requirements excluded Adam from the Garden of Eden. A flaming sword was placed around the tree of life, lest man should put forth his hand and partake of it, immortalizing sin. Obedience to all the commandments of God was the condition of eating of the tree of life. Adam fell by disobedience, forfeiting by sin all right to use either the life-giving fruit of the tree in the midst of the Garden, or its leaves, which are for the healing of the nations. (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 18)

Obedience through Jesus Christ gives to man perfection of character and a right to that tree of life. The conditions of again partaking of the fruit of the tree are plainly stated in the testimony of Jesus Christ to John: “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” [Revelation 22:14.] (16LtMs, Ms 72, 1901, 19)

Ms 73, 1901

“Thus saith the Lord, Go down ...”
NP
August 2, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 14MR 343-352. +

“Thus saith the Lord; Go down to the house of the king of Judah, and speak there this word, and say, Hear the word of the Lord, O king of Judah, that sittest upon the throne of David, thou, and thy servants, and thy people that enter in by these gates. Thus saith the Lord, Execute ye judgment and righteousness, and deliver the spoiled out of the hand of the oppressor; and do no wrong, do no violence to the stranger, the fatherless, nor the widow, neither shed innocent blood in this place. For if ye do this thing indeed, then there shall enter in by the gates of this house kings sitting upon the throne of David, riding in chariots and on horses, he, and his servants, and his people. But if ye will not hear these words, I swear by myself, saith the Lord, that this house shall become a desolation.” [Jeremiah 22:1-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 1)

These words show plainly that God’s promises are fulfilled on condition of obedience to God’s commandments. These commandments are not grievous. God has given them for the good of His people. His law is the hedge which He has built around His vineyard for its protection. The Lord has plainly stated the laws of His kingdom, and has declared that He will abundantly bless His people if they will obey them. It is their life to obey. In keeping God’s commandments there is great reward. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 2)

God sends messengers to tell His people what they must be and do in order to obey His laws of righteousness, which if a man do, he shall also live in them. They are to love God supremely, having no other gods before Him; and they are to love their neighbor as themselves, doing to him as they would wish him to do to them. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 3)

Not one tittle of God’s holy law is to be treated lightly or disrespectfully. Those who transgress a “Thus saith the Lord,” stand under the banner of the prince of darkness, in rebellion against their Maker and their Redeemer. They claim the promises given to the obedient, saying, The temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord are we, while they dishonor God by misrepresenting His character, by doing the very things He has told them not to do. They set up a standard which God has not given. Their example is misleading, their influence corrupting. They are not lights in the world; for they do not follow the principles of righteousness. Men cannot show greater treachery toward God than by disregarding the light He sends them. Those who do this mislead the ignorant; for they set up false waymarks. They are continually perverting pure principles. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 4)

“Woe unto him that buildeth his house by unrighteousness, and his chambers by wrong; that useth his neighbor’s service without wages, and giveth him not for his work; that saith, I will build me a wide house and large chambers, and cutteth him out windows; and it is ceiled with cedar, and painted with vermilion. Shalt thou reign, because thou closest thyself in cedar? did not thy father eat and drink, and do judgment and justice, and then it was well with him? He judged the cause of the poor and needy; then it was well with him: was not this to know me? saith the Lord. But thine eyes and thine heart are not but for thy covetousness, and for to shed innocent blood, and for oppression, and for violence, to do it.” [Verses 13-17.] (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 5)

In the words of Holy Writ we are plainly told why desolation came upon the Jewish nation. They had great light, rich blessings, and wonderful prosperity. But they proved unfaithful to their trust. They did not care faithfully for the Lord’s vineyard or render Him the fruits thereof. They acted as though there were no God, and therefore calamity overtook them. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 6)

During the journeyings of the children of Israel through the wilderness, Jesus Christ, enshrouded in a pillar of cloud by day and in a pillar of fire by night, led them on their way, indicating where they should march and where they should pitch their tents. Christ guarded them from all the beasts of the wilderness and from the poisonous serpents. This they had reason to know; for when God removed His restraining power from the serpents, great was the affliction in the camp of the Israelites. Their murmuring was a constant offence to God. He saw that they had thrown off all fear of Him, and He permitted fiery serpents to attack them, that they might realize how in the past His power had guarded them from untold dangers. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 7)

Those bitten by the serpents cried out in their dying anguish, entreating Moses to call upon the Lord for deliverance. Moses cried to the Lord, and the Lord heard him, and told him to make a serpent of brass, and lift it up in the sight of all the people. To this serpent the people were to look, and those who looked were healed. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 8)

God desires men and women to awaken to a sense of His great mercy and loving-kindness. Every blessing we receive comes from Him. The Governor of the universe, He takes cognizance of the words and actions of human beings. He knows whether His children are deserving of praise or of condemnation. Each human being will be rewarded or punished according to his works. Retribution must come upon those who disregard the laws which God has made known. Those who are loyal and obedient will be rewarded with the richest blessings. Those who are disloyal and presumptuous, who dishonor the laws of God’s kingdom, refusing to repent, will surely be punished with death. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 9)

It is Satan’s studied plan to keep God out of men’s thoughts. He has great success in carrying out this plan. He is constantly bringing forward inventions to keep the mind absorbed in pleasure and money-making. The minds of the great majority of men are so taken up with the things of time, with worldly devices, that the things of eternity make no impression on them. Irrespective of the warnings in the Word of God, they show a most surprising indifference to the laws of His kingdom. Selfishness, covetousness, and fraud bear sway in the world. There are thousands and millions who know nothing of their true relation to God, nothing of the laws which He has given them, nothing of the consequence of disobedience. Many are not ignorant of the facts, but they do not duly consider these facts as applied to their own case. All know that they must die, but all do not ask themselves the question, “What shall be the future of my soul?” They know that there is a judgment to come, but their minds are so darkened that they are utterly unconcerned regarding what this judgment will bring to them. They have no realization of the selfishness of sin. They follow a course which the Lord of heaven has told them not to follow. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 10)

God will not let those who dishonor His name go unpunished. Unless they repent as they see the signs of His displeasure, unless they change the course of action which is dishonoring to His name, He will stretch forth His hand to punish again and again. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 11)

Satan calls intrigue, selfishness, [and] idolatry [both] proper and commendable. The children of disobedience are controlled by a spirit from beneath, which works with an intensity of effort against God. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 12)

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. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 13)

Wonderful inducements are held out to us to lead us to strive to attain to the glory and virtue manifested in Christ. Every encouragement is offered. Every provision has been made that we may be so conformed to the divine character that Christ can take us to live with Him in heaven. Exceeding great and precious promises have been made to us, but they are fulfilled to us only as we gain a knowledge of God. Divine knowledge is given to those who become partakers of the divine nature. Those who are saved must in this life gain a fitness to dwell with the royal family in the courts of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 14)

If we have that faith that works by love and purifies the soul, we shall gain an experience of more value than gold or silver or precious stones. The Holy Spirit works in the children of obedience. He who is a partaker of the divine nature will think the thoughts of God. His perceptions will be sanctified by the grace of Christ. He will work in Christ’s lines, manifesting His kindness, thoughtfulness, mercy, and love, helping and not discouraging those around him. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 15)

“Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:48.] Wonderful are the possibilities placed before us, and to these possibilities we may attain by studying and practicing the Word of God. But if we do not lay hold of Christ, if we do not daily gain an experimental knowledge of Him as our sufficiency, we are constantly losing ground. Christians have not yet reached the height and breadth of Christlikeness. We are to behold Christ by faith as the One whose perfection of character we are to obtain. With an intense, prayerful desire to be like Him, we are to behold Him, full of tenderness and love. Then, as we behold, we shall be changed into His likeness. He is the author and finisher of our faith. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 16)

In every trying situation we are to ask, “Were Christ placed as I am, what would He do?” We are to go to God in humble faith, and on our knees give ourselves wholly and entirely to Him. We are to make it our choice to do as Christ would do. Christ has placed every one of us on vantage ground. “For verily he took not on him the [nature] of angels, but he took on him the seed of Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able also to succor them that are tempted.” [Hebrews 2:16-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 17)

Christ assumed human nature that He might reach humanity and at the same time through His divinity lay hold of divine power. He became a man that men and women might become one with Him as He is one with the Father. While on this earth, He was tempted in all points like as we are. He says to every believing child, Fear not; I have overcome the world. The victories that I obtained make it possible for you to be more than a conqueror. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 18)

I am instructed to present the rich and gracious assurance that by faith we may be partakers of the divine nature, having overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust. Christ has endured all the suffering and overcome all the temptation that we shall be called upon to endure and overcome. He knows what it means to be tried and tested. His experience in suffering has given Him a tender, sympathetic heart . He is willing to give grace to all who are tempted. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 19)

He who claims to be a teacher, a shepherd of the flock, a guide and an instructor, should show that his perverse heart has been changed by a knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus. By his kindness and tenderness he is to show what the truth can do for one who will practice it. As precious jewels, words of sympathy are to fall from his lips, strengthening and encouraging and blessing the needy. Those whose hearts are filled with the love of Christ will express this love in word and action. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 20)

God is in earnest with us. Only those who are converted will enter into the kingdom of heaven. What would we think of Christ’s manifesting no warmth of love, no disposition to help those in need? Yet thus do many who claim to be His followers. They are cold and unsympathetic. They make no efforts to help those with whom they come in contact. They show that they are not transformed in character. Their words show that they are not converted. They have none of Christ’s tenderness. Their unamiable traits of character, their lack of sympathy, show that they have lost their first love. They need to repent and be converted; for Christ is greatly dishonored by their selfishness. The Saviour does not abide in their hearts, or they would be touched with the feelings of others’ infirmities. They are self-centered, harsh, unaccommodating. They choose to represent the spirit that dwells in the children of disobedience. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 21)

If when Christ comes the second time, they are as they are now—harsh in words, coarse in spirit, destitute of Christian love—their candlestick will be removed out of its place. They will be unready to meet their Lord. O that they would feel the necessity of putting on the Lord Jesus! O that they would seek to understand what is due from man to God. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 22)

I tell you in the name of Jesus of Nazareth that there must be an individual reformation. Unless men reveal Christlikeness in all their dealings with their fellow men, unless they obey the law of heaven in every particular, they will never enter the city of God. There is no excuse for any one to fail. Christ’s character is before all, for study and imitation. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 23)

When like Christ, men manifest goodwill toward men, the truth will sanctify the soul. But preaching the truth while the practice is corrupt makes the truth of none effect. God is dishonored by those who honor Him in theory only. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 24)

If one does a piece of work which is not wholly perfect, shall his brethren pull it to pieces, speaking of it scathingly and contemptuously? The one who has made mistakes may be doing his very best. Did Christ treat the work of His disciples thus? If he should treat erring human beings as their shortcomings deserve, what would become of them? Well may every mortal say, “Let me fall into the hands of the living God, rather than into the hands of men.” [See 1 Chronicles 21:13.] God is too wise to err and too good to do us harm. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 25)

There are those who are driven away from Christ by the harshness of professing Christians. They might have done a good work in saving souls, but they have been stung to death by the inconsistency of those claiming to follow Christ, those who are Christians only in name. These weave into the web of life unsightly threads of selfishness, but their eyes are not anointed with the heavenly eyesalve, therefore they assert that the pattern is correct. But the threads of selfishness are there. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 26)

To some it appears degrading to wear Christ’s yoke of submission and obedience. Many prefer to wear the yokes which they have manufactured themselves. They choose the way that seems right in their own eyes. Their actions testify that they have not an experimental knowledge of God. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 27)

Those who are connected with God’s service should be sanctified [in] soul, body, and spirit, else they will mar God’s work and put Christ to open shame. What does God’s Word mean when it declares that Christ will present to Himself a church without spot or wrinkle or any such thing? It means that God’s people can and must reach the standard of Christian perfection. But in order to do this they must learn of Christ His meekness and lowliness. “This is eternal life,” the Saviour said, “that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.] (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 28)

Study the instruction given in the first chapter of first Peter. It points out to us the source of our strength. By the sacrifice of Christ every provision has been made for believers to receive all things that pertain to life and godliness. God calls upon us to reach the highest standard of glory and virtue. The perfection of Christ’s character makes it possible for us to gain perfection. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 29)

He who desires to rise to true greatness must walk humbly before God, not with a forced humility, but with a genuine sense of his own inefficiency and of God’s greatness. He is to strive earnestly to make the soul temple a place where God delights to dwell. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 30)

He whose heart God touches is filled with a great love for those who have never heard the truth. Their condition impresses him with a sense of personal woe. Taking his life in his hand, he hurries away, a God-sent, God-inspired messenger, to do a work in which angels can co-operate. (16LtMs, Ms 73, 1901, 31)

Ms 74, 1901

Lessons from the Training and Character of Moses
Refiled as Ms 36, 1885.

Ms 75, 1901

Parental Responsibility
NP
August 5, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in AH 246-247; 7MR 13-14.

Parents are responsible for the salvation of their children. For the first ten years of a child’s life, it should be kept in the home school, with the father and mother as guardians and teachers. (16LtMs, Ms 75, 1901, 1)

Children should be taught to obey the command, “Honor thy father and mother, that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.” [Exodus 20:12.] Children are to become acquainted with their parents and in turn parents are to become acquainted with their children. Both parents and children are to learn to fulfil their duty to God and to one another. (16LtMs, Ms 75, 1901, 2)

From their earliest years children should be trained to carry their share of the home burdens. They should be taught that obligations are mutual. They should also be taught to work quickly and thoroughly. This education will prove of the greatest value to them in after years. (16LtMs, Ms 75, 1901, 3)

Much of the malformation of an ill-trained child’s character lies at the mother’s door. The mother should not accept burdens in the church which compel her to neglect her children. The best work in which a mother can engage is to see that no stitches are dropped in the training of her children. A well-disciplined, well-ordered family exerts a more powerful influence in favor of Christianity than all the sermons that can be preached. In no other way can a mother help the church more than by devoting her time to those who are dependent upon her for instruction and training. (16LtMs, Ms 75, 1901, 4)

Sabbath school teachers can do much to help the faithful mother by speaking pleasant, encouraging words to the children in Sabbath school and out of Sabbath school. (16LtMs, Ms 75, 1901, 5)

Parents who think that there is no need of restraining their children, who allow them to shape their own characters, will see in the future the sad result of their great neglect. They will see that their neglect to point out and correct defects has placed their children where they will never enter heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 75, 1901, 6)

From generation to generation the neglect of parents is perpetuated. The evils uncorrected in a child are seen in the children and in the children’s children. The Lord places the sin where it belongs. Parents, the sin you permit your child to cherish may result in the ruin of families to the third and fourth generation. To allow a child to grow up with wrong tendencies unreproved and uncorrected is to do a wrong which can never be undone. But to bring children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord is to do a work which will yield fruit unto righteousness. (16LtMs, Ms 75, 1901, 7)

Fathers and mothers, prize your privileges and improve your opportunities. (16LtMs, Ms 75, 1901, 8)

Ms 76, 1901

Diary/Words of Instruction
NP
August 8, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 21MR 442-445.

God has sent His message to the churches. Every means possible is to be used to arouse those who claim to believe in Christ, yet do not keep the commandments of God. The medical missionary work is to be so conducted that it will maintain a holy, exalted standard, moving steadily onward and upward, presenting God’s claims to those who have never heard the truth for this time. Medical missionary work is to be to the third angel’s message as the right hand to the body, increasing its usefulness and efficiency. (16LtMs, Ms 76, 1901, 1)

The truth is not to languish. Medical missionary work is not to be done only in the slums of our large cities. It is possible to sway the work so heavily in the line of working for the hopelessly degraded that the fields ripe for the harvest will be neglected. Yet this work is not to be neglected. At our camp-meetings there should be men who devote themselves to the work of rescuing those held by Satan in the slavery of appetite. God says, “Bring in hither the lame, and the halt, and the blind.” [See Luke 14:21.] In the meetings the subject of temperance is to be presented. Angels of God pass through the congregation, convicting and converting souls. (16LtMs, Ms 76, 1901, 2)

At our camp-meetings medical missionary work is to be carried forward by workers free from fanaticism. At these meetings the truth is to be taught in clear lines. The sword is to cut both ways. The third angel’s message is to find its place in the world. Daniel is to stand in his lot and in his place, bearing his message that the time of the end is near. May the Lord give His people wisdom. (16LtMs, Ms 76, 1901, 3)

The means and talents God has given His people must not be wasted in desultory efforts. Decidedly and earnestly God’s people must carry forward His work. (16LtMs, Ms 76, 1901, 4)

There are those in the world who are longing for truth and who, when converted, will be helpers in the Lord’s great vineyard, serving the cause of God intelligently. By their faith and works they will show that the labor put forth for them has not been in vain. (16LtMs, Ms 76, 1901, 5)

In the seventeenth chapter of John, Christ tells His people that it is by their unity that the world is to be convinced of the genuineness of Christianity. It is God’s plan that His people shall work together in church capacity. There is to be no disarrangement of His plan. Satan would hold a jubilee, the forces of hell would triumph, if the church of God, becoming disorganized, were to break up into separate atoms. (16LtMs, Ms 76, 1901, 6)

Christ declared, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] This is the love church members are to manifest for one another. Such love will exert a powerful influence in favor of the truth. Christ desires to work through His appointed agencies to make His cause a power in our world. He says, “Whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. If ye love me, keep my commandments.” [John 14:13-15.] (16LtMs, Ms 76, 1901, 7)

We need to study carefully and prayerfully the fourteenth, fifteenth, sixteenth, and seventeenth chapters of John. If we study these chapters with a heart softened and subdued, we shall receive ideas which will make us wise unto salvation. (16LtMs, Ms 76, 1901, 8)

It is impossible to find a welcome in the denominational churches, and therefore the Lord directed that camp-meetings should be held. Thus the third angel’s message is to be proclaimed. The Lord has especially endorsed this means of reaching the masses. Thus high and low, rich and poor, free and bond may be reached. It is a pleasure to see thousands of people sitting as though riveted to their seats, listening with astonishment to the presentation of the truth. To them the Bible is as a new book. Oh, how earnestly they listen, as things new and old are brought forth from the treasury of the Word. Through this work many from the higher as well as the lower classes have received the truth. The Holy Spirit has impressed human minds, and men and women through whom God could work have been brought together in church fellowship. (16LtMs, Ms 76, 1901, 9)

In every camp-meeting held in Australia, a call for Bibles has been made by the outsiders attending the meetings. The people have asked for Bibles just like those used by Seventh-day Adventists. Many, with serious faces, have come to us to purchase a Seventh-day Adventist Bible. They had been told that our ministers used a Bible different from theirs. We assured them over and over again that our Bible is just the same as theirs, but to no avail. A new Bible they were determined to have. Large numbers of Bibles have been sold at our camp-meetings. (16LtMs, Ms 76, 1901, 10)

After a minister has faithfully done his duty in presenting the truth from the desk, he is to make personal efforts for his hearers. Ministers are not to exhaust their vitality by preaching long sermons. They are to save their strength for personal efforts. Thus only can the light of truth be carried to all parts of the world. (16LtMs, Ms 76, 1901, 11)

After the service is over, those desirous of asking questions should be requested to pass into another tent, and workers should be appointed to talk with them. During the camp-meeting an interest is aroused, and a minister with a company of workers remains to follow up the interest. The workers have appointed hours for study, and the remainder of the time is given to personal labor among the people. The interest is not allowed to lag. Aggressive work is done. (16LtMs, Ms 76, 1901, 12)

God desires His workers to reach a higher standard. The missionary spirit is the true spirit of the gospel. Study Christ’s manner of teaching. Placing Himself in the great thoroughfares of travel, He gave the message of warning to hundreds and thousands. Into the hearts of many His words sank deeply, and they went to their homes to search the Word of God as never before. Many who came to Him careless and indifferent went away so deeply convicted that they at once began to ask God for the truth that saves the soul. The Lord calls for workers to enter the canvassing field, that the books containing the light of present truth may be circulated. The people in the world need to know that the signs of the times are fulfilling. Take to them the books that will enlighten them. Daniel and Revelation, Great Controversy, Patriarchs and Prophets, and Desire of Ages should now go to the world. The grand instruction contained in Daniel and Revelation has been eagerly perused by many in Australia. This book has been the means of bringing many precious souls to a knowledge of the truth. Everything that can be done should be done to circulate Thoughts on Daniel and the Revelation. I know of no other book that can take the place of this one. It is God’s helping hand. (16LtMs, Ms 76, 1901, 13)

Those who have been long in the truth are asleep. They need to be sanctified by the Holy Spirit. The third angel’s message is to be proclaimed with a loud voice. Tremendous issues are before us. We have no time to lose. God forbid that we should allow minor matters to eclipse the light which should be given to the world. (16LtMs, Ms 76, 1901, 14)

The warning message is to be carried to all parts of the world. Our books are to be published in many different languages. With these books, humble, faithful men are to go forth as colporteur-evangelists, bearing the truth to many who otherwise would never be enlightened. Those who take up this line of work are to go prepared to do medical missionary work. The sick and suffering are to be helped. Many for whom this work of mercy is done will hear and accept the words of life. Many will be healed by the prayer of faith and will rise to health to advocate the precious principles of health reform. (16LtMs, Ms 76, 1901, 15)

Ms 76a, 1901

Regarding the late movement in Indiana
NP
April 17, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in GCB 04/23/1901.

Article read by Mrs. E. G. White before the ministers. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 1)

Instruction has been given me in regard to the late experience of brethren in Indiana and the teaching they have given to the churches. Through this experience and teaching the enemy has been working to lead souls astray. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 2)

The teaching given in regard to what is termed “holy flesh” is an error. All may now obtain holy hearts, but it is not correct to claim in this life to have holy flesh. The apostle Paul declares, “I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing.” [Romans 7:18.] To those who have tried so hard to obtain by faith so-called holy flesh, I would say, You cannot obtain it. Not a soul of you has holy flesh now. (No human being on the earth has holy flesh. It is an impossibility.) (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 3)

If those who speak so freely of perfection in the flesh could see things in the true light, they would recoil with horror from their presumptuous ideas. In showing the fallacy of their assumptions in regard to holy flesh, the Lord is seeking to prevent men and women from putting on His words a construction which will lead to pollution of body, soul, and spirit. Let this phase of doctrine be carried a little further, and it will lead to the claim that its advocates cannot sin; that since they have holy flesh their actions are all holy. What a door of temptation would thus be opened! (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 4)

The Scriptures teach us to seek for the sanctification to God of body, soul, and spirit. In this work we are to be laborers together with God. Much may be done to restore the moral image of God in man, to improve the physical, mental, and moral capabilities. Great changes can be made in the physical system by obeying the laws of God and bringing into the body nothing that defiles. And while we cannot claim perfection of the flesh, we may have Christian perfection of the soul. Through the sacrifice made in our behalf, sins may be perfectly forgiven. Our dependence is not in what man can do; it is in what God can do for man through Christ. When we surrender ourselves wholly to God and fully believe, the blood of Christ cleanses from all sin. The conscience can be freed from condemnation. Through faith in His blood, all may be made perfect in Christ Jesus. Thank God that we are not dealing with impossibilities! We may claim sanctification. We may enjoy the favor of God. We are not to be anxious about what Christ and God think of us, but about what God thinks of Christ, our Substitute. The Lord shows to the repenting, believing one that Christ accepts the surrender of the soul to be molded and fashioned after His own likeness. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 5)

In His life on earth, Christ could have made disclosures which would have eclipsed and assigned to oblivion all human discoveries. He could have opened door after door to mysterious things, and many revelations of eternal realities would have been the sure result. He could have uttered words which would have been as a key to unlock mysteries that would have captivated the minds of generations to the close of time. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 6)

But Christ does not open the numerous doors at which human curiosity has been striving to obtain entrance. He does not spread for men a feast that would prove deleterious to their highest interests. He came to plant for men, not the tree of knowledge, but the tree of life. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 7)

Adam’s transgression of God’s law involved the entire future of the human family. All nature is confused, for God forbade the earth to carry out the purpose He had originally designed for it. Let there be no peace to the wicked, saith the Lord. The curse of God is upon all creation. Every year it makes itself more decidedly felt. But God is moving slowly in His great purpose for the benefit of the righteous. Soon the vials of His wrath will be poured out. If but ten righteous persons had been found in Sodom, God would not have devoted the city to destruction. Let us see that our hearts are right with God, and He will be our defense in the time of trouble. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 8)

“Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh; and having an high priest over the house of God; let us draw near with a true heart, in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works; not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another; and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” Hebrews 10:19-25. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 9)

I have been instructed to say to those in Indiana who are advocating strange doctrines, You are giving a wrong mold to the precious and important work of God. Keep within the bounds of the Bible. Take Christ’s lessons and repeat them over and over again. Remember that “the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.” James 3:17, 18. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 10)

When human beings receive holy flesh, they will not remain on the earth, but will be taken to heaven. While sin is forgiven in this life, its results are not now wholly removed. It is at His coming that Christ is to “change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body.” Philippians 3:21. When Christ shall come with a great sound of a trumpet, and shall call the dead from their prison house, then the saints will receive holy flesh. Then this mortal shall put on immortality, and this corruptible shall put on incorruption. Then Christ will be admired in all them that believe. He will see of the travail of His soul, and will be satisfied. Then will break forth from immortal beings the song of triumph, “Worthy, worthy is the Lamb.” (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 11)

“Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably, with reverence and godly fear; for our God is a consuming fire.” Hebrews 12:28, 29. Those who meet Christ in peace at His coming must in this life walk before Him in humility, meekness, and lowliness of mind. It becomes every human being to walk modestly and circumspectly before God, in harmony with the great testing truths He has given to the world. But the late experience of brethren in Indiana has not been in accordance with the Lord’s instruction. I have not during this conference held conversation with any one in regard to this matter, but the Lord has given me a definite testimony that a strange work is being done in Indiana, the results of which are not after His order. This phase of religious enthusiasm is a dangerous delusion. The sentiments and exercises are not prompted by the Holy Spirit. They have led to very sad results. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 12)

Again and again in the progress of our work, fanatical movements have arisen; and when the matter was presented before me, I have had to bear a message similar to the message I am bearing to my brethren from Indiana. I have been instructed by the Lord that this movement in Indiana is of the same character as have been the movements in years past. In your religious meetings there have been exercises similar to those I have witnessed in connection with these movements in the past. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 13)

In the period of disappointment after the passing of the time in 1844, fanaticism in various forms arose. Some held that the resurrection of the righteous dead had already taken place. I was sent to bear a message to those believing this, as I am now bearing a message to you. They declared that they were perfected, that body, soul, and spirit were holy. They made demonstrations similar to those you have made, and confused their own minds and the minds of others by their wonderful suppositions. Yet these persons were our beloved brethren, and we were longing to help them. I went into their meetings. There was much excitement, with noise and confusion. One could not tell what was piped or what was harped. Some appeared to be in vision and fell to the floor. Others were jumping, dancing, and shouting. They declared that as their flesh was purified, they were ready for translation. This they repeated again and again. I bore my testimony in the name of the Lord, placing His rebuke upon these manifestations. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 14)

Some who had engaged in these movements were brought to their right mind and saw their delusion. Some had been excellent, honest people, but they thought that sanctified flesh could not sin, and thus they had been taken in Satan’s trap. They had carried their strong ideas so far that they became a reproach to the precious cause of God. These sorely repented, and some were afterward among our most reliable men and women. But there were others who ever after walked in sadness. We could not at any time make them feel that they were worthy to work for the Master whose precious cause they had so greatly dishonored. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 15)

As the result of fanatical movements such as I have described, persons in no way responsible for them have in some cases lost their reason. They could not harmonize the scenes of excitement and tumult with their own past, precious experience; they were pressed beyond measure to receive the message of error; it was represented to them that unless they did this they would be lost; and as the result their minds were unbalanced, and some became insane. These things bring a reproach upon the cause of truth, and hinder the proclamation of the last message of mercy to the world. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 16)

The manner in which the meetings in Indiana have been carried on, with noise and confusion, does not commend them to thoughtful, intelligent minds. There is nothing in these demonstrations which will convince the world that we have the truth. Mere noise and shouting are no evidence of sanctification nor of the descent of the Holy Spirit. Your wild demonstrations create only disgust in the minds of unbelievers. The fewer of such demonstrations there are, the better it will be for the actors and for the people in general. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 17)

Fanaticism, once started and left unchecked, is as hard to quench as a fire which has obtained hold of a building. Those who have entered into and sustained this fanaticism might far better be engaged in secular labor, for by their inconsistent course of action they are dishonoring the Lord and imperilling His people. Many such movements will arise at this time, when the Lord’s work should stand elevated, pure, unadulterated with superstition and fables. We need to be on our guard, to maintain a close connection with Christ, that we be not deceived by Satan’s devices. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 18)

The Lord desires to have in His service order and discipline, not excitement and confusion. We are not now able to describe with accuracy the scenes to be enacted in our world in the future; but this we do know, that this is a time when we must watch unto prayer; for the great day of the Lord is at hand. Satan is rallying his forces. We need to be thoughtful and still, and to contemplate the truths of revelation. Excitement is not favorable to growth in grace, to true purity and sanctification of the Spirit. God wants us to deal with sacred truth. This alone will convince the gainsayer. Calm, sensible labor must be put forth to convince souls of their condition, to show them the character-building which must be carried on if a beautiful structure is raised for the Lord. Minds that are awakened must be patiently instructed if they [are] rightly [to] understand and duly appreciate the truths of the Word. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 19)

God calls upon His people to walk with sobriety and holy consistency. They should be very careful not to misrepresent and dishonor the holy doctrines of truth by strange performances, by confusion and tumult. By this, unbelievers are led to think that Seventh-day Adventists are a set of fanatics. Thus prejudice is created that prevents souls from receiving the message for this time. When believers speak the truth as it is in Jesus, they reveal a holy, sensible calm, not a storm of confusion. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 20)

At our camp-meetings we are to preach the Word, defending the reasons of our faith. God will give us the rich endowments of His grace in proportion to our knowledge and practice of the truth as it is in Jesus. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 21)

There are few who really taste the sweetness of communion with the risen Saviour. All are too largely occupied with the things of this earth. Worldly things are too much thought of and talked of. We are too well satisfied with breathing the atmosphere of earth. Self is too often consulted, and it sways the perception and judgment into wrong channels. There must be more beholding of our Saviour and more talking of heavenly things. Our secular work must be done, but every business transaction needs the closest criticism, else we shall find interwoven with it threads of selfishness, and it will become a snare to our feet. The Lord will not serve with our sins. There is no virtue in judging others. Our time and work are too important for this. “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?” 2 Corinthians 13:5. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 22)

“Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass; for he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain. Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.” James 1:19-27. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 23)

Brethren from Indiana, the word of the Lord to you and to all who are misled by your influence is: “Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace.” “Let not then your good be evil spoken of; for the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God and approved of men. Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.” Hebrews 13:9; Romans 14:16-19. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 24)

“I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgment of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words. For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ. As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him; rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power.” Colossians 2:1-10. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 25)

“Speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: that the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.... Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded. In all things showing thyself a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.” Titus 2:1, 2, 6-8. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 26)

The work of self-examination must go forward. When Christ is enshrined in our hearts, we have reached the position which God desires us to occupy. The example and lessons of Christ are to be our study, for in Christ dwells all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. In Him are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, we are to move onward and upward. And who can describe the benefits of appreciating Him who is invisible? “We all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory,”—from character to character—“even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 3:18. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 27)

We need to contemplate Christ and become assimilated to His image through the transforming power of the Holy Spirit. This is our only safeguard against being entangled in Satan’s delusive snares. (16LtMs, Ms 76a, 1901, 28)

Ms 77, 1901

Diary/The Southern Work
NP
August 8, 1901
Previously unpublished. +

During the night season I have been in a meeting in which the work in the Southern field was being discussed. The question was asked by a company of intelligent colored people, “Is the Lord soon to come, and are the people of the South to be passed by? Have the white people and the black people in the Southern States no souls to save? Does not the new covenant include us? If it is true that the Lord is soon to come, is it not time that something was done for the Southern field? (16LtMs, Ms 77, 1901, 1)

“We do not question the need of missions in foreign lands. But we do question the right of those who claim to have present truth to pass by millions of their fellow beings in their own country, many of whom are as ignorant as heathen. Why is it that so little is done for the colored people of the South, a people ignorant and destitute, who need to be taught that Christ is their Creator and Redeemer? How can they believe in Him of whom they have never heard? And how can they hear without a preacher? And how can one preach except he be sent? (16LtMs, Ms 77, 1901, 2)

“We lay this matter before you. What are you doing for the unenlightened white and colored people of the South? O, how thankful we shall be if this meeting is the means of bringing the needs of this people to your notice. (16LtMs, Ms 77, 1901, 3)

“The colored people have been freed from the bondage of political slavery. But they are still in the bondage of ignorance. Why have you not a deeper sense of the necessities of the Southern field? Does there not rest upon ministers of the gospel the responsibility of setting in operation plans whereby this people can be instructed? Does not the commission of the Saviour teach this? Is it right for professing Christians to hold themselves aloof from this work, allowing a few to carry the burden? In all your plans for medical missionary work and foreign missionary work, has God given you no message for us?” (16LtMs, Ms 77, 1901, 4)

Then He who has authority arose and called upon all to give heed to the instruction the Lord has given in regard to the Southern work. He said: “Much more evangelistic work should be done in the South. Scarcely anything has been done for this field. There should be a thousand workers there where there is now but one. (16LtMs, Ms 77, 1901, 5)

“The Southern field is represented by the man who, robbed and beaten, was left by the roadside to die. A priest came that way, gave a sigh of pity, and passing by, wished he had not seen the wounded man. Then came a Levite, who also passed by on the other side. ‘But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him, and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.’ [Luke 10:30-35.] (16LtMs, Ms 77, 1901, 6)

“After relating this incident, Christ asked in a clear, solemn voice, ‘Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor to him that fell among thieves?’ From many voices came the answer, ‘He that showed mercy on him.’ Then said Jesus, ‘Go, and do thou likewise.’ [Verses 36, 37.] (16LtMs, Ms 77, 1901, 7)

“The wrong use of means has hindered the work which should have been done in the Southern field. Those who know their duty and do it not are accountable to God. To Him they must answer for their neglect. (16LtMs, Ms 77, 1901, 8)

“Let the people of God awaken. Think you that the Lord will bless those who have felt no burden but to hedge up the work in the Southern field?” (16LtMs, Ms 77, 1901, 9)

As these words were spoken, deep feeling was manifested by some. Some offered themselves as missionaries, while others sat in silence, apparently taking no interest in the subject. (16LtMs, Ms 77, 1901, 10)

Again the words were spoken, “The South is a most unpromising field. But what a change would have been seen in it if, after the colored people had been released from slavery, Christians had worked for the colored people as Christians ought to work, teaching them how to take care of themselves. This is what should have been done. Not a sparrow falls to the ground without the notice of the heavenly Father. (16LtMs, Ms 77, 1901, 11)

“Will not God pronounce as unfaithful stewards those who have left the colored race uncared for and uneducated? Some have worked nobly, and God will bless them. Others have made a few feeble efforts, and have then allowed their means to be diverted into wrong channels. God will hold them responsible for leaving the Southern field so largely unworked. God has an account to settle with those who have selfishly hoarded their means, lent them by Him to be used in helping and blessing humanity. They have the Word of God, which plainly points out their duty, but they refuse to obey. Unless they repent, they must answer at the bar of God for their neglect.” (16LtMs, Ms 77, 1901, 12)

Ms 78, 1901

Sermon/“I have words to speak to our ...”
Oakland, California
June 1901 [Typed August 13, 1901]
Portions of this manuscript are published in LHU 292; 1BC 1081; 9MR 380. +
June [8 or 15], 1901
Campground, Oakland

I have words to speak to our people this Sabbath morning. Let us on this holy day eat simply, speak wisely, and pray most earnestly. Let us magnify the truth for this time. We are living amid the corruption of a degenerate age. Men and women have lost sight of the fact that the God of heaven is the sovereign of the world. It is our privilege to make straight paths for our feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way. We are to avoid the very appearance of evil, lest those who lack moral strength be deceived into calling sin righteousness. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 1)

We need to humble our hearts before God. We need to seek for that humility of mind which forbids selfishness, pride, envy, and jealousy. It was jealousy that brought sin into our world. Lucifer, the angel next to Christ in the heavenly courts, gave way to feelings of jealousy. He aspired to the throne of God. He was determined to rule independent of God. He sought for prerogatives which cannot be given to any created being. This led him to revolt against God. Of this we read, “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.” [Revelation 12:7, 8.] (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 2)

Jealousy caused the first death in our world. After sin came, man was to show his faith in the promised Redeemer by offering as a sacrifice a lamb without blemish. Thus he was to show his belief in the truth that without shedding of blood there is no remission for sin. The innocent lamb slain pointed forward to Christ, the sinless, spotless offering for the sin of the human race. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 3)

“And in process of time it came to pass that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the Lord. And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof.” [Genesis 4:3, 4.] (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 4)

God had specified a lamb without blemish as the offering to be brought. But Cain, a tiller of the ground, did not wish to add to his firstfruits a lamb from his brother’s flock. His offering was abundant, he thought. But it lacked the very thing which would have made it of value. Without the lamb, all that he brought was worthless. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 5)

When Cain presented his offering, he saw nothing to signify that it was accepted by God. But when Abel presented his offering, fire from heaven consumed the sacrifice. “The Lord had respect unto Abel and his offering; but unto Cain and his offering he had not respect.” [Verses 4, 5.] (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 6)

“And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. And the Lord said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth; and why is thy countenance fallen? If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door.” [Verses 5-7.] (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 7)

“And Cain talked with Abel his brother.” He argued about his offering, refusing to see that it was not accepted because of his disobedience. He was angry that the offering of Abel, his younger brother, should have been accepted, while his was rejected. He was angry with Abel for maintaining that God is just. “And it came to pass ... that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.” [Verse 8.] (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 8)

“And the Lord said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not; am I my brother’s keeper? And he said, What hast thou done? the voice of thy brother’s blood crieth unto me from the ground. And now thou art cursed from the earth, which hath opened her mouth to receive thy brother’s blood from thy hand; when thou tillest the ground, it shall not henceforth yield unto thee her strength; a fugitive and a vagabond shalt thou be in the earth.” [Verses 9-12.] (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 9)

“In this the children of God are manifest and the children of the devil; whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God; neither he that loveth not his brother. For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous.” [1 John 3:10-12.] (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 10)

“Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.... If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar; for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.” [1 John 4:7, 8, 20, 21.] (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 11)

After Satan’s expulsion from heaven, he came to this earth filled with the determination to establish a kingdom entirely independent of God. In the world which God had created he determined to show his power. His aim has ever been to lead men to forget God. He has worked against the fourth commandment, for this commandment plainly draws the attention to God. It says, “Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy.... 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.] The Sabbath is God’s memorial of creation. It points to Him as the Creator and Sovereign of the world. It is given to men and women to remind them of God. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 12)

Satan saw that if he could destroy in men’s minds the sacredness of the day which pointed to the true God, and lead them to look upon another day as sacred, he could assert his authority. Thus he has worked to supersede God. With an intensity of effort he has striven to break down God’s memorial and to place himself before the world as the supreme ruler. For the holy Sabbath of Jehovah he has substituted a spurious rest-day. The results of his deception are plainly seen. Through him have come sins of every kind—idolatry, sensuality, unbelief of the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 13)

All selfishness comes from Satan. Human beings belong to one great family, the family of God. They are to respect and love one another. They are not to speak words which wound and bruise. No one is to be unfair in his dealings, causing his fellow beings to lose confidence in him. Selfishness and injustice bring unhappiness. Under their baleful influence men lose the sense of what it means to love one another as Christ loves us. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 14)

All are to work in love and unity, looking to God as the great Center. Love for Christ is the principle which unites man to his fellow man. Those who are disconnected from God will be disconnected from one another, and will strive for the supremacy. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 15)

The opposite of allegiance to God is seen in the world today. Every kingdom, every province, every family, has a desire to make itself a center. Men long to rule over their fellow men. They act as though the consciences of their fellow men had been given into their control. Separating themselves from God and from their fellow beings, they follow in the egotism of their nature their unrestrained inclinations. They act as though the good of their fellow beings depended on their subjection to their supremacy. Self is the mainspring of action. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 16)

Human beings are to reveal a pure and holy interest in their fellow men. God’s followers are to have no selfish interests. There is a wide difference between the love which proceeds from God and the selfishness which is inspired by a power from beneath. The water of life in the soul is as a well of water, springing up unto everlasting life. This is the science of benevolence. He whose heart is filled with the love which centers in God, because it is created by God, realizes that he must deal justly and tenderly with his fellow beings, because they have been redeemed by the blood of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 17)

God declares, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” [Leviticus 19:18.] The love which proceeds from God works no ill. It is a principle which fills a man with a desire to promote goodness. Man does not work against his own interest by loving God and his fellow man. The more unselfish his spirit, the more purity, righteousness, and justice he reveals, the happier he is, because he is fulfilling God’s purpose for him. The breath of God is breathed through him, filling him with joy and gladness. The love of God flows through him. To him life is a sacred trust, precious in his sight because given him by God to be employed in doing the will of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 18)

True pity leads [a] man to bind up his interests closely with those of his fellow men. Supreme love to God leads us to seek the highest good of humanity. It places the whole being under God’s control. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 19)

Selfishness destroys the moral image of God in man, filling him with self-love. It leads to continual departure from righteousness. Christ says, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:48.] But self-love is blind to the perfection which God requires. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 20)

Those who exalt self are idolaters. They worship self. Clothed with a robe of supposed superiority, they are impatient of contradiction. God wants men to benefit their fellow men. No one will be guiltless who lays stumbling blocks in the way of another, discouraging and disheartening him, causing him to lose confidence in himself. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 21)

There must be no dissension among God’s commandment-keeping people. Heavenly angels are constantly working to keep us from falling. Christ has made every provision that we may be partakers of the divine nature, overcoming the corruption that is in the world through lust. “From whence come wars and fightings among you? Come they not hence of your own lusts?” [James 4:1.] Why are not professed believers sanctified through the truth? Why do they so often speak words which wound and bruise? Why do they cherish the spirit which acknowledges no law but the law of selfishness, which refuses to reveal the perfection of Christ’s character? Selfishness is the very essence of depravity. Selfishness has filled the world with strife, setting human beings at variance with one another. Selfishness has brought discord into the church, filling it with unholy ambition. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 22)

The Lord calls upon His people to put far from them every stumbling block. Be filled with the Holy Spirit. To unite man with God and with his fellow men, to restore to human beings the benevolence lost through sin, this is the glory of the gospel. Let the church arise and shine; for her light has come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon her. Let the members strive earnestly to obtain the victory over self. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 23)

Infinite love—how great it is! God made the world to enlarge heaven. He desires a larger family of created intelligences. And before man was created God and Christ entered into a covenant that if man fell from his allegiance, Christ would bear the penalty of transgression. Man fell, but he was not left in the power of the destroyer. “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.] And when God gave Christ, He gave all heaven. To the Redeemer was given all power in heaven and in earth. He was given all the treasures of heaven to impart for the benefit and blessing of mankind. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 24)

While on this earth the Saviour was sorely tried. He was tempted in all points like as we are. He poured out His soul with strong crying and tears as He looked upon the backslidden condition of the people He had brought out of Egyptian bondage. He saw them full of pride and self-exaltation, full of selfishness and covetousness. All this Christ must labor to overcome. He must live among His people the life God requires His children to live. He must stand free from the least taint of sin. Not in the slightest particular must He deviate from the principles of righteousness. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 25)

The gulf made by sin has been bridged. All may come boldly to the throne of God, seeking help in every time of need. While we were yet sinners Christ died for us. He took the place of the sinner, that He might present the repentant sinner to the Father, saying, “Lay his guilt on me. I have espoused his cause.” Holding out His hands, bearing the nail prints of the crucifixion, the Saviour says, “I have graven that sinner upon the palms of my hands. No longer look on him as guilty. Let him stand before you guiltless. I have borne his iniquity.” At the cross justice and mercy met together; righteousness and peace kissed each other. God bows His head in recognition of the offering made for sin, saying, “It is enough.” (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 26)

As we contemplate the great love of God, should not our hearts be melted and subdued, yea, broken? Should we not be filled with love, patience, longsuffering, kindness, meekness, and benevolence? Should we not die to self? (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 27)

Christ is our strength, our sufficiency. He died that we might live. To those who receive Him become sons of God. Accepting Him, we become members of the royal family, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ to an immortal inheritance. A far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory awaits those who fight manfully in the warfare against evil. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 28)

Christ came to this earth to reveal the love of God. His followers are to continue the work which He began. The world’s Redeemer gives to all the invitation, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] Rest comes to us as we seek to make others happy. Let us strive to help and strengthen one another. Seeking the good of others is the only way to find true happiness. Christ’s disciples will receive and impart His love, constantly receiving a fresh supply to impart. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 29)

God works untiringly through His heavenly messengers to make the members of His church of one heart and one mind. Jealousy and evil surmising are from Satan. We cannot be one with Christ until the heart is cleansed from selfishness. Let every church member put away this sin, replacing it with Christlike love. (16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, 30)

Ms 79, 1901

Testimony to the Parents of the Los Angeles Church
NP
August 18, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in CG 107, 110, 251, 259; AH 174, 220-221, 314; 7MR 14-16, 75. +

I am unable to sleep after half past twelve o’clock. In the night season I was presenting before the parents of the Los Angeles church a message given me by the Lord in regard to their sinful neglect to train their children from their very infancy to form characters that will meet the approval of God. Parents should regard nothing as of sufficient consequence to take the place of their work for their children. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 1)

Please read the fifth, sixth, and seventh chapters of Deuteronomy. “Hear, O Israel, The Lord our God is one Lord: and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart; and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.” [Deuteronomy 6:4-7.] (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 2)

Parents are to take every precaution to prevent their children from growing up with objectionable traits of character. Parents are to control themselves for the sake of Him in whom they claim to believe as their Creator and their Redeemer. Parents, unless you prepare yourselves for the present and the future life, you will not be admitted into the city of God. The words addressed by Paul to Timothy are addressed to every member of the church, “Take heed to thyself and to the doctrine.” [1 Timothy 4:16.] “Thyself” comes first. The soul-temple must be cleansed. The inner lamp must be trimmed. Piety, virtue, and godliness must be revealed in the home life. God will not accept the most splendid service unless the one who offers it is first consecrated to Him by the entire surrender of the soul. Unless the root be holy, there can be no acceptable fruit. The great apostle, in commending his Corinthian converts for their benevolence and Christian liberality, tells in emphatic words the secret of the value of their good works, “They first gave their own selves to the Lord.” [2 Corinthians 8:5.] (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 3)

Jesus requires of the parents in Los Angeles a thorough change of their attitude in the home. He has entrusted them with the responsibility of training their children for Him. These children are His property, and by diligent training of their capabilities, they are to be carefully improved, that not one of them shall be lost. This responsibility no father or mother can safely neglect. If they shirk the God-given work which they should do in the church in their own house, God will be robbed of the influence which should be exerted for Him in the home and out of the home. By failing to bring their children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, parents rob God of His entrusted talents. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 4)

All are to put their capabilities to the very best use. Parents, invest wisely every talent that God has entrusted to you. Cultivate piety at home. Cherish and exemplify in the home life the sacred principles of truth. All are to be workers. The children are to be taught to bear their weight of responsibility, to do little deeds of service. Their hands and minds are to be kept employed in useful duties. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 5)

Parents, dress your children simply and plainly. Let their clothes be made of durable material. Keep them sweet and clean. Teach them to hate anything like dirt and filth. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 6)

Bear in mind, parents, that you are working for the salvation of your children. If your habits are correct, if you reveal neatness and order, virtue and righteousness, sanctification of soul, body, and spirit, you respond to the words of the Redeemer, “Ye are the light of the world.” [Matthew 5:14.] He who will sit at the feet of Jesus and learn in meekness out of His Word will soon show improvement in manners because he is beholding Christ’s character. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 7)

Fathers and mothers, in the home you are to represent God’s disposition. You are to require obedience, not with a storm of words, but in a kind, loving manner. You are to be so full of compassion that your children will be drawn to you. Keep them away from the society of those children who are disobedient and unruly, and then God can impress their minds. As the right work is done in the home, parents will find their own hearts subdued and melted. Strange prejudices which have been cherished by brethren and sisters in the church, prejudices which have borne evil fruit, will be overcome and will disappear. A spirit of candor will come in, a spirit which is after Christ’s likeness. The tenacious desire to have your own way and to urge your own ideas, will be given up; for you will realize that you are in the presence of One whom God hails as His beloved Son, One to whom sinners can go as a personal Saviour. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 8)

To those who in weariness and trial and temptation come to the Saviour, He says, “I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] Try it, fathers; try it, mothers. Many of you are church members, but you are not Christians. You cannot be Christians until you become assimilated to Christ, doing His works. Your Redeemer calls upon you to have a spirit and character akin to His. Many ask, Why does not the Lord work miracles in our day, as He did when He was upon this earth? Live in the home and in the world the life of a humble Christian, test the Lord by your vigilance, doing faithfully the work He has committed to you, and His miracle-working power will be shown by the change in your hearts. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 9)

“Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” [Hebrews 11:1.] Every family must work by faith. The father, if a true Bible Christian, is the house-band of his family. He binds the family close to the throne of God; for he is the priest of his house. He is never to lose his interest in his family. He who has a family of boys must understand that whatever his calling, he is never to neglect the souls placed in his care. He has brought these children into the world, and has made himself responsible to God to do everything in his power to keep them from unsanctified associations, from evil companionship. He should not leave his restless boys wholly to the care of the mother. This is too heavy a burden for her. He must arrange matters for the best interests of the mother and the children. It may be very hard for the mother to exercise self-control and to manage wisely in the training of her children. If this is the case, the father should take more of the burden upon his soul. He should be determined to make the most decided efforts to save his children. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 10)

When the father is assured that the weakness of his wife in failing to properly train the children is endangering their salvation, he must exert a strong influence to bind the children to his own soul. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 11)

The family firm must be well organized. Together the father and mother must consider their responsibilities, and with a clear comprehension undertake their task. There is to be no variance. The father and mother should never in the presence of their children criticize each other’s plans and judgment. If the mother is inexperienced in the knowledge of God, she should reason from cause to effect, finding out whether her discipline is of a nature to increase the difficulties of the father, as he labors for the salvation of the children. Am I following the way of the Lord? This should be the all-important question. Other foundation can no man lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. The father and the mother must submit to [the] control of God, allowing no passion to be revealed in word or spirit. Eternal vigilance is the price of safety. Parents must trust implicitly in the power of Christ to transform the tendencies to wrong which have been transmitted to their children. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 12)

Parents, as you deal with your children, remember that you are dealing with a reproduction of yourselves. Therefore be sure to examine yourselves, to see whether you are indeed transformed in word and spirit. Put a bridle upon your words and actions. Never strike a child in anger. You may have to punish him with the rod; this is sometimes essential; but defer any settlement of the difficulty until you have settled the case with yourselves. Ask yourself, Have I submitted my way and my will to God? Have I placed myself where God can manage me, so that I may have wisdom, patience, kindness, and love in dealing with the refractory elements in my home? There are times when a decided restraint must be placed upon the evil developments that arise. But remember every moment that Christ died, the Just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God. “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.... And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” [John 3:16, 19, 20.] (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 13)

For the first ten years of a child’s life the home is to be its school. In the home, parents and children are to learn together the way of the Lord. A child’s rebellion and disobedience require discipline. But in administering this discipline, let parents understand their own relation to the heavenly Father. Do they not often draw apart from God, refusing obedience to His commandments? Let these words be studied, “He that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.” [Verse 21.] (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 14)

The instruction necessary for the home is just what is needed in our institutions. Those in charge of our institutions should make a careful study of human nature, learning how to deal with minds. The youthful apprentices have their different temperaments to deal with. Temptation often comes to them, and they need the most careful, judicious treatment. These youth are but saplings; they are to be trained to be trees of the Lord’s planting. They are to be carefully pruned. The church is a garden, adorned with trees and plants and flowers. These do not all need the same treatment. The varied characters in the home and in the school need careful culture, that in time they may fully mature, and bear fruit to the Lord’s glory. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 15)

The young apprentices in our various institutions cannot be expected to show the wisdom of experienced workers. The Lord does not look for the wisdom in a child that He does in a man. He does not expect those who have had few opportunities and advantages to show in the warfare of life the spiritual strength of a champion. But the Lord demands growth. Great patience is needed in dealing with beginners. They must receive oft-repeated instruction, that they may show piety and Christian growth. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 16)

Parents must give their children the right kind of education. With these children new responsibilities come to them. It is their privilege to learn line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little. The varied temperaments of the children need careful treatment and a knowledge of God’s will. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 17)

Of Abraham the Lord said, “I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment; that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.” [Genesis 18:19.] (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 18)

“And the Lord said, Because the cry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grievous, I will go down now, and see whether they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto me; and if not, I will know.” [Verses 20, 21.] (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 19)

Abraham pleaded with God to save the city, saying, “Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak yet this once: Peradventure ten shall be found there. And he said, I will not destroy it for ten’s sake.” [Verse 32.] But in all the city not ten righteous persons could be found. The entire city was destroyed. Even the little children were destroyed; for evil had been transmitted to them by their parents. “The Lord rained upon Sodom and upon Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the Lord out of heaven; and he overthrew those cities, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities.” [Genesis 19:24, 25.] (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 20)

Lot had chosen Sodom as a home because of its rich lands and beautiful surroundings. But he left the wicked city with the loss of everything he had. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 21)

This is a lesson to parents regarding the location of their families. It is not the most beautiful surroundings and the most fertile land that make a place desirable as a location. Worldly treasure will not save one soul. Human beings will taint and corrupt the earth which God has made so lovely. If the dwellers in beautiful places do not reveal purity and virtue, if they do not love truth and righteousness, the Lord will, after a time of test and trial, let His wrath break forth upon them, because they corrupt themselves before God. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 22)

We need now to be terribly in earnest. God is watching the families who claim to be Christian, to see how they are conducting themselves. If ever evangelical work was needed, it is now in our families, our schools, our sanitariums, and our publishing houses. Let us consider the work to be done. Fathers and mothers need to feel the converting power of God upon their souls. The life needs to be cleansed. There are many professing Christians who have never been transformed in character. This is why the Holy Spirit cannot accomplish its work upon human hearts. It is not spasms of feeling a desire to do right that will give us an inheritance among the saints in light. Throughout our churches and institutions there should be felt an intense desire to see souls transformed. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 23)

“The word of the Lord came unto me again, saying, What mean ye that ye use this proverb concerning the land of Israel, saying, The fathers have eaten sour grapes, and the children’s teeth are set on edge? As I live, saith the Lord, ye shall not have occasion any more to use this proverb any more in Israel. Behold, all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine; the soul that sinneth, it shall die. But if a man be just, and do that which is lawful and right, and ... hath not oppressed any, but hath restored to the debtor his pledge, hath spoiled none by violence, hath given his bread to the hungry, and hath covered the naked with a garment; he that hath not given forth upon usury, neither hath taken any increase, that hath withdrawn his hand from iniquity, hath executed true judgment between man and man, hath walked in my statutes, and hath kept my judgments, to deal truly; he is just, he shall surely live, saith the Lord God.” [Ezekiel 18:1-9.] (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 24)

“Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the Lord God. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin. Cast away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit; for why will ye die, O house of Israel? For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord God; wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye.” [Verses 30-32.] (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 25)

“Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean; from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God.” [Ezekiel 36:25-28.] (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 26)

God calls for a thorough purification and cleansing of households and institutions. There is need, not merely of a revival, but of a reformation. Every church needs to be stirred as never before. When the light that God has given shines forth through human agencies, a great work will be done. In demonstration of the Spirit and with power will the truth be revealed in clear, distinct lines. But this work must begin in the home. (16LtMs, Ms 79, 1901, 27)

Ms 80, 1901

A Message to the Los Angeles Church
NP
August 19, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in AH 174; CG 500-501.

This morning I have a message for the church in Los Angeles. The past camp-meeting will prove to you a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. Let it not be said of any one of you, “Ephraim is joined to his idols; let him alone.” [Hosea 4:17.] To the unfruitful fig tree Christ said, “Let no fruit grow on you henceforth forever.” [Matthew 21:19.] God forbid that these words should be spoken of you. (16LtMs, Ms 80, 1901, 1)

Fathers and mothers, your children have been largely left untrained, and God is displeased. You have not set before your children a good example. Let there be a different showing. Take up your neglected work. You need to be alarmed as you see your neglect to faithfully instruct your children. (16LtMs, Ms 80, 1901, 2)

Some who have recently received baptism are ignorant of the deep meaning of this solemn rite. This is a result of a neglect on the part of their parents to educate them in spiritual things. Parents, for Christ’s sake, as you value the souls of your children, make it your first work to train them for the Lord. Those who have a knowledge of the truth, but who have not been sanctified through the truth, must now learn as never before what it means to reveal the meekness and lowliness of Christ. They should now prepare their hearts to receive the golden oil from the two olive trees as represented in the Word of God. (16LtMs, Ms 80, 1901, 3)

Take heed, parents; for you are not ready for the Lord’s coming. Take heed to thyself and to the doctrine. Thyself, father; thyself, mother. Reform your individual characters. You are not prepared to do justice to your children or to yourselves. You must first humble your hearts before God, and overcome your defects. Talk less, and pray a great deal more. Receive the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. Then the inner lamp, trimmed and burning, will shine forth brightly in faithful, earnest, consecrated work for your children. (16LtMs, Ms 80, 1901, 4)

Fathers and mothers, consecrate the tongue to the Lord. “By thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” [Matthew 12:37.] Let there be no loud-voiced, angry commands heard in the home. Subdue the voice. Pity the children who have not had wise training. (16LtMs, Ms 80, 1901, 5)

Remember that it is not merely push and activity that the Lord requires. He wants you to obey the command, “Be still, and know that I am God.” [Psalm 46:10.] Surrender your will to Him. Has it not in your own hands done enough mischief in the home? Place it now in the hands of the Lord. God will give fathers and mothers a rich experience in the knowledge of Christ Jesus our Lord if they will take themselves in hand and rule the spirit. When your will is under the control of the Holy Spirit, you can be workers together with God. (16LtMs, Ms 80, 1901, 6)

Parents, a reformation is needed in your home. You must consent to be ruled by the Holy Spirit before you can rule your children wisely. You must be trained by the Lord before you can properly train the little ones He has placed in your care. Your children have not been trained to habits of usefulness, and therefore they have feeble ideas of what it means to be a Christian. 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. (16LtMs, Ms 80, 1901, 7)

Have patience, fathers and mothers. Often your past neglect will make your work hard. But God will give you strength if you will trust in Him. Deal wisely and tenderly with your children. Remember that they are reproductions of yourselves, that from you they have received tendencies to wrong. (16LtMs, Ms 80, 1901, 8)

This is your day of trust. Soon will come your day of reckoning. Take up your work with earnest prayer and faithful endeavor. Teach your children that it is their privilege to receive every day the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Let Christ find you His helping hand, to carry out His purposes. By searching the Scriptures, learn what the will of the Lord is. Remember that only through justice and mercy and the love of God can you be saved, and that thus alone, through your ministration, can your children be saved. (16LtMs, Ms 80, 1901, 9)

By an unwise course of action you can make the baptism of your children of none effect. By prayer you may gain an experience that will make your ministry for your children a perfect success. (16LtMs, Ms 80, 1901, 10)

“Who then is that faithful and wise servant whom the lord hath made ruler over his household?” [Matthew 24:45.] Fathers and mothers, ask yourselves this question. Take your children and teach them how to live the life of a Christian. This is your day of responsibility and opportunity. Redeem the time by working faithfully for the Master. (16LtMs, Ms 80, 1901, 11)

Ms 81, 1901

Talk/To Board of Directors of Pacific Press
NP
August 21, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in PM 61, 91-94, 195-196; 9MR 95. +

Talk given by Mrs. E. G. White to Board of Directors of Pacific Press. August 21, 1901.

I will take up the last question first. For the past fifteen years much has been presented to me regarding the special work which should be done for apprentices by those who occupy positions of responsibility in our publishing houses. The Lord will lead us onward and upward if we are willing to be led. He wants us to reach a higher standard of spirituality than we have reached in the past. Those carrying responsibilities in our publishing houses have under their charge apprentices, who will be influenced by their words and actions. Those who have any part to act in the education of these apprentices should reveal Christ in their lives. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 1)

I have seen for a long time that the apprentices in our publishing houses have not received sufficient attention. It is not enough to see that they work the stated number of hours in the office. Connected with their work there should be hours for education. Studies should be taken up and lessons given at appointed times. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 2)

The workers in the office should be as one family. Tell the apprentices that they are members of God’s family, and that He desires them to co-operate with Him. Tell them that they have been bought with a price, and that to each one of them God has given His work. To those who are faithful God will give capabilities, enabling them to rise higher and higher. They gain a knowledge of God’s will, and when temptation comes, they recognize it as such, and with God’s help resist it. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 3)

The suggestion which has been made regarding the forming of classes for the education of the youth in the office is an excellent one. Bring pleasantness, encouragement, and hopefulness into this work. Reveal the truth that our heavenly Father has a close connection with us and that He wants us to stand where we can commune with Him. When we stand in this position, the salvation of the Lord will be revealed, for He says, “Them that honor me I will honor.” [1 Samuel 2:30.] (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 4)

The apprentices should be given instruction in bookkeeping. A knowledge of how to keep accounts will be a great help to them personally and a great advantage in their work. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 5)

The publication of our literature is a great work, a work which is to elevate and ennoble those connected with it, bringing before them their relation to God and God’s relation to them, and the great work that is to be done in the sanctification of body, soul, and spirit. Keep this before minds as a living question, and the Lord will surely make you instrumental in the salvation of souls. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 6)

The youth in all our institutions are to be molded and fashioned and disciplined for God, and in this work the Lord’s mercy and love and tenderness are ever to be revealed. This is not to degenerate into weakness and sentimentality. We are to be kind, yet firm. God wants us to demonstrate His love by showing a living interest in the youth in our care. Hold them up before the Lord, and ask Him to do for them what you cannot do. Let them see that you realize your need of divine help. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 7)

“Let him take hold of my strength that he may make peace with me, and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] God desires this spirit to pervade the office. When last winter I spoke to the office hands in the chapel, I knew that angels were in the room and that the mighty power of God was there. Such a demonstration as this should be the greatest encouragement to those connected with the office; for it shows that we are not working alone, that we have beside us One who is able and willing to help us to overcome. He says, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” And He adds, “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18, 20.] (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 8)

The conversation carried on in the office should be elevating, far removed from all trifling and nonsense. There is so much common conversation. The Lord desires everything connected with His service to stand on an elevated plane. Remember that angels are walking through the office. The workers should be weighted down with the importance of the work, for the time is short. We have only a little time in which to work. We should be preparing to move to the city which hath foundations, whose maker and builder is God. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 9)

It is God’s desire that discipline and order shall be maintained, but no arbitrary authority is to be shown. Loud-toned commands, harsh, dictatorial orders, harden the spirit, while words which show that the heart is filled with the milk of human kindness have a great influence for good. Keep before the minds of the workers the fact that they are in the presence of God, and that it is His desire that they shall be sanctified through the truth. If in their work they seem to receive no benefit, if they are only hardened by their connection with God’s service, show them the danger of making their connection with the office a light matter, the danger of maintaining an attitude of indifference in regard to the influence they exert. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 10)

Before a worker is admitted to the office, he should be examined in regard to his capabilities and his spiritual condition. This examination should not be conducted in an arbitrary manner, but in the love of Christ, not after the regular order, but after Christ’s order. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 11)

You are to feel the same interest in the youth under your care that a minister feels in those for whom he is working. You are to feel even a deeper interest, because the youth in our institutions are being trained to fill positions of responsibility. You do not know where the youth now in your care may be called to go in the future. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 12)

If familiarity is seen between the boys and the girls, take those in the wrong apart, and tell them that the course of action they have been following cannot be allowed in the office. Tell them that God is to be honored and glorified. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 13)

You cannot in your own power do the work required of you. God will aid you. Angels will be with you as you work in the fear of the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 14)

The light I have is that the ministers of Christ should take a deep interest in the spiritual welfare of those in all our institutions—our sanitariums, publishing houses, and schools. This is the instruction I have always tried to present. Again and again I have told our ministers that when they visit the office, they should make it a point to show their interest in the helpers by speaking to them of spiritual things. Show them that you have an interest in them. Ask them if they are making progress in the Christian life, if they delight in the study of God’s Word. If they are discouraged, pray with them. Never scold. Five minutes of prayer is worth more than half an hour’s scolding. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 15)

The work done for the spiritual interest of the workers in the office should be done with cheerfulness. It is not to be looked upon as a burden, but as a privilege. Those who do this work are not to wear long faces, as though they were going to a funeral. Their countenances should be lighted up with the joy of serving Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 16)

Keep this idea uppermost. Make the social meeting as interesting as possible. Let each one feel that he has a duty to perform in the meeting. This will help the workers. Co-operate with the heavenly angels who are trying to make a right impression on every worker. They are sent forth to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 17)

In reference to the establishment of a branch office in Mexico, I cannot see why this work should not be entered upon. I cannot see why, when we are the helping hand of God, when we have been given instruction in regard to the part the publishing work is to act in carrying the message of present truth, this opportunity should not be improved. It is through the publication of our literature that light is to shine forth to many places. Our books and tracts and papers will go where we cannot go. As these messengers are sent on their way, they will give their message. No one can enter into controversy with them, for they cannot answer back. They stand as dumb, but powerful witnesses for the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 18)

Matters have been presented to me in this way. In some places where there are those who have been kept in one position for years, a change is frequently necessary. We read in God’s Word, “Moab hath been at ease from his youth, and he hath settled on his lees, and hath not been emptied from vessel to vessel, neither hath he gone into captivity; therefore his taste remaineth in him, and his scent is not changed.” [Jeremiah 48:11.] (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 19)

Those connected with our publishing houses should take an active interest in missionary work. As I look through the rooms of this office, and see the advantages you have, I wonder whether you realize the disadvantages against which those who are starting the work in new fields must contend. God has blessed you, and when a call is made for help by those who are endeavoring to establish another publishing house, He wants you to be ready to respond, just as He wants the sanitariums to respond when a call for help is made by those who are starting a new sanitarium. Those connected with our institutions which have been long established should overcome the inclination to add to their already abundant facilities, realizing that they have one hundredfold more than a newly established institution. Instead of investing money unnecessarily to make their own work more convenient, they should help in those places where the workers have nothing upon which to draw. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 20)

Attention has been called to the Southern field. All ought to feel a living interest in this work. They should do all they can to help, and God will return to them double for all they do. This is God’s work and the money is His. When His workers obey His directions by establishing the work in a new field, it is not His purpose that they shall be left to struggle along without help. When they pray to Him for aid, He has some way of answering their prayers, someone whom He desires to use as His helping hand in sending them assistance. And He will give them spiritual perception, so that the help sent them will be multiplied by wise use. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 21)

This instruction has been repeated to me no less than fifty times. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 22)

I am glad to hear Brother Jones speaking of Mexico. I am sure that God has a work to do in that field. It may be hard to see that much advancement is being made, but as in faith you sow the seeds of truth, you will reap a harvest. It is in God’s order that the work should be started in Mexico. Let this work advance. The Lord desires His people to reach out into new fields. They are not to say, “The work is established where we are, and we need make no further efforts.” Christ says, “Lift up your eyes and look on the fields, for they are ripe already to harvest.” [John 4:35.] When doors are opened to us, God wants us to enter at once. Be prepared to improve the opportunity. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 23)

It is highly proper for those working at established centers to ask themselves, “What would I do were I in the position of those who are trying to start the work?” Let them practice self-denial, that they may make less taxing the work of those who are laboring in hard places. This is the purpose of God. When He tells you to help the work in such a place, take hold willingly to help. As this is done, God helps you, separating from your life that which He calls idolatry. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 24)

God wants everyone to represent Christ. We are to work as He worked. He did not confine His efforts to one place. When the people of one city pressed Him to remain with them, He said, “I must preach the kingdom of God in other cities also; for therefore am I sent.” [Luke 4:43.] God wants us to show in the work in all parts of the world an interest like the interest of Christ. He wants us to do all in our power to bring prosperity to His work, that He may be represented. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 25)

We have failed to study from cause to effect. We have not understood that we must be producers as well as consumers. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 26)

At one time I was instructed to say to the ministers in Oakland, “Why do you remain here, treading on one another’s heels? Why do you not go to new fields?” They said, “Most of the places in California have been worked.” But what if they have? Go to the people with a new message, a new gift. An interest will be awakened in the minds of many, and they will accept the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 27)

But this is not all. Go to fields where the people have never heard the truth. There are such fields all around you, and every gift is needed. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 28)

In regard to the management of this office, there are points which God desires you always to remember. Never say as said, “Business is business, and religion is religion.” God desires the spirit of liberality, generosity, and tenderness to control in the office. Do not allow this spirit to be quenched. Do not allow a spirit of harshness to rule. Be sensitive to the necessities of others. God wants us to respond to the calls for help, for His work is one. Do all you can to relieve the necessities that arise. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 29)

Tell the workers in the office of the needs of the work. Tell them of the education God wants them to obtain, that they may serve Him acceptably. Tell them that if they do all in their power to form a character which He can approve, their work will bear His endorsement, and although they may feel very weak, yet if they give themselves and all their interests to God, He will use them as His helping hand. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 30)

Those who improve their opportunities for gaining a knowledge of God, walking in the light and doing faithfully the work given them, will be used by the Lord. “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.” [Luke 16:10.] If small things are done with God’s glory in view, the larger things will also be done in this way. This is the instruction the apprentices need, line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 31)

These are some of the things which have been presented to me as matters of which you should take notice. Those in positions of responsibility in our publishing houses should not allow themselves to be pressed beyond measure with their work, so that they have no time to give to the spiritual interests which should ever be a living power in the office. When this interest is kept alive in the office, it will exert a powerful influence in the church, and when it is kept alive in the church, it will exert a powerful influence in the office. God’s blessing will rest on the work when it is carried on in such a way that souls are won to Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 32)

Sometime ago I was instructed that there are in the office things that are underhand and covered up. Were Christ on this earth, He would cleanse the office as He cleansed the temple. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 33)

Here is another point. Some one was looking over an order of job work which had come in. The inquiry was made, “How much do you receive for such work?” On hearing the reply, the question was asked, “Will it pay? Will it pay? This work occupies the hands and minds of many of your workers. Will it pay?” (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 34)

Let your outside work go when it interferes with the spirituality of the office. Keep up the denominational work. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 35)

Teach the apprentices to do their work with exactitude. This is the instruction God desires you to give. To give the apprentices the education they need will require time. It may seem that you cannot afford so much time. But the time expended in this work will bring splendid interest; O, it will bring splendid interest! As you strive to give the youth in your care a perfect education, your work will be approved by God. You are working with Christ. Those for whom you work may be faulty. They may have inherited from their parents tendencies to wrong. Be kind to them. God wants us to stand where we can say, “Thy gentleness hath made me great.” [Psalm 18:35.] (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 36)

While we are to be gentle, we are never to cover up an error. We are to strive earnestly to lead those who sin to see the sinfulness of sin. When God sees that we are trying to work for the ignorant and those who are out of the way, He will help us. When one offends, do not turn him off without laboring earnestly for him. Give him another trial. Urge him to reform. If he is turned away without repenting, he will continue to do as he has done in the past. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 37)

Win the confidence of the youth. I have always said, “Give me the confidence of a child, and I can do anything with him.” In dealing with one another in business lines, be sure not to do anything that will cause others to lose confidence in you. Stand on the side of liberality and mercy. Let all you do and say leave the impression that you are striving to reveal God’s love. In His directions to the children of Israel, the Lord told them that they were not to gather all the fruit from their vineyards and that they were to leave the corners of their fields unreaped, that the needy might thereby find sustenance. Today He desires us to help those who are struggling to find standing room. Never are we to look upon it as a virtue to make their work as hard as possible. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 38)

God is rich. He can afford to be liberal. He desires His servants to work in lines that will inspire confidence. Every one is to be liberally dealt with. Yet the fragments are to be gathered up, that nothing be lost. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 39)

In dealing with minds, be very careful to reveal Christ. Make your apprentices understand that they are a part of the firm. Say to them, “We want you to co-operate with Christ. As you do this, you will work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for God will work in you, to will and to do of his good pleasure.” Do nothing that will lead the apprentices to feel that they have not been treated right. This feeling corrodes in the mind, and the impression is never lost. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 40)

May the Lord give us tender hearts, hearts of flesh, not hearts of steel. Remember that as you judge, so you will be judged. To those who show mercy, God will show mercy. Remember that to you has been given the privilege of helping Christ in the person of His saints. When you use this privilege aright, you are giving glory to the Saviour. Your work will bring you rich returns. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 41)

I speak of these things because I want you to study them. God desires you to give these matters special attention. If we raise the standard high and keep it high, God will give us for our hire souls who will rightly represent His truth. This is better than money. When in this institution God’s work is done in His way, rich blessings will come to the workers. (16LtMs, Ms 81, 1901, 42)

Ms 81a, 1901

Talk/The Work in England
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 19, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in GCB Extra 04/22/1901.

The Work in England. Talk by Mrs. E. G. White at Gen. Conference. Printed in G.C. Bulletin, Vol. 4, Extra, 17.

It seems to me that the necessity of the work in England is a very important question to us in this country. We talk about China and other countries. Let us not forget the English-speaking countries where, if the truth were presented, many would receive and practice it. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 1)

Why is it that more work has not been done in England? What has been the matter? The workers could not get means. Does not this speak to us of the necessity of economy in every line? Does it not speak to us of the necessity of guarding against wasting the money which the Lord has placed in our hands to help forward His cause? (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 2)

London has been presented to me again and again as a place in which a great work is to be done, and I have tried to present this before our people. I spent two years in Europe, going over the field three times. And each time I went I saw improvement in the work, and the last time a decided improvement was manifest. And oh, what a burning desire filled my heart to see this great field, London especially, worked as it should be! Why have not workers been sent there, men and women who could have planned for the advancement of the work? I have wondered why our people, those who are not ordained ministers, but who have a connection with God, who understand the Scriptures, do not open the Word to others. If they would engage in this work, great blessing would come to their own souls. God wants His people to work. To every man—and this means every woman, also—He has given his work, and this work each one is to perform according to his several ability. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 3)

Let no one suppose that the work in London can be carried forward by one or two. This is not the right plan. While there must be those who can oversee the work, there is to be an army of workers striving to reach the different classes of people. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 4)

House-to-house work must be done. This work we have done in Australia, and we have seen the salvation of God as this work has been carried forward. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 5)

Those who have means are to help the work with the money the Lord has entrusted to them. And God wants men and women who are willing to give themselves entirely to Him, even as Elisha did when, as he was ploughing, Elijah came to him and bade him follow him. Elisha obeyed, and we read that his first work was to pour water on the hands of the prophet. He willingly took up the work of ministering to him, and thus he became acquainted with the work in which he was afterward to have a leading part. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 6)

Elisha’s work was not the same as Elijah’s, yet they were both working for the Lord. Let no one, when asking for help for a place, say what help they want and what help they do not want. God knows what they need. No human being can know just what help is needed for any field, but God knows. It is not God’s plan for us to establish ourselves in a certain place, and then specify the kind of help we are willing to accept. This is not the right way. Say, “Lord, we need help. Send us those who will best advance the work.” Let not those who are managing the work in the different parts of the field say, “I cannot accept this man. I am afraid something will come in that will throw the work into perplexity.” God knows what is best for His people, and He will help them when they fall into difficulty. We wish we had heaven here below, but we have not. The church militant is not the church triumphant. The church militant must wrestle and toil. She must strive against temptations and fight severe battles, because Satan is not dead. His agencies are much more active in his work than are the agencies of God in the work of their Leader. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 7)

God calls upon His people to awake. There is much work to do, and no one is to say, “We do not want this one. He will stand in our way. He will hinder us.” Cannot God take care of that? Are there not those in this congregation who will settle in London to work for the Master? Are there not those who will go to that great city as self-supporting missionaries? But while missionaries are to do all they can to be self-supporting, let those who remain here, who Sabbath after Sabbath come to the Tabernacle to hear the Word of God, who have every convenience and advantage, let them beware how they say to those they send to foreign fields, destitute of every facility and advantage, “You must be self-supporting.” (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 8)

Those who go to foreign fields will always find themselves placed in awkward positions at first. They will find that they have many things to correct in their manner of work. But if they persevere, they will gain the ability to take up the work and carry it forward successfully. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 9)

God wants His workers to stand together in perfect unity. One worker is not to measure another worker, trying to find out how high or how broad he is spiritually. If you think your fellow worker is not all he ought to be, try to show him where he is lacking. Those who are in a new field cannot expect to possess the experience of those who have been in the field for years. They are to be trained and educated, learning lesson after lesson, [in] how to do the work. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 10)

To those in America who all their lives have indulged themselves, God says, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up the cross, and follow me.” [Matthew 16:24.] The one we are told to follow is the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory, who, in His great love for the human race, laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown, and came to this earth to show men how to live Christian lives. He tells us that self-denial is the evidence of discipleship. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 11)

Could the curtain be rolled back, you would today see that the angels of heaven are looking with sadness upon our terrible neglect. All heaven is waiting to give God’s sufficiency to those who will consecrate themselves unreservedly to the Master’s service. Let us remember the words, “Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.” [Zechariah 4:6.] (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 12)

God wants His people to come into working order. He calls upon them to stand in such a position that He can work through them. What is the work of the right hand? It is to open doors for the entrance of the body. This is the work the medical missionary work is to do for the message. God wants every one of us to be His helping hand. The medical missionary work is to be carried forward in every field. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 13)

The Lord wants His people to die to self and live in Him. Are we willing to do this? Are we willing to say, I will give myself to the work, not to require the highest wages, but to do the best I can for God? (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 14)

We need now to open the door to the work in London. This door has long been closed, but it must now be opened. Brother Prescott is fully capable of organizing the work in that field, but means must be provided. Think of how little help England has had. How do we stand before God as regards the work there? Job said that the things he knew not he searched out. God wants you to search out the things you do not know. He wants you to set the work in England in operation in such a way that He can co-operate with you for its advancement. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 15)

The European field must receive the attention it needs. And we are not to forget the needy fields close at hand. Look at New York! What representation for truth is there in that city? How much help has been sent there? Our education and health work must be established there, and this work must be given financial aid till it is self-supporting. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 16)

In Europe there are outsiders who have money. Let men who have tact go to these people and tell them what is being done to help the people of all denominations. Tell them that you are desirous of establishing a sanitarium, where people of all classes can be helped; that you want to establish a school where the Bible will be used as the basis of all the work, where the youth can be educated in Bible lines. There are those who, if approached in the right way, will give of their means to help in this work. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 17)

The Lord wants every one who goes to London to stand where he can say, We are brethren. I am willing to learn every day, that I may be so educated that it may be said of me, “Ye are complete in Christ.” [See Colossians 2:10.] God wants those at the heart of the work to practice self-denial and self-sacrifice. Do not look over to London and say, “Be ye warmed and be ye clothed and be ye fed,” while neglecting to do those things which will relieve their necessities. [See James 2:16.] (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 18)

God does not want you to measure men, to cherish your peculiar impressions of what men should be in order to be accepted by God. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 19)

There is a work to be done in London. I have been given light that this work can be done, and that help will come from outside. Those who have money will give of their means. You need not be delicate about asking them for money. Whose money is it—the Lord’s? All is His. Then cannot you ask men to give Him a little of their means, and thus lay up for themselves a treasure in the heavens? Cannot you do it? When I was collecting money to establish the work in San Francisco, I was appealing to men whom I knew had means; but when I asked for pledges, they did not stir. A man arose and said, “Do you milk the goats over the fence? Because here is some money I wish to give, though I am not a Seventh-day Adventist.” (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 20)

God wants His work to go forward in New York. There ought to be thousands of Sabbath-keepers in that place, and there would be if the work were carried on as it should be. But prejudices spring up. Men want the work to go in their lines, and they refuse to accept the plans of others. Thus opportunities are lost. In New York there should be several small companies established, and workers should be sent out. It does not follow that because a man is not ordained as a preacher, he cannot work for God. Let such ones as these be taught how to work, and then let them go out to labor. On returning, let them tell what they have done. Let them praise the Lord for His blessing, and then go out again. And encourage them. A few words of encouragement will be an inspiration to them. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 21)

If you see things to find fault with, remember that Christ said to His disciples, “Come ye apart ... and rest a while.” [Mark 6:31.] And in this place of retirement they told Him all about their labor, and Christ instructed them how to work. They said, “Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and we forbade him; because he followeth not us.” And Jesus said to them, “Forbid him not; for he that is not against us is for us.” [Luke 9:49, 50.] (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 22)

We need to come in closer touch with humanity. We need to put away our wrong, preconceived opinions. Among those that are standing at the head of the work there is too much prejudice. The feeling is too prevalent, “I am perfect. I do not need any simmering down at all.” If Christ should come, as represented in Malachi, the fuller’s soap might make us a good deal less than we are. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 23)

What we need is to hear the Lord’s call to work. Instruct men in every line. You have a whole corps of workers in this place. It is time that you stopped taking the measurement of every man who comes in here. It is God who is to measure the men, and place them where they can be learning from those who have had experience. He does not send them forth without educating them, without training them to do His work. But you must take inexperienced men and work with them. When you see them working and speaking, and they do not say just what you would say, do not groan as though they were spoiling the whole work. Sit still; be quiet; and tell them afterward how they can improve in their manner of work. Never discourage them. God desires us to come into working order and to stand in that position where we will heed counsel. Every one of the young men is to heed counsel. They are not to set up their own opinions as though there were no way but theirs. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 24)

The field in New York is ripe unto the harvest, and if Elder Haskell and his wife feel that it is their duty to go there and work for the people, I believe that God will greatly bless them, enabling them to bring from the Lord’s treasure house things new and old. And He will bless Brother Prescott and Brother Waggoner, as they take up the work in England, where they have labored so hard. The Lord desires that men and women strong in the faith be sent there to work by their side. Men are needed there who can take financial management of the work. Help is needed in every line, and as workers go forth to labor in this line, God will strengthen them. Angels from heaven will stand beside them as they strive to teach others the truth for this time. Let this work be taken hold of in earnest. Let plans be made for its advancement, and a different report will be brought in at the next General Conference, if time lasts long enough for us to hold [one]. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 25)

Let those who have money help the work in England with their means. The work there has had very little help in this line. God forgive and pardon us for not making plants all over Europe and in the great city of London and its suburbs. God grant that men and women will go there who are willing to sacrifice for Him, who in their homes will exert an influence that will tell in favor of the truth, who will hold Bible readings with their neighbors, bringing the third angel’s message to their personal attention. We cannot hide ourselves away from the multitude and expect them to hunt us up. God wants us to make ourselves known. The third angel’s message is to go with a loud cry. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 26)

Brother Conradi has carried a very heavy burden of work in Europe. Brother Conradi, the Lord wants you to have laborers to stand with you, and He wants you to give them all the encouragement you can. He wants the work you are doing to go with strength and with power. You have been doing the work of several men, and God has greatly blessed your labors. The angels of God have done this work, not Brother Conradi. He has opened doors for the angels, and they have entered. And if you will all open doors for the angels and give God an opportunity to work, let me tell you that He will set in operation that which will carry forward the work with a strength you do not dream of. “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” [Hebrews 11:1.] God wants us to work by faith. Put away all criticism, all unbelief, all desire to measure your fellow worker, who perhaps has not had one-hundredth part of the opportunity you have had. The Lord desires you to work and pray in all simplicity. He told Nicodemus that unless he were born again, he could not see the kingdom of heaven. We must be born again. We must leave behind all our inherited and cultivated tendencies to wrong. We must talk and walk and work with Jesus, taking Him with us every where we go. What we need is heart-religion. We need to sit low at the feet of Jesus Christ, where we can learn the precious lessons He is waiting to teach us. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 27)

The power of God means everything to us. God will make the impression on hearts if self is taken out of the way. Let the [A]ngel of God place [H]is stamp on the message you bear. God help us to work in Christ’s lines as we seek to give to the world the last message of warning. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 28)

Let the name of the Lord be magnified. We want the truth to triumph, and it is going to triumph in every respect. Let every one pray in faith. Let every one talk in faith. Let every one inspire the next one. Do not begin to pull each other down, or speak disparagingly of one another. Let all fix their eyes upon Christ, not upon man. Let us educate men who are under the influence of the Spirit of God and we shall see that one can chase a thousand, and two put ten thousand to flight. The powers of darkness cannot withstand God nor the angels who do His will. Let us work intelligently, in solid lines, and we shall see the salvation of God. (16LtMs, Ms 81a, 1901, 29)

Ms 82, 1901

Interview/With Dr. and Mrs. Sanderson
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
August 25, 1901
See variant Ms 82a, 1901. Portions of this manuscript are published in CG 85-86, 253-254; CD 489-490; 1MR 71-72, 282-283; 1Bio 21.

Report of Interview of Dr. and Mrs. A. J. Sanderson with Mrs. E. G. White, 7 a.m., August 25, 1901.

Mrs. White: Now you may present what you have upon your mind. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 1)

Dr. Sanderson: I want to emphasize the ideas that I had relative to the education and training of our helpers and what I thought that the work ought to be. It has been my conviction in all my work that every effort that was made would be purely a matter of education, either with the patients or the helpers, that the only consistent way to get them to change their course is to educate them so that they can see the reason for it, and do it by their own free will. In our family things will come up that will need discipline, and it seems to me that the more we educate, the less we will have to discipline; and to discipline without educating, it seems to me, is more a destructive work than an educative work. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 2)

Sister White: I thought that was understood in our work all the way through. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 3)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes; but there is a great deal of difference in the way different people go at it. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 4)

Sister White: While we know that the helpers must receive an education, yet there is to be an enforcement of the rules of the institution, or else there will be a broken up, distracted state of things, which must not be allowed. There must be discipline connected with such an institution. Education is good, yet in such an institution discipline is decidedly necessary. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 5)

Dr. Sanderson: I am sure that there should be discipline, but it has to be done with the educational work. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 6)

Sister White: It should be all woven together. The discipline should come in connection with the education. The discipline and the precept go together. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 7)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes, I think that is true. But I think when you undertake to discipline without educating, when you undertake to change the course of a helper without getting him to see the reason why you are doing it, you always make it worse and do not accomplish anything. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 8)

Sister White: Well, they should be told why these things are done. Appeal to their reason. Do not let them remain in ignorance. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 9)

Dr. Sanderson: I think that has been the greatest source of our difficulty in the Sanitarium. I have always tried to work on those lines, and I think that the difficulties in the management have come from that more than anything else. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 10)

Sister White: It comes as the result of a lack on both sides. If you do not make the education of sufficient force to ensure its being carried out, it does not amount to anything. Then too, there is a lack, if they are given the “You must” and “You shall” without the education. As you will see when the educational book comes out, I have had laid open before me these things. The education that is given does not amount to anything unless it is carried out by practical obedience and service. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 11)

Dr. Sanderson: No, it is no good, except they carry it out; but often it takes line upon line, and precept upon precept upon precept, in order to get them to carry out the education they receive. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 12)

Sister White: We know that, because we have met these questions in our educational institutions, especially in Avondale. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 13)

Dr. Sanderson: I do not think that you can look upon educational work in our institutions—in our sanitariums, and among our patients—in the same way that you can in our schools where we are dealing entirely with young people and children. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 14)

Sister White: I am speaking of education along medical missionary lines of work, in our sanitariums as well as in our schools; the principle is the same, and it is the practical carrying out of the principle that gives the people confidence in the work. In the family there must be correct education and discipline. I took up this question during our recent camp-meeting at Los Angeles. Discipline begins with the educator; the teacher should always be properly trained. As teachers in their own family, parents are to see that the rules are not disobeyed, because if disobedience to parents is allowed, disobedience to God would be encouraged. The father and mother, as teachers in the home, should teach their children to obey the commandment of God, “Honor thy father and thy mother; that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.” [Exodus 20:12.] A heavy responsibility rests upon parents. They are to teach their children to obey this command. By allowing their children to go on in disobedience, they fail to exercise proper discipline. Children must be brought to the point of submission and obedience. Disobedience must not be allowed. Sin lies at the door of the parents who allow their children to disobey. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 15)

Dr. Sanderson: You would not think an arbitrary obedience that was forced out of the children, without the heart being in it, would do any good, would you—when the individual did not see the right of it? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 16)

Sister White: Are you speaking of a child? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 17)

Dr. Sanderson: Do you think that forced obedience out of an individual, because an individual is so influenced that he has to obey and does not want to obey—do you think that does him any good? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 18)

Sister White: You cannot force a grown person to any course of action, because God compels no one to obey Him. It is left for you to lay down the principles. If they refuse to accept the principles, then separate them from the institution without further controversy. This is the course of action to follow. Discipline commences with the person. Parents must educate their children for their present happiness and for their future eternal happiness. If parents first learn obedience themselves, they are prepared to bring up their children to obey strictly. No half-way work is to be done. Children are to understand that they are to obey. When fathers and mothers discipline their children in the fear of the Lord, they may have a church in their home. Then they are prepared to have their names recorded on the church-book, and to work in the church. Discipline in the church has been neglected, and neglected, and neglected, until there is existing a disorganized state of things, which is not pleasing to God. Many names now retained on the church-book should be dropped. When they repent, confess their sin, and humble the heart before God, then let them unite with the church. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 19)

Dr. Sanderson: I think that is true. It is pretty hard, though, when you get a child that has never been disciplined in the home, to discipline him in the church. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 20)

Sister White: O yes; as I have said, the beginning is with the father and the mother; they must discipline themselves; and then they can discipline their children. Then when these children unite with the church, they will carry with them the habits of obedience they have learned in the home. But so often they are allowed to go all haphazard, just as they want, saying, “I don’t want to.” When I was a child, when was told to do something, sometimes I would begin to speak words of complaint, and would go out of the room. But I would be called back, and asked to repeat what I had said. Then I would repeat it. My mother would take that up, and show me how I was a part of the family, a part of the firm; that it was as much my duty to carry my part of the responsibility as it was my parents’ duty to take charge of me. She would carry that right out to the letter. I had my times now and then for amusement, but I tell you there was no idleness in my home, and there was no disobedience there that was not taken in hand at once. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 21)

Dr. Sanderson: If our young workers had always had that discipline, our institutions would be altogether different. But we have to deal with young people and grown-up people who have not had that discipline. That is what makes it complicated. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 22)

Sister White: As those in the institution are nearly all believers, you should let them see that as they are professedly under service to God, you have the same responsibility as parents have over their children, to require them to walk in the right way, according to the Word of God; and if they do not do it, why, then, it is of no use for them to stay there, and attempt to get an education, because it would all be false. They cannot get it without coming under discipline. Without a proper training they will never be of any service to God or to any one else; therefore obedience is a reasonable requirement for the benefit of both themselves and the institution. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 23)

Dr. Sanderson: O, I think that is true. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 24)

Sister White: There is where the heaven is brought into the family. If we ever unite with the family in heaven, we must begin that work of having a heaven in the home. We may have heavenly order in the family in our homes here below. I am instructed to caution parents never to punish in anger, never to raise the voice, never to let any passionate word escape their lips. I never allowed my children to think that they could plague me in their childhood. I also brought up in my family others from other families; but I never allowed those children to think that they could plague their mother. Never did I allow myself to say a harsh word or to become impatient or fretful over the children. They never got the better of me once—not once, to provoke me to anger. When my spirit was stirred, or when I felt anything like being provoked, I would say, “Children, we shall let this rest now; we shall not say anything more about it now. Before you retire, we shall talk it all over.” Having all this time to reflect, by evening they had cooled off, and I could handle them very nicely. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 25)

Dr. Sanderson: I think we agree entirely upon the principles that ought to be carried out in the institution, and upon the education that ought to be given; and, of course, it always takes time, however, to make reforms and to carry the people with you. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 26)

Sister White: It takes a great deal of time, if they never begin. Now is the time to begin. If you wait, and wait, and wait, and allow disorder to come into the institution, and this disorder prevails, there never would be any reform before the institution closes. There are dispositions that must be handled decidedly, yet dispassionately. They must understand what the institution is—that it is something we are carrying on in behalf of God; it is a sacred place, and there are to be no side issues connected with it. The helpers are to come up to time, and to obey the rules of the institution, or else they can go somewhere else to get their education; because in an institution like this, where the influence of one will have an effect on the influence of another, a wrong, counteracting influence cannot be allowed; for this catching spirit of so-called independence would soon permeate the institution, making it an unmanageable affair. It would be a wicked thing to let it go so, because you are sanctioning wickedness when you do not take it right in hand and stop it right where it is. There is a solemn responsibility resting upon every soul working along educational lines. If we expect the Lord to co-operate with us, we cannot carry out our ideas, but must do what the Word of God tells us to do. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 27)

Dr. Sanderson: You take Christ, the life of His disciples. Christ did not undertake in the early part of His ministry to change their lives all over. They carried habits and temperaments with them all the time Christ was with them, and Christ educated all the time; but He did not accomplish all that He wished to accomplish, even until He left them. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 28)

Sister White: Not in Judas, He did not. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 29)

Dr. Sanderson: He did not in Peter. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 30)

Sister White: I know that. He did not fully in Peter. But He did in Peter until the great trial came. Peter was submissive to the Lord until his great trial came. There was nothing in John. When He reproved John for proposing to call down fire from heaven, and all these things, John repented, and so did Peter. Christ knew the awful trial was coming, and He told Peter all about how it would come; and Peter had a pretty sore time of it, I assure you, in carrying out his own way. Of course Jesus did not force him. He let Judas have the whole education—but we have no need to bring up those things. Christ rebuked them severely. You know He again and again did it. He rebuked John, and rebuked Peter. He said, “Get thee behind me, Satan.” He had been trying to prepare Peter for the great trial. Satan was influencing the mind of Peter. Christ said the rebuke Peter gave Him came from Satan. Said He, “Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me.” [Matthew 16:23.] (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 31)

Dr. Sanderson: It seems to me that is the attitude always to take—to be in a perfect attitude where you can give perfect advice, and act with authority; but after Christ had educated them, after He had rebuked, He never attempted to do anything more than that with His disciples. It took them years in order to develop righteous principles and see things as they ought to be seen. I think with young people—we have young people that come here with certain temperaments, and you cannot change those temperaments, if you try to. You have to expose those temperaments, and expose those lives to Christian influences and to conditions by which they can gradually come to see their condition, and by which they will become transformed. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 32)

Sister White: That is all that we have ever tried to do; but if they, after understanding plainly what the rules of the Sanitarium are, go on the same way, not caring for the rules, then it is right to separate them from the institution, because not merely the one person, but the whole institution, is affected by the phase of character of that one person. That is how it is. All of the people—the whole class of students—are affected by the atmosphere which surrounds the soul of the one who will not come to the right terms. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 33)

Dr. Sanderson: I think that is true. I think if there is a person there who is bound to take an independent course, independent of the atmosphere and the rules and regulations of the institution, he ought to be separated; and I have always thought this; only what troubles me is to know how much leniency and patience we ought to maintain to some who may know well, and have not the power to do it. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 34)

Sister White: Of course there is to be a dealing with them something like Christ has instructed us to deal with the church members. You go to them alone, and talk with them. If they will not hear you, then take two or three others. If they will not hear you then, set them aside. Christ has told us what to do. He has given us our lesson. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 35)

Dr. Sanderson: If those rules had always been carried out, there would have been a good deal better condition of things now. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 36)

Sister White: Certainly there would be; but they have not always been carried out. These rules have been neglected. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 37)

Dr. Sanderson: But they ought to be carried out in the right way. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 38)

Sister White: There is a right way, and there is a wrong way. I never lifted a hand to my children before I talked with them; and if they broke down, and if they saw their mistake (and they always did when I brought it before them and prayed with them), and if they were subdued (and they always were when I did this), then I had them under my control. I never found them otherwise. When I prayed with them, they would break all to pieces, and they would throw their arms around my neck and cry like children. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 39)

Edson ran in one day. “Come,” said he, “come, Mother, I want you to pray with me.” “Well,” I said, “what is the matter? What’s up now?” Said he, “My little cousin struck me, and I struck him back, and,” said he, “I’m afraid it will be written in the book. I don’t want it to be written in the book.” Well, I took him into the bedroom, knelt down, and prayed with him; and then he prayed. He asked the Lord to forgive him and not to put it in the book. He seemed so afraid his mistake was going to be written in the book. He had heard me talk in meeting concerning the wrong deeds of persons being recorded in the book. He just cried and broke all to pieces, saying, “Now, Mother, you don’t think it will be put in the book, do you?” Said I, “No, I know it will not be.” Then he was very much pleased. But passion, the jerking and twitching of children, and hurting them, bruising them, I cannot tolerate anywhere nor in any way. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 40)

Dr. Sanderson: That passion that bruises children is the same thing as that impatience which becomes arbitrary and offensive to a grown person when you undertake to change them; and there is just where the difficulty in our work comes in. I have never been able to co-operate with that kind of discipline. I have never objected to anybody’s using that discipline, if they took the responsibility; but standing in the responsible position that I have, I have always taken the other policy—of trying to educate and get them to reform. And that is the only successful way I have found in changing anybody’s course and altering their condition. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 41)

Sister White: A Christian would do that. There is no question about that. Christians who have an abiding Christ in them will never hurt and bruise the soul by their words, by their spirit, or by their actions. They never will do it. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 42)

Dr. Sanderson: I think that everybody has to be moved by an inner Christian principle in the soul. If they have it themselves, they will discipline others in accordance with that; but for a person who has not that experience for themselves, to make another have an experience they think they ought to have, is always destructive work. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 43)

Sister White: Yes, it always is, because they themselves must be ruled and controlled. When those, who in childhood have been left uncontrolled and passionate, come to maturity and attempt to govern children, that passion will fly out every time their way is crossed. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 44)

Dr. Sanderson: Certainly. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 45)

Sister White: Therefore it is the wickedest thing, I hold, for parents not to bring up their children in the nurture—there is nurture to it—and admonition of the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 46)

Dr. Sanderson: Now the great difficulty of our institutions and our work throughout the Conferences is the fact that people are set to work and set in authority that have not got that experience. They have a certain knowledge of the truth; they have a knowledge of a form of the truth, a form of diet, a form of reform, and they carry that out in form, and they try to have everybody else carry it out in form; but it does not work, and when others are told to do it, and do not see the heart and life in it, it is always destructive. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 47)

Sister White: Yes. But you will meet these negative, warring spirits everywhere, and if you let them have their sway, there will be great mischief done; but if you in the name of the Lord show them that it is not the right spirit, that you cannot have it, that it must not be indulged, that things cannot be corrected and set in order in that way, and then represent in your own spirit the meekness and tenderness of Christ—this is what we should endeavor to do. There is one who rushes into the fire, and another rushes into the water; but there is a right way—the narrow path of self-denial. They will think they have to give a lecture, or something, and that will set things in order. You have to come directly to the person and ask them, “Why did you do that?” (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 48)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes, I think that is true—that personal work is the only way to accomplish that. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 49)

Sister White: Ask them, “Why did you do that? You know that is wrong, and why dis you do it?” If they get in a passion, as I have seen, just as soon as the lines get loose, they do not know where they are going. I never allowed, in correcting my children, even my voice to be changed in any way. When I saw something wrong, I waited until the “heat” was over, and then I would take them after they had had a chance for reflection and were ashamed. They would get ashamed, if I gave them an hour or two to think of these things. I always went away and prayed. I would not speak to them then. After they had been left to themselves for a while, they would come to me about it. “Well,” I would say, “we will wait until evening.” At that time we would have a season of prayer, and then I would tell them that they hurt their own souls and grieved the Spirit of God by their wrong course of action. Sometimes, as the apostle says, wrongdoers are to be rebuked sharply right on the ground, in order to give a right impression to others concerning such a spirit being exercised. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 50)

Dr. Sanderson: It takes a good deal of discernment to understand which things ought to be rebuked sharply and which things ought to be dealt with leniently. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 51)

Sister White: That is it. We must have an abiding Christ; for unless we have an abiding Christ, we shall be all out of line. It is a great thing to know how to do; but there is a way. When Satan is in the person, the one in error is to be rebuked right there, and there is to be no passing over the evil. It must be rebuked. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 52)

Dr. Sanderson: O yes; I acknowledge that; and it ought to be done right at the time, too. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 53)

Sister White: Yes. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 54)

Dr. Sanderson: You expect to go away tomorrow morning? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 55)

Sister White: Yes. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 56)

Dr. Sanderson: I will not have a chance to see you again, probably, before our next board meeting. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 57)

Sister White: Where is this meeting to be? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 58)

Dr. Sanderson: There are a good many things that are coming up. It ought to be over here, I think. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 59)

Sister White: I could come up here, I think, if it were here. Of course I could come up. I want to be at the next meeting. I don’t know as I do, either. I don’t really care to. I would rather not. I would rather not be at the next meeting. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 60)

Dr. Sanderson: We would be glad to have you there. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 61)

Sister White: Well, I carry too much upon my heart. It hurts my heart. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 62)

Dr. Sanderson: I am greatly perplexed to know what I ought to do in the face of what you have said and written about my work. I have carried a great burden for the work ever since I have been there, and if I have failed in it in the way it seems I have, I do not think it is consistent to go on with it. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 63)

Sister White: To go on with it? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 64)

Dr. Sanderson: No. I have carried the responsibilities there for a good many years, and I have never had the sympathy and support of those who were with me. They have always looked on my work with suspicion, and they have thought that it was of a different stamp than ought to be there; and there has always been an effort to criticize in an underhanded way. People have not come to talk with me about the faults in my work. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 65)

Sister White: I cannot endure anything underhanded. I cannot endure that kind of a thing. It is not a right thing to do. They should come right to you and tell you in a proper manner what they have to say; but to go around to others, I do not believe in it. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 66)

Dr. Sanderson: I have stood it for five or six years there, and the situation now—I do not know as it is any better than it has been; and if there are others who are better prepared to carry the responsibility there, I would rather they would. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 67)

Sister White: Yes. One thing, I think you are not plain enough to come out and say what should be before the very persons themselves. I think you shrink from that. I know you do; and therefore things go as they should not go. They do not seem to—well, they look at it as a weakness in your managing. When something is wrong, that wrong must be remedied before the healing can come from the wrong; and there is a lack of carrying out the principles of faithful rebuking and reproving and correcting. All these things have to be done. You remember the charge given to Timothy: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, ... preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:1.] Well, this work must be done. It is not a pleasant work, I want to tell you—not a pleasant work at all. But still, these duties must not be neglected. It is doing a serious injury to a person to allow them to go on in a high-headed way, in a style of their own; for it is confirming in them a spirit which ought to be repressed in any of the workers or in any of the students who are trying to learn. That spirit will be met. Why? Because it was never met in their childhood. In church capacity it is very hard to do anything with those who were in their youth left to have their own way, carry out their own plans, and consult their own wishes. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 68)

Dr. Sanderson: In your conversation the other day at the board meeting, in speaking of the responsibilities of medical superintendent, you expressed yourself quite strongly that in his work he was in a certain sense responsible for nearly everything in the institution. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 69)

Sister White: That he was responsible? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 70)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 71)

Sister White: Yes; he is. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 72)

Dr. Sanderson: I could not understand the meaning of a statement like that, when you have written to me so many times that I must not undertake to deal with the management of the institution. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 73)

Sister White: Well, as you did manage—when you stand as a manager, as you have done—it has been as a manager, although you may say others are chosen; but you have virtually been the manager; although you did not have the name of being a manager. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 74)

Dr. Sanderson: In what way was I manager? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 75)

Sister White: Because it was your mind that was carried out. That is how it was. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 76)

Dr. Sanderson: Do you mean at the present time? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 77)

Sister White: I mean it has been thus. I do not say just the present time, just now; but it has been thus. You have not taken the name of a manager, and yet you were the manager, and things went as you said. You were back of things. It may be there were some things that went contrary; but generally they went as you said. You were virtually the manager in these things. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 78)

Dr. Sanderson: You think it ought to be different than what it is at present? Do you think that the arrangement at the present time is a wrong one? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 79)

Sister White: What arrangement? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 80)

Dr. Sanderson: Do you think the organization of the work as it is at present is wrong? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 81)

Sister White: I do not know what the arrangement of the work comprehends. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 82)

Dr. Sanderson: It is practically the same now as it has been all the time. Brother Kilgore is manager, and I am medical superintendent. A manager has been there all the time. It is true, when they put Bowen in, he was a young man, and he did not comprehend the needs of the institution, and I had to do a good many things, because he did not know how. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 83)

Sister White: That is it. You see you were the manager. He consulted you in these things. He understood what your mind was, and he carried it out. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 84)

Dr. Sanderson: O no, Brother Bowen did not carry out my mind a good part of the time. He did a great many things that I could not approve of in the least. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 85)

Sister White: There may be some things that he did not do in harmony with your mind; but generally that was it; that was the general tenor of the understanding. But from the light that was given me, I felt decidedly that there should be one other physician there, and the patients should have more attention from the physician himself than they have had. They should have— (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 86)

Dr. Sanderson: I have always said that, Sister White. I have always said that it was not my desire to have to devote my time to take care of the mechanical arrangements of the institution. It is not my desire, or my place, or my work; but, on the other hand, when I meet the patients and see that they do not have the arrangements that it is necessary for them to have, I must do it. I see that they do not have what they should, and I have to educate the management to get the necessary facilities. That has been the trouble ever since I have been there. I would go to any department of the institution—I would go to the culinary department, or to any other department, and would find that the people who had them in charge had no conception whatever of the necessities of those departments for the satisfaction and comfort of the guests. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 87)

Sister White: That is why there should be no persons of limited experience and understanding placed as directors. No one should have taken Brother Bowen as a manager, because any such young person is not prepared for such work. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 88)

Dr. Sanderson: They took him simply because they did not know who else to get at that time. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 89)

Sister White: That is why they should have had at the very commencement—when Maxson came in there—they should have had a firm, strong, decided man, but he would not have such; no, sir, he would not have a manager at all; he would not come in unless he could manage himself. So it was with Burke—just the same. The great mistake was in not having a fully authorized, appointed manager. If they had had one, the institution today would stand very much higher than it does. But he would not have one. He was going to be manager himself. He was fully sufficient and equipped, he thought, to be a manager. Well, he was out of his place in being a manager. It was not his place, nor your place—you are physicians. It is your business to take the physicians’ work. They should consult together—the manager consult with the physicians, and the physicians consult with the manager—and have a thorough understanding of how things should go. The physician should consult the manager in regard to the facilities that they must have in the Sanitarium; and when the physician sees a lack, anything that is not as it should be, just communicate to the manager, and have a perfect understanding—drawing in even cords all along. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 90)

Dr. Sanderson: Supposing your manager would not do that? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 91)

Sister White: Well, if he is a sensible man, and understands the will of God, he will do it. There are some high-headed and strong-opinionated men who want to carry things. They will always be in every place; you will always find them; and they are difficult to handle, difficult to do with; therefore it is essential that in all these places, men should not be put in positions of trust to be regarded as fixtures. They should be put in on trial and test, and then it will soon develop whether they have the qualifications to stand in that position. If they have not the qualifications, that institution is not to go crippled and lamed all the way through, bearing the defects that should be reformed. It is not to be so. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 92)

Dr. Sanderson: But that has been the difficulty all through these years. There has been a manager there all the time during Dr. Maxson’s presence, and during all the time—during my time there; and you recognize, Sister White, that the physician who comes in contact with the patients every day, to whom the patients come with all their complaints and all their difficulties—the physician can recognize and see the conditions that are most essential for the welfare of those patients a great deal better than anybody else; and if you can have a manager who is willing to consult, and is willing to take in the situation as it is, and will execute that management that will give to the patients what they should have, that is all right—that is where it should be. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 93)

Sister White: Here is where we had the difficulty with Dr. Burke. He received into the institution several Catholic girls. The Crawford girls stood at the head of the nurses, you remember. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 94)

Dr. Sanderson: I was not here at the time. I do not know anything about it. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 95)

Sister White: Well, the Crawford girls stood at the head; and if they asked these Catholic girls to do something, they would sometimes take a notion that it was not the right thing to do, and would go right to Dr. Burke, and tell him all about it; and then he would tell them that he would see to that. Instead of telling them that they should do as they were directed to do in their service for the institution, as far as it was right and consistent, he would pacify them and say that he would see that the matter was attended to. Then these wicked girls would write notes and tuck them under the door of these girls who had stood in a position of trust for years at the head of the nurses. These notes would say, “Dr. Burke is going to attend to your case. He will see that you are ushered out of here pretty soon.” I myself saw one of these notes, so that I know this is not a false report. They would slip the notes under the door, and Dr. Burke dismissed the Crawford girls and kept the Catholics. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 96)

Dr. Sanderson: For a great many years there has not been a single individual taken into the institution as a nurse or in any capacity, but what the matter has been carefully discussed by all the management together, and it has come as the united action of the management every time. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 97)

Sister White: Yes. You see how miserable was the management at that time. These Catholic girls were as high-headed as they could be, with their education and their Catholic theories. And they ruled out those who did not come in accordance with their mind. Well, then, the doctor came to Healdsburg and wanted me to come here. Said I, “What do you want me to come there?” “I want you to come to remove Sister Ings.” “Why, what has Sister Ings done?” “Well, she does not treat the patients right.” I came up. I learned all about it. They had several patients, oh, the queerest set! Some were filled with hatred against everything good and righteous. Their course of action was such that no one could please them. They would complain to the doctor, and he would take up their words of complaint. He had gotten it all fixed up that Sister Ings was to be turned out. Her fault was that she was faithful and truth to principle. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 98)

I came up, learned those circumstances, and then asked the doctor if he would not have an interview with me. I asked them to tell me what Sister Ings had done, and I found that she had done nothing but what she should have done. They told me that they wanted something cooked, and it was not done the minute they wanted it. There was nothing to their complaints. I investigated them thoroughly. You see, if the physician would listen to all these little complaints of the patients, failing to understand that they were not reliable, but evil conjectures, prejudices that the devil puts into their minds because they do not love God and the truth, there would be a strange condition of things. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 99)

Dr. Sanderson: I think that Sister Ings has been one of my most valuable workers all through the years that I have been here. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 100)

Sister White: She is not a severe person at all. She is not one of that kind. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 101)

Dr. Sanderson: She is not severe enough. She would do better if she would bring her girls to time. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 102)

Sister White: That is the difficulty I would find with her; and you have the same weakness too, have you not? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 103)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes, I know. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 104)

Sister White: It is necessary to be firm and decided in order to correct the faults of early education. In a sanitarium the work must be done properly. At times some must be brought to order. Those who refuse to reform should for their own good and the good of the Sanitarium, be dismissed. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 105)

Dr. Sanderson: When I was speaking of the patients, I was not speaking to find fault with my manager. But I could not see how you can have a manager here who is successful, unless he can listen to the physician sufficiently to bring about those things which will be for the welfare of the guests. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 106)

Sister White: You could not make a decree like that of the Medes and Persians, to hold persons in the Sanitarium who were not capable of doing the duties devolving around them. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 107)

Dr. Sanderson: I want especially to get at the present situation, and I want to know what to do. The essential thing is to know what are the necessities of the institution. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 108)

Sister White: I brought these cases up to show how some patients are always disturbed, and think they are always neglected. Poor, feeble sufferers, if their hope is not centered in Christ, will be impatient. They will brood over their supposed grievances, and think that they are neglected. Their words of complaint cannot always be accepted as truth. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 109)

Dr. Sanderson: Certainly. I appreciate that. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 110)

Sister White: There are some sick people who have always been drawing upon others, and sapping, as you may say, the very life out of others. They expect that everybody is going to sympathize with them. A physician should understand this matter. He should lead their minds into a hopeful train of thought. Those who are sick think that a physician helps them. He is next to God to them; they have confidence that he can help them better than anybody else, because he relieves their sufferings. This is the reason that a Christian physician can do more in spiritual things than any one else, because the patients look to him almost as their Saviour. So the patients will be helped if you will give them a sympathetic talk oftener than you do. You say too little to your patients. Let your words assure them about themselves and how they are. If you can encourage them in regard to their health; but I presume that there are some to whom you can hardly give encouragement that they will regain their health. So speak to them of the loving Redeemer. By your helpful words, plant the seeds of truth. Speak words to encourage them. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 111)

Dr. Sanderson: In some cases you cannot. You must be truthful. You cannot tell lies. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 112)

Sister White: I know that. I remember how one physician told a mother concerning her daughter, “There is no consumption about her. We will soon send her home to her husband,” and in just a few days she was past all hope. O, it was awful! The mother was in an agony. The doctor did not know what he was talking about. I was well acquainted with the family. To my knowledge there were several patients who were encouraged by this same physician that they would get well, and they went down rapidly. Almost to the last breath he told them that they were going to get right well. He should have faithfully presented their condition to them, pointing them to the sympathizing Redeemer. When one who is dying is led to believe in the Saviour, peace and joy comes to the soul. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 113)

Dr. Sanderson: I have seen a great many such cases. I do not think that it is right. I do not think that a physician can be untrue and make a success of his work. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 114)

Sister White: You do not know, you cannot tell, what a good work you can do. You can tell your patients that One higher than you has control of their cases. Say to them in tender, pitying love, We are going to do everything we can do for you. We will pray for you and work for you, and we shall be very thankful if God will raise you up. My brother, you are too reticent on spiritual matters. It is best not to be so reticent. This is where some physicians have made a mistake. It is not right for you to come in and say abruptly, “You are going to die; you cannot live”—unless it were such as the woman who died so suddenly as the result of wrong eating. Well, you knew that she could not live. To all appearances, her case was a hopeless one. But I did not expect that she would die quite so soon. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 115)

Dr. Sanderson: These cases drop off suddenly, usually. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 116)

Sister White: You told her that there was no hope, did you not? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 117)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 118)

Sister White: Is there anything else that you wish to say now? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 119)

Dr. Sanderson: I just want to get thoroughly your ideas in reference to the management—the action that it is necessary to take. I recognize, Sister White, that what you have said is true, that I am responsible for a great many things. The very fact that I have accepted the position that I have held, makes me responsible for the way things have gone; but, on the other hand, for a large part of the time, my hands were perfectly tied. I could not do anything as it should have been done. I am unwilling to hold a position where I am to be held responsible for the way things go, and then have no voice to say how things ought to be. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 120)

Sister White: This is a matter that should be considered. There are some things which ought to be studied and carefully reformed. You have a large responsibility as a physician, and others should not stand in your way or stand as criticizers. Those who do this are out of their place. There are those who have not given you the encouragement you should have had. I know from the light the Lord has given me that they have gotten out of their place in binding your hands. I have no question about this. There are some men who do not reason from cause to effect. They do not understand the relation that the physician should sustain to the institution; and while the cares and the responsibilities of outside things should not come on the physician, yet he should stand in a place where he is to be consulted in regard to what improvements are to be made, and what is to be done. He should so conduct himself that he will have the confidence of all who are bearing responsibilities. I do not think there has been a competent manager in the Sanitarium since I have been here. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 121)

Dr. Sanderson: You have spoken several times about my relation with Brother Burden while he was here. Is it your conviction that he was a proper man as manager here? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 122)

Sister White: Not in all respects. His greatest difficulty was in being too narrow. He was too narrow in spiritual things as well as in temporal. He did not link up sufficiently with the workers to understand what was for the good of the institution in inside conveniences. This is something that must not be stinted. Every facility for the health and treatment of the patients should be provided, even though many things outside are lacking in perfection. Brother Burden was too narrow. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 123)

Dr. Sanderson: You can appreciate how such a condition as that would tie the hands of a physician who was trying to do anything. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 124)

Sister White: Yes, I understand that that is so; but the qualifications of the man religiously, and his integrity, were a great help. This was not appreciated by you and by others. If he had only known more and understood better in regard to the facilities essential in an institution, he would have been more forward to do. It does not matter half so much what is outside as what is inside, in an institution. Proper inside facilities must be provided, so that the best work will be done. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 125)

Dr. Sanderson: That is the trouble we were in all the time. That is the trouble that Dr. Maxson was in. As physicians we stood there, knowing that certain internal conditions were necessary for the welfare of the institution, but our hands were tied. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 126)

Sister White: I do not justify that in any way. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 127)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 128)

Sister White: Before Brother Burden went to Australia, I talked with him, and I have written since, telling him that those connected with the Sanitarium there must understand that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. I had to give decided caution, because of the peculiarity of things. I told him to elevate true principles. I wrote to the brethren there and told them to receive Brother Burden; and Dr. Kress and the ministers are all very thankful that Brother Burden and his wife and sisters were sent Australia. And even the doctor and the manager have said that Brother Burden’s coming has been the greatest blessing. That is how they have written. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 129)

Dr. Sanderson: He has had long experience. He ought to have developed some. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 130)

Sister White: His danger was not in taking a broad enough view of the work. I told him not to take too narrow a view. “But,” said I, “I feel more like telling you not to allow those who want a large institution to carry out their ideas.” Well, they have cut the plan down, and cut it down, and cut it down, and even now they cannot finish the building. I have given, and pled, and raised money, until I am weary; and the building still stands unfinished. There are few there who can be called upon to help. Those who can give have given. Australia is different from this country. Here there are those who have been long in the truth. Many of those in the truth in Australia have just been born into the message. They have had to build meeting-houses. As many as fourteen meeting-houses have been built since we went there. It costs something to get the land and put up a church. Both lumber and labor are much higher than they are here. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 131)

God will adjust all these things. They will come out all right. But I knew they needed just such a man as Brother Burden, and although we needed his talent and ability here, I am glad that he went. I am not sorry at all. It is better that he be connected with others in a new field. I told Brother Burden that he must connect with Dr. Kress and Elder Farnsworth, and counsel with them in regard to every movement made. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 132)

Dr. Sanderson: What you have written so repeatedly about the management of the institution here being in the hands of somebody outside of physicians has led them to take extreme views. I do not think that you intended it so. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 133)

Sister White: No. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 134)

Dr. Sanderson: But it has made it awful hard for the physicians. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 135)

Sister White: Well, it is this way. The way Dr. Burke carried things, and the way Dr. Maxson carried things, God could not endorse, because it was not the right way. If I had used my influence as they wanted me to—to turn out the old hands, that new workers might come in, what would have become of the Sanitarium? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 136)

Dr. Sanderson: I never have asked for a change of managers. I never asked for Brother Burden to be removed. I have simply let the matter grow and develop and ripen itself. I have not asked the Board to do any of these things. And now it puts me in a very embarrassing, hard position to understand how I can go on with my work, with the way you have written about my management. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 137)

Sister White: About what? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 138)

Dr. Sanderson: About my management. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 139)

Sister White: Well, you are a physician. You are not a manager, and you should not undertake that work, because you have another work that demands all the time and attention that you can give. Then you will not have the responsibility of managing and looking after these other things that have to be attended to. The experience that you have had in the weak management does not at all alter the fact that there should be a competent manager, but makes the necessity more positive. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 140)

Dr. Sanderson: That is true, Sister White; there is no one who wants a manager any more than I do. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 141)

Sister White: I was surprised to see so young men serving here as managers. Always, when I have had anything to say about it, I have advised that an experienced man be manager. They have needed such men here. They have had young men who had but little experience. They might have done well in a food factory, or something like that. But sanitarium work needs men of more experience. Dr. Maxson would not consent to work unless he could control. The brethren made a great mistake in not putting in a strong manager when Dr. Maxson was in the institution. They should have chosen as a manager the best man they could find. That is where they made a mistake, in giving the institution right up to Dr. Maxson, letting him run it as he did, in a way that God could not endorse. It was managed something like a great hotel. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 142)

Dr. Sanderson: Burden was manager all the time when Dr. Maxson was here. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 143)

Sister White: All the time? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 144)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 145)

Sister White: As the matter was presented to me, I understood that there was no manager that could manage Dr. Maxson. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 146)

Dr. Sanderson: Burden was manager all the time Dr. Maxson was here. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 147)

Sister White: Your brother, Dr. Maxson, or yourself, were not qualified to be managers. But both of you managed largely. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 148)

Dr. Sanderson: During Dr. Maxson’s time here, I had no official relationship to the institution. I was not an officer or a member of the Board, or anything. I was simply assistant physician to Dr. Maxson. That testimony that you wrote to Dr. Maxson at the time he left was greatly perplexing to him, because you stated in that testimony a certain official position that I held, which he gave me when he was here, when I did not have any such position at all. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 149)

Sister White: There is some misunderstanding about that, I am certain, because there was a movement made here in the building, and in things outside, that you were officious in as well as he. There were things in the movements of things, that whether you had the name of being a manager or not, there were things managed by you, and— (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 150)

Dr. Sanderson: Do you know of anything that was—do you know what it was? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 151)

Sister White: I cannot tell now. I do not know that I ever had anything specified to me about the matter. But if there had been a proper manager here, things never would have gone as they have. Maxson never would have ruled things as he did rule them; things would not have come in as he allowed them to come. O, the displeasure of God was upon this eating and drinking, and all this indulgence of appetite. The institution was managed for a while more as a great hotel than as a sanitarium. God did not endorse any such management as that. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 152)

Dr. Sanderson: Do you approve of the manager that we have there at present? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 153)

Sister White: Who is the present manager? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 154)

Dr. Sanderson: Brother Kilgore. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 155)

Sister White: He has just begun his work. We cannot tell yet how he will do. I do not know that I have had any special light about his capabilities for this work. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 156)

Dr. Sanderson: Did you have anybody in mind that you thought ought to be manager? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 157)

Sister White: I did think of Brother Nichols. Many have spoken of him. They said he had splendid faculties as a manager. I said if he had, we ought to have him here. But it seems that they want him in about four places, and he cannot be in all. They want him at the school being established at Berrien Springs, to see about putting up the buildings; they want him at Los Angeles; and they want him here. I thought he was coming to St. Helena, but his partner would not let him come. He is the only one I have thought of. Still, I have no definite knowledge from the Lord about it. Neither have I in regard to Brother Kilgore. Let him have a trial. Does Brother Fulton seem to be a good fit in the work he is doing? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 158)

Dr. Sanderson: He is doing good work in that department. I was in favor of his coming, because the culinary department of the institution has been in a very bad condition all the time. It is not my business, anyway, to give my attention to it, and the manager has not been able to build it up, and we have not had anyone to see to this work. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 159)

Sister White: The food, do you mean? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 160)

Dr. Sanderson: O, the service, and the menus, and the food, and all. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 161)

Sister White: Is the cook a good, competent person? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 162)

Dr. Sanderson: O, he is not the best, but he is the best we can get. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 163)

Sister White: Is he the man who went around to the camp-meetings to cook, when we were here ten years ago? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 164)

Dr. Sanderson: I do not think so; I do not think he has been in the truth that long. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 165)

Sister White: He is not the one I had in mind, then. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 166)

Dr. Sanderson: This man is a very experienced cook, but he got his experience outside of our institutions, and he has not given the best satisfaction in certain lines. That is, he is not an expert in cooking vegetables and getting things up in nice shape, which is very essential in an institution of this kind. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 167)

Sister White: It is very essential to have a well-trained, thorough cook. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 168)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes, it is. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 169)

Sister White: And the foods that are to be brought together can be put together in a way to be palatable, and they can be combined in a way that makes them unpalatable. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 170)

Dr. Sanderson: He makes things more palatable than any cook we have had for a long time, as far as that is concerned. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 171)

Sister White: I think that is saying considerable. If we can have a good, intelligent cook, then we can educate away from the meat diet. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 172)

Dr. Sanderson: I think that is the only way we can educate away from it. The cooking and the menus and the service have improved a great deal since Brother Fulton came. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 173)

Sister White: For a time in Avondale school we had a man as cook, and the food was made very palatable. Everything was served tastefully. No meat at all was used. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 174)

Dr. Sanderson: I do not think it would be a difficult matter to do away with meat, providing we got everything just perfect without it. But the trouble with our cooks in our institutions—and it is more so with our people throughout the denomination—is, they have left off the style of cooking that they used to have, and left off meat, and they are cooking things so tastelessly and so insipid that there are lots of our people who are just starving to death. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 175)

Sister White: I acknowledge that. I have written thus to Dr. Kress. I told him that as a physician he should understand when his blood was getting impoverished. “Now,” said I, “if God spares your life through this attack, never place yourself in that position again. Never say that persons must not use milk or butter or eggs or anything of that kind.” I said, “Keep these things to yourself. Do not make such statements publicly in Australia. People have to be educated by degrees; and these things are the least harmful of this class of food, if you are particular to get pure milk and fresh eggs. As to butter, I do not use it on my table, though occasionally some of the members of my family eat a little. Sometimes we use it in cooking, when we have not milk or cream.” I said to Dr. Kress, “You must not tell the people that they must not use milk and that they must not use such and such things. The time will come when they cannot have these things, but do not make a time of trouble beforehand. Do not tell those who do not understand the principles of health reform that they must dispense with milk and cream and all such things, because they must have something to eat, and it is next to impossible to prepare food palatably without milk when fruit and nut foods cannot be obtained. Let flesh meat be discarded, but do not cut off the less objectionable articles of diet, such as eggs and milk.” (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 176)

I know about this extreme you speak of. They have not, it is true, the faculty to put things together in such a way as to make them palatable, and then they say, “I am starving to death on a vegetarian diet.” They would not need to starve to death if they only knew how to prepare food properly. They must learn how. Someone should educate them. I have a cook who knows how to put food together. She does not have to prepare these dishes now, for there is so much fresh fruit, but when winter comes, we shall want these dishes. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 177)

Mrs. Sanderson: Maybe she might help our cooks at the Sanitarium. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 178)

Sister White: If I could spare her, I would like to have her go in and show how she does these things. I would like to have her do it. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 179)

Mrs. Sanderson: That is what is very much needed there. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 180)

Sister White: When I was at Cooranbong many that were great meat-eaters came into my family, and when they would sit at my table, where not a particle of meat was served, they would say, “Well, if you have food like this, I could do without meat.” I think that our food satisfies our family. I tell our family, “Whatever you do, do not get a poverty-stricken diet. Place enough on the table to nourish the system. You must do this. You must invent and invent and study all the time, and get up the very best dishes you can, so as not to have a poverty-stricken diet.” (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 181)

Dr. Sanderson: Do you think that Dr. Rand ought to take the position of superintendent of the work out here when he comes? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 182)

Sister White: Well, the doctor thought that he would be qualified to do that—that he would be of the best service in doing that. But he need not serve here all the time. He would visit different places, becoming acquainted with the work. Then he would come back to the institution; and his associate physician could have a change, as circumstances might direct. It has been proposed that there should be an equality, that one should go out and then the other should go out, to get acquainted with other parts of the work, and to educate, as well as to work here at the Sanitarium. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 183)

Dr. Sanderson: The doctor thought he would want to superintend the institution, if he came out, did he not? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 184)

Sister White: I did not hear anything about it. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 185)

Dr. Sanderson: You said that Dr. Rand thought he would work in the best capacity, if he were superintending the work here, did you not? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 186)

Sister White: I did not converse with Dr. Rand; I have had some conversation with Dr. Kellogg about Dr. Rand’s ability and loyalty, and the position he should occupy, but not with Dr. Rand. I do not recollect distinctly what was said. I talked the matter over with Dr. Kellogg, and he thought that Dr. Rand was fitted to stand in a leading position. That was the recommendation that was given by him. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 187)

Dr. Sanderson: Well, I certainly do not want the position if I am not the person for it. It is not anything that a person needs to crave. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 188)

Sister White: Your position as a physician is appreciated, and yet if we had the two physicians, so that one could go out occasionally, I think it could bring in more. Do you not think it would? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 189)

Dr. Sanderson: O yes, I think there ought to be more experienced physicians here certainly. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 190)

Sister White: To go out, and then let the other take his turn, and go out, and that will keep it so that there will not be a constant wear on the very same nerves, and the very same kind of work. We must broaden. We must get out. We cannot stay huddled up here in a little compass. We should become more acquainted with the outside element, and educate, and present health principles to the people, so that they may know what to expect when they get here. I felt very desirous that those who came in here should see reform right through, and I think it will come around. I think that when there is the least patronage, that is the best time to make a change in the matter of serving meat to patients on the dining room tables. And yet I cannot say there never should be any meat served. I cannot say that. But meat should never be served in the dining room. In Australia, Dr. Caro and Dr. Silas Rand were called in to advise with me as to whether they should allow meat to be served on the dining room tables of the medical institutions. I said, “Not a particle of meat is to be served on the tables.” I desired to have them understand this. Well, they have had the most wonderful success in the recovery of the sick that I have seen in any institution in my life. But not a particle of meat served in the dining room. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 191)

Dr. Sanderson: What do you think ought to be done up here? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 192)

Sister White: I think meat should be ruled out of the dining room. But I do not advise any rash, inconsiderate movements. I am not prepared to say just how the reform should be brought about. But I know that flesh meat should be kept off the table. How is it? Do the helpers have meat on their tables? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 193)

Dr. Sanderson: No. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 194)

Sister White: Well, I think it should be taken off the patients’ tables just as soon as it is possible to do it, and there should not be long waiting either. There will be times when there will not be so many here, will there not? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 195)

Dr. Sanderson: Last winter it was just about as full all through the winter as it was in the fall. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 196)

Sister White: It was? I hope it will be so again. But there must be an educating, and there must be more force in the education given on the subject of healthful diet. I do not think that meat is allowed on the tables in the Battle Creek Sanitarium. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 197)

Dr. Sanderson: O no, they have it. They had it there when I was there last spring. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 198)

Sister White: Is that so? But it is not used so much as formerly. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 199)

Dr. Sanderson: We do not have it here as much as in the past. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 200)

Sister White: I suppose the patients call for it. Or is it put on the tables? (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 201)

Dr. Sanderson: They put it on only when it is asked for—at the special request of the patients themselves. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 202)

Sister White: The Lord will be best pleased when all our sanitariums discard flesh meat. We have reason now as never before to let meat alone, because animals are diseased. The subject can be presented from this standpoint, and it will have great effect. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 203)

Dr. Sanderson: Well, I probably will not see you again before the Board meeting, and if you have anything for the Board, anything that you wish to express to the Board as to what you want them to do, I hope you will speak to them about it. I shall show to the Board that communication that you wrote to me. You sent that to the managers. If you have anything further that you would like to write them, I would be glad if you could do it. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 204)

Sister White: Yes, I have some things, if it is possible for me to get them off. I do not know as it will be before I leave. It may be that we can have a talk before the meeting. I would rather have a talk with you before we enter the Board meeting, if I have anything to present. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 205)

Dr. Sanderson: I have no feeling about your saying anything you care to, to the Board, independent of your talking with me. As I told you, if I am not the person for the place, I certainly do not care to carry the responsibility. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 206)

Sister White: Yes. And when it comes to the things in the Sanitarium that are necessary, you should not be at all delicate in stating the need for these things, that you may see that the necessities are supplied. This is the physician’s right and privilege. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 207)

Dr. Sanderson: That is what I have been trying to do for ten years, but it has always been denied me til lately. For the last six months I have had things as I wanted them, largely. The institution has prospered during that time. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 208)

Sister White: As soon as I went through the bathrooms, I said, “You have not done your duty here. You will have to have different facilities.” (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 209)

Dr. Sanderson: I have worked for two or three years to make those changes, and I was fought at every step by the managers. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 210)

Sister White: It is a pity that things work in that way, because we give the treatment inside, and the conveniences should be on the inside. The outside can go very well, if there are some inconveniences; but when the patients come to get treatment, and have to pay their price, they should have the very best conveniences that are possible; and I know that there has been great dissatisfaction. I have heard people talk while travelling between here and Oakland. They did not know that I had any connection with the Sanitarium, or they would not have said what they did in my hearings; but they did say these things. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 211)

If I do not go to Healdsburg tomorrow, there are some things I may want to say before I go. (16LtMs, Ms 82, 1901, 212)

Ms 82a, 1901

Interview/With Dr. and Mrs. Sanderson
“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California
August 25, 1901
Variant of Ms 82, 1901. +

Report of Interview of Dr. and Mrs. A. J. Sanderson with Mrs. E. G. White, 7 a.m. August 25, 1901.

Mrs. E. G. White: Now you may present what you have upon your mind. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 1)

Dr. A. J. Sanderson: I want to emphasize the ideas that I had relative to the education and training of our helpers, and what I thought that the work ought to be. It has been my conviction in all my work that every effort that was made would be purely a matter of education, either with the patients or the helpers; that the only consistent way to get them to change their course is to educate them so that they can see the reason for it, and do it by their own free will. In our family things will come up that will need discipline, and it seems to me that the more we educate, the less we will have to discipline; and to discipline without educating, it seems to me, is more a destructive work than an educative work. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 2)

Sister White: I thought that was understood in our work all the way through. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 3)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes; but there is a great deal of difference in the way different people go at it. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 4)

Sister White: While we know that the helpers must receive an education, yet there is to be an enforcement of the rules of the institution, or else there will be a broken up, distracted state of things, which must not be allowed. There must be discipline connected with the education. Education is good, yet in such an institution discipline is decidedly necessary. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 5)

Dr. Sanderson: I am sure there should be discipline, but it has to be done with the educational work. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 6)

Sister White: It should be all woven together. The discipline should come in connection with the education. The discipline and the precept go together. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 7)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes, I think that is true. But I think when you undertake to discipline without educating, when you undertake to change the course of a helper without getting him to see the reason why you are doing it, you always make it worse, and do not accomplish anything. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 8)

Sister White: Well, we do not do that. We tell them why. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 9)

Dr. Sanderson: I think that that has been the greatest source of our difficulty up there. I have always tried to work on those lines, and I think that the difficulties in the management have come from that more than anything else. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 10)

Sister White: It comes as the result of a lack on both sides. If you do not make the education of sufficient force and value to ensure its being carried out, it does not amount to anything. Then too, there is a lack, if they are given the “You must” and “You shall” without the education. As you will see when the educational book comes out, I have had laid open before me these things. The education that is given does not amount to anything, unless it is carried out by practical obedience and service. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 11)

Dr. Sanderson: No, it is no good, except they carry it out; but often it takes line upon line, and precept upon precept, in order to get them to carry out the education they receive. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 12)

Sister White: We know that, because we have met these questions in our educational institutions, especially in Avondale. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 13)

Dr. Sanderson: I do not think that you can look upon educational work in our institutions—in our sanitariums, and among our patients—in the same way that you can in our schools where we are dealing entirely with young people and children. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 14)

Sister White: I am speaking of education along medical missionary lines of work, as well as in our schools; but the principle is the same. Even in the family there must discipline. I took up this question during our recent camp meeting at Los Angeles. Discipline begins with the educator; for he or she should be properly trained. Then, as teachers in their own family, they are to see that the rules are not disobeyed, because if disobedience be allowed, disobedience to God would be encouraged. The father and mother, as teachers in the home, should teach their children to obey the commandment of God, “Honor thy father and thy mother; that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.” [Exodus 20:12.] By allowing their children to go on in disobedience, they fail to exercise proper discipline. Children must be brought to the point of obedience. Disobedience must not be allowed. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 15)

Dr. Sanderson: You would not think an arbitrary obedience that was forced out of the children, without the heart being in it, would do any good, would you—when the individual did not see the right of it? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 16)

Sister White: Are you speaking of a child? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 17)

Dr. Sanderson: Do you think that forced obedience out of an individual, because an individual is so influenced that he has to obey and does not want to obey—do you think that does him any good? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 18)

Sister White: Or separation? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 19)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 20)

Sister White: Yes; it sometimes comes right to a point where you cannot force a grown person to any course of action, because God compels no one to obey Him. It is left for you to lay out the principles. If they refuse to accept the principles, then separate them from the institution. That is the course of action to take. But as I told the brethren in Los Angeles, discipline commences with the person. Parents must educate their children for their present happiness and for their future eternal happiness. Parents having first learned obedience themselves, they are prepared to bring up their children to obey strictly. No half-work is to be done. Children are to understand that they are to obey. When fathers and mothers discipline their children in the fear of the Lord, they may have a church in their home. Then they are prepared for the church, to have their names recorded on the church book, and to work in the church. Discipline in the church has been neglected, and neglected, and neglected, until there is existing a disorganized state of things which is not pleasing to God. Many names now retained on the church book should be dropped. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 21)

Dr. Sanderson: I think that is true. It is pretty hard, though, when you get a child that has never been disciplined in the home, to discipline him in the church. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 22)

Sister White: O yes; as I have said, the beginning is with the father and the mother; and when the father and mother discipline their children, then you can connect them with the church, and they will carry that obedience into the church. But so often they are allowed to go all haphazard, just as they want, saying, “I don’t want to.” When I was a child, when I was told to do something, sometimes I would begin to make a word of complaint, and would go out of the room. But I would be called right back, and asked to repeat what I said. Then I would repeat it. Well, then, my mother would take that up, and show me how I was a part of the family, a part of the firm; that I had just as much right to lift my part of the responsibility, as she had to take charge of me. She would carry that right out to the letter. I had my times now and then for amusement, but I tell you there was no idleness in my home, and there was no disobedience there that was not taken in hand at once. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 23)

Dr. Sanderson: If our young workers had always had that discipline, our institutions would be altogether different. But we have to deal with young people and grown up people that have not had that discipline. That is what makes it complicated. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 24)

Sister White: As those in the institution are nearly all believers, you should let them see that as they are professedly under service to God, you have the same responsibility as parents have over their children to require them to walk in the right way, according to the Word of God; and if they do not do it, why, then, it is of no use for them to stay there, and attempt to get an education, because it would all be false. They cannot get it without coming under discipline. Without a proper training they will never be of any service to God or to any one else; therefore obedience is a reasonable requirement for the benefit of both themselves and the institution. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 25)

Dr. Sanderson: O, I think that is true. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 26)

Sister White: There is where the heaven is brought into the family. If we ever unite with the family in heaven, we must begin that work of having a heaven in the home. We may have heavenly order in the family in our homes here below. I am instructed to caution parents never to punish in anger, never to raise the voice, never to let any passionate word escape their lips. I never allowed my children to think that they could plague me in their childhood. I also brought up in my family others from other families; but I never allowed those children to think that they could plague their mother. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 27)

Never did I allow myself to say a harsh word, or to become impatient or fretful over the children. They never got the better of me once—not once. When my spirit was stirred, or when I felt anything like being provoked, I would say, “Children, we shall let this rest now; we shall not say anything more about it now. Before you retire, we shall talk it all over.” Having all this time to reflect, by evening they had cooled off, and I could handle them very nicely. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 28)

Dr. Sanderson: I think we agree entirely upon the principles that ought to be carried out in the institution, and upon the education that ought to be given; and, of course—it always takes time, however, to make reforms, and to carry the people with you. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 29)

Sister White: It takes a great deal of time, if they never begin. The time to begin is . If you wait, and wait, and wait, and allow disorder to come into the institution, and this disorder prevails, there never would be any reform in the institution. There are dispositions that must be handled. They must understand what the institution is—that it is something we are carrying on in behalf of God; it is a sacred place, and there are to be no side issues connected with it. The helpers are to come up to time, and to obey the rules of the institution, or else they can go somewhere else to get their education; because in an institution like this, where the influence of one will have an effect on the influence of another, a wrong, counteracting influence cannot be allowed, for this catching spirit of so-called independence would soon permeate the institution, making it an unmanageable affair. It would be a wicked thing to let it go so, because you are sanctioning wickedness when you do not take it right in hand and stop it right where it is. There is a solemn responsibility resting upon every soul working along educational lines. If we expect the Lord to co-operate with us, we cannot carry out our ideas, but must do what the Word of God tells us to do. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 30)

Dr. Sanderson: You take Christ, the life of His disciples. Christ did not undertake in the early part of His ministry to change their lives all over. They carried habits and temperaments with them all the time Christ was with them, and Christ educated all the time; but He did not accomplish all that He wished to accomplish, even until He left them. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 31)

Sister White: Not in Judas, He did not. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 32)

Dr. Sanderson: He did not in Peter. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 33)

Sister White: I know that. He did not in Peter. But He did in Peter until the great trial came. Peter was submissive to the Lord until the great trial came. There was nothing in John. When He reproved John for proposing to call down fire from heaven, and all these things, John repented, and so did Peter. Christ knew the awful trial was coming, and He told Peter all about how it would come; and Peter had a pretty sore time of it, I assure you, in carrying out his way. Of course Jesus did not force him. He let Judas have the whole education—but we have no need to bring up those things. Christ rebuked them severely. You know He again and again did it. He rebuked John, and rebuked Peter. He said, “Get thee behind me, Satan.” He had been trying to prepare Peter for the great trial. Satan was influencing the mind of Peter. Christ said the rebuke Peter gave Him, came from Satan. Said He, “Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offense unto me.” [Matthew 16:23.] (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 34)

Dr. Sanderson: It seems to me that is the attitude always to take—to be in a perfect attitude where you can give perfect advice, and act with authority; but after Christ had educated them, after He had rebuked, He never attempted to do anything more than that with His disciples. It took them years in order to develop and see things as they ought to be seen. I think with young people—we have young people that come here with certain temperaments, and you cannot change those temperaments, if you try to—you have to expose those temperaments, and expose those lives, to Christian influences and to conditions by which they can gradually come to see their condition, and by which they will become transformed. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 35)

Sister White: That is all that we have ever tried to do; but if they, after understanding plainly what the rules of the sanitarium are, go on the same way, not caring for the rules, then it is right to separate them from the institution, because not merely the one person, but the whole institution, is affected by the phase of character of that one person. That is how it is. All of the people—the whole class of students—are affected by the atmosphere which surrounds the soul of the one who will not come to the right terms. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 36)

Dr. Sanderson: I think that is true. I think if there is a person there who is bound to take an independent course, independent of the atmosphere and the rules and regulations of the institution, they ought to be separated; and I have always thought this; only, what troubles me is to know how much leniency and patience we ought to maintain to some who may know well, and have not the power to do it. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 37)

Sister White: Of course there is to be a dealing with them something like Christ has instructed us to deal with the church members. You go to them alone, and talk with them. If they will not hear you, then take two or three others. If they will not hear you then, then set them aside. Christ has told us what to do. He has given us our lesson. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 38)

Dr. Sanderson: If those rules had always been carried out, there would have been a good deal better condition of things now. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 39)

Sister White: Certainly there would be; but they have not always been carried out. These rules have been neglected. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 40)

Dr. Sanderson: But they ought to be carried out in the right way. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 41)

Sister White: There is a right way, and there is a wrong way. I never lifted a hand to my children before I talked with them, and if they broke down, and if they saw their mistake (and they always did when I brought it before them, and prayed with them), and if they were subdued (and they always were when I did this), then I had them under my control. I never found them otherwise. When I prayed with them, they would break all to pieces, and they would throw their arms around my neck, and cry like children. Edson ran in one day. “Come,” said he, “come, Mother, I want you to pray with me.” “Well,” I said, “what is the matter? What’s up now?” Said he, “My little cousin struck me, and I struck him back, and,” said he, “I’m afraid it will be written in the book. I don’t want it to be written in the book.” Well, I took him into the bedroom, knelt down, and prayed with him; and then he prayed. He asked the Lord to forgive him, and not to put it in the book. He seemed so afraid his mistake was going to be written in the book. He had heard me talk in meeting concerning the wrong deeds of persons being recorded in the book. He just cried, and broke all to pieces, saying, “Now, Mother, you don’t think it will be put in the book, do you?” Said I, “No, I know it will not be.” Then he was very much pleased. But passion, the jerking and twitching of children, and hurting them, bruising them, I cannot tolerate anywhere nor in any way. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 42)

Dr. Sanderson: That passion that bruises children is the same thing as that impatience which becomes arbitrary and offensive to a grown person when you undertake to change them; and there is just where the difficulty in our work comes in. I have never been able to co-operate with that kind of discipline. I have never objected to anybody using that discipline, if they took the responsibility; but standing in the responsible position that I have, I have always taken the other policy—of trying to educate and get them to reform; and that is the only successful way I have found in changing anybody’s course and altering their condition. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 43)

Sister White: A Christian would do that. There is no question about that. Christians who have an abiding Christ in them will never hurt and bruise the soul by their words, by their spirit, or by their actions. They never will do it. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 44)

Dr. Sanderson: I think that everybody has to be moved by an inner Christian principle in the soul. If they have it themselves, they will discipline others in accordance with that; but for a person who has not that experience for themselves, to make another have an experience they think they ought to have, is always destructive work. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 45)

Sister White: Yes; it always is, because they themselves must be ruled and controlled. When those, who in childhood have been uncontrolled and passionate, come to maturity, and attempt to govern children, that passion will fly out every time their way is crossed. It will come out in the teacher. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 46)

Dr. Sanderson: Certainly. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 47)

Sister White: Therefore it is the wickedest thing, I hold, for parents not to bring up their children in the nurture—there is a nurture to it—and admonition of the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 48)

Dr. Sanderson: Now, the great difficulty of our institutions, and our work throughout the conferences, is the fact that people are set to work and set in authority that have not got that experience. They have a certain knowledge of the truth; they have a knowledge of a form of the truth, a form of diet, a form of reform, and they carry that out in form, and they try to have everybody else carry it out in form; but it does not work, and when others are told to do it, and do not see the heart and life in it, it is always destructive. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 49)

Sister White: Yes; but you will meet that everywhere. You will meet it wherever you are. You will meet these negative, warring spirits everywhere, and if you let them have their sway, there will be great mischief done; but if you in the name of the Lord show them that that is not the right spirit, that you cannot have it—that it cannot be indulged, that things cannot be corrected in that way—that is what we should endeavor to do. There is one who goes into the fire, and another into the water. One will neglect to set things in order. They will think that they will give a lecture, or something, and that will set things in order. You have to come direct to the person, and ask them, “Why did you do that?” (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 50)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes, I think that is true, that personal work is the only way to accomplish that. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 51)

Sister White: Ask them, “Why do you do that? You know that is wrong, and why do you do it?” If they get in a passion, as I have seen, just as soon as the lines get loose, they do not know where they are going. I never allowed, in correcting my children, even my voice to be changed in any way. When I saw something wrong, I waited until the “heat” was over, and then I would take them after they had had a chance for reflection and were ashamed. They would get ashamed if I gave them an hour or two to think of these things. I always went away and prayed. I would not speak to them then. They would come to me, you know, about it. “Well,” I would say, “we will wait until evening.” At that time we had a season of prayer, and then I would tell them about it. Sometimes, as the apostle says, wrongdoers are to be rebuked sharply right on the ground, in order to give a right impression concerning such a spirit being exercised. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 52)

Dr. Sanderson: It takes a good deal of discernment to understand those things ought to be rebuked sharply, and those things that ought to be dealt with leniently. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 53)

Sister White: That is it. We must have an abiding Christ; and unless we have an abiding Christ, we shall be all out of line. In Addie and May Walling I had two of the most passionate children to bring up. Their mother kept a whip at the table, and I think there was not a meal eaten, but what that mother used that whip—a rawhide—on those children. I took them in my care, and brought them up. I never struck them a blow except once, and then it was because I could not help it. But I put out every kind of inducement to them. I would say, “If you do not show passion today, your uncle and I will ride out with you, and we can gather flowers,” and so on. Well, I would not say anything more all day. Then I would ask them about it. During the day I would see them throw themselves on the floor, and kick, and scratch, and then they would get their hands together and they would be ashamed It is a great thing to know how to do, but there is a way. When Satan is in the person, the one in error is to be rebuked right there, and there is to be no passing over the evil. It must be rebuked. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 54)

Dr. Sanderson: O yes; I acknowledge that; and it ought to be done right at the time, too. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 55)

Sister White: Yes. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 56)

Dr. Sanderson: You expect to go away tomorrow morning? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 57)

Sister White: Yes. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 58)

Dr. Sanderson: I probably will not have a chance to see you again before our next board meeting. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 59)

Sister White: Where will that board meeting be, I wonder? They said they were going to have it—it was appointed at San Francisco. If they could change it over to Healdsburg, it would save my going down. I could be at Healdsburg, and it is full as easy to hold it there as it would be in San Francisco. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 60)

Dr. Sanderson: There are a good many things that are coming up. It ought to be over here, I think. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 61)

Sister White: I could come up here, I think, if it were here. Of course I could come up. I want to be at the next meeting. I don’t know as I do, either. I don’t really care to. I would rather not. I would rather not be at the next meeting. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 62)

Dr. Sanderson: We would be glad to have you there. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 63)

Sister White: Well, I carry too much upon my heart. It hurts my heart. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 64)

Dr. Sanderson: I am greatly perplexed to know what I ought to do, in the face of what you have said and written about my work. I have carried a great burden for the work ever since I have been there, and if I have failed in it in the way it seems I have, I do not think it is consistent to go on with it. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 65)

Sister White: To go on with it? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 66)

Dr. Sanderson: No. I have carried the responsibilities there for a good many years, and I have never had the sympathy and support of those who were with me. They have always looked on my work with suspicion, and they have thought that it was of a different stamp than ought to be there; and there has always been an effort to criticize in an underhanded way. People have not come to talk with me about the faults in my work. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 67)

Sister White: I cannot endure anything underhanded. I cannot endure that kind of a thing. It is not a right thing to do. They should come right to you, and tell you in a proper manner what they have to say; but to go around to others, I do not believe in it. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 68)

[Dr. Sanderson:] I have stood it for five or six years there, and the situation now—I do not know as it is any better than it has been; and if there are others who are better prepared to carry the responsibility there, I would rather they would. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 69)

Sister White: Yes. One thing, I think you are not plain enough to come out and say what should be before the very persons themselves. I think you shrink from that. I know you do; and therefore things go as they should not go. They do not seem to—well, they look at it as a weakness in your managing. When something is wrong, that wrong must be remedied before the healing can come from the wrong; and there is a lack of carrying out the principles of faithful rebuking and reproving and correcting. All these things have to be done. You remember the charge given to Timothy: “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ ... preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and doctrine.” [2 Timothy 4:1, 2.] Well, this work must be done. It is not a pleasant work, I want to tell you—not a pleasant work at all. But still, these duties must not be neglected. It is doing a serious injury to a person to allow them to go on in a high-headed way, in a style of their own, for it is confirming in them a spirit which ought to be repressed in any of the workers or in any of the students who are trying to learn. That spirit will be met. Why? Because it was never met in their childhood. In church capacity it is very hard to do anything with those who were in their youth left to have their own way, carry out their own plans, and consult their own wishes. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 70)

Dr. Sanderson: In your conversation the other day at the board meeting, in speaking of the responsibilities of medical superintendent, you expressed yourself quite strongly that in his work he was in a certain sense responsible for nearly everything in the institution. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 71)

Sister White: That he was responsible? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 72)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 73)

Sister White: Yes; he is. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 74)

Dr. Sanderson: I could not understand the meaning of a statement like that, when you have written to me so many times that I must not undertake to deal with the management of the institution. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 75)

Sister White: Well, as you did manage—when you stand as a manager, as you have done—it has been as a manager—although you may say others are chosen; but you have virtually been the manager, although you did not have the name of being a manager. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 76)

Dr. Sanderson: In what way was I manager? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 77)

Sister White: Because it was your mind that was carried out. That is how it was. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 78)

Dr. Sanderson: Do you mean at the present time? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 79)

Sister White: I mean it has been thus. I do not say just the present time, just now; but it has been thus. You have not taken the name of a manager, and yet you were the manager, and things went as you said. You were back of things. It may be said there were some things that went contrary, but generally they went as you said. You were virtually the manager in these things. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 80)

Dr. Sanderson: You think it ought to be different than what it is at present? Do you think that the arrangement at the present time is a wrong one? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 81)

Sister White: What arrangement? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 82)

Dr. Sanderson: Do you think the organization of the work as it is at present is wrong? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 83)

Sister White: I do not know what the arrangement of the work comprehends. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 84)

Dr. Sanderson: It is practically the same now as it has been all the time. Brother Kilgore is manager, and I am medical superintendent. A manager has been there all the time. It is true, when they put Bowen in, he was a young man, and he did not comprehend the needs of the institution, and I had to do a good many things, because he did not know how. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 85)

Sister White: That is it. You see, you were the manager. He consulted you in these things. He understood what your mind was, and he carried it out. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 86)

Dr. Sanderson: O no; Brother Bowen did not carry out my mind a good part of the time. He did a great many things that I could not approve of in the least. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 87)

Sister White: There may be some things that he did not do in harmony with your mind; but that was the general tenor of the understanding. But from the light that was given me, I felt decidedly that there should be one other physician there, and the patients should have more attention from the physician himself than they have had. They should have— (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 88)

Dr. Sanderson: I have always said that, Sister White. I have always said that it was not my desire to have to devote my time to take care of the mechanical arrangements of the institution. It is not my desire, or my place, or my work; but, on the other hand, when I meet the patients, and see that they do not have the arrangements that it is necessary for them to have, I must do it. I see that they do not have what they should, and I have to educate the management, to get the necessary facilities. That has been the trouble ever since I have been there. I would go to any department of the institution—I would go to the culinary department, or to any other department—and would find that the people who had them in charge had no conception whatever of the necessities of those departments for the satisfaction and comfort of the guests. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 89)

Sister White: That is why there should be no persons of limited experience and understanding placed as directors. No one should have taken Brother Bowen as a manager, because any such young person is not prepared for such work. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 90)

Dr. Sanderson: They took him simply because they did not know who else to get at that time. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 91)

Sister White: That is why they should have had at the very commencement—when Maxson came in there—they should have had—a firm, strong, decided man; but he would not have such; no, sir; he would not have a manager at all; he would not come in unless he could manage himself. So it was with Burke—just the same. The great mistake was in not having a fully authorized, appointed manager. If they had had one, the institution today would stand very much higher than it does. But he would not have one. He was going to be manager himself. He was fully sufficient and equipped, he thought, to be a manager. Well, he was out of his place in being a manager. It was not his place, nor your place—you are physicians. It is your business to take the physicians’ work. They should consult together—the manager consult with the physicians, and the physicians consult with the manager—and have a thorough understanding of how things should go. The physician should consult the manager in regard to the facilities that they must have in the sanitarium; and when the physician sees a lack, anything that is not as it should be, just communicate to the manager, and have a perfect understanding, drawing in even cords all along. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 92)

Dr. Sanderson: Supposing your manager would not do that? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 93)

Sister White: Well, if he is a sensible man, and understands the will of God, he will do it. There are some high-headed and strong-opinionated men who want to carry things. They will always be in every place; you will always find them; and they are difficult to handle; therefore it is essential that in all these places, men should not be put in positions to be eternally there. They should be put in on trial and test, and then it will soon develop whether they have the qualifications to stand in that position. If they have not the qualifications, that institution is not to go crippled and lamed all the way through. It is not to be so. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 94)

Dr. Sanderson: But that has been the difficulty all through these years. There has been a manager there all the time during Dr. Maxson’s presence, and during my time there; and you recognize, Sister White, that the physician who comes in contact with the patients every day, to whom the patients come with all their complaints and all their difficulties—the physician can recognize and see the conditions that are most essential for the welfare of those patients a great deal better than anybody else; and if you can have a manager who is willing to consult, and is willing to take in the situation as it is, and will execute that management that will give to the patients what they should have, that is all right—that is where it should be. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 95)

Sister White: Here is where we had the difficulty with Dr. Burke. He received into the institution several Catholic girls. The Crawford girls stood at the head of the nurses, you remember. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 96)

Dr. Sanderson: I was not here at the time. I do not know anything about it. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 97)

Sister White: Well, the Crawford girls stood at the head; and if they asked these Catholic girls to do something, they would sometimes take a notion that it was not the thing to do, and would go right to Dr. Burke and tell him all about it; and then he would tell them that he would see to that. Instead of telling them that they should do as they were directed to do in their service for the institution, as far as it was a right and consistent thing for them to do, he would pacify them, and say that he would see that the matter was attended to. Then they would write a note, and tuck it under the door of the [Crawford] girls, who had stood there for years at the head of the nurses who were there getting an education. These notes would say, “Dr. Burke is going to see you. He will see that you are ushered out of here pretty soon.” That is the language that was used. I myself saw one of the notes, so I know it was not a false report. They would slip the note under the door, giving them a threat, and Dr. Burke just dismissed these Crawford girls, and kept the Catholics. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 98)

Dr. Sanderson: For a great many years there has not been a single individual taken into the institution as a nurse, or in any capacity, but what the matter has been carefully discussed by all the management together, and it has come as the united action of the management every time. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 99)

Sister White: Yes. You see how miserable that was—Catholic girls were as high-headed as they could be, with their education and their Catholic theories! And they ruled out those who did not come in accordance with their mind. Well, then, the doctor came down to Healdsburg, and wanted me to come up here. Said I, “What do you want me to come up there for?” “I want you to come up so as to remove Sister Ings.” “Why, what has she done?” “Well, she does not treat the patients right.” I came up. I learned all about it. They had several patients, oh, the queerest set! Their course of action was such that no one could do anything to please them. They would complain to the doctor, and he would take every word they said. He had gotten it all “cooked up” that Sister Ings was to be turned out. I came up, learned these circumstances, and then asked him if he would not have an interview with me. I had an interview with Brother Gates’ sister. They were going to put in Brother Gates’ sister, and Sister Gotzian, as matron, and one who was to help him right along in the work. I asked them to tell me what Sister Ings had done, right before Sister Gates. They told me that they wanted something cooked, and it was not done just the minute they wanted it done, and then they went to Burke. There was nothing to it. I investigated it thoroughly. You see, if the physician would listen to all these little complaints of the patients, and to the prejudices that the devil puts into their minds because they do not love God and the truth, we would have a pretty upsetting of things. I took Sister Gates in, talked with her, and had it all through with her; but she was very much displeased and Burke abused me shamefully—not to my face, mind you, but he wrote to me a most abusive letter. I would not have written such a letter to a worst person who had ever professed to believe the truth. I have a copy of it now—the very letter he wrote me—because I did not agree with his plan of managing, and did not turn out Sister Ings. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 100)

Dr. Sanderson: I think Sister Ings has been one of my most valuable workers all through the years that I have been here. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 101)

Sister White: She is not a severe person at all. She is not one of that kind. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 102)

Dr. Sanderson: She is not severe enough. She would do better if she would bring her girls to time. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 103)

Sister White: That is all the fault I would find of her; and you have something of the same weakness too, have you not? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 104)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes, I know. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 105)

Sister White: It is about six of one and half a dozen of the other. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 106)

Dr. Sanderson: When I was speaking of the patients, I was not speaking to find fault with my manager. But I could not see how you can have a manager here who is successful, unless he can listen to the physician sufficiently to bring about those things which will be for the welfare of the guests. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 107)

Sister White: You could not make a decree like that, of the Medes and Persians. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 108)

Dr. Sanderson: I want especially to get at the present situation, and I want to know—the essential thing is to know—what are the necessities of the institution. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 109)

Sister White: But I brought these cases up to show how some patients are always disturbed, and think they are always neglected. They talk of your neglecting them. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 110)

Dr. Sanderson: Certainly. I appreciate that. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 111)

Sister White: There are some who have always been drawing upon others, and sapping, as you may say, the very life out of others. Well, they expect everybody is going to sympathize with them, and so on, too much. But a physician is in that position where those who are sick, think that that physician helps them. He is next to God to them; they have confidence that he can help them better than anybody else, because he does relieve their sufferings. This is the reason a physician can do more in spiritual things than almost any one else, because the patients look to him almost as their saviour. So it will help, if you launch out and give them a little sympathetic talk oftener than you do, and kind of assure them about themselves and how they are—I presume some cases are so that you can hardly give them encouragement. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 112)

Dr. Sanderson: In some cases you cannot. You have got to be truthful. You cannot tell lies. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 113)

Sister White: I know that. I remember told a mother concerning her daughter, “There is no consumption about her. We will soon send her home to her husband;” and in just a few days she was past all hope. O, it was awful! O, it was awful! The mother was all in an agony. The doctor did not know what he was talking about. I was well acquainted with the family. To my knowledge there were as many as four cases that went down rapidly, and he told them to almost the last breath that they were going to get right up. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 114)

Dr. Sanderson: I have seen a great many cases in his work just that way. I do not think that it is right. I do not think that a physician can be untrue, and make a success of his work. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 115)

Sister White: Yes, but you do not know, you cannot tell, what a good work you can do. You can tell them that there is One higher than you who has control of their case; that we are going to do everything we can do for you, and we will pray for you, and work for you, and we will be very thankful if God will raise you up. You are too reticent on those things. It is best not to be quite so reticent. There is where some have made a mistake. It is not right for you to come in and say abruptly, “You are going to die; you cannot live”—unless it were such as the woman that died so suddenly from the result of wrong eating. Well, you knew that she could not live. To all appearances, her case was a hopeless one. I did not expect that she would die quite so soon. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 116)

Dr. Sanderson: Those cases drop off suddenly, usually. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 117)

Sister White: You told her that there was no hope, did you not? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 118)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 119)

Sister White: Well, that is the way I think you ought to do. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 120)

Dr. Sanderson: O, yes. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 121)

Sister White: Well, this woman I was speaking of, was almost raving-distracted. I never saw a woman who was so raving-distracted as she was when her daughter was dying with consumption, notwithstanding they had told her that there was no danger of her dying. She did not live a week after he had told her that she would go back to her husband. There was no consumption about it, he said. He knew better, if he was a physician; he knew better than that. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 122)

Dr. Sanderson: O, certainly. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 123)

Sister White: Is there anything else you wish to say now? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 124)

Dr. Sanderson: I just want to get thoroughly your ideas in reference to the management—the action that it is necessary to take. I recognize, Sister White, that what you have said is true, that I am responsible for a great many things. The very fact that I have accepted the position that I have held makes me responsible for the way things have gone; but, on the other hand, for a large part of the time, my hands have been perfectly tied. I could not do anything as it should have been done. I am unwilling to hold a position where I am to be held responsible for the way things go, and then have no voice to say how things ought to be. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 125)

Sister White: There is a ground that should be considered. There is something there that ought to be considered and carefully reviewed. You have a responsibility, and others should not stand in your way, or stand as criticizers. They may get out of their place, and no doubt they have gotten out of their place. I do not doubt at all that they have gotten out of their place many a time in binding your hands. I have no question about it, because they are not capable men. They are not men who reason from cause to effect, and who understand the right relation that a physician should sustain to the institution. And while the cares and the responsibilities of outside things should not come on the physician, yet the physician should stand in a place where he is to be consulted in regard to what improvements are to be made, and what is to be done. He should have the confidence of those who are in any way bearing responsibilities. I do not think there has been a competent manager there—that is, since I have been here—who has been a suitable one, who understood how to manage. I do not think there has been. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 126)

Dr. Sanderson: You have spoken several times about my relation with Brother Burden while he was there. Is it your conviction that he was a proper man as a manager there? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 127)

Sister White: He was too narrow. He was too narrow to understand. He did not link up sufficiently with the physician to understand what was necessary for the good of the institution in the inside conveniences. He did not understand it. He was too narrow. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 128)

Dr. Sanderson: You can appreciate how such a condition as that would tie the hands of a physician who was trying to do anything. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 129)

Sister White: Yes, I understand that it is so; but the qualifications of the man religiously, and his integrity, were a great help, if he had only known more and understood better what was really essential for the facilities in an institution. It does not matter half so much what is outside, as what is inside. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 130)

Dr. Sanderson: That is the trouble that we were in all the time. That is the trouble that Dr. Maxson was in. As physicians we stood there, knowing that certain internal conditions were for the welfare of the institution, but our hands were tied. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 131)

Sister White: I do not justify that in any way. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 132)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 133)

Sister White: Before Brother Burden went to Australia, I talked with him, and I have written since, that whatever was done, the physicians there—I had to give cautions there very decidedly; because of the peculiarity of things, I gave him cautions—I told them to receive him; and Dr. Kress, and the ministers, and all the brethren, are so thankful for that man. They do not have one word of complaint. And even the men themselves now—the doctor, and the one who was manager—have said that it was the greatest blessing that could come to them. That is how they have written in regard to Burden. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 134)

Dr. Sanderson: He has had long experience. He ought to have developed some— (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 135)

Sister White: The only thing—he took too narrow a view. I told him not to take too narrow a view. “But,” said I, “I feel more like telling you not to allow these men (Dr. Caro and the manager, Brother Sharpe) to carry out their ideas.” They wanted a large institution. Well, they have cut it down, and cut it down, and cut it down, and now they cannot finish it. I have raised money, and raised money, and raised money, until I have become about tired, and yet it stands unfinished now. There is nobody there they can call upon. Those who can give, have given. It is different from this country. Here there is a class who have been long in the truth. Those over there have just been born into the truth. They have had to build meetinghouses. We have as many as fourteen meetinghouses that have been built since we went there. It costs something to get the land and build the meetinghouses. It takes just double the price for the lumber, and double the work to put that lumber together. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 136)

God will adjust all these things. They will come out all right. But I knew they needed just such a man as Brother Burden, and I am glad he went there. I am not sorry at all. But he connected with others. Said I, “You must connect with Dr. Kress, and with Elder Farnsworth, and with these men of responsibility. Every step you take, it must be before them. Tell them the ‘whys and wherefores,’ and let them harmonize with you.” Said I, “It must be so.” But they think that they have the greatest treasure in Brother Burden and his wife and her two sisters—they think everything of them all. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 137)

Dr. Sanderson: What you have written so repeatedly about the management of the institution here being in the hands of somebody outside of physicians has led them to take extreme views. I do not think that you intended it so. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 138)

Sister White: No. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 139)

Dr. Sanderson: But it has made it awfully hard for the physicians. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 140)

Sister White: Well, it is this way: The way Dr. Burke carried things, and the way Dr. Maxson carried things, it was not the right way. Dr. Burke, especially, would not have anybody but himself. He would have run this institution clear into the ground if I had done just as they wanted me to do—turn out all the old hands, and let others come in to run it. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 141)

Dr. Sanderson: I never have asked for a change of managers. I never asked for Brother Burden to be removed. I have simply let the matter grow and develop and ripen itself. I have not asked the board to do any of these things. And now it puts me in a very embarrassing, hard position to understand how I can go on with my work, with the way you have written about my management. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 142)

Sister White: About what? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 143)

Dr. Sanderson: About my management. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 144)

Sister White: Well, you are a physician. You are not a manager, and you should not undertake that work, because you have another work that demands all the time and attention that you can give. Then you will not have the responsibility of managing, and looking after these other things that have to be attended to. The experience that we have had in the weak management does not alter at all the fact that there should be a competent manager. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 145)

Dr. Sanderson: That is true, Sister White; there is nobody who wants a manager any more than I do. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 146)

Sister White: I was surprised to see young men in here as managers. Always, when I have had anything to say about it, I have advised that an experienced man be manager. They have had no such men here. They have had young men who had but very little experience. They might have done well in a food factory, or something like that. When there is so much to be considered—o, it has been bad not to have had an experienced manager! But Dr. Maxson would not consent to work, unless he could have control. They should have put in a strong manager, anyhow. They made a great mistake. That is the light I have had. They should have chosen as a manager one of the best men they could find. That is where they made a mistake—in giving the institution right up to Dr. Maxson, and letting him run it as he did, in a way that God could not endorse. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 147)

Dr. Sanderson: Burden was manager all the time when Dr. Maxson was here. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 148)

Sister White: All the time? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 149)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 150)

Sister White: I understood that there was no manager. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 151)

Dr. Sanderson: No; Burden was manager all the time he was here. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 152)

Sister White: Your brother Dr. Maxson or yourself, were not qualified to be managers, either of you. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 153)

Dr. Sanderson: During Dr. Maxson’s time here, I had no official relation to the institution. I was not an officer or a member of the board, or anything. I was simply assistant physician to Dr. Maxson. That testimony that you wrote to Dr. Maxson at the time he left was greatly perplexing to him, because you stated in that testimony a certain official relation that I held which he gave me during the time he was here, when I did not have any such position at all. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 154)

Sister White: There is some misunderstanding about that, I am certain; because there was a movement made here, in buildings, and in things outside, that you were officious in, as well as he. There were things in the movements of things, that, whether you had the name of being a manager or not, there were things managed by you, and— (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 155)

Dr. Sanderson: Do you know of anything that was—do you know what it was? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 156)

Sister White: I cannot tell now. I do not know as I ever had anything specified about the matter. But if there had been a proper manager here, things never would have gone as they have; Maxson never would have ruled things as he did rule them; things would not have come in as he allowed them to come. O, the displeasure of God was upon this eating and drinking, and all this indulgence of appetite! The institution was managed for a while more like a great hotel than as a sanitarium. God did not endorse any such management as that. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 157)

Dr. Sanderson: Do you approve of the manager that we have there at present? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 158)

Sister White: Who is the present manager? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 159)

Dr. Sanderson: Brother Kilgore. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 160)

Sister White: He has just begun, you know. I do not know anything about his capabilities for this work. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 161)

Dr. Sanderson: Did you have anybody in mind that you thought ought to be manager? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 162)

Sister White: I did think of Brother Nichols. They spoke of Nichols. They said he had splendid faculties as a manager. I said if he had, “we would like to have him here.” But it seems that they want him in about four places, and he cannot be in all. They want him at the school being established at Berrien Springs, to see about putting up the buildings; they want him at Los Angeles; and they want him here. I thought he was coming, but his partner would not let him come. I thought he would be a good hand here. That is the only one I have thought of. Still, I have no knowledge from the Lord about it. Neither have I in regard to Brother Kilgore. Does Brother Fulton seem to be a good fit? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 163)

Dr. Sanderson: He is doing good work in that department. I was in favor of his coming, because the culinary department of the institution has been in a very bad condition all the time. It is not my business, anyway, to give my attention to it, and the manager has not been able to build it up, and we have not had any one to see to this work. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 164)

Sister White: The food, do you mean? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 165)

Dr. Sanderson: O, the service, and the menus, and the food, and all. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 166)

Sister White: Is the cook a good, competent person? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 167)

Dr. Sanderson: O, he is not the best, but he is the best we can have. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 168)

Sister White: I think he is the man who went around to the camp meetings to cook, when we were here ten years ago. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 169)

Dr. Sanderson: I do not think so; I do not think he has been in the truth that long. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 170)

Sister White: He is not the one I had in mind, then. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 171)

Dr. Sanderson: This man is a very experienced cook, but he got his experience outside of our institutions, and he has not given the best satisfaction in certain lines. That is, he is not an expert in cooking vegetables, and getting things up in nice shape, which is very essential in an institution of this kind. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 172)

Sister White: It is very essential. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 173)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes, it is. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 174)

Sister White: And the foods that are to be brought together can be put together in a way to be palatable, and they can be combined in a way that makes them unpalatable. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 175)

Dr. Sanderson: He makes things more palatable than any cook we have had for a long time, as far as that is concerned. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 176)

Sister White: I think that is considerable, so that we can educate away from the meat diet. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 177)

Dr. Sanderson: I think that is the only way we can educate away from it. The cooking and the menus and the service have improved a great deal since Brother Fulton came. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 178)

Sister White: For a time in Avondale we had a man cook. O, the food was nice! Everything came on so tasteful. There was no meat at all. He had kept a large restaurant. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 179)

Dr. Sanderson: I do not think it would be a difficult matter to do away with meat, providing we got everything just perfect without it. But the trouble with our cooks in our institutions—and it is more so with our people throughout the denomination—is, they have left off the style of cooking that they used to have, and left off meat, and they are cooking things so tastelessly and so insipid that there are lots of our people who are starving to death. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 180)

Sister White: I acknowledge that. I have written thus to Dr. Kress. I told him that as a physician he should understand when his blood was getting impoverished. “Now,” said I, “if God spares your life through this attack, don’t you ever bring yourself into that position again. Never say that persons must not eat any milk or any butter or any eggs or anything of that kind.” Said I, “Just keep that to yourself; do not come out with such statements. People have to be educated by degrees; and these are the least harmful of this kind of food—if you know you have got pure milk and eggs.” “As to butter,” said I, “I do not hold to it. I do not put it on my table at all, and only use it sometimes in cooking, when we have no cream or milk. I use that in cooking, but we do not put butter on our table.” But I told Dr. Kress, “You must not tell the people that they must not have milk, or they must not have so and so. The time will come when they cannot have these things, but do not make a time of trouble beforehand. Do not tell them they must dispense with milk and cream and all such things, because the poor people have to have something to live on, and they cannot provide themselves with these health foods; for they are not able to.” I know about this extreme that you speak of. They have not, it is true, the faculty to put foods together to make them palatable, and then they say, “I am starving to death on the vegetarian diet.” They would not need to starve to death, if they only knew how to prepare the foods properly. They have to learn how. Someone should educate them. I have a cook here from Battle Creek. She knows how to put these things together. She does not have to do it so much while we have everything from the garden, like green corn, you know, and these things that come off from the ground. We have enough to eat, with bread and fruit and such things; but the time will come in the winter when we shall want these dishes. But I have a good cook. When I was at the doctor’s home in Battle Creek, she put things together as I had never seen them put together, and they were tasteful, palatable. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 181)

Mrs. Sanderson: Maybe she might help our cooks at the Sanitarium. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 182)

Sister White: If I can spare her, I would like to have her come in and show how she does these things. I would like to have her do it. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 183)

Mrs. Sanderson: That is what is very much needed there. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 184)

Sister White: When I was at Cooranbong, many that were great meat-eaters came into my family, and when they would sit at my table, they would say, “Well, if you have food like this, I could do without meat.” I think that our food satisfies our family. I tell our family, “Whatever you do, do not get a poverty-stricken diet. Place enough on our table to nourish the system. You must do this. You must invent, and invent, and study all the time, and get up the very best dishes you can, so as not to have a poverty-stricken diet.” (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 185)

Dr. Sanderson: Do you think that Dr. Rand ought to take the position as superintendent of the work out here, when he comes? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 186)

Sister White: Well, Doctor Kellogg thought that he would be qualified to do that—that he would be of the best service in doing that. He would work here, but he need not stay here all the time. He would go out around, going to different places. Then he would come back to the institution; and then you could go, taking the same round, or some other round. You would have a chance to get out, and not to be confined. That is the most I heard talked of, that there should be an equality—one should go out, and then the other should go out, to form an acquaintance with others, and to educate, as well as to be here at the Institute. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 187)

Dr. Sanderson: The doctor thought he would want to superintend the institution, if he came out, did he not? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 188)

Sister White: I did not hear anything about it. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 189)

Dr. Sanderson: You said that Dr. Rand thought he would work in the best capacity if he was superintending the work here, did you not? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 190)

Sister White: (Note: I conversed with Dr. Kellogg, about Dr. Rand’s ability, and loyalty, and the position he should occupy, but not with Dr. Rand.) I do not recollect what was said. But that was what we thought. We talked it over with Dr. Kellogg, and he thought that he was a man qualified to stand in a leading position. That is the recommendation that was given by him. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 191)

Dr. Sanderson: Well, I certainly do not want the position, if I am not the person for it. It is not anything that a person needs to crave. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 192)

Sister White: Your position as a physician is appreciated; and yet if we had the two physicians, and one who could go out some, I think it would bring in more. Do you not think it would? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 193)

Dr. Sanderson: O yes, I think there ought to be more experienced physicians there; certainly. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 194)

Sister White: To go out, and then let the other take his turn, and go out, and that will keep it so that there will not be a constant wear on the very same nerves, and the very same kind of work. We must broaden. We must get out. We cannot stay huddled right up here in a little shell. We should become acquainted with the outside element, and educate, and try to get these principles that we have, before the people, so that they may know what to expect when they get here. I felt very desirous that those who came in here should see reform right through; and I think it will come around. I think that when there is the least patronage, when it comes down to the smallest patronage, that is the best time to make a change in the matter of serving meat to patients; and yet I cannot say that there never should be any meat served. I cannot say that. Yet I have said it at our institutions that have just begun. They called in Dr. Caro and Dr. Silas Rand to advise with me as to whether they should allow meat to be served on the dining room table. Said I, “Not a particle is to be introduced, not a particle.” I desired to have them understand it. Well, they have had the most wonderful success in the recovery of the sick that I have ever seen in any institution in my life. They have not a particle of meat served in their dining room. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 195)

Dr. Sanderson: What do you think ought to be done up here? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 196)

Sister White: O, I think it should be ruled out of the dining room. I do not advise any rash movements. I do not say just how that should be brought about. I think the meat diet should be kept off from the table. How is it? Do the helpers have any meat on their table? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 197)

Dr. Sanderson: No. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 198)

Sister White: Well, I think it should be kept off of the table just as soon as it is possible to do it, and there should not be a long waiting, either. There will be times when there will not be so many here, will there not? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 199)

Dr. Sanderson: Last winter it was just about as full all through the winter as it was in the fall. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 200)

Sister White: It was? I hope it will be so. But there must be an educating, and more force in the education. They are just about through with the meat in Battle Creek institution, I think. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 201)

Dr. Sanderson: O no; they have it. They had it there when I was there last spring. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 202)

Sister White: Yes, they do have it, but not so much as formerly. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 203)

Dr. Sanderson: We do not have it here as much as in the past. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 204)

Sister White: I suppose they call for it? Or is it put on the table? (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 205)

Dr. Sanderson: They put it on only when it is asked for—at the special request of the patients. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 206)

Sister White: The Lord is best pleased when they let this meat alone. There is reason for it now. If there ever were a reason for its use, it was to shorten life; but now there is the best reason to let it alone, because of the disease of animals, and on that score the question can be taken up, and it will have great effect. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 207)

Dr. Sanderson: Well, I probably will not see you again before the board meeting; and if you have anything for the Board, anything that you wish to express to the Board as to what you want to have them do, I hope you will speak to them about it. I shall show to the Board that communication that you wrote to me. You sent that to the managers. If you have anything further that you would like to write them, I would be glad if you could do it. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 208)

Sister White: Yes, I have some things, if it is possible for me to get them off. I do not know as it is, before I leave.... It may be that we can get together so as to have a little talk before the meeting. I would rather have a talk with you before we enter the board meeting, if I have anything to present. I do not know where that board meeting is going to be held. There are three places talked of. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 209)

Dr. Sanderson: I have no feeling about your saying anything you care to, to the Board, independent of your talking with me. As I told you, if I am not the person for the place, I certainly do not care to carry the responsibility. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 210)

Sister White: Yes. And when it comes to the things in the sanitarium that are necessary, and that are wanted, you should not be at all delicate to state those things right out, what is wanted, and see that the necessities are supplied. That is the physician’s privilege and right. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 211)

Dr. Sanderson: That is what I have been trying to do for ten years; but it has always been denied until lately. For the last six months, I have had things as I wanted them, largely. The institution has prospered during that time. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 212)

Sister White: As soon as I went through the bathrooms, I said, “You have not done your duty here. You will have to have different facilities.” (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 213)

Dr. Sanderson: I have worked for two or three years to make those changes, and I was fought at every step by the managers. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 214)

Sister White: It is a pity that things work in that way, because inside we give the treatment, and the conveniences should be on the inside. The outside can go very well, if there are some inconveniences there; but when the patients come to get treatment, and have to pay their price, they should have the very best conveniences that are possible; and I know that there has been great dissatisfaction. I have heard them talk, while coming up on the boat. I have heard them say things. They did not know, of course, that I had any connection with the sanitarium, or they would not have said what they did in my hearing; but they did say these things. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 215)

If I do not go to Healdsburg tomorrow, there are some things I may want to say before I go. (16LtMs, Ms 82a, 1901, 216)

Ms 83, 1901

God’s Purpose for His Sanitariums
NP
August 26, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in Ev 210-211; 1MR 227.

To our sanitariums has been given the work of reaching the higher classes. This work is to be done, not by consorting with them and providing entertainments for them, but by revealing the power of the truth to transform the character. Every human being who is sanctified through a belief of the truth becomes God’s light-bearer to the world, His helping hand for the recovering of souls from transgression. He is God’s medical missionary. (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 1)

“This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” [1 John 5:4.] It is to be deplored that the people of God are content with such a low standard of personal religion. How can we account for this? We have been bought with a price, and what a price! Individually we have a work of no ordinary character to do. We are to reveal the grace of Christ. God expects us to exert the motive-power which the gospel brings to bear upon the human heart. We are not to be common in thought, in speech, or in practice. The earnestness of our efforts is to be proportionate to the value of the object set before us. (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 2)

What means did God employ for the salvation of sinners? Look at the cross of Calvary. “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.] This wonderful plan was set in operation to achieve a result of no insignificant value, even the work of redemption. All this God did that man might lay hold of the hope set before him in the gospel and feel the force of the redeeming power derived from the incarnation of the Son of God. Taking humanity, Christ died in the place of the transgressor, that the transgressor, though fallen, might by the Saviour’s resurrection, ascension, and mediation, receive the Holy Spirit. Christ was humiliated that man, estranged from God, might be cleansed and purified and sanctified, made mete to receive the inheritance of the saints in light. (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 3)

Is Christianity producing fruit unto righteousness, or is it a strange vine? When God planted His vine, He designed it to produce fruit. Does Christian saintliness distinguish us from worldlings? Truth is at stake. It must be talked; it must be lived. Christians must live the words of Christ. Thus they will gain spiritual strength. If by receiving the gospel we are not placed upon higher ground than we occupied before receiving it, we are not honoring the Lord Jesus Christ; for we do not represent Him aright. (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 4)

As we handle the things of this world, we are not to become worldly. Christ says to His followers, “Ye are the light of the world.” [Matthew 5:14.] The principles of heaven are to be followed in all we do. (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 5)

He who supremely desires the blessings of salvation will reveal a soul-hunger for righteousness. He will not be charmed by the pleasures of this life. He looks for a city that hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 6)

Many of God’s servants have died in faith, “not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly; wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God; for he hath prepared for them a city.” [Hebrews 11:13-16.] (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 7)

We need personal religion. This will enlighten the understanding, arouse the conscience, and enable us to be God’s helping hand, to guide others into light. We either gather with Christ, or scatter abroad from Christ. If our energies are paralyzed, if our arms are bound by spiritual inactivity, our work is misleading. (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 8)

We are not only to arouse the souls dead in trespasses and sins. We are to educate them in the knowledge of God. Giving the trumpet a certain sound, we are to guide them into the light. Thus many good impressions can be made on those who as guests and patients come to the Sanitarium. (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 9)

The ministry of the Word is the Lord’s great instrumentality for the conviction of the mind and the saving of the soul. It is God’s appointed agency for the perfecting of the saints. “He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 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 fulness of Christ.” [Ephesians 4:11-13.] (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 10)

In order for Christ’s work to be carried out as it should be, true religion must be revealed in spirit, word, and action. When our institutions, after a good work has been done, lose the zeal and fervor and interest once aroused, the result is serious. The power of the truth is not felt where it is so much needed. The people rest satisfied with good emotions. After a good work has been done, the ones who have been awakened to a sense of sin should be taught how to take hold of the arm of the Lord. But if the good impressions made are not followed up with true, earnest efforts, no permanent good is accomplished. The result might be very different, did not a desire for amusement divert the mind from the contemplation of serious things. (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 11)

Give the patients and guests and students rich morsels of food from the Word of God. But amusement is not to be interwoven with instruction in the Scriptures. When this is done, the hearers, amused by some cheap nonsense, lose the burden of conviction. The opportunity passes away, and no one is drawn by the cords of love to the Saviour. (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 12)

O how important it is that those who have had opportunity to learn the message of truth live up to the light they have received. But there has not been an imparting of the sacred principles of truth. Greater earnestness must be shown. More persevering efforts must be made to win souls to Christ. The high and holy truths of God’s Word are to be kept before the mind. We are to do all in our power to bring souls to the Saviour. (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 13)

Come directly home to the needs of the soul. Awaken the mind. Inquire, What is the supreme desire of the soul that is troubled? Does he desire salvation, or will he yield to the deceptive power of Satan who is trying to ensnare him. Will the love of gain grow in his mind into an intensity of desire to secure earthly treasure; or does he estimate the power of the truth, the grace of God as it really is—gold tried in the fire? Is he afraid of displeasing God, or does he allow his worldly friends to divert his mind from heaven? Will he choose good or evil to guide his thoughts and feelings and mold his character? Christ watches the conflict, and He says, “I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not.” “Be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” [Luke 22:32; John 16:33.] (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 14)

Victory over the world is dependent on the gospel of Christ. “If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” [1 John 2:15.] Faith and love and hope and trust come through partaking of the divine nature. We must live under the light of Christ’s glory. We must show continual growth. If these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 15)

The language of those who have surrendered all to God is, “The love of Christ constraineth us.” [2 Corinthians 5:14.] It has complete power because of the perfection of Christ’s principles. We are filled with a desire for true piety. We trade upon the sacred talents of trust that we may impart to others, who, convinced and converted, will in turn so use their talents that they also may impart. No longer are our talents to be concealed in a napkin and hidden in the earth. No longer are they to be used in the service of the enemy. We employ them in the service of God. (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 16)

We are to be doers, not hearers only. Work for the Master who loves you with an everlasting love. Teach the church in your own home, praying and working for the conversion of the entire family. Work by prayer and counsel, by warnings and invitations. Do not give up till you have done all in your power to win every member of the family to the service of God. (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 17)

If these souls are obdurate, having educated themselves to resist the Spirit of God, preferring to follow their unsanctified inclinations and desires, great is their loss; for they know the truth, but do it not. There is before them not only a broken law, but a neglected gospel, a rejected Saviour. (16LtMs, Ms 83, 1901, 18)

Ms 84, 1901

Talk/Teachers to Have a Living Experience
Healdsburg, California
August 28, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 6BC 1083-1084; 11MR 159-160. +

Teachers to Have a Living Experience. Talk at Church School Teachers’ Institute.

I wish to say a few words in regard to true education. All who are attending this Institute that they may become better prepared to teach in our schools or to exert a proper influence in any place, should make it their very first work to seek the Lord with all the heart, that they may find Him. Those who seek God and His righteousness will have divine assistance. To those whose hearts are right with God, all the instruction that is presented will have an uplifting tendency. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 1)

Christ is the greatest Teacher, the greatest Educator, that the world ever knew. If you come into close relation with Him, the atmosphere surrounding your soul will exert an educative influence wherever you are. Unless you have Christ formed within, the hope of glory, all the education that you may obtain in Greek, in Latin, in the languages, or in anything else, will be of no value in securing eternal life. You must bear in mind that Christ co-operates with you when you co-operate with Christ. Constantly you are to be learning of the Great Teacher. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 2)

Have you given yourselves to Christ? Or are you seeking the position of teacher in such a way that after you have enjoyed all the advantages offered at this time, you will know no more concerning the great truths which sanctify the soul than when you came here? It is necessary to know that Christ is formed within, the hope of glory. Then you will know that you have a Helper, even the Lord, and an influence for good will go forth from every teacher. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 3)

Teachers, be truly converted to God. Realize that in every school established, the first work is to become acquainted with God and with the principles of heaven, that in your daily work you may prove the truthfulness of the words of Christ to the woman of Samaria, “If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water,” which is as “a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” [John 4:10, 14.] (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 4)

In obtaining an education, there is danger that spirituality will be considered of secondary importance. We often think if we only could reach the world’s standard in education, we should have gained something. Those who believe this will prefer the society of the world to the society of those who love and fear God. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 5)

Many have imagined that in order to become educated, they should place themselves under worldly influences. According to the worldly idea, in obtaining an education, spiritual things are not considered of much value. Those who choose to enter schools where our faith is not recognized are on the losing side. They lose the very things which they should value most—a knowledge of God and Jesus Christ and of that life which measures with the life of God. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 6)

All who are engaged in teaching the youth in our schools must have as the foundation of their knowledge the fear of God, for this is the beginning of wisdom. They may have had years of training, and yet have not touched the very beginning, the a-b-c of spirituality, the a-b-c of devotion, the a-b-c of self-sacrifice. The science of education is to love God and to keep His commandments. Study the Word of God intelligently. It is the foundation of all education. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 7)

The Apostle Paul could meet eloquence with eloquence, logic with logic; he could intelligently enter into all controversies. But was he satisfied with this worldly knowledge? He writes: “And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.” [1 Corinthians 2:1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 8)

Here is a very important lesson. We need to understand our whereabouts. We need to understand that the highest education ever given to mortals develops a spirit of humility, for it reveals how much more there is yet to be learned. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 9)

The more you learn, the more you will see the necessity of putting your whole mind and interest into learning for Christ’s sake. Why are you learning? Are you acquiring knowledge so as to become intelligent in the truth? If that is your object, be assured that you will hide self in Jesus Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 10)

“And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.” [Verse 3.] Paul was a very great teacher; yet he felt that without the Spirit of God working with him, all the education he had obtained would be of little account. We need to obtain this same experience; we need to be afraid of ourselves. All need individually to sit at the feet of Jesus, and listen to His words of instruction. Let us empty from the soul-temple all foolishness, pride, and folly, and invite Jesus to take possession of heart and soul and character. When we do this, there will be no pride of spirit; for we shall more fully appreciate how much more there is to be learned. “What shall I do, that I may inherit eternal life?” is a life-and-death question, a question which should be constantly before us. [Mark 10:17.] (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 11)

“And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect; yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: but we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.” [1 Corinthians 2:4-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 12)

The Lord will help every one of us. He will bring to our minds things which we would not otherwise have remembered. He is rich in resources. Every faculty of our minds, every capability which we possess, we receive from the Lord. Jesus Christ died upon Calvary’s cross, that He might place us in such a relation to Himself that we could co-operate with Him in the great work of letting our light shine forth to others, that they by seeing our good works might glorify our Father which is in heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 13)

Put away all things like unbelief and infidelity. Press close to the bleeding side of Christ Jesus. Be willing to be partakers of Christ’s suffering, that you may be partakers with Him of His glory. There is a heaven to win. “God hath prepared for them that love him” a rich treasure, which we are enabled to receive by His Spirit. Let us cherish the Spirit of God. The Lord desires to have every one of us come into sacred relation with Him. If we do this, He will open before us the mysteries of the grace of God, as we read in the next verse: “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” [Verse 9.] When Christ comes to take us home, we must take our minds with us, and our education should be of such a nature that we shall be fitted to compose the family of God. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 14)

Those who are preparing for the heavenly home should now be cultivating a teachable spirit. If we are overcomers, we may unite with the heavenly family and see the King in His beauty. Are we being fitted to become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King? (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 15)

“But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.” [Verse 10.] Like a lighted candle, the Spirit searches the hidden things of the heart which we must overcome, else we never shall see the kingdom of God. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 16)

“For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.” [Verses 11, 12.] (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 17)

The instruction most essential is the simple kind which will shut us in with the greatest Teacher we can have—the Lord Jesus Christ. Through Him alone can we reach the highest elevation. God has provided us with all the facilities and the capabilities of mind that we enjoy. Let us make the very highest use of every capability, that we may win the prize, eternal life. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 18)

What is your object in obtaining an education? Is it to glorify yourself? Is it to say, “See how much learning I have?” Or is it that you may be able to help weak and trembling souls plant their feet upon the platform of eternal truth? Do you long to lift up and encourage others? If you are striving merely for the name of being a teacher, an educator, you might just as well be somewhere else. God invites everyone to be His helping hand. He invites you to carry out the principles of heaven, the a-b-c of true education. If you have never learned them before, commence to study now, and when you have thus learned, you will be fitted to teach others. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 19)

If your great aim has been to learn Greek and Latin, and all these things, you need to go back to the beginning, and in the love and the fear of God learn the a-b-c of spirituality. This is the preparation essential, if you would see the King in His beauty and behold His matchless charms. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 20)

The purpose of education is to glorify God, to answer His prayer, “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” [Matthew 6:10.] (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 21)

Keep thinking of these things. “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit.” [1 Corinthians 2:9, 10.] Be in a sensitive frame of mind, so that the Holy Spirit may impress upon the heart the rays of light which will come to you in any discourse that is preached, or in any advice that is given. In all your connection with your brethren and sisters in the church, be in such a receptive state that you can catch the spirit and influence that God wants you to have, that He may mold you and work through you. Do not try to work the Holy Spirit after your particular ideas, but allow the Holy Spirit to work and mold you. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 22)

Because you expect to be teachers, do not think that it is unnecessary to obtain an education in the simplest duties of life. Because you are studying, do not neglect every-day duties around you. Wherever you are, weave into your life all the usefulness possible, and you will find your mind more capable and susceptible of understanding the lessons you endeavor to learn. By having these simple, practical lessons brought into your life-experience, you are better qualified to educate those who need to learn. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 23)

Let there be manifested in the life of every teacher that sweetness in the family, that helpfulness, that meekness and lowliness of heart, which characterized the life of the Great Teacher. In being helpful, we shall be learning how to live faithfully to God—how to be His helping hand. He who is faithful in the little things, will be faithful in greater responsibilities. “Thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things.” [Matthew 25:23.] (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 24)

Those who are preparing to be teachers should have a fragrance of character, a sweetness of disposition, which savor of heaven. Put away all passion, all pride, all self-exaltation. Consider what Christ is to you, and what you are to Christ. Train yourselves never to speak a hasty word. Exercise perfect self-control. Educate yourselves to perform with faithfulness every practical duty which may come to you. True and faithful are all those who will enter in through the gates into the city. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 25)

In the great mercy of God, probationary time is given to you, that you may have a preparatory heaven here below where you can develop a character that will entitle you at last to hear the blessed words, “Good and faithful servant, ... enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Verse 23.] Are you willing to be servants of the living God? By using all the capabilities and powers which God has given you, are you determined to reach the very highest standard, climbing the ladder of progress round after round, round after round, and getting a clearer and yet clearer knowledge of God and His ways and His works? If you do this, you will finally step from this ladder into the immortal inheritance. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 26)

“Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing;”—and why?—“and I will receive you.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] If you have the proper qualifications of character, Christ will receive you. Realize that you are God’s property. “Ye are not your own” to make a disposition of yourselves as you please. “Ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 27)

We are on the very borders of the eternal world. The crisis is upon us. The end of all things is at hand. Let every one realize that he has an account to settle with God by and by. God is longing to give us a most rich and greatly needed experience. If as humble servants of Jesus Christ we place ourselves in right relation to God, He will work mightily in our behalf. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 28)

As we are placed in various positions of trust, temptations and trials will come. Unless we are enlightened, unless we realize the necessity of most earnest prayer to God, unless we humble our hearts before Him, we shall lose the very essence of education. During this institute, let us do more praying than we have ever done before. We should know how to pray, and know what language to use in prayer. Let us learn how to glorify God by bearing testimony in the social meeting, or in any place where we may be called upon to speak in behalf of truth and godliness. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 29)

Read and study the first chapter of the second epistle of Peter. Work upon the plan of addition brought to view in this Scripture. “Giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off.” [Verses 5-9.] No; with all his pride of education, he cannot see the outcome. He does not see that he will lose eternal life, because he does not submit his heart to Jesus Christ, to be softened and subdued and fashioned after the divine similitude. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 30)

“But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence (observe the reason for being diligent) to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things (notice what should be done in order to be transferred to the higher grade, the school of heaven) ye shall never fall: for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” [Verses 9-11.] (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 31)

Here is an everlasting life insurance policy for every one of us. Have we looked at these promises in a correct light? God help us to see that in His love the Lord has given us probationary time, that we may get rid of all our selfishness, pride, egotism, and seeking for the highest place; and that we may become humble, devoted Christians, leading others in the way of salvation. God is calling upon all teachers and students to have as their aim in obtaining an education, the securing of this life insurance policy, that they may have the immortal inheritance, the eternal substance, and see the King in His beauty. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 32)

While obtaining our education, we have the inestimable privilege of sitting at the feet of Jesus, and at last of having it written in the books of heaven, “Ye are complete in him.” [Colossians 2:10.] O, precious, precious Saviour, who has given us all of these opportunities, that we may win eternal life! May God help every one of you to take these words to heart and meditate upon them. (16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, 33)

Ms 85, 1901

Talk/Teachers to Have an Abiding Christ
Healdsburg, California
August 30, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 5BC 1092, 1095, 1142-1143; 6BC 1075; UL 256. +

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away.” [John 15:1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 1)

“In me.” This does not mean that those who are really in Christ do not bear any fruit. God has purchased us through Christ, that He might be a propitiation for our sins. We are within the bounds of His mercy; for in mercy His arm encircles the whole human race. Since Christ has paid the price for all the service that we should give Him, we are His servants by purchase. Although we are in Christ Jesus by His covenant of promise, yet if we stand in a position of perfect indifference, without acknowledging Him as our Saviour, we bear no fruit. If by failing to be a partaker of His divine nature we bear no fruit, we are taken away. Worldly influences take us away from Christ, and our portion is the same as that of the unfruitful branch—“Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away.” (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 2)

“Every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” [Verse 2.] Our fruit-bearing testifies whether we are really abiding in Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 3)

Every opportunity, every advantage, every privilege, has been given to us to gain a rich Christian experience; but we do not learn everything all at once. There must be a growth. Many, having learned a little in school, think they are ready to graduate. They think they know about all that is worth knowing. We are not to think that as soon as we are baptized we are ready to graduate from the school of Christ. When we have accepted Christ, and in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit have pledged ourselves to serve God, the Father, Christ, and the Holy Spirit—the three dignitaries and powers of heaven—pledge themselves that every facility shall be given to us if we carry out our baptismal vows to “come out from among them, and be ... separate, ... and touch not the unclean thing.” When we are true to our vows, He says, “I will receive you.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 4)

We are Christ’s property. “Ye are not your own, ye are bought with a price.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] Are we in Him by living faith? If we do not bear any fruit, the powers of darkness take possession of our minds, our affections, our service, and we are of the world, though we profess to be children of God. This is neither a safe nor a pleasant position, because we lose all the beauty and the glory and the satisfaction that it is our privilege to have. By abiding in Christ, we may have His sweetness, His fragrance, His light. Christ is the Light of the world. He shines in our hearts. His light in our hearts shines forth from our faces. By beholding the beauty and the glory of Christ, we become changed into the same image. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 5)

“Now ye are clean through the word [through obedience to the word] which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me.” [John 15:3, 4.] Consider this. We are to abide in Christ. We make a mere profession of faith in Christ, if we keep the world and its affections in our hearts and in our minds. O, what power the enemy has to strengthen our thoughts of vanity and of self, even in our childhood years, so that when we bear responsibilities in the church there are serious defects in our character and a disagreeableness in our words, because we have not learned of Christ. If we were in Christ, learning His lessons, we should be meek and lowly of heart. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 6)

We must have an abiding Christ. Then we shall choose to accept His invitation, “Come unto me, all ye that are weary and heavy laden.” Many persons who are weary and heavy laden come to me, and to different ones, but they do not go to my Saviour, who has invited them. He says, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] How precious is this invitation! (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 7)

The Saviour adds, “Take my yoke upon you.” Are there any here who have felt that it is disagreeable to comply with the conditions Christ has made, to “take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart”? [Verse 29.] While you are preparing to teach in harmony with Jesus Christ, are you learning to bear His yoke? Or have you fixed your eye upon something very exalted which “I” am going to do—“I,” “I,” the most exalted person in the world? God can work through those who lie the lowest at the feet of Christ, those who are the most humble. He can mold them, fashioning them after the divine similitude. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 8)

If Christ does not abide in you, then take the very lowliest position, and surrender to God. Determine that you will surrender to God. When you are willing, and will to do that which God would have you do, you may come in the simplicity of a child, and tell the Lord that you realize your weakness. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 9)

We all need to humble ourselves before God and to realize our weakness. As we do this, let us have faith in the One who can help us. Let us not run to some human being, hoping that he will exalt us and tell us that we are a great deal better than we are. No; we are to come to Christ Jesus as we are, self-broken, and put ourselves fully into His hands. We are to tell Him that we are willing to be molded, not allowing in ourselves anything that bears a likeness to the powers of darkness. We need an abiding Christ. If He abides in us, we shall not think of running to human agents because we do not happen to feel just as we want to feel. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 10)

It may be that the mother or the father so trained their children that they do not have the right mold of character. These children must be born again. They must come to Jesus and give their hearts in submission to Him. They must say, “Now Lord, here I am; I am thy child, and I must have the things that I ask of thee.” (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 11)

Then take the promise of God, “Lo, I am with you alway.” [Matthew 28:20.] Believe that He has invited you to come and that you may abide in Christ and He in you. If there was no possibility of your abiding in Him, do you think that He would tell you to do so? Then why are you so troubled, when you do not have just the feeling that you expected to have? (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 12)

I do not pretend to go by feeling. I do not think of such a thing. Is feeling stronger than the Word of the living God, which is Spirit and life? When you do not feel just as you want to feel, tell the Master all about it, and ask Him to give you His peace. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 13)

“Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart.” [Matthew 11:29.] You will continue to learn all the time. When you have been converted and can say, “I have received Christ,” when your name is put on the church-book, you have not learned your whole lesson. It is then that the life with Christ, the bearing of the yoke of Christ, the learning of Christ, commences. You are to go on from step to step; and by watchfulness, by working out your own salvation with fear and trembling, you are learning how to educate others. Your very words can educate them. But do not turn away from our precious Lord to some human agency who may have just as much difficulty in understanding as you have. Come to the Master, saying, “Now I take this yoke upon me; I will learn of Thee, the divine Teacher. I must have Thy strength and grace, or I cannot bear fruit. I must have the virtue which is in the Parent-stock, or I shall fail.” (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 14)

But what is Christ’s promise?—“Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” That is just what you desire. You will find it by learning of Him in your experience. He says, “Take my yoke upon you, and I will give you rest.” [Verses 28, 29.] Learn of Him His meekness and lowliness, and by a living experience you will find rest. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 15)

Take hold of the arm of God, and say, “I am nothing and Thou art everything. Thou hast said, ‘Without me ye can do nothing.’ [John 15:5.] Now, Lord, I must have Thee abiding in me, that I may abide in Thee.” Then advance step by step, by living faith abiding in Jesus Christ. This is wearing His yoke, the yoke of obedience. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 16)

Christ continues, “For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:30.] Rejoice in this. It is the very life of your being. It will bring you into close relation with those out of Christ who need your help. You are to tell them how to find Him. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 17)

You need to walk circumspectly. Let every step be of such a character that you may reach the very highest standard. In lifting and bearing the cross, you are yourself lifted and borne upward. The cross lifts you up from the lowlands of earth and brings you into sweetest communion with God. Through bearing the cross your experience may be such that you can say, “‘I know that my Redeemer liveth’ [Job 19:25], and because He lives, I shall live also.” What an assurance is this! (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 18)

Study this chapter verse by verse, and you will see that it is when you bear the cross of Christ, that He gives you rest. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 19)

“Learn of me.” [Matthew 11:29.] There is to be a learning. You are to study Christ’s words. Step by step you are to follow in His footsteps. But there is something else to do. “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and”—follow Me?—No; “let him deny himself,”—and what?—“and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] How many of us are willing to take up the cross—to be partakers with Christ of His suffering and follow Him through cloud as well as sunshine? How many of us will realize indeed that true rest is found in taking up the yoke of Christ? By yoking up with Christ, we shall find rest; for He has covenanted with us to give us rest. In this rest there is a blessedness of more value than gold and silver and precious stones. It will fit you for any position in life. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 20)

Planted firmly upon the earth, and reaching heavenward to the throne of God, is a ladder of shining brightness. God is above the ladder, and His light is shining along its whole length. This ladder is Christ. Every round that you climb, you are coming step after step into fellowship with the sufferings of Christ, and are becoming fashioned after His divine similitude. The angels of God are constantly ascending and descending this glorious ladder. They will not let you fall, if you keep your eye fixed upon the glory of God that is at the top of the ladder. Some are trying to grasp the highest round of the ladder, without starting at the first round. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 21)

Every teacher should train the voice, so that he can speak intelligibly and read the Scriptures distinctly, giving emphasis where it is necessary and essential. The voice is a power, a talent, which few appreciate. Then cultivate your voice; for thus God is to be magnified. Let the voice be mellowed and softened by the Holy Spirit of God. There was pathos in the voice of Jesus. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 22)

Your words are a precious talent. You should learn how to bear testimonies in meeting with a clear and distinct voice, as though you knew that you had an abiding Christ. Learn to pray as though you had confidence that your prayer reached the throne of God. Then you will have an educating power which will go further than any Latin or Greek or any such knowledge you may gain. My soul is tired of hearing tame prayers—prayers offered by those who do not believe that they will receive what they ask for. These prayers hurt my soul, because I remember that Christ died in order that a whole heaven of opportunities and privileges might be brought within the reach of fallen humanity. Yet many act like helpless babes. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 23)

Teachers, you must have a living faith, or you will be separate from Christ. He does not ask how much favor you have with the world, and how much praise you are receiving from the world; but He does ask you to live so that He can put His seal upon you. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 24)

Satan is seeking to cast his hellish shadow across your pathway, that he may hinder your journey heavenward. Act as though you had within you a power from above, that in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth you may resist that power which is working intensely from beneath. To have in the heart the sweet, mellow Spirit of Jesus Christ is of more consequence than any amount of self-sufficiency and self-exaltation, which separate you from Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 25)

Christ teaches humanity never to be self-sufficient. He says, “Learn of me: I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] Learn of the One who was meek and lowly in heart—the One who has promised, “Ye shall find rest unto your souls.” This glorious experience will come, and you can say, “I know Him, I know Him; I have tested Him; I have proved Him, and He has never failed me.” (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 26)

I feel sorry for Christ. O, I feel sorry for my Redeemer, that we honor Him so little in our life service! But I feel a great deal more sorry for the half-hearted professors of religion, because unless they obtain a living experience in the things of God, they never will see His face. I feel sorry for them, because of their unbelief and their dwarfed religious life. There is not a particle of reason for such an experience, for with Christ was given all heaven. You may draw upon all the treasures of heaven. It is your privilege to be wise in Jesus Christ; to learn day by day His methods, His ways; and to be educated with Christ in God. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 27)

“I am the vine,” Jesus said; “ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] Let the fruit be manifest in your prayers. Learn how to pray. Learn how to come to the Lord, and to plead with Him until the heavenly assurance comes. And then praise Him. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 28)

Teachers, how much praise comes from your lips to the One to whom you should be full of gratitude for this probationary time during which, if you allow Christ to abide in you, you may obtain a fitting in character to live with Him? (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 29)

Co-operate with God and He will co-operate with you. Then you are God’s helping hand. Then you can take hold of Him, and He will hold your hand. He says, “I am at thy right hand to help thee.” [See Isaiah 41:13.] As you work for Him with only His glory in view, He will teach you. You are to learn all these lessons, that you may teach others. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 30)

“If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered.” God has made you children of His covenant, and if your wills are submitted to His will, you are as children that have an abiding Christ, and you will not be cast off. If men abide not in Christ, they will be as the branches of which He says, “And men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.” [John 15:6.] (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 31)

“Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.” “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” [Verses 3, 7.] Do you believe this? Have you practical faith? Do you practice the truth of God? He says, “It shall be done unto you.” In giving your testimony, do you say you are not all in a transport of joy and feeling? What has feeling to do with faith? It is just as distinct from faith as is the East from the West. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 32)

If you send up your petition to God, He says He hears you. What is your evidence? Do you feel any better than before? Do you think of and examine your feelings to see if some great change has taken place within? You should step out on the Word of God, and go straight forward, knowing that He answers your prayers, because He has promised to give, if you ask. Thus by exercising faith, bring about the answer to your petitions. As you work to answer your own prayers, you will find that God will reveal Himself unto you as He does not unto the world. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 33)

“Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit.” [Verse 8.] What will be the fruit of such a meeting as we are holding here? It costs something to provide it for you. It has cost a great deal to the Son of God. He gave His life for you. Where the grace of God is concerned, there should be no trifling with His precious time. You are on trial for your life. You are on test, to see what you are going to make of all these opportunities and privileges, all this light which shines upon your pathway. Will you come forth from this trial and test purified? “I will make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir.” [Isaiah 13:12.] Who believes it? Open now a new chapter in your experience of faith. Open a chapter of purification of everything that interposes between the soul and God. Lay hold upon the promises of God which are “yea” and “amen” in Christ Jesus—not outside of Christ. [2 Corinthians 1:20.] (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 34)

There are some who love the society of the world, who think it is a great deal better than the society of those who are not considered so elevated and who do not know, as they judge, half so much. Teachers, know enough to obey God and His commandments. By studying His Word, know enough to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, to wear the yoke of Christ. Then you will become fools for Christ’s sake. It is not the so-called wisdom of worldlings that God accounts anything. He says their wisdom is foolishness; but to them the wisdom of God is foolishness. Do you desire to have the wisdom of God? Humble yourselves before God, walk in the way of His commandments, be determined that you shall make the most of every educational privilege, gather every ray of divine light, practice the light, bring it into your life and character, and thus show that you have learned of Jesus. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 35)

“As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you.” Think of this! As the Father has loved His Son, Christ loves you. “Continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:9-11.] (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 36)

God grant that from this time every one here may have a new experience. Begin now to reach higher and still higher. Prize the things of heaven above earthly attractions and inducements. In this institute it is your privilege to advance. Learn how to pray; learn how to bear a clear and intelligent testimony; and God will be glorified in you. If you trust God, if you commit the keeping of your souls unto Him as unto a faithful Creator, you will have the sweet assurance of His love. (16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, 37)

Ms 86, 1901

The Need of Medical Missionary Work
NP
September 12, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in RH 03/04/1902; CH 575-579. +

The Lord will have a people who are as true as steel to principle. He has pointed out the work devolving on every church. He declares that the church members are faithfully to do their duty to those within their own borders. They are generously to support their own poor. They are to engage in systematic missionary work, teaching their children to keep the way of the Lord and to do justice and judgment. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 1)

But the light, which for years has been before the churches, has been disregarded. The work which ought to have been done for suffering humanity in every church has not been done. Church members have failed to heed the Word of the Lord, and this has deprived them of an experience they should have gained in gospel work. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 2)

The Lord gave Dr. Kellogg a special work to do—the work of reaching the higher classes, the people represented in the Word as those in the highways. Under divine supervision he was to carry forward this work. But it was not to be expected that Dr. Kellogg should carry all the burdens. He is to have the hearty co-operation of his brethren. When he saw such a lack of missionary effort, he placed himself where increased burdens came upon him. He took responsibilities which brought too heavy a strain upon him. He did this because he was filled with an intense desire to do the work which he saw needed to be done. He knew that many of his ministering brethren were not following the counsel of God, and he had little confidence in their discernment and judgment. Had not the Lord worked in his behalf, he would ere this have succumbed to the pressure of the work which he thought it his duty to do. He would have become confused, and this is what the enemy desired. But He who reads every heart did not leave His servant to fall into infidelity because of the defective course of persons whose spiritual eyesight was not clear, who did not do the work they should have done to plant the standard of truth in new places. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 3)

There is a great work to be done in the cities throughout the States, and especially in the cities of the Southern States, so many of which are unworked. In this work there are many difficulties to meet, and the Lord calls for wise and understanding workers who will surmount these difficulties. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 4)

The cause of God has been in great need of new blood, fresh talent. There are many who have stood off to criticize and condemn; but what have they done to help in the great necessity? Had those claiming to believe the truth taken up the work of health reform and gone forth to do missionary work in the cities of the South, a harvest of souls would have been gathered for the Lord. Men and women ought to be working in this field, preparing colored workers to labor for the colored people. This work must be done with the greatest caution. No careless, headstrong movements should be made. Little can be done in large cities unless the workers are humble and teachable, daily looking to the Lord for guidance. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 5)

Medical missionary work—Christlike ministry for the suffering—this is the work that will remove the mist of ignorance and superstition which for so long has hung over the Southern field. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 6)

If God’s workers had labored in new fields as they should, if they had done medical missionary work as they should, much fruit would now be seen in places where as yet nothing has been done. Had they sought the Lord diligently, He would have given them places in which to work. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 7)

The instruction the Lord has given me is that a field should not be shunned because it has objectionable features. This world was seared and marred by the curse, but still Christ came to it. He, the Son of the Most High God, was made flesh, and dwelt among us. He willingly left His high command to take His place at the head of a fallen race, becoming poor that through His poverty we might be made rich. He is the greatest medical missionary who has ever blessed the world. He gave His disciples practical lessons, teaching them how to work in such a way as to make souls glad in the truth. He sympathized with the weary, the heavy laden, the oppressed. He fed the hungry and healed the sick. Constantly He went about doing good. By the good He accomplished, by His loving words and kindly deeds, He interpreted the gospel. Intelligence and virtue marked His work. Benevolence, compassion, and love were revealed wherever He went. He gave His life to save the world. His example rebukes our half-hearted efforts. How can He acknowledge us as laborers together with Him? (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 8)

We read of Christ, “And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim; that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; the people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up.... And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. And his fame went throughout all Syria; and they brought unto him all sick people, that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatic, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.” [Matthew 4:13-16, 23, 24.] (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 9)

The Lord continually carried on evangelistic work, and this every minister of the gospel should do. He has appointed us His ambassadors, to carry forward His work in the world. To every true, self-sacrificing worker is given the commission, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” [Mark 16:15.] (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 10)

Read carefully the instruction given in the New Testament. The work that the great Teacher did in connection with His disciples is the example we are to follow in our medical missionary work. But have we followed this example? The glad tidings of salvation are to be proclaimed in every village, town, and city. But where are the missionaries? In the name of the Lord I ask, Where are the laborers together with God? (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 11)

By an unselfish interest in those in need of help we are to give a practical demonstration of the truth of the gospel. “If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, Depart in peace; be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body, what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” [James 2:15-17.] “And now abideth faith, hope, and charity; but the greatest of these is charity.” [1 Corinthians 13:13.] (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 12)

Much more than mere sermonizing is included in the preaching of the gospel. The ignorant are to be enlightened. The youth are to be instructed. Children are to be taught by means of object lessons. The human voice is to act its part in God’s work. Words of tenderness, sympathy, and love are to witness to the truth. Earnest, heartfelt prayers are to bring the angels nearer. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 13)

The evangelization of the world is the work God has given to those who go forth in His name. They are to be co-laborers with Christ, revealing to those ready to perish His tender, pitying love. God calls for thousands to work for Him, not by preaching to those who know the truth, but by warning those who have never heard the last message of mercy. Work with a heart filled with an earnest longing for souls. Do medical missionary work. Thus you will gain access to the hearts of the people. The way will be prepared for a more decided proclamation of the truth. You will find that relieving physical suffering gives you opportunity to minister to the needs of the soul. The union of Christlike work for the body and Christlike work for the soul is a true interpretation of the gospel. To hold forth the Word of life is to preach and practice the gospel message. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 14)

Those who minister in word and doctrine should pray in faith for the sick, at the same time doing what they can by the use of the facilities which God has provided to heal suffering. The Lord will give them success in this work. The gospel is the power of God unto salvation when it is interwoven with the practical life, when it is lived and practiced. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 15)

Christ’s power was always manifested to heal physical suffering. And then He said, “Behold, thou art made whole; sin no more, lest a worse thing happen unto thee.” [John 5:14.] Those who do not accept the light God has given in regard to the proper care of the body, who do not do their best to prevent sickness and disease, are not the proper ones to engage in medical missionary work. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 16)

A Reform Needed

Greater reforms should be seen among the people who claim to be looking for the soon appearing of Christ. Should Seventh-day Adventists practice what they profess to believe, what a surprise it would be to the world! If they were sincere health-reformers, they would indeed be a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men. They would show a far greater zeal for the salvation of those who are ignorant of the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 17)

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, but who are still eating the flesh of animals, thus endangering physical, mental, and spiritual health. Many who are now only half-converted on the question of meat-eating will go from God’s people and walk no more with them. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 18)

In our work we must obey the laws which God has given for the preservation of health, that the physical and spiritual energies may work in harmony. Those who preach the gospel should be strictly temperate in their eating and drinking, lest they make crooked paths for their feet, turning the lame—those weak in the faith—out of the way. If while proclaiming the most solemn and important message that God has ever given, men war against the truth by indulgence in eating and drinking, they take all the force from the message they bear. If ministers eat beef, they will preach beef; for animal food has an unfavorable influence upon the perceptive faculties. Men may have a form of godliness, they may even preach the gospel, and yet be unpurified and unsanctified. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 19)

Those who indulge in meat-eating, tea-drinking, and habits of gluttony are sowing seeds for a harvest of pain and death. The meat, condiments, spices, and pickles which are introduced into the stomach strengthen the appetites which war against the soul, developing the lower propensities. A diet of flesh meat develops animalism. A development of animalism lessens spirituality, rendering the mind incapable of understanding practical truth. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 20)

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. A warfare is instituted between the higher and the lower attributes of the man. The quarrel is kept up. Every appetite indulged that is at enmity with the laws of the being becomes a warring lust. Lustful eating wars against health and peace. The highest interests of the soul are imperilled by the indulgence of appetites which heaven has not sanctioned. The lower propensities, strong and active, oppress the soul. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 21)

Many who are afflicted with bodily ailments are themselves responsible for their sufferings. When sickness comes to the one who has pursued a course of self-indulgence, he requests prayers for his recovery. But should he be spared, would he forsake his wrong habits and seek for sanctification? If, before disease had taken firm hold upon his system, he had seen and practiced the truth, the outlook would be more hopeful. The Lord cannot work a miracle, He cannot change the course of His physical laws, in order to prevent the consequence of wrongdoing. God requires us, by being temperate in eating and drinking, to act our part toward keeping ourselves in health. He cannot enlighten the mind of a man who makes a cesspool of his stomach. He does not hear the prayers of those who are walking in the light of the sparks of their own kindling. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 22)

Great care should be taken to form right habits of eating and drinking. The food eaten should be that which will make the best blood. The delicate organs of digestion should be respected. Intemperance is seen in the quantity of food eaten. The general practice is to over-load the stomach. Daily abused, the digestive organs cannot do their work well. A poor quality of blood is made, and thus, through improper eating, the whole machinery is crippled. Give the stomach less to do. It will recover if care is shown with regard to the quantity and quality of food eaten. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 23)

Eating has much to do with religion. Eating and drinking in accordance with the laws of health will produce virtuous actions. But if improper food is eaten, if the stomach is abused by habits which have no foundation in nature, the powers of discernment are enfeebled. Sacred things are not appreciated. Spiritual zeal diminishes. Peace of mind is lost. Taking advantage of the wrong which has been done, Satan uses the stomach as an enemy of righteousness, creating a disturbance which involves the entire being. The spiritual experience is greatly affected by the way in which the stomach is treated. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 24)

To eat on the Sabbath the same amount of food eaten on a working day is entirely out of place. The Sabbath is the day set apart for the worship of God, and on it we are to be especially careful in regard to our diet. A clogged stomach means a clogged brain. Too often so large an amount of food is eaten on the Sabbath that the mind is rendered dull and stupid, incapable of appreciating spiritual things. The habits of eating have much to do with the many dull religious exercises of the Sabbath. The diet for the Sabbath should be selected with reference to the religious exercises of this day, on which the purest and holiest service is to be offered to God. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 25)

The time has come when it is essential that the house we live in—the body—be carefully guarded. God calls for a decided reformation. 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 manifested had God’s people walked in the light. All creation is groaning under the curse, and 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. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 26)

The Lord has instructed me to bear a decided testimony against making an idol of food. The apostle plainly states that those who reach a high standard of righteousness must be temperate in all things. The Lord sends this message to His people: “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air; but I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection; lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” [1 Corinthians 9:24-27.] (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 27)

“And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand; let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.” [Romans 13:11-14.] (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 28)

*****

Our Talents

God uses in His work men of varied capabilities. Some present the truth in such a persuasive manner that they are selected to minister in word and doctrine. Others are entrusted with talents which enable them to do business in various lines, while others are entrusted with the gift of teaching. “He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 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 fulness of Christ.” [Ephesians 4:11-13.] (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 29)

Christ likens the kingdom of heaven to a man who, when about to take a long journey, called to him his servants, and delivered to them his goods, giving to one five talents, to another two, and to another one, bidding them trade upon them. After a long time he returned and reckoned with them. The servant who had received five talents and the servant who had received two brought to their lord the talents entrusted to them, with the increase they had gained by trading. And in terms of the highest approval their lord commended their diligence and skill, saying, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” [Matthew 25:21.] (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 30)

“Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed; and I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth; lo, there thou hast that is thine.” [Verses 24, 25.] (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 31)

This is the reflection all unfaithful servants cast upon God, saying that He desires to take from them that which He has not given them. But it is impossible to give to God anything that is not already His. “What? 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.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 32)

God’s claims have been plainly set forth. No one need to be in doubt as to where he should use his time, his influence, his money. To each one of us comes the question, “Have you a proper appreciation of your God-given talents? Are you in their use co-operating with God?” You may have only one talent, but if this one talent is faithfully used in God’s service, it will be increased. God will accept your purposes and will co-operate with you in your efforts. (16LtMs, Ms 86, 1901, 33)

Ms 87, 1901

“Many temptations will come ...”
NP
1901
Previously unpublished.

Many temptations will come to the workers in our sanitariums. How important that those connected with them be freed from reproach. (16LtMs, Ms 87, 1901, 1)

Great harm will come to our sanitariums, if in any department young girls are employed who are vain and foolish, easily led into false paths. It is a great mistake to admit into these institutions young, frivolous girls and boys. Those who are employed in any department should have qualifications which recommend them as likely to become useful, capable workers. (16LtMs, Ms 87, 1901, 2)

The physicians and managers should use the greatest care that there is nothing in their behavior toward the young ladies employed as nurses and helpers that would cause Satan, by his wiles, to disgrace our work and hinder the great good that should be accomplished. When a man is sanctified by the truth, when he keeps his capabilities pure and holy, he acts as the Lord’s helping hand; but when there is a stain on his soul, when his thoughts are defiled, when he follows the loose, corrupting practices of the world, he is a shame and reproach to the sanitarium with which he is connected. His evil course should be plainly set before him, and unless he repents, he should be separated from the institution. (16LtMs, Ms 87, 1901, 3)

God will not commit His glory to a man whose soul-temple is defiled, and who closes his eyes to his own danger and the danger of others. Such a man, by his plausible words, deceives young girls, and though no actual crime may be committed, they are wronged. Though married, he pays attentions to young girls who are foolish enough to accept them, leading them to think that the words he speaks are wisdom and truth. “All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the Lord weigheth the spirits.” [Proverbs 16:2.] (16LtMs, Ms 87, 1901, 4)

Our sanitariums are established to break down the prejudice which exists in the world against the truth for this time. How important that loose principles be not allowed to prevail. One act of misdoing will undo for years the good that might have been accomplished if the high standard of Christianity had been maintained. (16LtMs, Ms 87, 1901, 5)

Unless great care is used, there will be found among our physicians and managers men who are not sanctified—soul, body, and spirit—men who should have no place in the work of God. They may have a knowledge of the truth, but they have not a sense of the sinfulness of sin. (16LtMs, Ms 87, 1901, 6)

The corrupted morality that is being brought in is destroying the sacredness of these institutions that are established to honor and glorify God. A married man who selects some young girl and pays her special attention does a great injury to himself and to the one selected, and deeply wrongs his wife. Thus he places in peril an institution which, as God’s sanctuary, should stand forth without a taint of corruption. O, it is such a pity that Satan has so many helpers in those who ought to act as Christ’s helping hand, by their example leading the youth to a higher standard of purity. (16LtMs, Ms 87, 1901, 7)

What a terrible thing it is for those who should be shepherds of the flock to be wolves in sheep’s clothing, destroying the sheep of the Lord’s pasture. (16LtMs, Ms 87, 1901, 8)

God calls upon those who act as leaders to be pure and as true as steel to principle. There is hope for all in God. He is faithful, and His purpose for us will be fulfilled if we but do our part. God is rich in mercy, and from Him alone cometh our help. (16LtMs, Ms 87, 1901, 9)

Ms 88, 1901

“I am instructed to say ...”
NP
1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 8MR 394-396.

I am instructed to say that God calls for greater purification and sanctification in His sanitariums. Those connected with the Lord’s work are to reach a far higher standard. All superficiality is to be put away. All cheap pretense of serving God is to cease. His institutions are established to glorify His name. He is to be recognized in them. He is to be made the first and last and best in everything. Then the truths which have been given us for this time will stand out before the world with convincing power. (16LtMs, Ms 88, 1901, 1)

Those who come to our sanitariums should find an influence which creates in them a desire to know Jesus. Then they will obtain not only relief from bodily suffering, but will find a balm for the sin-sick soul. One precious soul saved in the kingdom of God is worth more than silver or gold. (16LtMs, Ms 88, 1901, 2)

Satan and his agents will do all they can to hinder the work that God desires to have done in the sanitarium. They know the great good that would be accomplished, if each worker were a channel through which the Lord could reach poor, suffering humanity. Often difficulties and perplexities and heavy burdens will be the lot of those who labor in God’s institutions. It is a solemn and important work, and Satan will bring all his power against it. But God’s blessing will rest on His sanitariums when each worker connected with them looks at his work from a high religious standpoint. (16LtMs, Ms 88, 1901, 3)

Physicians should work together harmoniously, disinterestedly, and zealously for the good of those who are perishing around us, ever keeping prominent that the great object to be attained is perfection and the spirit of holiness, which cannot be attained with diseased minds and bodies. Sin is the cause of disease and suffering, and a true physician will seek to remove this cause by pointing the soul to the “Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] (16LtMs, Ms 88, 1901, 4)

The physicians and managers should be upright, trustworthy men; the matron, while kind, should be as firm as a rock to principle. Every helper should act as if he were a part of the firm, for God counts him as such. (16LtMs, Ms 88, 1901, 5)

None are to think that they are to work only a certain number of hours each day. When emergencies arise and extra help is needed, they should respond willingly and cheerfully. They should feel an intense interest in the success of the institution with which they are connected. (16LtMs, Ms 88, 1901, 6)

The one who holds the position as cook has a most responsible place. He should be trained to habits of economy and should realize that no food is to be wasted. Christ said, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] Let those who are engaged in any department heed this instruction. Economy is to be learned by the educators and taught to the helpers not only by precept, but by example. (16LtMs, Ms 88, 1901, 7)

Self-denial is to be brought into the daily experience of each worker. Let them say to one another, Come; we will put all earnestness into our labors; “for the night is at hand, when no man can work.” [John 9:4.] Let no one lose minutes by talking, when he should be working. There are times when he has no right to talk nor to stand still. Make not others idle by tempting them to listen to your conversation. Not only is your own time lost, but that of others is wasted when you spend in chatting the time you should spend doing your work. The Word of inspiration tells us that we are to be “not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.” [Romans 12:11.] Then let all take hold of the work in earnest. (16LtMs, Ms 88, 1901, 8)

If helpers have not learned the science of being quick, doing their work with dispatch, let them begin at once to train themselves in this line, or consent that their wages be proportioned to the amount of work done. Every day each one should become more and more efficient, more all-round and helpful. All can individually help themselves to reach a higher and still higher standard, as the Lord’s helping hand. (16LtMs, Ms 88, 1901, 9)

Let those, who are naturally slow, train themselves day by day to do their work more quickly and at the same time more carefully. Ask the Lord to help you to be able to learn the science of being quick. The present is our time for earnest labor. Let those who work for the Lord, in whatever department it may be, put all diligence into their efforts. Pray for grace to overcome shiftlessness in temporal and spiritual matters. Rise above indolence. We will be led to work faithfully when we have faith in God and a genuine love for souls. (16LtMs, Ms 88, 1901, 10)

Be determined to be just what the Lord desires you to be. Put your heart and soul into your work. We are to love God with all our heart, mind, and strength. The efforts we put forth to advance His cause will show our love. Every worker should be willing to put in faithful time. All should be producers as well as consumers, becoming able to take hold of the work in various places, if called from one department to another. Seek to become efficient in every line of the work. Those who are earnest and faithful may receive knowledge and understanding from God, and can gain tact and ingenuity because they are willing to learn and to do. (16LtMs, Ms 88, 1901, 11)

Ms 89, 1901

“The Lord would have all who are ...”
NP
1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in The Southern Watchman, 10/09/1901.
Sept. 29, 1901
Read to the Southern Publishing Association employees,

The Lord would have all who are laborers in His institutions free from selfishness, for the lover of self is a transgressor of the law. Those who are truly united to Christ will reveal the glory of God. Those whom God will accept for His work must be as true as steel to principle. They must be men and women who are emptied of self, who give evidence that they are wearing Christ’s yoke and manifesting His meekness and lowliness of heart. (16LtMs, Ms 89, 1901, 1)

The Word of God is to be lived as well as preached. It is to be brought into every phase of the Christian’s work. Those who fill places of trust and responsibility must die to self if they would have the Lord rule and guide their lives. The soul-temple must be cleansed and the heart’s door opened to let Jesus in. The obeying of the Word by all connected with God’s institutions will lead to a state of things vastly different from that which now exists. There will be a putting away of fleshly lusts and greed for gain. “And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” [Galatians 5:24, 25.] (16LtMs, Ms 89, 1901, 2)

We are to show supreme love to God; the salvation of precious souls must engage our first and highest thought. We are to manifest mercy, benevolence, and the tenderest pity for all. “Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” [Leviticus 19:18.] As workers for God, we must take hold of this work. Our love must be revealed in good works. This will give power to the truth, and there will be no limit to plans for the salvation of souls. (16LtMs, Ms 89, 1901, 3)

Those engaged in any department of our institutions should realize that they are there to work for God. They are co-laborers with Jesus. No selfishness should mar their work. Many who acknowledge that our institutions belong to the Lord, and that they are connected with them as His laborers, neglect the claims of God. Yet they do not sense that they are doing wrong. They are shut up to self-serving. Let them not suppose that they can live a life of selfishness, merely serving their own interests, and then at last enter into the joy of their Lord. He who refuses to impart to others that which he has received will at last find that he has nothing to give. It will be said, “Take the talent from him.” [Matthew 25:28.] We should not mistake the enjoyment of our blessings for the use we should make of them. (16LtMs, Ms 89, 1901, 4)

Many try to excuse themselves from active Christian work, because they are incapable. God did not make them so. They have drifted along, carrying no responsibility, thinking of self and pleasing self. Continual neglect and misuse of their talent have caused it to be taken away and given to another. Talent employed to bless others increases the gift, but when used only to bless self it diminishes, and finally is withdrawn. How few realize that they are responsible for the work they have failed to do by not using their entrusted talent as they should have done. God would have each worker develop the attributes of His character—compassion, long-suffering, tenderness, and love. (16LtMs, Ms 89, 1901, 5)

Angels from heaven stand by the side of all who do service in leading souls to Christ. Those who unite heart and soul in the work of God will be prepared to work in Christ’s lines. With humble, devoted reverence they will labor on the right hand and on the left, using their God-given capabilities to save their fellow man. With singing and praise and thanksgiving they rejoice with God and the heavenly host as they see souls uplifted and helped. (16LtMs, Ms 89, 1901, 6)

The Lord would have His institutions cleansed and elevated to a high and holy standard. Those connected with them He would beautify with the spirit of holiness and have them express the image of His dear Son. He would have them real helps and not hindrances. Christ’s righteousness is abundantly imputed to all who hunger and thirst for it. “Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.” [Matthew 5:6.] (16LtMs, Ms 89, 1901, 7)

Every soul that truly accepts Jesus as his personal Saviour will pant for the privilege of serving God. He will covet toil, hardship, and sacrifice, if only he may follow in Christ’s footsteps. (16LtMs, Ms 89, 1901, 8)

Workers connected with our institutions are to be united in bonds of sympathy and kindness. They must remember that they are to be faithful stewards, having compassion on those who may err. They are to cultivate patience, brotherly kindness, and forbearance. It is Satan who leads us to be unfeeling, without compassion or tenderness. (16LtMs, Ms 89, 1901, 9)

Those in responsible positions are to be humble. If they have the love of Christ abiding in the heart, they will not want to hurt and condemn. Instead of destroying, they will seek to restore. They will rid themselves of the unmerciful spirit which so greatly offends God. (16LtMs, Ms 89, 1901, 10)

We are engaged in the work of the Most High. He will accept the work of no man who hurts and discourages Christ’s heritage. Let us not weave into the web of our work one thread of selfishness—neglect and carelessness of others. (16LtMs, Ms 89, 1901, 11)

Oh, that all the Lord’s institutions might be bright and shining lights to lead souls to God! This is the purpose for which the institutions are established, and it is for this that men and women should accept a place in them as God’s workers. (16LtMs, Ms 89, 1901, 12)

Ms 90, 1901

The Southern California Conference
NP
September 17, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in PUR 09/26/1901.

During the Los Angeles camp-meeting many important questions came forward for consideration. Some of them were very perplexing. And because similar questions will arise in other young conferences and missions on the Pacific Coast, and elsewhere, I will speak of them through the Recorder. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 1)

At the last General Conference, the work of organizing union conferences was well begun. This work, carried forward till a thorough and efficient organization is perfected, will prove a great blessing. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 2)

At the Oakland camp-meeting, it was proposed to divide the large California Conference into two conferences. This is a matter of great importance. In many ways it will be for the advancement of the work. Workers in the southern part of California should not be obliged to wait for the action of committeemen hundreds of miles away before proceeding with conference work which all who are on the ground regard as essential. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 3)

And in the management of sanitarium and restaurant work also, men of sound judgment should be selected to take the local management, that the work may go forward without unnecessary delay. But the brethren in this new conference should not move forward without taking counsel with their brethren in the sister conferences on the Pacific Coast. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 4)

The light given me is that the very best talent should be placed on the general boards, and that the brethren in Southern California should ask counsel from these boards when considering the establishment of large interests, such as the starting of a sanitarium, a food factory, or a school. These are interests too large to be left to the decisions of a local board of a newly formed conference. Mistakes or errors of judgment in these undertakings in California will mean more to the cause elsewhere than many suppose. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 5)

The question in the minds of some is, Should not the Southern [California] Conference have the power to act independently? The following is the instruction given me with reference to this question: (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 6)

The formation of a conference in Southern California does not mean that this conference is to stand alone in its working, isolated from other parts of the union conference. It is not to be a separate entity. Those in that part of the field should not suppose themselves competent to carry forward large enterprises without asking advice and counsel from their brethren. They cannot work in a restless, independent spirit and have the approval of God. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 7)

If the brethren in the newly made conference understood what is involved in the establishment and conducting of a sanitarium and a food factory, they would not desire the conference to take this work so fully into its own hands. This work does not concern merely Los Angeles and the rest of Southern California. It concerns all California, and goes beyond California to the conferences around and to the parent sanitarium in Battle Creek. In starting a health food factory, we should remember that its work will affect the entire health food work. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 8)

The formation of the Southern California Conference was a wise move. The matter now to be proved is, Will the men who have been chosen to direct in this Conference carry the work forward wisely? If they show that they think they are able to stand alone, plan alone, and work alone, they give evidence that they do not measure their capabilities as God measures them. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 9)

It is not God’s design that the Southern California Conference shall carry large and important responsibilities, which affect the whole field, without the counsel of the Union Conference Committee and the aid of most trustworthy businessmen. All the movements made to advance the work on the Pacific Coast are to be carefully scrutinized and the work closely knit together. The Southern California Conference is to harmonize with the other conferences on the Pacific Coast. They may have made mistakes, but from these mistakes the new conference may learn wisdom. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 10)

Some conferences have tried to establish sanitariums on an independent basis, entirely separate from all other branches of the medical work, but this experiment has always been a failure. Those who take up a new work for the Master of the vineyard are to receive help from those who have had an experience in this work both in failure and success. This is to be distinctly understood. The workers in one part of the field are never to think that they can stand as an independent whole. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 11)

Those who desire complete independence for the Southern California Conference are seeking for something different from what was intended in the separation of that conference from the Northern Conference. In all the work done there is to be harmonious action. Those who have charge of the work in Southern California are to make solid, intelligent advancement. But they are never to work in a way which says to their brethren, We want none of your counsel. We are capable of showing what we can do. We will show that we shall prosper if left to ourselves. My brethren, you are never to look upon the separation of the conference in this light. This is not the way in which God works. The work done in one part of His vineyard is to be done with reference to the work in other parts of His vineyard. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 12)

Never attempt to build a sanitarium or a school until you have studied the lesson which Christ gave in regard to building a tower. “Which of you,” He says, “intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.” [Luke 14:28-30.] The folly of beginning a work without counting the cost is a reproach to God. Let those who are considering the establishment of a sanitarium first sit down and find out what means they can command. Then let them limit their outlay to their means. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 13)

Do not rush. This will hinder the work. Before purchasing a site, find out what the wealthy men of the place will do to help the enterprise. If these men are approached wisely, they will be quite willing to help. Do not think that you must give the impression that you have a full treasury from which to draw. Do not think that strength lies in making a display, so that the world will think us a great and influential people. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 14)

From the beginning of the work on the sanitarium—from the selection of the site and the laying of the cornerstone—let everything be done with modesty, without boasting or display. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 15)

In the erection of the Boulder Sanitarium a great mistake was made in this respect. There were wealthy men in Colorado who would have helped in the erection of the Sanitarium, had they been asked. But a course was followed which gave the impression that Seventh-day Adventists are a rich people, able to erect costly structures. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 16)

The Lord has been greatly dishonored because men have followed the inclination of the natural heart. The work of these men stands today as a witness against pride of display. Because of their extravagance, the work in new fields has been crippled. Foreign missionary fields have been robbed of that which belonged to them. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 17)

How does God wish us to work? In self-denial and self-sacrifice. Not a thread of selfishness is to be woven into the pattern. As those who have been placed in positions of trust establish new enterprises, they are to remember the poverty-stricken fields needing help. The work in the dark places of the earth is to be established. God is not pleased when the appeals for help made by those who are working in these fields are not answered, when years elapse before His truth is properly represented. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 18)

Let us seek counsel from God. It is the Lord’s money which the wealthy men of the world have, and we should not hesitate to ask them to impart of the Lord’s goods for the establishment of sanitariums, which are for the benefit of all classes of people. It is the privilege of the Lord’s servants to go to these men and solicit their aid for the advancement of the work. As you in Southern California do this, tell those to whom you go of the missionary work being done throughout America. Tell them of the Sanitarium in Battle Creek. Tell them you wish to establish in California certain lines of missionary work, and that it is their privilege to help. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 19)

Tell them that Christ gave His life on Calvary’s cross to save to the uttermost all who come to Him, and that He has commissioned His disciples to carry on His work in the world, saying, “All power is given unto me, in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18-20.] (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 20)

Preach a crucified and risen Saviour. If your heart is guided by the Holy Spirit, your words will make a deep impression on minds. Hope will be aroused; courage and faith will be awakened. God gave His only begotten Son to save sinners. Then will He not exercise His mighty power for the advancement of His work? (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 21)

I beseech you not to allow human wisdom to come in and spoil the work of God. You need all the sanctified human wisdom you can possibly obtain from wise and understanding counsellors. And besides this, you need wisdom from above. Look beyond human beings to the divine Counsellor. Pray, O, pray with heart and voice that God will lead, so that mistakes shall not be made! (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 22)

I urge you again, my brethren in southern California, to remember that we are all parts of one great whole. It is not safe for those who so earnestly desire to work on independent lines to be left alone in the work. If God has ever spoken by me, I tell you that at the beginning of your work in this new conference, you must humble your hearts before the Lord and build on the solid Rock. God calls for unity of purpose and action. (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 23)

The end is near. Satan is working with an intensity of effort. Let none of us work blindly, making our efforts of none effect by striving with one another. In order to have strength to meet the increasing power of those who are opposed to God, we must drink deeply of the water of life. God desires His people constantly to gain new power; but we are not all doing this. Christ speaks to us the words He spoke to His disciples, “Watch and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.” [Matthew 26:41.] (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 24)

Paul writes, “If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and 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.... Do all things without murmurings and disputings; that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.” [Philippians 2:1-3, 14, 15.] (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 25)

“Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering, 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.” [Colossians 3:12-14.] (16LtMs, Ms 90, 1901, 26)

Ms 91, 1901

Talk/Teachers to Make the Lord Their Strength and Efficiency
Healdsburg, California
September 4, 1901
Formerly Undated Ms 139. Portions of this manuscript are published in OHC 325; HP 78; 2MCP 650-651; LHU 185.

A talk at the Church School Teachers’ Institute. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 1)

“Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, as newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.” [1 Peter 2:1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 2)

What a wonderful lesson there is in these words! Teachers, it is necessary to lay aside these things, that you may be prepared to partake of the precious food. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 3)

“If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.” [Verse 3.] Have you tasted that the Lord is gracious? Does your spiritual appetite crave communion with the Lord? You may discover that He is gracious, not by having all you desire, but by passing through the school of affliction. Since I was nine years old I have been learning in the school of affliction. In my early childhood I could find nothing desirable but the precious words of Jesus. Since I tasted the Word of God in all its sweetness, I have never lost the desire for more. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 4)

After I went to Australia, I was afflicted with the rheumatism and malaria. For eleven months I did not have the free use of my arms. After the first week of wonder as to what it all meant, I concluded it would be best to stop wondering, and to leave myself in the hands of the Lord. I tasted His goodness, and found that He is gracious. Only a little while during the night could I forget the pain enough to sleep. Yet I tasted the Lord’s goodness. The sense of His presence shut me in from the world, so that it seemed as if I could speak to Him face to face as did Moses. Throughout all the pain and suffering, I felt that I had with me a heavenly Companion. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 5)

During the eleven months of affliction I learned the preciousness of tasting the graciousness of Christ, and realized the benefits of communion with God. I feared that my usefulness was gone. As long as I kept my arms down, I did very well. Whenever I moved them I suffered much pain. But I often spoke to the people. My brethren would not allow me the privilege of retirement. Carrying me in an easy chair, they took me into the halls to speak. My voice did not fail, and my mind was fully as clear as it now is. I had not a particle of heart difficulty. Only the muscles and nerves of my limbs were affected. The blessing of God was upon me, and I regard those months as being the most precious period of my life. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 6)

Because we are afflicted, we are not to think that we must succumb. Although during my affliction I had the use of my right hand when held only in a certain position, I wrote twenty-five hundred pages of letter-paper to be sent across the broad waters. Thus a blessing was mingled with the suffering that came to me. My hand never became tired, nor have I ever had any difficulty with it. God has strengthened it, so that I can write constantly. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 7)

Paul continues: “If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious. To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious.” [Verses 3, 4.] We should not allow the mind to wander, first to one thing and then to another. We should hold it to the task. When we live temperately, we are capable of understanding, we have hunger of soul for righteousness, and are brought close to the One whom God has chosen. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 8)

What is the result?—“Ye also, as lively stones [not dead material], are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.” [Verse 5.] Whenever I read this Scripture, I feel a great joy that it is our privilege to offer up in faith spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 9)

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.” [John 1:12.] 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. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 10)

We accept too low a standard of spirituality. If we would grasp the hand of infinite power, we would reach a much higher standard. Christ says, “I am at thy right hand to help thee.” [See Isaiah 41:13.] What more could we in our weakness desire? Shall we go to one another with all our troubles, telling human beings the temptations we have and how weak we are? The Saviour is standing at our right hand, offering to lift us up, that we may “sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:6.] But so often we turn away from Him and His promises, and tell our troubles to those who, like ourselves, are but mortal, with troubles which only Christ can bear. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 11)

Can we get relief from them? Let us no longer dishonor God by turning from Him to human inefficiency. Let us come to Christ just as we are, and place ourselves in His hands, saying, “Lord Jesus, I believe in Thy keeping power. I believe that I am kept by the power of God through faith. I will no longer dishonor Thee by turning from the Source, the Fountainhead of strength, to lean on the arm of flesh.” (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 12)

Take your troubles to the Master. Say, “Here I am, Lord. Thou knowest all about me, and Thou canst help me. I will follow in Thy footsteps and do Thy will.” When you commit yourself to God, you may be sure that in all times of affliction you will have the very help that you need. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 13)

Night after night, when I do not know what to do or how to meet the cases presented before me, I simply tell it all to the Lord, saying, “Jesus, thou knowest all about this. I must have help; for I can do nothing without it. I will cling to Thee for the help I must have.” (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 14)

When we meet together, let us remember that it is the effectual, fervent prayer that avails with God. We should pray from the heart, and when we pray we should be as confident as is the man who with his whole armor on approaches an enemy. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 15)

The enemy is trying to interpose between us and Christ. He casts his shadow across our pathway, apparently making it impossible for us to go forward. But by exercising living faith we are able to pass through the dark shadow and find our Saviour beyond. When a shadow is cast before you, when you cannot see light at the right hand or at the left, you may know that it is time for you to wrestle with God. Jacob wrestled with Him and prevailed. There should be more wrestling prayer, more living faith. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 16)

Every teacher should have an intelligent understanding of what Christ is to him individually. When you know that the Lord is your strength and efficiency, you can commit the keeping of your soul to God, as unto a faithful Creator. In doing this you will honor God far more than if you were to go to a neighbor, or to write a letter, seeking for advice. While I was in Australia many persons sent letters of inquiry to me across the broad waters of the Pacific. It took two or three months for them to receive an answer. Standing by their side all the time was One full of power and grace, saying, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] What more could He say? Why did they not go to Him with their perplexities? They would have found rest in Him. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 17)

The apostle continues: “Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.” [1 Peter 2:6.] Cannot you present this promise before Him, asking Him to give you power to believe? This is the education which as teachers you are to obtain. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 18)

“Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, and a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.” [Verses 7, 8.] They are disobedient, and therefore to them Christ is a rock of offence. They stumble when the Word interferes with their selfish inclinations and ambitions. They desire to reach the highest round of the ladder without climbing step by step from the lowest round; therefore they fail to receive that practical education which they should have to impart to others. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 19)

“Whereunto also they were appointed.” [Verse 8.] They were appointed to a different work. God has appointed to every one a position of honor in His work. He uses every one who will be used, who in humility and meekness will consent to be fashioned after the divine Pattern. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 20)

Some who have but one talent feel that they can do nothing. They hide their talent in the earth, and because they receive no increase, they murmur against God. But if they would use the ability given them, their talent would double. They would have two talents for further improvement. Those who have two talents, and use these with fidelity, will be given two more talents. Thus by faithful use talents are multiplied. God desires every one to do his best. As human agents use aright the talents given them, God increases their power and strength. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 21)

He who conscientiously strives to improve one talent will as surely receive an increase as he who conscientiously strives to improve a larger number. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 22)

“But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” [Verse 9.] (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 23)

Christ said to the woman of Samaria, “If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.” [John 4:10.] This Samaritan woman nearly lost her opportunity to learn of Jesus, but she began to feel after the truth, and just as soon as its value dawned upon her—even before she fully comprehended it—forgetting that she had come to the well for water, she left her water pot and hastened to tell others what she had learned. “Come,” she said, and “see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?” [Verse 29.] Many believed her words and went to the well to meet Christ. He had an opportunity to give them the living water, and many souls came to a knowledge of the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 24)

Too often we fail to draw our strength from Christ. He is saying to us, “If you had asked of me, I should have given you the living water, which would have been in you a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” [See verses 10, 14.] Christ in the soul is as a well of water springing up into everlasting life. When preaching on science, a minister in Australia said that “Christ in His day must have known something about science.” What a statement for a minister of the gospel to make! When I heard what he said, I was astonished, for I knew that all the science that is of any value has been given to humanity by Jesus Christ. Christ is Himself the Door to all truth. In Him “are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” [Colossians 2:3.] Although He could have astonished the world with the most startling revelations of science which would have occupied the minds of men till He should come the second time, yet this was not His mission. Had He placed before human minds a rich feast of science, it would have been used to gratify unholy ambition. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 25)

From Christ proceeds all the knowledge essential to enable you to be children of God, and which opens to you the widest fields of usefulness. Many persons do not appreciate this true knowledge, but in their education seek for something which will be regarded as wonderful. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 26)

The apostle exhorts you to “show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light: which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.” [1 Peter 2:9, 10.] Act as though you were indeed God’s living right hand. To every one is given his appointed work. God does not take all over the same ground. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 27)

No one is to think that all of his time is to be spent in study. By putting into practice what you study, you can obtain more than by merely studying. When you use your knowledge, you will find that more is given you. Keep the channel open, that you may have the grace and light and love of Christ. Do not disappoint Christ. Though you are teachers, you are to learn of the Great Teacher. While as students you are to respect the human instrumentality through which you receive instruction, you are ever to look beyond this to the divine. Then the truths which come from the lips of the human teacher will be to you of far greater importance than they otherwise would be. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 28)

Every teacher should gather up all the rays of divine light shining upon his pathway, that he may have the wisdom which Daniel had. Walk in the light which is opening before you in this Institute. “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: His going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] As the light of the sun shines with increasing power from morning till noon, so as you advance in the opening light of God’s Word, you will receive more light. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 29)

You are to work on the plan of addition. “Giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off.” [2 Peter 1:5-9.] He cannot see that God is to do the work. If instead of attempting in his own strength to reach the highest attainments, he were willing to co-operate with God by taking God’s Word as his standard, he would daily increase in knowledge. Why? Because he would look beyond the teacher to the divine Instructor, and the power and grace of God would enfold him. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 30)

Long ago I learned never to depend upon my feelings. I have heart disease. Sometimes when heavy burdens come upon me, I suffer constantly from pain in my heart. At such times I walk the floor, not daring to close my eyes in sleep for fear I should never wake. It is then that I plead with the Lord, and He gives me the victory. Then I am able to go to rest, with the sweet assurance that it is well with my soul, and with confidence that God will take care of me. As far as feeling is concerned, I feel no better. But what has feeling to do with faith? It is just as distinct from faith as is the east from the west. Your faith should rest upon the Word of God. It is your privilege to claim His promises by faith. Plant your feet firmly on a “Thus saith the Lord,” and you will not need to consult your feelings. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 31)

People often ask me, “How do you feel this morning?” I tell them that I do not say much about my feelings. But when I am the weakest, when I feel the most pressed by the enemy, I know there is a victory to gain, and this victory I am determined to gain. In the faith that I have, I feel today that I can take hold of the Mighty One, and that He will spare my life just as long as He sees best. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 32)

Let us all have confidence in God. Press your way through the shadow which Satan throws across your pathway, and take hold of the arm of Jesus, the Mighty One. Let your case rest in His hands. Let your prayer be, “Lord, I present my petition to Thee. I put my trust in Thee, and I ask for the blessing that thou seest will be for my present and future usefulness and my eternal good.” When you arise from your knees, believe! When the enemy comes with his darkness, sing faith and talk faith, and you will find that you have sung and talked yourself into the light. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 33)

“Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” [Philippians 4:4.] Those who do this have a joyous life. No unpleasantness comes from their lips or from the atmosphere surrounding the soul; for they do not feel that they are better than others. Hide in Jesus Christ; then all the time the truth of God will be fitting you up for the future, immortal life. When you have confidence in the Mighty One, your experience is not borrowed; it is your own. Whatever your disposition may be, God is able to so mold that disposition that it will be sweet and Christlike. By living faith you can separate from everything not in accordance with the mind of God, and thus bring a heaven into your life here below. Will you do this? If you do, you will have sunshine at every step. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 34)

He who takes charge of a school is in need of a living, ever-present Saviour. Teach the simplest principles of the Word of God, making the Bible the foundation of education. Those who are seeking to obtain the so-called higher education do not know what true education is. True higher education is that which is received by sitting at the feet of Jesus. Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, and He will lift you up. You need not struggle to lift yourself. Commit your work to Him; do it in faithfulness, in sincerity, in truth, in righteousness; and you will find that every day it brings its reward, and that the light of heaven is shining upon you. His light, His grace, His salvation, are thus revealed. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 35)

We are a very ignorant people. We know so little of Jesus Christ that we can but dimly comprehend what He will do for us. God desires us to learn of Him. While you are in this Institute, let your boasting be in God, and not in science, not in foreign languages, nor in anything else that is human. First learn whether you can practice Christianity in your own language. There are souls to convert, and you should be able to so bring the simplicity of godliness into your own life that you can use the talent of speech with converting power among those with whom you associate. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 36)

There should be in your hearts a burning desire to be united with Christ, that you may be “laborers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] He is working with you as with a building, forming within you a character after the divine similitude. Let your character-building be in accordance with the beautiful pattern revealed to men in the life of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 37)

In all your work you should do as the husbandman does in producing the fruits of the earth. Apparently he throws away the seed; but, buried in the soil, the seed, in dying, germinates. The power of the living God gives it life and vitality, and there is seen, “first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.” [Mark 4:28.] Study this wonderful process. O, there is so much to learn, so much to understand, that it seems as though we cannot learn everything during this life—and we cannot. But if we now improve our minds to the utmost of our ability, we shall through the eternal ages carry forward the study of God’s ways and works, continually reaching higher and still higher. We need now minds that can understand the simplicity of godliness. More than we desire anything else, we should desire to have Jesus Christ abiding in the soul-temple, because He cannot abide there without being revealed and shown forth in fruits and good works. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 38)

Conducting recitations is only the beginning of a teacher’s work. The teacher has a heavy responsibility to bear in connection with the students entrusted to his care, and he is to understand that he cannot throw off this responsibility. He has the oversight of those in his charge. He is to regard them as those who have been bought with a price. He must watch over this recreant one and over that recreant one; he must talk and pray with them. Thus he may save souls unto Jesus Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 39)

The work of a teacher does not end in the classroom. Because he is an educator, he is not to divorce himself from the church work. Power is to be brought into the church. Teachers are to strive to bring the church to a higher and still higher standard. God requires of teachers more than they give. They are to be working agencies, and not dwarfs. If they fulfil God’s requirements, He will give them still more intelligence, until it can be said of them, “Ye are complete in Him.” [Colossians 2:10.] If every teacher in this college would come up to the help of God in the church, we should have in Healdsburg one of the most precious churches that could be found anywhere in the world. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 40)

There is a world to be saved. Such a work is to be done by our people, that often at night I sit up in my bed and wring my hands in agony, and ask, “O God, will thy people ever understand?” I believe they will, when they come to the foot of the cross of Christ, and sit at His feet as did Mary, to learn of Him. If the teachers attending this Institute will follow the Bible rule and be Bible Christians, they will be God’s helping hand. God wants every one of you to be His helping hand; and if you yield yourself to Him, He will teach and work through you, that you may be able to impart to others. Then you will be able to say, “O God, ‘thy gentleness hath made me great.’” [Psalm 18:35.] (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 41)

There is a fullness for every teacher to gain. The studies that you receive either will strengthen your faith and confidence in God, and teach you how to work as His helping hand, or else they will leave you in a worse condition than if you had never attended the Institute. If you work out the principles that the Lord has given you, He will surely place you on vantage ground, and the mercies and blessings of heaven will come into your life-practice, enabling you to work out the will of God. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 42)

“He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.” [Mark 4:9.] The Lord bless you, is my prayer. (16LtMs, Ms 91, 1901, 43)

Ms 92, 1901

Lessons from the Third of Revelation
Healdsburg, California
September 5, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in SD 351; 5BC 1110; 7BC 937-938, 957, 959-961; 7MR 125-126. +

A talk at the Church School Teachers’ Institute. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 1)

“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 (this is highly important), and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die (we cannot do this, unless we first obtain the strength): for I have not found thy works perfect before God.” [Revelation 3:1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 2)

“Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent.” [Verse 3.] 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. When I received Christ in my heart, I thought no one could help believing what I told them. My soul was aglow with the love of God, and everything that I saw and heard seemed to be praising the Lord. Never before had nature appeared so beautiful. It seemed as though the very trees, the birds, the flowers, were expressing the love of God. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 3)

“Hold fast.” [Verse 3.] 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?” [Mark 8:36.] You may have worldly pleasure at the expense of the future world, but can you afford to pay such a price? (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 4)

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. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 5)

“And repent.” [Revelation 3:3.] 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! (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 6)

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 lives 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. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 7)

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. Let us tell them that His arms are open to receive them, and that His promise is, “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 8)

“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. 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.” [Revelation 3:3, 4.] (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 9)

If we desire to be of that number who will be accounted worthy, we should hold ourselves in such consecration, devotion, and humility that the enemy cannot take control of our minds. “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time.” “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [1 Peter 5:6; James 4:8.] Draw nigh to Him by prayer, by contemplation, by reading His Word. When He draws nigh to you, He lifts up for you a standard against the enemy. Let us take courage, for the enemy cannot pass this standard. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 10)

All the powers of darkness are arrayed against us, but the promise is, “He that overcometh, the same 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.” [Revelation 3:5, 6.] (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 11)

What precious words are these! Our names are all in the book of life. If we overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony, Christ will at last present to each of us a crown of life. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 12)

Shall we not dig for and gather up these hidden treasures, and praise God for them? Since Christ’s words are, as it were, the leaves of the tree of life, how foolish it is to obtain a worldly education, and yet know but little of the Bible. When so-called men of learning talk of higher education, they do not know about what they are talking. They need to become fools in the sight of the world in order that they may be wise in regard to the mystery of godliness. Let us dig deep, and lay a sure foundation upon the Rock so that the coming tempest will beat against us in vain. The Bible is to be the foundation of our faith and of our life. It is by practicing Christ’s words in the daily life, that we are cleansed and sanctified. God wants us to grow by studying His Word—eating His flesh and drinking His blood. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 13)

How are we redeemed? By eating the flesh and drinking the blood of Christ. He has told us that this is eternal life. “The flesh profiteth nothing,” He declares; “the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” [John 6:63.] In studying the Scriptures, we are eating the words of Christ—the leaves of the tree of life, which are “for the healing of the nations.” [Revelation 22:2.] (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 14)

If we confess Christ before men, He will confess us before His Father and the angels. Then let there be no light, trivial conversation. Continually we are to uplift our souls to God our Creator, contemplating the highest subjects. Our spirit, our words, our actions, our interests in life, are telling those with whom we come in contact whether we are on the side of Christ or on the side of the enemy. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 15)

“And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; 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.” [Revelation 3:7.] (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 16)

Notwithstanding the opposition of the strongest powers of darkness, there is One able to open the door. This is the same door that was opened at the baptism of Christ. After the Saviour had taken the steps in conversion requisite for every sinner to take in order to be saved—repentance, faith, and baptism—thus entering into covenant relation with God, He kneeled on the bank of the Jordan and prayed. And the heavens were opened, and the Holy Ghost, in the form of a dove of burnished gold, hovered over the Son of Man, enshrouding Him in light, while a voice from the highest heaven declared, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” [Matthew 3:16, 17.] (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 17)

Christ laid aside His crown and royal robe, stepped down from His high command, clothed His divinity with humanity, and for our sake became poor, that we through His poverty might inherit the heavenly treasure. He placed Himself at the head of humanity. If we walk in His footsteps, we are accepted by God. By Christ’s sacrifice we are “accepted in the Beloved.” [Ephesians 1:6.] As the prayers of Christ ascended to His Father, notwithstanding the dark shadow of the powers of darkness through which they passed, so will our prayers cleave through the hellish shadow of Satan and enter the sanctuary above. The same glory which flashed from the threshold of heaven at the time of Christ’s baptism is revealed to every earnest seeker of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 18)

Since we are thus accepted in the Beloved, although we ourselves are weak, why should not we be strong in the hope that is set before us in the gospel? Why should not we lay hold of the power which saves to the uttermost all who come unto Him? When we come in God’s appointed way, fulfilling every requirement that He has given us, why should we not claim the richest promise, saying, “God has promised it to me, it is for me; therefore it is mine, and I take it; for I love Him and believe in His Word”? We have every reason to be thankful to God. Let us press to the mark of the prize of the high calling which is in Christ Jesus, and thus glorify our Master. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 19)

“I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.” [Revelation 3:8, 9.] (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 20)

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. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 21)

The following verse tells us why God desires us to keep His commandments, and live; and His law as the apple of our eye: “Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.” [Verses 10, 11.] We need to heed this admonition. Our greatest desire should be to follow submissively our precious Saviour; for a crown of glory that fadeth not away is laid up for the faithful overcomer. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 22)

“Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.” [Verse 12.] Precious, precious promises are these! (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 23)

“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” [Verse 13.] 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. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 24)

Eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God, that you may have His Spirit and His life. “Be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” [2 Peter 1:4.] Then you will have no appetite for the corruption that is in the world. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 25)

Christ said, “I am that bread of life.... This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die.... Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” [John 6:48, 50, 54.] Their life is precious in God’s sight; for it is hid with Christ in God—with Him “who hath brought life and immortality to light.” [2 Timothy 1:10.] Over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, Christ proclaimed, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] He broke the fetters of the tomb that every one of us might rise to newness of life. Die to the world, be buried with your Lord in baptism, and rise as a new creature in Christ Jesus. “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.... For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” [Colossians 3:1, 3.] The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, the three holy dignitaries of heaven, have declared that they will strengthen men to overcome the powers of darkness. All the facilities of heaven are pledged to those who by their baptismal vows have entered into a covenant with God. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 26)

As soon as our minds harmonize with the mind of God, we are in touch with an Intelligence that can communicate to each of us every lesson that will be beneficial in the education of the youth entrusted to us. In telling to children the precious story of the cross, our own souls will be lifted from despondency, gloom, and darkness. In considering the Redeemer’s infinite sacrifice, we shall lose all desire for the things of this world. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 27)

Church school teachers should carry a burden for souls—not that they themselves can save souls, but as God’s helping hand you have the privilege of winning them to Christ. The words that you speak may be very precious. Let there be no folly in your conversation. In the schools you shall undertake to conduct, set a proper example before the children by presenting them to God in prayer every morning. Then look to Him for strength every hour, and believe that He is working, and that you are representing Him. When you do this, you gain the affection of the children. It is not such hard work to manage children, thank God. We have a Helper, One altogether above ourselves. O, I am so thankful that we do not have to depend upon our poor, miserable selves, but that we can depend upon the strength which comes from God. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 28)

Teachers, if your life is hid with Christ in God, a Helper will stand by your side, and you will be one with Christ and one with those you are teaching. Never exalt self, for this shows that you are not humbling yourself before God. Exalt Him, glorify Him, honor Him before the world. Say, “I stand under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel. I have left the banner of the powers of darkness and am wholly on the Lord’s side.” (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 29)

When I am speaking before the people, I never feel that I myself am making an impression. I never carry that idea for it is not so. It is the Holy Spirit, the representative of Christ—the Christ-power—that impresses the heart. The Holy Spirit is sent to abide with us alway. We have nothing for which we can lift up our souls unto vanity. There is nothing good in us which Christ has not given. Then why do not we magnify the name of the Lord and praise Him more than we do? We have every reason to praise Him who has opened to us a door which no man can shut. Let us glorify His name more. Let His praise be continually on our lips. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 30)

May the Spirit of God rest upon every one of you and bring you into a sacred nearness to your Saviour. Seek Him with all the heart, and you will find Him, and He will be very precious to your soul. In Him you have all for which you could ask—joy, pleasure, satisfaction—everything. He is life eternal, and He will give you a place in His kingdom of glory. (16LtMs, Ms 92, 1901, 31)

Ms 93, 1901

Care to be Shown in the Establishment of Sanitariums
NP
September 23, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in MM 153-154; CD 136, 281, 297; 1MCP 179; 2MCP 391-392; VSS 64; CG 548.

The Lord desires those who claim to believe the third angel’s message to realize that a solemn responsibility rests upon them. In all their work they are to manifest the mercy and lovingkindness of Christ. Seventh-day Adventists are ever to remember that they are to represent aright all that this name includes. They are to be the Lord’s witnesses—a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men. The whole heavenly universe is interested in those who claim to be loyal to the law of ten commandments, and who are sounding the notes of the last warning message to be given to the world. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 1)

Great care must be manifested in the establishing of sanitariums, for this is an important work. Those having the work in charge should counsel with experienced brethren regarding the best plans to follow. They should count the cost of every step taken. They should not launch out into the work without knowing how much money they have to invest. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 2)

The first question to be settled is, “Should there be a sanitarium in this locality?” If there should be, the path of duty is plain. But there is another question, and a very important one, to settle, “Are those who shall be entrusted with the work of planning and devising for the enterprise, prepared to move cautiously, not in self-confidence, but in the fear of the Lord? Will they take counsel from those who have had experience in the work?” (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 3)

A prevention of failure is worth far more than can be estimated. Let not the young men who have been placed in charge of certain lines of work become uneasy, restless, and venturesome. Let them learn wisdom from the failures of others. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 4)

Let no one suppose that it is an easy matter to manage an institution. I have seen so many take up this work and fail. A man is desirous of standing as the leader of some enterprise. A sanitarium is his choice. Taking up this work in his own strength, he makes an entire failure. Unless the men who stand as managers of our institutions are humble enough to be managed by the Lord Jesus, they will move unadvisedly. In order for men to strengthen the cause of God, their ability must be sanctified, that they may reason wisely from cause to effect. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 5)

The interests of our sanitariums must be guarded. All should feel it a privilege to do their best to advance medical missionary work. God requires His people to refrain from doing anything which will interfere with the work of another. It is not generous or right for a man to start sanitarium work on independent lines in a place where a sanitarium is already established. It is quite probably that the closest economy is required to conduct properly one sanitarium, furnishing proper facilities for treatment and healthful food for patients and helpers. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 6)

Every business transaction tells its story regarding the character of the individual. No haphazard work should be done. No movements should be made in a selfish spirit, irrespective of the rights and property of others. This is forbidden by the commandments of God. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 7)

“And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? And he 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.” [Luke 10:25-28.] (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 8)

Here we are shown that the commandments are summed up in two principles—love to God and love to man. On these two great arms hang all the law and the prophets. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 9)

The time has fully come when if we expect the Lord to give us success in conducting schools and sanitariums, not one thread of selfishness must be drawn into the pattern. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 10)

Carefulness in Diet Essential. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 11)

Physicians should watch unto prayer, realizing that they stand in a position of great responsibility. They should prescribe for their patients the food best suited for them. This food should be prepared by one who realizes that he occupies a most important position, insomuch as good food is required to make good blood. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 12)

The cook in a sanitarium should be a thorough health reformer. A man is not converted unless his appetite and diet correspond with his profession of faith. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 13)

The cook in a sanitarium should be a well-trained medical missionary. He should be a capable person, able to experiment for himself. He should not confine himself to recipes. The Lord loves us, and He does not want us to do ourselves harm by following unhealthful recipes. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 14)

At every sanitarium there will be some who will complain about the food, saying that it does not suit them. They need to be educated in regard to the evils of unhealthful diet. How can the brain be clear while the stomach is suffering? (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 15)

The Lord has instructed me that as a general rule, we place too much food in the stomach. Many make themselves uncomfortable by overeating, and sickness is often the result. The Lord did not bring this punishment on them. They brought it on themselves; and God desires them to realize that pain is the result of transgression. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 16)

Many eat too rapidly. Others eat at one meal food which does not agree. If men and women would only remember how greatly they afflict the soul when they afflict the stomach, and how deeply Christ is dishonored when the stomach is abused, they would be brave and self-denying, giving the stomach opportunity to recover its healthy action. While sitting at the table, we may do medical missionary work by eating and drinking to the glory of God. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 17)

Sugar is not good for the stomach. It causes fermentation and this clouds the brain and brings peevishness into the disposition. And it has been proved that two meals are better than three for the health of the system. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 18)

What a pity it is that often, when the greatest self-denial should be exercised, the stomach is crowded with a mass of unhealthful food, which lies there to decompose. The affliction of the stomach affects the brain. The imprudent eater does not realize that he is disqualifying himself for giving wise counsel, disqualifying himself for laying plans for the best advancement of the work of God. But this is so. He cannot discern spiritual things, and in council meetings, when he should say Yea and Amen, he says Nay. He makes propositions that are wide of the mark. The food he has eaten has benumbed his brain power. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 19)

Self-indulgence debars the human agent from witnessing for the truth. The gratitude we offer to God for His blessings is greatly affected by the food placed in the stomach. Indulgence of appetite is the cause of dissension, strife, discord, and many other evils. Impatient words are spoken and unkind deeds are done, dishonest practices are followed and passion is manifested—and all because the nerves of the brain are diseased by the abuse heaped on the stomach. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 20)

Many make fatal mistakes by following human maxims. They fail to distinguish between the frauds of men and the truths of God. The failure to follow sound principles has marred the history of God’s people. Shall we who have had such great light allow those who have not been so favored to go in advance of us in health reform? Shall we cheapen our minds and abuse our talents by a wrong course of action? Shall we continue to transgress God’s holy law by following selfish practices? Shall our inconsistency become a byword? Shall we live such unchristlike lives that the Saviour is ashamed to call us brethren? (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 21)

Shall not the people of God do the medical missionary work which is the gospel in practice? Shall they not live so that the peace of God can rule in their hearts? Shall they not remove every stumbling block from the feet of unbelievers, ever remembering what is due to a profession of Christianity? (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 22)

We call upon every church member to dedicate his life unreservedly to the service of God. Far better give up the name of Christian than make a profession and at the same time indulge appetites which strengthen unholy passions. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 23)

Godliness in the Home Life. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 24)

God calls upon us to be laborers together with Him. It is time that we awakened to our individual responsibility. When a man accepts Christ, he pledges himself to live the life of Christ. If he fails of doing this, he dishonors the name of Christian. In all matters of dealing, he is to be true and honest, just and liberal, following the perfect example left us by the Saviour. He is to keep vigilant watch over himself, lest in word or action he misrepresents the Redeemer. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 25)

Watch well your words; for Christ declares, “By thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” [Matthew 12:37.] The Lord is greatly dishonored when cheap, common words fall from the lips of those whose names are registered on the church books. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 26)

Ungodliness is not Christianity. Do not think that you can stand under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel unless as faithful soldiers you obey His orders. Say by word and action, “I am a Christian. I must love my neighbor as myself.” Do you dislike to have harsh words spoken to you? Remember that when you speak such words others feel the sting. Let your praiseworthy example, your peaceable words and unselfish deeds, be a savor of life unto life. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 27)

The talent of speech was given to be used for the benefit of all. Pleasant, cheery words cost no more than unpleasant, moody words. Sharp words wound and bruise the soul. In this life everyone has difficulties with which to wrestle. Everyone meets with grievances and disappointments. Shall we not bring sunshine instead of gloom into the lives of those with whom we come in contact? Shall we not speak words that will help and bless? They will be just as much a blessing to us as to those to whom they are spoken. Who will now in word and deed sow seeds which will spring up to bear fruit unto eternal life? (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 28)

Angels are not attracted to the home where discord reigns supreme. Let fathers and mothers cease all faultfinding and murmuring. Let them educate their children to speak pleasant words, words that bring sunshine and joy. Shall we not now enter the home school as Christ’s students? Bring practical godliness into the home. Then see if the words you speak do not cause joy. Parents, begin the work of grace in the church in your own home, so conducting yourselves that your children will see that you are co-operating with the heavenly angels. Be sure that you are converted every day. Train yourselves and your children for life in the kingdom of God. Angels will be your strong helpers. Satan will tempt you, but do not yield. Do not speak one word of which the enemy can take an advantage. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 29)

Truth is pure and uncorrupted. Let it dwell in the heart. Let the determination of each member of the family be, “I will be a Christian; for in the school here below I must form a character which will give me entrance into the higher grade in heaven. I must do to others as I desire them to do to me; for only those who reveal Christ in this world can enter the courts of heaven.” (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 30)

Make the home life as nearly as possible like heaven. Let the members of the family forget not, as they gather round the family altar, to pray for the men in positions of responsibility in God’s work. The physicians in our sanitariums, the ministers of the gospel, those in our publishing houses and schools, need your prayers. They all have temptations. As you plead with God to bless them, your own hearts will be subdued and softened by His grace. The more we pray, the more will our conversation be in heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 31)

Christ reads the heart. He knows the motives which prompt to action. Let us begin to watch ourselves. Let us weed our own gardens before we attempt to weed the gardens of others. Let us cease to put temptation in the way of one another. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 32)

Let not a day pass in known sin. “Let not the sun go down upon your wrath.” [Ephesians 4:26.] Before the setting of the sun settle every difficulty. Thus you will gain a victory over self. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 33)

The commonness of sin does not make it less objectionable in God’s sight or render its penalty less sure. You may think your transgression small, but its smallness does not make it any the less a sin. Adam’s sin was seemingly small, but it opened the floodgates of woe upon our world. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 34)

The church militant is not the church triumphant. Unless the people of God wage a valiant warfare against every species of sin, they will never pass through the portals of the holy city. And we shall have no second trial. Now is the accepted time, the time in which we are to obtain the education which will enable us to live in the heavenly courts. The whole heavenly universe is looking with the deepest interest to see who in this primary school is practicing the lessons of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 35)

What does the Scripture say? “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep; let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another?” [James 4:8-12.] (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 36)

This is the great day of atonement. How much better it is for us to afflict our souls than to be engaged in strife for the highest place, causing heart-burning and discord. Never think or speak evil. When tempted to do this, go by yourself, and ask God to help you to overcome this hateful sin. Humble yourself in the sight of God, and He will lift you up. Let us praise God that when we humble ourselves, His merciful hand lifts us up. (16LtMs, Ms 93, 1901, 37)

Ms 94, 1901

The Importance of Care and Faithfulness in Bookkeeping
NP
September 23, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in PUR 12/19/1901. +

I wish to speak of the necessity of keeping our institutions out of debt. Debts should not be allowed to accumulate. The managers of our institutions are to be faithful in this matter, keeping the fear of God before them. (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 1)

The importance of correct bookkeeping is not half appreciated. Religion is to be brought into this work. The methods of bookkeeping followed are to be simple and easy to be understood. Some desire to bring in methods of bookkeeping different from those which have been followed. They claim that their methods are more successful. But before these methods are introduced, they should be proved by experienced, accurate bookkeepers. If after thorough examination, these new methods are found to be superior to the old methods, it may be well to introduce them. But no man, however experienced, is to bring new methods of bookkeeping into an institution, except by the consent of competent men. The institution may adopt new plans of keeping the accounts, so that the business may be benefited, but no man is to introduce new methods of bookkeeping on his own responsibility. This is a matter to be decided on by more than one. It means more than appears at first glance to introduce new methods of bookkeeping. (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 2)

Suppose that a man does this, and for a time keeps the books. Then suppose that he is suddenly called away. What is the result? Perplexity arises because those who take up the work after him are not familiar with the new method. The accounts are confusing to them, and it sometimes happens that reflections of dishonesty are cast on the one who kept the accounts. (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 3)

Everything that can be done should be done to train bookkeepers who will keep books by the most simple process, so that when they give up the work, and others take the place, everything on the books will be clear and easily explained. (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 4)

There has been altogether too much blundering in the matter of keeping accounts. The books in our institutions have been handled by men who were not thorough, practical bookkeepers. They became confused in their work, and appearances bear the impression that they were unreliable. And it may be that the truth regarding their work will not be known until the day when every man’s work is brought up in review before God. (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 5)

Into some of our institutions, and especially into the Boulder Sanitarium, confusion has been brought by the way in which the books were kept. Business was done in an incorrect way. Let this be carefully avoided in the future. A bookkeeper who is not acquainted with the intricacies of the business should not be left to deal with them unaided. His work should be examined. He should be shown where he can improve. If left to himself, he may get the accounts into such confusion that his reputation for honesty will be lost and his influence hurt. (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 6)

Every account passes to the invisible Bookkeeper above. Then let no bookkeeper be left to follow his own ideas without counsel from others. Inexperienced bookkeepers should receive help from those who have gained an experience in the work. Many youthful bookkeepers have become hopelessly confused because they entered upon their work without half the education they should have had in order to be able to keep books correctly. (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 7)

The bookkeeper in every business firm and in every institution should make a plain record of every dollar received and every dollar paid out. Then there will be no uncertainty as to what has been done with the money. There will be no unexplainable discrepancies to cast a shadow on the reputation of someone who may have had no thought of dishonesty. (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 8)

When accounts are handled in a hurried, haphazard manner, it is not known whether the bills are settled or not, and in the end it will be said that fraud has been practiced by someone. Special care is needed to keep the accounts straight at a time when buildings are being erected. Just as soon as a transaction takes place, it should be jotted down. A faithful statement of every transaction should be made on the books. If this is not done, a great amount of money will be used without any one’s knowing where it has gone. Great amazement will be felt. The bookkeeper is questioned, but he has no bills to show for the money expended; and therefore an unsavory odor rests on the transactions, and the judgment alone will reveal the facts in the case. (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 9)

Some have such a poor memory that if they do not note down each day what they have received and what they have paid out, they are unable to remember. Some trust to a defective memory, and then discrepancies appear in their work. And though they may have had no intention of dishonesty, yet they were unfaithful in failing to keep their accounts properly. Thus some have lost their reputation for honesty, and under the feeling that they were not trusted, they have grieved themselves to death. As long as life lasted, a shadow hung over them, and they never knew that their mistake was in trusting to a defective memory. (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 10)

There is a right way and a wrong way of conducting business. Often the hard way is the right way, and the easy way the most confusing. God grant that those connected with His sacred work shall not eat of the tree of the knowledge of evil because it appears desirable. The Lord declares, Thou shalt not eat of it, lest thou die. [Genesis 2:17; 3:3.] (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 11)

May God help men to understand that their accounts are faithfully kept by an unseen bookkeeper in the heavenly courts. What right has a man to put his own estimate on his work, and then pay himself out of the money which he handles? Thus did Judas. What right has he to cut down the wages of other men, showing great zeal to prevent them from getting more than he thinks they should have? Men are not judged by the estimate they place on their work. The figures kept by the heavenly Accountant are true, and by them will each man be judged. (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 12)

At stated periods the account books in every office and institution should be carefully examined. This should in no case be neglected. The business done in God’s institutions should be investigated by disinterested men. It is the Lord’s money that is being handled. Through His heavenly intelligences He keeps an account of the way in which the money is used. When large sums of money are expended without sufficient reason for the outlay, the record is made in heaven, Weighed in the balances and found wanting. (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 13)

Money has been invested in unnecessary buildings when it should have been saved to invest in buildings which were absolutely necessary. And when buildings are put up at such an expense, as some of our institutions have been, it means that buildings in other parts of the field will have to fall far short in appearance and facilities. This is not according to the wisdom of God. Let those who are given the work of constructing buildings lay their plans with reference to the other buildings which will have to be constructed in the future. (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 14)

There should not be so great a contrast in the buildings which are erected to advance the cause of God. One should not have an appearance of elegance, while the other falls far short of what is needed to give character to the work. There are workers in some parts of the field who cannot afford to purchase what they need to make their work a success, while workers in other parts of the field have an overabundance of facilities. If so much money had not been invested in expensive buildings, there would be means for the establishment of schools and sanitariums in fields where for years they have been needed. (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 15)

These things have been laid open before me, and I now write them out, so that in the plans laid in the future for buildings, the same mistakes will not be made which have been made in the past. (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 16)

God calls for consecrated, intelligent workers, for workers who are willing to be worked by the Holy Spirit, who, before beginning an enterprise, will sit down and count the cost to see whether they will be able to finish. (16LtMs, Ms 94, 1901, 17)

Ms 95, 1901

Regarding the Importance of Cooking
NP
September 20, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in MM 269-271; 3MR 324. +

Some are called to what are looked upon as humble duties—it may be, to cook. But the science of cooking is not a small matter. The skilful preparation of food is one of the most essential arts, standing above music-teaching or dressmaking. By this I do not mean to discount music-teaching or dressmaking, for they are essential. But more important still is the art of preparing food so that it is both healthful and appetizing. This art should be regarded as the most valuable of all the arts, because it is so closely connected with life. It should receive more attention; for in order to make good blood, the system requires good food. The foundation of that which keeps people in health is the medical missionary work of good cooking. (16LtMs, Ms 95, 1901, 1)

Often health reform is made health deform by the unpalatable preparation of food. The lack of knowledge regarding healthful cookery must be remedied before health reform is a success. (16LtMs, Ms 95, 1901, 2)

Good cooks are few. Many, many mothers need to take lessons in cooking, that they may set before the family well-prepared, neatly served food. (16LtMs, Ms 95, 1901, 3)

Before children take lessons on the organ or the piano they should be given lessons in cooking. The work of learning to cook need not exclude music, but to learn music is of less importance than to learn how to prepare food that is wholesome and appetizing. (16LtMs, Ms 95, 1901, 4)

Connected with our sanitariums and schools there should be cooking schools, where instruction is given on the proper preparation of food. In our schools there should be those who are fitted to educate the students, both men and women, in the art of cooking. Women especially should learn how to cook. (16LtMs, Ms 95, 1901, 5)

It is a sin to place poorly prepared food on the table, because the matter of eating concerns the well-being of the entire system. The Lord desires His people to appreciate the necessity of having food prepared in such a way that it will not make sour stomachs, and in consequence, sour tempers. Let us remember that there is practical religion in a loaf of good bread. (16LtMs, Ms 95, 1901, 6)

Let not the work of cooking be looked upon as a sort of slavery. What would become of those in our world if all who are engaged in cooking should give up their work with the flimsy excuse that it is not sufficiently dignified? Cooking may be regarded as less desirable than other lines of work, but in reality it is a science above all other sciences. Thus God regards the preparation of healthful food. He places a high estimate on those who do faithful service in preparing wholesome, palatable food. The one who understands the art of properly preparing food, and who uses this knowledge, is worthy of higher commendation than those engaged in any other line of work. This talent should be regarded as equal in value to ten talents; for its right use has much to do with keeping the human organism in health. Because so inseparably connected with life and health, it is the most valuable of all gifts. (16LtMs, Ms 95, 1901, 7)

*****

We need to remember that cold feet are frequently the cause of illness. God will not work a miracle to preserve the health of those who neglect the simplest laws of life. The failure to take what some regard as useless precautions has often brought disease resulting in death. By taking proper care of the body, we show that we realize that we belong to Christ and that we have no right to disqualify ourselves for His service. “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, 20.] (16LtMs, Ms 95, 1901, 8)

Ms 96, 1901

Instruction to Church Members
Healdsburg, CA
September 24, 1901
Previously unpublished. +

We are in the midst of our teachers’ institute. This is a very important meeting, at which much work is being done. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 1)

W. C. White; Sister Peck, who has gained a valuable experience in school work; Brother Crisler, my stenographer; Sister McEnterfer; and myself came to Healdsburg at the beginning of the institute. We shall stay part of the time and shall help all we can to make the institute a success. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 2)

We believe that those in charge of the meetings are doing excellent work. I am sorry that a much larger number are not here to enjoy the advantages afforded by this institute. I wish that the teachers in Southern California could have come to the institute. As it is, the work done here will have to be repeated in Southern California. We regret this, for there is great demand for laborers in the fields that are white for the harvest. Time and effort would have been saved if these two institutes could have been combined. It would have cost little more for the teachers in Southern California to come to Healdsburg than for the laborers to go to Southern California to hold another institute. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 3)

Teachers’ institutes cannot be held without expense and taxation. Arrangements should be made to save the time and strength of the workers as much as possible. When a teachers’ institute is held in a state, plans should be laid for all the teachers in the state to attend so that the instruction given will not need to be repeated in another institute. It is not a wise plan to hold two institutes in one state when this can possibly be avoided. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 4)

Brethren and sisters, we must put forth every effort to unify and move intelligently. Let us be wise in all our planning. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 5)

I would be pleased to attend the institute in Southern California, but I must now give special attention to getting out the book on Christian education. It is my duty and the duty of my workers to push this work just as fast as the Lord gives us strength. I would be glad to have the privilege of speaking in the teachers’ institute at Santa Ana, but I dare not overlook the duties which cannot be neglected without great loss. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 6)

My prayer is, Lord, lead us and guide us at every step, that we may work intelligently, preserving our energy and refusing to become overwearied, unable because of physical exhaustion to answer important calls of duty. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 7)

The mind must not be overtaxed. God desires His servants to labor in such a way that they will have the needed strength to meet the important issues which arise. Again and again I am admonished not to take up brain-wearying work which others can do; for I must preserve the powers of my mind, that I may be able to understand what God says. I must be able to say, “Speak, Lord, for thy servant heareth.” [1 Samuel 3:9.] (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 8)

To the members of our churches I am instructed to say, As a church bear your own burdens. Keep your own souls in the love of God. Remember that He has ordained you to help one another to be burden-bearers. If you preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bonds of peace, the church will make spiritual advancement. As the members walk in the light, they will grow in grace and in the knowledge of the truth. As they are called upon to make decisions, they will find that wisdom from on high is given to them. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 9)

Let church members pray unitedly. With fervent prayer let them make known their requests to God, believing that it is their privilege to advance in spiritual experience, to live to the glory of God and for the saving of precious souls ready to perish, thus acting as the helping hand of God. Then they have a convincing argument in favor of the truth, for God works with them. Jesus is their sufficiency. With earnest zeal they work harmoniously under the divine Head, provoking one another to love and to good works. The lukewarm are led to work with spiritual zeal, the desponding are encouraged to trust in God. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 10)

Because church members follow their own inclinations, they cut themselves off from much light. They do not think it a sin to rob God daily by withholding the service He requires. When the powers of the being are not used in spiritual lines, the character is dwarfed. The reason is placed on the side of the enemy. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 11)

Let church members examine with jealous scrutiny their reasons for carrying on the work in which they are engaged, asking themselves, Am I using my abilities to guide souls in the path cast up for the ransomed of the Lord? Am I entirely subject to the inspiration of the heavenly forces? (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 12)

To each one the divine Teacher gives the invitation, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 13)

As the character is transformed by the grace of Christ, rest is found by actual experience. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 14)

God’s people are commanded to shine as lights in the world. With sanctified reason, under the guidance of Christ, they are to use the powers and facilities God has given them in the great mission field. As you do this work, you will find it necessary at times to consult the ministers. But do not lay your burden on them. Do your appointed work as individual members of the body of Christ. O, what a work would be done for God if each church member would accept his responsibilities, realizing the wonderful possibilities and probabilities before the consecrated worker! (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 15)

“The field is the world.” [Matthew 13:38.] There are many thousands who have not yet been warned. The members of our churches in city and country are to encourage one another to make every effort for the salvation of the souls in their neighborhood. They are to be earnest and industrious, active in the service of God, and with this activity they are to unite an unreserved consecration of all they have and are. This they must do in order to fulfil their baptismal vows. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 16)

Let the members of our churches arise and fulfil the commission given them by the Saviour—a commission they have long neglected. The Word of God declares, “Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:20.] “And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.” [Daniel 12:3.] (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 17)

Let the youth remember that the indolent forfeit the invaluable experience gained by a faithful performance of the common duties of life. Not a few, but thousands of human beings exist only to consume the benefits which God in His mercy bestows on them. They forget to bring the Lord gratitude offerings for the riches He has entrusted to them in giving them the fruit of the earth. They forget that by trading wisely on the talents lent them, they are to be producers as well as consumers. If they had a realization of the work the Lord desires them to do as His helping hand, they would not feel it a privilege to shun all responsibility and be waited on. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 18)

Real happiness is found only in being good and doing good. The purest, highest enjoyment comes to those who faithfully fulfil their appointed duties. To every man, according to his ability, God entrusts a work. No honest work is degrading. It is ignoble sloth which leads human beings to look down on the simple, everyday duties of life. The refusal to perform these duties causes a mental and moral deficiency which will one day be keenly felt. At some time in the life of the slothful, his deformity will stand not clearly defined. Over his life record is written the words, “A consumer, but not a producer.” (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 19)

He who is indolent and willingly ignorant places in his pathway that which will always be an obstruction. He refuses the culture which comes from faithful toil. By failing to put forth a helping hand in behalf of humanity, he robs God. His career is very different from the career which God marked out for him. To despise useful employment encourages the lower tastes and effectually paralyzes the most useful energies of the being. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 20)

From all the vocations of life, useful spiritual lessons may be learned. Those who till the soil may, while they work, study the meaning of the words, “Ye are God’s husbandry.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] In the human heart the seeds of truth are to be sown, that the life may bear the beautiful fruit of the Spirit. God’s impress on the mind is to mold it into graceful symmetry. The crude energies, both physical and mental, are to be trained for the Master’s service. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 21)

The youth who is studying for a physician has before him the very highest example, even the example of Him who left heaven to live on this earth a man among men. To all, Christ has given the work of ministry. He is the King of glory, yet He declared, “The Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister.” [Matthew 20:28.] He is the Majesty of heaven, yet He willingly consented to come to this earth to do the work laid upon Him by His Father. He has dignified labor. That He might set us an example of industry, He worked with His hands at the carpenter’s . From a very early age He acted His part in sustaining the family. He realized that He was a part of the family firm, and He willingly bore His share of the burdens. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 22)

Children and youth should take pleasure in lightening the burdens of father and mother, showing an unselfish interest in the home. As they lift faithfully the everyday burdens, they are receiving a training which will fit them for positions of trust and usefulness. Each year they are to make steady advancement, gradually but surely laying aside the inexperience of boyhood and girlhood for the experience of manhood and womanhood. In the faithful performance of the simple duties of the home, boys and girls lay the foundation for mental, moral, and spiritual excellence. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 23)

Remember, dear young friends, that each day you are weaving the web of your own destiny. Each time the shuttle is thrown, it draws into the web a thread which either mars or beautifies the pattern. If you are careless and indolent, you spoil the life which God designed should be bright and beautiful. If you choose to follow your own inclinations, unchristlike habits will bind you with bands of steel. And as you walk away from Christ, your example will be followed by many who, because of your wrong course, will never enjoy the glories of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 24)

*****

Christ gave lessons suited to all phases of life, all classes of work. The children were not forgotten by Him. Hearing the stern, forbidding words of the disciples to the weary mothers who had brought their children to receive His blessing, He said, “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] And He laid His hands on them and blessed them, and took them up in His arms, where, wearied by their journey, they fell asleep, drawn close to His heart of infinite love. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 25)

Again and again this experience was related to these children, and it had a wonderful effect on their lives. They became earnest followers of the One who in their childhood had treated them so lovingly. (16LtMs, Ms 96, 1901, 26)

Ms 97, 1901

Sin and Its Result
NP
September 24, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in CTr 19; RH 02/11/1902. +

All heaven took a deep and joyful interest in the creation of the world and of man. Human beings were a distinct order. They were made “in the image of God,” and it was the Creator’s design that they should populate the earth. [Genesis 1:27, 28.] They were to live in close communion with heaven, receiving and assimilating power from the great Source of power. Upheld by God, they were to live sinless lives. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 1)

Satan determined to defeat God’s plan. We need not try to understand the motives which prompted the being next to Christ in the heavenly courts to bring envy and jealousy into the ranks of the angels. To many he communicated his disaffection, and there was war in heaven, which ended in the expulsion of Satan and his sympathizers. We need not puzzle our minds for a reason why Satan acted as he did. Could a reason be found, there would be excuse for sin. But there is no excuse. There is no reason why human beings should travel over the same ground over which Satan travelled. There is no need for them to follow the principles which led to his expulsion from heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 2)

After Satan was thrust from heaven, he determined to set up his kingdom on this earth. Through him sin entered the world, and death by sin. By listening to his misrepresentation of God, Adam fell from his high estate, and the floodgates of woe were opened upon our world. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 3)

There is no excuse for Adam’s transgression. All his wants were generously supplied. He had need of nothing more. Only one prohibition was laid upon him. God said, “Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it; for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” [Genesis 2:16, 17.] (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 4)

This prohibition Satan used as a means of insinuating suggestions of evil. “God doth know,” he said to the woman, “that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.” [Genesis 3:5.] (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 5)

“And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also to her husband with her; and he did eat. And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day; and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord amongst the trees of the garden. And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou? And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself. And he said, Who told thee that thou wast naked? Hast thou eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat? And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat. And the Lord God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 6)

“And the Lord God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life; and 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. Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow, and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee. And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; thorns also, and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field; in the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken; for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.” [Verses 6-19.] (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 7)

This lesson is for all mankind. By it God would teach that His Word is to be sacredly respected and His requirements implicitly obeyed. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 8)

Through the ages Satan worked to instil his evil principles into the minds of men, till, when Christ came to this earth, He found the minds of His chosen people filled with the selfsame envy and jealousy against which He had warred in heaven. The Jewish leaders would not accept Christ because they were jealous of His popularity. They hated Him because He would not receive the ideas which they pressed upon Him. Unbelief was the sin of Israel. Their jealousy led to their downfall and ruin. The leaders were spiritually blind. And they made no effort to receive enlightenment, choosing rather to remain in darkness. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 9)

Christ’s miracle of restoring the sight of the man who had been born blind was a wonderful evidence of the truth of His mission. When the people saw the transformation, they said to the man, “How were thine eyes opened? He answered and said, A man that is called Jesus made clay, and anointed mine eyes and said unto me, Go to the pool of Siloam, and wash; and I went and washed; and I received sight. Then said they unto him, Where is he? And he said, I know not.” [John 9:10-12.] (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 10)

Then they brought him to the Pharisees, “and again the Pharisees asked him how he had received his sight. He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I was healed, and do see.” [Verse 15.] (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 11)

But with hearts hardened by prejudice and unbelief, the Pharisees said, “Give God the praise; we know that this man is a sinner. He answered, and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not; one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see. Then said they to him again, What did he to thee? how opened he thine eyes? He answered them, I have told you already, and ye would not hear; wherefore would ye hear it again? will ye also be his disciples? Then they reviled him, and said, Thou art his disciple; but we are Moses’ disciples. We know that God spake unto Moses; as for this fellow, we know not from whence he is. The man answered and said unto them, Why herein is a marvellous thing, that ye know not from whence he is, and yet he hath opened mine eyes. Now we know that God heareth not sinners; but if any man be a worshiper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth. Since the world began, was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind. If this man were not of God, he could do nothing. They answered, and said unto him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out.” [Verses 24-34.] (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 12)

So the Pharisees tried to make themselves even more spiritually blind than they were; and not content with closing their own eyes, they tried to close the eyes of the man who had been healed. They endeavored to smother his testimony. They saw that Jesus was working wonderful miracles, and they hated him, fearing that He would be honored above them. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 13)

Can we afford to experiment with envy and jealousy? They are the cause of the wars, the strikes, the murders, which are so common in the world today. Is it not best to work on Christ’s plan—the plan outlined in the words, “Do unto others as ye would they should do unto you”? [See Matthew 7:12.] (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 14)

“And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? And he 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.” [Luke 10:25-28.] (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 15)

Knowing that he was condemned by his own words, and wishing to justify himself, the lawyer asked, “And who is my neighbor?” [Verse 29.] (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 16)

In answer, Christ related an incident which had lately taken place. “A certain man,” He said, “went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee. Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor to him that fell among thieves? And he said, He that showed mercy on him. Then said Jesus, Go, and do thou likewise.” [Verses 30-37.] (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 17)

The command to love God supremely and our neighbor as ourself outlines the whole duty of man. On these two great principles hang all the law and the prophets. When these principles are followed, peace and happiness and joy are brought into the home and the church. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 18)

Thousands who profess to love God and keep His commandments are making void His law. Especially do professing Christians disobey God by failing to reveal the unity which should be seen among the children of God. No one can enter the heavenly portals who fails to respect the principles which bind the members of the human family together. Those who love God will love one another. If the Spirit of Christ were cherished, it would unite human beings in their proper order. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 19)

The Scriptures declare, “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:12.] Those who are truly sons of God show by their Christlike lives that they are members of the royal family. They love God supremely and their neighbor as themselves. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 20)

Through the unity of His people God desires to reveal the wonderful principles of heaven. Each is to unite with the other in carrying out the Master’s will, all working under the divine head. All are to blend together in perfect harmony, receiving from the same Source their power, their joy, their influence. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 21)

When the truth is practiced, there will be no contention in regard to who is the greatest. There will be no strife for the supremacy. No one will follow dishonest practices for the sake of gain. There will be no robbery of God in tithes and offerings. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 22)

When God’s people are obedient to all His commandments, the love will be cherished which brings peace and joy into the family circle. Then will the Redeemer be honored. Then will be obeyed the injunction, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 23)

In the condition of the world today we see the terrible result of living for self. When man ceases to exert a heavenly influence, he still exerts an influence, but it is an influence for evil. If his influence is not hallowed by the sanctifying power of the truth, he is a worker of evil. His selfishness is an injury to him and to others. Every seed of evil which is sown reproduces the evil of the original sin, increasing the curse brought upon the world by disobedience. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 24)

Cannot we see that God’s Spirit is being withdrawn from the world, which in its moral pollution is as it was before the flood and as it was in the days of Sodom and Gomorrah? So great is the corruption of the cities that the moral atmosphere is as the atmosphere of a pesthouse. Society is corrupted by the transgression of God’s law. From generation to generation sin has been exerting its evil influence upon society, bringing a continual increase of depravity and degradation, till soon there will come from the highest Authority in the universe the word, Shorten the days, lest there shall no flesh be saved. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 25)

The world is becoming more and more devoted to the service of sin. Each age as it passes away bequeaths to the one following its accumulation of contamination. Satan is the god of the world. With despotic power he rules in temple, palace, and church, working with intense earnestness to overthrow every plan, human or divine, which is set in operation to counteract the increasing disregard of the law of God. The destructive evil of Satan’s agencies is dedicated to the work of keeping crime, destruction, and death in circulation. In the enemy’s hands, temptation has become a science for the overthrow of good. Under his control men sin by rule. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 26)

Religion, opposed to God’s law though bearing the name of Christianity, aggravates the evil. Crime of the darkest hue is in circulation under the form of godliness. Satan takes his principles to the churches and gives them back to the world under the solemn names of law and religion. He works with power in his children of disobedience who are church members. The life of one who is a professed Christian, and at the same time a sinner in the daily life, is a terrible power for evil. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 27)

Is it not time for those who claim to believe the truth for this time to awaken? Shall not the people who have had great light depart from all iniquity? Is it not time for them to set a more Christlike example? Should they not show with greater distinctness the power of the truth to sanctify human beings? (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 28)

If we only knew the solemnity of the time in which we are living, if we only realized how greatly the world needs to see the power of Christ’s grace revealed in His followers, we would work more earnestly and diligently for the Master. The Lord calls upon His church to arise and shine amid the moral darkness of the world. His people are to be a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 29)

Let those who believe the truth put their belief into practice by revealing the love and unity which pervade heaven. No man liveth to himself. Christians are to show such zeal, such earnestness in prayer, such determination to let the light shine, that many souls ready to perish will be saved. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 30)

Let not the professed people of God think it a privilege to separate from conference organization, that they may show their supposed efficiency. This is entirely opposed to God’s order. There is need of perfect unity and love, and this will appear when we learn of Jesus. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 31)

It is the plan of God that every church and every conference shall cherish the feeling of reciprocal dependence. We are to build one another up in the most holy faith, seeking the impartation of the Holy Spirit, that light may be reflected in clear, bright rays. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 32)

Shall the sacred chain of dependence, which binds men together, be looked upon as slavery? Shall we allow the enemy to enter to cause discord and separation, to rob families of happiness and the church of usefulness? Shall we allow him to use us to prevent the great and blessed work of reformation? Who can say, It is well with my soul, while evil thinking and evil speaking are allowed to rule in the heart, causing disunion and strife? (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 33)

Christianity transforms the character, bringing the will into harmony with the will of God. God’s people are plainly distinguished from worldlings because they follow God’s plan. (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 34)

Sound an alarm! Wake up the mighty men! Remove from the church all that is offensive to God. God grant that all who are inclined to sow the seeds of jealousy and envy may be thoroughly converted. Church members need just what Nicodemus needed—a new birth. Christ says to them, “Ye must be born again.” [John 3:7.] (16LtMs, Ms 97, 1901, 35)

Ms 98, 1901

Fragments/The Need of Church Schools
NP
September 25, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 10MR 107-111.

It is time for the members of our churches to be instructed to withdraw their children from the public school. The apt mind of a child readily learns lessons of evil in companionship with children who have not been properly trained. Thus many children are corrupted. (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 1)

Church schools should be established, and teachers should be secured who will work earnestly for the physical, mental, and spiritual health of the pupils. I urge those in charge of the church school work to obtain the very best teachers to take charge of the schools started. (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 2)

I would say to church school teachers, Know that you do know that you are worked by the Holy Spirit. Reveal in your life the power of the transforming influence of truth. Teachers should do their utmost to improve their own capabilities, that they may teach their students how to make true improvement. (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 3)

For church school teachers to try to reform the children who have been neglected, without the co-operation of the parents, would make a very disagreeable state of things. Remember that while decision is necessary, you are never to be harsh and condemnatory. You are never to manifest an overbearing spirit. Keep calm. Reveal the better way by refusing to be provoked. (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 4)

Instruction in Practical Lines Essential (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 5)

In our schools there should be classes for instruction in cooking and other branches of housekeeping. These classes will be a great blessing. They should be taught the science of healthful cooking. They should be taught to be neat and quick in performing the common duties of life. Many are deficient in this respect. There is great loss when those who are receiving a training for missionary work do not gain this experience, for unless students are educated in regard to the duties of practical life, how can they do intelligent missionary work? (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 6)

The educators in our schools, as well as the students, are to be more practical. Then their services will be more valuable. If teachers will live up to their privileges, they will improve the opportunity of learning how to do all kinds of housework. (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 7)

Words to Parents (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 8)

To the parents who have received the truth of God, I am instructed to say, Give your children patient instruction and tender care. When the parents in our churches do the work the Lord has laid upon them, He will have channels through which He can do an advanced line of work. (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 9)

It is impossible to depict the evil that results from leaving a child to its own will. Some who go astray because of neglect during childhood will, through the inculcation of practical lessons, line upon line, precept upon precept, come to their senses; but careful, painstaking effort is required to place them in a right position. Many are lost forever because in childhood and youth they received only a partial, one-sided culture. The precious motive-power of the life is wasted, and the sin lies at the door of the parents. (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 10)

Many who serve in church capacity are in bondage to strange inconsistencies. The blunders of untrained, undisciplined childhood become the inheritance of manhood and womanhood. The perverted intellect can scarcely discern between the true and the false. (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 11)

In His Word God has marked out a plan for the education of children, and this plan parents are to follow. They are to teach their children to overcome every indolent habit. Each child should be taught that he has a work to do in the world. Mothers, there is no work more important than the training of the child for usefulness in this life. It is in the home that a child shows whether he is prepared to take his place in the world. (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 12)

The Holy One has spoken words to parents and children: “Children, obey your parents in the Lord; for this is right. Honor thy father and mother; ... that it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth. And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath, but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” [Ephesians 6:1-4.] (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 13)

If parents do not fulfil their responsibilities, if they do not train their children for the Lord, the crime of disobedience lies at their door. To God they must answer for their neglect. They are to teach their children that they are to honor their parents, and they are to so live that their children can honor them. They are never to provoke their children to wrath, but are to deal with them as the younger members of the Lord’s family. They are to require obedience, being sure at the same time that their own will is in subjection to the will of God. Parents who desire their children to be patterns of piety must themselves be patterns of piety. (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 14)

Speaking of the qualifications of a bishop, Paul says, “A bishop, then, must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behavior, given to hospitality, apt to teach; ... one that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity. (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)” [1 Timothy 3:2, 4, 5.] (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 15)

Let not parents betray their trust. Let there be no hypocrisy on the one hand or deception on the other; but let them do their appointed work with the fear of God ever before them. (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 16)

Unreserved Surrender (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 17)

There will be those who will give money to the work of God, but this is not enough. The Lord calls for more—the gift of the whole life. This is where the real sacrifice comes. In many cases, to give money requires no effort. Missionary work calls for much self-denial. Christ says, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Matthew 16:24.] There are many who are not willing to suffer personal inconvenience, to make personal effort, to advance the cause of God. (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 18)

The physician promises to save only on condition that the patient obeys his direction. Thus it is with the great Physician. If human beings desire deliverance from sin, they must be guided by His Word. Those who will not submit to His control cannot but continue in disobedience. Those who step to the devil’s side will fall into the devil’s hands. (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 19)

The shepherd goes forth to find the lost, perishing sheep and rejoices when he finds it. But the wanderer is henceforth to remain under the shepherd’s care. It is not to renew its wanderings, but is to repay the shepherd’s love by remaining in the fold. When the prodigal returns to claim a son’s privileges, he must also consent to accept the obligations of a son. (16LtMs, Ms 98, 1901, 20)

Ms 99, 1901

The Southern California Conference
NP
September 25, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 13MR 408-410. +

We hope that because the California Conference has been divided, the brethren in the Southern Conference will not think that they need not harmonize with their brethren in the northern part of the state. Here is their danger. Let them not erect barriers of division by working according to their independent judgment, without reference to those in the Northern Conference. I have a caution to give in regard to this. (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 1)

The division of the California Conference was not made to cut those in the southern part of the state adrift, but that the work there might move forward with new vigor, that under the guidance of the divine Head, and imbued with fresh zeal, the workers might press into new territory. The movement to divide the conference means unity, not divorce. (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 2)

The work will soon be closed up. The Lord has instructed His people to be united and earnest in their prayers and in their work as they proclaim to the world the message of present truth. Thus they give evidence that they are sanctified by the Spirit, and their work is a success. The Holy Spirit always draws believers closer together, increasing their unity and happiness. (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 3)

There are those who have an excellent understanding of the Word, but who are always criticizing the work of others. Let us pray that we may be of one mind and one judgment. Let no one think that it is a virtue to stand on the side of the criticizer, unable to see the great work to be done nigh and afar off. We know that there will be some who will put into the minds of their brethren thoughts and suggestions that should be repressed. The sowing of this seed causes dissension and strife to spring up. May God convert the jealous and suspicious ones who see a yoke of bondage in uniting with their brethren in counsel and prayer regarding important movements. The Lord says, “All ye are brethren.” [Matthew 23:8.] (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 4)

God needs the strength of the united action of the Northern and Southern California Conference. The workers in the new conference are to be faithful in all they do. They are not to move independently, without any reference to the counsel of their brethren in the North. Those in one part of the vineyard should consider it a favor to have the counsel of their brethren in another part. Thus they guard against mistakes. One man’s mind is not to become a controlling power. Narrowness is not to be revealed in the plans laid. The cause is one. The aims of the workers should be one. (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 5)

In order for the work in Southern California to move onward and upward with the march of God’s providence, men of keen insight will be needed to stand at its head. These men must unite in counsel with their brethren in the Northern Conference. Those who are working for God should obtain all the advice they can from experienced workers. God grant that all may work in such a way that the great I AM may imprint His name on the work done. (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 6)

There is an important work to be done in Southern California. The medical missionary work will demand talents and divine wisdom. The command of the Saviour is that the work done in one part of the field is to be done with reference to the work in other parts of the field. In Southern California the workers are to enter upon aggressive missionary work, remembering the command which opens to their view a world to be warned. They are to duly consider the progress of the work in all parts of the world, showing a heaven-born interest in every plan that is laid for the advancement of God’s cause. (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 7)

The wisdom, skill, and tact shown in the management of the work will tell their own story. If the condition of the work shows that it does not bear the inscription of heaven, the cause is to be searched out. (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 8)

In the Bible is shown the imperative importance of God’s workers being controlled by the Holy Spirit. The work is to be carried forward on Scriptural lines. The workers are to deepen and broaden their religious experience by a careful examination of the Word of God, which is their textbook and guidebook. Following the direction of this Word makes men wise unto salvation. (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 9)

The same divine authority that guides the minds of men in one conference will guide the minds of their brethren in other conferences. Therefore the workers in the different conferences should compare experiences, that the influence of the divine authority may be shed abroad. As men relate their varied experiences, the influence of God’s power is collected and multiplied. The power that has made the work a success in the past is to exert its influence in the present and the future. As the workers review the history of the past and see how Christian influence has prompted men and women to action, their missionary zeal will increase. (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 10)

The workers should not hurry the work forward without giving due consideration to the means they have in hand. The enterprises established for the advancement of God’s work are not to be trammelled with debt. Take into consideration all the difficulties, and then work like brave, wise men. Consecrated zeal is much more powerful than mere activity. Consecration in thought, word, and action is necessary for success in God’s service. (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 11)

“Go Ye Into All the World.” (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 12)

A true sense of equity, judgment, and the love of God is to be brought into our devising and planning. Those who bear responsibilities are to set an example that will give church members confidence that they are wise men, who are not influenced by selfishness or pride. (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 13)

God brings His people together in church fellowship that they may better impart to the world the blessings of light which they receive from Him. There is no need of an education in criticism. All should strive to be true missionaries, encouraging and sustaining one another by speaking words of encouragement and hope, lifting up the hands which hang down and strengthening the feeble knees. Each is to work according to his ability. But even after they have done their best, God’s people will not feel a sense of self-congratulation. The true worker always feels a sense of abasement, of dissatisfaction with self. Humility is the fruit borne on the Christian tree. (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 14)

Christ said, “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:20.] This commission comes from the lips of One who loves the world, not a few human beings. When the church ignores the Word, “Go ye into all the world,” she makes the promise of none effect. She places herself where she cannot see the realization of the words, “Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 15)

Let not the church, by binding up her interests in a few places, refuse to obey the command of Christ. Thus she draws away from Him who gave His life for the life of the world. The Saviour desires His cause to make proportionate advancement in the various openings made by the proclamation of the truth. He does not direct men to make extravagant expenditures in a few spots, multiplying the advantages there, while other places remain barren and unworked. By such misappropriation of means, the work in foreign fields is hindered. The way is not prepared for Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 16)

For our publishing houses to add continually to their conveniences is not according to God’s plan. Constant investment in new machinery means that commercial work must be brought in to keep the new presses running. (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 17)

God calls for a higher devotion on the part of His people. There is need of a revival of the Holy Spirit in every place. A reformation is needed. The expense is to be carefully guarded, lest too much money shall be expended in a few places. Human planning has been seen in the erection of costly buildings involving a large expenditure, when less expensive buildings would have been sufficient for the needs of the work. All the buildings erected should be neat and tasteful, but unnecessary expense should be avoided. These buildings are to represent our faith. They are not to be put up at such an expense that the debt on them will deny our faith. It is the integrity of the workers, not the costliness of the building, that exalts an institution before men and angels. (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 18)

Success in any field means support for that field. Success brings with it increased responsibilities. It means that the work must widen, that the church must put forth every effort to properly sustain the advancing work. It means that new territory must be annexed, that the standard must be planted in towns and cities that have not heard the Word of truth. (16LtMs, Ms 99, 1901, 19)

Ms 100, 1901

Talk/Parents to Co-operate with Church School Teachers
Healdsburg, California
September 8, 1901
Previously unpublished. +

A talk at the Church School Teachers' Institute. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 1)

“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. And 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 12:1, 2.] This is a wonderful statement. It is by our experience that we are to “prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 2)

“For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with all diligence; he that showeth mercy, with cheerfulness. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 3)

“Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another; not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” [Verses 3-21.] (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 4)

In this twelfth chapter of Romans the apostle Paul points out many principles concerning the conduct of Christians toward one another. As members of the heavenly family, we should help and strengthen each other. There is a heaven to win. “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.” [Revelation 3:21.] Will we think of these words? Will we work to this rule, overcoming as Christ overcame? His example is before us. No one need walk in darkness. All may be overcomers, joining in the work of helping others to overcome. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 5)

In His mercy, God invites us to dedicate ourselves—body, soul, and spirit—to His service. Let us surrender all to Him. When as a triumphant company we are privileged to acknowledge Christ as our Redeemer, casting our crowns at His feet and crying, “Worthy, worthy, worthy is the Lamb that was slain and lives again,” we shall understand that all the privileges and benefits and blessings which we enjoyed in this world came through Christ’s sacrifice in our behalf. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 6)

Is it possible that there is any one, young or old, who really feels that he is making a sacrifice in giving his life to God? Is it possible that we do not understand that Christ made an entire sacrifice—body, soul, and spirit—that we might come into possession of that life which measures with the life of the Eternal? In return for His infinite sacrifice, He requires of us a whole sacrifice—body, soul, and spirit, the willing and the doing. If we will to do, we can do; and if we do His will, we shall know by experience that His doctrine is truth. Thus we are built up in the most holy faith. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 7)

We are responsible to God for the purchase money paid for our ransom. “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, 20.] What is the work before us? If our capabilities are weak, we should make them strong. If we have not accepted some of the precious gifts of God, we should by living faith seize these gifts, saying, “They shall be mine,” and they will be ours. It is our duty to reach a higher standard than we have yet attained. If a careful consideration of our privileges, and of our failure to properly represent our Redeemer before others, does not arouse us and keep us from partaking of a worldly spirit, what will? (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 8)

It is of the greatest importance that every family in our churches should understand the value of Christian education. The early training of children is a subject which all should carefully study. We need to make the education of our children a business. As fathers and mothers, we should train and discipline ourselves. Then as teachers in the home, we can educate our children. May the Lord help us to understand that their salvation largely depends upon the education given them in childhood. We are to prepare ourselves and our children for the future, immortal inheritance. Let fathers and mothers be imbued with divine power, that they may resist and overcome the temptations of the enemy, which are growing stronger and stronger. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 9)

Mothers, it is your privilege to bind your children to your heart with the tenderest and strongest cords of love. During the first few years of the life of Samuel the prophet, his mother carefully taught him to distinguish between good and evil. It was with sorrow and great self-denial that in fulfilment of her vow to dedicate her son to the service of God, she gave him to Eli the high priest to be brought up. But the early training received by Samuel led him to refuse to yield to the evil influences surrounding him in the household of the high priest. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 10)

Many parents allow children to go and do as they please, amusing themselves, and choosing their own associates. In the Judgment, such parents will learn that their children have lost heaven because of the lack of proper home restraint. Parents should awaken to their responsibilities, realizing the importance of setting their children a right example by walking in the narrow way, that at last, a united family, they may enter the city of God. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 11)

Children left in the hands of Satan are gladly taken by him and used in his service. Fathers and mothers, Satan is seeking to seize every one of your children. Come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty powers of darkness. Consecrate your household to God. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 12)

Parents, teach your children the way of the Lord. In your morning and evening devotions, join with them in reading the Bible and singing beautiful songs of praise. Let them learn to repeat God’s law. Concerning the commandments, the Israelites were instructed: “And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.” [Deuteronomy 6:7.] In accordance with this command, Moses directed the Israelites to set to music the words of the law. While the older ones played on instruments, the younger children marched, singing in concert the song of the commandments of God. In later years they retained in their minds the words of the law which they learned during childhood. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 13)

If it was essential for Moses to embody the commandments in sacred song, so that the children could learn to sing the law verse by verse as they marched in the wilderness, how necessary it is today to teach our children the Word of God. Let us come up to the help of the Lord, instructing our children to keep the commandments of God to the letter. Let us do everything in our power to make music in our homes, that God can come in. Allow not the discordant music of scolding and fretting. Never exhibit passion. Christian parents will put away every objectionable trait of character, daily learning from the Great Teacher to wisely train their children, bringing them up in the fear and admonition of the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 14)

The father is the house-band of the family. The prudent mother, as the first teacher of her children, sets a guard upon her lips, that she may not utter one hasty, loud, or fretful word. Fathers and mothers, never scold. Consecrate your words to God. Teach your children exactly what you require of them. Then let them understand that your word is law and must be obeyed. Thus you are training them to respect the commandments of God, which plainly declare, “Thou shalt” and “Thou shalt not.” It is far better for your boy to obey from principle than from compulsion. In a missionary meeting I once heard a speaker say that instead of buttoning the gate so the child cannot get out, the button should be put on the boy. This is true. Parents, put the button on the boy. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 15)

If as teachers in the home, the father and the mother allow the children to take the lines of control into their own hands, they are held responsible for what their children might otherwise have been. From babyhood the child should be taught that the mother is master. Never should the mother allow Satan to arouse or strengthen the disagreeable passions of her child. She should not use the rod, if it be possible to avoid doing so. But if milder measures prove insufficient, punishment which will bring the child to its senses should in love be administered. Frequently one correction will be enough for a lifetime to show a child that he does not hold the lines of control. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 16)

This question of discipline should be understood in the school as well as in the home. We should hope that in the schoolroom there would never be occasion to use the rod. But if in a school there are those who stubbornly resist all counsel and entreaty, all prayers and burden of soul in their behalf, then it is necessary to make them understand that they must obey. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 17)

Some teachers do not think it is best to urge or enforce obedience. They say that it is their duty merely to educate. True, it is our duty to educate. But what does the educating of children amount to, if when they disregard the principles placed before them, the teacher does not feel that he has a right to exercise authority? (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 18)

I know that many parents do not co-operate with the teacher by fostering in their homes the good influence exerted in the school. Instead of carrying out in the home the principles of obedience taught in the school, they allow their children to do as they please, to go hither and thither without restraint. Then if in any way authority is exercised by the teacher in requiring obedience, the children carry to their parents a greatly exaggerated and distorted account of the way in which they have been misused. The teacher has been doing only that which it was his painful duty to do; but the parents sympathize with their children, even though they are in the wrong. Those parents who rule in passion are the most unreasonable when their children are sensibly governed in school to keep them from injuring other students by their wrong influence. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 19)

When the church school teacher tries to so train and discipline your children that they will gain eternal life, do not in their presence criticize his actions, even though you may think he is too severe, too strait-laced. You cannot afford to sympathize with them when they are disciplined. If you long for them to give their hearts to Jesus, receiving the light and grace and glory of God, take up in the home the long-neglected work of co-operating with the teacher’s efforts for their salvation. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 20)

Instead of criticism, how much better it is for children to hear from the lips of their mother sweet and tender and loving words, commending the work of the teacher. Such words make lasting impressions, and in the schoolroom their influence is manifested in the respect shown to the teacher. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 21)

Teachers, let the separation of a child from the school be your last resort. When you say to a child, “You cannot come to the school,” you are taking a fearful step. I should never do it: I should work with an unruly child hours after school was dismissed. I should plead with God in his behalf, and in some way touch his heart. But never could I dismiss him; for it is almost his last hope. Fathers and mothers, you cannot afford to allow matters to come to this crisis in the life of your child. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 22)

Teachers in our schools need the keen perception of the Spirit of God, that they may know how to deal with the tender minds of the youth. Those who conduct church schools, and state schools established where there is a church, should consider it their privilege not only to teach in the school, but to bring into the church the same talent of instructing which is used in the school. Learn how to talk to the older ones along educational and medical missionary lines. Present to parents their need of using their God-given capabilities in wisely training their children in the home, thus co-operating with the teacher. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 23)

Parents, there is a heaven to win and a hell to shun. If you desire the salvation of your children, make home as pleasant as possible. Let all the rooms be attractive, and arranged for the comfort of the children. Make them feel that they are to enjoy in the house—that it is their own home. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 24)

Sometimes when invited to take dinner with a friend, my children have anticipated having an unusually pleasant time; but often they have returned, saying, “O, I did not enjoy myself nearly so well as I do when at home.” I was glad to hear them say this. Parents have the privilege of making home a heaven on earth. If they choose, they can invite heavenly intelligences—ministering angels—into the home, bringing heaven nearer to earth. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 25)

God desires both parents and teachers to train children in the practical duties of everyday life. Industry should be encouraged in the home. Girls—and even boys who do not have outdoor work—should learn how to help their mothers. From childhood the boys and girls should be taught to bear heavier and still heavier burdens, intelligently helping in the work of the family firm. Patiently show them how you use your hands, teaching them that their hands are to be used as skilfully as are yours in doing the work of the household. Often a crying, fretful infant or a sick child keeps the mother awake night after night. How much better it is for the children to draw upon their strength, than to allow the already overtaxed mother to be burdened with work which they should do. Too often the mother succumbs to disease, sometimes lying upon her deathbed, before children realize that by sharing the burdens in the home they could have lessened her cares and spared her much affliction and suffering. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 26)

Many hours spent in visiting could be saved. Sometimes friends have asked me, “Won’t you come to see us, Mrs. White?” I have answered that I would at a certain hour. When I visited them, even though I could remain no longer than a few minutes, yet they soon asked to be excused, that they might go out into the kitchen to prepare supper for me. I have told them, “My time is precious. I came to see if I could not help and strengthen you spiritually. Since I came I have not had fifteen minutes’ conversation with you, and now I cannot remain longer. I must return home.” My friends soon learned that it was useless to ask me to visit them in that way. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 27)

said, “Unless you allow your children to enter society, they will not know anything.” I responded, “Then that ‘anything’ they never will know; for into society they shall not go.” I told my children that they would not know this “anything” which could be learned only by going into society, but that they should know something concerning the infinite sacrifice their Saviour made in order to bring them to a knowledge of the truth and save them from the so-called wisdom of worldlings. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 28)

If children see their parents practicing the least dishonesty in robbing God of tithes and offerings, if they are not taught to bring their gifts to the One who has given them all things, if in their childhood they do not realize their obligations to God, they will, when grown to years of maturity, steel their hearts against the clearest discourses that they hear from the minister in the church. They will say, “Father and mother have not done thus, and they are good Christians.” By allowing children to grow up careless and indifferent in regard to presenting to God the tithes and offerings which He requires, parents rob Him to the third and fourth generation; for their children and their children’s children will have no inclination to fear and obey God. The third chapter of Malachi condemns every unfaithfulness in withholding tithes and offerings. Let us all bring to God an honest tithe. Unless we do this, how is the gospel ministry to be maintained? We cannot expect God to rain money from heaven into His empty treasury; for He has made us His helping hand. We are entrusted with means, and blessed with food and clothing. In return, He requires faithfulness in rendering to Him, not only the tithe, but liberal gifts. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 29)

“O,” says one, “I must make my will and provide for my family. They would feel much offended if I should not give them my property.” But do you know that your children will carry on the work which you as a faithful steward would have done with your means? The money coming into your hands is God’s, not yours. The Lord requires that every dollar entrusted to you as His steward be expended wisely. Do not place your means in the hands of others, unless you feel confident that they will be faithful almoners. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 30)

Some may ask, “Does Sister White pay tithes and offerings?” Sister White does, and in addition to giving her own means to the cause, she is today paying interest on thousands of dollars borrowed in order to advance the work in destitute fields. I am so grateful to God that I have had a part in His work by using to His glory the means He has given me. Although I now have a home, it is only partially paid for, and at any time I am ready to dispose of it to advance the cause of God. The time has come to “sell that ye have, and give alms;” to “provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” [Luke 12:33, 34.] (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 31)

We are approaching the day of final reckoning. Christ told His disciples that prior to the coming of the Son of Man, the world would be as it was in the days of Noah, when “they were eating, and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, ... and knew not until the flood came, and took them all away.” [Matthew 24:37-39.] They chose to drink the waters of the flood. During one hundred and twenty years they were on probation, free to choose whether they would obey the voice of God and find refuge in the ark, or refuse to hear His voice, and be destroyed. They chose to disbelieve. Those who did believe when Noah began to build the ark lost their faith through association with unbelievers who aroused all the old passions for amusement and display. In those days “the earth was filled with violence.” [Genesis 6:11.] Is not violence now in the land? How much is human life worth, if somebody’s way is crossed, if somebody’s passion is excited? (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 32)

If this picture of the present state of the world is not sufficient to arouse parents to do their duty in bringing up their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, what will bring them to a right understanding? God wishes us to be sensible concerning the training of our children, educating them for the future, immortal life. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 33)

“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. And 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 12:1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 34)

*****

In Healdsburg, it is necessary that the interest in educational work shall be deeper than it has ever been before. The Lord desires that Healdsburg College shall stand upon the exalted platform of eternal truth—the Word of the living God. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” [Psalm 111:10.] All who unite with the school should understand that they are to educate themselves for the future, immortal life. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 35)

The church in Healdsburg should take hold of the educational work in earnest, beginning in the home. The instruction given by the parents should harmonize with the teaching of the school. Too often the church and the school have been regarded as separate interests, that could not blend. This view of the matter is not right. The work of the church and of the school must blend. The church members should have a high conception of their work, understanding that they are to co-operate with the work of the school, that they may prepare their families to unite with the great gathering above at the time of the inauguration of Christ in the heavenly courts, when the names of the redeemed will be called, and they will respond, laying their crowns at His feet. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 36)

*****

I desire the brethren and sisters in Healdsburg to have the honor of paying the debt upon their church. If each one would bestir himself, it could be paid, and there would be no occasion to call upon the conference for assistance. If the conference would pay the debts on meetinghouses, it would soon be overburdened with debt. Already it is called upon to support foreign missions and has many heavy obligations to meet in the home field. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 37)

Brethren and sisters of the Healdsburg church, have the nobility of soul to say, “We will meet our own indebtedness.” Explain the situation to your children. Let every member of the family lay aside a certain amount each week for the special purpose of paying the indebtedness on this church, until it is entirely free. May God help you to do this. (16LtMs, Ms 100, 1901, 38)

Ms 101, 1901

The Need of the Grace of Christ
Battle Creek, Michigan
April, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 2SM 24. +

We are now on the field of battle. May God help me to hide in Christ! (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 1)

The most convincing evidence of growth in grace is a constantly increasing love for righteousness. He who is growing in grace loves to obey the Word of God. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 2)

We are living amid the perils of the last days. Our safety lies in holding the beginning of our confidence firm unto the end. Ordinary, half-hearted service does not please God. I would that the perceptive faculties of the people of God were sharp and clear, that they might see the need of cultivating righteousness. Difficult work is before us. Let us seek to harmonize, to love one another as Christ has loved us. As religious teachers, we should have a growing sense of the need of unity in faith and action. We are to guide the flock of God. Let us, then, not make false paths for our feet. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 3)

“Who is a wise man, and endued with knowledge among you? let him show out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.” [James 3:13.] Let him reveal his wisdom by showing that he has learned of the great Teacher. “Take my yoke upon you,” Christ says, “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.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 4)

Christ’s wisdom never leads to contention and strife. His gentleness is a wonderful gift. It is true goodness. “The fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.” [James 3:18.] Let there be no strife for the supremacy among the people of God. Let no words of contention or bitterness fall from their lips. If you have never learned to control self, begin to learn now. The heart that sends forth the bitter waters of strife cannot possibly send forth the sweet, pure waters of love to God and man. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 5)

My brethren, my sisters, let us strive for the Holy Spirit by submitting to the control of the Spirit. Remember that a strict account must be rendered to God of all the words spoken. O that all realized the eternal consequences dependent on the use of the tongue! (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 6)

I tell you, my brethren and sisters, that Satan works through every one who is not fully consecrated to God. Some are not aware that their influence is strongest on the side of the enemy. But though they do not realize it, they are making crooked paths for their feet, and the lame—those deficient in religious experience—are turned out of the way. When will they gain the faith that works by love and purifies the soul? (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 7)

When a minister takes with him into the ministry objectionable traits of character, he places the truth in peril. He is not converted, and therefore he does not appreciate his sacred trust. He does not use his influence and capabilities on the Lord’s side. He is an instrument in the hands of the enemy. The evil into which he breaks out diminishes his power of doing good, and casts reproach on the ministry. He robs his message of its power to convict the conscience of the sinner. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 8)

He who is converted carries himself circumspectly. The sinner, born again, has become the child of God. His character has undergone a transformation. The gospel has become to him the power of God unto salvation. He is a laborer together with God—the Lord’s helping hand. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 9)

God bestows on men gifts which He desires them to use to His name’s glory. The enemy tries to make men place their own interests first. This is their danger. Unless they humble themselves at every step, they will introduce self into their work. Those who engage in the Lord’s service must pray much, else human wisdom will mar their efforts. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 10)

For years past many have been anxious to produce something new and surprising to present to the people, to amaze them, instead of steadily and prayerfully leading them to Christ, teaching them to eat His flesh and drink His blood. There is no safety in trusting in humanity, in keeping before the mind the doings of men. Thus Satan tries to eclipse Christ. He does not want the world to behold Him as the One altogether lovely, the chiefest among ten thousand. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 11)

Work, my dear brethren, under the eye of God. Intense watchfulness and strict censorship over self are now essential. Walk humbly and trustingly with God. Christ is your pattern. Behold Him, the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sin of the world. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 12)

The energies of the church have been fettered. Cut away the bands. There is a great deal of rough, hard work to be done, but because of this, the worker must not grow rough and uncourteous, unlovely in speech and action. Let everyone in God’s service strive to be as pure and holy as the Master. Let God’s people act so that the world will see that Seventh-day Adventists are an intelligent, thinking people, whose faith is based on a surer foundation than the bedlam of confusion. The people are hungry for the bread of life. Do not offer them a stone. God requires His servants to give the people pure, spiritual food. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 13)

The salvation of souls is the grand object to which our whole attention should be turned. To the accomplishment of this work we should bend all our energies. The earth is covered with moral darkness. Crime and vice abound. Those who love the truth should now work earnestly and zealously for Bible religion. God will accept no compromise. We must lift the standard higher and still higher. A religion that is merely nominal is an insult to the One who was crucified for us. “Put ye on the Lord Jesus, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.” [Romans 13:14.] (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 14)

Should Christ appear in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory, who would be found complete in Him, not having their own righteousness, but the righteousness which is by faith? (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 15)

*****

In His work God uses a transplanting process, changing the situation and labor of His workers. He sees that there are those who need a purer atmosphere, and He sends them to another place. So it is in nature. To us it may seem that the gardener, tearing the plants up by the roots, is undoing his past work. But it is by transplantation that the best results are gained. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 16)

It may seem that much service is lost by carrying out the plans of reorganization. But the Lord says, “Moab hath been at ease from his youth, and he hath settled on his lees, and hath not been emptied from vessel to vessel, neither hath he gone into captivity: therefore his scent remained in him, and his scent is not changed.” [Jeremiah 48:11.] (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 17)

*****

There are gospel ministers, shepherds of the flock of God, who, though they have had great light, are not following the principles of health reform in their diet. They still eat meat. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 18)

Those who at one meal eat a great variety of food will find that they are lacking in spirituality. The food we eat should be wholesome, nourishing, and palatable, and it should also be plain and simple. And I would not advocate the disuse of salt. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 19)

The Need of Christlike Sympathy. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 20)

All who are guided by heavenly wisdom will manifest a heavenly spirit. O, when will those who profess Christ put on Christ? When will they work as true medical missionaries? Into the practical, everyday life Christ’s followers must bring His tenderness and lovingkindness. Stop right where you are, my brother, in your close, hard dealing. Remember that your every action is recorded in the books of heaven. Every day your character is photographed by the heavenly artist. Every action of oppression and fraud, and every action of love and tenderness, is faithfully reproduced. At the last great day, to everyone before Him, Christ will say, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me,” or, “Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.” [Matthew 25:40, 45.] (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 21)

How are you relating yourselves to God’s work as medical missionaries? If God gives me strength, I shall not let this subject drop until a thorough change is made in business dealing, until a reformation takes place, and God’s people love Him with the whole heart and soul and strength and mind, and their neighbor as themselves. The Lord has not one word of commendation for sharp, close dealing. Let those in responsible positions in our offices of publication begin with themselves, closely examining their every action, and asking, “Is this the way of the Lord? Is Christ’s will my will?” Be in earnest as you ask yourselves these questions. Plead with God. Pray as you have never prayed before. Bring your habits into conformity with the Word of God. One lax habit leads to the continual breaking of the commandments. Overcome your inclination to wrong before the heart is hardened in sin. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 22)

The head of every department in our publishing houses should be an earnest, sincere Christian, prepared to deal with those in his charge as human beings under Christ’s rule should deal with one another. By kind words and unselfish actions, they should gain the confidence of those whom they direct. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 23)

No one has any reason to expect acceptance of Christ in others any further than he himself reveals Christ’s likeness. When Christ abides in the soul, the temper is sweetened and the voice controlled. The words spoken are comforting and encouraging. The truth is uttered in love. Then does the Lord say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Verse 23.] (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 24)

God calls upon those in positions of responsibility in His publishing houses to put themselves in the place of those with whom they deal. How would those who give orders in harsh, dictatorial tones like to be spoken to in the same way? Remember that it is the delight of God to manifest the largeness of His benevolence, His love, His compassion. He looks with tender pity on those who have an unhappy disposition. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 25)

Let the heart of the instructor be linked with the hearts of those in his charge. Let him remember that they have many temptations and trials to meet. How little we realize the many objectionable traits of character which are given to the youth as a birthright, and how many temptations come to them as a result of this birthright. Help the youth by your kindness, your prayers, your words of loving interest. Thus you may save souls from death and hide a multitude of sins. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 26)

God desires you to study the material with which you are working. Do you seek to win the love and confidence of your apprentices by giving them your love and confidence? Once you have gained their confidence, you have found a way of helping them. Do not, by a lack of sympathy, force them into strange paths. Instead, by your unselfish interest in them, guide their wayward, inexperienced feet in the narrow path leading to the city of God. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 27)

God desires the windows of His publishing houses to be closed earthward and opened heavenward. If the hearts of the managers do not reflect the sunshine of pleasantness and love, they should be labored with. If they refuse to be converted, to change their way of dealing with the apprentices and other workers, let them disconnect from the office; for their wrong methods will spoil the youth with whom they come in contact in the office. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 28)

Remember that a publishing house is a school, and that it is to be wisely governed, as Christ governs His school. Are you who occupy positions of trust in our offices of publication learning of Christ His meekness and lowliness? Are you by your actions of tenderness and sympathy binding yourselves up with every worker in the office? When you have done this, stewards of God, then it is time to have seasons of fasting and prayer for these souls. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 29)

Discipline yourselves. Until you do this, you cannot discipline others. Repress that harsh, condemnatory word. Let it not be spoken. Let the law of kindness be on your lips. Souls are too precious to be handled harshly. They are the purchase of the blood of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 30)

“Blessed is the man that endureth temptation; for when he is tried, he shall receive a crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.” [James 1:12.] Blessed is the man who endureth temptation, who has not sacrificed his self-respect by being harsh, dictatorial, and arbitrary. Angels are marking every thought, word, and action. If he endures the test, he comes forth with the approval of God. The righteousness of God goes before him, and the glory of the Lord is his rereward. He fails not to represent the goodness, mercy, compassion, and love of the Lord Jesus. He will receive a crown of life. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 31)

The religion that does not govern the temper and control the tongue, making men kind, patient, and forbearing, is not the religion of Christ. It will not secure salvation (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 32)

Throw yourselves unreservedly into the work of helping others. Then hearts will be softened, subdued, converted. Drink deeply of the spirit of Christlike tenderness and sympathy, for the Saviour yearns over every soul He has redeemed. If by kindness and love you break up the fallow ground of the heart and sow the gospel seed, you will reap a rich harvest. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 33)

Make the office a house of prayer; then God will be present with you in your religious exercises and in your work. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 34)

The great trouble in our publishing houses has been that those at the head of the work have taken on themselves too many burdens. The outside work which has been brought in has caused backsliding from God. It has led the workers to hurry and drive. They have had no time to pray. They have not had sufficient time to prepare to meet temptation. The time will come when the many presses in our publishing houses will not be needed. They will be disposed of, and the proceeds will go toward the advancement of the Lord’s work. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 35)

May God help those in charge of the publishing work to see that He desires far less worldly business brought into His offices of publication. Instead, He desires the managers and directors to spend more time in the education of those who are learning the printer’s trade. God is dishonored when He and His angels are crowded from the office by the rush of outside work. There is far more loss than gain in this kind of management. One soul is worth more to Jesus than all the financial profits that can be brought in. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 36)

God asks, “What is the chaff to the wheat?” [Jeremiah 23:28.] I will turn and overturn until the changes are made that will bring correct principles into the publishing houses. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 37)

Every institution is to stand in heaven-born righteousness. One institution is not to deal selfishly with another institution which is carrying forward a different line of God’s work. The interests of the Review and Herald and the Sanitarium are to blend, as are the interests of our publishing houses and sanitariums all over the world. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 38)

Selfishness and covetousness have been mingled with all parts of the Lord’s work, defiling it and dishonoring Him. Let this great evil be purged from His cause. “Hear the word of the Lord, ye children of Israel; for the Lord hath a controversy with the inhabitants of the land, because there is no truth nor mercy nor knowledge of God in the land.” “O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? for your goodness is as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it goeth away. Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of my mouth; and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth. For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice, and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.” [Hosea 4:1; 6:4-6.] (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 39)

Is it not high time for us to awake out of sleep and become workers together with God? Let not those who claim to be Christians act like sinners, manifesting anger and doing unchristlike deeds. Shall we not search for the Lord diligently? Shall we not study His Word, that we may know and do His will? Shall we not call on Him in our great necessity? Shall we not show that repentance that needeth not to be repented of? (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 40)

“Come, and let us return unto the Lord; for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten, and he will bind us up.... Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall be unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” [Verses 1, 3.] (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 41)

“Go, and Do Thou Likewise.” (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 42)

Christians are in need of learning of the great Physician how to restore their brethren who have fallen into decay by showing an interest in them, speaking and acting kindly toward them, not passing them by on the other side. When you see one who needs to be encouraged, be to him as the Lord’s helping hand. You dishonor God when you pass by a needy brother to patronize those who do not love or fear God. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 43)

A Christian is Christlike. Supreme love for God and unselfish love for one another are the two great principles on which hang all the law and the prophets. Should we not, then, obey these principles, that we may gain eternal life? Christlike love is the best gift which God bestows. All should strive most earnestly for this love, that they may reveal it in the life. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 44)

“And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? And he 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. But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbor? And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way; and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee. Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him that fell among the thieves? And he said, He that showed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.” [Luke 10:25-37.] (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 45)

This is genuine medical missionary work. It is the law of God practiced. “Go, and do thou likewise,” are the words which come sounding down along the line to our time. Do you ask, “Who is my neighbor?” It is everyone who is in need of the help which you can bestow. You may be tempted to leave your neighbor alone in his helpless condition, because to help him is not an inviting task and may cause considerable inconvenience and cost much care and anxiety. But the word comes, “Go, and do thou likewise.” (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 46)

The work that is done in business lines is never to be done with sharpness and selfishness. Never, ever, never put out your hand to do a deed of oppression. No such act will Christ endorse. All the ambitious projects, all the striving of worldly glory, are of very little advantage. Nothing of earthly treasure that men obtain will gain for them entrance into the kingdom of heaven. Worth infinitely more than the advantages which may be gained by selfishness in business deal is the approval of God. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 47)

God desires every one who names His name to reveal the character of Christ. Christians are to learn of the Saviour, not merely now and then, but always. From Him they are to obtain skill in healing the bruised souls with whom they come in contact. They are to help one another as Christ has helped them. They are to be prepared to understand the needs of those who are in distress. As well-trained physicians of the soul, they are to bind up the wounds which sin has made. The great Physician will direct them in this work, telling them just what to do. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 48)

Skill in ministry is needed. God’s people need to learn from the Saviour how to restore those who have fallen into decay. Make diligent inquiry. Job declared, “The cause that I knew not, I searched out.” [Job 29:16.] Seek to bind up, to heal. Never do anything to send a soul into discouragement. Refuse to follow the selfish, exacting principles which have expelled from the hearts of some every vestige of the love of the compassionate Redeemer. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 49)

Set the one who has fallen once more on his feet. With skilled hands bind up the wounds which trial and hardship have made in his heart. Does not the pale face of your brother who is struggling under a burden of debt awaken your sympathy? Perhaps he is fighting against ill health. God is dishonored when you do not do all in your power to help him. His instruction is that we are to do good to all, and especially to those that are of the household of faith. Go to those of his brethren who are receiving good wages and say, Cannot we do something to help our brother who is in poverty and distress? (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 50)

Cases needing help have come before the workers in the Review and Herald and the Pacific Press. In His providence God arranges matters so that He may prove what His professed followers will do for Christ in the person of His saints. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 51)

Those who reject the gospel of mercy reject the Saviour. We advise all who wish to gain eternal life to obey the words, “This do, and thou shalt live.” [Luke 10:28.] Those on whose pathway the light of heaven shines are responsible for the use they make of the light. The greater the light, the greater the darkness which comes if it is not received. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 52)

God expects every child of His to follow the example which Christ has set in His life of unselfish service. No one will be excused who is careless and indifferent in regard to the needs of suffering humanity. Christ is to be represented by the words and actions of His followers. It is to be as if He were present. He will greatly bless those who cultivate love and tenderness and compassion for the suffering. The doing of kind deeds softens the harshness in the character, making the experience agreeable and satisfactory. Love of self is lost in love for Christ and the purchase of His blood. Genuine love leads to helpfulness. It is revealed by words and deeds of kindness. He whose heart is filled with Christlike love is self-forgetful. He makes painstaking efforts to help others. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 53)

Love is of God. He first loved us, not because we were attractive in character, but because we were needy. He loved us, not because we were good, but because we needed a Saviour, a Redeemer, to rescue us from Satan to whom we had been sold by the belief of our first parents in his lie. He revealed His love by purchasing for us at an infinite cost the gift of everlasting life. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 54)

In order for our sins to be forgiven, we must accept the provision which has been made for us. We need not suppose that we can act out the character of Satan, and at the same time to [be] regarded as worthy to be chosen as Christ’s jewels. We must be good and do good. (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 55)

“Do not err, my beloved brethren. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. Of his own will begat he us, with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures. Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God. Wherefore lay aside all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass; for he beholdeth himself; and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain. Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.” [James 1:16-27.] (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 56)

“So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty. For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath showed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, Depart in peace; be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so, faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” [James 2:12-17.] (16LtMs, Ms 101, 1901, 57)

Ms 102, 1901

Sermon/“We give thanks to God ...”
St. Helena, California
September 21, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in HP 246, 247; 2MCP 579; AH 323; CG 95; 7MR 130, 376-377. +
Sermon, Mrs. E. G. White, Sanitarium Chapel

“We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, for the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth: as ye also learned of Epaphras our dear fellowservant, who is for you a faithful minister of Christ; who also declared unto us your love in the Spirit.” [Colossians 1:3-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 1)

These words, written by Paul to the Colossians, show the relation which we should sustain to one another. The hope we have in Jesus Christ will lead us to manifest His mind. We are to be “partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” [2 Peter 1:4.] And “for this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding.” [Colossians 1:9.] To have a knowledge of His will is worth everything to us. Because Christ was made an atonement for our sins, it is our privilege to stand on vantage ground. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 2)

After Christ had broken the fetters of the tomb, prior to ascending on high, leading captivity captive and giving gifts unto men, He declared to His disciples: “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18-20.] (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 3)

This is the commission given to every Christian. Some may say, “How can we give our attention to this work, and at the same time obtain a livelihood?” It is because we do this, that He gives to us His promised blessing. He says, “Ask, and ye shall receive.” [John 16:24.] If we come to Him in living faith, He will impart to us His power in all its fulness. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 4)

Place yourselves in a position where you will have the Spirit of “all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.” [Colossians 1:9, 10.] Those who have spiritual understanding will walk worthy of the Lord. Those who are partakers of Christ’s sufferings, who follow on to know the Lord, will increase in strength and in a knowledge of God. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 5)

There is to be continual advancement. “If we follow on to know the Lord, we shall know that his going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] I know something about the coming of the morning, for usually I arise at two or three o’clock. If I can, I sleep till three. I am often in a position where I can see the morning as it comes. At first I can see just a little light, which gradually increases. The day is dawning. The light constantly increases, until the sun appears and, rising higher and still higher, shines in glorious splendor—the king of the heavens. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 6)

That we may be fruitful in every good work, and increase in the knowledge of God, we are “strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness.” [Colossians 1:11.] Let the nurses consider these words. Those who care for the sick should not go about with long faces, condoling with those who are suffering. Cheer them with words of comfort, hope, and joyfulness. Tell them that in Jesus Christ they have a greater Physician than any one connected with the Sanitarium. Let them understand that you who give them treatment are only finite beings, but that you have a living connection with God, and are there to help them to co-operate with Him in combating disease. Tell them that this institution is an object of the prayers of God’s people. Show that God has filled your hearts with sympathy and tenderness for every suffering individual who is here. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 7)

Fasten your faith upon Christ, who in giving His life for you has so plainly evidenced His love. That your joy may be full, He offers to share with you His glorious power. Be joyful in the Lord. At times you will have opportunity to softly sing the praises of our God, helping the sin-sick soul to accept by faith the words, “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 8)

“Strengthened with all might.” [Colossians 1:11.] This is not might to speak hasty words, which hurt and bruise others, and which injure us more than any one else, making us ashamed when we think afterward of what we have said. Cease to fret. I beseech those who claim to believe that Jesus has died for them, those who have been baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, to come to Christ, believing that He will give them power to resist the enemy. If by our compassion and generosity, by our kind, tender words, we manifested His sweet Spirit, His righteousness, we should truly be lights in the world. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 9)

“Longsuffering with joyfulness.” [Verse 11.] Wherever you are, you may be tantalized, and reproach may come upon you. If I were to undertake to hunt up a thousandth part of what has been said against me, I should have no time to do anything else. I have said, “God knows all about this, and I will let Him take care of it.” I am not at all troubled by what other people say concerning me. I desire to live in Christ. If I lose my self-control, and flash out in anger, I would in so doing give people some reason to say that the representation of my accusers is correct. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 10)

I know what it is to cultivate self-control. In my girlhood I obtained the mastery over a nervous temperament, so that I could control myself. And although I am now seventy-three years old, I still am striving to have control over my words and actions. Since I have chosen to be a child of God, I must be clothed with the righteousness of Christ, notwithstanding what others may say. It is useless for me to talk of being a child of God, if I allow the spirit of the evil one to flash out in words that are not unto salvation. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 11)

Never should we lose control over ourselves. Let us ever keep before us the perfect Pattern. It is a sin to speak impatiently and fretfully, or to feel angry—even though we do not speak. We are to walk worthy, giving a right representation of Christ. The speaking of an angry word is like flint striking flint: it at once kindles wrathful feelings. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 12)

Never be like a chestnut bur. In the home do not allow yourself to use harsh, rasping words. You should invite the heavenly Guest to come into your home, at the same time making it possible for Him and the heavenly angels to abide with you. You should receive the righteousness of Christ, the sanctification of the Spirit of God, the beauty of holiness, that you may reveal to those around you the Light of Life. When others are impatient, fretful, and complaining, because self is not subdued, begin to sing some of the songs of Zion. While Christ was working at the carpenter’s bench, others would sometimes surround Him, trying to cause Him to be impatient; but He would begin singing some of the beautiful Psalms, and before they realized what they were doing they had joined with Him in singing, influenced, as it were, by the power of the Holy Spirit which was there. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 13)

God desires us to be patient in tribulation and affliction, content to rest in His great arms of infinite love, believing that He is working for us all the time. It is our privilege to be joyful in the Lord. Let us praise Him more. By our joyfulness we reveal that our life is hid with Christ in God; that in Him we find the most blessed companionship; and that through His grace we have a living connection with heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 14)

What does long-suffering with joyfulness lead us to do? To give thanks unto the Father, “which hath made us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.” [Verse 12.] How full is this language! If you attempted to measure it, you would find that in these words are measureless depths of meaning. We are now being fitted up to dwell in the mansions which Christ has gone to prepare for those who love Him. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 15)

“Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness.” [Verse 13.] If this is true, what excuse have we for talking discouragement and unbelief and doubt—drawing darkness around us as a mantle? Let us roll back the dark shadow of doubt, casting it aside to be borne by Satan, the originator of all doubt and discouragement. He is seeking to cast his hellish shadow across our pathway. Our faith must penetrate the dark cloud of doubt and unbelief, taking hold of the arm of Christ beyond. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 16)

If I should look at the dark clouds—the troubles and perplexities that come to me in my work—I should have time to do nothing else. But I know that there is light and glory beyond the clouds. By faith I reach through the darkness to the glory. At times I am called to pass through financial perplexities. But I do not worry about money. God takes care of my affairs. I do all that I can, and when the Lord sees that it is best for me to have money, He sends it to me. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 17)

The more you talk faith, the more faith you will have. The more you dwell upon discouragement, talking to others about your trials, and enlarging upon them to enlist the sympathy which you crave, the more discouragements and trials you will have. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 18)

Why mourn over that which we cannot avoid? God is inviting us to close the windows of the soul earthward and open them heavenward, that He may flood our hearts with the glory which is shining across the threshold of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 19)

God “hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son.” [Verse 13.] We are to be “conformed to the image of his Son.” “Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.” [Romans 8:29; 12:2.] In this world we are to be transformed by the Holy Spirit of God. We are left free to choose to follow the One who said, “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth” [Matthew 28:18], or to turn away from Him to the world. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 20)

Whether we are in the grave or alive on the earth, when Christ comes we will go just where we have chosen to go while on probation. If we have loved heavenly things and have lived for Christ, throughout the ceaseless ages of eternity we shall enjoy heaven, and shall have a life which measures with the life of God. Oh, how happy and grateful I am, when I realize that God knows far better than we can tell Him who we are, where we are, and what we need! (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 21)

We are preparing for promotion, from the school in this world in which we are forming characters for the future immortal life, to the higher grade, the school of heaven. But man is not to depend upon his own finite strength to wrestle with difficulty. In faith he is to look to God, believing that all the resources of heaven are at his command to help him overcome. Thousands upon thousands and ten thousand times ten thousand of heavenly angels are ministering unto those who shall be heirs of salvation. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 22)

God “hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins.” [Colossians 1:13, 14.] In place of our sins, Christ gives us His righteousness. He does not cover our sins with His robe; therefore a man who cannot bear the slightest temptation without exhibiting passion is not wearing this robe. God does not want us to be in that position. He desires us to be clothed with Christ’s righteousness. Those covered with this robe of righteousness hold passion under control. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 23)

“Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature.” [Verse 15.] By beholding, we become changed into the divine image from glory to glory—from character to character. We never retain exactly the same character; for there must be growth in grace and in the knowledge of the truth. Continually the Spirit of God is working in us and by us and through us, giving us a deeper and more solid experience as we follow on to know the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 24)

“For by him [Jesus Christ] were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: and he is before all things, and by him all things consist. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.” [Verses 16-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 25)

After creating us, Christ loved us so much that He gave His own life in order that He might bear our sins. How, then, can we help loving Him in return? Throughout His life of toil and suffering, He bore the strokes of divine retribution which in justice we should bear. After having paid so great a price for our redemption, will He not give us the help and grace and power necessary for victory? (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 26)

He who gave us Christ has placed at our demand all the resources of heaven. By living faith we should grasp the hand of infinite power, which is able to keep us from falling. We have a right to claim the blessing of God. We have a right to ask of Him the things we need. He is honored when we commit the keeping of our souls unto Him as unto a faithful Creator. It is our privilege to be free in Christ; for He has given His life to make us free. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 27)

I desire to show you the importance of having the Holy Spirit of God to help you in every emergency. I have chosen to be under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel. I have chosen to keep the commandments of God, and live, and to keep His law as the apple of the eye. I have chosen to obey all the requirements of God. If Christ gave His life for me, why should not I give my life to Him? Is my life more precious than His? Oh, I have only a finite life, and yet He promises that He will work for the salvation of that life! (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 28)

Before us is presented the hope that during this life Christ will prepare us for heaven, so that should we die we shall rise from the grave to enjoy a life of glorious immortality. How I value this blessed hope! I want to live in a better place than this sin-cursed earth. It would be a pleasant place in which to live if all sin and violence and crime were removed from it; but we have no hope that they will be before Christ comes; for we read, “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, ... so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.” [Matthew 24:37-39.] (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 29)

There is nothing wrong of itself in eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, if done under the control of the Holy Spirit, if the commandments of God are written in the heart. When Christ is in the heart, He is brought unto the family. The father and mother feel the importance of living in obedience to the Holy Spirit, so that the heavenly angels, who minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation, will minister to them as teachers in the home, educating and training them for the work of teaching their children. In the home it is possible to have a little church which will honor and glorify the Redeemer. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 30)

What an important work it is to properly instruct children in the home! This work must be done, not only that they may escape the corruption that is in the world through lust, but that through Christ and through a knowledge of the Word of God they may have “all power” to proclaim to others that it is their privilege to accept the gift of everlasting life. [See Matthew 28:18.] (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 31)

Let us teach to our children the beautiful lessons of God’s Word, that they may have a knowledge of Him. Let them understand that they should do nothing which is not right. Tell them that as their teacher and guardian, you cannot let them take a wrong course. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, present them in prayer at the throne of grace. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 32)

Encourage them to form characters fashioned after the divine similitude. Let them know that Jesus still lives to make intercession for them. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 33)

To every one has been given the wonderful talent of speech. Let us cultivate this talent, never misrepresenting Christ, never casting a shadow on those with whom we speak. We are to speak the truth in love. This truth may cut those to whom we tell it, because they are not in harmony with it; but the truth must be spoken. If while we are talking we see the Spirit of God exerting an influence upon human hearts, we are to take no glory to ourselves; for it is Christ Himself working through the human instrumentality. He says, “Lo, I am with you alway.” [Verse 20.] “Without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] In the presence of such a Companion, we ought to walk worthy, realizing that as His representatives we are in this world to glorify Him. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 34)

We do not talk half enough about the infinite sacrifice of Christ. He who has given Himself for us is saying, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Matthew 16:24.] He does not say, “Let him indulge himself in worldly pleasures, let him go to the theater and to horse races, let him engage in the worldly games and pleasures.” Those who make a covenant with Him must deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 35)

Those who use tobacco, thus benumbing the sensibilities of the brain, are not following Christ. Who told them to form this habit which has no foundation in nature? Such a habit is the most difficult for some to wrestle with and to overcome. We desire something better. “I am the bread of life,” said Christ. “This is the bread which came down from heaven: ... he that eateth of this bread shall live forever.... He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.” [John 6:35, 58, 47.] How does he have it? “The flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” [Verse 63.] In His Word is found eternal life. How many of us study the Scriptures, feeling that opened before us is a living fountain from which we may freely drink? How many of us hunger and thirst for the bread of life and the water of salvation? “Verily, verily I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed.” [Verses 53-55.] (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 36)

“A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.” [Matthew 5:14.] As I lie in my room at night, I can see the bright lights of this institution, which is truly like a city set on an hill; for it cannot be hidden. “Ye are the light of the world.... Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Verses 14, 16.] There is something for us all to do. Every one is amenable to God. The Lord declared to the children of Israel, “Ye shall serve the Lord your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take all sickness away from the midst of thee.” [Exodus 23:25.] The Lord has solemnly covenanted with us that if we walk in His ways and do righteousness, He will preserve us. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 37)

In this world we are on test and trial, forming characters for the future immortal life. We need a light that is continually burning—a light kindled from the glorious light flashing from the threshold of heaven. The truth must dwell in us with all its purifying and refining influence. The whole world is to be enlightened by the brightness of those who are partakers of the divine nature. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 38)

You are on this hillside to glorify God. Search the Scriptures. In them you will find the comfort and hope which you need in doing your work. Constantly, persons are coming and going to and from this Sanitarium. Every one connected with this institution, whether working on the grounds, or in the food factory, or nursing the sick—a most responsible position—is to have in his own heart the consolation of Jesus Christ, that in word and deed this consolation may be revealed to the afflicted and suffering ones in our midst. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 39)

During this coming week take hold of the Spirit and power of God, walking circumspectly before Him. Let this be a week during which you will remember Jesus Christ, taking Him at His word and believing just what He says. See that victories can be gained in the name of our Lord and Saviour. Live in Christ and be free in Him, having His sweet peace in your soul, and walking worthy of the blessed hope which you profess to have. See how much of His glory you can bring into your life, asking Him to take away all frivolity, weakness, and passion from your nature, giving you His righteousness, that you may live in Him, having His help and strength to sustain you. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 40)

We desire to see the healing power of God in this Sanitarium. Let those who are sick have hope and courage to bring their cases to the Master. The angels of God are here. While the physicians and the helpers are doing everything they can in your behalf, Christ Himself is the Healer of your diseases. He it is who combats the disease you have brought on yourself by an imprudent, sinful course of action. He, the Sin-bearer, is the only One who can successfully combat disease. Oh, link up with the Great Physician! He is ready to place His everlasting arms underneath you. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 41)

My soul goes out in yearning and deep longing that everyone connected with this institution shall look to Jesus. If you take the power of unconsecrated self out of this Sanitarium, you can bring in the power of God. A heavenly light will shine into your soul and be reflected from your countenance. Thus the glory of God will be revealed, sinners will be converted, and this will be a place where God reigns. May God help everyone to work to this end. (16LtMs, Ms 102, 1901, 42)

Ms 103, 1901

“I have a most earnest desire for ...”
St. Helena, California
October 8, 1901 [typed]
Portions of this manuscript are published in 7MR 226-227. +

I have a most earnest desire for the salvation of Brother and Sister Sanderson. I ask myself, What can I say to help them, or what can I write more than I have? Both Brother and Sister Sanderson have feelings, but these feelings are not acceptable to God. They have encased themselves in their own opinions as in a coat of mail. Is Brother Sanderson right in the sight of God? No; for years he has not walked wholly in the counsel of the Lord. Had he walked aright, he would have exerted a very different influence in the Sanitarium. At times he has strong desires to be and do right, but he has not the executive ability to carry out his purposes. He has some opinions and imaginations which are erroneous. (16LtMs, Ms 103, 1901, 1)

I am carrying the burden of Brother Sanderson’s case, and I cannot rid myself of the load. What is the matter? The Lord has shown me Brother Sanderson’s spiritual condition. He needs a power out of and above himself. This he will not get from his wife, for she is not a wholehearted Christian. She does not feel the cords of gratitude and love binding her to Christ, and while her husband accepts her mind and will as his strength and sufficiency, he cannot see the glory of the Redeemer. His heart is not bound up with the heart of Christ. He cherishes a spirit of Pharisaism, which excludes Christ from his thoughts. His refusal to relinquish his high estimate of himself, to humble his heart before God and cast himself wholly on the mercy of Christ, is placing a barrier between him and his Saviour. (16LtMs, Ms 103, 1901, 2)

Wisdom from on high is needed in laboring for one whose danger seems so great. The souls of his brethren are deeply afflicted. They see the peril to which he is exposed. How can he be helped while he looks upon himself as sufficient to carry the chief responsibilities of a Sanitarium without the aid and counsel of another experienced physician? As a physician he has much to learn. As a manager he shows a deficiency of character which reveals his need of the help he does not consent to accept. Years ago an experienced physician should have been brought to the Sanitarium to stand at Dr. Sanderson’s side. A willing acceptance of the gifts God offered would have made Dr. Sanderson in every way a much more complete physician. But he has not wanted the help which would have been a great blessing to him, bringing advancement to him in spiritual lines. (16LtMs, Ms 103, 1901, 3)

Dr. Sanderson needs to see the evil of his resistance of light and the danger of having his own way. He needs to understand what it means to eat the meat, the strong meat, of gospel truth. The time that he has devoted to the study of how one mind can control another should have been spent in searching the Word of God to find the science of true godliness. Had he begun this work years ago and carried it on faithfully, the record of his connection with the Sanitarium would have been very different. The institution would have exerted on the surrounding community the purifying, beneficent influence which it ought to have exerted. (16LtMs, Ms 103, 1901, 4)

The Doctor’s ideas in regard to what constitutes the practice of true religion need to be changed. The science of religion is explained by the Lord Jesus, Himself the author and finisher of our faith, in the words, “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] He declares that at every step sacrifices will have to be made. (16LtMs, Ms 103, 1901, 5)

The system of religion that Dr. Sanderson has cherished, though agreeable and pleasant to many, is not the system of heaven. It comforts in a great many ways that are not the ways of the Lord. Peaceableness in unrighteousness is not pure and undefiled religion. Men and women are not to be flattered in their impenitence, for this will never lead them to love and fear God. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; and until this fear comes into the personal experience of Brother and Sister Sanderson, until they have a realization of the great love expressed by Christ for sinful beings, until they show that their lives are guided by the high principles of a living, earnest, zealous faith, they have no right to be connected with any sanitarium. (16LtMs, Ms 103, 1901, 6)

Self-righteousness means death to spiritual life. Self-righteousness is so inconsistent with being children of God, that Christ can have little influence on a self-righteous man. Those who are self-righteous are a law to themselves. The spiritual perception is perverted. They do not see the evil of transgression. Their religion needs to be reformed, for it is sick unto eternal death. They follow the subtle philosophy of the enemy—to be religious in a way that will keep them within the bounds of so-called consistency, pacify the conscience, and lead public sentiment to endorse their sentiments. Away with public sentiment when it favors an egotism and pride which it seems impossible to break down. If they are saved, the truth, as a two-edged sword, must cut away their false sentiments. (16LtMs, Ms 103, 1901, 7)

The Lord expects human agencies to co-operate with Him, making constant advancement, increasing in faith and adaptability until Christ alone is magnified and self lost to view. The Holy Spirit will co-operate with determined effort on the part of the human agent. (16LtMs, Ms 103, 1901, 8)

The Word of God is the living seed, and as this seed is sown in the mind, the human agent must give it diligent care through the successive stages of its growth. How is this to be done? After the Word has been carefully received, it is to be cherished and practiced in the daily life. It is to spring up and bear fruit, putting forth first the blade, then the ear, then the full corn in the ear. (16LtMs, Ms 103, 1901, 9)

Man is to hear the Word of God, filled with a hungering desire to hear in faith and profit by the hearing. He is to live by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. “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.] We are to fear and tremble lest we make a wrong use of the words of the gospel, the leaves of the tree of life, which are for the healing of the nations. “Take heed therefore how ye hear; for whosoever hath, to him shall be given: and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away, even that which he seemeth to have.” [Luke 8:18.] (16LtMs, Ms 103, 1901, 10)

We are to give sincere, earnest attention to the instruction of Christ, realizing the importance of hearing correctly, that God may use us in instructing others. “With what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” [Matthew 7:2.] The measure of the earnestness with which you hear My Word, that you may benefit others, will be the measure which will be given back to you. To him who hath—who listens intently that he may receive knowledge to lay up in the treasure-house and impart to others—shall be given; for God sees that he will use his knowledge aright. He who hath not—who has not improved his opportunities, who has not practiced the truth that others may see the blessing of his knowledge—shall be taken away even that which he hath. His opportunity to be all that God designed he should be, receiving and imparting the light of heaven, shall be taken away from him. (16LtMs, Ms 103, 1901, 11)

Ms 104, 1901

The Need of a Reform
NP
October 8, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 5MR 449-450; 7MR 131.

The work we have to do is the work of preparing the way of the Lord, causing light to shine amid the moral darkness. In this work, something more than money is needed. The human talent lent by God is to be utilized in His cause. Money is needed, but patience and faith are much more needed. The work in our sanitariums and other institutions is to be carried forward in right lines. We must co-operate with the heavenly angels sent forth to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 1)

In our sanitariums and the various enterprises connected with them, there must be a reformation. And there will be great changes when humanity co-operates with divinity. Then there will be a revival of faith. We shall meet with discouragement and disappointment. And as we see men and women departing from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, we must take heed to ourselves and act well our part. As we place ourselves wholly on the Lord’s side, a marked change will be seen; for divine instrumentalities will co-operate with us. There are those whose characters are as pure gold, and one such person is worth a score of those who have not the true ring. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 2)

No culture of field or garden brings so rich a result as the culture of the heart; for the Lord God of heaven has placed a high estimate on the beings He has purchased with the blood of His Son. He demands from them improvement and growth. Mental and moral culture is infinitely more precious in His sight than gold and silver. He declares, “I will make a man more precious than gold, even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir.” [Isaiah 13:12.] (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 3)

There is no safety in dependence on self. Christ says to His chosen, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine, no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches; he that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit; for without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:4, 5.] The union between Christ and His disciples is mutual. By faith and love and obedience they abide in Him, and by His Holy Spirit He abides in them—the Source of their spiritual life. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 4)

Those in positions of responsibility in God’s work, who have been wrought upon by the Holy Spirit, have seen their nothingness, as from the depths of penitence they have cried for mercy and the love of Christ. As the great apostle to the Gentiles looked at his sinful condition, he exclaimed, “O wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” [Romans 7:24.] Did Paul love Jesus? Read his letters—full of intense ardor and deep yearning for the churches. His words are weighted with a burning desire to love his Redeemer with greater love. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 5)

The depth of our love for God and Christ is revealed by the clearness and fulness of our conviction of what constitutes sin. And our love is shown also by the genuine faith we have in the offering made in our behalf. I repeat: the degree of our love for Jesus depends on the clearness and fulness of our conviction of sin, our realization of the need of simple, living faith, and our dependence on Christ’s power and grace. He saves us, not in our sins, but from our sins. The more definite our experience of absolute dependence on God for spiritual health and growth, the more powerful will be our influence for good in any office we attempt to fill. Entire dependence on a power above ourselves will lead us to reveal Christ’s gentleness in all our connection with our fellow men. Those who realize the peril of these last days will seek for refuge in Jesus Christ. And by His grace they will be enabled to practice the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 6)

We are living in the time when changes will be rapid. Impediment after impediment is now to be removed. There are to be reformations in the Sanitarium. It must be cleansed, refined, purified. When the unprofitable ones, the unbelievers among nurses and helpers, are separated from it, there will be a change in the spiritual atmosphere. There will be seen between the true Vine and the branches, the vital union which is essential to the life and fruitfulness of the branches. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 7)

The workers in the Sanitarium are to give a much clearer representation of Christ than they have given in the past. The exact way and methods to be followed in the reformation essential cannot be marked out; but we do know that the Lord declares that this institution shall be purged of its defiling influences. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 8)

Those who have sinned against great light will find it very hard to receive the truth and make reformation now; and to some who have long resisted light, choosing their own course, will come the knowledge that they have resisted for the last time. When human agencies lose the realization of the perfection of the character of Christ, they rapidly retrograde toward depravity. It is not enough to be half converted. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 9)

Human beings are privileged to live in co-operation with heavenly powers. “We are laborers together with God,” says the apostle. [1 Corinthians 3:9.] Those who enter heartily into this work of co-operation place themselves in a direct line with light and strength and power and excellence. Among the redeemed there will be none who has not co-operated with God in working out their own salvation. God does not work alone for our salvation. He works with us to will and to do of His good pleasure. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 10)

While the believer is on this earth, it will always be essential for him to oppose error and defend the truth. Error is injurious to the soul. Truth is always beneficial. Christ is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He came to enlighten those spiritually blind by bearing witness to the truth. He said, “Every one that is of the truth heareth my words.” [John 18:37.] (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 11)

A great deal of harm has been done by admitting to our sanitariums persons of superficial character. Those who should be vigilant stewards are not watchful and discriminating. God calls for a decided change. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 12)

Those who are admitted as nurses should be firm in the faith. No trifling ones, no persons of superficial character, are to be taken in; for one light, frivolous mind may be used by Satan to do mischief which few can anticipate. Such ones misrepresent the high standard of righteousness. There are those who are easily influenced by them, and together, by their foolish talking, their loud laughing, their love of amusement, they injure the reputation of the institution. The patients are disgusted by their indecorous conduct. Those who have any part to act in our sanitariums are to be circumspect. They are to act like men and women who carry grave responsibilities. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 13)

A warning is given us: “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore 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.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 14)

There is necessity for much prayer. Walk circumspectly if you desire to be children of God. True Christians will not enter into worldly amusements and entertainments. The truth demands that a firm, decided influence be exerted against the amusement and folly which counteract the serious impressions that are made on the mind. It is time for those who believe the most solemn message ever given to man to take heed, lest in word or action they give Satan any advantage. Believers must show constant vigilance, lest the enemy obtain the victory. The righteous will show a definiteness in their work—a clearness of understanding as to their course of action. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 15)

In the Word of God is found instruction which cheers and encourages in times of doubt and darkness. In comparison with this instruction, the amusements of the world sink into insignificance. In the Bible, Christ speaks as the greatest Teacher the world has ever known. God is greatly dishonored when those to whom He has given light walk contrary to the guidance of His Word. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 16)

God calls upon us to confess Christ by honoring Bible truth. His Word is to be our meat and drink. The truth is of no profit to those who claim to believe it unless it is appreciated and honored. The nurses and helpers in the Sanitarium are where they can act as God’s helping hand. The Bible is their armory. There they find the weapons of their warfare. If they use aright the grand, sanctifying truths of this Word, they will find them mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds. Error will be destroyed and truth established. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 17)

The Bible contains directions for the life service which we are to offer to Him whose we are by creation and by redemption. The Word of the living God is quick and powerful, able to make men wise unto salvation. It is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. It is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, and for instruction in righteousness. The Lord Jesus Christ came to our world to bring to men the leaves of the tree of life, which are for the healing of the nations. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 18)

God calls for a purification in the outside connection of the institution. Untold harm may be done by one youth of vile habits. Take heed, for this is an important matter. Purity must be observed. There is soon to be a great separation, the just and pure from the unjust and impure. More harm than any one supposes can be done by children who are not pure. If in connection with the sanitarium work there are those who have such children, they should at once be separated from the institution. If there are men who are loose in their words and practices, let them be sent away at once. The Sanitarium and its branch enterprises are no places for any such persons. It was established away from the cities to avoid the corruption of the sons of Belial. If the sons of Belial are brought into connection with the institution, Satan will work his will. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 19)

Parents whose children are impure should take them where they will do the least harm; for such children will corrupt the children with whom they associate. What will be the result, if the word goes forth that the children attending school here have been corrupted by association with those whose parents are employed in the sanitarium? Make most thorough investigation of this matter. And let the parents of these children, if such there be, do all in their power to avert the great evil, else the curse of God will rest upon them. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 20)

The public schools in the cities are full of Sodomitish children. In the name of the Lord, search the camp most diligently. “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” [1 Thessalonians 5:21.] God says, “Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God.” [1 John 4:1.] We are not asked to accept without proof every one who claims to be a Seventh-day Adventist. In the name of the Lord we are to detect error and unrighteousness. By earnest inquiry we should learn from fathers and mothers what their children are in character. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 21)

It is a most dangerous error for those conducting sanitariums to think that to avoid strife they must suffer the good and bad to mingle, every one being responsible for himself. It is true that believers and unbelievers, the wheat and the tares, must grow together. But shall we do nothing to prevent impurity? Shall we make no effort to separate the vile from the righteous? We must search. We must exhort parents to guard their children. We must entreat those whose children are wicked to take them where they will do the least harm. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 22)

The ministers and physicians who shall connect with the sanitarium are on trial. God is taking the measurement of the temple and the worshipers therein. Our profession of faith demands that a close work be done in families. “Seeing then that we have this ministry, we faint not, but have renounced the hidden things of darkness, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully, but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.” [2 Corinthians 4:1, 2.] We are not to weaken the principles of the truth by imperfect lives. The truth is to shine forth much more brightly than it has done. It is of God; it maketh free; it overcometh the world. Its principles are from above, and if brought into the daily life will make the character Christlike. Christ desires His people to be partakers of the divine nature, “having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” [2 Peter 1:4.] Freedom from corruption—this is what we are to seek for in all our associations, in all our work, in all our institutions—schools, publishing houses, sanitariums, and food factories. Those who are soundly converted to the truth will strive earnestly to advance the truth in its purity. They will seek to the best of their ability to make the truth what it should be to every household. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 23)

The qualifications of an elder are plainly stated by the apostle Paul: “If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God, not self-willed, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; but a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.” [Titus 1:6-9.] (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 24)

If a man does not show wisdom in the management of the church in his own house, how can he show wisdom in the management of the larger church outside? How can he bear the responsibilities which mean so much, if he cannot govern his own children? Wise discrimination is not shown in this matter. God’s blessing will not rest upon the minister who neglects the education and training of his children. He has a sacred trust, and he should in no case set before church members a defective example in the management of his home. (16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, 25)

Ms 105, 1901

Sermon/“God, who at sundry times ...”
St. Helena, California
September 28, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 1MCP 128; 2MCP 539; MM 115-117; 4BC 1171; 5BC 1095, 1135. +
Sermon, Mrs. E. G. White, Sanitarium Chapel.

“God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds.” [Hebrews 1:1, 2.] To Jesus Christ was given the work of making for man a home—the world in which we are being tested and tried. Those who acknowledge their loyalty to God are “heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ.” [Romans 8:17.] (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 1)

“Who (Christ) being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high.” [Hebrews 1:3.] The power of God is upholding all things, and keeping in check the powers of darkness, that man may have opportunity to form a character after the divine similitude. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 2)

Could man have been saved in sin, there would have been no necessity for Christ to make His sacrifice in our behalf. But no one can be saved in sin. The pitiable condition of man after the fall led Christ to give His own life to redeem the fallen race. And what a life of humiliation and suffering was His! He did not come to this world in His glory, heralded by the heavenly angels. That He might stand at the head of humanity, He laid aside His kingly crown and royal robe, clothing His divinity with humanity. Taking upon Himself our nature, with His long human arm He encircled humanity, while with His divine arm He grasped the throne of the Infinite. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 3)

That none could accuse Christ of knowing nothing about poverty, God appointed that the Saviour should be born of humble parentage. He did not take His place with the great or wealthy men of the world, but made Himself of no reputation. What a change from His exalted position in the heavenly courts! (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 4)

To His Son the Father has committed all judgment. To prepare Himself to be the Judge of all the world, Christ endured the hardships and trials of mankind, suffering in all points like as we suffer, thus familiarizing Himself with the power of Satan’s temptations. The enemy beset Him on every point, but He was victorious over the powers of darkness. If He had failed in a single instance, there would be no salvation for us. But He has fought the battle for us, overcoming in our behalf. He rebuked those possessed of devils, and the evil spirits acknowledged His name, asking Him if He had come to torment them before the time. What a wonderful salvation has been worked out for us! (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 5)

To every sinner with whom we come in contact, we are to tell the infinite pains heaven has taken to bring us into right relation to God. We are to show that we are amenable to One higher than any human being; that we must render to God an account for the deeds done in the body; that notwithstanding His infinite love for us, He cannot take a sinner to heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 6)

Of the glory of Him who stood in the world as our Saviour, it is said, “Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they.” [Verse 4.] (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 7)

The Roman guard fell as dead men before the glory of one angel who came to roll back the stone from the tomb of Christ. The soldiers could not endure the heavenly light which pierced the surrounding darkness. Hurrying into the city, they published the story concerning the glory which had struck them as dead men, as the angel whose “countenance was like lightning, and his raiment as snow” rolled away the stone from the sealed sepulcher. [Matthew 28:2, 3.] But the priests soon hushed up the story, fearing that in rage the people would kill them. They counseled the soldiers, “saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away while we slept.” [Verse 13.] This false report was circulated to conceal the power of God which should have been revealed to the people. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 8)

If strong men could not endure the presence of that one glorious angel, how much less could Christ’s glory have been endured! In order to make it possible for men to behold Him, His divinity was veiled. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 9)

“For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?” [Hebrews 1:5.] What a precious promise is held out before us! Does any one feel inclined to sneer or mock at these words? May God give everyone power to grasp eternal realities. Purify the mind from the sin and the allurements of this world, that you may not lose sight of eternity. Close the windows earthward, open them heavenward, and let in the glory of God which is shining across the heavenly threshold. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 10)

As God “bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him.” [Verse 6.] Shall we not worship Him who first loved us, making Him the center of attraction? “And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire. But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom. Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows. And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of thine hands: they shall perish, but thou remainest; and they all shall wax old as doth a garment; and as a vesture shalt thou fold them up, and they shall be changed: but thou art the same, and thy years shall not fail. But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?” [Verses 7-14.] (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 11)

Christ sees men so absorbed in worldly cares and business perplexities that they have no time to become acquainted with Him. To them heaven is a strange place, for they have lost it out of their reckoning. Not familiar with heavenly things, they tire of hearing about them. They dislike to have their minds disturbed concerning their need of salvation, preferring to engage in amusements. But the Lord wants to disturb their minds, that they may be led to take hold of eternal realities. He is in earnest with them. Very, very soon they will all know Him, whether they desire to or not. The angel of mercy is now folding his wings and stepping down from the throne. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 12)

The Lord is coming. If He were revealed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, would you be ready to meet Him? Have you made your peace with Him? Would you like to be sent away from God’s presence to share in the humiliation and punishment of Satan and his angels? But if during your lifetime you rob God of the service which He has purchased with His own blood, spending all your time in foolish words and amusements, you will finally lose heaven. How can you afford to barter away for worldly pleasure the gift of eternal life? God’s arms are open to take you to Himself. He invites you to come to Him. Choose life, eternal life. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 13)

To eclipse the beauty and the loveliness of the Prince of Light, upon whom the mind should ever be dwelling, Satan seeks to engross the mind with exciting games, horse races, and worldly pleasures. He endeavors to so occupy the attention with trivialities that no time will be taken to think of Jesus. Even after the most solemn discourses, the enemy will, if possible, destroy the impressions made by the Holy Spirit. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 14)

Accurately recorded in the books of heaven are the sneers and trivial remarks made by sinners who pay no heed to the call of mercy when Christ is represented to them by a servant of God. As the artist takes on the polished glass a true picture of the human face, so God daily places upon the books of heaven an exact representation of the character of every individual. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 15)

Those who are saved must travel the same road over which Christ journeyed. He says, “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] The character is to be formed according to the Christ-likeness. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 16)

In the Word the Saviour is revealed in all His beauty and loveliness. Every soul will find comfort and consolation in the Bible, which is full of promises concerning what God will do for the one who comes into right relation to Him. Especially will the sick be comforted by hearing the Word; for in giving the Scriptures God has given to mankind a leaf from the tree of life, which is for the healing of the nations. How can any one who reads the Scriptures, or who has heard them read, lose his interest in heavenly things and find pleasure in amusements and enchantments of the world? (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 17)

Our object in establishing sanitariums is to encourage the sick and suffering to look to God and live. Those who are afflicted should be pointed to the Man of Calvary, who taketh away the sin of the world. By beholding Him they will be changed into His image. Let the physicians in every institution keep Christ before those to whom disease of body and soul have brought discouragement. Point them to the One who can heal both physical and spiritual diseases. Tell them of the Great Physician who is touched with the feelings of their infirmities. Encourage them to place themselves in the care of Him who gave His life to make it possible for them to have life eternal. Keep their minds fixed upon the One altogether lovely, the chiefest among ten thousand. Talk of His love; tell of His power to save. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 18)

We need to put our trust in a sin-pardoning Saviour. In the days of Christ a poor paralytic was told by the priests and rulers, “Your sins have brought your affliction upon you. You can never be healed.” They left him to die. But he had heard of Jesus. Someone told him that he could be taken where Christ was. On an improvised litter he was carried to the house where the Saviour was speaking to the people. But so great was the crowd by which Christ was surrounded that it was impossible for the man to get near Him. Realizing the danger of losing the last chance for recovery, the paralytic said to his attendants, “Take me to the roof, and let me down.” So “they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay.” And the first words of the Saviour to the one suddenly let down before Him were, “Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.” [Mark 2:4, 5.] Today sin is hindering the recovery of hundreds. If the peace of God were in their hearts, their sickness would be regarded as of much less consequence. Peace of mind prepares the way for the faith that Christ will do as He has promised to do. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 19)

“But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts, Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only? And immediately when Jesus perceived in his spirit that they so reasoned within themselves, he said unto them, Why reason ye these things in your hearts? Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk? But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house. And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion.” [Verses 6-12.] The faultfinders excepted, all praised God for the wonderful works they had seen. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 20)

When Christ was on His way to heal the daughter of Jairus, a woman who had suffered for many, many years wanted to speak to Him. The multitude was so great that she could not present herself before Him, but she was able to reach out and barely touch the hem of His garment. Immediately she was made whole. There was no healing power in the garment. It was faith in the Person who wore the garment, which restored her to health. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 21)

The Great Physician recognized the touch of faith. “Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes? And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing.” [Mark 5:30-32.] (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 22)

Then the woman, afraid that she had taken something she ought not to have, came before Him and with fear and trembling told her pitiful story—how she had been under the care of many physicians, but had not been benefited by them, being made rather the worse by their treatment and drugs. All her living had been spent in paying their charges. “But now,” she said, “I am made whole.” The Saviour said to her, “Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole.” [Verse 34.] Blessing her, He bade her go in peace. By this object lesson of His healing power He taught the multitude pressing about Him that He was the Mighty One, the Restorer. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 23)

I exhort all those who are connected with the St. Helena Sanitarium to present Christ in all His loveliness to the patients in this institution as the Great Physician, the Mighty Healer, the One who can heal both soul and body, taking away both sin and disease. In His work of healing, Christ desires the co-operation of every helper in the Sanitarium. He has a right to expect help from you. You are His purchased possession. You are bought with a price—and what a price! For your salvation He sacrificed His own life. You are to be bearers of the precious light which heaven has given to mankind. Christ says, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 24)

You should be in earnest, helping all who can be helped to seek God with the whole heart, that they may find Him, and take their stand under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel. Co-operate with the ministering angels who are watching for opportunities to work through your helping hand. Set forth the truth as it is in Jesus. Tell these poor, perishing ones, sick in body and mind, to rest on the bosom of Jesus Christ. Present before them the cleansing Fountain which has been opened for Judah and Jerusalem. Teach them to eat the bread of life. Christ says, “I am the living bread, which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever.” [John 6:51.] In reading and studying the Word of God, we are eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of God. He says, “The flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” [Verse 63.] (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 25)

We should walk circumspectly before God and before the world, ever keeping our minds fixed on Christ. “Seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him (the joy of seeing sinners converted) endured the cross, despising the (thought of) shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.” [Hebrews 10:1-3.] (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 26)

These are not my words. I am reading the words of the living God. If you choose to insult Him by laughing and sneering at His words, remember that by so doing you will finally be brought to open shame. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 27)

Christ, the Mighty Healer, is to be exalted—and not any human physician. Physicians, Jesus will hear your prayers. Nurses, if you have a living connection with God, you can in confidence present the sick before Him. He will comfort and bless the suffering ones, molding and fashioning the mind, inspiring it with faith and hope and courage. The Christ-life, the Christ-grace, is the only power that can safely be brought to bear upon the human mind. Every other influence is to be taken away. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 28)

No individual should be permitted to take control of another person’s mind, thinking that in so doing he is causing him to receive great benefit. The mind-cure is one of the most dangerous deceptions which can be practiced upon any individual. Temporary relief may be felt, but the mind of the one thus controlled is never again so strong and reliable. We may be as weak as was the woman who touched the hem of Christ’s garment; but if we use our God-given opportunity to come to Him in faith, He will respond as quickly as He did to that touch of faith. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 29)

It is not God’s design for any human being to yield his mind to another human being. The risen Christ, who is now set down on the throne at the right hand of the Father, is the Mighty Healer. Look to Him for healing power. Through Him alone can sinners come to God just as they are. Never can they come through any man’s mind. The human agent must never interpose between the heavenly agencies and those who are suffering. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 30)

Everyone should be in a position to co-operate with God in directing the minds of others to Him. Tell them of the grace and power of Him who is the greatest Physician the world ever knew. He came to the world to restore in man the moral image of God. Seeing that Satan was exercising a controlling influence over the minds of men and women in order to further his evil designs, Christ came to combat the powers of darkness, to break the control which Satan had gained over human minds. Make the Saviour the center of attraction. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 31)

A minister once said that “he could but think that Christ must have known something about science.” Of what could this minister have been thinking? Science!—Christ could have opened door after door of science. He could have revealed to men treasures of science on which they might have feasted to the present time. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 32)

But knowing that this knowledge would have been appropriated to unholy uses, He did not open the door. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 33)

We do not ask you to place yourself under the control of any man’s mind. The mind-cure is the most awful science which has ever been advocated. Every wicked being can use it in carrying through his own evil designs. We have no business with any such science. We should be afraid of it. Never should the first principles of it be brought into any institution. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 34)

Christ can do nothing for those who are yoked up with the enemy. His invitation to us is, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] When in our daily experience we learn His meekness and lowliness, we find rest. There is then no necessity to search for some mysterious science to soothe the sick. We already have the science which gives them real rest—the science of salvation, the science of restoration, the science of a living faith in a living Saviour. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 35)

Ever keep looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith. When the Holy Spirit works in this institution, then will the power of God be revealed, enabling you to work with ministering angels who are waiting to co-operate with you. When all the workers are sanctified by the Spirit of God, the spiritual atmosphere circulating through this institution will comfort the sick, encourage the depressed, and give hope to the despondent. (16LtMs, Ms 105, 1901, 36)

Ms 106, 1901

Simplicity in Dress
Refiled as Ms 1, 1877.

Ms 107, 1901

Instruction Regarding the Publishing Work
NP
October 16, 1901
Previously unpublished. +

The presentation before me is that for years the publishing house in Battle Creek has been failing to train workers so that they can go forth from the office properly qualified to work wherever they may be called to go. The reason is that those in positions of responsibility have lost sight of the importance of enlightening the world in regard to present truth. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 1)

Patient, painstaking effort should be put forth to train the workers who come into the office. They should be taught the various lines of work. It is not sufficient to have a knowledge of one line only. But in some instances there has been shown a selfish dislike to make the apprentices acquainted with the different lines of work. This is not right. They should be given an all-round knowledge of the work, so that if they are called to other fields to engage in printing work, they will have a practical knowledge of what is to be done. With this training they can do without blundering the work before them in a new field. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 2)

The workers in a publishing house have a right to expect advantages of education in that line of work. It is supposed that they are receiving these advantages, but in many cases they are being spoiled by a sham education. This is robbery of them. Their work is only half done and would not be accepted by any well-regulated office. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 3)

God has seen with sadness the lack of principle, the lack of genuine religious instruction. Because of the neglect shown in this matter, work that should be done well is done imperfectly, and the same neglect is brought into the religious experience. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 4)

If justice is done to the apprentices, they should, after the necessary time spent in the institution, be ready to go forth prepared to take up intelligently the different lines of printing work, giving momentum to the cause of God by the best use of their energies. They should be able to give to others the knowledge they have received and acquired. They should receive a training in Bible lines, that they may go forth as men and women who love and fear God, to do missionary work for Him, having respect for all His commandments and desiring above all things to advance in accordance with His will. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 5)

The learners in our publishing houses must be trained to be master workers, who will be a recommendation to the managers as they go out into the world. Their conduct should be such as will inspire confidence. If they have been wisely trained, their usefulness and adaptability will speak for the instruction they have received. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 6)

To every young man and young woman, I make my appeal: Maintain Christian principles. Refuse to allow any man, no matter what his position, to lead you to deviate from strict fidelity to the law of God. Remember that if you treat lightly one of God’s precepts, He will call you to account. Do not take the careless, indifferent attitude of any human beings, even though they may be your instructors, as a criterion. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 7)

Those who stand in such an attitude have mingled the common and the sacred, bringing the sacred down to the level of the common. I warn the youth not to copy indifference to a plain “Thus saith the Lord.” “Thou shalt” and “Thou shalt not”—this is to be your guide. Let not the word of any one lead you to deviate in the slightest degree from God’s plan. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 8)

God has plainly stated the principles which should control in all matters of business. Believers should keep the Word of the Lord ever before them. In all their business dealing with believers or unbelievers, they are to show justice and equity. They are to be examples of purity and integrity, giving no cause for the world to point to the close, selfish, covetous practices of men professing godliness. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 9)

God’s people, bought with the blood of His only begotten Son, will never be gainers by underhand transactions, even though these transactions are entered into to obtain means for His cause. God is glorified only when His people practice His principles. They are never to compromise or confederate with wrongdoers. They are never to give the impression that the law of God is not their safeguard. They are to honor God by a strict observance of His principles. Never is principle to be sacrificed to policy. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 10)

There must be no deviation from the straight line of duty, no yielding to the suggestion to mingle plans of worldly policy with the work of God. This is always dishonoring to God, and spoils man’s record in the books of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 11)

Those who love God will obey His law, realizing that they are answerable to God. He who is saved must be truly converted, determined to serve God and God only. Those who are born again are bound to maintain the principles of righteousness in all their dealing. They feel an intense solicitude for the good of their fellow beings and for the exaltation of the law of God. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 12)

The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul. In no case is it to be trifled with. In all you do, keep before the mind the glory of God. Look constantly to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of your faith. Bow with solemnity to the mandate of heaven. Remember that your manner of keeping the law of God determines your future. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 13)

God’s blood-bought heritage should be clothed with the righteousness of Christ. There should be far less idle talk and far more of the silence of God in the soul. Then will the heart be filled with respect and love for the law. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 14)

The Lord is our Judge, our Lawgiver, our Ruler. Parents and children are to be controlled and guided by Him. Those who love Him will keep His commandments. But in every one of our institutions, there is need of elevating the standard of obedience. There is need of a reformation of the principles followed in dealing with one another. In all our institutions, to a greater or lesser degree, the principles of heaven becoming mixed with human preferences and opinions. There are many, even among those occupying responsible positions, who are not walking in the light of God’s commandments. The following words describe their religious standing: (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 15)

“His watchmen are blind; they are all ignorant, they are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark; sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber. Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand; they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter.” [Isaiah 56:10, 11.] God says to them, “Behold, all ye that kindle a fire, that compass yourselves about with sparks; walk in the light of your fire, and in the sparks that ye have kindled. This shall ye have of mine hand; ye shall lie down in sorrow.” [Isaiah 50:11.] (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 16)

I tell you that those who have discovered themselves to strangers, who have led God’s people in false paths, will never see His face. They claim to believe God’s law, but they transgress this law, allowing Satan to work his will and way through them. They claim to follow the Lord, but He says: “I know them not. They are workers of iniquity, multiplying disobedience, and leading my people in strange paths. I cannot keep my covenant with them.” (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 17)

I speak to the workers in our institutions, especially those in the Review and Herald Office. There must be a cleansing from all unrighteousness. Take up the stumbling blocks. Inquire for right paths. Walk in the footsteps of Christ. The office needs to be cleansed from defilement. God’s standard has been lowered to the dust. If His will is carried out, His truth must penetrate deeper into the hearts of His people than it has penetrated for years in the past. A work must be done that has not been done. Noble sentiments must come in to expel the cheap, irreligious sentiments which have borne sway. Those who keep eternity in view will live in hourly communion with God. When the way is prepared for the (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 18)

Lord, He will co-operate with men and women, and His truth will be honored. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 19)

I have set before you the necessity of a much deeper work of conversion than has yet been seen. When the people of God seek Him with all the heart, in repentance and humiliation, His high, holy principles will revive in their hearts. Under the influence of the Holy Spirit, they will make strenuous efforts to arouse the powers which God has implanted in the nature, which have so long lain dormant. As they seek the Lord in true penitence, with confession of sin, He will respond, giving light and life and power to do right because it is right. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 20)

Come to the cross of Calvary. This is the source of all power. Many of you have laid down the cross which Christ placed on you. Take it up for Christ’s sake; take it up and bear it after Him. Thus only can you gain spiritual life and strength and excellency. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 21)

Those who cherish and follow the two great principles of the law will manifest deep, earnest sympathy and love to God and man. The moral taste will be elevated, the passions controlled and sanctified. Christ will be set forth as the one altogether lovely, the chiefest among ten thousand. In the life will be revealed the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance. “They that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.” [Galatians 5:24.] (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 22)

The system of education given the apprentices needs to be reformed. But before this can be done, the practices of those in responsible positions must be reformed. To these I say, Put away the commercial work, which has taken so much time, and labor in missionary lines for the youth under your care. Take time to deal honestly with God, time to understand and obey His law. Every talent we possess is a gift from the Lord, to be used to His glory. Wherein has He been glorified by your short-sighted policy in introducing into the publishing house the sentiments of the enemy? (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 23)

The Laodicean message has been presented to me as applicable to the people of God in their present spiritual condition. For Christ’s sake open your eyes to discern spiritual things. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 24)

“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God and they shall be my people. Wherefore 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. (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 25)

“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.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1.] (16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, 26)

Ms 108, 1901

Diary/“I had an interview with Brethren ...”
Los Angeles, California
August 14, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in UL 240; 4MR 447. +

I had an interview with Brethren McClure and Knox, and the Lord helped me to speak words to them in reference to the work to be accomplished in this new Conference. We then attended a council meeting in the tent, and the brethren asked me questions in regard to the relation of the Conference to the Medical Missionary Board and to the work in other parts of the Union Conference. I told them I could not tell them anything but that which was distinctly impressed on my mind by the Holy Spirit, but that they might ask me questions; for then I would know better what formation they desired. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 1)

I spoke about the relation of this new Conference to the Union Conference. Some of the brethren here have the idea that in its work the Southern California Conference should stand independent, to a large degree, of the work in other parts of the Union Conference; that it should conduct sanitarium work and health food work on independent lines. But in all the work done, this Conference is to blend in harmonious action with its sister conferences on the Pacific Coast. It is to have its own Board of judicious counsellors, but is to receive counsel and advice from brethren in other parts of the field. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 2)

The establishment of a sanitarium and a food factory is a matter which needs careful consideration; for there is constant danger of running into debt. These lines of work should be established and conducted with reference to the many other lines which their success or failure will affect. I told the brethren that they had neither financial strength nor managing ability to carry such weighty responsibilities without counsel and aid from experienced brethren. While it is time for the brethren in Southern California to begin to move out in the establishment of a sanitarium, let them make haste slowly. They should not think of establishing a food factory at the present time; for they have neither the talent nor the money necessary to carry forward such an enterprise. Men with the tact, skill, and ingenuity necessary for successful business management are rare. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 3)

Dr. Moran and his brother have had marked success in conducting the vegetarian restaurant; but they must remember that the establishment of a sanitarium will bring many more responsibilities. And Dr. Moran has his work as a physician. He is not to add to this work the extra burden of financial management. To do this would be to make a mistake which he cannot afford to make. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 4)

In all the economy of the Jewish nation, nothing is so strikingly presented as the plan for using a diversity of gifts. In our work today we are to show respect for God’s plan with regard to His gifts, looking upon it as sacred. These gifts are like the stars in the heavens, differing in magnitude and brightness. The Lord gives to one five talents, to another two, and to another one. All are to learn by trading to what use to put their talents so as to gain the best results. The Lord expects every one to make improvement. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 5)

In every conference there are men of varied capabilities. All are not fitted for the same work. Each should be given the work for which he is best adapted, in which he can use his talents to the greatest advantage. There are those who would make successful ministers who would fail in business management. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 6)

As a people we have much to learn. Men are continually making the mistake of striving to do great things in their own supposed strength. By their actions they say, “See what I can do, what great service I can accomplish for the Lord.” They are unwilling to take time to do with faithfulness the humble duties which fall to them. God requires His servants to perform the very smallest duty with exactness, fidelity, and unselfishness. To him who shows faithfulness in that which is least, God says, “Friend, come up higher.” [Luke 14:10.] But let God, not man, do the exalting. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 7)

God’s work is to be carried forward with more sanctification and elevation than it has been in the past. All business transactions are to be closely investigated in the light of God’s holy Word. Never allow worldly policy or pretense to become stock in trade. A close, grasping spirit is an abomination in the sight of God. This spirit is never to be cherished by those connected with His service; for it is opposed to the laws of Christ’s kingdom. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 8)

God’s servants are to remember that they are in this world on test and trial. Day by day they are to learn in the school of Christ the lessons of the present, in preparation for translation to the higher grade. Perfection in the work God gives to be done in this life constitutes fitness for entrance into the higher courts. The perfect man in Christ Jesus is the one God will honor. To those in our institutions who unite with God in their efforts, bringing His principles into all their work, He will say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] But He separates from those who misrepresent Him by following sharp, underhand plans, lowering His work in the estimation of those with whom they deal. They may think themselves talented, but their practices create and strengthen an appetite for greed and selfishness. Their talents are defiled by worldly practices. Their work is dishonoring to God. At the last great day He will say to them, “I know you not.” [Verse 12.] (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 9)

God’s injunction to us is, “Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat. Because strait is the gate and narrow is the way which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” [Matthew 7:13, 14.] I beseech those connected with God’s work to be sure that they have found the path cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 10)

“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?” [Verses 15, 16.] Thus will appear the work of those who have educated themselves to deal sharply and unfairly with their fellow men. The leprosy of selfishness, which God hates, taints and destroys their work. Their manner of dealing with their fellow men introduces Satan’s principles into sacred places, destroying the sweetness of fellowship and love. Thorn berries are gathered where there should be grapes. The words and actions, which should be like figs, pleasant and nutritious, are more like thistles, pricking and wounding the soul. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 11)

“Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore, by their fruits ye shall know them. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven, but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” [Verses 17-23.] (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 12)

These words portray the sad ending of the self-deceived. They see the good that they might have done in this life, and they plead that they have performed some good actions. But their good was so alloyed with selfishness and greed that they turned souls away from the truth, causing them to lose faith in all professed Christians. On the minds of those with whom they were connected, they left a sense of suspicion, distrust, and injustice, which strengthened the spirit of criticism. Evildoers, though in the service of God, they educated themselves in dishonesty. Their sense of justice became confused. Their hearts were hardened, and they left undone many things which would have glorified God. Self-complacency filled their hearts, leading them to say, “I have done this and that good work.” But the Lord did not accept their work, because it was defiled by robbery and injustice. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 13)

Their wrong course began with the doing of unprincipled actions. The spirit of cupidity, not at first apparent to themselves, grew till it led to actions which meant robbery. Their unfaithfulness, commended by the world, was cherished for a lifetime under the decent garb of frugality and honest industry. Constantly it was working the destruction of themselves and many others. Those who have not the virtue of true godliness are shams, not Christians. Parsimoniousness is covetousness. It is the frugality of selfishness. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 14)

Handling the Lord’s goods is a sacred matter. Those who act in this capacity are to represent Christ, doing as He would do under similar circumstances. God’s divine benevolence is to be revealed by those connected with His work. His vineyard is to be worked in a way that will bring forth the fruit thereof. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 15)

Selfishness is as contagious as the leprosy. The sin of selfishness in dealing with the Lord’s goods ought to be seen as it is; for it is the greatest curse that can come into any man’s life. It is hard to reconcile the selfishness shown by church members with their claim to be the Lord’s helping hand. The halfhearted Christians working in the vineyard are the cause of the great dearth of means in the treasury. Will those to whom this is well known continue to manifest a hardheartedness that is lessening the resources brought in through church members? Godliness is becoming more and more rare. Unless the divine leaven of renovation works in the church, little will be done to convert souls who will be not only consumers but producers. The church is now as a vast hospital, filled with the spiritually sick, who need to be placed under the influence of the refining furnace, until all dross is consumed. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 16)

The future of the church depends on the efforts made by the members to understand the sinfulness of selfishness, and their willingness to take the remedy which will cure the disease from which they are suffering. Let a reformation take place, that those who accept the truth in the future shall not be contaminated by the corrupting influence of Satan. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 17)

As Seventh-day Adventists we must reach a higher standard. God brings a terrible charge against His professing people: “These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God: I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot; 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. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked; 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. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten; be zealous therefore, and repent.” [Revelation 3:14-19.] (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 18)

Many who are condemned by men are vindicated by God. Many who are exalted by human judgment are by God pronounced to be wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked. Human judgment often errs. Often man condemns his brother because his discernment is defective. God looks at the heart. He reads the motives which prompt to action. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 19)

God prompts the question, “Ought I to do this?” Satan leads man to say, “I can.” Right is a loyal subject. Might is a haughty tyrant, leading to warfare, the scourge of the world. Right is a representation of the perfect man in Christ Jesus. It is the foundation of all righteousness and peace—the oil which fills the divine flagons. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 20)

“The angel which talked with me came again, and waked me, as a man is wakened out of his sleep, and said unto me, What seest thou? And I said, I have looked, and behold a candlestick all of gold, with a bowl upon the top of it, and his seven lamps thereon, and seven pipes to the seven lamps, which are upon the top thereof; and two olive trees by it, one upon the right side of the bowl, and the other upon the left side thereof. So I answered and spake unto the angel that talked with me, saying, What are these, my lord? And the angel that talked with me answered and said unto me, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my lord. Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts. Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a plain; and he shall bring forth the headstone thereof with shoutings, crying, Grace, grace unto it.” [Zechariah 4:1-7.] (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 21)

“Then answered I and said unto him, What are these two olive trees upon the right side of the candlestick and upon the left side thereof? And I answered again, and said unto him, What be these two olive branches, which through the two golden pipes empty the golden oil out of themselves? And he answered me and said, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my lord. Then said he, These are the two anointed ones, that stand by the Lord of the whole earth.” [Verses 11-14.] (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 22)

Read this chapter over and over again, until you grasp its full meaning. Keep inquiring, “What are these, my Lord?” [Verse 4.] (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 23)

There is a work to be done among the churches of Seventh-day Adventists which has not yet been done. Ministering angels are waiting to see who will take up the work in the right spirit. You may say, “Wherein must we change? What have we done?” It is not my work to enter into details. Let all humble themselves before God, asking for grace and wisdom, that they may see wherein they have violated His holy law. Unless His Spirit enlightens them, they will never know, even though it is set before them by their brethren. Those who refuse to come into right relation to God, who will not obey the rules of His government, do not bear His mark. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 24)

Let all who claim to be reformers be reformers in the fullest sense of the word. The Lord is merciful. He does not chastise His people because He hates them, but because He hates the sins they are committing. He must chastise them, that they may return to their loyalty. He designs their punishment to be a warning to them and to others. No one need walk in darkness. No one need say, “Specify to me the precise wrongs of which I am guilty.” To those who say this, I give the word of the Lord: “Search prayerfully, and you will know.” (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 25)

If the warnings and reproofs given in the Word of God and in the testimonies of His Spirit are not plain enough, what words would be sufficiently plain to bring about a revival and a reformation? (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 26)

If God’s people will turn from their wrong ways and seek counsel from Him, He will be spared a repetition of their chastisement. He waits long for His erring people to repent, that He may remove the rod from them, and grant them His forgiveness and favor, filling their hearts with His peace and joy. But those who in self-complacence strengthen themselves in following their own way, must be left to suffer the consequence of their wrong course. Cause will be followed by the sure result. (16LtMs, Ms 108, 1901, 27)

Ms 109, 1901

Work for the Higher Classes
NP
October 22, 1901
Previously unpublished.

I have been instructed that the Lord has given men talents to improve by the acquirement of wealth, which is to be used in opening doors for the entrance of truth. Those God has blessed with means will act as His helping hand in reaching those of their own class. Thus He will sustain missionary work among the higher classes. (16LtMs, Ms 109, 1901, 1)

Altogether too little effort has been put forth for men in responsible positions in the world, men who possess means and influence and superior qualifications. These gifts have been entrusted to them by the Lord, to be increased and imparted to others. They have souls to save, and God calls upon His ministers to present to them the living Word of a living God, giving the message, “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” [John 1:29.] (16LtMs, Ms 109, 1901, 2)

God gives men power to get wealth, and He desires those to whom He has entrusted this talent to be converted, that they may act as His helping hand, investing in His work the means He has lent them, opening the way for the gospel to be preached to all classes. He desires those who can help in His work of reformation and restoration to see the precious light of truth and be transformed in character, that they may unite with Him in opening the way so that other wealthy men may see that now is their opportunity to use their means in saving souls ready to perish. (16LtMs, Ms 109, 1901, 3)

Our great cities are full of wickedness, crime, injustice, and all kinds of depravity, but there are those in them whom the Lord desires to use in telling the wealthy as well as the lowly what each must do to be saved. God calls for men and women of talent to use their capabilities in convincing the weary and heavy laden that Christ is not only their Creator, but their Redeemer. He gave His precious life for them. He bought human beings with His blood, that He might bear the curse of their sin and impute to them His righteousness. Many are praying for light. They long to understand what is truth. There are men who have money who will reveal living faith in the Word of God, and will return to the Lord the means He has lent them, that light may shine amid the darkness of error. (16LtMs, Ms 109, 1901, 4)

I am instructed to tell you to seek to save the men of wealth. Tell them to lay up treasure beside the throne of God by employing their talents in opening ways for the salvation of souls ready to perish. I have an intense desire that the wealthy and honorable men of the world shall be sought out and appropriately and wisely educated, taught to seek for the eternal weight of glory. There are many who will not heed the counsel of God, but the whole world will not turn from light and truth, from the invitations of a patient, longsuffering Saviour. (16LtMs, Ms 109, 1901, 5)

“Despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; who will render to every man according to his deeds; to them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life; but unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first and also of the Gentile; but glory, honor, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile; for there is no respect of persons with God.” [Romans 2:4-11.] (16LtMs, Ms 109, 1901, 6)

Are we not in these words given encouragement to make every effort in our power to save those honored by the world? If they accept Christ, they will receive the very highest honor, which the world can neither give nor take away, even a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Christ offers them a life which measures with the life of God. They will find that in keeping the commandments there is exceeding great reward. With the psalmist they will say, “Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. They also do no iniquity, they walk in his ways. Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently. O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes! Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments.” [Psalm 119:1-7.] (16LtMs, Ms 109, 1901, 7)

We should work earnestly for those in the highways as well as for those in the byways. There are many, many souls who will come to a knowledge of the truth if Christlike effort is put forth in their behalf. The compassionate Redeemer bids His servants give the call to the supper to both the rich and the poor. “Go out into the highways and hedges,” He says, “and by your persevering, determined efforts compel them to come in. I have prepared my supper for them. I have made every provision to seat them at my bountiful repast, and to serve them.” [See Luke 14:23.] (16LtMs, Ms 109, 1901, 8)

Will not heaven be appreciated by the men of the world? Oh yes! There they will find repose from all the din and confusion of this earth. Then do not pass them by. Urge them to accept the peace and happiness and joy that Christ is longing to bestow on them. Take hold of them and bring them in to the banquet which Christ has prepared for them. He has provided for them a wedding garment, even the robe of His righteousness. Tell them that Christ is proffering them this garment, spotless as the pure white lily. Urge them to give their whole attention to securing this gift—the richest that can be bestowed on mortal man. (16LtMs, Ms 109, 1901, 9)

Link yourselves, ministers of Jesus Christ, with this class. Pass them not by as hopeless. He who gave His precious life for them says, “Bring them in, seat them at my table, and I shall serve them.” Work for them with loving persuasion, and as the fruit of your efforts you will see in the kingdom of heaven men and women who, crowned as overcomers, sing the triumphant song of the conqueror. “They shall walk with me in white,” saith He who is the first and the last; “for they are worthy. He that overcometh 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.” [Revelation 3:4, 5.] (16LtMs, Ms 109, 1901, 10)

The end is not yet, and now, just now, the Lord calls for every talent to be employed in His work. Move forward, leaning on the arm of the One who has said, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.] Lean heavily, but only on God. Pray in faith, and believe that you receive the things you ask for. (16LtMs, Ms 109, 1901, 11)

We have a risen Saviour. He broke the fetters of the tomb and came forth from its dark borders, proclaiming His triumphant victory over death and the grave. He is our Saviour. To all who come to Him confessing their sins, He says, “Thy sins be forgiven thee; go in peace and sin no more.” (16LtMs, Ms 109, 1901, 12)

May the Lord arm you who labor in word and doctrine with the clearest messages of truth. Give these messages with simplicity, assurance, and all authority; then the Lord will work with you. Never suppose that by putting on outside appearance you will make an impression for good. There is an abundance of this policy, but it does not reveal the righteousness of Christ. It is those who work in Christ’s way, with simplicity and self-denial, who are blessed in their efforts. (16LtMs, Ms 109, 1901, 13)

Minute men are needed, men who will see the necessity of opening new fields and will do all in their power to meet this necessity. To enter the fields that have been neglected, to give to the world the precious, saving message of the gospel—this is the work that must be done. Talent is needed; influence is needed, not such as the world gives, but such as Christ gives. He says, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.... Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also, and greater works than these shall he do, because I go unto my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” [John 14:27, 12, 13.] (16LtMs, Ms 109, 1901, 14)

Heed this comforting assurance, and commit the keeping of the soul to God as unto a faithful Creator. Work and pray and wait, and you will see the salvation of the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 109, 1901, 15)

Ms 110, 1901

Sermon/The Christian’s Hope
Sanitarium Chapel, St. Helena, California
October 5, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 2SAT 171-179. +

“Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.” [1 Peter 1:1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 1)

These words, so full of meaning, give us assurance that grace and peace are multiplied to those who are elect “through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ.” [Verse 2.] Without this grace, of how much value would be all our wrestling with God? Our efforts would amount to nothing. We should greatly appreciate these words, which throw such a flood of light on the relation that Jesus Christ sustains to us as our Redeemer. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 2)

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” [Verse 3.] (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 3)

After the crucifixion of Christ, His followers lost their hope. They had expected Him to reign on David’s throne in Jerusalem, but they had been terribly disappointed. Late in the afternoon of the day of the resurrection, two of the disciples were on their way to Emmaus, a little town eight miles from Jerusalem. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 4)

These disciples had no prominent place in Christ’s work, but they were earnest believers in Him. They had come to the city to keep the Passover, and were greatly perplexed by the events that had recently taken place. They had heard the news of the morning in regard to the removal of Christ’s body from the tomb, and also the report of the women who had seen the angels and had met Jesus. They were now returning to their homes to meditate and pray. Sadly they pursued their evening walk, talking over the scenes of the trial and the crucifixion, recounting their unfulfilled hopes concerning the One who they had verily believed would redeem Israel. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 5)

While they were talking thus of their crucified and buried Lord, “Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. But their eyes were holden that they should not know him. And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad?” [Luke 24:15-17.] “Have ye not heard,” they answered, “that the prophet mighty in deed and word has been taken and crucified by cruel hands, and is now buried?” Beginning at Genesis, the Stranger told them what had been prophesied from the first concerning Jesus. While He was comforting their hearts, they came to the house where they lived, and invited their Companion to come in. He acted as though He were going further, but they constrained Him to tarry with them. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 6)

As they sat before the repast which had been prepared, the disciples were forcibly struck by the familiar motions of their Guest’s hands as He took the bread and began to ask the blessing. The movements were strangely like those of their Master. Then when He held up His hands, they saw the marks of His crucifixion. Both exclaimed, “It is the Lord Jesus! He has risen from the dead!” (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 7)

They rose to cast themselves at His feet and worship Him, but He had vanished out of their sight. Looking at the place that had been occupied by One whose body had lately lain in the grave, they said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?” [Luke 24:32.] (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 8)

But with this great news to communicate it was impossible for them to sit and talk. Their weariness and hunger were gone, and leaving their meal untasted they hurried back to the city, stumbling over the rough places along the way. They did not know that the Saviour journeyed with them. Entering Jerusalem, they went to the house where the disciples were assembled, gave the signal for unlocking the doors, and were admitted. The disciples were listening to a story of the women who had been to the sepulcher, and who declared that Christ had risen from the dead. But those in the room did not believe the story. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 9)

Then the two disciples told their experience. They said that Christ had walked with them, and that their hearts had burned within them while He opened the Scriptures to their understanding. Still some could not believe that their Lord had indeed risen. Some were saying that they could not believe the story, when behold, another person stands before them. Every eye turned to the stranger. Then the disciples heard the voice of their Master. Clear and distinct the words fell from His lips, “Peace be unto you.” [Verse 36.] (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 10)

“But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself; handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.” [Verses 36-39.] (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 11)

“Then were the disciples glad when they saw the Lord.” [John 20:20.] Faith and joy took the place of unbelief, and with feelings which no words could express they acknowledged their risen Saviour. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 12)

After the Saviour was placed in the sepulcher of Joseph, a great stone was rolled before it and sealed. While Roman soldiers who had been commanded to guard the tomb stood at their post of duty, lo, a mighty angel commissioned to roll back the stone from the sepulcher came in bright, heavenly glory, parting the darkness from his track. The astonished guard saw him roll back the stone as easily as if it had been a pebble. The glorious light caused them to fall as dead men to the earth, but they were sensible enough of what was occurring to see that Christ rose from the tomb. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 13)

Over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, Christ proclaimed, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] Let us rejoice that we have a risen Saviour. Just before He ascended on high, leading captivity captive and giving gifts unto men, He said to His disciples, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:19, 20.] With outstretched hands He blessed them before He was taken up to join the glorious angels waiting to escort Him on His upward way. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 14)

Two angels remained behind. While the disciples were looking at the cloud taking away their Lord, and listening to the music of the angels, “Behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.” [Acts 1:10, 11.] (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 15)

In our love for Christ we long to see Him as He is. And the time is soon coming, when we shall see Him. Concerning this time, John the Revelator says, “And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.” [Revelation 22:1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 16)

Those who work against the natural laws of the being must suffer the penalty of transgression. But the Saviour pities us even when we suffer from infirmities caused by our own wrong course of action. In Him there is a healing power for us. Let us praise God for the tree of life, the leaves of which are for the healing of the nations. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 17)

“And there shall be no more curse.” Everywhere the effects of the curse are seen. Let us praise God that in the earth made new “there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him.” [Verse 3.] Some little know what true service means. Those who expect to sing in an entertainment spend time in practicing, to familiarize themselves with the music and the words. That we may learn how to serve the Lord in heaven, we must enter His service now, becoming acquainted with Him and learning to be faithful servants. No one can do service for another by exercising a controlling influence over another’s mind. Every individual must learn for himself the meaning of God-fearing service. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 18)

Notice particularly the next verse: “And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads.” [Verse 4.] When the glory of God rests upon the Redeemed, they recognize Christ, for they see Him as He is. And the happiness revealed in their countenances is indescribable. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 19)

“And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.” They will reign on His throne, because they have obediently served Him in this world, forming characters for the future, immortal life. “And he said unto me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent his angel to show unto his servants the things which must shortly be done. Behold, I come quickly: blessed is he that keepeth the sayings of the prophecy of this book.” [Verses 5-7.] (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 20)

It is our privilege to understand the blessed Word of God. We have fallen, it is true; but we are not always to remain in sin. We have been placed on vantage ground. The Lord God of heaven “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.] What a precious hope we have in Christ! (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 21)

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” [1 Peter 1:3-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 22)

We are not kept by our intelligence, by our words, or by our riches. In these we find no safety. We are kept only by the power of God through faith unto salvation. We are living in a period of time during which we must by faith be allied with an infinite God, or else we cannot overcome the strong powers of darkness seeking to destroy us. The Holy Spirit is as a light shining on our pathway. Let us put our trust in Christ, who is ever at our right hand to help us. Let us take courage, placing our confidence and our trust in Him. He has not left us destitute. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 23)

“Wherein [in the prospect of the second coming of Christ], ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.” [Verses 6, 7.] (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 24)

Temptations will come. But when Satan throws his hellish shadow before us, we should reach in faith through the shadow to the Light of life—to Him who has not only created man, but who by His own blood has redeemed him. We are Christ’s cherished heritage. In living faith we must co-operate with Him in working out our own salvation. Amid trials and temptations His hand upholds and sustains us. Those who rest in Christ Jesus are never restless or uneasy. He means just what He says when He bids us commit the keeping of our souls unto Him, as to a faithful Creator. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 25)

Those who hold fast their faith unto the end will come forth from the furnace of trial as fine gold seven times purified. Of this work the prophet Isaiah says, “I will make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir.” [Isaiah 13:12.] When in trouble, remember that faith tried in the furnace of affliction is more precious than gold tried with fire. Remember that there is One watching every movement, to see when the last particle of dross is taken away from your character. It is then that you are counted more precious than the golden wedge of Ophir. By hiding with Christ in God, fallen man reaches this state of purity. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 26)

Those who love the riches of this world should remember that faith in Christ is more precious than gold; for gold perishes. The saints of the living God have a glorious hope, the fruition of which is a life of immortality. I am so grateful for a sure hope of eternal life. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 27)

“Jesus Christ: whom having not seen [with natural eyes], ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.” [1 Peter 1:8.] (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 28)

Do you suppose that after Christ gave His precious life to redeem the beings He created, He would fail to give them sufficient power to enable them to overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony? He has power to save every individual. At the time of His ascension, He said, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” [Matthew 28:18.] For our redemption all power is given to Him who stood at the head of humanity. For nearly six weeks the Sinless One fought a battle with the powers of darkness in the wilderness of temptation, overcoming not on His account, but on our account, thus making it possible for every son and daughter of Adam to overcome through the merit of His sinlessness. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 29)

In Christ “ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. Of which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.” [1 Peter 1:8-12.] The angels communicated the prophecy to men, but did not see it unfolding as now we see it. Every generation has realized the power and glory of God, but especially has this generation most clearly seen and realized the fulfilment of prophecy. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 30)

“Wherefore,” considering these things, “gird up the loins of your mind.” If ever there was a time when we needed to gird up the loins of the mind, it is the present time. “Be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance, but as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.” [Verses 13-16.] (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 31)

Only those who practice holiness in this life will see the King in His beauty. Put away all vain, trifling talk, and everything of a frivolous and sensational nature. Do not engross your mind with thoughts of worldly entertainments and pleasures. Engage in the work of saving your soul. If you should lose your soul, it would have been better for you never to have been born. But you need not lose your soul. You may use every moment of this God-given life to His name’s glory. Strengthen yourself to resist the powers of darkness, that they shall not obtain a victory over you. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 32)

“And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man’s work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear.” [Verse 17.] This does not mean a slavish fear. The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. If you begin to fear Him, you are one of the wisest men on earth; for His everlasting arms are about you, and the enemy cannot deceive or harm you. A faith that is centered in God cannot be moved. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 33)

“Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot; who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.” [Verses 18-21.] (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 34)

Notice the result: “Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.” [Verses 22, 23.] (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 35)

If we dealt kindly and tenderly and compassionately with one another, loving others as Christ has loved us, what a change would take place in our world! What a transformation would be brought about in the home life! In this church there are whole families who need to be educated and trained for the future, immortal life. All the power that can be obtained from above is needed to lead their feet in safe paths. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 36)

The members of this church need to study the Bible. Feed on the Word of God, and you will find that it is indeed the bread of life. Christ declared, “Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life.” In explanation He said, “It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” [John 6:54, 63.] (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 37)

The Scriptures are as leaves from the tree of life. From beginning to end the Bible is full of promises. For nearly four weeks I have not been able to sleep later than about one o’clock. Night after night I have been awake, pleading with God for His blessing to come to me, so that I should be enabled to present the truth in its beauty and loveliness to the people, helping them to realize its force and power. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 38)

Christ cannot co-operate with a dead church. He desires His church to be full of vitality, to take hold by living faith of His power. Trials will come upon the true church. Some members will depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits. Satan himself will personate Christ, declaring that he is the Son of God. One will say, “Christ is here;” another, “He is there” [Mark 13:21]; and still another, that He is somewhere else; but we should know individually that He is abiding with us, and that He will save us by His righteousness. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 39)

We do not begin to reach the high standard that God has set before us. We may be “partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” [2 Peter 1:4.] It is our privilege to stand on vantage ground with God, to be full of hope, praise, cheerfulness, joy, thanksgiving. Let us educate ourselves to praise Him and to glorify His name. Let us by feeding upon His Word bring more spirituality into our hearts. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 40)

In our behalf Christ bore the test of denial of appetite. Shall we bear this test in His behalf, and in our behalf as well? We ruin the digestive organs by wrong eating. Many ruin their minds by using tobacco, liquor, and other stimulants. This none are compelled to do. God desires us to take ourselves in hand, to allow His Spirit to purify us. He will strengthen us to resist the devil, who tries through lust to destroy us. May God help us to consider these matters. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 41)

Those who come to the Sanitarium on this hillside should see in the helpers of the institution the highest exemplification of true Christianity. The helpers, whether working in the buildings or on the grounds, should reveal by word and action that they cherish the blessed hope given to the disciples. Their hearts should be drawn out in love for the salvation of those who have no hope. They should carry a burden of soul for the afflicted ones, praying with them to help them overcome the lust of appetite. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 42)

Nurses should be familiar with the Scriptures, that from this rich storehouse they may draw for their patients words of comfort and consolation. Christ desires them to eat the bread of life, the leaves of the tree of life, that they may have something to give to the sick and the suffering around them. It is their privilege to pray for the sick, asking that the blessing of God may rest upon them. This institution should be permeated with the Spirit of the living God. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 43)

There are periods when it is necessary to pass through strait places. But when sorely tried, do not place your trust in the arm of flesh, but in the living God. Have faith in the One who is by your side, ready to tell you what steps to take in times of perplexity and trial. He has everything marked out, and if His people trust in Him, He will reveal to them His power and glory. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 44)

We are living in the last days. The closing scenes of this world’s history, which our Saviour foretold would take place just prior to His coming, are now being enacted before us. Concerning this time, He said, “As the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of Man be.” [Matthew 24:37.] The inhabitants of the antediluvian world were utterly unconcerned, and at the appointed time the flood came, and took them all away. Had they believed the warning given by Noah, they would not have risked everything by going on in wickedness. Notwithstanding their unbelief, destruction came. Unbelief will not change the certainty of Christ’s second coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 45)

We are looking for the second coming of Christ. Our hope of His soon appearing in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory, fills our hearts with joy. When the Saviour comes, those who are prepared to meet Him will exclaim, “Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.” [Isaiah 25:9.] (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 46)

I love the Lord, because He first loved me. I praise my heavenly Father that I can know that Christ is by my side at all times; for His promise is, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.] Think you there is anything in this world that tempts me to go astray from the Word of God? Oh, no! I have so firm a faith in Jesus Christ that I am looking forward to the time when I shall behold the King in His beauty, and see His matchless charms. Soon the gates of the city of God will be thrown back upon their glittering hinges, and the nations that have kept the truth will enter in and hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servants, enter ye into the joy of your Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] Touching their golden harps, they will fill all heaven with rich music and with songs to the Lamb. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 47)

A crown of life that fadeth not away is reserved in heaven for the redeemed, who in heaven will be kings and priests unto God. This is the hope set before us. What a hope it is! Oh, that every one may be ready for Christ’s coming! God grant that you may be overcomers. (16LtMs, Ms 110, 1901, 48)

Ms 111, 1901

Sermon/“I beseech you therefore ...”
Sanitarium Chapel, St. Helena, California
October 19, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in VSS 392; UL 306. +

“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. And 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 12:1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 1)

There is something for every individual to prove. The rule by which it is to be proved is given in these verses. In this probationary time it is the privilege of everyone to come into right relation to God and to gain a living experience, thus proving what is the will of God. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 2)

Those who fully understand their Christian duty will not be worldly minded, or cherish worldly idols. All may work in co-operation with God as laborers together with Him. He alone can renew the mind. The most solemn appeals that can be made to a congregation do not impress the hearts of those whose minds are trivial. A shrug of the shoulder, a movement of the lips, an expression of the countenance, often does more harm to others than would outspoken words of contempt. We should conduct ourselves so carefully that we shall not hinder the progress of any one who is seeking to develop a character after the divine similitude. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 3)

“For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.” [Verses 3-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 4)

We are in this world to be a help and a blessing to one another, uniting with Christ Jesus in restoring the moral image of God in man. This is our work. In order to do it, we must learn of Christ. “Take my yoke upon you,” He says, “and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:29.] In this promise there are no “ifs” or “ands.” Those who have experience in wearing Christ’s yoke of restraint and obedience know what it means to have perfect peace and rest in Him. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 5)

“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.” [Psalm 1:1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 6)

We should become acquainted with the laws of Christ’s kingdom, which are God-given safeguards. “They are your life,” He says. [Deuteronomy 32:47.] If we break through this wall of protection which has so mercifully been put around us, we expose ourselves to the attacks of Satan. By disobeying the laws of God, we co-operate with the enemy, placing ourselves where he can work through our minds. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 7)

Murmuring, intemperance, tumults, wars, and all other manifestations of sin that have ever been seen on the face of the earth, have been caused by men who have ventured to transgress the laws of Christ’s kingdom. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 8)

If we only knew what is for our eternal interest, not another day would any of us be transgressors of the law of Jehovah. Our only safety is in keeping the mind in harmony with God, availing ourselves of the safeguards that He has provided. We shall never fully realize the advantages we have gained by keeping His laws, until the gates of the New Jerusalem are swung back on their glittering hinges, and the nations that have kept the truth shall enter in to enjoy eternal peace and comfort. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 9)

Does the man who meditates on the law of God day and night, wear a woebegone expression, complaining, murmuring, and fretting, as if there were no pleasure in serving the Lord? Let us see: (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 10)

“And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.” [Psalm 1:3-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 11)

In obedience there is peace and consolation. Holy angels are round about the obedient to keep them in the narrow way. Many who claim to be children of God are in trouble and perplexity. If they were linked with Christ, the light of heaven would shine into the chambers of the mind; and they would have a peace that the world can neither give nor take away. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 12)

In the third chapter we read: “Lord, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me. Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah. But thou, O Lord, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head. I cried unto the Lord with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. Selah. I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the Lord sustained me.” The Lord kept him all through the night season. “I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.” [Verses 1-6.] His confidence was in God. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 13)

In the next chapter, the psalmist says: “There be many that say, Who will show us any good? Lord, lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us. Thou hast put gladness in my heart, more than in the time that their corn and their wine increased. I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.” [Psalm 4:6-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 14)

In the fifth Psalm, we read: “Give ear to my words, O Lord, consider my meditation. Hearken unto the voice of my cry, my King, and my God: for unto thee will I pray. My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up. For thou art not a God that hath pleasure in wickedness: neither shall evil dwell with thee. The foolish shall not stand in thy sight: thou hatest all workers of iniquity. Thou shalt destroy them that speak leasing: the Lord will abhor the bloody and deceitful man. But as for me, I will come into thy house in the multitude of thy mercy: and in thy fear will I worship toward thy holy temple. Lead me, O Lord, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; make thy way straight before my face.” [Verses 1-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 15)

Are not these very comforting passages to read to the sick and dying? In the treasure house of God’s Word are most precious assurances for those who are in distress. All these promises are given for our encouragement and consolation. On them we can rely. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 16)

After you have done all you can to relieve the afflicted, co-operating with God by using the means He has given for the restoration of health, it is your privilege to commit the cases of your patients to Him. During His earthly ministry He was a mighty Healer. Today He is the same compassionate Physician. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 17)

When I have been expected to speak to many people, at times I have felt that it was impossible for me to appear day after day before great congregations. But I have tried to place myself physically in right relation to God. Then I have said to Him, “I have done all I can do, Lord, using Thine own means, and now I ask for the special blessing which Thou alone canst give to sustain me.” With trembling steps I have walked into the desk to speak to assembled thousands; but the moment I have stood before the congregation, the Spirit of God has always come to me with strengthening power. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 18)

Often I said to my husband while he was with me, “If only I could have the assurance beforehand, how much good it would do me.” He would answer, “God has never failed to bless you the moment you rise to speak; so whatever may be your feelings, you must put your trust in Him, hanging your helpless soul on His promises.” This I have tried to do. I have learned that we must act our part, co-operating with God. He gives strength for every duty. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 19)

Those who work in our sanitariums have special need of a living Christian experience. Let none ever encourage the patients to look to you, or lead them to think that your mind will help their mind; but point them to the One who can help and strengthen them. Teach them to look to Jesus Christ, who taketh away the sin of the world. Encourage them to elevate their minds to God, by faith taking hold of the Mighty One. He is able to fashion their characters after the similitude of a beautiful, desirable, substantial palace. When you represent Christ to others in this way, you are imparting a power, a strength, that is of value; for it comes from above. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 20)

In the second chapter of first Peter we read: “Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, as newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: if so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious. To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth him shall not be confounded.” [Verses 1-6.] Let us feed on the Word of God. It will give us a wonderful experience. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 21)

“Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, and a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.” [Verses 7, 8.] (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 22)

When reading the next verse, let us notice whether God’s people engage in foolish amusements and worldly entertainments, or whether they have something higher and grander to contemplate—something that will hold them up, comforting them in sickness and sorrow: “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” [Verse 9.] (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 23)

Christ is the light of the world. When He shines into our hearts, we reflect His light to others, thus making sunshine all about us. We must have the light that He alone can give. He will not disappoint us in our expectations. He desires us to increase in faith, in confidence, in knowledge. This we may do by praying to Him, in faith taking hold of His strength. His promise is, “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 24)

Heaven is nearer to earth than many realize. In his dream, Jacob was shown that the base of the ladder extending heavenward was firmly planted on the earth. If it lacked a foot or even an inch of reaching the earth, it could do us no good. It must stand firmly on the earth. The topmost round reaches to the highest heaven, and above is God Himself. The light of His glory floods the threshold of heaven and shines on every round of the ladder. This ladder is a representation of Christ. The rounds represent His merits. Grasping round after round, we may continue climbing until we reach the highest round and step off into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 25)

I am glad that we know something about this ladder of shining brightness and understand what it represents. Jacob saw angels of God ascending and descending, ministering to the needs of the children of men. When a person of intelligence refuses to be led by the Spirit of God, the heavenly angels can do naught for him. But in our sinfulness everyone of us may by faith lay hold of Christ, saying, “Thou art my Redeemer; Thou wilt save me, even me.” (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 26)

While journeying through the wilderness, the children of Israel did not realize the countless dangers by which they were surrounded. They became so rebellious, often murmuring, often withdrawing themselves from the influence of the Spirit of God, that the Saviour was compelled to remove His protecting hand, permitting the fiery serpents which infested the wilderness to come into the camp. Great numbers of the people were attacked by these venomous creatures. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 27)

Throughout the encampment there was terror and confusion. In almost every tent were the dying or the dead. None were secure. Humbling themselves before God, the people began to call for Moses—the man whom only a little while before they had accused of being their worst enemy, criticizing him in a way that reflected on the wisdom of God. They plead with Moses to pray for them, that the plague of the serpents might be removed. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 28)

Moses was commanded by God to make a serpent of brass resembling the living ones, and to elevate it among the people. All who looked to this uplifted serpent were perfectly restored. The people well knew that there was no virtue in the serpent of brass itself, but that it was a symbol of Christ. God alone was able to heal them. Yet they were required to show their faith in the provision which He had made. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 29)

“As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness,” even so was “the only begotten Son of man lifted up, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.” [John 3:14, 15.] Christ has said, “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.” [John 12:32.] Just as those who looked to the brazen serpent in the wilderness were healed, so may we look to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, and be saved. Continually we should behold Him who gives spiritual health, spiritual power. There is no safety in allowing the mind to be drawn from Him. We must be conformed to His image. Salvation, eternal life, a home in the kingdom of God—these blessings are worth striving for. Christ has done everything on His part, even giving His life to redeem us. It now rests with us whether we will indeed believe in Him and by living faith accept His sacrifice in our behalf. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 30)

Are you standing on the side of the world, or on the side of Christ? Of what value would the whole world be to me, with all the gold and silver that could be heaped together? Of what value would it be to you? My span of life is nearly ended. Many, many of my early associates are now in the grave. All that remains of our once large family is one of my sisters—and she is feeble. God has given me strength. He is the health of my countenance. Every morning I rejoice in Him. I know I have committed the keeping of my soul to Him, as unto a faithful Creator; and I know He has never failed me. If you place your trust in Him, the Lord will also give to every one of you His strength, His grace, His salvation. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 31)

When someone asks you how you are feeling, do not complain and murmur and try to think of something mournful to tell them to gain their sympathy; but grasp them by the hand, saying, “Praise God! Good is the Lord, and greatly to be praised! I love Him, because He first loved me.” Let your conversation be cheerful and hopeful. Do not talk discouragingly, telling your lack of faith and your sorrows and sufferings, for the devil delights to hear such words. When talking on gloomy subjects you are glorifying the enemy. Talk faith and hope and courage, thus glorifying God. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 32)

Instead of gossiping, thus creating mischief, let us tell of the matchless power of Christ, and speak of His glory, thus magnifying and lifting up the Lord God of hosts, and training ourselves to sing the song of victory in the kingdom of glory. By beginning to sing songs of triumph and thanksgiving now, we may prepare ourselves to sing the song of Moses and the Lamb when we meet on the sea of glass. (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 33)

The Lord will be with us during this life, if we allow ourselves to be led by His Spirit and do not neglect to glorify His name. We should bring as much of heaven as possible into this life. The light of heaven shining into the heart will be imparted in words of pleasantness, in deeds of kindness, to those who are near us. Having acquainted ourselves with God, when He comes we will be able to say, “Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us.” [Isaiah 25:9.] (16LtMs, Ms 111, 1901, 34)

Ms 112, 1901

“Make Ready a People Prepared for the Lord”
NP
November 3, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 5BC 1077, 1115. +

In every stage of this earth’s history God has had His agencies to carry forward His work, which must be done in His appointed way. John the Baptist had a special work, for which he was born and to which he was appointed—the work of preparing the way of the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 1)

The mission and the work of John the Baptist were specified by the angel of the Lord, as recorded by Luke: “And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” [Luke 1:17.] The Holy Ghost was to be upon him. (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 2)

In response to Zechariah’s words of doubt, “Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years,” the heavenly messenger declared, “I am Gabriel, that stand in the presence of God; and am sent to speak unto thee, and to show thee these glad tidings. And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak, until the day that these things shall be performed, because thou believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.” [Verses 18-20.] (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 3)

Concerning the promised son the angel said: “For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost” from his birth. [Verse 15.] In this statement temperance is taught from a Christian standpoint. John was to be consecrated to God as a Nazarite. (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 4)

In the time of Moses, the Nazarites were instructed not to use wine or strong drink: “And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When either man or woman shall separate themselves to vow a vow of a Nazarite, to separate themselves unto the Lord: he shall separate himself from wine and strong drink, neither shall he drink any liquor of grapes, nor eat moist grapes, or dried. All the days of his separation shall he eat nothing that is made of the vine tree, from the kernels even to the husk.” [Numbers 6:1-4.] (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 5)

This instruction was repeated to the mother of Sampson. An angel came to the wife of Manoah, saying, “Behold, thou shalt ... bear a son; and now drink no wine nor strong drink, neither eat any unclean thing: for the child shall be a Nazarite to God from his birth to the day of his death.” [Judges 13:7.] For the sake of her unborn child, lest her appetite should be transferred to him, the mother was restricted in her diet. (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 6)

John’s work was clearly mapped out: “And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God.” [Luke 1:16.] In the fulfillment of his mission he was to prepare the way of the Lord. His wilderness-ministry was a most striking, literal fulfillment of prophecy. Isaiah had foretold his work as “the voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.” [Isaiah 40:3.] (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 7)

“In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.... But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?” [Matthew 3:1-3, 7.] The Pharisees were very strict in regard to the outward observance of forms and customs, and were filled with haughty, worldly, hypocritical self-righteousness. The Sadducees denied the resurrection of the dead and the existence of angels and were skeptical in regard to God. This sect was largely composed of unworthy characters, many of whom were licentious in their habits. By the word “vipers” John meant those who were malignant and antagonistic, bitterly opposed to the expressed will of God. (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 8)

John exhorted these men to “bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance.” [Verse 8.] That is, Show that you are converted, that your characters are transformed. “And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree that bringeth not forth fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire.” [Verses 9-11.] (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 9)

Neither words nor profession, but fruits—the forsaking of sins, and obedience to the commandments of God—show the reality of genuine repentance . (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 10)

Christ said, “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.... Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.... As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [John 15:8, 4-7, 9-11.] (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 11)

“If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. If ye love me, keep my commandments.... 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. Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?” [John 14:14, 15, 21, 22.] (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 12)

Let all have ears to hear the answer from the divine Teacher: “If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me. 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.” [Verses 23-26.] (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 13)

“Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him. But John forbade him, saying, I have need to be baptized of thee, and comest thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: and lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” [Matthew 3:13-17.] (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 14)

What encouragement for every believer there is in these words! In Christ is the only hope of salvation. All who believe in Him, obeying His commandments, are accepted in the Beloved. (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 15)

In God’s work of preparing a people for Christ’s second appearing, “every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain:” for history is to be repeated, “and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it. (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 16)

“The voice said, Cry. And he said, What shall I cry? All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness thereof is as the flower of the field: the grass withereth, the flower fadeth: because the spirit of the Lord bloweth upon it: surely the people is grass. The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever. O Zion, that bringest good tidings, get thee up into the high mountain; O Jerusalem, that bringest good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength; lift it up, be not afraid; say unto the cities of Judah, Behold your God!” [Isaiah 40:4-9.] (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 17)

The Lord sends plain, decided messages to His people: “O Israel, return unto the Lord thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips. Asshur shall not save us; we will not ride upon horses: neither will we say any more to the work of our hands, Ye are our gods: for in thee the fatherless findeth mercy. (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 18)

“I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him. I will be as the dew unto Israel: he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon. His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as Lebanon. They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine: the scent thereof shall be as the wine of Lebanon. Ephraim shall say, What have I to do any more with idols? I have heard him, and observed him: I am like a green fir tree. From me is thy fruit found. Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein.” [Hosea 14:1-9.] (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 19)

By the rebellion of the Jewish people against God, by their neglect to search the Scriptures as His messengers entreated them to, they reached a point where it was impossible for them to be convinced. Therefore God saw fit to draw a line, placing them on the side of the disloyal, fallen angels who rebelled against Him in the heavenly courts. If after receiving sufficient evidence and light the sinner does not change his attitude of stubborn resistance, he is numbered with transgressors for time and for eternity. He brings upon himself his final ruin. (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 20)

In all the fallen churches God has a people. His call to them is, “Come out of her, my people.” [Revelation 18:4.] This means a renunciation of falsehoods framed by the enemy, which must be faithfully delineated by the servants of God, that the humble in heart may hear and understand. There is a plain way, a path cast up for the ransomed of the Lord, in which all the loyal, as they follow on to know the Lord, will find sure footing. Until the truth is made plain from the Scriptures, those who have accepted error for truth are not condemned by the Lord for not returning to Him. But if they are not convinced by a plain “Thus saith the Lord,” Satan takes possession of mind and heart and leads them in a path of self-deception. “Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep.” [Proverbs 6:10.] (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 21)

The churches are called to search the Scriptures. Those who hear the voice of God, and return to their allegiance, are armed with invincible strength. God accepts them as they unite with His church. He allows them to act a part in His great work by standing in defense of the truth. Their example and works are in harmony with God, with Christ, and with angels. (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 22)

But all will not accept the truth. In the fight against the truth, opposition against God will reach a satanic height of zeal, because men imbued by satanic attributes will lose true courtesy, Christian politeness, and meekness. Oh, if they only knew, if they only understood, that there is a mighty power of infinite resources, an Eternal One, to meet the agencies opposing the purposes and commandments of God! Over this world and all earthly potentates God rules with supreme power, and in His own time He will subject every opposing force to humiliation. (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 23)

The world has led those who are in the churches today to become transgressors of God’s law. When they discern that they have trespassed and sinned because they have broken the law of God and disdained the terms of His covenant, He will not leave them to stumble on in wrong paths. He is ever gracious. Looking upon the churches who today are represented in the fifty-eighth of Isaiah, the Lord sends to them His message so distinctly expressed in this chapter. By His messengers He is ever entreating His erring children in every church to return to Him by hearty repentance and confession, that they may find mercy. Obedience to His commandments is the basis of the covenant of peace between the Lord and His people. (16LtMs, Ms 112, 1901, 24)

Ms 113, 1901

Canvassers Needed
NP
November 4, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in CM 7, 14-15, 23-24, 90, 132, 139; CD 402; 4MR 129; 7MR 377. +

Thousands of books containing the precious light of present truth are lying on the shelves of our publishing houses. These should be circulated. Canvassers are needed who will enter our large cities with these books. As they go from house to house, they will find souls who are hungry for the bread of life, to whom they can speak words in season. Canvassers are needed who feel a burden for souls. You may say, “I am not a minister. I cannot preach to the people.” No; you may not be able to preach, but you can minister, you can ask those you meet if they love the Lord Jesus. You can be an evangelist. You can be God’s helping hand, working as did the disciples when Christ sent them forth. Young men, young women, you are called by the Master to take up His work. There is a famine in the land for the pure gospel. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 1)

Canvassers should never forget that they are to make earnest efforts to do medical missionary work. The publications treating on health reform are now very much needed by the world. Intemperance is striving for the mastery. Self-indulgence is increasing. In his work the canvasser can do much to show those whom he visits the value of healthful living. Instead of staying at a hotel, he should if possible obtain lodging with a private family. As he sits at the meal table with the family, let him practice the instruction given in the health works he is selling. If he has opportunity, let him speak of the value of health reform. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 2)

If in word and action he is courteous, he will find that his words leave an impression for good. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 3)

Our health literature is the helping hand of the gospel, opening the way for the truth to enter and save many souls. I know of nothing which so quickly unlocks hearts as this literature, which, when read and practiced, leads souls to the searching of the Bible for a better understanding of the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 4)

Canvassers should bring the health publications to the notice of those they visit, telling them how useful they are in the treatment of disease. Tell them that such a journal, if its instruction is studied and practiced, will bring health to the family. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 5)

The sale of health journals and books in no way hinders the sale of the publications dealing with other phases of the third angel’s message. All are to prepare the way for the Lord Jesus to come in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 6)

Our own people should read and study the health books. They will then know what to do in case of sickness. They should subscribe for the Good Health, or some other of our health journals, and should study and practice the instruction it contains. And more than this, they should make earnest efforts to circulate it among their neighbors. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 7)

The temperance question is to receive decided support from God’s people. Every Sabbath-keeper should utter a note of warning against intemperance. The canvasser should have a practical knowledge of how to treat disease. As he goes from place to place, he enters family after family where there is sickness. If he is acquainted with disease and its cause, he can impart a knowledge that will greatly relieve the suffering ones. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 8)

Tell the people that you have for sale books which give much valuable instruction regarding sickness and disease and how to avoid them, and that a study of this instruction saves much suffering and saves also much of the money spent in paying doctor's bills. Tell them that in these books is advice which they cannot possibly obtain from their physician during the short visits he makes. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 9)

In this age of the world it is important for every family to understand the science of life. The wonderful machinery of the human body is supplied by the Lord and is kept in motion by Him. It is the human agent’s part to keep this machinery in a state of purity and soundness. To do this, an intelligent knowledge of every part is required. It is a great responsibility to care properly for all the God-given faculties, to keep the entire system in as complete order as possible. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 10)

God is dishonored when man becomes the slave of lust, and, for the gratification of appetite and passion, misuses and abuses the Lord’s beautiful machinery, so that it does its work in a feeble, difficult way. Brain, bone, and muscle testify to the neglect. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 11)

Let our ministers and canvassers step under the banner of strict temperance. Never be ashamed to say, “No, thank you; I do not eat meat. I have conscientious scruples against eating the flesh of dead animals.” If tea is offered, refuse it, giving your reason for so doing. Explain that it is harmful, and though stimulating for a time, the stimulus soon wears off, and a corresponding depression is felt. Intoxicating drink, tobacco, meat, tea, and coffee injure the digestive organs and weaken the brain power. Their use brings disease, disqualifying the user for the work God expects him to do. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 12)

The canvassing work is a work of great responsibility, meaning much to the men and women who engage in it. We are living in a time when there is a great work to be done, and what better opportunity can we have to give the call to the supper Christ has prepared? Those who at this time take up the canvassing work with earnestness and consecration will be greatly blessed. You have no time to lose. Give yourselves willingly and unselfishly to the doing of this work. Remember that it is evangelistic in its nature, and that it helps to give a warning which is greatly needed. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 13)

Let the canvasser keep his Bible near him for reference, and when an opportunity presents itself to speak of the Sabbath truth, let him pray for grace, that he may speak wisely. Remember that God wants those for whom you are working to be saved. Remember that it is a life-and-death question with them; therefore keep your heart under the influence of the Spirit of God. Make every effort in your power to let the light shine forth in good works. As you walk and work with God, ministering angels are beside you, giving you access to hearts. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 14)

When staying with a family, study how you can perform little acts of helpful service. If there is someone sick in the family, seek to be of assistance. Put into practice your knowledge of how to give treatment. And more than this, pray for the sick. Do not make a long prayer. Take the case right to the great Physician. He will help. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 15)

What a wide field for missionary effort the faithful, consecrated canvasser has before him! What blessings he will receive in the diligent performance of this work! Keep the eye single to the glory of God. In your discharge of duty never be rude. Into every family you visit, carry the fragrance of Christian politeness. Be courteous. Be pleasant. Educate yourself to speak distinctly and impressively. Place yourself in the school of the great Teacher. He will surely help you if you depend on Him for strength. As you go from house to house, never fail to manifest Christian politeness. Hide yourself in Christ, and He will work with you. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 16)

The Lord calls for workers to enter the ministry, and I know of no better way for a young man to obtain a fitness for the work of the ministry than by gaining an experience in the canvassing field. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 17)

When church members realize the importance of the circulation of our literature, they will devote more time to this work. Papers, tracts, and books will be placed in the homes of the people, to preach the gospel in their several lines. The temperance work will be carried forward. The church must give her attention to the canvassing work. This is one way in which she is to shine in the world. Then will she go forth “fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners.” [Song of Solomon 6:10.] (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 18)

Lessons of great importance may be learned from the history of Daniel and his companions. These youth were bound together in the sacred bonds of Christian fellowship. Daniel’s name is placed first on the record because he exerted a strong influence over the other three who looked upon him as a leader. Had he failed to take a firm stand for the right, had he pleased and indulged self, his companions also would have failed. They would not have been handed down to us as young men signally honored by the God of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 19)

We appeal to the youth of today to serve the Lord. His requirements are too sacred to be tampered with. Are you choosing your own will, choosing to gratify selfish desires and inclinations, so refusing to live out the high and holy principles of the truth? Are you among those who would sacrifice conscience to save the life? (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 20)

In the name of the Lord I ask you to conquer all unlawful appetites and passions. Purify the soul by a belief of the truth. From the hour of birth you are under constant obligations to God. The Lord asks you to overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of your testimony. By striving to do this you show that you realize your obligations to Him and desire to do His will. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 21)

Look to God for your strength. Pray to Him in faith. Sing His praise. Be faithful in little things. It was Daniel’s faithfulness in little things that enabled him to see the necessity of faithfulness in larger responsibilities. This faithfulness gave completeness to his whole life. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 22)

That which is worth doing at all is worth doing well. Be true to principle in the small things of life. Then you will not hesitate when the larger test of sacrifice is presented, even though life is involved. Bring your work as near as possible to perfection. He who is our example in all things says, “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.” [Luke 16:10.] (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 23)

On one occasion when Christ was at the home of Lazarus, Mary sat at His feet drinking in His precious words of instruction. Martha was busy preparing the meal, and she wanted Mary’s help. “Lord,” she said, “dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things; but one thing is needful; and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” [Luke 10:40-42.] (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 24)

After feeding the five thousand, Christ said to the disciples, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 25)

Hanging in agony on the cross, bearing the sins of a guilty world upon His divine soul, the Saviour thought of His weeping mother, and committed her to the care of John, bidding him take His place as her son. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 26)

Let all take heed to these lessons, learning from them that nothing is too small to be done carefully. The Lord desires His children to be faithful in little things. Then they will give due attention to weightier matters. (16LtMs, Ms 113, 1901, 27)

Ms 114, 1901

Lessons from the Experience of Elisha
NP
November 13, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in UL 331.

God’s servants are to work for the higher classes, but this does not mean that they are to bind themselves up with the honored of the earth, depending on them for strength, influence, and success. The Lord will often incline the hearts of those in positions of responsibility to grant favors to His commandment-keeping people. But when God’s servants leave Him to solicit recognition from men of the world, they exchange power for weakness. (16LtMs, Ms 114, 1901, 1)

We have a most solemn work before us, the importance of which we can only understand by the light which is shining from God’s Word on the past and the present. Who is holding fast the faith once delivered to the saints? Who, amid the cries of “Lo here” and “Lo there,” is showing unshaken confidence in the Word of God? The faith of the present connects us with the past and points us to the future. (16LtMs, Ms 114, 1901, 2)

We may learn valuable lessons from the experience of the prophet Elisha. Elisha was chosen by the Lord as Elijah’s helper, and through test and trial he proved himself true to his trust. He was willing to be and do anything the Lord directed. He did not seek to shun the humblest service, but was as faithful in the performance of smaller duties as of larger responsibilities. He was always willing to serve in any position to which the Lord pointed him, however disagreeable it might be to his natural inclinations. And at every step he learned lessons of humility and service. (16LtMs, Ms 114, 1901, 3)

“It came to pass, when the Lord would take up Elijah into heaven by a whirlwind, that Elijah went with Elisha from Gilgal. And Elijah said to Elisha, Tarry here, I pray thee; for the Lord hath sent me to Bethel. And Elisha said to him, As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. So they went down to Bethel.” [2 Kings 2:1, 2.] At Bethel and at [Jericho] Elijah said to him again, “Tarry here, I pray thee,” and again Elisha replied, “As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee.” [Verses 4, 6.] He would not be parted from his master. He must learn all he possibly could from Elijah before he was taken away from him. (16LtMs, Ms 114, 1901, 4)

“And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me.” [Verse 9.] He did not ask for worldly honor, for a high place among the great men of the earth. That for which he craved was a double portion of the spirit given to the one God was about to honor with translation. He knew that nothing but a double portion of the spirit that had rested on Elijah could fit him to fill the place Elijah had filled, because Elijah had the experience and wisdom of age which cannot by any method be imparted to the young. (16LtMs, Ms 114, 1901, 5)

Ministers of the gospel, had this question been asked you, what would you have answered? What is the greatest desire of your heart as you engage in the service of God? (16LtMs, Ms 114, 1901, 6)

In response to Elisha’s request, Elijah answered, “Thou hast asked a hard thing; nevertheless, if thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee; but if not, it shall not be so. And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven. And Elisha saw it, and he cried, My father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof. And he saw him no more; and he took hold of his own clothes, and rent them in two pieces. He took up also the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and went back, and stood by the bank of Jordan; and he took the mantle of Elijah that fell from him, and smote the waters, and said, Where is the Lord God of Elijah? and when he also had smitten the waters, they parted hither and thither; and Elisha went over.” [Verses 10-14.] (16LtMs, Ms 114, 1901, 7)

When the Lord in His providence sees fit to remove from His work those to whom He has given wisdom, He helps and strengthens their successors, if they will look to Him for aid and will walk in His ways. They may be even wiser than their predecessors; for they may profit by their experience and learn wisdom from their mistakes. (16LtMs, Ms 114, 1901, 8)

The Lord has a special care for His church. Those who will seek wisdom from Him will be lights in the world, shining brighter and brighter unto the perfect day. Young and inexperienced workers should not move with self-confidence, supposing themselves qualified to lead. A young worker needs a double portion of the Lord’s Spirit. (16LtMs, Ms 114, 1901, 9)

Those who are self-sufficient, who place confidence in self, will enter into by- and forbidden paths. Many young workers have imperilled the cause of God by taking responsibilities without acknowledging the Lord or seeking to be instructed by Him. (16LtMs, Ms 114, 1901, 10)

Ms 115, 1901

Be Ye Therefore Sober, and Watch Unto Prayer
NP
November 13, 1901
Previously unpublished. +

“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. For as a snare shall it come upon all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. 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.] (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 1)

This is the Saviour’s warning to His followers, those who have heard the precious message so mercifully sent from heaven. Those who believe this message will reveal purity, modesty, humility, and contrition. They will make an intensely practical application of the truths they hear. Their souls will be purified; for the truth is as a sharp, two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 2)

Paul writes, “Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe; as ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children, that ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory. For this cause also thank we God, because, when ye received the word of God, which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.” [1 Thessalonians 2:10-13.] (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 3)

Our camp-meetings are held at great expense, and those who attend should come filled with an earnest desire to gain spiritual help and strength during their stay. But I fear that many of the young people who come to the camp-meetings come only to see and be seen. If the solemn truths they hear do not find entrance into the heart, better far would it be for them to remain at home. If they hear the warnings and reproofs and invitations of the Word of God, and yet are not filled with a desire to be cleansed from all defilement, the meetings are to them a savor of death unto death. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 4)

Those who hear God’s messages from the lips of His servants carry a heavier responsibility than before they heard. God places on them the burden of hearing aright, that they may impart to others what they hear. He who with faith and thanksgiving receives the heaven-sent instruction, finds that it is to him a savor of life unto life, purifying and ennobling him. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 5)

The question has been asked me, Who shall we use as special helpers in our camp-meetings? I have given those, who asked, the instruction the Lord has at different times given me. Do not accept as helpers in a camp-meeting boys and girls who do not give decided evidence that they know the meaning of true godliness. If in the home life they have not shaped their experience by the truth, if they have not gone to Jesus for help to perform everyday duties and to bear everyday trials, how can they help those who know nothing of Jesus? They need to repent and be converted. However high the profession they make, it is valueless while the life is out of harmony with the life of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 6)

The youth need to understand that conversion is not a passing enthusiasm or impulse. Neither is it fanaticism. It is a change of life. I am sorry to have to say that many who suppose themselves to be children of God show by their lives that conversion has brought no change to them. They do not live Christ’s life. They do not obey His words. They are not striking roots down deep into the knowledge of His Word, that they may grow and bear fruit to His glory. They do not bring their thoughts into conformity to His will. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 7)

Harm will be done unless care is shown in selecting young people to sell our periodicals. Those who do this work exert an influence that tells for good or evil. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 8)

Boys and girls who do not give evidence that they understand that religion means conformity to the will of God, who have not learned to be obedient to their parents, should not be chosen to work in connection with our camp-meetings. They are not proper representatives of Christ. They cannot serve Him acceptably, either in the reception tent or the dining tent; for their conduct is not such as to make a right impression on the minds of unbelievers. We can well spare such workers, and we are better off without their help. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 9)

At one camp-meeting several young girls thought it their duty to visit a ship lying in the harbor, in response to an invitation given them by the captain, who had attended a meeting on the campground. Did the Lord send these young girls to that ship, to talk with the sailors and officers? No, indeed. It was no place for them. If women visit these places at all, let it be married women, and let them be accompanied by their husbands. Young girls should never be encouraged to do this work. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 10)

And when a ship’s captain comes to one of our meetings, let not the young girls flock around him, as if anxious for an invitation to visit his ship. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 11)

I wish that parents had a deeper sense of the responsibility resting on them to command their children after them in the way of the Lord. Far more vigilance should be shown in this respect. Far more practical religion should be brought into the home life. Let fathers and mothers awaken to their duty. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 12)

At another of our camp-meetings, a young man, an unbeliever, came into the dining tent and took his place at one of the tables. Instantly he was waited on by several young girls, who, though professed Christians, showed a great lack of propriety in their words and actions. The young man would make some foolish remark, and then all the girls would giggle. And this was kept up during the whole of his stay in the tent. What impression did this make on the strangers coming and going? Some were heard to remark that if the girls had any common sense, they would see that the man was a bad man. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 13)

This scene was witnessed by some who have a close connection with God and a deep interest in His work, and their hearts were filled with anxiety and pain by the indecorous conduct of those professing to be representatives of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 14)

In their associations with young men, young women cannot guard too carefully every approach to familiarity and commonness. The way in which girls and young women can best impress the strangers visiting our camp-meetings is by keeping in modest retirement, clothing themselves with the garment of Christian reserve. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 15)

This matter is nothing new to me, for again and again has the warning been given in regard to young girls carelessly placing themselves in the company of men of whom they know nothing. They may flatter themselves that they have sufficient knowledge to keep themselves from harm, but their course of action reveals their ignorance. They do not see the importance of modesty and propriety, especially in this age, when iniquity is drunk like water, when licentiousness prevails, when the history of tarnished characters and ruined lives is daily growing larger. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 16)

There have been young unmarried women and young married women who have claimed to have a special burden to work for the salvation of young men. Those who take charge of our camp-meetings should awake to the danger of this. Great evils have come from the desire of young women to work for young men. Thus many young women have become cheap and common. Claiming to do missionary work, they have lost all love for the truth. Some have formed marriages with worthless young men or with men twice their age. Let all beware of encouraging this class of missionary work. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 17)

I am seriously alarmed by the conversation of some who profess to be Seventh-day Adventists. They will sit down to partake of food, and after the blessing has been asked on the food, they will indulge in trifling conversation and loud laughter. I have heard them, and have thought, How can they laugh thus when the world is filled with those who are languishing in poverty and discouragement, want and suffering? The loud, boisterous laugh is entirely out of place at the family board. The weak and silly giggle, represented in the Scriptures as the laughter of fools at their own folly, is displeasing to God. It is a denial of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 18)

The Christian is to represent Christ in the smallest actions of life. “Whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” [Colossians 3:17.] And again, “Whether ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” [1 Corinthians 10:31.] (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 19)

Let us heed the admonition, “Be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.” [1 Peter 4:7.] The Bible is to be our guide in all things. Its grand truths possess power to elevate and ennoble. Like threads of gold the love of God is to run through all we do. (16LtMs, Ms 115, 1901, 20)

Ms 116, 1901

Regarding Dr. Sanderson’s Work at the Sanitarium
NP
November 14, 1901
Previously unpublished. +

I see a great work to be done. I am weighed down by the responsibility of deciding when to speak and when to keep silent. I fear that in the case of Dr. Sanderson, I waited too long before speaking. Last February, when I told him that he was being led by the mind of his wife, he looked at me in great amazement, and made me no answer. I was impressed by the Spirit of God to say this. I said also, You are being tempted by the enemy, and you have no power from the snare to go. (16LtMs, Ms 116, 1901, 1)

I believe that at the time of the General Conference Dr. Sanderson should have been transferred from St. Helena to some other place. I had been telling him that he needed to work with other experienced physicians. (16LtMs, Ms 116, 1901, 2)

He has acted like a man walking in his sleep. Before I went to Los Angeles, I was moved by the Spirit of the Lord to bear him a straightforward testimony regarding his true position and what would be the end if he did not change. I told him that he had before him the example of Dr. Burke and Dr. Maxson. Neither would heed the testimonies of the Spirit of God. They thought they knew better than the Lord. I said, Dr. Sanderson, you are going over the same ground. Unless you see your true position, you will walk in the light of the sparks of your own kindling, and will lie down in sorrow. (16LtMs, Ms 116, 1901, 3)

I presented before him the great responsibilities to be borne by God’s people at this time. I said, Dr. Sanderson, the Lord expects from us more than we give Him. There is a deadness in the spirituality of the Sanitarium that frightens me. The work at this institution has not the showing that it should have. You have been here ten years. What have you done to proclaim the truths of weighty, yes, of eternal importance? For what was this Sanitarium established? Was it not to be the means of educating people in regard to the need of health reform? But in this institution the work of health reform is on the downgrade, instead of moving onward and upward. (16LtMs, Ms 116, 1901, 4)

I cannot hold my peace. I must tell you, Dr. Sanderson, that you need to be much farther advanced than you are now in the knowledge of God’s Word before you can give the nurses a proper training. They have been receiving a very imperfect education. In the institution there is levity and trifling. There are loud voices and silly laughter, and the patients have made complaints. Who is responsible for this? (16LtMs, Ms 116, 1901, 5)

Christ has told us how it will be at the close of this earth’s history. “As the days of Noah were,” He says, “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.] (16LtMs, Ms 116, 1901, 6)

Here we see what the condition of the great majority of men and women will be when the Son of man comes the second time, not as a Sin-bearer, but as a Sin-punisher. The age is ripe for destruction. The violence of the land is as it was in the days of Noah. And what are our sanitariums for if it is not to bear aloft the gospel standard and give the warning to the world? We have no right to cloak the truth, leaving the people in ignorance and deception. The nurses and helpers in our sanitariums should be carefully trained and educated, that they may do justice to the great work before them. Lift up the standard higher and still higher, that the world may see that we are a people who will not condescend to foolishness or frivolity in any shape. (16LtMs, Ms 116, 1901, 7)

About this time Dr. Sanderson’s wife announced her intention of helping him in his work in the Sanitarium, declaring that she could help him better than any one else. I inquired what part of the work was assigned her, and was told that one part of her work was to use her strong mind in helping the doctor to influence the minds of his patients. I do not think that Dr. Sanderson will ever again act a part in the Sanitarium. (16LtMs, Ms 116, 1901, 8)

I will now leave this subject and relate an experience given me last night. We were assembled in a solemn convocation. There were a large number present, and I had a special message to bear. I fear that I cannot reproduce the words I was moved by the Spirit of the Lord to speak. (16LtMs, Ms 116, 1901, 9)

What are we doing to enlighten the world? The authority of God is scarcely recognized by the beings of His creation. The mystery of iniquity is working with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish. John writes, “The whole world lieth in the evil one.” [1 John 5:19.] And Paul declares, “The Spirit saith expressly that in the later times some shall fall away from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrines of devils, through the hypocrisy of men that speak lies, branded in their own conscience as with a hot iron.” [1 Timothy 4:1, 2.] “Know this, that in the last days grievous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, haughty, railers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, implacable, slanderers, without self-control, fierce, not lovers of good, traitors, headstrong, puffed up, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of good; holding a form of godliness, but having denied the power thereof; from these turn away.” [2 Timothy 3:1-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 116, 1901, 10)

Ms 117, 1901

The Need of Aggressive Effort
NP
November 14, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in Ev 387; 4MR 322. +

I have been instructed that the work which has centered in Battle Creek and a few other places must now be taken to new territory. The efforts that have been put forth for those who know the truth must now be put forth for those who are perishing in ignorance. All the work that is done must [convey] the solemn message being given to the world. (16LtMs, Ms 117, 1901, 1)

We have neither time nor money to devote to keeping the churches alive. The churches are to find their life and strength in helping one another and in working for those who know not the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 117, 1901, 2)

In New York there are many who are ripe for the harvest. In this great city there are thousands who have not bowed the knee to Baal. The angel said, “Behold, I bring you glad tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.” [Luke 2:10.] New York contains a part of the “all people.” We desire to see the new year open with teachers at work in all parts of New York. There is a work to be done in this city—a work that ought to have been done twelve years ago. It was not done; and why? Because men and women were not awake to the importance of the time in which we are living. They were unprepared to do the work that needed to be done. Those who were unconverted in regard to health reform could not work in God’s order. Therefore it is that in 1901 there is a dearth of workers. (16LtMs, Ms 117, 1901, 3)

Every minister of the gospel should be prepared to do practical medical missionary work. The medical missionary work is to be as closely united with the gospel ministry as the arm is united to the body. The reluctance shown to the promulgations of the principles of health reform is caused by an unwillingness to deny self. In our large cities, the medical missionary work must go hand in hand with the gospel ministry. It will open doors for the entrance of truth. (16LtMs, Ms 117, 1901, 4)

The circulation of books on present truth is to take the gospel out [to] many hands, filling minds with thoughts of the science of salvation. (16LtMs, Ms 117, 1901, 5)

All the efforts of man to prevent the fulfilment of the Word of God are unavailing. Of John the Baptist’s work we read, “In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.... Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judea, and all the region round about Jordan, and were baptized of him in Jordan, confessing their sins. But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said to them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance; and think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father; for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees; therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance; but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear; he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire; whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” [Matthew 3:1-3, 5-12.] (16LtMs, Ms 117, 1901, 6)

If repentance is genuine, it will produce good works. Christianity is not a collection of rules and regulations, but a wonderful prescription, in following which man obtains a healthy body and a sound mind. The Bible presents a cure for spiritual and physical disease. Christ gave His life for those who will accept life through Him. He says to the trembling sinner, Lean on Me. I am the propitiation for your sins, your Justifier, your Righteousness. He who knew no sin was made sin for us, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him. On Him were laid the iniquities of us all. Shall we not avail ourselves of the power He has placed in our hands for the recovery of the blessing lost through disobedience? (16LtMs, Ms 117, 1901, 7)

Through Christ we gain eternal life. We are not worthy of this life. The sentence of death was passed on us. But the sinless One, who had done nothing worthy of death, offered Himself as a sacrifice for us. Partaking of the divine nature, we may escape the corruption that is in the world through lust. Clothed with the robe of the Saviour’s righteousness, we may stand justified before the Father, accepted in the Beloved. (16LtMs, Ms 117, 1901, 8)

There comes to us the question, Are you carrying a burden for the unsaved? Do you know what Christianity means? Search the Bible. Not only ministers are to know what saith the Lord. All are permitted to enter the door opened by the sacrifice of Christ. Not only ministers, but all who take their stand under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel are to work for the Master, presenting to the sinsick the wonderful gospel remedy. (16LtMs, Ms 117, 1901, 9)

Is your faith practical? Are you doing what the Bible tells you to do? Are you using all your powers to gather the lost sheep into the fold? There are thousands upon thousands in ignorance who might be warned. Pray as you have never prayed before for the power of Christ. Pray for the inspiration of His Spirit, that you may be filled with a desire to save the perishing. (16LtMs, Ms 117, 1901, 10)

Let the prayer ascend to heaven, “God, be merciful to us, and bless us, that Thy way may be known upon the earth, and Thy saving health among all nations.” [See Psalm 67:1, 2.] If you seek to answer this prayer, you will go forth into the world as an earnest, medical missionary for the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 117, 1901, 11)

The canvassing work is in a dying condition. Let God’s remedy be applied. (16LtMs, Ms 117, 1901, 12)

The Saviour is the most inspiring of all teachers. He gives life to the teaching of those who place themselves under His control. (16LtMs, Ms 117, 1901, 13)

Ms 117a, 1901

Fragments/Respect for Aged Workers
NP
November 14, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in RY 32-33; 6BC 1112; 7BC 918; Ev 173.

Respect for Aged Workers.

The Word of God is to be obeyed. Believers are to be united in Christian love and fellowship. All egotism and Pharisaism is to be put away. There is to be no measurement of one another. Let us remember the words, “All ye are brethren.” [Matthew 23:8.] The spiritual prosperity of each church member depends on his unselfish love for others. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 1)

Those who have grown old and gray in the service of God are not to be pushed aside by less experienced workers, who know very little about the labor and self-sacrifice of these pioneers. These faithful workers have borne test and trial, and because they have lost some of their vigor the Lord does not lay them aside. They have made mistakes, but they have learned wisdom from their failures. And since they have seen their errors and have learned to avoid them, are they not competent to give wise counsel? (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 2)

May the Lord bless and sustain the old and tried laborers. Those who have such laborers among them are highly favored. Those who are commissioned by the Lord to do a large and important work, a work that will leave an impress for good or for ill on the world, according to the way in which it is done, need to seek counsel from those who have been instructed by the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 3)

Tempted by Satan.

Christ’s public ministry was about to begin. He was in the wilderness, enduring temptation in our behalf, when the tempter came to Him, and showing Him all the kingdoms of the world and all the glory of them, said, “If thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be thine.” All that heart could wish was offered to Jesus, if He would but bow before the tempter. But the Saviour knew what was embraced in the temptation, and He answered, “Get thee behind me, Satan; for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.” [Luke 4:7, 8.] (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 4)

The St. Helena Sanitarium.

Those who are connected with the Sanitarium here need to cherish the softening, subduing influence of the Spirit of God. In the past there has been a failure to serve God acceptably. For years a deficiency has existed. The nurses and helpers have not been given that education which qualifies them to be successful medical missionaries. The defective training they have received is an offence to God, and has caused a loss that can never be repaired. The nurses have not been disciplined; they have not been trained. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 5)

But in the changes that must be made in the institution, no one is to utter speeches that will be as the cut of a whip. Christ says, “My sheep hear my voice, and they follow me.” [John 10:27.] (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 6)

Words to Students.

I speak to the students in our schools. Make the most of your time and opportunities. Let the peace of God rule in your hearts. Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom. Then those who are connected with you will see that the vital truths of God’s Word are exerting an influence on your mind and heart. If the grace of Christ is cherished in the heart, it will surely reveal itself. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 7)

No one liveth to himself. Do not selfishly hoard the knowledge you receive. Do not put your light under a bushel. Improve your talents by using them in the service of the Master. Exercise your powers for the good of others. Do not work for thanks, but for Him who has redeemed you. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 8)

Keep the mind clear. If you are temperate in all things, the Lord will reward you by giving you a retentive memory. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 9)

You can and should make advancement in singing. Learn to sing without an instrument. When you are tempted, sing the songs of Sion. This is a weapon you can always use against discouragement. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 10)

Cultivate the voice by careful exercise. Learn how to pronounce your words clearly and distinctly. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 11)

In the place of playing ball for exercise, do something that you are sure will be helpful. Learn how to stand and walk correctly. Take deep, full inhalations. Use the abdominal muscles in throwing out the voice. If you expect to be a minister, go out into the groves and speak as if standing before a congregation. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 12)

The teachers in our schools should remember the responsibility they are under to help the church. Their actions should strengthen the church. They should be missionaries in every sense of the word. God has given them opportunities to show that they are humble, sincere Christians. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 13)

A Message for God’s People.

The Lord has signally blessed the Conference that has just closed. A very plain testimony has been borne. The Lord has sent a message to His people. Will they take heed to it? Will they cleanse themselves from all iniquity? (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 14)

The God of Israel requires His people to put away all the practices that have been so grievous in His sight. If they will separate from all that has dishonored God, if they will heed His injunction to do justice and judgment, He will greatly bless them. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 15)

The Value of Industry.

Time is a talent. “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, 20.] By the help of God you can become much more useful than you now are. You can expand. You can grow in knowledge and in understanding as you work with your hands and study with your mind, exercising proportionately the mental and physical powers. The sanctifying power of the truth will give you keen discernment and discrimination. If you keep Jesus ever before you, you will be refined and ennobled. Your affections will be purified and uplifted as you copy the Saviour’s life of industry. You will grow in strength of thought and purpose. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 16)

You must receive light before you can impart light. God desires you to be good and do good, increasing the happiness of those around you. You are to adorn the doctrines of Christ our Saviour by a well-ordered life and a godly conversation. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 17)

Industry is essential to godliness. Those who sink into slothfulness cannot possibly exert the influence God desires them to exert. The slothfulness that prevents one from putting to the stretch every spiritual muscle and sinew means death to spirituality unless fought against and overcome. “Watch unto prayer” is the oft-repeated admonition of Christ. [1 Peter 4:7.] “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.] God works, but the human agent has a part to act. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 18)

God has pledged Himself to supply all the necessities of those who will co-operate with Him. He is ready and willing to renew spiritual and physical vigor. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 19)

Regarding Buildings Erected by Private Persons for the Work of the Cause.

You inquire in regard to those who by self-sacrifice have erected buildings for the advancement of the cause of God. You ask whether they should be requested to turn these buildings over to the control of the Conference. Yes; if the buildings have been erected by the Conference. If erected without the assistance of the Conference, let those who erected them have the privilege of keeping the deeds in their own name, unless they wish to make them over to the Conference. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 20)

The Recounting of Past Experiences by Aged Workers.

I know not how long my life may be spared or my voice heard among you. I have words to speak to you. As those who have spent their life in the service of God draw near to the close of their earthly history, they will be impressed by the Holy Spirit to recount the experience they have had in connection with His work. This is according to the will of the Lord. The record of His wonderful dealings with His people, of the manifold tokens of His great goodness in delivering them from trial, should be repeated to those newly come to the faith, who should be told also of the severe trials brought on the servants of God by the apostasy of some once united with them in labor, and of the working of the Holy Spirit to make of none effect the falsehoods told against those who were holding the beginning of their confidence firm unto the end. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 21)

Disregard of God’s Law.

God created the world as a home for His human family. Without exception men and women are His tenants. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 22)

Had religious teachers reverenced and taught and practiced the law of God, the condition of the world today would have been very different from what it is. But false teachers have hated the precepts of Jehovah, because their practice has not been in harmony with them. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 23)

Human laws are exalted; God’s law is trampled under foot. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 24)

Instruction to Workers.

Let no man think that because a fellow worker does not follow his ideas and plans, he cannot be doing right. When a man thinks this, he exerts an influence which hinders God by hindering the one through whom He is working. It is God’s purpose that the world shall receive the truth through the spoken and written Word. His servants are to use their varied gifts in the gospel ministry, and they are to be assisted by the printed page. This is the plan which the Lord has ordained. As it is carried out in accordance with His direction, the truth will go forth as a lamp that burneth. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 25)

Through God’s appointed agencies, His blessing is to come to the world. Those who will respect His Word and follow His plan will see of His salvation. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 26)

Gospel ministers are to keep their sacred office free from all things secular or political, employing all their time and talents in lines of Christian effort. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 27)

In the rebuke given to the slothful servant, all selfishness is rebuked. The God of heaven has made terms with His servants. He requires from them vigilant effort. The use we make of the gifts entrusted to us will determine our future destiny. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 28)

Each one is to do his part with earnest determination, godly zeal, and unswerving fidelity. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 29)

Paul’s Work at Lystra.

There sat a cripple at Lystra who had never walked. “The same heard Paul preach; who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed, said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet. And he leaped and walked. And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men. And they called Barnabas, Jupiter; and Paul, Mercurius, because he was the chief speaker. Then the priest of Jupiter, which was before their city, brought oxen and garlands unto the gates, and would have done sacrifice with the people. Which when the apostles, Barnabas and Paul, heard of, they rent their clothes, and ran in among the people, crying out, and saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein; who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless, he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness. And with these sayings scarce restrained they the people, that they had not done sacrifice unto them.” [Acts 14:9-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 30)

But certain Jews came from Antioch, who with crafty arguments persuaded the people that Paul and Barnabas were deceivers. Fickle and easily led, the idolators readily joined the Jews in their persecution of the disciples. Stoning Paul, they drew him out of the city, and left him for dead. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 31)

But the Lord preserved the life of His servant; for his work was not done. While the disciples stood round his body, supposing him to be dead, he rose from the ground, and great joy filled the hearts of his brethren as he spoke words of courage to them, and offered thanksgiving to God. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 32)

As Paul labored to proclaim the truths of the gospel, so God’s servants today are to labor. And church members should follow the laborers with their fervent prayers, which are as sharp sickles in the harvest field. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 33)

All peoples, nations, and tongues are to hear the warning, and then shall the end come. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 34)

The cause of God at home and abroad is one. He who enters God’s service with heart and soul and mind and strength in the great work will receive an education from the greatest of all teachers. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 35)

Timothy.

Timothy’s mother and grandmother were united in their efforts to train him for God. What was his lesson book? The Bible. Paul, his father in the gospel, declares, “From a child thou hast known the holy scriptures.” [2 Timothy 3:15.] The faith of the mother and grandmother in the oracles of God was a constant illustration to Timothy of the blessing of doing God’s will. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 36)

When Timothy was little more than a boy, Paul took him with him as his companion in labor. Those who had taught Timothy in his childhood were rewarded by seeing the son of their care linked in close fellowship with the great apostle. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 37)

The Transfiguration.

Christ chose Peter and James and John to be with Him on the Mount of Transfiguration. These disciples were to have the privilege of seeing the Saviour’s humanity hidden for a time by His divinity. They were overpowered by the glorious manifestation. They knew not where they were. Heaven seemed to them to be on earth. They saw the heavenly visitants talking with Christ and heard their words in regard to His suffering and death at Jerusalem. They saw the wonderful light that surrounded their beloved Master, and writing of it afterward they said, “His face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as snow.” [Matthew 17:2.] (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 38)

“Lord, it is good for us to be here,” Peter said; “if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles, one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. While he yet spake, a cloud overshadowed them, and, behold, a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man save Jesus only.” [Verses 4-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 39)

Danger of Speculation.

I have been requested to send out a warning to our churches, cautioning them against being deceived by men claiming to be Seventh-day Adventists, who ask them to invest money in various speculations. Beware of all such speculators. They will tell you of the great gain you will receive by investing money in their schemes, but do not allow yourselves to be deceived. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 40)

Ten years ago a professed Seventh-day Adventist engaged in the land boom, buying up city lots, and selling them at a price greatly beyond their value. By his representations he deceived several of our brethren. He had been told on a certain occasion that he was no financier, that he was extravagant in the use of means. After he came to California, he wrote to me saying, “When I came here, I was in debt. Now I am worth seventeen thousand dollars. How is that for financial success?” (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 41)

By his representations some were induced to purchase stock in a certain mine. But they lost all the money they invested. The stock was worthless. He from whom they purchased took their money and has never refunded it. Afterward he became poor. I hear that he is now engaged in a speculation in oil, and that he has already induced our people to invest several hundred dollars. I should feel very sad to see Seventh-day Adventists deluded by his representations. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 42)

The Lord’s Reward.

The Lord always rewards painstaking effort. He chooses His servants from all ranks of life. Amos, a herdsman of Tekoa, was chosen as a prophet of Israel. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 43)

Directions for Work.

After ordaining the disciples, Christ said to them, “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves. Be ye therefore wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” [Matthew 10:16.] (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 44)

The Lord’s methods of work are to be followed. Before the Lord sends His judgments upon men, He sends them a warning. He desires them to repent, that it may not be necessary for Him to execute His purpose against them. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 45)

Our work is not to make a raid on the Government, but to prepare a people to stand in the great day of the Lord. The fewer attacks we make on authorities and powers, the more work will we do for God. He alone can make His truth triumphant. Victories are gained only through the Holy Spirit’s power. When we allow ourselves to be controlled by this Spirit, we are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 46)

Our work is a most solemn one. We are in danger of presenting to those ignorant of our faith ideas that are not calculated to draw them to the truth. Thus the advancement of the truth is hindered. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 47)

While the truth must be defended, this work is to be done in the spirit of Jesus. If God’s people work without peace and love, they work at a great loss, an irretrievable loss. Souls are driven from Christ even after they have been connected with His work. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 48)

We are not to pass judgment on those who have not had the opportunities and privileges we have had. Some of these will go into heaven before those who have had great light, but have not lived up to the light. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 49)

If we wish to convince unbelievers that we have the truth that sanctifies the soul and transforms the character, we must not vehemently charge them with their errors. Thus we force them to the conclusion that the truth does not make us kind and courteous, but coarse and rough. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 50)

Some, easily excited, are always ready to take up the weapons of warfare. In times of trial they will show that they have not founded their faith on the solid rock. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 51)

“Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” [1 Peter 2:9.] (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 52)

Let Seventh-day Adventists do nothing that will mark them as lawless and disobedient. Let them keep all inconsistency out of their lives. Our work is to proclaim the truth, leaving the issues with the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 53)

Do all in your power to reflect the light, but do not speak words that will irritate or provoke. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 54)

“Thou hast given a banner to them that fear thee, that it may be displayed because of the truth.” [Psalm 60:4.] (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 55)

Restoring the Weak.

Let the men who have strength of influence remember their work. “We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.” [Romans 15:1.] “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness, considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” [Galatians 6:1.] (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 56)

The restoring is to be done, not in a proud, officious, masterly manner, but in the spirit of meekness. Do not cast your brother aside, saying, He has disappointed me, and I shall not try to help him. “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” [Verse 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 57)

The Coming Trial.

Satan is presenting worldly attractions. The churches are teaching for doctrine the commandments of men. Ministers are crying, “There is no law,” failing to see that if there is no law there is no transgression. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 58)

It is time for us to show that we have a message from the Lord—a message of no human invention. Workers who will present the truth in its simplicity are greatly needed. The last message of warning is to be given to the world. As God’s people bring the truths of His message into the daily life, practical godliness, purity, and holiness will be seen. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 59)

Trouble is coming on us as a people. In view of the common peril, let there be no more strife among us. True believers will not say, I am of Paul, or, I am of Apollos. All will have one testimony to bear, “I cleave to Christ as my personal Saviour.” When the storm of persecution comes, the true sheep, knowing the shepherd’s voice, will gather to Him. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 60)

We can never know our weakness or our strength until we have been tested by the furnace of trial. As trials thicken around us, those who have had great light, but have not improved it, will go out from us. Giving heed to seducing spirits, they will depart from the faith. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 61)

We must gain a deeper religious experience, else we shall certainly be weighed in the balances and found wanting. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 62)

We are not to try to pierce the veil which hides the future from our view. God is standing at the helm. We are to acknowledge His guidance. He uses methods suitable for the maintenance and upbuilding of His kingdom. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 63)

“My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him. He is my rock and my salvation; he is my defense, I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory; the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him; God is a refuge for us.” [Psalm 62:5-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 64)

The Need of Humility.

If man is humble and contrite, the Lord will teach him and will use him as His instrument. But God will not go before the man who is self-exalted, who refuses to unite with his brethren. (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 65)

“When Ephraim spake trembling, he exalted himself in Israel, but when he offended in Baal, he died.... According to their pasture, so were they filled, and their heart was exalted; therefore have they forgotten me.” [Hosea 13:1, 6.] (16LtMs, Ms 117a, 1901, 66)

Ms 118, 1901

The Teacher’s Work
NP
November 21, 1901
Previously unpublished.

Teachers are to be laborers together with God. They are to be lights in the world, revealing the gracious attributes of the Redeemer’s life. To every teacher is given the sacred privilege of representing Christ. And as teachers strive to do this, they may cherish the reassuring conviction that the Saviour is close beside them, giving them words to speak for Him, leading them to see ways in which they can show forth His excellence. (16LtMs, Ms 118, 1901, 1)

Teachers will meet with many trials. Discouragements will press upon them as they see that their work is not always appreciated by the students. Satan will strive to afflict them with bodily infirmities, hoping to lead them to murmur against God, to close their eyes to His goodness, His mercy, His love, and the exceeding weight of glory that awaits the overcomer. (16LtMs, Ms 118, 1901, 2)

Let teachers remember that God is leading them to more perfect confidence in Him. His eye is ever upon them, and if in their perplexity they will look to Him in faith, He will bring them from the furnace of trial refined and purified as gold tried in the fire. He has said, “I will never leave thee nor forsake thee.” [Hebrews 13:5.] He permits trial to come on them to draw them nearer to Him. He is always ready to deliver those who trust in Him. Let the hard-pressed, sorely tried one say, “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him.” [Job 13:15.] “Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labor of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat, the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls; yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation.” [Habakkuk 3:17, 18.] (16LtMs, Ms 118, 1901, 3)

Ms 119, 1901

The Church in the Home
NP
November 24, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 16MR 143-148. +

Children have not been instructed as God has declared they should be. Blind affection had led many parents to walk contrary to the Word of God. Their spiritual eyesight has been blinded, and their children have grown up undisciplined and unrestrained, a care, a burden, and a reproach to those who should faithfully have trained them. Such children are described by the apostle Paul as being “disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, without natural affection, truce-breakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of all that is good.” [2 Timothy 3:2, 3.] (16LtMs, Ms 119, 1901, 1)

Fathers and mothers can clear themselves of responsibility for the corrupt actions of their own or their adopted children only by coming into the clear light of the Sun of Righteousness, seeing the great danger of their wrong course, repenting before God, and calling evil by its true name. Too often they compromise themselves by pursuing a vacillating course or by endeavoring to cover up the wicked deeds of their children. The Lord calls for a work of purification to be done in His church. Those who remain on the side of Satan must be counted as workers of evil. (16LtMs, Ms 119, 1901, 2)

If ungrateful children are fed and clothed, and allowed to go uncorrected, they are emboldened to continue in their course of evil. And inasmuch as their parents or guardians thus favor them, and do not require obedience, they are partakers with them in their wicked deeds. Such children might just as well be with the wicked, whose iniquitous course they choose to follow, as to remain in Christian homes to poison others. In this age of wickedness, every Christian must stand firm in condemnation of the evil, satanic actions of wayward children. Evil youth should not be treated as kind and obedient, but as disturbers of the peace and corrupters of their companions. (16LtMs, Ms 119, 1901, 3)

I ask God’s people to come to their senses in regard to their home duties. There are Christian parents who do not discern that Satan is working cunningly to catch unwary souls. Unless fathers and mothers become converted, unless they prayerfully consider the home duties which they have to perform, which it is sinful negligence to leave undone, unless they work strenuously at every point to outgeneral the enemy, their hearts will be pierced with many sorrows; for their children will be a disgrace to them and to the church. (16LtMs, Ms 119, 1901, 4)

The heads of families need to be converted. Then they would make diligent efforts to redeem their past neglect. The father should feel that he is the house-band of the family. In this age of sin and intemperance, violence and crime, he should show his true interest in his household. (16LtMs, Ms 119, 1901, 5)

With what care parents should guard their children from careless, loose, demoralizing habits! Fathers and mothers, do you realize the importance of the responsibility resting on you? Do you allow your children to associate with other children, without being present to know what kind of an education they are receiving? Do not allow them to be alone with other children. Give them your special care. Every evening know where they are and what they are doing. Are they pure in all their habits? Have you instructed them in the principles of moral purity? If you have neglected to teach them line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little, let not another day pass without confessing to them your neglect to do this. Then tell them that you mean now to do your God-appointed work. Ask them to take hold with you in the reform. Let each help the other in the performance of duty. (16LtMs, Ms 119, 1901, 6)

We have come to a time when every member of the church needs to take hold of medical missionary work. On every hand we see those who have had much light and knowledge, and all the advantages that could be given them, deliberately choosing evil in the place of righteousness, mercy, and the love of God. Making no attempt to reform, they are becoming the agents of Satan and are continually growing worse and worse. (16LtMs, Ms 119, 1901, 7)

Let our people show that they have an interest in medical missionary work. Let them study the books that have been written for our instruction in these lines. These books deserve much more attention, respect, and appreciation than they have received. I understand that Dr. Kellogg has published a new book, which has been written for the special purpose of instructing others in the health principles that it is for the advantage of all to understand. Those who follow these principles will be greatly blessed, both physically and spiritually. The understanding of the philosophy of health is true, sensible knowledge—knowledge that will be a safeguard against the evils that are continually increasing. (16LtMs, Ms 119, 1901, 8)

Many who desire to become intelligent in medical missionary lines have home duties that they cannot neglect. These may learn many things in their own home, thus increasing their ability to help others. Fathers and mothers, there is much that you may learn in regard to the expressed will of God concerning true missionary work. Obtain all the help you can from the study of our books and publications. I see great advantage in every family reading Good Health. It is full of valuable information. Let every family obtain instruction from this journal. It is a physician that you may always have in your home. (16LtMs, Ms 119, 1901, 9)

Fathers and mothers, take time to read to your children from the health books, as well as from the books treating more particularly on religious subjects. Teach your children the importance of taking care of the body—the house they live in. Form a home reading circle, in which every member of the family lays aside the busy cares of the day and gathers for study. Fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, take up this work unitedly, and see if the home-church will not be greatly improved. (16LtMs, Ms 119, 1901, 10)

Especially should the young women who have been accustomed to read novels and cheap storybooks join in the evening family study. The Lord has appointed them to be His helping hand. Young women, read the literature that will give true knowledge and that will interest the entire family. Say firmly, “I will not spend my precious moments in reading that which will be of no profit to me. I will devote my time to God’s service. I will close my eyes to frivolous and sinful things. My ears are the Lord’s property, and I will not take them where I shall hear the subtle reasoning of the enemy. My voice must not in any way be subject to a will that is not under the influence of the Spirit of God.” (16LtMs, Ms 119, 1901, 11)

If in every church the young men and the young women would solemnly consecrate themselves to God, if they would practice self-denial in the home, relieving their tired, careworn mothers, what a change would take place in our churches. The mother could find time to make neighborly visits. When opportunity offered, the children could give assistance by doing, little errands of mercy and love to bless others. Thus thousands of the homes of the poor and needy could be entered. Books relating to health and temperance could be placed in many homes. The circulation of these books is an important work; for they contain precious knowledge in regard to the treatment of disease—knowledge that would be a great blessing to those who cannot afford to pay for the physician’s visits, or for the drugs, which, even if obtained, would be only an injury. (16LtMs, Ms 119, 1901, 12)

I ask the church, Will you remain in the condition of the Laodicean church, or will you change your position? In the name of the Lord I call upon every family to show its true colors. Reform the church in your own home. Let your conversation be pure and elevating. (16LtMs, Ms 119, 1901, 13)

Arouse, parents, and be converted! Let the light of your sanctification shine forth in clear, distinct rays. The great day of salvation has come. Those who humble themselves, repenting, confessing their sins, and drawing near to God, will find that God will draw near to them. Let us fear to continue in transgression. Everywhere let it be known that it is the Father’s will that every one who seeth the Son, and believeth on Him, shall have everlasting life. (16LtMs, Ms 119, 1901, 14)

“The grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world; 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.” [Titus 2:11-14.] (16LtMs, Ms 119, 1901, 15)

Ms 120, 1901

Fidelity to Principle
NP
November 24, 1901
Previously unpublished. +

All who are living in this world are amenable to the law of God; for they are dependent on God for life and are living in His home—the earth. Every business transaction, whether pertaining to secular or religious matters, is to be in accordance with the principles of God’s wise and holy and just law. In all commercial matters, in all agricultural interests, God’s law is to be the standard. Religion is not something that has no relation to the common business vocations of life; something that is to be kept within a certain prescribed limit. It is to be brought into the daily experience. (16LtMs, Ms 120, 1901, 1)

Men who occupy high places in courts of justice may ignore the law of God, but that does not detract one jot or tittle from its claims. During Christ’s ministry on earth, a lawyer came to Him with the question, “Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” This is a positive question, and it received just as positive an answer. And the question and answer mean much to us, for they tell us how to secure our present and eternal welfare. Jesus said to the lawyer, “What is written in the law? how readest thou?” He replied, “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.” “Thou hast answered right,” Christ said, “this do, and thou shalt live.” [Luke 10:25-28.] Then a clear sense of conviction came to the lawyer. He realized that he had not obeyed the Lord in the light of the law, the claims of which are binding on all. He had known the theory of life, but had not brought it into the practical life. (16LtMs, Ms 120, 1901, 2)

When Christ came to this world, He found the leaders of His people proving untrue to their sacred trust. Many of the people came a long distance to attend the passover, and after reaching Jerusalem purchased animals for offerings. The priests and rulers took advantage of this, buying animals at a low figure and selling them at exorbitant prices. Professedly these merchants in the temple were obeying the principles of truth, but they took unjust advantage of circumstances. (16LtMs, Ms 120, 1901, 3)

Although it had been foretold that in a few years hence the temple would be destroyed, yet Christ and His disciples sought to give all possible dignity and sacredness to the temple and its services, which, according to the appointment of God, were to continue until type met antitype in the death of the Lamb of God. Christ cleansed the temple of the shameful traffic. “Take these things hence,” He said. “It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.” [John 2:16; Matthew 21:13.] Here He referred to the robbery of the priests in taking advantage of circumstances to charge exorbitant prices. (16LtMs, Ms 120, 1901, 4)

The Jews were very proud of the richness and beauty of the temple. But the outside adornment did not sanctify the worshipers. In language that could not be misunderstood, Christ declared that the temple was desecrated by the conduct of the men who claimed to be performing acceptably the sacred services ordained by God. (16LtMs, Ms 120, 1901, 5)

These men charged Christ with profaning the temple, and declared that He was its enemy. But before all the people, He demonstrated that He was a truer friend to the temple than were the priests and rulers who were violating its sacredness. (16LtMs, Ms 120, 1901, 6)

Those who are bearing responsibilities in our institutions should in their business relations strictly follow Bible principles. Why are church members guilty of transgressing the law of God in their dealings with their fellow men? Why do those who claim to be followers of the Saviour take advantage of those who have confidence in their integrity because they are church members? Why are professing Christians dishonest in their transactions, unfair in buying and selling, as were those who in Christ’s day carried on a dishonest traffic in the very courts of the temple? All who disregard the divine precepts will suffer the consequences that must come upon every transgressor, every rebel against the Creator and Redeemer of the world. (16LtMs, Ms 120, 1901, 7)

Ms 120a, 1901

The Debt on the Healdsburg Church
NP
November 29, 1901
Previously unpublished.

While attending the Oakland camp-meeting, a proposition was made that the Conference be requested to help in paying the debt on the Healdsburg church, and that they put in good repair the church building. During the meeting, I was instructed that the debt on the church should have been paid long ago, and would have been paid, if the church members had truly realized their responsibility. (16LtMs, Ms 120a, 1901, 1)

If all would now come into right relation to God, there would be a searching of heart, a deep conviction of sin, and a true repentance for the selfishness and covetousness that have been shown in withholding the means that should have been given years ago. And the brethren and sisters would bear witness to the genuineness of their repentance and reformation by bringing to the Lord’s treasury liberal trespass offerings and sin offerings. Bible restitution should be made for taking unlawful advantage. But let every one consider for himself how he desires to appear before the Judge who reads every motive, every intent and purpose of the heart, and then decide what he should do to make clear his own case in the heavenly court. (16LtMs, Ms 120a, 1901, 2)

Dishonor has been brought upon the name of Christ and upon His church, because many who claim to follow Him have been unchristlike in words, in spirit, and in business dealings. Reproach has been brought upon the truth of God by the inconsistent course of those who claim to believe His Word and to make it their rule of action. While pretending to be saints, many have acted like the worst sinners. Using the name of Christian as a cloak under which to hide their evil deeds, they have encouraged others to go astray. (16LtMs, Ms 120a, 1901, 3)

The Lord is fully acquainted with every perversion of the talent of speech, and with every deception practiced by those who claim to accept the truth on the terms that He proffers. He witnesses the uncontrolled temper and the wickedness of those who claim to be His children, but who in practice are like the Sodomites. He deals with individuals. How will those who have robbed God for years meet the Judge of all the earth in the judgment? (16LtMs, Ms 120a, 1901, 4)

The question is asked, “Will a man rob God?” [Malachi 3:8.] In more ways than one it is possible to rob Him. Those who claim to be Christians have covenanted with Him to make an unreserved consecration of themselves—heart, soul, mind, and strength—to His service. But many have not kept their solemn vow. Their names are on the church book, showing that they have pledged themselves to do the whole will of God; yet in their business life they are making a record before the world just like the record of avowed sinners. They behave as do the children of the wicked one. All such persons are crucifying Christ afresh, putting Him to open shame. (16LtMs, Ms 120a, 1901, 5)

How many there are who would sell their Lord, as did Judas! How many there are who are betraying their Lord to gain financial advantages! They may not know that they are doing this. Judas thought he would take revenge upon Christ, because the Master had not endorsed all his movements. At this very time Judas was acting directly contrary to the law of God, by taking advantage of his position as treasurer to appropriate for his personal use that which was the property of another. He carried the bag containing the means contributed for the expenses of the church, and from it took money for himself. (16LtMs, Ms 120a, 1901, 6)

When Judas sold Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, he thought that his Master would not suffer Himself to be taken, but would deliver Himself from His enemies. Judas reasoned that, this being so, the money he received for the betrayal would result in Christ’s being placed on trial for His life. Judas thought he was making a shrewd deal. His satanic cupidity cost him his life. Seeing the result of his wicked scheming, he hated the coveted price. “He cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself.” Matthew 27:5. His terrible end is recorded as a warning to all succeeding ages, and till the close of time will remain as a warning against covetousness. (16LtMs, Ms 120a, 1901, 7)

Brethren and sisters of the Healdsburg church, to you I am instructed to say, Beware how you deal with your present opportunities. Let not this time pass without falling on the Rock and being broken. In the church are men and women who need a reconversion. I call upon everyone to arouse from your indifference and to discern your destitution of true grace. Thank God that it is not yet too late for wrongs to be righted. Be thankful that the Lord has not said of you, “Cut down the unfruitful tree, and let another that will bear fruit take its place.” [See Luke 13:7.] (16LtMs, Ms 120a, 1901, 8)

In every family thorough work should be done. Fathers and mothers, what example have you given to your children? There needs to be close examination in regard to this matter, for the work of purification must begin in the home. Let parents and children seek God together. (16LtMs, Ms 120a, 1901, 9)

Let every member of the church begin to search his heart before God, not stopping short of finishing the work begun in his heart. Seek to know your own sinfulness in the sight of heaven, that you may repent before it is everlastingly too late. (16LtMs, Ms 120a, 1901, 10)

Today I cannot write all that might be written, for my heart has been so deeply pained that I cannot find relief. (16LtMs, Ms 120a, 1901, 11)

Ms 121, 1901

Physical Labor
NP
November 28, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in CG 355. +

The father and the mother should prayerfully and unitedly bear the grave responsibility of guiding their children aright. Whatever else they may neglect, they should never leave their children free to wander in paths of their own choosing. (16LtMs, Ms 121, 1901, 1)

The father should be the faithful high priest of the home, the house-band of the family. He should not become so absorbed in business life or in the study of books that he cannot take time to study the nature and the necessities of his children, and devise ways by which they may be kept busy in useful labor that is agreeable to their individual dispositions. (16LtMs, Ms 121, 1901, 2)

The carelessness of parents, in failing to furnish employment to the children that they have taken the responsibility of bringing into the world, has resulted in untold evil, imperiling the lives of many youth and greatly crippling their usefulness. It is a great mistake to permit young men to grow up without learning some trade. To the parents of ancient Israel, God gave a positive command that every child must learn a trade. (16LtMs, Ms 121, 1901, 3)

Children endowed with most precious, rich capabilities have not received the faithful, thoughtful care that should have been given them. It is not right for parents—and especially the father—to excuse themselves from exercising painstaking care in giving instruction to their children. (16LtMs, Ms 121, 1901, 4)

Ms 122, 1901

The Law
NP
November 23, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 8MR 98-100.

As a result of Adam’s disobedience, every human being is a transgressor of the law and is sold under sin. Unless man repents and is converted, he is under bondage of the law, serving Satan, falling into the deceptions of the enemy, bearing witness against the precepts of Jehovah. Only by perfect obedience to the requirements of God’s holy law can man be justified. Let those whose natures have been perverted by sin ever keep their eyes fixed on Christ, the Author and the Finisher of their faith. (16LtMs, Ms 122, 1901, 1)

No one who believes in Jesus Christ is under bondage to the law of God; for His law is a law of life, not of death, to those who obey its precepts. All who comprehend the spirituality of the law, all who realize its power as a detector of sin, are in just as helpless a condition as is Satan himself, unless they accept the atonement provided for them in the remedial sacrifice of Jesus Christ, who is our atonement—at-one-ment with God. (16LtMs, Ms 122, 1901, 2)

Through faith in Christ, obedience to every principle of the law is made possible. Thus Paul learned that “the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good.” For our benefit he questions, “Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful. For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.” [Romans 7:12-14.] (16LtMs, Ms 122, 1901, 3)

In the past, many, who wilfully disregarded the law of God, were not led to love and obey His law by the threatened judgments that will surely be visited on every transgressor. In their stubborn perversity they hated the law that condemned their wicked course of action. Their rebellion became still more decided and pronounced, bringing forth fruit unto death. (16LtMs, Ms 122, 1901, 4)

Unless by faith we accept the infinite plan of salvation, we are without divine wisdom. But every one who believes in Christ, everyone who relies on the keeping power of a risen Saviour that has suffered the penalty pronounced upon the transgressor, everyone who resists temptations and in the midst of evil strives to copy the pattern given in the Christ-life, will, through faith in the atoning sacrifice of Christ, become a partaker of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. (16LtMs, Ms 122, 1901, 5)

Those only, who through faith in Christ obey all of God’s commandments, will reach the condition of sinlessness in which Adam lived before his transgression. They testify to their love of Christ by obeying all His precepts, including the one relating to the observance of the Sabbath, the seventh day of the week, the day that He blessed and sanctified, “because that in it He had rested from all His work.” [Genesis 2:3.] (16LtMs, Ms 122, 1901, 6)

From the pillar of cloud Jesus “spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.” [Exodus 31:12, 13.] The Sabbath is a pledge given by God to man—a sign of the relation existing between the Creator and His created beings. By observing the memorial of the creation of the world in six days, and the rest of the Creator on the seventh day, by keeping the Sabbath holy according to His directions, the Israelites were to declare to the world their loyalty to the only true and living God, the Sovereign of the universe. (16LtMs, Ms 122, 1901, 7)

By observing the true Sabbath, Christians are ever to bear to the world faithful witness of their knowledge of the true and living God as distinguished from all false gods; for the Lord of the Sabbath is the Creator of the heavens and the earth, the One exalted above all other gods. (16LtMs, Ms 122, 1901, 8)

“Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you.... Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.” [Verses 14-17.] (16LtMs, Ms 122, 1901, 9)

By these words Christ has placed this matter beyond all the sophistry of human conjecture. “And he (Christ) gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” [Verse 18.] Nothing written on those tables could be blotted out. The precious record of the law was placed in the ark of the testament and is still there, safely hidden from the human family. But in God’s appointed time He will bring forth these tables of stone to be a testimony to all the world against the disregard of His commandments and against the idolatrous worship of a counterfeit Sabbath. (16LtMs, Ms 122, 1901, 10)

Ms 123, 1901

Injurious Effects of Wrong Habits
NP
November 28, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in Te 68-69. +

Though formed in the image of God, men contract habits that destroy their appreciation of what God designed them to be. These human beings manifest their inferiority by persisting in the use of tobacco and liquor, thus benumbing the sensibilities of the soul. (16LtMs, Ms 123, 1901, 1)

Those who are enveloped in the fumes of tobacco cannot feel the influence of the truths of God’s Word. They cannot appreciate God or heavenly things. They cannot discern the smiles of God revealed by nature in the opening buds and in the flowers in full bloom. The created works of God are an expression of His love to man. Yet, even while in beautiful parks, this class of men must have with them the idol that they worship, else they would forgo all the pleasure they might otherwise have. (16LtMs, Ms 123, 1901, 2)

By unmistakable signs, many members of the human family show to the world that they are practicing habits that place them in an order of life inferior to the brutes. They debase themselves below the animals, which have no power to become acquainted with God, to acquire religious knowledge or to intelligently understand and appreciate social life. Bringing upon themselves inferiority of morals, they become a nuisance in the world. What a sad condition for the heavenly intelligences to behold! (16LtMs, Ms 123, 1901, 3)

Covetous self-indulgence serves to bind many to the practice of a vile habit that has no foundation in nature. So powerful is the habit when once formed, that the use of tobacco becomes popular. An example of sin is set before youth, whose minds should be disabused of all thought that the use of the narcotic is not harmful. They are not told of its injurious effects on the physical, mental, and moral powers. (16LtMs, Ms 123, 1901, 4)

If a follower of Christ allows himself to be led astray by the influence of others, and conforms to the fashionable dissipation of the world, he is under Satan’s sway, and his sin is even greater than is the sin of avowed unbelievers—the ungodly—because he is standing under false colors. His life is inconsistent: professedly a Christian, in practice he is yielding to unnatural, sinful propensities . (16LtMs, Ms 123, 1901, 5)

Sunday school teachers, who should be examples in Christian life, are worshiping at the shrine of self-indulgence, wasting on themselves God’s money, which might be expended in missionary work to advance the knowledge of truth. They are not sufficiently converted to practice self-denial and to reveal a love for perishing souls. They continue their darling indulgence in using a nerve-destroying, debasing narcotic. (16LtMs, Ms 123, 1901, 6)

How does God look upon the men claiming to be Christians, missionaries, stewards of His property, yet who are wasting His money upon themselves? What entreaties are made to give up the self-destroying habit and expend the amount that has been spent each week for tobacco in benefiting the cause of God, in relieving the necessities of the hungry, and in clothing the naked? Could they see that they are a blot on the Lord’s creation, they might change. (16LtMs, Ms 123, 1901, 7)

God has arranged that there should be a tree of knowledge, the fruit of which no man can safely pluck and eat. Let none covet such knowledge. All who to their own injury break God’s law by indulging in foolish lust, may be urged, entreated, and prayed for ever so faithfully, to give up a practice that is defiling to body, soul, and spirit; yet, although they may claim to be Christians, in the blindness of passion they are so desirous of holding to their injurious indulgence that they are unwilling to make an effort to overcome on the point of appetite. (16LtMs, Ms 123, 1901, 8)

Becoming conformed to the habit, in practice they are in fellowship with the world. All such who claim to be Christians have no right to assume this name, for a Christian is one who is Christlike. When the judgment sits, and all are judged according to the deeds done in the body, they will learn that they have misrepresented Christ in practical life and have not made themselves a savor of life unto life, but a savor of death unto death. In fellowship with them will be a numerous company who have conformed to lustful practices, but numbers will neither excuse their iniquity nor lessen their condemnation for destroying the brain nerve power and the physical health. (16LtMs, Ms 123, 1901, 9)

*****

The subject of how to preserve health is one of great importance. When this subject is taken up in the fear of God, human beings living in this degenerate age will prove by actual experience that it is best for physical health and for spiritual advancement to observe simplicity in diet. (16LtMs, Ms 123, 1901, 10)

Daniel’s history is of the highest value. By a ten-day trial Daniel and his fellows demonstrated the advantages of temperance in eating and of strict abstinence from fermented wines. The results of his adherence to the principles of health reform were most telling. In his experience, while gaining an education, he proved the advantage of an abstemious diet over the rich food and the wines he would have had at the king’s table. (16LtMs, Ms 123, 1901, 11)

Too great a variety of foods should not be taken into the stomach at one meal; for fermentation is set up, and injurious results are felt. Subsisting on a diet of fruits and grains properly prepared in the most simple, natural form is the very best way to preserve the health of the digestive organs, which do the work required for the nourishment of the human organism. (16LtMs, Ms 123, 1901, 12)

Ms 124, 1901

Satanic Literature
NP
December 9, 1901 [typed]
This manuscript is published in entirety in 17MR 236-243. +

“And I saw another angel fly 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, saying with a loud voice, 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. And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.” [Revelation 14:6-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 1)

“And the third angel followed them.” [Verse 9.] The first and the second angels’ messages are of great importance and are followed by the third angel’s message. All three should be understood and combined. The warning contained in these messages means much more to the whole world than the majority of God’s people comprehend. We are in the Lord’s great day of preparation. (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 2)

Satan is watching all the outposts to see where he can steal an entrance. For years he has been working with all his deceivableness of unrighteousness to find standing room in the Review and Herald Publishing House. And he has found it. He has been allowed to come into the very place that should ever have been regarded as a sacred, holy place, the temple of God, from which the Lord would send forth clear, bright rays of light to all parts of the world. Satan has succeeded in placing in the hands of the employees of our publishing houses a class of literature that is prepared to deceive, if possible, the very elect. Matter containing dangerous errors has been brought into our office of publication, and these errors have been perpetuated by being printed on our presses and published in book form. These principles of evil have influenced the minds of those who have handled this matter. As a result, souls will be lost to the cause of God. Already, some have nearly lost their sense of discernment between truth and error. (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 3)

Even the men who are endeavoring to exalt their own sentiments as wonderful science are astonished that men in positions of responsibility in our office of publication—a printing office set for the defense of the truth of God—have consented to print their books. To do this outside work, the managers of the publishing house have neglected to do the work that they should have been doing. The denominational work has been delayed, while the commercial work, which should ever be regarded as second in importance to our own work, has been made first. The employees have worked on books containing spiritualistic, demoralizing theories. They have spent their time on strange matter, much of which is filled with satanic science. (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 4)

God has not appointed us to the work of publishing satanic theories. This class of literature has been represented to me as counterworking the means that should ever be used to meet the foe on his own ground. Books containing false theories have been permitted to come from an office controlled by Seventh-day Adventists, while the very books that the managers should have been active and zealous in circulating everywhere have been left to lie unused on the shelves. When the pure truth is mingled with the slime of satanic deceptions, how can God work for the advancement of His cause? (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 5)

The very fact that satanic literature has come from the presses of the Review and Herald office is a victory for the forces of Satan; for seemingly it bears the endorsement of the office, and the enemy will use this fact to influence others to accept this objectionable matter. Satan is now working “with all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish.” [2 Thessalonians 2:9, 10.] (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 6)

In the place of treating the commercial work as something of secondary importance, those in positions of trust have treated it as being of primary importance. Books that should have been circulated in these critical times have been put aside until the worldly work had first been finished. The very class of literature that God has especially condemned has been allowed to come in. (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 7)

The introduction of this class of matter has been distinctly pointed out to me as the most effective way of demoralizing the apprentices. It reveals a decided lack in those who have to do with these questions. Some in responsible positions are not controlled by the Holy Spirit. The Lord regards as unfaithful stewards those who have agreed to take into the office for publication this class of literature. The apprentices working in the office have been left unguarded by unfaithful shepherds. Seeds of evil have been sown in the hearts of the apprentices and in the hearts of all who have handled this literature—seeds that will spring up and grow, “first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.” [Mark 4:28.] Thus error will continue to grow. (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 8)

Why has this blindness been upon those to whom have been entrusted grave responsibilities in connection with our publishing houses? Why have they walked like blind men? Because they have disregarded the light that God has given them; because they have heeded neither the Scriptures nor the testimonies of warning sent them. Have they put out their eyes, that they can neither see nor understand the warnings given in the Scriptures in regard to false science? Cannot they see the necessity of having clear spiritual discernment, that they may be able to choose the good and to reject everything that has a tendency to confuse the understanding? (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 9)

Those who have handled these publications have been brought into close connection with unseen satanic agencies. How many of those working on this pernicious matter put into their hands have been contaminated! How many, because of their connection with the office of publication, have been injured seriously in their religious faith! In how many has confidence been weakened in the managers of the publishing interests! How many have had their faith undermined by receiving thoughts of infidelity in regard to the truth, instead of having their faith strengthened by receiving an increased knowledge of the last message of mercy to be given to the world! (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 10)

To do the work that has been undertaken, it has been necessary to hire many apprentices. The apprentices received into our offices of publication should be given a careful, thorough education in the trade they desire to learn. And they should also be given instruction from the Word of God. But in the education of the young men and young women who have been brought into the office, there has been shown surprising looseness, carelessness, and inefficiency. By many, the Lord has been dismissed from the office as unnecessary. Every moment devoted to religious instruction has been given grudgingly, and as though a time-piece were held in the hand, that the moments for the continuation of the service might be exactly counted. Some have treated the time thus spent as so much lost time. Can we be surprised that the Lord is displeased? Can we wonder why there is a dearth of means? The Lord cannot prosper those who do a work such as has been done. (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 11)

Some changes have been made. Last year there was a most remarkable revival meeting at the Pacific Press in Oakland, in which many were converted. I know that the ministering angels of God were there. But our mind is not at rest. This meeting has been followed up by special work, but unless the workers themselves shall day by day be guarded, Satan will seek to regain his place of control, leading them in false paths and causing them to do a strange work. (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 12)

“It is time for thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void thy law.” [Psalm 119:126.] The law has been made void by those who have followed the wrong principles that have characterized the work for the past twelve years. As these things were presented before me in Australia, the whole of the third chapter of Zechariah was portrayed before me. These words were repeated: “And he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him. And the Lord said unto Satan, The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan; even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire?” [Verses 1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 13)

Satan was accusing backsliding Israel. In like manner he purposes to point to the unprincipled proceedings of those who have had great light in these last days. He keenly observes the backsliding of those who have been placed at the head of the work—the very men who through communications have been informed that they were out of place and in error in representing the voice of the General Conference president as being the voice of God. For many years it has not been thus, and it is not thus now; nor will it ever be thus again, unless there is a thorough reformation. (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 14)

After Satan leads men into wrong positions, he stands at the right hand of the angel as the adversary of man, to resist every effort made to save the purchase of the blood of the Lamb of God. The devil persecutes those whom he has caused to sin. He is the accuser of the brethren. Day and night he accuses them before God. This is his special work. (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 15)

A perversion of right principles is a transgression of God’s law. Those who in their actions pervert the grand principles of His holy law are under condemnation, for the righteousness of Christ cannot cover one unconfessed sin. The law has been lightly regarded. “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.] We must obey God’s law, if we are loyal to Him and accepted by Him. (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 16)

The first step toward obedience is to examine ourselves in the light of the law, thus discovering the penalty of transgression. Those of God’s people who do not purify their souls by coming into clearer and still clearer light are a reproach to His glorious cause. Too often those who should remain true and faithful to principle are obnoxious to God, because in His justice He cannot endure the sins that they cherish—sins that not only lead them into false paths, but cause others also to be led astray. (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 17)

Carefully reread these two verses: “And he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him. And the Lord said unto Satan, The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan; even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire?” [Zechariah 3:1, 2.] He was the representative of an imperfect, sinful people, those who had become contaminated with sin. Satan accused Joshua of being a criminal. What, then, is the only hope of the people of God in their defection of Christian character? Their only hope is reconversion, repentance toward God, and faith in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, who is made unto us righteousness and sanctification. In heaven Joshua was accounted as a justified sinner. (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 18)

Here, then, comes in the Redeemer’s work. Satan stood by the side of the angel as an adversary to accuse Joshua as a transgressor of the law. This angel, who is our Saviour, was seen by John the Revelator and represented as standing in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the breast with a golden girdle. Christ is represented in actual ministry for His people, as was Joshua in the day of atonement in behalf of the children of Israel. As at that time Satan pointed to the defilement of God’s people and triumphed in their discomfiture, so he is doing now. Joshua was accused as a sinner; but Jesus Christ, the Sin-bearer, the Substitute for the offender, to whom all types point, cannot be thus accused. He is the one who takes away the sin of the repentant, believing transgressor. How sad it is that human agencies, by their loss of spirituality, make it possible for Satan to accuse them of being unworthy! (16LtMs, Ms 124, 1901, 19)

Ms 125, 1901

The Unchangeable Law of God
NP
December 9, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in SD 55, 325; LDE 155; 1SM 107-108; UL 357; 4BC 1178; 7MR 334; 8MR 346; 17MR 28. +

God chose Israel as the depository of priceless treasures of truth for all nations, and He gave them His law as the standard of the character they were to develop before the world, before angels, and before the unfallen worlds. Thus they were to represent to the world the laws of the government of heaven. By precept and example they were to bear a decided testimony for truth. God’s purpose for His people is expressed in the words spoken to them by Moses: (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 1)

“Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the Lord my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it. Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people. For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the Lord our God is in all things that we call upon him for? And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day? Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons’ sons; specially the day that thou stoodest before the Lord thy God in Horeb, when the Lord said unto me, Gather me the people together, and I will make them hear my words, that they may learn to fear me all the days that they shall live upon the earth, and that they may teach their children. And ye came near and stood under the mountain; and the mountain burned with fire unto the midst of heaven, with darkness, clouds, and thick darkness. And the Lord spake unto you out of the midst of the fire: ye heard the voice of the words, but saw no similitude; only ye heard a voice. And he declared unto you his covenant, which he commanded you to perform, even ten commandments; and he wrote them upon two tables of stone.” [Deuteronomy 4:5-13.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 2)

But through disobedience and disloyalty God’s chosen nation developed a character exactly opposite to the character God designed them to develop by obeying His law. They placed their own mold and superscription upon the truth, removing from it the superscription of God. Their minds were quickened into activity by their own ambitious projects. Satan, stirring them with a power from beneath, infused into their minds subtle sentiments derogatory to the character of God. He invented theories and opinions of every degree of merit to ensnare all classes. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 3)

The law of God was being buried beneath the minutiae of outward forms—such as the frequent washing of the hands before eating, and the washing of pots and cups. Tithes were exacted on simple garden herbs. To those who made so much of these minor things, Christ said, “Ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cumin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.” [Matthew 23:23.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 4)

Their religion consisted of outward ceremonies. Laying great stress upon the commandments of their own invention, and teaching for doctrine the commandments of men, they filled the minds of the people with theories and doctrines that made void the law of God. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 5)

Amid all this confusing din of voices there was need of a teacher direct from the heavenly universe to speak from inspired lips to human hearts, and to proclaim the truths so important to every one. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 6)

Christ saw the condition of the world. He came to change the order of things. The Commander of all heaven laid aside His glory, His kingly crown, His royal robe, and clothed His divinity with humanity, that in His humanity He might touch humanity. For our sakes He became poor, that we might come into possession of eternal riches. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 7)

As a Teacher sent from God, Christ’s work was to explain the true significance of the laws of God’s government. He rescued truth from the gloomy framework of error, superstition, tradition, and worldly maxims with which men had surrounded it. Resetting truth in the framework of God’s own law, He caused it to shine in its original, heavenly luster. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 8)

Christ separated truth from error and doubt, tradition and superstition—the mass of rubbish which man had piled around it. Tearing away the framework of error which obscured the brightness of truth, He enthroned the divine precepts in companionship with the royalty of eternal, uncorrupted truth bearing the sanction of God, the Source of all truth. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 9)

Had the Jewish nation received the Teacher sent from God, they would have given up the traditions and maxims handed down from rabbi to rabbi, and accumulating from age to age as other theories were invented. But instead of advancing from light to greater light, they took the wrong way. By sinful indulgence they expelled from the heart the love of God, the love of the principles of His holy law. The love of the world filled their hearts, prompting them to disobey. If they had hidden the law of God in their hearts, if they had given due respect to the sacred principles of this law, it would have exerted a corrective influence on the entire life, and would have remodeled their selfish, avaricious dispositions after the character of God. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 10)

Christ, the way, the truth, and the life, came to our world to sweep away the speculative opinions formulated by men. His work was an important one; for He sought to present truth in contrast to many false theories so destructive to the salvation of all who entertained them. He came not to abrogate the law, but to be in His life a correct expositor of the character of God as revealed in the law. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 11)

To remove the confusion of opinions existing everywhere concerning the meaning of the law, Christ Himself lived the law in its purity. Notwithstanding the fact that the prince of darkness unceasingly followed Christ, accusing Him and contending with Him, Christ vindicated the law of God. In His life He demonstrated that He is the word and the wisdom of God. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 12)

In the heavenly courts Satan claimed that the law of God’s government needed amendment. If he could have made it appear that the slightest jot or tittle in the ten commandments was not based on the highest principles of justice, he would thereby have shown that the entire code is defective; for in a code of laws, no law is of more force than the one regarded as the least essential. To prove that a change should be made in one of the commandments would have been the strongest argument Satan could have used against the infallibility of God. Thus he would have made void not only one precept, but all the other precepts of Jehovah. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 13)

Christ came not only to vindicate the law before the inhabitants of this world, but by His life to settle forever the immutability of God’s law. With intense interest the heavenly intelligences watched the conflict between Christ and Satan during Christ’s life upon the earth. God designed that before the world, before angels unfallen, and before worlds unfallen, Satan should work out his principles. God would permit him to carry out to the very end his principles of rebellion against the government of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 14)

The treatment that the Son of God received from the manger to the cross demonstrated before unfallen worlds and the inhabitants of this world the falsity of Satan’s position and the murderous character of his administration. In the place of revealing sympathy, the enemy developed his cruelty, plainly showing his deception and his guilt. The dishonor he had cast upon the principles of the government of heaven was prevailing in the human family, and the world at large was rallying under the black banner of rebellion. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 15)

Satan has great powers of misrepresentation and accusation. He represented the government of God in a false light. His suggestions and temptations have been presented so ingeniously, so plausibly, that the so-called Christian world has taken its stand under his banner. By pen and by voice they are endeavoring to tear down the standard of God’s government, and in its place to erect a human standard. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 16)

We are approaching the end of this earth’s history, and Satan is working as never before. He is striving to act as director of the Christian world. With an intensity that is marvelous he is working with his lying wonders. Satan is represented as walking about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. He desires to embrace the whole world in his confederacy. Hiding his deformity under the garb of Christianity, he assumes the attributes of a Christian and claims to be Christ Himself. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 17)

The Word of God declares that when it suits the enemy’s purpose, he will through his agencies manifest so great a power under a pretense of Christianity that “if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” [Matthew 24:24.] The enemy is revealed in persons to whom he has given power to work miracles. He creates sorrow and suffering and disease. Seeming to change his attributes, apparently he heals those whom he himself has tortured. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 18)

The Word of God is sure, standing fast forever. Peter declares: “We have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the Father honor and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” [2 Peter 1:16-21.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 19)

Deceptions of every kind will be invented. So-called higher critics will set their ingenious minds to work in an attempt to invalidate the Word of God. But there is a Higher Critic, greater than any human mind. God is light. In Him is no darkness at all. He has spoken. The human family has His decision. Those who are saved must stand under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 20)

Men who criticize the law of Jehovah, or who by example lead men to disregard it, rebel against God. They misinterpret Him and bear false witness against Him. By their actions, they bear a false testimony before the world against the character of the infinite God, placing the darkest stain upon His honor, His righteousness, His justice. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 21)

The plan of salvation represents to the world the character of God. God never lets go a soul that trusts in Him, believing in the Lord Jesus Christ. He never lets go one who commits the keeping of the soul to His care. Having loved them because of their love of Jesus, He loves them to the end. He has laid help upon One that is mighty. His only begotten Son is the Saviour of every one. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 22)

Christ paid the ransom by giving His own life. Gladly He accepted the charge, becoming man’s substitute and surety, responsible for the salvation of the race. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God.” [John 1:12.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 23)

When a sinner accepts Christ as his personal Saviour, all his disgrace and sins are charged to Christ’s own account, and there is joy in heaven that Jesus has not died in vain for that soul. To atone for the sins of every soul who accepts Him as the Redeemer, Christ would again gladly do all that is required on His part. And He will hold fast the faith of every one in Him. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 24)

Zechariah pictures the elect of God, showing their allegiance to His holy law in a time of unrivaled depravity, when by pen and by voice the so-called Protestant world shows marked contempt for the law of God, revealing by its actions that it has decided not to recognize His standard as the rule of life. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 25)

Men have thrown off the restraint of God’s law. Even the professedly Christian world has, in union with the adversary, erected a standard of its own, counterworking the work of God. [Men] have reached a point of stubborn resistance to light and knowledge. Insolent and disobedient in character, they are becoming Satan’s allies to oppress and to perform acts of cruelty. In their lives the arch-deceiver’s attributes are fully manifested. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 26)

Let there go forth from unfeigned lips the prayer, “It is time, O Lord, for thee to work; for they have made void thy law.” [Psalm 119:126.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 27)

In connection with wicked men, Satan has attempted to make of none effect God’s holy law. Because sentence against their evil work has not been “executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.” [Ecclesiastes 8:11.] Men are fast becoming imbued with an intense hatred of even hearing the law mentioned. They are fast approaching the bounds set by a longsuffering God. Soon the limits of His grace will be reached. Then He will interfere, vindicating His own name, and before all the world magnifying His law as holy, just, and good, as unchangeable as His own character. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 28)

The eye of the Lord is upon His people. They will suffer for the truth’s sake. Not always have they been firm and true to principle. Some have erected idols and served them. This has separated them from God. In the warning to the Laodicean church, the Lord sends to the erring ones a message of rebuke, calling them to repentance. He says: (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 29)

“And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: 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. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: 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. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. 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. 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.” [Revelation 3:14-21.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 30)

Some may say, Why is this message sounded so constantly in our ears? It is because you do not thoroughly repent. You do not live in Christ and have Christ abiding in you. When one idol is expelled from the soul, Satan has another prepared to supply its place. Unless you make an entire consecration to Christ and live in communion with Him, unless you make Him your Counselor, you will find that your heart, open to evil thoughts, is easily diverted from the service of God to the service of self. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 31)

At times you may have a desire to repent. But unless you decidedly reform and put into practice the truths you have learned, unless you have an active, working faith, a faith that is constantly increasing in strength, repentance is as the morning dew. It will give no permanent relief to the soul. A repentance caused by a spasmodic exercise of the feelings is a repentance that needs to be repented of; for it is delusive. A violent exercise of the feelings which does not produce in you the peaceable fruits of righteousness leaves you in a worse state than you were in before. Every day the tempter will be on your track with some delusive, plausible excuse for your self-serving, your self-pleasing, and you will fall back into your old practices, neglecting the work of serving God, by which you would gain hope and comfort and assurance. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 32)

God calls for willing service—a service inspired by the love of Jesus in the heart. God is never satisfied with half-hearted, selfish service. He requires the whole heart, the undivided affections, and a complete faith and trust in His power to save from sin. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 33)

The one whose heart is wholly given to God, the one who by faith receives Jesus Christ as a personal Saviour, will reveal a steady growth in spirituality, in vigor of piety, in fixedness of purpose, in fidelity at any cost to the principles of our faith. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 34)

In this age of apostasy, our influence for good depends on our trust in God and our living connection with Him. We should allow no side issues to draw our feet into selfish paths. “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Matthew 16:24.] If we do this, we shall increase in earnest, sanctified zeal, and shall be purified from all selfishness. “If we follow on to know the Lord,” we shall know that “his going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 35)

God will honor and uphold every true-hearted, earnest soul who is seeking to walk before Him in the perfection of the grace of Christ. The Lord Jesus will never leave nor forsake one humble, trembling soul. Shall we believe that God will work in our hearts? that if we allow Him to do so, He will make us pure and holy, by His rich grace qualifying us to be laborers together with Him? Can we with keen, sanctified perception appreciate the strength of the promises of God and appropriate them to our individual selves, not because we are worthy, but because Christ is worthy? Not because we are righteous, but because by living faith we claim the righteousness of Christ in our behalf? (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 36)

Those who honor God and keep His commandments are subject to the accusations of Satan. The enemy works with all his energy to lead persons into sin. Then he pleads that on account of their past sins, he should be allowed to exercise his hellish cruelty on them as his own subjects. Of this work Zechariah has written, “And he showed me Joshua the high priest”—a representative of the people who keep the commandments of God—“standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him.” [Zechariah 3:1.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 37)

Christ is our High Priest. Satan stands before Him night and day as an accuser of the brethren. With his masterly power he presents every objectionable feature of character as sufficient reason for the withdrawal of Christ’s protecting power, thus allowing Satan to discourage and destroy those whom he has caused to sin. But Christ has made atonement for every sinner. Can we by faith hear our Advocate saying, “The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan; even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire?” [Verse 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 38)

“Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments.” [Verse 3.] Thus sinners appear before the enemy who, by his masterly deceptive power, has led them away from allegiance to God. With garments of sin and shame the enemy clothes those who have been overpowered by his temptations, and then he declares that it is unfair for Christ to be their Light, their Defender. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 39)

But, poor, repentant mortals, hear the words of Jesus, and believe as you hear: “And he answered (the accusing charge of Satan) and spake unto those (angels) that stood before him (to do his bidding), saying, Take away the filthy garments from him.” I will blot out his transgressions. I will cover his sins. I will impute to him My righteousness. “And unto him he said, Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment.” [Verse 4.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 40)

The filthy garments are removed; for Christ says, “I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee.” [Verse 4.] The iniquity is transferred to the innocent, the pure, the holy Son of God; and man, all undeserving, stands before the Lord cleansed from all unrighteousness, and clothed with the imputed righteousness of Christ. Oh, what a change of raiment is this! (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 41)

And Christ does more than this for them: “And I said, Let them set a fair mitre upon his head. So they set a fair mitre upon his head, and clothed him with garments. And the angel of the Lord stood by. And the angel of the Lord protested unto Joshua, saying, Thus saith the Lord of hosts; If thou wilt walk in my ways, and if thou wilt keep my charge, then thou shalt also judge my house, and shalt also keep my courts, and I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by.” [Verses 5-7.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 42)

This is the honor that God will bestow on those who are clothed with the garments of Christ’s righteousness. With such encouragement as this, how can men continue in sin? How can they grieve the heart of Christ? (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 43)

We are compassed with the infirmities of humanity. So also was Christ. That He might by His own example condemn sin in the flesh, He took upon Himself the likeness of sinful flesh. Constantly He beheld the character of God, and constantly He represented that character to the world. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 44)

As followers of Christ, it is our duty continually to look unto Jesus. “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory [from character to character], even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” [2 Corinthians 4:6; 3:18.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 45)

What is this character into which we are changed? Moses, earnestly interceding with God, presented one urgent necessity after another. He besought God to forgive the sin of apostasy into which the Israelites had fallen. He acknowledged that their sin was great, but he said: “Yet now, if thou wilt forgive their sin—; and if not, blot me, I pray thee, out of thy book which thou hast written.” The Lord answered, “Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book.” He told Moses that if he would go before the children of Israel as their leader, he could claim the promise, “Behold, mine Angel shall go before thee.” [Exodus 32:32-34.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 46)

The people were required by the Lord to put off their ornaments. The course that He would pursue toward them was to be determined by their attitude toward Him. “And the children of Israel stripped themselves of their ornaments by the mount Horeb. And Moses took the tabernacle, and pitched it without the camp, afar off from the camp, and called it the Tabernacle of the congregation. And it came to pass, that every one which sought the Lord went out unto the tabernacle of the congregation, which was without the camp. And it came to pass, when Moses went out unto the tabernacle, that all the people rose up, and stood every man at his tent door, and looked after Moses, until he was gone into the tabernacle. And it came to pass, as Moses entered into the tabernacle, the cloudy pillar descended, and stood at the door of the tabernacle, and the Lord talked with Moses. And all the people saw the cloudy pillar stand at the tabernacle door; and all the people rose up and worshiped, every man in his tent door. And the Lord spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend. And he turned again into the camp: but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the tabernacle.” [Exodus 33:6-11.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 47)

Moses, feeling the weight of his responsibility, continued to plead with God. He said unto the Lord, “See, thou sayest unto me, Bring up this people: and thou hast not let me know whom thou wilt send with me. Yet thou hast said, I know thee by name, and thou hast also found grace in my sight.” This assurance was not all that Moses desired. This man of God, a representative of the nation and of the time in which he lived, sought God for more than even this promise included; and he pressed his petition: “Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found grace in thy sight, show me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight: and consider that this nation is thy people.” [Verses 12, 13.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 48)

Again the Lord declared: “My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.” [Verse 14.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 49)

Who was conversing with Moses? The only begotten Son of God, enshrouded in the pillar of cloud. Moses said, “If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence. For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? is it not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that are upon the face of the earth. And the Lord said unto Moses, I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken: for thou hast found grace in my sight, and I know thee by name.” [Verses 15-17.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 50)

Was Moses now satisfied? Did he cease his intercession? No. He pressed his request still further: “I beseech thee,” he said, “show me thy glory. And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the Lord before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy.” [Verses 18, 19.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 51)

Now the glory of the Lord is revealed: “And the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed, The Lord, The Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty.” [Exodus 34:6, 7.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 52)

The glory of God is His character, and this character was represented in the life of Jesus Christ. He declares: “The glory (character) 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.” [John 17:22, 23.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 53)

What a wonderful possibility Christ presents before us! What fulness every one of Christ’s followers has the privilege of receiving! Nothing greater than the character that He revealed can Christ ask His Father to bestow on those who believe on Him. What largeness there is in this request! (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 54)

“That he might sanctify and cleanse it [the church] with the washing of water by the word, that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.” [Ephesians 5:26, 27.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 55)

“According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the Beloved.” [Ephesians 1:4-6.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 56)

“But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [2 Thessalonians 2:13, 14.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 57)

“Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began.” [2 Timothy 1:9.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 58)

God is not pleased to have His commandment-keeping people—those who have acknowledged the laws of His kingdom—cover the altar with their tears, as though they were in slavery to a tyrant. God does not require His people to walk mournfully before Him. As the representatives of Christ travel heavenward, they should not make their journey one of mourning, as though sighing and crying were virtues. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 59)

We should rejoice in the Lord that we have the high and ample assurance that it is possible for us to keep the windows of the soul open toward the Sun of Righteousness. If we do this, we shall not be peevish and gloomy, but all light in the Lord. When His light shines into our hearts, we shall not be mournful; we shall not give the world the impression that the service of God is severe, taxing, and unjust. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 60)

As Christ ascended, His hands outstretched to bless His disciples, a cloud of angels received Him and hid Him from their sight. As the disciples looked with straining eyes for the last glimpse of their ascending Lord, two angels from the rejoicing throng stood by them, and said, “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.” [Acts 1:11.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 61)

Mark’s record is: “So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. And they went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following.” [Mark 16:19, 20.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 62)

Luke’s testimony is: “And, behold, I send the promise of my Father unto you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshiped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God.” [Luke 24:49-53.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 63)

The disciples were filled with great joy. Over and over again they repeated the words Christ had spoken to them in His last lessons, as recorded in the fourteenth, fifteenth, sixteenth, and seventeenth chapters of John; and every one had something to say about the instruction, especially with regard to the words of the fourteenth of John: (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 64)

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And 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 14:1-3.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 65)

The promise that He would come again, and also the thought that He had left them His peace, filled their hearts with joy. “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.” [Verses 27, 28.] “Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works’ sake. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.” [Verses 11, 12.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 66)

“Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. And when he is come,” his office work will be to “reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they believe not on me; of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.” [John 16:7-11.] (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 67)

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. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 68)

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. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 69)

It was the thought of standing under the guilt of the whole world that brought the inexpressible anguish to Christ. 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 the children of men; but at what a cost to Himself! (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 70)

All heaven and the unfallen worlds watched the conflict between Christ, the Prince of life, and Satan, the prince of darkness. What a spectacle was this conflict! It resulted in demonstrating to the heavenly universe the justice of God. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 71)

Two classes have ever been before the world—the obedient and the disobedient, the genuine and the counterfeit. Amid all the temptations and the deceptions of Satan, let every one remain loyal to all of God’s commandments. Then Christ will restore in man the moral image of God and will finish the work He has begun in the plan of redemption, presenting man before God clothed in His righteousness. (16LtMs, Ms 125, 1901, 72)

Ms 126, 1901

The Giving of the Law
NP
December 10, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 2SAT 180-189.

Adam was required to render perfect obedience to God, not only in his own behalf, but in behalf of his posterity. God promised him that if he would stand the test of temptation, preserving his allegiance to the Creator during the great trial to which he would be subjected, his obedience would insure his acceptance and favor with God. He would then be forever established in holiness and happiness, and these blessings would extend to all his posterity. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 1)

But Adam failed to bear the test. And because he revolted against God’s law, all his descendants have been sinners. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 2)

God’s law had once been written in the hearts of men and women. But their cherished sins dimmed and nearly effaced that writing. The impressions made by sin gradually wore away the impressions of the law. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 3)

*****

The Lord wrought wonderfully in delivering the Israelites from Egypt. He revealed Himself to them as the living God, the Lawgiver. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 4)

The tabernacle was the dwelling place of God upon the earth. It was divided into two parts. A veil separated the holy place from the most holy place. Here, after the fall, God met with men. Here the voice of God was often heard. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 5)

The cloud that guided Israel stood over the tabernacle. The glory of the cloud emanated from Jesus Christ, who from the midst of the glory talked with Moses as He had talked with him from the burning bush. The brightness of God’s presence was enshrouded in the darkness of the cloud which He made His pavilion, that the people could endure to look upon the cloud as seeing Him who is invisible. This was God’s plan whereby He might approach man. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 6)

“And the Lord said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them today and tomorrow, and let them wash their clothes.” [Exodus 19:10.] They were commanded to wash their clothes. Sanctification to God admits of no untidiness or uncleanliness of the body or of the clothing. Concerning those who are engaged in the service of God, it is written, “Then Moses said unto Aaron, This is it that the Lord spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified.” [Leviticus 10:3.] (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 7)

“And be ready against the third day: for the third day the Lord will come down in the sight of all the people upon mount Sinai. And thou shalt set bounds unto the people round about, saying, Take heed to yourselves, that ye go not up into the mount, or touch the border of it: whosoever toucheth the mount shall be surely put to death: there shall not an hand touch it, but he shall surely be stoned, or shot through; whether it be beast or man, it shall not live.” [Exodus 19:11-13.] (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 8)

The Lord gave special directions to the Israelites regarding the preparation they were to make for this occasion when He was to talk to man. That He might fill the people with awe and lead them to realize the sacredness of the declarations He was about to give them, He expressly commanded them to take heed to themselves and not to break through the barrier placed round about the mount. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 9)

If the mount where the Lord manifested His glory and majesty, and from the summit of which the glory of the Lord appeared, was so sacred that one who merely touched it would have been punished by death, how sacred must be the law which the Israelites prepared to hear proclaimed from Mount Sinai! How can any one treat it indifferently! Shall it be trampled upon, scorned, and derided? (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 10)

In connection with religious services and our worship of God, we should consider the directions that He gave to the Israelites. All those who come into His presence should give special attention to the body and the clothing. Heaven is a clean and holy place. God is pure and holy. All who come into His presence should take heed to His directions and have the body and the clothing in a pure, clean condition, thus showing respect to themselves and to Him. The heart must also be sanctified. Those who do this will not dishonor His sacred name by worshiping Him while their hearts are polluted and their apparel is untidy. God sees these things. He marks the heart-preparation, the thoughts, the cleanliness in appearance of those who worship Him. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 11)

The ten commandments were spoken from mount Sinai. With awful grandeur the King of kings, the infinite God, declared His law and enjoined obedience to it. The commands, “Thou shalt,” and “Thou shalt not,” are plain and positive. He who has given life and preserves life has the right to command and control those who are dependent on Him for every breath they draw. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 12)

The first words that God spoke were, “I am the Lord thy God.” [Exodus 20:2.] By this declaration He asserted His authority to present His claims before the people. He had freed them from their bondage, and they owed their service to Him. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 13)

The first commandment is a requirement in reference to man’s worship. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 14)

The second commandment prohibits man from worshiping the true God through any creature or image. It forbids the making of any image which man might try to liken to the Creator. It forbids the making of an image of any creature to represent God or to be associated in any way with the worship of God. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 15)

“To whom then will ye liken God? or what likeness will ye compare unto him? The workman melteth a graven image, and the goldsmith spreadeth it over with gold, and casteth silver chains. He that is so impoverished that he hath no oblation chooseth a tree that will not rot; he seeketh unto him a cunning workman to prepare a graven image, that shall not be moved. Have ye not known? have ye not heard? hath it not been told you from the beginning? have ye not understood from the foundations of the earth? It is he that sitteth upon the circle of the earth, and the inhabitants thereof are as grasshoppers; that stretcheth out the heavens as a curtain, and spreadeth them out as a tent to dwell in: that bringeth the princes to nothing: he maketh the judges of the earth as vanity. Yea, they shall not be planted; yea, they shall not be sown: yea, their stock shall not take root in the earth: and he shall also blow upon them, and they shall wither, and the whirlwind shall take them away as stubble. To whom then will ye liken me, or shall I be equal? saith the Holy One. Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things, that bringeth out their host by number: he calleth them all by names by the greatness of his might, for that he is strong in power; not one faileth. Why sayest thou, O Jacob, and speakest, O Israel, My way is hid from the Lord, and my judgment is passed over from my God? Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding.” [Isaiah 40:18-28.] (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 16)

The Lord urges His supremacy. But Satan well knows that the worship of the living God elevates, ennobles, and exalts a nation. He knows that idol worship does not elevate, but that it degrades man’s ideas by associating with worship that which is base and corrupt. He is at work constantly to draw the mind away from the only true and living God. He leads men to give honor and glory to objects that human hands have made or to soulless creatures that God has created. The Egyptians and other heathen nations had many strange gods—creatures of their own fanciful imagination. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 17)

The Jews, after their long captivity, would not make any image. The image on the Roman ensign or banner they called an abomination, especially when these emblems were placed in a prominent place for them to respect. Such respect they regarded as a violation of the second commandment. When the Roman ensign was set up in the holy place in the temple, they looked upon it as an abomination. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 18)

The use of images by the Roman Catholic Church is antichristian. Those who worship them are commandment-breakers. Image-worship is contrary to God’s positive commands. The second commandment is entirely opposed to such practices. But the popes have tampered with the commandments. In all the books of devotion given to the people, the second commandment is omitted. The third they call the second, the fourth the third; and the tenth they have divided into two. Thus in the place of conforming their practices to God’s commands, they have altered His commandments to harmonize with their practices. To suit their worship they have taken away from and added to God’s Word. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 19)

By their treatment of His Word the popes have exalted themselves above the God of heaven. This is the reason that in prophecy the papal power is specified as the “man of sin.” [2 Thessalonians 2:3.] Satan is the originator of sin. The power that he causes to alter any one of God’s holy precepts is the man of sin. Under Satan’s special direction the papal power has done this very work. Although those standing at the head of the papacy claim to have great love for God, He looks upon them as haters of Him. They have turned the truth of God into a lie. Tampering with God’s commandments and placing in their stead human traditions is the work of Satan and will divorce the religious world from God; for He declares, “I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me.” [Exodus 20:5.] God will fulfil this word. “Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” [Galatians 6:7.] Pharaoh sowed obstinacy, and he reaped obstinacy. He himself put this seed into the soil. There was no more need for God by some new power to interfere with its growth than there is for Him to interfere with the growth of a grain of corn. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 20)

All that is required is that a seed shall be left to germinate and spring up to bring forth fruit after its kind. The harvest reveals the kind of seed that has been sown. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 21)

When light from God, strong and convincing, came to make known the great I AM, Pharaoh was compelled to yield. But as soon as the pressure was removed, his unbelief returned and counteracted the great light which God had given. When he refused the evidence of the first miracle, he sowed the seed of infidelity, which, left to its natural course, produced a harvest after its own kind. Afterward the king would not be convinced by any working of God’s power. The monarch hardened his heart and went on from one step to another of unbelief, until throughout the vast realm of Egypt the firstborn, the pride of every household, had been laid low. After this he hurried with his army after Israel. He sought to bring back a people delivered by the arm of Omnipotence. But he was fighting against a Power greater than any human power, and with his host he perished in the waters of the Red Sea. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 22)

The despisers of God’s law are practicing the same sin that Pharaoh practiced. They are hardening their hearts. The voice of God is rejected for human theories, for Satanic suggestions and delusions. The Holy Spirit is resisted and set aside. The iniquities of the fathers are visited upon the children. The seed that they sow by precept and example are reproduced in their children. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 23)

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. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 24)

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. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 25)

All should be intelligent in regard to the agency by which the soul is destroyed. It is not because of any decree that God has sent out against man. He does not make man spiritually blind. God gives sufficient light and evidence to enable man to distinguish truth from error. But He does not force man to receive truth. He leaves him free to choose the good or to choose the evil. If man resists evidence that is sufficient to guide his judgment in the right direction, and chooses evil once, he will do this more readily the second time. The third time he will still more eagerly withdraw himself from God and choose to stand on the side of Satan. And in this course he will continue until he is confirmed in evil and believes the lie he has cherished as truth. His resistance has produced its harvest. By his example he leads others to follow the same course of resistance against God. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 26)

Those who transgress the law of God are teaching their children to show disrespect for this law and to rebel against the Lawgiver. They place their children in the enemy’s ranks where they are cut off from the blessings of God’s covenant and are brought under His judgments. If parents die while they are transgressors of God’s law, their children will be inclined to do as they have done. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 27)

By precept and example children of ungodly parents receive an education in evil-doing. When their measure of disobedience and transgression is full, God reckons with them. Both parents and children are held accountable for their idolatry. God bears long with perverse resistance, but He will surely punish iniquity. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 28)

God announces Himself as “showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.” [Exodus 20:6.] (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 29)

Those who obey these precepts sow seed for a bountiful and glorious harvest, for the mercy of God is shown to their children and their children’s children to the third and fourth generations. This principle is of as much force today as it was when God spoke the words from mount Sinai. The Lord loves and honors obedience now just as much as when He gave His law. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 30)

All false worship is spiritual adultery. The second precept, which forbids false worship, is also a command to worship God, and Him only serve. The Lord is a jealous God. He will not be trifled with. He has spoken concerning the manner in which He should be worshiped. He has a hatred of idolatry, for its influence is corrupting. It debases the mind and leads to sensuality and all kinds of sin. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 31)

To make an image of God dishonors Him. No one should bring into service the power of imagination to worship that which belittles God in the mind and associates Him with common things. Those who worship God must worship Him in spirit and in truth. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 32)

They must exercise living faith. Their worship will then be controlled not by the imagination, but by genuine faith. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 33)

Let men worship and serve the Lord God, and Him only. Let not selfish pride be lifted up and served as a god. Let not money be made a god. If sensuality is not kept under the control of the higher powers of the mind, base passion will rule the being. Anything that is made the subject of undue thought and admiration, absorbing the mind, is a god chosen before the Lord. God is a searcher of the heart. He distinguishes between true heart-service and idolatry. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 34)

“Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.” [Verse 7.] Those who are brought into covenant relation with God are pledged to speak of Him in the most respectful, reverential manner. Many refer to God and mention His name in their religious conversation much as they would mention a horse or any other common creature. This dishonors God. By precept and example, parents should educate their children on this point, lest by irreverence they grieve away God’s Spirit from their hearts and the hearts of their children. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 35)

Ministers, by carelessly introducing the name of God into their conversation, may teach lessons of irreverence. By mingling His holy name with common matters, they show that they are not spiritually minded; for they mingle the sacred and the common. They are not living up to their holy profession. While claiming to be worshipers of God, they walk contrary to His law. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 36)

Swearing, and all words spoken in the form of an oath, are dishonoring to God. The Lord sees, the Lord hears, and He will not hold the transgressor guiltless. He will not be mocked. Those who take the name of the Lord in vain will find it a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 37)

In a special sense the first four commandments reveal the duty of man to his Maker. These four precepts were written on the first table of stone. Man has a God who is the Author of his being—a God whom he must love and obey with heart, mind, soul, and strength. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 38)

The last six commandments, written on the second table of stone, point out man’s duty to his fellow man. He who is true to his God, loving and obeying Him, will be true to his neighbor. A man who is false to his God will be false to his neighbor. Those who keep the first four commandments will keep the last six. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 39)

After giving the ten commandments, the Lord more explicitly enlarged upon them, laying down the principles that should be carried out in the practical life. These specifications are called judgments, or statutes, because the magistrates were to give judgment according to them. God did not speak them with an audible voice to the Israelites, but gave them to Moses, who communicated them to the people. In several instances difficult cases had arisen upon which Moses felt incapable of rendering a decision. He had supplicated the Lord to decide them for him. The Lord now gave general statutes that would govern decisions in these particular cases. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 40)

The Lord desired to guard the interests of servants. He commanded the Israelites to be merciful, and to bear in mind that they themselves had been servants. They were directed to be mindful of the rights of their servants. In no case were they to abuse them. In dealing with them, they were not to be exacting as the Egyptian taskmasters had been with them. They were to exercise tenderness and compassion in the treatment of their servants. God desired them to put themselves in the place of the servants, and deal with them as they would wish others to deal with them under the same circumstances. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 41)

Because of poverty, some were sold into bondage by their parents. Others who were sentenced for crimes by the judges were sold into bondage. The Lord specified that even these were not to be held as bondservants for more than seven years. At the end of that time every servant was given his freedom, or if he chose, he was allowed to remain with his master. Thus God guarded the interests of the lowly and the oppressed. Thus He enjoined a noble spirit of generosity and encouraged all to cultivate a love for liberty, because the Lord had made them free. Any one who refused liberty, when it was his privilege to have it, was marked. This was not a badge of honor to him, but a mark of disgrace. Thus God encouraged the cultivation of a high and noble spirit, rather than a spirit of bondage and slavery. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 42)

God desires Christians to respect the liberty that He has in so marvelous a manner given them. In Christ is vested the ownership of every man. Man should not be another man’s property. God has bought mankind. One man’s mind, one man’s power, should not rule and control another’s conscience. In the sight of God, wealth and position do not exalt one man above another. Men are free to choose the service of God, to love the Lord, and to keep all His commandments. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 43)

How carefully God protects the rights of men! He has attached a penalty to wilful murder. “Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed.” [Genesis 9:6.] If one murderer were permitted to go unpunished, he would by his evil influence and cruel violence subvert others. This would result in a condition of things similar to that which existed before the flood. God must punish murderers. He gives life, and He will take life, if that life becomes a terror and a menace. Mercy shown to a wilful murderer is cruelty to his fellow men. If a wilful murderer thinks that he will find protection by fleeing to the altar of God, he may find that he will be forced from that altar and be slain. But if a man takes life unintentionally, then God declares that He will provide a place of refuge to which he can flee. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 44)

“He that curseth his father, or his mother, shall surely be put to death.” [Exodus 21:17.] Thus God expressed His mind in regard to rebellious children. He made it a capital crime for children to curse or to smite their parents. And He will punish the parents, if they do not govern and control their children. How many children are lost to all virtue! How many are abandoned to vice and iniquity! How many abuse their own parents! (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 45)

It was Jesus Christ Himself who gave special directions to Israel. Do these specifications testify of a Christless dispensation? Is this code of statutes of a lower order than are the statutes which are given in this age? The Lord guards the interests of His people. He gives special directions concerning the poor. How impartial are His ways! How exalted are all His requirements! (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 46)

The Lord gave many other statutes or judgments, which were to be strictly obeyed. These are recorded in the twenty-first, twenty-second, and twenty-third chapters of Exodus. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 47)

The Lord also specified the conditions on which His people, the Israelites, would receive the promised blessing: (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 48)

“Behold, I send an Angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the place which I have prepared. Beware of him, and obey his voice, provoke him not; for he will not pardon your transgressions: for my name is in him. But if thou shalt indeed obey his voice, and do all that I speak; then I will be an enemy unto thine enemies, and an adversary unto thine adversaries. For mine Angel shall go before thee, and bring thee in unto the Amorites, and the Hittites, and the Perizzites, and the Canaanites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites: and I will cut them off. Thou shalt not bow down to their gods, nor serve them, nor do after their works: but thou shalt utterly overthrow them, and quite break down their images. And ye shall serve the Lord your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 49)

“There shall nothing cast their young, nor be barren, in thy land: the number of thy days I will fulfil. I will send my fear before thee, and will destroy all the people to whom thou shalt come, and I will make all thine enemies turn their backs unto thee. And I will send hornets before thee, which shall drive out the Hivite, the Canaanite, and the Hittite, from before thee. I will not drive them out from before thee in one year; lest the land become desolate, and the beast of the field multiply against thee. By little and little I will drive them out from before thee, until thou be increased, and inherit the land. And I will set thy bounds from the Red sea even unto the sea of the Philistines, and from the desert unto the river: for I will deliver the inhabitants of the land into your hand; and thou shalt drive them out before thee. Thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor with their gods. They shall not dwell in thy land, lest they make thee sin against me: for if thou serve their gods, it will surely be a snare unto thee.” [Exodus 23:20-33.] (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 50)

These promises are given on conditions of obedience. God will bless and honor those who honor Him. The living God pledges Himself by promises to those whom He lays under obligations to Himself. His people must take Him as their Ruler. They must obey the laws of His government. They must not only refrain from worshiping all other gods, but overthrow them utterly, thus evidencing their great abhorrence of idolatry. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 51)

After God had given Moses various laws and ordinances, He directed him to go down to the people and acquaint them with these laws. Moses was instructed to read them to the people. While in the mount he had written them just as they had been spoken by the Son of God. “And Moses came and told the people all the words of the Lord, and all the judgments: and all the people answered with one voice, and said, All the words which the Lord hath said will we do.” [Exodus 24:3.] (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 52)

Preparation was now made for the ratification of the covenant, according to God’s directions. Moses “builded an altar under the hill, and twelve pillars, according to the twelve tribes of Israel. And he sent young men of the children of Israel, which offered burnt offerings, and sacrificed peace offerings of oxen unto the Lord. And Moses took half of the blood, and put it in basons; and half of the blood he sprinkled on the altar. And he took the book of the covenant, and read in the audience of the people: and they said, All that the Lord hath said will we do, and be obedient. And Moses took the blood, and sprinkled it on the people, and said, Behold the blood of the covenant, which the Lord hath made with you concerning all these words.” [Verses 4-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 53)

Here the people received the conditions of the covenant. They made a solemn covenant with God, typifying the covenant made between God and every believer in Jesus Christ. The conditions were plainly laid before the people. They were not left to misunderstand them. When they were requested to decide whether they would agree to all the conditions given, they unanimously consented to obey every obligation. They had already consented to obey God’s commandments. The principles of the law were now particularized, that they might know how much was involved in covenanting to obey the law; and they accepted the specifically defined particulars of the law. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 54)

If the Israelites had obeyed God’s requirements, they would have been practical Christians. They would have been happy, for they would have been keeping God’s ways and not following the inclinations of their own natural hearts. Moses did not leave them to misconstrue the words of the Lord or to misapply His requirements. He wrote all the words of the Lord in a book, that they might be referred to afterward. In the mount he had written them as Christ Himself dictated them. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 55)

Bravely did the Israelites speak the words promising obedience to the Lord, after hearing His covenant read in the audience of the people. They said, “All that the Lord hath said will we do, and be obedient.” [Verse 7.] Then the people were set apart and sealed to God. A sacrifice was offered to the Lord. A portion of the blood of the sacrifice was sprinkled upon the altar. This signified that the people had consecrated themselves—body, mind, and soul—to God. A portion was sprinkled upon the people. This signified that through the sprinkled blood of Christ, God graciously accepted them as His special treasure. Thus the Israelites entered into a solemn covenant with God. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 56)

*****

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. (16LtMs, Ms 126, 1901, 57)

Ms 127, 1901

Fragments/“This is my seventh-fourth birthday ...”
NP
December 23, 1901 [typed]
Portions of this manuscript are published in Ev 75, 378; 4MR 44; 5MR 331; 6MR 320; 10MR 14-15; 5Bio 140-141.
South Lancaster, Mass.
Tuesday, November 26, 1901

This is my seventy-fourth birthday. I thank the Lord for the grace and health He has given me up to this time. At present I am suffering from a severe cold. My throat and mouth are very sore. I always suffer when speaking in a small, crowded hall, as I did at Trenton. Our people there are in great need of a plain, neat, substantial meeting house. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 1)

Some may ask, Why does Sister White always use the words, “plain, neat, and substantial” when speaking of buildings? It is because I wish our buildings to represent the perfection God requires from His people. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 2)

“But,” some say, “if the Lord is so soon to come, why do you urge our builders to put the best material into the buildings they erect?” Would we dare to dedicate to God a house made of cheap material, and put together so faultily as to be almost lifted from its foundation when struck by a strong wind? We would be ashamed to put worthless material into a building for the Lord. And I would not advise any one to put worthless material into a house. It does not pay. The floors of our houses should be made of well-seasoned wood. This will cost a little more, but will in the end save a great deal of vexation. The frame of a building should be well matched and well put together. Christ is our example in all things. He worked at the carpenter’s trade with His father Joseph, and every article He made was well made, the different parts fitting exactly, the whole able to bear test. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 3)

Whatever you do, let it be done as well as upright principle and your strength and skill can do it. Let your work be like the pattern shown you in the Mount. The buildings erected will soon be severely tried. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 4)

From house-building precious spiritual lessons may be learned. “Ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] The Lord desires His people to teach their children the importance of bringing good timbers into their character-building, to teach them that what is worth doing at all is worth doing well. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 5)

All the work done in the home should be done with such painstaking effort, such care and thoroughness, that God can place His signature upon it. Nothing is to be slighted. Some may say, “I cannot spend so long over one piece of work. Time is so short.” But for this very reason—because time is short—we are to do our work well. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 6)

While we are to guard against needless adornment and display, yet all about our persons and our buildings is to be neat and attractive. Our young people are to be taught the importance of presenting an appearance above criticism, so that the world cannot speak of us as cheap and common. They are to be taught that while our work must be carried forward with strict economy, it is not therefore to lose the charm of good taste and perfect order. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 7)

*****

I have been asked the question, Is it right for our people to purchase the hall in which Elder Haskell has been holding meetings in New York, seeing that this hall was once used for wicked purposes? (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 8)

I reply, Were I at liberty to express my mind in regard to many of the fine houses in our cities, I could tell you much that would astonish you. And most revolting disclosures could be made regarding some who attend our meetings. But we do not say to our ministers, “Why do you spend your time on such a wicked audience?” What said Christ when accused of eating with publicans and sinners? “I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Matthew 9:13.] (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 9)

This world is our field of missionary toil, but how few among Seventh-day Adventists have realized this! The condition of our large cities is represented by the condition of the world before the flood when “God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” [Genesis 6:5.] God-dishonoring sins are practiced by people living in lordly houses; but some of these very people, under the preaching of the last testing message, will be convicted and converted. From His inexhaustible store of grace God can endow all who come to Him. Looking upon humanity, fallen and degraded, He declares that the Holy Spirit shall be poured out upon all flesh. Many who have never heard the truth shall feel the conviction of the Spirit as they listen to the message of startling importance. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 10)

If the hall mentioned is in a position favorable for our work, and if God sees fit to open the way for us to purchase this hall, and it is changed from a place where God is dishonored to a place where He is honored—taken away from those who have corrupted it, and placed in the hands of a people who are striving for sanctification and holiness, will not a victory be gained for the Lord? (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 11)

Look at this matter in a rational light, and you will see that the building is innocent of any crime. The disgrace has been brought on it by men who have perverted their God-given powers. The building itself has done nothing wrong. The behaviour of wicked men has given it a bad name. Not the building, but the men who have dishonored their Creator by a wrong use of it, should be stigmatized. They have perverted their powers by the use of strong drink—a curse that has made thousands of buildings a hell on earth. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 12)

The Lord knows what is best. He sees the end from the beginning. Let us leave all in His hands, accepting what He in His providence may decide is best. Do not allow the mind to be confused by erroneous reasoning or influenced by idle tales. Be at peace and rest in Jesus. He will verify His Word. If you do not obtain the hall, do not look on this as a great misfortune—a reason for becoming discouraged. Say always, The will of the Lord be done. Do what He directs, and remember that He sees that which you cannot possibly see. Do your part, and then if the way closes so that you cannot purchase the hall, you have the satisfaction of knowing that you did your best. And you may rest in the assurance that for some reason the Lord did not bring to pass that which you desired. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 13)

I am so glad that we have a wise, compassionate heavenly Father who will not indulge His children to their injury. At times He withholds from us that which we greatly desire, that which it seems to us it would be for our good to possess. Let us trust Him, for He loves us. It is because He loves us that He does not always permit us to have our own way. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 14)

The mission established in New York by Elder Haskell must be sustained. Elder Haskell must be assisted to locate himself and his workers in a more retired place. To live in such a noisy place, so near the elevated railways, is not best for him or his workers. Elder Haskell’s strength must not be drawn on too heavily. He needs more prayer and less criticism. Let those who in the past have cherished the spirit of criticism take themselves in hand and keep careful watch over every thought and word. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 15)

*****

I have been asked, “Shall Elder Franke take up the work in the various cities, as invited?” (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 16)

I answer, “Leave this matter with the Lord. Let Elder Franke follow his best judgment.” From the light God has given, it seems that now is the time to plan for work in Greater New York. When wise plans have been laid for this work, let these plans be decidedly and thoroughly carried out. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 17)

God has a people in New York City. We say to Elder Franke, Do all in your power to reach the people of New York, and let all who can sustain you in the work. The treasury is empty, but there are minutemen who will help. For Christ’s sake, Elder Franke, lift the standard of the cross. Seek to diffuse light to those who are in darkness. In the name of the Lord, go forward. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 18)

In our large cities the truth is to go forth as a lamp that burneth. God will raise up laborers for this work, and His angels will go before them. Let not any one hinder these men of God’s appointment. Forbid them not. God has given them their work. Let halls be hired, and let the message be given with such power that the hearers will be convinced. God will raise up workers who will occupy peculiar spheres of influence, workers who will carry the truth to the most unpromising places. Men will say Yea where once they said Nay. Those who were once enemies will become valuable helpers, advancing the work with their means and their influence. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 19)

Beside all waters God’s messengers are to sow the seeds of truth. With intense interest God is looking on this world. He has noted the capacity of human beings for service. Looking down the ages He has counted His men and women, and has prepared the way before them, saying, “I will send My messengers to them, and they shall see great light shining amid the darkness. Won to the service of Christ, they shall use to the glory of My name the talents entrusted to them. They shall go forth to work for Me with zeal and devotion. Through their efforts the truth shall speak to thousands in a most forcible manner, and men spiritually blind shall receive sight and see My salvation. Truth shall be made so prominent that he who runs may read. Means shall be devised to reach hearts. There will be a great difference in the methods used in this work, but let no one because of this block the way by criticism.” (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 20)

The means in the control of wealthy men will be used to sustain the cause of the Lord. God will set in operation many plans for the accomplishment of His work. His people will concentrate their forces more and more directly on the great consummation, believing and obeying the commission: (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 21)

“All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you, and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18-20.] “So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. And they went forth, and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word with signs following.” [Mark 16:19, 20.] (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 22)

O, what a work there is before us! Place after place is to be visited; church after church is to be raised up. Those who take their stand are to be organized, and then the minister is to pass on to other equally important fields. Our ministers are not to hover over those who have received the truth. With Christ’s love burning in their hearts, they are to go forth to win sinners to the Saviour. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 23)

Just as soon as a church is organized, the members should be set to work, taught to go forth in God-given power to find others and tell them the story of redeeming love. The power of the gospel is to come upon the companies raised up, fitting them for service. Some of the new converts will be so filled with the power of the Lord that they will at once enter the work, imparting that which they have received. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 24)

The newly formed churches will need to be educated. The minister should not devote so much of his time to preaching as to educating. The people are to be taught how to extend the knowledge of the truth. If they do this work successfully, they will labor so diligently that they will have no time or disposition to weaken the hands of their brethren by unkind criticism. Their one desire will be to carry the truth to the regions beyond. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 25)

While the new converts should be instructed to ask counsel of those more experienced in the work, they should also be taught not to put the ministers in the place of God. Ministers are not gods, but human beings, men compassed with infirmities. Christ is the one to whom all are to look for guidance. “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.... And of his fullness have all we received, and grace for grace.... As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:14, 16, 12.] (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 26)

“For it pleased the Father that in him should all fullness dwell; and, having made peace by the blood of the cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometimes alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight; if ye continue in the faith, grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister; who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church: whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God, which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints, to whom God would make known what is the riches of this glory among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory; whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus; whereunto I also labor, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.” [Colossians 1:19-29.] (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 27)

“I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words. For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the steadfastness of your faith in Christ.” [Colossians 2:1-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 28)

“I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you.” What was the apostle’s great desire?—“that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love.” [Verses 1, 2.] Such a union is our great need. Upon it depends our success in the work of the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 29)

These Scriptures outline true ministry. But today the labor put forth for the churches is to a large degree made up of preaching. There is a great lack of real missionary work—earnest labor for the building up of those who need instruction in regard to the formation of a Christlike character. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 30)

The Sign of Discipleship. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 31)

“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 32)

“As I have loved you.” [Verse 34.] The crowning act in the sacrifice of love was yet to come. Soon, in the scenes of the Saviour’s betrayal, trial, and crucifixion, the disciples were to see the measure of His love. They were to see Him hanging on the cross in dying agony, bearing the sins of the world. In this, and in his resurrection and ascension, they were to see a love so broad and deep that all doubt as to the meaning of the new commandment would be swept away. The knowledge of the Saviour’s matchless love for them was to bind them heart to heart, preparing the way for the Lord to anoint them with His Spirit. United by this love, they were to go forth to witness with convincing power to the divinity of their Leader. And their Christlike love for one another was to be the sign of their discipleship. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 33)

How much of this love have we shown for one another? Might we not better begin without delay to love one another as Christ has loved us? Would we not then be a power for God in the work? “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one for another.” [Verse 35.] (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 34)

“As my Father hath loved me, so have I loved you, continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love, even as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, that ye love one another, as I have loved you.” [John 15:9-12.] (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 35)

What a change would be seen in our world if fathers and mothers would reveal this love in the home. No unkind words would be spoken. There would be no jealousy or envy, no scolding or fretting, nothing to mar the peace of the home. O that all knew the meaning of the words, “Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, ... and be ye thankful.” [Colossians 3:15.] (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 36)

I wish to speak of some things that have been represented to me as taking place in the assembly of God’s people. Some have taken offence at things entirely unworthy of notice, and have dishonored God by giving way to the feelings of the unsubdued heart. They have misinterpreted the truth and weakened its influence. They have strengthened Satan’s kingdom; for church members who speak words that stir up strife are doing Satan’s work much more effectively than his own subjects. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 37)

O my brethren, why are you so easily irritated? Why do you so readily separate from one another? Do you realize that your hasty words are written in the books of heaven, to receive the same punishment as the words of a profane man? The same spirit that led him to swear led you to speak words that stirred up strife in the assembly of God’s people. Remember that by your words you shall be justified, and by your words you shall be condemned. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 38)

O that those who are proclaiming the most solemn message ever given to the world would realize how greatly their influence is weakened when they are suspicious of their brethren, when they allow angry words to pass their lips! The displeasure of God rests upon every one who speaks harsh, unkind words. Nothing so dishonors the Lord Jesus as a readiness on the part of church members to take offence when something occurs to displease them. The Holy Spirit is to rest upon God’s children. This is the Lord’s plan and will. But this can never be until they seek for unity, forgetting self in the desire to extend His kingdom. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 39)

The Saviour’s prayer for His followers is: “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. 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 17:17-21.] (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 40)

The conversion of unbelievers depends on the distinctness with which Christ is revealed in the lives of believers. When our hearts are filled with love and compassion, when our conduct toward one another is marked by Christlike tenderness and courtesy, then our words will have power to convict souls. It is the unity of God’s followers that convinces the world that God has indeed sent His Son to die for sinners, to make them partakers of His perfection, changing the sinful heart and forming the character after the divine likeness. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 41)

“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. 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.” [Verses 22-26.] (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 42)

These words mean what they say. How much do they mean to us? (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 43)

Christ declares, “There shall be one fold and one shepherd.” [John 10:16.] He came to our world to live the life that was to be the pattern for all His children. He came to reveal the love that was to bind them heart to heart. And He made unity the badge of their discipleship. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 44)

God’s people are to be united in the accomplishment of one great work. They are to make a combined effort of consecration. By a tender, respectful regard for one another, they are to cherish the influence that works for the recovery of sinners. In their love and unity, they are to be on this earth a symbol of the family in heaven. As good soldiers of the cross they are to strive to win sinners to loyalty. Righteous principles gain more and more power over the life as their influence softens and subdues the natural, untamed disposition. This is the mystery of godliness. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 45)

We are living in the testing time. God is proving His people to see who are worthy of admittance into His family. He desires His followers to carry out the instruction contained in the seventeenth chapter of John. The practice of this instruction is to begin in the home. God measures church members by what they are in the home. When Christ’s words are obeyed in the home, the influence extends to the church. Grieve not the Spirit of God from your home by an unchristlike course of action. Work the works of Christ in the home. Then your lamp, burning brightly and clearly, will give light to those in darkness. Have you accepted your trust? Does your light so shine before men that they, seeing your good works, glorify your heavenly Father? (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 46)

Parents should make the Word of God their study. Their first work should be to interest their children in the holy, uplifting truths of this Word. Then in turn the children will become instruments in the Lord’s hands for interesting and instructing others. Thus the truth works with power to win souls to Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 47)

Those who accept the truth are pledged by their baptismal vows to live the truth before the world. As soon as men and women come to a knowledge of the truth, they are to use their powers in shedding abroad the light of the glorious gospel of Christ. God wants His people to be light-bearers. As Christians multiply their talents by use, the church becomes the light of the world. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 48)

A living church is a working church. It is the do-nothing position of those who profess to be converted that robs the church of vitality. Souls are to be saved, and those who claim to know the truth, yet do not make any effort to win sinners to Christ, will sooner or later be revealed as spiritual dwarfs. God calls for workers who will unite their varied gifts in laboring for Him. His people must show missionary courtesy, missionary hospitality, missionary zeal. He has grace for every worker. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 49)

God’s servants are to make use of every resource for enlarging His kingdom. The apostle Paul, a faithful steward of the grace of God, declares that it is “good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth,” that “supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men.” [1 Timothy 2:3, 4, 1.] And James says, “Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” [James 5:20.] Every member of the church is pledged to unite with his brethren in giving the invitation, “Come, for all things are now ready.” [Luke 14:17.] Each is to encourage the other in doing whole-souled work. Earnest invitations will come from a living church. Thirsty souls will be led to the water of life. (16LtMs, Ms 127, 1901, 50)

Ms 128, 1901

The Principles that Should Control the Lord's Workers
NP
December 24, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in AH 283, 388, 488; SD 312; Ev 42, 86; 4MR 297; 11MR 276.

In the twelfth chapter of First Corinthians is taught a lesson that we must all learn, for we are probationers. As the chapter is read, let every one consider the meaning of every word. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 1)

“Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.” [Verses 4, 5.] (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 2)

In the Master’s service, to one man is given a line of work that he can do, and to his brother is given some other line of work. No man should use his measuring line on another man’s work, dictating to him the precise manner in which he should labor, because he himself has a certain class of work to do. Altogether too much of this kind of measuring has been done. Let every man receive his instruction from the Lord, and keep his lips closed, passing no opinion in regard to the course of his brother, who is answerable to God, and not to any finite being. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 3)

If through lack of patience and kindness a brother or a sister has erred, if the oil and the wine have been hurt by strong or injudicious words and ill-advised actions, let the wrong be confessed to the injured ones, in order that the stumbling block placed in the way of others may be removed. Let no spirit of lording it over God’s heritage be manifested, for such a spirit causes unhappy feelings among brethren. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 4)

Often the sisters increase the difficulties that have originated on account of selfishness; by a strife of words they cause alienation. My sisters, if you wish to keep in the light of Christ’s countenance, talk less and pray more. Do not take exaggerated views of existing circumstances. Help your companions to become Christlike in the expression of their feelings. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 5)

But above all things else, I must tell my brethren that, by hurting the feelings of one another, they have greatly marred God’s cause. In planning and advising, ministers of the gospel should be judicious. They should not let Satan obtain any advantage. Let every one be sure that he has confessed every wrong and taken out of the way of others every stumbling block, that the Spirit of the Lord may pardon him and heal the wounds that his sin has made. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 6)

Let all be cautious in regard to judging and condemning others. Those who are themselves far out of the right way often express unkind opinions in regard to the work and motives of others. In such cases “silence is eloquence.” Keep your lips from speaking guile, and bear in mind that “there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” [Verses 6, 7.] (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 7)

In this Scripture a variety of gifts is specified. “For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; to another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: but all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. For the body is not one member, but many. If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. And if they were all one member, where were the body? But now are they many members, yet but one body. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: and those members of the body, which we think to be less honorable, upon these we bestow more abundant honor; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honor to that part which lacked: that there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with it. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet show I unto you a more excellent way.” [Verses 8-31.] (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 8)

What a lesson this Scripture teaches! There is to be an active exercise of the various gifts in one body, the head of which is Jesus Christ. Let no member of Christ’s body entertain a spirit of self-sufficiency. Because two members do not act the same part, let not one member say to another member, I have no need of thee. Among the members of the body there is to be no crowding, no judging, no measuring of one gift by another. Many gifts are called for, yet all are members of one body. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 9)

All jealousy, evil-surmising, all evil-speaking, must be put away. Those who have cherished such a spirit should repent before God, for they have dishonored him. Die to your natural selfishness. Then forever bury the hateful spirit that has been so ready to spring into existence and to live within you, strengthening selfish feelings and corrupting spiritual life. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 10)

Let everyone ask himself the question, Where do I stand in this matter of creating difficulties and alienations? This question is before us for consideration. Every one must answer it for himself. It is a question that concerns our relation to the Lord Jesus and His work upon the human heart. Christ says, “That servant, which knew his lord’s will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes.” [Luke 12:47.] These word mean much. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 11)

Many have so meager a knowledge of God! This is one great reason that there are so many in our world who are not decided Christians in every sense of the word. How much sweeter and more wholesome would be their service for Christ if they were less self-sufficient, less suspicious, less prone to imagine evil of others! They are continually getting farther away from the spirit of unity that Christ prayed might exist among His disciples. To think evil is not profitable to the health of the soul. Placing others in a false light, they act as if their false estimation of them were correct. Therefore they cannot possibly help those whom otherwise they could strengthen and bless. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 12)

We all have hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong. In different members of the human family peculiar characteristics appear, which are the result of education and training. Some of these phases of character are of an objectionable stamp. If one who possesses peculiarities of disposition cannot see the evil results of cherishing and strengthening them, he will surely come to believe that these evils are virtues, when in reality they are like parasites, sapping and destroying his spirituality. Their growth in his soul will kill the growth of grace in other souls; for because others do not accommodate themselves to his peculiar tone of spirituality, he treats them as sinners. How much better it would be for every one to cultivate that faith which works by love and purifies the soul of its evil tendencies. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 13)

We should earnestly and determinedly take up the work of overcoming hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong, making daily progress in the spiritual warfare by gaining daily victories. Let us all engage in an earnest, determined effort to form a pure and undefiled character. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 14)

Those who have had many advantages and privileges need now as never before to understand their own peculiar temperament and disposition, and to see themselves in the light of eternity. They need to begin the war against selfishness, and by the strength that God has given, overcome difficulties, bringing themselves into right relation to Him. Every one will then be very sparing in his condemnation of others, and will seek to gain his reward by trying to help those who need help. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 15)

An undue estimation of one’s own perfections reveals that such an one has imperfections of character that have not been overcome. This is why he is suspicious of others. The Lord calls upon such ones to change their religious experience at once. He calls upon us all individually, whatever our profession or calling, to be Christlike. The Great Teacher says, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:48.] Shall we not place ourselves under close examination and discipline, and train ourselves to come under gospel rule as probationers, that we may form a character that will stand the test of the crucible in which all dross is consumed? (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 16)

It is when we realize that we must individually form a character for the future life that we comprehend that a true religious life necessitates growth in grace. When the heart is illuminated by the Sun of Righteousness, we shall see the necessity of taking ourselves in hand. We shall weed from the garden of the heart the evils that make the character defective. We shall deal sternly with self. With the closest introspection we shall make a careful examination of our temperament and our weaknesses of character. We should deal with our perverse dispositions decidedly and bravely, so that we shall not dishonor God. We need not carry the defects of early life into the manhood and womanhood of our Christian experience. We should leave childish things behind. “Ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] He is working upon you. And in order to grow in grace and attain perfection of character, you must co-operate with Him. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 17)

How thankful we should be that the Lord is willing to accept the human agent who exercises repentance toward God and faith in Jesus Christ! Let us never place bars in the way of any soul, so that he will not have courage to engage in the good warfare against Satan’s temptations. God has placed every one on his honor to deal faithfully and truly with the defects in his own character, to carry on the warfare against self. Every one should therefore make sure that Christ is abiding in his heart by faith. This is a question of personal righteousness. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 18)

When conquered, self is hid with Christ in God. It is through the unseen struggles of the “inner man” [Ephesians 3:16] for supremacy, that the world is to be conquered. The crucifixion of fleshly lusts gives the human agent mastery over the devil. “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 19)

In the forty-ninth chapter of Isaiah is described the way by which Christlike attributes of character may be obtained. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 20)

“Listen, O isles, unto me; and hearken, ye people, from far; The Lord hath called me from the womb; from the bowels of my mother hath he made mention of my name. And he hath made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of his hand hath he hid me, and made me a polished shaft; in his quiver hath he hid me; and said unto me, Thou art my servant, O Israel, in whom I will be glorified. Then I said, I have labored in vain, I have spent my strength for nought, and in vain: yet surely my judgment is with the Lord, and my work with my God. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 21)

“And now, saith the Lord that formed me from the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob again to him, Though Israel be not gathered, yet shall I be glorious in the eyes of the Lord, and my God shall be my strength. And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth. Thus saith the Lord, the Redeemer of Israel, and his Holy One, to him whom man despiseth, to him whom the nation abhorreth, to a servant of rulers, Kings shall see and arise, princes also shall worship, because of the Lord that is faithful, and the Holy One of Israel, and he shall choose thee. Thus saith the Lord, In an acceptable time have I heard thee, and in a day of salvation have I helped thee: and I will preserve thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, to establish the earth, to cause to inherit the desolate heritages; that thou mayest say to the prisoners, Go forth; to them that are in darkness, Show yourselves. They shall feed in the ways, and their pastures shall be in all high places. They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for he that hath mercy on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall he guide them. And I will make all my mountains a way, and my highways shall be exalted. Behold, these shall come from far: and, lo, these from the north and from the west; and these from the land of Sinim. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 22)

“Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; and break forth into singing, O mountains: for the Lord hath comforted his people, and will have mercy upon his afflicted. But Zion said, The Lord hath forsaken me, and my Lord hath forgotten me. Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee. Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands; thy walls are continually before me. Thy children shall make haste; thy destroyers and they that made thee waste shall go forth of thee. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 23)

“Lift up thine eyes round about, and behold: all these gather themselves together, and come to thee. As I live, saith the Lord, thou shalt surely clothe thee with them all, as with an ornament, and bind them on thee, as a bride doeth. For thy waste and thy desolate places, and the land of thy destruction, shall even now be too narrow by reason of the inhabitants, and they that swallowed thee up shall be far away. The children which thou shalt have, after thou hast lost the other, shall say again in thine ears, The place is too strait for me: give place to me that I may dwell. Then shalt thou say in thine heart, Who hath begotten me these, seeing I have lost my children, and am desolate, a captive, and removing to and fro? and who hath brought up these? Behold, I was left alone; these, where had they been? Thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I will lift up mine hand to the Gentiles, and set up my standard to the people: and they shall bring thy sons in their arms, and thy daughters shall be carried upon their shoulders. And kings shall be thy nursing fathers, and their queens thy nursing mothers: they shall bow down to thee with their face toward the earth, and lick up the dust of thy feet; and thou shalt know that I am the Lord: for they shall not be ashamed that wait for me. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 24)

“Shall the prey be taken from the mighty, or the lawful captive delivered? But thus saith the Lord, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children. And I will feed them that oppress thee with their own flesh; and they shall be drunken with their own blood, as with sweet wine: and all flesh shall know that I the Lord am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob.” [Verses 1-26.] (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 25)

Are these things true, or is God tantalizing His people? God is true and righteous. We shudder at the thought of God’s being like an erring man. Concerning Himself He says, “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, 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. For I will not contend for ever, neither will I be always wroth: for the spirit should fail before me, and the souls which I have made. For the iniquity of his covetousness was I wroth, and smote him: I hid me, and was wroth, and he went on frowardly in the way of his heart. I have seen his ways, and will heal him: I will lead him also, and restore comforts unto him and to his mourners. I create the fruit of the lips; Peace, peace to him that is far off, and to him that is near, saith the Lord; and I will heal him. But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt. There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked.” [Isaiah 57:15-21.] (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 26)

“Then came the word of the Lord of hosts unto me, saying, Speak unto all the people of the land, and to the priests, saying, When ye fasted and mourned in the fifth and seventh month, even those seventy years, did ye at all fast unto me, even to me? And when ye did eat, and when ye did drink, did not ye eat for yourselves, and drink for yourselves? Should ye not hear the words which the Lord hath cried by the former prophets, when Jerusalem was inhabited and in prosperity, and the cities thereof round about her, when men inhabited the south and the plain?” [Zechariah 7:4-7.] (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 27)

Shall we not take heed to these admonitions, and set our souls in order? The Lord will not serve with any man’s sins. Let everyone take his case in hand, setting things in order. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 28)

Let every man realize that he is to be worked by the Holy Spirit. Christ said: “Nevertheless, I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: of sin, because they believe not on me; of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more; of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged. I have yet 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; for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come. He shall glorify me; for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you. All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall show it unto you.” [John 16:7-15.] (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 29)

To all who hear my testimony in New York City, I testify that the words which are written in this testimony are of a surety appropriate to this people. Open the door of the heart to Jesus Christ. Let Him come in and take possession of the entire being. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 30)

As the Lord’s commandment-keeping people, do you not wish to glorify His name? Then let every worker walk humbly before Him. Come down from your position of self-exaltation, and seek the Lord with all your heart, and soul, and strength, and mind. Will you allow Jesus of Nazareth to pass by without receiving the blessing He offers you? God calls upon you to search your hearts and to set in order things that ought to have been set in order before this time. Prepare the King’s highway. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 31)

“And the word of the Lord came unto Zechariah, saying, Thus speaketh the Lord of hosts, saying, Execute true judgment, and show mercy and compassions every man to his brother, and oppress not the widow, nor the fatherless, the stranger, nor the poor; and let none of you imagine evil against his brother in your heart.” [Zechariah 7:8-10.] (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 32)

What excellent advice is this! Did the wayward people heed it? “But they refused to hearken, and pulled away the shoulder, and stopped their ears, that they should not hear. Yea, they made their hearts as an adamant stone, lest they should hear the law, and the words which the Lord of hosts hath sent in his spirit by the former prophets: therefore came a great wrath from the Lord of hosts. Therefore it is come to pass, that as he cried, and they would not hear; so they cried, and I would not hear, saith the Lord of hosts: but I scattered them with a whirlwind among all the nations whom they knew not. Thus the land was desolate after them, that no man passed through nor returned: for they laid the pleasant land desolate.” [Verses 11-14.] (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 33)

Among the shepherds of God’s flock there must be no rivalry. “And I scattered them among the heathen, and they were dispersed through the countries: according to their way and according to their doings I judged them. And when they entered unto the heathen, whither they went, they profaned my holy name, when they said to them, These are the people of the Lord, and are gone forth out of his land.” [Ezekiel 36:19, 20.] They imitated the practices that were displeasing to God. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 34)

“But I had pity for mine holy name, which the house of Israel had profaned among the heathen, whither they went. Therefore say unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord God; I do not this for your sakes, O house of Israel, but for mine holy name’s sake, which ye have profaned among the heathen, whither ye went. And I will sanctify my great name, which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I am the Lord, saith the Lord God, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes. For I will take you from among the heathen, and gather you out of all countries, and will bring you into your own land. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 35)

“Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God.” [Verses 21-28.] Blessed reconciliation! (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 36)

The Lord has set His face toward His people in New York City. In every God-fearing heart there should be a determined purpose that in New York City the truth shall go forth as a lamp that burneth. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 37)

In our large cities a decided effort should be made to work in unity. In the spirit and fear of God the laborers should unite as one man, working with strength and with earnest zeal. There should be no sensational efforts, no strife. Let there be seen practical repentance, true sympathy, hearty co-operation, and decided emulation of one another in the grand, earnest effort to learn lessons of self-denial and self-sacrifice by saving perishing souls from death. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 38)

The plagues of the Lord God of hosts are in our world. Men and women are perishing in consequence of the judgments that have been sent by Him, because they do not take heed to His works and ways. Nevertheless they do not say, Because of our sins the Lord has done this. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 39)

The Lord has provided a remedy, which is now in the hands of His commandment-keeping people. If the members of God’s true church will do their appointed work, they will bring about the recovery of many who otherwise would be destroyed. But they must now begin to work and make an application of the divine remedy. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 40)

Decided efforts must now be made. The standard must be uplifted between the dead and the living. For all to take the standard of the dead in order to preserve harmony would be poor policy. That which the church can do in the strength of the Lord God of Israel, she must do. Those who are lukewarm will be spued out of the mouth of God as nauseating; for while professing to believe the truth, they do not practice it. But let there be those who are living a more wholesome life, performing praiseworthy works. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 41)

Unless the church repents of her negligence and humbles herself before God, she need not expect to see signal victories in the large cities that have so long been neglected. She has kept concealed the sacred truth that has been in her hands for so long a time, failing to use it to God’s glory as a remedy to restore in the fallen world the image of God so nearly effaced by His plagues; and she should now lay herself upon the altar of service and work to the uttermost of her strength to save a perishing world. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 42)

The privileges of the Christian are set forth in the first chapter of Ephesians. Paul addresses his letter to “the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the faithful in Christ Jesus,” and writes: (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 43)

“Grace be to you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: according as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: that in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: in whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: that we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of his power to usward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: and hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.” [Verses 1-23.] (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 44)

We have a testing message to bear to the world. No longer are we to neglect to do the work that should have been done long ago. Now as never before should we feel travail of soul for the salvation of people perishing in sin and ignorance. God now calls for men and women to come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty. He calls upon His commandment-keeping people to lift up His standard, and in faith achieve victories. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 45)

The Seventh-day Adventist Church must now repent and heed the message to the Laodicean church. “These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God: I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: 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. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: 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. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. 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. 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. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” [Revelation 3:14-22.] (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 46)

What shall I do? is the inquiry now to be made. Shall I strive for the supremacy? No, no, no! If you will now see that you have grieved the Holy Spirit of Christ, if you will now come into working order and do homage to the Holy Spirit in the office that it holds in the plan of redemption, you will be able to work in co-operation with God. Only in this way can you do honor to Christ’s great work, for it is through His mediation that to human agencies are imparted the direct influences of the Holy Spirit to give power to prayer and to entreaty in a united effort to save souls ready to perish. Christians who love Christ will plead for the conversion of souls. It is this first love that so many have lost. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 47)

Before the true reformer, the medical missionary work will open many doors. We are God’s agencies, appointed to serve Him by doing earnest, thorough medical missionary work. You need not wait until you are called to some distant, prominent missionary field before beginning to help others. Wherever you are, you can begin at once. Opportunities are within the reach of every one. Take up the work that should be done in your neighborhood, for which you are held responsible. Wait not for others to urge you to take advance steps. Move without delay, bearing in mind your individual responsibility to Him who gave His life for you. Move as if you heard Christ calling upon you personally to awake out of sleep and to exert every God-given faculty in doing the utmost in His service. Look not to see who else is ready to catch inspiration from the Word of the living God. If you are thoroughly consecrated, through your instrumentality He will bring into the truth others whom He can use as channels to convey light to many souls in darkness. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 48)

In the great cities many agencies are to be set at work. Those who are so situated that they cannot act a part in personal labor may interest themselves in bearing the expenses of a laborer who can go. Let not our brethren and sisters make excuses for not engaging in earnest work. No practical Christian lives to himself. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 49)

Many frame excuses when they ought not to do so. Some say, “My home duties, my children, claim my time and my means. It takes all the money I can save to furnish them with funds.” Parents, your children should be your helping hand, increasing your power and ability to be earnest workers for the Master. Mothers, have you neglected your God-given responsibility of multiplying agencies for the service of Christ? (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 50)

Children are the younger members of the Lord’s family. They should be led to consecrate themselves entirely to God, whose they are by creation and by redemption. They should be trained to be serviceable helpers in the various lines of work that they have to do. They should be taught that all their powers of body, mind, and soul are the Lord’s. Parents should not allow children to be hindrances. With their parents, the children should share spiritual as well as physical burdens. Line upon line and precept upon precept, they should be taught to serve the precious Saviour. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 51)

Parents have a sacred responsibility also to teach their children to dress economically. By helping others, children increase their own happiness and usefulness. Keep a little money box on the mantle or in some safe place where it can be seen, in which the children can place their offerings for the Lord. Let the younger members of the family bear in mind that they are to be helpers in the Lord’s work. Thus they may be trained for God. This is a grand work for time and for eternity. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 52)

God wants the children of all believers to be trained from their earliest years to share the burdens that their parents must bear in caring for them. To them is given a portion of the home for their rooms, and the right and privilege of having a place at the family board. God requires parents to feed and clothe their children. But the obligations of parents and children are mutual. On their part children are required to respect and honor their parents. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 53)

“Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.” [Exodus 20:12.] Christ said, “For God commanded, saying, Honor thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.” [Matthew 15:4.] He repeated the injunction that is thus given in the Old Testament Scriptures: “And he that curseth his father, or his mother, shall surely be put to death.” [Exodus 21:17.] Solomon said, “Whoso curseth his father or his mother, his lamp shall be put out in obscure darkness.” [Proverbs 20:20.] (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 54)

How are children to be taught what it means to honor their father and their mother in obedience to the commandment? Parents must diligently teach God’s commandments to them, instructing them line upon line, precept upon precept. Those who search the Scriptures understand that this sacred duty has been enjoined upon all parents. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 55)

“Now these are the commandments, the statutes, and the judgments, which the Lord your God commanded to teach you, that ye might do them in the land whither ye go to possess it: that thou mightest fear the Lord thy God, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, which I command thee, thou, and thy son, and thy son’s son, all the days of thy life; and that thy days may be prolonged. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 56)

“Hear therefore, O Israel, and observe to do it; that it may be well with thee, and that ye may increase mightily, as the Lord God of thy fathers hath promised thee, in the land that floweth with milk and honey. Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord: and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes.” [Deuteronomy 6:1-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 57)

Instruction should be given as God has directed. Patiently, carefully, mercifully, diligently, children should be trained. Upon all parents rests the obligation of giving their children physical, mental, and moral instruction. It is essential to keep ever before children the claims of God. The religious training should in no case be neglected. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 58)

The physical education, the development of the human organism, can be given far more easily than can the spiritual education. To the physical training belong the nursery, the playground, the workshop, the field, the sowing of seed, and the gathering of the harvest. Under nearly all circumstances a child naturally gains healthful vigor and a proper development of the physical organs. Yet even in physical lines the child should be carefully trained. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 59)

But the higher soul-culture, which gives purity and elevation to the thoughts and a spiritual fragrance to words and actions, requires careful, painstaking effort. It takes patience to keep every evil motive weeded from the garden of the Lord. In endeavoring to win hearts to Christ, we should employ measures of love. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 60)

The highest duty of parents is to give to their children a religious training. When parents fail of doing this, the future life of their children bears testimony to their neglect. To allow a child to follow his natural impulses means that he will deteriorate and become proficient in evil. The neglect of training begins to reveal itself in childhood. In early youth a selfish temper is developed; and as the youth grows to manhood, he grows in sin. A continual testimony against the neglect of parents is borne by children who have been permitted to follow ways of their own choosing. Such a downward course can be prevented only by bringing to bear influences that will counteract evil. From infancy to youth and from youth to manhood, the child should be under influences for good. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 61)

In that great day when every case is settled, many parents will be convicted by the charges of their children, who went to ruin because of their neglect to restrain them. (16LtMs, Ms 128, 1901, 62)

Ms 129, 1901

Continuation of the Situation in the Southern Field
South Lancaster, Massachusetts
December 7, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in CD 52; LHU 321; VSS 151-152. +

The Lord calls upon men who claim to believe the truth to show a zeal proportionate to the great truth they profess. Bible truth is the test and proving of souls for this time. Those in the South who know the truth are in great need of a thorough conversion. I am instructed to say that the religious sentiments must be adjusted to work in different lines. The work neglected brings the denunciation of God upon a large number who are not doing the work God has given them to do. The Laodicean message is appropriate for a very large portion of those who claim to believe present truth. There are many receivers of light who do not accumulate by trading upon their talents. They are neither cold nor hot. “I would,” said Christ our Saviour, “thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.” [Revelation 3:15, 16.] (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 1)

Whoever now claims to believe the truth will show how much he believes it by the Bible test—revealing the principles of our holy faith in his life. It is the eternal law of Jehovah that whosoever has the truth, the last message of mercy to a fallen world, will be wide awake to proclaim that testing message to those who have not a knowledge of it. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 2)

If those in the Southern field wait to see a large work accomplished, and do not invest first themselves and then their self-sacrificing efforts, with much prayer and daily consecration, they will be disappointed. God cannot use men while they do not sincerely co-operate with the ones whom God has accepted because they gave themselves to do all possible to make a beginning. Will God look with favor upon their finding fault whenever things do not go in accordance with their ideas? (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 3)

There has been with the responsible men a blocking of the way, and throughout the Southern field men have stood with stones in their hands to put before the car wheels, instead of behind them, when the men who have tried to do something were trying to push the car uphill. When the hand of God has through unseen agencies opened the way, influences have been exercised by unconverted men to propose suggestions and theories to block the way and sow the seeds of jealousies and evil surmisings. The Lord can do without these men. The message He would have them give He can give to the stones of the field to proclaim, for this is the very work that prophecy has pointed out shall be done. Why do not these men take some part of the field and go to work themselves? Why do they show their willingness to do all in their power to hinder? Let every man in the South do to the uttermost of his ability rather than let this work continue to be neglected, bringing dishonor to God. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 4)

I wish now to urge these important matters of truth upon you, that you may be impressed in a decided manner, for your eternal happiness depends upon your submission and obedience to the words of Jesus Christ, to work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. “As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me.” Now the explanation: “It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” [John 6:57, 63.] Connect these words with (John 15), and we can better understand their meaning: “Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.” [Verse 3.] Will we understand? (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 5)

All who abide in Christ will reveal the same spirit which Christ possessed. Whoever is converted to God, and made a partaker through faith of the Spirit and love of Christ, is set apart to do the same works that Christ did. They lose their identity in Christ, become one with Christ. They have a knowledge of the plan of salvation. This is found by searching the Word of God diligently, receiving the Word as the leaves of the tree of life and eating them, that there may be an appetite for the Word which, eaten and digested in the religious life, is eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of God. There must be an appetite created in the newborn soul for that bread which came down from heaven, which, if a man eat thereof, he shall never die. Our physical health is maintained by that which we eat; if our appetites are not under the control of a sanctified mind, if we are not temperate in all our eating and drinking, we shall not be in a state of mental and physical soundness to study the Word with a purpose to learn what saith the Scripture—what shall I do to inherit eternal life? Any unhealthful habit will produce an unhealthful condition in the system, and the delicate, living machinery of the stomach will be injured and will not be able to do its work properly. The diet has much to do with the disposition to enter into temptation and commit sin. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 6)

“They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. 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. And the glory [character] 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.” [John 17:16-23.] (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 7)

What a wonderful prayer was this! Consider it carefully, study every word, lest you lose the impression, which is of the greatest importance to all who are striving for salvation. All who have this word of possibilities, which reveals our positive privilege of being in covenant relation with God, but do not avail themselves of this privilege, will have to answer in that great day for their non-improvement of this greatest gift placed within their reach. I say, had they repented, God would have given the people confidence in their work since the Conference. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 8)

The Lord is working. The salvation of His striving people is promised to the Saviour. “Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power.” [Psalm 110:3.] The Source of all divine agencies gives an energy to souls by His Holy Spirit, whereby He works in the children of disobedience, causing the dead in trespasses and sins to become transformed, to put away their sins and live to Christ. The men heretofore blinded by the enemy may see the worldliness in believers, and they will be disgusted at its truly hideous character in the light of Christ’s divine glory and beauty through the revealing of the truth as it is in Jesus. It is the light of life. It is a soul-energizing light. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 9)

Let God’s Spirit work with all who are at Nashville, but let no man try to work the Holy Spirit. I wish you to have no murmuring. I wish you, my son, to cast no reflection upon the men at the head of responsibilities in Battle Creek, although guilt has rested upon the managers in the past, for it is not your work to do this. If you have words of encouragement to speak, then speak; if not, then keep silent. And I have a word from the Lord, that you grieve not the Holy Spirit of God by expressions and feelings because your soul is bruised, and you feel the need of more means to advance the work. If you are tied up in hard places for the want of means, carry the whole business to God, for men who moved so darkly, unless transformed, will never see all things clearly. The treasury is depleted, and when letter after letter comes calling for means to meet emergencies, what can they do but feel discouraged? If you were in their place, you would perhaps feel as nervous and disturbed as they do. It is not the Lord that has brought things around, through lack of principle and dishonesty in dealing, so that the people have no courage and faith. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 10)

Then let your words be carefully chosen, choice words, clean words, pure words, fraught with Christian sympathy and love. Then you will not bruise souls already smarting under the results of their own course of action, but give strength. Silence is often eloquence. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 11)

I see everywhere I go men chafing under their need of help from the Conference, but very few will do as they should do—strip for the race and harness for the battle. But when they have no help to give, can you not see it galls the soul? They placed themselves just where they are, and the sure result has come, and they suppose they must fasten the guilt on some one. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 12)

We all need to learn in the school of Christ meekness and lowliness of heart, then we shall find restfulness in the wearing of Christ’s yoke and the lifting of Christ’s burdens, and can say that His yoke is easy and His burdens light. The Lord would have you all forbearing. Cease your murmuring. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 13)

Brother Evans has need of your prayers and your sympathies. He has been like a man dazed, and these reproaches will not be health to his soul until the converting power of God takes hold of him, and he is born again. I have pity and deep sympathy for Brother Evans and all who are connected with him. We want him to know that God will sustain every action that is in accordance with His will, and we want him to work himself out on right lines. God alone knows the full wretchedness of His people in all their present circumstances. They might have been corrected had they received the Word of the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 14)

Let all in Nashville seek the Lord in prayer. Let all bear in mind that there is help to come from those whom God has helped to be a blessing to others when no one lifted the burden. I have hired money on which I pay interest, but I will not utter a word of complaint, although I am often tempted of the enemy to do this. When there is not money in the treasury, it cannot be paid out. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 15)

There is help for us in God, and the Lord has means which are in the hands of His stewards. It may be wealthy unbelievers will be moved upon to return means to the Lord which is His own. There have been men and women moved to advance the work in New York City. Men not of our faith, yet favorable, have helped in many ways, and we are praying and expecting that they will help more. The Lord wants us to learn our lessons of humiliation, and then we will also learn our lessons of encouragement. The eyes of the mind will become enlightened as [one] sees how feeble he is to bring about favorite schemes upon which his mind is set. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 16)

At this time do not write or speak one word of censure or recrimination to any one, notwithstanding it may appear to you they are justly deserved. Brother Evans is seeking to carry out the light God has given to reduce the wages of some that were getting twenty dollars. If this had been done at an earlier date, the miserable trash that has come from the press would have been cut off, for it dishonored God. But they would not work for less wages, and quite a number left, so he has had to perform the work which they refused to do. Shall we say this was unwise in Brother Evans? No. We cannot avert the crisis, but let it not crush out the life and courage of the one who is trying to do what he can in a case of emergency. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 17)

I am glad the Lord knows the full measure of all the trials He permits to come upon His tried and tested people. In Christ we will say, There is help for us in God. The dreadful impossibilities that lie in the way, the Lord can and will remove. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 18)

The Lord knows all about those men who have left the office and their positions of trust, and He will deal with them in His wisdom. But let not one word of discouragement come from the lips of any in Nashville. God in His providence has given you advantages for the publication and sale of books. Thank Him for this. You will soon be able to handle my books with facility. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 19)

While I feel all the interest in the Southern field that I have ever felt, I must consider when the great State of New York is presented before me, and also New York City with all that it embraces. I see this field as another portion of the Lord’s neglected vineyard. The sight presented to me is what brought me from St. Helena. I see now that the present is the time to work this field and all that it embraces. New Jersey and Brooklyn, with their suburbs, are all embraced. I was so glad we had a hall which could accommodate seven hundred people on Sabbath and first day. There had been a good work done to purge away dissension and strife, and to unify the people of God, that the work might be performed here in the spirit of love and unity, that God might be glorified. This people are to bear to the world in their unity the credentials that God hath sent His Son. Then do not let any one feel it to be a virtue to stand constantly as accusers, after the testimony God has given has come to His people. Let all read John 17:26. Study constantly how much consequence and eternal importance is given to this unity specified in the prayer of Christ for His disciples. How shall this prayer be answered? Only by every sincere believer’s putting away all evil thinking, all evil expressions. (Verse 21): “That they all may be one.” That means that we are to feel that we are under claims to Jesus Christ to will to do the expressed will of God. “That they all may be one: as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that the world may know that thou hast sent me. And the glory (character) which thou gavest me I have given them: that they may be one, even as we are one.” [Verses 21, 22.] (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 20)

Who can comprehend such a statement as this? Is it deeper and broader than our faith can reach? “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 has loved me.” [Verse 23.] Can we comprehend such largeness of expression? How can these things be? many may ask. Wonderful, amazing condescension and love for fallen humanity! It is the privilege of every one meeting these great, deep, and far-reaching expressions. “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.... 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.” [Verses 16-18, 24-26.] (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 21)

This is our work—constantly to cherish love and not hatred in our hearts. (John 15:17): “These things I command you, that ye love one another.” (Verse 14): “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” Who can look into the heart of this great mystery, and find it to be love, without catching the same spirit, and binding up his very life and soul with Christ in God, without feeling it thrill through every faculty of his soul? The voice that makes this last prayer for His disciples is the voice of Christ our Redeemer. Does not that voice thrill through every faculty of your soul? That love expressed throws open to us the gates of Paradise. Henceforth the surrendered soul lives in complete harmony with God. The Spirit has taken the things of Christ and shown them unto us with so transforming an effect that we become new creatures in Christ Jesus. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 22)

“Ye are not your own. For ye are bought with a price.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] Every part and property of the human nature is the Lord’s, paid for by the precious blood of Jesus. Then what we are to show is respect and kindness and love to all who love God. They may not always please our taste or meet our comprehension, but although there is a difference in expression of character, we must press together in the unity of Christian fellowship. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 23)

I will not prolong this letter. I have much to say to James Edson White and Brother Palmer. I would have you always to be found workers on the plan of God’s love. We are to fit ourselves with the selfsame spirit that was in Christ Jesus. Christ is working for us; will we work for Christ in His lines? Children, cultivate patience and faith and hope. May the Lord increase our joy of faith in this ever-living Intercessor. Try to let no day pass in which you fail to realize your accountability to God through the sacrifice of His only begotten Son. Jesus does not receive glory from any one who is an accuser of the brethren. Let not a day pass that we are not healing and restoring old wounds. Cultivate love, and let no words of evil surmising escape our lips. Close this door quickly, and keep it closed; open the door where Christ presides, and keep it open, because we know the value of Christ’s sacrifice and His unchangeable love. Drink in the ever-refreshing waters of life from the wells of Lebanon, but refuse the murky waters from the valley—the dark, suspicious feelings. There is much truthfulness in the cause, but shall we spoil our fragrance of spirit because others clothe themselves with bitterness? God forbid. There is not one tithe of the imaginings of evil that is worth the time we give to consider it and repeat it. Cut away from our speech all severity; talk sweetly; and hold your confidence in Jesus firmly. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 24)

We have an ever-living Advocate who is making intercession for us. Then let us become advocates in principle in behalf of those who err. “And having an high priest over the house of God [here is His intercession in our behalf]; let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering.” He is a “faithful high priest in things pertaining to God.” [Hebrews 10:21-23; 2:17.] (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 25)

Then as He is working for us, let us work just as earnestly and interestedly to promote union with one another. Christ prayed that we might be of that same nature and oneness as that existing between Himself and His Father. Try in everything we do to secure confidence and love one for another, and thus we will answer the prayer of Christ Jesus. Reports will be made because it is habit to make them, but do not stop to turn off a mass of dead rubbish. Not all our suppositions and our ideas of our brethren are correct; neither are you, Brethren White and Palmer, to admit a wrong when God has not charged you with wrong. Let us put away these ugly supposings and imaginings, keep close on the side of Christ, and think of the rich encouragement He has given us, that we may in our turn give to others. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 26)

There are many more who need a medical missionary hand held out to them than we suppose. There are many fainting souls to whom kind, compassionate, sympathizing words would be like a cup of cold water to a thirsting soul. Are you doing Christ service in succoring depressed and weary souls? “For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee. And again, I will put my trust in him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me.” [Verses 10-13.] There is Christ’s work and the work of His disciples completely mingled. He suffered, being tempted, therefore He always sympathizes with the tempted ones whom Satan is seeking to destroy. Christ was made like unto His brethren in all things for this very purpose. “Who can have compassion on the ignorant and on them that are out of the way; for that he himself also is compassed about with infirmities.” [Hebrews 5:2.] He is therefore acquainted with all our perplexities. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 27)

Then shall we think it becomes us as children of God to be so ready to complain? Certainly we greatly weaken and endanger our souls by so doing. Has not your experience in the assurance that God has gone before you been sufficient to prove to you that false reports are not placed in the books of heaven as truth? Close the door of the ears from hearing complaints. Close the door of the heart that prejudice may not take possession of our souls. Let envy and jealousy be quenched in the flow of love from the fountain of God’s love. The cry of them that are ready to perish finds swift entrance into His ear. “He shall deliver the needy when he crieth, the poor also and him that hath no helper.” [Psalm 72:12.] (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 28)

Let not your hearts become discouraged. The Lord Jesus would have us trust fully in Him, and bear patiently delays we cannot help. The Lord Jesus remembers every word which He has given in encouragement for His redeemed children to trust in Him, for He is ever mindful of His covenant. Many things will come as tests and trials, but keep the door of the lips from hastily spoken words that may be very displeasing to the Lord; they hurt the soul of the speaker. The Lord’s Word will never fail; He is not glorified by complaining and faultfinding and suspicions that are unjust. (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 29)

Speech is a wonderful talent. How much more will God be glorified with pleasant speech of, or in regard to, His blood-bought heritage, than with faultfinding. Clouds will come; wicked speech will come from those who are enemies of the truth, to oppress the righteous; but never let haughty and accusing words come from any believers against other believers. Have we not enough of God’s tokens and blessings to keep our mouth filled with thanksgiving and praise, and glorify Him? Will you be justified in uttering expressions of ill feeling and ill repute against those whom we suppose have erred? Have we never made any mistakes ourselves? Have we never been in the slough of despond? God help us to bear in mind how hard it is when tempted of the devil to have our own brethren step on the side of the devil and try to hurt and destroy. When tempted to speak words of faultfinding, begin to sing, “Praise ye the Lord. I will praise the Lord with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation” of the righteous. “The works of his hands are verity and judgment, all his commandments are sure.... The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. A good understanding have all they that do his commandments. His praise endureth forever.... Unto the upright there ariseth light in darkness. He is gracious and full of compassion and righteousness.” [Psalm 111:1, 7, 10; 112:4.] (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 30)

There is to be a great reformation in all our churches in regard to evil surmisings, evil feelings, and speech against one another. They create many stumbling blocks over which sinners stumble to perdition. Many things are misjudged and many words are dropped that are creating great disturbance that should not exist at all. Many things are imagined that have no foundation in truth. Let those with whom the Lord in His compassion has dealt mercifully say, “Not one good thing has failed me, of all that the Lord hath spoken.” [See Joshua 23:14.] “All the paths of the Lord are truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies.” [Psalm 25:10.] “All the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.” [2 Corinthians 1:20.] Let us open the door of the lips to speak words that are refreshing. In His love and in His pity He redeemed us, and shall we not impart to others the grace of God? (16LtMs, Ms 129, 1901, 31)

Ms 129a, 1901

Training Children for God’s Service
NP
December 24, 1901
Previously unpublished.

We shall now speak of a work that is left undone. In sending children to the common schools, parents are placing them under demoralizing influences—influences that corrupt morals, habits, ways, and manners. They are, as it were, being nurtured in a den of thieves, among corrupters of habits and practices. They receive instruction of such a character that they are trained to be enemies of Christ. They lose sight of true piety and virtue. The baneful influence of vile-hearted boys and girls who practice the most degrading habits—boys and girls who are experts in sin—permeates the schools and has a degrading power over innocent children. And the children playing on the street are also obtaining a training that thoughtless parents will sometime learn leads to recklessness and lawlessness. (16LtMs, Ms 129a, 1901, 1)

Arouse, parents! Your children have souls to save or to lose. Take your children out of the common schools. Place them in a school where God’s Word is made the foundation of all education. But are you sure that the children who have been instructed in vice, and who now attend a church school, will not in turn instruct the children who are uncorrupted? What will the end be? I should have the children and youth, who come to school, thoroughly, searchingly interviewed. Are they under control at home? Have they learned how to work? (16LtMs, Ms 129a, 1901, 2)

A reformation must take place in the homes of those who claim to believe the truth. Deep, earnest piety should be constantly manifested in the home. Let parents greatly enlarge their spiritual perceptions. Teach the children to do justice and judgment. In the home school, which is the first grade, the very best talent should be utilized. (16LtMs, Ms 129a, 1901, 3)

At an early age the minds of most children are very susceptible to impressions of good or evil. Even in infancy a child is affected by a sorrowful expression on the mother’s face. In a family where harsh, discordant, fretful, scolding words are spoken, a child will cry much, and upon its tender sensibilities are impressed the image and superscription of unhappiness and discord. (16LtMs, Ms 129a, 1901, 4)

Then, mothers, let your countenance be full of sunshine. Smile, if you can, and the infant’s mind and heart, so susceptible to cheerful impressions, will reflect the sunshine of your pleasant countenance, as the polished plate of an artist portrays the human features. Be sure, mothers, to have an indwelling Christ, so that upon your child’s expanding mind will be impressed the divine likeness. (16LtMs, Ms 129a, 1901, 5)

Ms 129b, 1901

A Call to Service
NP
ND, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in The Southern Watchman, 02/27/02, 03/06/02, 03/13/02.

The believers in the South are in need of a thorough conversion. The Lord calls upon them to show a zeal proportionate to the great truth they have accepted. The message to the Laodicean church is applicable to many of those who claim to believe present truth. They are neither cold nor hot. They have not been doing the work God has given them to do. Christ says to them, “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.” [Revelation 3:15, 16.] (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 1)

He who truly believes the truth will show the sincerity of his belief by revealing in his life the principles of the truth. This is the test by which God proves His followers. It is an eternal law of Jehovah that he who accepts the truth is to make it his first work to proclaim to the world the message of mercy and warning. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 2)

The work that is neglected brings the denunciation of God upon many. If those in the Southern field wait to see a large work accomplished without first giving themselves to the advancement of the cause of God, with much prayer and daily consecration, making self-sacrificing efforts for its advancement, they will be disappointed. God cannot use those who do not sincerely co-operate with the ones He has accepted, because they gave themselves to His work and did all they possibly could to make a beginning. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 3)

He does not look with pleasure on those who find fault when things do not move in accordance with their ideas. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 4)

The hand of God, working through unseen agencies, has opened the way for the advancement of the work in the Southern field. But some of the men in responsible positions have hindered the progress of this work. Throughout the field there have been men who have put stones before instead of behind the wheels of the car that the workers are trying to push uphill. Unconverted men have brought forward theories and suggestions that have sown seeds of jealousy and evil surmising. The Lord can do without such men, but it is for their interest to reform. The message He desires them to proclaim, He can, if they refuse, give to the stones of the field to proclaim. This message will be given to the world; for prophecy has pointed out this work as a work that must be accomplished. Why do some men do all in their power to hinder? Such men would better go to some hard part of the field and begin to work. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 5)

Few are willing to strip for the race, laying aside every weight, and the sin that so easily besets. Few are willing to gird themselves for the battle, putting on the whole armor of God. Let every believer in the South labor to the utmost of his ability from henceforth to advance the work. Let not this work continue to be neglected, bringing dishonor to God. I urge this matter upon you, that you may be impressed with its importance. On your submission to Christ and your obedience to His command to work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, and to labor unselfishly for the salvation of others, depends your present and future happiness. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 6)

Those who believe in Christ will reveal the same spirit that Christ revealed. Converted to God, made partakers of the spirit and love of the Saviour, they are set apart to do the same work that He did on this earth. They lose their identity in Christ, becoming one with Him. By searching the Word of God diligently, receiving it as the leaves of the tree of life, to be ministered to the people, they gain a knowledge of the plan of salvation. They learn from Jesus how to work successfully for others. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 7)

Christ says, “As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father; so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me.” Then comes the explanation, “It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” [John 6:57, 63.] Connecting these words with those found in the fifteenth chapter of John, “Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you” [Verse 3], we can better understand their meaning. Shall we understand? (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 8)

In the prayer Christ offered for His disciples just before His crucifixion, He said, “They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. 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. And 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.” [John 17:16-23.] (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 9)

What a wonderful prayer is this! Consider it carefully. Study every word, lest you fail of receiving the impression that God desires to make on your heart—an impression that is of the greatest importance to you. This prayer holds out before us our possibilities, showing that it is our privilege to live in covenant relation with God. Every one may understand these wonderful, far-reaching expressions, and appropriate to himself the rich promises they contain. Those who do not avail themselves of the blessings so graciously offered them, will be called upon in the day of the Lord to answer for their refusal to accept the great gift placed within their reach. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 10)

“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.” [Verse 23.] Can you comprehend this statement? Is it deeper and broader than your faith can reach? Do you ask, How can this be? It can; for God has said it, and He means every word He says. He will not change or alter the thing that has gone out of His lips. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 11)

“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.” [Verses 24-26.] (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 12)

The voice that utters this prayer is the voice of our Redeemer. Do not the tones thrill through every part of your being? (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 13)

The love of Christ has thrown open to us the gates of Paradise. Who can look into the heart of the great mystery of redemption, and find it to be love, without catching the same spirit that led Christ to die for sinners? As we think of His sacrifice, our life is bound up with His. A desire to serve Him takes possession of every fibre of our being. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 14)

The Lord is working. The Saviour has been promised the salvation of His people. “Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power.” [Psalm 110:3.] He who is the source of all power gives energy to souls by His Holy Spirit. His power is the light of life, a soul-energizing light. By His Spirit He works in the children of disobedience, raising to newness of life the dead in trespasses and sins, leading the transgressor to put away his sins and live the life of Christ. Henceforth the surrendered soul lives in harmony with God. The Spirit takes of the things of Christ, and shows them to him with so transforming an effect that he becomes a new man in Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 15)

*****

Let God’s Spirit work with all who are at Nashville, but let no man try to work the Holy Spirit. And let no words of murmuring be spoken. If you have words of encouragement to say, say them; but if not, keep silent. Silence is often eloquence. And I have a word from the Lord: Grieve not the Holy Spirit by giving expression to your feelings when you see the need of more means to advance the work, and your soul is grieved by the indifference of those who ought to help. If through lack of means you are brought into trying positions, carry the matter to God. When the treasury is empty, and when letter after letter comes calling for means to meet emergencies, the men at the heart of the work feel perplexed and discouraged. Let your words be carefully chosen words, choice and pure, fraught with love and sympathy. Then you will not bruise and wound the souls of your fellow workers. You will strengthen and encourage them. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 16)

The Lord desires His servants to show His forbearance in dealing with one another. Let not the workers in Nashville speak a word of recrimination or discouragement. In His providence God has given you facilities for the publication and sale of books. Thank Him for this. Let no word of evil-surmising escape your lips. Close the door quickly against this temptation, and keep it closed. God is dishonored by those who accuse their brethren. Open the heart to Christ’s forbearance. Refuse to drink the turbid, murky waters of the valley; drink only the water that flows from the refreshing streams of Lebanon. Let no day pass in which you do not realize your accountability to work for God—an accountability placed on you by the death of His Son in your behalf. Let not a day pass in which you do not try to heal the wounds that sin has made. Always be found working on the broad plan of God’s love. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 17)

“Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] Every part of the being is the Lord’s, paid for by the precious blood of Jesus. In dealing with one another, we are to remember this. We are to treat our fellow workers with respect and kindness and love; for they belong to Christ. They may not always please us. What they do may not always meet our ideas. Nevertheless we are to unite with them in Christian fellowship. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 18)

Think of the importance Christ places on unity. He prayed that the oneness existing between Him and His Father might exist among His followers, that the world might know that God had indeed sent His Son into the world to save sinners. How shall this prayer be answered? By every believer putting away all evil-thinking and evil-speaking. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 19)

Do not admit a wrong that God has not charged you with. But do not take time to contradict the false reports that are made. Shall we sacrifice our fragrance of spirit because others clothe themselves with bitterness? God forbid. Is it not sufficient for us to know that God does not record these false reports in the books of heaven as true? (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 20)

Do not speak or write a word of censure or recrimination, even though it may seem to you as if the censure were deserved. Refuse to listen to complaints. Close the heart against prejudice. Let envy be quenched in the flow of love from the fountain of God’s love. Evil imaginings are not worth the time so often given to thinking of and repeating them. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 21)

Many trials will come. But keep the door of the lips against hasty words, for such words, if spoken, hurt your own soul and are displeasing to the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 22)

There must be a reformation in our churches in regard to evil-thinking and evil-speaking. These sins are stumbling blocks over which sinners stumble to perdition. They cause men and women to be misunderstood and misjudged. They create disturbances that should never exist. God will not justify us in giving expression to ill-feeling against those whom we suppose have erred. Have we ourselves never made mistakes? Have we never been in the slough of despond? God help us to remember how hard it is, when tempted by the enemy, to have our own brethren step to his [the enemy's] side, and try to hurt and destroy. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 23)

When tempted to find fault, begin to sing, “Praise ye the Lord. I will praise the Lord with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation.... The works of His hands are verity and judgment, all his commandments are sure.... The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth forever.” [Psalm 111:1, 7, 10.] “Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous.” [Psalm 112:4.] (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 24)

*****

I am so glad that the Lord knows the full measure of the trials which He permits to come upon His people. There is help for us in God. The obstructions that seem to us like impossibilities, God can and will remove. He desires us to learn our lessons of humiliation, and in learning these, we shall learn lessons of encouragement. We shall be led to depend upon God as we see how unable we are to carry out His purposes in our own strength. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 25)

Let all the workers in Nashville seek the Lord in prayer. He has placed means in the hands of His stewards for the advancement of His work. Wealthy unbelievers will some of them be impressed to return to the Lord His own. God has led such ones to help the work in New York. Men not of our faith, but favorable to the truth, have helped in many ways, and we are praying and expecting that they will help still more. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 26)

While I feel all the interest in the Southern field that I have ever felt, I realize that there is much to be done in other parts of the vineyard. The State of New York has been presented before me, and also the greater City of New York, Brooklyn and Jersey City, and their suburbs. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 27)

Do not, at any trial that the Lord permits to come, give way to discouragement. Complaining and murmuring weaken the soul and dishonor God. Does it become us to be so ready with complaint? Are not the tokens of God’s love sufficient to fill our hearts with thanksgiving and praise? Jesus desires us to trust in Him, bearing patiently the delays we cannot help. He remembers every word He has spoken to lead His children to trust in Him. He is ever mindful of His covenant. His word will never fail. May the Lord increase our faith in our Intercessor! (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 28)

We are under obligation to will to do the will of God. By striving to be like the Saviour, we are to prepare ourselves for service. He is working for us. We have an Advocate in the heavenly courts, who is ever making intercession for us. The cry of the one ready to perish finds swift entrance to His ear. “He shall deliver the needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper.” [Psalm 72:12.] Shall we not work for Christ on the lines that He has marked out? Shall we not be advocates of those who are in need of help? “Having an high priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering.” [Hebrews 10:21-23.] (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 29)

“It became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings. For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all one; for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church I will sing praise unto thee.” [Hebrews 2:10-12.] (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 30)

Christ suffered, being tempted; therefore He always sympathizes with the tempted ones, whom Satan is seeking to destroy. That He might be a merciful and high priest, He was in all things made like those He came to help. He has compassion on the ignorant and on those who are out of the way; for when He was on this earth, He was compassed with infirmities. He is able to help us in our perplexities. As He works for us, let us work for one another, striving to promote unity and harmony. Let us reveal Christlike love for our fellow workers, acting in such a way that they will have full confidence in us. Think of the rich encouragement the Saviour has given us, which we in turn are to give to others. (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 31)

Many more than we suppose need a helping hand held out to them. There are many to whom words of compassion and sympathy would be as a cup of cold water to a thirsty soul. Are you doing Christ’s service by ministering to weary, discouraged fellow beings? (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 32)

Let those with whom the Lord has dealt so mercifully say, Not one good thing has failed, of all that the Lord has spoken. “All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies.” [Psalm 25:10.] God’s promises are Yea and Amen. Let us open the door of the lips to speak words of hope and courage to our fellow workers. In love and pity God has helped us. Shall we not impart His grace to others? (16LtMs, Ms 129b, 1901, 33)

Ms 130, 1901

“Sunday the 24th was a rainy ...”
South Lancaster, Massachusetts
November 27, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 16MR 188-205.

Sunday the 24th was a rainy, disagreeable day. I was surprised at the attendance in the hall in New York City. There was a very much larger number than we could reasonably expect. I spoke from 1 John 3. The Lord gave me freedom in speaking His word. The blessing of the Lord seemed to attend the word spoken. May the Lord bless the hearers. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 1)

We need now as never before to call attention to the words, “Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth.” [Isaiah 45:22.] What the Lord inscribed upon His temple was in perfect harmony with His plan. His invitation is to go forth to all places of the earth. Unlimited was His invitation of mercy. “My house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.” [Isaiah 56:7.] It shall proclaim that I am now on My throne, giving audience to the world. “Let the people praise thee, O God, let all the people praise thee.” “And let the whole earth be filled with his glory.” [Psalm 67:3; 72:19.] (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 2)

God calls upon you, O church, that have been blessed with the truth. Thus saith the Lord, This people have I formed for Myself. They shall show forth My praise. God has given the most sacred, solemn message of warning to His appointed agencies. They were His chosen representatives to an apostate world. It was an impossibility for the church to whom had been entrusted the greatest truths ever given to our world, to represent and maintain these truths, but by revealing themselves as a distinct existence, separate from the idolatrous nations that were deep in apostasy and idolatry, and thus presenting a character for excellence and entire obedience, teaching the highest standard of spirituality—far, far above all worldly policy and all idolatry. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 3)

How would it be possible to maintain their integrity for truth and righteousness, to the honor and glory of God, walking in their integrity, presenting to the world the divine benevolence of our God, but by co-operating with God, and becoming channels of light to all nations of the earth? Then what if they venture to lower the standard to a cheap level? The mission of Christ from the heavenly courts to His death upon the cross embraces in it the true, unchanging principle that should be developed in every mission that shall be entered upon and established by all who believe in Jesus Christ; through the grace and the gift of the Holy Spirit is the great promise to be fulfilled in the Christian endeavors of every company of believers associated together in church capacity. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 4)

From Christ’s mission to our world, all are to make it their Christian practice to exhibit to a world dead in trespasses and sins, the great and heavenly principles of the love of Christ for one another, although they are not assigned the same class of labor, but all working intelligently to advance the work in their line, to make their appointed work a success. The example of Christ can never be equaled, for the Saviour of the world worked out an example for every living creature in the world in regard to the principles of that heavenly country from which He came to set us all an example in obeying the laws of that better country, and the city He has builded for all who will be obedient to the laws of God, which laws represent His character. We know that Christ gave His life to make it possible in our humanity to meet the conditions that will give all an entrance into that city whose builder and maker is God. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 5)

Now cannot we see the obligations every soul is under who has decided to take the name of Christian, to set ourselves to the exalted possibility of answering the character of excellence in humanity, that we shall reveal Christ’s character in our works, showing that we are appointed His chosen representatives to an apostate world? “We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succored thee: behold, NOW is the accepted time; behold, NOW is the day of salvation)” 2 Corinthians 6:1, 2. Bear in mind the NOW is ever and ever the eternal NOW. There is no tomorrow that is ours. This whole chapter from the first verse to the last is of great importance. These conditions are scarcely thought of as principles that in no case should be neglected. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 6)

“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.” 2 Corinthians 7:1; 1 John 3:1-5. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 7)

The formation of the Christian church, and the union of all that it embraces, and preserving the consecration of all its powers as the appointed agencies of God, for the spiritual recovery of the moral image of God in man, was the object of Christ’s assuming human nature. Christ was the foundation of the whole Jewish economy, which was the symbol prescribed in type for the religious faith and obedience of all people. The Lord is not pleased with the indifference in recognizing the sacredness of the service of God, when the sample of what a church should be in all its instrumentality, its entire consecration in service, with a decided spirituality and zeal and exactitude in all service concerning the worship of God and exalted religious privileges, are to be treated in far greater reverence in all service; since we have the example of the great Founder of all the religious economy, should not we as a Christian people, in all our religious Christian worship, take in the lessons given and express a greater devotedness, which God requires in all who believe in Christ as type has met antitype in the giving of Himself to die on Calvary’s cross? His resurrection from the dead, His full and ample promise to His disciples just before His ascension to heaven escorted by the heavenly throng in triumph to the city of God, we now have assurance of a living Saviour, our Advocate in the heavenly courts, and the promise made (Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15-20; Luke 24:44-53). (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 8)

With all this great transaction of Christ’s actual life-sacrifice to redeem the world, and His promises to devote Himself to the work, with His promise of blessing all who with entire consecration, and imparting all blessings to those who believe according to His promise, our religious spirituality and zeal should show after the evidences given us as far superior to any they expected from the Jewish nation, as the sun is superior to the moon, as far as redemption and our exalted religious principles are concerned. God requires of all His believing people a far superior devotedness in the perfect consecration of the individual soul-temple. The whole religious economy shall appear in all its appointment far more heavenly and more sacred in all the instruction given to benefit fallen man, and in the Christlike character exemplifies a complete unity, which means a great work to be done for human, selfish hearts, in that they need the instruction of the great Teacher. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 9)

“A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” [John 13:34.] The Lord our Redeemer had not yet demonstrated fully that love to its completeness. After His condemnation in the judgment hall, His crucifixion on the cross, when He cried out in clear, loud voice, “It is finished,” that love stands forth as an exhibition of a new love—“as I have loved you”—is demonstrated. [John 19:30.] Can the human mind take this in? Can we obey the commandment given? Christ requires nothing of any soul that it is not possible for him to do. “By this (revealing of unity and love one for the other) shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.] “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” [John 14:15.] “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.... If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” John 14:21, 23. “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.” [John 15:8-12.] (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 10)

This love among brethren is of the greatest consequence for the prosperity of His church. Satan knows this, and he is ready with his temptations of selfishness, working in them a spirit of envy, jealousy, evil surmisings. “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.” Here is the strength of His prayer for unity: “That the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory (character) which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one. (Wonderful request; it seems almost too great for expectation!) 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.” [John 17:20-23.] (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 11)

Then why is there not a practical carrying out of this principle of love? Christ gave His own life for the life of the world. “Therefore doth my Father love me because I lay down my life for the sheep.” [See John 10:17, 15.] Why do not these words of Christ stir our souls with intense desire to love one another as He has loved us? Christ engaged in covenant with God the Father to represent the love of God in His humanity for the fallen race. Christ knew that this great display of the grace of God, which He Himself engaged to represent—nothing less could represent that love of infinity than in giving His own Son to save the guilty sinner. Christ undertook the plan when He knew all things, that nothing else than the infinite capabilities that made Him equal with the Father could possibly express the plan unless He became one with humanity, taking upon Him the nature of man, and thus bearing all the temptations as man, and dying that man might live through faith in His redeeming power. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 12)

“Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honor, and didst set him over the works of thy hands: thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him. But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honor; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons [and daughters] unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through suffering. For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren.... Wherefore in all things it behooved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succor them that are tempted.” Hebrews 2:7-11, 17, 18. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 13)

“Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Hebrews 4:14-16. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 14)

“Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of (contention and alienation and strife?—No, no) of reconciliation; to wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” 2 Corinthians 5:17-21. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 15)

I wish to say that no human language could be framed to give a just conception of the fulness of the love of God, even the Infinite God, suffered in His Son; and nothing He could express in His words or actions, in doing and suffering, could possibly exaggerate the conception of the grace of that great love of God wherewith He hath loved us. Now what is required of every child of God? To search diligently and learn what this meaneth, “I will have mercy and not sacrifice.” [Matthew 9:13.] Will all individually who claim to believe in Christ as their personal Saviour—that Christ embodied the love of the Father—[will] all who truly believe Christ has developed the same in [the] individual members of His body, [seeking] to multiply the similitude of His character in them, [live their] lives in connection one with another? (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 16)

As God made Christ His messenger to the world, Christ has made all who claim Him as their Redeemer, to represent Christ in mercy, forgiveness, and pardon to the world. Now in every generation Christ has required that all who believe in His name should become His witnesses, bearing His message to the world, viewing His words, and expressing His character. All of us are pledged to do, in our individual instrumentality, for Christ, what Christ did in his human life here upon the earth, as the Sent of God for the representation of the Father. All are to represent the goodness of God in His compassion and His love, representing [that] they are channels of light, light-bearers to the world. Graciously has the Lord made them partakers of the divine nature through Christ. The Lord requires that each one shall live, as their pattern of life, sensitive of quick feeling drawn out in love to the perishing world. They are to go forth as God’s watchmen, proclaiming the something that must take place in every heart, representing the quickening, vivifying influence of the power of the truth, and for perishing souls that passeth knowledge. He withheld nothing; He gave His own self; He was bruised with our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and with His stripes we are healed. He endured the cross, despising the shame. O, the riches of the love of God are beyond our computation. Now the Lord expects [us to make] persevering efforts in behalf of the salvation of souls ready to perish in their ignorance and unbelief and sin. We are individually under bonds to God to convey the message of truth, and that mysterious love which Christ expressed to a world His followers are to express to their fellow men. When they are thus imbued with His Spirit, they will be messengers to bear the life-giving message to the world, that Christ is waiting to receive them, to pardon their transgressions and sins. Many are saying, Oh, that I might find Him. They need the words and compassion and sympathy of one who has found Him precious to their souls. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 17)

Tell the poor, perishing sinner the story of His love. The Saviour has given Himself to bring light and salvation to you, and now He says, I give you as My representative to the world. Consider yourself as dedicated to My service. Speak tenderly, pityingly; tell them the glad tidings of Christ and His love; express your love in unselfish, Godlike deeds to save perishing souls. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 18)

The wicked, selfish, loveless spirit that has come into the church puts Christ to open shame. Look at the cities in New England. How long have they laid waste? And yet the message of God has come that the church that believes advanced truth is to labor most earnestly with the Holy Spirit of God for the conversion of the ministry, and many will be converted who are willing to set them to work, who are willing to take them, instruct them, pray for them and with them. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 19)

Christ’s field was the world. He shall embrace the world of sin. That is the work of the Holy Spirit through the human agencies in bearing to them the life-giving message. Church members, I call upon you, Are you converted? What was the instrumentality that was to be employed? Whose voice is to proclaim the all-important message to our world, that they may be convinced of sin? God calls upon all to act a part and tax their resources to the uttermost. God has His workmen. He has been using them in the great city of New York. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 20)

Brother and Sister Haskell have been working. God has worked with them. They have not had an easy time, by any means. Sister Haskell has stood by the side of her husband as a faithful worker together with him. She has watched lest her husband become worn out with constant anxiety and labor, and when this became apparent, she has added his labors and appointments to her labor, for she was stronger than he was. These two faithful servants worked with us in Australia, and they are now working in New York City by the appointment of God; and their mission place is not the most lovely and quiet place in the world. The workers connected with them are receiving an experience, growing in knowledge and grace. There ought to be for all [workers] such laborers who have served the cause of God in earlier years, who have been obtaining an experience. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 21)

While at the General Conference the destitute fields were laid out before me—what should have been done in the Lord’s vineyard in sowing the seed of truth, that there should be a harvest to reap in these large cities. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 22)

Elder Franke has been laboring in New York City for the worldlings and all who would hear the message; and a number embraced the truth; but other gifts were needed to engage in the same kind of mission work which has been in Australia. I said to Elder Haskell, Will you go and take hold of the work in New York City after the Conference? He said he had a burden for New York City, and if I would come and bear testimony the Lord had given to me, to those who were professing to believe the truth, he would take hold in New York. I consented to do this after the Conference should close; but my work was marked out to visit Indiana, Des Moines, College View, Denver, Colorado, and Oregon. I had appointments in this round of meetings, and then attended the camp-meeting in Oakland. So it was made impossible for me to go to New York as I had purposed to do. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 23)

But my burden did not leave me. I had a message to the believers in New York City, that all who are truly converted unto the proclamation of the third angel’s message must not present to the world, to angels, and to men, division in the place of unity. The truth of God sanctifies the receiver to be a channel and representative of His grace to the world, and to angels, and to men—all who are called, prepared, and aided by one agency from one great and powerful Source. There would be love and unity, that their Christian instrumentality [would] prove to glorify God in their love and harmonious action, each strengthening the other and each taking diligent heed to his own course of soul-action in the great and solemn work before them in presenting the sanctifying truth to souls ready to die. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 24)

All who should receive the truth in the love of the principles of the truth would make straight paths for their feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way. Many, for want of meekness and humility and wholehearted kindness, would consider themselves independent atoms, or, as in the days of the apostle Paul, would consider they were to link up with the one man under whose labors they received the light of present truth. 1 Corinthians 3. This whole chapter in the Bible was the education the apostle was trying to give to those who claimed to believe in his time, and yet a strong spirit had taken possession of them. He did not give them up and let them alone as irreclaimable, but tried to bring them to a better understanding of the spirit that should control their actions as believers in Christ Jesus. All who placed themselves on the side of the one who brought to them light and truth, and refused to be in harmony with their brethren, were not being sanctified through the truth (1 Corinthians 3:1). The difficulty is plainly stated to warn all believers of this dangerous ground. Those who suppose that they are cemented to the man who brought them the truth, and tie up in separate bundles, need a reconversion as soon as possible, else their claimed conversion is a stumbling block to sinners. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 25)

Let us hear the words of Paul: “And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. For ye are carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal? Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man?” [Verses 1-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 26)

“Do we begin again to commend ourselves? (as though such a strange thing was essential) or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men: forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.” [2 Corinthians 3:1-3.] Read Romans 12:3-5. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 27)

“I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.” [1 Corinthians 3:6.] These were men ordained of God as His helping hand to do this work; if they became exalted because of their success, and lifted up their souls unto vanity, the Lord would remove their light from them. “So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.” [Verse 7.] Now the wise conclusion: “Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labor. For we are laborers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.” [Verses 8, 9.] (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 28)

Here is our subject matter. “Let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” [Verses 10, 11.] Shall one draw apart from his brother for no other reason only his own misconceived opinions? Would he not much better go apart by himself and think soundly what he is doing in estranging himself from his brethren? This is a much more inconsistent thing to persist in handling, for if he begins in self-confidence to build after certain notions of his own plans and his own desirings, without reference to his brethren, he will bring in material and lay on the foundation a mass of suppositions of his own, which is only rubbish. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 29)

“Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.” [Verses 12-14.] (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 30)

“Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.” Now comes the warning: “Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him become a fool, that he may be wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness. And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.” [Verses 16-20.] (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 31)

Therefore let us humble our hearts before God, and be very careful not to judge our brethren because they do not consider all our words and spirit and actions perfection. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 32)

“Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours; whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours; and ye are Christ’s; and Christ is God’s. Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man’s judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified; but he that judgeth me is the Lord. Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God. And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; that ye might learn in us not to think of men above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another”—showing and talking your preferences, comparing one with another to the detriment of the one you do not prefer. “For who maketh thee to differ from another?” And now comes the grave question: “And what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it?” [1 Corinthians 3:21-4:7.] (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 33)

May the Lord help all who receive the truth to open their minds and hearts to receive likewise the beauty and loveliness of the virtues of the truth in your own hearts and practice the truth, as well as being advocates of the truth, in the beauty of holiness. Christ’s practice is to become our practice. So vast was His conception of the love of God that He did not describe it, but lived and practiced this love in Godlikeness indeed. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 34)

What efforts are we putting forth as the believers of unpopular truth, in self-denial, in self-sacrifice? We can never equal the Pattern because it is infinite goodness practiced in His human nature, just as we should make determined efforts to practice in our human nature with all the powers of our being to follow His example. Hear His words: He that “will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Having given His life to save the world from ruin, they would be saved in God’s way in obeying the laws of His kingdom. He, the Lifegiver, expects all His followers to be faithful stewards of the grace of God, and to live for the same object, to do according to His appointed will, to be His human helping hand to save perishing souls. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 35)

As to our work: We are entrusted with the grace of God, and our commission is to resemble Him, making it our first business and calling to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Read Acts carefully. There was the highest expectation of the fulfilment of the promise. Ten days were devoted to most earnest prayer, and they were in this time searching their own hearts, to put away everything that should hinder the fulfilment of the promise. “Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day’s journey.... These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.” [Acts 1:12, 14.] (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 36)

“And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” [Acts 2:1-4.] (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 37)

There was the power of heaven as if this greatness of influence had for ages been under restraint, and now the time had come, and all the universe of heaven rejoiced in being able to communicate and pour down from heaven the riches of the power upon the church, to be transferred to the world. And what followed? Thousands were converted in a day. The sword of the Spirit in the Word of God was indeed newly edged with power, and, bathed in the lightnings of heaven, cut its way through unbelief. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 38)

The seed sown by Christ in His mission work with His disciples needed no other evidence [than] that the words spoken by the disciples found entrance to their minds and hearts, and through these mighty agencies the world was to be convinced of sin. Bear in mind, when heavenly influences came into the heart, all found a field ready to be harvested. Particular fields of labor were opened to be worked, and all found [that] wherever they went in Christ’s name, His representative in the Holy Spirit opened the hearts and doors for the disciples. All were of one mind, and all felt that their resources must be taxed to the uttermost of their ability. A work was before them to preach Christ and Him crucified through the whole world. One subject was the theme for all who should work with completeness the works of Christ as His representatives, to all—as many as would believe on Him. They were of one heart and one mind, and daily they were adding new territories as their fields of labor. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 39)

Those who had accepted the influence of priests and rulers, and united with them in opposing the claims of Christ, were now soundly converted to the faith. And what was the success through the design of the Spirit in all this? He shall not speak of Himself. He shall testify of Me. He shall glorify Me. As the Saviour came to our world to glorify the Father by the demonstration of His infinite love, so the Holy Spirit came to glorify Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 40)

The world’s eye for that time must rest on Christ as the Creator of man and as the Redeemer of man. The sphere of man’s influence is to belt the world. He shall convince the world of sin; the work of the gospel message must go forth, to bear the truth before them—the most convincing power [upon] humanity under the influence of heavenly principles. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 41)

“The whole multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one mind.” [Acts 4:32.] The Spirit of Christ animated and made strong and earnest workers of all of one heart and of one mind. The Lord was magnified. Now there is just as much necessity for the whole church of believers in every place to put their whole being in communion with God, pleading the promise, “Ask, and ye shall receive.” [John 16:24.] Every one that asketh receiveth. Here is the connection: Asking, believing, and receiving. All who receive Christ by faith are to be as so many consecrated channels to receive the living truth to carry to the world. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 42)

What is the promise to those living in these last days? “Turn ye to the strong hold, ye prisoners of hope: even to day 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.] (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 43)

The world must have evidence and be convinced of sin, and then the Lord will receive the repentant and condemn the despisers of His mercy. God’s mighty hand is stretched out still to save all who come unto Him. Our people who claim to believe the truth, and all who see and understand, are accountable to God for the knowledge they have of past and future events, and they are to be light-bearers to the world. There is every promise made that they shall receive of Christ, and, filled with His Spirit, work as co-operating with God. He requires every one who knows the truth to influence the entire church to unity of action, to do the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 44)

The absence of a single means which might have been employed and is not—whatever the hindrance, whether in themselves or in others who hedge up the way—is committing robbery toward God in standing in the way of sinners that might be labored for, but are left out without help. There are those who have kept back workers because it takes money to feed and support them. How much better it would be to devise methods whereby these souls that are praying for light should have the truth! And God has promised the influence of the Holy Spirit to accompany the teacher in any line [that] he may work; but He regards [or “takes note of”] all you [who] believe and fear [that] your prospects will not stand as favorably if more workers were encouraged. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 45)

We see these destitute cities in the South are unworked. What an account these will have to give, who have felt at liberty to use the means to add building to building, and bring upon themselves the rebuke of God, which is upon every soul that has not [encouraged], to the extent of his powers, with words and means, workers to go out into the waste places of the Lord’s vineyard! (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 46)

Christ had a mission to educate His workers. The mission of Christ, from the throne of heaven, [was to] work and suffer and die for the world, that it might be saved. He sent forth the twelve, with their commission, two and two; then sent out the seventy to go before Him whither He Himself would go. They were to proclaim the kingdom of God through Judea, and He taught them [that] piety must be diffusive. Christ abolishes the distinction between neighbor and enemy as regards those who need light and truth, and they [His workers] are to look on the world as their field. Not a member of the church is to be an uninterested faction. Life is to be held in their mind as under obligation to do service [for] Christ in their devising and planning from the first period of conversion, to consecrate the entire life-influence to unite with Christ in the object for which He gave His life. He would have them [be] patterns of His own love for fallen humanity. They are to love one another as Christ has loved them. The principles of this kind of labor in love for one another were the badge of their connection with Christ. “By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:35.] (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 47)

Lifting up His prayer, the last prayer for His church was that they all may be one with the Father, “that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” [John 17:21.] (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 48)

I have seen the coming in and increase of selfishness in the working of fields or the non-working of fields. What does it mean, these destitute places left unworked, and so little earnest effort made to put workers into these fields? The Lord Jesus gave His last testimony to John in Revelation: “Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter.” [Revelation 1:19.] Here is message after message given. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 49)

“Unto the angel of the church of 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 to the angel of the church in Pergamos write.” “And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write.” “And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write.” “And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write.” Revelation 2, 3. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 50)

[In] the last chapter of Revelation, these messages given to the church, Christ did not withhold from His followers that they must do their work amid trials and exposure to persecution and [loss of] life itself; but they must not become dim or cease to shine as lights amid the moral darkness, to eradicate the dense gloom of immorality and sin. They are to unite in bearing one another’s burdens. Ye are the light of the world. There was kept before them that His people must be a combined, united power in love and efficiency, to become a light amid the moral darkness. [To] these combined forces [it was] specified that they all [should] be one. Hear it, every one who is a Seventh-day Adventist; hear it: “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.... 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.” [John 17:21, 23.] (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 51)

The Lord Jesus described the difficulties they [would] meet. Having called their minds to rise to an eminence, He bids them look and behold the vast confederacy of evil arrayed against God, against Christ, against all who unite with these holy powers. Christ tells them they were to fight in fellowship with all the children of light; that satanic agencies would combine their forces to extinguish the light of the life of Christ out of their ranks. But they were not left to fight the battles in their own human strength; that the angelic host coming as ministers of God would be in that battle, and also there would be the eternal heavenly dignitaries—God, and Christ, and the Holy Spirit—arming them with more than mortal energy, and [who] would advance with them to the work, and convince the world of sin. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 52)

This is your work. I left heaven, My riches, My command, My honor, My glory, to save a world from death, if they would take hold of My strength, and make peace with Me, and I will make peace with them. (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 53)

The great missionary spirit of the church is to be aroused. But the Lord Jesus comes forth yet once again to speak to John, and present the missionary work to be done in our world. He sees that the message, the last message of warning, is not thoroughly understood. The angel with the everlasting gospel did not awaken the people to move them to action to satisfy the yearning compassion of infinite love. He came personally to John and announced to him the missionary work to be done. “And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: For the time is at hand. 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. And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie. I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and offspring of David, and the bright and morning star. The Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” [Revelation 22:10-17.] (16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, 54)

Ellen G. White

Ms 131, 1901

“Our school interests are important ...”
Nashville, Tennessee
December 29, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 5BC 1115.

Our school interests are important. The schools are to be a large force working in the Lord’s vineyard, and they should have every advantage and encouragement that can be given them. Teachers should have as full support and encouragement as the workers in any other branch of the cause. Let them put their whole soul into the work, with Christlike simplicity and true greatness and nobility, after the similitude of Christ’s character. (16LtMs, Ms 131, 1901, 1)

Let schools be located out of cities, and let all connected with them be under the Holy Spirit’s teaching. (16LtMs, Ms 131, 1901, 2)

Managers and teachers are all to be united in such an educational work as will prepare the students to enter the Higher School in the Paradise of God. There was a great work appointed for the prophet John, but there was no school on the earth with which he could connect. His learning must be obtained away from the cities, in the wilderness. The Old Testament Scriptures, God, and the nature which God had created were to be his study books. God was fitting John for his work of preparing the way of the Lord. His food was simply locusts and wild honey. The customs and practices of men were not to be the education of this man. Worldly engrossment was to act no part in the formation of his character. (16LtMs, Ms 131, 1901, 3)

The education that is to be given to all the students in our schools is to be marked with the simplicity of godliness. It must teach them to carry out God’s will and give them a better understanding of the Scriptures, that every precept of God may bear with weight on the mind and be carried out in the practical life. The principles of the Higher School are to be inculcated in every manner possible, that not one principle of God’s law shall be dislocated from the whole code of precepts. God calls for perfect men and women to do His work. (16LtMs, Ms 131, 1901, 4)

Ms 132, 1901

Extracts from Testimonies on Daniel 1
NP
1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in CG 166-167; BTS 11/1912; 4MR 123.

In order rightly to understand the subject of temperance, we must consider it from a Bible standpoint; and nowhere can we find a more comprehensive and forcible illustration of true temperance and its attendant blessings, than is afforded by the history of the prophet Daniel and his Hebrew associates in the court of Babylon. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 1)

It was not their own pride or ambition that had brought these young men into the king’s court—into a companionship of those who neither knew nor feared the true God. They were captives in a strange land, and Infinite Wisdom had placed them there. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 2)

When these youth were selected to be educated in the “learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans,” that they might “stand in the king’s palace,” there was appointed them a daily allowance from the king’s table, both of food and wine. “But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank.” [Verses 4, 5, 8.] Daniel’s companions, also, resolutely denied selfish desires, and put away hurtful gratifications. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 3)

At this trial of their loyalty, they considered their position, with its dangers and difficulties, and then in the fear of God made their decision. Even at the risk of the king’s displeasure, they would be true to the religion of their fathers. This purpose was not formed without due reflection and earnest prayer. When Daniel was required to partake of the luxuries of the king’s table, he did not fly into a passion, neither did he express a determination to eat and drink as he pleased. Without speaking one word of defiance, he took the matter to God. He and his companions sought wisdom from the Lord, and when they came forth from earnest prayer, their decision was made. There was much involved in this decision. They were regarded as slaves, but were particularly favored because of their apparent intelligence and comeliness of person. But they decided that any pretense, even to sit at the table of the king and eat of the food or accept of the wine, even if they did not drink it, would be a denial of their religious faith. There was no presumption with these youth, but a firm love for truth and righteousness. They did not choose to be singular, but they must be, else they would corrupt their ways in the courts of Babylon and be exposed to every kind of temptation in eating and drinking. The corrupting influences would remove their safeguard, and they would dishonor God and ruin their own characters. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 4)

Daniel could have argued that at the royal table, and at the king’s command, there was no other course for him to pursue. But he and his fellows had a council together. They canvassed the entire subject as to how they would improve their physical and mental powers by the use of wine. They studied this subject most diligently. The wine of itself, they decided, was a snare. They were acquainted with the history, which had come to them in parchments, of Nadab and Abihu. In these men, the use of wine had encouraged their love for it. They drank wine before their sacred office in the sanctuary. Their senses were confused. They could not distinguish the difference between the sacred and the common fire. In their brain-benumbed state, they did that which the Lord had charged all who served in holy office not to do. They put the common fire upon the censers, when they had been expressly charged to use only the sacred fire of the Lord’s own kindling that never went out. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 5)

Nadab and Abihu had not in their youth been trained to habits of self-control. The father’s yielding disposition, his lack of firmness for right, had led him to neglect the discipline of his children. His sons had been permitted to follow inclination. Habits of self-indulgence, long cherished, obtained a hold upon them which even the responsibility of the most sacred office had not power to break. They had not been taught to respect the authority of their father, and they did not realize the necessity of exact obedience to the requirements of God. Aaron’s mistaken indulgence of his sons prepared them to become subjects of the divine judgments. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 6)

The instruction given to the people was carefully treasured up and often composed into song and taught to their children, that through song they might become familiar with the truths. Daniel and his companions had been educated in regard to Nadab and Abihu, and also Abel, Seth, Enoch, and Noah. They cherished the truth that had been given them from human lips, passing down the line from one generation to another. The image of God was engraved upon the heart. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 7)

A second consideration of those youthful captives was that the king always asked a blessing before his meals, and addressed his idols as deity. He set apart a portion of his food to be presented to the idol god whom he worshiped, and also a portion of the wine. This act, according to their religious instruction, consecrated the whole to the heathen god. To sit at the table where such idolatry was practiced, Daniel and his three brethren deemed would be a dishonor to the God of heaven. These four children decided that they could not sit at the king’s table, to eat of the food placed there, or to partake of the wine, all of which had been dedicated to an idol god. This would indeed implicate them with heathenism and dishonor the principles of their national religion and their God. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 8)

With true courage and Christian courtesy, they requested the officer who had them in charge to give them a more simple fare; but he hesitated, fearing that such rigid abstinence as they proposed would affect their personal appearance unfavorably and bring him into disfavor with the king. The explanation Daniel gave was that the mind must not be clouded with these articles, which, if he should eat, would be difficult of digestion. Even in articles of healthful food there must be a restriction in the quantity taken. The food placed in the stomach Daniel had under his own control; therefore he could co-operate with God in keeping his stomach in a healthful condition by not benumbing his sensibilities by overeating or by the use of wine and flesh-meats, which are not healthful or necessary for physical strength. A proper regard for the articles of food eaten would keep a healthful current of blood flowing through his veins, and his mind and body would be in a condition for hard, stern labor; for mind and body would not be oppressed with a variety of flesh-meats. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 9)

These youth urged most earnestly that the one who had charge of their food should not compel them to partake of the king’s luxuries, or drink of his wine. They begged him to try them ten days only, and then examine them, and decide by their physical appearance whether their abstemious diet would be to their advantage. Their request was granted, for they had obtained favor with God and with men. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 10)

Why did Daniel and his companions refuse to eat at the king’s table? Why did they refuse his meats and wines? Because they had been taught that this class of food would not keep the mind or the physical structure in the very best condition of health to do God’s service. They sought to acquire knowledge for a purpose—to honor and glorify God. They must perfect a Christian character and have a clear intellect in order to stand as the representatives of the true religion amid the false religions of heathenism. To them the will of God was the supreme law of life. They practiced temperance in eating and drinking, that they might not enfeeble brain or muscle. The food appointed them would include meats pronounced unclean by the law of Moses. Those four Hebrew youth chose to have their mental powers clear and undimmed, and their physical health was to them a matter of the highest consideration. They would not imperil the physical and moral powers for the indulgence of appetite. They saw that perils were on every side and that, if they resisted temptation, they must make most decided efforts on their part and then trust the rest with God. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 11)

When they came in for examination, the result was decidedly in their favor. These youth were found to be far more healthy in appearance than were those who had partaken of the king’s dainties. It was otherwise with the youth who had eaten of the luxuries of the king’s table and drank of his wine. The clear sparkle of the eye was gone; the ruddy, healthful glow had disappeared from the countenance. The four Hebrew captives were thereafter permitted to have the diet they had chosen. What effect did it have upon mind and character? They had conscientiously refused the stimulus of flesh and of wine. They obeyed God’s will in self-denial, and He showed His approval. He desired His servants to honor Him by their adherence to steadfast principle in all their habits of life. Their countenances would be a certificate of physical soundness and moral purity. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 12)

Though surrounded by temptations to self-indulgence and dissipation, they would not consent to violate their consciences. They made God their strength, their minds were not enervated by habits of indulgence which crush out true, godlike manhood, and they were prepared to attain both moral and intellectual greatness. As a result, their minds became strong and vigorous. They chose the real, the true, and the useful, rather than the momentary indulgence of appetite and pride. They did all in their power to place themselves in right relation to God, and the Lord was not unmindful of their firm, persevering, earnest effort. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 13)

These youth had the Lord as their educator. The golden links of the chain of heaven connected the finite with the Infinite. They were partakers of the divine nature. They were very careful to keep themselves in touch with God. They prayed and studied and brought into their practical life strictly conscientious, humble minds. They walked with God as did Enoch. The Word of the Lord was their meat and their drink. These youth were sincere, faithful Christians. True education must be all-sided, not one-sided. Such an education Daniel and his fellows were determined to have. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 14)

The Lord can impress the mind, if it is in a healthful condition. Then the human agent and God are in co-partnership. The created human agent and the Creator are working to make man in every sense complete in Jesus Christ. There is no war instituted by the human agent against the law of his being. Daniel purposed in his abstemious habits of nonuse of meats to glorify God. The blessing of the Lord attended the youth who would, through love and fear of God, discard everything they deemed detrimental to their advancement in their physical, mental, and moral perfection. Under God they were in perfect training, that all their faculties might do highest service for him. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 15)

These youth had received a right education in early life; and now, when separated from home influences and sacred associations, they honored the instructors of their childhood. With their habits of self-denial were coupled earnestness of purpose, diligence, and steadfastness. They were not actuated by pride or unworthy ambition, but sought to acquit themselves creditably for the honor of their down-trodden people and for His glory whose servants they were. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 16)

While these youth on their part were working out their own salvation with fear and trembling, it was God who was working in them both to will and to do His own good pleasure. The conditions of the reward for our own good are as if everything depended upon ourselves. To make God’s grace our own, we must act our part. There is a work that is laid before us to do, and this work must be done with fidelity, and the fruit we bear will manifest before God, before angels, and before men the character of our work. The penny was given to the laborer in the vineyard, but not to the loiterer in the market place. Those who in this life want to become all that God designs that they should, will ever be learners. This knowledge will not generally come in a supernatural manner, although this is not impossible. There are stores of information to be obtained by painstaking effort. Thus it was with Daniel. He kept close to God, and while he applied himself closely and earnestly to acquire all the knowledge possible, God added his blessing. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 17)

The Scriptures declare of Daniel and his fellows, “As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom; and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.” [Daniel 1:17.] These youth had placed themselves in connection with the Source of all wisdom. They learned of Christ, the world’s greatest teacher. While improving their opportunities to obtain a knowledge of the sciences, they were obtaining also the highest education which it is possible for mortals to receive. They received light directly from the throne of Heaven, and read the mysteries of God for future ages. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 18)

When the ability and acquirements of these youth were tested by the king at the end of the three years of training, none was found like unto Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Their keen apprehension, their choice and exact language, their extensive and varied knowledge testified to the unimpaired strength and vigor of their mental powers. Therefore they stood before the king. “And in all matters of understanding that the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm.” [Verse 20.] (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 19)

These youth determined that the talents entrusted to them of God should not be perverted and enfeebled by selfish indulgence. They reverenced their own manhood. They kept their eyes fixed steadfastly on the good which they wished to accomplish. They honored God, and God honored them. God always honors the right. The most promising youth from all the lands subdued by the great conqueror had been gathered at Babylon, yet amid them all, the Hebrew captives were without a rival. The erect form, [the] elastic step, the fair countenance, the undimmed senses, the untainted breath—all were so many certificates of good habits—insignia of the nobility with which nature honors those who are obedient to her laws. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 20)

The history of Daniel and his companions contains a lesson for us. Inspiration declares that the “fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” [Psalm 111:10.] Religious principle lies at the foundation of the highest education. If our youth are but balanced by principle, they may with safety improve the mental powers to the very highest extent, and may take all their attainments with them into the future life. But temptations assail the young on every hand. Fathers and mothers should give thought and study and persevering effort to the training of their children, that they may stand unsullied by the prevailing evil, as did those Hebrew youth in the court of Babylon. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 21)

We would that there were strong young men, rooted and grounded in the faith, who had such a living connection with God that they could, if so counseled by our leading brethren, enter the higher colleges in our land, where they would have a wider field for study and observation. Such was the method pursued by the ancient Waldenses; and if true to God, our youth, like theirs, might do a good work even while gaining their education, in sowing the seeds of truth in other minds. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 22)

Daniel’s parents had trained him in his childhood to habits of strict temperance. They had taught him that he must conform to nature’s laws in all his habits; that his eating and drinking had a direct influence upon his physical, mental, and moral nature, and that he was accountable to God for his capabilities; for he held them all as a gift from God, and must not, by any course of action, dwarf or cripple them. As the result of this teaching, the law of God was exalted in his mind and reverenced in his heart. During the early years of his captivity, Daniel was passing through an ordeal which was to familiarize him with courtly grandeur, with hypocrisy, and with paganism. A strange school indeed to fit him for a life of sobriety, industry, and faithfulness! And yet he lived uncorrupted by the atmosphere of evil with which he was surrounded. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 23)

Daniel and his companions enjoyed the benefits of correct training and education in early life, but these advantages alone would not have made them what they were. The time came when they must act for themselves—when their future depended upon their own course. Then they decided to be true to the lessons given them in childhood. The fear of God, which is the beginning of wisdom, was the foundation of their greatness. His Spirit strengthened every true purpose, every noble resolution. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 24)

The lesson here presented is one which we would do well to ponder. Our danger is not from scarcity, but from abundance. We are constantly tempted to excess. Those who would preserve their powers unimpaired for the service of God must observe strict temperance in the use of His bounties, as well as total abstinence from every injurious or debasing indulgence. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 25)

The rising generation is surrounded with allurements calculated to tempt the appetite. Especially in our large cities, every form of indulgence is made easy and inviting. Those who, like Daniel, refuse to defile themselves, will reap the reward of their temperate habits. With their greater physical stamina and increased power of endurance, they have a bank of deposit upon which to draw in case of emergency. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 26)

The history of Daniel and his companions has been recorded on the pages of the inspired Word for the benefit of the youth of all succeeding ages. What men have done, men may do. Did those youthful Hebrews stand firm amid great temptations and bear a noble testimony in favor of true temperance? The youth of today may bear a similar testimony. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 27)

We who are living in this age have greater light and privileges than were given to Abraham, Joseph, Moses, Daniel, Ezra, Nehemiah, and other ancient worthies, and we are under correspondingly greater obligation to let our light shine to the world. The Lord would have us learn a lesson from the experience of Daniel. There are many who might become mighty men, if, like this faithful Hebrew, they would depend upon God for grace to be overcomers and for strength and efficiency in their labors. (16LtMs, Ms 132, 1901, 28)

Ms 133, 1901

Proper Books and Literature to Read
NP
1901
This manuscript consists of extracts published in various sources. Ellipses are in the original typed Ms.

(From a Ms. to the workers in the office at Oakland, California, dated North Fitzroy, Australia, December 19, 1891.) (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 1)

The character of your religious experience is made manifest largely by the character of the books that you choose to read in your leisure moments. The Bible is the book of books; and if you love the Scriptures, searching them when you have opportunity, that you may come in possession of the rich treasures of the Word of God and be thoroughly furnished unto all good works, then you may be assured that Jesus is drawing you to Himself. But to read the Scripture in merely a casual way, without seeking to comprehend the lesson of Christ, that you may comply with His requirements, is not enough. There are rich treasures in the Word of God that can be discovered only by sinking the shaft deep into the mine of truth. The Scriptures are given for our benefit, that we may have instruction in righteousness.... (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 2)

The carnal mind rejects the truth, but the soul that is converted undergoes a marvelous change. The book that was unattractive, because it revealed truths that testified against the sinner, to the converted heart becomes the food of the soul, the consolation and joy of a life. The eyes anointed with spiritual discernment behold new beauties in the Word of God and see that the inspired words of the Scriptures are especially adapted to the needs of the soul. The Sun of Righteousness shines upon the Word, and there is the flashing of divinity through humanity. The Spirit of God speaks to the soul, and the heart of the true believer becomes like a watered garden. To those who love Christ, the Bible is as the garden of God; those promises are as grateful to the heart as the fragrance of flowers to senses. Then take your Bibles and, with fresh interest, begin to study the sacred records of the Old and New Testaments.... (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 3)

I have a word from the Lord to you who are handling sacred things and yet who do not appreciate the value of eternal realities and have not spiritual discernment to understand the work that you are doing. The Spirit of God is grieved because works of a worldly character which are calculated to charm the senses, to fill the mind with that which can only be compared to wood, hay, and stubble, are multiplied in the office of publication. These books are read with eagerness, and they contain no spiritual nourishment, whereby the soul can acquire more strength; give no true idea of Christian life or instruction in regard to the common duties of life. The atmosphere they breathe is one that is detrimental to solid Christian experience. Were Christ upon the earth today, He would cleanse the office of many things that are not in accordance with our high profession, as He cleansed the temple of its unholy traffic. It is written, “My house shall be called an house of prayer, but you have made it a den of thieves.” [Matthew 21:13.] Let every one begin to cleanse his own soul-temple and thus co-operate with Christ in the work of purifying the office. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 4)

Let not books be placed before the workers which, if they do not mislead and corrupt the mind, will still give to the mind a disrelish for the Word of God which brings to view matters of eternal interest.... There is no time for engaging in trifling, amusing, and the gratification of selfish propensities. It is time that you were occupied with serious thoughts.... (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 5)

There is such a mingling of the sacred and the common in the work at the office, that much of the sacredness of the work of God has been lost from the minds of the workers. The subject matter that they are handling is of such a character that their attention is arrested and their mind engaged; and the cheap, objectionable sentences are fastened upon the memory; and before they know it, they are influenced by the spirit of the writer; and their mind and character is fashioned in some objectionable mold. There are souls connected with the office who are weak in the faith, weak in the power of self-control; and through the influence of such publications, a train of thought is started that will be difficult to repress and expel from the mind. Before they embraced the truth, they had formed the habit of reading light and trifling literature; and after uniting with the church, they made efforts to overcome this taste for novels and storybooks. To introduce to this class books that are not in harmony with the sacred work of God is like putting the glass to the lips of the inebriate. With the temptation continually before them, they yield and become interested in that which they discarded and lose their relish for solid reading, for Bible study which is positively essential for the health of the soul. Through the influence of this kind of reading, moral power is enfeebled; dishonesty and crime do not appear so repulsive, discernment and sanctified perception are lost, and unfaithfulness in little things is increased. When the appetite of the mind is perverted, these poor souls will grasp any kind of reading that has a stimulating influence. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 6)

All these things have been placed before me, and every line of business at the office must be so regulated that the purity of the Christian character shall be preserved. Every temporal, earthly interest must be so subjected to the interest of the higher life that at any sacrifice this Christian integrity shall be untarnished. The question of what shall be published at the office must be viewed in the light of the teachings of the Holy Scriptures. The Lord’s voice must be honored and obeyed. “The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” [John 6:63.] The truth must not be placed in the background as now it is, for subjects of vast importance to the soul receive only a passing notice, while these objectionable things must have the foreground. The workers overlook the great truths that would make them wise unto salvation. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 7)

*****

(Testimony to Pacific Press Pub. Co., dated Melbourne, Australia, Dec. 23, 1891.) (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 8)

The large number of hands in the office make it necessary to take in a large amount of work in order to keep them employed. Thus in printing for other parties, an objectionable class of publication is introduced into the office. My guide inquired of one who was occupying a responsible position, “How much do you receive in payment for this work?” The figures were placed before him. He said, “This is too small a sum. If you do business in this way, you meet with loss. But even if you should receive a much larger sum, this class of literature would be published at great cost to the office; for the influence upon the workers is demoralizing. All the messages that God shall send them presenting the sacredness of the work are neutralized by your action in consenting to print such a class of matter.” (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 9)

The world is deluged with books that might better be consumed rather than circulated. Books upon Indian warfare and similar topics, published and circulated as a money-making scheme, might better never be read by the youth. There is a satanic fascination in such books. The heart-sickening relation of crimes and atrocities has had a bewitching power upon many youth, exciting them to see what they can do to bring themselves into notice, even by the wickedest deeds. Even the enormities, the cruelties, the licentious practices portrayed in more strictly historical writings, have acted as leaven in many minds, leading to the commission of similar acts. Books that delineate the satanic practices of human beings are giving publicity to evil works. These wicked, horrible particulars need not be lived over, and none who believe the truth for this time should act a part in perpetuating the memory of them. We have no permission from the Lord to engage either in the printing or the sale of such publications, for they are the means of destroying many souls. I know of what I am writing, for this matter has been opened before me. Let not those who believe the truth engage in this kind of work, thinking to make money. The Lord will put a blight upon the means thus obtained; He will scatter more than is accumulated. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 10)

There is another class of books—love stories, and frivolous and exciting tales that are a curse to every one who reads them—and this, although the author may attach a good moral. Often religious sentiments are woven all through these books; but in most cases, Satan is but clothed in angel robes to deceive and allure the unsuspicious. The mind is affected in a great degree by what it feeds upon. The readers of frivolous and exciting tales become unfitted for the duties lying before them. They live an unreal life and have no desire to search the Scriptures, to feed upon the heavenly manna. The mind that needs strengthening is enfeebled and loses its power to contemplate the great problems which relate to the mission and work of Christ, the plan of salvation—subjects [that] will fortify the mind, awaken the imagination, and kindle the strongest desire to overcome as Christ overcame. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 11)

The youth must take heed what they read as well as what they hear. I have been shown that they are exposed to the greatest peril of being corrupted by improper reading. Could a large share of the books published be consumed, a plague would be stayed that is doing its fearful work upon human minds and corrupting human hearts. Satan is seeking to lead both the youth and those of mature age to be charmed with foolish stories. None is so confirmed in right principles, so secure from temptation, that he can feel safe and think no one need feel anxious about him. Resolutely discard all this trashy reading which will not increase your spirituality, but will introduce into your minds sentiments that cultivate the imagination, so that you think less of Jesus and dwell less upon His precious lessons.... (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 12)

I charge you who are responsible men in the publishing office, work diligently to bring in a different order of things. Cease to publish literature which is a temptation to the workers, many of whom are weak and easily led into forbidden paths. Never should such books be put in their way.... (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 13)

*****

Testimonies for the Church 1:134, 135. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 14)

I saw that young and old neglect the Bible. They do not make that book their study and their rule of life as they should. Especially are the young guilty of this neglect. Most of them are ready, and find plenty of time to read almost any other book. But the Word that points to life, eternal life, is not perused and daily studied. That precious, important book that is to judge them in the last day is scarcely studied at all. Idle stories have been attemptively read, while the Bible has been passed by neglected.... (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 15)

Parents would better burn the idle tales of the day and the novels as they come into their houses. It would be a mercy to the children. Encourage the reading of these storybooks, and it is like enchantment. It bewilders and poisons the mind. Parents, I saw that unless you awake to the eternal interest of your children, they will be lost through your neglect. And the possibility that unfaithful parents will be saved themselves is very small. Parents should be exemplary. They should exert a holy influence in their families. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 16)

*****

Testimonies for the Church 1:241, 242. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 17)

You are indulging an evil which threatens to destroy your spirituality. It will eclipse all the beauty and interest of the sacred pages. It is love for storybooks, tales, and other reading which does not have an influence for good upon the mind that is in any way dedicated to the service of God. It produces a false, unhealthy excitement, fevers the imagination, unfits the mind for usefulness, and disqualifies it for any spiritual exercise. It weans the soul from prayer and love of spiritual things. You were represented to me with your eyes turned from the sacred book and intently fixed upon exciting books which are death to religion. The oftener and more diligently you peruse the Scriptures, the more beautiful will they appear, and the less relish will you have for light reading. The daily study of the Scriptures will have a sanctifying influence upon the mind. You will breathe a heavenly atmosphere. Bind this precious volume to your hearts. It will prove to you a friend and guide in perplexity. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 18)

*****

Testimonies for the Church 2:236. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 19)

The young are in great danger. Great evil results from their light reading. Much time is lost which should be spent in useful employment. Some would even deprive themselves of sleep to finish some ridiculous love story. The world is flooded with novels of every description. Some are not of as dangerous a character as others. Some are immoral, low, and vulgar; others are clothed with more refinement; but all are pernicious in their influence. Oh that the young would reflect upon the influence which exciting stories have upon the mind! Can you, after such reading, open the Word of God and read the words of life with interest? Do you not find the book of God uninteresting? The charm of that love story is upon the mind, destroying its healthy tone and making it impossible for you to fix your mind upon the important, solemn truths which concern your eternal interest. You sin against your parents in devoting to such a poor purpose the time which belongs to them, and you sin against God in thus using the time which should be spent in devotion to Him. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 20)

*****

Testimonies for the Church 2:410, 411. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 21)

Many of the young are eager for books. They read everything they can obtain. Exciting love stories and impure pictures have a corrupting influence. Novels are eagerly perused by many, and as the result their imagination becomes defiled. In the cars, photographs of females in a state of nudity are frequently circulated for sale. These disgusting pictures are also found in daguerrean saloons and are hung upon the walls of those who deal in engravings. This is an age when corruption is teeming everywhere. The lust of the eye and corrupt passions are aroused by beholding and by reading. The heart is corrupted through the imagination.... Avoid reading and seeing things which will suggest impure thoughts. Cultivate the moral and intellectual powers. Let not these noble powers become enfeebled and perverted by much reading of even storybooks. I know of strong minds that have been unbalanced and partially benumbed or paralyzed by intemperance in reading. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 22)

I appeal to parents to control the reading of their children. Much reading does them only harm. Especially do not permit upon your tables the magazines and newspapers wherein are found love stories. It is impossible for the youth to possess a healthy tone of mind and correct religious principles, unless they enjoy the perusal of the Word of God. This book contains the most interesting history, points out the way of salvation through Christ, and is their guide to a higher and better life. They would all pronounce it the most interesting book they ever perused, if their imagination had not become perverted by exciting stories of a fictitious character. You who are looking for your Lord to come the second time to change your mortal bodies, and to fashion them like unto His most glorious body, must come up upon a higher plane of action. You must work from a higher standpoint than you have hitherto done, or you will not be of that number who will receive the finishing touch of immortality. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 23)

*****

Testimonies for the Church 3:471, 472. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 24)

Violence and crime of every description are filling our world, and Satan is using every means to make crime and debasing vice popular. The youth who walk the streets are surrounded with handbills and notices of crime and sin presented in some novel or to be acted at some theater. Their minds are educated into familiarity with sin. The course pursued by the base and vile is kept before them in the periodicals of the day, and everything which can excite curiosity and arouse the animal passions is brought before them in thrilling and exciting stories. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 25)

The literature that proceeds from corrupted intellects poisons the minds of thousands in our world. Sin does not appear exceedingly sinful. They hear and read so much of debasing crime and vileness that the once-tender conscience, which would have recoiled with horror, becomes so blunted that it can dwell upon the low and vile sayings and actions of men with greedy interest. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 26)

... There will be a people who hold so fast to the divine strength that they will be proof against every temptation. Evil communications in flaming handbills may seek to speak to their senses and corrupt their minds; yet they will be so united to God and angels that they will be as those who see not and hear not. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 27)

*****

Testimonies for the Church 4:497, 498. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 28)

You have indulged in novel and story reading until you live in an imaginary world. The influence of such reading is injurious to both the mind and the body; it weakens the intellect and brings a fearful tax upon the physical strength. At times your mind is scarcely sane, because the imagination has been over-excited and diseased by reading fictitious stories. The mind should be so disciplined that all its powers will be symmetrically developed. A certain course of training may invigorate special faculties, and at the same time leave other faculties without improvement, so that their usefulness will be crippled. The memory is greatly injured by ill-chosen reading, which has a tendency to unbalance the reasoning powers, and to create nervousness, weariness of the brain, and prostration of the entire system.... (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 29)

You are a mental dyspeptic. Your mind has been crammed with knowledge of all sorts—politics, history, theology, and anecdote—only a part of which can be retained by the abused memory. Much less information, with a mind well disciplined, would be of far greater value. You have neglected to train your mind to vigorous action; therefore your will and inclination have controlled you and been your masters instead of your servants. The result is a loss of physical and mental power. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 30)

For years your mind has been like a babbling brook, nearly filled with rocks and weeds, the water running to waste. Were your powers controlled by high purposes, you would not be the invalid that you now are. You fancy you must be indulged in your caprice of appetite and in your excessive reading. I saw the midnight lamp burning in your room while you were poring over some fascinating story, thus stimulating your already over-excited brain. This course has been lessening your hold upon life and enfeebling you physically, mentally, and morally.... (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 31)

Education is but a preparation of the physical, intellectual, and moral powers for the best performance of all the duties of life. Improper reading gives an education that is false. The power of endurance and the strength and activity of the brain may be lessened or increased according to the manner in which they are employed. There is a work before you to dispose of this light reading. Remove it from the house! Do not have before you the temptation to pervert your imagination, to unbalance your nervous system, and to ruin your children. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 32)

*****

Testimonies for the Church 5:506. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 33)

If the souls of your children are saved, you must do your work with fidelity. God has not been wholly pleased with your course in regard to worldly associations, and now the peril is revealed. You have also encouraged the reading of storybooks; these and papers with continued stories, lying upon your table, have educated the taste of your daughter until she is a mental inebriate and needs a stronger power, a firmer will than her own, to control her. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 34)

*****

Testimonies for the Church 5:516-520. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 35)

Dear Brother E.: I have just read the Review and Herald and have seen your article giving a list of good books for our youth. I was much surprised to read your recommendation of Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Robinson Crusoe, and such books. You are in danger of becoming somewhat careless in your writing. It would be well to give thought and careful study to whatever is to be immortalized in print. I am really alarmed to see that your spiritual eyesight is not more clear in the matter of selecting and recommending reading for our youth. I know that the recommendation in our papers of such infatuating books as Uncle Tom’s Cabin will in many minds justify the reading of other books which are nothing but fiction.... This recommendation will make taxing work for those who are laboring to persuade the youth to discard fictitious reading. I have repeatedly seen the evil of reading such books as you recommend and have an article all prepared cautioning our youth in this very matter. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 36)

Be sure, my brother, not to lead away from the searching of the Scriptures. It has been revealed to me that the purchase and sale by our brethren of storybooks such as are commonly circulated in Sunday schools, is a snare to our people, especially to our children. It leads them to expend money for that class of reading which fevers the imagination, and unfits them for the real duties of practical life. You may be assured that this recommendation of yours will be acted upon. The youth need no such sanction or liberty, for their taste and inclination are all in this direction. But I hope no more such recommendations will appear. You must be getting away from Jesus and His teachings and do not realize it. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 37)

It is Satan’s work to present to our youth newspaper stories and storybooks that fascinate the senses and thus destroy their relish for the Word of God.... It is not best for you to feel at liberty to speak your mind upon such matters as concern the welfare of our youth, recommending books which do not tend to spirituality or piety. If you fancy that such reading will develop firm, unspotted principle, you are mistaken.... (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 38)

There are many of our youth whom God has endowed with superior capabilities. He has given them the very best of talents; but their powers have been enervated, their minds confused and enfeebled, and for years they have made no growth in grace and in a knowledge of the reasons of our faith, because they have gratified a taste for story-reading. They have as much difficulty to control the appetite for such superficial reading as the drunkard has to control his appetite for intoxicating drink. These might today be connected with our publishing houses and be efficient workers to keep books, prepare copy for the press, or to read proof; but their talents have been perverted until they are mental dyspeptics and consequently are unfitted for a responsible position anywhere. The imagination is diseased. They live an unreal life. They are unfitted for the practical duties of life; and that which is the most sad and discouraging is they have lost all relish for solid reading. They have become infatuated and charmed with just such food for the mind as the intensely exciting stories contained in Uncle Tom’s Cabin. That book did good in its day to those who needed an awakening in regard to their false ideas of slavery; but we are standing upon the very borders of the eternal world, where such stories are not needed in the preparation for eternal life.... (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 39)

The special effort for this time of ministers and of workers all through our ranks should be to turn away the attention of the youth from all exciting stories to the sure Word of prophecy. The attention of every soul striving for eternal life should center upon the Bible. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 40)

It seems wonderfully strange to me, considering all I have written in regard to the reading of exciting stories, to see a recommendation from your pen to read Robinson Crusoe, Uncle Tom’s Cabin, and Aesop’s Fables. My brother, you made a mistake in writing that article. If these books are among those which you have for sale, I beg of you never to offer them again to our youth. It is your duty to call their attention to the Bible; do not become their tempter by offering to them attractive storybooks which will divert their minds from the story of the Scriptures. We must ourselves be drinking of the water of life, else we will be constantly hewing out for ourselves broken cisterns which can hold no water. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 41)

There are a thousand ways and plans that Satan has of creeping in to unsettle the minds of youth, and unless the soul is firmly and fully stayed upon God, and conscientiously guarded upon the very point of keeping the mind employed in searching the Scriptures, and becoming grounded in our faith, they will surely be ensnared. We cannot be off guard for a moment. We cannot allow ourselves to move from impulse. We must set a guard about our minds and the minds of our children, that they may not be allured by Satan’s temptations. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 42)

*****

Testimonies for the Church 5:544, 545. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 43)

We are living in a time when everything that is false and superficial is exalted above the real, the natural, and the enduring. The mind must be kept free from everything that would lead it in a wrong direction. It should not be encumbered with trashy stories, which do not add strength to the mental powers. The thoughts will be of the same character as the food we provide for the mind.... (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 44)

Could my voice reach the parents all through the land, I would warn them not to yield to the desires of their children in choosing their companions or associates.... If children are with those whose conversation is upon unimportant, earthly things, their minds will come to the same level.... If their minds are filled with stories, be they true or fictitious, there is no room for the useful information and scientific knowledge which should occupy them. What havoc has this love for light reading wrought with the mind! How it has destroyed the principles of sincerity and true godliness, which lie at the foundation of a symmetrical character! It is like a slow poison taken into the system, which will sooner or later reveal its bitter effects. When a wrong impression is left upon the mind in youth, a mark is made, not on sand, but on enduring rock. (16LtMs, Ms 133, 1901, 45)

Ms 134, 1901

Music
NP
1901
This manuscript is extracted from published sources and Ms 157, 1899.

Music. Extracts from the Testimonies.

Testimonies for the Church 1:146. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 1)

I have seen that confusion is displeasing to the Lord, and that there should be order in praying and also in singing.... I saw that all should sing with the spirit and with the understanding also. God is not pleased with jargon and discord. Right is always more pleasing to Him than wrong. And the nearer the people of God can approach to correct, harmonious singing, the more is He glorified, the church benefited, and unbelievers favorably affected. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 2)

I have been shown the order, the perfect order, of heaven and have been enraptured as I listened to the perfect music there. After coming out of vision, the singing here has sounded very harsh and discordant. I have seen companies of angels, who stood in a hollow square, every one having a harp of gold. At the end of the harp was an instrument to turn, to set the harp or change the tunes. Their fingers did not sweep over the strings carelessly, but they touched different strings to produce different sounds. There is one angel who always leads, who first touches the harp and strikes the note, then all join in the rich, perfect music of heaven. It cannot be described. It is melody, heavenly, divine, while from every countenance beams the image of Jesus, shining with glory unspeakable. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 3)

*****

Testimonies for the Church 1:496-513. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 4)

I feel alarmed as I witness everywhere the frivolity of young men and young women who profess to believe the truth.... They have a keen ear for music, and Satan knows what organs to excite to animate, engross, and charm the mind, so that Christ is not desired.... I was shown that the youth must take a higher stand, and make the Word of God the man of their counsel and their guide. Solemn responsibilities rest upon the young, which they lightly regard. The introduction of music into their homes, instead of inciting to holiness and spirituality, has been the means of diverting their minds from the truth. Frivolous songs and the popular sheet music of the day seem congenial to their taste. The instruments of music have taken time which should have been devoted to prayer. Music, when not abused, is a great blessing; but when put to a wrong use, it is a terrible curse. It excites, but does not impart that strength and courage which the Christian can find only at the throne of grace while humbly making known his wants, and with strong cries and tears, pleading for heavenly strength to be fortified against the powerful temptations of the evil one.... (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 5)

Music has occupied the hours which should have been devoted to prayer. Music is the idol which many professed Sabbath-keeping Christians worship. Satan has no objection to music, if he can make that a channel through which to gain access to the minds of the youth.... When turned to good account, music is a blessing, but it is often made one of Satan’s most attractive agencies to ensnare souls. When abused, it leads the unconsecrated to pride, vanity, and folly. When allowed to take the place of devotion and prayer, it is a terrible curse.... (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 6)

God is glorified by songs of praise from a pure heart filled with love and devotion to Him.... (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 7)

Pray more than you sing. Do you not stand in greater need of prayer than of singing? Young men and women, God calls upon you to work, work for Him. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 8)

*****

Testimonies for the Church 2:144. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 9)

How can I endure the thought that most of the youth in this age will come short of everlasting life! Oh that the sound of instrumental music might cease, and they no more while away so much precious time in pleasing their own fancy! (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 10)

*****

Testimonies for the Church 2:538. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 11)

Your daughters may love music, and this may be all right; it may add to the happiness of the family; but the knowledge of music without the knowledge of cookery is not worth much. When your daughters have families of their own, an understanding of music and fancy work will not provide for the table a well-cooked dinner, prepared with nicety, so that they will not blush to place it before their most esteemed friends. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 12)

*****

Testimonies for the Church 3:39. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 13)

Your singing schools have ever been a snare to you. Neither you nor your sisters have a depth of experience that will enable you to be brought in contact with the influences you meet in your singing schools without being affected. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 14)

*****

Testimonies for the Church 4:71-73. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 15)

Music can be a great power for good; yet we do not make the most of this branch of worship. The singing is generally done from impulse or to meet special cases, and at other times those who sing are left to blunder along, and the music loses its proper effect upon the minds of those present. Music should have beauty, pathos, and power. Let the voices be lifted in songs of praise and devotion. Call to your aid, if practicable, instrumental music, and let the glorious harmony ascend to God, an acceptable offering. But it is sometimes more difficult to discipline the singers and keep them in working order, than to improve the habits of praying and exhorting. Many want to do things after their own style; they object to consultation and are impatient under leadership. Well-matured plans are needed in the service of God. Common sense is an excellent thing in the worship of the Lord.... (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 16)

There are more gatherings for singing than for prayer among our people; but even these gatherings can be conducted in so reverential yet cheerful a manner that they may exert a good influence. There is, however, too much jesting, idle conversation, and gossiping to make these seasons beneficial, to elevate the thoughts and refine the manners. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 17)

*****

The Review and Herald, July 24, 1883. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 18)

Another matter which should receive attention, both at our camp-meetings and elsewhere, is that of singing. A minister should not give out hymns to be sung, until it has first been ascertained that they are familiar to those who sing. A proper person should be appointed to take charge of this exercise, and it should be his duty to see that such hymns are selected as can be sung with the spirit and with the understanding also. Singing is a part of the worship of God, but in the bungling manner in which it is often conducted, it is no credit to the truth, and no honor to God. There should be system and order in this as well as every other part of the Lord’s work. Organize a company of the best singers, whose voices can lead the congregation, and then let all who will, unite with them. Those who sing should make an effort to sing in harmony; they should devote some time to practice, that they may employ this talent to the glory of God. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 19)

But singing should not be allowed to divert the mind from the hours of devotion. If one must be neglected, let it be the singing. It is one of the great temptations of the present age to carry the practice of music to extremes, to make a great deal more of music than of prayer. Many souls have been ruined here. When the Spirit of God is arousing the conscience and convicting of sin, Satan suggests a singing-exercise or a singing-school, which, being conducted in a light and trifling manner, results in banishing seriousness and quenching all desire for the Spirit of God. Thus the door of the heart, which was about to be opened to Jesus, is closed and barricaded with pride and stubbornness, in many cases never again to be opened.... They have chosen singing before prayer, singing-schools in preference to religious meetings.... Such singing is an offence to God. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 20)

*****

Patriarchs and Prophets, 637-643, 707-711. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 21)

Centuries before the advent of the Saviour, David, in the freshness of boyhood, kept watch of his flocks as they grazed on the hills surrounding Bethlehem. The simple shepherd boy sang the songs of his own composing, and the music of his harp made a sweet accompaniment to the melody of his fresh young voice.... (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 22)

David, in the beauty and vigor of his young manhood, was preparing to take a high position with the noblest of the earth. His talents, as precious gifts from God, were employed to extol the glory of the divine Giver. His opportunities of contemplation and meditation served to enrich him with that wisdom and piety that made him beloved of God and angels.... Each ray of new light called forth fresh bursts of rapture, and sweeter anthems of devotion, to the glory of God and the Redeemer.... As he beheld the love of God in all the providences of his life, his heart throbbed with more fervent admiration and gratitude, his voice rang out in a richer melody, his harp was swept with more exultant joy; and the shepherd boy proceeded from strength to strength, from knowledge to knowledge; for the Spirit of the Lord was upon him.... (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 23)

His [Saul’s] counselors advised him to seek for the services of a skillful musician, in the hope that the soothing notes of a sweet instrument might calm his troubled spirit. In the providence of God, David, as a skillful performer upon the harp, was brought before the king. His lofty and heaven-inspired strains had the desired effect. The brooding melancholy that had settled like a dark cloud over the mind of Saul was charmed away.... (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 24)

While he [David] was absorbed in deep meditation, and harassed by thoughts of anxiety, he turned to his harp, and called forth strains that elevated his mind to the Author of every good, and the dark clouds that seemed to shadow the horizon of the future were dispelled.... (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 25)

Again the long train was in motion, and the music of harp and cornet, trumpet and cymbal, floated heavenward, blended with the melody of many voices.... The triumphal procession approached the capital, following the sacred symbol of their invisible King. Then a burst of song demanded of the watchers upon the walls that the gates of the Holy City should be thrown open: (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 26)

“Lift up your heads, O ye gates;
And be ye lifted up, ye everlasting doors;
And the King of glory shall come in.” [Psalm 24:7.] (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 27)

A band of singers and players answered, (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 28)

“Who is this King of glory?” [Verse 8.] (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 29)

From another company came the response, (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 30)

“The Lord strong and mighty,
The Lord mighty in battle.” [Verse 8.] (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 31)

Then hundreds of voices, uniting, swelled the triumphal chorus, (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 32)

“Lift up your heads, O ye gates;
Even lift them up, ye everlasting doors;
And the King of glory shall come in.” [Verse 9.] (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 33)

Again the joyful interrogation was heard, “Who is this King of glory?” And the voice of the great multitude, “like the sound of many waters,” was heard in the rapturous reply, (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 34)

“The Lord of hosts,
He is the King of glory.” [Verse 10; Revelation 19:6.] (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 35)

The solemn ceremonies attending the removal of the ark had made a lasting impression upon the people of Israel, arousing a deeper interest in the sanctuary service and kindling anew their zeal for Jehovah. David endeavored by every means in his power to deepen these impressions. The service of song was made a regular part of religious worship, and David composed Psalms, not only for the use of the priests in the sanctuary service, but also to be sung by the people in their journeys to the national altar at the annual feasts. The influence thus exerted was far-reaching, and it resulted in freeing the nation from idolatry. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 36)

*****

(From Ms. entitled “A Message to the Battle Creek Church,” December 4, 1899.) (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 37)

The instruction God gave His apostles, He gave for the benefit of the church in these last days. When professing Christians reach the high standard which it is their privilege to reach, the simplicity of Christ will be maintained in all their worship. Forms and ceremonies and musical accomplishments are not the strength of the church. Yet these things have taken the place that God should have, even as they did in the worship of the Jews. The Lord has revealed to me that when the heart is cleansed and sanctified, and the members of the church are partakers of the divine nature, a power will go forth from the church that will cause melody in the heart. Men and women will not then depend upon their instrumental music, but on the power and grace of God, which will give fullness of joy. There is a work to be done in clearing away the rubbish which has been brought into the church. Let the services of the Tabernacle be conducted in humility and repentance.... This message is not only for the church at Battle Creek, but for every other church that has followed her example.... (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 38)

Professing Christians, will you not see your work and do it, that you may be Christians not only in name, but in reality? If you do this, your pipe organ and other musical instruments will be placed second and not first. If you would close your instruments of music, and seek the Lord as you have never sought Him before, if you would put away the evil of your doing, the Spirit of the Lord would cleanse you from all defilement, and put the melody of heaven in your hearts. Your music does not commend you to God. It is the doing of His Word which He accepts. (16LtMs, Ms 134, 1901, 39)

Ms 135, 1901

Union and Organization
NP
1901
This manuscript is extracted from various published sources.

Union and Organization.

As we near the close of time, Satan comes down with great power, knowing that his time is short. Especially will his power be exercised upon the remnant. He will war against them and seek to divide and scatter them, that they may grow weak and be overthrown. The people of God should move understandingly and should be united in their efforts. They should be of the same mind, of the same judgment; then their efforts will not be scattered, but will tell forcibly in the upbuilding of the cause of present truth. Order must be observed, and there must be union in maintaining order, or Satan will take the advantage.—Testimonies for the Church 1:210 (Dec. 23, 1860). (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 1)

If all who have an influence felt the necessity of co-operation, and would seek to answer the prayer of Christ, that they may be one as He is one with the Father, the cause of present truth would be a power.... But the people of God are asleep and do not see the wants of the Cause for this time. They do not feel the importance of concentrated action. Satan is ever seeking to divide the faith and hearts of God’s people. He well knows that union is their strength and division their weakness. It is important and essential that all of Christ’s followers understand Satan’s devices, and with a united effort meet his attacks and vanquish him. They need to make continual efforts to press together, even if it be at some sacrifice to themselves. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 2)

The people of God, with various temperaments and organizations, are brought together in church capacity. The truth of God, received into the heart, will do its work of refining, elevating, and sanctifying the life, and overcoming the peculiar views and prejudices of each. All should labor to come as near to one another as possible. All who love God and keep His commandments in truth will have an influence with unbelievers and will win souls to Christ, to swell the glad songs of triumph and victory before the great throne. Selfishness will be overcome, and overflowing love for Christ will be manifested in the burden they feel to save souls for whom He died.—Testimonies for the Church 3:434, 435. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 3)

I was pointed back to the children of Israel. Very soon after leaving Egypt, they were organized and most thoroughly disciplined. God had in His special providence qualified Moses to stand at the head of the armies of Israel. He had been a mighty warrior to lead the armies of the Egyptians, and in generalship he could not be surpassed by any man.—Testimonies for the Church 1:650. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 4)

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): “Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be like-minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.”—Testimonies for the Church 1:324. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 5)

Heaven and holy angels are working to unite, to bring into the unity of the faith, into the one body. Satan opposes this and is determined to scatter and divide and bring different sentiments, that the prayer of Christ may not be answered: “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. Jesus designed that the faith of His people should be one. If one goes forth preaching one thing, and another differing with him preaches something else, how can those who believe “through their word” be one? There will be difference of sentiments.—Testimonies for the Church 1:326, 327. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 6)

Angels work harmoniously. Perfect order characterizes all their movements. The more closely we imitate the harmony and order of the angelic host, the more successful will be the efforts of these heavenly agents in our behalf. If we see no necessity for harmonious action, and are disorderly, undisciplined, and disorganized in our course of action, angels, who are thoroughly organized and move in perfect harmony, cannot work for us successfully.... Those who have the unction from on high will in all their efforts encourage order, discipline, and union of action, and then the angels of God can co-operate with them.... (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 7)

Satan well knows that success can only attend order and harmonious action. He well knows that everything connected [with] heaven is in perfect order, that subjection and thorough discipline mark movements of the angelic host. It is his studied effort to lead professed Christians just as far from Heaven’s arrangement as he can; therefore he deceived even the professed people of God, and makes them believe that order and discipline are enemies to spirituality; that the only safety for them is to let each pursue his own course and to remain especially distinct from bodies of Christians who are united, and are laboring to establish discipline and harmony of action.... I was shown that it is Satan’s special work to lead men to feel that it is God’s order for them to strike out for themselves and choose their own course, independent of their brethren.—Testimonies for the Church 1:649, 650. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 8)

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.... (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 9)

God is leading out a people and establishing them upon the one great platform of faith, the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus. He has given His people a straight chain of Bible truth, clear and connected. This truth is of heavenly origin and has been searched for as for hidden treasure. It has been dug out through careful searching of the Scriptures and through much prayer.—Testimonies for the Church 3:446, 447. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 10)

As all the different members of the human system unite to form the entire body, and each performs its office in obedience to the intelligence that governs the whole, so the members of the church of Christ should be united in one symmetrical body, subject to the sanctified intelligence of the whole.—Testimonies for the Church 4:16. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 11)

God is leading out a people to stand in perfect unity upon the platform of eternal truth.—Testimonies for the Church 4:17. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 12)

If the world sees a perfect harmony existing in the church of God, it will be a powerful evidence to them in favor of the Christian religion.... Christ saw that unity and Christian fellowship were necessary to the cause of God, therefore He enjoined it upon His disciples. And the history of Christianity from that time until now, proves conclusively that in union only there is strength.... (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 13)

The apostles felt the necessity of strict unity, and they labored earnestly to this end. Paul exhorted his brethren in these words: “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.” [1 Corinthians 1:10.]—Testimonies for the Church 4:19. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 14)

A machine may be perfect in all its parts, and yet there be much friction and wear in its movements; but apply oil, and it performs its work quietly and well. So with us. It is necessary to have the oil of grace in our hearts, in order to prevent the friction that may arise between us.—Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh Day Adventist, 119. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 15)

The third angel’s message is not a narrow message. It is worldwide; and we should be united, as far as possible, in the manner of presenting it to the world. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 16)

Man is fallible; but the message is infallible. With it all should be in harmony; it is the center of interest, in which all hearts should be united.... The message is to prepare a people to stand in the last great day and to be united in Heaven above. None should feel that it is of no special importance whether they are in union with their brethren or not; for those who do not learn to live in harmony here, will never be united in heaven.... (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 17)

The history of God’s work in the past shows that some have understanding of one thing, others of another. It is His plan that there should be a counseling together. In the multitude of counselors there is safety. There should be harmony in sentiment and action among the laborers.... (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 18)

The truth is a unit, so powerful that our enemies cannot controvert it. Therefore they try to excite jealousies to create variance among brethren that they may be led to separate their affections from God and from one another. In unity there is strength. In Luther’s time it was considered a great misfortune when differences arose among the believers, because it strengthened the opposition of their enemies.... (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 19)

Jesus is ready to do great things for us when we lay ourselves upon the altar, a living, consuming sacrifice. “I will make a man more precious than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir.” [Isaiah 13:12.] How? through the Spirit of Christ.... When we have His Spirit in our hearts, we shall be of one mind in Him.... Our eyes will be fixed upon Jesus, and we shall learn from Him to dwell in love and harmony with one another here, and shall finally be permitted to dwell with Christ and angels and all the redeemed throughout the ceaseless ages of eternity.—Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh Day Adventist, 124, 126. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 20)

Unity Among Different Nationalities

(This is an address given by Sister E. G. White, Sept. 24, 1885, in Basel, Switzerland.) (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 21)

“If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.” “Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” John 7:37; 4:14. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 22)

If with these promises before us we choose to remain parched and withered for want of the water of life, it is our own fault. If we would come to Christ with the simplicity of a child coming to its earthly parents, and ask for the things that He has promised, believing that we receive them, we should have them.... (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 23)

Since these meetings began, I have felt urged to dwell much upon love and faith. This is because you need this testimony. Some who have entered these missionary fields have said, “You do not understand the French people; you do not understand the Germans. They have to be met in just such a way.” But, I inquire, does not God understand them? Is it not He who gives His servants a message for the people? He knows just what they need; it will make all one in Christ. Though some are decidedly French, others decidedly German, and others decidedly American, they will be just as decidedly Christlike. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 24)

The Jewish temple was built of hewn stones quarried out of the mountains; and every stone was fitted for its place in the temple, hewed, polished, and tested, before it was brought to Jerusalem. And when all were brought to the ground, the building went together without the sound of axe or hammer. This building represents God’s spiritual temple, which is composed of material gathered out of every nation, and tongue, and people, of all grades, high and low, rich and poor, learned and unlearned. These are not dead substances, to be fitted by hammer and chisel. They are living stones, quarried out from the world by the truth; and the great Master Builder, the Lord of the temple, is now hewing and polishing them, and fitting them for their respective places in the spiritual temple. When completed, this temple will be perfect in all its parts, the admiration of angels and men; for its builder and maker is God. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 25)

Let no one think that there need not be a stroke placed upon him. There is no person, no nation, that is perfect in every habit and thought. One must learn of another. Therefore God wants the different nationalities to mingle together, to be one in judgment, one in purpose. Then the union that there is in Christ will be exemplified. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 26)

I was almost afraid to come to this country, because I heard so many say that the different nationalities of Europe were peculiar and had to be reached in a certain way. But the wisdom of God is promised to those who feel their need and who ask for it. God can bring the people where they will receive the truth. Let the Lord take possession of the mind, and mold it as clay is molded in the hands of the potter, and these differences will not exist. Look to Jesus, brethren; copy His manners and spirit, and you will have no trouble in reaching these different classes. We have not six patterns to follow, nor five. We have only one, and that is Christ Jesus. If the Italian brethren, the French brethren, and the German brethren try to be like Him, they will plant their feet upon the same foundation of truth; the same Spirit that dwells in one will dwell in the other—Christ in them, the hope of glory. I warn you, brethren and sisters, not to build up a wall of partition between different nationalities. On the contrary, seek to break it down wherever it exists. We should endeavor to bring all into the harmony that there is in Jesus, laboring for the one object—the salvation of our fellow men.... (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 27)

As workers together for God, brethren and sisters, lean heavily upon the arm of the Mighty One. Labor for unity, labor for love, and you may become a power in the world.—Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh Day Adventist, 136-138. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 28)

Unity and Organization in the Church

Many do not realize the sacredness of church relationship, and are loath to submit to restraint and discipline. Their course of action shows that they exalt their own judgment above that of the united church; and they are not careful to guard themselves lest they encourage a spirit of opposition to its voice. Those who hold responsible positions in the church may have faults in common with other people, and may err in their decisions; but notwithstanding this, the church of Christ on earth has given to them an authority that cannot be lightly esteemed. Christ, after His resurrection, delegated power unto His church, saying, “Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained.” [John 20:23.] (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 29)

Church relationship is not to be lightly canceled; yet when the path of some professed followers of Christ is crossed, or when their voice has not the controlling influence which they think it deserves, they will threaten to leave the church. True, in leaving the church they will themselves be the greatest sufferers; for in withdrawing beyond the pale of its influence, they subject themselves to the full temptations of the world. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 30)

Every believer should be wholehearted in his attachment to the church. Its prosperity should be his first interest, and unless he feels under sacred obligations to make his connection with the church a benefit to it in preference to himself, it can do far better without him. It is in the power of all to do something for the cause of God. There are those who spend large amounts for needless luxuries; they gratify their appetites, but feel it a great tax to contribute means to sustain the church. They are willing to receive all the benefit of its privileges, but prefer to leave others to pay the bills. Those who really feel a deep interest in the advancement of the cause will not hesitate to invest money in the enterprise whenever and wherever it is needed. They should also feel it a solemn duty to illustrate in their characters the teachings of Christ, being at peace one with another, and moving in perfect harmony as an individual whole. They should defer their individual judgment to the judgment of the body of the church. Many live for themselves alone. They look upon their lives with great complacency, flattering themselves that they are blameless, when in fact they are doing nothing for God, and are living in direct opposition to His expressed word.... (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 31)

Unbelief suggests that individual independence increases our importance, that it is weak to yield our own ideas of what is right and proper to the verdict of the church; but to yield to such feelings and views is unsafe, and will bring us into anarchy and confusion. Christ saw that unity and Christian fellowship were necessary to the cause of God, therefore He enjoined it upon His disciples. And the history of Christianity from that time till now proves conclusively that in union only there is strength. Let individual judgment submit to the authority of the church. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 32)

The apostles felt the necessity of strict unity, and they labored earnestly to this end. Paul exhorted his brethren in these words, “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.” [1 Corinthians 1:10.] (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 33)

He also wrote his Philippian brethren: “If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, fulfil ye my joy, that ye be like-minded, 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. Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 2:1-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 34)

To the Romans he wrote: “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. Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.” “Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.” [Romans 15:5-7; 12:16.] (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 35)

Peter wrote to the churches scattered abroad: “Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another; love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous; not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing; but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.” [1 Peter 3:8, 9.] (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 36)

And Paul, in his Epistle to the Corinthians, says: “Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.” [2 Corinthians 13:11.]—Testimonies for the Church 4:17-20. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 37)

*****

God has invested His church with special authority and power which no one can be justified in disregarding and despising; for in so doing he despises the voice of God.—Testimonies for the Church 3:417. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 38)

Authority of the Church

The world’s Redeemer has invested great power with His church. He states the rules to be applied in cases of trial with its members. After He has given explicit directions as to the course to be pursued, He says, “Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth, shall be bound in heaven; and whatsoever (in church discipline) ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” [Matthew 18:18.] Thus even the heavenly authority ratifies the discipline of the church in regard to its members, when the Bible rule has been followed. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 39)

The Word of God does not give license for one man to set up his judgment in opposition to the judgment of the church, neither is he allowed to urge his opinions against the opinions of the church. If there were no church discipline and government, the church would go to fragments; it could not hold together as a body. There have ever been individuals of independent minds, who have claimed that they were right, that God had especially taught, impressed, and led them. Each has a theory of his own, views peculiar to himself, and each claims that his views are in accordance with the will of God. Each has a different theory and faith, yet each claims special light from God. These draw away from the body, and each is a separate church in himself. All these could not be right, yet they all claim to be led of the Lord. The Word of inspiration is not yea and nay, but yea and amen in Christ Jesus. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 40)

Our Saviour follows His lessons of instruction with a promise that if two or three should be united in asking anything of God it should be given them. Christ here shows that there must be union with others, even in our desires for a given object. Great importance is attached to the united prayer, the union of purpose. God hears the prayers of individuals; but on this occasion Jesus was giving especial and important lessons that were to have a special bearing upon His newly organized church on the earth. There must be an agreement in the things that they desire, and for which they pray. It is not merely the thoughts and exercises of one mind, liable to deception; but the petition was to be the earnest desire of several minds centered on the same point.—Testimonies for the Church 3:428, 429. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 41)

Unity Essential in the Hour of Danger

The church of Christ is in constant peril. Satan is seeking to destroy the people of God, and one man’s mind, one man’s judgment, is not sufficient to be trusted. Christ would have His followers brought together in church capacity, observing order, having rules and disciplines, and all subject one to another, esteeming others better than themselves. Union and confidence are essential to the prosperity of the church. If each member of the church feels at liberty to move independently of the others, taking his own peculiar course, how can the church be in any safety in the hour of danger and peril? The prosperity and very existence of a church depend upon the prompt, united action and mutual confidence of its members. When, at a critical time, one sounds the alarm of danger, there is need of prompt and active work, without stopping to question and canvass the whole subject from end to end, thus letting the enemy gain every advantage by delay, when united action might have saved many souls from perdition.—Testimonies for the Church 3:445. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 42)

Platform of Present Truth

God is leading out a people 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 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? (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 43)

God is leading out a people and establishing them upon the one great platform of faith, the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus. He has given His people a straight chain of Bible truth, clear and connected. This truth is of heavenly origin and has been searched for as for hidden treasure. It has been dug out through careful searching of the Scriptures and through much prayer.—Testimonies for the Church 3:445-47. See Early Writings, “A Firm Platform.” (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 44)

You must never, never seek to lift one pin, remove one landmark, that the Lord has given to His people as truth.—(Ms., December 18, 1898.) (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 45)

Members of Church Controlled by Majority

The church is God’s delegated authority upon the earth. Christ has said, “Whatsoever ye bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatsoever things ye loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” [Verse 18.] There is altogether too little respect paid to the opinion of members of the same church. It is the want of deference for the opinions of the church that causes so much trouble among brethren. The eyes of the church may be able to discern in its individual members that which the erring may not see. A few persons may be blind as the one in error, but the majority of the church is a power which should control its individual members.... (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 46)

Unless the advice and counsel of the church can be respected, it is indeed powerless. God has placed a voice in the church which must control its members.—Testimonies for the Church 5:107, 108. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 47)

Satan is Now Seeking to Bring in Discord

As we near the close of time, Satan comes down with great power, knowing that his time is short. Especially will his power be exercised upon the remnant. He will war against them and seek to divide and scatter them, that they may grow weak and be overthrown. The people of God should move understandingly and should be united in their efforts. They should be of the same mind, of the same judgment; then their efforts will not be scattered, but will tell forcibly in the upbuilding of the cause of present truth. Order must be observed, and there must be union in maintaining order or Satan will take the advantage.—Testimonies for the Church 1:210. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 48)

If all who have an influence felt the necessity of co-operation, and would seek to answer the prayer of Christ, that they may be one as He is one with the Father, the cause of present truth would be a power.... But the people of God are asleep and do not see the wants of the cause for this time. They do not feel the need of concentrated action. Satan is ever seeking to divide the faith and hearts of God’s people. He well knows that union is their strength and division their weakness. It is important and essential that all of Christ’s followers understand Satan’s devices and with a united front meet his attacks and vanquish him. They need to make continual efforts to press together, even if it be at some sacrifice to themselves.—Testimonies for the Church 3:434, 435. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 49)

Satan well knows that success can only attend order and harmonious action. He well knows that everything connected with heaven is in perfect order, that subjection and thorough discipline mark movements of the angelic host. It is his studied effort to lead professed Christians just as far from heaven’s arrangement as he can; therefore, he deceives even the professed people of God and makes them believe that order and discipline are enemies to spirituality; and the only safety for them is to let each pursue his own course and to remain especially distinct from bodies of Christians who are united and are laboring to establish discipline and harmony of action.... I was shown that it is Satan’s especial work to lead men to feel that it is God’s order for themselves and choose their own course, independent of their brethren.—Testimonies for the Church 1:649, 650. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 50)

Angels Work in Harmony

Heaven and holy angels are working to unite, to bring into the unity of the faith, into the same body.—Testimonies for the Church 1:326. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 51)

Angels work harmoniously. Perfect order characterizes all their movements. The more closely we imitate the harmony of the angelic host, the more successful will be the efforts of these heavenly agents in our behalf. If we see no necessity for harmonious action, and are disorderly, undisciplined, and disorganized in our course of action, angels, who are thoroughly organized and move in perfect harmony, cannot work for us as successfully.... Those who have the unction from on high will in their efforts encourage order, discipline, and union of action, and then the angels of God can co-operate with them.... —Testimonies for the Church 1:649, 650. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 52)

All Should Preach the Same Things

Jesus designed that the faith of His people should be one. If one goes forth preaching one thing, and another differing with him preaches something else, how can those believing “through their word” be one? [John 17:20.] There will be difference of sentiments.—Testimonies for the Church 1:327. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 53)

The history of God’s work in the past shows that some have an understanding of one thing, others of another. It is His plan that there should be a counseling together. In the multitude of counselors there is safety. There should be harmony in sentiment and action among the laborers.... (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 54)

The truth is a unit, so powerful that our enemies cannot controvert it. Therefore they try to excite jealousies, to create variance, among the brethren, that they may be led to separate their affections from God and from one another. In unity there is strength. In Luther’s time it was considered a great misfortune when differences arose among the believers, because it strengthened the opposition of their enemies.—Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh Day Adventist, 125, 126. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 55)

Living in Harmony one with Another

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.—Testimonies for the Church 1:324. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 56)

As all the different members of the human system unite to form the entire body, and each performs its office in obedience to the intelligence that governs the whole, so the members of the church of Christ should be united in one symmetrical body, subject to the sanctified intelligence of the whole.—Testimonies for the Church 4:16. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 57)

It is necessary to have the oil of grace in our hearts, in order to prevent the friction that may arise between us.—Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh Day Adventist, 119. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 58)

None should feel that it is of no special importance whether they are in union with their brethren or not; for those who do not learn to live in harmony here will never be united in heaven.—Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh Day Adventist, 124. (16LtMs, Ms 135, 1901, 59)

Ms 136, 1901

Letters to Fannie Bolton
Duplicate of Lt 120, 1900.

Ms 137, 1901

Parable of the Ten Virgins
Refiled as Ms 47, 1895.

Ms 138, 1901

The Mistake of a Low Fee for Tuition
Refiled as Ms 58, 1898.

Ms 139, 1901

Organization
NP
1901
This manuscript is extracted from various published sources.

God has a people in which all heaven is interested, and they are the one object on earth dear to the heart of God. Let every one who reads these words give them thorough consideration; for in the name of Jesus I would press them home upon every soul. When any one arises, either among us or outside of us, who is burdened with a message which declares that the people of God are numbered with Babylon, and claims that the loud cry is a call to come out of her, you may know that he is not bearing the message of truth.—The Review and Herald, August 29, 1893. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 1)

Although there are evils existing in the church, and will be until the end of the world, the church in these last days is to be the light of the world that is polluted and demoralized by sin. The church, enfeebled and defective, needing to be reproved, warned, and counseled, is the only object upon earth upon which Christ bestows His supreme regard. The world is a workshop in which, through the operation of human and divine agencies, Jesus is making experiments by His grace and divine mercy upon human hearts. Angels are amazed as they behold the transformation of character brought about in those who yield themselves to God, and they express their joy in songs of rapturous praise to God and to the Lamb. They see those who are by nature the children of wrath, converted, and becoming laborers together with Christ in drawing souls to God. They see those who were in darkness becoming lights to shine amid the moral night of this crooked and perverse generation. They see them becoming prepared by a Christlike experience to suffer with their Lord, and afterward to be partakers with Him in His glory in heaven above. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 2)

God has a church on earth who are lifting up the down-trodden law and presenting to the world the Lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world. The church is the depositary of the wealth of the riches of the grace of Christ, and through the church eventually will be made manifest the final and full display of the love of God to the world that is to be lightened with its glory. The prayer of Christ that His church may be one, as He was one with His Father, will finally be answered. The rich dowry of the Holy Spirit will be given, and through its constant supply to the people of God, they will become witnesses in the world of the power of God unto salvation. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 3)

There is but one church in the world who are at the present time standing in the breach, and making up the hedge, building up the old waste places; and for any man to call the attention of the world and other churches to this church, denouncing her as Babylon, is to do a work in harmony with him who is the accuser of the brethren.—The Review and Herald, September 5, 1893. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 4)

God speaks through His appointed agencies, and let no man, or confederacy of men, insult the Spirit of God by refusing to hear the message of God’s Word from the lips of His chosen messengers. By refusing to hear the message of God, men close themselves in a chamber of darkness. They shut their own souls away from vast blessings and rob Christ of the glory that should come to Him by showing disrespect to His appointed agencies. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 5)

Those who have proclaimed the Seventh-day Adventist Church as Babylon have made use of the testimonies in giving their position a seeming support; but why is it that they did not present that which for years has been the burden of my message—the unity of the church? Why did they not quote the words of the angel, “Press together, Press together, Press together”? Why did they not repeat the admonition and state the principle, that “in union there is strength, in division there is weakness”? It is such messages as these men have borne, that divide the church and put us to shame before the enemies of truth; and in such messages is plainly revealed the specious working of the great deceiver, who would hinder the church from attaining unto perfection in unity. These teachers follow the sparks of their own kindling, move according to their own independent judgment, and cumber the truth with false notions and theories. They refuse the counsel of their brethren, and press on in their own way, until they become just what Satan would desire to have them—unbalanced in mind. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 6)

I warn my brethren to guard against the working of Satan in every form. The great adversary of God and man is exulting today that he has succeeded in deceiving souls and in diverting their means and ability into harmful channels. Their money might have been used to advance present truth, but instead of this, it has been expended in presenting notions that have no foundation in truth. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 7)

Let all be careful not to make an outcry against the only people who are fulfilling the description given of the remnant people, who keep the commandments of God, and have the faith of Jesus, who are exalting the standard of righteousness in these last days. God has a distinct people, a church on earth, second to none, but superior to all in their facilities to teach the truth, to vindicate the law of God. God has divinely appointed agencies—men whom He is leading, who have borne the heat and burden of the day, who are co-operating with heavenly instrumentalities to advance the kingdom of Christ in our world. Let all unite with these chosen agents and be found at the last among those who have the patience of the saints, who keep the commandments of God, and have the faith of Jesus. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 8)

He is leading, not stray offshoots, not one here and one there, but a people. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 9)

We are not to think that the chosen ones of God, who are trying to walk in the light, compose Babylon. The fallen denominational churches are Babylon.—The Review and Herald, September 12, 1893. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 10)

If the world sees a perfect harmony existing in the church of God, it will be a powerful evidence to them in favor of the Christian religion. Dissensions, unhappy differences, and petty church trials dishonor our Redeemer. All these may be avoided if self is surrendered to God, and the followers of Jesus obey the voice of the church. Unbelief suggests that individual independence increases our importance, that it is weak to yield our own ideas of what is right and proper to the verdict of the church; but to yield to such feelings and views is unsafe and will bring us into anarchy and confusion. Christ saw that unity and Christian fellowship were necessary to the cause of God, therefore He enjoined it upon His disciples. And the history of Christianity from that time until now proves conclusively that in union only is there strength. Let individual judgment submit to the authority of the church.—Testimonies for the Church 4:19. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 11)

Australia, December 19, 1892
Melbourne, Victoria
Dear Brethren of the General Conference:—

I learn that it is proposed by some of our brethren to do away with the organization of some at least of the branches of our work. No doubt what has led them to propose this step is that in some of our organizations the machinery has been made so complicated as really to hinder the work. This, however, is not an argument against organization, but against the perversion of it. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 12)

It is nearly forty years since organization was introduced among us as a people. I was one of the number who had an experience in establishing it from the first. I know the difficulties that had to be met, the evils which it was designed to correct, and I have watched its influence in connection with the growth of the cause. At an early stage in the work, God gave us special light upon this point; and this light, together with the lessons that experience has taught us, should be carefully considered. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 13)

From the first our work was aggressive. Our numbers were few, and mostly from the poorer classes. Our views were almost unknown to the world. We had no houses of worship, but few publications, and very limited facilities for carrying forward our work. The sheep were scattered in the highways and byways, in cities, in towns, in forests. The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus was our message. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 14)

“Ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called, but God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise: and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; and base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: that no flesh should glory in his presence. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom and righteousness and sanctification and redemption that, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.” [1 Corinthians 1:26-31.] (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 15)

Our numbers gradually increased. The seed that was sown was watered of God, and He gave the increase. At first we assembled for worship, and presented the truth to those who would come to hear, in private houses, in large kitchens, in barns, in groves, and in school houses; but it was not long before we were able to build humble houses of worship. As our numbers increased, it was evident that without some form of organization, there would be great confusion, and the work would not be carried forward successfully. To provide for the support of the ministry, for carrying the work in new fields, for protecting both the churches and the ministry from unworthy members, for holding church property, for the publication of the truth through the press, and for many other objects, organization was indispensable. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 16)

Yet there was strong feeling against it among our people. The First-day Adventists were opposed to organization, and most of the Seventh-day Adventists entertained the same ideas. We sought the Lord with earnest prayer that we might understand His will, and light was given by His Spirit, that there must be order and thorough discipline in the church, that organization was essential. System and order are manifest in all the works of God throughout the universe. Order is the law of heaven, and it should be the law of God’s people on the earth.—The General Conference Daily Bulletin, January 29, 1892. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 17)

There is order in heaven, and God is 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.—Testimonies for the Church 1:191, [1859]. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 18)

*****

As we near the close of time, Satan comes down with great power, knowing that his time is short. Especially will his power be exercised upon the remnant. He will war against them and seek to divide and scatter them, that they may grow weak and be overthrown. The people of God should move understandingly, and should be united in their efforts. They should be of the same mind, of the same judgment; then their efforts will not be scattered, but will tell forcibly in the upbuilding of the cause of present truth. Order must be observed, and there must be union in maintaining order, or Satan will take the advantage. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 19)

I saw that the enemy would come in every way possible to dishearten the people of God and perplex and trouble them, and that they should move understandingly, and prepare themselves for the attacks of Satan. Matters pertaining to the church should not be left in an unsettled condition. Steps should be taken to secure church property for the cause of God, that the work may not be retarded in its progress, and that the means which persons wish to dedicate to God’s cause may not slip into the enemy’s ranks. I saw that God’s people should act wisely and leave nothing undone on their part to place the business of the church in a secure state. Then after all is done that they can do, they should trust the Lord to overrule these things for them, that Satan take no advantage of God’s remnant people. It is Satan’s time to work. A stormy future is before us; and the church should be awake to make an advance move that they may stand securely against his plans. It is time that something was done. God is not pleased to have the matters of the church at loose ends, and suffer the enemy to have the whole advantage and control affairs as best pleases him.—Testimonies for the Church 1:210, 211. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 20)

*****

Unless the churches are so organized that they can carry out and enforce order, they have nothing to hope for in the future; they must scatter into fragments. Previous teachings have nourished the elements of disunion. A spirit has been cherished to watch and accuse, rather than to build up. If ministers of God would unitedly take their position, and maintain it with decision, there would be a uniting influence among the flock of God. Separating bars would be broken to fragments. Hearts would flow together and unite like drops of water. Then there would be a power and strength in the ranks of Sabbath-keepers far exceeding anything we have yet witnessed. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 21)

The hearts of God’s servants are made sad as they journey from church to church, by meeting the opposing influence of other opposing ministering brethren. There are those who have stood ready to oppose every advance step that God’s people have taken. The hearts of those who have dared to venture out are saddened and distressed by the lack of union of action on the part of their fellow laborers. We are living in a solemn time. Satan and evil angels are working with mighty power, with the world on their side to help them. And professed Sabbath-keepers who claim to believe solemn, important truth, unite their forces with the combined influence of the powers of darkness to distract and tear down that which God designs to build up. The influence of such is recorded as of those who retard the advance reform among God’s people.—Testimonies for the Church 1:270. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 22)

*****

There are many restless spirits who will not submit to discipline, system, and order. They think that their liberties would be abridged were they to lay aside their own judgment and submit to the judgment of those of experience. The work of God will not progress unless there is a disposition to submit to order and expel the reckless, disorderly spirit of fanaticism from their meetings.—Testimonies for the Church 1:413. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 23)

*****

We had a hard struggle in establishing organization. Notwithstanding that the Lord gave testimony after testimony upon this point, the opposition was strong, and it had to be met again and again. But we knew that the Lord God of Israel was leading us and guiding by His providence. We engaged in the work of organization and marked prosperity attending this advance movement. As the development of the work called us to engage in new enterprises, we were prepared to enter upon them. The Lord directed our minds to the importance of educational work. We saw the need of schools that our children might receive instruction free from the errors of false philosophy, that their training might be in harmony with the principles of the Word of God. The need of health institutions had been urged upon us, both for the help and instruction of our own people and as a means of blessing and enlightenment of others. This enterprise also was carried forward. All this was missionary work of the highest order. Our work was not sustained by large gifts and legacies, for we have few wealthy men among us. What is the secret of our prosperity? We have moved under the order of the Captain of our Salvation. God has blessed our united efforts. The truth has spread and flourished. Institutions have multiplied. The mustard seed has grown to a great tree. The system of organization has proved a grand success. Systematic benevolence was entered into according to the Bible plan. The body has been “compacted by that which every joint supplieth.” [Ephesians 4:16.] As we have advanced, our system of organization has still proved effectual. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 24)

In some parts of the work, it is true, the machinery has been made too complicated; especially has this been the case in the tract and missionary work; the multiplication of rules and regulations made it needlessly burdensome. An effort should be made to simplify the work so as to avoid all needless labor and perplexity. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 25)

The business of our Conference session has sometimes been burdened down with propositions and resolutions that were not at all essential and that would never have been presented if the sons and daughters of God had been walking carefully and prayerfully before Him. The fewer rules and regulations that we can have, the better will be the effect in the end. when they are made, they mean something and are not to become a dead letter. Do not, however, encumber any branch of the work with unnecessary, burdensome restrictions and inventions of men. In this period of the world’s history with the vast work that is before us, we need to observe the greatest simplicity, and the work will be stronger for its simplicity. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 26)

Let none entertain the thought, however, that we can dispense with organization. It has cost us much study and many prayers for wisdom, that we know God has answered to erect this structure. It has been built up by His direction, through much sacrifice and conflict. Let none of our brethren be so deceived as to attempt to tear it down, for you will thus bring in a condition of things that you do not dream of. In the name of the Lord, I declare to you that it is to stand, strengthened, established, and settled. At God’s command, “Go forward,” we advanced when the difficulties to be surmounted made the advance seem impossible. We know how much it has cost to work out God’s plans in the past, which has made us as a people what we are. Then let everyone be exceedingly careful not to unsettle minds in regard to those things that God has ordained for our prosperity and success in advancing His cause. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 27)

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 traveled 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. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 28)

Thank God for what has already been done in providing for our youth facilities for religious and intellectual training. Many have been educated to act a part in the various branches of the work, not only in America, but in foreign fields. The press has furnished literature that has spread far and wide the knowledge of the truth. Let all the gifts that like rivulets have swelled the stream of benevolence be recognized as a cause of thanksgiving to God. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 29)

We have an army of youth today who can do much if they are properly directed and encouraged. We want our children to believe the truth. We want them to be blessed of God. We want them to act a part in well-organized plans for helping other youth. Let all be so trained that they may rightly represent the truth, giving the reason of the hope that is within them, and honoring God in any branch of the work where they are qualified to labor. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 30)

We are still free to worship God according to the dictates of our own conscience. As the disciples of Christ, it is our duty to diffuse light which we know that the world has not. Let the people of God 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 on eternal life.” [1 Timothy 6:18, 19.]—The General Conference Daily Bulletin, January 29, 30, 1893. (16LtMs, Ms 139, 1901, 31)

Ms 140, 1901

Letters Regarding the Publishing Work
NP
1901
Portions of this collection are published in 4BC 1179; 10MR 389-390.
“Sunnyside,” Cooranbong
November 16, 1898
Dear Brother and Sister Robinson:—

I have just written a letter to Brother Salisbury in response to a letter recently received from him by William. C. White. He sets matters before W.C.W. representing the great advantages to be gained by his visiting America by the way of Capetown and London, and seeing what can be done by business negotiations to procure facilities to use in the production of books, also in the market for books. The light given me when you were holding your last council in Melbourne was of that character that I felt pained, because there was heart-consecration needed to prepare the workers for the work already being handled. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 1)

Brother Salisbury seems to treat the matter as if he had the sanction of W. C. W., and that that would be sufficient to open the subject to the proper ones. I know not how much encouragement Brother Salisbury has received in regard to this anticipated journey, but I have much reluctance in regard to W.C.W. taking responsibilities in encouraging any such movements. The light which the Lord has given me is that W.C.W.’s work is in connection with my work, that he should bend his mind and thoughts and powers in this direction. The last time he was called to Melbourne, the outcome was that movements were made that you could not feel were as they should be, and the dissatisfaction mainly was charged upon W.C.W., as working in a way that was not agreeable to yourself and others. The whole difficulty lies in your minds, but it is not clearly defined. One thing is certain. I feel that in view of the light given me in regard to the work of God, W.C.W. had better not put his neck under a yoke which shall be made galling to him. There is an abundance of responsibilities resting upon him in New South Wales, and if he shall take the responsibility in Melbourne, there are those who would see defects, and would charge them to him as responsible for movements made with which they could not harmonize. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 2)

I cannot give any encouragement for Brother Salisbury to now expend the means which is so limited in such an enterprise as he is contemplating. If you that are in Melbourne see sufficient interests to be promoted by justifying such a movement, then I have nothing more to say; but I do not want W. C. W. to have any responsibility in encouraging such a movement, for if difficulties appear, they will be made to rest on him. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 3)

When the truth is more clearly distinguished from human wisdom, when those who handle the truth are themselves more decidedly consecrated to God, the work will progress, because the workers will be charged with that earnestness that bears the sanctification of the Spirit of God. The Lord inspires no censuring, no accusing. He will lead all who will learn of the great Teacher. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 4)

There is but a feeble sense of the sacredness of the things we are handling. “Take my yoke upon you,” says the great Teacher. “Learn of me, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; 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.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] We are to walk as Christ walked, live as Christ lived. It is now, just now, that zeal is required. This zeal is to be purged from all selfishness, and there is to be an increase of every good work. Our work is to be under the supervision of the Holy Spirit. Have ye received the baptism of the Holy Ghost? If not, is it not high time that we had this blessing, which purges away our unsanctified words, and enables us to use the talent of speech as a most sacred, entrusted gift? (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 5)

We are to get out of self, and abide in Christ. Then much more good will be done to the souls and bodies of those who have need to be healed of their infirmities. “These signs shall follow those that believe.” [Mark 16:17.] As the time of Christ’s labor upon this earth grew shorter, His work became more intense, His energies were called out, and there seemed to be no limit to His work. Thus it will be with every true worker. The failures of the year 1898 cannot now be repaired; but we may now prepare for the coming year 1899. We may make such a consecration of self to God that the Holy Spirit will control the whole man. We may redeem the time and redouble our earnest, sanctified exertions. Wherever Christ’s cause has a claim, wherever God’s people have necessities to be met, there our obligation begins. We are responsible to God for all the good we can do. We are to encourage gratitude, praise, and thanksgiving, not allowing our minds to become Satan’s workshop to create dissension and strife; for this is the foundation of so much weakness and so little of the real, genuine working of the Spirit of God in our churches. The Lord invites us to look to Him, to trust in Him, to walk with Him, to talk with Him, to keep step with Him. Then duty will be clear before us. The Lord can use pure, unselfish, holy hearts to His own name’s glory. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 6)

While your meeting was in session in Melbourne, it was presented before me that there needed to be a cleansing of the soul and spirit before the Holy Spirit could mold and fashion mind and character. There must be more of Christ, all of Christ, and none of self. Then there will be patience, longsuffering, gentleness and love for one another. This pulling apart will not be. We have need of patience, that after we have done the will of God, we shall receive the promise, looking for and hastening unto the coming of the day of God. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 7)

It has been presented to me that the richest blessings are awaiting those who will appreciate them. But many of those who claim to believe carry such a bundle of self along with them that there is no room for Christ. There is to be and must be a reformation in the heart, else ere long we shall understand fully what it means to come to the banquet of God’s Word without the wedding garment. This point is to be considered carefully, else many who are now professedly believing the truth will be found to be unsanctified. They did not accept and wear the garment of Christ’s righteousness. They will learn that they have not represented Christ in character. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 8)

We may go all over the world full of the talk of the Word, and yet keep Christ out of the heart. The truth is kept in the outer court, and Christ meets us with the words, Friend, how camest thou in hither without the wedding garment? The voice may even utter the highest oracles of God’s Word, yet the men may not have put on the wedding garment. They are building on a sandy foundation. Hearers of the Word, they come to the banquet, but they have not put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness. The Word of the Holy Spirit is to them a strange work. They are not doers of the Word. The living oracles are not their guide and directory. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 9)

We all need to study as never before the parable of the ten virgins. Five of them were wise, and five were foolish. The wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. This is the holy oil represented in Zechariah. “I answered again, and said unto him, What are these two olive trees upon the right side of the candlestick and upon the left side thereof? And I answered again, and said unto him, What be these two olive branches, which through the two golden pipes empty the golden oil out of themselves? And he answered me and said, Knowest thou not what these be? And I said, No, my lord. Then said he, These are the two anointed ones, that stand by the Lord of the whole earth.” [Zechariah 4:12-14.] This representation is of the highest consequence to those who claim to know the truth. But if we do not practice the truth, we have not received the holy oil, which the two golden pipes empty out of themselves. The oil is received into vessels prepared for the oil. It is the Holy Spirit in the heart which works by love and purifies the soul. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 10)

We must have greater confidence and earnestness in practicing a “Thus saith the Lord.” We are not to listen to any voice that will benumb our senses in regard to the white garment of character that we must put on. There is to be no party spirit. We are to be united with God and with one another. Then the prayer of faith will heal the sick. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 11)

Satan is working with all his hellish power to quench that light which should burn brightly in the soul and shine forth in good works. The words of God to Zechariah show from whence the holy golden oil comes, and its bright light which the Lord kindles in the chambers of the soul gives light through good works to the world. Satan will work to quench the light God has for every soul by casting his shadow across the pathway to intercept every ray of heavenly light. He knows that his time is short. The people of God must cleave to God, else they will lose their bearings. If they cherish hereditary and cultivated traits of character that misrepresent Christ, while professedly His disciples, they are represented by the man coming to the gospel feast without having on the wedding garment, and by the foolish virgins which had no oil in their vessels with their lamps. We must cleave to that which God pronounces to be truth, though the whole world may be arrayed against it. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 12)

(I shall not be able to get more copied this morning, but there is more to come if I have strength to write it.) (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 13)

[signed] Mrs. E. G. White
Rockhampton, Queensland
November 5, 1898
Dear Brother Salisbury:—

I must speak a few words to you with my pen. You are casting about in your mind as to what you will do to make improvements. You were presenting different plans and methods, and seemed to suppose that if you could have this and that advantage, you would do great things. But the voice that often speaks to us in our perplexities said, The greatest advantages will not accomplish that which you design. I have had light on these subjects. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 14)

A plan was laid appointing men to go to far-off regions, to see what could be done. Much money was to be invested, all without the counsel of God. How much better it would be if there had been less anxious care and more trust in God, more humility of mind, more searching of the Scriptures. You need not go to the ends of the earth for wisdom, for God is near. Put your talent into the work, and ask God for wisdom and it will be given you. It is not the capabilities you now possess or ever will have at your command that will give you success in the work. It is that which the Lord can do for you. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 15)

Physical habits have a great deal to do with the success of every individual. The more careful you are in your diet, the more simple and unstimulating the food that sustains the body in its harmonious action, the more clear will be your conception of duty. There needs to be a careful review of every habit, every practice, lest a morbid condition of the body shall cast a cloud upon everything. There is more uneasiness than is at all necessary. If you do your best, and stand true as steel to principle, and then seek God for wisdom, you will receive it; for God has promised this. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 16)

God is very near to all who call upon Him, and He must be the One to go before us and work with us. Self must be consecrated to God. It is not the great and wonderful things you may do that will make the work a success; for with all your methods and plans, you cannot accomplish that which you suppose. Your work is to do your level best, knowing that if you use your talents as God requires of you, this is all He asks. The Lord can make a success in any place. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 17)

If you lack faith where you are when difficulties present themselves, you will lack faith in any place. God has a work to be done right here in Australia, and He is willing to open ways and means before you right where you are if you will have faith. But without faith it is impossible to please God. I trust that there will be less criticizing, less suspicion and unbelief. Do not place your confidence in the voice of human agents, but have more confidence in God. Unless we shall increase our faith, and cease to talk doubts, unbelief will encircle the soul. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 18)

That which you need is faith in God. You hedge up your own way by unbelief. You open the door of the heart to fears and conjectures, and are altogether too cowardly. You need, connected with you in the office, men of capability, men who will put their whole soul into the work. You need not feel that God has forsaken His work. You look on the dark side and are losing your grip upon the Lord God of Israel. We greatly dishonor God by our unbelief. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 19)

The case was clearly laid before me. There must be less talking unbelief, less imagining that this one and that one is hedging up the way. Go forward in faith, and trust the Lord to prepare the way for His work to advance. Then you will find rest in Jesus Christ. Train yourself to see the attractiveness of Christ. As you cultivate faith, as you place yourself in a right relation to God, and brace yourself by earnest prayer to do your duty, to realize the expanding and ennobling character which it is possible for you to have, you can be worked by the Holy Spirit. The many problems that are now mysterious to you, you may solve for yourself by continued trust in God. You need not be painfully indefinite, because you are living under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. You may walk and work in confidence. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 20)

I cannot see any light in going to America. There must be faithful men who for Christ’s sake will do the work you are proposing to do, and who are in the very place you propose to visit. I have had presented to me the plans that have been laid to send several of our brethren on a tour around the world. Was not the light from heaven? Money and time were consumed in traveling, which, had they been invested in the improvements so sadly needed in new fields, would greatly have helped the cause of God. The money used in taking these long, wearisome journeys to find out matters which seem so essential to some has proved no gain in the end. Elder ----- was ready to go traversing the country with several merely businessmen, to investigate matters which they could have adjusted themselves, had they asked wisdom of God. This was a dishonor to God and to the truth and consumed means that was needed in other lines. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 21)

I have been made to understand the result of these things. Had the men in responsible positions pressed into the work every jot of ability to make a success where there was so much to be accomplished, the showing would be far better. There are men just come from America, and there are businessmen there who love and fear God, and who will, I believe, act conscientiously to advance the work of God. It seems, as it is presented to me, that there is altogether too much work now that needs the help of every one. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 22)

The trouble with our brethren in Melbourne is that there is so little openness and frankness among them. There is so much secrecy, so little confidence in one another. When meetings are held to counsel together, and arrangements are made in regard to methods and plans, there seems to be so little gained, so much time lost in criticizing, that God’s blessing cannot come upon them. The Lord cannot work where unbelief is so manifest. If we all sought counsel of God and depended far less on human wisdom, the Lord would be honored, and the human agent would become the channel for the two olive branches through which the golden pipes might empty the golden oil out of themselves. The golden oil supplies the vacuum in all who are emptied of self. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 23)

We must have less faith in what we can do and more faith in what the Lord can do for us, if we will have clean hands and pure hearts. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 24)

I was in great burden when you with Willie were assembled night after night. I was as a cart beneath sheaves. Then I was made to understand that we need a spirit of humility and consecration brought into every line of the work. I was referred to the matter through figures and symbols, and words were spoken by which I obtained the impression that when the love of Christ becomes an abiding principle in the soul, there will be far less unbelief, less suspicion and distrust, less resentment. There was presented before me the figure of a man impatiently drawing away his shoulder as from one whom he considered was meddling with a work of which he was manager. This has been the great evil with the Echo office from the beginning, and it is not yet clear from it. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 25)

All the light I can see is, Bind about the edges. Make no large calculations for the absorbing of means. Take hold of the work interestedly and do it. There is need that you in Melbourne and we in Cooranbong have a deeper teaching than man’s teaching. All these conveniences are not a positive necessity while the dearth of means is so great as at the present time. It is not the way to rush out of perplexities by expending large sums of money just now. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 26)

Christ must dwell in the heart just as the blood is in the body and circulates there as a vitalizing power. We have no time to be going around the world to see what kind of terms can be made for the work. If there are not businessmen there, who can be trusted to see what kind of terms can be made in the things you mention, I feel that we are to be pitied. Lay your plans before men whom you can trust as surely as you yourself can be trusted, who understand your plainly stated necessities as well as you can state them with your voice. There is such a thing as being anxious to make many preparations, but accomplishing but little with that which you already have. The thought will come that if you only had all that you suppose you need, the difficulties would be all removed. The word to Zerubbabel is needed by us all. “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts. Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt come a plain; and he shall bring forth the headstone of it with shoutings, crying, Grace, grace unto it.” [Zechariah 4:6, 7.] (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 27)

Threads of selfishness are woven into the fabric. Every thread should be a golden thread of love, because the web is the Lord’s and every worker should be a worker together with God. You are none of you engaged in your own human work, you are doing the work of God. You are to be united as one mind in God’s great firm, putting away all selfish ideas and thoughts. There is quite a heap of rubbish to be cleared away and consumed. This is an individual work, a work for time and for eternity. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 28)

I wrote to you because light came to me from God. I sent that light to William C. White, so that he could bring it in when it was thought best. More love is needed, more frankness, less suspicion, less evil thinking. We need to be less ready to blame and accuse. It is this that is so offensive to God. A spirit is cherished that does not reveal the love of Christ. The heart needs to be softened and subdued by love. The strengthless condition of our people is the result of the heart’s not being right with God. There are plenty of words, but the soul temple is not clean. When the Holy Spirit controls minds and hearts, there will be an altogether different showing in every line of the work. There will be more faith. There will be a sense that the pure hearts and clean hands are much more significant than they now appear. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 29)

Not a step can be taken in spiritual progress without fresh supplies from the fountain of grace and strength. And yet how often our words provoke God, and by our spirit we deny Him so that He has to withdraw His influence and leave us to our own human inventions. The Lord would have us lean heavily upon Him; and the less we depend upon human help, the more we depend on and make God our trust, the greater will be our supply of strengthening, quickening grace. True repentance means a daily change of heart, a turning the face to the Sun of Righteousness. This leaves no chance for self-exaltation, no opportunity to trust to our own wisdom. When the cleansing, refining process shall take place, and continue its daily work upon our hearts, we shall go forward. But as long as difficulties arise, and we look at the discouragements, we shall not advance. We must brace up the soul in God, and we shall endure the seeing of Him who is invisible. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 30)

Lay hold of the hope set before you in the gospel. Work right where you are. The Lord understands the situation. We have no time now to doubt, no time now to lay off the armor. Consider we are merely agents in the hands of God, and if we are controlled by the Spirit of God, we shall have courage and faith and perseverance that will not fail nor be discouraged. There is altogether too little faith. Advance by faith. Aspire constantly to follow Christ our Saviour, attaining more and more excellency of character. The human mind, like the heavenly bodies, is worked, inspired by an influence unseen and incomprehensible, but its effects are certain. Give the correct direction to the thought, and brace up for trials and duty. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 31)

[signed] Mrs. E. G. White
Norfolk Villa, Prospect St., N. S. W.
August 3, 1894
Elder Littlejohn, Battle Creek, Michigan
Dear Brother:—

I received and read your letter, and am more sorry than I can express with pen and ink that anything of a disagreeable character should have occurred between you and the General Conference Association or the publishers of the Review and Herald. It is necessary that something should be done to guard the interests of those who believe the truth for this time. Christ has given many warnings to the effect that false doctrines, false prophets, and false christs would arise and deceive many. From the light that God has been pleased to give me, His humble servant, I know that these prophecies have been fulfilling, and testimonies have not been few that have been given to meet these things as they have come up all along through our religious experience. Great delusions will arise, and “even of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things to draw away disciples after them.” [Acts 20:30.] Even Satan will disguise himself and appear as Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 32)

I can see plainly that should every one who thinks he is qualified to write books follow his imagination and have his productions published, insisting that they be recommended by our publishing houses, there would be plenty of tares sown broadcast in our world. Many from among our own people are writing to me, asking with earnest determination the privilege of using my writings to give force to certain subjects that they wish to present to the people in such a way as to leave a deep impression upon them. It is true that there is a reason why some of their matters should be presented; but I would not venture to give my approval in using the Testimonies in this way, or to sanction the placing of matter which is good in itself in the way which they propose. The persons who make these propositions, for aught I know, may be able to conduct the enterprise of which they write in a wise manner; but nevertheless I dare not give the least license for using my writings in the manner which they propose. In taking account of such an enterprise, there are many things that must come into consideration; for in using the Testimonies to bolster up some subject which may impress the mind of the author, the extracts may give a different impression than that which they would were they read in their original connection. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 33)

I am also receiving printed matter, tracts and leaflets, from one and another, which present a large array of Scriptures put together in a way that would seem to prove certain theories; but they only prove the theories in the estimation of their authors; for truth set in a framework of error diverts the mind from the real subject which should take the attention, and aids error in calling the minds of men away from the present truth which is essential for this time. These persons bring certain Scriptures together and interpret passages of the Bible so as to give coloring to their views; but they are wresting the Scriptures to make them appear to say that which they do not say. False theories will thus be propagated in the world to the very end, and as long as there are printing presses and publishing houses, erroneous matter will be presented for publication, and books will be prepared for public circulation. Should there be no guard against the publication of erroneous theories, our own publishing houses would become the agents for disseminating false theories. Writers make a world of one or two items of theory which others cannot regard as important, and then the writer thinks his ideas are greatly belittled. Two or three days ago I received a chart from one who professes to be a Sabbath-keeper in California, and he feels very sore over the fact that the Pacific Press does not pay respect to his productions and accept the light he would present to the world. There will be gods many and lords many that will be struggling for recognition; but should the persons that feel such a burden to pour out something original upon the world walk humbly with God in meekness and contrition of spirit, the Lord would recognize them and give them the grace of His Holy Spirit in order that they might do the very work, according to their ability, which God would have them do. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 34)

You may say, “What does Sister White mean? Is she classing me with these erratic workers whom she has mentioned?” No, I do not; but I would present the difficulties that should make our publishing houses cautious, in order that you may see the necessity of measures being taken at our office of publication to discourage the infatuation with which many are taken, in thinking that the Lord has laid upon them a burden to write and to publish a variety of matter that would not only not be for the benefit of the churches at this time, but would also be to the injury of the one who engages in the enterprise. I wish you to see that something must be done to guard the people from impostors, and that there was need to make resolutions that should discourage the determination of men to put their imaginary theories into print. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 35)

You know how it was with Brother Edson. He wrote much, and he thought that what he wrote should be published. Then the Lord wrought upon his mind, and he gave up the idea and burned up his manuscript. But he could not let it be; he reproduced his theories, and upon his death he left money, and charged his wife that she should have his manuscript published. She did not think it so essential that the matter should be published as he did, and after she had given the manuscript into the hands of the proper persons for publication, she withdrew it and gave up all the burden of its publication. Brother Edson’s production was never printed. He was a good man, beloved of all who knew him; but the matter which he had brought together was not the subject that should appear, not meat in due season for the flock of God. It was of a character that would start into life erroneous theories that would be nourished by human agents and would bear fruit in dissension and discord. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 36)

We found it necessary to take steps in the formation of a book committee whose duty it should be to look into the matter offered for publication and to decide as to whether or not the matter was worthy of publication. If the men on the book committee are in touch with Christ, if their eyes are anointed with the eyesalve which Jesus recommends them to buy of Him, then, and only then, can they be proper judges as to what will be profitable matter for publication. It is highly proper that manuscripts shall be carefully examined before receiving the endorsement of the Review and Herald and having the benefit of the influence of the office. I have all my publications closely examined. I desire that nothing shall appear in print without careful investigation. Of course, I would not want men who have not a Christian experience, or are lacking in ability to appreciate literary merit, to be placed as judges of what is essential to come before the people as pure provender thoroughly winnowed from the chaff. I laid out all my manuscript on Patriarchs and Prophets and on Vol. IV before the book committee for examination and criticism. I also placed these manuscripts in the hands of some of our ministers for examination. The more criticism of them, the better for the work. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 37)

Your writings, I presume, are just as they should be; yet it may be necessary that they should go through the process of being examined carefully and critically. If no fault can be found with them, they should receive the notice and the commendation that is due to such class of work. You are dealing strong blows against tradition and errors that lie at the foundation of a heresy that will destroy the souls of those who receive it. A wide door to destruction is open to all those who believe in the immortality of the soul and do not believe that Christ alone brings life and immortality to light. I believe the book you have written will do good in enlightening many who are in darkness; for all this, my brother, you surely can see that barriers have to be erected in our publishing houses concerning this book-making business. You can see that if no measures were taken to bind about this line of work, very singular productions would be poured upon the world under the endorsement of our offices of publication. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 38)

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. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 39)

You speak of humbling yourself by having to wait for the sanction of the Board upon your book. Some things have passed into history very recently that have sharpened up the vigilance of the book committee. Advantages have been taken in the publishing line which have hurt the offices and will continue to hurt them because a heavy debt has been incurred through the publication of matter that never came before the book committee for their consent, and of which they had no knowledge until the office was involved to the amount of five thousand dollars. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 40)

Brother Littlejohn, time is short, very short, and every true child of God is to be vigilant, wide awake, and not to be found for one moment on the enemy’s ground. My brother, you have need to exercise your mind most earnestly to gather with Jesus Christ in order that Satan shall in no case use you to advance his own interest, and you destroy yourself. You may think that you have reason to be angry because you have not been treated properly and justly in the past, and that you will not submit to this restriction or to that. My brother, whatever you may think about the matter, I will say that you have not been right in the temper of your spirit and actions. There is a work that you can do for yourself that no other one can do for you. You are to let the tenderness of Christ into your own soul. You have no righteousness of your own on which to stand, and therefore Christ became your righteousness. You need to be continually clothed with the righteousness of Christ. You need to bear in mind that you are a child of God, and that you are to possess a tender, kind, patient spirit. Look closely that selfishness and covetousness shall not abide in your soul. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 41)

The only reason that you or I shall be able to give for our salvation, if we are saved at last, will be, “Christ died for me, and His blood cleansed me from all sin.” Your heart must be touched with the subduing love of Christ before you will attain to the perfection of Christian character. Your experience is lacking in spirituality. I feel a deep, earnest interest in you, my brother, and desire that you may have a different experience. It savors too much of self and too little of Jesus’ love and tender compassion. There is need of your seeking the Lord more earnestly, perseveringly, and believingly than you have done. Since my first acquaintance with you, I have felt an intense interest that you should see the King in His beauty, behold the earth made new, and be eternally saved in the kingdom of God. My brother, Jesus is a complete Saviour, and I desire His joy to be in you, that your joy may be full. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 42)

[signed] Mrs. E. G. White
Norfolk Villa, Prospect St., Granville, N. S. W.
August 12, 1894
Captain C. Eldridge
Dear Brother:—

I received your letter yesterday and was very glad to hear from you. Your words give me much relief of mind because I know that the Holy Spirit is striving with you. “Whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth.” [Hebrews 12:6.] In the press of a multiplicity of responsibilities, we frequently fail to devote a period of time each day to meditation and prayer, when we can closely, critically examine the motives which prompt us to action. We often fail to seek God at the very time when we need divine wisdom in order that we may be braced for duty and fortified for trial. Thus we are led to walk in self-confidence, not realizing the necessity of being kept by the power of God moment by moment, lest the enemy steal a march upon us. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 43)

Those who are called upon to be leaders in the cause of God must realize the positive necessity of being led themselves. Christ says, “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness; but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] The truth for our time must transform the character. It is when the heart is wholly surrendered to God, that we learn both its waywardness and how effectual is the grace of God to bring it into subjection, that the character may be fashioned after the divine similitude. If the truth is planted in the heart by the Spirit of God, it will be revealed in the life, and its beauty will be apparent in the character. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 44)

I had not learned until I read your letter that you had suffered a severe illness. I know what it is to suffer, and my heart sympathizes with you. It would be a calamity for both time and eternity should you give up your mind to devotion to earthly pursuits and make God and heaven a secondary matter. Better far would be the cross, the disappointment, the shattered earthly prospect, the neglect of friends, the disapproval of the world, than to sit with princes and lose heaven. The greatest riches this world can bestow would only leave us wretched, hopeless, and miserable in the estimation of God. From the light given me of God, I know that the prince of this world, the father of lies, has taken possession of many lines in business and manipulates many matters in harmony with his own attributes; and even those who suppose that they are serving God are infatuated and deluded by his policy. They speak lies, they practice deception, and conscience strives in vain to make her voice heard. One passion after another, one project after another sways the heart and expels the Holy Spirit from the soul. The love of the world is permitted to come in and take possession of and rule the heart; but the Lord Jesus would have us, as rational creatures, place a right estimate upon eternal things so as not to lose eternity out of our reckoning. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 45)

My brother, let me tell you, if you and my nephew Frank Belden had been willing to gratefully accept the counsels of God, you could have been used to His name’s glory. But refusing to come under the discipline of the Holy Spirit, the Lord could not permit you to continue your connection with His work; for you would both have given the work a wrong mold. I was much relieved when I knew that you had both disconnected yourselves from the office by your own action. This was of the Lord. You did not adopt a course of action, in managing the affairs of the office, that God could approve. Words were spoken by you, actions were performed, and arrangements were sanctioned in the departments of business which were not in accordance with Bible principles. It is true that they would pass current with the world; but the world’s standard is to be no criterion for those who are the elect of God, who are chosen to do a special work after God’s order. There were threads of selfishness running through the business lines that God could not approve of or place His superscription upon, and the same threads of selfishness are apparent still in the management of the office. Selfishness will die in the management of the office just as soon as every managing agent is fashioned and molded after the similitude of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 46)

Christ is to be represented in every business transaction throughout every department of that office, for it is God’s great instrumentality for conveying the light of heaven to the world. There can be no double-dealing permitted, no confederacies formed to cloak a wrong. There must not be a particle of injustice done by one man to his fellow men for the purpose of enriching or benefiting the cause of God. God will not serve with the sins of those who handle sacred things. The Lord has no gentle name to apply to any shade of deception. There has been oppression practiced by men in high position. Those who should have had tender regard and sympathy for the erring, who should have spoken kind words even to those who made mistakes in some things, failed to do this. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 47)

Those who needed help often did not receive the courtesy, the regard, the help which they needed. So unprincipled a thing as receiving large wages should never have been carried into action in the office. Selfishness has tarnished the publishing institution, and spots, dark and forbidding, have been made upon the cause of God because of the perverse spirit that animated some who were in responsible positions. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 48)

Those who are called of God should be in touch with God, in order that they may have fine, keen, clear perceptions of what constitutes equity in judgment. Men in responsible positions should remember that the ten commandments are to be practiced in every line of work lest the cause of truth shall bear the imperfections of the mold of man and God be dishonored and stumbling blocks be laid before precious souls, over which they will stumble to their ruin. The followers of Christ must watch, pray, and work, having the eye single to the glory of God, knowing that they are working in the sight of the universe of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 49)

Men have made the cause of God an excuse for allowing oppression and suffering to come to souls. The cause of God must be represented by men whose hearts are as tender, pure, true, and compassionate as is the heart of Christ. Those who handle the sacred work in Christ’s stead must have a pure heart and clean hands. They must adopt Christ’s maxims; for if they fail to do so, they will be deceived, betray Christ, and dishonor the truth of God. Men have cherished an ambition to be considered keen and sharp in working for the financial interest of the Review and Herald office. They have not considered that they must love God supremely and their neighbors as themselves, but have permitted business to crowd out love. “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 same 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.” [Revelation 3:4, 5.] “Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments,” is a correct description of the moral atmosphere of the publishing house. “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 on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” [Verses 1-3.] These statements of the True Witness have for years been applicable to the Review and Herald office. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 50)

If the love of Jesus had been a living, acting influence in the Review and Herald office, how different would have been the record in the books of heaven. Had those who were in responsible positions cultivated the love of Christ, that love would have had a controlling influence over human nature, and the actions of men would have been brought into conformity to the will of Christ. The affections would have been sanctified, and the workers would have been led to exercise the love of Christ, not to a few only, but to all who were needy. It is an easy matter to show respect, to manifest sympathy for one whom we think deserving; but to act out the principles of love and compassion revealed in the life of Christ, to manifest sympathy toward the erring, to reach a helping hand to the needy who do not seem deserving, is not so easy. This work cannot be done suddenly by those who professedly keep the commandments of God, while they do not practice them from the heart. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 51)

God will work for you if you will only consent to the operation of His Holy Spirit. I feel sorry that so large a number desire to work the Holy Spirit in place of permitting the Holy Spirit to work in molding and fashioning them. I have often heard from your lips the expression, “You know I have not an experience.” God has given you an experience. I have more faith today that you will be an overcomer than I ever had before; for the Lord is working with you, and through trials you are learning what it means to trust in God. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 52)

I read this incident: “At the battle of Alma when one of the regiments was being beaten back by the hordes of Russia, the ensign in front stood his ground as the troops retreated. The captain shouted to him to bring back the colors, but the reply of the ensign was, ‘Bring up the men to the colors.’” This is the work that devolves upon every faithful standard-bearer—to bring up the men to the colors. The Lord calls for wholeheartedness. We all know that the sin of many professed followers of Christ is that they lack the courage and the energy to bring themselves and those connected with them up to the standard. However urgent may be the message coming from the Lord, they fail to act up to its requirements. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 53)

I have faith to believe you will not stop at the halfway house, but will “follow on to know the Lord,” that you may know “His goings forth are prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] The Lord loves us, and all He asks is that you respond to His love. He is goodness and truth, and we have need to call upon our soul and all that is within us to bless the Lord and praise His holy name. The Lord is good and does not willingly grieve or afflict the children of men, yet we are admonished to “think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you.” [1 Peter 4:12.] The blacksmith puts the iron and steel into the fire to test them, that he [may] know what manner of metal they are. The Lord allows His chosen ones to be placed in the furnace of affliction in order that He may see what temper they are of, and whether He can use them and mold and fashion them for His work. “That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.” [1 Peter 1:7.] (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 54)

You did not know how to be tenderhearted and pitiful to the very ones who needed your compassion. The Lord saw that yourself, Frank Belden, and others must learn this lesson of compassion, and you are now placed in the training, educating school to learn the lesson that has not been agreeable to you to practice. God saw that it was impossible for you to have the tenderness of Christ, to be pitiful and courteous until you should yourself be placed in trying circumstances, in order that you might sympathize with those who needed your attention in kind words and tangible help. They have not received this in the past. God saw that you could not become qualified to work the works of Christ, manifesting tenderness to all, exerting a thorough Christlike influence, until you were melted over, until every fiber of the root of selfishness was extracted from your life and character. He has permitted the furnace fires to kindle upon you, because He loved you and would mold you through fiery trials into the image of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 55)

I have sought to present before you the principles which should mold the actions of those who bear responsibilities in His cause. There was much dross, much chaff, to be separated from your spirit and character before your course of action could represent the character and work of Jesus Christ. Everything you did was deeply corroded with selfishness, and your influence, and that of Brother Frank Belden, was of a character to defile the experience of all those who looked to you for an example. Neither of you realized the necessity of attaining to a high experience in divine things, so that at all times and under all circumstances you might “keep the way of the Lord to do justice and judgment” [Genesis 18:19], mingling with your exercise of justice the mercy, the love, the goodness, the long forbearance, and tenderness of Christ. When a sufficient time for test and trial had been given you, and you failed to make a wise use of your capabilities and talents to glorify God, I was shown that He would separate you from His work. But I feel so grateful to God that He has been trying you with His refining fire, for without His discipline, you would not be fitted for any branch of the work. I feel the tenderest, heartfelt sympathy for you, my brother, and for my nephew Frank Belden. God has entrusted to him special capabilities and talents; but his self-esteem, his independence, his self-confidence have led him to rely upon himself instead of the Lord God of Israel. O, how poor we are in ourselves, and how rich we might be in Jesus Christ! The Holy Spirit is light and love and power, and God wishes to endow us with the Holy Spirit. Christ desires to make us channels through which His grace and righteousness shall flow in a rich, full current of life and blessing, of peace and joy, to refresh the souls of others. The command is given to us, “Bear ye one another’s burdens.” [Galatians 6:2.] “Pray one for another that ye may be healed” [James 5:16], have a heart that is softened by the Holy Spirit, which will make us kind and tender to, and thoughtful of, one another. We are to be forgiving one to another, and to be to each other in all our intercourse and connection all that we possibly can be. We are to be to others, as far as we are capable, what Jesus was to His disciples when He walked with them and talked with [them] on earth. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 56)

I know that you will have trials. The very condition of things which your own course of action created in the office, through your failure to learn in the school of Christ, through your lack of experience in divine things, will react upon yourself. Had you been filled with tender regard for every soul who needed your help, had you put forth painstaking effort to inspire the erring with hope and faith, had you practiced self-denial and manifested the love of Jesus which is positively necessary for all in positions of trust to manifest, your experience would have been of a different character. The Lord has no pleasure in the work of those who do not represent Christ, and after opening before them their defects of character, after bearing long with their mistakes, He will remove them from the work and test and try others. For even in this life, Christ is judge of all the earth and measures characters by the divine standard. Those who delight in the law of God are not under the law; for the law of God is an instrument of strength to them, a wall of protection, a refuge for guardianship, and does not bring condemnation; for to those who are in harmony with it, it is holy, just, and good. They can declare that “the law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.” [Psalm 19:7.] (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 57)

In every institution the chaff and the wheat are mingled in an indistinguishable manner. But when some crisis comes, when test and trial pass over the people, those who are symbolized by chaff are driven away; but those who are represented by wheat remain. When God takes us in hand, He will accomplish His purpose for our good. Though our past course may not have been in harmony with the way of the Lord, though our paths have been turned aside from the ways of God, yet if we will cling to Him, He will change our course so that we shall keep the way of the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 58)

In your board and council meetings, when self and self-importance were the mainspring of action, there was a vast amount of imaginings expressed, many things were said, and much talking done, and angels stood by, veiling their faces and turning away. What was needed in those meetings was the heart of Christ. Some were filled with an ambition to have a telling influence upon the world, and their manner and spirit of working were such that Christ, the Center of all power, was largely expelled, as one for whom they had no particular use. Sanctified activity has an effectual influence, for it is a force that molds after heaven’s order. But the love of Jesus must pervade the hearts of those who would serve Him. Love is born of God. The managers of the institution at Battle Creek have for years been striving to make the progressive work of the institution all-absorbing, the beginning and ending of everything. In this lust for power, they have been walking in the sparks of their own kindling and not in the light of the message from the throne of God. All plans for reform, all activity, must be under the authority and supervision of God. Unless the fruit of Christian character appears, we can trust no man’s mind and no man’s judgment. The right temper of soul must be cultivated; we must become Christlike in character, partakers of the divine nature, having overcome the corruptions that are in the world through lust. Selfish ambition is not the fruit that grows upon the Christian tree which is for the healing of the nations. Christlike propositions will not bear the semblance of selfishness. Those who are workers together with God with one hand lay hold of needy, sinful, helpless, fallen humanity, and with the other they grasp the throne of God and lift and build men up in the most holy faith. They manifest a perseverance that will not be defeated or discouraged by failure. But the work of saving souls will not be successful if carried on simply by men’s finite methods. Let God work. Yes, let God work by His own conditions and plans and ways, and let men wonder and admire. The branch grafted into the vine will flourish and bear fruit to the glory of God, because the vital forces flow from the living vine to the branch. Christian religion is today on trial for its life, but it will not live through the multiplicity of men’s plans in turning things upside down, but through the life-giving properties that are in Jesus Christ. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 59)

The universe of heaven is calling upon us, the world is calling upon us to give a reason of the hope that is within us. We shall not do this by originating many plans in our human wisdom, but by unselfishness, by self-denial, by being full of grace and truth. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 60)

We are in great danger of losing Christ, the vital essence of the message. We shall not work the works of God because of possessing talent or having great knowledge, for more than mortal ability must be brought into the devising of successful plans. In their supposed human wisdom, men may turn and overturn, and yet not cure existing, discouraging evils. While professing to preach Christ, we are in sore danger of losing the Spirit of Christ because of neglecting to practice His words, which is called eating His flesh and drinking His blood. We need more of Christ’s love in our life to transform our characters. It is a vitalizing current from Jesus. I write with pain of heart that the love of God is very feebly represented among us. God Himself is not in our assemblies because the cold iron of self remains unmelted. We know little of the midnight struggles of Jacob in surrendering all to God and exercising conquering faith in God. The religion of Christ is well-nigh choked out of many of the hearts of those who stand in positions of responsibility, and they are putting their own ideas and their own works before the words and works of their professed Master. The woes of God’s creatures are passed by as unworthy of their attention. “Ye will not come unto me,” says Christ, “that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 61)

Who can sweep away the delusions that now exist among professed Christians? Men are making painstaking efforts to see Jerusalem, they are digging in the earth for hidden cities, and to find inscriptions which the Lord has seen fit to bury with the corrupted, defiled inhabitants; but the Lord has not laid it upon man to search out these mysteries. We cannot find out God by searching, by seeking to understand mysterious problems. Jesus came from heaven to reveal God. He came to represent the Father. The time, the strength, the money expended in searching out these old, buried-up inscriptions will not bring a greater knowledge than that which Christ has brought to our world. His prayer to His Father is, (and I would that you would listen as for your life), “and this is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom he hath sent.” [John 17:3.] Union with Christ is a union with God through Christ. There is a life in the soul of every one who has formed this mystical, spiritual union with Christ that never fades or fails. We need an abiding Christ, yet many comprehend it not, and the world doubts whether we have the truth or any divine message from God. They judge us by the fruit we bear. Through self-love, through self-indulgence, the love of Christ is extinguished from the heart. But let us weave Christ into our plans, and let self have far less importance. Let the voices that have been heard so frequently in your councils be heard less frequently, and let Christ, the Light, the Truth, the Way, preside in your midst as your Counselor. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 62)

[signed] Mrs. E. G. White
Granville, N. S. W.
June 10, 1895
Elder A. O. Tait, Review and Herald, Battle Creek, Michigan, U.S.A.
Dear Brother:—

I have received your letter in regard to royalty on books. You seem to be perplexed over this question. Will you counsel with Elder Olsen? I have written to him fully, I think, in regard to the matter. And in Testimony 33 you will find the subject plainly presented. What more can you have? The great burden which some of our brethren have in regard to the matter of royalty is not inspired of God. The Holy Spirit does not move upon men in this way. If those who are so zealous in regard to the royalties on books had been as deeply anxious and troubled in regard to their selfish acceptance of means which they no more earned than did many others, who were receiving limited wages, had they, in all its bearings, heeded the light which the Lord has given in regard to the practice of self-denial and the maintaining of the principles that characterized the work and the workmen in the establishment of the Review office, their attitude would appear more consistent. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 63)

The policy that dictated the payment of large wages is not inspired of God and has not His sanction or favor. It was born in selfishness and lives in selfishness. The great burden over royalties proceeds largely from the selfishness of the human heart, from the spirit of avarice which should have no place in your business transactions. The representations made in regard to the matter of royalty may confuse minds. This has been done already, but the Lord who deals justly, who loves mercy, whose ways are equal, will not sanction the devising of men whose discernment is not clear, whose ways are not equal, who would selfishly grasp for themselves all that is possible in the line of wages, while they would oppress others. These things will one day be seen in their true bearing. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 64)

Many movements are being made that spring from the finite wisdom of men, but not from the wisdom of Him who is unerring. The Lord is our Judge, the Lord is our Lawgiver, the Lord is our King, and men in every position of trust are to be ruled by Him. While they should guard every soul as God’s purchased possession, and prevent oppression on the one hand, they should also manifest unselfishness in all their dealings, and practice self-denial, ever giving heed to the words of the Lord, “All ye are brethren.” [Matthew 23:8.] The Lord God is our Ruler, His laws are to be brought into our practical life, and especially are they to rule our institutions. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 65)

The day is near when every hidden thing will be revealed. “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good or whether it be evil.” [Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14.] “Judgment will I also lay to the line, and righteousness to the plummet; and the hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies, and the waters shall overflow the hiding place.” [Isaiah 28:17.] (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 66)

The laws which we should obey are enacted by our Father in heaven; they are wise and just and good; for they come from Him whose heart is love, and His blessing will always attend those who have a vital connection with Him who administers, and with those who obey, them. The combined power of authority and love will have an influence like a heavenly current in all our institutions when they are managed by men who not only administer the holy principles of God’s law, but obey them with a perfect heart. In the ten commandments the Holy One who inhabiteth eternity has given to all men the principles of His character. These are the rules for the guidance of all, men, women, and children, in all their transactions. These holy rules are to be taught to the children and [are] to form the standard of all dealing with one another. From this standard there can be no sinless swerving. The first principle of holiness is to learn the will of God and to do it with all the heart. Let men in responsible positions consider to a purpose that there is not one rule of action for the men in authority, and another for the class who are expected to submit to their decisions; not one rule for the director, and another for the supposed inferiors. I say “supposed,” for many who are treated as inferiors are men whose principles and course of action are such as heaven approves. They may be regarded as inferior in this world of iniquity, of semblance, and [of] sham; but in the sight of God they are counted more precious than gold, though it be tried with fire; they shall be found with praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ. The true learners of Christ, combining faith and truth and righteousness in their life practice, will keep the way of the Lord; there will be no conniving in selfish practices. Every path that God has not marked out for men to pursue is that of the destroyer. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 67)

I have risen a long while before day to write these words, for I see a great deal that needs to be done in heart and practice for men in authority who are very officious to make laws and restrictions for others, while they themselves do not obey the law of God. They will learn sometime that there is prosperity and happiness in no other path than the way of the Lord. Man’s reason may be obscured, the conscience seared by long practice in their own way, but it is not a way of peace or security. Wherever the peace of God reigns in the heart, there is the tenderness and love of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 68)

I think I need not again present the subject of royalty before your councils. I shall ever stand where I now stand, because it is in the counsel of God. Men may haggle over this business and bring it to the front, but their manmade laws will be of little use. They may oppress; those who have authority may continue the work of seeking to bring men to their terms or cut off every resource; by their representations and the power of their will they may make it hard and hopeless for others to stand in their God-given sense of right; but bear in mind that God will judge for these things, and that day is not far distant. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. I shall bear my testimony as long as God shall spare my life. (16LtMs, Ms 140, 1901, 69)

[signed] Mrs. E. G. White

Ms 141, 1901

The Divine and Human Nature of Christ
NP
1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 17MR 336-340. Ellipses appear in original typed Ms.

The Divine and Human Nature of Christ. Extracts from the Testimonies. (16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, 1)

From Ms. dated “Lynn, Mass., 1890.” (16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, 2)

Christ knows the sinner’s trials; He knows his temptations. He has taken upon Himself our nature; He was tempted in points like as we are, and He knows how to succor those who shall be tempted. He has wept, and He knows your sorrows; He has witnessed all your griefs. To all who believe and trust in Him, He will be as a hiding place from the wind and a covert from the tempest. (16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, 3)

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 men 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. 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.” [Revelation 3:21.] 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. (16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, 4)

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.” [Matthew 19:17; John 3:16.] Jesus speaks of Himself, as well as the Father, as God and claims for Himself perfect righteousness. (16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, 5)

In Christ dwelt the fulness of the Godhead bodily. This is why, although tempted in all points like as we are, He stood before the world, from His first entrance into it, untainted by corruption, though surrounded with it. Are we not also to become partakers of that fulness, and is it not thus, and thus only, that we can overcome as Christ overcame? ... (16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, 6)

Why are we so dull of comprehension? Why do we not cling to Jesus and draw from Him by faith the strength and perfection of His character as the vine-branch draws the sap from the living vine? We are to look to Jesus and climb up step by step in the work of overcoming, as the temptations close us about. Abiding in Christ, we become one with Him. Then we are safe, entirely safe, against all the assaults of Satan. Christ living in the soul is revealed in the character. Man is nothing without Christ. But if Christ lives in us, we shall work the works of God. We shall represent Christ in our life, we shall talk of Christ because we meditate upon Him. We shall grow up into Christ to the full stature of men and women in spiritual understanding. (16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, 7)

From Ms. entitled “God’s Love for Man.” (16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, 8)

The love and justice of God, and also the immutability of His law, are made manifest by the Saviour’s life no less than by His death. He assumed human nature with its infirmities, its liabilities, its temptations. “Himself took our infirmities and bore our sicknesses.” Matthew 8:17. “In all things it behooved him to be made like unto his brethren.” Hebrews 2:17. He was “in all points tempted like as we are.” Hebrews 4:15. He exercised in His own behalf no power which man cannot exercise. As man He met temptation, and overcame in the strength given Him of God. He gives us an example of perfect obedience. He has provided that we may become partakers of the divine nature and assures us that we may overcome as He overcame. His life testified that by the aid of the same divine power which Christ received, it is possible for man to obey God’s law. (16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, 9)

In Christ were united the divine and the human—the Creator and the creature. The nature of God, whose law had been transgressed, and the nature of Adam, the transgressor, meet in Jesus—the Son of God, and the Son of Man. And having with His own blood paid the price of redemption, having passed through man’s experience, having in man’s behalf met and conquered temptation, having, though Himself sinless, borne the shame and guilt and burden of sin, He becomes man’s Advocate and Intercessor. What an assurance here to the tempted and struggling soul, what an assurance to the witnessing universe, that Christ will be “a merciful and faithful high priest” (Hebrews 2:17)! ... (16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, 10)

The working out of the great plan of salvation, as manifest in the history of this world, is not only to men but to angels a revelation of the Father. Here is seen the work of Satan in the degradation and ruin of the race by sin, and, on the other hand, the work of God in man’s recovery and uplifting through the grace of Christ. Every soul that develops a righteous character and withstands the power of the wicked one is a testimony to the falsehood of Satan’s charges against the divine government. Through the eternal ages the exaltation of the redeemed will be a testimony to God’s love and mercy. (16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, 11)

From Ms. dated “Basel, Switzerland, March 10, 1887.” (16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, 12)

The apostle would call our attention from ourselves to the Author of our salvation. He presents before us His two natures, divine and human. Here is the description of the divine: “Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God.” [Philippians 2:6.] He was “the brightness of his glory and the express image of his person.” [Hebrews 1:3.] Here is the human: “He was made in the likeness of men;” “found in fashion as a man.” [Philippians 2:7, 8.] He was in all things like unto us. Though He was God, He did not appear as God. He veiled the manifestations of Deity, which had commanded the homage and called for the admiration of the universe. He divested Himself of the form of God, and in its stead took the form of man. He laid aside His glory, and for our sakes became poor, that we through His poverty might be rich.... (16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, 13)

As a member of the human family, Jesus was mortal; but as God, He was the Fountain of Life to the world. He could in His divine person have withstood the advances of death and refused to come under its dominion. He might even in His human nature have withstood the inroads of disease, His divine nature imparting vitality and undecaying vigor to the human. But He voluntarily laid down His life, that He might give life and bring immortality to light. He must bear the sins of the world and endure the penalty that rolled like a mountain upon His divine soul. The whole treasure of heaven was poured out in one gift to save fallen men. The Saviour brought into His human nature all the life-giving energies that human beings may need and will receive. Wondrous union of man and God! (16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, 14)

The Son of God entered into the plan for man’s salvation, knowing all the steps that He must descend in order to make expiation for the sins of the burdened, groaning world. What humility was this! It amazed the angels. Tongue can never describe it, the imagination cannot take it in—the eternal Word consented to be made flesh; God became man. But He stepped still lower; the Man must humble Himself to bear insult, reproach, shameful accusations, and abuse.... (16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, 15)

It was not enough that Jesus should die in order to meet the demands of the broken law; it was needful for Him to die a shameful death. He says through the prophet, “I hid not my face from shame and spitting.” [Isaiah 50:6.] He stood as the substitute for man, who was under sentence as a traitor, a rebel. Hence Christ died as a malefactor, in the place of the traitors, with all their treasured sins upon His divine soul. “He was numbered with the transgressors.” [Isaiah 53:12.] All this He deemed of small account in view of the results that He was working out, in behalf not only of the inhabitants of this speck of a world, but of the whole universe—every world that God had created.... All this humility of the Majesty of Heaven was for guilty, condemned man. He went lower and lower in His humiliation, until there was no lower depth that He could reach in order to lift man up from his moral degradation. (16LtMs, Ms 141, 1901, 16)

Ms 142, 1901

Extracts on Daniel and the Revelation
NP
1901
These extracts appear in various published works.

Compilation: Extracts From the Testimonies on Daniel and the Revelation (16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, 1)

Will our brethren bear in mind that we are living amid the perils of the last days? Read Revelation in connection with Daniel. Teach these things.—Special Testimonies to Ministers and Workers, No. 8, p. 24. (16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, 2)

Daniel and Revelation must be studied, as well as the other prophecies of the Old and New Testaments. Let there be light, yes, light, in your dwellings. For this we need to pray.... The Holy Spirit shining upon the sacred page will open our understanding that we may know what is truth.—MS., May 5, 1897. (16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, 3)

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 could call attention to what the prophets and apostles have written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit of God. The Holy Spirit has so shaped matters, both in giving the prophecy and in the events portrayed, as to teach that the human agent is to be kept out of sight, hid in Christ, and the Lord God of heaven and His law are to be exalted. (16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, 4)

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 the pride of men, and lay human glory in the dust.... (16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, 5)

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 come to pass. (16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, 6)

Consider the circumstances of the Jewish nation when the prophecies of Daniel were given.—MS., May 27, 1896. (16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, 7)

Make it a point, when you have a moment’s leisure, to store your mind with Scripture truth, and especially with what is brought to view in the Revelation, because some of us are to be the very actors who will be on the stage in the last days when these things are revealed; and as you make a persistent effort to understand, the angels of God will enlighten your mind.—The Review and Herald, April 10, 1888. (16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, 8)

In Revelation all the books of the Bible meet and end. This book of Revelation is a complement of the book of Daniel. God foresaw the crime and guiltiness of this world. It came up in review before Him, and in Revelation is declared the completion of the eternal plan.—Private Collection of Dr. Paulson, in MS. entitled “The Bible in Our Schools,” June 17, 1897, p. 530. (16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, 9)

Those who make light of the third angel’s message do so because they know little of Daniel or the Revelation. They have not read these prophecies with a determination to find out the meaning by prayer, by study, and by fasting.—The Review and Herald, June 8, 1897. (16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, 10)

Those who eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God will bring from the books of Daniel and Revelation truth that is inspired by the Holy Spirit. They will start into action forces that cannot be repressed. The lips of children will be opened to proclaim the mysteries that have been hidden from the minds of men.—The Review and Herald, August 17, 1897. (16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, 11)

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.... (16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, 12)

But God does not so regard this book.... The book of Revelation opens to the world what has been, what is, and what is to come. It should be studied with reverential awe. We are privileged in knowing what is for our learning.... (16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, 13)

The Lord Himself revealed to His servant John the mysteries of the book of Revelation, and He designs that they shall be open to the study of all. In this book are depicted scenes that are now in the past, and some of eternal interest that are taking place around us.... (16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, 14)

We are standing on the threshold of great and solemn events. Many of the prophecies are about to be fulfilled in quick succession. Every element of power is about to be set to work. Past history will be repeated; old controversies will arouse to new life, and peril will beset God’s people on every side. Intensity is taking possession of the human family. It is permeating everything upon the earth.—The Review and Herald, August 31, 1897. (16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, 15)

Daniel’s example of prayer and confession is given for our instruction and encouragement.—The Review and Herald, August 31, 1897. (16LtMs, Ms 142, 1901, 16)

Ms 143, 1901

Testimonies on the Book of Revelation
NP
1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 7MR 78-81 and RH sources. Ellipses appear in original typed Ms.

The Review and Herald, January 31, 1888:— (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 1)

John beheld an angel flying through the midst of heaven, warning men of the final judgments of God. He proclaimed the position of those who heeded his warning, and who would escape the seven last plagues. He announced them as God’s people, and called attention to their peculiar character: “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.] The time for the fulfilment of this prophecy has come. We hear the sound of this very message calling the attention of men and women to the broken law of God and demanding repentance and reform. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 2)

*****

The Review and Herald, March 13, 1888:— (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 3)

We have a sacred message to bear to the world. The third angel’s message is not a theory of man’s inventing, a speculation of the imagination; but it is the solemn truth of God for these last days. It is the final warning to the perishing souls of men. It is not a system of truth simply to gratify and please the intellect; it means diligent and sacrificing labor to all who accept its holy teaching. The commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus must be brought to the attention of the world. The tidings of the coming of the Saviour must be proclaimed. The judgment scenes must be portrayed before the unenlightened minds of men, and hearts must be aroused to realize the solemnity of the closing hours of probation and prepare to meet their God. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 4)

*****

The Review and Herald, July 24, 1888:— (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 5)

“To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.” [Revelation 2:7.] “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” [Revelation 22:14.] The solemn question should come home to every member of our churches, How are we standing before God as the professed followers of Jesus Christ? Is our light shining forth to the world in clear, steady rays? Have we, as a people solemnly dedicated to God, preserved our union with the Source of all light? Are not the symptoms of decay and declension painfully visible in the midst of the Christian churches of today? Spiritual death has come upon the people that should be manifesting life and zeal, purity and consecration, by the most earnest devotion to the cause of truth. The facts concerning the real condition of the professed people of God speak more loudly than their profession, and make it evident that some power has cut the cable that anchored them to the Eternal Rock, and that they are drifting away to sea without chart or compass. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 6)

What is to be done? The True Witness points out the only remedy: “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.” [Revelation 2:5.] Christ will cease to take your name upon His lips in His intercession with the Father, unless there is a decided change in the life and character of those who have wandered from the living God and forsaken His service. Jesus declares, “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: 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. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.” And yet the case is not altogether beyond remedy. The Mediator has not left them hopeless. 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.” [Revelation 3:15-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 7)

Although the oil in the lamps is almost consumed, and they have not been replenished, still you have not yet reached that desperate position described in the parable of the foolish virgins. They slumbered long, until their lamps were gone out, and they had made no provision for the time of need; and when the Bridegroom came, they were seeking, too late, to replenish their lamps; for the door was shut, and they were left to outer darkness and despair. But the counsel of the True Witness is full of encouragement and comfort. The churches may yet obtain the gold of truth, faith, and love, and be rich in heavenly treasure. “Buy of me gold that thou mayest be rich, and white raiment that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear.” [Verse 18.] The white raiment is the righteousness of Christ that may be wrought into the character. Purity of heart, purity of motive, will characterize everyone who is washing his robe, and making it white in the blood of the Lamb.... (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 8)

The world’s Redeemer declares, “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” [John 15:10.] “I counsel thee,” saith the True Witness, “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.” [Revelation 3:18.] Christ’s righteousness will not cover the unrighteousness of any one. “All unrighteousness is sin,” and “sin is the transgression of the law” [1 John 5:17; 3:4], therefore, those who are breaking the law of God and teaching others to break it will not be covered with the garments of Christ’s righteousness. He came not to save men in their sins, but from their sins.... (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 9)

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.” [Revelation 3:21.] These are the words of our Substitute and Surety.... Victory is assured through faith and obedience. Let us make an application of the words of Christ to our own individual cases. Are we poor, and blind, and wretched, and miserable? Then let us seek the gold and white raiment that He offers. The work of overcoming is not restricted to the age of the martyrs. The conflict is for us, in these days of subtle temptation to worldliness, to self-security, to indulgence of pride, covetousness, false doctrines, and immorality of life. “By their fruits ye shall know them” [Matthew 7:20], and every church is to bear the test of God’s law. Shall we stand before the proving of God? (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 10)

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The Review and Herald, March 26, 1889:—[“The Open Door”] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 11)

[Quote Revelation 3:2, 5-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 12)

Those who shall be overcomers are to be highly exalted before God and before His angels. Christ has promised that He will confess their names before His Father and before the holy angels of heaven. He has given us abundant promises to encourage us to be overcomers. The True Witness has given us the assurance that He has set before us an open door, which no man can shut. Those who are seeking to be faithful to God may be denied many of the privileges of the world; their way may be hedged up and their work hindered by the enemies of truth; but there is no power that can close the door of communication between God and their souls. The Christian himself may close this door by indulgence in sin, or by rejection of heaven’s light. He may turn away his ears from hearing the message of truth and in this way sever the connection between God and his soul. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 13)

You may have ears, and not hear. You may have eyes, and not see the light, nor receive the illumination that God has provided for you. You may close the door to light as effectually as the Pharisees closed the door to Christ when He taught among them. They would not receive the light and knowledge He brought, because it did not come in the way they had expected it to come. Christ was the light of the world, and if they had received the light He graciously brought to them, it would have resulted in their salvation, but they rejected the Holy One of Israel. Christ said of them that they loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. “For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” [John 3:20.] He said, “Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] The way was open; but by their own course of action they closed the door and severed their connection with Christ. We may do the same by rejecting light and truth. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 14)

Those who are willing to be faithful learners in the school of Christ, willing to put to the stretch every God-given power, that they may seek for truth as for hid treasure, will not only have light themselves, but will be able to impart light to those around them. Christ has said of His people, “Ye are the light of the world.” [Matthew 5:14.] It is our privilege to advance daily in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour. By studying the life of Christ, and by patterning after His character, we may be changed into the same image.... All heaven is at our command. If we are obedient children of God, we may draw daily supplies of grace. Whatever temptations, trials, or persecutions may come upon us, we need not be discouraged. Neither man nor Satan can close the door which Christ has opened for us.... (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 15)

By faith we should keep our eyes on Jesus our High Priest, who ministers in heaven for us. No other light has shone or ever will shine upon fallen man, save that which has been and shall be communicated by the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. We should ever recount our blessings. We should gather them together and hang them in memory’s hall. What kind of a picture will you hang there today? Will you clothe it in crepe, and frame it in mourning? Oh, no! Jesus is not in Joseph’s new tomb. He has risen. He has burst the fetters of the grave. He has led captivity captive, and given gifts unto men. He has given us an evidence of what He will do for those whom Satan has placed in the prison-houses of death. At His resurrection He opened the tombs of many righteous, took the captives out of the narrow cells, and led them away in triumph to His kingdom. Those who have fallen asleep in Christ shall not be holden of death. They shall be rescued from the grave and restored to life. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 16)

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The Review and Herald, July 23, 1889:— (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 17)

We thank the Lord with all the heart that we have precious light to present before the people, and we rejoice that we have a message for this time which is present truth. The tidings that Christ is our righteousness has brought relief to many, many souls, and God says to His people, “Go forward.” [Exodus 14:15.] The message to the Laodicean church is applicable to our condition. How plainly is pictured the position of those who think they have all the truth, who take pride in their knowledge of the Word of God, while its sanctifying power has not been felt in their lives. The fervor of the love of God is wanting in their hearts, but it is this very fervor of love that makes God’s people the light of the world. The True Witness says of a cold, lifeless, Christless church, “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot; 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.” Mark the following words: “Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.” [Revelation 3:15-17.] Here is represented a people who pride themselves in their possession of spiritual knowledge and advantages. But they have not responded to the unmerited blessings that God has bestowed upon them. They have been full of rebellion, ingratitude, and forgetfulness of God; and still He has dealt with them as a loving, forgiving father deals with an ungrateful, wayward son. They have resisted His grace, abused His privileges, slighted His opportunities, and have been satisfied to sink down in contentment, in lamentable ingratitude, hollow formalism, and hypocritical insincerity. With Pharisaic pride they have vaunted themselves till it has been said of them, “Thou sayest, I am rich and increased with goods, and have need of nothing.” (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 18)

Has not the Lord Jesus sent message after message of rebuke, of warning, of entreaty to these self-satisfied ones? Have not His counsels been despised and rejected? Have not His delegated messengers been treated with scorn, and their words been received as idle tales? Christ sees that which man does not see. He sees the sins which, if not repented of, will exhaust the patience of a longsuffering God. Christ cannot take up the names of those who are satisfied in their own self-sufficiency. He cannot importune in behalf of a people who feel no need of His help, who claim to know and possess everything. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 19)

The great Redeemer represents Himself as a heavenly merchantman, laden with riches, calling from house to house, presenting His priceless goods, and saying, “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. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten; be zealous therefore, and repent. 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.” [Verses 18-20.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 20)

Let us consider our condition before God; let us heed the counsel of the True Witness. Let none of us be filled with prejudice, as were the Jews, that light may not come into our hearts. Let it not be necessary for Christ to say of us as He did of them, “Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 21)

In every meeting since the General Conference, souls have eagerly accepted the precious message of the righteousness of Christ. We thank God that there are souls who realize that they are in need of something which they do not possess—gold of faith and love, white raiment of Christ’s righteousness, eyesalve of spiritual discernment. If you possess these precious gifts, the temple of the human soul will not be like a desecrated shrine. Brethren and sisters, I call upon you in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, to work where God works. Now is the day of gracious opportunity and privilege. Let not one be a traitor to holy, sacred trusts, as were the Jews. Resist not grace, abuse not privileges, smother not in your human pride the convictions of the Spirit of God. Despise not warnings, settle not down in hardness of heart, in confirmed impenitence, as did Pharaoh, the rebellious king of Egypt. Let every one listen to the voice of the True Shepherd, and not only hear but obey, and it will be well with your soul. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 22)

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The Review and Herald, April 1, 1890:— (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 23)

The gold that Jesus would have us buy of Him is gold tried in the fire; it is the gold of faith and love that has no defiling substance mingled with it. The white raiment is the righteousness of Christ, the wedding garment which Christ alone can give. The eyesalve is the true spiritual discernment that is so wanting among us, for spiritual things must be spiritually discerned. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 24)

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The Review and Herald, May 13, 1890:— (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 25)

John says, “I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven, saying, 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.” [Revelation 21:1-3.] This is glad news to all who love God; but is it a matter of rejoicing to those who delight in feeding the mind on commonplace and trivial things? Those who take no pleasure in thinking and talking of God in this life will not enjoy the life that is to come, where God is ever present, dwelling among His people. But those who love to think of God will be in their element, breathing in the atmosphere of heaven. Those who on earth love the thought of heaven will be happy in its holy associations and pleasures. The prophet says, “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.” [Verse 4.] “And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him; and they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads.” [Revelation 22:3, 4.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 26)

Those who love God will have an intelligent knowledge of Him. The image of God will shine forth from the faces of His servants, and they will be openly acknowledged as sons and daughters of God. When in the world, they did not claim to be their own; and God set to His seal that they were His. Heaven will be for those who desire it with intense desire, who put forth efforts in proportion to the value of the object which they seek. The thoughts of those who will obtain heaven will be upon heavenly things, but those who are all taken up with the excitement and pleasure of this world will have no love whatever for God or heaven. Superficial minds and carnal hearts love the things that are earthly, sensual, and devilish. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 27)

We should be careful as to what kind of record passes up to heaven concerning our daily life; for God is no respecter of persons, but will render to every man according to his works. The Judge of all the earth will try every man’s case. You may deceive human eyes. In the courts of justice on earth, justice is not always done; the innocent often suffer, the guilty are often set free for lack of proper evidence; but there will be no lack of evidence in the court of heaven. The deeds of men, with every concealed motive, will be revealed. The eyes of the Lord run to and fro over the whole earth. He who has offered salvation to the sinner will one day judge the thoughts and deeds of all who stand before Him. He who died that man might become a partaker of the divine nature, will one day acquit or condemn him before the Father and the holy angels. Gold and silver will not be a sufficient ransom in that day; nothing but the merits of the blood of Christ will suffice to wash out the guilty stains from the hearts of men. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 28)

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The Review and Herald, May 27, 1890:— (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 29)

The third angel’s message will not be comprehended, the light which will lighten the earth with its glory will be called a false light by those who refuse to walk in its advancing glory. The work that might have been done will be left undone by the rejecters of truth because of their unbelief. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 30)

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The Review and Herald, November 29, 1892:— (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 31)

The truth is efficient, and through obedience its power changes the mind into the image of Jesus. It is the truth as it is in Jesus that quickens the conscience and transforms the mind, for it is accompanied to the heart by the Holy Spirit.... Without the enlightenment of the Spirit of God, we shall not be able to discern truth from error, and shall fall under the masterful temptations and deceptions that Satan will bring upon the world. We are near the close of the controversy between the Prince of light and the prince of darkness, and soon the delusions of the enemy will try our faith, of what sort it is. Satan will work miracles in the sight of the beast and deceive “them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast.” [Revelation 13:14.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 32)

But though the prince of darkness will work to cover the earth with darkness, and with gross darkness the people, the Lord will manifest His converting power. A work is to be accomplished in the earth similar to that which took place at the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in the days of the early disciples, when they preached Jesus and Him crucified. Many will be converted in a day, for the message will go with power. It can then be said: “Our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost.” [1 Thessalonians 1:5.] It is the Holy Spirit that draws men to Christ, for He takes of the things of God and shows them unto the sinner. Jesus said: “He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you.” [John 16:14.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 33)

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, childlike 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. The prophet describes the enemy’s plan of battle, saying: (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 34)

“I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, but he spake as a dragon. And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them that dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, and deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by thr sword, and did live. And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed.” [Revelation 13:11-15.] “These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them; for he is Lord of lords and King of kings; and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.” [Revelation 17:14.] “And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird.... And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.” [Revelation 18:1, 2, 4, 5.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 35)

The people of God are to be called out from their association with worldlings and evildoers, to stand in the battle for the Lord against the powers of darkness. 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 efficiency of the Holy Spirit they now saw Him exalted to be a Prince and Saviour, to give repentance unto Israel, and remission of sins.... (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 36)

Then said one to another, “This is the very one who was accused of gluttony, of eating with publicans and sinners; the one who was bound, and scourged, and crucified. We believe in Him as the Son of God, the Prince and Saviour.” 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. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 37)

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The Review and Herald, December 6, 1892:— (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 38)

We are pressing on to the final conflict, and this is no time to compromise. It is no time to hide your colors. When the battle wages sore, let no one turn traitor. It is no time to lay down or conceal our weapons and give Satan the advantage in the warfare. But unless you watch, and keep your garments unspotted from the world, you will not stand true to your Captain. It is no time for watchmen to slumber on the walls of Zion. Let them be wide-awake. Call to your fellow watchmen, crying, “The morning cometh, and also the night.” [Isaiah 21:12.] It is no time now to relax our efforts, to become tame and spiritless; no time to hide our light under a bushel, to speak smooth things, to prophesy deceit. Every power is to be employed for God. You are to maintain your allegiance, bearing testimony for God and for truth. Be not turned aside by any suggestion the world can make. We cannot afford to compromise. There is a living issue before us of vital importance to the remnant people of God to the very close of this earth’s history, for eternal interests are involved.... (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 39)

Among those who are half-hearted are the class who pride themselves on their great caution in receiving “new light,” as they term it. But their failure to receive the light [evidently referring to Minneapolis] is caused by their spiritual blindness, for they cannot discern the ways and works of God. Those who array themselves against the precious light of heaven will accept messages that God has not sent and will thus become dangerous to the cause of God, for they will set up false standards.... (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 40)

At this time the church should not be diverted from the main object of vital interest to things that will not bring health and courage, faith and power. They must see, and by their actions testify, that the gospel is aggressive.... (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 41)

This is a time of general departure from truth and righteousness, a time when we must build the old waste places, and with interested effort labor to raise up the foundation of many generations. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 42)

[Quote Isaiah 58:12-14; Isaiah 51:7-16; Isaiah 62:1-4.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 43)

While you hold the banner of truth firmly, proclaiming the law of God, let every soul remember that the faith of Jesus is connected with the commandments of God. The third angel is represented as flying through the midst of heaven, crying with a loud voice, “Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.] The first, second, and third angels’ messages are all linked together. The evidences of the abiding, ever-living truth of these grand messages, that mean so much to us, that have awakened such intense opposition from the religious world, cannot be extinguished. 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. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 44)

The influence of these messages has been deepening and widening, setting in motion the springs of action in thousands of hearts, bringing into existence institutions of learning, publishing houses, and health institutions; all these are the instrumentalities of God to co-operate in the grand work represented by the first, second, and third angels flying in the midst of heaven to warn the inhabitants of the world that Christ is coming again with power and great glory. The prophet says, “I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils.” [Revelation 18:1, 2.] 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.” [Revelation 14:8.] 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.” [Matthew 15:9.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 45)

When Jesus began His public ministry, He cleansed the temple from its sacrilegious profanation. Among the last acts of His ministry was the second cleansing of the temple. So in the last work for the warning of the world, two distinct calls are made to the churches. The second angel’s message is, “Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.” [Revelation 14:8.] And in the loud cry of the third angel’s message a voice is heard from heaven, saying, “Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.” [Revelation 18:4, 5.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 46)

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[The article is continued in Review and Herald, December 13, 1892, as follows.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 47)

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. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 48)

After the truth has been proclaimed as a witness to all nations, every conceivable power of evil will be set in operation, and minds will be confused by many voices, crying, “Lo, here is Christ; lo, He is there. This is the truth; I have the message from God; He has sent me with great light.” Then there will be a removing of the landmarks and an attempt to tear down the pillars of our faith. A more decided effort will be 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. Satan and his angels are wide-awake and intensely active, working with energy and perseverance through human instrumentalities to bring about his purpose of obliterating from the minds of men the knowledge of God. 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. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 49)

At the time of the loud cry of the third angel, those who have been in any measure blinded by the enemy, who have not fully recovered themselves from the snare of Satan, will be in peril, because it will be difficult for them to discern the light from heaven, and they will be inclined to accept falsehood. Their erroneous experience will color their thoughts, their decisions, their propositions, their counsels. The evidences that God has given will be no evidence to those who have blinded their eyes by choosing darkness rather than light. After rejecting light, they will originate theories which they will call “light,” but which the Lord calls “Sparks of their own kindling,” by which they will direct their steps. The Lord declares, “Who is among you that feareth the Lord, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? Let him trust in the name of the Lord, and stay upon his God. Behold, all ye that kindle a fire, that compass yourselves about with sparks: walk in the light of your fire, and in the sparks that ye have kindled. This shall ye have of mine hand; ye shall lie down in sorrow.” [Isaiah 50:10, 11.] Jesus said: “For judgment I am come into this world, that they which see not might see; and that they which see might be made blind.” [John 9:39.] “I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.... He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.” [John 12:46, 48.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 50)

By many the words which the Lord sent will be rejected, and the words that man may speak will be received as light and truth. Jesus says, “I am come in my Father’s name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.” [John 5:43.] Human wisdom will lead away from self-denial, from consecration, and will devise many things that tend to make of no effect God’s messages. We cannot with any safety rely upon men who are not in close connection with God. They will accept the opinions of men, but cannot discern the voice of the True Shepherd, and their influence will lead many astray, though evidence is piled upon evidence testifying to the verity of truth for these days. The truth is powerful to turn men to Christ, to quicken their energies, to subdue and soften their hearts, and inspire them with zeal, devotion, and love to God. The Sabbath truth must in no case be covered up. We must let it appear in strong contrast with error. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 51)

As the end approaches, the testimonies of God’s servants will become more decided and more powerful, flashing the light of truth upon the systems of error and oppression that have so long held the supremacy. The Lord has sent us messages for this time, that will establish Christianity upon an eternal basis; and all who believe the present truth must stand, not in their own wisdom, but in God’s wisdom, and raise up the foundations of many generations; and they will be registered in the books of heaven as “repairers of the breach,” the “restorer of paths to dwell in.” [Isaiah 58:12.] In face of the bitterest opposition, we are to maintain the truth because it is truth.... (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 52)

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The Review and Herald, August 15, 1893:— (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 53)

We are a part of the great web of humanity. We become changed into the image of that upon which we dwell. Then how important to open our hearts to the things that are true and lovely and of good report. Let into the heart the light of the Sun of Righteousness. Do not cherish one root of bitterness that may spring up whereby many may be defiled.... Let us remember that our great High Priest is pleading before the mercy seat in behalf of His ransomed people. He ever liveth to make intercession for us. If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. The blood of Jesus is pleading with power and efficacy for those who are backslidden, for those who are rebellious, for those who sin against great light and love. Satan stands at our right hand to accuse us, and our Advocate stands at God’s right hand to plead for us. He has never lost a case that has been committed to Him. We may trust in our Advocate, for He pleads His own merits in our behalf. Hear His prayer before His betrayal and trial. Listen to His prayer for us, for He has us in remembrance. He will not forget His church in the world of temptation. He looks upon His tried and suffering people and prays for them. Let every word be engraven upon the tablets of the soul. He says, “I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.... I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from evil.... As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world,” that they may be partakers with Me in self-denial, self-sacrifice, and in My sufferings. [John 17:11, 15, 18.] Yes, He beholds His people in this world, which is a persecuting world, and all seared and marred with the curse, and knows that they need all the divine resources of His sympathy and His love. Our Forerunner hath for us entered within the vail, and yet by the golden chain of love and truth, He is linked with His people in closest sympathy. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 54)

He is making intercession for the most lowly, the most oppressed and suffering, for the most tried and tempted ones. With upraised hands He pleads, “I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands.” [Isaiah 49:16.] God loves to hear, and responds to the pleadings of His Son.... (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 55)

Look, O look to the open door which God hath opened, and no man can shut. Jesus Christ hath He exalted to be a Prince and a Saviour, to give repentance unto Israel and forgiveness of sins; and will He not with these costly mercies freely give us all things? ... (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 56)

John writes of the majesty of Christ in his vision in Patmos, saying, “And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; and in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of Man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. 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. And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp two-edged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.” [Revelation 1:12-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 57)

O, why are the human agents so ready to yield to temptation? Why are they so irresolute in purpose, so weak to practice the Word of God? Why are they so feeble in action? Why is the glory of Jesus so dimly seen? Why is His preciousness so little realized, His love so imperfectly experienced? Let this be our prayer, “Lord, show me thy glory.” [Exodus 33:18.] If we see the Redeemer’s glory by faith on earth, we shall see it in its fulness in the heaven above. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 58)

*****

The Review and Herald, August 7, 1894:— (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 59)

The voice of the True Witness calls to His chosen people, “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. 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. 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. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” [Revelation 3:19-22.] We have tried to arouse our brethren to the fact that the Lord has rich blessings to bestow upon us as a people. The people of God have lost much by not maintaining the simplicity of the truth as it is in Jesus. This simplicity has been crowded out, and forms and ceremonies and a round of busy activities in mechanical work have taken its place. Pride and lukewarmness have made the professed people of God an offence in His sight. Boastful self-sufficiency and complacent self-righteousness have masked and concealed the beggary and nakedness of the soul, but with God all things are naked and manifest. Yet Jesus is going from door to door, standing in front of every soul-temple, proclaiming, “I stand at the door, and knock.” As a heavenly merchantman, He opens His treasures and cries, “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.” [Verse 18.] The gold He offers is without alloy, more precious than that of Ophir, for it is faith and love. The white raiment He invites the soul to wear is His own robes of righteousness, and the oil for anointing is the oil of His grace, which will give spiritual eyesight to the soul in blindness and darkness, that he may distinguish between the workings of the Spirit of God and the spirit of the enemy. “Open your doors,” says the great Merchantman, the possessor of spiritual riches, “and transact your business with Me. It is I, your Redeemer, who counsels you to buy of Me.” (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 60)

*****

The Review and Herald, August 4, 1896:—[From a letter to the brethren and sisters on Pitcairn Island.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 61)

How glad I am that you may have with you the presence of One who is all-sufficient and all-powerful. Although you are cut off from the world by the broad ocean, you are not alone. The apostle John, banished to the Isle of Patmos by men inspired of Satan to persecute those who bore faithful witness to God, was visited by the heavenly messenger. Writing of his experience, John says: “I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was on the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and 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.... And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned [continue quoting Revelation 1:12-19].” (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 62)

On this lonely island, John received “the Revelation of Jesus Christ, [continue quoting Revelation 1:1-3].” (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 63)

*****

The Review and Herald, August 31, 1897:— (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 64)

“The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those sayings which are written therein; for the time is at hand.” [Verses 1-3.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 65)

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. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 66)

But God does not so regard this book. He declares: “I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: and if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly.” [Revelation 22:18-20.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 67)

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. But do we treat the Word of God with the reverence which is His due, and with the gratitude which God would be pleased to see? “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 68)

The Lord Himself revealed to His servant John the mysteries of the book of Revelation, and He designs that they shall be open to the study of all. In this book are depicted scenes that are now in the past and some of eternal interest that are taking place around us; other of its prophecies will not receive their complete fulfilment until the close of time, when the last great conflict between the powers of darkness and the Prince of heaven will take place. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 69)

The final struggle will be waged between those who keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus and that apostate power which will deceive all who dwell upon the earth. “And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, and deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live. And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads; and that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.” [Revelation 13:13-17.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 70)

We are standing on the threshold of great and solemn events. Many of the prophecies are about to be fulfilled in quick succession. Every element of power is about to be set to work. Past history will be repeated; old controversies will arouse to new life, and peril will beset God’s people on every side. Intensity is taking possession of the human family. It is permeating everything upon the earth. And for what?—Games, plays, amusements; men are rushing and crowding and contending for the mastery. That which is common and perishable is absorbing their attention, so that things of eternal interest are scarcely thought of. Human beings, possessed with energy, zeal, and perseverance, will place all their God-given powers in co-operation with Satan’s despotism to make void the law of God. Impostors of every caste and grade will claim to be worthy and true, and there will be a magnifying of the common and impure against the true and the holy. Thus the spurious is accepted, and the true standard of holiness is discarded, as the word of God was discarded by Adam and Eve for the lie of Satan. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 71)

Many have so long chosen their own standard, rejecting the infallible standard that will judge them at the last day, that they are themselves deluded. They misconstrue the teaching of the Word of God; and steadfastly setting their face against His commandments, they exalt the precepts of men. The expressions from many professed ministers of the gospel indicate a more than common bitterness against, and contempt for, the law of God. As in David’s day, that law is despised. It is treated as an innovation and rejected as the rule of life. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 72)

Those who have once been convicted of the truth, but have resisted the Holy Spirit’s influence, walk and work in co-partnership with Satan, the first apostate. Blinded by the sophistry of him who was once found in the heavenly courts, they join his ranks. The apostle Paul, speaking of this, says, “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron.” [1 Timothy 4:1, 2.] Those who have turned away from a plain “Thus saith the Lord” will be blinded in a superstitious faith in every kind of apostasy, and will be led into that terrible iniquity which God’s Word represents as being drunken with the blood of the saints. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 73)

When this enmity against the law of God becomes so intense, we may know that Satan is imbuing human minds with the same hatred of truth and of the precepts of God as turned the heart of Cain against his brother Abel. In this time of prevailing iniquity it is essential that we individually draw nigh unto God. His voice is heard, saying: “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. For, behold, the Lord cometh out of his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain.” [Isaiah 26:20, 21.] It is possible for men to go so far in disobedience that it will be necessary for God to arise and let them know that He is God, and that He will interpose and punish the world for its iniquity. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 74)

The time is now approaching when God will vindicate His honor and bring this unrighteousness to an end. Of this time the apostle Paul speaks when he says: “But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child, and they shall not escape.” [1 Thessalonians 5:1-3.] When the attractions of the horse race are all-absorbing; when the excitement of the cricket match runs high; when the fascination of the gambling hall is strong; when parties are indulging in luxurious feasts, and revelry is at its height; when all are forgetful of God and of eternity, and “Peace and safety” is the cry that is heard, “then sudden destruction” will come upon men, “and they shall not escape.” (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 75)

And will the true child of God be carried away by the prevailing iniquity? Will the chosen of God be tempted by the universal scorn which he sees put upon the law? Will he think less of that law and give it less honor and obedience?—No; the prevailing apostasy will fill his soul with zeal for the honor of God. He sees that the heavenly universe is stirred with indignation because of the ingratitude of man, for whom the Lord has done so much, and God’s law becomes more precious as it is trampled upon by unholy feet. In proportion as it is ignored and brought into contempt by one class, it will be valued and honored by the other. Those who co-operate with God by obedience will exclaim, with the Psalmist, “They have made void thy law. Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold.” [Psalm 119:126, 127.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 76)

Jesus, who knew no sin, and in whose mouth no guile was found, came to sow the world with truth. When charged with evil by the Pharisees, He stood up boldly before His accusers, and said, “Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me?” [John 8:46.] The convicting power of God had deeply stirred the hearts of these teachers, but they turned their faces persistently from the light. They resisted the work of the Holy Spirit of God. Sufficient evidence of the divinity of Christ had been given them. More evidence would not have changed the current of their feelings, but would only have hardened them in unbelief. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 77)

Christ declared, “If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, We see; therefore your sin remaineth.” [John 9:41.] “If I had not done among them the works which none other man did, they had not had sin: but now have they both seen and hated both me and my Father.” [John 15:24.] To His disciples He said, “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in his love.” [Verse 10.] “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” [John 14:15.] “He that hateth me hateth my Father also.” [John 15:23.] “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” [1 John 2:4.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 78)

We know that the world, sensual and corrupt, love darkness rather than light because their deeds are evil. Error and false prophets are chosen before the gospel of Christ. But shall we discard the standard of character which the God of heaven has given to our world and venture to erect a standard of human invention? God desires that His commandment-keeping people shall arise to the emergency and co-operate with the heavenly agencies in uplifting the standard of righteousness, setting forth to the world the message of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 79)

Each should feel that it is required of him to consecrate every hour to the service of Christ. The Son of God was given that we might be renewed, refined, elevated, ennobled, that God might see His image restored in the heart of man. But the Lord cannot take away our sin unless we shall co-operate with Him in the work. The inquiry of each should be, “Am I cleansed from sin? Do I hate sin, and love righteousness? Am I prepared to make any and every sacrifice for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord?” Professed Christians who have a divided heart will not be in the Lord’s army, for the Lord accepts no such enlistments. This is not a sentimental and spasmodic service. In these times we need an assurance from heaven to enable us to stand firmly for the faith once delivered to the saints. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 80)

The benediction pronounced upon those who keep God’s law is, “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” [Revelation 22:14.] “And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the Mount Zion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father’s name written in their foreheads.... Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:1, 12.] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 81)

[The above article, quoted from The Review and Herald, August 31, 1897, was entitled “What the Revelation Means to Us.”] (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 82)

*****

(NOTE:—The Review and Heralds bearing dates respectively of February 15, 22, and March 1, 1881, contain articles on “The Life of John, an Illustration of True Sanctification,” the most of which articles are embodied in the pamphlet, entitled, Bible Sanctification. These articles, and the preceding references, pp. 1-29 of this MS., are about all, on Revelation, which can be found in the Reviews of the years 1880 to 1897 inclusive.) (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 83)

*****

An Address to the Bible Workers and Ministers, by Mrs. E. G. White, Sunday, 10 a.m., January 28, 1894. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 84)

“And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they? And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe all tears from their eyes.” Revelation 7:13-17. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 85)

What are they doing? Christ is opening the treasures and the riches of the truth of the Bible that we do not appreciate now and that seem to be holden from our eyes. We should have been out of sight of our present spiritual condition if we had advanced as the light came to us. We should have advanced so far that we would not recognize our present condition. There has been every hindrance to keep us in earthliness and commonness [so] that we should not grasp the eternal. “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.] The truth and light given to us of God is as a priceless treasure hidden in a field. We are to buy the field and work every foot of it. The more we look at the promises of the Word of God, the brighter they grow. The more we practice them, the deeper will be our understanding of them. Our position and faith is in the Bible. And never do we want any soul to bring in the Testimonies ahead of the Bible. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 86)

I have felt that it was not essential to go back to the beginning of the work in order to maintain its importance. I have felt, if there was not the evidence now, if the Holy Spirit is not controlling the Testimonies now, I would not care to go back. If the divine credentials do not attend the Testimonies now, then it is time my work stopped. What we want is the freshness of the presence of the Spirit of God testifying through us. What I want to see is the Testimony of the Spirit of God working upon human minds. I believe God speaks to human hearts. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 87)

I want that our brethren should feel the importance of praying more, and loving our brethren more. The love that is expressed, is revealed. It speaks with a voice that nothing can silence. For God sent His Son into the world because He loved the world. There may be a sharpness with some, another defect with another. But those who advocate the truth can afford to be fair and pleasant. It does not need the human mixing in. It is not for you to use the Holy Spirit of God, but it is for the Holy Spirit to use you. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 88)

“Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.” [Jude 9.] Be careful that you do not rail once. We want the Holy Spirit of God to be life and voice for us. Our tongue should be as the pen of a ready writer because the Spirit of God is speaking through the human agent. When you use that twit and fling, you have stirred in some of yourself, and we do not want anything of that mixture. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 89)

We have a testing message for our world, and we should present the truth as it is in Jesus and your life as hid with Christ in God. You do not present yourself, but the presence and preciousness of truth is so large; why, it is so far-reaching, so deep, so broad, that self is lost sight of. It is not flowery discourses that we want, not a great flood of words that do not mean anything. Preach so that the people can catch hold of big ideas and dig out the precious ore hidden in the Scriptures. The Bible is its own interpreter. We are to hide ourselves in Jesus. It is not our education that is to do the work, but let the Holy Spirit of God come to hearts. Some who do not understand the truth may be inclined to ridicule it. We know we have the arguments of truth to handle, and we shall have to meet ridicule and opposition; but can we afford to put on the armor of ridicule and sarcasm as we go to proclaim the sacred truth? We cannot afford to use these weapons. Speak out calmly and distinctly for Christ’s sake. We want our discourses mixed with faith. You want to put on the whole armor of God, and be clad with His Spirit, and have His righteousness to go before you, and the glory of the Lord to be your rereward. When you go forward in this way, just so surely will the whole universe of heaven be engaged with working upon the people [so] that [it] will astonish you as you had it here. Just as soon as you have the meekness and lowliness of Christ, then the Lord Jesus has His heavenly intelligences working with human agents. A Paul may plant, and Apollos water, but God alone giveth the increase. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 90)

Among those that ridicule the truth, some will see the foolishness of their course and will turn to the Lord. We have a most solemn truth to be proclaimed to the world. Let the work of God begin in your homes, in the church, and we shall see the salvation of God as we have not seen nor dreamed of. If we are one in Christ Jesus, just so surely the world knows that this love is not of the world. You have no need to tell them you have the Spirit of God. If it is in the heart, it will come out. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 91)

Your faith is to be tried in the fire. It is tried, that the preciousness of it may be seen, and that you may look to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith. (16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, 92)

Ms 144, 1901

Talk/“I thank the Lord that so many ...”
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 3, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in 2SAT 163-170. +
April 3, 1901
Early Morning Meeting,

I thank the Lord that so many have come out to this early five o’clock meeting to worship God. I desire that my heart shall be drawn out to God. It is our privilege to feel the deep movings of His Spirit. (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 1)

We read in James, “James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting. My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” [James 1:1-4.] This is a wonderful position. And it is our privilege to occupy this position. (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 2)

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways. Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted; but the rich, in that he is made low; because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away. For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth; so also shall the rich man fade away in his ways. Blessed is the man that endureth temptation; for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.” [Verses 5-12.] (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 3)

Let us take in the idea of the privilege we have. There are so many who, when they are in trouble, fall into temptation and lose their bearings. They forget the invitations God has abundantly given, and begin to look and plan for human help. They go to human beings for aid, and this is the way in which their experience becomes feeble and confused. In all our trials we are directed to seek the Lord most earnestly, remembering that we are His property, His children by adoption. No human being can understand our necessities as [does] Christ. We shall receive help if we ask Him in faith. We are His by creation, we are His by redemption. By the cords of divine love we are bound to the Source of all power and strength. If we will only make God our dependence, asking Him for what we want, as a little child asks his father for what he wants, we shall obtain a rich experience. We shall learn that God is the source of all strength and power. (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 4)

If when you ask you do not immediately feel any special exercise of feeling, do not think that your prayer is not answered. The One who 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,” will hear and answer you. [Matthew 7:7, 8.] Let then His Word be your trust, ask and seek, and have the privilege of finding. Christ has encouraged you. He says, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you”—the yoke of restraint and obedience—“and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.] We are to find rest by wearing His yoke and bearing His burdens. In being co-workers with Christ in the great work for which He gave His life, we shall find true rest. When we were sinners, He gave His life for us. He wants us to come to Him and learn of Him. Thus we are to find rest. He says He will give you rest. Then do not lay your burdens upon any human being. “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart.” In doing this you will find in your own experience the rest that Christ gives, the rest that comes from wearing His yoke and lifting His burdens. (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 5)

God has been greatly dishonored by His people leaning upon human beings. He has not told us to do this. He has told us that He will teach us, He will guide us. We may come to Him and receive help. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, who giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth you not” for your ignorance. [James 1:5.] (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 6)

I cannot tell you how many letters came to me across the broad Pacific, when I was in Australia, asking for counsel. What did Christ promise His disciples if they would believe in Him as their personal Saviour? “Lo, I am with you alway,” He said, “even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.] Again, He says, “I am at thy right hand to help thee.” [See Isaiah 41:13.] Think of how many promises He has given us, which we may grasp by the hand of faith. When we go to the Source of power, we know that we shall receive that intelligence and wisdom which comes from a pure source, which is not mixed with anything of humanity. As we pray, it is our privilege to know that God wants us to pray, to ask Him for help. “Ask, and ye shall receive.” [John 16:24.] It is for you to believe that you will receive. He wants us to become acquainted with Him, to speak to Him, to tell Him of our difficulties, and obtain an experience in asking of One who never misjudges and never makes a mistake. (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 7)

Christ took humanity upon Himself. He laid aside His royal robe and kingly crown and stepped down from His high command in the heavenly courts. Clothing His divinity with humanity, Christ encircled the race with His long human arm. He stands at the head of humanity, not as a sinner but as a Saviour. It is because there is no spot or stain of sin upon His divine soul that He can stand there as the sinner’s surety. Because He is sinless, He can take away our sins and place us on vantage ground with God, if we will believe in Him and trust Him as the One that will be your sanctification and righteousness. (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 8)

When I open a letter beginning, “I am sorry to trouble you, Sister White, but I am in trouble, and I wish to know something in regard to my family and in regard to myself,” I feel so sad at heart. When it is essential for you to know, God will let you know. He has promised that if you ask wisdom from Him, He will give it to you. But it is not always essential for us to know all the why’s and wherefore’s. We dishonor God by striving to get some one whom we think understands our case to help us. Has He not given us His only begotten Son? Is not Christ close beside us, and will He not give us the help we need? “Lo, I am with you always,” He says, “even to the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.] His Word repeats the promise over and over again. “If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it,” He says. “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” [John 14:14, 15.] (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 9)

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.” [James 1:5-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 10)

It is no marvel to me that at the present time there is so much weakness where there should be strength. The reason [for] this is that instead of drinking of the pure water of Lebanon, we are seeking to quench our thirst from cisterns in the lowlands, which contain not the water of life. We trust in human beings and are disappointed and often misled. (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 11)

I want to tell you, dear friends, that we have done great dishonor to our Master in turning away from Christ to seek wisdom from finite human beings. Shall we continue to cherish the sin of unbelief, which doth so easily beset us, or shall we cast away this weight of unbelief, and go to the Source of strength, believing that we shall receive pity and compassion from the One who knows our frame, who loves us so well that He gave His own life for us, Who bore in His own body the strokes which fell because of our transgression of the law of God? All this He did that we might become prisoners of hope. (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 12)

We are not polite to Christ. We do not recognize His presence. We do not realize that He is to be our honored guest, that we are encircled by His long human arm, while with His divine arm He grasps the throne of the Infinite. We forget that the threshold of heaven is flooded with the glory proceeding from the throne of God, that the light may fall directly on those who are seeking the help that Christ alone can give. He said to the woman of Samaria, “If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.... Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” [John 4:10, 14.] (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 13)

I ask you, do you in this early morning hour recognize Christ? He does not want us to be as a band of mourners moving in a funeral train, bearing upon us the marks of care and perplexity and hopelessness. He wants us to commit the keeping of our souls to Him. He wants us to put our trust in the naked promise. But, you say, I do not feel like it. Tell me what value there is in feeling! if it keeps you away from your only Helper and you turn to erring mortals for help. Is feeling stronger than the faith which it is your privilege to exercise in God? Feelings change with almost every circumstance; but the promises of the Eternal are as solid rock. Let us build our house upon the sure foundation and rivet our souls to the eternal Rock, the Rock of Ages. If we do this, we shall find that it will become habitual for us to remember that we have a Companion. Wherever we are, we are to talk with God. This is the way Enoch walked with God. He talked with Him. He recognized the divine Presence. And in the days of Enoch, the world was no more favorable for the perfection of Christian character than in 1901. (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 14)

There is no dependence to be placed in humanity. Where do you get your mental food? Do you get it from the newspapers of today, which are filled with the most disgusting and horrible representations? We have something better than this, and we are to show to the world that we know the source of power and efficiency and hope and comfort. The grace of God, which passes knowledge, is imparted to us and to all who will believe His Word. He longs to satisfy our soul’s desire with peace and grace and with His love which passeth all knowledge. (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 15)

The Lord can take every one of us in His embrace, for His arm encircles the race. Let us remember this. After Christ (in behalf of the human race) had taken the necessary steps in repentance, conversion, and faith, He went to John to be baptized of him in Jordan. “John forbad 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 fulfil 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, God the Father, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” [Matthew 3:13-17.] (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 16)

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, repentance, conversion, faith, and baptism? We are baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of 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 newborn souls, that we may be raised at the last great day. When you are pledged to live in newness of life, 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.” [Colossians 3:1.] This is where you are to place your treasure. Finite man cannot do your believing. Come to the great source of power for your strength. (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 17)

Christ’s prayer on the banks of the Jordan includes every one who will believe in Him. The promise that you are accepted in the Beloved comes to you. Hold it with the grip of unyielding faith. God said, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” [Matthew 3:17.] This means that through the dark shadow which Satan has thrown athwart your pathway, Christ has cleaved the way for you to the throne of the infinite God. He has laid hold of almighty power, and you are accepted in the Beloved. (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 18)

In every respect you are to honor God by being partakers of His divine nature, that you may have the assurance of sins pardoned, which would testify of the love of God. But there is not in our experience that pleasantness and joyousness that there should be. Christ says that if He is in us, our joy will be full. Let us then be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. Let us not, by living inconsistent, earthly, sensual lives, heap reproach upon Christ. Let us rise above the malarious atmosphere that pervades the world and breathe the breath of God. Let us feed upon the bread of life. Christ declares that if we eat His flesh and drink His blood, we shall have eternal life. His Word will be to us as the leaves of the tree of life if we will believe in Christ as our personal Saviour. If we eat the bread that came down from heaven, we shall have a life connection with God. We shall bring eternity into our reckoning. We shall live as in the presence of the whole heavenly host. The angels are watching and guarding us. God loves us, but we fail to cherish that love. We are losing in spirituality. God wants us to recognize His ownership in every human being. He has His claims. “They are mine,” [See Malachi 3:17.] He says. I have bought them with a price. “Ye are not your own.... therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] Will you do this? Will you pray in faith? Will you honor Christ by taking Him at His word? (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 19)

Shall we not take hold of our privileges? Let us not dwell upon the dark side of the picture saying that we do not know how things are coming out, that everything seems to be torn up and broken to pieces. It is not so. We may place ourselves under the molding hand of God. He will make of us vessels unto honor, if we are willing to be made thus. God wants us to expect large things, to remember that the prayer which ascended to heaven at the Saviour’s baptism embraces every one of us. We are accepted in the Beloved. Christ has pledged Himself to keep all who will look to Him and trust in Him with an abiding faith. Then commit the keeping of your souls to Him as unto a faithful Creator. Repeat the words aloud, “I will commit the keeping of my soul to Him.” We would better talk with God, even though our words are heard by others. When there are those around you who are stirred by passion, do not retaliate to their hasty words, but repeat the words of Scripture. Supposing, you should do this more in your dealing with your brethren and sisters. When untrue words are spoken about us, shall we flare up? Were not a great many untrue things spoken concerning the Saviour, and did He retaliate? He was charged with being a devil. God wants us to stand in moral dignity, our life hid with Christ in God, recommending the divine power that enables us to possess our souls in patience. (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 20)

God wants His people to show to the world that they have opened the windows of the soul heavenward, that the Sun of Righteousness is shining into the soul-temple, and that the windows are closed earthward. We need an increase of faith and confidence in God. To the poor souls who have been leaning on the broken staff of humanity, I would say, O that God would show you that there is a power above the power of humanity! May God help every one of us to work on the plan of faith, believing that the Lord wants to be represented in our world, that He wants His power to be revealed in His people. He will reveal His power through you if you will only place yourselves where He can give you this power. You may have hope and joy and strength. Open the heart to God, looking and believing and confiding in God. Look, O look heavenward, you have trusted too much to human help. Now consecrate self wholly, in faith believing in the One who invites you; unite with your brethren, but draw continually from Christ who is your refuge and your dependence and exceeding great reward. (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 21)

The love of God in your heart will lead you to love your brethren. God wants you to manifest His love, that your life may be hid with Christ in God. The Father loves you as He loves His Son, because His Son has averted the sword of justice by offering Himself as a sacrifice. Christ purchased you at an infinite cost, and He wants you to show that you appreciate what has been done to place you on vantage ground. He says to the Father, “Here is a poor sinner. I have given My life for him. He is saved by My grace. Receive him as your child.” Do you think the Father will refuse? (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 22)

Let us at this conference make it an individual work to seek God with all the heart, that we may find Him. Do not hunt up the sins some one else has committed. God has not made any one of you a sin-bearer. You cannot even bear your own sins. Christ must take your sins and the sins of every other mortal. Let us show that we appreciate His sacrifice in our behalf. Let us reveal in our lives the fragrance of His character. Be fragrant in your words. Remember that you are either a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. Let us be as fragrant flowers. Let the love of Christ pervade your lives. Let your words be such that they will be as apples of gold in pictures of silver. (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 23)

This is the work the Lord wants us to do. Cannot you think of enough to praise the Lord for? Cannot you praise Him because He died for you, because He has spared you for so long, because you have His Word, which is so full of precious promises? He offers you the bread of life. He says, “The words that I speak unto you, they are Spirit and they are life.” [John 6:63.] Eat His Word, search it, dig deep for the hidden treasure. Do not talk, but pray. We have always had so much to say, in faith apply it to yourself. God says, “Be still, and know that I am God.” [Psalm 46:10.] Be still long enough to know that God is God. Remember that you are to help every one around you. Forget yourself, your bruises and wounds and difficulties. Praise God, and He will receive you, because He lives and you may live also. (16LtMs, Ms 144, 1901, 24)

Ms 145, 1901

“Sunday, the 24th, was a rainy day...”
Extract from Ms 130, 1901.

Ms 146, 1901

Talk/In the Regions Beyond
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 4, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in GCB 04/05/1901. +

Talk in Tabernacle

The Lord God is our helper, and in humility of soul we should send to heaven our most earnest petitions, asking Him to mold and fashion us in accordance with His character. We cannot depend upon others to do this work for us. We must work out our own salvation with fear and trembling. Angels of God are round about us, ready to help every one who will walk carefully and prayerfully and in humility before the Lord God of Israel. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 1)

We have a large field to work. To the disciples the Lord Jesus gave the commission, “Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature;” and, He added, “I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:20.] He will be with us to the very end. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 2)

Our mission is a very sacred and important one, but we have come to place more confidence in human judgment than in the Lord God of Israel. Therefore, God says, “I am afraid of you.” [Galatians 4:11.] He desires His work to move harmoniously. There is a great work to be done. Before I left my home in Cooranbong, there were many nights when it was impossible for me to sleep. The burden upon my soul was very great. I did not want to leave my home unless I had a special assurance that the Lord God of Israel was my Helper and my God. I have had this assurance. On my journey to this place from California, the Lord was especially near me, and notwithstanding my feebleness and suffering, I filled every appointment save one. I am more thankful to God than I can express that He has so graciously protected me. Since I have come here, He has given me strength, and I put my dependence upon Him. I have no strength in myself. I desire to move in the counsel of God. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 3)

This meeting will determine the character of our work in the future. How important that every step taken is taken under the supervision of God. This work must be carried in a very different manner to what it has been in the past years. There is a great work to be done in all fields. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 4)

When we come into the congregation here at Battle Creek we see large numbers. In the night seasons, One was standing among us, saying, “Who sent you here? From what place did you come? What are you doing to remedy the congested state of things in Battle Creek?” (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 5)

There is a world to save. What are you doing to save that world? From Australia I have tried to send over the word that God wants every one to stand at his post, working out the divine will in the saving of souls. There are those who need to know the truth. From the light given me, there are those who are gathering up the tithe and using it to do work; but where is the fruit? And yet the message is sent to Australia that the work there has received more than its share of help. In establishing the work there we had everything to do. Here in America were great institutions. Building after building was erected. We were thankful when we succeeded in building a little meeting-house of the simplest style in Cooranbong. In erecting this building, the best workmen labored for a dollar and a half a day and then gave half of that to help in the work. Some of these were men who had newly come into the truth, and we were thankful that they were willing to make this sacrifice. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 6)

In the work in Australia, we have exercised the strictest economy, that we might place the work on vantage ground. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 7)

From the light God has given me, there must be a decided change in the management of things at the heart of the work. There are unworked fields all around us. Who has entered these fields? Who has carried the burden of them? Who has been striving to annex new territory? When workers sent by God have entered the darkest and most unpromising places, have not stones been placed in the way of their progress? Have not efforts been made to tie their hands, so that they could do nothing? God declares that when He sends workers to any place, they are under His supervision. It is not in His order that two or three men shall plan for the whole conference and decide how the tithe shall be used, as though the tithe were a fund of their own. Let men be careful how they shall put their hands upon the work, and say, “We cannot help.” In the night season I have been in congregations where appeals for help were made. The people were ready to help, but those leading out in the work spoke words of caution, saying, “We shall need that means.” Thus the help that would have been given was not given. If those who spoke the words of caution had known how the workers in new fields, where there are no buildings, no institutions, had spent hours in earnest prayer before God, asking for help to meet the responsibilities coming upon them, they would not have spoken as they did. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 8)

Then, too, from some quarter comes the report that the workers in Australia are doing just as has been done in Battle Creek. But those who go to Australia know better than this. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 9)

God wants men to come to their senses. When they do this, they will have the mind of Christ. They will understand that there is a great work to be done, that there are other places besides America in the world. Those who have worked upon wrong principles are amenable to God for the condition of the work in foreign fields. We in Australia could not press the work there as it should have been pressed. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 10)

I pledged myself that if I came to America I would speak the truth in California and Battle Creek. My husband and I were the pioneers in the work in Battle Creek, and in connection with Elder Loughborough we established the work in California. In the starting of the work in Oakland, we came to the place where we must have means; and we did not know what to do. My husband was sick and feeble, and very busy. I said, “Will you let me go to Battle Creek to try to raise some money for the work here?” “How can you go?” he said. “I am overwhelmed with responsibility. I cannot let you go.” “But God will take care of you,” I said. We held a meeting in an upper room of a house in Oakland, where prayer was wont to be made. We knelt down to pray, and while we were praying the Spirit of God like a tidal wave filled the room, and it seemed that an angel was pointing across the Rocky Mountains to the churches in this part of America. Brother Tay, who is now sleeping in Jesus, rose from his knees, his face as white as death, and said, “I saw an angel pointing across the Rocky Mountains.” Then my husband said, “Well, Ellen, I shall have to let you go.” I did not wait for another word, but hurrying home, put a few gems in a basket, and hastened to the cars. I made very little preparation, for I had just time to get to the cars. Weeping like a child, my husband said, “If I had not said you could go, I do not think I could say it now, but I have said it, and I will not take it back.” (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 11)

I went alone, and at that time it took us eight days to go across the continent. I went to the different camp-meetings and bore my testimony, calling for means to establish the work in Oakland and California. We were not disappointed. I obtained means, and then returned to California to build up the work. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 12)

I told the Lord that when I came to Battle Creek this time I would ask you why you have withheld means from the work in Australia. The work there should have been pressed with tenfold greater strength than it has been, but we have been hindered on the right hand and on the left. And then they say, “You have had more than your proportion of help.” Who told you so? Did the Lord? The people would have given of their means if men had not hedged up the way. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 13)

Why am I telling you this? Because we desire that at this meeting the work shall be so established that no such thing shall take place again. Two or three men, who have never seen the barren fields where the workers have had to wrestle with all their might to advance an inch, should not control matters. They know nothing of our experience in Australia. There I could not appeal to large congregations. I could not go for help to places where my husband and I labored earnestly to establish the work. If I had not a right in the name of the Lord to call for means, I ask you, Who had a right? (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 14)

There are many barren places in America, many places that have not been worked. What is the matter with the church here? It is congested. This is the reason why there is so little of the deep moving of the Spirit of God. There is a world perishing in sin, and again and again the message has come to Battle Creek: God wants you to move out into places where you can labor for the salvation of souls. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 15)

If we had been given help, we could have done much more work in Australia. But this work takes means. To whom does the means belong? Where does it come from? It comes from those who believe in Christ and who are willing to give of their substance to help forward His work. But two or three men have controlled in the use of this means. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 16)

It is not that I regret that I went to Australia. I am glad that I went, for God has given us access to the people. Eleven meeting-houses have been built since we went there. In every place where camp-meetings have been held, a church has been built. From these churches, workers are going about among the people. There have been Bible workers. After the camp-meeting, a mission is established and continues its work till a church is organized. In the mission are Bible workers who do missionary work from house to house. Sister Wilson, after she had laid her husband in the grave, took up this work, going from house to house, walking five or six miles to her readings. When she found those who were sick, she would minister to their necessities, and thus she won the love of the people. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 17)

Thus by hard wrestling we have found our way to the hearts of the people, and I thank God that we have been enabled to do this. There are many places right here in America that have not been worked. What efforts have been made for them? What self-denial has been practiced? Where are our ministers? Have they been following in the tracks of their brother-ministers in working for the churches? They have done this in California, and when I spoke of the fields which are destitute, which need help, the excuse was made, “Some of these young ministers went out into these places; but they did not arouse much interest, and they did not think it best to go out again.” The Lord pity our faith! If you do not gain access in one place, go to another; and when you go out as medical missionaries to help the sick and suffering, or as canvassers, you are doing evangelistic work which is just as important as the ministry. The canvassing work should now be pushed forward with vigor; for the time is coming when we shall not be able to travel over the country as freely and easily, or get access to the people as readily as we do now. The books that have been circulated and that can be circulated speak for God. They are silent witnesses for Him. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 18)

I cannot tell how many hundreds of dollars I spent while in Australia in giving away my own books to those who I thought would read them, and as a result many have been brought into the truth. There was one man who with his whole family we highly prized. He is a reading man and has a large farm on which grow the choicest of oranges and lemons, with other fruit. But he did not in the beginning fully take his position for the truth, and went back. They told me about this. In the night season the angel of the Lord seemed to stand by me, saying, “Go to Brother ----. Place your books before him, and this will save his soul.” I visited him, taking with me a few of my large books. I talked with him just as though he were with us. I talked of his responsibilities. I said, “You have great responsibilities, my brother. Here are your neighbors all around you. You are accountable for every one of them. You have a knowledge of the truth, and if you love the truth and stand in your integrity, you will win souls for Christ.” (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 19)

He looked at me in a queer way, as much as to say, “I do not think you know that I have given up the truth, that I have allowed my girls to go to dances and to the Sunday school, that we do not keep the Sabbath.” But I did know it. However, I talked to him just as though he were with us. “Now,” I said, “we are going to help you to begin to work for your neighbors. I want to make you a present of some books.” He said, “We have a library from which we draw books.” I said, “I do not see any books here. Perhaps you feel delicate about drawing from the library. I have come to give you these books, so that your children can read them, and this will be a strength to you.” I knelt down and prayed with him, and when we rose, the tears were rolling down his face, as he said, “I am glad that you came to see me. I thank you for the books.” (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 20)

The next time I visited him, he told me that he had read Patriarchs and Prophets. He said, “There is not one syllable I could change. Every paragraph speaks right to the soul.” (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 21)

I asked Brother ----- which of my large books he considered the most important. He said, “I lend them to all my neighbors, and the hotel-keeper thinks that Great Controversy is the best. But,” he said, while his lips quivered, “I think that Patriarchs and Prophets is the best. It is that which pulled me out of the mire.” (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 22)

But suffice it to say, he took his position firmly for the truth. His whole family united with him, and they have been the means of saving other families. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 23)

So you can see that our books are of importance. They must be published and circulated. We have a great deal to do in the issuing of our publications. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 24)

I want to say that I have not come here to feel under obligation to any one because means have been sent to Australia. The money which was sent was God’s money. It was paid by God’s people in tithes and donations. I send my thanksgiving to God for it, and I thank the people who have opened their hearts to help us. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 25)

And I want to say now, When workers go into the barren parts of the earth, do not do to them as you would have done to us. Money has been sent to us in Australia, but no more than we ought to have had. It was not your means that you were handling, but you sent it as though you had created it, as though it were your own, as though you had a right to hold it, and those out of America had no claim on it. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 26)

When God sends His messengers to foreign fields, as He sent me, old as I am, to Australia, what right have you to hedge up their way? Had means allowed, I could have gone from field to field, from post to post, carrying the message. We tried to open the fields just as fast as we could. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 27)

Brethren, if God calls you to go to a certain place, and if, when you lay the situation before those who are handling God’s money as trustees and stewards, they refuse to aid you because they think a little money is going to be expended and that it is coming out of the treasury, go forward in the name of the Lord and call upon the people to help you in your field. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 28)

The people in Battle Creek are dying of inaction. What they need is to impart the truth which they believe. Every soul who will impart will receive from God more power to impart. This is what we are in the world for—to bring souls to a knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus. Before the way is hedged up, it is for everyone to realize his accountability to proclaim the message that God has given him. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 29)

I am glad that the work has been opening in the South. I want to tell you that there are among the colored people persons with talent, and we must search them out. But there are men who are still diverting the very means which should go to these destitute fields to advance the work there. The Lord desires us to do all we can for these fields. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 30)

There is New Orleans. What men have you working there? What have you done with your workers and with your means to annex new territory, to plant the standard of truth in new places, to establish monuments for God? Where, I ask you, are the laborers? What laborers are there in Memphis? There are two sisters working there. Across the street from the two rooms which they have hired in which to live is the little meeting-house which the believers in Memphis have bought. Until a few months ago, they had no place in which to meet for worship. They bought a little meeting-house for a thousand dollars, and then they had two hundred left with which to furnish it. I thank God for this meeting-house. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 31)

When I look at the piles of buildings there are here, I feel sad at heart. If you had had the missionary spirit, if you had gone out in accordance with the largeness of the message, in accordance with its breadth and importance, you would not have erected one half of the buildings you have here. You would have added plants in city after city, and God would have approved of your work. He does not like your administration. He does not like your nearness of sight. He wants you to open new fields, and for years He has been calling upon you to do this. This takes money and laborers; but I read in Daniel that they which turn many to righteousness shall shine forever and ever. We want to be in that company. We want to be among the shining ones in the kingdom of God. There we shall want to see those for whom we have prayed and worked. God help us. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 32)

Brother Kilgore, you are acquainted with the South. Will you help in the work there? Will you go there to stand at the head as their president, to rescue souls? You are better acquainted with the work in the South than many are. Will you go there? (Brother Kilgore: Yes.) (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 33)

We determined to visit the South, and I went in my feebleness. I was very sick, but I did not allow my sickness to hinder me. I went to Vicksburg, and what did I see there? Just as pretty a little church as we have built at Cooranbong. In the basement of this meeting-house a church school is held. Besides the church in Vicksburg, a mission house of two stories has been built, with another house of four rooms. This is the beginning. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 34)

I spoke to the people on Sabbath morning, and as I saw the congregation, mostly composed of black people, bright and sharp of intellect, I felt that if I had dared, I should have wept aloud. As the people sat before me, I never felt more pleased to break the bread of life and to speak comforting words to a people. My soul longed after them. When the old meeting-house in which they had met was sold and was being torn down, the hopes of the people seemed to fall to the ground. They did not know what to do. Their enemies said, “They have sold the meeting house, and now they are going to leave you.” But they were assured that a better house was to be built. Then their courage rose at once. When I heard them singing in the meeting, I thought, It is not only they who are singing. Of those who are saved, it is said, God Himself will rejoice over them with singing. If there was not on that Sabbath singing in the heavenly courts, then I am mistaken. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 35)

While many of you had stood back and made discouraging reports about the work in the South, the work has been going on, and something has been done. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 36)

Now I wish to say, We want the people to take hold of the work with interest. In every church where there is a minister, he is to be a shepherd, not hovering over those in the church, but, taking workers with him, he is to go into the places around. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 37)

While in Vicksburg I made my home on “The Morning Star,” and I looked to see the great extravagance which I had heard had been manifested by my son Edson in the preparation of this boat as a house to live in, as a meeting-house to which he could call the people to hear the truth as he went up and down the river. What did I see? I saw the plainest little rooms, some merely lined with plain boards. There was not one extravagant thing in the boat. Now to those who are troubled about the wrongs done in these missionary fields, I would say, Why don’t you have interest enough to go there, and see what is being done, before you nourish your prejudices? Why do you not interest yourself enough in the field to become acquainted with it? to prove all things? Then you will testify that the work being done is right and good. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 38)

The work is one. Do not think that because you are here in Battle Creek God is not supervising the work in any other part of the field. The world is the field; the world is the vineyard; and every spot must be worked. God desires every soul to put on the harness. “We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in dark places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” [Ephesians 6:12, 13.] How? In God’s strength—minute men, waiting to hear what He will say next. What we need is living faith in the invisible instrumentalities that are arrayed against the powers of darkness. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 39)

The great army of evil is constantly working to gain the victory for Satan. The synagogue of Satan has come out to contest every step made in the advancement of truth. Will those who profess to believe the truth join the powers of darkness? You have done it, but not all. I thank God that He has honest believers and laborers in the field, but they need to be educated. They need to be disciplined. They need to be taught how to work. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 40)

Just as soon as the workers in California stop doing aggressive work and hover over a few churches, treading on one another’s heels, their light will go out. If you wish to retain the tithe in California, not using it in foreign fields, you must do aggressive work at home. You are not to be merely consumers, but producers. You should not merely absorb. You should sustain the work in every part of the world. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 41)

There is the work in London. The workers are struggling with nothing to do with. There are hardly any laborers, and here in Battle Creek a great congregation assembles Sabbath after Sabbath to hear the Word of life. What account will you give to God for all the opportunities and privileges He has given you that you may work for Him? To those who have gone out into hard fields, which you have made as hard as possible, you have not given much encouragement. The workers in the South have had very little encouragement, where my own son has been striving to push the work. And if I had opened my lips to encourage him, it would have been said, Oh, it is because it is her son. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 42)

In Nashville what did I find? There I found that a building had been purchased very cheaply, and the workers there are preparing to manufacture health foods. A printing office is in operation, and it is needed. Now they can publish papers and small books, and perhaps larger books, reducing the price as much as possible. These books can be used in the work of teaching the people to read. Many of the people will have to be taught to read, and the white and black teachers must unite in counsel. Then the white teachers will work for the white people, and the colored teachers for the colored people. The white people as well as the colored need to be saved. Many of the white people in the South are as ignorant and degraded as the colored people. God wants to save them. He wants to see a company raised up in the Southern states to work for Him. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 43)

God told me that I was to enter into no strife with men, that I was to go straight forward in His name and appeal to the people to come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 44)

If our ministers, instead of hovering over the churches to keep the breath of life in them, would go forth to work for those outside the fold, those in the churches would receive the vital current from heaven as they heard that souls were drawn to the Lamb of God. They would pray that God would give power to the workers, and their prayers would be as sharp sickles in the harvest fields. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 45)

The Lord desires His people to arouse. Word came from Colorado asking me if the Southern field was closed. It was said, Word has come that the field is closed, and that we need send no more money there. But the evidence is that more means than ever should be sent there. The report that the work in the South was closed was started by the enemy. He saw what was going on, that work was being done for Christ in the South, and he stirred up his human agencies to hinder the work in one place. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 46)

When Christ was upon the earth, He told us just what to do when persecution arises. He says, When you go to one place and they will not hear you, go to the next place, and when they persecute you there, go to the next place. You will not have gone over all the cities of Israel until the Son of Man be come. These are the directions which have been given us. One place closed does not close the Southern field. An army for Christ is to be raised up there. And I believe Brother Kilgore consented to go there. God desires him to go because he understands the field and can strengthen the work there. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 47)

There is work to be done in many hard places, and out of these hard places bright workers are to come. In some places in the South it is impossible for white laborers to labor for the colored people. The work is going to be managed so that colored laborers will be educated to work for their own class. There are colored people who have talent and ability. They can work in the saving of souls, and God will work with them and give them the victory. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 48)

I promised the Lord that if I ever stood before the congregation in Battle Creek again, I would speak the truth just as it is. I might write it, and have written it, but it was like water spilled upon a rock. Now that I am here, I intend to keep the matter before you day by day during this conference. If there is any power that can raise the missionary spirit in you, God will speak to you. I believe God will pour out His Spirit on those that are here, so that they will come up to His help. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 49)

Have I not said enough for this time? I know there is much unsaid which I shall say later. I want to keep your minds stirred up by way of remembrance. Everything is being decided for life or death. We are working for eternity. The Lord is coming. I mean to bear a clean-cut testimony and to bear it to all who have lost their bearings. I want them to know just where I stand. Everything that I have goes into the cause. All is God’s, and if I can see souls saved, that is all I ask. (16LtMs, Ms 146, 1901, 50)

Ms 147, 1901

Talk/Will a Man Rob God?
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 6, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in GCB 04/08/1901.

I solicit the prayers of this people. I need the prayers of every one here who has faith. I want every one to realize that an individual responsibility rests upon him to hear with faith and understand what we have to say, because it is the word of the living God. Pray for me; pray for yourselves individually. You have a personal Saviour, and the Lord wants every one of you to be saved in His kingdom. He wants you to have a crown of life, and you want it. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 1)

“Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the Lord of hosts. But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? For he is like a refiner’s fire, and like fuller’s soap.” [Malachi 3:1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 2)

Stop and consider what that means. Fuller’s soap makes a garment shrink into a much smaller compass. We want to stand in that position of humility where the life is hid with Christ in God. We claim Him; He is our Righteousness; therefore if our lives are hid with Christ in God, we shall not shrink into nothingness. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 3)

“And he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness. Then shall the offering of Judah and Jerusalem be pleasant unto the Lord, as in the days of old, and as in former years. And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and they that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not me, saith the Lord of hosts. For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. Even from the days of your fathers ye have gone away from mien ordinances, and have not kept them. Return unto me, and I will return unto you, saith the Lord of hosts. But ye said, Wherein shall we return?” [Verses 3-7.] As though they had no knowledge but that they had been doing just the best thing, and were living as well as they could. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 4)

Now the explanation comes,—“Will a man rob God?” Would you do it? The Bible speaks of this as though it were an impossibility that any man should venture to do such a thing. “Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.” [Verse 8.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 5)

Now everyone ought to know what the system of tithing which is here brought out means. I shall not go into the explanation of this; for we take it for granted that we all understand it. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 6)

“Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts. And all nations shall call you blessed; for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the Lord of hosts.” [Verses 9-12.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 7)

This is a representation of the result of faithfulness in returning to the Lord His own. The Lord saw just how it would be when the world was filled with inhabitants, and therefore He makes a covenant with His people that they should give Him their tithes and offerings, according to the arrangement which He has made. This is His. It does not belong to any of you. God has made this arrangement with you, that you may show that you realize your dependence and accountability to God by returning to Him His portion. If you do this, His blessing will come upon you. All that we have is the Lord’s, intrusted to us as His stewards. That which we hand back to Him He must first give to us. The Lord is trying and testing us by every dollar that comes into our possession, to see if we will acknowledge Him. How? By appearing before the world as the people who acknowledge their accountability to God by giving Him all they possess. Thus you may bear witness that God is the possessor of all that you have, even yourselves. “Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price,” even the precious blood of the only begotten Son of God. [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 8)

All the sufferings, all the distress that came to Him who was equal with the Father, were borne that He might bring a people to Himself. For this purpose, He laid off His royal robe, His royal crown, laid aside His high command, and stepped down to humanity. He who was the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory, died for sinners. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 9)

We breathe because God takes charge of the human machinery. Day by day He keeps it in working order, and He wants us to think of the infinite sacrifice He has made for us in suffering with One equal with Himself,—His only begotten Son. He consented to let Him come to a world all seared and marred with the curse of sin, to stand at the head of humanity as a sin-bearing, sin-pardoning Saviour. God has pledged Himself to receive sinners; for He “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.] Everlasting life,—this is what we want. Shall we be satisfied to live in this poor world without a hope of a better life? God forbid! Let us lay hold of the power that has been provided for us to make it possible for us to gain eternal life. Let us take hold of the blessings heaven has given us that we may fit ourselves for the higher grade, fit ourselves for the mansions which Christ is preparing for us. He said, “Let not your hearts be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And 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 14:1-3.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 10)

To us has been given the work of preparing ourselves for these mansions. And this we can do through the help that is waiting for us. When God gave His Son to our world, He gave all heaven, all the facilities and powers of heaven. Those who fail to improve the glorious opportunities granted with the gift of God’s Son will be without excuse. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 11)

Christ declared that all power in heaven and earth has been given to Him, and He gives this power to those who truly believe on Him, to His disciples, that they may go forth to proclaim the message of hope and salvation to a fallen race. He takes His position at the head of humanity, covering divinity with humanity. In Him humanity and divinity are combined, and He can accomplish for the human race all that is necessary to enable them to overcome as He overcame, and to sit down with Him in His Father’s throne. What does the Word of God say about this?—“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.” [Revelation 3:21.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 12)

The battle is before us. We can come off victorious; for through Christ we can be partakers of the divine nature, “having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” [2 Peter 1:4.] How glad I am that this is so! How glad we all should be! When we had nothing to recommend us to God, Christ gave His life for us. With His long human arm He encircles the race, while with His divine arm He grasps the throne of the Infinite. Thus finite man is united with the infinite God. The world, divorced from God by sin, has been restored to favor by the sacrifice of His Son. With His own body the Saviour has bridged the gulf that sin has made. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 13)

In the first chapter of second Peter we read, “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you, through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord, according as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue; that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” [Verses 2-4.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 14)

By reading this chapter you will see that we have been given a sum to work out. We are to work on the plan of addition. “Add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [Verses 5-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 15)

From this we can see that there is to be a co-operation between God and man. We are to act our part. It is of no use for us to say, “I believe in Christ,” while we fail to practice His lessons. God wants every one of us to rise to the emergency. We are to be witnesses for Christ. He wants us to grasp all the blessings He has brought to us. God gave all heaven to His Son to give to us. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 16)

In the chapter from which I have been reading in Malachi, God declares that He will abundantly bless those who are faithful in bringing Him their tithes and offerings, but that the curse of heaven will rest upon those who are dishonest in this matter. God forbid that the curse of heaven should rest upon this congregation because of dishonesty toward the Lord. God forbid that any one of us should fail of gaining the precious boom of eternal life. Do not rob God. Walk honestly before Him. All is His. He has entrusted goods to His agents for the advancement of His work in the world. They are to bring to His treasury a faithful tithe, and besides this they are to bring gifts and offerings as the cause shall demand. God does not propose to do the work which He has entrusted to us. We are to do our part in carrying out the plan of redemption provided for the human race at an infinite cost. God desires us to realize our accountability to Him, and act as His helping hand. The medical missionary work, which has been so clearly and definitely established here in Battle Creek, is to be recognized. God desires us to realize that heaven has been brought near to earth. Ten thousand times ten thousand and thousands of thousands of angels minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 17)

Just think of it! These angels are ministering to us today. They are all through this congregation. But there is also an opposing element here. On every such occasion the enemy comes in with his power and his invisible army. Therefore we may know that there are two parties in this house: those who are ministering to the human race, and those who are working counter. One power is trying to bring in everything possible to divert the mind, but the Lord God of heaven has given power to the heavenly agencies, and they are working. Satan is seeking to throw his hellish shadow across our pathway to eclipse the view of God’s glory. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 18)

Christ wants you to bring eternity into your reckoning. “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” [Luke 18:18.] We do not want you to think that the work of bringing all these people into the gospel of Jesus Christ costs nothing. We have missionaries in many places, but there have not been as many as there should have been. Now, dear friends, a new chapter is to open from the time of this large gathering here. We have set our whole hearts with a determination that the work shall be carried with much greater strength than it has hitherto been carried, and we want the help of every one to advance the work of God. We have taken up the work. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 19)

We have taken up the work in the foreign fields, where the people have never heard the truth, but the missionary work has not been advanced as it should have been. We could not go very far, because we had not the means. All that I have received from the royalties of the books I have written I have invested in the work, and then I have said to my brethren by faith, “Lend me your means, I will pay you the interest, but the work cannot stop here.” So after disposing of what I could, I have tried to carry forward the medical missionary work and the gospel. These two are united, and should never be separated, because Christ did not separate them. Some institutions have been established in Australia, but not half what there ought to be, nor what there will be. After we had erected, with what help we could get there, eleven meeting-houses, and organized eleven churches, then the work was just taken hold of with the ends of our fingers. What was the matter?—There was no money in the treasury. We had no means to handle. I never want men sent to missionary fields with nothing to work with, as we were sent to Australia. They have sent some money to that field, and this is no more than they should have done. It was God’s money. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 20)

Christ took humanity upon His divine soul, and in the wilderness of temptation He overcame in behalf of humanity. For forty days and forty nights He was tempted of the enemy. He travelled the path which every one of us must travel. The question for us to solve is whether we will be overcomers or be overcome. Christ was an overcomer. He met the devil with, “It is written.” He entered into no argument. When Satan tempted Him to make the stones bread, He said, “It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” [Matthew 4:3, 4.] Then Christ was tempted in regard to ambition. Satan placed Him upon a pinnacle of the temple, saying, “Cast thyself down.” He could tell what was written. “It is written,” He said, “He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.” [Verses 5, 6.] But Satan did not tell the whole. He left out the words, “To keep thee in all thy ways.” [Psalm 91:11.] There was a way in which Christ was to do His work, but not in a presumptuous manner. He was to be an example to humanity. He was not to show His glory by throwing Himself from a dizzy height. “It is written,” He said, “Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.” [Matthew 4:7.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 21)

Then Satan took the Saviour to the top of a high mountain, and presented to Him all the glory of the world. “All this,” he said, “will I give thee. It is mine. I will give it to thee if thou wilt fall down and worship me.” Christ had come to a point then where divinity must flash through humanity, even in His starving condition. What did He say?—“It is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.... Get thee hence.” [Verses 8-10.] Satan could not stand after the “Get thee hence” had come. A power superior to the power of darkness was revealed. Christ gained the victory, even in His weakness. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 22)

So Satan went away. Christ was left fainting on the battlefield. Where was the hand to be put beneath His head? Where was the bosom upon which He could lean? It was ready. An angel of God ministered unto Him. An angel of God gave Him food and supported the fainting head. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 23)

All this Christ did for us. For us He became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich. He shares the sufferings of human beings. His help will be given them in their emergencies. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 24)

A letter comes over to Australia, asking if Mrs. White is a millionaire. I would like every one to become a millionaire as I have done. Nothing which I possess is my own. When I came back from Australia, I had nothing, not even to purchase a home. But we made some arrangements for the first payments, by selling some of the land. To be a millionaire in this world is no temptation to me. We see millionaires made very poor in a moment. Or they die, and leave their treasures for their heirs to quarrel over. I want something more than this. I want to become a member of the royal family. If I can be a child of the heavenly King, I am more than a millionaire. God has declared that there is an eternal weight of glory laid up for those who are heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 25)

I am using in the work all the means I have. I am seventy-three years old, and I frequently think when I enter the pulpit that I may die there, or on my knees in prayer. But this does not trouble me. I have hid my life, hid it with Christ in God. I desire to overcome, even as Christ overcame; and I desire you also to overcome. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 26)

Why are some of you so afraid to trust the Lord? He had not where to lay His head, and yet He was the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory. My heart is drawn out in sympathy for you. I greatly desire that you shall feel that you can take hold of Jesus Christ. I want you to be co-laborers with Him in the work of saving souls. As you work with means and voice to sustain the cause of God, you may know that you are following in the footsteps of your Redeemer. He says, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.” [Matthew 16:24.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 27)

I wish to say to you who are in this meeting. We are to organize here for a great work. We want all who possibly can to help us to carry the load. There are some whom we need as personal laborers in the field. If God has given you intelligence and a knowledge of the truth, then I ask you. Why are you not working for Him? How long will your soul be kept fresh and fruit-bearing if you live only for self? You can grow in grace only as you impart to others the grace given to you. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 28)

The work in America has not gone forward as it should have done, because self-sacrifice and true devotion have not been manifested. The people of God have not moved forward in strong lines. How long will it be before you understand that to every man God has given his work? The talents which He has entrusted to His people are to be sacredly improved. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 29)

“Keep silence before me, O islands; and let the people renew their strength; let them come near; let us come near together to judgment. Who raised up the righteous man from the east, and called him to his foot, gave the nations before him, and made him ruler over kings? Who gave them as the dust to his sword, and as driven stubble to his bow? He pursued them, and passed safely; even by the way that he had not gone with his feet. Who hath wrought and done it, calling the generation from the beginning? I the Lord, the first, and the last; I am he. The isles saw it and feared; the ends of the earth were afraid, drew near, and came.” [Isaiah 41:1-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 30)

“They helped every one his neighbor; and every one said to his brother, Be of good courage. So the carpenter encouraged the goldsmith, and he that smootheth with the hammer him that smote the anvil, saying, It is ready for the soldering: and he fastened it with nails, that it should not be moved. But thou, Israel, art my servant, Jacob whom I have chosen, the seed of Abraham, my friends. Thou whom thou hast taken from the ends of the earth, and called thee from the chief men thereof, and said unto thee, Thou art my servant; I have chosen thee, and not cast thee away. Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” [Verses 6-10.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 31)

God will work for us if we will stand in our lot and in our place. If you will do cheerfully the work apportioned you by the Master, He will work with you. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 32)

“Behold, all they that were incensed against thee shall be ashamed and confounded: they shall be as nothing; they that strive with thee shall perish. Thou shalt seek them, and shalt not find them, even them that contended with thee. They that war against thee shall be as nothing, and as a thing of nought. For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee. Fear not, thou worm Jacob, and ye men of Israel; I will help thee, saith the Lord, and thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel. Behold, I will make thee a new sharp thrashing instrument having teeth: thou shalt thrash the mountains, and beat them small, and shalt make the hills as chaff. Thou shalt fan them, and the wind shall carry them away, and the whirlwind shall scatter them, and thou shalt rejoice in the Lord, and shalt glory in the Holy One of Israel.” [Verses 11-16.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 33)

Medical missionary workers, listen to these words. God has a great army for the protection and strength of those who work as His helping hand. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 34)

“When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue faileth for thirst, I the Lord will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them. I will open rivers in high places, and fountains in the midst of the valleys: I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water.” [Verses 17, 18.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 35)

We are running a race for the crown of life. Let us run with patience, laying aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset. Then we shall obtain the crown of life. But we cannot expect to gain the victory if we sit down in Battle Creek and fold our hands, doing nothing for the Master. There is a dearth of workmen. Put on the armor, and let your feet be shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. Just as soon as God sees that you are ready for work, He will work with you. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 36)

I believe there is one here in this congregation, Shireman by name, who has established church after church; and how did he establish them? He went into a field where there was nothing. He is a carpenter. He would build his house, and then call in the people, and hold Bible readings. There he would work till a good, strong church was established. Then did he stand and say, “Look at the good work I have done”? No, he would go to another place and repeat the same thing. This he did over and over again. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 37)

What eduction has he? What school did he attend? Where did this brother get his education? I will tell you. He got it in the same manner that John the Baptist got his education, when he went into the desert and into the wilderness. The priests and rulers were so troubled and distressed because he did not walk according to the old, regular order in getting his education. Yet Jesus said that there was not a greater prophet than John the Baptist. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 38)

We do not say that you should go nowhere or anywhere to get an education, but we do say that every man is not dependent upon a school or college education to do work for the Master, if he is converted to God, soul, body, and spirit. He is in connection with the great Teacher, the greatest Missionary that the world ever knew. We are to feel no sufficiency in ourselves; for the Lord God of heaven is our wisdom, our sanctification, our strength, and our righteousness. If we realize our dependence, and hang our helpless souls on Jesus, we shall find that the waters of life will flow into the soul, and it will be as Christ said to the Samaritan woman, “A well of water, springing up unto everlasting life.” [John 4:14.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 39)

Now, brethren, we want more of God and less of self. When we get the education that is needful, we should impart it. It is an honor to Christ to trust in Him. He says, I am at your right hand to help you. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 40)

We want every soul to see God as He is. He is the Majesty of heaven. He is the great Teacher. We want you to believe that He will give wisdom and counsel and judgment. He will prepare the way before you, if you will come to Him praying and watching unto prayer. Remember that we wrestle not against flesh and blood, “but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” [Ephesians 6:12.] We have to meet invisible foes, therefore we should not send, as many have, across the waters of the Pacific, to ask counsel as to what shall be done. You have a Counsellor right by your side. Do not dishonor Him. How many have been left destitute of wisdom because they persisted in asking counsel from human agencies, when Christ, full of comfort, grace, and love, was longing to bestow it. All heaven is longing to help those for whom Christ has died. (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 41)

I will give you a recipe against depending upon man. In the first chapter of second Peter there is recorded the plan of addition upon which we are to live, and then the apostle says, “If these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.” [Verses 8, 9.] How many here have forgotten to pay God His tithe? How many are robbing God, and at the same time expecting His blessing, wondering why they do not have more vitality and power and grace? How many have forgotten that God will purge us from the sin of covetousness? (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 42)

“Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure; for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall. For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” [Verses 10, 11.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 43)

This is our life insurance policy. Those who enter the kingdom of God must first co-operate with Him in the saving of their own souls and the souls of others. May God help us to go to work. To you who have been robbing God in tithes and offerings I would say, Do not think that you can come here to His house and receive His blessing. No; you will begin to murmur and complain, wondering why you are not exalted as others are. But of those who serve Him in sincerity, the word says, “They that feared the Lord spake often one to another, and the Lord harkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name.” [Malachi 3:16.] (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 44)

Read the third chapter of Malachi, and think whether you wish to be found robbing God. God is in earnest with us. He expects us to help in planting His standard in places which have never heard the truth. He calls upon you to practice self-denial, that the work in foreign fields may go forward. From all over the world, calls for help are coming. Lay out no money unnecessarily. Deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow the Master. You can never give Him as much as He has given you. He gave His life for you. What have you given for Him? (16LtMs, Ms 147, 1901, 45)

Ms 148, 1901

Talk/The Need of Missionary Effort
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 9, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in GCB 04/10/1901. +

I thank the Lord that He is working in our midst. When we come to the Lord in humility of mind, and seek to unify as far and as fast as we can, the God of heaven puts His endorsement upon our work. But when we draw apart, each seeking to bring in something different, so that the work is prolonged and nothing accomplished, we cannot receive the blessing of God. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 1)

There seems to be in this meeting an endeavor to press together. This is the word which for the last fifty years I have heard from the angelic hosts—Press together, press together. Let us try to do this. When in the Spirit of Jesus we try to press together, putting ourselves out of sight, we shall find that the Holy Spirit will come in, and the blessing of God will rest upon us. Enough dissension will come in from outside. That which Christ declared would arise in the last day will come. The people of God are to walk in the light of heaven, not in the light of the sparks of their own kindling, nor in the light of the sparks which the enemy will kindle for them. He will make fires enough to lead us astray if we will be led. We must place ourselves in that position where we reach the highest standard of truth and righteousness, equity and judgment. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 2)

There is a great work to be done in our world. Last evening the question came up in regard to our Scandinavian brethren. It was asked whether they should divide into different sections, according to their nationalities. I was in (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 3)

Europe for two years, and two or three times I visited the various places where our work had been established there. Some such question as this came up before us then, and the light that was given me was that the different nationalities were not to divide up into separate companies, but were to press together just as much as possible. God wants unity to be seen among these different nationalities. Each should try to learn the language of the other so that they can all assemble in conference and understand what is said. Should they divide into different companies, making no effort to unify, there would be little prospect of their being able to meet together at general meetings. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 4)

The Lord wants us to help one another. We have largely lost sight of this. He wants us to use the powers He has given us in strengthening and blessing one another, not in condemning and destroying. We are to be a blessing to those whom Christ has purchased with His own blood. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 5)

Brethren and sisters, we would be glad of the privilege of having separate seasons of prayer together. But this is such a large meeting that it is impossible. But each one of us has a God. Press close to the bleeding side of the Son of God. He is the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory. He is the Source of our power, our strength, our efficiency, and if we will keep close to His side, the Holy Spirit will impress our hearts, and we shall work in Christ’s lines. We shall be influenced by the Holy Spirit, and then we cannot draw apart from one another. We shall have one mind, one judgment, and the blessing of God will rest upon His people. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 6)

There has been a great burden on my mind in regard to the present situation of the work in Scandinavia. From the light God has given me, in no case is His name to be dishonored by the institutions which have been established there to build up His work, to stand against the customs and practices of the world, being allowed to pass into the hands of unbelievers. I want you to remember this. There is a vast company of people gathered here, and if every one of them will take hold and do what he can, the institutions in Scandinavia will be lifted out of their embarrassment and placed on vantage ground where no reproach will rest upon the cause of God through them. These institutions need not have been in the position in which they are, and they would not have been in this position had our brethren in America done what they should have done years ago. An experienced man of business, with a practical knowledge of bookkeeping, should have been sent to Europe to superintend the keeping of the accounts in our institutions there. And if this work had demanded more than one man, more than one man should have been sent. Thus thousands and thousands of dollars would have been saved. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 7)

Such men as this should be employed in our work in America. They should be men who are devoted to God, men who know what the principles of heaven are, men who have learned what it means to walk with God. If such men as this had superintended the financial business of our conferences, there would today be plenty of money in the treasury. A few men in our institutions would not have grasped all they could in wages. Our institutions would now stand as God declared they should stand, helping the work by self-denial and self-sacrifice. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 8)

The brethren in Scandinavia should be helped by their brethren in America. If years ago—when money was brought into the treasury because the people had confidence in the leaders, believing that the means would be properly handled—the work had been carried forward in even lines, if the money had been used in foreign fields, the work in Europe would note be where it is today. The institutions in Scandinavia would not be where they are. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 9)

In England there is a large field, a field which we have touched only with the tips of our fingers. If the importance of this field had been realized, money would have been sent there, and the work today would have been in a flourishing condition for the field is ripe for the harvest. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 10)

A much larger company should be gathered for the Lord from the different countries of Europe. Brother Conradi has stood in that field with very few to help him. I thank God that His blessing has accompanied the efforts of those who have been working for Him in foreign fields. We see that the salvation of souls does not depend on the number carrying the message. God Himself works with His faithful laborers, be they many or few. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 11)

The principles of heaven must be maintained. There is no reason why those in the institutions which are established here in Battle Creek should feel it their privilege to rise up and declare what they will work for, and what they will not work for. This spirit quenches the Spirit of God in our institutions. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 12)

Just as soon as God sees that men will handle means in His fear, realizing that it is His money, that it comes from His people, He will co-operate with their efforts. Some of those from whom this money comes are poor. They have just enough to live on, but they bring their tithes and offerings to the Lord, longing to see His work advancing. When a few men, steeped in selfishness, work from selfish purposes, the whole cause is swayed in selfish lines. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 13)

We need to return to God’s plan, to the place where the Spirit of God can dwell among us. I believe we are reaching the right platform, and I thank God with all my heart. God wants to teach us a lesson. He wants us to hang our helpless souls upon Christ, not upon humanity. He wants His servants to stand where they will maintain the righteous principles of heaven, whatever may be the consequences. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 14)

The debt must be lifted from our institutions in Scandinavia. If all who are here this morning will do something, you will never feel it, only as you receive the blessing of God, and I think that is something you will all welcome. Do something. Let our institutions in Scandinavia stand in freedom. As you read the eighth and ninth chapters of second Corinthians, you will find out how to assist. May God enable you to fill up the gap, to come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 15)

God lives, and I am so glad of it. Our Saviour is not in Joseph’s tomb. He has risen, and has proclaimed over the rent sepulcher, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] Let us show by our actions that we are living by faith in Him. We can call upon Him for assistance. He is at our right hand to help us. Each one of you may know for yourself that you have a living Saviour, that He is your helper and your God. You need not stand where you say, “I do not know whether I am saved.” Do you believe in Christ as your personal Saviour? If you do, then rejoice. We do not rejoice half as much as we should. This entire congregation should be filled with rejoicing because of the way in which God has been revealing Himself in this meeting. God’s power has been seen, and His salvation is still to be revealed to His people. I see in Jesus a wonderful power and strength, and I want you to see this. Then your hearts will be as humble as the heart of a little child. Then you will not quarrel over who shall have the highest place or the highest wages. Your question will be, “How can I best serve my Lord?” (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 16)

I thank God that the work in the South has been started. There is a great deal to be done in that field, and I thank God that a beginning has been made. In the present arrangements I can see that there is room for Christ to enter and manifest His power in that poor, neglected, suffering field. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 17)

And there is New York, that great and wicked city. Who has carried the burden for that field? Who has felt the necessity of denying self that the work in that city may be carried forward? It is indeed a wicked city, but God had a Lot in Sodom, and He has a people in New York who, as the hart panteth after the water brooks, are panting after the pure waters of Lebanon. New York is ready to be worked. When I was last there, just before leaving this country for Australia, the Lord showed me that His work should be established in New York. He showed me what could be done there if every one would come up to His help. The power of God is to carry the truth in this city. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 18)

There is not a dearth of means among our people any more than there has been in the past. There is certainly not a dearth of means among our people in California. But in spite of this, the great field of New York is left untouched, while week after week a large congregation meets here in the tabernacle. The people ought to feel that the rebuke of God rests upon them because they are not working for Him in places which know not the truth. If they had the spirit of the pilgrim fathers they would go forth to work for God in the waste places of the earth. The pilgrim fathers started out in their poverty. Some died on their voyage over from England, and others died when they reached America. But they accomplished what they had purposed. God wants His people today to feel the same spirit of self-denial. He wants them to put on every piece of the armor and go forth to let the light of heaven shine into the hearts of those who are in darkness. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 19)

My dear brethren and sisters, do not spend in selfishness one dollar of the Lord’s money. You have no money but His. All you have is the Lord’s. You have been bought with a price, therefore you are bound to enter the service of your Redeemer. You must give an account to God of all that you have. At the last great day, God will ask, “What did you do with the money I entrusted to you?” (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 20)

Look at the unworked fields. Is there not enough to call for self-denial and self-sacrifice? I do not know what will stir your hearts if they are not stirred as you look at the fields which have hardly been touched. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 21)

God calls for workmen. He wants those who have gained an experience in the cause to enter the work in America. He wants them to take up the work in New York and in other cities where iniquity prevails. He wants them to start the work in His fear. Just as soon as possible let schools be established and workers educated to do medical missionary work. This work is the right hand of the body. It is bound up with the ministry of the gospel. God lives and reigns, and He desires those who have opposed health reform, who have worked against it by their influence, by their actions, by their sarcastic remarks, to make a thorough change. Do not longer divorce yourselves from the medical missionary work. Dr. Kellogg has been driven almost to despair as he has sought for some way in which he could bring the truth more prominently before the world. Let every minister of the gospel heed the words of Paul, “I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection; lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” [1 Corinthians 9:27.] God wants you to observe the strictest principles of temperance. He wants you to stand in a position of sacred nearness to Him, where you can ask and He will hear, where you know that He will be with you wherever you go. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 22)

We have been becoming as salt which has lost its savor. Many are in this position because they have resisted light. Christ says to us, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.” [Matthew 5:14, 15.] What is the house? It is God’s vineyard, the world. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 23)

The most selfish thing mortals can do is to establish centers, neglecting to plant the seeds of truth in the destitute portions of the vineyard. There are in our work today congested centers, while the field stands before us a barren waste. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 24)

God is going to help us to change this order of things. This is what we are trying to do here. We have a work to do in the cities of America where, had the light of heaven been followed, there would now be monuments erected for the Lord from which light would radiate to the regions around. Thus it would have been in the Southern field, had the will of the Lord been done. The work would have been established before the animosity now aroused had been kindled. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 25)

God wants those who have been working against the seventh-day Sabbath to receive His truth. He wants His people to let the light of heaven shine forth to them. Many of those who in the past have placed themselves on the side of the one who instituted a spurious rest-day will accept the truth. We need to be very careful of what we say and what we do. We need to stand where we represent Christ by our meekness and lowliness. No one among God’s people is to try to gain the highest place. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 26)

If the counsel of God had been followed, the waving fields all around us would have been harvested. Monuments to the Creator would have been raised in many places. Let us from this time follow the divine guidance. Let not one word of contention be spoken. Let us unify in the work of serving God, feeling our need of the wisdom that comes from above. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 27)

When the word comes from God that a work is to be accomplished, have means ready for the workers. Yesterday I had an interview with an Indian chief who had accepted the truth. He is trying to place the truth before his people and is endeavoring to build a little meeting house. We must help him. Do not spend one dollar needlessly. Do you not want to see souls clothed with the righteousness of Christ? Do you not want to see a people standing in such living connection with God that they will give the trumpet a certain sound? I am glad that God has brought this brother into connection with His truth. Let us encourage him in his work. It is much more important to use means in this way than to use it in this place. We have a standing here. When a man is raised up to give the trumpet a certain sound, as I believe this Indian brother has been, I beg of you to help him. Bring your tithes and offerings into the treasury of the Lord, that the blessing and not the curse of heaven may rest upon you. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 28)

God calls upon us to take hold of His work intelligently, and I hope that a beginning is to be made at this meeting. Remember that Battle Creek is not the whole world. No, indeed! We have a world to save, and upon every one of us rests a most solemn responsibility. Let us stand in the counsel of God, in our lot and place, ready to help wherever help is needed. Your money is the Lord’s. Use it to build up, not to tear down. When under the direction of God men say, “I wish to open the work in that field,” do not say, “We have no means to help.” That is a terrible thing for the angels to hear you say. God wants you to get to work. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 29)

What does it mean that so many of our large cities are unworked? Have you been learning at the footstool of Jesus? Have the workers in our institutions been doing their duty? Have they been trying to advance the work of the Lord? (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 30)

I will tell you of a place where the workers labor on economical lines, where they may be even too economical. This is at the Sanitarium. The workers there work very hard, and for very low wages. Again and again the need of self-denial has been presented to them, and they have worked to the utmost of their ability, cheerfully accepting low wages. Let there be more equality. Let those in the Sanitarium receive higher wages, and let those who occupy high positions in the work show more of a spirit of self-denial and self-sacrifice. Let us see if matters cannot be evened up. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 31)

I might say more, but I will stop now. I thank the Lord that He has given me strength to speak to you this morning, and I thank you for your respectful attention. (16LtMs, Ms 148, 1901, 32)

Ms 149, 1901

Talk/An Appeal to Our Ministers
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 15, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in GCB 04/16/1901.

There is much that must be considered which cannot be touched this morning, and I hardly know what to bring before you, because there is so much to say. The light that has been given me for the past fifteen years has been a representation of the great responsibility which is attached to the work of the ministry. The work of the minister should be regarded in a far higher light. It is the low estimate placed on this work that leaves our conferences in such a weak, feeble condition. We cannot afford this. Those ministers who place a low estimate on the work entrusted to them neither do justice to themselves nor to the church. Just as long as our ministers fail to feel a sense of responsibility proportionate to the greatness of their work, there will be a deficiency in our conferences. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 1)

We cannot, as a people, allow things to go on in this way. Those who are placed in charge of the conferences should be men who understand the movements of the Spirit of God upon the human heart, so that when the Spirit is absent they will know that something is wrong. Before they give the Word of God to the people, they are to understand what it is to talk with God. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 2)

In many minds principles have become so confused that it is difficult for them to grasp correct principles. So great is the dulness of conception that many know scarcely anything of what it means to be witnesses for Christ in these last days. If they only knew, if they only understood, if they could only see what might be in comparison with what is, there would be such an awakening, such a breaking down before God as we have never seen before. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 3)

There is a great necessity for individual examination. You may very intelligently examine your brother-ministers and very closely judge them, while you yourself are in far more need of closer examination and judging than you bestow on them. Many lay burdens on their brethren, weakening and discouraging them by their criticism, instead of uplifting and strengthening them. God wants us to take ourselves in hand. Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith or not. Prove your own selves. Just as soon as you fasten the mind on Jesus Christ, the Saviour who made a complete sacrifice for every one; just as soon as you see that you must be a complete man because he made a complete sacrifice for you, you will seek earnestly for help from above to overcome your own failings. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 4)

I am not going to specify any one in particular as being in the wrong. There should be a general reformation, a closer examination of self. Ask yourselves the question, “What should I be?” Christ says, “Without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 5)

My heart has been filled with sadness as I have looked over the field and seen the barren places. What does this mean? Who are standing as representatives of Jesus CHrist? Who feel a burden for the souls who cannot receive the truth till it is brought to them. Our ministers are hovering over the churches, as though the angel of mercy were not making efforts to save souls. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 6)

God holds these ministers responsible for the souls of those who are in darkness. He does not call you to go into fields that need no physician. Establish your churches with the understanding that they need not expect the minister to wait upon them and to be continually feeding them. They have the truth; they know what truth is. They should have root in themselves. They should strike down deeply, that they may reach up higher and still higher. They must be rooted and grounded in faith. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 7)

Very many will get up some test that is not given in the Word of God. We have our test in the Bible—the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. “Here are they that keep the commandments of God and have the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.] This is the true test, but many other tests will arise among the people. They will come in in multitudes, springing up from this one and that one. There will be a continual rising up of some foreign thing to call the attention from the true test of God. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 8)

These things make it necessary that the minister who meets these tests should have a discerning mind, that he may not give credence to any false doctrine. Voices will be heard, saying, Lo, here is Christ, when there is no Christ at all. It is some human notion which they wish men to accept and believe. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 9)

But the saddest thing is that principles become perverted. Not that there is no one who tries to carry out principles, but that principle has become so daubed with untempered mortar that it will need the closest investigation from the Word of God to see if all is in accordance with the principles of true godliness, founded upon a “Thus saith the Lord.” (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 10)

God wants those who have come to this conference to wake up, that they may not be sleeping on the walls of Zion. There should be an investigation of self. When you begin this work, you will find that you have your hands full. Too many who have entered the ministry have not had thorough, cleansing, refining influence upon mind and character that takes away chaff, enabling them to bring to the foundation only gold, silver, and precious stones. Here is the great need, the great lack. God wants us to come to Him just as we are, throw our helpless souls upon Jesus Christ, and be born again. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 11)

The fact is, many have entered the ministry with a babyish, childish, pettish, and self-willed spirit, just as their mothers allowed them to grow up. This is why I am speaking so often to fathers and mothers about realizing the responsibility that rests upon them. Every particle of this childishness must be left behind. You have grown to the full stature of men, therefore the childish things you entertained, the disagreeable traits of character which you know are not after Christ’s order, your impetuous words, must be put away. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 12)

Words are talents, and you have no right to use God’s talents in any way but for His glory, for the benefit of every one around you. There must be a thorough conversion of the soul, that there may be a conversion of the tongue and lips. Then the treasure house of the soul will be full of precious truths, because Christ’s character is studied. Then you will be blessed as overseers and shepherds. And when you as shepherds, exemplifying the traits of Christ’s character, come before the flock, they will see the necessity of having practical religion, practical godliness, not merely the accepting of a form or a theology. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 13)

Some think that they must be so wonderfully orthodox, but they are not orthodox at all after Christ’s order. They catch some little point and dwell upon it, magnifying it above all else. Of those who do not see as they do, they say, “We do not want this man to preach because he does not see this point,” and, “We do not want that man to preach because he does not see that point.” But they do not know what they are about. Leave that man with God. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 14)

It is not for you to dissect the ideas of this one and that one. We served our time at this at Minneapolis. Let there be no more of it in the work of God. God wants us to realize that the judgment is right upon us. Let us beware lest, before we are aware of it, the thief comes on us with stealthy tread. Let us stand where we look not at the defects and errors of others, but at Jesus, saying, “I have an individual case pending in the heavenly courts. It means everything to me whether I shall be weighed in the balances of the sanctuary and be found complete in him, or whether I shall be found wanting.” (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 15)

Provision has been made for every one of us to be saved. Those who do not accept the provision made by the Son of the infinite God place their minds on little items, to the neglect of the great truths essential for salvation. They are diverted from the great Pattern, diverted from the study of the character of Christ. Failing to see Him, they are not changed from glory to glory, from character to character. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 16)

God wants us to look to Jesus. But we are not Bible-keepers. We do not obey the commandments of God. A lawyer came to Christ with the question, “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” Knowing what was in the mind of the lawyer, Christ placed upon him the burden of the answer. “What is written in the law?” He asked, “how readest thou?” [Luke 10:25, 26.] I wonder whether you do not need your attention called to this. “How readest thou?” (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 17)

The question asked by the lawyer is a decided one and, with the answer, comes sounding down along the line to our time. The lawyer answered, “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.” [Verse 27.] This includes the whole man. The powers of the body as well as of the mind are to be used in the work of God. The whole being is to be consecrated to the service of the Master. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 18)

There are many things I wish to say which I shall touch at another time. I want now to say to you, Look unto Jesus, and see in Him what you should be. In order to have eternal life, we must love God supremely and our neighbor as ourselves. On these two great arms hang all the law and the prophets. These principles take in the entire Bible. We may have faith, hope, and confidence; but these will do us no good unless we have the love of Christ in the soul. The love that the Saviour has expressed for us we are to express for our brethren. This love will exert a vivifying influence upon the life and a reformative influence upon the character. This is what God wants to see. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 19)

As I have seen the fields ripe unto the harvest, and as I have seen the lack of interest manifested in them, I have wondered how you could do as you have done. I cannot understand it. If you are connected with Him who gave His life to save the world, how can you see the purchase of His blood perishing in their sins without making any efforts to save them? Christ says, “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Mark 2:17.] We are not to give the call to those who have received the truth and understand it, to whom it has been repeated over and over again till some one thinks he must bring in something original. He brings in little tests which are not worth a straw. These he brings forward as tests God has given, when Satan has originated them to divert minds from the true tests God has given. Thou shalt love supremely the God of heaven. This is your first work. And when you do this, you will love your neighbor as yourself. You will treat human beings as souls Christ died to save. Put away all pettishness and fretfulness. All these things are to be purged from the heart. You are to be purified through belief in the truth. God wants us to have the sanctification of the Spirit. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 20)

The truth is to be borne to those who know it not. Labor for souls as they who must give an account to God. Every one of you will be called to account for what you ought to have done and did not do. God wants you to be faithful stewards. He wants you to seek for the lost sheep of the house of Israel: He wants you to be hunters and fishers for souls. He wants to see manifested in you the living faith which knows how to labor for souls. He will use men who will seek earnestly for sinners, who will get down on their knees and pray with them. God wants you to make more earnest efforts than ever before to go into the regions beyond. Then when the next conference is held, it will be found that churches have been established in many places. Angels of God are waiting for an opportunity to work with you. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 21)

Christ came to save that which was lost, and He calls upon you to go forth to labor for those who know not the truth, instead of only sermonizing and doing a little work for the churches. You would then do fifty times as much in encouraging the churches and setting them a right example. God wants you to know how to wrestle, to know what it is to labor for souls, and to carry the burden of souls on your heart. When you are educating them, Christ is educating you. When you are giving them lessons, Christ is giving you His lessons, and these are of the greatest value. To those who have placed stumbling blocks in the way of their brethren, who have felt it their solemn duty to hold back men who have the truth, and who could give the trumpet a certain sound, I would say, Take your hands off quickly. Feel that you have a work to do for your own souls, and that it is best for you to be about it, lest you lose the chance of so growing up into Christ that you shall be complete in Him. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 22)

This is all I feel it my duty to say this morning. This is all you can work upon at present. I have other things to say later on. I will only add, Let us seek the Lord, and let us confess our sins. (16LtMs, Ms 149, 1901, 23)

Ms 150, 1901

Talk/Give the Medical Missionary Work Its Place
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 11, 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in GCB 04/12/1901, 04/23/1901. +

(Excerpts from remarks of Mrs. E. G. White before the General Conference in Battle Creek, April 11, 1901. Speaking to a resolution that made provision for the selection of six members of the General Conference Committee, especially to represent the Medical Missionary Work. It will be noted by those familiar with the Testimonies on this subject that several striking sentences or paragraphs were published in later compiled articles. Considering the occasion, these remarks are of interest in their original setting.) (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 1)

Mrs. E. G. White: I have been given light all along the way in regard to the workings of the cause, and last night some things in regard to the medical missionary work were brought more especially before me. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 2)

When health reform was first brought to our notice, about thirty-five years ago, the light presented to me was contained in this Scripture, “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; to appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garments of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified. And they shall build the old wastes, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall repair the waste cities, the desolations of many generations.” [Isaiah 61:1-4.] (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 3)

In the light given me so long ago, I was shown that our own people, those who claimed to believe the present truth, should do this work. How were they to do it? In accordance with the directions Christ gave His twelve disciples, when He called them together, and sent them forth to preach the gospel. “When he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness, and all manner of disease.... These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not; but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils; freely ye have received, freely give.” [Matthew 10:1, 5-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 4)

In the light given me so long ago, I was shown that intemperance would prevail in the world to an alarming extent, and that everyone of the people of God must take an elevated stand in regard to reformation in habits and practices. At that time I was eating meat two or three times a day, and I was fainting away. The Lord presented a general plan before me. I was shown that God would give to His commandment-keeping people a reform diet, and that as they received this, their disease and suffering would be greatly lessened. I was shown that this work would progress. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 5)

Then, in after years, the light was given that we should have a sanitarium, a health institution, which was to be established right among us. This was the means God was to use in bringing His people to a right understanding in regard to health reform. It was also to be the means by which we were to gain access to those not of our faith. We were to have an institution where the sick could be relieved of suffering, and that without drug medication. God declared that He Himself would go before His people in this work. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 6)

Well, the work has been steadily increasing. The way was opened for our churches to take hold of it. I proclaimed health reform everywhere I went. At our camp-meetings I spoke on Sunday afternoons, and I proclaimed the message of temperance in eating, drinking, and dressing. This was the message I bore for years before I left for Australia. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 7)

But there were those who did not come up to the light God had given. There were those in attendance at our camp-meetings who ate and drank improperly. Their diet was not in harmony with the light God had given, and it was impossible for them to appreciate the truth in its sacred, holy bearing. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 8)

But the light has been gradually coming in. Over and over again instruction was given that our health institutions were to reach all classes of people. The gospel of Jesus Christ includes the work of helping the sick. When I heard that Dr. Kellogg had taken up the medical missionary work, I encouraged him with heart and soul, because I know that only by this work can the prejudice which exists in the world against our faith be broken down. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 9)

In Australia we have tried to do all we could in this line. We located in Cooranbong, and there, where the people have to send twenty-five miles for a doctor and pay him twenty-five dollars a visit, we helped the sick and suffering all we could. Seeing that we understood something of disease, the people brought their sick to us, and we cared for them. Thus we entirely broke down the prejudice in that place. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 10)

Here is Battle Creek, with a large church, the members of which are called upon, in the name of the Lord, to go out into the field and help their fellow beings, to bring joy to those in sorrow, to heal the sick, to show men and women that they are destroying themselves. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 11)

Medical missionary work is the pioneer work. It is to be connected with the gospel ministry. It is the gospel in practice, the gospel practically carried out. I have been made so sorry to see that our people have not taken hold of this work as they should. They have not gone out into the places round about to see what they could do to help the suffering.... (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 12)

This is the work which is to interest the world, which is to break down prejudice and force itself upon the attention of the world.... (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 13)

I have seen that all heaven is interested in the work of relieving suffering humanity. Satan is exerting all his powers to obtain control over the souls and bodies of men. He is trying to bind them to the wheels of his chariot. My heart is made sad as I look at our churches, which ought to be connected in heart and soul and practice with the medical missionary work. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 14)

In Australia we have been wrestling to get a sanitarium established, and a building is now in process of erection, though not yet completed. The sanitarium work was started in a private dwelling-house, and the one in charge of it devoted part of his time to conference work and part of his time to medical work. He was afraid that it would not be possible to pay the rent of the house which had been hired; so in order to help, I rented one room, and Brother Baker rented two. But these rooms were soon needed for patients, and the work has grown so that at the present time several houses are rented for the sanitarium patients and nurses. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 15)

Through this work many souls have accepted the truth. A minister from Tasmania, a wealthy and educated man, came to the Sanitarium for treatment, and while there, became interested in the truth. He soon began keeping the Sabbath, and he at once began to help the work with his means. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 16)

Whole families have commenced keeping the Sabbath through some of their members’ coming to the Sanitarium for treatment. But I need not say more about this, for you know it. You are not ignorant of it. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 17)

I wish to tell you that soon there will be no work done in ministerial lines but medical missionary work. The work of a minister is to minister. Our ministers are to work on the gospel plan of ministering. It has been presented to me that all through America there are barren fields. As I traveled through the South on my way to the conference, I saw city after city that was unworked. What is the matter? The ministers are hovering over churches which know the truth, while thousands are perishing out of Christ. If the proper instruction were given, if the proper methods were followed, every church member would do his work as a member of the body. He would do Christian missionary work. But the churches are dying, and they want a minister to preach to them. They should be taught to bring a faithful tithe to God, that He may strengthen and bless them. They should be brought into working order, that the breath of God may come to them. They should be taught that unless they can stand alone, without a minister, they need to be converted anew, and baptized anew. They need to be born again. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 18)

The barren fields in America have been presented to me. In every city in Michigan there should be a monument erected for God. You have been long in the truth. Had you carried the work forward in the lines in which God intended you to, had you done medical missionary work, trying to heal soul and body, you would have seen hundreds and thousands coming into the truth.... (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 19)

Go to places where the people have not heard the truth, and live before them the gospel of Jesus Christ. Do among them practical missionary work. Thus many souls will be brought to a knowledge of the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 20)

You will never be ministers after the gospel order till you show a decided interest in medical missionary work, the gospel of healing and blessing and strengthening. Come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty powers of darkness, that it be not said of you, “Curse ye Meroz, curse ye bitterly the inhabitants thereof; because they came not to the help of the Lord.” [Judges 5:23.] ... (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 21)

I knew that the ministers laboring with those who know the truth, tending them like sick sheep, should be out in the field, planting the standard of truth in new places, bringing the sick to their houses and clothing the naked. Christ says that His righteousness will go before those who do this work, and that the glory of God will be their rereward. But this work is not done by our churches, and the ministers are preaching to those who know the truth, when there are thousands who know nothing of the third angel’s message.... (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 22)

It is because of the directions I have received from the Lord that I have the courage to stand among you and speak as I do, notwithstanding the way in which you may look at the medical missionary work. I wish to say that the medical missionary work is God’s work. The Lord wants every one of His ministers to come into line. Take hold of the medical missionary work and it will give you access to the people. Their hearts will be touched as you minister to their necessities. As you relieve their sufferings, you will find opportunity to speak to them of the love of Jesus. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 23)

I am ready to say to you today that I am in harmony with the resolution. Many who have been more or less out of line since the Minneapolis meeting will be brought into line. God will help those who love the truth, who give themselves, heart and mind and strength, to Him. God will work mightily with His ministers when their hearts are filled with love for the poor lost sheep of the house of Israel. Hunt up the backsliders, those who once knew what religion was, and give them the message of mercy. The story of Christ’s love will touch a chord in their hearts. Christ draws human beings to Himself with the cord which God has let down from heaven to save the race. The love of Christ can be measured only when this cord is measured.... (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 24)

I am fully in favor of this resolution, because I know that medical missionary work is the gospel in practice and, as the Lord has declared, is never, never to be separated from the gospel ministry.... (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 25)

Medical missionary work, ministering to the sick and suffering, cannot be separated from the gospel. God help those whose attention has been aroused on this subject to have the mind of Christ, the sympathy of Christ. God help you to remember that Christ was a worker, that He went from place to place healing the sick. If we were as closely connected with Christ as were His disciples, God could work through us to heal many who are suffering. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 26)

The Lord bless His people and enable them to come to a right understanding of His will. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 27)

*****

(From talk given by Mrs. E. G. White, Sabbath, April 20, 1901—“His Wonderful Love.”) (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 28)

No Better Way

There is a great work to be done. How shall we reveal Christ? I know of no better way to reveal Him than to go forth as missionaries to our world. I know of no better way than to take hold of the medical missionary work in connection with the ministry. Wherever you go, there begin to work. Take an interest in those around you who need help and light. You may stand and preach to those here who know the truth, you may preach sermon after sermon to them, but they do not appreciate it. Why? Because they are inactive. Every one who is able to go out and work should bring to the foundation stone not hay, wood, nor stubble, but gold, silver, and precious stones. (16LtMs, Ms 150, 1901, 29)

Ms 151, 1901

Diary/The Reward of the Obedient
Crystal Springs, St. Helena, California
September 7, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 1BC 1118; 3BC 1150; LHU 160; 8MR 193. +

It is the Sabbath of the Lord, and I desire to trace a few words in my diary. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 1)

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof.” [Psalm 46:1-3.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 2)

Just before His ascension, our divine Lord came to His disciples “and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:18-20.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 3)

The Lord Jesus has been the help and the strength of all who have put their trust in Him. Christians are to be brought face to face with the fact that they have not hungered as they should for the leaves of the tree of life, which are for the healing of the nations. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 4)

My brethren and sisters, I present before you Christ, who is to be to us an abiding Presence. “Christ in you, the hope of glory,” will keep the soul fresh and sweet. [Colossians 1:27.] Christ was God’s gift to a perishing world. “To as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:12.] Let everyone be assured that it is by receiving this life-saving Gift that we secure eternal life. This is our life-insurance policy. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 5)

At what infinite cost to the Father and to the Son was this merciful, wondrous provision made for our redemption! Christ stepped down from His high estate as Commander in the heavenly courts, and, laying aside His royal robe and kingly crown, clothed His divinity with humanity, and came to this earth, that He might dwell with us, and become our wisdom, our sanctification, our righteousness, our redemption. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 6)

Just before Christ’s betrayal, rejection, and crucifixion, He offered to His Father the prayer recorded in the seventeenth of John. We should study the whole chapter carefully, for it is a lesson for us all. We are not to trust in man or make flesh our arm; we are instructed to worship the Lord Jesus Christ as our Life-giver. “Him only shalt thou serve.” [Matthew 4:10.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 7)

“God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son? And again, when he bringeth the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels of God worship him. And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire. But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom. Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated iniquity; therefore God, even thy God, hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.” [Hebrews 1:1-9.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 8)

“He bringeth the firstbegotten into the world.” [Verse 6.] This is the incarnation of Christ. In and through Him the Father establishes the kingdom of heaven among men. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 9)

*****

In the ninety-first Psalm is a most wonderful description of the coming of the Lord to bring the wickedness of the wicked to an end, and to give to those who have chosen Him as their Redeemer the assurance of His love and protecting care. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 10)

“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee. Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked. Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the Most High, thy habitation; there shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honor him.” [Verses 1-15.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 11)

The righteous understand God’s government and will triumph with holy gladness in the everlasting protection and salvation that Christ through His merits has secured for them. Let all remember this, and forget not that the wicked, who do not receive Christ as their personal Saviour, understand not His providence. The way of righteousness they have not chosen, and they know not God. Notwithstanding all the benefits He has so graciously bestowed upon them, they have abused His mercy by neglecting to acknowledge His goodness and mercy in showing them these favors. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 12)

At any moment God can withdraw from the impenitent the tokens of His wonderful mercy and love. Oh, that human agencies might consider what will be the sure result of their ingratitude to Him and of their disregard of the infinite gift of Christ to our world! If they continue to love transgression more than obedience, the present blessings and the great mercy of God that they now enjoy, but do not appreciate, will finally become the occasion of their eternal ruin. They may for a time choose to engage in worldly amusements and sinful pleasures, rather than to check themselves in their course of sin, and live for God and for the honor of the Majesty of heaven; but when it is too late for them to see and to understand that which they have slighted as a thing of naught, they will know what it means to be without God, without hope. Then they will sense what they have lost by choosing to be disloyal to God and to stand in rebellion against His commandments. In the past they defied His power and rejected His overtures of mercy; finally His judgments will fall upon them. Then they will realize that they have lost happiness—life, eternal life, in the heavenly courts. Surely they will say, “Our life was full of madness against God, and now we are lost!” (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 13)

In the time when God’s judgments are falling without mercy, oh, how enviable to the wicked will be the position of those who abide “in the secret place of the Most High” [verse 1]—the pavilion in which the Lord hides all who have loved Him and have obeyed His commandments! The lot of the righteous is indeed an enviable one at such a time to those who are suffering because of their sins. But the door of mercy is closed to the wicked, no more prayers are offered in their behalf after probation ends. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 14)

But this time has not yet come. Mercy’s sweet voice is still to be heard. The Lord is now calling sinners to come to Him. As the light of His truth enters their hearts, will they repent and be converted? Will they, in humility, in meekness and lowliness of heart, come to the foot of the cross, there to learn of Jesus? Will they say to Him, “I will wash mine hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O Lord: that I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works”? [Psalm 26:6, 7.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 15)

Great joy will come to the saved in that day when every man shall receive according to his works! What are the songs that should now come from the lips of those who love God and keep His commandments? What is the song that some are now singing? “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When evil-doers came upon me to eat up my flesh, even mine adversaries and my foes, they stumbled and fell. Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, even then will I be confident. One thing have I asked of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in his temple. For in the day of trouble he shall keep me secretly in his pavilion: in the covert of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall lift me up upon a rock. And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me; and I will offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the Lord.” [Psalm 27:1-6.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 16)

So long as God’s people, in this time of peril, are careful to be sincere and upright, pure and undefiled in the life-practice, trusting alone in the One who is all-wise, all-merciful, full of compassion, they are walking in a safe path and will not turn aside for trifles. God is their defense, their front-guard, and their rearward. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 17)

The time has come when the righteous should understand that God’s judgments are to fall upon all those who transgress His law, and that those who walk humbly before Him will triumph with holy gladness, realizing constantly that they are under the assuring protection of His everlasting covenant of love. As Jehovah is holy, He requires His people to be holy, pure, undefiled. Without holiness no man shall see the Lord. Those who worship Him in sincerity and truth will be accepted by Him. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 18)

*****

Let us guard against manifesting a denunciatory, overbearing, dictatorial spirit. Yet while we are to be kind, we must speak the Word of the Lord faithfully. Much more decided efforts than have been made should be made to cleanse our institutions from the sins, the evil practices, the unjustness in dealing, that the enemy has brought in during the past few years. Even the smallest matters should be dealt with as fairly, justly, and sacredly as are the largest matters. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 19)

Let us not allow one man to exalt his judgment as infallible or in any way to oppress his brethren who are seeking as verily as is he to do for the cause of God that which they suppose is right. Let us search our hearts diligently, lest selfishness and idolatry shall come in unawares. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 20)

Let us, in our business transactions, talk over matters with one another. When difficulties arise, let us adjust them in a Christlike manner. Heart should unite with heart in striving to follow correct principles. Let us do nothing that shall result even in a misunderstanding. Humbling ourselves before God, we should make every matter right. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 21)

Oppression God will never tolerate. The indifference created by idolatry of self close the heart to the influence of the Holy Spirit. Hard-heartedness, cherished, will result in men’s seeking to bring their fellow men to the terms they stipulate and will lead to many other evils. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 22)

My brethren, it is altogether too late in the day to be half-hearted, serving divers lusts, and cherishing traits of character that will exclude you from heaven. You cannot put away the evils of your doing too soon. I beseech you to make thorough work for eternity. Now is the accepted time, beloved; now is the day of salvation. “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 23)

How thankful we should be for such an assurance, weighted with the grace of our God! The Lord Jesus yearns over us with intense earnestness. He desires that we shall be saved. But we shall perish, if we depart from God, and place ourselves in the enemy’s power. God has forbidden His people to stand upon Satan’s ground. Our God has built round about us a wall of protection, lest we become exposed to the temptations that beset us on every side. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 24)

Comparatively speaking, only a few honor God on the Sabbath day, according to His commandment. In the fifth of Deuteronomy we read that Moses called the children of Israel together, “and said unto them, Hear, O Israel, the statutes and judgments which I speak in your ears this day, that ye may learn them, and keep them, and do them.” [Verse 1.] Then he referred to the covenant that they made with the Lord when they received His commandments at Sinai. “The Lord our God made a covenant with us in Horeb. The Lord made not this covenant with our fathers, but with us, even us, who are all of us here alive this day. The Lord talked with you face to face in the mount out of the midst of the fire.” [Verses 2-4.] Then Moses repeated to the assembled multitude the words that the Lord had spoken to them at mount Sinai, even the ten holy precepts. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 25)

We who are living in the year 1901 should often repeat the words that are recorded in this chapter. That God who talked with Israel face to face is speaking to us. Every requirement, every caution, every restraint given them, is recorded for us to study and to put into practice in principle. Let us read attentively the words that He spake to ancient Israel. There is altogether too great a willingness to forget these words. And when those who heed not the instruction given to Israel are reproved for the good of their souls, that they shall not corrupt their ways and suffer the sure result of disobedience and unsanctified works, they often feel that they are dealt with harshly. But in this chapter are specified the commandments that will make the path plain before them and shield them from the temptations of the enemy. He who gives these commandments introduces Himself in the following words: “I am the Lord thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.” [Verse 6.] Then follow the ten commandments. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 26)

The day that God requires His people to observe is clearly specified not only in this chapter, but in the thirty-first of Exodus. In Exodus we read: “The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 27)

“And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” [Verses 12-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 28)

Both at Sinai and on the borders of the promised land, on the two occasions when the law was repeated with such solemnity to the Israelites, God’s people were enjoined to remember their degradation as slaves in Egypt. He it was who had brought them forth “out of Egypt with a mighty hand, and with an outstretched arm, and with great terribleness, and with signs, and with wonders.” [Deuteronomy 26:8.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 29)

After repeating the first four precepts of the Decalogue, which relate to man’s duty to his Creator; and the last six precepts, which relate to man’s duty to his fellow men, Moses declared: “These words the Lord spake unto all your assembly in the mount out of the midst of the fire of the cloud, and of the thick darkness, with a great voice: and he added no more. And he wrote them in two tables of stone, and delivered them unto me.” [Deuteronomy 5:22.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 30)

The people pleaded with Moses when they heard the voice from Sinai. “Ye came near unto me,” said Moses, “and ye said, ... Why should we die? for this great fire will consume us: if we hear the voice of the Lord our God any more, then we shall die. For who is there of all flesh, that hath heard the voice of the living God speaking out of the midst of the fire, as we have, and lived? Go thou near, and hear all that the Lord our God shall say: and speak thou unto us all that the Lord our God shall speak unto thee; and we will hear it, and do it. And the Lord heard the voice of your words, when ye spake unto me; and the Lord said unto me, I have heard the voice of the words of this people, which they have spoken unto thee: they have well said all that they have spoken. O that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children forever!” [Verses 23-29.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 31)

Let all remember that prosperity and blessing are promised us on condition of obedience to God’s commandments. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 32)

After telling the Israelites to return to their tents, the Lord said to Moses: “As for thee, stand thou here by me, and I will speak unto thee all the commandments, and the statutes, and the judgments, which thou shalt teach them, that they may do them in the land which I give them to possess it. Ye shall observe to do therefore as the Lord your God hath commanded you: ye shall not turn aside to the right hand or to the left. Ye shall walk in all the ways which the Lord your God hath commanded you, that ye may live, and that it may be well with you, and that ye may prolong your days in the land which ye shall possess.” [Verses 31-33.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 33)

These closing verses of the fifth of Deuteronomy plainly specify that Israel’s prosperity depended upon their obedience to the commandments of God. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 34)

Sixth chapter: “Now these are the commandments (written in the tables of stone), the statutes, and the judgments, which the Lord your God commanded to teach you, that ye might do them in the land whither ye go to possess it: that thou mightest fear the Lord thy God, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, which I command thee, thou, and thy son, and thy son’s son, all the days of thy life; and that thy days may be prolonged.” [Verses 1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 35)

In this Scripture we are taught that obedience to God’s requirements brings the obedient under the laws that control the physical being. Those who would preserve themselves in health must bring into subjection all appetites and passions. They must not indulge lustful passion and intemperate appetite; for they are to remain under control to God, and their physical, mental, and moral powers are to be so wisely employed that the bodily mechanism will remain in good working order. Health, life, and happiness are the result of obedience to physical laws governing our bodies. If our will and way are in accordance with God’s will and way; if we do the pleasure of our Creator, He will keep the human organism in good condition, and restore the moral, mental, and physical powers, in order that He may work through us, to His glory. Constantly His restoring power is manifested in our bodies. If we co-operate with Him in this work, health and happiness, peace and usefulness, are the sure results. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 36)

“Hear therefore, O Israel, and observe to do it; that it may be well with thee, and that ye may increase mightily, as the Lord God of thy fathers hath promised thee, in the land that floweth with milk and honey. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 37)

“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord: and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates. And it shall be, when the Lord thy God shall have brought thee into the land which he sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give thee great and goodly cities, which thou buildedst not, and houses full of all good things, which though filledst not, and wells digged, which thou diggedst not, vineyards and olive trees, which thou plantedst not; when thou shalt have eaten and be full; then beware lest thou forget the Lord, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name. Ye shall not go after other gods, of the gods of the people which are round about you; (for the Lord thy God is a jealous God among you) lest the anger of the Lord thy God be kindled against thee, and destroy thee from off the face of the earth. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 38)

“Ye shall not tempt the Lord your God, as ye tempted him in Massah. Ye shall diligently keep the commandments of the Lord your God, and his testimonies, and his statutes, which he hath commanded thee. And thou shalt do that which is right and good in the sight of the Lord: that it may be well with thee, and that thou mayest go in and possess the good land which the Lord sware unto thy fathers.” [Verses 3-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 39)

The whole chapter is a lesson for us to study. In the twentieth verse, and onward, we read: “When thy son asketh thee in time to come, saying, What mean the testimonies, and the statutes, and the judgments, which the Lord our God hath commanded you? Then thou shalt say unto thy son, We were Pharaoh’s bondmen in Egypt; and the Lord brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand: and the Lord showed signs and wonders, great and sore, upon Egypt, upon Pharaoh, and upon all his household, before our eyes: and he brought us out from thence, that he might bring us in, to give us the land which he sware unto our fathers.” [Verses 20-23.] Parents should understand this instruction, and be prepared to speak to their children words that will give them correct impressions in regard to the Lord’s dealings with His chosen people. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 40)

“And the Lord commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear the Lord our God, for our good always, that he might preserve us alive, as it is at this day. And it shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandments before the Lord our God, as he hath commanded us.” [Verses 24, 25.] The fear here spoken of is not a servile fear, but a godly fear. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 41)

God gave these laws to Israel to preserve them in a happy, healthful state. If there had existed no Satan to tempt them, these special instructions would not have been needed; but unless the people had something to guide them, they would surely be led astray by the specious devisings of the enemy of all righteousness. Their only safety was to be found in hearkening with all diligence to the Word of the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 42)

Parents who desire to train their children aright should heed the instruction given in these Scriptures and allow their little ones to do nothing in disregard of God’s commandments so plainly given. Let fathers and mothers faithfully teach their children these precepts and impress upon their tender minds the fact that in obedience there is life, health, happiness. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 43)

These Scriptures are “written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.” [1 Corinthians 10:11.] “Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward; how shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?” [Hebrews 2:1-4.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 44)

The great object we should always keep in view, when obtaining a knowledge of God’s laws, is that we are to become acquainted with His will in order that we may obey Him. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 45)

God constantly kept before the Israelites their wonderful deliverance from the bondage of slavery and the remarkable circumstances that called for His special workings, by His mighty power, to execute their deliverance. This history was to be kept before their children, as an expression of God’s love for them. He was placing them under the most favorable circumstances for loving and serving Him. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 46)

He who has entrusted men and women with children calls upon those parents to realize their God-given responsibilities. They are to guard their children from the many temptations to which the little ones are subject on account of the words and practices of the children of disobedience. From babyhood, children are to be taught to obey the requirements of their parents. And the parents themselves are under most solemn obligation to God to keep their spirit in subjection to God’s will. In word and act they should set a right example before their children, and thus teach by example, as well as by precept, the principles of righteousness and justice. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 47)

Let no half-hearted work be done by parents. The younger members of the Lord’s family are to be taught in the home life. The home is an educating school. Children are to be shielded from associating with the wicked. There is to be no commingling with idolaters. Concerning this the Lord says: “Neither shalt thou make marriages with them (worldlings); thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son. For they will turn away thy son from following me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the Lord be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly. But thus shalt ye deal with them; ye shall destroy their altars, and break down their images, and cut down their groves, and burn their graven images with fire.” [Deuteronomy 7:3-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 48)

Let us study the instruction God has given us in His Word in regard to obedience and disobedience. He has forbidden us to form intimate connections with the openly wicked; for those who place themselves in companionship with unbelievers are in great danger of being corrupted by the sentiments and practices of their associates, and of being so influenced that they will be drawn into sin. Sin soon loses its offensive features, if beheld constantly; and the obedient are soon led by wicked associates to dishonor God. (16LtMs, Ms 151, 1901, 49)

Ms 152, 1901

Diary/A Message to Our Brethren and Sisters in Southern California
St. Helena, California
October 10, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 1BC 1105; LHU 139, 145; 1MR 246-247. +

I have been unable to sleep after half-past eleven at night. Many things, in figures and symbols, are passing before me. There are sanitariums in running order near Los Angeles. At one place there is an occupied building, and there are fruit trees on the sanitarium grounds. In this institution, outside the city, there is much activity. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 1)

As in the vision of the night I saw the grounds, I said, “O ye of little faith! You have lost time.” There were the sick in wheelchairs. There were some patients to whom the physicians had given a prescription to spend all their time outdoors during pleasant weather in order to regain health. Some came to the institution with discouragement written upon their countenances. I seemed to be living there myself, and I made remarks in regard to the change that took place in these countenances. Where once was written despair, we could now read hopefulness and pleasantness. The birds were singing; and in the vision given me, it seemed that we all knelt upon the grass and united in praising the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 2)

It seemed as if we had been in the place for months. I was speaking to the sick people, telling them of God’s goodness and mercy, when one arose and sang a beautiful hymn. The voices of nearly all were called out in expressions of thankfulness for the help received. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 3)

While speaking, I said: “We must have sanitariums in favored places in different localities. This is God’s plan. He has ordained the medical missionary work as a means of saving souls, and that which we see about us is a symbol of the work before us. We are to awaken our churches to engage interestedly in God’s work and to carry forward this branch—the medical missionary work.” (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 4)

Physicians were interested in these words, and one said, as he extended his arms and waved them back and forth, “Is not this better than drugs? Aches and pains have left you without the use of medicine.” (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 5)

On the grounds that I saw in this vision of the night, there were shade trees, the boughs of which were hung in such a way that they formed leafy canopies somewhat [in] the shape of tents. The sick were delighted. While some were working for diversion, others were singing. There was no dissatisfaction. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 6)

I awoke, and could not sleep for a time. Many scenes had passed before me, and I could not forget the words I had spoken to the patients and the helpers. Brethren and sisters, Christ has instructed me to say to you, The Holy Spirit will make your hearts tender and softened by His grace. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 7)

Again I lost consciousness, and other scenes passed before me. I was in another locality, surrounded by different scenery. Again it seemed as if I were pleading with those who were sick, to look unto Jesus, the great Medical Leader, our Gospel Teacher. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 8)

Then I seemed to be in the midst of a company where some important plans were being discussed. I was drawn out to speak to those present in regard to keeping the mind always cheerful in the Lord. I said: “Never are we to allow fretting and complaining to exist in the home life. Never should parents speak harshly to their little ones. The parents themselves are but little ones in God’s sight, and their children are not acquainted with the trials of life. They must learn gradually to practice the art of cheerfulness; for this is the prescription given by the Lord to create a healthful atmosphere in the home. Jesus, our Owner, desires us to strive to make everything move smoothly. Not one word of repining are we to utter, for the prescription calls for cheerfulness. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 9)

“The love of Jesus in the soul will banish all hatred, selfishness, and envy, for the law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul. There is health in obedience to God’s law. The affections of the obedient are drawn out after God. Looking unto the Lord Jesus, we may encourage and serve one another. The love of Christ is shed abroad in our souls, and there is no dissension and strife among us. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 10)

“Let us invite Christ to be an abiding Guest in the parlor of the soul. His law will be spiritually engraved on the minds and hearts of His covenant-keeping people. Parents, it is greatly to your advantage to keep the law of the Lord. Of this law Moses said: ‘Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you, for to do them, that ye may live, and go in and possess the land which the Lord God of your fathers giveth you.’ [Deuteronomy 4:1.] (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 11)

“It is pleasing to the Lord for us to obey His law; and upon all who are obedient He bestows His special blessing. In obedience there is life and happiness. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 12)

“Moses continued: ‘Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you.’ [Verse 2.] There was a tendency to add to the law by making human restrictions; and the Lord guarded against their adding these manmade tests that He had not specified, and that would bring in confusion. And He guarded, too, against the taking away of any of His precepts. Never are we to put our words in the place of God’s words; for thus we would be diminishing from His law. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 13)

“‘Your eyes have seen,’ said Moses, ‘what the Lord did because of Baal-peor: for all the men that followed Baal-peor, the Lord thy God hath destroyed them from among you. But ye that did cleave unto the Lord your God are alive every one of you this day.’” [Verses 3, 4.] (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 14)

After reading these Scriptures, I seemed to be instructing the people that manmade laws, manmade yokes, would be prepared for the Lord’s people, but that it is not safe for them to allow their minds to be diverted in any way from the Word of the Lord to the words of men. “Break every yoke,” is the instruction given. [Isaiah 58:6.] (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 15)

I was then awakened, and I began writing out some cautions that were given. In the midst of the company in which I had been there seemed to be a divine Presence, which all recognized. I praised the Lord. How pleased I was that we have such assurances as are given us in these Scriptures. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 16)

*****

The Necessity of Obeying God’s Law. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 17)

Concerning His commandments, God declared, through Moses, to His people: “Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.” [Deuteronomy 4:6.] (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 18)

The precious instruction that the Lord gave to His people from mount Sinai was carried by them all through their wilderness wandering, and was repeated by them wheresoever they encamped. God designed that they should give to the surrounding nations a representation of Him and of His law, by the words they would speak, and in a variety of other ways. On many occasions, as they met the people who knew not God, they exalted their Leader as a great and holy Being whom all should always honor and respect and reverence. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 19)

“For what nation is there so great,” the Israelitish host inquired, “who hath God so nigh unto them, as the Lord our God is in all things that we call upon him for? And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day?” [Verses 7, 8.] (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 20)

The surrounding nations were to become acquainted with the exalted principles of the God-given laws that the leaders were educating the people to observe. Then, instead of demeriting the people thus instructed, they would regard the observance of these laws as a proof that this was a people peculiarly blessed indeed among the nations. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 21)

Another remarkable exhibition to the nations round about was the perfect order observed in the camp of the Israelites. They could see the cloud hovering over the place where the tabernacle was to be pitched; they observed the priests and other appointed agencies going about their special work, each one doing the part assigned him in the work of preparing the camp for the night. No one did anything that someone else should do. Whoever would have tried to do another man’s work would have suffered the death penalty. Each one attended to his special duty. In erecting the tabernacle, part fitted to part, and the house of the Lord was set up with beautiful precision. Not a word was spoken, not an order given, excepting by the one in charge. No one was confused; everything was put together in accordance with the similitude shown to Moses in the mount. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 22)

Everything connected with the pitching of the camp was an object lesson to the children, schooling them in habits of precision and carefulness and order. The children that were old enough were required to learn how to pitch the tents in which they lived and to observe perfect order in all that they did. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 23)

Moses gave further instruction to the Lord’s chosen people: “Only take heed to thyself (we are to make this our first business), and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons’ sons; specially the day that thou stoodest before the Lord thy God in Horeb, when the Lord said unto me, Gather me the people together, and I will make them hear my words, that they may learn to fear me all the days that they shall live upon the earth, and that they may teach their children. And ye came near and stood under the mountain; and the mountain burned with fire unto the midst of heaven, with darkness, clouds, and thick (intense) darkness. And the Lord spake unto you out of the midst of the fire: ye heard the voice of the words, but saw no similitude; only ye heard a voice. And he declared unto you his covenant, which he commanded you to perform, even ten commandments; and he wrote them upon two tables of stone. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 24)

“And the Lord commanded me at that time (He talked with Moses) to teach you statutes and judgments, that ye might do them in the land whither ye go over to possess it. Take ye therefore good heed unto yourselves; for ye saw no manner of similitude on the day that the Lord spake unto you in Horeb out of the midst of the fire: lest ye corrupt yourselves, and make you a graven image, the similitude of any figure, the likeness of male or female.” [Verses 9-16.] (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 25)

All these things were a school for the children in the camp of the Israelites. Constantly they were obtaining an education in regard to heavenly things. Constantly the parents were explaining to their children why the Israelites were traveling in the wilderness; why the law was given at Sinai; and what they expected to do and to be when they reached the land of promise. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 26)

I have written out these particulars in regard to the Israelites in camp, because they are to serve as lessons to us on camp-meeting work. In our encampments nothing is to be done in a slovenly, haphazard manner. The children who are permitted to attend these holy convocations are to be educated along right lines. They are to be taught habits of order and cleanliness; they are to learn to reverence God and to respect His ministers and His house of worship. Parents should realize that it is their duty to impress their children with the fact that the encampment is a place where God meets with His people. In this sacred place there can be allowed no sporting, no noisy play, no boisterous laughing. The children are to be given all that they can possibly do in the line of preparing the camp and keeping it in order. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 27)

Of every parent before whom comes the instruction that I have written out concerning the training of the little ones in the camp of the Israelites, I wish to inquire: Do you suppose that the Lord God of Israel will excuse your neglect to put forth constant, persevering effort for the salvation of your children? Some children receive only casual attention. Fathers and mothers, labor unitedly. Give not your children a spasmodic education, by fits and starts; but labor with them faithfully, from day to day, throughout the years when they are under your care. First be re-converted yourselves; then give to your children the most careful attention, keeping them employed in useful labor as much as possible. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 28)

We profess to be a peculiar people. More than once in the Old Testament Scriptures we read that He has denominated us in a special manner. In the thirty-first chapter of Exodus we read: “The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath, to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever: for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 29)

“And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon the mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.” [Verses 12-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 30)

In this Scripture the observance of the Sabbath is specified as the special, distinguishing sign between God’s people and the people of the world. This gives to parents a most solemn work—the work of teaching their children to obey the Sabbath commandment, in order that they may be numbered among the people of God. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 31)

In the nineteenth of Exodus we read: “Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto myself. Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine: and ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.” [Verses 4-6.] (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 32)

Wonderful condescension is this! God offers to make the Israelites His “peculiar treasure,” if they obey His law and thus glorify His name. Observe the response they made to these words: “Moses came and called for the elders of the people, and laid before their faces all these words which the Lord commanded him.” All this instruction was placed by the elders before the vast multitude assembled. “And all the people answered together, and said, All that the Lord hath spoken we will do. And Moses returned the words of the people unto the Lord.” [Verses 7, 8.] (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 33)

Here the agreement was made by a most solemn covenant. But because Israel, on their part, failed of fulfilling this agreement, God in His mercy did not destroy them, but gave them another opportunity to obey Him. Again He instructed Moses to repeat the decalogue to the whole encampment. We have a record of this in the fifth of Deuteronomy. Moses summoned the people in solemn assembly and commanded all to give special attention, for he desired to communicate to them matters that concerned their eternal welfare. They were to listen attentively to that which they would bind themselves to observe. The trumpet gave a certain sound, demanding most earnest attention. Then Moses began to speak. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 34)

“Hear, O Israel,” he declared, “the statutes and judgments which I speak in your ears this day, that ye may learn them, and keep, and do them. The Lord our God made a covenant with us in Horeb. The Lord made not this covenant with our fathers, but with us, even us, who are all of us here alive this day. The Lord talked with you face to face in the mount out of the midst of the fire.” [Verses 1-4.] (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 35)

Moses brought to the remembrance of the Israelites the covenant that God had made with them in Horeb, when they promised Him to govern all their words and actions by His law. There they were denominated unto God. The Lord talked with Israel face to face, speaking His precepts out of the midst of the fiery cloud. Moses reminded them of the solemn pledge they had made, as recorded in the twenty-fourth of Exodus, when he “told the people all the words of the Lord, and all the judgments: and all the people answered with one voice, and said, All the words which the Lord hath said will we do.” [Verse 3.] At that time the Lord had said unto Moses, “Come up to me into the mount, and be there: and I will give thee tables of stone, and a law, and commandments which I have written; that thou mayest teach them.” [Verse 12.] (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 36)

These are the commandments and ordinances repeated by Moses before his death. On this solemn occasion, after repeating the holy precepts, he declared: “Hear, O Israel: ... These words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.” [Deuteronomy 6:4, 6, 7.] (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 37)

Brethren and sisters, we are numbered with Israel. All the instruction given to the Israelites of old, in regard to teaching the commandments to their children, is for us. If we become careless, and neglect to urge the necessity of observing these commandments, as I know that many have done, let us all humble our hearts before God, and make earnest, thorough work of repentance. Let us learn to deal mercifully with our children. In their tender years they are to be kindly, patiently, intelligently, lovingly taught in all religious service, the parents making these lessons simple and attractive, in order that they may make known to their little ones the way of the Lord. In the past, the failure of parents to do this work has been felt in future generations. Children whose parents were impenitent have often remained impenitent throughout life. Those in positions of responsibility in all our institutions should be especially careful to give the youth in their charge a proper training. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 38)

It requires constant, persevering effort to keep exalted the standard of righteousness; but none who are lax in principle are approved of God. Our religious experience is spoiled by allowing our principles to become perverted. Now, more than in any other period of the world’s history, should we heed the admonition, “Be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” [Matthew 24:44.] (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 39)

In ancient times cautions were continually given against idolatry. In this age of the world the same danger exists. We should guard our children against having fellowship with the world, and against imitating the works of those who are in darkness. So far as possible, let us keep them from the society of unbelievers. We know that those who do not serve the Lord Jesus serve another leader, and that this leader will make decided efforts to control the minds of those who know the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 40)

Satan’s deceptive workings are constantly being carried on in every place. Those who truly love God will reveal their love for Him in every place and under every circumstance. They will not condescend to engage in the foolish amusements and the entertainments of worldlings. They will not be persuaded to forget the Lord at any time. Christians may and should feel a holy indignation against the lightness and the folly of those who love not God. “Consider thyself,” and fall not into temptation by speaking idle, cheap, meaningless words. [Galatians 6:1.] Speak words that reveal that you are a child of God, and that your heart is filled with His love. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 41)

We must be as decidedly a peculiar people, holy unto the Lord, as the Israelites were required to be, else we cannot properly represent our wise, compassionate, glorified Redeemer. We should strive so to live that we may sit in heavenly places with Christ Jesus, and praise His name with thanksgiving, thus revealing to the world the keeping power of God’s grace. By doing this, we honor our Leader. (16LtMs, Ms 152, 1901, 42)

Ms 153, 1901

Growing in Grace
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 1901
Previously unpublished.

My heart is filled with gratitude to God. I have slept and rested during the past night. I awoke full of courage in the Lord. During the night my mind has been deeply impressed. As a people we must advance. This is the word that comes to us from our Leader, Christ Jesus. (16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, 1)

The Saviour declares, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” [John 14:6.] Then those who are following Jesus are walking in the light as He is in the light. Those who walk with Christ walk in a path that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. (16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, 2)

The church of God on earth is to be the representative of the church above. “Ye are the light of the world,” Christ says. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:14, 16.] (16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, 3)

Following this comes the statement, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Verses 17-19.] (16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, 4)

Are those who refuse to keep God’s law first to enter heaven, and there be placed least, for all to look upon as those who did not obey? No. But in the books of heaven they are recorded as the least in God’s world, because they work contrary to God. (16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, 5)

“I say unto you,” Christ continued, “that except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 20.] Why this statement? Because in practice and in teaching, the scribes and Pharisees disregarded the principles of God’s law. They put human maxims and traditions in the place of God’s Word, “teaching for doctrine the commandments of men.” [Matthew 15:9.] They set aside God’s holy precepts for fables of their own creating. (16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, 6)

The necessity for entire and willing obedience is to be presented to the people in clear, plain lines. The truth as it is in Jesus is to be sacredly cherished. And it is to be lived. And we are individually to let our light shine forth to those in darkness. (16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, 7)

Christ calls upon the members of His church to feed upon His words, and then to use the strength thus gained in giving the truth to others. In order to continue to receive, we must impart. Exercise is necessary to health. We may eat wholesome food and breathe pure air, but if we fail to take exercise, the assimilation of the food eaten will be defective, and the machinery of the body will not do the best work. (16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, 8)

So it is in spiritual things. Growth in grace depends upon an intelligent, unselfish use of the blessings that God gives. (16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, 9)

Infinite possibilities are held before us in the promises and assurances that Christ has given. Read the prayer that He offered just before His crucifixion. “O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee; but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me.” [John 17:25.] (16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, 10)

And again He said, “These things have I spoken unto you that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye have tribulation; but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” [John 16:33.] (16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, 11)

“When the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: and ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning.” [John 15:26, 27.] (16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, 12)

Will those who profess to believe present truth consider the advantage bestowed on them in having Christ as their efficiency? What might be accomplished, if they would only believe the promises of Christ, and strive earnestly to do the work He has given them! (16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, 13)

The light that God has given His people is not to be shut up within the churches that already know the truth. It is to be shed abroad into the dark places of the earth. Those who walk in the light as Christ is in the light will co-operate with the Saviour by revealing to others what He has revealed to them. Every one whose name is registered on the church roll is under most solemn obligation to represent Christ by revealing the inward adorning of a meek and quiet spirit. They are to be His witnesses, making known the advantage of walking and working as Christ has given them example. The truth for this time is to appear in its power in the lives of those who believe, and is to be imparted to the world. Believers are to reveal in their lives the sanctification of the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, 14)

The words of Christ are to be the food of those who enter His service. As the physical organism is built up and strengthened by the food eaten, so spiritual nourishment and strength are to be gained by eating the words of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, 15)

Christ is to be our Teacher, the Man of our counsel. His wisdom is to be revealed in our use of His gifts. “This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.] Christ is our life. If He abides in us, our lives will meet His requirements. His principles are to be nourishment to the soul. He is made unto us wisdom and righteousness and sanctification and redemption. (16LtMs, Ms 153, 1901, 16)

Ms 154, 1901

Diary/Neglected Duties and Privileges
Refiled as Ms 4, 1902.

Ms 155, 1901

Diary/The Need of an Awakening
Refiled as Ms 5, 1902.

Ms 156, 1901

Diary/Unheeded Admonitions
South Lancaster, Massachusetts
November 27, 1901
See variants Ms 156a, 1901; Ms 156b, 1901. Portions of this manuscript are published in CD 268-269, 271-272; 2MR 101; MRmnt 118. +

Again some things with reference to Dr. Kellogg have been presented to me. The Lord has shown me Dr. Kellogg’s dangers. I have not yet written to him. I hope to see him face to face. May the Lord give me much of His Holy Spirit, for I cannot do this work of myself. Unless the Lord works by His Spirit, Dr. Kellogg will surely say, “Who has been talking with Sister White?” I can answer, “One who is Authority.” But this question, by whomsoever it is asked, shows a lack of confidence in the work the Lord has given me to do. It shows a faith that is of no value. It shows that this work is not appreciated. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 1)

If, when the Testimonies come to Dr. Kellogg, they harmonize with his own ideas and plans, he is confident that they are of God. If they do not harmonize with his plans, they are of no special value in his sight. This places me where I do not know just how to handle these things. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 2)

I cannot but feel pained, if it is really true that when Dr. Kellogg receives from me a communication that cuts across his plans, he has no more faith in the Testimonies than to say that I have been influenced by my son W. C. White, or by anyone else nigh or afar off. I can hardly think that this is the measure of his faith. When the Testimonies have placed him in an objectionable light, I should not have thought that he would endeavor to justify himself as so many others have endeavored to do when reproved. This is the temptation to which many yield, and by which they lose all the benefits and blessings that they might receive. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 3)

Supposing that some one had talked with me concerning Dr. Kellogg’s work. I should not dare mention what had been told me. I have heard many detrimental things in regard to his work and the representations that he has been making. I have received many letters in regard to different matters that occur. While we are living in this world, we shall always be hearing words that are unfavorable to the course others are pursuing. If the Doctor looks upon the warnings that he received as being unimportant because words have been spoken and letters have been written to me, it is his privilege to do so. He can continue to have the same mind, refusing to accept the Testimonies given through me, because he thinks in his heart, “Somebody has influenced her; somebody has told her.” (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 4)

It has made me very sad to know that this temptation has come to some. The Lord has charged me to enter into no controversy with any one who, when a message comes, shall ask, “Who has told Sister White?” I am neither to admit nor to deny such charges, but to state the facts as God has given me instruction in various ways at different times and in many places. If I do not speak, I am accountable for withholding the light. I have withheld from anyone the instruction that the Lord has given me. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 5)

I have so great an interest to see the Doctor follow on to know the Lord, that I shall try to do my utmost to remove every dark shadow that might cause him to walk in strange paths. I shall listen to every word that he says. If he speaks right words, I shall thank my heavenly Father. If he speaks words, the truth concerning which I know much better than he himself because of the instruction that the Lord has given me, I shall never try to please him by calling darkness light and light darkness; for by so doing I should be imperiling his soul. If I speak at all, I shall always try to speak the truth—that which is based on a “Thus saith the Lord.” Whatever interpretation may be placed upon my words, whether they are received or rejected, I shall not refrain from speaking, unless I am instructed by the Lord to remain silent. When certain things come to pass, I must speak in order to prevent them from being carried any further. And I must speak not only into his ears, but into the ears of men in places of responsibility who are unacquainted with the facts and the result of his disregard of the messages that God gives. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 6)

I know Dr. Kellogg’s dangers in home life, in church capacity, and in his connection with the worldly minded. Many things have taken place that I well know the Doctor has not understood, and that he will not receive as truth before a certain time, when a door will open before his mind, and the Spirit of God will lead him to see that he has laid on the foundation as precious material that which will not bear the test of fire. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 7)

During the past ten years these things have pained me exceedingly. When I sent from Australia for means to enable us to build a sanitarium near Sydney, there should have been a prompt and hearty response. This would have exerted an influence that would have led others to sacrifice, and as the result the Sanitarium in Australia would have been completed and in running order long ago. But the Doctor made himself believe that the debt on the Battle Creek Sanitarium was a sufficient excuse for not sending means to us in Australia to establish a sanitarium to give character to the work in that needy field. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 8)

I was instructed that as the Lord had led my husband and myself and the many other helping hands to sacrifice in order to establish the Battle Creek Sanitarium, so it was the Lord’s purpose for the managers of the long-established medical institution to help establish other medical institutions in destitute fields. They should have been anxious and glad to see a memorial established in Australia, for this was God’s will concerning them. But they did not heed the invitation. The work that they might have done, they did not do. Dr. Kellogg and his brother made a personal gift, but this was not fulfilling the requirement. Certain ideas prevailed that were not inspired of God. Certain things were done that have brought great discouragement to our work and workers in Australia. Had the Doctor and his associates heeded the word of God at that time, the medical work in Australia would be years in advance of what it now is. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 9)

God does not sanction any plan, born either in council meetings or in any person’s mind, that will lead to the framing of certain laws restricting the operations of all our sanitariums, and binding them to the Battle Creek Sanitarium, which was the first medical institution by the donations and the self-sacrificing efforts of our people. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 10)

When the interests of God’s cause demanded that funds should be sent to the barren field of Australia to establish a sanitarium there, a prompt response should have been made. The word of the Lord came to me to appeal to the Battle Creek institution for means. We asked for no gift from Dr. Kellogg, but from the Sanitarium—the institution that was boastingly spoken of as being the greatest sanitarium in the world. Notwithstanding the fact that the institution has had a good patronage, it has never heeded this call. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 11)

Although the Battle Creek Sanitarium has done much to establish other sanitariums in America, the heavenly universe has beheld with sadness their neglect of the unfinished Sanitarium in Australia. This neglect has been dishonoring to God and has placed in great perplexity the workers who have made every exertion to do all in their power to put up the building and to get it into running order. This uncompleted institution might have been finished long ago, if the brethren in America had done their duty. The impression made upon the people in Australia is anything but favorable. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 12)

It is a crime in benevolence to establish that which is not so manifestly necessary, and to neglect the very work that the Lord has specified should be done. Men freely spend money on things that God does not inspire them to do, and leave undone the things that He has signified they should do. Such a course has been pursued by the managers of the Battle Creek Sanitarium. These actions call for a decided change in the order of things. One man’s mind, one man’s judgment, is not to be depended upon as supreme; for just so surely as this is done, judgment will be turned into feebleness. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 13)

I have tried to keep the way of the Lord before the people, and especially before Dr. Kellogg, in order that he should not place confidence in his judgment as supreme. It is a crime in benevolence to do benevolent work in some uncalled-for manner, leaving untouched the very work of benevolence in which the Lord calls upon His people to engage. There are important interests that demand the support of God’s people, in order that doors may be opened in new fields. Often means are not appropriated as they should be. Many donors err not only in what they do, but in what they leave undone. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 14)

A different manner of working is to be brought in. It is not right to appropriate money only when it is agreeable to do so; nor is it right to fail of taking a deep and earnest interest in ascertaining the true situation in missionary fields, in order to know the needs of each field. Australia and the Southern field have long stood reprovingly barren and unworked. Those who have looked on these destitute fields, and passed by on the other side, will have something to answer for in the day of judgment. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 15)

True beneficence means more than mere gifts. It means a liberal interest in the welfare of others. It means to be a helping medical missionary of God’s appointment. It means to teach the improvident the need of economy. There are thousands of the widows and the fatherless, the young and the aged, the afflicted and the crippled, who should be taught how to have more than a few pennies and some old clothes. Many are confined to their beds, unable to work. But those who can work should be made to realize that if they do not work, they shall not be fed. Every one who is capable of eating a square meal is capable of working to pay for that meal. If made to work for his food, he will be made to appreciate the money-value of strength and time. Such beneficence carries with it valuable lessons. It not only ministers to the needs of the unfortunate poor, but teaches them how to care for themselves. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 16)

God desires that Dr. Kellogg shall not work selfishly for that which is nearest him. He is not to use much-needed money in a vague, careless way, taking little pains to ascertain the results of the gifts made. Our brethren have made gifts to responsible men; and these stewards, to whom money has been entrusted for wise use, could have gained the approval of God in sharing with the needy fields some of the donations placed in their hands. The sharing of these donations would have evidenced that the Holy Spirit was working upon human minds. Especially should those, to whom money has been entrusted, have assisted the fields to which the Lord has called special attention. Money was called for to assist the medical work in Australia. True, it would have taken time and caused some trouble to give personal attention to this call, but it was highly essential that the help be given. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 17)

In many a new field, the workers, burdened with the cases of men and women in physical and spiritual suffering, realize what a blessing a sanitarium would be to the cause in their field. They call upon the Lord for assistance, expecting that at the right time He will move upon the heart of some one who has power to help them improve the condition of things. And such prayers will be answered, if the Lord’s trustees will recognize the call as coming to them, and respond liberally with the means entrusted to them for use in the Master’s service. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 18)

At this time God’s cause is in need of men and women who possess rare qualifications and good administrative powers; persons who will make patient, thorough investigation of the needs of the work in various fields; persons who have a large capacity for work; persons who possess kind and warm hearts, cool heads, sound sense, and unbiased judgment; persons who are sanctified by the Spirit of God, and can fearlessly say No or Yea and Amen to propositions; persons who have strong convictions, clear understanding, and pure, sympathetic hearts; persons who practice the words, “All ye are brethren” [Matthew 23:8]; persons who strive to uplift and restore fallen humanity. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 19)

*****

The Meeting at College View

Dr. Kellogg said to me all that he had to say with regard to the transaction at College View. I told him that I was not then prepared to respond to what he said, but that if matters were presented to me in a light different from what they had been presented, I should let him know. But this transaction and its results have not been presented to me in any different light; therefore I am not at liberty to change the message I have borne concerning this matter. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 20)

If the men in positions of responsibility would reason correctly, if they would do to others as they would be done by, there would be no need for me to bear any testimony, because they would eat and digest the Word of God, bringing its principles into the daily practice. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 21)

Dr. Kellogg is ever to feel that he is in service to God. But the warnings I have given for years have not been heeded. Dr. Kellogg is grasping too many responsibilities. He speaks before congregations when he needs rest, and works when he needs sleep; and the result is that he is not always as careful as he should be of the words he speaks before those he is educating. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 22)

*****

The Production of Health Foods

Dr. Kellogg, you are making a mistake about the handling of the food question. The same One who gave the manna to the Israelites will give knowledge to His children today. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 23)

Of the giving of the manna we read: “The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel: speak unto them, saying, At even ye shall eat flesh, and in the morning ye shall be filled with bread; and ye shall know that I am the Lord your God.... And when the dew that lay was gone up, behold, upon the face of the wilderness there lay a small round thing, as small as the hoar frost on the ground. And when the children of Israel saw it, they said to one another, It is manna; for they wist not what it was. And Moses said unto them, This is the bread which the Lord hath given you to eat. This is the thing which the Lord hath commanded, Gather of it every man according to his eating, an omer for every man, according to the number of your persons; take ye every man for them which are in his tents. And the children of Israel did so, and gathered, some more, some less. And when they did mete it with an omer, he that gathered much had nothing over, and he that gathered little had no lack; they gathered every man according to his eating.” [Exodus 16:11, 12, 14-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 24)

God has given you and those associated with you skill and understanding. And He will give others also skill and understanding. It is not His design that one man shall be abundantly blessed with light and knowledge in regard to the food question, while others are left in ignorance. He does not intend that His goods shall be entrusted to one man or one company of men. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 25)

“Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent. They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work? Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 26)

“Then said Jesus unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. And Jesus said unto them, I am the Bread of Life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger, and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.” [John 6:28-35.] (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 27)

To many in different places the Lord will give intelligence in regard to health foods. He can spread a table in the wilderness. Health foods should be prepared by our churches who are trying to practice the principles of health reform. But as surely as they should do this, some would say that they were infringing on their rights. But who gave them wisdom to prepare these foods? The God of heaven. That same God will give wisdom to His people in the different countries to use the productions of these countries in preparing health foods. In simple, inexpensive ways, our people are to experiment with the fruits and grains and roots in the country in which they live. In the different countries, inexpensive health foods are to be manufactured for the benefit of the poor (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 28)

The message God has given me is that His people in foreign lands are not to depend for their supply of health foods on the importation of health foods from America. The freight and the duty make the cost of these foods so high that the poor, who are just as precious in the sight of God as the wealthy, cannot have the advantage of them. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 29)

Health foods are God’s productions, and He will teach His people in missionary fields so to combine the productions of the earth that simple, inexpensive, wholesome foods will be provided. If they will seek wisdom from God, He will teach them how to plan and devise . I am instructed to say, “Forbid them not.” (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 30)

“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 on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 31)

“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 same 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. And unto the angel of the church in Philadelphia write, 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; for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.” [Revelation 3:1-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 32)

God’s door is open to His people. He will instruct them. He will give them skill and understanding. The Lord will magnify His name, . (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 33)

“Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. Behold, I come quickly; hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out; and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God, and I will write upon him my new name.” [Verses 10-12.] (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 34)

When the message comes to those who have not heard the truth for this time, they see that a great reformation must take place in their diet. They see that they must put away flesh food, because it creates an appetite for liquor and fills the system with disease. By meat-eating, the physical, mental, and moral powers are weakened. Man is built up from that which he eats. Animal passions bear sway as the result of meat-eating, tobacco-using, and liquor-drinking. The Lord will give His people wisdom to prepare from that which the earth yields, foods that will take the place of flesh meat. Simple combinations of nuts and grains and fruits, manufactured with taste and skill, will commend themselves to unbelievers. But as a usual thing, too many nuts are used in the combinations made. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 35)

*****

Signing Agreements

I must now say that our sanitariums are to respect Dr. Kellogg. And Dr. Kellogg is to respect the Lord’s appointed agencies in different lines just as profoundly as he desires his own line of work to be respected. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 36)

My brother, whom I respect in the Lord, I desire to say to you that in presenting your documents for signature by those in our sanitariums, you do not see the outcome of this matter. You do not see how deleterious is the influence you exert upon your own character in trying to bring those in our sanitariums under written pledges. Thus you are striving to place yourself in a position which God never designed you to occupy. No one is to claim kingly power over God’s heritage. God’s people are to be under Christ. There is one Shepherd, and He has one flock. The Lord has not given all power to the Battle Creek Sanitarium. Humanity is not divinity. Not all your methods are inspired of God. The greatest temptations come to the men who bear the greatest responsibilities. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 37)

To you and to every worker in medical lines in connection with the cause of God are addressed the words spoken by Paul to Timothy, “Take heed to thyself and to the doctrine.” [1 Timothy 4:16.] “Thyself” needs to be sternly dealt with. You need to make a close investigation of self, that you shall not, in principle or action, misrepresent the Lord. The past experience is to be closely reviewed. Every motive is to be carefully examined. The heart must be cleansed of all selfishness. Every ambitious project that is contrary to the Word of God is to be put aside. You need to stand in preparedness before God. Unless the root is holy, the fruit will show marked defects. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 38)

The word is spoken to me to speak to you, “I have not found thy works perfect before God.” [Revelation 3:2.] I therefore give these words to you. The Lord will not accept the most splendid service that means the putting of the least yoke upon His people. We are to frame no yokes for our fellow men. God’s word to us is that we are to break every yoke. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 39)

The document you sent to me at this place was read to me by Sister Druillard. A few days afterward, as I was praying, a scene passed before me. The results of the transactions of this scene were presented to me as very objectionable. Then again, other scenes passed before me, similar to those presented to me when I was at Summer Hill, when I was instructed to tell Dr. Caro and Brother Sharp that writings would come to them containing conditions that they were not to accept or endorse. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 40)

I saw a paper unrolled before these brethren, and One of dignity arose, and said, Put not your name to any writing that binds you to do or to refrain from doing certain things. It is not God’s plan that you should sign such agreements. This document is of man’s production. That which will take place in the future, you know not. God says, I will turn and overturn. For you to sign an agreement saying what you will do and what you will not do in the future is not in God’s order. He who knows the end from the beginning understands what is in man’s heart and what are the dangers of the men to whom God has entrusted great responsibilities. Man is not to assume more than God has given him. If he walks humbly with God, the good hand of the Lord will be with him. If he yields to ambition to carry out a work of his own, according to his own plans, a work in which he is benevolent where he chooses to be benevolent, and selfish where he chooses to be selfish, a condition of things will be brought in that will dishonor God and His truth. Oppression will come in. Human power will be exercised in accordance with the terms of the agreements made and signed in the past, agreements deemed essential to protect the interests of the health food business and to give the sanitarium work financial success. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 41)

When men attach their names to these agreements, they are acting as blind men. Let men remember that they cannot control Providence, that they cannot shape or hinder circumstances. Christ declares, “There shall be one fold and one shepherd.” [John 10:16.] (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 42)

Too much power is invested in humanity when a man has it in his power to rule or ruin. The true and living God is to be exalted. All nations are to hear the proclamation of the gospel message. Many, convicted and converted, will bow in humility before the Lord, making an unreserved consecration of themselves to Him. The message is to go to all parts of the world. “Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is none else. I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.” [Isaiah 45:22, 23.] The words inscribed on the Lord’s temple harmonize with His unlimited invitation of mercy, “My house shall be called a house of prayer for all people.” It shall proclaim that I, the living God, sit upon My throne as Ruler, giving audience to the world. And what is the response? “Let all the people praise thee, O God, let all the people praise thee; and let the whole earth be filled with thy glory.” [See Psalm 67:3; 72:19.] (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 43)

There is need of loyalty to principles. But a pledge from one who does not feel the need of obeying the Word of the Lord is valueless. The placing of signatures to documents will not ensure honesty, neither will it ensure the exercise of justice, mercy, and the love of God. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 44)

The Lord would have the restraints broken that keep His work bound about. Those who unite with Christ are not to accept yokes that will prove a hindrance to them in their work for Him. He says, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 45)

It is not God’s will that any man or any company of men shall gather to themselves such large responsibilities as some are doing. Let men remember that they are but human, and that the church militant is not the church triumphant. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 46)

The future is before us, and unforeseen events will surely take place, changing the present aspect of things in the world. “The wicked shall do wickedly, and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.” [Daniel 12:10.] Every truly converted soul will put on the whole armor of God, and will bravely face the unseen foe. God’s servants need to realize the necessity of partaking of the divine nature, having overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust. Lust and greed are striving for the supremacy. Oppression and hatred will be exercised to destroy. Inspired by a power from beneath, Satan’s instrumentalities will work with intensity to carry out his will. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 47)

I was instructed to tell our people to read carefully the thirty-fourth chapter of Ezekiel, and to guard against acting under the power of the great deceiver. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 48)

With great solemnity the words were repeated, “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.” [Ephesians 6:10-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 49)

Now is our time of peril. Our only safety is in walking in the footsteps of Christ, and wearing His yoke. Troublous times are before us. In many instances, friends will become alienated. Without cause, men will become our enemies. The motives of the people of God will be misinterpreted. The Lord’s servants will be put in hard places. A mountain will be made out of a molehill to justify wicked men in pursuing toward them an unrighteous course. The work that men have done faithfully will be disparaged and underrated because apparent prosperity does not attend their efforts. By misrepresentation, these men will be clothed in the dark vestments of dishonesty when circumstances beyond their control make their work perplexing. They will be pointed to as men that cannot be trusted. And this will be done by the members of the church. God’s servants must arm themselves with the mind of Christ. They must not expect to escape insult and misjudgment. They will be called enthusiasts and fanatics. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 50)

In view of these things, God calls upon His people to be bright lights in the world, shining amid the darkness of sin. Living the life of the Life-giver brings its reward. He went about doing good. This every true follower of His will do, filled with a sacred sense of his loyalty to God and his duty to his fellow beings. Through the knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus, Christians are to grow in grace, constantly drawing nearer perfection of character. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 51)

To the lawyer who asked what he should do to inherit eternal life, Christ said, “What is written in the law? How readest thou? And he 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.” [Luke 10:25-28.] (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 52)

The Lord calls for decided changes. These changes must be brought about. There is coming into the medical missionary work a spirit of selfishness that God will not endorse. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 53)

*****

The Establishment of Sanitariums

At an early hour I am aroused by the word, Write out the things that I have presented to you. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 54)

In the building of the tabernacle, tact and skill were given to the Israelites. To His people today, the Lord will give tact and skill to do His work. To all who have a part in His cause He will impart wisdom. But they must depend wholly on Him. They must be willing to be controlled and guided by Him. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 55)

Some, on their own responsibility, have taken up sanitarium work. Some have entered into this work as a speculation, hoping to make money. They have learned that it means much to engage in sanitarium work. Their principal aim was not to heal the sick, but to make money. They did not enter into their work for the purpose of doing missionary work. They did not labor as consecrated, devoted believers, seeking to impart light to those in darkness. They did not hold up the principles of health reform. Some were opposed to health reform; others were only half converted on the question of health reform. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 56)

Several have started out in sanitarium work for the purpose of showing what “I can do.” They did not first sit down and count the cost, asking themselves whether, after taking up the work, they would be able to carry it forward successfully. Instead of moving cautiously, with the strictest economy, they made large investments on borrowed capital. They were sure that they could carry forward the work without becoming involved in debt. They did not work out their salvation with fear and trembling, and they brought trouble to the cause. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 57)

If our physicians could be willing to unite with men who have made a success of financial management; if they would cheerfully remain in the lower story until they knew that they could safely rise to a higher story; if they would resolutely refuse to pile up a debt at the very beginning of the enterprise, they would be blessed in their work. If they would depend on the help of God, putting their trust in Him, and showing themselves willing to begin small and to let the merit of their work speak for itself; if they would make it their determination to exert a saving influence in the world, many more sanitariums, could be established as representatives of the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 58)

The Lord has instructed me to warn those who establish sanitariums in new places to begin their work in humility. They are to consecrate their abilities to God, to be used to the glory of His name. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 59)

The sanitariums established in the future are not to be immense, expensive buildings. They are to be smaller than our sanitariums have been in the past, and there are to be more of them. Small sanitariums are to be established in connection with our schools. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 60)

Sanitariums are to be established in places outside the cities. Connected with them there are to be men and women of ability and consecration, who will conduct them in the love and fear of God. These institutions are to be training-schools. Those who act a part in them are not to feel that they are prepared for graduation, that they know all they need to know. They are to study diligently and practice carefully the lessons Christ has given. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 61)

*****

Dependence on Christ

It is God’s purpose that His people shall constantly increase in ability, in tact, in skill. To each one He says, “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” [2 Timothy 2:15.] God has ordained that men and women shall learn where to go to find the Source of strength. “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not.” [James 1:5.] Why are we so reluctant to take the help He offers? Why do we so often seek to quench our thirst at broken cisterns? Why are we so well satisfied to lean on human beings for aid? Why do we turn to humanity for help? God “giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not.” But he who asks must ask in faith, nothing wavering. “For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord.” [Verses 6, 7.] We shall receive according to our faith. We need much larger faith in God as our sure Helper, our Sufficiency, our exceeding great Reward. Why are we so weak? Because we do not act like Christians. We go for help to some one who is powerless to help us unless he first receives wisdom from on high. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 62)

Our churches need a deeper sense of the power of the Saviour. As individuals and churches we have been relying on men. But before they can help us, they must receive wisdom from Christ. And the way to Him is open to us as well as to them. Christ has invited us to come to Him. “The Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” [Revelation 22:17.] Shall we comply with this invitation? We have accustomed ourselves to think that we must receive our wisdom from human sources. This is why we are so weak and strengthless. We have not been drinking of the Fountain of eternal life. Our spirituality is drying up because we are drinking from broken cisterns. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 63)

The instruction given me was decided. The cross of Christ stood out before me in vivid representation. Pointing to the cross, the One of Authority said, “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.” [1 Corinthians 1:18.] The question was asked, Why are you so weak? Why are you so inefficient? Why do you not look to Jesus, who is not only the Author, but the Finisher of your faith? (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 64)

Much was said, and as the hearts of the disciples burned within them while Jesus talked to them on the way to Emmaus, so it seemed that on this occasion our hearts burned within us. We were filled with rejoicing. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 65)

Study the first chapter of first Corinthians. This chapter is full of the encouragement of success. Paul writes: “I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; that in everything ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you;so that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ;who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. 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.” [Verses 4-10.] (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 66)

The entire chapter is a lesson that none of us should be slow to learn. May the Lord of heaven give you His grace, that these words may impress you as they have impressed me. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 67)

“Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another in brotherly love; in honor preferring one another.” [Romans 12:9, 10.] There is danger that our example will not be in harmony with our profession. There are some who need to learn to distinguish between sentiment and reality, between profession and practice. Many unbelievers learn that between the profession and practice of believers there is a wide difference, to a loss of their confidence in the truth, or in those who profess to believe the truth. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 68)

Outward connection with the church is worthless unless the principles of the truth are cherished in the heart and practiced in the life. Many make a profession of service to God and really show zeal in church work, and yet they do not cherish an abiding Christ. If the heart is given wholly to Christ, the life will reveal the fruit of the Spirit. There will be seen a zeal that is according to knowledge, a zeal in harmony with Bible truth and with duty. Holiness unto the Lord will be manifest in the experience. A kind spirit, full of usefulness and helpfulness, will be cherished. (16LtMs, Ms 156, 1901, 69)

Ms 156a, 1901

Unheeded Warnings I.
South Lancaster, Massachusetts
November 27, 1901
Variant of Ms 156, 1901. This manuscript is published in entirety in BCL 43-47. +

The Lord has again shown me some things with reference to Dr. Kellogg’s dangers. May the Lord give me much of His Holy Spirit, for of myself I cannot do the work that God has committed to me. And unless God shall influence the minds of Dr. Kellogg and his associates, they will surely say, “Who has been talking with Sister White?” My answer is, “One who is in authority.” But the question, “Who has been talking with Sister White?” by whomsoever asked, shows a lack of confidence in the work that the Lord has given me to do. It shows that this work is not appreciated. (16LtMs, Ms 156a, 1901, 1)

Is it so that if, when the Testimonies come to our brethren, they harmonize with their ideas and plans, they are confident that they are of God; but that if, when they come, they do not harmonize with their cherished plans, they regard them as of no special value? If this is so, how can the message I bear fulfil the purpose for which it is sent? What power to help is there in the message I bear if when leading men receive from me a communication that cuts across their plans, they have so little faith in the testimonies as to say that I have been influenced by my son or by some member of my family, or by some one else nigh or afar off? It is hard for me to believe that this is the true measure of their confidence. When the Testimonies reprove men of experience, who are bearing large responsibilities, are we to expect that they will endeavor to justify themselves as others of less experience have done? This is the temptation to which many yield, and by yielding they lose the benefits and blessings that they might receive by accepting the message. (16LtMs, Ms 156a, 1901, 2)

Suppose that some one had talked with me concerning the work of Dr. Kellogg and other leading men. Do you think that I would dare to mingle these words and thoughts with the messages that the Lord gives me for these brethren? While we are in this world, we shall always hear words of criticism regarding the course that others are pursuing. If my brethren look upon the warnings that they have received as being unimportant because of words that have been spoken and letters that have been written to me, if they refuse to accept the Testimonies given through me, because they think in their hearts, “Somebody has influenced Sister White; somebody has told her,” they must bear the responsibility of the influence of this course of action upon themselves and others. (16LtMs, Ms 156a, 1901, 3)

It makes me very sad to know that some have yielded to this temptation. The Lord has charged me to enter into no controversy with any one who, when a message comes, shall ask, “Who has told Sister White?” I am neither to admit nor to deny such charges, but to state the facts according to the instruction that God has given me at different times and in many places. If I do not speak, I am accountable for withholding the light. I have not wittingly withheld from any one the instruction that the Lord has given me; but many times I have had cautions to defer speaking until the time of danger makes it necessary to speak. (16LtMs, Ms 156a, 1901, 4)

I have so great an interest to see Dr. Kellogg following on to know the Lord, that I shall try to do my utmost to remove every shadow that might cause him to walk in strange paths. I shall listen to every word that he has to say to me. If he speaks right words, I shall thank my heavenly Father. If he speaks words, the truth concerning which I know much better than he himself, I shall never try to please him by calling darkness light and light darkness; for by so doing I should be imperilling his soul. If I speak at all, I shall always try to speak the truth—that which is based on a “Thus saith the Lord.” Whatever interpretation may be placed upon my words, or whether they are received or rejected, I shall not refrain from speaking, unless I am instructed by the Lord to be silent. When certain things come to pass, I must speak in order to prevent wrong plans from being carried any further. And I must speak not only to Dr. Kellogg, but also to other men in positions of responsibility who are unacquainted with the facts and with the result of a disregard of the messages that God has given. (16LtMs, Ms 156a, 1901, 5)

I know Dr. Kellogg’s dangers in his home life, in church capacity, and in his connection with men of the world. Many things have taken place that the Doctor has not understood, and messages have been sent to him that I well know he will not receive as truth before a certain time, when a door will open before his mind, and the Spirit of God will lead him to see that he has laid on the foundation as precious material that which will not bear the test of fire. (16LtMs, Ms 156a, 1901, 6)

*****

A Failure to Help

During the past ten years these things have pained me exceedingly. When I sent from Australia for means to enable us to build a sanitarium near Sydney, there should have been a prompt and hearty response. This would have exerted an influence that would have led others to sacrifice, and as the result, the sanitarium in Australia would long ago have been completed and set in running order. But the Doctor made himself believe that the debt on the Battle Creek Sanitarium was a sufficient excuse for not sending means to us in Australia to help in establishing a sanitarium that would give character to the work in that needy field. (16LtMs, Ms 156a, 1901, 7)

I was instructed that as the Lord had led my husband and myself and the many other helping hands to sacrifice in order to establish the Battle Creek Sanitarium, so it was the Lord’s purpose for the managers of the long-established and prosperous medical institution at the heart of the work to help to establish other medical institutions in destitute fields, even if doing this led them to limit their expenditure for their own convenience. They should have been anxious and glad to see a memorial established in Australia, for this was God’s will concerning them. But they did not heed the invitation. The work that they might have done, they did not do. Dr. Kellogg and his brother made personal gifts, but this was not fulfilling the Lord’s requirement. Certain ideas prevailed that were not inspired of God. Certain things were done that have brought great discouragement to our work and workers in Australia, . Had the Doctor and his associates heeded the word of God at that time, the medical work in Australia would be years in advance of what it now is. (16LtMs, Ms 156a, 1901, 8)

God does not sanction any plan, born either in council meetings or in any individual mind, that leads to the framing of certain laws binding about and restricting the operations of the Battle Creek Sanitarium, or of any of our other sanitariums, from using a portion of their earnings to build up sanitarium work in any other part of the world, in response to the call of God. (16LtMs, Ms 156a, 1901, 9)

When the interests of God’s cause demanded that funds should be sent to the barren field of Australia to establish a sanitarium there, a prompt response should have been made. The word of the Lord came to me to appeal to the Battle Creek Sanitarium for means. We asked for no gift from Dr. Kellogg, but from the Sanitarium—the institution that was boastingly spoken of as being the greatest sanitarium in the world. But notwithstanding the fact that the institution had a good patronage, its managers did not heed the call to help. (16LtMs, Ms 156a, 1901, 10)

The managers of the Battle Creek Sanitarium have done much to establish other sanitariums in America, but the heavenly universe has beheld with sadness their neglect of the unfinished sanitarium in Australia. This neglect has been dishonoring to God, and has placed in great perplexity the workers who have made every exertion to do all in their power to erect the building and to place it in running order. This uncompleted institution has been a testimony against us. It might have been finished long ago, if the brethren in America who were handling the Lord’s money had done their duty. The impression made on the people in Australia is anything but favorable. (16LtMs, Ms 156a, 1901, 11)

I have tried to keep the way of the Lord before our people, and especially before Dr. Kellogg, in order that he should not place confidence in his judgment as supreme. A different manner of working is to be brought in. There are important interests that demand the support of God’s people, in order that doors may be opened in new fields. Australia and the Southern field have long stood reprovingly barren and unworked. Those who have looked on these destitute fields, and passed by on the other side, will have much to answer for in the day of judgment. On the books of heaven is recorded the selfishness shown in the disproportionate support given to certain lines of work, to the neglect of other lines. (16LtMs, Ms 156a, 1901, 12)

*****

The Meaning of True Beneficence

True beneficence means more than mere gifts. It means a liberal interest in the welfare of the various branches of God’s work. It means to be a medical missionary of God’s appointment. It means to teach the improvident the need of economy. There are thousands of the widows and the fatherless, the young and the aged, the afflicted and the crippled, who should be taught how to help themselves. Many, confined to their beds, are unable to work. But those who can work should be made to realize that if they do not work, they shall not be fed. Every one who is capable of eating a square meal is capable of working to pay for that meal. If made to pay for his food, he will appreciate the money-value of strength and time. Such beneficence carries with it valuable lessons. It not only ministers to the needs of the poor, but teaches them how to care for themselves. (16LtMs, Ms 156a, 1901, 13)

God’s stewards are not to work selfishly only for that which is nearest them. They are not to use much-needed money in a vague, careless way, taking little pains to ascertain the results of the appropriations. Our brethren have sometimes placed gifts in the hands of responsible men, asking them to use it where it was most needed. These stewards could have gained the approval of God by sharing with needy mission fields some of the money thus placed in their hands. The sharing of these donations with needy fields would have evidenced that the Holy Spirit was working on human minds. Especially should the fields to which the Lord had called attention have been assisted. (16LtMs, Ms 156a, 1901, 14)

In many a new field, the workers, burdened with the cases of men and women in physical and spiritual suffering, call upon the Lord for assistance. They see what a blessing a sanitarium would be to the cause in their new and destitute field, and they pray for help, expecting that at the right time, God will move upon the hearts of His stewards of means to help them, to provide the means for the establishment of medical missionary work. Such prayers are heard, and their answer will be seen if the Lord’s trustees will recognize the calls of the needy missionaries and respond liberally. (16LtMs, Ms 156a, 1901, 15)

God’s cause at this time is in special need of men and women who possess Christlike qualifications for service, executive ability, and a large capacity for work; who have kind, warm, sympathetic hearts, sound common sense, and unbiased judgment; who will carefully weigh matters before they approve or condemn; and who can fearlessly say No or Yea and Amen; who, because they are sanctified by the Spirit of God, practice the words, “All ye are brethren,” striving constantly to uplift and restore fallen humanity. [Matthew 23:8.] (16LtMs, Ms 156a, 1901, 16)

Ms 156b, 1901

Unheeded Warnings II.
South Lancaster, Massachusetts
November 27, 1901
Variant of Ms 156, 1901. Portions of this manuscript are published in UL 177. +

The Signing of Agreements

To the managers of our sanitariums, and to our physicians, nurses, and medical missionary workers throughout the world, I am instructed to say that it is our duty highly to respect Dr. J. H. Kellogg and his associates in the medical missionary work at Battle Creek. We should feel profoundly thankful for what God has wrought through the labors of His faithful servants in the Battle Creek Sanitarium, and especially for Dr. Kellogg’s steadfast adherence to and advocacy of the principles of hygienic reform. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 1)

The Lord has placed Dr. Kellogg in an important position, and his brethren are to honor and respect him and to hold up his hands for the carrying forward of his God-given work. His influence will be a blessing as he works in connection with his brethren and in accordance with the plans of the great Master-worker. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 2)

But while Dr. Kellogg is to be respected and honored, while we are to recognize the fact that God uses him as a channel through which to communicate light to His people, we are in no case to place him where God should be, as our Wisdom, our Instructor, our infallible Guide. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 3)

The Lord has reproved those who claim to believe present truth for failing to co-operate with Dr. Kellogg and his faithful co-workers in walking in the light of health reform. Dr. Kellogg is to stand as God’s physician and is to do an exalted work. But if he is left to follow his own judgment in all things, he will make mistakes. He is laboring beyond his strength. He is doing three times as much as he should do. This is not God’s will. By thus overworking, he is shortening his life. He is God’s property, and he should keep himself hidden with Christ in God. Dr. Kellogg must not embrace so much as he has done in the past. And in some things, his planning must be different. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 4)

To the leaders in the medical missionary work I must say that no one is to claim kingly power over God’s heritage. God’s people are to be under Him, and Him alone. There is one Shepherd, and He has one flock. The Lord knows the future. He is the One to be looked to and trusted in to guide and guard and direct in the future development of the various branches of His work. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 5)

For several years I have been warned that there is danger, constant danger, of men’s looking to men for permission to do this or that, instead of looking to God for themselves. Thus they become weaklings, bound about with human ties that God has not ordained. The Lord can impress minds and consciences to do His work under bonds to Him, and in a brotherly fraternity that will be in accordance with His law. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 6)

The Lord has not given wisdom regarding the medical missionary work only to the men associated in this work at Battle Creek. Humanity is not divinity. The most talented men in our ranks are not infallible. Not all their methods are inspired of God. They make mistakes, and they will continue to make mistakes if they do not walk in humble faith before God. The greatest temptations come to the men who bear the greatest responsibilities. Our only safety is in humbling the heart daily before God and watching diligently lest any threads of selfishness are woven into the work. Let us so labor that it will be plainly seen that self is dead, and that our work bears the signature of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 7)

To every medical worker in connection with the cause of God are addressed the words spoken by Paul to Timothy, “Take heed to thyself, and to the doctrine.” [1 Timothy 4:16.] We need to examine ourselves closely, and to renounce every plan or principle that will lead us to misrepresent the Lord. The past experience is to be closely reviewed. Every motive is to be critically examined. Every ambitious project that is contrary to the Word of God is to be put aside. We are to stand in preparedness before God. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 8)

The word given to me to speak to you is, “I have not found thy works perfect before God.” [Revelation 3:2.] The Lord will not accept the most splendid service that means the putting of the least yoke upon His people. We are to frame no yokes for our fellow men. God’s Word to us is that we are to break every yoke. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 9)

A copy of the proposed agreement between the Medical Association and those establishing branch sanitariums was read to me by Sister Druillard. A few days afterward, as I was praying, a scene passed before me, representing the unfavorable results of the transactions that would follow the signing of this agreement. Other scenes also passed before me, similar to those presented to me when I was at Summer Hill, a few weeks before our return to America. At that time, representations of movements in America passed before me. I saw agreements drawn up for presentation to our people. In these agreements there were terms and conditions that should not be accepted. On no account should our brethren bind themselves by agreeing to such propositions. I was instructed that we know but little of what is before us, and that God forbids us to bind ourselves by contracts in order to secure means. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 10)

I was instructed to tell Brethren Caro and Sharp that propositions would come to them containing conditions that they were not to accept or endorse. I saw a paper unrolled before these brethren, and One of dignity arose, and said, “Put not your name to any writing that binds you to do or to refrain from doing certain things in business lines. It is not God’s plan that you should sign such agreements. This document is of man’s production. That which will take place in the future, you know not. God says, ‘I will turn and overturn.’ (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 11)

“For you to sign an agreement saying what you will do and what you will not do in the future, is not in God’s order. He who knows the end from the beginning understands what is in man’s heart, and what are the dangers of the men to whom God has entrusted great responsibilities. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 12)

“Man is not to assume more than God has given him. If he walks humbly with God, the good hand of the Lord will be with him. If he yields to his ambition to carry out a work of his own, according to his own plans, a work in which he is benevolent where he chooses to be benevolent, and selfish where he chooses to be selfish, a condition of things will be brought in that will dishonor God and His truth. Oppression will come in. Human power will be exercised in accordance with the terms of the agreements made and signed in the past, agreements deemed essential to protect the interests of the health food business and to give the sanitarium work financial security and support.” (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 13)

I have been instructed that rules and regulations are being brought in that God does not approve. The Lord forbids the signing of the agreements that have been prepared for our sanitariums in America and in other countries. It is not His will that every sanitarium and bath house established by our people shall be brought under one control. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 14)

Those who seek to bind up the work in distant fields with the work at Battle Creek, by means of these agreements, are assuming too much responsibility. They must not take to themselves power that God has not given them. They must not place themselves where the people will look to them instead of looking to God. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 15)

Christ did not follow any human model. He says to His servants, “Break every yoke that men may seek to bind upon you. Do not accept any yoke that will hinder your present or future movements in My service. Stand free. Take only My yoke. When you are yoked up with Me, My words will make their impress upon your characters.” (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 16)

All the plans formulated for our people will need to be thoroughly and carefully examined. No threads of human devising are to be drawn into the web. Unless we watch and pray diligently, the enemy will come in to spoil the pattern. Human ambition must not lead us to embrace too much in our plans. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 17)

Too much power is invested in humanity when matters are so arranged that one man, or a small group of men, have it in their power to rule or to ruin the work of their fellow laborers. In the erection of medical institutions and the development of their work, there is not to be a ruling, kingly power as there has been in the past. The kingly power formerly exhibited in the General Conference is not to be perpetuated. The publishing work is not to be a kingdom of itself. It is essential that the principles that govern in General Conference affairs shall be maintained in the management of the publishing work and the sanitarium work. No one is to think that the branch of work with which he is connected is of vastly more importance than other branches. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 18)

The division of the General Conference into district union conferences was God’s arrangement. In the work of the Lord for these last days there are to be no Jerusalem centers, no kingly power. And the work in the different countries is not to be tied up by contracts to the work centering in Battle Creek, for this is not God’s plan. Brethren are to counsel together, for we are just as much under the control of God in one part of His vineyard as in another. Brethren are to be one in heart and soul, even as Christ and the Father are one. Teach this, practice this, that we may be one with Christ in God, all working to build up one another. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 19)

Educational work must be faithfully done in every sanitarium that is established. There is necessity for the managers of every institution to become more and more intelligent regarding their work. They need not depend on the managers of another institution for guidance, but looking to God as their Instructor, they are to go forward in faithful, intelligent service, constantly developing greater talents and capabilities. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 20)

God calls upon men and women to look to Him, that they may receive light and power and knowledge. He will not be glorified in our subscribing to rules and agreements and contracts binding one institution to follow the guidance of another institution thousands of miles away. It ought to have been foreseen that if we desire God to guide minds, these minds must not be bound by human regulations. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 21)

There is need of loyalty to principle. But a pledge, from one who does not feel the need of obeying the Word of the Lord, is valueless. The placing of signatures to documents will not ensure honesty, neither will it ensure the exercise of justice, mercy, and the love of God. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 22)

The Lord would have the restraints broken that keep His work bound about by the wisdom of men. Those who unite with Christ are not to accept yokes which will prove a hindrance to them in their work for Him. He says, “Come unto me, ... and I will give you rest. 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.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 23)

The true and living God is to be exalted. All nations are to hear the proclamation of the gospel message. Many, convicted and converted, will bow in humility before the Lord, making an unreserved consecration of themselves to Him. The message is to go to all parts of the world. “Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth; for I am God, and there is none else. I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.” [Isaiah 45:22, 23.] The words inscribed on the Lord’s temple harmonize with His unlimited invitation of mercy, “My house shall be called a house of prayer for all people.” [Isaiah 56:7.] It shall proclaim that I, the living God, sit upon My throne as Ruler, giving audience to the world. And what is the response? “Let all the people praise thee, O God, let all the people praise thee; and let the whole earth be filled with thy glory.” [See Psalm 67:3; 72:19.] (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 24)

The future is before us, and unforeseen events will surely take place, changing the present aspect of things in the world. Lust and greed are striving for the supremacy. Oppression and hatred will be exercised to destroy. Inspired by a power from beneath, Satan’s instrumentalities will work with intensity to carry out his will. “The wicked shall do wickedly, and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.” [Daniel 12:10.] Every truly converted soul will put on the whole armor of God, and will bravely face the unseen foe. God’s servants will realize the necessity of partaking of the divine nature. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 25)

I have been instructed to tell our people to read carefully the thirty-fourth chapter of Ezekiel, and to guard against being deceived and led to act the part of unfaithful shepherds. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 26)

With great solemnity the words were repeated: “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.” [Ephesians 6:10-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 27)

Now is our time of peril. Our only safety is in walking in the footsteps of Christ, and wearing His yoke. Troublous times are before us. In many instances, friends will become alienated. Without cause, men will become our enemies. The motives of the people of God will be misinterpreted, not only by the world, but by their own brethren. The Lord’s servants will be put in hard places. A mountain will be made out of a molehill to justify men in pursuing a selfish, unrighteous course. The work that men have done faithfully will be disparaged and underrated, because apparent prosperity does not attend their efforts. By misrepresentation, these men will be clothed in the dark vestments of dishonesty, because circumstances beyond their control made their work perplexing. They will be pointed to as men that cannot be trusted. And this will be done by the members of the church. God’s servants must arm themselves with the mind of Christ. They must not expect to escape insult and misjudgment. They will be called enthusiasts and fanatics. But let them not become discouraged. God’s hand is on the wheel of His providence, guiding His work to the glory of His name. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 28)

God calls upon His people to be bright lights in the world, shining amid the darkness of sin. Living the life of the Life-giver brings its reward. He went about doing good. This every true follower of His will do, filled with a sacred sense of his loyalty to God and his duty to his fellow beings. Through the knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus, Christians are to grow in grace, constantly drawing nearer perfection of character. (16LtMs, Ms 156b, 1901, 29)

Ms 157, 1901

Diary/A Call to Service
Refiled as Ms 6, 1902.

Ms 158, 1901

God’s People to be Light-Bearers
Refiled as Ms 13, 1902.

Ms 159, 1901

Evidences of Discipleship
Refiled as Ms 19, 1902.

Ms 160, 1901

The Location and Management of New Sanitariums
Refiled as Ms 26, 1902.

Ms 161, 1901

Diary/The Long-Sufferance of God
Refiled as Ms 55, 1902.

Ms 162, 1901

Our Attitude Toward the Southern Field
Refiled as Ms 59, 1902.

Ms 163, 1901

A Partial Outline of J. E. White’s Work in the South
Refiled as Ms 63, 1902.

Ms 164, 1901

Diary/Execute True Judgment
Refiled as Ms 64, 1902.

Ms 165, 1901

Diary/Words of Counsel to Students
Refiled as Ms 131, 1902.

Ms 166, 1901

Settling in America
“Sanitarium,” St. Helena, California
February 10, 1901
Previously unpublished.

I have been examining my writings and my diary. I was instructed while upon the steamer en route from Sydney that the Lord had a refuge for me. I did not know what this meant. (16LtMs, Ms 166, 1901, 1)

We had intended to settle in some rural district about ten or fifteen miles from Oakland, that we might have easy access to the press, where my books would be published within a short distance from my home. But after spending four days in East Oakland searching for a suitable location without success, I was urged to attend the camp-meeting at Napa. I decided to consent to this request, and I spent some days at the Sanitarium. (16LtMs, Ms 166, 1901, 2)

I said to a number who were present as I was preparing to go to Napa, “I shall hunt no more for a place in or near Oakland, or anywhere else.” The light given me was that the Lord had prepared a refuge for me which was away from cities and away from the centers where our work was to be carried. (16LtMs, Ms 166, 1901, 3)

After this, on several occasions I was instructed that it was not for me to take the burden of attending meetings whenever I was called to help them out of difficult places. This burden was not to come upon me unless the Lord had given me some special light. I must not consider that any voice beside the Lord’s should draw me into general conference meetings and council meetings. Meetings where there are difficulties to be adjusted are to be avoided. The deep, intense feeling of the soul over misunderstandings among believers is altogether too much of a burden for me to carry. Every church should understand that they have united together by a most sacred, solemn covenant. (16LtMs, Ms 166, 1901, 4)

(Luke 10:25): “And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou? And he 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.” Said Christ, “this do, and thou shalt live.” [Verses 25-28.] The churches in every conference are to understand what this means by bringing the vital principles of love into action. Let every member carry this principle, divested of every thread of selfishness, into their daily lives. (16LtMs, Ms 166, 1901, 5)

Ms 167, 1901

An Appeal for the Work in the South
Battle Creek, Michigan
April 21, 1901
Previously unpublished.

While in Battle Creek there were many things opened before me that should be done in the Southern field. This long neglected field must have attention. Notwithstanding the neglect of this field which has been specified again and again, yet very little has been done to redeem the past. God has provided the workers, and we hope that now there will be a decided awakening to remove the reproach upon those who have taken up the work which God has so decidedly laid before them to do. (16LtMs, Ms 167, 1901, 1)

There will be need of establishing schools and sanitariums in suitable places that these workers may begin to work and waste no time. There should be a well-equipped printing plant, for there will be a necessity of having the books prepared in the very field where they are to do their work, and the same work will be suitable for the beginners in other fields that shall be and should be opened. We have had opened before us that this work is essential—the printing of suitable books to meet the necessities of the case—and something must be done in this line without delay. There should be a proper publishing house for the benefit of the Southern field. The works that are prepared are to be furnished with illustrations, inexpensive and yet good to tell their story in symbols. (16LtMs, Ms 167, 1901, 2)

We visited Vicksburg, and we see that a good object lesson has been given in the buildings that have been erected. They are not expensive. Economy has been practiced in every line of work, and yet the buildings are neat, tasteful, and commendable in every way. This gem of a house of worship was dedicated the Sabbath we were in Vicksburg. There has been given elsewhere a short history of this journey. (16LtMs, Ms 167, 1901, 3)

At Nashville I was surprised to see a printing press and the workers busy upon it. I saw countenances that expressed intellect, ability, and qualifications for the work. I could see that everything purchased in the printing press, everything in the building it occupied, was with as little cost as possible, and the neatness, the order, and the work being done were an object lesson. But there must be a building for a larger press, for business is to be carried forward in many lines that will open up as they enter upon the work. (16LtMs, Ms 167, 1901, 4)

There is more, much more, that can be done in the South with proper literature of an order appropriate for the Southern field. The Lord has means in the hands of His people that He has given them to be used in just such work as needs to be established in the Southern field. Literature accommodated to the people, with illustrations, will be the most effective means of keeping the truth before their minds. A sermon may be given but soon passes from the mind. And the truth as it is in Jesus will need simple, plain statements adapted for the Southern people. (16LtMs, Ms 167, 1901, 5)

We want now to call upon our people to provide a printing establishment. God has placed us in a world which He Himself has described as full of His goodness. The abundance of blessings God has provided is without number. Sin has prevailed and has marred and scarred the earth with its curse, but still the Lord in His mercy is working out His divine plans to fill the whole earth with His glory. His bounties are inexhaustible. (16LtMs, Ms 167, 1901, 6)

I appeal to those who know the truth to do a work for the Southern field. This now is my burden. I am instructed to call upon those who have means to let it now go to the Southern field, that the work shall not be hindered. Nashville is the point now to be made a center, then from it the influence will extend to establish the work as God may prepare the way. (16LtMs, Ms 167, 1901, 7)

Will you who labor in the interest of the cause of God in a judicious way lay the necessities before wealthy men who have means God has lent them? Ask them to help. Tell them what you are trying to do, and then solicit donations. It is God’s means that they have, which properly used will enlighten the world. Large treasures of gold and silver and riches have accumulated. Why not call attention to the true Owner of all these goods, and so present the matter to human agencies—with your own heart surcharged with the true sense of His great condescension and benevolence—that a chord will be touched in the hearts of those who have means? Lead the wealthy to feel that they can be the helping hand of Jesus Christ in doing medical missionary work. They will co-operate with God and set in operation the work that is essential. They will construct the conveniences that will do the very work God would have done. (16LtMs, Ms 167, 1901, 8)

To be selfish with means now would give Satan the greatest victory and triumph he could obtain. Covetousness is idolatry. Should not every heart expand with generous emotions to return to the Lord His own entrusted gifts to do the very work essential to restore the moral image of God in man? Will our own brethren awaken now to full consciousness to give liberally that the work shall be established so as to become self-sustaining? (16LtMs, Ms 167, 1901, 9)

This world is established and provided for by the charities of the benevolent Giver. God is the donor, and He asks for the return of some of the abundant donations He has made to advance His kingdom in our world. Consider the care He gives to the earth in the rain in its season, and the blessed sunshine to warm the earth and cause vegetation to flourish. The great Husband-man is constantly working to give life-giving properties to the seeds and to cultivate and give life to everything He has created. He sheds these blessings upon the just and upon the unjust. Shall not those who are the recipients of His favors now work, now impart, now show gratitude to God in helping fallen humanity? Will you not be like Him? Will you not become the Lord’s helping hand? (16LtMs, Ms 167, 1901, 10)

Consider the matter, I beseech you, those who claim to be sons and daughters of God, those who are members of the royal family, to demonstrate to the world what the influence of the truth can do upon the human heart to expel selfishness. You may well feel it your privilege to be laborers together with God, to trade upon His goods by setting in exercise all the means possible to carry out God’s purpose in our world. Can you live day after day receiving His tokens of love and goodness and compassion, and occupy your mind with your own selfish getting [of] all the profits possible, in various ways, while the cause of your God is languishing? There must be provision made to carry forward to ample completion the work to uplift, to educate, to subdue and sanctify the human beings He has created and redeemed. (16LtMs, Ms 167, 1901, 11)

The Lord Jesus Christ calls upon me to set these things before the believers and unbelievers—to be merciful even as your Father which is in heaven is merciful. Only think of the Gift, the great Gift to our world to save sinners, and the gifts of God’s bounties to provide for you the means to do this. Your sinful condition demanded a sacrifice. In your spiritual destitution you had not one thing of your own to offer. Your own self did not belong to you as your own property, for you were bought with a price. “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, 20. “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.” John 3:16. (16LtMs, Ms 167, 1901, 12)

Do you behold the Substitute which, by mutual consent of the Father and the Son, His great love has provided? Herein is love. His beneficence outweighs all consideration of computation. We have no line whereby we may measure, no standard with which to compare it, that God so loved the world that He sent His only loved Son as a propitiation for our sins. (16LtMs, Ms 167, 1901, 13)

What more can I say? What shall we do for those for whom such a love is expressed? and who will refuse to give that love which Christ invites? He wants you to be converted. He wants the streams of gratitude to flow forth in tithes and offerings and set in operation human efficiencies to be God’s helping hand to bear His blessings to needy, perishing souls. He who gave His Son to save you from eternal death asks you, for His sake, to give your worldly substance, which God has first given you. For the very purpose of testing you, He asks you to give wise, compassionate labor and your Lord’s entrusted goods. (16LtMs, Ms 167, 1901, 14)

He asks of you His own, and who will refuse? God has given His Son to die for fallen man. That is God’s offering to bring man back to his allegiance to God. You may become His helping hand. It is His own money that you are permitted to handle, to test your allegiance to Jesus Christ by co-operating with Him to use His entrusted gifts to save a perishing world. Consider that you are using talents of means that are not your own. All are to be returned to God with improvement. Make all of yourself possible, because then you have more capabilities to return doubled to the Master and to receive again to impart. Through Christ you have found God, and the eternal interest stands in its grace magnified before you. (16LtMs, Ms 167, 1901, 15)

Call up in your mind every day what God is. Tell His perfections over and over. Tell of the displays of His glory. With all these things in view, consider that these are the gifts of God to man. This God is my God forever and forever. As heirs of God and joint heirs with Jesus Christ, you are to be partakers of the eternal riches of the heavenly treasures, to come into possession of the eternal weight of glory. (16LtMs, Ms 167, 1901, 16)

Ms 168, 1901

Diary Fragments [Jan.-Jun.]
California; Michigan
January 1, 1901 to June 6, 1901
Previously unpublished.
January 1, 1901
St. Helena, California

It has been a very, very cold night. Bedclothing could scarcely keep me warm. My flesh seemed more like marble than human flesh. The water pipes have been in danger. One is frozen and burst in sanitarium. (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 1)

I am much encouraged that the work in San Francisco is, we believe, deepening. Especially is this the case in Oakland. The whole force connected with the office seems to be deeply impressed by the Spirit of God. We left Oakland December 21, and returned December 30. Another year has passed into eternity. This is the first day of January, 1901. I am not feeling at all well. (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 2)

February 23, 1901
St. Helena, California

Friday evening [Feb. 22] we assembled together to have our usual season of prayer. I was much perplexed to know what decisions I should make in regard to my abiding place in Battle Creek. I laid my case before the Lord and my soul was drawn out in most earnest, wrestling prayer for light and to know the will of God as to my duty. Dr. Kellogg was the first to invite me, and I had felt it was the right thing to do to accept his kind invitation. Will the Lord instruct me in this matter? (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 3)

While praying I seemed to be surrounded by pure atmosphere of light, and a voice sweet as music said, “Respect the courtesy of My servant John Kellogg the physician by My appointment. He needs encouragement that you can give him. Let him put his trust in Me. My arm is strong to uphold and to sustain. He may safely lean upon My strength. I have a work for him to do. He must not fail nor be discouraged, but work as I shall appoint him.” (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 4)

April 1, 1901
Battle Creek, Michigan

I awake and my soul is drawn out after God. I plead in most earnest prayer for the Lord to give me strength to bear my testimony. Oh, I know not what will be the result! Such a condition of things has existed and still exists, that in every conference there is need of most earnest labor. But who is sufficient for these things? (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 5)

We are attending the conference in Battle Creek. It is a mammoth gathering. The tabernacle is full and gallery crowded, steps to the gallery crowded, and the auditorium crowded. The class rooms are opened and crowded. [General Conference Session was held April 1-23, at Battle Creek.] (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 6)

April, 1901
Battle Creek

Today I spoke both in the morning and the afternoon upon the Southern missionary work. Late in the afternoon I spoke to the missionaries going to foreign countries, many of whom were to leave the next day. The Lord gave me much freedom. This was to me a very solemn occasion. Probably I shall never see these friends again until time has ended and the trump of God calls the dead from their graves. My prayers shall ascend to God that these dear souls who are going to their appointed fields of service may have that spiritual sinew and muscle which will enable them to do excellent work for the Master. [This entry from Ms 60, 1901, p. 1.] (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 7)

April 28, 1901
Battle Creek, Michigan

I praise the Lord this morning. I rested well last night. I spoke in the Tabernacle yesterday, and was afraid that I should not rest. After breakfast I called on my children and my nephew and family. I was invited to ride out with Edson, Brother Kilgore, and Brother Palmer in Brother Palmer’s easy carriage. We drove to Bedford, and it was about noon when we returned. (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 8)

In the afternoon Sister Haskell called on me and told me that Sister Breed was very sick, that she seemed almost beside herself for fear that the Lord had left her, and that she thought that she and her husband were being transferred to Walla Walla because they had done something wrong. (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 9)

On Friday Sister Breed came to see me. She was very nervous. I assured her that she and her husband were not being transferred because they had dome wrong; but she would not be pacified. On Friday I wrote her a letter of courage, to inspire her with hope. Sara read her this letter, and then I went to her room and prayed with her. She and her husband then went for a drive with Sister Peck, while I went to the sanitarium and spoke to the patients. I had freedom in speaking words of encouragement, and in presenting Christ as our hope and joy and salvation. All seemed to listen with interest, and when I finished speaking many came forward to introduce themselves to me, one a minister from Boulder, and another a minister from Chicago. As I shood hands with those to whom I was introduced, they told me they had received great help in listened to the words spoken. (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 10)

Sister Breed was so thankful for the ride. Her husband was almost broken-hearted over her condition, but we hope that she is now relieved, and that the blessing of the Lord is felt by them both. (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 11)

April 29, 1901

Last night I slept only one hour, and I very much fear for my health and strength. I was instructed during the night that certain contracts which have been presented to be signed are not after the Lord’s order. When I was in Australia cautions were given me that no confederacy was to be entered into. These contracts are supposed by Dr. Kellogg to be a necessity, but they are not. The future is to be adjusted by God. If these agreements are signed, they will in the future be felt as a yoke of bondage, which God does not require His people to wear. (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 12)

This is to be a time of breaking yokes, not of manufacturing them. God alone is to be our guide. He is to direct as to what shall be done with His property. He has ordered and directed His work in the past, and He will do so in the future. (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 13)

“Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? ... Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily; and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rereward. Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity; and if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noon day.” [Isaiah 58:6, 8-10.] [This entry from Ms 61, 1901.] (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 14)

Wednesday, June 5, 1901

We left St. Helena, Sara and I, in the morning with our horse and carriage on our way to Vallejo. We took the ferry boat and left the horse and carriage to come next morning. The cars brought us to Oakland. We traveled thirty-five miles. I was so weak and used up it seemed that I never should become rested. My brain was weary and my throat was giving me trouble. I was glad to be in the open air. Oh, how wearisome everything was! (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 15)

We found two nice rooms prepared for us, which were well furnished. We came direct on streetcars, only walking a short distance. My throat was sore, but I had some conversation with Brother A. T. Jones, but my throat became painful. [Sister White’s letters indicate that she was in Oakland from June 5 until after June 20. A camp-meeting was held there June 4-16 (The Review and Herald, May 14, 1901, p. 318).] (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 16)

Thursday, June 6, 1901

Thursday afternoon, June 6, I spoke to a large number of people. I presented before them the work to be carried forward in our churches, speaking from (John 17), the last prayer of Christ, showing them possibilities and probabilities. There is great danger of the church’s becoming like the world. “This is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent.” [Verse 3.] The church is in need of the reviving influence of the Holy Spirit of God. We need to sound an alarm for Christ’s sake and try to present before the people of God the Bible claims to stir up pure minds by way of remembrance. The world is, we fear, converting the church into conformity to its practices. The message of warning is to come out from the world and to be separate, else love of display, love of fashion, will weaken the church. Many never have been truly converted. Therefore they take on the form of godliness and do not respect the truth which, if brought into practice, will sanctify the soul. He that “will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” [Matthew 16:24.] There is a tendency to bring down religion to the low level of a respectable materialism. All who trust in the Lord and go forward will find their path is growing brighter and brighter unto a perfect day. A healthy, living church becomes thus through the soul’s grasp of that truth which works by love and sanctifies the soul. But why is there not a cheerful recognition of God? (16LtMs, Ms 168, 1901, 17)

Ms 169, 1901

Diary Fragments [Aug.-Nov.]
California; New York; Massachusetts
August 16, 1901 to November 27, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 4MR 313.
Friday, August 16, 1901

Spoke in tent at Los Angeles to a large audience in regard to the duty of parents to their children. I spoke one hour Friday morning before six. I could but urge on the parents the necessity of education of their children, for this is the very foundation stone of the building of character. (16LtMs, Ms 169, 1901, 1)

August 17, 1901
Los Angeles

We had a large audience—the large tent crowded full. I spoke from (Isaiah 58), and what a chapter of reproof, of correction in righteousness, of plainly marking out the way of the Lord! It is not merely profession and zeal in a false faith, but it is practical godliness. It is Bible religion. It is doing justice and mercy and elevating the purest principles of the kingdom of God. [Southern California camp-meeting was appointed for August 8-18, 1901. Sister White attended. Pacific Union Recorder, August 15, 1901, p. 16.] (16LtMs, Ms 169, 1901, 2)

September 16, 1901 (?)
St. Helena

This day has been a day of constant labor. I have written much for Willie White to take with him on his journey. The state of our publishing institutions weighs heavily on my mind. (16LtMs, Ms 169, 1901, 3)

October 17, 1901
St. Helena

This has been a busy day. I thank the Lord I was able to sleep until half past two o’clock a.m. I commenced writing as soon as possible and wrote twelve pages of calligraph matter to Elder Haskell, Elder Daniells several pages, to Brother Sutherland several pages. I am brain weary. My soul is wading through perplexity in regard to the state of things in our publishing institutions. I am pressed as a cart beneath sheaves. (16LtMs, Ms 169, 1901, 4)

W. C. White leaves St. Helena for his tour to Battle Creek. Will be gone four or eight weeks. We have had much conversation together in regard to many things. After dinner we took our large carriage to the accommodation of Willie’s family—himself and wife and three of the younger children, and Sara McEnterfer. We felt sad to have Willie go, but it is a necessity and there is no use to mourn over things that cannot be helped. Brother Ballenger visited me today and we had quite a lengthy talk. (16LtMs, Ms 169, 1901, 5)

September 25, 1901
St. Helena

Awoke this morning at one o’clock. I have been pleading with the Lord and committing to Him the keeping of my soul. It is now half past three—two hours more sleep then for several weeks. (16LtMs, Ms 169, 1901, 6)

I thank the Lord this morning that I slept more hours than I have done for several weeks, and my heart is peaceful and trustful in God. His presence is very dear to me. I love my Saviour. I had important matters presented to me, that to every man God has committed a special work. (16LtMs, Ms 169, 1901, 7)

November 24, 1901
New York City

Could not sleep after half past one o’clock. I am much perplexed. I have much light presented to me. I would be very much relieved could I express the intense interest I have for the people in the cities that have never yet been worked. I have yesterday, Sabbath, had the pleasure of speaking in Trenton. [Sister White and Sara McEnterfer took train Nov. 7 for New York City.—Pacific Union Recorder, November 7, 1901, p. 6.] (16LtMs, Ms 169, 1901, 8)

Tuesday, November 26, 1901
South Lancaster, Mass.

This is my seventy-fourth birthday. I thank the Lord for the grace and health He has given me up to this time. At present I am suffering from a severe cold. My throat and mouth are very sore. I aways suffer when speaking in a small crowded hall, as I did at Trenton. Our people there [Trenton] are in great need of a plain, neat, substantial meetinghouse. (16LtMs, Ms 169, 1901, 9)

Some may ask, Why does Sister White always use the words, “Plain, neat, and substantial” when speaking of buildings? It is because I wish our buildings to represent the perfection God requires from His people. [This entry from Ms 127, 1901, p. 1.] (16LtMs, Ms 169, 1901, 10)

November 27, 1901
South Lancaster, Mass.

Sunday the 24th was a rainy, disagreeable day. I was surprised at the attendance in the hall in New York City. There was a very much larger number than we could reasonably expect. I spoke from 1 John 3. The Lord gave me freedom in speaking His Word. The blessing of the Lord seemed to attend the word spoken. May the Lord bless the hearers. [This entry from Ms 130, 1901, p. 1.] (16LtMs, Ms 169, 1901, 11)

Ms 170, 1901

Individuality in Educational Work
Boulder, Colorado
May 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in 10MR 302-305.

I am writing in Boulder Sanitarium and getting ready to start for Denver. I will present to you light given me and written directly after our [1901] General Conference in Battle Creek. The inquiry was made, Shall our nurses and helpers be set to pursue one line of work? Shall their whole study be to perfect themselves in that one line of work? I state here the light given me. Exigencies will oft require that there shall be a change from one line of work to another line of work, and it is important that the education given in all our institutions be one of diversity in unity. Not one is to be educated to pursue routine work in the sanitarium, or in any of our institutions, so that hands and minds should be continually taxed with one long lesson of any order, because the mind needs to be worked on different lines of study which will not tax a certain class of organs too long at a time. Change in lines of study in the schools is essential, and an intelligent growing knowledge. The mind must not be overtaxed with long application in one special lesson. It is not beneficial to the teacher, neither is it beneficial to the student. It becomes monotonous. Some can bear this concentrated effort; others become nervous, but do not understand the reason; but variety in daily studies is more restful to the brain than one monotonous line of study. Break it up; divert the mind; change it to different subjects, lest the monotony of one line of work disqualify the person for meeting the exigencies that will arise. (16LtMs, Ms 170, 1901, 1)

We see here in the Sanitarium at Boulder that there is a necessity of each one’s standing in his lot and in his place. It would be wisdom to change the program, and often the one in service has complaints to make; he does not want to change. But while some serve all advantages, others see disadvantages in confining the mind to one class of studies. Some minds cannot endure the matter of one thing carried over for hours until the interest flags. Some minds are so constituted that they must have change in their studies. These students do not know what the matter is, but they are receiving brain damage. For some, the working forces need to be changed around to learn all jots and tittles of the work. Otherwise the work of the students will be most dry and monotonous, like the turning of a machine. (16LtMs, Ms 170, 1901, 2)

Counsel will be needed daily. Do not set one at work for hours on one lesson. Give the students change. The system, the mind, and the brain power of some will be injured by this kind of one-lesson plan. There should be change in the studies. Now one teacher may think he sees a benefit to be derived. He does not know assuredly that the plans are the precise plans that must be followed. Be sure, teachers, that new plans are not invented to become a hindrance in the place of an advancement. And when you shall leave the school in other experienced hands, you are not in any way to bind them to follow out your exact plan of recitations or of study. That which one mind will suppose to be the best plan may not be the best plan for others to follow, and work after the planning of another man’s mind, with whom they cannot consult or have any explanations. Therefore those who shall serve in the place of another teacher should not suppose that his mind is to specify as to the studies of the students. (16LtMs, Ms 170, 1901, 3)

The Lord requires every person who shall take up responsibility to carry into that work intelligent, trained capabilities, and work out his ideas conscientiously according to his previous knowledge and service in schools. The Lord has not designed any one special exact plan in education. It is the fear of the Lord that is the beginning of wisdom. When men with their varied traits of character shall take up their appointed work as teachers and follow a plan of teaching according to their own capabilities, they are not to suppose they must be a facsimile of those teachers who served before them lest they spoil their own record. One who has been a teacher many years, if he has not become intelligent in regard to the best way to plan and to carry on the work, then let him thoroughly experiment until he is satisfied, after prayerfully reasoning from cause to effect, that he has the right way. (16LtMs, Ms 170, 1901, 4)

All our institutions are to be educating schools. They are to become fully acquainted with all kinds of physical and mental acquirements, to bring in tact, a ready, healthful, diligent mind, and never let one mind suppose he is to be a criterion for other minds. All should improve in ingenuity and breadth. Never become narrow and so very precise that the real object of education becomes clogged in its advancement. Each soul is entrusted with talents according to his several ability. One may have talents to be put in exercise, and he may be placed where he cannot show to good advantage if he supposes one who was before him expects him to do just as he has outlined for himself. No such measurement is to take place. Every soul is responsible to God, and we are not to suppose because a man is commended for the doing of a good work according to his ability, that another must go over his track and follow his exact measurement. Unfinished work will call for tact and adaptability. (16LtMs, Ms 170, 1901, 5)

Ms 171, 1901

Regarding Christ’s Object Lessons
NP
Ca. 1901
Previously unpublished.

I prayed the Lord to work out this matter. Then I said, Lord, what can I do? I was impressed that I could donate the royalties on the book Christ’s Object Lessons, and such a joy came into my heart that this might be done. At first I questioned whether I should be unable to settle with my workers for the expense of the preparation, but afterward the matter was so deeply impressed on my mind that I was not for one moment tempted to draw back. (16LtMs, Ms 171, 1901, 1)

Then clearer and more convincing, encouraging light came that this would be the means of unifying the churches inasmuch as all could act a part in doing this work. The printing offices would unite with me in making a donation in publishing the book; and then all the churches could act a part in selling the book, and they would be receiving an experience in this work that was just what they greatly needed. The circumstances that would naturally occur in interesting themselves in the sale of this book would accomplish good, inasmuch as the Lord would prepare the way and open hearts to purchase the books; and the Spirit of the Lord would accompany the workers and bless them in canvassing and selling the book. Many a prayer has been made to our heavenly Father by those who for some reason are not in a situation for selling the book, but whose hearts are in sympathy with those who can engage in the work of canvassing and disposing of their quota of books. The prayers of those whose hearts and sympathies are with the ones who are actively engaged in doing their best to handle the book and dispose of it, please the Lord well. (16LtMs, Ms 171, 1901, 2)

Not only to believers but to unbelievers will a blessing come. A blessing will come to those who canvass and sell the books, and to those who purchase the books to co-operate in the good object of clearing all debts from our schools. The Lord moves upon those who are of all denominations and gives them a heart to at a part in this good work; and as they read the book, the Holy Spirit makes impressions upon human minds. The truth that is contained in the book will speak for itself, and the light will shine forth in the principles that are expressed in it. (16LtMs, Ms 171, 1901, 3)

Let those who have faith pray the Lord that this book may continue to do its good work in various ways, and souls be led to the Lord Jesus Christ. I have all faith in sincere prayer. Brethren in every church, pray for the success of the workers in their various ways of disposing of the book. The Holy Ghost is an unseen worker to teach the canvasser who is a worker together with God. This branch of the work is the Lord’s, and divinity and humanity are combined; and in the place of the publishing institution’s forgiving the debt, there is a spirit awakened to handle the books by this method, which is so signally expressed as being the will of God. The workers make themselves responsible for the selling of a certain number of books. The Lord sees it all, and the Lord will let His lesson come to the workers in answer to the prayer of faith. (16LtMs, Ms 171, 1901, 4)

I have faith in the Lord that He will open the way before me, that I shall have means to help in advancing His work in many places. I ask the prayers of the believing people of God that He will give me physical strength, mental clearness, and spiritual power to stand in my lot and in my place. (16LtMs, Ms 171, 1901, 5)

Ms 172, 1901

Use and Misuse of Means
NP
Ca. 1901
Previously unpublished.

(Please use this matter with wisdom) (16LtMs, Ms 172, 1901, 1)

My heart is made very sad as I have revived to my mind the different plans used to obtain means by men in responsibility, notwithstanding warnings and light given from the Lord. [Means] were placed in A. R. Henry’s hands to be hid in a napkin and buried in the earth when it was the Lord’s talent of means, and they had evidence that he was under the displeasure of [God]. This was embezzling the Lord’s goods, and taking them away from the work and cause of God. The Lord sees it all; the misappropriation of the Lord’s money was presented to me. [It was] similar to the course of action that was pursued by Walker and Aldrich, and the Lord cannot, will not, sanction and prosper the work prosecuted in such a way. He did not prosper Aldrich, and He will not prosper any man who will divert means into channels that bind it away from the cause of God. (16LtMs, Ms 172, 1901, 2)

The resolutions that were made that means should not be drawn in donation from any men in the conference without the decision or counsel of the managers at Battle Creek or Pacific Press were instigated by selfishness, and those who made these arrangements intended to make still more stringent rules. The curse of God follows all such planning and devising. The cause of God is one, east or west, north or south. The people are God’s property, and their possessions are given of God to be used in any place where the field is in greatest need of them. The vineyard is the Lord’s; the gold and silver are the Lord’s; and every man in any conference is to have no restrictions placed upon him as to how he shall use his entrusted talents of means to build up and advance His work. (16LtMs, Ms 172, 1901, 3)

The entrance into new fields, the lifting of the standard of truth in new territories, calls for facilities to work with; but the work and cause of God have been greatly hindered by the caprice and perverted principles of men who were not worked by the Holy Spirit of God. A power was moving them from beneath; and the Lord has been dishonored and His work hindered, because human agents have not been consecrated to God or to His works. (16LtMs, Ms 172, 1901, 4)

I have this written at home, but I did not find it before I came down here. Not a word that has been written in reproof and warnings has been exaggerated. Not a word but will be proven true, seen in its true bearings, in the great day of final retribution and rewards given to every man according to his works. (16LtMs, Ms 172, 1901, 5)

I can say much more, but it is the wickedness of the matter in putting aside the Word of the Lord and placing confidence in human beings that they know are not walking in the light. They are justifying the evil-doer. They are sustaining a man, saying by the responsibilities given him, I have confidence in you; and that man knew the reproofs that were given him, and yet the president of the conference virtually said, I have had the messages from Sister White, but shall make no difference in my attitude toward A. R. Henry. I am going to link up with him nevertheless. This course was pursued. Then he connects these two men with him as men to represent the conference. These things are offensive to God. (16LtMs, Ms 172, 1901, 6)

Now after the light has been given and has not been heeded, and when matters have been unfolded, then these men who have put out their own spiritual eyesight withdraw, at the very time when a man is sick and needs a physician, and when he is under humiliation crowd him down, just as Brother Henry has crowded others down. Now is the time to help men that need help, when they are under the fiercest temptation. God give our brethren, who are guilty themselves before God, bowels of compassion. (16LtMs, Ms 172, 1901, 7)

[signed] Ellen G. White

Ms 173, 1901

Shall the Work at Nashville Go Forward?
NP
July 19, 1901
Previously unpublished.

There are few now living who know what hard, uphill work it was to establish the publishing work in Battle Creek and in Oakland. My husband and I understood by experience the difficulty of this undertaking. And now, after thirty years of advancement, I find that it is just as difficult to make a beginning in Nashville, just as hard to accomplish that which the Lord has declared should be done in establishing a publishing house in the Southern field. (16LtMs, Ms 173, 1901, 1)

The feebleness of our efforts in behalf of the Southern field is a reproach to a people claiming to be missionaries. The work in this field is just as important as the work in any other locality, but it has been hindered by the unsanctified judgment and influence of some claiming to be laborers in the Lord’s vineyard. (16LtMs, Ms 173, 1901, 2)

Nashville is to be a center for the Southern work, and from this center the light of truth is to shine forth to the regions round about. There is much to be done to properly establish the work in this place. The cause of truth must be represented by institutions established as memorials for God. There must be in Nashville a well-equipped publishing house, from which the literature specially prepared for the Southern field can be issued as cheaply as possible. Every effort must be put forth to make this work a success. This is God’s work, and He desires those who believe His truth to take an interested part in it. In the Southern field the truth is to go forth as a lamp that burneth. (16LtMs, Ms 173, 1901, 3)

There must also be established in Nashville a school for the colored people and a school for the whites, and a sanitarium for the care of the sick. In these institutions laborers are to be trained for work in other parts of the South. (16LtMs, Ms 173, 1901, 4)

And when the work in Nashville is established, efforts are to be made in other cities. The message of warning is to be proclaimed in all the cities of the South. (16LtMs, Ms 173, 1901, 5)

The work on the publishing house in Nashville has been well begun. But, seeing the embarrassment that comes through the burden of debt, the managers of the work in Nashville agreed that they would proceed no faster in the work of building than the means in hand would warrant. They determined not to go in debt in the erection of the printing office, but to follow the instruction, work by faith and plan by faith, but do not run in debt. As soon as they had money enough they bought stone to lay the foundation. Next they hired men to dig the trench and lay the wall; then they bought lumber enough to put up the framework of the first story; then they bought siding for this story; then they went on with the second and third story. Their great desire was to get the office roofed and enclosed, so that they could put in their machinery. (16LtMs, Ms 173, 1901, 6)

But the last news we had from them was, “We have come to a standstill. We can go no further till we get means.” When I heard this I was greatly distressed. I hired $400 at five per cent interest, and sent it to Nashville to be used till other means could be sent. To prevent loss of time, I shall hire more money, if I can, for this purpose, until my brethren and sisters throughout the field awaken to their duty, and act their part in raising the means necessary for the advancement of this work. (16LtMs, Ms 173, 1901, 7)

At a time like this shall the work in Nashville be allowed to come to a standstill? I call upon our people everywhere to do something to advance this enterprise. This work is not in a far country; it is at your own door, and in it God desires His people to help earnestly and generously. God abhors the indifference with which this home missionary field has been treated. The selfishness which for years has hindered the work must be repented of. Let us do something to help, and do it now. (16LtMs, Ms 173, 1901, 8)

I have been shown that those in the Review and Herald and those in the Pacific Press will be inclined to invest means unnecessarily to make the work in these institutions convenient. The Lord has instructed me to say to them, Bind about your supposed wants until you have done your duty toward the Southern field. Do not add to your already abundant facilities until you have done what God has signified should be done for this field. Take up the work interestedly, nobly, and faithfully. Act the part God expects you to act in the establishment of the work in the South. (16LtMs, Ms 173, 1901, 9)

The necessities of the field call for immediate action. I call upon all who can to help in the establishment of the work in Nashville. Be God’s helping hand. Help where help is needed. Take hold with us in assisting the workers in the South. (16LtMs, Ms 173, 1901, 10)

We acknowledge with gratitude the donations so willingly made to the work in Nashville by our friends in College View, Denver, Boulder, Waitsburg, Portland, and Oakland. We thank you for your help. It has greatly aided the work. And we now extend the appeal for help to all our people in America. Remember that Christ does not promise the reward of the overcomer to those who are not willing to be faithful soldiers in the conflict between good and evil. Christ 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.” [Revelation 3:21.] Each believer in Christ has a personal responsibility to fulfil. No one is excused from doing his duty. God lays upon those in His service the responsibility of co-operating with Him in advancing His work. In the place of seeking to bar the way against entering new fields, every soul should try to answer the calls for help which come from unworked fields. (16LtMs, Ms 173, 1901, 11)

It is not for one class alone that we are to labor, but for all. Those for whom Christ gave His precious blood are to be instructed and enlightened. The people to whom the light of truth has come are to practice self-denial and self-sacrifice, rejoicing in the privilege of denying self for Christ’s sake. (16LtMs, Ms 173, 1901, 12)

O, when will Seventh-day Adventists arise and build up the work in the Southern field? How long and how hard shall we have to labor that our people may see what needs to be done and do it? Let no obstruction be placed in the way of those who are willing to work. Let no one refuse to make straight in the desert—the dark places of the earth—a highway for our God. Plough the field. Remove the stones. (16LtMs, Ms 173, 1901, 13)

God is looking upon the men in responsible positions, to see if they will unselfishly do the work entrusted to them. If they refuse to do this work, He will say, “let it be given to those who will honor the trust reposed in them.” “Consider,” the Lord says, “whether you are faithful to your trust.” Are you returning fruit in due season to the Owner of the vineyard? Are you cultivating the barren wastes and sowing the seeds of truth? Let our institutions co-operate intelligently with God, lest they be left barren of resources. If they do not strive earnestly to plant the standard of truth in the cities and countries which have never heard the message of warning, God will find another way of accomplishing His purpose. (16LtMs, Ms 173, 1901, 14)

I am instructed to say, Let all who claim to be in God’s service remember that He has declared that His vineyard shall be worked. He is continually opening the way, for the parts of His vineyard hitherto neglected, to be cultivated. He has entrusted means to His stewards to use in advancing the work which He has commissioned His servants to do. He sends forth His messengers, telling them to receive from His stewards means for the carrying forward of His work. If His stewards fail to respond, He will pass on to other agencies, and will remove His gifts from His unfaithful stewards, who by their selfishness close the doors He has opened for the flowing forth of His blessings. (16LtMs, Ms 173, 1901, 15)

God says, “My son, give me thy heart, thy time, thy talents.” [See Proverbs 23:26.] He wants no unbelief, no stinginess. He wants you to give Him the firstfruits of the life—love, faith, strength. Reveal that faith which works by love and purifies the soul. Cease to live for self. Live wholly for God. Give Him the best hours of the day and the best energies of the being. If, laying down every selfish aim and interest, God’s people would give Him the best of all they have, if they would seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, they would rise higher and higher in Christian nobility and liberality. (16LtMs, Ms 173, 1901, 16)

Ms 174, 1901

Morning Lesson from Hebrews Two
New York, New York
November 14, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in UL 332.
November 14, 1901;
Bible Training School; 400 W. 37th St., New York

Sometimes the words of Scripture come with great force, and at such times an impression is made upon the mind deeper than we usually have. This morning I was reading some portions of the second chapter of Hebrews, and I thought of all these Scriptures and the blessings of our privileges in God. We read, “Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.” [Verse 1.] There is danger of our losing so much in our spiritual experience because we let slip the words that God gives. He speaks to one heart, and He speaks to another heart, and they hear these words and then go away and treat the words as a common thing, and they do not impress the mind. God wants us to take the words home to every heart. (16LtMs, Ms 174, 1901, 1)

“For if the word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward; how shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation, which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed to us by them that heard him?” [Verses 2, 3.] Here is presented to us the importance of our speaking. God wants us to communicate. Have the treasure house of the heart full, full of the precious words of the Scripture. Hand it right out; it is the precious message of God to them. If we do not have the power to communicate, if we do not consider that it is our privilege to have that power, we may lose many precious opportunities which we would receive by faithfully, constantly imparting. (16LtMs, Ms 174, 1901, 2)

“God also bearing them witness, both by signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will.” [Verse 4.] The Lord knows just what is best for us. It is not best for us always to have a continual elevation. We get self-sufficient; we become self-confident; we are in danger of thinking that we do not need to be taught. Then He lets us go deep into the valley of humiliation where we have to draw nigh to Him, and then He draws nigh to us. (16LtMs, Ms 174, 1901, 3)

“For unto the angels hath he not put in subjection the world whereof we speak. But one in a certain place testified, saying, What is man, that thou art mindful of him? Or the son of man, that thou visitest him? Thou madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with glory and honor; thou didst set him over the work of thy hands; thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet,” speaking of Jesus. “For in that he put all in subjection under him he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him.” [Verses 5-8.] Now here is the point: if we could always comprehend what is coming to us through the ample provisions made, we should never lose our hold on Jesus Christ. We have to deal with many minds, and we want to be able to speak words in season to encourage, strengthen, and bless. When you obtain strength from God to put your hands right under the erring ones, they will take heart, they will again take hold of Christ. Have we done our duty to all who need our help? (16LtMs, Ms 174, 1901, 4)

“But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honor; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.” [Verse 9.] He could not have suffered for us unless He had taken off His crown, laid off His royal robe, laid off His high command in the heavenly courts. What then? When He clothed His divinity with humanity, He came to this sinful world to show us how to live that we might ascend to live with Him in the heavenly courts. Think of it! Many speak and act as if they were ashamed of Jesus; they do not think of Him, and introduce Him to their friends; they do not live to glorify Him. Ashamed of Jesus, who took humanity that they might have life! We want to talk it to everybody! We want to tell them, if they have afflictions or trials, it is nothing if they will only think what Christ has done, the great sacrifice He has made in their behalf that they might have life. If I could tell you how these things are represented to me as I look at these cities unworked! For years we have had the truth, and these neglected cities stand a reproach to us before God. We ought to have had a love for their souls. (16LtMs, Ms 174, 1901, 5)

We want to help every other one to understand the need of their working. You cannot do another’s work. Each one has his own peculiar temperament. That particular temperament sanctified will lead each one to have confidence in that other one who has a peculiar temperament that sanctified by grace can be the Lord’s helping hand. We are not to expect that every one is to travel in our own footprints, but in the footprints of our self-denying Redeemer. Take up the cross and follow Him. He is our guide. There are perfect footprints; He has made them. We are safe in following Christ. But when we seek everyone to follow some other one, there is where we make a mistake, there is where our differences come in; but we should never have differences. We must believe that others are just as honest before God as we are. (16LtMs, Ms 174, 1901, 6)

“For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons to glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.” [Verse 10.] He had to understand all about the weakness of man, the strength of Satan’s temptations. He took humanity right upon Himself and bore all the temptations of the devil, and He knows what every man has to endure. Consider Christ’s pity for man. He knows just how they were born; He knows just how they were surrounded in childhood. You don’t know what temptations came with their birth, you don’t know the condition of their parents. Put away all judgment. Judgment belongs to the Son of God; He is the One who is to judge the world. “For both he that sanctifieth and them that are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren.” [Verse 11.] Let us every day try to work in such a way that Christ will not be ashamed to call us brethren. He is our Elder Brother, “Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto thee.” [Verse 12.] (16LtMs, Ms 174, 1901, 7)

Christ takes just our position as laborers. Ye are laborers together with God. That is what we are; we are laborers with Christ Jesus. Then should we not elevate ourselves? Not in self-esteem, but in purity, in experience gaining everything we can. Why? So as to sing praise in the church! so as to elevate Him among the brethren. O, there is food for us in these Scriptures; there is fruit for us to bear. (16LtMs, Ms 174, 1901, 8)

“Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same, that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil.” [Verse 14.] Here is the work that He was to carry out, and this is the very work we are to carry out in our life; it is to show the power of the grace of God that is to be with us. Then we can rejoice with Him. “And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.” [Verse 15.] When we look at Christ we are free; the fear of death is gone. (16LtMs, Ms 174, 1901, 9)

“For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succor them that are tempted.” [Verses 16-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 174, 1901, 10)

Let us think of that chapter today, and get from it all the comfort that we possibly can. You will find that you can draw nigh to Christ because He understands every temptation, every trial. He understands us. Do not think that we are separated from God because we are disappointed. We will be disappointed on the right hand and on the left. And why? Because He wants us to know how it is when others are disappointed. (16LtMs, Ms 174, 1901, 11)

I am glad that we have a Saviour who knows just how to pity us, just how to comfort us; One who will watch the furnace that He has put us into. The lighter temptations come first; there are larger ones that will come through worldly influences. He lets lighter ones come and when the larger ones come we are prepared for them. (16LtMs, Ms 174, 1901, 12)

The question is asked often, How about the time of trouble? I answer, Wait until you get to it; for if I should try to tell you, you would not understand anything about it. If you go forward step by step, when you get to the time of trouble you will be prepared for it. Whether I shall be killed, whether I shall die—this is not the question at all. If the stroke of death should come upon me, I will get life again in a little while. (16LtMs, Ms 174, 1901, 13)

Never lay hold of little things here, and little things there, and judge men by such things. You never expect a man to be like yourself. Be of one mind in Christ Jesus. In a diversity of minds there is to be unity. Let us all give room for this one and that one and the other to work out their individuality. Tell all that they must have the mind of Christ. We shall have His Spirit to unite us together, to draw us right along in even lines. We want to unite at the foot of the cross. We want to know right now that Christ is dwelling in us by living faith, and this great city is to be worked, and we want to gather in every soul that is possible; we want to labor to impart strength; we want to strengthen one another, help one another, and thus give strength that every one may work a part. One may take hold here and another there. In this city we want one hundred workers where now there is one. The light that has been presented to me respecting this city is that we want more workers all through. We look at this portion, which is being worked. It takes a large part of the city. All around in the greater and smaller suburbs, it is all New York; New York embraces it. There is enough work for hundreds to be at work and not in any way to crowd one another. Let us every one drink in the Spirit of Christ, and reach higher and higher for the Spirit of God. If you have any difficulties, get them out of the way on Friday if possible. Then when you come to the church on Sabbath day you may be sure that there will be a sweet, heavenly, and fragrant influence in the company. Taste and see that the Lord is good. We are not in the church triumphant yet, but we are striving to get there, to work with all our powers to be a blessing to every one that we meet with. (16LtMs, Ms 174, 1901, 14)

Ms 175, 1901

How to Study the Bible
NP
Ca. 1901
Formerly Undated Ms 142. This manuscript is published in entirety in 2MR 89-92.

Let the seeker for truth who accepts the Bible, as the inspired Word of God, lay aside every previous idea, and take that Word in its simplicity. He should renounce every sinful practice and enter the holy of holies with heart softened and subdued, ready to listen to what God says. (16LtMs, Ms 175, 1901, 1)

Do not carry your creed to the Bible and read the Scriptures in the light of that creed. If you find that your opinions are opposed to a plain “Thus saith the Lord,” or to any command or prohibition He has given, give heed to the Word of God rather than to the sayings of men. Let every controversy or dispute be settled by “It is written.” (16LtMs, Ms 175, 1901, 2)

The mistake made by the Roman Catholic is that he reads the Bible in the light of the priests and rulers of the church, the early fathers, or other Catholic expositors. Laying aside all creeds or articles prescribed by any church, we are to read the Bible as the Word of God to us. The Light of the world will enable us to distinguish between truth and antagonistic errors. (16LtMs, Ms 175, 1901, 3)

Let the heart be softened and subdued by the spirit of prayer before the Bible is read. Truth will triumph when the Spirit of truth co-operates with the humble Bible student. How precious the thought that the Author of truth still lives and reigns. Ask Him to impress your minds with the truth. Your searching of the Scriptures will then be profitable. Christ is the great Teacher of His followers, and He will not leave you to walk in darkness. (16LtMs, Ms 175, 1901, 4)

The Bible is its own interpreter. With beautiful simplicity, one portion connects itself with the truth of another portion, until the whole Bible is blended in one harmonious whole. Light flashes forth from one text to illuminate some portion of the Word that has seemed more obscure. (16LtMs, Ms 175, 1901, 5)

Those who with humility of heart search the Scriptures, with a sincere desire to know and obey the truth, will not be left to walk in darkness. Jesus says, I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life, the whole Bible is a revelation of Christ. But you may read the Scriptures from morning till night, and unless you humbly submit your will to the will of God, you cannot receive a saving knowledge of the gospel. As you see the truth plainly stated, lay aside every false position, however dear it may be to the selfish heart. (16LtMs, Ms 175, 1901, 6)

Some will take a text, wrest it from its true bearing, and force it into service to sustain some preconceived opinion. By linking together isolated passages of Scripture, they may deceive others. But what appears to be Bible proof for their position is no proof whatever; for the Scriptures are not used in their true setting. In this way error is often magnified, and truth diminished. Those who thus wrest the Scriptures to sustain error, greatly dishonor God, and in the day of judgment, they will be held responsible for the disobedience of those who through their sophistries have been led to disregard the divine law. (16LtMs, Ms 175, 1901, 7)

Those who desire to know the truth concerning the Sabbath of the Lord are not left to the guidance of uncertain suppositions. But let them not depend upon the teachings of the fathers, or any other human agency, but upon the words spoken by the Creator of the heavens and the earth. The Bible is the inspired Word of God. In it are to be found the laws of heaven. And from the Bible alone can we learn the truth regarding the Sabbath. God’s word is plain. The fourth commandment is definite and explicit, and reveals the divine origin of the Sabbath. And further, the Lord said to Moses: “Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Six days may work be done; but in the seventh is the sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord: whosoever doeth any work in the sabbath day he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the sabbath, to observe the sabbath throughout their generations, for a perpetual covenant. It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever; for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.” [Exodus 31:13-17.] (16LtMs, Ms 175, 1901, 8)

May the Lord help us to seek Him with the whole heart, that we may find Him. He will not be trifled with. Those who, though having opportunity to find the true path, presumptuously depart from it will some day, when too late, realize their terrible mistake. Eternal life is for those only who continue to obey God. For them Christ has purchased salvation. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:12.] (16LtMs, Ms 175, 1901, 9)

*****

“Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” [John 5:39.] (16LtMs, Ms 175, 1901, 10)

When Jesus told His followers to search the Scriptures, He referred to the Old Testament Scriptures; for the New Testament was still unwritten. The Bible is made up of many parts—history, biography, song and praise, prayer, and prophecy. But all is inspired of God, and “is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.” [2 Timothy 3:16.] In the term “scripture” is included the whole treasure house of revelation and knowledge, in whatever form it is given. (16LtMs, Ms 175, 1901, 11)

*****

Let no one seek to limit the circulation of the Scriptures. God speaks through various channels, and the sacred truths are to be sought as the miner seeks for gold. God has promised that He will guide all who desire to be taught into all truth. (16LtMs, Ms 175, 1901, 12)

The Bible is the greatest educational book in the world, and should be used in every school. Whatever their previous education or conceptions, to many minds the simple reading of God’s Word will bring conviction; and even though in many cases the Word may be misapplied and misinterpreted, yet in after years many, because of what they can remember of its teachings, may be able to distinguish between truth and error. Let us not be numbered with those who seek to limit the circulation of the Scriptures. (16LtMs, Ms 175, 1901, 13)

Ms 176, 1901

“All Ye Are Brethren”
NP
Ca. 1901
Previously unpublished.

We are all of one family, with one Father in heaven, and mutual obligations and dependence. We are each one connected with our fellow men, and all bound up with God. Individually we are a part of the web of humanity, a part of the Lord’s great whole. No one can be independent of his fellow man. The well being of each affects the other, who in turn carries his influence to still others. It is God’s design that each individual shall stand so related to his fellow man that he shall feel himself pledged to promote the happiness of each member of the family of God, feel himself necessary to the other’s welfare. Thus influence becomes an endless chain. (16LtMs, Ms 176, 1901, 1)

Christ came to our world to make manifest that man, through divine efficiency, may become a member of the family in heaven. He demonstrated this to them as He taught in parables, and in His life practice. He sought to lead His disciples to learn of Him, to be meek and lowly in heart, to wear His yoke and lift His burdens; for in doing this, the rest and peace and happiness of heaven would be theirs. This would be ever drawing them heavenward, and by this alone could they present to the fallen world a copy of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 176, 1901, 2)

But Satan is working to break up the harmony that should exist between man and his fellow man, and thus create disunion. The subtle, satanic influence of selfishness is brought into the various lines of work under some pretense of necessity. Notwithstanding all the reasoning on this point, it is made to appear as something needful, when it is not at all needful, and if admitted, will displease God and corrupt the experience of every soul whose perceptions are so dimmed by the policy of the world that they cannot discern this hateful, poisonous root that, springing up, will defile the whole man. The lives of such reveal that the human, far more than the divine, is ruling their actions. This is where our principal institutions have become more or less corrupted. (16LtMs, Ms 176, 1901, 3)

The selfishness with which it is Satan’s studied plan to imbue humanity should be regarded as the hateful thing it is. He is working in every publishing establishment to separate interests, and if possible to nourish the spirit of rivalry. By this means, he would bring into the work the principles that God hates. (16LtMs, Ms 176, 1901, 4)

If the Lord is regarded as the great Center, a close connection will exist between every line of work. The interest is one. There should be no division, no perilous rivalry, but a mutual connection and dependence, a reciprocal influence. Every word that is spoken, every act that is performed should be without one grain of selfishness. Everything we do has a train of influence which, when divested of selfishness, will produce a harmony akin to the harmony of heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 176, 1901, 5)

All heaven is watching with interest to see who will practice most earnestly and decidedly the virtues of Christ. Those who approach most closely to the mind of Christ cause joy among the angels of heaven. The training of different peculiar traits of character needs daily to be brought under the molding influence of the Spirit of God, that every portion of the character may be transformed. Then every relation sustained by man to his fellow man will be constantly transmitting a vital current of influence. If every worker together with God will be a center, and will connect himself with other individuals, they also may radiate to the world the beams of righteousness received from the great Center, and in receiving and diffusing that light, a heavenly influence will surround the soul. “Christ, be thou our pattern” should be inscribed in memory’s halls and written on every heart. (16LtMs, Ms 176, 1901, 6)

The life of Christ was a representation of God, an ever-widening, shoreless influence which bound Him to God and to the whole human family. In Him was given the mightiest element that could be bestowed upon the human race. Then if God through His Son has vested man with such an influence that he cannot live into himself, cannot stay in selfish lines; if every one is united with his fellow worker to merge his interests in forwarding the work of God in the little as well as the larger interests, no one is to say, “You cannot come on my part of the field.” The field is the world. The divine influence with which God has invested the work needs no separate distinctions or verbal restrictions. (16LtMs, Ms 176, 1901, 7)

Each branch of the True Vine is separate and distinct, yet bound together in the parent stalk. There can be no division, no diversity. They are linked together by His will to bear fruit wherever they find place and opportunity. But in order to do this, self must be hidden. The worker is not to give expression to his own mind and will. He is to express the will of Jesus Christ. He is to refrain from forbidding others to do this or that, and sow the seed which will express the Word of God to others. Not a particle of glory is to be given to any one worker. God is our efficiency. A Paul may plant, an Apollos water, but God alone can give the increase. (16LtMs, Ms 176, 1901, 8)

Any influence received from God links the human agent to God by the strongest pledge that he will work for the glory of God. This necessarily links him with humanity. The Holy Spirit must act upon his mind; and under this hallowed influence, humanity may become a partaker of the divine nature. This vital connection with Christ will work to restore the image of God in man. (16LtMs, Ms 176, 1901, 9)

Ms 177, 1901

Remarks at Meeting of Cal. M. M. & B. Assn.
Oakland, California
August 20, 1901
Previously unpublished.

Special meeting of the Board of Directors of the Cal. M. M. & B. Assn. duly called and held at Oakland, Cal., on Tuesday, August 20, 1901. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 1)

Present: Directors, W. C. White, C. H. Jones, A. J. Sanderson, B. F. Richards, F. B. Moran, E. E. Parlin, Sec’y, and also W. T. Knox, A. Boeker, N. C. McClure, C. L. Taylor, M. C. Wilcox, Mrs. E. G. White, Maggie Hare. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 2)

Elder Knox was selected as chairman of the meeting. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 3)

Prayer by Elder McClure. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 4)

Elder Knox stated the object of the meeting, which was called especially to consider the work in Southern California. In part, he said: As a result of the deliberations of our brethren in Southern California at their recent meetings, there were resolutions presented something of this nature—1st: Authorizing the brethren there to incorporate the Southern Conference; that then this body thus formed should go to work and purchase property and erect buildings for sanitarium work, and that this sanitarium work should stand allied to the sister institutions on this coast. After that was passed, it soon developed that all were not thoroughly satisfied with it. And that action was reconsidered and modified by adopting a recommendation that the sanitarium and health food work in Southern California should stand related to the Cal. M. M. & B. A. in the same way as the same lines of work in the Northern part of the state. And a request was passed urging the Cal. M. M. & B. A. to take immediate steps to furnish suitable buildings for the carrying on of the sanitarium work in the South. Some raised the question as to whether this last action was the proper thing to do, but it was finally decided that they would let it stand in that way, although there is a feeling, on the part of some, of unrest and uncertainty. This uncertainty is occasioned by the fear that the Assn. here will step in and hinder or curtail certain lines of necessary work. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 5)

In reply to a question, Dr. Moran stated that at the present time they were manufacturing nothing but bread and zwieback, but they expected to do quite a little at the wine business this fall. That they had a regular brick bread oven. That there was nothing in the Southern part of the state indicative of a desire as yet to manufacture health foods, besides bread and zwieback, but that of course the matter has been expressed in this way, that it may be at some time in the future that might be the proper thing to do, but at the present time there is no desire on the part of any one down there to go ahead with the manufacturing business further than what we have done; but it is the feeling very strongly that if there is anything that can be done down there better than it can be done somewhere else and shipped in, that we ought to work along those lines. That there was some fear that the present understanding concerning the manufacture of wine down there would be set aside. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 6)

Sister White: They must not be too grasping; in all those things there must not be an attempt to embrace too much; give others a chance. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 7)

Dr. Moran: There is quite a strong feeling as to the advisability of the food company coming in and opening a store at Los Angeles at the present time; there is a question as to the wisdom of having the food company come in and, under another name, open up the same lines of work that are being carried on at the present time and thus present an apparent opposition or competition among ourselves before the public. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 8)

W. C. White: In considering a question of that kind, would we not have to take into account that the food business was established in California before the Los Angeles sanitarium or restaurant was thought of? That the Southern California field was always considered and always has been an important portion of the food company’s territory, and that the food company has a business in that part of California which is probably double that of the sanitarium? It would be hardly fair to treat the L. A. sanitarium as the original dealer in health foods in Southern California and the food company as an interloper. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 9)

Elder Knox: That point was considered by the brethren there, and it was decided that the territory belongs to the food company. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 10)

Sister White: We had a meeting in Los Angeles, and I would not express my mind until I had it laid out; you know I had it laid out just as definitely as it could be laid out, and then I told them I could not express my mind until I could be impressed how the thing should be. Well, it is just as you have expressed it now. I never heard you express it before, but it is just as you express it in reference to that matter. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 11)

Elder White: I speak with freedom for this reason: We were carried over this very road in Australia before I left—speaking of the principal that should govern in the establishing and carrying forward of the health food factory work. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 12)

Sister White: From the light I have, they are no more prepared to take hold of and carry that food business—I do not say bread business—the bread business and that which is of daily use where they are—but the food business taken as it is done in the factory—they have no more idea of what it takes to lay the foundation and the preparation for the food business as it is laid and has been laid for years in St. Helena—they have no idea of it. It takes qualifications of mind; it takes tact; it takes ingenuity, and it takes time and money that it is not possible to get within their reach. All these things are to be considered. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 13)

... (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 14)

The ideas of Elder R. S. Owen, as embodied in the statement made to Sister White, were then read, as follows: “The brethren feel that in dealing with the general association there has been a selfish policy and a desire to hold back the work here. The brethren think that where the control rests, there the responsibility should rest, etc.” (Reading.) (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 15)

General discussion then followed. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 16)

Elder Knox: The substance of the resolutions adopted at Los Angeles was: 1st. Resolved that the sanitarium and health food work in Southern California shall be related to the Cal. M. M. & B. A. in the same way in this Conference, that these same lines of work are related to said Association in the Northern part of the state. 2nd. Urging the Association to immediately furnish them with suitable buildings for enlarging the work, without specifying location, town, or anything else. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 17)

Thereupon, upon motion of Brother White, seconded by several: (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 18)

Resolved that we express our appreciation of the resolutions adopted by the Southern California Conference regarding the sanitarium and health food work, and that we will proceed at once to the establishment of a sanitarium in Southern California. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 19)

Carried unanimously. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 20)

Moved by Brother Jones, seconded and unanimously adopted: (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 21)

That we invite Brother G. A. Nichols to come to California, to connect with the Medical Missionary Association in its work in the Southern part of the state, be a member of the local committee at Los Angeles, and, in connection with Dr. Moran, to lead out in the new sanitarium enterprise. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 22)

Dr. Moran: So far as location is concerned, there should be some arrangement so that somebody should have time to investigate that matter thoroughly, and then the local board there to decide upon it. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 23)

The sentiment prevailed that the location selected should insure plenty of good water at a low price, proper sewage disposition, easy of access; that the necessary capital for the work be provided in the order of the following suggestions: that earnest efforts be made to raise all the money possible by way of donations to purchase property; by inducing interested parties to invest $1,000 or more each without or with a low rate of interest; that confidence of monied people would be secured if some one of means could be interested to invest a certain amount with which to begin the work. Thereupon moved by Brother Jones: That it is the sense of this board in starting sanitarium work in Los Angeles that an effort be made to secure donations sufficient to at least purchase the land on which the buildings are to be erected, and further that loans be secured at a low rate of interest, for which Association notes shall be issued, and which shall be charged to the Los Angeles branch. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 24)

Attention was called to the expenses of Elder Hennig and Professor Irwin in stopping at Honolulu on the occasion of their journey to Australia, which it was thought should be divided evenly between the Mission Board, the Pacific Union Conference, and this Association. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 25)

Thereupon moved, seconded, and carried that we pay $40 of this amount, to be charged to Association general expense. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 26)

Recess until 5:30 Wednesday morning, August 21, 1901. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 27)

Upon reconvening at the time designated, it was voted: (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 28)

1. That we request the California Conference to release Elder McClure, so that he might connect with the work in the Southern California Conference, giving special attention to assisting Dr. Moran and Brother Nichols in raising funds for the new sanitarium enterprise. 2. That Dr. Moran be authorized to negotiate a loan of $2,000 for six months at five percent in carrying on the wine business in Southern California, this Association to issue its note to be taken up from the first sales of wine if desired. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 29)

Meeting adjourned. (16LtMs, Ms 177, 1901, 30)

Ms 178, 1901

Remarks at Meeting of Cal. M. M. & B. Assn.
San Francisco, California
October 1, 1901
Previously unpublished.

Special meeting of the Board of Directors of the Cal. M. M. & B. Assn. duly called and held on Tuesday, October 1, 1901, at 11 o’clock A.M., at 1436 Market Street, San Francisco, California. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 1)

Present: Elder A. T. Jones, President, E. E. Parlin, Secretary, Dr. A. J. Sanderson, Dr. Thomas Coolidge, Elder W. C. White, Elder B. F. Richards and C. H. Jones of the Directors; also Mrs. E. G. White, H. H. Haynes, T. A. Kilgore, and others. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 2)

Prayer by Elder Jones. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 3)

Dr. Coolidge reported that the owner of the building at 1436 Market Street would not undertake to enlarge or improve the building in view of the rainy season about to begin. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 4)

Elder Jones stated the object of the calling of the special meeting: That information had come from Dr. Rand, that he would not be able to come to this coast at the present time, and that Dr. Sanderson had advised him that it would be necessary to relieve him of his position and suggesting that Dr. Coolidge be asked to connect with the St. Helena Sanitarium. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 5)

Dr. Sanderson: It is due to the board that I should make some explanation of the action I have taken, and while I dread to discuss the controversy before us, yet it is due to the board and myself that I should state here the reason for my position. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 6)

Most of the board very well know that for the last six or eight years, especially for the last five years, I have borne the responsibilities of the situation under the most distressing conditions. There has been a strong feeling in my mind a great many times whether it was duty to stay there. But I have always felt a burden for the work; I have had a liking for the work and have considered it my duty to take up the responsibilities that were thrown upon me there to the bet of my ability. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 7)

When I first took the position, I know that a great many of my brethren felt it was not the position I should hold, and I have always felt that as long as the brethren gave me the position, it was not for me to question whether it was my duty or not; it was my duty to fulfill the obligations that rested upon me, as far as I could. I have always felt further that as long as the way was open for me to go on with my work with any degree of freedom, that I should consider it my duty to do so and in the fear of God discharge those duties to the best of my ability. I further felt that if it were not my work to go on there, that the situation would ripen itself, and that in time I should either know and have the support of all my brethren, or I should be relieved of the situation. This is the feeling with which I have conducted my work for a number of years. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 8)

Now I have been very sincere in the feeling that the Lord had given me a burden and work to do and that I was fulfilling that work for Him, or else the thing was a mistake in giving me those responsibilities that were thrown upon me there. If it were a mistake in giving the responsibilities to me, it was not my duty, because it was something that I never sought. I never in all the time I was there did anything to take responsibility upon myself. As things turned this summer, it seems to me very evident that the Lord had not called me to the responsibilities that I was trying to carry. In fact, I was told so plainly. And as long as the responsibilities were not divinely put upon me, I have felt that the only thing to do was to be relieved of the burden, and I have accordingly sent in my resignation to the board to take effect at the time when the board and others felt there would be others there to take my place. I considered it carefully when I sent it in, and I have thought and prayed much about it since, and I see no reason to change the action that I have taken; and of course the situation at the present time is very complicated, but the complications as far as the actual work is concerned, as long as I retained my position, fell almost wholly upon me, that is, as far as sustaining the work is concerned, and the situation that is taken, the moves that have been made have so stirred the situation all around, that the burden is a very, very heavy one, and I would rather be relieved than to undertake to carry it further. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 9)

If there is anything that the board wishes to have me express with reference to my convictions or views relative to anything, it is my understanding that I am perfectly free to do so. I do not however wish to bring up anything that will add controversy, except as may be essential to the conditions in hand. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 10)

Elder Jones: The doctor’s resignation before us at the last meeting was to take effect not later than the first of October, and this is the first day of October, and the doctor is still of the same mind. It devolves upon the board now really to do something. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 11)

Sister White stated she had written some things upon the matter that none of the members of the board knew about. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 12)

Dr. Sanderson: Since you have given the testimony you have borne up there in public, the family and patients as a whole know that it is not planned for me to stay there. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 13)

Sister White: They know as a whole? (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 14)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes, the patients all know that it is not planned that I should stay there. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 15)

Sister White: What other thing has been planned; has any plan—we have plead with you to remain. But I should not speak. I should let this meeting go right on. I did not come to speak in it, not at present. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 16)

Elder Jones: In all the plan that I have had, there has not been that you should go, but that you should stay and work with Dr. Rand when he should come. And so it is immaterial of course which way it is, but as a mere matter of fact, it seems plain that the only real planning done has been by yourself. That may be on account of— (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 17)

Dr. Sanderson: The situation that led me to hand in my resignation, and that talking commenced after the questions were asked. I would say further: As far as the work is concerned, that I love the work, and I would hesitate very long to do anything that would in any way injure the work, if it were in my power to help the work. If the brethren still feel that this work which I have done, and the work which I am to do, falls to me to do, and I can do it acceptably and can support me in my work, I am willing to make arrangements to stay. If the brethren feel that they wish me to stay temporarily to tide over a crisis, I will do anything that is just and reasonable to make arrangements to do that, but to stay in St. Helena and work under the influences that I have worked there for years in the past, I cannot do it. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 18)

Elder Jones: What is to be done with the Doctor’s suggestion that he be relieved and Dr. Coolidge go to St. Helena? (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 19)

Dr. Coolidge: Elder, I would like to ask a question or two prompted by thoughts the Doctor has brought out last. Thoughts, if it is acceptable to the brethren, you would like, or might, if they thought best, stay in the work. Have you some place in mind? Or, did you mean to convey the idea by that that you would like to work in some other sanitarium, Doctor? (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 20)

Dr. Sanderson: No, I did not say that. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 21)

Dr. Coolidge: You were speaking that you would not like to stay at St. Helena under existing circumstances, the way they had been for years past. I thought perhaps you would like to go to some other place and work some place else? (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 22)

Dr. Sanderson: No. I have no burden for any place but St. Helena. I have carried that burden for years, and I have never had any burden to go anywhere else; except I have been invited to go two or three different times, but those experiments have proved so expensive and so distressing that I do not care to experiment in that line any more. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 23)

C. H. Jones: I would like to inquire how it is about Dr. Rand. I understood that he was to be here the first of October. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 24)

Elder Jones: The last we heard from him was the telegram to Dr. Sanderson. I have had no letter. There was a letter due to me from him more than a week ago, but it has not come. A telegram came to Dr. Sanderson that it was—I think the words, impossible for him to come at present. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 25)

Dr. Sanderson: Yes sir. I have had a letter from him since then. I forgot to bring that down. In that letter he said that he had no special burden for the work here, and he had planned to only come here temporarily. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 26)

Elder Jones: We knew that all the time. That is what puzzles me. They continually write and telegraph when there is not a thing said that he would stay here a long time. Not a single new thought raised, or presented. The great rush at the Sanitarium, though, I understand, still continues. Dr. Kellogg wrote to Dr. Moran they were still arriving at the rate of 20 or 40 a day, even so late as the 22 or 23 of September, so that the great rush might make it impossible for Rand to come in the midst of that, but the qualification is always put there every time “at present”; “at present cannot come.” (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 27)

Dr. Coolidge: It is agreeable to Dr. Kellogg that he does come, is it? (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 28)

Elder Jones; Oh yes. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 29)

Dr. Sanderson: Dr. Kellogg wrote me that it was not his mind to have him come. I am sorry I did not bring those letters down; I did not think of getting them. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 30)

Dr. Coolidge: As far as you know, Brother Jones, you expect Dr. Rand out in about a month or two weeks? (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 31)

Elder Jones: I should expect him, yes, shortly after the summer rush is over, when there comes a lull in the heaviness of their work, and to stay at least six months, I should think. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 32)

Sister White: I would like to say a few words—perhaps it would be best for me to say a few words. I have borne my testimony to Brother Sanderson of the dangers of himself and his wife, and the possibilities before him and his wife if they come in right relation to the Lord, and that He would work for them; and we tried to help him all we could, and there were some things that were mentioned that needed another physician—one physician in the sanitarium was not sufficient—to be supplied with young boys. That they needed influential persons in a sanitarium that was empowered, or felt in that condition of responsibility that they could speak with the physician, and they could tell him that he was making mistakes, and he could speak with them if he saw they were making mistakes. It is a mutual thing—that they understand how to deal with the many minds that they have to deal with at that sanitarium. It was in God’s order that there should be one that should stand right by his side, just as it is given here; that was the testimony that I had to bear, just the first time I conversed with him; that there should be a firm management, and there should be a physician in the institution besides himself. I mentioned these things. It has not been anything that has come since I left Australia, but it is the view that has been presented to me of the sanitariums before I left Australia, and the lacks and the necessities. And I have sent them to the different institutions as they have been presented to me at the Battle Creek institution and at the other institution; but they did not take it that they must put in their resignation because some errors had been pointed out for them to correct. They did not do that. But they sent me words of expression—they were so grateful that I had pointed them out, and they would work to the point. I might mention names, but I do not think it is best. Some of the very best ones. In other institutions the same. The publishing institution and other institutions and various responsibilities. And I saw that the thing was not understood; that the thing was not taken right; that there was not a discernment of what was comprehended in it. And it has caused me a great deal of suffering of heart and mind, to think it was so hard to get anything understood that would change the order of things, and I have tried to lay it out in the very best manner that I could. And my brethren did not know what I have written, because I have not presented it before them, but I am willing that they should see a copy of all that I have written, everything. And if they can say that I have been unmerciful or hard or unjust in any of these things, why, I want them to speak; or if it is so dark that they cannot comprehend it, I want them to say so. I do not say that it is. I say that the very best results, wherever Dr. Sanderson will go, is to give to it every word of that testimony, and live right up to it; and when he does that, not to think that he has nothing to change, but to take right hold of it like a sensible man and to correct errors. And then to reach just as high a standard as he can possibly reach. That is what God wants every one of us to do; and I laid that out because that is my work; that is the work that God has appointed me to do, and it would not be proper for any other one to come in and say things that I have said. They should take no kind of excuse to say just what I have said, because the Lord has presented to me the inner workings of matters and the results, and for pushing or trying to get Brother Sanderson out of his place, I have told him that I thought if he were yoked with other physicians—for that is the way it was presented to me—if he could yoke up with other physicians; if he could not yoke up with them here, yoke up with them where they are, and let him be learning something else besides what comes to his mind, and what was his mind and his ways, and it would be for the greatest advantage to him, and then, why he might be fitted for the position. But the plea has been made, he has been there ten years. Well, it is time he was emptied from vessel to vessel, if he has not come up to the very position that God wants him to come up to. That is how the matter stands in the case with me. I have just as tender feelings toward Dr. Sanderson. I have not slept night after night—it has been nigh onto two weeks that I have not slept past 2 o’clock, or 1 o’clock at night, and one night at 12, and that case has been on me so that every breath was a groan. Why? Because he was so wicked?—No. Not at all. But because he could not perceive what he might be. What it is his privilege to be; what God could do with him if he would only just understand it himself; and, if he could not understand here, he better go somewhere where another condition of things and another atmosphere would be around his soul and that he could discern. Then by the power of influence he could discern what the path was. And it is for his interest to be in that position that he can see where he can reach a higher standard. Now there is the whole beginning and end of it. And I said to him and his wife what I had written to them and to her, God wants her to be converted and stand by the side of her husband, and that they should labor together, and that they should have an influence in the work and cause of God. Well, was not that what I wrote, Brother Sanderson? (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 33)

Dr. Sanderson: It was to that effect, yes. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 34)

Sister White: And I have said it to you too, and I have felt an intense interest from the first that I came into that Sanitarium. I cannot describe it [as] anything more than the yearning influence that I have had for my own sons; that I have had for Edson; that I have had for Willie. And Edson has a pile of letters that high that I have written, and written, and written what God wanted him to do; what he must do. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 35)

Well, he could not realize it until the power of God got hold of him and he saw it. Oh, said he, now I take those letters, said he; why they seem to burn right into my soul like a fire, says he; I see it now, but I did not see it then. And, that is my work. It is not to tell Brother Sanderson everything you have done is all just right—it is just right, and to daub [it] with untempered mortar. God wants a man to be in a position where the Holy Spirit of God can work with him, and that he knows it. And it is these things that I have written to my own people. Yes, to my own husband, and to my whole family and, no matter who it is, I have the testimony to bear just as it has been laid open before me, and that is what I have tried to lay open. Nothing of my feelings. I have nothing as far as Dr. Sanderson and I are concerned; there has been the most perfect harmony and respect and love—the love of Jesus Christ between him and me. I know not one thing that he has every said or done, or that I have said or done to him personally. Is there Dr. Sanderson? (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 36)

Dr. Sanderson: No. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 37)

Sister White: Not a thing, but to make it understood and you know that I am not his enemy, I don’t know how to do that. I don’t know how to do it. It is beyond my ken. I cannot do it. We have got souls to save or lose; and if I should repress anything that God has opened before me, don’t you see what a responsibility would be upon my soul? Why, I should feel if they should stumble and fall, why you did not do your duty to him—you did not do it. And then, when I do my duty and it has the opposite effect from what God wants it to have and what I wanted it to have, why then I don’t know what I am going to do with that. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 38)

Dr. Sanderson: I don’t want Sister White to feel for a moment that I have any feeling of enmity, or, that you have done anything but what came from the very kindest motive of your heart. As far as the standard you have presented before us is concerned, I fully agree with you. There is not a thing that you have presented before me that you wish me to attain to but what my soul yearns after just as much as yours does, but the way you have presented the situation and the things which you have stated were necessary to the situation, and the facts which you have referred to with reference to a different situation is something that I cannot at all understand. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 39)

Sister White: Yes; but if you had understood it, and had been going right on in that way, Brother Sanderson, it would make you guilty. As you have not understood it, and have done the best you thought that you knew how, and yet was not the best thing to do, and the Lord in His mercy tells you what is the best thing to do, that you are making a mistake, and that mistake is leaving impressions on the institutions that He doesn’t want to make, and there is no need of your making them if you come into a position that He wants you to come. That is how it is. We don’t want to hurt, nor wound, nor bruise your soul. We don’t want to do that, but we do not want you to take a position that you will always regret. You may not now, but the time will come when you will regret it. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 40)

I have things written out which I will in the future, as soon as I can get it copied, I will let you have a copy of what the Lord expects of all who labor in the Sanitarium. And it is there that their influence is to tell on all classes of people. And in the past Dr. Kellogg has been just as faithful, just as thankful that I would point right out to him, You should not have done that, you should not have spoken that, you should not have done this thing, and he would send right back, I ought not to have done it and I will take it right back. Well, again, and again, and again that testimony came, and finally he stood up. Said he, It is Sister White’s testimonies that have made me what I am—if I can have any influence. Said he, She has bound me right about by the Lord’s restrictions, and then encouraged me. Said he, It is that. And when his mother died, said he, You are the only mother I have got. Well, that is the work that I have had all the way along. I have not begun to talk to you in these things as the Lord has opened it in years past to talk to Dr. Kellogg in regard to certain courses and influences that were hurting him, and that he should not do it, and that is the only thing that has saved him, is the testimonies. Because he did not believe, he did not consider that it was so until it was laid right out before him, and he did believe the testimonies. I feel an intense interest for every soul. I carry them—once their case is presented to me—I carry them on my soul day and night. And considered and pray, and that is why there have been two weeks—there has only been one night out of two weeks that I have slept after 2:30 o’clock; but it has been praying to God in agony—that my soul has been in agony, and it has been so in the case of Dr. Sanderson and his wife. For I could see what they could be, but what they would be, if they carried themselves right in their own hands. And that has led me to write quite fully. And yet it has not all gone to them yet. And yet I have waited to see how matters would turn. I have written them about it. I had said enough before writing. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 41)

I should not have come here at all today, only I thought there might be some points misunderstood or something that I might say. I did not come for any controversy, for God’s Spirit does not want me to have any controversy with anybody, only to bear my testimony; but if there were anything misunderstood that I could help to have it understood, I would do so, but to have controversy, I have been forbidden to have any controversy with any one. Bear your testimony clear and just as I give it to you, and it is not your business to try to make any one believe it. That is not your work. And that is the only way that was ever presented to me that I could save my life. Because I felt so intensely over these cases; but that I must leave it with the Lord and have no controversy over it. I had done my duty and leave it there. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 42)

Dr. Sanderson: As the brethren know so little about the testimonies, I would like to have them read, if you have the testimonies here. The brethren are unable to judge very much of the testimonies as very few of them know anything about them. I would be glad to have them read. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 43)

Sister White: Have you them with you? (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 44)

Dr. Sanderson: I have the first one you sent me. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 45)

Sister White: Recently I sent something to Dr. Kellogg just as I had it. That is, just a day or two ago. He wrote something about—telling me—speaking how intensely he felt about the matter. He has been one that is the very best friend you have got in the world. He has just wanted that you could develop and he has had an intense interest; he has never spoken one word to your demerit, not one word. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 46)

Dr. Sanderson: Here is the first testimony that you gave me; that you sent; I have here. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 47)

Sister White: I wish you had them all. I am very sorry that you did not bring the last one (reading): (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 48)

“To the Managers of the Saint Helena Sanitarium:—I am impressed that the time has come to say something in regard to the Sanitarium at St. Helena. There is need of the vivifying power of the Holy Spirit being felt throughout the institution. Much has been presented to me during the last fifteen years in regard to this institution, and this I have written out plainly and clearly in many communications. I have a pile of letters I think that deep that I have written in regard to the Sanitarium.... Its history has been presented to me, and I have written to Dr. Sanderson in reference to its management. I am surprised that he says he has not had it, and I know it is among my writings somewhere, but I have not had time to look it up.” (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 49)

Dr. Sanderson: This is the first communication I ever had from you, except the one which you wrote concerning Brother Caruthers, you remember. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 50)

Sister White: “He has not shown wisdom ...” (continuing). (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 51)

Sister White: In regard to Sister Mary Sanderson and the other physicians, Sister Mary Sanderson especially would be of great use to the institution were she humble before God—a great blessing. But there is this pride, and not submissive to the will of God. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 52)

Now I did not expect, you know, to come [to] this meeting, Brother Sanderson. I told Willie I was not going to this meeting. I expected to make a stay perhaps over the Sabbath and speak to the people. If I had expected to have attended this meeting, I should have brought the letters along. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 53)

Elder Jones: I am satisfied myself that something definite should be understood and undertaken, for, as Dr. Sanderson says, it is neither for the benefit of any physician or the institution that the influence should be merely tentative for a long time, and we are met now for that purpose, so I hope the brethren will all be thinking of what we ought to do. If he cannot find it in his mind or in his practice to make those changes, then so far as I understand the situation at all, it is plain to me that the institution would be better off without him there, if he cannot make those changes. I had just as soon work with him as anybody else in the world so far as my part in the work is concerned, and all I have ever understood is that if he can make those changes, all would be glad to have him stay. And the Local Board up there on the 11th of September—on the way down from Healdsburg to this place, I met with the Local Board that evening, and the Doctor stated his views of treating a certain class of cases, and I wish that that could have been taken down exactly as it was. I have thought several times since that I would give $20 if I had it just as it was stated there. I do not know how it could be stated better. As he stated it that day, it was as plain to my mind as anything can be that that kind of practice is simply the first steps to the direct practice of hypnotism, and is in essence that, so far as it is practiced now. And with that carried on in the institution, taught to the helpers, to the classes, etc., I could not imagine how much more damage could be done to the institution than to have it so. And it would be impossible for as much damage to come to the institution from Dr. Sanderson’s going, as it would be by his staying this those views, practicing those methods, and teaching those principles to the classes, and whosoever might be working with him and expecting them to be adopted and used in the institution. And for him to stay with those views—and another difficulty would arise. I expect to be at St. Helena myself to stay a month or six weeks to work in the spiritual interests of that institution in any way that I can, and a part of my work there would be to teach them simple, plain Christian experience, conversion, etc. And our service of God is first service of the mind, a transformation of the mind is the first element of Christianity, to receive another mind than the mind which we have—the mind of Jesus Christ. And teaching those simple, plain principles of Christianity would come in direct antagonism to the principles which Dr. Sanderson stated as the principles upon which he would treat certain classes of cases.... And understanding the situation as he stated it, I do not see how he could stay, nor how the Board could ask him to stay with those views and those methods of practice. But without them, I am perfectly free and willing and glad to have him remain and go on in the way that the Lord is leading. But now, if the doctor cannot change his mind and leave out those methods, then we must, it seems to me, provide for something else, and why wait any longer to do it. His resignation takes effect today at the latest, as it was written, and unless he finds a place to change his mind, and to go the other direction, why certainly we are here to act; not with any purpose or thought of injuring him, or separating him from the institution at all, but act as we must act with the responsibility of that institution upon us. So that, if the doctor maintains that attitude still, then the only thing we have to do is to count his resignation final as it was made, and we diligently set about, to the best of our ability, in the fear of God, to find some one whom we can put in there to the best advantage at present. I should say we want Rand. I can see that plain enough; we want him, and I should not be satisfied at all to give up that thing until we get him; even if Dr. Sanderson should stay, I say we want Rand. And we want him for a purpose, and that is, so far as I can understand the history of that institution from the time I went there when it was shut up before—the first time I was ever there and the last time, I think, until I came here—was up there in June—was when Dr. Gibbs went over to open the institution, and that is the first and I think the last time until last June, to my understanding, from that time to this, that institution has never had a chance to be founded upon right principles. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 54)

Sister White: That is so. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 55)

Elder Jones: It has been a succession of misses, not of hits and misses. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 56)

(General discussion at some length followed.) (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 57)

Elder Jones: So now in view of all these things, what is your choice, Brother Sanderson, so we can go ahead? (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 58)

Dr. Sanderson: I cannot state my choice any more plainly than I have stated it. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 59)

Elder Jones: Then what does the Board think of Brother Sanderson’s suggestion? Brother Sanderson in asking for this meeting suggests that Dr. Coolidge be invited to come to the Sanitarium. I do not know anything about these things myself. Dr. Moran was agreed to it, or thought that would be all right. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 60)

Elder White: If Dr. Sanderson remains at St. Helena, he needs help. If he does not remain, the institution needs a good doctor. If Dr. Coolidge is his first choice, I should feel inclined to concur in it. Of course we should have to consider what would be done here. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 61)

... (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 62)

Dr. Coolidge: In regard to going to St. Helena, it would depend upon what you brethren would say. In regard to changes in the future, if Dr. Rand comes there, Dr. Rand may want a strong man under him from the East, whom he knows, possibly. In case he should want anything like that, it would be agreeable to make any change he should want. At the present time, if there is a necessity of having some change made, and you want somebody to go up there and attend to the patronage there now, if the brethren wish it, I will go, and I understand that that thing cannot positively be made permanent at the present time, because as a rule, whenever you change your administration, there are several other changes to be made. As far as I am concerned, it depends altogether on what the brethren wish. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 63)

Elder Jones: We were talking in our board meeting recently that our work in this city should be more definitely connected with our church work in this city; then why not invite Dr. Buchanan to take the place of Dr. Coolidge, as we have already voted that a lady physician should be a part of the institution—why not invite Dr. Buchanan to connect with the work in San Francisco? (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 64)

Elder Richards: I would say with regard to Dr. Buchanan, he starts in today to take a postgraduate course, and intends to remain in the college nine months. It is very questionable whether you could get him. He expects to put in every morning in the college for nine months ... (after discussion). (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 65)

Elder Richards: I move a committee of three be appointed by the chair, the chairman to be one, to wait upon Dr. Buchanan in regard to the proposed change and his connection with the work here. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 66)

Seconded and carried. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 67)

... (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 68)

Committee selected: A. T. Jones, W. C. White, Dr. Thomas Coolidge. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 69)

Recess until 4 P.M. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 70)

Upon re-assembling at the hour appointed. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 71)

Also present, Dr. R. A. Buchanan. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 72)

Prayer by Elder Richards and Elder Jones. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 73)

Dr. Coolidge reported further upon the impossibility of having any changes made in the building at 1436 Market St., in view of the approaching rainy season, before another year. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 74)

It was moved, seconded, and carried that Dr. Thomas Coolidge be invited to connect with the Sanitarium at St. Helena as soon as arrangements can be made. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 75)

It was also moved and carried that Dr. Thomas Coolidge be invited to accept the position of House Physician at the Sanitarium, and request that he take up that work as soon as possible. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 76)

Also that Dr. Coolidge be appointed as a member of the Local Board of Management of the St. Helena Sanitarium. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 77)

The committee appointed to confer with Dr. Buchanan—reported:— (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 78)

By Elder Jones: Dr. Buchanan has a business averaging $150 per month. He proposes to accept our invitation to take charge here in connection with the branch at a salary of $75 per month; and we recommend that the Association pay him $25 per month for his business. In other words, his business amounts to $150 a month clear. A salary of $75 a month leaves $900, and he proposes to donate $600 of that. And this leaves the amount that the Association is to pay him in round numbers, in the way of salary and recompense for his business, $100 per month. And the committee recommends that the doctor’s offer be accepted, and he be connected with the Branch here, beginning October 1, 1901. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 79)

C. H. Jones: I move this report of the committee be adopted. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 80)

B. F. Richards: Second the motion. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 81)

C. H. Jones: I would like to inquire how much time the doctor proposes to give to the work? (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 82)

Elder Jones: He says he has entered upon that nine months’ college postgraduate course in another institution, and he says that it will be an important advantage to his work even here, and the time he can take his lessons, that occupies only in the forenoon, and give his regular hours here afternoon and evening without interfering with his business. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 83)

Dr. Buchanan: I would be here in the morning before college, and in case of necessity I would leave college and go and answer a call. I have to do that now in emergency cases. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 84)

Elder Jones: Brother White asks for how long a time this arrangement should continue? (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 85)

Dr. Buchanan: Do you look to me for an answer? (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 86)

Elder White: Yes, sir. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 87)

Dr. Buchanan: I am perfectly willing, brethren, that this should be re-considered tomorrow, and at any time that my business doesn’t pay, just tell me. I know I can make it pay for Buchanan, and I think I can make it pay for the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 88)

Elder Jones: I should say it should stand as long as the business stands as it does at the time of the making of the arrangement. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 89)

Dr. Buchanan: That is satisfactory to me, gentlemen. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 90)

Thereupon the motion was put and declared carried unanimously. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 91)

Brother Haynes then stated that he had received notification of invitation to take the management of the Pacific Health Journal, and that the food company had voted for him to devote one half of his time to the journal, the other half to be devoted to the food company work around the Bay. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 92)

The pending resignation of Dr. Sanderson was again referred to. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 93)

Brother Parlin: I move that the resignation of Dr. Sanderson from the various Boards and Committees be accepted. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 94)

Elder Richards: In order to get this out of the way, I second the motion. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 95)

Thereupon, the motion was put, and declared carried unanimously. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 96)

Elder W. C. White: I move that we invite Dr. Rand to accept the position of physician in chief of the St. Helena Sanitarium, and ask him to come at the earliest possible moment. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 97)

Seconded and carried. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 98)

Moved, seconded, and carried that T. A. Kilgore be appointed chairman of the Local Board of the St. Helena Sanitarium. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 99)

Also moved, seconded, and carried that we express to Dr. Sanderson our appreciation of his earnest and faithful labors in behalf of the St. Helena Sanitarium, and that we request our President to confer with him with reference to taking up labor in some of the other institutions under this Association. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 100)

Moved and carried to adjourn to second Sunday in October at 12 o’clock, to meet at St. Helena Sanitarium. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 101)

Adjourned. (16LtMs, Ms 178, 1901, 102)

E. E. Parlin, Secretary

Ms 179, 1901

Sermon/God Will Supply All Our Needs
Healdsburg, California
September 7, 1901
Previously unpublished.

(Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White, delivered in the Healdsburg Church, Sabbath, 3 P.M., September 7, 1901.)

“For this cause I, Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,”—He can well say that. It was the preaching to the Gentiles that made him a prisoner. “If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you-ward: how that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery: (as I wrote afore in few words, whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ) which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit.” [Ephesians 3:1-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 1)

We want to understand this. We want to know that we can be brought into great nearness and in fellowship with the Holy Spirit of God. I want that we should understand it is a sad thing for any of us to not improve the privileges that God has given us to rise to an increase of faith and confidence in God, that we should walk circumspectly before Him. In this we come far short. We come far short in spirituality and knowledge that it is our privilege to have, and in doing this, we lose much to ourselves; but that is not all. We deprive the world of that love which God designs to give to His followers, and we do not impart that love as it is our privilege to do it if we abide in Jesus Christ. Christ promised that the Holy Spirit of God should be with us to bring all things to our remembrance, and to bring us up on a higher plane of action. (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 2)

“That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, and of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ by the Gospel.” The middle wall of partition He hath granted us, we might say, was broken down. “Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of His power.” [Verses 6, 7.] (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 3)

I wish we could take in the full meaning of these words, that we might have such a hungering, such a thirsting, such a longing, after the spiritual evidences which He has promised to give those who shall deny self and take up the cross and follow Jesus Christ. It is the effectual working of His power that brings His people into the very position it is their privilege to come. He gave His own life, that they might come. Therefore you can see that all heaven is disappointed when we do not meet the standard as Christians for which every provision has been made by the Son of God. He is the Son of the Infinite God, and He is the propitiation for our sins, that we should be brought in right relation to God. (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 4)

Why do we not claim all that God has provided for us? “Well,” you say, “I do not feel worthy.” Will you ever feel worthy? If you are doing things that you know are not right with God, stop doing them. It is to will and do of the pleasure of God, not your pleasure. (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 5)

“Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ.” [Verse 8.] Well, what does that mean? Why, it is riches that you may continue and continue to search for, and have more and still more. God wants us to be in a position that we can say, “Here, Lord, I am, take me as I am, cleanse me from all impurity, I want to be cleansed, I want to be washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb.” (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 6)

“And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.” [Verses 9, 10.] (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 7)

Now, we are trying to receive an education. I want that every one of us should make this the first education of our life, lay this as the foundation. Then we want to begin to build on the foundation, not hay, not wood, not stubble, but gold and silver and precious stones. Our work will be of that value. Well then, there is a work for the church of God to do, a very important one, and unless we reach up both hands of faith to God, we cannot do this work. (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 8)

Do you remember Moses, when there was a battle to fight with the enemy? While he kept his hands stretched toward heaven, the enemies were driven, and the Israel of God obtained the victory. Just as long as his hands were stretched upwards, revealing even to the enemies, or whoever was around, that their help was in God, then they had the strength of vitality, they had strength of power. It was the angels of God, principalities and powers, that were giving them the victory. (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 9)

There is no one of us that needs or would be in place to take any glory to ourselves. We are not to do this. We are to be in a position where we shall look to God and trust in God continually, but pressing the battle to the gate, as though we had something to do. The idea that if we come in connection with the world we must imitate all their practices, and all their habits and customs, it is a very foolish idea. We want to make known the mystery of godliness. We want to show, as people that stand under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel, that there is power that is granted unto us to overcome all the corruptions that are in the world through lust. And how? By being partakers of the divine nature. (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 10)

Now, God wants to work thoroughly in us. Will we let Him? A whole heaven of blessings, a whole heaven of power and facilities, the very threshold of heaven, is flushed with His glory—to come from the open door to us if we will place ourselves in relation to God, opening the door of our heart to let the sunshine of His glory in. That is what we want. (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 11)

“To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God.” [Verse 10.] Now that is a point I want you to fix in your mind. I want the Holy Spirit to put it there, and the Holy Spirit can do this if you will open the way for the Holy Spirit to work upon your mind. (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 12)

“The manifold wisdom of God.” Do every one of us realize, who have taken the holy vows of baptism upon us, that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost have pledged themselves to work in our behalf, that they will supply every deficiency that we need, if we will keep our covenant relation to God which we made at baptism? There we claim to be dead unto the world. It is an awful thing, we think, to bury a person alive, their bodies alive. And we think it is an awful thing to bury a person in baptism, and then have them to dishonor to God by not separating themselves from the world, coming out and being separate, and taking their position on the side of God, on the side of truth, on the side of righteousness. If we will do this, then what? O, we have power to prevail with God. (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 13)

Who has kept their covenant relation with God? They must receive baptism as Christ has said we must receive baptism. He said in Matthew the 28th chapter, “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations.” Do we know what that means? Have we taken it in yet? “Baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost”—and then what? There is teaching to do. Do not think that you are ready to leave the school, and then to be graduated. No. You have not attained yet. “Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Verses 18-20.] (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 14)

Now why cannot we take the promise of Jesus Christ? Why cannot we believe it? God wants us to encourage faith. He wants us to believe. Well then, we shall understand “to the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God, according to the eternal purpose.” [Ephesians 3:10, 11.] Now you can see this was purposed from the beginning for every child of God, that they were to receive “according to the eternal purpose which he purposed” in Christ Jesus our Lord (all this fulness, all this greatness of experience). [Verse 11.] (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 15)

“In whom we have boldness”—well, what does that mean? A self-confidence? No; a boldness in the Word, because we have placed ourselves in that humble position before God, and therefore we have access to Jesus Christ. Humble yourselves, and I am lifted up. Well, what is the lifting up? It is that confidence, that boldness, that courage, that we must have. Reach up your hands heavenward, and let everyone know that you purpose in your conversation, in your well-ordered and godly character, that you can glorify the God of heaven, “in whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Him. Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [Verses 12-14.] (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 16)

I have met persons who have professed to believe in Christ, who for years have been in an uncertain position as to whether or not we should bow our knees to Christ in prayer. Well, you can see how some stumble over little things. Well, here it is just as plain: “For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man.” [Verses 14-16.] What is that? Why, we have here an abiding Christ, and “if ye abide in me, and my words abide in you,” He says, “ye shall go forth and bring forth much fruit.” [John 15:7, 16, 5.] Well, that is just what we want to do. (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 17)

“That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love (now you see how full the language is), may be able to comprehend with all saints what the breadth, and length, and depth, and height.” [Ephesians 3:16-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 18)

Now Paul says he was the wickedest of all saints. You know I read that to you. Well now, why? Because he persecuted the saints of God unto death, and yet Christ accepted his repentance. (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 19)

“And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” [Verse 19.] Can we comprehend that—“filled with all the fulness of God”? Who is it now that will come and say, “What do you think? What shall I do? I do not feel as I want to feel.” Why, you just take that, and put it right in their hand, and tell them there is somebody that has told them all about how to get that feeling. It is by faith in Jesus Christ. It is the inner man that is strengthened, that you can take hold of that power, as Moses lifted up his hands; and as his hands were uplifted, Israel prevailed. We want to prevail as Israel. We want to have our minds drawn to God and to heaven. We want His righteousness, we want His truth wrought in us, and we want to follow on to know the Lord, that we may know that His going forth is prepared as the morning. (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 20)

“For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know (that is by a living experience) the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge (you cannot explain it; it comes right in your heart), that ye, might be filled with all the fulness of God. (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 21)

“Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think”—now, you should take that into consideration, “above all that we ask or think.” [Verses 14-20.] That is, after you have thought of your many wants, and ask God to give wisdom and to help you in every point, you are to say, “What I fail, what I fail to present in asking, give to me according to my necessities.” “Above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.” [Verses 20, 21.] (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 22)

Now then, I want to tell you why we want all this. I want to just say a few words. I will not hold you long; but why we want all this, it is: There is a world to save, and we want to gather all the rays of divine light from glory, and we want by a pure and spotless character to stand before God cleansed, purified, a partaker of the divine nature, having overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust; we want to prepare to be missionaries; we want to get ready, that we may meet the Lord when He shall come, and say, “Lo, this is our God, we have waited for Him, and He will save us.” [Isaiah 25:9.] (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 23)

May God give you strength; may God impart His power, that you may do just as it is given in Matthew that I read to you, that you may teach, “teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.” [Matthew 28:20.] We must teach all around us what it means by word, by example, by deportment, by our walking in the very footsteps of Christ. We must not lay snares for the feet of anyone, but we must make straight paths for our feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way. A crown of life for the overcomer. A crown of life for the victor. Do you want to be victors? Do you want to be victors in the war? Well then, let us begin just now. (16LtMs, Ms 179, 1901, 24)

Ms 180, 1901

Sermon/On the Twelfth of Romans
South Lancaster, Massachusetts
December 1, 1901
Portions of this manuscript are published in RH 01/07/1902.

(Part of a discourse given by Mrs. E. G. White at S. Lancaster, Mass., Sunday, 2:30 P.M., December 1, 1901.) (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 1)

In the twelfth chapter of Romans we read, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And 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.” [Verses 1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 2)

Here the apostle beseeches us to reach the high standard which it is possible to attain. Christ made it possible when He laid aside His royal robes, His royal crown, stepped down from His royal throne, and clothed His divinity with humanity, that humanity might touch humanity. He could not with His glory and majesty take His position among men. The glory must be laid aside. He must take the rude garments of humanity, and be afflicted with all the afflictions of humanity, that He might understand the temptations of humanity. He would become a faithful judge of how much they had to contend with in satanic agencies. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 3)

Through this experience Christ was enabled to give power to His people. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to as many as believed on Him.” [John 1:12.] This is where our power lies; it is not in ourselves. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 4)

We are not to conform to the ways of worldlings. No worldly policy must come into our efforts to work out our salvation with fear and trembling, knowing that it is God that must work in us to will and to do of His good pleasure. “For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.” [Romans 12:3.] All that we have in gifts and capabilities, in speech, in thought and action, is from God. We do not create it. It is the gift of God. We must understand, also, that there is with each of us an individuality—a character to work out after the divine similitude. “Ye are God’s husbandry; ye are God’s building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] You must cooperate, then, with God in the work of husbandry and building of your characters: there must be a turning away from things as dear to the human, carnal nature as the right eye, the right arm. If these cause stumbling, cut them off. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 5)

Yesterday I spoke upon the necessity of our standing in right relation to God in regard to our own perfection of character; and also on the example we should give to those around us. “Make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way.” [Hebrews 12:13.] You are not to be swayed to the right hand, and to the left—one day on the mount, and the next day in the valley filled with despondency. You are to think reasonably. Consider that “as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office; so we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.” [Romans 12:4, 5.] (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 6)

Here is your responsibility before God, not only to realize your accountability before God to serve Him, but to educate all the force of every power that you possess to the highest perfection, that you may present to God an offering of yourself, your mind, your soul, your body, for Him to work by His Holy Spirit. The bright sunshine of Christ’s righteousness will then shine into your soul, and you will have blessings to impart to others. You will then want to help every one around you. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 7)

About eleven years ago, when I was in the city of Brooklyn, we had a very profitable meeting, and the question was asked after the meeting whether certain ones should come to Brooklyn to be educated for the missionary work. From the light that had been given me I knew that those in charge of the mission were not prepared for this effort, for they had not the qualifications to do the right kind of work. They did not understand the education and training essential for the work to be done, and their work would have to be counter-worked. I told them plainly that I could not give my sanction to such a movement. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 8)

This mission work in large cities like Brooklyn and New York means something. The Lord wants every one of us to educate himself for God. At baptism, in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost, we are set apart to engage in the very work that Christ came to the world to do. He was in the highest sense a missionary, a healing missionary. While He went from place to place healing the sick and suffering, His disciples were gaining from Him that instruction which alone could be called higher education. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 9)

Now there is a great work to be done in our cities, and it must be taken hold of without delay. Solemn interests are at stake; souls are hungering for the bread of life. Will we receive the word from Christ to give to him that is hungry; and to him that is thirsty for the water of life? Why should we pass by the most wealthy classes? God has a message for them, a call to repentance, as had John, “For the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 10)

There is nothing that can accomplish as much for these classes as the medical missionary work. This work commends itself to the hearts of men whose whole lives have been perverted. They have been in the habit of eating and drinking, and indulging in luxuries, until they are broken down physically before they reach maturity. They are in need of heavenly truth, Bible enlightenment. Do you not think that there is hope of saving some of these? Certainly there is. There is nothing that will help them into right paths like showing the necessity of becoming acquainted with the human temple that God has given them, the beautiful machinery to be brought into, and kept in, perfect order. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 11)

No one is to be indifferent in this matter. Life, eternal life, is presented to them as a gift of God, if they will receive it. Will they show wisdom, as did Daniel and his fellows to refuse the meats and the wines which, if used, would injure the Lord’s wonderful and beautiful machinery? Will they reason from cause to effect? They need—yes, the supposed wealthy men need—wisdom how to conduct themselves so as to preserve their powers of mind and body. They are ignorant in regard to the effect of their eating and drinking, and do not know what a temperate diet will do for them. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 12)

We should not be prevailed upon to take anything into the mouth that will bring the body into an unhealthy condition, no matter how much we like it. Why? Because we are God’s property. You have a crown to win, a heaven to gain, and a hell to shun. Then for Christ’s sake I ask you, Will you turn away from the light that shines upon you in clear and distinct rays, and say, “I love this, and I love that”? If I had not followed the light given me, I would not be before you today. God calls upon every one of you to begin to plan to cooperate with God in His great care and love, to elevate, ennoble, and sanctify the whole soul, body, and spirit, that we may be workers together with God. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 13)

Some have folded their hands and done nothing in religious lines. These have let the ministers, and those that are in responsible positions, plan everything, think out everything, and do all the work which if taken hold of interestedly, would have been of the highest value to them. The ministers have been called upon to take part in all your business perplexities, and yet you wonder that the work of the ministry does not go forward with greater success. For Christ’s sake, let all who have the truth begin to come into line, and act intelligently, and show that they are not novices. That is what the Lord wants you to do. He wants you to act your individual part. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 14)

There is a work to be entered upon in every city, in every town. Now what are you going to do to help it forward? You are to obtain all the light and knowledge that you can. Our canvassers should take our health books with them, and read them. They will find that there is light in them, which they can present to the families they visit. And when they find persons sick, they can read something in those books that will do these persons good. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 15)

Many are going to work on this plan. God never sets a man to work, and then leaves him without putting any ideas into his mind. It was God that gave Daniel superior knowledge in all matters of difficulty; and the Lord gave him the power to obtain that education that placed him on the highest platform of education, above the astrologers and magicians in all the realm of mighty Babylon. Now, what is God going to do for every diligent searcher for truth? You see what He gave to Daniel. Daniel would not touch the king’s meat. Who of us are eating meat today? We should not do it. God has given you those things that will make you healthy. I beg of you, do not put corpses on your tables. There is enough that you can live upon without this. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 16)

What does meat eating do? It creates animalism in the human agent. It strengthens the animal propensities, and these are already strong enough. You would better be strengthening the spiritual powers. God help us that we may, by self-denial and self-sacrifice, keep a clear brain and an understanding mind. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 17)

It is better to let sweet things alone. You do not need the sweet desserts that are often placed on the table. You want a clear mind to think after God’s order. Then you should come into line with health reform principles. There is a work to be done, and we want to unite with Dr. Kellogg in doing this work. He knows what he is talking about. We want to take the light from the Word of God, and form ourselves into companies to work for others. God will help us to do this work. This is what we want to do, “Let love be without dissimulation: abhor that which is evil, cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love, in honor preferring one another.” [Romans 12:9, 10.] That is Christian courtesy. If we have this courtesy, we will hold our temper. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 18)

There is an abundance to eat. We do not believe in a poverty-stricken diet; but we want to eat those things that will not corrupt in our stomachs and sour our tempers. It is bad eating and sour stomachs that make men who are called Christians act unreasonably. They get a little mote of difficulty before their mind’s eye and will exalt that mote to a mountain, and then the mountain of eternal spiritual advantages that ought to be exalted will become a molehill. That is the way the enemy wants it to be; but we do not want to work in such a way. Let us transpose the whole matter. Eat good, wholesome food; sweeten up in your disposition. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 19)

There is a work, a large work, to be done. There is a world to save, a world to put on the right track. What have you been doing these years with the light that God has been flashing upon your pathway? Are you of those who are “not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord”? [Verse 11.] Have you been keeping this idea in view: soon I must meet these men in the judgment and learn the effect of my speech upon them? If we have the truth, we must let the light shine upon the pathway of others. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 20)

Are you “rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer”? [Verse 12.] You cannot do that unless you have a good, sweet stomach. With a sour stomach you are thinking all the time, O dear, how my stomach hurts me! What is the matter? If you had thought just a little earlier, and eaten the right things, you would have avoided the difficulty. Let us all be temperate. It is our duty to be cheerful. We are not to be like a band marching along with a slow and mournful tread. That is not our place. What we want is to rejoice in hope. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 21)

You can go to all the houses around you, to the high as well as to the lowly, and find access. The souls of the higher classes are just as hungry for the truth of God as the very lowliest among us. We must get together and organize for service, and see what we can do to work these cities, and God will give us wisdom. God will give us strength for this work if we continue instant in prayer. The light of heaven will shine into our minds and hearts. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 22)

“Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.” [Verse 13.] That is the work of the gospel, missionary work; and that is just the work that every one of us should be intelligent in doing. What kind of influence do you think such work will have upon unbelievers? They will say, These men live the things they teach. They carry out just what they believe. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 23)

“Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.” [Verse 14.] “Oh,” you say, “when they abuse me, I must tell them what I think of them.” But that is cursing. Better not to be talking your words, and pouring on to men all the venom there is in you. That is cursing; you do not want to do that. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 24)

“Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” [Verses 15-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 25)

I want to say right here, from the light which God has given me, there is a solemn accountability that rests upon you who for years have had the light on health reform. What have you been doing? Have you been living it out to the letter? Our sanitariums are to represent health reform. They are to place before their patients the very best kind of food which will be for their health. If you expect to do your patients good, provide simple food, and do not tempt them with sweet pies and puddings which will place them where it will take more than one or two baths and fomentations to overcome the evil effects of that which you placed before them to eat. We want to teach the people all these things. Teach them in every place, that faith and works must harmonize. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 26)

The Lord calls upon you to show your colors. Stand as eternal health reformers, and do not be in such a condition that when you are asked if you are a health reformer, you will blush for shame. No, you want to say, “Certainly, I am a health reformer in every respect, and I want to help others to be health reformers.” This work is the right hand of the gospel. It is this health reform, this healthful living, that is clearing the way for us right to the hearts of thousands who have nearly killed themselves with their improper diet. Now let us begin to save them. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 27)

There are large interests in New York City. New York embraces a large territory, and it is a great missionary field. It would be wise to have New York proper worked as a separate conference. It will require a much larger outlay of means than is now anticipated. If New York proper should be worked separately from other territories and interests, we can make a specialty of this field, and more will be accomplished. Much confusion will also be avoided. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 28)

There is such a thing as workers getting in one another’s way, and losing time in making preparations to do something that ought to be done properly. The best time to work New York City is now, just now; and let the path be made as straight as possible for the work to be done. At the same time, let all be interested in every interest created in adjoining localities. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 29)

Those working New York proper should have special plans by which to work that field, and the general working forces should unite in building up the general interests. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 30)

Greater New York must stand in a different relation to the General Conference than the surrounding territory, and will have to be considered in a different light as far as missionary work is concerned. New York is a world of itself, and should have, in some respects, a different management from that of the surrounding localities. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 31)

God has His appointed agencies for the enlargement of our circle of influence, and for the increasing of the number of workers who will be missionaries indeed, laborers for the saving of the souls of their fellow men. These should set no boundaries to limit the sphere of their labors. The Christian church will ever meditate advance moves; it will ever be educating workers for further conquests for Christ. It should ever be moving on and on, that the truth may extend to all parts of the globe. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 32)

How did Paul and Barnabas labor? They visited every place where they could get an entrance, and they had success in the saving of souls to Jesus Christ. After a large territory was worked, they visited the churches which they had planted, and then returned to Antioch, the place from which they had been recommended by prayer and counsel for the work. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 33)

In the same way the work is to be carried now. Let those preparing to be laborers study the fourteenth chapter of Acts. Let them become familiar with this whole chapter, for those who shall become laborers together with God in these last days will realize experiences similar to those recorded in verse 19. “There came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul (who had so recently refused to be worshiped as a god), drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead. Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe. And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch.” [Verses 19-21.] (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 34)

Thus they fulfilled the commission given in (Matthew 28:19, 20): “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” Their special work was, “confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.” Acts 14:22-28. These experiences were of great value to the churches. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 35)

The Lord would have had New York, with all its surrounding localities and cities, worked many years ago. And now that the opportunity is more plainly revealed, in all localities, in every church, hearts should be drawn out and connected with the progress of the gospel message. In all the neglected parts of the vineyard hearts should be thrilled with a genuine, living experience. And now that there is a great work started, all must regard with interest every movement of the church. The churches in different parts of Greater New York are now to feel their sacred, God-given responsibilities. The word of the Lord is for this wide missionary field to be faithfully worked, and every vestige of criticism and faultfinding and separating of brethren to cease. Those who would cherish and foster prejudice are not to be listened to. Their prejudices, their thinking and speaking evil, are to be put away. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 36)

God will not tolerate any longer the spirit that has been controlling matters in our New York churches. The fields here are ready for the harvest. In whatever direction we look, our brethren must do their appointed work, which stretches to a large, unmeasured circumference. The work is to go forward under the direction of God, and those who wish to keep up the spirit of dissension should take themselves out of the way and let God’s work move onward. Let all understand that we are to now get rid of every cause of bitterness, and have a sanctified zeal for the saving of souls who are ready to perish. We need more of the Holy Spirit’s guidance. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 37)

Every church shall move in God’s order, following His plan of communion and Christian oneness. The whole body of believers is to be one in spirit. They are, collectively, the church of Jesus Christ. Standing in this widely extended missionary territory, the church should be calling the sinful to look at the Lamb of God who taketh away the sin of the world. This work is to go forward. Those who have taken upon themselves to carry a measuring line that they may measure all, and say how things shall go, may now be excused from this responsibility. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 38)

The cross of Calvary is to be uplifted; and all who will engage in drawing the people to the cross, enlarging the circumference of the circle of believers larger and larger, will have Christ, the Power of salvation, to second their efforts. Zeal for the power and glory of God is to be revealed. (16LtMs, Ms 180, 1901, 39)

Ms 181, 1901

The Need and Importance of Voice Culture. Part One.
NP
[Typed] Jan. 16, 1901
Previously unpublished.

In all our schools, great attention should be paid to voice-culture. Let reading classes be formed, in which each student shall be given a thorough drill in pronunciation and emphasis. This is necessary in order for the students to be successful in the future in communicating that which they have learned. The student who leaves school unable to read and speak correctly is not prepared for a position in the service of God. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 1)

Good readers are rare. Students should be taught to speak and read in an acceptable, impressive manner, pronouncing their words clearly and distinctly, and giving proper emphasis and expression to the thoughts. They should be taught how to control and modulate the voice, letting it rise and fall at the proper times. No tame, expressionless reading should be permitted. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 2)

Vocal culture should be made one of the most important branches of education in our schools. In order for this to be, the teachers must themselves understand the art of speaking and reading. those who help to prepare students to act a part in God's great work should be men and women who understand and appreciate the value of voice culture, who have studied this themselves and know how to instruct others. If teachers are defective in this respect, their work is of little value compared with what it would be if they knew how to speak and read. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 3)

Let this matter be no longer neglected by the teachers in our schools. Let them teach the students how to read in clear, full tones and how to give the proper emphasis and expression to the thoughts. And let the students themselves strive perseveringly to become good readers. In every part of a student's life, vocal culture is of the greatest importance. The intellect is of double value when there is joined with it the power to use the voice as it should be used. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 4)

We may have knowledge, but unless we know how to use the voice correctly, our work will be a failure. Unless we can clothe our ideas in appropriate language, of what avail is our education? All the knowledge we may gain will be of little advantage to us unless we cultivate aright the talent of speech that the doors of the lips may open to allow ideas to go forth to bless others. Knowledge is a wonderful power for good when combined with the ability to speak them in a way that will command attention. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 5)

We are bound by holy motives to do all that is in our power to meet the necessities for this time. Let us cultivate the talent of speech so that it will be a power in winning souls to Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 6)

Students who expect to become workers in the cause of God should be trained to speak in a clear, straightforward manner, else they will be shorn of half their influence for good. The ability to speak plainly and clearly in full, round tones is invaluable in any line of work. This qualification is indispensable in those who desire to become ministers, evangelists, Bible workers, or canvassers. Those who are planning to enter these lines of work should be taught to use the voice in such a way that when they speak to people about the truth, a decided impression for good will be made. The truth must not be marred by being communicated through defective utterances. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 7)

The canvasser who can speak clearly and distinctly about the merits of the book he wishes to sell will find that this is a great help to him in selling the book. He may have an opportunity to read a chapter of the book, and by the music of his voice and the emphasis placed on the thoughts he can make the scene presented stand out as clearly before the mind of the listener as if it could in reality be seen. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 8)

The one who gives Bible readings, in the congregation or in family, should be able to read with a soft, musical cadence that will charm the hearers. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 9)

Ministers of the gospel should know how to speak with power and expression, making the words of eternal life so impressive that the hearers cannot but feel their weight. I am pained as I hear the defective voices of many of our ministers. Such ministers rob God of the glory he would have if they had trained themselves to speak the word with power. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 10)

To be able to speak correctly is the life and health of a speaker. In speaking, the strain of the work should not be put upon the throat and lungs. The abdominal muscles are to do the heaviest share of the labor, the throat being used as the channel. Many have died who might have lived had they in the school room been taught that the voice is a precious talent, and must be used with the greatest care. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 11)

No man should consider himself qualified to enter the ministry until by persevering effort he has overcome every defect in his utterance. If he attempts to speak to the people without knowing how to use the talent of speech, half his influence is lost; for he has little power to hold the attention of a congregation. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 12)

Those who are engaged in mechanical lines of work will find it greatly to their advantage to cultivate the talent of speech. Thus they can make a success of their work when did they neglect to speak correctly, they would make a failure. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 13)

Those who are planning to engage in business lines need to learn how to control the voice, so that when they go forth into their work, they will not, if something goes wrong, speak in tones that will stir up the worst passions of the heart. Too often the speaker and the one spoken to speak sharply and harshly. Sharp, dictatorial words, uttered in hard, rasping tones, have separated friends and resulted in loss of souls. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 14)

Instruction in vocal culture should be given in the home circle. Parents should teach their children to speak so plainly that those who are listening can understand every word that is said. They should teach them to read the Bible with clear, distinct utterance, in a way that will honor God. And let not those who kneel around the family altar put their faces in their hands close down to the chairs when they address God. Let them lift up their heads, and with holy awe speak to their heavenly Father, uttering their words in tones that can be heard. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 15)

Parents, train yourselves to speak in a way that will be a blessing to your children. Women need to be educated in this respect. There are many busy mothers who have never had time to go back and pick up the dropped stitches; but even these, if they will, can cultivate the talent of speech, and can teach their children to speak and read correctly. They can do this while they are about their work. Let working men and working women remember that it is never too late for them to improve. God calls upon parents to bring all the perfection possible into the home circle. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 16)

In the social meeting there is special need of clear, distinct utterance, that all may hear the testimonies borne, and be benefitted by them. Difficulties are removed and help is given as God's people relate their experience in social meeting. But too often the testimonies are borne with faulty, indistinct utterance; and it is impossible to gain a correct idea of what is said. The blessing is lost through a failure to use rightly the talent of speech. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 17)

We have given altogether too little attention to this subject. Let those who speak and those who pray pronounce their words in clear, distinct, even tones. Prayer, if properly offered, is a power for good. It is one of the means used by the Lord to communicate to the people the precious treasures of truth. But prayer is not what it should be, because of the defective voices of those who utter it. Satan rejoices when the prayers offered to God are almost inaudible. Let God's people learn how to speak and pray in a way that will properly represent the great truths they possess. Let the testimonies borne and the prayers offered be clear and distinct. Then the social meeting will be a place where God will be glorified. (16LtMs, Ms 181, 1901, 18)

Ms 182, 1901

The Need and Importance of Voice Culture. Part Two. By Mrs. E. G. White
NP
[Typed] Jan. 16, 1901
Previously unpublished.

Let all make the most of the talent of speech remembering that the voice has been given to them by God to be improved and used in his service. Let there be a reformation among us in respect to the way in which we use this talent. Let all take hold of this matter in earnest. God calls for a higher, more perfect ministry. He is dishonored by the imperfect utterance of the one who by painstaking effort could be an acceptable mouthpiece for him. The truth is too often marred by the channel through which it passes. (16LtMs, Ms 182, 1901, 1)

The Lord calls upon all who are connected with his service to give proper attention to the cultivation of the voice, that they may utter in an acceptable manner the great and solemn truths he has entrusted to them. He calls upon them not to attempt to hold forth the word of life to others unless they can do this in a way that will honor him. Let them not mar the truth by defective utterance. Let not those who have neglected to cultivate the talent of speech suppose that they are qualified to minister; for they have yet to obtain the power to communicate. Let those who have not in the past felt it their duty to try to improve the voice, begin this work now, before any more time passes away. (16LtMs, Ms 182, 1901, 2)

When you speak, let every word be full and well-rounded, every sentence clear and distinct, down to the very last word. Many, as they approach the end of the sentence, lower the voice, speaking so indistinctly, with such weakness of utterance that the force of what they say is destroyed. Words that are worth speaking at all are worth speaking in a clear, distinct voice, with emphasis and expression. But never search for words that will give the impression that you are learned. The greater your simplicity, the better will your words be understood. (16LtMs, Ms 182, 1901, 3)

Has God placed in your hearts, young men and young women, a desire to do service for him? Then by all means cultivate the voice to the utmost of your ability so that you can make plain the precious truth to others. Do not fall into the habit of praying so indistinctly, and in such a low tone, that your prayers need an interpreter. Pray simply but clearly and distinctly. To let the voice sink so low that it cannot be heard is no evidence of humility. (16LtMs, Ms 182, 1901, 4)

Learn how to offer up your intercessions in an acceptable manner. First consider your great need and do not think it necessary to tell God a long list of things about yourself as if he did not know. come right to the point. In a voice of urgent entreaty make known your great need. Be as earnest as a child is when asking for something it very much desires. Mingle joyous thanksgiving with your requests. Thank the Lord for his great love and mercy toward the children of men. Ask him to help you to be his instrument in saving souls. Ask for wisdom to help you to be his instrument in saving souls. Ask for wisdom to know how to approach your fellow-men. And let your heart always be filled with sincere gratitude for God's great gift, the gift of his only begotten Son. Has not God given Jesus to die for you? And with this gift has he not given Jesus to die for you? And with this gift has he not given all heaven? Contemplate this subject and your heart will burn within you as you think of the infinite sacrifice made in your behalf. Oh, put your heart, all broken and subdued into your petitions. Do not, when you approach our heavenly Father to plead for the salvation of your own soul and the salvation of those around you, offer up a petition that is as prosy as a chapter of an uninteresting book. (16LtMs, Ms 182, 1901, 5)

All that is done in the service of God should be done with whole-heartedness. Let ministers and teachers pray with hearts overflowing with love for God and their fellow-men. The people become weary of listening to prayers that are as dry, as destitute of moisture, as the hills of Gilboa were destitute of dew and rain. It is hard to imagine anything more icy, more devoid of fervor, than many of the prayers offered by ministers whose petitions ought to be warm with the fire of God's love. Tame, spiritless prayers are a sign of a Christ-less heart. He whose soul is softened and subdued by the love of God will pray with fervency and zeal. (16LtMs, Ms 182, 1901, 6)

But let no one try to make eloquent prayers. Such prayers God does not acknowledge. (16LtMs, Ms 182, 1901, 7)

Prayer is an expression of the need of the soul. Our prayers should never be set and formal, but full of tenderness and love. Yearning for a deeper, broader realization of the Saviour's matchless love, we should cry to God for more wisdom. If there was ever need for soul-stirring prayers and discourses, it is now. The end of all things is at hand. Those who pray now should pray with sincerity, under the deep moving of the Holy Spirit. O that we could see as we should the necessity of seeking the Lord with all the heart. Then we should find him. Our hearts need to be cleansed from selfishness. So much of this great evil is cherished that the Lord cannot find room to enter. (16LtMs, Ms 182, 1901, 8)

May God teach his people how to pray. Let the teachers in our schools and the ministers in our churches learn daily in the school of Christ. Then they will pray with earnestness and fervor, and their prayers will be heard and answered, even as were the prayers of Daniel. Then the word will be proclaimed with power. (16LtMs, Ms 182, 1901, 9)

Let us learn how to pray in the Spirit. Let there be no more formal prayers. Let us learn to love God with heart and soul and mind and strength, and our neighbor as ourselves. Let us read and practice the instruction contained in the fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah. Then we shall offer prayers which bear the evidence of divine indicting. And such prayers will be heard and answered. (16LtMs, Ms 182, 1901, 10)

“Thus saith the high and lofty One, that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a humble and contrite spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” [Isaiah 57:15.] (16LtMs, Ms 182, 1901, 11)

To those who are planning to enter God's work as ministers, I would say, strive with determination to be perfect in speech. Ask God to help you to accomplish this great object. When in the congregation you offer prayer, remember that you are addressing God, and that he desires you to speak so that all who are present can hear and can blend their supplications with yours. A prayer uttered so hurriedly that the words are jumbled together does the hearers no good, and is no honor to God. Let the ministers and all who offer public prayer learn to pray in such a way that God will be glorified and the hearers blessed. Let them speak slowly and distinctly and in tones loud enough to be heard by all so that the people may unite in saying Amen. (16LtMs, Ms 182, 1901, 12)

Ms 183, 1901

Faithfulness in Service By Mrs. E. G. White.
NP
[Typed] Feb. 15, 1901
Previously unpublished.

“God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth in him is not condemned; but he that believeth is not condemned he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.” [John 3:16-18.] (16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, 1)

Life is a manifestation of God's love. It is a talent which God has committed to our care, and it is a very costly talent as viewed in the light of the sacrifice of God's Son. It is an expression of the ownership of God. We are his by creation and doubly his by redemption. We derive life from him. He is the Creator and the Source of all life. He is the Author of the higher life which eh desires the beings formed in his image to live. (16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, 2)

All nature is alive. Through its varied forms of life it speaks to those who have ears to hear and hearts to understand of Him who is the source of all life. Nature reveals the wonderful working of the Master-Artist. (16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, 3)

Man is the highest and noblest of all God's creatures. In the beginning man was made in the image of God. God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness.... So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him.” [Genesis 1:26, 27.] He formed us for his glory and he desires us in every word and act to acknowledge this. (16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, 4)

Life is to be regarded as a solemn, sacred trust. Those who have an understanding of their relation to God will carefully study the responsibilities of life, remembering that God desires human beings to place upon themselves the estimate he has placed upon them. Individually we shall be called to give an account in the Judgment for the way in which we have treated the talent purchased for us at so great a cost. No one with reasoning ability will be excused for neglecting to return to God his own. Improve your talents by exercise. Double them by using them in God's service. As you do this, you will reveal to a world sunken in sin a character in accordance with the character of God. Those who do not live the life of Christ here below fail of reaching the mark of the prize of their high calling. (16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, 5)

God has made every provision to enable us to reach the standard which he has placed before us. Christ died in order that we might be partakers of the divine nature, and thus escape the corruption that is in the world. God wants us to live on the plan of addition outlined in the first chapter of Second Peter. Constantly we are to press onward and upward. Our religion is to be progressive. (16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, 6)

God calls for that which many refuse to give him — the highest, holiest service. He desires us to acknowledge our relationship to him, to realize that we are his. Link your life with his. Live out the high principles which he came to this earth to reveal. Accept the invitation, “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.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] When you accept this gracious invitation, you are sustained by one who has an inexhaustible supply of grace. (16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, 7)

Remember that you are kept by the power of God. Give yourself to him. You need no one to tell you how to do this. God is drawing you to himself. Give up your will, your mind, your whole being, in submission to him. He is knocking at the door of your heart, waiting to enter. Will you let him in? (16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, 8)

Christ has made every provision that we shall reach the ideal set before us. He left his exalted position in heaven, laying aside his royal robe and kingly crown, and clothing his divinity with humanity, that he might help those in need of help. He became poor that we might come into possession of eternal riches. He says to us, “Whoever will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] These are the terms of discipleship. (16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, 9)

Christ is our example. “Learn of me,” he says. [Matthew 11:29.] There are stepping stones on which we may safely plant our feet in following him. But those who enter the service of the world are not following as he leads the way. It is impossible to please God and gain the friendship of the world at the same time. Let us not bind ourselves to the world with the cords of ambition. An ambition to serve God is wholly necessary; but an ambition fed by worldly ideas will bring failure after failure. Christ has never directed us to go to the world for wisdom and success. In him we live and more and have our being, and to him we are to go for help. (16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, 10)

When a physician promises to do all in his power to have the life of a sufferer, he does so on condition that the patient complies with his directions. And those who engage in the work of God must meet him, not on their ground, but on his ground. They must comply with the conditions on which he proposes to deal with his human agents. They must give cordial assent and willing obedience to his terms. (16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, 11)

The prodigal was welcomed to his father's house. But in order to enjoy the privileges of a son, he must comply with the conditions of son-ship. The gospel testifies that God in his boundless love for man assumed humanity in the person of his Son. Christ has made a propitiation for the sins of the whole world. He will cooperate freely and willingly with those who will receive him as their Saviour. He is not far from anyone of us. He will gladly receive all who will renounce the favor and friendship of the world, and make him their all and in all. He calls upon us to walk in accordance with his word. He says to us, “Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [John 15:14.] Our friendship with him is measured by his dominion over us. (16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, 12)

To acknowledge Christ as King, to submit to his authority, to consult his will, to make his law the rule of life our patter, to obey the stern precepts of his word, to deny self for his glory, to be willing to make any sacrifice for his sake, this is the duty and privilege of a Christian. Christ enjoins his followers to be ready to part with all for his sake. This is contrary to human inclinations, and thus Christ tests his disciples. If he is received at all, it must be as King. If he enters the soul, it must be to reign. (16LtMs, Ms 183, 1901, 13)

Ms 184, 1901

A Man of Sorrows and Acquainted with Grief By Mrs. E. G. White.
NP
[Typed] Feb. 17, 1901
Previously unpublished.

“And they came to a place which was named Gethsemane; and he saith to his disciples, sit ye here, while I shall pray. And he taketh with him Peter and James and John and began to be sore amazed and to be very heavy; and saith unto them, my soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death; tarry ye here, and watch. And he went forward a little and feel on the ground and prayed.” [Mark 14:32-35.] (16LtMs, Ms 184, 1901, 1)

“And cometh and findeth them sleeping; and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? Couldst not thou watch one hour?” [Verse 37.] (16LtMs, Ms 184, 1901, 2)

Again the suffering Son of God left his disciples and again he prayed, pouring out the burden of his soul with strong crying and tears. His soul was filled with agony beyond the power of unaided humanity to bear and live. The sin of the world was resting upon him, pressing him down with its heavy curse. He knew how difficult it would be for man to realize the terrible sinfulness of sin. He knew how few would accept the salvation he had come to bring. He knew that the great majority of me and women would take no pleasure in the righteousness which at an infinite cost to himself he was now making it possible for them to obtain. The load of the world's guilt was upon him. Doubts in regard to his oneness with Jehovah rent his soul. He felt as if he were being separated from the Father's love. (16LtMs, Ms 184, 1901, 3)

In this hour of trial, Christ longed for the sympathy of his disciples. Rising from the ground, he went to them the second time, and once more found them asleep. For a moment he bent over his beloved disciples with a look of inexpressible love and pity. He was acquainted with the power of the prince of darkness, and he knew that this foe had paralyzed their faculties, so that when they should be watching, they were fast asleep. “Watch and pray lest ye enter into temptation,” he said; “The spirit truly is willing, but the flesh is weak.” [Matthew 26:41.] (16LtMs, Ms 184, 1901, 4)

Once more the power of darkness pressed upon the Saviour with almost irresistible force, and giving his sleeping disciples a look of peculiar tenderness, he left them, with the earnest purpose to conquer the prince of evil, that man might be set free from the slavery of despair. (16LtMs, Ms 184, 1901, 5)

For the third time, the Saviour bowed himself to the earth in prayer. A strange and mysterious terror filled his soul. It is not possible for the human mind to conceive the anguish which tortured him. The Son of God, he had no sin to bear for himself. It was the sin and shame of others that he was carrying. On him was laid the iniquity of us all. In his divine sympathy, he had connected himself with humanity as the representative of the race, to be treated as a transgressor. Looking into the abyss which sin had made between earth and heaven, he had determined to bridge the gulf. In Gethsemane the sin which he was bearing rose before him in all its blackness. The peril of the race was so great that the plan of redemption seemed difficult to accomplish. This brought a great horror upon him and caused his spirit to faint. The anguish of his soul forced from his skin great drops of blood, which fell to the ground, moistening the sods of Gethsemane. (16LtMs, Ms 184, 1901, 6)

It was at this time that the mysterious cup trembled in Christ's hand. The destiny of a fallen world hung in the balance. Shall the Son of the infinite God drink the humiliation and agony appointed to the race? Shall the innocent suffer to save the guilty? Christ may even now put the cup from his lips, and leave man to perish under the wrath of a just God against transgression. (16LtMs, Ms 184, 1901, 7)

But from the lips of the Redeemer fell the words, “Not my will, but thine be done.” [Luke 22:42.] He saw man's inability to break away from the power of sin. He saw that if he did not drink the cup of suffering, the race would perish. He would not leave them to themselves, but would descend to the lowest depths of woe to rescue them. (16LtMs, Ms 184, 1901, 8)

Exhausted by the struggle, Christ fell to the earth. Where were his disciples? Why were they not there to place their hands tenderly beneath the head of their suffering Master and bathe the brow marred by unselfish sorrow? They did not know that their beloved Teacher had fainted. They were asleep. (16LtMs, Ms 184, 1901, 9)

Our Saviour trod the winepress alone, and of the people there was none with him. Yet he was not alone; for God was with him. (16LtMs, Ms 184, 1901, 10)

Who can comprehend the sacrifice God made in giving his Son up to reproach and agony? Thus he showed his measureless love for man. Angels beheld with astonishment the object of their adoration suffering for sinners. They longed to comfort him, but what could they do? It was beyond their power to alleviate such sorrow. They had never felt the weight of sin. (16LtMs, Ms 184, 1901, 11)

For the third time Christ came to his disciples, to find them still overcome by sleep. Looking sorrowfully and pitifully upon them, he said, “Sleep on now, and take your rest; it is enough; the hour is come; behold, the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.” And even while these words were on his lips he heard the footsteps of those in search of him, and rousing his disciples, he said, “Rise up, let us go; lo, he that betrayeth me is at hand.” [Mark 14:41, 42.] The Saviour's face wore an expression of calm dignity. No trace of his recent struggle was to be seen as he stepped forth to meet his betrayer. (16LtMs, Ms 184, 1901, 12)

Ms 185, 1901

Betrayed and Taken By Mrs. E. G. White.
NP
[Typed] Feb. 17, 1901
Previously unpublished.

“While he yet spake, lo, Judas, one of the twelve, came and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and elders of the people.” [Matthew 26:47.] (16LtMs, Ms 185, 1901, 1)

Jesus greeted the mob with the words, “Whom seek ye?” The answer came back, “Jesus of Nazareth.” “I am he,” Christ said calmly. [John 18:4, 5.] His voice was full of majesty and power. Divinity flashed through humanity. As he said, “I am he,” the angel who had ministered to him in his anguish in the garden stepped in between him and the murderous throng. The people saw Christ's face glorified by a divine light, while a dove-like form overshadowed him. Their sinful hearts were filled with terror, and priests and elders, with the hardened soldiers, fell powerless to the ground. (16LtMs, Ms 185, 1901, 2)

Presently the angel withdrew, leaving Christ standing calm and self-possessed, surrounded by his prostrate foes. The withdrawal of the angel broke the spell. The beams of glory which for a moment had flashed round Christ's face faded away. The Roman soldiers started to their feet, which Judas and the priests gathered round Christ, as though fearful that he would escape. (16LtMs, Ms 185, 1901, 3)

Again Christ asks the question, “Whom seek ye?” The answer is at length given, “Jesus of Nazareth.” “I have to you that am he,” Christ says; “if therefore ye seek me, let these go their way.” [Verses 7, 8.] Even in this hour of trial the Saviour's thoughts are not for himself, but for his disciples. He desires to save them from any further trial of their strength. (16LtMs, Ms 185, 1901, 4)

The betrayer does not forget his part. Stepping up to Christ, he takes his hand as one would take the hand of a dear friend and with apparent affection gives his Master the kiss of betrayal. (16LtMs, Ms 185, 1901, 5)

“Friend, wherefore art thou come?” Christ asks in a voice tremulous with sorrow. “Betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?” [Matthew 26:50; Luke 22:48.] This touching appeal should have awakened the conscience of the deluded disciple, and broken his heart. But all sense of honor and tenderness seemed to have left Judas. Bold and defiant he stood before Christ, showing no signs of relenting. He had given himself up to the control of the enemy and now he has no power to escape from the snare. (16LtMs, Ms 185, 1901, 6)

The murderous throng had been surprised and awed by what they had witnessed but as they saw Judas boldly touching the person of him who they had recently seen glorified, their hardihood returned. Violently they laid hold of Jesus roughly binding the hands which had ever been employed in doing good. (16LtMs, Ms 185, 1901, 7)

When the disciples saw the mob lying helpless on the ground, they felt assured that their Master would not allow himself to be taken. The same power which had prostrated the mob could keep them helpless, the disciples reasoned, while Jesus escaped unharmed. When they saw that he did not deliver himself from his enemies but permitted himself to be taken, they all forsook him and fled. Christ had foreseen their desertion. In the upper chamber he had told them what they would do when he was taken. “The hour cometh,” he said, “that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone; and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me.” [John 16:32.] (16LtMs, Ms 185, 1901, 8)

Christ gives himself up into the hands of the disciples, and is led away bound, while the mob follows, hurling at him all the scorn and ridicule which wicked minds can frame. The Saviour is led to Annas who has been waiting with fevered anticipation to hear of his arrest. A look of satisfaction comes over the face of the priest as he sees Jesus, securely bound, standing before him. The One who has so often unveiled the hypocrisy of the proud dignitaries is at last in their power. (16LtMs, Ms 185, 1901, 9)

Ms 186, 1901

The Los Angeles Camp-Meeting By Mrs. E. G. White.
NP
[Typed] Sept. 6, 1901
Previously unpublished.

We had an excellent camp-meeting at Los Angeles. The interest was good through the entire meeting. I spoke seven times, and the Lord strengthened and blessed me as I bore a message to the people. And though I frequently spoke for more than an hour, the people listened attentively, seeming eager to catch every word. (16LtMs, Ms 186, 1901, 1)

At this meeting the seeds of truth were sown, and if watered with earnest after-work, they will spring up to bear fruit. I have faith to believe that many to whom in the past the world has been everything will realize that eternity demands all their attention. As the Holy Spirit impresses minds, presenting glimpses of another and a better country and a city whose builder and maker is God, things that have been afar off will be brought nigh. From longing, unsatisfied minds will come the question, “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” [Luke 18:18.] And the loving Redeemer, who gave his life as a propitiation for sin, will respond, “A new heart will I give you.” [Ezekiel 36:26.] A new life, inspired by Christ, will begin. As the divine power of truth is seen, new thoughts will be awakened. (16LtMs, Ms 186, 1901, 2)

During a camp-meeting many are convinced that they have listened to the truth as it is in Jesus. The conviction of the Spirit is strong upon them. The truth works to break the spell of the enemy of righteousness. But all the power of heaven cannot change the heart unless man himself acts his part, working in harmony with God. A thousand times more conviction would not save the soul from the power of Satan unless man chooses Christ as his leader. (16LtMs, Ms 186, 1901, 3)

Angels are constantly giving the invitation, “Come, for all things are now ready” [Luke 14:17]; but they are not commissioned to force men to accept it. God earnestly desires all to accept this invitation. But he uses no force. He leaves man to choose for himself. Compassion and pardon await the repentant sinner. God stands ready to forgive when the heart is opened to the divine influence of his grace; but this grace is not and cannot be a substitute for repentance and confession. Grace and light can never convert the soul unless the human agent places his will on the right of right. (16LtMs, Ms 186, 1901, 4)

The choice for Christ is made before the whole universe, before the angels who delight to serve God and the angels who rebelled against his authority. Man's act in making this choice breaks the spell which has bound him to those who rebelled in the heavenly courts. The convicted soul turns to the Stronghold, and God says, “Let him take hold of my strength that he may make peace with me, and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] (16LtMs, Ms 186, 1901, 5)

This is the part the human agent must act. God has laid down the conditions. “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.] (16LtMs, Ms 186, 1901, 6)

The hardest hour of battle is the hour of resolve, when with firm, decided purpose the world is renounced and Christ is chosen. With anxious thought the minds weighs the possibilities and probabilities. Those who choose Christ step from under the black banner of Satan, and angels welcome them as they take their stand under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel. Then begins in the soul a great moral revival, a revival shown by a reformation of thoughts, words, and actions. A spiritual revolution takes place; a soul is saved from death; and there is great joy in heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 186, 1901, 7)

“Sing, ... O daughter of Jerusalem. The Lord hath taken away thy judgments, he hath cast out thine enemy; the King of Israel, even the Lord, is in the midst of thee; thou shalt not see evil any more. In that day it shall be said to Jerusalem. Fear thou not; and to Zion, let not thine hands be slack. The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save; he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.” [Zephaniah 3:14-17.] (16LtMs, Ms 186, 1901, 8)

Much depends on the work done after a camp-meeting. During the meeting many convicted by the spirit may be filled with a desire to begin the Christian life; but unless there is constant watchfulness on the part of the workers who remain to follow up the interest, the good impressions made on the minds of the people will become indistinct. The enemy, full of subtle reasoning, will take advantage of every failure on the part of God's workers to watch for souls as they that must give an account. (16LtMs, Ms 186, 1901, 9)

Earnest efforts must be made to lead men and women to place themselves on the Saviour's side. In this work there is need of divine help and untiring vigilance. No one is to sleep at his post of duty. Every capability must be put to use to win for Christ a victory against the power of darkness. (16LtMs, Ms 186, 1901, 10)

The voice of duty is the voice of God. The gospel demands from Christian's unreserved consecration of soul and body. The Lord claims the highest service which a human being, aided by divine grace, can offer. In childhood, youth, and age, human beings of every rank, high and low, rich and poor, belong to God. They are to withhold nothing from him. Each one is to stand at his post of duty in the great enterprises of saving souls. (16LtMs, Ms 186, 1901, 11)

Those who present the truth are to enter into no controversy. They are to speak the gospel with such faith and earnestness that an interest will be awakened in present truth. By the words they speak, the prayers they offer, the influence they exert, they are to sow seeds which will bear fruit to the glory of God. There is to be no wavering. The trumpet is to give a certain sound. The attention of the people is to be called to the third angel's message. Let not God's servants act like men walking in their sleep, but like men preparing for the coming of Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 186, 1901, 12)

After a camp-meeting it may sometimes be difficult to hold the principal speaker for several weeks, to develop the interest awakened. It may be expensive to retain the ground and to keep a sufficient number of family tents standing to maintain the appearance of a camp-meeting. It may be expensive to retain the ground and keep a sufficient number of family tents standing to maintain the appearance of a camp-meeting. It may be at a sacrifice that several families remain on the ground to assist the ministers and Bible workers in visiting the people at their homes, telling of the blessings received at the meetings and inviting them to come. But the results will justify the effort. It is by such earnest and energetic efforts as these that some of our camp-meetings have been instrumental in raising up strong, working churches. (16LtMs, Ms 186, 1901, 13)

Ms 187, 1901

The Physician's Opportunities and Privileges By Mrs. E. G. White.
NP
[Typed] Oct. 6, 1901
Previously unpublished.

In every sense of the word the Christian physician is to be an evangelist. He is to have a remedy for the sin-sick soul as well as for the diseased body. By faith in Christ he is to be to the sick a messenger of mercy. As he uses the simple remedies which God has provided for the relief of physical suffering, he is to speak of Christ's power to heal the maladies of the soul. (16LtMs, Ms 187, 1901, 1)

In their work of dealing with disease and death, physicians are in danger of losing sight of the solemn realities regarding the future of the soul. In their earnest, feverish anxiety to avert the peril of the body, they are in danger of forgetting the peril of the soul. Physicians, be on your guard; for at the judgment seat of Christ, you must meet those at whose deathbed you now stand. (16LtMs, Ms 187, 1901, 2)

If anyone should live in close communion with the Saviour, it is the physician, because the sick and suffering with whom they deal need the help which Christ alone can give. They need prayers indicted by his Spirit. The afflicted one leaves himself to the wisdom and mercy of the physicians, whose skill and faithfulness may be his only hope. Let the physician, then, be a faithful steward of the grace of God, a guardian of the soul as well as of the body. (16LtMs, Ms 187, 1901, 3)

The physician, who has received wisdom from above, who knows that Christ is his personal Saviour, because he has himself been led to the Refuge, knows how to deal with the trembling, guilty, sin-sick souls who turn to him for help. He can respond to the inquiry, “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] He can tell the story of the Redeemer's love. He can speak savingly of the power of repentance and faith in Christ. As he stands by the bedside of the sick, striving to speak words that will be helpful to the sufferer, the Lord will work with him and through him. As the mind of the sufferer is fastened on the mighty Healer, he understands what it means to have the peace of Christ; and the melody of spiritual health and joy is used as the helping hand of God in restoring the health of the body. (16LtMs, Ms 187, 1901, 4)

The physician has precious opportunities of impressing minds with the soul's great need. He is to bring from the treasure-house of the heart things new and old, speaking here and there the words of comfort and instruction that are longed for and expected. The failure to speak these words will cause much disappointment. And not only should the physician give instruction from the word of God, line upon line, precept upon precept; he should moisten this instruction with his tears and make it strong with his prayers, that souls may be saved from death. (16LtMs, Ms 187, 1901, 5)

The solemn scenes of the deathbed require the physician to be as far as possible removed from the secular duties which others can perform. The mind of the physician should be continually under the influence of the Spirit of God, that he may be able to speak in season the words that will awaken faith. No unnecessary burdens should be laid on him. He should be released from all cares not essential for him to bear that he may have time to become acquainted with the spiritual needs of his patients. Constantly he is to sow the seeds of truth, not presenting doctrinal subjects, but speaking of the love of the sin-pardoning Saviour. (16LtMs, Ms 187, 1901, 6)

No word of creed or controversy is to be spoken at the bedside of the dying. Point to the Saviour who is willing to receive all who come to him in faith. There are those who have a genuine sickbed repentance. All should be done that can be done for the spiritual welfare of the dying, with a keen sense of what is appropriate when a soul is hovering between life and death. (16LtMs, Ms 187, 1901, 7)

The physician should never lead his patients to fix their attention on him. He is to teach them to grasp with the trembling hand of faith the outstretched hand of the Saviour. Then the mind will be illuminated with the light radiating from the Sun of Righteousness. What physicians attempt to do, Christ did in deed and in truth. They try to save life. He is life itself. (16LtMs, Ms 187, 1901, 8)

The physician's effort to lead the minds of his patents to healthy action must be free from all human enchantment. It must not grovel to humanity, but soar aloft to the spiritual, taking hold of the things of eternity. (16LtMs, Ms 187, 1901, 9)

When it is possible, the physician should occasionally have a season of rest, escaping from the heavy pressure upon him. The work of a sensitive evangelist-physician is a tax upon his strength of which others know little. (16LtMs, Ms 187, 1901, 10)

Great wisdom should be shown in regard to criticizing the physician; for criticism places an unnecessary burden on his mind. He has heavy cares and he needs the sympathy of those connected with him in the work. He is to be sustained by prayer. The realization that he is appreciated will give him hope and courage. (16LtMs, Ms 187, 1901, 11)

The intelligent Christian physician has an increasing realization of the connection between sin and disease. He is constantly striving to perfect his knowledge of the relation between cause and effect. He sees the necessity of thoroughly educating and training those who are taking the nurses’ course. He will teach them to be strictly temperate in all things, because carelessness in regard to the laws of health—the cause of most of the disease in our world—is inexcusable in those set apart to minister to others and teach them how to live. A failure to give the living machinery proper care is an insult to the Creator. (16LtMs, Ms 187, 1901, 12)

There are divinely-appointed rules which, if observed, will keep human beings from disease and premature death. When a physician sees that the ailment which has taken hold of the body is the result of improper eating and drinking, yet neglects to tell the patient that his suffering is caused by a wrong course of action, he is doing the human brotherhood an injury. Present the matter tenderly, but never keep silent as to the cause of the affliction. (16LtMs, Ms 187, 1901, 13)

Drunkards, maniacs, those who are given over to licentiousness, all appeal to the physician to declare clearly and distinctly that suffering is the consequence of sin. How can we know these things, and not be more decidedly in earnest in striving to counteract the cause which produces the effect? Seeing the continual conflict with pain, constantly laboring to alleviate suffering, can our physicians hold their peace? Can they refrain from lifting the voice in warning? Are they benevolent and merciful if they neglect to prescribe strict temperance as a remedy for disease? (16LtMs, Ms 187, 1901, 14)

Physicians, study the warning which Paul gave to the Romans: “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. And be not conformed to this world, but be ye conformed, by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” [Romans 12:1, 2.] (16LtMs, Ms 187, 1901, 15)

Ms 188, 1901

Glorifying God By Mrs. E. G. White
NP
[Typed] Dec. 22, 1901
Previously unpublished.

In our Sanitariums men and women are to be taught how to live in harmony with God's plan. In these institutions God is to be made first, and last, and best in everything. The workers are to be inspired by holy motives. (16LtMs, Ms 188, 1901, 1)

The Lord will bless the institution in which right principles are maintained. He will impress minds, leading men and women to see that he is the moving power. From an institution thus controlled and honored by God, there goes forth a powerful influence for good, an influence that bears witness to the abiding presence of God. Just so long as the workers cooperate with God, they cannot meet with failure. (16LtMs, Ms 188, 1901, 2)

I am pained as I see some working on principles that God cannot sanction. Truth and righteousness are being corrupted, and that by men in the service of God. These men are depending, not upon the power of God, but upon human effort. Into their work they are bringing presumption and human wisdom. (16LtMs, Ms 188, 1901, 3)

To those who are following these lines God says, “Stop and consider. You are not working in harmony with me. Your spirit is not one with my spirit.” (16LtMs, Ms 188, 1901, 4)

Our physicians should keep close watch over word and action. They have pledged themselves to come out from the world and be separate. Having accepted Christ as their leader, they are to live a new life, — a life that bears no stamp of worldliness. The idea that outward show gives influence must be purged from the life of a physician before he can fill, acceptably to God, his place as a messenger of peace and hope to the needy and suffering. (16LtMs, Ms 188, 1901, 5)

Those who shape their course of action so as to obtain worldly recognition, who allow worldly ideas to mould the mind and control the actions, cannot gain true success. They may think they succeed; but something is lacking. The perception that should be quick to see evil is blunted by the homage paid to worldly influence. To those know not the divine requirements, the outward life of such a one may seem to be a success, but in the records of heaven are written the words, weighed in the balances, and found wanting. (16LtMs, Ms 188, 1901, 6)

He who thinks that success depends on laying aside the yoke of Christ, and putting on the yoke of the world, will fail entirely of gaining success. Christ declares, “Without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] (16LtMs, Ms 188, 1901, 7)

There is danger that as our people become stronger and more established, the truth for this time will not be made sufficiently prominent. Some who occupy responsible positions are in danger of leading away from the very work for which these institutions were established; in danger of exerting an influence in favor of self-gratification, fashion, and display. A more sanctified intelligence would lead where God is leading—to self-denial and self-sacrifice. (16LtMs, Ms 188, 1901, 8)

To those who fill positions I trust in God's work I would say, “Remember that day by day you are fashioning your destiny for eternity. Your future will be just what you now make it. Your education and opinions may need modification. Do thorough work in self-examination. Be sure that you are forming right habits; for when once formed, habits are all-powerful. Every pursuit in which you engage, every line of study you take up, should be of a character to prepare you for entrance to the higher school above.” (16LtMs, Ms 188, 1901, 9)

A higher standard must be reached by those in God's work. The Lord cannot cooperate with one whose influence is un-Christ-like. He is not pleased with the spirit and principles that some are cherishing. There is need of a reformation, need of a better understanding in regard to what constitutes service to God. He desires us to do a work into which not a particle of selfishness is brought. But the lives of many in his service are not what he desires them to be, and those who are striving to carry out in his labor is made very trying by the influences exerted to hinder them. (16LtMs, Ms 188, 1901, 10)

Never can any human being attain perfection unless he makes the law of God his standard. God desires us day by day to look at ourselves in the divine mirror, that we may see and correct our mistakes. I say to all: Study the word of God. Look at yourselves in his great mirror. Do not go away and forget the defects there revealed. Strive for perfection. At any cost obey the holy authority. As you do your part, you will be led upward and onward. “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh into you, both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” [Philippians 2:12, 13.] When the word of God is carefully and prayerfully studied, bright light shines on the pathway, guiding the feet heavenward. (16LtMs, Ms 188, 1901, 11)

The Lord desires an uplifting, ennobling work to be done in every institution established by his people. Obstacles will be met, but they are to be surmounted. Each step of advance means so much more ground won from the dominion of the enemy and made tributary to Christ. Each step of advance is a step nearer the time when sin shall no longer triumph, when heaven's principles shall bear sway. (16LtMs, Ms 188, 1901, 12)

As the standard of reform is uplifted, God cooperates with those who are trying to give truth to the world. By their work, many minds are led to investigate, and are awed by the wonderful revelation made to them. Many who in the past have not known God or Jesus Christ will thus be led to a knowledge of the truth. As they receive the heavenly treasure, their hearts swell with gratitude and praise. They become light-bearers, going forth to impart to others that which they have received from God. In our health institutions many are to find the precious jewels of truth, discovering in God's word that which satisfies every need of the soul. (16LtMs, Ms 188, 1901, 13)

By the covenant of grace those who are baptized become members of the royal family. If they maintain their integrity, they will be as salt that has not lost its savor, — a preserving influence in the world. (16LtMs, Ms 188, 1901, 14)

“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affections on things above, not things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.” [Colossians 3:1-4.] (16LtMs, Ms 188, 1901, 15)

Ms 189, 1901

Diary/Regarding St. Helena Sanitarium
[St. Helena, California]
Circa September 22, 1901
Previously unpublished.

I am so thankful to the Lord for His great goodness and compassion and love for His children. What would we do without a Saviour! I know that the Lord will receive every soul who repents. He will strengthen and bless His medical missionaries in our sanitariums if they will be worked by His Holy Spirit. I am so anxious for them to accomplish the very work appointed them of God. (16LtMs, Ms 189, 1901, 1)

Not one of you need fail nor be discouraged. I hope the time will come when in these important sanitariums a fully competent man and his wife will be appointed to stand as managers. Then the care and burden of responsibility would be lessened, because they would carry a large portion of the perplexities that physicians should not be compelled to bear. [The physician] has all in his professional line that he ought to carry. (16LtMs, Ms 189, 1901, 2)

We certainly ought to have this class of woman to help, to be as a mother in an institution. Why cannot we find them? You so much need competent women who understand, and by experience understand still more and more, because the Lord is giving wisdom and knowledge as she walks in the way of the Lord as God's helping hand to carry out His purposes. (16LtMs, Ms 189, 1901, 3)

I have wished so much that you had a good physician to stand by your side and less burden came upon you. (16LtMs, Ms 189, 1901, 4)

We have been carrying a great burden here. This sanitarium [St. Helena Sanitarium] is not that which it should be. We have been laboring to have changes take place, and Dr. Sanderson is no longer connected with the sanitarium. We know the doctor has excellent qualities. If he had an eye single to the glory of God, he could see and sense the things needed to be done and [could] take right hold in a firm, manly way, and do these things. Then he would have courage in the Lord to not only see the changes [needed] in reformatory lines but do them. I am glad Dr. Place is in the institution in Boulder. They need him, and Dr. Place needs the keeping, sanctifying power of God. Only consider that you are all physicians and helpers working under the supervision of the greatest Medical Missionary Teacher the world has ever known. He is by the side of every one in service and will hold your hand under His own hand in your operations. (16LtMs, Ms 189, 1901, 5)

It is evening now. I spoke in the chapel at the sanitarium. [See Ms 102, 1901.] The house is always full, and as I tried to bear my testimony in regard to what we could do in cooperating with God, I hoped they would understand all [that is involved in] Satan's plan in throwing off the restraint of God's law and the Lord's plan of testing the character of His blood-bought heritage, giving them another trial. The sanitarium physicians and workers are to prove God's method of discipline, order, and obedience to the law of God and [not] Satan's new order of doing away with the law of Jehovah. Look at the showing of the two orders. See what a state our world is in because they do not keep the law of God! All this lawless work started with Satan. What did God give His law to all created intelligences for? To preserve them alive in practicing the laws God has instituted to prevent all this war and sin and strife, all this oppression, all this murder and thefts, and robbery and crime. I have no question as to whose side I would be on. The side of Christ is my choice. To stand under His bloodstained banner is the greatest honor that any human being can obtain. (16LtMs, Ms 189, 1901, 6)

I consider that our sanitariums should be model institutions of medical missionary work. When we shall consider what Christ has done for us, we should praise Him with heart and soul and voice. The Christian medical missionary is God's helping hand, and all in the sanitarium need to be men who feel their need of the power of the Great Physician to stand by their side and guide their hand. The great compassion of Christ is drawn out to His obedient, commandment-keeping people of God. (16LtMs, Ms 189, 1901, 7)

At what price shall we estimate His infinite love and rich grace? As we take in the subject, we realize there can be no measurement of the service He has given the guilty, fallen human race. And yet He says, “Come unto Me all ye that are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find,” by your experience, the rest you desire. “For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] (16LtMs, Ms 189, 1901, 8)

The Lord would have every sanitarium to be an expression of the character of Jesus Christ. He would have the sick educated how to find Christ and how to depend on Him—the Lifegiver, the great Healer. Make the Lord your dependence, your Alpha and Omega. Oh, we must be so much one with Christ that the blessedness of implicit obedience will be our joy under all circumstances. The first duty for each is to learn the will of God and next to do it. What are our marching orders? Go ye forth into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature. Those who are helpers, nurses, and physicians in our sanitarium [are to] obey the orders of God. The blessedness we may learn of consecrating all our God-given abilities to Jesus Christ! (16LtMs, Ms 189, 1901, 9)

Ms 190, 1901

Diary Thoughts on 1 Timothy 2 and 3
[Los Angeles, California]
Friday, August 16, 1901
Previously unpublished.

Spoke in the tent at Los Angeles to a large audience in regard to the duty of parents to their children. I spoke one hour Friday morning at quarter before six. I could but urge on the parents the necessity of the education of their children, for this is the very foundation stone for the building of the character. This is the great, important work for the parents in their home life. In no way can this work be neglected. The Holy Spirit [speaks] in warnings and reproof. [See] 2 Timothy 4:1-8. There is the plan of God, the ministry of His Word. Study His Word with prayerful diligence. Show your consecration to God's Word. Obedience, virtue, prudence, and piety are to be presented from the Scriptures as the obligation of every human being. Each has an accountability to God. This needs to be urged upon the consciences of men. (16LtMs, Ms 190, 1901, 1)

“Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” 1 Timothy 2:4, 5. This is an all-important point, that all human agencies, in the church and in families, are to receive that education which will lead every member of the church to study the Scriptures for themselves, that they may not dishonor God by looking to human agencies to stand between them and God. “Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. Whereunto I am ordained a preacher (minister), and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity. I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. In like manner also, that 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.” Verses 6-10. (16LtMs, Ms 190, 1901, 2)

“This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop, then, must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; one that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (for if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)” 1 Timothy 3:1-5. Here is an important subject which needs careful study. “Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without”—those not of our faith. Verses 6, 7. “Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued,”—men who speak fair words to your face and criticize and speak disparagingly of you when not in your presence. There are many of these. They do not have that faith that works by love and purifies the soul. Selfishness and self-confidence have deceived them. “Not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. And let these also first be proved.” Verses 8-10. If they are faithful in their Christian duties in less responsible positions, then they will be faithful in the larger and more responsible positions. After they have given evidence that they do fear God and that they are constantly walking in humility and love of the truth, then they may be where they are willing to be counseled and bear higher responsibilities, which qualify them for the “office of a deacon, being found blameless.” Verse 10. In this trial and proof of God, by showing faithfulness in the smaller duties, they are better prepared for the increased obligation as deacons of the churches. (16LtMs, Ms 190, 1901, 3)

Now all these specifications are made to reveal the process of education, beginning with the home training, of those who are to be entrusted with the grave responsibilities of every office connected with the church. Those who show a remiss experience in the responsible duties in the home life will reveal the same defective character in the management of the church duties. (16LtMs, Ms 190, 1901, 4)

“Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.” 1 Timothy 3:11-13. Here we have the character of a gospel minister. Timothy was an evangelist, and he was to instruct those newly come to the faith in all practical godliness. Here is the sum and substance of the sacredness of the work and service of God. There has been altogether too little regard to the instruction given to those who are placed in responsible positions. Wherever there are men who are placed in positions of stewardship in the church, or in any of our offices of publication, or in the educating of students in our schools this, the Word of God, is to be ever brought to bear upon every individual worker, that all these precautions shall be vigilantly kept in mind—what is expected in the character of one who labors in word and doctrine. (16LtMs, Ms 190, 1901, 5)

Timothy had been so earnest a learner of Paul that he was to take charge of the church and call their attention to the words of Paul and keep them before their minds and set them in order. Men who were evangelists were appointed to labor with the churches, for the office of a bishop was one that required the men in special office to have a fitness for the work, which required diligence, consecration, and faithfulness in the home life. If this was defective, [then] their children were not educated and trained to understand they have a part to act—a cheerful part—in ministering according to their ability in connection with their parents, to act as if they were a part of the great firm. [With] all the cautions given [we] are to be constantly striving for a more perfect character, for the preparation for the higher school in heaven. (16LtMs, Ms 190, 1901, 6)

*****
Regarding Dr. Kellogg and the Need to Harmonize
Los Angeles, [California]
August 17, 1901

We had a large audience—the large tent crowded full. I spoke from Isaiah 58; and what a chapter of reproof, of correction in righteousness, of plainly marking out the way of the Lord! [It] is not merely profession and zeal in a false faith, but it is practical godliness. It is Bible religion. It is doing justice and mercy and ever elevating the purest principles of the kingdom of God. (16LtMs, Ms 190, 1901, 7)

The greatest glory J. H. Kellogg can bring to God is to read, and that attentively, the 78th Psalm. Had you honored God in the place of branching out in consulting lawyers? God has been greatly displeased with your going to the god of Ekron to inquire, [by] your consulting lawyers. You have given a wrong example in leaning on the arm of the law rather than coming in harmony with the church. Read [text missing]. This was composed into song, and as they were marching in the wilderness they were to keep time in step as they journeyed. The Lord would have you unite more than you have done with ministers of the gospel. And He would have ministers of the gospel change their attitude toward Dr. Kellogg; for some ministers have blocked the way of health reform and the Lord has not, neither will He, vindicate the course of the ministers or members of the church in giving to the world a testimony of division on the subject of health reform. God demands you to come together, harmonize, come into line. The work you have undertaken in various lines is not your work. He never appointed that as your work. All these written documents, drawn up and supposed to be a means of uniting, has worked the opposite of what God designed it should be. The spirituality of His law and commandments, of that which should be brought into the Sanitarium, is a sort of strange thing. All these things were making this food question a commercial enterprise. Better, far better, had the Sanitarium stood on the true principles of health reform. Unless you are converted, you will give up point after point of present truth. (16LtMs, Ms 190, 1901, 8)

Ms 191, 1901

Diary/Regarding President McKinley's Widow
NP
[Late September] 1901
This manuscript is published in entirety in WM 338-339.

I am not able to sleep past two o'clock a.m. I am often awakened at one o'clock at night with my heart drawn out in tender sympathy for the bereaved wife of President McKinley. One is taken and the other left. The strong one upon whose large affections she could ever lean [is not]. While [he was] in health, fulfilling the duties of his office, an apparently friendly hand was extended, which President McKinley was ready to grasp. That Judas hand held a pistol and shot the President. Amid scenes of pleasant life and enjoyment came sorrow and sadness and suffering and woe. How could he do this terrible murderous action? (16LtMs, Ms 191, 1901, 1)

My heart is in deep sympathy for the one who is left. I have been repeating over and over, Oh, how short come all words of human sympathy. There are thousands that would speak words to relieve, if possible, the breaking heart, but they do not understand how feeble are words to comfort the bereaved one, who in her feebleness ever found in her husband a human heart, full of tenderness and compassion and love. The strong human arm, upon which the frail, suffering wife leaned, is not. (16LtMs, Ms 191, 1901, 2)

I wish not that our sister should have less regret and less love for the faithful husband, but that she should now look to her best Friend, One whose love has been expressed to her all her life long. I would speak to her [the words of] Isaiah 61:1-3: “The spirit of the Lord God is upon me; because the Lord hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; to appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord.” (16LtMs, Ms 191, 1901, 3)

Ms 192, 1901

Diary Fragments
NP
1901
Previously unpublished.

I am unable to sleep this morning. I am deeply moved to have the things presented to me, as they are constantly. So many are seeking for the largest place. The best place for each of us is the place which is the fittest for us to do service to God—not the largest place prepared that someone has had to wrestle [for] with difficulties. These will become the best workers. (16LtMs, Ms 192, 1901, 1)

We have only a little time to form characters perfectly free from every vestige of selfishness. Christ lived not to please Himself. He was in a world of His own creating, yet He had not where to lay His head. “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?” [Romans 8:32.] What words shall I use that will arouse individual members of the church to become one with Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 192, 1901, 2)

*****

There are things I must copy from letters written. John gives the description of the personal presence of Jesus Christ. “And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. Write the things which thou has seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter; the mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.” [Revelation 1:17-20.] (16LtMs, Ms 192, 1901, 3)

The churches are represented by the golden lamps. They hold the treasure of the oil and disperse the light. A lamp in itself is not light, it is the instrument, the vessel, from which light is to be dispersed. It must receive both oil and fire before it can shine forth. A church of itself has not grace, the fire, of God's love or His glory. All is wholly dependent upon Christ, the Source of all light. Receiving from Christ the golden treasure of oil and the fire, it can shine forth in distinct rays amid the moral darkness. The Lord's messengers have a message to bear, which is the golden oil of sacred truth, and if these messengers first receive the oil as is represented in Zechariah 4, they will present the truth with all fervency, to make it appear in its importance. (16LtMs, Ms 192, 1901, 4)

The explanation is given: “And (the angel) said unto me, What seest thou? And I said, I have looked, and behold a candlestick all of gold, with a bowl upon the top of it, and his seven lamps thereon, and seven pipes to the seven lamps, which re upon the top thereof: And two olive trees by it, one upon the right side of the bowl, and the other upon the left side thereof. So I answered and spake to the angel that talked with me, saying, What are these, my lord? ... Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.” [Verses 2-6.] [Read also] verses 7-9. (16LtMs, Ms 192, 1901, 5)

“For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice , and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the Lord, which run to and fro through the whole earth.” [Verse 10]. [Read also] verse 11. (16LtMs, Ms 192, 1901, 6)

“And I answered again, and said unto him, What be these two olive branches which through the two golden pipes empty the golden oil out of themselves? ... Then said he, These are the two anointed ones, that stand by the Lord of the whole earth” [verses 12-14]. (16LtMs, Ms 192, 1901, 7)

My brethren who have the truth for these last days, bear in mind the words of the apostle Paul to Timothy in 2 Timothy [4:]1-4. Whether the times be favorable or adverse, wherever there is an opportunity, press in; and when there is no opening, use every means possible to make one. Present the truth. The judge standeth before the door. Sinners are all around you. Speak to them the Word of God. Lose not a chance, [miss] no opportunity to let the light of heaven shine through the human instrument. If the opportunity does not come to you, make your opportunity. Every soul is precious. (16LtMs, Ms 192, 1901, 8)

We need to understand the whole description given by the apostle and benefit by the warnings given. Now, just now in 1901, how careful should the church be that they have the light and the oil, which God alone can give, to burn, to send forth divine truth and knowledge of what is truth. We have a message to bear to the fallen churches. Those who know the truth are to bear to them the Word of the Lord, for many precious souls are in the churches. Every way possible should be improved to flash Bible light before the people. For Christ's sake, sow beside all waters, for you know not what shall prosper, this or that. “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears.” They will run for teachers to oppose the present Bible truth with their endless theories. “And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” [Verses 3-5.] (16LtMs, Ms 192, 1901, 9)

Preach Christ crucified for the sins of a whole world. This is the work to be done now. What was the message of God to our world? Angels from heaven were sent at the birth Christ. What was the word brought from the heavenly courts? “Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” [Luke 2:10, 11.] Now our message is to the churches, just as far as [it is] possible to reach them. Do not denounce, do not condemn and judge, for this will close the door to many hearts; but present Christ the sinless Savior. Make the very best impression possible. Dispense light. (16LtMs, Ms 192, 1901, 10)

The quickening influence of the Holy Spirit is to convert souls. The Lord Jesus wants evangelists, ministers, and teachers to let His light shine through them, clearly and strongly. Let not one word of censure or of a denunciatory character barricade your way. Many church members are living according to the best light they have, and they are to be approached as Christians. God has His oil and His fire for you to use, not your own human inventions. All who have been converted to the truth are to seek in some way to be the Lord's messenger to convert others. Satan's wrath will be kindled, but let no words be spoken by the messengers to create a prejudice so that they will not hear and will prevent others from hearing. (16LtMs, Ms 192, 1901, 11)

Ms 193, 1901

The St. Helena Sanitarium
NP
January 15, 1901
Previously unpublished.

I awake this morning at one o'clock a.m. I tried to sleep, but could not and finally at three o'clock dressed and commenced to write to relieve my mind. What has kept me awake at this early hour? In my dreams we were in a meeting of what could be done for the health retreat. One of authority seemed to be listening to the propositions to purchase more land, and some things were introduced in reference to the managing force at the Sanitarium. (16LtMs, Ms 193, 1901, 1)

A physician was presented as one who could serve in more ways than in one capacity. Then said the One who seemed to be considering questions and propositions, “Should you place another one on the paying list who has not proved himself as capable of exceeding any you [now] have? It will not be wise to add to your paying list until you have managing capabilities that can handle the responsibilities. There are those who would do them best, but they have not the qualifications in wise, far-discerning capabilities to know what needs to be done to produce as well as consume. There needs [to be] experienced judgment to devise and plan, and execute as well, in order to carry things successfully and reveal producers above consumers of means. There are to be revealed as managers men [who are] deep thinkers, [who] have large perception and power to arrange and execute. Until this is brought about, all the additional help that will be added will be consumers and not producers. There needs [to be] men with deep religious experience who shall make it a special study to elevate the spiritual above everything that has been hitherto.” (16LtMs, Ms 193, 1901, 2)

The Sanitarium has been a crippled institution nearly all its existence because of defective capabilities to manage. There needs [to be] less expense in various lines, [such as, the] maintenance of horses that are consumers and not producers. The extra [expense] in horse flesh requiring care needs to be invested in the accomplishments of the Sanitarium to make it convenient and more comfortable in facilities to accommodate the sick. The cellar-like rooms without the sunlight and depending on lamplight in the daytime is an injury to all who shall serve in them. The expense is to human life and in the appearance made, detracting from the influence the institution should have. The extra shanties and tents are decidedly objectionable to the appearance, and are no special advantage unless everything like the objectionable outward appearance are removed. The Sanitarium does not in healthful appearance correspond with the name. It is not the greatest need to purchase more land. (16LtMs, Ms 193, 1901, 3)

The Lord calls for deeper spirituality; not outside show, but deep, inward piety. There must be more capabilities brought in and a more thorough, equipped, working force. The love of God is to be made prominent in the working force. Capabilities must be changed. [There must be] new qualities, new energies, and minds that can look beneath the surface before there will be light and strength and carrying things as God would have them carried. (16LtMs, Ms 193, 1901, 4)

The Sanitarium is to accomplish a work not only acting as a hospital, but as instrumental in communicating the knowledge of the truth. There is to be a company of faithful workers as physicians of the soul, where the weary and heavy-laden souls are to find rest. [Read] Matthew 13:33. The leaven introduced in the meal is something brought and placed in the meal. It is not a natural product of the meal, or any part of the meal itself. The leaven represents divine grace, which is something we cannot create, but altogether a heavenly production. The introduction of the principles occasions a gathering to itself, which is a life contest. The leaven in the meal is an active, working element; the grace of God is a living, working element to absorb. The grace of truth in the heart works by faith and love in the patience of hope; it purifies and vivifies the whole mass. This very working agency is needed to convince the poor, sin-sick souls that shall come to the Sanitarium that they need a Saviour. Their repentance of sins brings pardon and hope. “What carefulness it wrought in you, ... yea what zeal.” [2 Corinthians 7:11.] (16LtMs, Ms 193, 1901, 5)

The leaven is assimilating; it has a converting power. The leaven does not destroy the substance it works upon, but changes the quality through communication of the leaven. The Lord would have the Sanitarium [to be] a place where the truth shall act as the leaven. The principles of truth received have their transforming power on the character. It is the same man physically as before, but he has become a new man in Christ Jesus. The divine truth has leavened the man, the holy heavenly nature of truth so converted the agency that there is a new man. (16LtMs, Ms 193, 1901, 6)

The operation of leaven is gradual. The leaven of truth is renewed day by day and there is a following on to know the Lord until “his going forth is prepared as the morning.” [Hosea 6:3.] The God of all grace hath shined in his heart. There is a going on from strength to a greater strength. (16LtMs, Ms 193, 1901, 7)

The influence of the leaven is dispersed; it affects the whole man—in the family, in the church, in all his business relations. Whether he eats or drinks or whatever he does, he does all to the glory of God. The leaven of truth has its sanctifying influence upon the physical, mental, and moral powers. It will perfect the entire man, sanctifying soul, body, and spirit. (16LtMs, Ms 193, 1901, 8)

Ms 194, 1901

Words of Warning
NP
January 13, 1901 [typed]
Previously unpublished.

Satan is a diligent student of the Scriptures. He understands what is symbolized by the Jewish service. He sees that the day of atonement has a bearing on his life; that the scapegoat chosen to bear the sins of the people represents himself; that he must bear the sins of all who come to Jesus; and that those who continue in transgression must bear their own sins. (16LtMs, Ms 194, 1901, 1)

Satan calls his angels together, and a council is held. The great day of judgment is soon to come. It is right upon them. But God will not punish transgressors until the world has been warned. The message of the third angel is to be proclaimed. What course shall be pursued to hinder the proclamation of this message from going to the world? Satan sees that he must make the most of the present opportunity. His time is very short. He must make a grand rally of his followers against Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 194, 1901, 2)

From the time of his expulsion from heaven, Satan directed his efforts against the law of God. He heaped upon it the rubbish of tradition and prejudice. But in 1844 God directed the eyes of his people to the sanctuary, and the first angel’s message was proclaimed. Satan saw that this work must not go forward unhindered, or the world would soon be warned. He said, “This must not be. If we cannot do something to hinder the advancement of this work, the knowledge of the binding claims of God’s law will go speedily to the world. A vast army will be raised up for the Lord, to enter the dark places of the earth. Our rule will come to an end. The sins of those who accept Christ will be laid upon us.” (16LtMs, Ms 194, 1901, 3)

Satan went forth as a deceiver, to put a lying spirit in the mouth of his prophets. He accomplished that which he purposed. Taking advantage of the disappointment of 1844, he shook the faith of the believers in Christ’s coming. He threw them off the track, blinding their understanding in regard to the sanctuary question, which, if properly understood, would have established their faith in the prophecies. Unbelief came in. Many gave up the faith. Some remained in confusion and perplexity, not knowing what to believe as truth. Had they been able to see the temple of God opened in heaven, their faith would have been established and strengthened. Love and harmony would have prevailed. (16LtMs, Ms 194, 1901, 4)

Up to 1844 the body of Advent believers were united in their work. Brotherly love was cherished, and prevailed. This was an important time—the beginning of the great day of atonement. Oh, if all had been obedient to the light sent from heaven, if all had held their position without wavering, if none had cast away their confidence, if there had been no drawing back, how gloriously would the Lord’s purpose have been fulfilled! Strong in his strength, the Adventists would have united their voices in proclaiming the third angel’s message. The Sabbath reform would have gone forward with greater power than did the reform under Martin Luther. The truth would have been given to nations, kindreds, and tongues. In all the countries of the world sentinels for God would have raised their voices in defense of his truth. Speedily the tares would have been bound in bundles to be burned, and the wheat would have been gathered into the heavenly garner. (16LtMs, Ms 194, 1901, 5)

But Satan’s device succeeded marvelously. Division came in among the believers, and God’s work was hindered. (16LtMs, Ms 194, 1901, 6)

Shortly after the disappointment of 1844 there were a few who began to search earnestly for the truth on the sanctuary question. Great light shone upon them from the open door. They found a firm platform of faith, and took their stand steadfastly upon it. Those who refused to accept the light upon the sanctuary question became bitter opponents of those who advocated the truth. Their obstinate determination not to see light made them an easy prey to Satan’s devices. They joined the world and the churches in opposing the truth. They became instruments in Satan’s hands to present to the people fables and traditions. The enemy exulted that he had been able so completely to deceive those who had been used by the Lord in giving light to the world. (16LtMs, Ms 194, 1901, 7)

Thus was hindered the work which began so gloriously, and which should have moved forward in majesty and power. This is why we are still on the earth. The great adversary hindered the work which should have been done in a few months. (16LtMs, Ms 194, 1901, 8)

Nevertheless, the cause of God is moving forward to its final consummation. Two messages have been given, and they are followed by a third, which contains a fearful denunciation against commandment-breakers. A great work is yet to be done, and God calls upon his watchmen to sound the warning notes. But Satan continues to deceive. Long ago the time came when the Lord’s messengers should have been fully equipped for warfare. But there has been among believers a settling down at ease. Sleepy, self-indulgent, back-slidden, the people of God have not worked as they should. Few of those who claim to know the truth have gained a glimpse of the work that is being done the heavenly sanctuary. (16LtMs, Ms 194, 1901, 9)

Satan is doing his utmost to lead men to disobey God. He knows that when they violate the divine law, they take part with him against Jehovah. The enemy is not what many take him to be—a contemptible being of little consequence. He has a power which we do not rightly estimate, and as the end draws near, this power will be felt more decidedly. Filled with implacable malignity against all good, he works incessantly against truth and righteousness; and he is not alone in this warfare; for he controls all who do not by faith accept Christ. (16LtMs, Ms 194, 1901, 10)

Many rest satisfied with saying, I believe that Christ is the Son of God. But the devils also believe and tremble. We need a living, active faith, a faith that works by love and purifies the soul. Satan is keen and persevering. He is determined to gain the world to his side, and he knows no rest. He is a skillful general. He knows that of which many are ignorant—that everything in the plan of salvation centers in the sanctuary. Hating God’s law because it stands between him and the object he hopes to gain, he works against it with all the power of his being. He longs to see God put out of the thoughts. Through appetite he destroys thousands and tens of thousands. Giving men liquor and tobacco, he beclouds their perceptive faculties, making them incapable of distinguishing between right and wrong. He rejoices to see human beings feeble and indifferent, incapable. It fills him with evil exultation to know that even in this day of atonement many of those who profess to be keeping the law of God are corrupting the soul by self-indulgence. The mind cannot be clear or the brain vigorous, because they yield to base passions. Among his people the Lord sees a want of self-control, of pure, holy motives. (16LtMs, Ms 194, 1901, 11)

God calls for a reform. By seductive temptations Satan is trying entirely to deface the Creator’s image in human beings, and he is working with marked success. He has set himself to impede all reform. But if those to whom God has given special light will seek to fulfill his purpose, if they will seek wisdom from on high, the world will be warned of the coming doom. Sin will be rolled back with crushing force upon the originator of sin. Satan’s reign will come to an end, and Christ will appear in the clouds of heaven with power unto salvation, to gather his jewels to himself and to set up his kingdom on the earth. (16LtMs, Ms 194, 1901, 12)

Ms 195, 1901

An Appeal to Parents
NP
September 6, 1901 [typed]
Previously unpublished.

During the Los Angeles camp meeting my attention was especially called to a work which has been strangely neglected—the training and education of children. Parents have set aside the work which lies at the very foundation of the salvation of the souls of the household. This neglect was presented to me in a very forcible manner. (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 1)

Fathers, mothers, your children have been bought with a price, even the precious blood of the Son of God. They belong to him. From the time the child is a baby in its mother’s arms, its every capability should be carefully trained for the Lord. (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 2)

Parents, neglect not your work. There is nothing more important than the training of your little ones. Do not leave them to pick up their education here and there. Satan will preoccupy the heart if he is given time and opportunity. Let him control your children, and in their hearts will spring up a harvest of tares. (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 3)

As far as possible Seventh-day Adventists should attend the camp meeting held in the district in which they live. Parents should take their children with them to the meeting, telling them that they are going to receive the blessing of God, that the camp meeting is a holy convocation, at which the Lord is to meet with his people. (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 4)

God desires the camp meeting to be a season of precious blessing to parents and children. It is not to be regarded as a time for amusement. I urge our people to remember that when they go to camp meeting, they go to meet with God. Remember that the meeting is a sacred gathering. (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 5)

Those camping on the ground should not allow their children to run all over the ground, shouting and playing games. They should insist upon order and obedience. They should realize the responsibility resting upon them, and should impress their children with the necessity of order and quietness. (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 6)

When parents attend the services, they should not leave their children to themselves, to run and play about the ground, making noise and disturbance. They should keep their children under their own management. At a camp meeting children bear true testimony in regard to the education they receive in the home. There it is shown whether or not parents have been co-operating with God in the training of their children. (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 7)

If children are not helped by attending camp meeting, is it not best for their parents to keep them at home? We do not advise parents to stay at home. We urge them to appreciate the privilege of attending camp meeting. We urge them to set their families in order and to keep them in order during the meeting. Then from the meeting will go forth a Christlike influence. (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 8)

God’s great lesson book, his holy Word, gives parents instruction regarding the preparation their children must receive before they can be admitted into the heavenly family. Hear the word of the Lord speaking to you: “Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the Lord my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it. Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people. For what nation is there so great who hath the Lord God so nigh unto them, as the Lord our God is in all things that we call upon him for? And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous, as all this law, which I set before you this day? Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thine heart all the days of thy life; but teach them to thy sons and to thy son’s son; especially the day that thou stoodest before the Lord thy God in Horeb, when the Lord said unto me, Gather me the people together, and I will make them hear all my words, that they may learn to fear me all the days that they shall live upon the earth, and that they may teach their children.” [Deuteronomy 4:5-10.] (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 9)

Here we see that the Lord calls holy and sanctified those who honor him by keeping his commandments and teaching them to his children. (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 10)

“Hear therefore, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord; and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might; and these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart; and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine head, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes.” [Deuteronomy 6:3-8.] (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 11)

“What doth the Lord thy God require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, to keep the commandments of the Lord, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good.” [Deuteronomy 10:12, 13.] (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 12)

“And it shall come to pass, if ye shall hearken diligently unto my commandments, which I command you this day, to love the Lord your God, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul, that I will give you the rain of your land in his due season, the first rain and the latter rain, that thou mayest gather in thy corn and thy wine, and thine oil. And I will send grass in thy fields for thy cattle that thou mayest eat, and be full. Take heed to yourselves, that your heart be not deceived, and ye turn aside, and serve other gods, and worship them; and then the Lord’s wrath be kindled against you, and he shut up the heaven, that there be no rain, and that the land yield not her fruit; and lest ye perish quickly from off the good land, which the Lord giveth you.” [Deuteronomy 11:13-17.] (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 13)

These scriptures are for our instruction and admonition. But how much have they been studied? The failure to follow God’s plan is greatly displeasing him, and is causing him to remove his blessing from parents and children. If in the home the instruction given by God were faithfully followed, the irreverence so common in the world would not be seen. (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 14)

Many fathers and mothers will have a heavy charge brought against them when they stand before the Judge of all the earth. They do not obey the voice of the Lord. Their unruly, disobedient children testify to their neglect of duty. They permit their children to do wickedly. This greatly dishonors the Lord. The sins which they regard so lightly in their children are carried to other children, and the result lies at the door of the unfaithful parents. (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 15)

I beseech the parents in our churches to make a solemn covenant with God by repentance and confession. Confess your past neglect, and in the fear of God take up the work of educating your children in righteousness. A spiritual revival and reformation must take place. Then God’s people can claim the blessings he has promised. When parents take up the cross and follow Christ, when they bring their lives into conformity to the will of God, their children will be converted. The world will take knowledge of them that they have been with Jesus and have learned of him. By their deeds of true religion they will bear witness to the power of Christ’s grace. (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 16)

Parents, do you not think that it is time for you to seek the Lord with all the heart, that you may find him and co-operate with him in the saving of your children? The Lord will not pass over your neglect if you fail and do not feed his lambs. Teach your children that they are the younger members of the Lord’s family. Guide their feet in the way of holiness. Lead them to God. Guard well your words and actions, that by example as well as by precept you may give the lessons God has instructed you to give. Respond to the striving of the Holy Spirit. Thus you prepare the way for the Spirit to strive with your children. (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 17)

Educate your little ones for Christ. Teach them that every day they are sowing seeds, and that as they sow, so they will reap. Teach them to be polite and respectful. Let them understand that you have been converted to right methods, and that you are prepared to make a practical application of the principles of truth to the everyday life. (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 18)

Be Christlike in home life. Let no scolding be heard. There is a better way than this to correct children. Never punish a child when you are angry; for you will punish in a way that will make him angry and stubborn. Never use the rod without first asking God to forgive you for transmitting to your children dispositions and tempers so difficult to manage. In your children you meet yourselves. When correcting them, remember that you are correcting your own habits and practices. First take heed to yourselves, and then take up your God-given work, the neglect of which has made your children what they are. (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 19)

O parents, for the sake of yourselves and your children, I make this appeal to you. My heart is greatly burdened. I cannot sleep as I think of parental neglect and its fatal results. I pray that you may be impressed with the importance of the work on which so much depends. There is set before you “a blessing and a curse; a blessing if ye obey the commandments of the Lord your God, ... and a curse, if ye will not obey the commandments of the Lord your God.” [Verses 26-28.] Clear the King’s highway. Prepare the way for the coming of the Lord. This is the preparation day. Set your own hearts in order, and work earnestly for the conversion of your children. An unreserved surrender to God will remove many of the obstacles in your way, sweeping aside the barriers which have long defied the approaches of heavenly grace. (16LtMs, Ms 195, 1901, 20)