What is Higher Education? St. Helena, California January 19, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in 10MR 295.
I am strongly impressed to bring again before our people instruction that has been often repeated, and to which for years our attention has been called. Provision must be made in our schools for the recognition of higher education; but before this is done, teachers must first learn what constitutes this higher education.
(24LtMs, Ms 1, 1909, 1)
The instruction that will lead men and women to a life of obedience to the requirements of the Word of God—this the Lord recognizes as the true higher education. That is higher education that will qualify the students to succeed in the work of God. This truth is to be clearly taught. It is not lip service, but humble, devoted lives that God is seeking. Teachers and students are to know by experience what it means to live consecrated, humble lives that reveal the sacred principles that Christ came to lay down as the basis of Christian character. The true science of education, and that which is to be most greatly appreciated, is that which will fit the youth for eternal life, and for an entrance through the gates into the city of God, where Christ and the angels who have kept their integrity abide.
(24LtMs, Ms 1, 1909, 2)
When Satan rebelled against the government of God, and there was war in heaven, he with those who had been deceived by him, and who had disputed the authority of God, were expelled from the heavenly courts. Satan desired to be first in power and authority; he wanted to be equal with God and to have the rulership in heaven; and he won a large number of the angels to his allegiance. What the results were we need not repeat here. All the sad history has been dwelt upon and is to be found in our printed books, which all our people can read if they choose.
(24LtMs, Ms 1, 1909, 3)
The work of rebellion begun in heaven will continue to exist until the whole power of rebellion is broken and Satan and his angels are destroyed. We should now bring before our people the work to be done in all our churches in exalting the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ whom He has sent. We have a record of Christ’s history and a knowledge of His teachings in the Old and New Testaments. All who are taught of Him will be loyal subjects to serve and obey God. By repentance and faith and through obedience to all of God’s requirements, His people are to prove themselves citizens of the kingdom of grace and true and obedient children of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 1, 1909, 4)
Christ was the gift of God to the world for the reconciliation of man to Himself. “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.] The Son of God was appointed to come to our world and take humanity, and, by his own experience and example, to be a great educating power and a mediator between God and man. His experience in man’s behalf would enable men to overcome Satan’s power. All who would accept Christ’s righteousness, and would pattern their lives by His experience, becoming His disciples, would receive the higher education, forming characters after the divine similitude.
(24LtMs, Ms 1, 1909, 5)
The development of Christ’s life and experience on earth reveals that to obtain the higher education does not mean to gain popularity, to secure worldly advantages, to have all the temporal wants abundantly supplied, and to be honored by the titled and wealthy of earth. The Prince of life left the royal courts, laid off His kingly crown and royal robes, and clothed His divinity with humanity. He suffered the inconveniences of poverty, that He might discern the needs of the poor; yet by His divine power He supplied with a few loaves and fishes the needs of a multitude that was faint with hunger. It was for the work of ministering to the suffering and needy that He came to the world. He wore not the gorgeous robes of the High Priest; he had not the “riches of the Gentiles” [Isaiah 61:6]; but He had his Father’s power granted Him to work miracles for the help and uplifting of mankind.
(24LtMs, Ms 1, 1909, 6)
God created man to be perfect. He chose for him the life he should live. But man has corrupted himself; his understanding has been darkened under the rule of Satan. Choosing to follow the fallacies of the first great rebel, his affections have become perverted and his will depraved. He has become a bond slave to Satan. He has the Word of God. He has the knowledge of Christ, and the example of his pure and holy life; yet he turns away from light and knowledge to gratify perverted, sinful appetite. God has sent in His Son the true pattern of what humanity may be; but man will not turn to Christ and be converted. And as he sows he reaps.
(24LtMs, Ms 1, 1909, 7)
Satan is influencing the hearts of men and corrupting their minds. Men in high places are giving evidence that they are missing their opportunities for receiving the higher education; and the calamities that are falling upon the earth have come that men may learn what it means to be under the control of satanic agencies. This age presents a sad picture to those who believe the Bible just as it reads. Great and worldly men are seeking after riches, many of them obtaining their wealth through fraudulent speculations. The Lord is permitting these men to expose one another in their evil deeds and bring their crimes to light. We read of daring exposure of life in order to perform some wonderful feat. These ventures are productive of great evil; for they lead to the repetition of these daring acts, often resulting in the loss of life. He who gave to man his powers of mind never leads him to acts of presumption, to the reckless imperiling of life, as men who are void of the sanctification of His Spirit are led to take part in. God is to be feared; but the fear and love of God has almost left the world. This hazard of life brings no real glory. This is a form of education that dishonors the One who permits human beings to exist.
(24LtMs, Ms 1, 1909, 8)
We read of men and women, after following their own unsanctified wills, by their own hands taking their lives. This record of crime and wickedness is being repeated over and over again in San Francisco; and the same violence and iniquity is making other cities as very Sodom in the sight of heaven. The Lord will surely punish the world for its iniquity; “the earth shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain.” [Isaiah 26:21.]
(24LtMs, Ms 1, 1909, 9)
My brethren and sisters, I am instructed to say to you, That which is needed in this year of 1909 is true higher education—that which will make God’s will supreme in the lives of men and women. I ask you to seek to understand what the true higher education means to you individually. It means to follow the Word of God implicitly; it means to walk in Christ’s footsteps, to practice His virtues. Higher education means to give up selfishness and to devote the life to the service of God. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” [Acts 16:31.] There is peace only in the path of perfect obedience.
(24LtMs, Ms 1, 1909, 10)
Seventh-day Adventists are to obtain an education of a higher character than has been secured. By many in authority there has been manifested a magnifying of self. In many of our institutions a ruling power has been exercised that has brought dishonor to God. Such ruling must come to an end, and we must learn that there is one Ruler, that is God. Those who are placed in positions of trust are to realize their weakness and to depend upon God. When the higher education is understood more perfectly, professing followers of Christ will not seek to rule their fellow men.
(24LtMs, Ms 1, 1909, 11)
God, looking upon man, saw his self-exalted ideas, saw his desperate rebellion, and He devised a remedy. He sent His only begotten Son, that the life and character of Christ might be constantly before men. His life from childhood to manhood was characterized by a spirit of meekness and by deeds of mercy and goodness, an example of the transformation that will be wrought in the lives of all who believe on the Son of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 1, 1909, 12)
The Lord calls upon every soul to obtain the higher education. Do not think, my brethren and sisters, that this means to secure the wisdom of the world, for it does not. It means that you shall come to possess truth in the heart, a faith that works by love and purifies the soul. It means that you shall engage in the work of overcoming perverted ideas and of cultivating in the soul the truth that will sanctify the life.
(24LtMs, Ms 1, 1909, 13)
Ms 3, 1909
Higher Education Revealed in Co-Operating With Christ NP January 28, 1909 [typed] Portions of this manuscript are published in CT 397-400.
I am instructed to say to teachers, ministers, and physicians who hold responsible positions in the work, You have a solemn work to do, a grand and holy work; for we are now in the time when the case of every soul is being decided for eternity; and only those who walk in meekness and lowliness of heart will understand the will of God. Those who hold positions of trust are to perfect the life after the divine similitude. In the home, in the church, before the world they are to reveal the power of Christian principle to transform the life. Let them work honestly; let them seek to reveal the spirit of Christ in their work; let them ever be striving to reach higher ground. A great burden comes upon me at times as I realize the perilous times before us, and the great responsibilities resting upon teachers and ministers and physicians, lest they shall not be faithful in the discharge of every duty to man and to God.
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 1)
“Ye that love the Lord hate evil,” the psalmist David declares, “He preserveth the soul of His saints; He delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked. Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart. Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous, and give thanks at the remembrance of His holiness.” [Psalm 97:10-12.] Teachers, ministers, and physicians are talking of a higher ground to be gained in educational lines; but the words of the psalmist show that every soul should now be seeking for higher ground in serving the Lord. We should not be putting away all evil speaking, all selfish plans, all speech that would hurt the influence or confuse the judgment of others. Our words are to be such that they will not leave impressions upon the mind contrary to that which should be received. My brethren, let your hearts be emptied of all self-seeking; let evil speaking be put away, and let the conduct be such that you will lead no soul to make false moves. Let there be a sensible understanding of the times in which we live; let it be realized that the end of all things is near, and that our work of character building is soon to bear the test of the investigative judgment.
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 2)
The Lord calls upon His people to act like converted men and women. They are not to be indolent or indifferent. Diligent work is to be done in the circulation of our literature. Faithful work is to be done in many missionary lines—work that is marked by Christian politeness. Let us talk the truth and pray earnestly for a missionary spirit as we take hold of the work. We need an earnest faith that will press the battle to the gates. The wider the circulation of our periodicals and publications containing the truth, the greater will be the demand for them. The truth is to go forth as a lamp that burneth, that the real meaning of higher education may be clearly understood.
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 3)
Right in our towns and cities are souls living in ignorance of the truths of the Word of God; many are perishing in sin. Some of these, out of curiosity, come to our houses of worship. Let every discourse preached be a revelation of the great truths applicable to these times. Let short discourses that are right to the point be given, that heavenly agencies may impress saving, eternal truth upon the understanding and the heart. Unveil the mysteries of redemption before the students in our schools, and before the congregations assembled to hear the Word. This is the light the philosopher needs. Higher education will be found in beholding the mysteries of godliness; and angels of God will be present to enlighten the mind and make lasting impressions upon the heart. The grand subjects brought to light in the Scriptures, if believed and received and carried into the life practice, will result in education of the highest order. Receiving this, we receive the true light that cometh from heaven.
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 4)
Angels of God will co-operate with the efforts put forth and will make the right impression upon minds. The Saviour in His teachings ever showed the relation between cause and effect. To His followers today as then, He says, commands, “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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 5)
“Marvel not,” Christ said to Nicodemus, “that I said unto you, Ye must be born again. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh or whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 6)
“Nicodemus answered and said unto Him, How can these things be? Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master in Israel, and knowest not these things? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly things, and ye believed them not, how shall ye believe if I tell you of heavenly things. And no man hath ascended up into heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 7)
“And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up; that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. 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. 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 on Him is not condemned, but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 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. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.” [John 3:7-21.]
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 8)
Higher education is found in the Word of God. The Saviour employed the objects of nature to illustrate His teachings to the people, that nature might give proof of the harmony that exists between God’s Word and His created works. It is essential that the truths of the Word, which have been hidden from the understanding of the people, be brought forth to enlighten minds. The teachers in our schools need to have Christ formed within, that His attributes may be expressed in word and practice. This is the mystery of godliness.
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 9)
Man is now on probation, a probation in which his life is to learn to reveal the principles that underlie true higher education. He who reveals that he possesses the spirit of truth, to him will be given increased light that he may work out his own salvation. This work will not be done boastingly, but with fear and trembling, yet in the power of the Spirit. The Saviour’s promise, “Whosoever hath, to him shall be given,” applies also [to] the reception of truth. [Matthew 13:12.] To him who seeks to understand its teachings will be given increased understanding.
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 10)
“Let your light so shine before men,” the Saviour says, “that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] The man or the woman who has a theoretical knowledge of the truth, but whose life does not express the principles of truth, is not letting his light shine forth. It is possible for the most sublime truths of the Word of God to be expressed in life and character of the one who receives and practices the Word of God. In speech and in action he may reveal that he is born again. My brethren, let the light be brought from under the bushel of human conjectures to make known the truths of the gospel of life. Invisible agencies will work through the invisible; the supernatural will co-operate with the natural, the heavenly with the earthly; unknown things will be revealed through the known. Let the grace of Christ be revealed, teaching that man was made in the likeness of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 11)
Higher education is the mystery of God’s everlasting kingdom. He who serves the world sees not the great things of eternal interest prepared for the soul who opens his heart to receive the mystery of godliness; but he who enters this path of knowledge, and perseveres in his search after the hidden wisdom, to him heavenly agencies will teach the great lessons which through faith in Christ will make him an overcomer. It is thus that spiritual perfection is reached, and the life becomes holy and Christlike.
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 12)
But truth will never be forced upon the heart that fights against it and resists its entrance. This is the class of whom the prophet spoke when he said, “Their heart is waxed gross.”“They seeing see not.” [Matthew 13:15, 13.] This class of worldly professors is all about us, careless, proud, indifferent, opposed in will and character to the truth; they see the evidence of the truth as it is presented by the servants of God, but they will not yield to its transforming influence. They will not learn the lessons that God is seeking to teach them and bring the truths of His Word into their practical life.
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 13)
The truths that Christ taught in his discourses were not impressed upon His hearers by any outward gestures, but by the words and acts of His daily life and the Holy Spirit that He manifested. In the higher life He led as He daily worked the works of God, He gave to men the outworking evidences of a higher education. So in the lives of His followers, when a hasty spirit is overcome, when the heart is melted to tenderness for others, when the life is devoted to working the works of Christ, the fruit of higher education is seen.
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 14)
How important it is that before every congregation and before the students in our schools should be brought the question, “What means the higher education?” It is not the study of a certain class of books which worldly educators deem essential to education. It is the study of the Word of God—a study that will led to obedience to the requirements found in the Word, and to a following in the footsteps of Christ. There is no high education higher than that to be found in the lessons that Christ gave. When these lessons are discarded for the teachings of men, it is time that God’s people become reconverted, accepting from Christ the simplicity of true godliness.
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 15)
The Lord communicates a knowledge of Himself to men through chosen agencies, through those who have been transformed in character through communion with Himself. What was His commission to the twelve just before His ascension to the Father? We read: “Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. And when they saw Him they worshiped Him, but some doubted.” [Matthew 28:16, 17.] Why did they doubt? It was because their hearts had not received fully the higher education. And there are hearts today that are not moved by the power of the Holy Spirit because they are not truly converted; they have no received in its fulness that Presence that would transform the life.
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 16)
“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, 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.” [Verses 18-20.]
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 17)
Those who suppose that they are receiving their education to prepare them for a higher work than the fulfilment of this commission are seeking for something that is of no lasting value. They are gaining a spurious education.
(24LtMs, Ms 3, 1909, 18)
Ms 5, 1909
Sermon/Two Kinds of Service Oakland, California February 6, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in RH 03/18/1909; 03/25/1909. +
Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White, Sabbath, February 6, 1909, in Oakland, California.
“Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek Me daily and delight to know My ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of Me the ordinance of justice; they take delight in approaching to God. Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and Thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and Thou takest no knowledge?” [Isaiah 58:1-3.]
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 1)
There is a great deal of profession in our world, plenty of self-justification, but the evidences of the deep work of grace in hearts is not so apparent. There is a very earnest question before us. The time has come when every soul should understand that he has a soul to save or a soul to lose, a heaven to win and a hell to shun. We need to understand what we shall do to be saved.
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 2)
There is something wanting in the experience of this class brought to view by the prophet. And self is brought into their service. “Behold,” he says, “in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labors. Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high. Is it such a fast that I have chosen? 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 to the Lord?” [Verses 3-5.]
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 3)
“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?” [Verse 6.]
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 4)
In the experience of God’s people there have been yokes bound upon the churches that God never ordained, yokes that have greatly marred the experience and have offended the Lord God of Israel. Because a man carries responsibilities in the church, he is not given liberty to rule the mind and judgment of others with whom the Lord is working. The Lord wants every soul in His service to understand what is the kind of work required of them. “Is not this the fast that I have chosen,” He says, “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 thy self from thine own flesh?” [Verses 6, 7.]
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 5)
His office in the church does not place the worker where he is unapproachable, but should lead him to earnest prayer, that he may have a conscience void of offense. Then God will give him power to speak words of consolation and advice and counsel to his brethren. The position he is to occupy is one of meekness and lowliness of mind. Then when one who is in trouble comes to him for help, he will be able to say, Let us pray, and kneeling down with that soul will make himself one with him.
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 6)
God has sent the instruction to break every yoke. We are one, one in Christ Jesus. Position does not make the man; position does not give liberty to exercise power arbitrarily over others. It is counsel that is needed, righteousness in deportment that is to be made manifest with meekness and humbleness of mind, and a spirit to seek the Lord until He is found.
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 7)
The Reward of True Service
The prophet continues: “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.” [Verse 8.]
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 8)
Here we have the promise of health, and our health is worth very much to us. It is our privilege to reflect light wherever we go; we can speak words of comfort and encouragement and uplifting; but let us bind no yoke upon another. Then “thy righteousness”—your rightdoing, your righteous actions—“shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rereward.” [Verse 8.] These are wonderful, wonderful words. Let us seek to take them in. We are nearing the judgment, nearing the time when decisions for eternity will be made. Let us counsel together in meekness and lowliness of heart.
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 9)
“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 noonday.” [Verses 9, 10.] Praise God with heart and voice for this possibility. Praise God that we can bring this promise to the Lord for fulfilment when we comply with the conditions. When we do not know which way to turn, light direct from God will come to us, if we will follow His directions. “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.” [Verse 11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 10)
We need to understand these words, for a great work is before us—the closing work of this earth’s history. “And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places.” There are many of these. “Thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations: and thou shalt be called, The repairers of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.” [Verse 12.]
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 11)
What is the breach here mentioned? It is the breach in the law of God, made by the observance of the first day of the week for the Sabbath of the Lord. It is something in which all the world is taking part; but God declares, “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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 12)
We are not half awake to our privileges today. We do not understand as we should the work that is before us, or our obligation to place ourselves in right relation to God, that He may send His angels to help us in accomplishing the work. Our little selves cannot do much; but when heaven is united with our efforts; when our work is blessed of God, righteousness will be revealed. There is a world to be saved; there are districts and cities to be worked that have not yet been labored for. We are thankful that we have publications that can be distributed. We are thankful for those that are being published in other languages. Let us each now place ourselves in right relation to God, saying, All that I have comes from Thee; all that I have I am willing to use to help in any place. I will do what I can. If I have much I will give much; if I have but little, I will give that little to bring the truth to those who have it not.
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 13)
Let us each bring ourselves into submission to the Lord God of Israel. You may have your peculiar way; I may have my peculiar way, and some others their peculiar way; but under God that way will be agreeable. If we are not under the control of God, led by the inspiration of His Spirit, our way will not be agreeable. What we need is to stand in right relation to the great I AM. When we stand in right relation to Him, we can do as Christ has commissioned. Christ gave the word, Go to all nations, and He will be with those who go. “Lo,” He declares, “I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.]
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 14)
***** Higher Education in Preparation for Service
As men and women who profess to believe the truth for this time, we have no right to place ourselves in any wrong relation to God or His cause. We have a work to do for the Master, a work to do for the rising generation. We cannot afford to send our children to the public schools. This has been presented to me for years. For years we have been establishing schools, but they are not perfected yet. There are some who think that we must pattern after the schools of the world if we would give our youth a complete education. What we need to give them is a complete education in that Book which assures us of that life that measures with the life of God. If we will obey His commandments, we shall live. This is the book of books. It is to be the great study book for all who profess the name of Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 15)
My brethren and sisters, do not neglect your children. Teach them that they have souls to save or to lose. Teach them to come into right relation to God. Bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. It was because of such a training as this that Daniel and his fellows, when they were taken as captives to Babylon, were able to stand the test. They had received the education that God gives, and He was able to make right impressions on their minds.
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 16)
Do not fold your hands and find fault with God, as did the class of worshipers the prophet Isaiah brings to view. They said, “Wherefore have we fasted, ... and Thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and Thou takest no knowledge?” [Isaiah 58:3.] This class of professors makes no sacrifice for God, although for them He has made the sacrifice of His only begotten Son, sending Him to our world that they might be sanctified and made holy, and that by learning to represent the character of Christ, they might bear a living testimony to all with whom they associated. We must take a higher standard than this.
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 17)
I read in books that come to me how we must attain to a higher education, but these writings do not interpret what is meant by “higher education.” What is higher education? It is coming into unity with Jesus Christ. It is being made one with God. It is bringing God into mind and heart. Unless we have Christ in the life we cannot reveal Him. To learn to humble self, to subdue self—this is the higher education. Higher education, and the education which we should have, is that which proceeds from God and imparts a knowledge of what saith the Lord. It is to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, to preach as He preached, to work as He worked.
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 18)
“Thus saith the Lord, Keep ye judgment, and do justice: for My salvation is near to come, and My righteousness to be revealed. Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold of it.” [Isaiah 56:1, 2.] This is Bible sanctification; this is the higher education. When we make the Bible our book for study, and give to our students a knowledge of the Word of God, there will be no need to ask the question, Have they the higher education? What we need is an acquaintance with God who “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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 19)
We do not half serve God. We do not honor Him as we should. We have a name to live, but O so many of us are dead. We need to study the Word and see if we are preparing to meet our Lord when He shall come in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. I want to stand in right relation to God. I have been in His work now since I was sixteen years old. I do not want to fail now.
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 20)
Everywhere there is missionary work to be done, and every soul of us should have an active part in it. It is astonishing to see how fields are opening everywhere. Workers are calling for means to carry on the work. Many students from our schools are going out and educating themselves in the languages, and opening the Scriptures to peoples of other tongues. This is an excellent work, just the work the Lord would have them do.
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 21)
We need to become students of prophecy. We need to labor for everyone that possibly can be helped. Now while there is opportunity, let us get the light before the people. There will never be a more favorable time for work that this, for the judgments of God are coming upon the earth more and more. We need Christians at this time, and to be a Christian means to be Christlike.
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 22)
Speaking of those who have joined themselves to the Lord to serve Him, God says, “Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted upon Mine altar, for Mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.” [Isaiah 56:7.] This is what we want. The Lord receives too little glory from the lips of any of us, but much of complaint. Shall we not change in this respect and begin to offer praise and thanksgiving to God? Let us begin to do the works here brought to view. Let us bring the poor that are cast out to our house. Let us lay no yokes or burdens upon the people. Let us come to God with humble, lowly hearts, with tongues sanctified and brain powers sanctified. If we will do this, there will be praises to God offered in every congregation. The songs of thanksgiving and joyful praise will be heard coming from happy hearts, and men will know that we enjoy the true religion of Jesus Christ. There are just two classes of people brought to view in the Word of God. With which class are you standing? If all were brought together in heaven with their different temperaments unsanctified, what kind of heaven, think you, would we have? Do we not want to be transferred from this school below to the higher school above? There Christ will walk and talk with His people and open to them the Scriptures they do not understand. There we shall pluck the fruits of the tree of life. We shall see the King in His beauty and behold His matchless charms. There will be no contention there; then let us not have it on earth. We are to begin here to obtain the higher education. We are to learn here to guard the lips, to govern the words. Christ gave His life for us, and He wants us to give our lives to Him—lives that are sanctified, soul, body, and spirit. Shall we not let our righteousness, as Isaiah has said, “go before” us? [Isaiah 58:8.] Then the glory of the Lord will be our rereward.
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 23)
How few there are who praise God! But this is part of our higher education. In this life we are to learn to honor Him by offering our praises and thanksgiving to Him. It is only those who on earth have learned to glorify God that will be given a place in the courts of glory. If we are translated, we shall be translated just as we are. We are to be made perfect in this life; in this life our tongues are to be sanctified, our thoughts purified. Then let us take up this work of education now. Let us do those things that we shall wish we had done when the time comes that our work is finished.
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 24)
I long to hear the voice of thanksgiving to God. I long to hear praises offered to Him. I long to see happy Christians. Let us seek the Lord while He may be found. Let us bring Christ into our family circles. Let us invite the joy of the Lord into our homes and into our hearts. How much glory we could bring to God if we would consider that Christ died on the cross to make it possible for us to come into right relation to Him in this respect. He worked out a perfect life amid the fiercest opposition that could be instituted against Him. Then shall we not make earnest endeavors to be Christians? Should we not, when we meet to worship God, offer praise from hearts filled with thanksgiving? We have everything to praise God 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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 5, 1909, 25)
Ms 7, 1909
Sermon/The Need of the Holy Spirit in Our Lives Oakland, California February 8, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in RH 04/01/1909; 04/08/1909. +
Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White, Oakland, California, Monday, February 8, 1909.
My mind has been much exercised of late in regard to our need of the guidance of the Holy Spirit of God. The promise is given us, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you;” and the assurance is repeated, “For everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.] The thought is enforced upon us that our dependence must be more fully upon God. He is ready and willing to do for us the very things that we need. Let us trust Him as His children.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 1)
Christ instructed His disciples that they should not leave Jerusalem until the power of God should come upon them. The disciples obeyed the command, “continuing in prayer and supplication.”“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 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 1:14; 2:1-4.]
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 2)
How desirable it is that we be of one accord, of one mind, established in the Word of the living God, and having our feet planted on the platform of eternal truth! Let us take the Bible as our guide and director and seek to fulfil the Word of the Lord. The grace of God will be upon all who will stand upon the platform of the truths of His Word.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 3)
“And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. And they were all amazed, and marveled saying, Behold, are not all these which speak Galileans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? ... And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 4)
“But Peter standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words. For these men are not drunken as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel: And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: and on My servants and on My handmaidens I will pour out in those days of My Spirit; and they shall prophesy: and I will show wonders in heaven above, and signs in the heaven beneath; blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke: the sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and notable day of the Lord come: and it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” [Verses 5-8, 12-21.]
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 5)
We are living in the last days, in a time when we may expect much from the Lord. These words should bring us to the throne of grace and claim great things of Him. Here the promise is given that on the men and women, and handmaidens, on our sons and daughters, the Holy Spirit is to come; and “whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” [Verse 21.] This brings to view a wonderful work to be done, for which we need the converting power of God in our hearts every day. It is our privilege to experience this. Heaven is full of blessings, and it is our privilege to claim the rich promises of God for our individual selves. We need to seek the Lord day and night that we may know just what steps to take and just what we ought to do.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 6)
The Lord has a special work to do for us individually. As we see the wickedness of the world brought to light in the courts of justice and published in the daily papers, let us draw near to God, and by living faith lay hold of His promises, that the grace of Christ may be manifest in us. We may have an influence, a powerful influence in the world. If the convicting power of God is with us, we shall be enabled to lead souls that are in sin to conversion.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 7)
Our simplicity will accomplish much in this work. We are not to try to climb up to high positions or to gain the praise of men. Our aim should not be to be the greatest. We are to have an eye single to the glory of God. We are to work with all the intelligence that God has given us, placing ourselves in the channel of light, where the grace of God can come upon us. Heaven is waiting to bestow its richest blessings upon those who will consecrate themselves to do the work of God in these last days of the world’s history. We shall be tested and tried; we may be called to spend wakeful nights; but let such times be spent in earnest prayer to God, that He will give understanding and quicken the mind to discern the privileges that are ours.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 8)
Let us not reveal an untoward religion. Let there be no strife as to who shall be greatest, but let each seek for greatness in humility, for an understanding of the will of the Lord. God wants us to stand as free men and women in these last days of earth’s history. While wickedness of every kind is being practiced by those who do not take God into their counsel, we are to stand as a people who are endued with the Spirit of God, because we seek Him with all the heart.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 9)
The early disciples prayed for the Holy Spirit, and they received it; and then what did they do? They preached the Word. “Ye men of Israel, hear these words,” Peter declared, “Jesus of Nazareth, a man appointed by God among you with miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by Him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that He should be holden of it. For David speaketh concerning Him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for He is on my right hand, that I should not be moved: therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: because Thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt Thou suffer Thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; Thou shalt make me full of joy with Thy countenance.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 10)
“Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day. Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath unto him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne; he seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that His soul was not left in hell, neither did His flesh did see corruption. This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.” [Verses 22-32.]
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 11)
My brethren and sisters, this is our work. We are to be His witnesses, not merely by word of mouth, not simply by preaching Christ, but by living the truth, by having the living Witness in our hearts. When the great day of God comes, and those who have followed Christ stand clearly revealed with the light of God shining upon them, those who are at that time proved unfaithful will ask themselves the questions: “Why did I not tell the truth as I knew it? why did I not live it? why did I not proclaim the truth with heart and soul and voice?” These will be the thoughts that will come as they consider what they might have done, but did not do. My brethren and sisters, I beseech of you in the name of Jesus of Nazareth that you spend much time in prayer, and in searching the Word, that you may understand the promises that have been held out before you.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 12)
Promise after promise is given, assuring us of the fulness of power that God has; and yet we are so weak in faith that we do not grasp the power. O how much we need a living, earnest faith in the truths of God’s Word. This great need of God’s people is constantly before me. What shall we do, I ask, to impress them with their need? What can we do to arouse them to see that we are living in the very evening of this earth’s history? Heaven is full of the blessings that we need, and yet but a small portion of the Spirit’s power is manifest among us. O we need to awake, we need to be converted anew each day. We need to seek for a faith that will lay hold of the arm of Jehovah.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 13)
When I heard last year that certain of our brethren were moved upon by the Holy Spirit at Fresno, I felt as if I could not close my eyes in sleep. I wanted to praise God from the time I lay down until I should rise again. In the night season I would awaken to find myself exhorting our people with all the powers of my being, telling them of the riches of the grace of God and appealing to them not to close their senses to the blessings which they might have. Night after night there were presented to me precious victories that the people of God were gaining, and I would awaken and kneeling in bed would glorify God for these manifestations of His Spirit. My brethren and sisters, it is the Spirit of God that can arouse men and women from their sleepy spirituality to be a living, working power in the world, revealing wherever they go that they are followers of Jesus Christ. Shall we not arouse and come into right relation to God?
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 14)
“Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly,” Peter continued, “that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.” [Verse 36.] I hope none here are crucifying Christ by a wrong course of action, but I pray that we may have a clear sense of what God is to us, and of what we may be to Him as His messengers to a people that are ignorant of His will. The message is not only unto “you and your children, but unto all that are afar off, even to as many as the Lord our God shall call.” [Verse 39.] When the people heard these words, they were pricked in their hearts, and said to Peter and the apostles, “Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.” [Verses 37-40.]
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 15)
In the experience that followed we may learn what a right testimony will accomplish when it is borne under the influence of the Holy Spirit. “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them three thousand souls. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common; and sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” [Verses 41-47.]
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 16)
The gift of the Holy Spirit is promised to all who believe. But we shall find that it makes every difference whether or not we bear a living testimony in character, in mind, in intellect, and serve the Lord with full purpose of heart as we work to bring the light of truth to souls in every place.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 17)
There are places that have never yet been entered with the message of truth. Our camp-meetings in many instances have been held in the same place again and again. The Lord wants us to make a change in this respect. He wants us to work so that the truth will come to all ears and to all hearts, that the world may know what we believe. There are many, many places where such meetings should be held. Perhaps in these places fewer will come out to hear the word, and in some places there may be none; but it is our duty to take the truth to these new places, letting the light of truth shine to every soul possible. When we follow the directions of the Lord, the workings of His Spirit will be seen among us. God will bless the speakers, giving them the words that are essential to the needs of the people, and that will lead them to take hold of the living promises of God and to enjoy an experience similar to that which those enjoyed who were led to accept Christ by the teachings of the disciples on the day of Pentecost.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 18)
The Prince of heaven, He who was one with the Father in the creation of the world, came to our world to labor for the salvation of men. He laid off His royal robes and glorious crown, and clothed His divinity with humanity, that humanity might touch humanity, and that divinity might lay hold of the strength of Omnipotence. In this strength He could successfully wrestle with the powers of darkness. Often in His labors, when opposition grew strong and His enemies would have taken Him, He said to His disciples, Let us go to another place; My time has not yet come. By this He meant that the time of His final suffering and the closing of His earthly work had not yet come. So He would leave the city and start out for the fields. There company after company would join Him until thousands were listening to His words.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 19)
We read of one occasion when five thousand men besides women and children were gathered to hear Him. When the day was far spent, the disciples came to the Saviour and urged Him to send the people away. Some were fainting by the way, and they had nothing to eat. To the question of Christ, What food have you? the reply was given, “Five barley loaves and two small fishes.”“Bring them to Me,” said Christ, and there, breaking the loaves into pieces, and handing to His disciples, and the disciples to the multitude, the hungry multitude ate of the food provided until all were satisfied. While the food was being passed from hand to hand, the wonderful miracle was wrought that converted that small supply into sufficient to feed so great a multitude. Then said Christ, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost. And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments and of the fishes.” [Mark 6:38; Matthew 14:18; John 6:9, 12, 13.]
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 20)
Just such experiences as this in spiritual lines will come to us as we work in faith and obedience to God. As we seek to proclaim the truth for this time, angels of God will be present to minister to the hearts of the people. These heavenly angels are all around us, waiting for opportunities to impress the minds of the people, that they in turn may become instruments in carrying the truth to other souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 21)
My brethren and sisters, we need to be converted. We need the power of the living God to come upon us, for many of us are without spiritual strength. Let us begin to put forth earnest efforts to carry the truth to places where it is needed. Let us look for the perishing around us. Christ is a living Christ today. He is waiting to impart His great grace, His salvation and truth, to all who will seek for it with the simplicity of a child. We cannot do anything to help ourselves, for we are poor mortals beset with temptations on the right hand and on the left. But with the help that Christ will give us, we may become established in the doctrines of the Word and give its teachings to others. As we explain the Word of God, heavenly angels will be present to minister grace to the hearers.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 22)
Our hearts need to be softened by the Holy Spirit of God. Our own will and ways, our own inclinations and education will mold and fashion us so that our message to the people will have but little effect. The Lord desires that our hearts shall be subdued by the grace of Christ. He would have us susceptible to the influences of His Holy Spirit.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 23)
The Holy Spirit is an educating power wherever it is found. One and another writes to me, asking, “What is the higher education?” To have the higher education is to have the religion of Christ, the sanctification of the Spirit of God. It is to have close friendship with God, to be in that place where we can have communion with Him, and to work under the ministration of His Spirit. The reason why I have been so anxious that we should open our proposed new training school in California is that many youth may be encouraged to seek for this higher education. We want this school to be altogether different from many of the schools that have been established among us. It is to pattern after the schools of the prophets. We want that here the higher education shall be understood and sought for—the education that comes from Christ and is imparted by God to His people.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 24)
We are to teach the youth how to learn of God, how to overcome their unhappy temperaments, how to cling to the Mighty One, that when the gates of the city of God are thrown back on their glittering hinges, and the nations that have kept the truth shall enter in, they will find an entrance there and join in the song of triumph in the kingdom of glory. My brethren, we need the converting power of God upon us if we would pass safely through the perils of the last days. I want to see the King in His beauty, and I want, by the message I shall give, to help in preparing a people to lay hold of the might and power of God. To obtain a fitness for the coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven should be considered of more importance than anything else. We need to have heaven brought into our souls and Christ manifested in our lives. We need to be willing to deny self and to sacrifice our own will and ways to the will and way of God. It is our privilege to be overcomers by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. We may follow on to know the Lord and know that His goings forth are prepared as the morning.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 25)
It is our privilege to have a living experience and to sustain that relation to heaven, that the truth will go forth from us as a lamp that burneth. Those who have a living experience in the things of God will long to see the truth go to places where it has not been. Christ says to His followers, “Ye are the light of the world.” [Matthew 5:14.] Let us take the lamp from under the bushel, that it may give light to all that are in the house. Many of us are asleep, and the end of all things is at hand. Everything testifies to the fact that we are living in the closing days of the earth’s history. We should be able at this time to bear a living testimony of a living experience. When we ourselves are converted, we shall be able to strengthen others.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 26)
I would say to you, husband your means, that when any call comes to help in extending the knowledge of the truth, you may be able to respond. Let the truth go forth from place to place, that hearts may be converted. We need to make known to the world a new religion. We need to reveal in words and actions what higher education is. I have felt so deeply at times about this matter that I have lain upon my bed and cried to God. Lord, I have said, The case seems hopeless. What can we do to arouse the people? What can we say to make them see that the common experience that many are having will never give them an entrance into the kingdom of God? God’s people are to learn what it means to be taught of God, what it means to deny self, to sacrifice self. Heaven is full of power, and this power would come to us did we but feel the need of it. But many of us are satisfied with a common, cheap experience and do not arise to the emergency. God help us to arise to the emergency.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 27)
I will not hold you any longer, but I would say that I greatly desire that the glory of God shall be revealed in His people. Shall we not right here make a covenant with God by sacrifice? Shall we not come up to the help of the Lord against the mighty powers of darkness? Who will pledge themselves today to seek the Lord while He may be found? You cannot convert others until you find God for yourselves. Only when you have found Him yourselves can you make Him known to others. Will you not open your hearts and minds to the influence of the Spirit of God, so that the testimony borne will be lasting in its results? The servants of God may wear out their lives in service for you without result unless you co-operate with them. Unless you make determined efforts for yourselves, the Holy Spirit will not come upon you, and the results seen after the outpouring of the Spirit on the day of Pentecost will not be seen among you. Who now, I ask, will make a determined effort to obtain the higher education? Those who will, make it manifest by rising to your feet. (The congregation rose.) Here is the whole congregation. May God help you to keep your pledge. Let us pray.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 28)
(Praying) Heavenly Father, I come to Thee at this time, just as I am, poor, weak, unworthy, and I ask Thee to impress the hearts of this people gathered here today. I have spoken to them Thy words, but O Lord, Thou alone canst make the word effective.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 29)
I ask Thee to forgive those who have failed in serving Thee. Reveal Thyself to them. Impress their minds. Let the converting power of God come upon them. Present before them in clear gospel light their privilege to reflect the character of Christ in words, in actions. Teach them that in order to be partakers in the strife, in order to obtain victories, spiritual victories, they must be partakers of the divine nature.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 30)
We beseech Thee, for Christ’s sake, to sweep away this awful darkness that would hide from view the religion of Christ. We cannot do this, for we are mortal; but we can ask Thee, Thou God of heaven. Impress the minds of this people as Thou hast never done before. Reveal it to them that there is a heaven to win and a hell to shun. Grant them the presence of Thine angels in every home. These who have pledged themselves to seek the Lord, help them to be in earnest; help them to understand that they are to be living lights, bringing to others the convicting power of the Spirit of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 31)
We want our school to be established. Lord, Thou knowest all about this. We know that we have looked to Thee in this matter, that we have cried to Thee in the night seasons, asking Thee to take charge here. O I pray Thee, that Thou wilt make it such a school as has never yet been established among us. Let angels of God take charge of the work and carry it through to Thine own name’s glory. Let the Spirit of God be present to enlighten the minds and touch the hearts of the students as the teachers give instruction that ought to be given. Let the glory of God come in, and let hearts and minds grasp the truths of the Word of God as they have never before done.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 32)
Lord, prepare Thy people to meet Thee in peace. We need the Holy Spirit of God in every heart. Let Thy converting power come upon us as it came upon thy people on the day of Pentecost. O God, reveal Thyself to us.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 33)
Let Thy blessing rest upon us, dear Saviour. Let light shine into the chambers of the mind and into the soul temple, that we may see light in Thy light, and joy in Thy joy, as we see sinners turning to God with the whole heart. We have no power but in Thee. We ask Thee to mold and fashion us and give us an experience after the divine similitude.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 34)
O God, I beseech of Thee to work. Thou didst send one equal with Thyself to live in the world a life of poverty and toil. Traveling on foot from place to place, He endured hardness and hunger. My Father, we are ashamed of the presentation we have made. Wilt Thou not baptize us, Lord? Let Thy converting power come upon this people. Help them to make a determined effort to resist the enemy, and that he may flee from them; and Thy blessed name shall have all the glory.
(24LtMs, Ms 7, 1909, 35)
Ms 9, 1909
Talk/The Buena Vista School Property Oakland, California February 6, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in 1MR 333-338. +
Talk by Mrs. E. G. White, at Oakland, California, February 6, 1909.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 1)
For some time we have been deeply interested in the matter of securing a place for our school where we might find the very things we need in order that our educational interests may be advanced in right lines.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 2)
With some of the brethren, I have looked at several locations. At one place, there was a large berry patch that yielded abundantly, but there was little land that could be cultivated. This was not a place suitable for our school. Our school should be located where the students can receive an education broader than that which the mere study of books will give. They must have such a training as will fit them for acceptable service if they are called to do pioneer work in mission fields either in America or in foreign countries. There must be land enough to give an experience in the cultivation of the soil and to help largely in making the institution self-supporting.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 3)
Last spring some of us drove up into Lake Country, and I looked carefully along the way, but saw nothing that was desirable as a location for our college.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 4)
On our return from Southern California last September, we were asked by some of our brethren to look at some places near Sonoma. From the station we were driven in carriages to a place where there were two large houses situated in the midst of a very large orchard. I told the brethren that this was not the place for which I was looking, and that we could not afford to occupy these houses for a school, even it they should be given to us. From there we went to the Buena Vista property and were shown the beautiful house. We looked through the large rooms on the first and second floors and were told that the rooms on the third floor were just the same.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 5)
After leaving the house, we drove quickly over some portions of the land. Consideration of what I saw, and the description given of other parts of the property made it plain that here were many most precious advantages. It was away from the strong temptations of city life. There was abundance of land for cultivation, and the water advantages were very valuable. All through the mountains there were little valleys where families might locate and have a few acres of land for garden or orchard. The many pipes laid over the ground made it possible to use water freely both for the buildings and for the land.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 6)
The buildings were to me a very convincing argument in favor of this property. With the buildings already erected we can begin school work without delay, and the students can receive a most valuable education in putting up the other buildings that may be necessary. Besides the main building and the barns, there are two large stone wineries. And these can all be used to good advantage.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 7)
During the night following this visit, I seemed to be viewing the land, while a Messenger was pointing out to me its many advantages. The next morning I asked to see Brother Covell, as I had been informed that he had examined the property.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 8)
Brother Covell brought with him a map, showing the location and extent of the land. It had been suggested that we buy the place and sell off the greater part of the land, keeping only that which surrounded the buildings.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 9)
Then I remembered the words that had been spoken to me during the night season. It is the purpose of God that, if we take any of this property, we secure the whole. We must have control of the whole tract. The land must not be shared with men who would be at work on the Sabbath; for if this were done, we should find ourselves brought into a very unfavorable position. There must be no opportunity for unbelievers to locate near the school buildings or to keep a place where intoxicating liquors might be sold. We must have no persons on the ground who would claim a right to carry on their business as they pleased. The whole tract must be under our own supervision.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 10)
It seemed to me that if the whole tract of land could be obtained, it would be an ideal place; for here the students could find abundance of outdoor employment, and thus could combine mental and physical training. When I learned that the entire property could be purchased, I felt like praising the Lord. I know that if He wants us to have this place, it will be brought about in such a way that we shall not have to be united with those who do not observe the Sabbath of the Lord. Here will be a place for our school where the youth can obtain just the education that is essential. In this school which shall be established, we want to demonstrate what the higher education is. We must have the physical and the mental training combined. Our bodies must have exercise. There have been many deaths because of a lack of sufficient exercise to maintain the health.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 11)
I need not speak at length regarding the Buena Vista property. Others doubtless will describe it better than I. But I will say that it corresponds to representations made to me as an ideal location for our school more perfectly than anything else I have seen. Its advantages are beyond estimate. I have been waiting patiently for the Lord to bring the place into our possession.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 12)
God is now bringing a test upon His people in this field. This test is whether or not they will do their very best to come into possession of the Buena Vista property. I have faith that God has been leading in this matter; and although I had but little money to invest, I borrowed fifteen hundred dollars from the bank and invested two thousand dollars in a piece of land that should be included in the purchase of the property. This piece of land had been sold off from the tract previously to our purchasing, but it also should be under our control.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 13)
We desire our school to be in a retired place. But there is a work to be done for the community in which we may be located. There are cities and towns all around that can be worked by the teachers and students. And we hope this summer to hold a good camp-meeting right on this property and to arouse an interest among the people of Sonoma to hear more of the truth for this time.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 14)
This property is going to cost something. But if everyone will do his duty in the fear of God, we can establish a school that will be pleasing to the Lord. There we will sing His praises, and teach His truth, and magnify His name.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 15)
I have wished that we might come quickly into possession of the property. But there was some advantage in delay, because we now have more time to raise the money to pay for the place. Let our people now take hold disinterestedly, and obtain the means, so that when they say to us, “Here is a clear title,” we can take the deed and say, “Here is the money for your place.”
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 16)
The Lord wishes us to exercise faith at every step. He wants us to manifest a faith in His working. Let us trust Him and seek to work in harmony with His providence. I am confident that the Lord has wrought for us, and that if we will conduct our school in the fear of God, there will never again be upon it such a debt as exists at present. We have determined that the past experience shall not be repeated.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 17)
Our schools are a very important factor in our work. We want to educate our youth so that they will work in harmony with the mind and the will of God. We desire to help them to prepare their hearts to work in harmony with Jesus Christ, the great Teacher. In support of His teachings, He could say, It is written. He carried the light of truth wherever He went. So our students, after they have received a training, will be ready to be transferred from the school to mission fields in all parts of the world. These fields are opening, and calls for help are coming from every side more than we can supply.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 18)
*****
These words were added regarding the purchase of the Buena Vista property for our school:
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 19)
Let every one take an interest in this matter, and let all who can do so make freewill offerings to help in the purchase of this property.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 20)
The Lord could create an abundance of means for the carrying forward of His work. He could furnish the means without asking His people to make any sacrifice. The gold and the silver is His. All that we possess, even our own souls and bodies, are His. But the Lord has never worked this way. You remember how, when the sanctuary was to be built in the wilderness, He called on all the people to make their freewill offerings. And they all wanted a part in the blessing. They gave until the leaders could say, It is enough. Bring no more offerings.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 21)
So we desire to see every soul of our people have a share in the blessing that comes from returning to the Lord that which is His own. There is a blessing in it for everyone who will act his part. When we come up to the time for settlement, and they say to us, “Here is the deed,” we want to be able to reply, “Here is the money.”
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 22)
We desire to see in this place an institution where many youth shall be educated to go forth as missionaries for the Lord. We hope to see a marked revelation of the salvation of God. And this we shall see if we will open our hearts and purses to help in this matter.
(24LtMs, Ms 9, 1909, 23)
Ms 11, 1909
That They All Might Be One NP 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in RH 09/23/1909; 09/30/1909. +
The Lord has given me a special message for the churches that claim to believe the truth for these last days, and especially for those who carry responsibilities in connection with our school and sanitarium enterprises for the education and training of the youth for the work of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 1)
Those who hold positions of trust in the work of God are in need of constantly seeking the Lord; for there is a great missionary work to be accomplished. It is a work similar to that of the one whom the prophet Isaiah describes 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. 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.” [Isaiah 40:3-5.]
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 2)
All who profess to believe the truth for this time need to make the Word of God their constant study; its principles are to be brought into the life experience. As a people we need to understand that the time has come when all differences should be acknowledged and put away, when everything that is not in accordance with the Word of God should be taken out of the life. Probation is soon to close, and God’s people need to humble their hearts before Him, seeking Him with humility of mind for grace to perfect a righteous character. Disunion among professed believers is a great dishonor to the cause of Christ; but in unity there is convincing proof of what the Word of the Lord will accomplish for those who humble themselves before Him and seek Him in earnest prayer. Believers in Christ are not to see how far apart they can draw, but they are to draw together in the bonds of love and faith. A united communion with God on the part of His church is something that is greatly needed at this time.
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 3)
Christ’s Prayer for Unity Among His Followers
If we would study the prayer of Christ recorded in the seventeenth chapter of John, we would understand what a grievous mistake we make when we introduce into the church those things that create division and strife. Christ prayed that His followers might be one with Him as He was one with the Father. He desired that they themselves should pray earnestly to become one in faith and understanding of His word. The closeness of the relation that He would have exist between Himself and His people is brought to view in the words, “All Mine are Thine, and Thine are Mine: and I am glorified in them.” [Verse 10.]
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 4)
One of Christ’s last works for His disciples before His betrayal and crucifixion works for His disciples before His betrayal and crucifixion was to commit them to the keeping of His Father, and to pray that the spirit of unity and love might be always manifest in them. “I am no more in the world,” He prayed, “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. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Thy name; those that Thou gavest Me I have kept, and none of them is lost but the son of perdition, that the scripture might be fulfilled. And now I come to Thee, and these things I speak unto the world, that they may have My joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them Thy word, and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that Thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that Thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through Thy truth; Thy word is truth.” [Verses 11-17.]
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 5)
There is no genuine sanctification except through the truth. Everything depends upon our sacredly cherishing and advocating the truth we hold. Those who are saved through faith in Christ will exert a saving influence upon others. And wonderful will be the results of the influence of those whose words and works express their faith in Christ. Their lives will be made a convincing power in the great work that Christ came to the world to do. Their unity and love will convince men and women that God has sent His Son into the world with saving grace for all mankind.
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 6)
“As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world,” Christ continued. “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 that shall believe on Me through their word; that they also 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.” [Verses 18-21.]
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 7)
Here we see the need of faith leading to harmonious action. A spirit of harmony and love in labor is to give evidence of our faith in Christ. This unity of sentiment and works is not revealed among Christ’s followers today as He desires it should be; and because of this, objections to our faith are raised by some. The presence of the Holy Spirit with any people will lead them to speak the same thing and to work the will and works of Christ. This is the most convincing of all arguments.
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 8)
“The glory which Thou gavest Me,” Christ declared, “I have given them, that they may be one, as We are. 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.
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 9)
“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. 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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 10)
Let those who are ready to differ and to separate into factions consider the teachings of this prayer. When as a people we see the necessity of maintaining a sacred unity among ourselves, remarkable changes will take place in the hearts and lives of some who are now eagerly striving for the supremacy. Every verse in this chapter contains instruction of the highest and most essential kind—instruction that every church should have. If there are higher attainments to be reached than are here brought to view, where shall we learn about them? where are they to be found? Christ presents eternal principles for our study, that we may answer His prayer in our own experience. O that these teachings might be brought more fully into the religious life of our people, and its refining, purifying, unselfish principles be truly appreciated!
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 11)
Truth a Sanctifying Power
“For their sakes I sanctify Myself,” Christ said, “that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [Verse 19.]
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 12)
No error can sanctify the soul; we must bear this in mind. Sanctification comes not through error, but through belief of the truth. We need to possess a faith that is based upon the sure Word of promise.
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 13)
The Word of God specifies the quality of the faith that will distinguish between the sacred and the common, and will render the life well pleasing to Him who has purchased the powers of our being by the redemption price of His blood. All men have a certain kind of faith; but it is that faith which works by love that purifies the soul. This faith cleanses the life from all self-serving, from all acquiescence to man’s arbitrary exactions. It is a genuine faith that is revealed in the spirit, in the speech, and in the actions. In the life of the one who possesses such a faith as this, the will of Christ will be daily carried out.
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 14)
The soul who really believes the truth will carry out in his life the principles revealed in the life of Christ. Of Enoch it is written that his ways pleased God; and without faith it is impossible to please God. Not a thread of coarseness or selfishness was woven into the web that this servant of God was weaving in his daily life. And of him we read, “Enoch walked with God three hundred years; and he was not, for God took him.” [Genesis 5:22, 24.]
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 15)
The Lord’s measure of correct character is given in the words of the prophet Micah: “What doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” [Micah 6:8.] There are men who may be represented as doing justly and loving mercy, but who have not the true principle within them, the faith that will lead them to walk humbly with the Lord. They may seem to have every specification needed but that of sanctified faith, but lacking this, they lack all. The life is not sanctified; and without this sanctification of motive and purpose, it is impossible to please God. God has given men and women affections and intellect that they may appreciate the character of God as it was revealed in the earthly life of Christ, and through faith in Christ reveal the same attributes. Christ is to be manifest in the life of every true believer. Each is to prove in his life his right to the claim he makes for citizenship in the kingdom of Christ and of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 16)
The Sacrifice of Christ
I am instructed to keep before our people the need of having high motives and purposes. The church of Christ on earth is to represent Christ’s character and work. The aim of Christ’s life was to receive of the Father, that He might give, in precept, and in unselfish service, that which would save men and women from sinning and turn the rebellious into paths of righteousness. “For their sakes I sanctify Myself,” He said, “that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” [John 17:19.] He stood before the human race as the representative of the Father. He devoted all the powers of His being to the work of redemption. For this He withdrew from the glories of heaven and set His feet in the path of humiliation and trial. He humbled Himself that He might uplift mankind. As He took up His earthly work and saw the duties and the trials that confronted Him, He did not fail nor become discouraged. His great desire was to establish the cross between divinity and humanity that man might be reconciled to God.
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 17)
The question was put to Christ at one time: If your doctrine is true, if you are, as you claim, the Son of God, why do you come to the world like this? Had it been possible for men to be redeemed with a smaller sacrifice than was made, the Son of God would not have taken the guilt of the transgressor upon His sinless soul. But the spotless Son of God was the only offering that would atone; none but His life would suffice to save the sinner from ruin.
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 18)
Christ was sent from heaven with the gift of eternal life for all who would receive it. The message He brought was true; but it cost the life of Him who gave it. “I am come,” the Saviour said, “that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” [John 10:10.] Never was there such depth of meaning in any words as in those of the Saviour as He stood before the world, the cross in view, and said, “I am come; He that sent Me is true.” [See John 7:28.]
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 19)
The power and authority of God are supreme, and He is true. He gives to all who accept Christ power to live the truth under the most trying circumstances. Those who have broken His law are sinners, but He says to them, I gave My only begotten Son to die for sinners. He bore the penalty of the sins of the world. He is sufficient for your redemption. If you will plant your feet upon the platform of obedience; if you will repent and accept the merits of the Son of God, you may have hope of eternal life. The soul who will take God at His word, and obey His law, may live. To such the assurance is given, “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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 20)
The science of overcoming as Christ overcame is the science of salvation. If we will unite with Christ in the work of developing Christian character, if we will maintain unwavering faith in God and in the truths of His Word, we will be given strength to overcome every evil thing in this life. But there are some to whom Christ says today, “Ye will not come unto Me that ye might have life—eternal life which My Father will give to all who believe. I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life,” He pleads, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [See John 5:40; 14:6; Matthew 11:28.]
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 21)
Christ is grieved today at the manifestation of unchristlike spirit and unchristlike actions among His professed followers. Many who bear His name are bringing reproach upon His cause by their unchristian words and deportment. I am instructed to say to our people, Guard your words and actions. Let messengers of the Lord comprehend the truth as it is in Jesus, that they may become laborers together with God. It is the power of God and that alone that can soften and subdue our hearts and expel the worldliness and pride that exist among us. All who practice the truth in words and in actions as Christ taught will be laborers together with Christ in saving souls that are perishing in their sins.
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 22)
The love of Christ for the human family led Him to assume human nature and to submit to every test that human beings must bear, that man might be brought into right relation to His Maker. Human beings had taken sides with the first great rebel and the angels whom he had deceived. When Satan and his rebel host were defeated and cast out of heaven, they did not give up the struggle against right. Satan’s work has been the same since the days of Adam to the present, and he has pursued it with great success, tempting men to distrust God’s love and to doubt His wisdom. And in the great closing work of the rebellion, the powers of evil will unite in a desperate struggle to work out their deceptive plans to lead souls to ruin. Ministers and physicians and men in positions of responsibility and trust as lawmakers will unite in this work of rebellion. Thousands are already taking their place on the side of satanic agencies. Some of these wear a pretentious garb of righteousness, but it is the form of godliness without the power. Clear light has been permitted to shine upon all; but when Satan’s sophistries are heeded, when men and women reject light and evidence, gradually they become converted to the theories that Satan offers. Too late, too late they will see that angels of God are in the warfare against all who have departed from the faith.
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 23)
During the past night I seemed to be enumerating in my mind the evidences we have to substantiate the faith we hold. We see that seducers are waxing worse and worse. We see the world working to the point of establishing by law a false sabbath and making it a test for all. This question will soon be before us. God’s Sabbath will be trampled under foot and a false sabbath will be exalted. In this Sunday law there is possibility for great suffering to those who observe the seventh day. The working out of Satan’s plans will bring persecution to the people of God. But the faithful servants of God need not fear the outcome of the conflict. If they will follow the pattern set for them in the life of Christ, if they will be true to the requirements of God, their reward will be eternal life, a life that measures with the life of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 24)
At this time a very decided work in character building should be going forward among our people. We are to develop before the world the characteristics of the Saviour. In this age, in the year 1909, it is impossible to please God without the exercise of genuine, sanctifying faith. We are individually responsible for our faith. True faith is not a faith that will fail under test and trial; it is the gift of God to His people. We are to experience a true conversion; we are to study earnestly and prayerfully the example of Christ, else we shall be deceived. God is waiting to bestow wonderful endowments upon His church if they will seek Him with their whole heart in unity of spirit.
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 25)
Brethren and sisters, let us study carefully the prayer of Christ. Let us seek to experience the oneness in faith and works for which He prayed. The Fatherhood of God is given to us in the gift of Jesus Christ; and as God was one with His only begotten Son, so He would have His earthly children one with Him. Faith in Christ will help us to overcome all weakness of the flesh. It is our privilege through faith in our Redeemer to become sanctified, holy, cleansed from all sin, in this life, and in that life that measures with the life of God to be partakers in the joys of the redeemed.
(24LtMs, Ms 11, 1909, 26)
Ms 13, 1909
To the Workers and Students at Hill Crest School NP April 26, 1909 [typed] Portions of this manuscript are published in UL 130. + To the Workers and Students at Hill Crest School
I feel very much pleased with the lay of the land in this place. Both the highland and the lowland should be appreciated. If every worker and every student will do his best, the Lord will co-operate with the efforts put forth.
(24LtMs, Ms 13, 1909, 1)
The Lord is acquainted with all our circumstances. When that Ethiopian traveler was reading the Scriptures as he rode in his chariot, angels of God were looking upon the scene. One of the disciples was sent to meet the chariot; and when he came to the place, he saw the man to whom he was sent studying the Scriptures. Philip said to him, “Understandest thou what thou readest?” He answered, “How can I, except some man should guide me?” Then Philip opened to him the Scriptures. And when he had heard and believed, the Ethiopian asked, “What doth hinder me to be baptized?” [Acts 8:30, 31, 36.]
(24LtMs, Ms 13, 1909, 2)
This experience shows the Lord’s care for His people. It was the Spirit of God that led this man’s mind to the Scriptures. But he could not interpret their meaning. Then the Lord sent one of His servants to enlighten his mind and to make him understand that Christ, the Saviour of the world, to all who will believe on Him, would pardon his transgression. The Holy Spirit was opening that man’s spiritual eyesight.
(24LtMs, Ms 13, 1909, 3)
When the Ethiopian asked, “What doth hinder me to be baptized?” Philip did not wait to see how he would hold on to the faith. He said, “If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.” [Verses 36-38.]
(24LtMs, Ms 13, 1909, 4)
The Lord wants every one of us to fill in the very place He has appointed us. If we will walk in simplicity and godliness, and trust in the Lord, just as the little child trusts its earthly parent, He will enable us to do the work He has given us to do. If we will seek the Lord, He will work for us. I have proved this matter, and there are many others who have proved it. The Lord will work out our salvation for us if we will commit the keeping of our souls unto Him as unto a faithful Creator.
(24LtMs, Ms 13, 1909, 5)
I feel so thankful for the presentation that has been made to me over and over again that many of the colored people will be reached if we will teach them the simplicity of the truth. It is not we who make the impression upon the mind and heart. Angels of God make the impression. They see every effort we make, and they soften the hearts and enlighten the minds of those for whom we are working, so that heavenly impressions can be made, and hearts and minds can be led to see and understand.
(24LtMs, Ms 13, 1909, 6)
I am thankful that I have had the privilege of visiting this school. You all need to appreciate it. Here you have high and low ground. You are to prepare the ground for the sowing of the seed; and in your efforts the blessing of the Lord will certainly be with you if you will walk humbly with God. Trust in Him who understands the situation. Then He can work with you in all your efforts, and you will see of the salvation of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 13, 1909, 7)
I want to say that you will have our prayers and our help as far as we can give it. Our interests will go with you. And the Lord will help you in making this effort, not merely because of the good that may be accomplished in this school, but because of the many others who need the experience you are having. The work you do here may result in the salvation of hundreds of souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 13, 1909, 8)
If you will follow on to know the Lord, you may know His goings froth are prepared as the morning; and the blessing of God will rest on parents and children. There is one point we must be careful to remember. It is this, that the students in this school will carry away with them what they see and hear here. They will follow the example you give them. Then let teachers and students be learners to harmonize and learn the precious lessons which will prepare mind and soul for the higher school, even the heavenly.
(24LtMs, Ms 13, 1909, 9)
I am deeply interested in the work that is being done here, because special light has been given me regarding the neglect there has been to take up the similar class of work you are doing. I have specified in my writings what this work is. I have tried again and again to impress its importance on the minds of the people. I shall still talk of it wherever I go.
(24LtMs, Ms 13, 1909, 10)
You are not working alone. When you are tempted to become discouraged, remember this. Angels of God are right around you. They will minister to the very ground and the earth, causing it to give forth its treasures.
(24LtMs, Ms 13, 1909, 11)
This is the instruction I am trying to give to our people. I want them to understand what could be accomplished if we would work the will of the Lord. It is the Lord who has given the instruction. Let us follow His directions.
(24LtMs, Ms 13, 1909, 12)
Ms 15, 1909
Talk/Words of Encouragement to Self-Supporting Workers Madison, Tennessee April 25, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in WM 72-73, 77-78; Ev 45; 4MR 34-35. +
(Report of a talk by Mrs. E. G. White to the teachers and students at Madison, Tennessee Institute, Sunday afternoon, April 25, 1909.)
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 1)
I am very glad to have the opportunity of speaking to as many as I see before me at this time, in a field where a large work is yet to be done. In all these unworked fields, special efforts are to be made. In laboring for the unwarned, we are to seek to “compel them to come in.” [Luke 14:23.] Why?—Because souls are at stake. There is a message to be given to these souls, and those in the highways and in the hedges must hear the Word of life.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 2)
Several years ago, during a former visit to the South, while out on long drives, I sometimes asked who occupied the homes we passed; and I learned that in many of the larger Southern houses were men who bear important responsibilities in the care of great estates. Upon further inquiry, I learned that no one had sought to bring before these men the Word of life. None had gone to them, with Bible in hand, and said, “We have something precious for you, and we want that you should hear it.” Now it has been presented before me repeatedly that this is a line of work that must be done. We are to go out into the highways and into the hedges, and carry to the people the message of truth that Christ has given us. We are to compel many to come in.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 3)
When visiting Lake County, California, not long ago, I saw houses here and there along the way, as we kept climbing, climbing, climbing the narrow mountain road. I asked who was working in that section. The response was that no one especially was working there.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 4)
Christ meant much when He said, Go out into the highways and the hedges. You must not neglect the highways. You must bring the truth before those in the highways. Neither are you to neglect those that are in the hedges. In addition to the work that must be done in the great cities, there is a work to be performed for those that are scattered all through the regions round about. And how can we reach them?—One important means of accomplishing this work is found in the establishment of small schools in needy communities. Even if there are but a few persons in a place, some means of reaching them should be devised. Once let the missionary spirit take hold of men and women, young and old, and we shall see many going into the highways and the hedges and compelling the honest in heart to come in.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 5)
Some one may inquire, “How will you compel them?”—Let the truth of God, in its purity and power, be brought to bear upon the conscience of living agents, and let them be taught the preciousness of this truth. Let them realize that the Word of life, even Christ Himself, came to our world because of God’s desire to save fallen humanity; 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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 6)
Nearly five years ago, when we were searching for a site on which to locate a training school near Nashville, we visited this plantation that was afterward secured; and I remember that when we first saw the place, we planned to go over it in carriages, some in one direction and some in another; and we looked to God to impress our minds as to whether this were the place He wished us to choose for a training center. For a time, the prospect looked forbidding; nevertheless, the plantation was secured and the work was begun. The Lord would have the influence of this school widely extended by means of the establishment of small mission schools in needy settlements in the hills, where consecrated teachers may open the Scriptures to hungry souls, and let the light of life shine forth to those that are in darkness.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 7)
This is the very work that Christ did. He traveled from place to place and labored for souls. And who was He?—The One equal with the Father. The Lord Jesus has set us an example. As you engage in school work in these needy communities, do not let any man come in to discourage you by saying, “Why do you spend your time in this way? Why not do a larger and more important work in a broader field?” Some, it is true, must plan to look forward to the time when they will do a large work in response to general calls; but who will attend to the highways? Who will go into the hedges? There are those that Christ will move upon, and they will see the necessity of entering neglected portions of the vineyard. They will delight to open the Scriptures to those that are in darkness and do not understand the truth. This is the very work that is to be done. Let every one of us stand in our lot and in our place. And if there are those whom the Lord moves upon to give themselves to the neglected portions of the vineyard, let no man seek to turn them away from their appointed work. If those who know the truth conceal from others the great light that has shined unto their own hearts, they are held accountable for neglecting their duty.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 8)
We feel an earnest interest in these schools. There is a wide field before us in the establishment of family mission schools. Let those who feel the burden of souls resting upon them go out and do house-to-house work and teach the people precept upon precept, here a little, and there a little, gradually leading them into the full light of Bible truth. This is what we had to do in the early days of the message. As earnest efforts are put forth, the Lord will let His blessing rest upon the workers, and rest upon those who are seeking for an understanding of the truth as it is in the Word of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 9)
There are precious truths, glorious truths, in God’s Word, and it is our privilege to bring these truths before the people. In those parts of the field where many cannot attend meetings far away from their homes, we can bring the truth to them personally and can work with them in simplicity.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 10)
What light there is in the Word! In Isaiah we read, “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgressions.” [Isaiah 58:1.] This is the work we are to do. Note the expression, “My people.” Why should the prophet say, “My people”? They were not walking in accordance with the light of truth, but God desired to save them from their sins. The truth was to be brought to them anew in its simplicity.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 11)
The message of the third angel must go to all peoples; and Christ has declared that it is to be proclaimed in the highways and in the byways. “Cry aloud; spare not,” He commands. [Verse 1.] This means that wherever they shall present the truth, whether before a public congregation or from house to house, they are to present it as it is revealed in God’s Word. In the days of Christ’s earthly ministry, He wept over the city of Jerusalem. Why?—His chosen people had had great privileges, and yet they had not responded to the light that had shined on their pathway as Jesus went about all Judea, presenting before the people the Word of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 12)
In preparation for the coming of our Lord, we are to do a large work in the great cities. We have a solemn testimony to bear in these great centers. But in our planning for the extension of the work, far more than the cities alone must be comprehended. In out-of-the-way places are many, many families that need to be looked after in order to learn whether they understand the work that Jesus is doing for His people. Those in the highways are not to be neglected, neither are those in the hedges; and as we journey about from place to place, and pass by house after house, we should often inquire, “Have the people who are living in these places heard the message? Has the truth of God’s Word been brought to their ears? Do they understand that the end of all things is at hand, and that the judgments of God are impending? Do they realize that every soul has been bought with an infinite price?” As I meditate upon these things, my heart goes out in deep longing to see the truth carried in its simplicity to the homes of these people along the highways and places far removed from the crowded centers of population. We are not to wait for workers of the very highest talent to prepare the way and to show us how to labor; but, whether old or young, we have the privilege of understanding the truth as it is in Jesus; and as we see persons who are not in possession of the comfort of God’s grace, it is our privilege to visit them and acquaint them with God’s love for them and with His wonderful provision for the salvation of their souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 13)
In this work in the highways and the hedges, there are serious difficulties to be met and overcome. The worker, as he searches for souls, is not to fear nor be discouraged, for God is his helper and will continue to be his helper; and He will open up ways before His servants.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 14)
We are glad, very glad, for the evidences of prosperity attending the work here at Madison. To every one assembled at this institute, I would say: Search the Scriptures. If you do not fully realize the times in which you live, and the nearness of the end, seek to gain a fuller realization of these things by searching the Scriptures.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 15)
“Lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek Me daily, and delight to know My ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of Me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God. Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and Thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and Thou takest no knowledge? Behold, in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labours. Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high. Is it such a fast that I have chosen? 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 to the Lord? 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?” [Verses 1-7.]
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 16)
There is a work to be done in every place. We must seek to catch the very spirit of the message.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 17)
There are colored people to be saved. Yesterday it was my privilege to speak to the colored people assembled in their neat little church in Nashville. A goodly company of colored people listened with marked attention to the words presented.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 18)
These people did not have to do with their color. They are not accountable for the fact that they are not white; and how foolish it is for human beings that are dependent for every breath they draw to feel that we should have nothing to do with the colored people. We have a duty to perform toward them, and in the fear of God we are endeavoring to discharge this duty by providing in every possible way for them to hear the third angel’s message and to fit themselves for proclaiming the truth to their own race.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 19)
The Lord is working with us as we plan for the advancement of this portion of the Lord’s vineyard.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 20)
Do you know of a soul to be saved?—Christ died to save that soul, and your work is to learn how to reach the heart of that one and point him to the Saviour.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 21)
As I stood before this congregation and saw the gladness of heart they manifested, I felt the power of the Spirit of God resting upon me. There were no unbecoming shouts or noisy demonstrations, but many eyes were filled with tears, and countenances were lighted up with gladness because of the blessing of God resting upon the congregation. The house in which they had met was small and humble, but angels were there.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 22)
While speaking to these people, I thought of the directions that were given to Philip.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 23)
In Acts we read the story of Philip and the nobleman—how, as an Ethiopian was journeying homeward from Jerusalem, and studying the Scriptures, Philip appeared before him, and inquired, “Understandest thou what thou readest?” The record informs us that he did not; and so Philip ascended into the chariot, and sat down by the side of the eunuch, and opened the Scriptures to his understanding, and delighted him with the truth. With enlightened heart and mind, the Ethiopian believed the message that he heard. As they journeyed on, they came to a stream of water, whereupon the eunuch said, “See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?” Philip replied, “If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest.” The nobleman answered, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” Upon hearing this declaration, Philip immediately went down with the eunuch into the water and there baptized him. Philip immediately afterward departed, as he had received a message to go to another place. The nobleman “went on his way rejoicing,” a believer in the truths of God’s Word. [Acts 8:30-39.]
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 24)
When human hearts are susceptible to the influences of the Holy Spirit of God, the Lord can do a mighty work through His servants. He can bring them into association with men and women who need help and encouragement. Everywhere we can find souls longing for the help that we might give them; and in arranging our work so as to meet this need, we must not lose sight of the neglected parts of the vineyard. Men may say that it is a waste of valuable time and money for strong young men and young women to go out into these hills and out-of-the-way places to labor. Some may contend that we cannot afford to allow young persons of talent to engage in this line of work.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 25)
“Cannot afford it!” If there is but one soul to be saved, that soul is more precious than all the combined wealth of this world.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 26)
When I first visited Madison, about five years ago, and looked over this school property, I told those who were with me that in appearance it was similar to one of the places that had been presented before me in vision during the night season—a place where our people would have opportunity of presenting the light of truth to those who had never heard the last gospel message.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 27)
Bible truth is precious; and we should strive to know that we are living in obedience to the will of God. We should daily know whether or not we are doing our duty; and as men and women come to us, seeking a preparation for service in the byways and in the hedges, and ask us whether we are willing to give them a place, and help them to get started in this work, we should give them our hearty encouragement and support. We should not hesitate to let them go to needy fields where there are only a few; for it may be that God has a special work for them to do for these few, as Philip of old, when sent to enlighten the understanding of the Ethiopian.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 28)
Those whom we seek to help and to save may not be wealthy; they may not have much influence; but every soul has a certain amount of influence, and every soul has been bought with a price—and what a price!—even the blood of the Son of the living God. “For God for 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 does acceptance of this Gift mean?—It means a full and complete surrender; a Spirit-filled life; a heart rejoicing in the light of truth; obedience to divine requirements; service in behalf of those who have not accepted this wondrous gift.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 29)
“Let your light so shine before men,” said Christ, “that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] We should seek to co-operate with God. We should desire to have the truth as it is in Jesus, and to present it in its simplicity.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 30)
I am glad that our people are established here at Madison. I am glad to meet these workers here, who are offering themselves to go to different places. God’s work is to advance steadily; His truth is to triumph. To every believer we would say: Let no one stand in the way. Say not, “We cannot afford to work in a sparsely settled field, and largely in a self-supporting way, when out in the world are great fields where we might reach multitudes.” And let none say, “We cannot afford to sustain you in an effort to work in those out-of-the-way places.” What! Cannot afford it! You cannot afford not to work in these isolated places; and if you neglect such fields, the time will come when you will wish that you had afforded it. There is a world to be saved. Let some of our consecrated teachers go out into the highways and the hedges, and compel the honest of heart to come in—not by physical force; oh, no! but with the weight of evidence as presented in God’s Word.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 31)
Let no living soul—man, woman, or child—selfishly rest satisfied with a knowledge of the truth. There are honest-hearted men and women out in the hills that must be given the message of warning. There are those who cannot have the privilege of listening to the truth as it is often presented in large assemblies; these must be reached by personal effort.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 32)
There are those among us who have been in the truth for years, who have never seen nor sensed the need there is for working the highways and the hedges. All such should seek for reconversion of heart, for divine enlightenment, that they may discern the needs of a dying world. Christ came to seek and to save that which was lost. He went about on foot. He did not ride in easy conveyances. There were no railways or other modern means of travel in His day. It is known that He walked, and that multitudes joined Him as He walked. Along the wayside, as He journeyed, He opened the Scriptures to the understanding of His followers. Constantly He was repeating to them the words of life. The multitudes that thronged His footsteps were charmed with the principles brought out in His discourses.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 33)
As you go out into the highways and the hedges, let no minister of the gospel say to you, “Why do ye so?” We have for our Example the ministry of Christ on this earth. We are to remove our lights from under the coverings that hide them from others, and let them shine forth amid the moral darkness.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 34)
“Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] Those who expect to wear at last a crown of life must in this life be light-bearers.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 35)
In past years the colored people have been terribly neglected. The time is coming when we cannot easily give them the message. Restrictions will be placed about them to such an extent that it will be next to impossible to reach them; but at the present time this is not the case, and we can go to many places where there are colored people, and can open the Scriptures to their understanding, and lead them to accept the truths of God’s Word. Christ will make the impression upon their hearts.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 36)
We each have a work to do for God, whatever may be our occupation. Those who are on their farms are not to think that it would be a waste of time for them to plan to go out and visit their neighbors, and hold up before them the light of the truth for this time; for even if it does seem difficult to leave the farm work, yet we shall not lose financially because of spending time in helping others. There is a God in heaven that will bless our labors. To every man—and to every woman—He has given his work. We may co-operate with Christ, by showing to others what it means to seek for eternal life as for hidden treasure. God has called upon us to do this kind of work—to look after the poor, the needy, the suffering; to be awake to the necessities of those in need of spiritual refreshment; to be ever ready to open the Scriptures to hungering souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 37)
“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: 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.” [Isaiah 58:10, 11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 38)
Some may say, “If I were to engage in this sort of work, some connected with the church would discountenance me.” What if they should? Christ has said, “Thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rearward.” [Verse 8.] We need no greater encouragement than this; we are to seek to save those who are willing to be saved. We are to bring the truth before those who will hear it. Our own souls must be filled with a love for the truth. And as we do our part faithfully, Christ will acknowledge our efforts and add His signal blessing. And oh, what a reward awaits the winner of souls! When the gates of that beautiful city on high are swung back on their glittering hinges, and the nations that have kept the truth shall enter in, crowns of glory will be placed on their heads, and they will ascribe honor and glory and majesty to God. And at that time some will come to you, and will say, If it had not been for the words you spoke to me in kindness, if it had not been for your tears and supplications and earnest efforts, I should never have seen the King in His beauty. What a reward is this! How insignificant is the praise of human beings, in this earthly, transient life, in comparison with the infinite rewards that await the faithful in the future, immortal life!
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 39)
Brother Magan, do you not see that the glory of the Lord is at work here at Madison? You are not to fail, nor be discouraged. Bring to your house the poor that are cast out; speak to them words of comfort. I know that you are trying to do this work, and I believe that God will continue to bless you, and that He will bless this school farm.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 40)
Let us thank God for the privilege of being His light-bearers. This beautiful farm at Madison is a means of support; and it is not to hinder us from doing the very work that God has appointed us to do. And as you try to extend the influence of this school into the needy places beyond, you are doing the very work that God wants you to do. His blessing will be with every one who seeks to magnify the truth. Let not any living hand, of minister or layman, be laid upon you with the statement, “You cannot go here, you must not go there; we shall not support you if you do not go at our bidding; or if you do not give yourself to the work of bringing souls into the truth in some certain place designated by us.” God will bless you as you continue to search for lost souls in out-of-the-way places. Let us thank God that the colored people have a school farm near Nashville. Day before yesterday I had the privilege of visiting the Hill Crest School, and of seeing the little houses that they have been putting up for the accommodation of a few students. A sister has recently sent them money sufficient to build a modest little cottage. In this gift the managers of the school see an evidence of God’s favoring hand. The Lord is indeed moving upon the hearts of His people, and leading them to aid in the establishment of training centers for the education of colored youth to labor among their own race. Hill Crest is a beautiful property and gives opportunity to provide for many to receive a training for service. Let us thank God for this and take courage.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 41)
To those who are connected with our various school enterprises in the South, I would say: Let not a single hand be laid upon you to say, “You cannot do this work; you must not spend your time in this way.” Time! It is God’s time, and we have a right to work for the needy and the distressed, and especially for the colored people. If we continue to labor in faith and humility, God will reveal that His righteousness goes before us, and the glory of the Lord will be our rearward. As we try to follow on to know the Lord, we shall learn that His going forth is prepared as the morning. You have been gaining an understanding of this, have you not, Brother Sutherland, since you have been here?
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 42)
E. A. Sutherland: Yes; we understand some of it.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 43)
E. G. White: In the beginning, you did not have the bright of day appear in all the encouraging lines; but God is working, and He will continue to work. Persevere in the humble course that you have been taking, to prepare the way for the Lord to work.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 44)
God desires that every man shall stand in his lot and in his place and not feel as if the work was too hard. Why, He is ready to give you strength. He has granted me strength all along the way as we have journeyed eastward. He gave me strength to speak to the people as we visited place after place. At College View, Nebraska, I spoke on the Sabbath to two thousand people. The glory of the Lord rested upon us.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 45)
Now, my dear friends, who will be laborers together with God? Who will take up the burden of service? Who will see those that are afar off, having a hard time, and knowing nothing of the truth? Who will bring them in? Who will use their efforts to make them sons and daughters of God? When you enter within the gates into the city, and the crown of life is placed upon your brow, and on the brows of the very ones you have worked to save, they will cast themselves upon your neck, and say, “It was you that saved my soul; I should have perished if you had not saved me from myself. You had to take a good while; but you were patient with me and won me to a knowledge of the truth.”
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 46)
And then, as they lay their crowns at the feet of Jesus, and touch the golden harps that have been placed in their hands, and unite in praising and glorifying their Redeemer; and they realize that theirs is the great blessing of life, everlasting life, there will be rejoicing indeed. And oh, the thought that we may be instrumental, under God, in helping to show men and women the way of salvation, while living on this earth!
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 47)
There will be colored people there. Do you think that Christ has a separate apartment for them? Not at all. Heaven is broad, and they come right in. They have labored to overcome their difficulties, they have proved faithful to the end. We must labor diligently to bring them to the position where they will recognize and accept the truth for this time; and then we must labor and plan to fit them up to work for others of their own race.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 48)
In conclusion, I would say to every one: If you give your heart to God, if in humility you take up your appointed work, and remain faithful, at last you will hear the words, “Come, ye blessed of My Father, enter ye into the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.” [See Matthew 25:34.] Is not this sufficient reward? In that happy world there will be no more temptation, no more sorrows. In your earthly life you have labored together with God; you have so lived that your righteousness has gone before you, and the glory of the Lord has been your rearward.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 49)
Oh, let us work today, while we still have opportunity! Let us strive to bring souls into the light of truth, by opening to them the Scriptures, and by praying with them, and urging them to accept Jesus as their Saviour. And as you engage in this work, Jesus is your Helper, even the same Jesus that has passed over the road before us and has given His life in our behalf. If we make sacrifices on the right hand and on the left; if we seek to be laborers together with God—without whom we can do nothing aright—we shall at last have the life that measures with the everlasting life of God—no prospect of falling, no Satan to tempt and lead astray, no death. I long to see families engaged in soul-winning—seeking to let their light shine amid the moral darkness of the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 50)
By and by it is going to be much harder than it is today to reach the colored people. Now is our opportunity to labor among them. By and by there will be combinations of circumstances that will make it impossible for us to labor as we can now; and so we should try to improve every moment of our time in seeking to bring to a knowledge of the truth souls that are ready to perish, that they may at last have the crown of life with us.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 51)
May God help us, is my prayer.
(24LtMs, Ms 15, 1909, 52)
Ms 17, 1909
Sermon/A Holy Calling Nashville, Tennessee April 25, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in 4MR 33; 6Bio 191-192. +
Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White, given at the Colored Church, Winter Street, Nashville, Tennessee, Sunday morning, April 25, 1909.
“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 Scriptures, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on Him shall not be confounded.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 1)
“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. 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.” [1 Peter 2:1-9.]
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 2)
The Lord has given us great encouragement in His Word. All through the Scriptures are to be found words of hope and courage. If we will follow on to know the Lord, we shall know His goings forth are prepared as the morning.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 3)
I am very thankful this morning to see so many present. I am glad you have this house where you can meet to worship God and to glorify His name. And this morning I would repeat to you the words of the apostle, “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.” [Verses 1-3.] There are some present here who have asked that the Lord is gracious. They have learned that the Lord has a care for His servants—for His colored servants—and who can trust Him to open the way to do the work He has appointed them in preparing a people for the day of the Lord. This is a work that God has given to us all. He wants each believer to stand in his lot and place.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 4)
Our colored brethren and sisters have a large work to do for their own people. I have been much pleased to see the work that Brother Staines is seeking to do at the Hill Crest School farm. We saw at that place students who are preparing for the service of the Lord. The angels of heaven will surround these students as they seek to fit themselves for labor. The Lord is just as willing to help these students prepare for the work they have to do as He is to help the white students as they qualify themselves to labor for Christ. He is the willing Saviour and Helper of all. As this work is continued, we will find prejudice arise, and this will be manifested in various ways; but we must have wisdom to labor in such a way that we shall not lose the interest of either party, the white or the colored.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 5)
I have longed for the time to come when I might stand once more before the colored people. I felt so pleased as I saw this church building. It is a better building than the one we had when we first went to Michigan. But we loved that place of worship where we were free to serve the Lord according to the dictates of our conscience. The Lord has a special part for the colored people to act in the work to be done in these last days, and He wants the white people to help them as far as possible. We mean to do this, endeavoring to bring all the light and advantage possible to those who have been neglected.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 6)
I recall how especially one of your race was recognized by God in the time of the apostles, the record of which we find in the book of Acts. The Ethiopian mentioned there was a man of influence and was doing a great work when he heard the message of the gospel. The Lord saw the interest of this man in the Scriptures, and He sent His angel with a message to one of the disciples, telling him to go to a certain place, and there he would meet someone whom he was to help.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 7)
The disciple met the Ethiopian riding in his chariot and studying the Scriptures. Philip recognized him at once as the man to whom he had been sent. He said to the Ethiopian, “Understandest thou what thou readest?” The man replied, “How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.” [Acts 8:30, 31.] Sitting by the side of the Ethiopian in his chariot, Philip opened to him the truths of the gospel.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 8)
The man’s heart was alive with interest as Philip explained the Scriptures to him; and when the disciple had finished, he was ready to accept the light that had been sent.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 9)
“And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.” [Verses 36-38.]
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 10)
This was the last that the eunuch saw of Philip. “When they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.” [Verse 39.]
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 11)
Here we can see how the Lord worked for the colored people that they might be brought into connection with the gospel, and that the light that He had given for all mankind might come to them. We see also the means by which the Lord works. The light that He has given to His followers is to be given to others. “We are laborers together with God,” He declares. [1 Corinthians 3:9.] When I see the indifference of many who might be engaged as laborers together with God, my heart aches. It is the privilege and duty of all who have come to a knowledge of the present truth to get into that position where the light shed upon them can be reflected to others. The Lord will help every soul who will seek to help others. He would have all come to the light. He bids us labor to build up one another in the most holy faith.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 12)
In our labors for others there will be many difficulties to meet, and we must learn to work with wisdom. We may see slights put upon others; we may feel a great many slights ourselves; but let us never forget that there is One who regards every action.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 13)
Let us consider, too, that Christ was despised by the Jews of His day. Whatever trials we may meet, let us not stop to ponder over them and be discouraged by them. Let us make it manifest to those about us that the Lord fulfils His Word. Let us reveal our interest and our faith in the Word that God has spoken. If we will place ourselves in right relation to God, we will stand in right relation to His people and His work. God has His eye upon every soul. He calls for the white people, and He calls for the colored people to engage in His service. He calls us to be laborers together with Himself. Just as surely as He looked down upon the Ethiopian who was trying to understand the message of salvation, and sent His servant to his help, so surely will He raise up workers today to carry the message of truth to those who so greatly need it.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 14)
I am glad that the message of Christ’s second advent has reached so many of the colored people. I want to say to you, The Lord is no respecter of persons. He makes no difference because of the color of your skin. He understands all your circumstances. We have one Saviour for all mankind. He presents His merits before the Father for all peoples. It is the privilege of every soul to take hold of the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 15)
The Lord desires that each of you shall give your heart to God and be converted. When you are converted, you will strengthen one another. All jealousy, all evil surmising will be done away. Christ came to earth and gave His precious life that all evil might be destroyed, and that His church might be built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable by Jesus Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 16)
To have true faith in the Word of God means more than that we shall believe in the Word now and then. Our faith must be an established faith. God has laid in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious; and he that believeth on Him shall not be confounded. Christ gave His life for you and for me. We need to reverence Him for His wonderful sacrifice in our behalf; we need to give Him our service, that His glory may be revealed in this city, and that the salvation of God may go forth as a lamp that burneth.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 17)
The Lord wants us to enjoy His presence. We should talk of His goodness, and tell of His power, and speak of what He has done for our souls. He wants us to be fully converted to Him, that the light of truth may shine forth with greater power than we see it shining today. “Ye are a chosen generation,” He declares, “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.] The Lord desires to lead us step by step by the light of His presence. When angels of God take charge of us, we shall not be confounded. Though every evil influence should oppose us, we may remember that there is one who will be with us. Let us put our whole confidence in God. Let us walk so that our children will see that we delight ourselves in the Lord, and that He is our Saviour. Then we can bring faith into our households and can bring up our children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 18)
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 who 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 be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [2 Peter 1:2-8.]
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 19)
Those who have no interest in the experience that Peter here speaks of are missing a great opportunity. You cannot afford to do this. In order to teach men and women how to accomplish this work of adding grace to grace, Christ laid off His royal robe and kingly crown and came to our world as a little child. He took upon Himself the liabilities of human nature. His early associates saw Him at work as a child and as a youth at His father’s carpenter’s bench. What matter if your work is not exactly right, they would say to Him. But Jesus was as one who did not hear. He was not willing to be defective, even in the handling of tools. He was perfect as a workman, as He was perfect in character. Jesus carried into His labor cheerfulness and tact. He was never so full of worldly care as to have no time or thought for heaven. Often He expressed the gladness of His heart by singing psalms and heavenly songs. Jesus was faithful in all that He did. Let us be just as faithful. As Jesus learned His lessons and understood and did His duty, so may we.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 20)
The apostle Peter presents to us something to be worked out in our lives. You have accepted the grace of Christ; you have realized your privileges and grasped them. Now work to make your calling and election sure. You are called to glory and virtue. 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.] If you will live on the plan of addition; if you will shun every temptation, the light of heaven will shine into your soul, enabling you to do this work of adding grace to grace. “Give diligence to make your calling and election sure; for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall.” [Verse 10.]
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 21)
“If ye do these things, ye shall never fall.” I like to repeat these words to tempted souls. The Lord will surely fulfil His Word—as surely as He is God. We are to keep at work, gaining all the time, adding grace to grace. If we will do this, the promise is sure, “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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 22)
Here is our life insurance policy. It is an everlasting kingdom that we are to receive. I would that every one of you should understand what it means to secure this life insurance policy to the kingdom of our God. It means that you shall be doers of the Word, that you shall work out your salvation with fear and trembling. I pray that God may help us to understand our great privileges and advantages. Christ is soon coming, and there is constant need of our understanding what the Saviour means by the words, If ye do these things, ye shall never fall. We must have a constantly increasing faith. It is our privilege to be as confident of receiving eternal life as the Saviour was. The Lord of heaven wants us to manifest the simplicity of true godliness. We are to work out our salvation with fear and trembling, adding grace to grace, until we are victorious over every sin.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 23)
Take these words home with you, and carry them out in your lives. If you are slighted and rejected, remember that Christ was also rejected. He was crucified by wicked hands; and while He hung in suffering upon the cross, those who stood about Him mocked Him, saying, “Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it again in three days, come down from the cross; and we will believe.” [Matthew 27:40, 42.] But while the professedly religious ones were uttering words of scorn and derision, a poor thief who hung by Christ’s side expressed his faith in Him as the Son of God. “Lord,” he said, “remember me when Thou comest into Thy kingdom.” [Luke 23:42.]
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 24)
Men may be ambitious for higher education, but there is nothing more exalted than a simple belief in a Thus saith the Lord. Pattern your life after His. Act as Christ’s little children. Do not exalt self, but exalt Christ. Take comfort from the Word of God. Teach your children to be missionaries to their people. Help them to have faith and an understanding of the will of God. There is hope for all who will lay hold of Christ and seek in their lives to honor and glorify Him. You have an everlasting promise. Grasp this promise, and hold it firmly. May God give you grace and light, is my prayer.
(24LtMs, Ms 17, 1909, 25)
Ms 19, 1909
Sermon/Abiding in Christ Takoma Park, Maryland May 15, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in GCB 05/17/1909.
Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White, given Sabbath, May 15, 1909, in the Pavilion, Takoma Park, Washington, D.C.
“I am the true Vine, and My Father is the husbandman. Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” [John 15:1, 2.]
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 1)
When the purging comes, we frequently feel that the Lord is against us. Instead of this we should look to ourselves and see if there is not something we have left undone or something we need to take away from our lives before we can stand in right relation to God. We should let nothing interpose between us and the beams of light that will come to every one of us if we will comply with the conditions specified. We do not want to be the branch that shall be taken away, but the branch that shall produce fruit.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 2)
“Now ye are clean through 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.” [Verses 3, 4.] It is for our present and eternal interest that we understand these words. Do we let our petitions come up before God daily? Do we realize that we must have an abiding Christ if we would represent Christ to the world in our speech, in our characters, and in all our dealings with our fellow men? When this is our experience, we shall not be found fruitless.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 3)
“I am the Vine,” the Saviour continues, “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.” [Verses 5, 6.]
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 4)
How important it is that we so relate ourselves to our Creator and to our Redeemer that the influence we exert shall represent Christ and represent the Father. God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that those who abide in Christ might become the sons of God. Everything is at stake here. What will you do about it, my brethren and sisters? Are you going to let worldly ideas, worldly customs and practices, come into your lives and characters? Are you going to study what this one or that one will say? Or are you looking to the One who so loved the world that He did not withhold from us His only begotten Son. God gave Christ to the world to reveal to men that humanity united with divinity could overcome the temptations that are in the world through lust. This union we must experience. We must be living branches of the True Vine, daily laying hold of our Redeemer, that we may bear the fruits of a Christian character. Christ is our only hope. “I am the Vine,” He declares, “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.” [Verse 5.]
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 5)
“I in him.” It is of the greatest importance that you abide in Christ, and that in your humanity you lay hold upon divinity. Unless you take hold by living faith of His divine power, you will miss that life that measures with the life of God. We cannot afford to miss that life. We cannot afford to live careless, indifferent, selfish lives; for such God cannot accept.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 6)
God has given Christ as a pattern of what our lives should be. Do you see Him walking in the streets and looking upon and pitying the sick? His heart is drawn out in compassion for them. He weeps for the afflicted and the suffering. He draws them close to His heart of love and heals them. Consider the great company that on one occasion followed Him, growing in numbers until there were five thousand men besides women and children. There was such attraction in his words that they could not leave Him. Finally turning to His disciples, He says to them, These are weary; they must rest, and bids that the company sit down on the greensward all prepared for them. He says to the disciples, Have you something for them to eat? One replied, “There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?” The Saviour bade the disciples bring the food to Him, and breaking it into pieces, He gave to the disciples, and the disciples to the hungry multitude. They ate and were satisfied. Then “He said unto His disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost. Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.” [Mark 6:38; John 6:9, 12, 13.]
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 7)
This was the work of our Lord upon the earth. He could do these miracles because His humanity was united to divinity. What we need in all our sanitariums is a faith that abides in Christ, that lays hold upon His power, that is obedient to Him, and that leads us to take up the cross of self-denial and self-sacrifice. This unites the soul to Christ and makes us one with Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 8)
To every one of us the Lord holds out this privilege if we will cut away our wrong habits and practices. There are many who think that they can retain their wrong habits, their perverted appetites and passions, and at the last get into a condition of self-denial. But the longer selfishness is practiced, the harder it is to break away from it. What the Lord wants now is men and women who have the missionary spirit, who understand why Christ gave His life, why He laid off His royal robe and kingly crown, and came to the world as a little child, to be brought up in poverty.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 9)
The Lord has the power to forgive the sins of every soul in this congregation, if you will repent of your backslidings, if you will turn to the Lord and will cut away from your lives wrong habits and dispositions and your hardness of heart. What you need is the humanity that was in Christ Jesus that laid hold upon divinity. Take hold upon that divinity and bring it into your life, and you will be a savor of life unto life. Every one of us should stand in that position where we can receive a commission from God. Will you not come into that place? Will you not humble your souls before God, that you may comprehend and respond to the immense sacrifice that has been made in your behalf?
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 10)
“If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you,” the Saviour said, “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. As the Father hath loved Me, so have I loved you: continue ye in My love.” [John 15:7-9.] There is peace to be found in continuing in Christ’s love, and in daily carrying out the conditions upon which our salvation depends.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 11)
What can you do in the work of saving the lost unless Christ imbues you with His divine power? A little is being done in our world; but O that the good work might spread abroad and reach every needy soul. O that the present truth might be proclaimed in every city. This great need is kept before me night and day. Some nights I cannot sleep. I seem to be proclaiming to companies as large as this the great salvation, the great power of God, the great glory to be obtained by the exercise of a living faith. We need to lay hold of Jesus Christ, that we may have the power to become the sons and daughters of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 12)
There is something for each one of us to do. It is no use to talk of being Christians if we leave unhelped those who are perishing all around us. To me has been presented something of the great needs of the people. On this journey to Washington I did not expect to speak in many places, but when I got within reach of the people, I could not help doing all I could. My soul was so drawn out with earnest hope, with confidence that they would receive the message, that I spoke the Word to the white people and to the colored people whenever opportunity was given me. I thank God that I did not neglect the colored people.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 13)
“Herein is My Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit: so shall ye be My disciples.” [Verse 8.] It is fruit that Christ wants. When we are willing to practice self-denial and self-sacrifice, as Christ practiced it in His life, we shall bear fruit to God’s glory. Often after a day of toil, although tired and worm with labor, while His disciples were sleeping, His voice could be heard all through the night, pleading with the Father that He would clear the highway, that the words of the living God might reach the multitudes, and that they might lay hold of the truth. Such labor as this costs something. It does not mean the making of a little sacrifice. It costs much to be men and women of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 14)
Men and women are going forth more and more to carry the gospel message. We thank God for this, but we need a greater awakening. We slide back into self-indulgence; we do not exercise to the utmost power the virtues that Christ has promised if we ask for them in faith. That which we receive from Christ we must give to others. Just as surely as we receive, so surely we must give. None who receive the grace of Christ can keep it to themselves. As soon as Christ becomes an abiding presence in the heart, we shall not be able to see souls perishing in ignorance of the truth, and be at rest. We will make any sacrifice that we may reach them; and there are none of us so poverty-stricken but that we can make sacrifices for Christ daily.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 15)
It is our privilege to see the work of God advancing in our cities. Christ is waiting, waiting for places to be entered; and who are preparing for this work? We will not say that we are destitute of laborers. We are glad that there are some; but there is a greater, a far greater work to be done in our cities. Far greater self-denial is to be practiced in order that the Word of life may be carried from place to place.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 16)
On my journey to Washington I had some experience in going, not only to the highways, but also to the hedges. I saw something of the work that is being done in the mission schools near Nashville. Little companies of workers are going out into the mountains and laboring for those who have not heard the message, and here and there little companies of believers are being raised up. Who would dare to put their hand on such workers and say, You must not labor thus; it costs too much. Can it cost anything that will begin to compare with the sacrifice that Christ made in order to save perishing souls? My brethren and sisters, I ask you in the name of Jesus of Nazareth to take your light from under the bushel, and let it shine forth, that others may be profited. We must let our light shine forth in our actions. If we will seek to do this, the light of heaven will surely abide with us, and we shall stand on vantage ground.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 17)
It is worth everything to be where you can reach out the hand of faith, and say, “Lord, lead me; guide me; direct me in every place where I shall go.” It is the duty of every soul to look to God for guidance, to be taught of God, to be led by God, and to do the work of God intelligently.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 18)
The Saviour declares, “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.] He compares Himself and His work and experience of abiding with the Father with the experience and work to which He has ordained us, because He represents humanity and divinity combined. It is our privilege to lay hold of the divine nature and say, “Lord, you promised it. We ask Thee to give us a spirit of self-denial and self-sacrifice. Help us to understand what it means to abide in Thee.”
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 19)
To abide in Christ means that you shall be a partaker of the divine nature. Humanity lays hold upon divinity, and you have divine power. But if you cling to old habits and practices of self-indulgence, and refuse to carry the burden of souls, you will lose your own soul. You will not value your own soul highly, and you will not carry on a straightforward work. It is the privilege of every believer to purify his soul, that he may have that life that measures with the life of God in the kingdom of glory. This is what we all desire—to live through the ages of eternity in the kingdom of glory. But we can never do it if we continue to follow our own habits and inclinations. O that this burden might be rolled upon souls, and that they might realize that if they will be overcomers, they can help others to overcome.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 20)
“These things have I spoken unto you,” the Saviour said, “that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [Verse 11.] The work of overcoming is not a joyless work; no, indeed. It means communication with heaven. You can go to God in prayer; you can ask, and receive; you can believe, hanging your helpless soul on Christ. It means that humanity can work the will and ways of God. Humanity and divinity are combined for this very purpose. O what a different world we should have if every professed Christian would come to Christ just as he is, practice self-denial, permit the fruitless branches to be cut away, and the good branches to be improved. Such an experience of constantly abiding in Christ would result in souls being brought to a knowledge of the truth. Let the petition come up before God, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do today? Let Thy light shine upon me.” Terrible trials are to come upon our world, and the world is preparing itself for this. We too must be prepared, that we may have the protection of our heavenly Father. And if we lose our life in the conflict, let us have faith to believe that it will be restored to us again.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 21)
“This is My commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.... Ye have not chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, he may give it you. These things I command you, that ye love one another.” [Verses 12, 13, 16, 17.]
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 22)
This was the purpose for which Christ came into the world. Read of His sufferings, of what He bore in order that we might have eternal life. God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him might have eternal life. [John 3:16.] That “whosoever” is firm and sure and broad. He that will follow on to know the Lord, should know that His goings forth are prepared as the morning. My brethren and sisters, let the world see the love of Christ manifested in your lives. This will have a tremendous influence, and souls will take knowledge of you that you have been with Jesus and learned of Him. Do not feel that you must follow the world’s fashions and copy its indifference. Lay hold upon the Mighty One. Consider the work to be done for the souls that are perishing all around us. Heaven will unite with you in working for them.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 23)
“If the world hate you, ye know that it hated Me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own; but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.” [John 15:18, 19.] Why this hatred? Because by your consistent life you condemn the worldling’s course of action. He wants to act like the world, to serve the world; and you are serving God. Your life is a reproach to him, and therefore your influence is hated.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 24)
“Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept My saying, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you for My name’s sake, because they know not Him that sent Me. If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloak for their sin.” [Verses 20-22.]
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 25)
The unity existing between Christ and His followers is to be as much greater than now exists, as you can possibly comprehend. When you have that unity, you will have power. Angels will minister through your words and through your works in every place where you are. There will be revealed a living connection with the living God who rules in heaven and in earth. He wants you to come into right relation to Him. Here is the Word, my brethren, (holding up the Bible). Open this Word to your children; present it in your schools; present it, I beseech you, wherever you are; and live by the Word of God. Here is life; here is salvation. Take your light from under the bushel, and give life and light to the world. God help us that we may arouse from our state of stupor.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 26)
O, that at this meeting we might seek the Lord most earnestly, and that the great blessing of God might come upon each one of us! Make a covenant with God by sacrifice. You may feel that you make sacrifices; but if you go where I have been, in the highways and hedges, your compassion will be stirred by what you see. May God help us, that we may work to the point. We need to pray, and to pray in faith. We need to carry forward the work that God has given us to do. Our children are to be saved; our neighbors are to be labored for; and we are to act as though eternal life meant something to us. Let us labor unitedly, that the joy of the Lord may be in our souls. Amen and amen.
(24LtMs, Ms 19, 1909, 27)
Ms 21, 1909
Sermon/A Call to Service Takoma Park, Maryland May 17, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in GCB 05/18/1909.
Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White, Takoma Park Station, May 17, 1909.
God has given His people a great work to do in the world, and every soul who professes to be a son or daughter of God should give evidence that his heart is being impressed by the Holy Spirit. This will mean everything to the success of his labors. The Lord has placed various gifts in the church, that we may appreciate these gifts and act our part in the grand, finishing-up work of this earth’s history. Let us understand our need of communion with God. We are to experience the sanctifying power of His grace on the human heart. We are to be submissive to the will of God and willing to engage in the work that He has appointed His servants to do.
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 1)
We cannot afford to lose any more time than we have already lost. We cannot afford to be careless. We need the wisdom that cometh from God, and not that wisdom which is natural to the human heart. We need to study the Word of the living God and to be sanctified through the truth. When the truth sanctifies the receiver, he will carry the light of truth to others. And when the worker is placed in a position where he is required to bear a straight testimony, God will inspire that testimony. Those who have no disposition to learn of Jesus, and who think they know all that is worth knowing, will be indifferent to the communication that God sends; but it will impress the hearts of those who are humble enough to learn of Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 2)
Last night there was represented to me the danger there is that those who are assembled here will cherish their human traits of character. There is danger of their failing to see the need of individually humbling themselves before God each day, and several times each day, and of asking Him for the spiritual help they must have if they are to serve faithfully and acceptably in any office. They may be engaged in the publishing work or in some line of medical work or in the school work; but whatever our work for human beings may be, we must perfect a Christian character, or we shall miss the mark. If we neglect to humble our hearts before God, we shall fail of gaining all that we might gain.
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 3)
I was instructed that a deeper work must be carried on in the hearts of those who have assembled here to worship God. We cannot afford during this meeting to have a cheap experience; we cannot afford to speak idle words; we cannot afford to lose the spirit of intercession that God will let His blessing rest upon us in rich measure. Let us at this meeting make a business of seeking the Lord. Wherever we are, even if we are walking the streets, we can lift up heart and mind and soul to Him who bids us, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Let us bring these three promises to the Lord, saying, “Lord, here I am in this great assembly; keep me from doing anything that will make a wrong impression on the people.”
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 4)
Here are workers who have come from foreign countries. They have come to see and to understand. They are determined to improve every privilege, that they may go back to their fields of labor with a renewal of grace and the power of the Spirit of God. As teachers and leaders in the work, they are to gather precious truths which they will present to their fellow laborers who are working in many places and in various ways to bring souls to a knowledge of the truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 5)
My brethren, in your field of labor, you may be surrounded by unfavorable circumstances; but the Lord knows all about this, and He will supply your lack by His own Holy Spirit. We need to have much more faith in God. Very soon the strife and oppression of foreign nations will break forth with an intensity that you do not now anticipate. You need to realize the importance of becoming acquainted with God in prayer. When you have the assurance that He hears you, you will be cheerful in tribulation; you will rise above despondency, because you experience the quickening influence of the power of God in your hearts.
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 6)
What we need is the truth. Nothing can take the place of this—the sacred, solemn truth that is to enable us to stand the test of trial, even as Christ endured. Early in His ministry the disciples wanted the Saviour to go up to Jerusalem and show Himself there. “If Thou be the Christ,” they said, “show Thyself to the world.” [See John 7:4.] Christ was doing this very thing, but He was doing it in a way that they did not perceive. Speaking to the people on the streets, and healing the sick, Christ was working to make impressions that would arouse the sensibilities of the people. Even to the last He exercised His miracle-working power. These were the very deeds He came to the world to do.
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 7)
We each need to experience a thorough conversion. Many of us take so much of self along with us that we fail entirely of representing Christ. We cannot afford to have such an experience as this; for the eyes of the world are upon us.
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 8)
My brethren, when you speak to others, and they reply in a way that is not pleasant, do not allow yourself to be aroused. Remember that Jesus was met in the same way. His precious words of truth were met with scorn. But did He cease His work because of this?—No; He would continue His work until He had gathered about Him a multitude of hearers. The Saviour would have us study our words and actions and follow His example. Let us not, when we meet with insults and taunts, take up these things, and try to answer them. Let us rather go right on as though they had not been spoken.
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 9)
Often as you seek to teach the present truth, opposition will be aroused; and if you seek to meet the opposition with argument, you will only multiply it, and that you cannot afford to do. Hold to the affirmative. Angels of God are watching you, and they understand how to impress those whose opposition you refuse to meet with argument. If Christ had not held to the affirmative in the wilderness of temptation, He would have lost all that He desired to gain. Christ’s way is the best way to meet our opponents. We strengthen their arguments when we repeat what they say. Keep always to the affirmative. It may be that the very man who is opposing you will carry your words home, and be converted to the sensible truth that has reached his understanding.
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 10)
In Europe and in Australia I said to our brethren, “Your opponents will make statements about your work that are false. Do not repeat their statements, but hold to your assertions of the living truth, and angels of God will open the way before you. We have a great work to carry forward, and we must carry it in a sensible way. Let us never get excited or allow evil feelings to arise. Christ did not do this, and He is our example in all things. For the work given us to do, we need much more of heavenly, sanctified, humble wisdom and much less of self. We need to lay hold firmly of divine power.”
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 11)
The work to be done in the warning of our cities has been presented to me over and over again; yet very little has been accomplished in the warning of these cities. We need to work more, to pray more. We need to exercise our faith until we can grasp the hand of Omnipotent power. Then we shall be able to carry the message of present truth to the multitudes who are ignorant of it.
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 12)
Those who have departed from the faith will come to our congregations to divert our attention from the work that God would have done. You cannot afford to turn your ears from the truth to fables. Do not stop to try to convert the one who is speaking words of reproach against your work; but let it be seen that you are inspired by the Spirit of Jesus Christ; and angels of God will put into your lips words that will reach the hearts of opposers. If these men persist in pressing their way in, those who are of a sensible mind in the congregation will understand that yours is the higher standard. So speak that it will be known that Jesus Christ is speaking through you.
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 13)
This morning I read the following words and was comforted and encouraged. The words are not spoken to those who seek the lord occasionally, but to those who “follow after righteousness.”“Hearken unto me, ye that follow after righteousness, ye that seek the Lord: look unto the rock whence ye are hewn, and to the hole of the pit whence ye are digged.... For the Lord shall comfort Zion: He will comfort all her waste places; He will make her wilderness like Eden, and her desert like the garden of the Lord.” When the Lord comforts you, you will speak that comfort to others. You will choose to speak words of comfort rather than blame. When the Lord makes your wilderness like Eden, you will want to go forth to the people. You will want the light that is so precious and glorious to you to shine upon their pathway. “Joy and gladness shall be found therein; thanksgiving and the voice of melody.” [Isaiah 51:1, 3.]
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 14)
“Hearken unto Me, My people; and give ear unto Me, O My nation: for a law shall proceed from before Me, and I will make My judgment to rest for a light to the people. My righteousness is near; My salvation is gone forth, and Mine arms shall judge the people; the isles shall wait upon Me, and on Mine arm shall they trust. Lift up your eyes to the heavens, and look upon the earth beneath: for the heavens shall vanish away like smoke, and the earth shall wax old like a garment, and they that dwell therein shall die in like manner: but My salvation shall be forever, and My righteousness shall not be abolished.” [Verses 4-6.]
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 15)
This is the salvation that we need. Let us seek for it, pray for it. Let us confess our sins one to another and clear the King’s highway. Let us present to our Saviour all our difficulties, and receive His help and encouragement, that we may learn how to be a blessing in the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 16)
The prophet continues: “The redeemed of the Lord shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head: they shall obtain joy and gladness; and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.” [Verse 11.] God is not glorified when His professed people morn and groan as though they had no helper; and there are many who act as though they had no help in God. “Everlasting joy shall be upon their heads,” the Word declares; “they shall obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.” Those who do not fear God have not before them this hope of entering with joy and gladness into the city of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 17)
“I have put My words in thy mouth,” God declares, “I have covered thee with the shadow of Mine hand, that I may plant the heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say unto Zion, Thou art My people.” [Verse 16.] O if we would only lay hold of these assurances by living faith in the One who has abundance of comfort and encouragement for us all. Then we would praise the Lord in the morning and at noon and at night. We would have a message of mercy to carry to others. The Lord of heaven wants us to have an advanced experience. Will you study these words? Will you accept them? Will you be sanctified by the truths they teach?
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 18)
My brethren and sisters, when you follow out the principles of the Word of God, your influence will be of value to any church, any organization. There is a world to save. You cannot afford to waste any time. Every one who professes to have a connection with God has responsibilities resting upon him for which he must answer to God. You are to come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty. All frivolous words, all lightness and trifling are enticements of the devil to deprive you of spiritual strength. Brace yourselves against this evil in the name of the God of Israel. If you will humble your souls before God, He will give you a message for our churches. He will give you a message for those in the highways and in the hedges, and for those in foreign countries who need your help. Trim your lamps and keep them burning, that wherever you go you may reveal, in speech and actions, precious rays of light.
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 19)
Let there be no scolding, no fretting in the home. Exact obedience in your family; but while you do this, seek the Lord with your children, and ask Him to come in and rule. Your children may have done something that demands punishment; but if you deal with them in the spirit of Christ, their arms will be thrown about your neck, they will humble themselves before the Lord, and will acknowledge their wrong. That is enough. They do not then need punishment. Let us thank the Lord that He has opened the way by which we may reach every soul.
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 20)
My brethren and sisters, seek the Lord while He may be found. There is a time coming when those who have wasted their time and opportunities will wish they had sought Him. I see before me men who have no reason for doubt and hesitancy. God has given you reasoning faculties. He wants you to keep in the line of reason and in the line of labor. He wants you to go forth to our churches to labor earnestly for Him. He wants you to institute meetings for those outside of the churches, that they may learn the truths of this last message of warning. There are places where you will be gladly received, where souls will thank you for coming to their help. May the Lord help you to take hold of this work as you have never yet taken hold of it. Will you do this? Will you here rise to your feet and testify that you will make God your trust and your helper? (Congregation rises)—Praying—I thank Thee, Lord God of Israel. Accept this pledge of this Thy people. Put Thy Spirit upon them. Let Thy glory be seen in them. As they shall speak the word of truth, let us see of the salvation of God. Amen.
(24LtMs, Ms 21, 1909, 21)
Ms 23, 1909
Sermon/The Work Before Us Takoma Park, Maryland May 19, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in GCB 05/21/1909. +
Mrs. E. G. White, May 19, 1909, 9:15 a.m.
(24LtMs, Ms 23, 1909, 1)
There is a very great and important work for our conferences in America to do. We are to carry the work in America in such a way that we shall be a strength and help to those who are proclaiming the message in distant countries. Every nation, tongue, and people is to be aroused and brought to a knowledge of the truth. Something is being done, but there is much yet to be done, much to be learned right here at this conference in order that the work may go forward in a way that will honor and glorify God.
(24LtMs, Ms 23, 1909, 2)
My soul has been so burdened that I have not been able to rest. What line can we dwell upon that will make the deepest impression upon the human mind? There are our schools. They are to be conducted in such a way that they will develop missionaries who will go out to the highways and hedges to sow the seeds of truth. This was the commission of Christ to His followers. They were to go to the highways and the byways, bearing the message of truth to souls that would be brought to the faith of the gospel. I felt deeply in earnest as I saw how much needs to be done in the places I have recently visited. We must stand in the strength of God if we are to accomplish this work.
(24LtMs, Ms 23, 1909, 3)
In his labors each worker is to look to God. We are to labor as men and women who have a living connection with God. We are to learn how to meet the people where they are. Let not such conditions exist as we found in some places when we returned to America in which individual church members, instead of realizing their responsibility, looked to men for guidance, and men to whom had been committed sacred and holy trusts in the carrying forward of the work failed of understanding the value of personal responsibility and took upon themselves the work of ordering and dictating what their brethren should do or should not do. These are things that God will not allow in His work. He will put His burdens upon His burden-bearers. Every individual soul has a responsibility before God and is not to be arbitrarily instructed by men as to what he shall do, what he shall say, and where he shall go. We are not to put confidence in the counsel of men and assent to all they shall say unless we have evidence that they are under the influence of the Spirit of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 23, 1909, 4)
Study the first and second chapters of Acts. Light has been given me that our work must be carried forward in a higher and broader way than it has ever yet been carried. The light of heaven is to be appreciated and cherished. This light is for the laborers. It is for those who feel that God has given them a message, and that they have a sacred responsibility to bear in its proclamation.
(24LtMs, Ms 23, 1909, 5)
The message of present truth is to prepare a people for the coming of the Lord. Let us understand this, and let those placed in responsible positions come into such unity that the work shall go forward solidly. Do not allow any man to come in as an arbitrary ruler and say, You must go here, and you must not go there; you must do this, and you must not do that. We have a great and important work to do, and God would have us take hold of that work intelligently. The placing of men in positions of responsibility in the various conferences does not make them gods. No one has sufficient wisdom to act without counsel. Men need to consult with their brethren, to counsel together, to pray together, and to plan together for the advancement of the work. Let laborers kneel down together and pray to God, asking Him to direct their course. There has been a great lack with us on this point. We have trusted too much to men’s devisings. We cannot afford to do this. Perilous times are upon us, and we must come to the place where we know that the Lord lives and rules and that He dwells in the hearts of the children of men. We must have confidence in God.
(24LtMs, Ms 23, 1909, 6)
Wherever you may be sent, cherish in your hearts and minds the fear and love of God. Go to the Lord for instruction; depend upon God for light and knowledge. Pray for this instruction and this light until you get it. It will not avail for you to ask and then forget the thing for which you prayed. Keep your mind upon your prayer. You can do this while working with your hands. You can say, Lord, I believe; with all my heart I believe. Let the Holy Spirit’s power come upon me.
(24LtMs, Ms 23, 1909, 7)
If there were more praying among us, more exercise of a living faith, and less dependence upon someone else to have an experience for us, we would be far in advance of where we are today What we need is a deep, individual heart-and-soul experience. Then we shall be able to tell what God is doing and how He is working. We need to have a living experience in the things of God; and we are not safe unless we have this. There are some who have a good experience, and they tell you about it; but when you come to weigh it up, you see that it is not a correct experience, for it is not in accordance with a Thus saith the Lord. If ever there was a time in our history when we needed to humble our individual souls before God, it is today. We need to come to God with faith in all that is promised in the Word and then walk in all the light and power that God gives.
(24LtMs, Ms 23, 1909, 8)
I felt very deeply when our brethren who have come from foreign fields told me a little of their experiences and of what the Lord is doing in bringing souls to the truth. This is what we want at this time. God does not want us to go on in ignorance. He wants us to understand our responsibilities to Him. He will reveal Himself to every soul who will seek Him with the whole heart.
(24LtMs, Ms 23, 1909, 9)
There are schools to be established in foreign countries and in our own country. We must learn from God how to manage these schools. They are not to be conducted as many of them have been conducted. Our institutions are to be regarded as God’s instrumentalities for the furtherance of His work in the earth. We must look to God for guidance and wisdom; we must plead with Him to teach us how to carry the work solidly. Let us recognize the Lord as our Teacher and Guide, and then we shall carry the work in correct lines. We need to stand as a united company who shall see eye to eye. Then we shall see the salvation of God revealed on the right hand and on the left. If we work in harmony, we give God a chance to work for us.
(24LtMs, Ms 23, 1909, 10)
In all our school work we need to have a correct understanding of what the essential education is. Men talk much of higher education, but who can define what the higher education is? The highest education is found in the Word of the living God. That education which teaches us to submit our souls to God in all humility, and which enables us to take the Word of God and believe just what it says, is the education that is most needed. With this education we shall see of the salvation of God. With the Spirit of God upon us, we are to carry the light of truth into the highways and the byways, that the salvation of God may be revealed in a remarkable manner.
(24LtMs, Ms 23, 1909, 11)
Will we carry forward the work in the Lord’s way? Are we willing to be taught of God? Will we wrestle with God in prayer? Will we receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit? This is what we need and may have at this time. Then we shall go forth with a message from the Lord, and the light of truth will shine forth as a lamp that burneth, reaching to all parts of the world. If we will walk humbly with God, God will walk with us. Let us humble our souls before Him, and we shall see of His salvation.
(24LtMs, Ms 23, 1909, 12)
Ms 25, 1909
The Hillcrest School Washington, D. C. May 17, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in PH037 33-36.
During our visit to Nashville, I visited the Hillcrest School farm where Brethren Staines and Bralliar are laboring to establish a training school for colored workers. This farm of ninety-three acres is about six miles from Nashville. The location is excellent. Here the students can be trained to erect buildings and to cultivate the land as a part of their education. At the same time they can be given instruction in Bible knowledge and be fitted by general study of wisely selected books to know how to do the work to which they are called.
(24LtMs, Ms 25, 1909, 1)
As I saw the different parts of the farm, my heart was glad. The hill land is suitable for the buildings, for the orchard and pasture, and the level land will be highly appreciated when faithfully worked. A beginning has been made in the erection of cottages for students. They are plain and inexpensive, but comfortable and convenient. More of these cottages are needed. One cottage that I visited had just been built with money given by Sister Marion Stowell-Crawford. Those who are bearing the burden of this work should be encouraged, and not hindered by words that would dishearten them or dampen the faith of those who have been helping them.
(24LtMs, Ms 25, 1909, 2)
My heart was filled with thanksgiving to God that a place has been provided here near Nashville where intelligent youth, seeking to obtain an education that will fit them to help others, can have the advantages offered by the Hillcrest School. The Lord is indeed moving upon the hearts of His people and leading them to aid in the establishment of training centers for the education of colored youth to labor among their own race. Hillcrest is a beautiful property and gives opportunity to provide for many to receive a training for service. Let us thank God for this and take courage.
(24LtMs, Ms 25, 1909, 3)
Brother Staines and his associates are engaged in a good work. I believe that the Lord has led them and will bless them in doing conscientiously that which they have undertaken. It is my prayer that the Lord will move upon the minds of His people to take hold of this work and help it forward. We must not let the criticism and unwise movements of some of the brethren dishearten the workers and hinder the work. As the Lord has led Brother Staines to take up this work, so others will be led in various places to help. Men in different parts of the field, as laborers together with God, will search out promising colored youth and encourage them to attend this school. And they will help in the providing of a suitable building with classrooms.
(24LtMs, Ms 25, 1909, 4)
When we were ready to return to Nashville, the teachers and students all gathered in the classrooms, and I said to them:
(24LtMs, Ms 25, 1909, 5)
“I am thankful that I have had the privilege of visiting this school. You all should appreciate it. Here you have high and low ground. You are to prepare the ground for the sowing of the seed; and in your efforts the blessing of the Lord will certainly be with you if you will walk humbly with God. Trust in Him who understands the situation. Then He can work with you in all your efforts, and you will see of the salvation of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 25, 1909, 6)
“You will have our prayers, and our help as far as we can give it. Our interests will go with you. And the Lord will help you in making this effort, not merely because of the good that may be accomplished in this school, but because of the many others who need the experience you are having. The work you do here may result in the salvation of hundreds of souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 25, 1909, 7)
“If you will follow on to know the Lord, you may know His goings forth are prepared as the morning; and the blessing of the Lord will rest on parents and children. There is one point that we must be careful to remember. It is this, that the students in this school will carry away with them what they see and hear here. They will follow the example you give them.
(24LtMs, Ms 25, 1909, 8)
“I am deeply interested in the work that is being done here, because special light has been given me regarding the neglect there has been to take up the work you are doing. I have specified in my writings what this work is. I have tried again and again to impress its importance on the minds of the people. I shall still talk of it wherever I go.
(24LtMs, Ms 25, 1909, 9)
“You are not working alone. When you are tempted to become discouraged, remember this. Angels of God are right around you. They will minister to the very earth, causing it to give forth its treasures.
(24LtMs, Ms 25, 1909, 10)
“This is the instruction I am trying to give to our people. I want them to understand what could be accomplished if we would work according to the will of the Lord. It is the Lord who has given the instruction. Let us follow His directions.”
(24LtMs, Ms 25, 1909, 11)
After speaking these words of encouragement, we bowed in prayer; and the blessing of the Lord rested upon us, giving assurance and hope regarding this work so humbly begun. I there decided to give one hundred dollars to help in equipping the school. And I now present to our people an invitation to join me in giving the means necessary to its work.
(24LtMs, Ms 25, 1909, 12)
Let the teachers consider this message: “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.” [Isaiah 41:10.]
(24LtMs, Ms 25, 1909, 13)
Ms 27, 1909
Talk/Words of Encouragement Huntsville, Alabama April 29, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in 2MR 82-86. +
Talk given by Sister White at the Oakwood School, Huntsville, Alabama, April 29, 1909.
(24LtMs, Ms 27, 1909, 1)
I am glad to have an opportunity of speaking to this company of students. Some time I expect that this room will be filled, and that another room will be filled also. We expect to see a work done here that men will be proud to acknowledge. We are glad indeed to see so many present.
(24LtMs, Ms 27, 1909, 2)
This morning I will first read a few words from the fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah: “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek Me daily, and delight to know My ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of Me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God.
(24LtMs, Ms 27, 1909, 3)
“Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and Thou seest not? Wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and Thou takest no knowledge?” Here the complaint comes not against themselves, but against God. Listen to the answer: “Behold, in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labors. Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness; ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high. Is it such a fast that I have chosen? 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 to the Lord?” [Verses 1-5.]
(24LtMs, Ms 27, 1909, 4)
The Lord declares what is the fast that He chooses. “Is not this the fast that I have chosen?” He says, “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?” [Verses 6, 7.]
(24LtMs, Ms 27, 1909, 5)
This is the work we are trying to do, and the work we are setting before His people, God’s people, as the work that should be done. Yes, Lord, we can say: We, Thy commandment-keeping people, are trying to do this work as fast as possible.
(24LtMs, Ms 27, 1909, 6)
We are endeavoring to bring the colored people to that place where they shall be self-supporting. The time will come when you will be able to escape many of the evils that will come upon the world because you have obtained a correct knowledge of how to plant and to build, and how to carry various enterprises. This is why we want this land occupied and cultivated, why we want buildings put up. The students are to learn how to plant, and to build, and to sow. As they learn to do this, they will see a work before them which they will be very glad to have a part in. Opportunities will present themselves by which they can make themselves a blessing to those around them.
(24LtMs, Ms 27, 1909, 7)
“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?” [Verse 7.] It is the privilege of every student and worker upon this school land to know what it is to be moved by the impulse of the Spirit of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 27, 1909, 8)
“Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily.” Why this assurance regarding the health? Health is given because you learn to use your muscles as well as your brain powers. It is very important that we tax our physical and mental powers equally. “Thy righteousness shall go before thee,” the Lord continues, “and the glory of the Lord shall be thy rearward.” [Verse 8.] How will our righteousness go before us? It will be revealed in righteous words, in righteous actions, in our useful employments. This work is given to the colored people as surely as it is given to the white people. According to their opportunities they are to work out faithfully the problems that God presents to them. When we do the work that God requires of us, the blessings He has promised will attend us.
(24LtMs, Ms 27, 1909, 9)
If we will do justice, if we will exalt the truth, the Lord Himself will be our Keeper and our Preserver, enabling us to do His will. God takes care of those who are looked down upon by their fellow men. It is because He regards the needs of those who are despised and rejected that we have this school farm where you can receive a preparation for labor right here in the South. It is His desire that those who receive a training here shall go forth to labor to lift up the oppressed, to strengthen the weak hands, that through your efforts men and women may learn to honor and glorify God. The teaching of this fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah means just this to you.
(24LtMs, Ms 27, 1909, 10)
I am glad of the opportunity of saying these few words to you. Let everything you do be done in faith. Believe that the Lord will surely fulfil His promises. He wants us to take comfort in His Word; He wants us to be consoled by His promises; He longs to see the righteousness of the Lord go before us and the glory of God be our rearward. I see great possibilities for this experience to come to the students in this school. You have great advantages here. You are shut away from the world at large, away from the carousing, and the amusements, and the confusion. You do not need these things. You need to be where you are free to serve the Lord conscientiously. He does not cast you off because of your color. The Lord wants the white people to help the colored people. If they will encourage them, and open ways for them, the blessing of the Lord will surely come upon them, as it comes to those whom they are trying to help. This will be a working out of God’s plan.
(24LtMs, Ms 27, 1909, 11)
It is the privilege of each student here to know that the Most High has a care for you. He will watch over you for good, and not for evil. If you follow on to know the Lord, you will know His going forth is prepared as the morning. You will increase continually in light and knowledge. I want to see the goodness and mercy of God revealed in this place. We will pray for you; we will do all we can to help you; we will send you publications that you can read and study. I want to meet you each in the kingdom of God. Let us fight the battles of the Lord manfully and righteously, that we may see in the city of God the faces we look upon here today. Let us educate and train the younger members of the Lord’s family. They are to stand firmly with God’s people.
(24LtMs, Ms 27, 1909, 12)
I need not say anything more to you this morning. I am very thankful that I could visit your school. For years I have done what I could to help the colored people, and I have never found the work so well begun in any place as I find it here at the present time. In all your experiences, remember that angels of God are beside you. They know what you do; they are present to guard you. Do not do anything to displease them. I believe you will try to help those who are trying to help you. As you work and they work, this school will become consecrated ground. I shall want to hear how you succeed. All heaven is interested in the moves you are making. Let us do our utmost to help one another to obtain the victory. Let us so live that the light of heaven can shine into our hearts and minds, enabling us to grasp the treasures of heaven. May God help you, is my prayer.
(24LtMs, Ms 27, 1909, 13)
Ms 29, 1909
Sermon/A Risen Saviour Takoma Park, Maryland May 22, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in GCB 05/24/1909. + Sabbath, May 22, 1909 Sermon, Mrs. E. G. White, S.D.A. General Conference,
(For a Scripture reading, the speaker read, in a most solemn and impressive manner, Matthew 17; 26:26-75; 27; 28.)
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 1)
This is the same Peter who was so self-confident at the time of the Last Supper. From this record we can learn that unless we have strength from on high, we shall see very strange things happening even among those who claim to be looking for the coming of the Son of Man in the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory.
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 7)
This experience through which Peter passed, because of his self-confidence, should be a lesson to us. We should be very careful how we make boasts of our faithfulness. From the records of those who walked and talked with Jesus during His earthly ministry, we can clearly see that in time of trial there are many who will not bear the test, unless they have a deeper experience than they have today.
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 9)
Peter was not the only one who proved fearful in the hour of trial and difficulty. On the night of the betrayal, as we have already read:
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 10)
We shall not read all that has been recorded concerning the trial, and the humiliation of our Saviour. Beginning with the twenty-seventh chapter, we read:
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 12)
(At this point in the scripture reading, the speaker paused for a few minutes, while a male quartet sang “Pilate’s Wife’s Dream,” the words of which are:)
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 14)
“It was not sleep that bound my sight
Upon that well-remembered night;
It was not fancy’s fitful power
Beguiled me in that solemn hour:
But o’er the vision of my soul
The mystic future seemed to roll;
And in the deep, prophetic trance,
Revealed its treasures to my glance.
“Before my wond’ring eyes there stood
A vast, a countless multitude;
The hoary sire, the prattling child,
The mother, and the maiden mild,
The gladsome youth, and man of care—
All tribes, all ages, mingled there;
And all, where’er I turned to see,
In humble silence bent the knee.
“As o’er the crowded scene I gazed,
Against the lurid, eastern sky,
I saw the shameful cross upraised,
I saw the Sufferer doomed to die.
‘Twas He whom late with sorrowing mien,
In Zion’s streets I oft had seen;
And now in blood and agony,
He turned a dying look on me.
“Then softly from that gath’ring throng
Arose the sound of solemn song;
And while I caught the swelling lay,
The myriad voices seemed to say—
‘And we believe in Him that died,
By Pontius Pilate crucified—
That He shall come, when time is fled,
To judge the living and the dead.’ “I woke; thou wast not by my side,
I heard a loud exulting cry;
I heard the scornful priests deride,
The elders murmur, ‘Crucify!’ O Pilate! hast thou marked my prayer,
That guiltless blood to shield and spare,
That deed of horror would not be
A stain to thine—a curse to thee!
“Our early days of joy are past:
Our youthful spring is withered all;
Afar from Rome our lot is cast,
Beneath the sunny skies of Gaul;
The thoughts that memory treasures yet
Of other days, begin to flee;
But never shall my heart forget
The Crucified of Galilee!”
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 15)
Was he innocent? He wished to avoid the appearance of being guilty; but his official position was such that it was his duty to do justice and judgment. This he failed of doing.
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 17)
If any of you think you suffer more than Christ has suffered, that you have to pay a higher price for your faith than Christ paid for you, your soul will be blessed by a faithful study of the gospels. The Lord of glory made infinite sacrifices in our behalf. If He could suffer all this that He might open for us a way whereby we might be saved, should any of us feel that we are paying too for our salvation? What does this salvation mean to us? It means a life that measures with the life of God. If we are not willing to make special sacrifices in order to save the souls that are ready to perish, how can we be counted worthy to enter into the city of God?
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 21)
Let us come into right relation to God at this meeting. Let us humble ourselves before Him and obey His commandments. If we do not feel that it is an honor to be partakers of the sufferings of Christ, if you feel no burden of soul for those who are ready to perish, if you are unwilling to sacrifice that you may save means for the work that is to be done, there will be no room for you in the kingdom of God. We need to be partakers with Christ of His sufferings and self-denial at every step. We need to have the Spirit of God resting upon us, leading us to constant self-sacrifice.
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 22)
There is an individual work to be done for each one of us. I know there are many who are placing themselves in right relation to Christ, whose one thought is to bring the message of present truth before the people of the world. They stand continually ready to offer their services. But my heart aches when I see so many who are satisfied with a cheap experience, an experience that costs them but little. Their lives say that for them Christ has died in vain.
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 23)
Behold our cities and their need of the gospel. The need for earnest labor among the multitudes in the cities has been kept before me for more than twenty years. Who is carrying a burden for our large cities? Some will say, We need all the money we can get to carry on the work in other places. Do you not know that unless you carry the truth to the cities, there will be a drying up of means? When you carry this message to those in the cities who are hungry for truth, and they accept the light, they will go to work to bring that light to others. Souls who have means will be brought into the truth and will give of their means to advance the work of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 24)
But how can we expect means to come to the support of the cause from the cities where you are doing to bring the light to the people? I have been instructed that there is much means in the cities that are unworked. God has interested people there. Go to them; give them the truth. will receive it. There are honest souls in the cities who should have had the message more than twenty years ago. Had this work been done, churches would have been raised up in many fields whose members would now be laborers together with God.
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 25)
What is being done in the eastern cities where the Advent message was first proclaimed? The cities of the West have had advantages, but who in the East have been burdened to take up the work of going over the ground that in the early days of the message was baptized with the truth of the Lord’s soon coming? The light has been given that the truth should go again to the eastern states where we first began our work, and where we had our first experiences. We must make every effort to spread a knowledge of the truth to all who will hear, and there are many who will listen. All through our large cities God has honest souls who are interested in what is truth. There is earnest work to be done in the eastern states. Repeat the message, repeat the message, were the words spoken to me over and over again. Tell My people to repeat the message in the places where it was first preached, and where church after church took their position for the truth, the power of God witnessing to the message in a remarkable manner.
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 26)
The southern states are to have the light of present truth. Do not say, Our printing offices and our churches need more of our help. We need all the means we can get to carry on the work we have in hand. Let your standard be raised higher and still higher; then those who take hold of the truth in earnest will understand that they have a work to do. In this way the means for the carrying on of the work will be always increasing. One after another has shut the door to certain lines of missionary work for fear that this work will consume means. My brethren, you need the Spirit of Christ; then you will understand what the salvation of the human race has cost. You need to come into right relation to God; you need to humble your souls before Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 27)
Let us begin to work for those who have not had the light. “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth,” the Saviour declared; “and, lo, I am with you alway.” [Verses 18, 20.] Message after message has come to you, pointing out the work to be done in opening the Scriptures to those in darkness of error. What we need is a living faith, faith to proclaim over the rent sepulcher of Joseph that we have a living Saviour, One who will go before us, who will work with us. God will do the work, if we will furnish Him the instruments. There needs to be among us a great deal more of prayer and much less of unbelief. We need to lift up the standard higher and still higher before the people. We need to remember that Christ is always at our right hand as we proclaim liberty to the captives and deal the bread of life to hungry souls who need the Word of life. When we keep before our minds the urgency and importance of our work, the salvation of God will be revealed in a remarkable manner.
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 28)
To the workers in our printing offices I would say, Consecrate yourselves to God. Let the whole heart be converted to Him. Let the practices of your life reveal that you are converted. Whatever business you have to do, do it in the name of Jesus. Then you will proclaim in earnest that Christ is the resurrection and the life. We want this truth to resound to all parts of the world—Christ is the resurrection and the life. We thank God that so many are gathered here. Let us each dig deep, laying our foundation firmly upon the Rock. Then, when the storms shall come and beat upon our house, it will not fall; for it is founded on a Rock that will not give way.
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 29)
I thank God for the excellent meetings you are having. Let us praise His holy name for every evidence of His love. We want to see the salvation of God revealed in the lifting up of men from their low estate, from low ideas, to take part efficiently in the great work before us. Let us draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to us. All who will during these meetings humble their own souls before God will find grace and salvation.
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 30)
God help us put on the armor, and to act as though we were in earnest, as though the souls of men and women were worth saving. Let us seek a new conversion. Let us seek the Lord while He may be found and call upon Him while He is near. We need the presence of the Holy Spirit of God with us, that our hearts may be softened, and that we may not bring a harsh spirit into the work. I pray that the Holy Spirit may take full possession of our hearts. Let us act like children of God who are looking to Him for counsel, ready to work out His plans whenever presented. God will be glorified by such a people, and those who witness our zeal will say, Amen and amen.
(24LtMs, Ms 29, 1909, 31)
Ms 31, 1909
Sermon/Individual Co-Operation College View, Nebraska April 17, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in AH 206; 7BC 988; 8MR 62; 11MR 190. Sabbath, April 17, 1909 Sermon, Mrs. E. G. White, S. D. A. College View Church,
“Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek Me daily, and delight to know My ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they seek of Me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God.
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 1)
“Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and Thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and Thou takest no knowledge?” [Isaiah 58:1-3.] This people is represented as complaining to the Lord. The Lord in His answer to their complaints reveals that He understands where the defect lies—that the trouble is with themselves. He presents to them His side of the picture, declaring what should be the work of every soul who claims to be a follower of Him. They have no need to spread sackcloth and ashes under them; they have a higher work than this—a work to do for God and for humanity, that the world may have the light given to the people of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 2)
“Behold,” God declares, “in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labors. Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high. Is it such a fast that I have chosen? 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 to the Lord?
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 3)
“Is not this the fast that I have chosen, to loose the bands of wickedness, and 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?
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 4)
“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.” [Verses 3-8.]
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 5)
The message is given to every church in our land that claims to be giving the truth for this time to the world. We praise God’s holy name that the glory of the Lord is promised as the reward of all who engage in His service, to those who deal their bread to the hungry, and who bring the poor that are cast out to their house. We should thank God constantly that He has made so plain the work He would have us do. When we feel like complaining, let us look to ourselves and see if we are not neglecting some duty. Let us see if we are not leaving undone some work that God requires us to do. We cannot afford to misrepresent the truth before the world and before the Lord. Let us remember that we are His workmen—laborers together with Him. It is He who has put this work into the hands of His church on earth.
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 6)
The Lord wants those who are His servants to prove Him. “Then shalt thou call,” He says, “and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and He shall say, Here I am.” Here I am waiting to give you the blessing, ready to impart to all who seek. “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 noonday. 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.” [Verses 9-11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 7)
The Lord is speaking of spiritual life, of the spirituality of the church, which is marked by the world. We need the inspiration that comes from earnestly seeking God, that He may [give] us a sense of the greatness of the work and may open our hearts and minds to understand the responsibilities resting upon the church of God in these last days. We cannot afford to neglect any duty that devolves upon those who are preparing for the courts of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 8)
Fathers and mothers, there is a work for you to do. You have a school established here; but you are not to leave the burden of the training of your children with the teachers of the school. It is your privilege and duty to link right up with them by carrying forward this work of Christian education in your homes. Fathers and mothers need to be wide-awake, that their spiritual life may not decline. There is an eternity before us. The youth are to graduate from their schools in this world to the school above. If we are found worthy, Christ will open to us the gates of the city of God, inviting fathers and mothers and children to enter in, so that parents may not be separated from their children or children from their parents.
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 9)
Every family that finds entrance to the city of God will have been faithful workers in their earthly homes, fulfilling the responsibilities that Christ has laid upon them. There Christ the heavenly Teacher will lead His people to the tree of life that grows on either side of the river of life, and He will explain to them the truths they could not in this life understand. In that future life His people will gain the higher education in its completeness. Those who enter the city of God will have the golden crowns placed upon their heads. That will be a joyful scene that none of us can afford to miss. We shall cast our crowns at the feet of Jesus, and again and again we will give Him the glory, and praise His holy name. Angels will unite in the songs of triumph. Touching their golden harps, they will fill all heaven with rich music and songs to the Lamb.
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 10)
Fathers and mothers are to educate their children to obedience, teaching them to keep the law of the Lord, which is perfect, converting the soul. This is a most important work. If you neglect this work because your time and attention are given to the world, you will defeat the purpose the Lord has for the youth in preparing them for the service of God at home and in foreign fields.
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 11)
We are not in this school work to make money; we are here to give the youth a well-balanced education. To this end they must educate their muscles as well as their minds for service. The physical powers should be brought into exercise, that the brainpowers may not be overtaxed. We want this school to stand forth as an example in every way; these buildings should be perfect in their equipment.
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 12)
I thank God that you have this school. Do not allow your teachers to be overworked, but help them in the advancement of their work. I thought we should ask Sister Peck to connect with our new conference school in California; but I cannot do this: for I see that she has a work to do here. Will you not help her in this work? and will you not secure other teachers also who will make a business of educating the students in a knowledge of the Scriptures?
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 13)
This company here in College View has been presented to me again and again, and I have been shown that the converting power of God must come into your midst, or you will dishonor God. You may have a large school; but if you would have its work a success, you must co-operate with the Lord and with one another. For months before I began this journey I would find myself night after night sitting up in my bed, pleading with large companies of people for a reconsecration to God. I am pained at heart as scenes of neglect are presented before me. Shall we not now arouse to an understanding of what the Lord demands of us. Unless we do faithfully the work that God has given us, we can have no place in His kingdom. Our great need is pure and undefiled religion.
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 14)
Fathers and mothers, Wake up. You may have in the school those who minister the Word of God to the students; but you must co-operate with these teachers by carrying out in the home life the teachings of the Bible. If you will study earnestly to know the will of God, you will find encouragement to do the work that God has laid upon you. If you will do your duty, the God of heaven will act His part. Parents who leave to the school the work of making Christians of their children will meet with terrible loss. The youth need the righteous influence of their parents in every word and action, in all their conversation and habits. As long as they are in the world, they are to be trained to obey the Word of God, and thus prepare for a place in the city of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 15)
It is the privilege of parents to take their children with them to the gates of the city of God, saying, I have tried to instruct my children to love the Lord, to do His will, and to glorify Him. To such the gate will be thrown open, and parents and children will enter in. But all cannot enter. Some are left outside with their children, whose characters have not been transformed by submission to the will of God. A hand is raised, and the words are spoken, You have neglected home duties. You have failed to do the work that would have fitted the soul for a home in heaven. You cannot enter. The gates are closed to the children because they have not learned to do the will of God, and to parents because they have neglected the responsibilities resting upon them.
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 16)
Let us instruct our children in the teachings of the Word. If you will call, the Lord will answer you. He will say, Here I am; what would you have Me do for you? Heaven is linked with earth, that every soul may be enabled to fulfil His mission. The Lord loves these children. He wants them brought up with an understanding of their high calling. While you send them to school, give them every advantage at home. Train them to obedience and kindness and love. This is the grand work that God wants you to do as His instrumentalities. Speak kindly. Never let a rash spirit lead you to speak rash words. Never use the rod until you know there is no other course to pursue. By love, tenderly instruct them, and a teachable spirit will come upon them.
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 17)
The God of Israel has His eye upon this people, and on the work at this place. We ask you in the name of Jesus of Nazareth to take up your appointed work and do it. If you will let Him, God will come down and co-operate with you. “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.” [Isaiah 60:1.] Let us think of His love, and talk of His glory, and sing of His power. God help us to have our hearts uplifted to the glory of God and to the praise of His name.
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 18)
“Behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the Lord shall rise upon thee, and His glory shall be seen upon thee. And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising. Lift up thine eyes round about, and see: all they gather themselves together, they come to thee: thy sons shall come from far, and thy daughters shall be nursed at thy side. Then thou shalt see, and flow together, and thine heart shall fear, and be enlarged: because the abundance of the sea shall be converted unto thee; the forces of the Gentiles shall come unto thee.... Therefore thy gates shall be open continually; they shall not be shut day nor night; that men may bring unto thee the forces of the Gentiles, and that their kings may be brought. For the nation and kingdom that shall not serve thee shall perish; yea, those nations shall be utterly wasted.” [Verses 2-5, 11, 12]
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 19)
We have a work to do for missions right in our midst. There are people here as well as in foreign countries who need to be instructed. Let us study these chapters in Isaiah, that speak of the things that will be accomplished when we realize that the glory of God is resting upon us, and that the light of heaven is shining through us to the world. We cannot afford to miss one opportunity of working for the salvation of souls, one opportunity of explaining the truths of the Word to others. Those who do their duty in this matter will reap a rich reward in the kingdom of God. In heaven souls whom you have tried to instruct and help, and to whom you have give the light of the Sabbath truth, will fall upon your neck and say, “It was your presentation of the truth that cleared from my mind the mists and fog.” They will join you in the song of thanksgiving, that they are saved in the kingdom of God, that they have a right to enter through the gates of the city and have right to the tree of life.
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 20)
Who, I ask you, will live for heaven? Who will here make a covenant with God by sacrifice? Who will resolve to take hold of the work and carry it intelligently? My brethren and sisters, I ask you in the name of the Lord to take hold of this work as you have never yet taken hold of it. How many will today pledge themselves to obey all the truth, to be diligent and thorough, co-workers with Jesus Christ? We are engaged in a great and grand work. Will you not train your voices to speak kindly? Will you not be tender and trustful, and to bear with others as God bears with you? If we lose heaven, we lose everything, and none of us can afford to do this. The soul is of much more worth than all the worldly advantages you can obtain. Let us come together and humble our hearts before God. Let us take steps heavenward that we never yet have taken. Let us work with God. Angels will be near to help us as we devote ourselves to the work. Let us sense the responsibilities that rest upon us as a people, and carry them intelligently, that the salvation of God may be revealed among us. If we will do this, the light of God will come upon us, and shine through us, in a way that we have never yet experienced it.
(24LtMs, Ms 31, 1909, 21)
Ms 33, 1909
Sermon/A Lesson in Health Reform Takoma Park, Maryland May 26, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in GCB 05/30/1909. +
Address by Mrs. E. G. White, May 26, 1909, 9:15 a.m.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 1)
“In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah came Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon unto Jerusalem, and besieged it. And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God: which he carried into the land of Shinar to the house of his god; and he brought the vessels into the treasure house of his god.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 2)
“And the king spake unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king’s seed, and of the princes; children in whom was no blemish, but well favored, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king’s palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. And the kind appointed them a daily provision of the king’s meat, and of the wine which he drank; so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 3)
“Now among these were of the children of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: unto whom the prince of the eunuchs gave names: for he gave unto Daniel the name of Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah of Shadrach; and to Mishael of Meshach; and to Azariah, of Abednego.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 4)
“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: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself. Now God had brought Daniel into favor and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs. And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which are of your sort? then shall ye make me endanger my head to the king.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 5)
“Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink. Then let our countenances be looked upon before thee, and the countenances of the children that eat of the portion of the king’s meat: and as thou seest, deal with thy servants. So he consented to them in this matter, and proved them ten days. And at the end of ten days their countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the king’s meat. Thus Melzar took away the portion of their meat, and the wine that they should drink; and gave them pulse.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 6)
“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. Now at the end of the days that the king had said he should bring them in, then the prince of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king communed with them; and among them all was found none like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: therefore stood they before the king. And in all matters of wisdom and understanding, that the kind enquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm.” [Daniel 1:1-20.]
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 7)
This record contains much of importance on the subject of health reform. In the experience of the four Hebrew children, a lesson is given regarding the need of abstaining from all spiritous liquors, and from indulgence of perverted appetite. The position taken by these Hebrew youth was vindicated, and at the end of the ten days they were found fairer in flesh and better in knowledge than all the rest whom the king was proving.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 8)
In this our day, the Lord would be pleased to have those who are preparing for the future, immortal life follow the example of Daniel and his companions in seeking to maintain strength of body and clearness of mind. The more careful we learn to be in treating our bodies, the more readily shall we be able to escape the evils that are in the world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 9)
There are many who believe that in order to be fitted for acceptable service, they must go through a long course of study under learned teachers in some school of the world. This they must do, it is true, if they desire to secure what the world calls essential knowledge. But we do not say to our youth, You must study, study, keeping your mind all the time on books. Nor do we say to them, You must spend all your time in acquiring the so-called higher education. Let us ask what is the object of true higher education? Is it not that we may stand in right relation to God? The test of all education should be, Is it fitting us to keep our minds fixed upon the mark of the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus?
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 10)
What is needed by our youth is an education like that which Daniel and his three companions gained. These faithful Hebrews were in important positions. They were placed where they must be careful to observe every principle of righteousness in order to bring others to an understanding of the principles of righteousness. It would not do for them to be lax. They could not afford to indulge appetite. They were to stand where they could, by their example, give proof of the importance of strict adherence to the principles of right living. To do this they were willing to place themselves under test and trial. Ten days was sufficient to prove that the diet they chose was a wholesome one, and that in adopting it they had made no mistake. The evidence which this experience gave to the authorities led them to have a higher opinion of these youth than of all the other students under their care.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 11)
We are to learn how to equalize the labor done by brain, bone, and muscle. If you put to task the faculties of the mind, loading them with heavy burdens while you leave the muscles unexercised, this course will tell its story just as surely as the wise course of the Hebrew youth told its story. Parents should follow a consistent course in the education of their children. Our youth should be taught from their very childhood how to exercise the body and the mind proportionately. It is not wise to send the children to schools where they are subject to long hours of confinement and where they will gain no knowledge of what healthful living means. Place them under the tuition of those who respect the body and treat it with consideration. Do not place your children in an unfavorable position, where they cannot receive the training that will enable them to bear test and trial.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 12)
With all the precious light that has continually been given to us in the health publications, we cannot afford to live careless, heedless lives, eating and drinking as we please, and indulging in the use of stimulants, narcotics, and condiments. Let us take into consideration the fact that we have souls to save or to lose, and that it is of vital consequence how we relate ourselves to the question of temperance. It is of great importance that individually we act well our part and have an intelligent understanding of what we should eat and drink and how we should live to preserve health. All are being proved to see whether we will accept the principles of health reform or follow a course of self-indulgence.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 13)
Let no one think he can do as he pleases in the matter of diet, but before all who sit at the table with you, let it appear that you follow principle in the matter of eating as in all other matters, that the glory of God may be revealed. You cannot afford to do otherwise; for you have a character to form for the future, immortal life. Great responsibilities rest upon every human soul. Let us comprehend these responsibilities and bear them nobly in the name of the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 14)
To every one who is tempted to indulge appetite I would say, Yield not to temptation, but confine yourself to the use of wholesome foods. You can train yourselves to enjoy a healthful diet. The Lord helps those who seek to help themselves; but when men will not take special pains to follow out the mind and will of God, how can He work with them? Let us act our part, working out our salvation with fear and trembling—with fear and trembling lest we make mistakes in the treatment of our bodies, which, before God, we are under obligation to keep in the most healthful condition possible.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 15)
We desire that the meetings which are held during the General Conference shall have a telling influence on every soul. Let us prove ourselves worthy of being trusted by God—worthy of His confidence in our determination that we will not betray our sacred trust. Let us open the way for the light of God to shine into the chambers of the mind. Thus we shall be prepared to help others. To those who appreciate the truth as it is in Jesus, and who desire to reveal the truth in its beauty, its power, and its sanctifying grace, God will give strength to stand against temptation.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 16)
Intelligence is a gift of God—one that He desires us to use to His glory. Students need not talk of their attainments in the so-called higher education if they have not learned to eat and drink to the glory of God and to exercise brain, bone, and muscle in such a way as to prepare for the highest possible service. The whole being must be brought into exercise if we would secure a healthy condition of mind; the mental and the physical powers should be used proportionately.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 17)
To those who are desirous of being efficient laborers in God’s cause, I would say, If you are putting an undue weight of labor on the brain, thinking you will lose ground unless you study all the time, you had better change your views and your course of action. Unless greater care is exercised in this respect, there are many who will go down to the grave prematurely. This you cannot afford to do; for there is a world to be saved.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 18)
A great work is to be done—a work that we have scarcely begun as yet. Everywhere, everywhere the truth is to stand forth in its glorious power and in its simplicity. Do not boast of what you know, but take your case to God. Say to Him, I comply with the conditions. Now, Lord, as I educate my appetites and tastes, so that a healthful current of blood may flow through my veins, wilt Thou sustain me. Teach me how to use my powers in presenting the most precious truths that have ever come to mortals for the fitting up of character for the future, immortal life.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 19)
Fathers and mothers, you have a solemn work to do. The eternal salvation of your children depends upon your course of action. How will you successfully educate your children?—Not by scolding; for it will do no good. Talk to your children as if you had confidence in their intelligence. Deal with them kindly, tenderly, lovingly. Tell them what God would have them do. Tell them that God would have them educated and trained to be laborers together with Him. When you act your part, you can trust the Lord to act His part. Be strong in faith, and teach your children; that we are all dependent upon God. Read to them the story of the four Hebrew children, and impress their minds with a realization of the influence for good that was exerted in Daniel’s time because of strict adherence to principle.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 20)
In connection with your home, have a garden, if possible, where your children can work and where you can work with them. So instruct them and so arrange their work that their spare time will not be spent in idleness. Give them something definite to do, and let them feel that they are doing something to help father and mother to sustain the family. Let the older ones feel the responsibility of giving a right example to the younger children. Let all act a part according to their years. When the children thus trained attend school, they will have clear minds. They will be able to reason for themselves and will not accept that which this one says or what that one says without some proof.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 21)
I wish to say to every father and mother, If you have a hasty temper, seek God for help to overcome it. When you are provoked to impatience, go to your chamber and kneel down and ask God to help you that you may have a right influence over your children. Your children are God’s children; they are to have a life that measures with the life of God. Can you comprehend it?—a life that measures with the life of God. It was to give them this that God sent His Son into the world. For this Christ laid off His royal robe and kingly crown and came to this sinful world as a helpless babe. He was educated under the supervision of heavenly angels. He worked at the carpenter’s trade—He who was the Prince of life, the Saviour of all that would believe in Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 22)
When Christ came to our world, in Him were combined divinity and humanity. In His humanity He could lay hold of humanity; by virtue of His divinity He could bring power and health and grace to mankind. Thus He would make men and women partakers of the divine nature and able to escape the corruption that if in the world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 23)
To us is given the work of overcoming. This is no haphazard work. Only as we become partakers of the divine nature can we overcome our hereditary and cultivated tendencies to evil. We must be trained to understand and follow Bible principles; we must learn of Christ the science of eating and drinking to the glory of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 24)
The Lord desires that His people shall be a wise people and carry a sensible influence wherever they go. He has given us capabilities and a part to act in His work. Let us act our part as faithfully as the four Hebrew worthies acted theirs. Then angels of God will preside in our homes.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 25)
You remember the story of the woman who was healed by touching Christ’s garment when in the midst of a dense throng. Her disease was such that no earthly physician’s power could help her. She saw Jesus healing the sick, and hope sprang up in her heart. She thought she would wait her opportunity; and when she got within reach of the Saviour, she put forth her finger and touched the hem of His garment; and immediately she was made whole.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 26)
In this experience there was a lesson that Christ desired to impress on the throng about Him. Humanity had connected with divinity, and the blessing had been received. Christ came to the earth to bring divinity to humanity. We need that divinity; young and old need it. If you do not know anything about this power, I beseech you for Christ’s sake to seek for it. Endeavor to live a consistent life. Take hold of Christ by living, active faith. Come to Him just as you are, helpless and dependent, and say, “Lord, I believe, help Thou mine unbelief.” [Mark 9:24.] Help me to study Thy life, Thy self-denial and self-sacrifice; help me to become a Christian in every sense of the word.
(24LtMs, Ms 33, 1909, 27)
Ms 35, 1909
Talk/Let Us Publish Salvation Takoma Park, Maryland May 27, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in GCB 05/31/1909.
“Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and shew My people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek Me daily, and delight to know My ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of Me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God. Wherefore, have we fasted, say they, and Thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul and Thou takest no knowledge?” [Isaiah 58:1-3.]
(24LtMs, Ms 35, 1909, 1)
The prophet presents before us a people who are finding fault with the Lord because He does not give them all their desires. The Lord in His answer to their complaints shows that they do not deserve all that they require at His hands; for they have not dealt righteously. “Behold,” He says, “in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labors. Behold ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high. Is it such a fast that I have chosen? 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 to the Lord?” [Verses 3-5.]
(24LtMs, Ms 35, 1909, 2)
God desires His people to place themselves in right relation to Him, that they may understand what He requires of them. They are to be a commandment-keeping people wherever they are, at home or abroad, and to have the assurance that they are accepted as His children. They are to take their position in the world as a people whose righteousness goes before them, and whose rereward is the glory of the Lord. When we live before the world such consistent lives that it can be said of us that our righteousness goes before us, the glory of the Lord will surely be revealed.
(24LtMs, Ms 35, 1909, 3)
The special work of God’s people for this time is brought before us in the words: “They that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: they shall raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in. 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.” [Verses 12-14.]
(24LtMs, Ms 35, 1909, 4)
Our great need as a people is that we come into right relation to God. We cannot afford to let one day pass in which we have not laid hold by living faith on the God of Israel. We need the clear light of the Sun of righteousness to shine upon us. This light is given to those who keep holy the Lord’s Sabbath; but we cannot keep this day holy unless we serve the Lord in the manner brought to view in the Scripture: “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.” [Verses 6, 7.] This is the work that rests upon every soul who accepts the service of Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 35, 1909, 5)
The Lord is constantly working for us, and our eyes should be opened to understand and to know His ways. We are to come to Him in living faith. His arm is not shortened, that it cannot save; His ear is not heavy, that He cannot hear. It is our iniquities that separate us from God. What we individually need is the living testimony in our souls that we are seeking God with the whole heart, that we are putting from our lives those things which God declares should not be found there. God desires that we shall stand before the world a holy people. Why?—Because there is a world to be saved by the light of present truth. As we give to the people the truth that is to call them out of darkness into God’s marvelous light, our lives, sanctified by the Spirit of truth, are to bear witness to the verity of the message we proclaim.
(24LtMs, Ms 35, 1909, 6)
My active labors in this message began when I was sixteen years of age. At that time the word came to me, “Write out the instruction I give you for the people.” I answered, “I cannot write, Lord.” Because of the accident which had nearly cost me my life, I had been feeble in health and unable to write, for my hand trembled so that I was forced after many efforts to give up the attempt to write. But one night the angel of the Lord came to my bedside and said to me, “You must write out the things that I give you.” I said, “I cannot write.” Again the command was given, “Write out the things I give you.” I thought I would try, and taking up a lapboard from the table, I began to write, and found that I could trace the words easily. The Lord had wrought a miracle upon me. Since that time, I have written thousands of pages, and I continue to write at the age of eighty-one. Through all these years the Lord has been my Helper and Preserver. Angels of God have protected me, guiding me and giving me strength to carry out the instruction of the Lord. Should I doubt the Lord now, and cast aside the evidences of His loving mercy and power? I thank His name that I have been kept from doing this.
(24LtMs, Ms 35, 1909, 7)
At times I have been sick nigh unto death. In Australia I was a great sufferer from rheumatism for eleven months, but I was not allowed to cease my public labors. The brethren would come to me and say, We will carry you in a chair from your phaeton to the hall. You will not have to stand, but can speak while sitting in your chair. It was difficult for me to consent to this, but I did it, and the blessing of the Lord came upon me every time I spoke to the people.
(24LtMs, Ms 35, 1909, 8)
The work we have to do is a wonderfully great work. There is much for us to do besides gathering together for counsel. There is a world to be saved; there are souls to be labored for in the cities of the East, in states where the message of the soon coming of the Lord was first preached. Who will give themselves to this line of missionary work. There are hundreds of our people who ought to be out in the field who are doing little or nothing for the advancement of the message. Those who have had every advantage of knowing the truth, who have received instruction line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little, have a great responsibility resting upon them in the souls who have never heard the last gospel message. Do we take into consideration the needs of these large eastern cities? Do we not know that they must be warned of Christ’s near approach?
(24LtMs, Ms 35, 1909, 9)
As a people we must come into sacred nearness to God. We need the light of heaven to shine into our hearts and into the chambers of our minds. We need the wisdom that God alone can give if we carry the message to these cities with success. Let our churches everywhere come into line. Let none who have pledged themselves by baptism to live for the service and glory of God take back their pledge. There is a world to be saved. Let this thought urge us on to greater sacrifices and more earnest labor for those who are out of the way.
(24LtMs, Ms 35, 1909, 10)
I was instructed only a few weeks ago that Portland must be given this last message to the world. Many of those who accepted the message under the labor of the early workers now sleep in Jesus. And there are many more people in Portland now than in 1843, and this is another reason why it should be given faithful labor. In Portland and Boston we bore our testimony to the first and second angels’ messages. Now we must bring to these same cities the glory of the third angel’s message. Let us no longer neglect these cities. We have our periodicals containing the light of present truth; but who among us is trying to scatter the rays of light where the truth was so favorably received in the early days of the message.
(24LtMs, Ms 35, 1909, 11)
The third angel’s message has brought together here a great company of believers from all parts of the world. We need to experience just such a reformation as was experienced in the time of William Miller’s preaching. Many, fearful that they would not get a seat, would come for miles, bringing their food with them, and would remain all day to the meetings. I want to see such days again. We have committed to us the proclamation of the third angel’s message, the last message of mercy that is ever to be given to our world. I want a part in spreading the knowledge of this truth. I would be glad to go from this meeting to the eastern states and help, by diligent searching, to find out how we can present the message to the people in such a way that it will be received by them.
(24LtMs, Ms 35, 1909, 12)
If ever there was a time when we needed workers, it is now. Let us dedicate ourselves and our means to God. Let us not spend money unnecessarily, but let us bind about our wants, that we may send help to those places that are waiting for the message. Shall we not as a people arise and take up the work that needs to be done in our great cities.
(24LtMs, Ms 35, 1909, 13)
At Melrose we have a beautiful sanitarium. And in other places in the East we have institutions for the promulgation of the message of present truth. At South Lancaster and other places we have large churches. I believe these churches will respond to the efforts that are made to open up work in the cities of the East. Let us give ourselves for service for the Lord, and He will instruct us what to do. Let us remember that if we will come into close relation with God, He will walk with us. Let us not become so absorbed in self and self interests that we shall forget those who are climbing the ladder of Christian experience and who need our help. Let us take into consideration the work that is to be done in binding off this, the closing work of the message for these last days. May God help us to come near to Him and follow Him so closely that we shall know His goings forth are prepared as the morning. Let us study to know what His message to us is, and determine to obey it, that the grace of God may rest upon us.
(24LtMs, Ms 35, 1909, 14)
“Awake, awake; put on thy strength, O Zion; put on thy beautiful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy city.... How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth! Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: for they shall see eye to eye, when the Lord shall bring again Zion.
(24LtMs, Ms 35, 1909, 15)
“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.” [Isaiah 52:1, 7-10.]
(24LtMs, Ms 35, 1909, 16)
Ms 37, 1909
Talk/Faithfulness in Health Reform Takoma Park, Maryland May 30, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in 9T 153-166. +
(Manuscript read by Ellen G. White before the delegates at the General Conference, May 31, 1909.)
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 1)
I am instructed to bear a message to all our people on the subject of health reform; for many have backslidden from their former loyalty to health reform principles.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 2)
God’s purpose for His children is that they shall grow up to the full stature of men and women in Christ. In order to do this, they must use aright every power of mind, soul, and body. They cannot afford to waste any mental or physical strength.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 3)
The question of how to preserve the health is one of primary importance. When we study this question in the fear of God, we shall learn that it is best, both for our physical health and our spiritual advancement, to observe simplicity in diet. Let us patiently study this question. We need knowledge and judgment in order to move wisely in this matter. Nature’s laws are not to be resisted, but obeyed.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 4)
Those who have received instruction regarding the evils of the use of flesh meats, tea and coffee, and rich and unhealthful food preparations, and who are determined to make a covenant with God by sacrifice, will not continue to indulge their appetite for food that they know to be unhealthful. God demands that the appetites be cleansed and that self-denial be practiced in regard to those things which are not good. This is a work that will have to be done before His people can stand before Him a perfected people.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 5)
The remnant people of God must be a converted people. The presentation of this message is to result in the conversion and sanctification of souls. We are to feel the power of the Spirit of God in this movement. This is a wonderful, definite message; it means everything to the receiver, and it is to be proclaimed with a loud cry. We must have a true, abiding faith that this message will go forth with increasing importance till the close of time.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 6)
There are some professed believers who accept certain portions of the testimonies as the message of God, while they reject those portions that condemn their favorite indulgences. Such persons are working contrary to their own welfare and the welfare of the church. It is essential that we walk in the light while we have the light. Those who claim to believe in health reform, and yet work counter to its principles in the life practice, are hurting their own souls and leave wrong impressions upon the minds of believers and unbelievers.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 7)
A solemn responsibility rests upon those who know the truth, that their works shall correspond with their faith, and that their lives shall be refined and sanctified, and they be prepared for the work that must rapidly be done in these closing days of the message. The words should come to us now with impelling earnestness, “Repent, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.” [Acts 3:19.] There are many among us who are deficient in spirituality, and who, unless they are converted, will certainly be lost.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 8)
Pride and weakness of faith are depriving many of the rich blessings of God. There are many who, unless they humble their hearts before the Lord, will be surprised and disappointed when the cry is heard, Behold, the Bridegroom cometh! They have the theory of the truth, but they have no oil in their vessel with their lamp. Our faith at this time must not stop with belief in the theory of the third angel’s message. We must have the oil of the grace of Christ that will feed the lamp, and cause the light of life to shine forth, showing the way to those who are in darkness.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 9)
If we would escape having a sickly experience, we must begin in earnest to work out our salvation with fear and trembling. There are many who give no decided evidence that they are true to their baptismal vows. Their zeal is chilled by formality, worldly ambition, pride, and love of self. Occasionally their feelings are stirred, but they do not fall upon the Rock, Christ Jesus. They do not come to God with hearts that are broken in repentance and confession. Those who experience the work of true conversion in their hearts will reveal the fruits of the Spirit in their lives. O that those who have so little spiritual life would realize that eternal life can be granted only to those who become partakers of the divine nature and escape the corruption that is in the world through lust!
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 10)
The power of Christ alone can work the transformation in heart and mind that all must experience who would partake with Him of the new life in the kingdom of God. “Except a man be born again,” the Saviour has said, “he cannot enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [John 3:3, 5.] The religion that comes from God is the only religion that can lead to God. In order to serve Him aright, we must be born of the divine Spirit. This will lead to watchfulness, will purify the heart and renew the mind, and give us a new capacity for knowing and loving God. It will give us willing obedience to all His requirements. This is true worship.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 11)
God requires continual advancement from His people. They need to learn that indulged appetite is the greatest hindrance to mental improvement and soul sanctification. With all our profession of health reform, many are not health reformers; we eat too much. Indulgence of appetite is the greatest cause of physical and mental debility and lies largely at the foundation of feebleness and premature death. Let the individual who is seeking to possess purity of spirit bear in mind that in Christ there is power to control the appetite.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 12)
If we could be benefited by indulging the desire for flesh meats, I would not make this appeal to you; but I know we cannot. Flesh foods are injurious to the physical well-being, and we should learn to do without them. Those who are in a position where it is possible to secure a vegetarian diet, but who choose to follow their own preferences in this matter, eating and drinking as they please, will gradually grow careless of the instruction the Lord has given regarding other phases of the present truth and they lose their perception of what is truth; they will surely reap as they have sown.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 13)
I have been instructed that the students in our schools are not to be served with flesh foods or with food preparations that are known to be unhealthful. Nothing that will serve to encourage a desire for stimulants should be placed on the tables. I appeal to old and young and to middle-aged. Deny your appetite of those things that are doing you injury. Serve the Lord by sacrifice.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 14)
Let the children have an intelligent part in this work. We are all members of the Lord’s family, and the Lord would have His children, young and old, determine to deny appetite and to save the means needed for the building of meetinghouses and the support of missionaries.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 15)
I am instructed to say to parents, Place yourselves, soul and spirit, on the Lord’s side of this question. We need ever to bear in mind that in these days of probation we are on trial before the Lord of the universe. Will you not give up indulgences that are doing you injury? Words of profession are cheap; let your acts of self-denial testify that you will be obedient to the demands that God makes of His peculiar people. Then put into the treasury a portion of the means you save by your acts of self-denial, and there will be that with which to carry on the work of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 16)
There are many who feel that they cannot get along without flesh meats; but if these would place themselves on the Lord’s side, resolved to walk in the way of His guidance, they would receive strength and wisdom as did Daniel and his fellows. They would find that the Lord would give them sound judgment. Many would be surprised to see how much could be saved for the cause by acts of self-denial. The small sums saved by deeds of sacrifice will do more for the upbuilding of the cause than larger gifts will accomplish that have not called for denial of self.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 17)
Seventh-day Adventists are handling momentous truths. More than forty years ago the Lord gave us special light on health reform, but how are we walking in that light? How many have refused to live in harmony with the counsels of God? We as a people have not made spiritual advancement proportionate to the light received. It is our duty to understand and respect the principles of health reform. On the subject of temperance we should be in advance of all other people; and yet there are among us well-instructed members of the church, and even ministers of the gospel, who have little respect for the light that God has given upon this subject. They eat as they please, and work as they please, and the result will surely follow in a cheap experience in the spiritual life.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 18)
Let those who are teachers and leaders in our cause take their stand firmly on Bible ground, in regard to health reform, and give a straight testimony to those who believe we are living in the last days of this earth’s history. A line of distinction must be drawn between those who serve God and those who serve themselves.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 19)
I have been shown that the principles that were given us in the early days of the message are as important and should be regarded just as conscientiously and more so today than they were then. There are some who have never followed the light given on the question of diet. It is now time to take the light from under the bushel and let it shine forth in clear, bright rays.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 20)
The principles of healthful living mean a great deal to us individually and as a people. When the message of health reform first came to me, I was weak and feeble, subject to frequent fainting spells. I was pleading with God for help, and He opened before me the great subject of health reform. He instructed me that those who are keeping His commandments must be brought into sacred relation to Himself, and that by temperance in eating and drinking they must keep mind and body in the most favorable condition for service. This light has been a great blessing to me. I took my stand as a health reformer, knowing that the Lord would strengthen me. I have better health today, notwithstanding my age, than I had in my younger days.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 21)
It is reported by some that I have not followed the principles of health reform as I have advocated them with my pen; but I can say that I have been a faithful health reformer. Those who have been members of my family know that this is true.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 22)
We do not mark out any precise line to be followed in diet; but we do say that in countries where there are fruits, grains, and nuts in abundance, flesh meat is not the right food for God’s people. I have been instructed that flesh meat has a tendency to animalize the nature, to rob men and women of that love and sympathy which they should feel for every one, and to give the lower passions control over the higher powers of the being. If meat eating was ever healthful, it is not safe now. Cancers, tumors, and pulmonary diseases are largely caused by meat eating.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 23)
We are not to make the use of flesh meat a test of fellowship, but we should consider the influence that professed believers, who use flesh meats, have over others. As God’s messengers, shall we not say to the people, “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God”? [1 Corinthians 10:31.] Shall we not bear a decided testimony against the indulgence of perverted appetite? Will any who are ministers of the gospel, proclaiming the most solemn truth ever given to mortals, set an example in returning to the flesh pots of Egypt? Will those who are supported by the tithe from God’s storehouse permit themselves by self-indulgence to poison the life-giving current flowing through their veins? Will they disregard the light and warnings that God has given them? The health of the body is to be regarded as essential for growth in grace and the acquirement of an even temper. If the stomach is not properly cared for, the formation of an upright moral character will be hindered. The brain and nerves are in sympathy with the stomach. Erroneous eating and drinking result in erroneous thinking and acting.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 24)
All are now being tested and proved. We have been baptized into Christ; and if we will act our part by separating from everything that would drag us down, and make us what we ought not to be, strength to grow up into Christ, who is our living head, will be given us, and we shall see of the salvation of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 25)
Only when we are intelligent in regard to the principles of healthful living can we be fully aroused to see the evils resulting from improper diet. Those who, after seeing their mistakes, have courage to change their habits will find that the reformatory process requires a struggle and much perseverance; but when correct tastes are once formed, they will realize that the use of the food, which they formerly regarded as harmless, was slowly but surely laying the foundation for dyspepsia and other diseases.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 26)
Fathers and mothers, watch unto prayer. Guard strictly against intemperance in every form. Teach your children the principles of true health reform. Teach them what things to avoid in order to preserve health. Already the wrath of God has begun to be visited on the children of disobedience. What crimes, what sins, what iniquitous practices are now being revealed on every hand! As a people, we are to exercise great care in guarding our children against depraved associates.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 27)
Health Reform to Be Taught
Greater efforts should be put forth to educate the people in the principles of health reform. Cooking schools should be established, and house-to-house instruction should be given in the art of cooking wholesome food. Old and young should learn how to cook more simply. Wherever the truth is presented, the people are to be taught how to prepare food in a simple, yet appetizing way. They are to be shown that a nourishing diet can be provided without the use of flesh meat.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 28)
Teach the people that it is better to know how to keep well than how to cure disease. Our physicians should be wise educators, warning all against self-indulgence, and showing that abstinence from the things that God has prohibited is the only way to prevent ruin of body and mind.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 29)
Much tact and discretion should be employed in preparing nourishing food to take the place of that which has formerly constituted the diet of those who are learning to be health reformers. Faith in God, earnestness of purpose, and a willingness to help one another will be required. A diet lacking in the proper elements of nutrition brings reproach upon the cause of health reform. We are mortal and must supply ourselves with food that will give proper nourishment to the body.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 30)
Extreme Views
Some of our people, while conscientiously abstaining from eating improper foods, neglect to supply themselves with the elements necessary for the sustenance of the body. Those who take an extreme view of health reform are in danger of preparing tasteless dishes, making them so insipid that they are not satisfying. Food should be prepared in such a way that it will be appetizing as well as nourishing. It should not be robbed of that which the system needs. I use some salt, and always have, because salt, instead of being deleterious, is actually essential for the blood. Vegetables should be made palatable with a little milk or cream, or something equivalent.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 31)
While warnings have been given regarding the dangers of disease through butter, and the evil of the free use of eggs by small children, yet we should not consider it a violation of principle to use eggs from hens which are well cared for and suitably fed. Eggs contain properties which are remedial agencies in counteracting certain poisons.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 32)
Some, in abstaining from milk, eggs, and butter, have failed to supply the system with proper nourishment and, as a consequence, have become weak and unable to work. Thus health reform is brought into disrepute. The work that we have tried to build up solidly is confused with strange things that God has not required, and the energies of the church are crippled. But God will interfere to prevent the results of these too strenuous ideas. The gospel is a harmonize the sinful race. It is to bring the rich and poor together at the feet of Jesus.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 33)
The time will come when we may have to discard some of the articles of diet we now use, such as milk and cream and eggs; but it is not necessary to bring upon ourselves perplexity by premature and extreme restrictions. Wait until the circumstances demand it and the Lord prepares the way for it.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 34)
Those who would be successful in proclaiming the principles of health reform must make the Word of God their guide and counselor. Only as the teachers of health principles do this can they stand on vantage ground. Let us never bear a testimony against health reform by failing to use wholesome, palatable food in place of the harmful articles of diet that we have discarded. Do not in any way encourage an appetite for stimulants. Eat only plain, simple, wholesome food, and thank God constantly for the principles of health reform. In all things be true and upright, and you will gain precious victories.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 35)
Diet in Different Countries
While working against gluttony and intemperance, we must recognize the condition to which the human family is subjected. God has made provision for those who live in the different countries of the world. Those who desire to be co-workers with God must consider carefully before they specify just what foods should and should not be eaten. We are to be brought into connection with the masses. Should health reform in its most extreme form be taught to those whose circumstances forbid its adoption, more harm than good would be done. As I preach the gospel to the poor, I am instructed to tell them to eat that food which is most nourishing. I cannot say to them, “You must not eat eggs or milk or cream. You must use no butter in the preparation of food.” The gospel must be preached to the poor, but the time has not yet come to prescribe the strictest diet.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 36)
Loss in Neglect of Health Reform
Those ministers who feel at liberty to indulge the appetite are falling far short of the mark. God wants them to be health reformers. He wants them to live up to the light that has been given on this subject. I feel sad when I see those who ought to be zealous for our health principles not yet converted to the right way of living. I pray that the Lord may impress their minds that they are meeting with great loss. If things were as they should be in the households that make up our churches, we might do double work for the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 37)
Conditions of Answered Prayer
In order to be purified and to remain pure, Seventh-day Adventists must have the Holy Spirit in their hearts and in their homes. The Lord has given me light that when the Israel of today humble themselves before Him, and cleanse the soul temple from all defilement, He will hear their prayers in behalf of the sick and will bless in the use of His remedies for disease. When in faith the human agent does all he can to combat disease, using the simple methods of treatment that God has provided, his efforts will be blessed of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 38)
If, after so much light has been given, God’s people will cherish wrong habits, indulging self and refusing to reform, they will suffer the sure consequences of transgression. If they are determined to gratify perverted appetite at any cost, God will not miraculously save them from the consequences of their indulgence. “They shall lie down in sorrow.” [Isaiah 50:11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 39)
Those who choose to be presumptuous, saying, “The Lord has healed me, and I need not restrict my diet; I can eat and drink as I please,” will ere long need, in body and soul, the restoring power of God. Because the Lord has graciously healed you, you must not think you can link yourselves up with the self-indulgent practices of the world. Do as Christ commanded after His work of healing, “Go, and sin no more.” [John 8:11.] Appetite must not be your god.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 40)
The Lord gave His word to ancient Israel, that if they would cleave strictly to Him, and do all His requirements, He would keep them from all the diseases such as He had brought on the Egyptians; but this promise was given on the condition of obedience. Had the Israelites obeyed the instruction they received, and profited by their advantages, they would have been the world’s object lesson of health and prosperity. The Israelites failed of fulfilling God’s purpose, and thus failed of receiving the blessings that might have been theirs. But in Joseph and Daniel, in Moses and Elijah, and many others, we have noble examples of the results of the true plan of living. Like faithfulness today will produce like results. To us it is written, “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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 41)
Self-Surrender Brings Rest
O how many lose the richest blessings that God has in store for them in health and spiritual endowments! There are many souls who wrestle for special victories and special blessings that they may do some great thing. To this end they are always feeling that they must make an agonizing struggle in prayer and tears. When these persons search the Scriptures with prayer to know the expressed will of God and then do His will from the heart, without one reservation or self-indulgence, they will find rest. All the agonizing, all the tears and struggles will not bring them the blessing they long for. Self must be entirely surrendered. They must do the work that presents itself, appropriating the abundance of the grace of God which is promised to all who ask in faith.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 42)
“If any man will come after Me,” said Jesus, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” [Luke 9:23.] Let us follow the Saviour in His simplicity and self-denial. Let us lift up the Man of Calvary by word and by holy living. The Saviour comes very near to those who consecrate themselves to God. If ever there was a time when we needed the working of the Spirit of God upon our hearts and lives, it is now. Let us lay hold of this divine power for strength to live a life of holiness and self-surrender.
(24LtMs, Ms 37, 1909, 43)
Ms 37a, 1909
Talk/God’s Plan Takoma Park, Maryland May 30, 1909 This manuscript is copied in its entirety from GCB 06/01/1909.
Published in The General Conference Bulletin, June 1, 1909. Read to the General Conference in Session by E. G. White, May 30, 9:15 a.m.
(24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, 1)
God would have His people an understanding people. He has so arranged matters that chosen men shall go as delegates to our conferences. These men are to be tried and proved. They are to be trustworthy men. The choosing of delegates to attend our conferences is an important matter. These men are to lay the plans that shall be followed in the advancement of the work; and therefore they are to be men of understanding, able to reason from cause to effect.
(24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, 2)
“And it came to pass on the morrow, that Moses sat to judge the people: and all the people stood by Moses from the morning until the evening. And when Moses’ father-in-law saw all that he did to the people, he said, What is this thing that thou doest to the people? why sittest thou thyself alone, and all the people stand by thee from morning unto eve? And Moses said unto his father-in-law, Because the people come unto me to inquire of God: when they have a matter, they come unto me; and I judge between one and another, and I do make them to know the statutes of God, and His laws. And Moses’ father-in-law said unto him, The thing that thou doest is not good. Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou and this people that is with thee: for this thing is too heavy for thee: thou art not able to perform it alone. Harken now unto my voice, I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee: Be thou for the people to God-ward, that thou mayest bring the causes unto God: and thou shalt teach them ordinances and laws, and shalt show them the way wherein they must walk, and the work that they must do. Moreover, thou shalt provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens. And let them judge the people at all seasons: and it shall be, that every great matter they shall bring unto thee, but every small matter they shall judge: so it shall be easier for thyself, and they shall bear the burden with thee.
(24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, 3)
“If thou shalt do this thing, and God command thee so, then thou shalt be able to endure, and all this people shall also go to their place in peace.
(24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, 4)
“So Moses harkened to the voice of his father-in-law, and did all that he had said. And Moses chose able men out of all Israel, and made them heads over the people, rulers of thousands, rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens. And they judged the people at all seasons: the hard causes they brought unto Moses, but every small matter they judged themselves.” [Exodus 18:13-26.]
(24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, 5)
In the first chapter of Acts, also, instruction is given regarding the choosing of men to bear responsibilities in the church. The apostasy of Judas had left one place vacant in the ranks of the apostles, and it was necessary that another be chosen to take this place. Speaking of this, Peter said:
(24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, 6)
“Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of His resurrection. And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, show whether of these two Thou hast chosen, that he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.” [Verses 21-26.]
(24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, 7)
From these Scriptures we learn that the Lord has certain men to fill certain positions. God will teach His people to move carefully and to make wise choice of men who will not betray sacred trusts. If in Christ’s day the believers needed to be guarded in their choice of men for positions of responsibility, we who are living in this time certainly need to move with great discretion. We are to present every case before God and in earnest prayer ask Him to choose for us.
(24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, 8)
The Lord God of heaven has chosen experienced men to bear responsibilities in His cause. These men are to have special influence. If all are accorded the power given to these chosen men, a halt will have to be called. Those who are chosen to bear burdens in the work of God are not to be rash or self-confident or selfish. Never is their example or influence to strengthen evil. The Lord has not given men or women liberty to advance ideas that will bring commonness into His work, removing the sacredness that should ever surround it. God’s work is to become increasingly sacred to His people. In every way we are to magnify the exalted character of the truth. Those who have been set as guardians of the work of God in our institutions are ever to make the will and way of God prominent. The health of the general work depends upon the faithfulness of the men appointed to carry out the will of God in the churches.
(24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, 9)
Men must be placed in charge who will obtain an enlarged experience, not in the things of self, but in the things of God, an enlarged knowledge of the character of Christ. The more they know of Christ, the more faithfully they represent Him to the world. They are to listen to His voice and give heed to His words.
(24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, 10)
It is always safe to be meek and lowly and tenderhearted, but at the same time we are to be as firm as a rock to the teachings of Christ. His words of instruction are to be strictly heeded. Not one word is to be lost sight of. The truth will abide forever. We are not to place our trust in any lie or pretense. Those who do this will find that it has been done at the loss of eternal life. We are now to make straight paths for our feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way. When the lame are turned from safe paths, who is accountable but those who have misled them? They set at naught the counsel of the One whose words are life eternal for the words of deception originating with the father of lies.
(24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, 12)
I have words for all who may suppose that they are safe in obtaining their education in Battle Creek. The Lord has blotted out two of our largest institutions, which were established in Battle Creek, and has given warning after warning, even as Christ gave warning to Bethsaida and Capernaum. There is a necessity of giving earnest attention to every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. There can be no sinless departure from the words of Christ. The Saviour urges the erring ones to repent. Those who humble their hearts and confess their sins will be pardoned. Their transgressions will be forgiven. But the man who thinks that should he confess his sins he would show weakness will not find pardon, will not see Christ as his Redeemer, but will go on and on in transgression, making blunder after blunder and adding sin to sin. What will such an one do in the day that the books are opened, and every man is judged according to the things written in the books?
(24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, 13)
The fifth chapter of Revelation needs to be closely studied. It is of great importance to those who shall act a part in the work of God for these last days. There are some who are deceived. They do not realize what is coming on the earth. Those who have permitted their minds to become beclouded in regard to what constitutes sin are fearfully deceived. Unless they make a decided change, they will be found wanting when God pronounces judgment upon the children of men. They have transgressed the law and broken the everlasting covenant, and they will receive according to their works.
(24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, 14)
In these Scriptures two parties are brought to view. One party permitted themselves to be deceived and took sides with those with whom the Lord has a controversy. They misinterpreted the messages sent them and clothed themselves in robes of self-righteousness. Sin was not sinful in their eyes. They taught falsehood as truth, and by them many souls were led astray.
(24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, 16)
We need now to take heed to ourselves. Warnings have been given. Can we not see the fulfilment of the predictions made by Christ, and recorded in the twenty-first chapter of Luke? How many are studying the words of Christ? How many are deceiving their own souls and cheating themselves out of the blessings that others might secure if they would believe and obey? Probation still lingers, and it is our privilege to lay hold of the hope set before us in the gospel. Let us repent, and be converted, and forsake our sins, that they may be blotted out. “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. 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, and to stand before the Son of man.” [Verses 33-36.]
(24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, 17)
Shall the warnings given by Christ be passed by unheeded? Shall we not make diligent work for repentance now, while mercy’s gracious voice is still heard?
(24LtMs, Ms 37a, 1909, 18)
Work the Cities Takoma Park, Maryland May 1909 Previously unpublished.
Takoma Park, Washington, D.C., Brother Irwin’s home
(24LtMs, Ms 38, 1909, 1)
I awake at 12 o’clock at night. I have had a message given me which I must give to the people in plain terms before I leave this place. Also a message has been given me for Elder Prescott and Elder Daniells. They are both in great spiritual danger. They do not come into line where the Holy Spirit can bless them and raise them up above the mist and fog so prevalent at this time. I have this night been sad, so very painfully sad, because I still have words to say to both of these brethren. They do not see and sense and realize the great work before us and the position that they themselves are in. They need so much to sit at the feet of Jesus and to learn of the Lord Jesus Christ lessons of meekness and self-denial. They need to take steps upward and climb the divine ladder.
(24LtMs, Ms 38, 1909, 2)
I will try to speak intelligently. Neither of these men in responsible places genuinely feels the necessity of climbing every round of this scriptural ladder, placed firmly upon the earth; and round after round of this spiritual emblem must be their only safety in climbing heavenward. The earthward is now blocking the way of many.
(24LtMs, Ms 38, 1909, 3)
I cannot now write all I desire and am charged to write. A decided work will change the religious experience of those settled at Washington, else the Lord will not be glorified in the work. I am soon to leave this place, and yet the work is not bound off to meet the mind of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 38, 1909, 4)
The inspiration of the Holy Spirit has come upon me, and I have spoken under its influence. The Lord has given me a message to bear to the large congregation in this place, and at the commencement of the meeting I was to speak to the people the words that the Lord should give me without let or hindrance. “I have put My message in your mind and heart at this meeting, and have given you a voice that all may hear, and angels will make the impression. Hereafter you will have words to speak, for some of the people in responsible positions have not been pleased with the impression left upon minds which dampened their zeal in certain directions, that they could not carry out all their devisings.” I have given the message in the name of the Lord, but I am instructed that a much greater work would have been done if all the people in official positions had received the message. This is why the burden still remains on my soul. The reason why they could not follow out their large plans was that they could not handle them, for these plans would not glorify God. Ministers and workers needed to be in a different attitude spiritually. The work could not be carried out as they devised.
(24LtMs, Ms 38, 1909, 5)
Every minister, every physician, every officer in connection with the work, if he would seek the Lord to learn Christ’s way, would, in all his plans, work out the Lord’s plans under the Holy Spirit’s guidance. The Lord would have the Holy Spirit work with every man to change his own human plans for God’s plans. The work of earnestly seeking the Lord in all humility of heart was not evidenced. When the Holy Spirit comes to the soul, there will be impressions and ideas of altogether a different order. It is evident that God’s Holy Spirit does not have free course in its power upon human minds because it is mingled in with the influence of too many unconverted souls. There is the self-glory, in which God takes no part. When souls old and young are soundly converted, their experience will be revealed in all their words, motives, and actions.
(24LtMs, Ms 38, 1909, 6)
Christ says to His people: “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an 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. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: 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.” Now the explanation: “For I say unto you, that except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.”Matthew 5:14-20.
(24LtMs, Ms 38, 1909, 7)
There are counter influences that are working to weaken the impression of the truth. Angels of God are not round about the ones who are connected with some of the workers.
(24LtMs, Ms 38, 1909, 8)
Now the Lord sees that the messages He gave me for this meeting are not doing the work that should have been done. I am to say, Our cities remain unworked, while those who should take the burden to carry the message and set in order the work are doing very little in this line. Brother Evans has been appointed to go to far-off fields, when these very cities that have been kept before us are left unworked. Close by are cities in which scarcely anything has been done. Are there not those of all nationalities in these cities? Some will receive the light of truth quickly, could houses and halls be secured, or camp-meetings be held in our cities, in a proper season of the year. Will Elder Daniells awake to the situation? and if not, give place to someone who will work now? The Sunday question is being agitated. What better thing could be done than to set in operation meetings right in our home cities to meet the emergencies. God calls for more decided efforts.
(24LtMs, Ms 38, 1909, 9)
I have called attention to these cities again and again. There are to be no uncertain messages given in Washington or any other place. The most solemn message ever given to mortals is being presented, and yet this is circumscribed. But few places are having the light in our cities. I am to wake up the watchmen. Ministers and physicians are to wake up. All are to act a part.
(24LtMs, Ms 38, 1909, 10)
I am writing by lamplight this morning. I am to speak decidedly: Enter the cities in America. Let all your buildings be built as inexpensively as possible, and with little pretense of show, for we have no means nor have we time to do that kind of work. The Lord is coming. Let this be our message. The angels will accompany our sincere efforts. When the world sees us at work personally in our cities to give the truth as we gave it in 1842, 1843, and 1844, such efforts will stir our cities. We have no time to lose. Brother Prescott has had his message that the voice used in our cities is a powerful agency to proclaim the truth. The Lord calls now for means to work these cities. And my messages must not be blocked so that the words shall be turned aside. He says, “I have put My Spirit upon you, and you are to speak to our people, and I will be with you. Whether or not those in Washington will turn aside My special message, and by their own interpretation make this message a thing of naught, go in before the congregation. Wake up the watchmen.”
(24LtMs, Ms 38, 1909, 11)
Ms 38a, 1909
Talk/The Spirit of Independence Takoma Park, Maryland May 30, 1909 This manuscript is copied in its entirety from The General Conference Bulletin, May 31, 1909, and is published in 9T 257-261.
Read to the General Conference Session by E. G. White, May 30, 1909, 9:15 a.m.
(24LtMs, Ms 38a, 1909, 1)
Before leaving Australia, and since coming to this country, I have been instructed that there is a great work to be done in America. Those who were in the work at the beginning are passing away. Only a few of the pioneers of the cause now remain among us. Many of the heavy burdens formerly borne by men of long experience are now falling upon younger men.
(24LtMs, Ms 38a, 1909, 2)
This transfer of responsibilities to laborers whose experience is more or less limited is attended with some dangers against which we need to guard. The world is filled with strife for the supremacy. The spirit of pulling away from fellow laborers, the spirit of disorganization is in the very air we breathe. By some, all efforts to establish order are regarded as dangerous—as a restriction of personal liberty, and hence to be feared as popery. These deceived souls regard it a virtue to boast of their freedom to think and act independently. They declare that they will not take any man’s say-so; that they are amenable to no man. I have been instructed that it is Satan’s special effort to lead men to feel that God is pleased to have them choose their own course, independent of the counsel of their brethren.
(24LtMs, Ms 38a, 1909, 3)
Herein lies a grave danger to the prosperity of our work. We must move discreetly, sensibly, in harmony with the judgment of God-fearing counselors; for in this course alone lies our safety and strength. Otherwise God cannot work with us and by us and for us.
(24LtMs, Ms 38a, 1909, 4)
Oh, how Satan would rejoice if he could succeed in his efforts to get in among this people and disorganize the work at a time when thorough organization is essential and will be the greatest power to keep out spurious uprisings and to refute claims not endorsed by the Word of God! We want to hold the lines evenly, that there shall be no breaking down of the system of organization and order that has been built up by wise, careful labor. License must not be given to disorderly elements that desire to control the work at this time.
(24LtMs, Ms 38a, 1909, 5)
Unity of Effort
Some have advanced the thought that as we near the close of time, every child of God will act independently of any religious organization. But I have been instructed by the Lord that in this work there is no such thing as every man’s being independent. The stars of heaven are all under law, each influencing the other to do the will of God, yielding their common obedience to the law that controls their action. And, in order that the Lord’s work may advance healthfully and solidly, His people must draw together.
(24LtMs, Ms 38a, 1909, 6)
The spasmodic, fitful movements of some who claim to be Christians are well represented by the work of strong but untrained horses. When one pulls forward, another pulls back, and at the voice of their master, one plunges ahead, and the other stands immovable. If men will not move in concert in the great and grand work for this time, there will be confusion. It is not a good sign when men refuse to unite with their brethren and prefer to act alone. Let laborers take into their confidence the brethren who are free to point out every departure from right principles. If men wear the yoke of Christ, they cannot pull apart; they will draw with Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 38a, 1909, 7)
Some workers pull with all the power that God has given them, but they have not yet learned that they should not pull alone. Instead of isolating themselves, let them draw in harmony with their fellow laborers. Unless they do this, their activity will work at the wrong time and in the wrong way. They will often work counter to that which God would have done, and thus their work is worse than wasted.
(24LtMs, Ms 38a, 1909, 8)
Unity in Diversity
On the other hand, the leaders among God’s people are to guard against the danger of condemning the methods of individual workers who are led by the Lord to do a special work that but few are fitted to do. Let brethren in responsibility be slow to criticize movements that are not in perfect harmony with their methods of labor. Let them never suppose that every plan should reflect their own personality. Let them not fear to trust another’s methods; for by withholding their confidence from a brother laborer who, with humility and consecrated zeal, is doing a special work in God’s appointed way, they are retarding the advancement of the Lord’s cause.
(24LtMs, Ms 38a, 1909, 9)
God can and will use those who have not had a thorough education in the schools of men. A doubt of His power to do this is manifest unbelief; it is limiting the omnipotent power of the One with whom nothing is impossible. Oh, for less of this uncalled-for, distrustful caution! It leaves so many forces of the church unused; it closes up the way so that the Holy Spirit cannot use men; it keeps in idleness those who are willing and anxious to labor in Christ’s lines; it discourages from entering the work many who would become efficient laborers together with God if they were given a fair chance.
(24LtMs, Ms 38a, 1909, 10)
To the prophet, the wheel within a wheel, the appearance of living creatures connected with them, all seemed intricate and unexplainable. But the hand of infinite wisdom is seen among the wheels, and perfect order is the result of its work. Every wheel, directed by the hand of God, works in perfect harmony with every other wheel. I have been shown that human instrumentalities are liable to seek after too much power and try to control the work themselves. They leave the Lord God, the mighty Worker, too much out of their methods and plans and do not trust to Him everything in regard to the advancement of the work. No one should for a moment fancy that he is able to manage these things that belong to the great I AM. God in His providence is preparing a way so that the work may be done by human agents. Then let every man stand at his post of duty, to act his part for this time, and know that God is his instructor.
(24LtMs, Ms 38a, 1909, 11)
The General Conference
I have often been instructed by the Lord that no man’s judgment should be surrendered to the judgment of any other one man. Never should the mind of one man or the minds of a few men be regarded as sufficient in wisdom and power to control the work and to say what plans shall be followed. But when in a General Conference the judgment of the brethren assembled from all parts of the field is exercised, private independence and private judgment must not be stubbornly maintained, but surrendered. Never should a laborer regard as a virtue the persistent maintenance of his position of independence contrary to the decision of the general body.
(24LtMs, Ms 38a, 1909, 12)
At times, when a small group of men entrusted with the general management of the work have, in the name of the General Conference, sought to carry out unwise plans and to restrict God’s work, I have said that I could no longer regard the voice of the General Conference, represented by these few men, as the voice of God. But this is not saying that the decisions of a General Conference composed of an assembly of duly appointed, representative men from all parts of the field should not be respected. God has ordained that the representatives of His church from all parts of the earth, when assembled in a General Conference, shall have authority. The error that some are in danger of committing is in giving to the mind and judgment of one man, or of a small group of men, the full measure of authority and influence that God has vested in His church in the judgment and voice of the General Conference assembled to plan for the prosperity and advancement of His work.
(24LtMs, Ms 38a, 1909, 13)
When this power, which God has placed in the church, is accredited wholly to one man, and he is invested with the authority to be judgment for other minds, then the true Bible order is changed. Satan’s efforts upon such a man’s mind would be most subtle and sometimes well-nigh overpowering; for the enemy would hope that through his mind he could affect many others. Let us give to the highest organized authority in the church that which we are prone to give to one man or to a small group of men.
(24LtMs, Ms 38a, 1909, 14)
Ms 39, 1909
The Loma Linda College of Evangelists Takoma Park, Maryland June 1, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in 9T 173-178.
(Manuscript read before the delegates, with remarks by Mrs. E. G. White, June 1, 1909, 9:15 a.m.)
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 1)
While attending the General Conference of 1905 at Washington, D.C., I received a letter from J. A. Burden, describing a property he had found about four miles from Redlands. As I read his letter, I was impressed that this was one of the places I had seen in vision, and I immediately telegraphed him to secure the property without delay. Later, when I visited the property, I recognized it as one of the places I had seen nearly two years before in vision. How thankful I am to the Lord our God for this place.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 2)
One of the chief advantages of Loma Linda is the pleasing variety of charming scenery on every side. The extensive view of valley and mountain is magnificent. But more important than magnificent scenery and beautiful buildings and spacious grounds is the close proximity of this institution to a densely populated district and the opportunity thus afforded of communicating to many, many people a knowledge of the third angel’s message. We are to have clear, spiritual discernment, else we shall fail of discerning the opening providences of God that are preparing the way for us to enlighten the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 3)
With the possession of this place comes the weighty responsibility of making the work of the institution educational in character. Loma Linda is to be not only a sanitarium, but an educational center. A school is to be established here for the training of gospel medical missionary evangelists. Much is involved in this work, and it is very essential that a right beginning be made. The Lord has a special work to be done in this field. He instructed me to call on Elder and Mrs. Haskell to help us in getting properly started a work similar to that which they had carried on at Avondale. Laborers of experience have consented to unite with the forces at Loma Linda to develop the school that must be carried on there. As they go forward in faith, the Lord will go before them, preparing the way.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 4)
In regard to the school, I would say, Make it especially strong in the education of nurses and physicians. In medical missionary schools, many workers are to be qualified with the ability of physicians to labor as medical missionary evangelists. This training, the Lord has specified, is in harmony with the principles underlying true higher education. We hear a great deal about the higher education. The highest education is to follow in the footsteps of Christ, patterning after the example He gave when He was in the world. We cannot gain an education higher than this; for this class of training will make men laborers together with God.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 5)
To have the higher education is to have a living connection with Christ. The Saviour took the unlearned fishermen from their boats and their fishing nets and connected them with Himself as He traveled from place to place, teaching the people, and ministering to their needs. Sitting down on a rock or on some elevated place, He would gather His disciples about Him and give them instruction, and before long hundreds of people would be listening to His words. There are many men and women who suppose that they know all that is worthy knowing, when they greatly need to sit humbly at the feet of Jesus and learn of Him who gave His life that He might redeem a fallen world. We all need Christ—the One who left the royal courts, laying off His kingly robe and crown and His majesty in the heavens, and clothing Himself with humanity. The Son of God came as a little babe, that He might understand the experience of humanity and know how to deal with them. He knows the wants of the children. In the days of His earthly ministry, He would not allow them to be forbidden to come to Him. “Send them not away,” He said to His disciples; “for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.]
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 6)
In the work of the school, maintain simplicity. No argument is so powerful as is success founded on simplicity. You may attain success in the education of students as medical missionaries without a medical school that can qualify physicians to compete with the physicians of the world. Let the students be given a practical education. The less dependent you are upon worldly methods of education, the better it will be for the students. Special instruction should be given in the art of treating the sick without the use of poisonous drugs and in harmony with the light that God has given. In the treatment of the sick, poisonous drugs need not be used. Students should come forth from the school without having sacrificed the principles of health reform or their love for God and righteousness.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 7)
The education that meets the world’s standard is to be less and less valued by those who are seeking for efficiency in carrying the medical missionary work in connection with the work of the third angel’s message. They are to be educated from the standpoint of conscience, and, as they conscientiously and faithfully follow right methods in their treatment of the sick, these methods will come to be recognized as preferable to the method to which many have become accustomed, which demands the use of poisonous drugs.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 8)
We should not at this time seek to compete with worldly medical schools. Should we do this, our chances of success would be small. We are not now prepared to carry out successfully the work of establishing large medical institutions of learning. Moreover, should we follow the world’s methods of medical practice, exacting the large fees that worldly physicians demand for their services, we would work away from Christ’s plan for our ministry to the sick.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 9)
There should be at our sanitariums intelligent men and women who can instruct in Christ’s methods of ministry. Under the instruction of competent, consecrated teachers, the youth may become partakers of the divine nature and learn how to escape the corruption that is in the world through lust. I have been instructed that we should have many more women who can deal especially with the diseases of women, many more lady nurses who will treat the sick in a simple way without the use of drugs.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 10)
It is not in harmony with the instruction given at Sinai that gentlemen physicians should do the work of midwives. The Bible speaks of women at childbirth being attended by women, and thus it ought always to be. Women should be educated and trained to act skilfully as midwives and physicians to their sex. This is the Lord’s plan. Let us educate ladies to become intelligent in the work of treating the diseases of their sex. We ought to have a school where women can be educated by women physicians to do the best possible work in treating the diseases of women. Among us as a people, the medical work should stand at its highest.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 11)
In Loma Linda we have an advantageous center for the carrying on of various missionary enterprises. We can see that it was in the providence of God that this sanitarium was placed in the possession of our people. We should appreciate Loma Linda as a place which the Lord foresaw we should need and which He gave us. There is a very precious work to be done in connection with the interests of the sanitarium and school at Loma Linda; and this will be done, when we all work to that end, moving unitedly in God’s order.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 12)
The Word of God is to be our lesson book. The Lord is our helper and our God. Let us look to Him to open the way for the carrying out of our plans.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 13)
At Loma Linda many can be educated to work as missionaries in the cause of health and temperance. Teachers are to be prepared for many lines of work. Schools are to be established in places where as yet no efforts have been made. Missionaries are to go to other states where little work has been done. The work of promulgating the principles of health reform must be accomplished. God help us as a people to be wise.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 14)
I feel a deep interest that careful study shall be given to the needs of our institutions at Loma Linda and that right moves shall be made. In the carrying forward of the work at this place, men of talent and decided spirituality are needed. The best teachers are to be employed in the educational work, men and women who will walk circumspectly, depending wholly upon the Lord. If the teachers in medical lines will stand in their place in the fear of God, we shall see a good work done. With Christ as our educator, we may reach a high standard in the knowledge of the true science of healing.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 15)
That which is of most importance is that the students be taught how to represent aright the principles of health reform. Teach them to pursue this line of study faithfully, combined with other essential lines of education. The grace of Jesus Christ will give wisdom to all who follow the Lord’s plan of true education. Let the students follow closely the example of the One who purchased the human race with the costly price of His own life. Let them appeal to the Saviour and depend upon Him as the One who heals all manner of diseases. The Lord would have the workers make special efforts to point the sick and suffering to the great Physician who made the human body.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 16)
It is well that our training schools for Christian workers should be established near to our health institutions, that the students may be educated in the principles of healthful living. Institutions that send forth workers who are able to give a reason for their faith, and who have a faith that works by love and purifies the soul, are of great value. I have clear instruction that, wherever it is possible, schools should be established near to our sanitariums, that each institution may be a help and strength to the other. He who created man has an interest in those who suffer. He has directed in the establishment of our sanitariums and in the building up of our schools close to our sanitariums that they may become efficient mediums in training men and women for the work of ministering to suffering humanity.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 17)
Let Seventh-day Adventist medical workers remember that the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. Christ was the greatest physician that ever trod this sin-cursed earth. The Lord would have His people come to Him for their power of healing. He will baptize them with His Holy Spirit and fit them for a service that will make them a blessing in restoring the spiritual and physical health of those who need healing.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 18)
*****
Now that I have finished reading this manuscript, I desire to say a few words regarding the cities in the South and the East and the West. The Lord God of Israel will hold the men and women who are intelligent, in regard to the truth for this time, accountable for those cities that are left without warning. The instruction has been given me, Work the cities; work the cities where the first and second angels’ messages were proclaimed. The work of warning the cities has been kept before us for more than twenty years; but who has felt a burden for this work? Who has done real missionary work among them? We are bidden to go to those cities and preach the gospel and heal the sick.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 19)
Do not expect that men will come to you and say, If you will come and work in our cities, we will support you. You are to go into these cities and begin work in a humble way. If we had faithfully followed from the first the instruction regarding city work, means would have come in for us to establish in these places schools and small sanitariums where we could treat the sick and preach the gospel and educate the people in Bible truth. We would have had means to sustain all the enterprises for missionary work that we could carry forward.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 20)
God has not left the southern field. There are precious souls there, and there are precious souls in other places that I have mentioned to you here. The Lord wants us to wake up and to take hold of seeming impossibilities.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 21)
If we still do our best, if we will pray and believe and trust in the Lord, we shall see of the salvation of God. Brethren, where is your faith? Why are you not working in the difficult places? Here are missionaries from foreign countries who are trying to press into missionary fields under every discouragement. Will you not go into the cities and try to get hold of the people? May God help us to see our duty, and to do it, is my prayer.
(24LtMs, Ms 39, 1909, 22)
Ms 41, 1909
A Message to Responsible Men and Church Members NP June 3, 1909 [typed] Portions of this manuscript are published in 3MR 222; 10MR 359-360. +
Our meetings are soon to close, yet we do not see the work of the Lord deepening in our experience. At this time every believer should be drawing near to God. God is speaking to His people, saying, Let your faith increase. Seek the Lord while He may be found; call upon Him while He is near. There should at this time be a general awakening to an understanding of the truth for this time. There is weakness among us, an inability to read the signs of the times. The hope of this people lies in the converting, reviving power of the truth. God can give grace and power to His people. To all who will come to Him, repenting of their lukewarmness, He will impart spiritual life and power.
(24LtMs, Ms 41, 1909, 1)
The Lord has given me a message for Elder Prescott. God has a work for Brother Prescott to do in bringing the light of present truth to those who have not seen it. It is not wisdom for him to remain continuously in Washington. He has special ability for ministering the Word of God to the people. The Lord has given him light, and there are many who will be enlightened and blessed by the message of truth that he can give. The work that the Lord would have him do in giving a knowledge of the third angel’s message to those who are in error will be as a light shining from the Scriptures to enlighten others.
(24LtMs, Ms 41, 1909, 2)
The Lord is not pleased with the spiritual advancement that Elder Prescott has made. He is not where the Lord would have him be. He would be the recipient of much greater spiritual strength if he were much of the time out in the field, seeking to lead souls to the light of truth. Brother Prescott, your ministerial ability is needed in the work that God requires shall be done in our cities. These cities are not to be left unenlightened and unwarned. Open your eyes to see the work that is to be done in sowing the seeds of truth in new places. You should unite with other workers in seeking to bring souls to the truth. I am instructed to say to you that you are needed in the fields that are opening for evangelistic work. When you make the Lord your trust, and give to the people the message of truth, wonderful reformations will be seen. There will be an awakening and conversion of many souls who are now ignorant of what is the truth for these last days.
(24LtMs, Ms 41, 1909, 3)
The Lord would have the workers in Washington prepare His way before Him. All their capabilities are to be used in giving this last message of warning to the world. The Lord expects every worker to be a laborer together with Him. Let there be no arbitrary forbiddings placed upon the men chosen to engage in God’s service. This kind of hindrance to the advancement of the work is no longer to be permitted. The workers who occupy positions of responsibility need to understand that those who believe the truth must live the truth. If they would co-operate with divine intelligences, they must co-operate with every agency whom God would use in His work. If they refuse to do this, their light will become darkness, and they will be brought to confusion.
(24LtMs, Ms 41, 1909, 4)
Recently the agony of Christ in the garden of Gethsemane was three times vividly portrayed before me. The Saviour left His disciples in the garden, bidding them watch and pray with Him, and going “about a stone’s cast from them,” He “kneeled down, and prayed, saying, Father, if Thou be willing, remove this cup from Me: nevertheless not My will, but Thine be done. And there appeared an angel unto Him from heaven, strengthening Him. And being in an agony He prayed more earnestly: and His sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. And when He rose up from prayer, and was come to His disciples, He found them sleeping for sorrow, and said unto them, Why sleep ye? Rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.” [Luke 22:41-46.]
(24LtMs, Ms 41, 1909, 5)
Three times the Saviour prayed, “If it be possible, let this cup pass from Me.” [Matthew 26:39.] It was here that the destiny of a lost world hung in the balance. Should He refuse to drink the cup, the result would be eternal ruin to the human race. But an angel from heaven strengthened the Son of God to accept the cup and to drink its bitter woe.
(24LtMs, Ms 41, 1909, 6)
How little do we comprehend what the Son of God passed through that we might not perish, but have everlasting life. I wish that all who are attending this meeting might have a view of the scene that was presented to me. It was a representation that I shall never be able to forget. I said then, God help and strengthen me to give to the people the words of warning that they need.
(24LtMs, Ms 41, 1909, 7)
Christ came to the earth to suffer and to die, that through the exercise of faith in Him, and the appropriation of His merits, we might become laborers together with God. It was the Saviour’s purpose that after He ascended to heaven to become man’s intercessor, His followers should carry on the work that He had begun. Shall the human agent show no special interest in giving the light of the gospel message to those who sit in darkness? There are some who are willing to go to the ends of the earth in order to carry the light of truth to men; but God demands that every soul who knows the truth shall seek to win others to the love of the truth. Those who claim to be the children of God, but who do not carry their religion into their practical life, can never be welcomed to the kingdom of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 41, 1909, 8)
“Behold I come quickly,” Christ declares; “and My reward is with Me, to give to every man according as his works shall be.” [Revelation 22:12.] The Lord at His coming will scrutinize every talent; He will demand interest on the capital He has entrusted. By His own humiliation and agony, by His life of toil and His death of shame, Christ has paid for the service of all who take His name and profess to be His servants. All are under deepest obligation to improve every capability for the work of winning souls for Him. “Ye are not your own,” He says, “for ye are bought with a price;” therefore glorify God by a life of service that will win men and women from sin to righteousness. [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] We are bought with the price of Christ’s own life—bought that we may return to God His own in faithful service.
(24LtMs, Ms 41, 1909, 9)
We have not time now to give our energies and talents to worldly enterprises. Shall we become absorbed in serving the world, serving ourselves, and lose eternal life and the everlasting bliss of heaven? O we cannot afford to do this. Let every talent be employed in the work of God. Those who receive the truth are by their efforts to increase the number of men and women who shall be laborers together with God. Souls are to be enlightened and taught to serve God intelligently; they are to be continually increasing in the knowledge of righteousness.
(24LtMs, Ms 41, 1909, 10)
All heaven is interested in the carrying forward of the work that Christ came to the world to do. Heavenly agencies are opening ways for the light of truth to shine to the dark places of the earth. Angels are waiting to communicate to the workers who will take hold of the work that has been pointed out to us for years. Shall we not manifest an interest to set in operation ways and means for the opening up of city work? Many opportunities have been lost through neglecting to do this work at once, through failing to go forward in faith. The Lord says, Had you exercised faith in the messages I have sent, there would not now be a lack. When men pursue a course of unbelief, and leave souls to perish in ignorance and darkness, some delusion will come in that will imperil the soul.
(24LtMs, Ms 41, 1909, 11)
The coming of Christ is near and hasteth greatly. The time in which to labor is short, and men and women are perishing. Said the angel, Should not the men who have had great light co-operate with Him who sent His Son to the world to give light and salvation to men? Christ gave His life that the human family might become partakers of the divine nature. Shall men who have received a knowledge of the truth line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little, show but little appreciation of Him who came to the earth, that His divine power might be the heritage of every believing soul? It was thus that the divinity of Christ was to become effectual in the salvation of the race and the intercession of our great High Priest avail before the throne of God. The plan was devised in heaven. Shall those who have been bought with such a price fail to appreciate the great salvation?
(24LtMs, Ms 41, 1909, 12)
The True Witness, the Spirit of the living God, is inspecting character in every home, in every family. There has been a waste of energy; talents have been perverted. Christ calls for men and women to engage in His service who will use their abilities to sanctified purposes. There is need that all in such important centers as this shall help to the limit of their ability. The truth for this time is a divine treasure; it is to be revealed in our lives, in our speech, in our purity of heart. If this is not the experience of the people of God, instead of drawing souls to the truth, they will draw souls away.
(24LtMs, Ms 41, 1909, 13)
I speak to men and women who know the truth. Testify in words and works that you appreciate your talents. Some who have connected with the work are in danger of imperiling their own souls and of leading others from the truth. The believers in Washington need to advance in spirituality; they need to show a greater interest in the work of the third angel’s message. They need to take the light from under the bushel and let it shine forth to the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 41, 1909, 14)
The Lord cannot commend the people who, professing godliness, professing to believe in the soon coming of Christ, leave the cities unwarned of the judgments that are soon to fall on the land. Those who do this will be judged for their neglect. What excuse can those offer who know the truth for this time and yet refuse to make it known to those who know it not? Christ gave His precious life to save the souls that were perishing in their sins. Shall we refuse to do the work assigned us, refuse to co-operate with God and heavenly agencies? There are thousands who are doing this, who are failing of becoming one with Christ, failing of letting the great sacrifice of Christ shine forth in the life in saving grace that reveals the truth in works of righteousness. Yet this is the work given to men by the sacrifice of the Son of God. Can we remain indifferent, knowing this? Appeal to the brethren to wake up. The spiritual faculties will grow weak and die if they are not exercised in winning souls to Christ. What excuse can be offered for the neglect of the great, grand work that Christ gave His life to accomplish?
(24LtMs, Ms 41, 1909, 15)
Ms 43, 1909
Sermon/Get Ready! Takoma Park, Maryland May 29, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in GCB 06/06/1909. + May 29, 1909 Sermon, Mrs. E. G. White, Sabbath morning,
“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.” [Revelation 3:1-3.]
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 1)
What a word of caution is this! How many of us can comprehend what it means? All through the Word of God, cautions are given and instruction is imparted that point out to us the Way, the Truth, and the Life. “Thou hast a few names even in Sardis,” the Word continues, “which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white: for they are worthy.” [Verse 4.] Who of this company gathered here today will be among those “few names”? Here is brought to view a little company that is confessed before the throne of God as “worthy.” They have not had a hit-and-miss religion, but an experience that has proved them as true to principle as the compass to the pole. Of such the Lord declares, “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.” [Verse 5.]
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 2)
“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.” [Verses 14, 15.]
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 3)
In the words spoken to the Laodicean church we can see the sure result of half-hearted service. There are many who claim to believe the truth who do not obey the truth in a way that the world can take knowledge of them that they have been with Jesus and learned of Him. This condition of lukewarmness is a pitiable condition in which to be. “I would thou wert cold or hot,” the Lord declares; “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.” [Verses 15-18.]
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 4)
Let none think that their understanding of the Scriptures, their knowledge of the truth for this time, will suffice to save them. Let none take the position before God that was taken by the people spoken of by the prophet Isaiah, who offered to God only outward service. “Wherefore have we fasted,” they said to God, “and Thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and Thou takest no knowledge?” God showed this people that their worship was unacceptable to Him because it lacked heart service. “Behold, in the day of your fast,” He said to them, “ye find pleasure, and exact all your labors. Behold ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high.” [Isaiah 58:3, 4.]
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 5)
The Lord shows that there is something better for His people than mere outward worship. He demands of them a pure and undefiled religion. The gold He bids them buy of Him is the gold of character. The eyesalve is obtained by earnest seeking of the Lord. We are to come to God confessing our sins and humbling our hearts before Him. If ever there was a people who needed to pray most earnestly to God, if ever there was a people who needed to strip themselves of everything that is offensive to Him, it is this people who profess to keep the commandments of God and to have the faith of Jesus.
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 6)
The next words present something to be done. There are confessions to be made to one another and to God; and unless these confessions are made, we reveal that the door of the heart is closed. “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 on My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father on His throne.” [Revelation 3:19-21.] My brethren and sisters, I ask you, who among us is humbling the heart before God? Who is purifying the soul by obedience to the truth? Let us study this chapter on our bended knees, asking God to reveal to us our true character and to impress our mind with what we should be and what we should do lest we stand in the way of sinners and exert an influence that will be a hindrance to the work.
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 7)
A View of Christ’s Sufferings
Last Tuesday this Scripture was impressed upon me in a wonderful manner. I was awakened from sleep and given a view of the sufferings of Christ for men. His sacrifice, the mockery and derision He received at the hand of wicked men, his agony in the garden of Gethsemane, His betrayal and crucifixion—all were vividly portrayed before me. Three times the scenes passed before me.
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 8)
I saw Christ in the midst of a large company of people, a company much larger than we have here this morning. He was seeking to impress their minds with His teachings, but He was despised and rejected by them. Men were heaping upon Him abuse and shame. My distress was very great as I looked upon the scene. I pleaded with God, What is to be done with this congregation? Will none give up their exalted opinions of self and seek the Lord as little children? Will none break their hearts before God in repentance and confession?
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 9)
There was presented to me Christ’s agony in the garden of Gethsemane, when the mysterious cup trembled in the Redeemer’s hand. “Father, if it be possible,” He prayed, “let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as Thou wilt.” [Matthew 26:39.] As He pleaded with the Father, great drops of blood fell from His face to the ground. The elements of darkness were gathered about the Saviour to discourage His soul.
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 10)
Rising from the ground, Christ went to the place where He had left His disciples, bidding them watch and pray with Him. He would see if they understood His agony; He needed their human sympathy; but He found them sleeping. Three times He went thus to them, and each time they were asleep.
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 11)
Three times Christ prayed, “Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me.” It was here that the destiny of a lost world hung in the balance. Should He refuse to drink the cup, the result would be eternal ruin to the human race. But an angel from heaven strengthened the Son of God to accept the cup and drink its bitter woe. What if His request had been granted, and the cup had passed from Him? The scene that was presented before me as the result of such a decision made me for a time lose all consciousness. When I aroused, the scene was presented to me again and again until it had passed before me three times.
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 12)
For whom was all this agony and shame endured? It was for those who claim to be leaders in the church, those who claim to have an experience in religious lines, as well as for the open sinner. How few there are who realize that all this was borne for them individually; how few who say, It was for me, that I might form a character for the future immortal life. As these things were presented to me so vividly, I thought, I shall never be able to present it before the people as it is; and I have given you only a faint representation of what was shown me. As I have thought of that cup trembling in the hands of Christ; as I have realized that He might have refused to drink it and left the world to perish in its sin, I pledged that every energy of my life should be devoted to Christ, that I may win souls to Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 13)
The Great Need for This Time
We cannot afford in the few days that we have here on earth to spend our time in trifling and nothingness. We cannot afford to waste our means in the multiplying of pictures. We need to have our souls humbled before God, that every heart may drink in the truth and let it work in the life a reformation that will convince the world that this is indeed the truth of God. Let the life be hid with Christ in God. Only when we seek the Lord as little children, when we cease picking flaws in our brethren and sisters, and in those who are seeking to carry faithfully the responsibilities of the work, and seek to get our own hearts right with God, can He use us to the glory of His name.
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 14)
When I think of the great work there is to be done, and see how few there are who realize the magnitude and importance of the work, and the shortness of time in which to do it, I feel that I must get right out as I did in my younger days. Then I labored when I was no stronger tan I am now, and I saw the power of God revealed in a remarkable manner. I have seen the room in which we were gathered filled with the glory of God, not one sitting in his seat, but all lying prostrate upon the floor. And when they were able to speak, the glory of God shone in their faces and the praise of God was upon their lips. It is not always the brightest talent that accomplishes the most for the cause of God. God can speak through a humble mind if that mind is consecrated to Him and to His service. When we catch the spirit of the message which is to lead souls to choose between life and death, we shall see a work done that we do not now dream of.
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 15)
We are to consider the needs of the cities of the East, where the first and second angels’ messages went with such power. The Lord wrought mightily in these places for rich and poor. I am made sad when I see those who have had such great light question whether they can send the light into the large cities. Do you not know, my brethren, that angels of God are promised to go with you in every undertaking for the spread of gospel truth? Go and speak the truth in its simplicity, and God will send power, and the truth will affect hearts, and many, many souls will come to a knowledge of its saving grace. In the place of stopping to question, let us consider the wide field for labor before this people. There are thousands who have never heard the message—not any part of the message. The delegates who are present—I am so thankful when I consider that they come from almost all parts of the world—are to remember that there are many other workers to be raised up to take a part in the work.
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 16)
We all need to come into a self-sacrificing position before God if our work is to be accepted by Him. We need to trim our lamps and keep them burning. There is none of us but has an accountability before God. Let us remember that profession is nothing unless we have the truth in the heart. We need the converting power of God to take hold of us, that we may understand the needs of a perishing world. Who among us is humbling the heart before God? Who are washing their robes and making them white in the blood of the Lamb? Let us awake from sleep, and pray as we have never prayed before, that the burden of souls may rest upon us. The burden of my message to you is, Get ready, get ready to meet the Lord. Trim your lamps, and let the light of truth shine forth into the byways and the hedges. There is a world to be warned of the near approach of the end of all things.
(24LtMs, Ms 43, 1909, 17)
Ms 45, 1909
A Message to the Responsible Men in the Southern Publishing Association Washington, D. C. June 3, 1907 Previously unpublished. +
A Message to the Responsible Men in the Southern Publishing Association:
I have words to speak to Bro. I. A. Ford and to the workers in the publishing office in Nashville.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 1)
It needs men of wisdom and talent to rightly conduct such a printing establishment as we have at Nashville. It is not wise to place men in office there who will selfishly grasp every advantage, even though such a course is causing distress to those with whom they are dealing. The man who, when occasion arises, will reveal a spirit of oppression, and who will bear down upon another because it is in his power to do this, is not the man whom the Lord can use to make manifest righteous principles. Such a one should not be left in an office of responsibility, to imperil by his influence and his example the welfare of others.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 2)
I was shown that angels of God have witnessed the hardness of heart that has been manifested toward Edson White in his connection with the Southern Publishing Association. The Lord used Edson White to do a good work in the opening up of our work in the southern field. I have a history to unfold concerning this first work done in the South. The Lord is a God of mercy. He has marked how often Edson White has relieved by his means the necessities of the needy, and has performed acts of genuine mercy. Message after message has been given me for him, encouraging him in the task he had undertaken for the colored people. Again and again the Lord said, If he will walk humbly with Me, I will be with him. I will help him and strengthen him.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 3)
The Lord has allowed trials to come to Edson. He has made mistakes and become embarrassed financially. Then he needed the sympathy and help that should have been granted to any other who was placed in similar circumstances. He needed to come in connection with those who were possessed of Christlike sympathy, who, in dealing with one in distress, would exercise compassion. But he did not receive this. Had the positions of Edson White and Irving Ford been reversed, and Irving Ford been the man in distress, Edson White would not have revealed a heart of steel, but a heart of flesh. He would not have acted the unfeeling part that Brother Ford has acted, but would have made an effort to help him out of his difficulty.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 4)
Brother Ford, I have seen that it is in you to be hardhearted and to take advantage of the unfavorable circumstances of others. In this you do not represent Christ. The sooner you are removed from the position you occupy, and another who has a converted heart and mind takes your place, the better it will be. Our offices of publication need no such representation as you have given. The Spirit of Christ that pities and sympathizes with the distressed should be cultivated by every worker in the office. You have made conditions as hard and trying as possible for Edson White. Light has been given me that unless our workers are guarded on the points on which you have erred, the office in Nashville will be a place where the honor of God cannot abide.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 5)
I have been instructed that the converting power of God needs to come into the office at Nashville. The wrongs that have been done in taking advantage of Edson White need to be corrected, and in the place of the wrongs that have existed, righteous actions are to prevail. Every unjust bargain that has been made, every unfair advantage of circumstances that has been taken will have to be set right. Those who will not reform, who refuse to conform their actions to the principles of truth and righteousness, should not be retained in the office to spoil the record that we should be careful to preserve. The Lord will not prosper those who take advantage of the adverse circumstances of their fellows in any respect. Those who persist in dealing unjustly should have no part in the work of the office.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 6)
The danger of such a course of action as has been revealed is that men will spoil the representation that should be made of the publishing work. The Nashville publishing house should stand as a representation of justice and mercy and the love of God. It is an easy matter to profess the faith, but is another thing to carry out in the life the living principles of truth. I hope that those who have worked to hold Brother Ford in a position of responsibility will see that his course has brought reproach upon the work and has given to the workers in the office an example that is dishonoring to God. The reputation of the office must not be spoiled by one who does not have God in his dealings with others. It is not wise to allow the interests of the publishing house to be jeopardized by the influence that has been molding the work there. Seek for a man to stand at its head who will do his duty as a manager, but who will not spoil the character of the work by bringing in false ideas and wrong principles. There are men professing to be wise who need to become fools in the judgment of the world in order to become wise in the judgment of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 7)
The workers in the Nashville office have had a representation of what the human heart is capable of when it is not converted to the merciful principles of the gospel. No such spirit as has been manifested by Brother Ford should be tolerated in the work and cause of God. The men who labor in the office should be men who are connected with Christ and who are laborers together with God. None should be retained who are unconverted. In the lives of all should be seen a living power, and their actions should reveal the Spirit of Christ. Let none remain in the office who question their need of a personal Saviour and who cannot discern between the righteousness of Christ and a false righteousness. And those who are employed there should not be spoiled by the exhibition of an unchristian spirit on the part of the leading men. All need to be thoroughly converted. The workers need to experience a heart conversion; the soul temple needs to be cleansed and the heart open continually to an indwelling Saviour. Those who are converted, and upon whom the blessing of Christ is resting, will exert day by day an influence that will communicate light and blessing to others. The character will be formed according to the divine pattern, and the worker will know that he is one with Christ. When the workers in the office are men and women who daily draw near to God, they will not be slow to distinguish between sin and righteousness.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 8)
Christ says to His followers, “Ye are the light of the world.” [Matthew 5:14.] Should our workers envelop their light in a thick covering of worldly policy? Should they seek for a scientific measurement as to how much light they can afford to give to others? I speak to every worker in the office: Live under the direct rays of the Sun of righteousness. Let every soul communicate light. Light is to be given to all who are in the house. The world is the house. Our great work is to reveal in our experience the true light in distinction from all other lights. We are to reveal Christ to the world, and thus reveal the Father.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 9)
I speak words of warning to every worker in the office who has become tainted by wrong principles: Follow them not, for they lead away from the path were the voice of Jesus is heard, saying, This is the way; walk ye in it. We need no such example as has been given in the office at Nashville. There is a grand and noble work to be done by this people in this period of the world’s history. Let us recognize the leadings of the true Shepherd, and follow His instructions.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 10)
On my recent journey to Washington I had an experience that is of great value to me. I visited many places, speaking to companies of our people. I had an important work to do that required all my strength. It was thought strange that while in Nashville I did not visit the Southern Publishing office. I could not do this for I had not been instructed by the Spirit of the Lord that the time had come for me to go there. I felt that when the Lord had a message for me to bear to the workers in the printing office, I should not hesitate to go there and give the message. But I had not had evidence that the time to do this had come.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 11)
I could not visit the printing office and speak in its favor. I could not go there without bearing a testimony that would have been displeasing to the prominent workers. I should have had to tell them that the Lord condemned their manner of deal.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 12)
The Lord permitted me to have a presentation of the way in which James Edson White had been dealt with. The sight that was opened before me was one that I never want to witness again. I saw the stubborn, unfeeling, unconverted heart in contrast with the heart that is yielding to the transforming grace of Christ. The hard, unfeeling spirit that the Lord has seen revealed has sorely displeased Him. Edson White was on the point of losing his reason. I was instructed that the Lord condemns all such manner of dealing, for it reveals an unwholesome Christian experience and sets before the workers an unchristian example. His rebuke is upon those who have acted a part in taking an unfair advantage of circumstances and of dealing unfairly in business transactions. When Edson White was in deepest trouble, advantages were taken that God has reproved. Agreements have been entered into by which advantage has been taken of one in distress. I was shown that such an example, and such agreements, were not justifiable under any circumstances. These trades were made at a time when Edson was under great pressure, and reason was tottering, and the enemy wrought upon human minds. The Lord calls such unjust dealing, such taking advantage of the distress of another, oppression of the worst degree. It is sin that the Lord cannot tolerate in any office where His work is being done. I was shown that unless the Lord had sustained Edson White in his troubles, he would have lost his reason.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 13)
When Elder Butler took the position that he did in Nashville to sustain Brother Ford, he was not moving under the direction of the Holy Spirit. The office of manager should never have been urged upon Brother Ford. He should never have been sustained in his course of oppression in business deal. He has given an example that does not bear the commendation of heaven. If the head man in an office is a converted man, and is connected with Christ, he will be a living example of what every Christian should be—a laborer together with God. But if he will not walk in purity of soul, his example, which will be copied by others, will lead away from Bible principles.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 14)
The cause of a brother should be treated with justice and mercy. All crooked work, all unjust dealing, all taking advantage of circumstances God condemns. Let there be a doing of righteousness. Let the unjust actions taken against J. E. White be corrected. All in the office who have taken advantage of his embarrassed circumstances to deal unjustly should learn to deal with others as they would like to be dealt with. Unless the workers look at these things in their true light, unless they learn to do justice and exercise a merciful spirit, the Spirit of God will be withdrawn from them.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 15)
Let every line of work in the printing office stand pure and unadulterated by false principles. Let there be justice in deal. Let the wrongs that have existed be corrected. None of our printing offices can afford to allow evil to remain uncorrected. They cannot afford to deal in the way that Brother Ford has been dealing. There is to be a change in regard to these things and a repentance that needeth not to be repented of. There is a work to be done in the office that will cleanse it and refine and purify it.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 16)
Let us remember that every act of injustice dealt out to others must be met again. “With what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged; and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.” [Matthew 7:2.] God calls upon our institutions to learn the lesson of mercy and justice and the love of God. In some of our offices the learning of this lesson has been sadly neglected by some who profess to be doers of the Word.
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 17)
The Lord sums up the whole duty of man in the words: “Fear God, and keep His commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” [Ecclesiastes 12:13, 14.] “But I say unto you, That every idle word that man shall speak, he shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” [Matthew 12:36, 37.]
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 18)
“And the times of this ignorance God winked at, but now commandeth all men everywhere to repent; because He hath appointed a day in the which He will judge the world in righteousness, by that man whom He hath ordained; wherefore He hath given assurance to all men in that He hath raised Him from the dead.” [Acts 17:30, 31.]
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 19)
I am instructed to say to you, “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, and unto our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 20)
Human judgment does not decide any case. The Lord’s thoughts are not our thoughts, neither are His ways our ways. He is working through divine agencies to draw souls toward purity of service, toward mercy and justice. Who will be drawn? “The Lord hath said unto me, The backsliding Israel hath justified herself more than treacherous Judea. Only acknowledge thy wrong, and proclaim these words to the North, and say, Return, thou backsliding Israel, saith the Lord, and if thou repent I will not cause Mine anger to fall upon thee; for I am merciful, saith the Lord; and say to all that repent, I will not keep Mine anger forever. Only acknowledge thine iniquity that thou hast transgressed against the Lord thy God, and hath scattered thy ways to strangers, and ye have not obeyed My voice, saith the Lord. If thou repent, I will not keep My anger forever. Turn, O backsliding children, saith the Lord; for I am married unto you. I will take one of a city, and two of a family, and I will bring you to Zion, and I will give you pastors according to My heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.” [See Jeremiah 3:11-15.]
(24LtMs, Ms 45, 1909, 21)
Ms 47, 1909
Words Addressed to the Workers at Rock City Sanitarium NP April 30, 1909 [typed] Previously unpublished.
Words Addressed to the Workers at the Rock City Sanitarium, Nashville, Tennessee
Light was given me years ago that we should build up our work in Nashville, and that through our connection with the institutions that are now prospering in Nashville, we might impart the knowledge of precious truths to many of the colored people. We were instructed to come right into that position where we could help them in every possible way. This is one of the reasons why we established the printing office in Nashville.
(24LtMs, Ms 47, 1909, 1)
I was shown that efforts should be made whereby our workers could get into association with the colored people here and reach them with the present truth. Light was given me that there are precious souls in the institutions established for the education of the colored people—souls just as precious in the sight of God as are those of the white race. We should all stand in a position where we can be taught of God what our duty is toward these souls; then the gracious presence of God can be with us.
(24LtMs, Ms 47, 1909, 2)
When on my last visit I met with the brethren and sisters in the unfavorable place where they were endeavoring to do sanitarium work, I saw its [disadvantages;] I felt keen distress of mind. I felt that it was not right to be located in such a place, and that we should have greater advantages for the medical work that we conduct in behalf of the colored people. Those who are to be trained for service in this place must be taught to respect education. If they are given the institution they should have, they will be able to do a work for the colored race that our white workers cannot do.
(24LtMs, Ms 47, 1909, 3)
I am glad that you have this place. The Lord has been hearing our prayers that He would open the way for us to establish such a place as this. We thank the Lord for its advantages with heart and soul and voice.
(24LtMs, Ms 47, 1909, 4)
I have carried a great burden for the colored people of the South; and I believe the Lord is going to bless His workers in this place. God will help every one who engages in His work. We can reach these people. We can lift them up. We can meet them where they are and help them to rise, if we will take a proper and right course. The place you are now in is nearest to the representation made to me of what we should have than anything I have seen. A great burden is rolled from my heart as I see this work being established. I pray that just such institutions may be established in many places.
(24LtMs, Ms 47, 1909, 5)
Ms 49, 1909
Sermon/Partakers of the Divine Nature Takoma Park, Maryland June 6, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in HP 280; 17MR 32; 6Bio 197.
Closing sermon at the General Conference Session, Sunday afternoon, June 6, 1909.
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 1)
“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 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.
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 2)
“And besides 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.” [2 Peter 1:1-9.]
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 3)
The apostle sets before the believer an earnest work to be done. He is to live on the plan of addition, adding grace to grace. The virtue which is in Jesus Christ is for every soul for the perfecting of a Christian character. A precious promise is given to those who accept the conditions:
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 4)
“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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 5)
An eternal life insurance policy is granted to us. We need not go to the world to get our lives insured; we may come right to the promises of God, and take Him at His word, receiving the assurance that we need never fall. If we will live on the plan of addition, adding virtue to virtue and grace to grace, we shall be granted eternal life in God’s everlasting kingdom. It is our privilege to live in such close union with God in this life, that when we come to the gates of the city of God, He can welcome us there because we have become like Him in character. There we shall see the One who gave His life for us. Christ will welcome us to the city of God and place upon our heads the immortal crown. I want to share this joy; I want each of you to share it. I hope that none who are here will miss that great salvation.
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 6)
“Wherefore I will not be negligent,” the apostle continues, “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; knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus hath showed me. Moreover I will endeavor that ye be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance. For 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.” [Verses 12-18.]
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 7)
“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 Scriptures 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.” [Verses 19-21.]
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 8)
Shall we live on the plan of addition, or on the plan of subtraction? We have had many precious meetings here, and we need to make the very best account of our privileges. We shall very probably never all meet again on this earth; but I want to meet this people in the kingdom of God. We plead with you for Christ’s sake to bear in mind your high calling. Never forget that you are to live on the plan of addition. You are to keep adding grace to grace, constantly overcoming the tendencies to evil that are in your nature, constantly resisting the temptations of the world that will press continually upon you in these last days. For this work the promise of grace is given you: “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord.” [Verse 2.]
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 9)
Individually we need the salvation of God, and to stand in right relation to Him, and to have His Holy Spirit with us day by day. We are to be overcomers by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of our testimony. Let us be ascending, ascending the ladder of Christian experience. Its base rests upon the earth, and its top reaches to the highest heaven. Let us climb round after round until Christ appears, when we shall be prepared to step from this ladder into the kingdom of God. This we shall do if we are ready for His appearing. My brethren and sisters, we have a large work to do, a very large work. Let us not make any mistake. Let us try to live up to the precious promises God has given, keeping in view the crown of life that awaits all who faithfully persevere in the work of perfecting Christian character.
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 10)
Let us consider the sacrifice of God and of Christ in our behalf. So great was the interest of God in our world that He gave His only begotten Son to come to the earth as a little child and to live a life like that of every human being, that through Him humanity might reach divinity. Christ suffered abuse and rejection and was finally crucified at the hands of wicked men; but through His sinless life and atoning death, He made it possible for humanity to lay hold of divinity and become partakers of the divine nature, and to escape the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 11)
Are we responding to the demands which this sacrifice makes upon us? Are we seeking to come into right relation to God? The apostle exhorts us: “Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; that he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revelings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you: who shall give account to Him that is ready to judge the quick and the dead.” [1 Peter 4:1-5.]
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 12)
“For this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit. But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer. And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. Use hospitality one to another without grudging. As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.” [Verses 6-10.]
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 13)
From the light that God has given me, I know that we do not realize how near is the end of all things. We do not sense as we should the need of being daily overcomers and of securing the eternal reward. It is those who overcome the temptations that are in the world through lust, who are partakers of the divine nature. The sacrifice has been made for us. Will we accept it? May the Lord help us to make a covenant with Him by sacrifice and to lay hold of the promises of His Word. May He help us to be overcomers by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 14)
It requires prayer, it requires faith, it requires understanding to become a partaker of the divine nature. But as we obtain this experience, we are not benefiting ourselves alone; we are giving to all around us an evidence that all may be partakers of the divine nature, all may be overcomers. My brethren and sisters, let us determine to be victorious. Let us seek for a large measure of divine grace. I feel deeply, very deeply the need of our revealing the truth in our lives. If we will lay hold of the promises, eternal life will be given us at the end of the warfare.
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 15)
The question is often asked, What does Sister White say the higher education is? The higher education is to become a partaker of the divine nature. It is to copy the life and character of Christ, so that we shall stand on vantage ground as we fight the battles of life. It is to learn to gain daily victories over sin. As we seek for this education, angels of God are our companions; when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard for us against the enemy.
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 16)
Let us not be swayed by the elements of the world, but let us show that we are determined to be overcomers day by day and hour by hour. Angels of God are watching us every day. They are present in this meeting to impress on human hearts the truths spoken. I pray that those who shall go from this meeting to other places shall take the angels of God with them. Some have come long distances, that they might attend this conference. May the blessing of the Lord rest upon these, is my prayer.
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 17)
Let us go forth to clear the King’s highway. God is waiting to bestow His richest blessings on human hearts in response to our ministry. God help us to carry to the souls who are in darkness the light of truth that will convince them of sin and lead them to righteousness.
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 18)
The apostle Peter, in referring to his work as an elder of the church, declares that he is “a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed.” [1 Peter 5:1.] This is the glory of which he speaks when he says: “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.” [2 Peter 1:3.] It is this glory of which we may all be partakers as faithful ministers. But those who share in this glory must give earnest heed to the apostles’ exhortation: “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 19)
“Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time: casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: whom resist steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace who hath called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered awhile, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. To Him be glory and dominion forever and ever, Amen.” [1 Peter 5:2-11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 20)
May the Lord help us to live in accordance with His Word. We all need the truth as it is in Jesus. Let us represent Christ and the truth wherever we go, that we may stand in that position where we can glorify God. My brethren and sisters, Jesus loves to make intercession for you. Cling to Jesus. Strive to be overcomers, that the Saviour may welcome you to the city of God, where you can sing the triumphs of redeeming grace.
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 21)
O what a scene of rejoicing it will be when the Lamb of God shall place upon the heads of the redeemed the victor’s crown! Never, nevermore will you be led into temptation and sin. You will see the King in His beauty. And those whom you have helped heavenward will meet you there. They will throw their arms about you and acknowledge what you have done for them. “You watched over me,” they will say; “you prayed for me; you helped me to gain heaven.” God grant that all who are here may hear the Saviour’s words of welcome, and hear the grateful thanks of souls whom they have labored for in this life.
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 22)
Brethren, we shall separate for a little while, but let us not forget what we have heard at this meeting. Let us go forward in the strength of the Mighty One, considering the joy that is set before us of seeing His face in the kingdom of God and of going out no more forever. Let us remember that we are to be partakers of the divine nature, and that angels of God are right around us, that we need not be overcome by sin. Let us send our petitions to the throne of God in time of temptation and in faith lay hold of His divine power. I pray God that this may be the experience of each one of us and that in the great day of God we all may be glorified together.
(24LtMs, Ms 49, 1909, 23)
Ms 51, 1909
The High Standard to be Maintained in Our Nashville Publishing House NP July 23, 1909 [typed] Previously unpublished. +
I refer again to the Nashville publishing house. There has come into the office a representation that the Lord will not accept. If the head man of such an institution as this is an unconverted man, he should not remain to spoil the reputation and influence of the work. It would be better for a man that he had never been born than that he should exert an influence that will lead souls from the path of true principle.
(24LtMs, Ms 51, 1909, 1)
There should be a change in some of the workers in the Nashville publishing house. Employ those who fear the Lord and who are obedient to His Word. The one who has been standing as manager has not the qualifications to fit him for the place. His lack of Christian principle reveals the fact that he should not be there. It would be detrimental to the best interests of the office for him to remain, and all who follow a similar course should be dismissed from its employ. The work of God is too sacred a work to be marred by the actions of those who have not yielded their hearts to the power of righteous principles. The Lord wants in His service men who sense deeply their accountability to Him and who will walk and work under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
(24LtMs, Ms 51, 1909, 2)
Brother Ford has revealed hardness of heart and an unfeeling spirit in the course of action he has taken toward Edson White. Edson should have been treated justly; but he has been made to pass through severe trials. No man should be retained as the manager of the printing office who does not give evidence of possessing a kindly spirit and a high sense of the sacredness of the work committed to his leadership. “Ye are My witnesses, saith the Lord.” [Isaiah 43:10.] The life of the manager of such a work should adorn his profession of the truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 51, 1909, 3)
The publishing work was established by the Lord. It is a specific work. The truth that is handled in our offices of publication is not to be regarded as a common thing. Angels of God have been displeased with the spirit that has prevailed in the office. It is not the will of God that any should remain in responsible positions in the publishing house who are not under the influence of the Spirit of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 51, 1909, 4)
Seventh-day Adventists have been chosen of God to be a peculiar people, zealous of good works. They are to let the light of truth shine forth in the character. The workers employed in the office are to be His representatives. God calls them laborers together with Him. Let there be no cheapness revealed in the work. The treasure of truth has been entrusted to them. Solemn warnings have been passing through their hands, to be sown broadcast, that the world may have the knowledge of present truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 51, 1909, 5)
The Lord’s institutions are to stand as witnesses for God, testifying to truth and righteousness in all their business dealing with believers and unbelievers. Our publishing houses are effective agencies for the testing of character and for proving what is in the workers employed. If they are converted daily, the truth will go forth from them as a lamp that burneth.
(24LtMs, Ms 51, 1909, 6)
Like the great light in a lighthouse, the publications are constantly sending forth their clear, living testimony as to what is truth. Lightness and jesting and joking reveal the darkness in which the world is enshrouded. The publications are like the precious rays of light that go forth to enable the people to see Christ in His beauty and holiness. Amid the fallacies of the world, our publishing houses are to send forth a knowledge of saving truth, which will arouse the people as the message of John the Baptist stirred men to self-examination and repentance. The burden of the forerunner’s message was, “Prepare ye the way of the Lord; make His paths straight.” [Matthew 3:3.]
(24LtMs, Ms 51, 1909, 7)
As John the Baptist prepared the way for Christ at His first advent, our publishing houses, by exalting the claims of God’s downtrodden law, are to be agencies in the world for preparing a people for Christ’s second coming.
(24LtMs, Ms 51, 1909, 8)
In clear, distinct lines the workers are to present the importance of perfect obedience to all God’s requirements. Constrained by the love of Christ, they are to co-operate with Him in building up the old waste places and raising up the foundation of many generations. They are to stand as repairers of the breach. By their restoring influence, they are to exalt before men the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, which stands throughout the ages as a constant reminder of God and of their obligations to Him as their Creator.
(24LtMs, Ms 51, 1909, 9)
I urge upon all our workers the importance of co-operating with the heavenly agencies that, as God’s messengers, are present in the offices of publication. What a work this brings to our minds! I call upon every worker to realize how exalted is the privilege that God confers upon you in making you His ministers to proclaim to the world that the hour of His judgment is come.
(24LtMs, Ms 51, 1909, 10)
Ever remember that the Lord searches the heart. Let every one bearing responsibilities in His service be converted daily. Let all work out their salvation with fear and trembling, being daily sanctified through the truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 51, 1909, 11)
Ms 53, 1909
Talk/Proclaiming the Third Angel’s Message in Cities at Home and Abroad Takoma Park, Maryland June 11, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in Ev 38-40, 61-62; 3MR 220-222; 10MR 360-361; PC 269; 6Bio 208-209. +
Talk by Mrs. E. G. White before the General Conference Committee, Foreign Mission Seminary Library, Friday morning, June 11, 1909.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 1)
I am very thankful for the privilege of meeting once more with my brethren in responsibility. This has been a busy week. The Lord has strengthened me, and I praise His holy name. If we praise God more, and complain less, it will be pleasing to Him whom we serve and will do us much good. We desire that the Spirit of God shall not be withdrawn from us because of ingratitude on our part.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 2)
The Bible is filled with precious instruction. In the seventh chapter of Proverbs we read: “My son, keep My words, and lay up My commandments with thee. Keep My commandments and live; and My law as the apple of thine eye. Bind them upon thy fingers, write them upon the table of thine heart. Say unto wisdom, Thou art my sister, and call understanding thy kinswoman.”Proverbs 7:1-4. In this we see how God tries to make His grace familiar to us by the use of pleasing figures. He desires that we shall lay hold on the simplicity of true godliness.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 3)
To those who are bearing heavy responsibilities, I wish to say: The Lord desires every one of us to come into a sacred nearness with Himself. It is our privilege to do this. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.] With such promises as these, let us come before the Lord with assurance, presenting before Him His own Word, and saying, “Father, you have promised to accept us in the Beloved. You have made provision for our salvation through the gift of Jesus.”“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.] Oh, what a gift! And all that we might become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 4)
Brethren, let us dwell upon these high and holy themes. Let us meditate daily on the wondrous provision of grace made in our behalf. And let us always remember that we owe it to our fellow men to tell them of God’s infinite love for the fallen race. In view of the sacrifice made by the Father and by His only begotten Son, can we for a moment, as laborers together with God, think of planning to gather a large number of our forces in one place? It would be wrong for us to do this. We cannot afford it. For the conduct of affairs at the various centers of our work, we must endeavor, as far as possible, to find consecrated men who have been trained in business lines. We must guard against tying up at these centers of influence men who could do a more important work on the public platform, in presenting before unbelievers the truths of God’s Word.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 5)
When I think of the many cities still unwarned, I cannot rest. It is distressing to think that they have been neglected so long.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 6)
When Brother Burden was leaving for Southern California at the close of this conference, he inquired of me, “What shall we plan to do for Loma Linda?”“Go straight ahead,” I replied; “let the truth shine forth in every possible way. Continue to work with all your zeal in the territory surrounding your sanitarium. Help your students to learn how to labor, and keep sending them out into Redlands, and Riverside, and San Bernardino, and the smaller towns and villages round about. Introduce our publications, and do thorough work. Let your light shine as a lamp that burneth. Encourage the students to greater activity in missionary labor while taking their course of study.”
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 7)
Our brethren at Loma Linda are in need of funds with which to carry on their work. But notwithstanding their present necessity, I have encouraged them not to falter, but to go forward in the name of the Lord. And now I appeal to my brethren in Washington not to allow them to suffer. While we are planning to support the educational work in such places as Washington, we must not forget the important work that must be done at Loma Linda, and in other centers of training.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 8)
For many, many years the cities of America, including the cities in the South, have been set before our people as places needing special attention. A few have borne the burden of working in these cities; but, in comparison with the great needs and the many opportunities, but little has been done. Where is your faith, my brethren? Where are the workmen? In many of our large cities the first and the second angels’ messages were proclaimed during the 1844 movement. To you, as God’s servants, has been entrusted the third angel’s message, the binding-off message, that is to prepare a people for the coming of our King. Time is short. The Lord desires that everything connected with His cause shall be brought into order. He desires that the solemn message of warning and of invitation shall be proclaimed as widely as His messengers can carry it. The means that shall come into the treasury is to be used wisely in supporting the workers. Nothing that would hinder the advance of the message is to be allowed to come into our planning.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 9)
Night after night, night after night, I have lain awake, weeping, and pleading with God, because of the seeming inability of some to discern opportunities for extending our efforts into the many unworked places close by—places that might have been warned years ago, had we chosen to do a broad work, rather than to hover around a few centers. We need to cultivate a spirit of self-sacrifice and of constant devotion to the needs of a lost world. All about us are souls that are perishing for lack of the knowledge that we might bring to them, if faithful to our mission.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 10)
For years the pioneers of our work struggle against poverty and manifold hardships, in order to place the cause of present truth on vantage ground. With meager facilities, they labored untiringly; and the Lord blessed their humble efforts. The message went with power in the East, and extended westward, until centers of influence have been established in many places. The laborers of today may not have to endure all the hardships of those early days. The change of conditions, however, should not lead to any slackening of effort.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 11)
And now, when the Lord bids us to proclaim the message once more with power in the East; when He bids us enter the cities of the East, and of the South, and of the North, and of the West, shall we not respond, as one man, and do His bidding? Shall we not plan to send messengers all through these fields and support them liberally? Shall not the ministers of God go into these crowded centers, and there lift up their voices in warning to multitudes? What are our conferences for, if not for the carrying forward of this very work? At such a time as this, every hand is to be employed. The Lord is coming. The end is near; yea, it hasteth greatly! In a little while from this we shall be unable to work with the freedom that we now enjoy. Terrible scenes are before us; and what we do, we must do quickly. We must now build up the work in every place possible. And for the accomplishment of this work, we greatly need in the field the help that can be given by our ministers of experience who are able to hold the attention of large congregations.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 12)
During this conference I had a message for Brother Prescott. He is a minister. He should not remain here in Washington to do a work that another man can do. He can stand before the people and give the reasons of our faith in an acceptable way. I know this, because I have been associated with him in labor. He has a precious gift, and here he is employed in work that other men can do, while there is a dearth of laborers who can warn these large cities! His gift is not to be used longer as it is now; for if he continues to labor here, his health and strength will be used up. But if he will go out into the public ministry, strength will come to him.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 13)
Before leaving home I promised the Lord that if He would spare my life, and enable me to come to this conference, I would deliver the message he had repeatedly given me in behalf of the cities in which thousands upon thousands are perishing without a knowledge of the truth. As I have borne this message to the people, the blessing of God has rested on me richly. And now, my brethren, I appeal to you in the name of the Lord to do your best and to plan for the advancement of the work in God’s appointed way.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 14)
A little has been done in Washington, and in other cities of the South and the East; but in order to meet the mind of the Lord, we shall have to plan for the carrying forward of a far-reaching and systematic work. We must enter into this work with a perseverance that will not allow of any slackening of our efforts until we shall see of the salvation of our God. This will give us confidence to continue the work in still other places.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 15)
All these cities of the East where the first and the second angels’ messages were proclaimed with power, and where the third angel’s message was preached in the early days of our history as a separate, peculiar people, must now be worked anew. There is Portland, Maine; there is Boston, and all the many towns round about; there is New York City, and the populous cities close by; there is Philadelphia and Baltimore and Washington. I need not enumerate all these places; you know where they are. The Lord desires us to proclaim the third angel’s message with power in these cities. We cannot exercise this power ourselves. All we can do is to choose men of capability, and urge them to go into these avenues of opportunity, and there proclaim the message in the power of the Holy Spirit. As they talk the truth, and live the truth, and pray the truth, God will move upon hearts. We cannot make the proper impression ourselves, but God can move upon hearts with the words uttered by His messengers, so that men and women will be affected, and will see of the salvation of God. As we work with all the strength that God grants us, and in humility of heart, putting our entire trust in Him, our labors will not be without fruit. Our determined efforts to bring souls to a knowledge of the truth for this time will be seconded by holy angels, and many souls will be saved. The Lord never forsakes His faithful messengers. He sends to their aid heavenly agencies and accompanies their labors with the power of His Holy Spirit to convict and to convert.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 16)
Oh, that we might see the needs of these great cities as God sees them! We must plan to place in these cities capable men who can present the third angel’s message in a manner so forceful that it will strike home to the heart. Men who can do this, we cannot afford to gather into one place to do a work that others might do. Can we expect the inhabitants of these cities to come to us and say, “If you will come to us and preach, we will help you to do thus and so”? They know nothing of our message. The Lord desires us to let our light so shine before men, that His Holy Spirit may communicate the truth to the honest in heart who are seeking after truth. As we do this work, we shall find that means will flow into our treasuries, and we shall have means with which to carry on a still broader and more far-reaching work. Shall we not advance in faith, just as if we had thousands of dollars? We do not have half faith enough. Let us act our part in warning these cities. The warning message must come to the people who are ready to perish, unwarned, unsaved. How can we delay? As we advance, the means will come. But we must advance by faith, trusting in the Lord God of Israel. Night after night I am unable to sleep, because of this burden resting upon me in behalf of the unwarned cities. Night after night I am praying and trying to devise methods by which we can enter these cities and give the warning message. Why, there is a world to be saved, and we are to go east and west and north and south and work intelligently for the people all about us. As we undertake this work, we shall see the salvation of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 17)
If the Lord continues to strengthen me, I expect to visit some of the places where I labored in my early youth during the 1844 movement, and soon after the passing of the time. I should like to visit Portland, Maine, once more, where in my childhood, as it were, the Lord gave me a message that bore everything before it. In those days it was not the testimony of a young girl that had a telling effect; it was the power of the Holy Spirit accompanying the message that touched hearts. Angels of God were with us in the rooms were we met, working, working, working upon human hearts. And thus it is today. Not the messenger, but the power accompanying his God-given message impresses hearts and leads to an acceptance of the words that are spoken. God lives and rules today, and He works through His appointed agencies, to the saving of many precious souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 18)
There is a large work to be done here in the city of Washington that still remains undone. There is a large work to be done in the South and in the East; and our General Conference is to do its share in supplying the men that shall go out into these fields. And as men and women are brought into the truth in the cities, the means will begin to come in. As surely as honest souls will be converted, their means will be consecrated to the Lord’s service, and we shall see an increase of our resources.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 19)
Brethren, let us work intelligently. May God help us and strengthen our faith. If Brother Prescott keeps at the work that he is doing now, his strength will fail. As he engages in active ministry in these great cities, and meets those who are hungering and thirsting for truth, his soul will be refreshed, and he will have health and vigor. The people will listen to his preaching, and many will be converted.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 20)
*****
G. A. Irwin: Would you be willing to answer a question, Sister White, that is in the minds of some?
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 21)
E. G. White: Certainly.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 22)
G. A. Irwin: In all that you have said concerning the work of Elder Prescott, do you mean that he is to continue as editor of the paper, and also to go out and preach in the cities occasionally?
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 23)
E. G. White: No; no; he must give himself up to the work of the ministry. His strength should not be divided. He is to give himself to the evangelistic work; for the very talent that he would otherwise use in helping to carry on the work at this Washington center is needed where there is no talent at the present time. In places where he may go, the work will have to build up solidly in various lines. There will be calls for special literature to go out among the people.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 24)
In studying this problem, let us remember that the Lord sees not as man sees. He looks upon the terrible neglect of the cities. I do not want to repeat what I have said about this neglect. It is not at all in the order of God It is the result of man’s devising. There is a world to be saved.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 25)
Some time ago, Brother Washburn wrote me from Nashville, asking whether I did not think it would be proper for him to remain there, where much remained undone. He referred to the comfortable situation of his family, and of how often he had moved from place to place; and now he wished to know whether it would not be advisable for him to remain there, even though there were several others workers stationed in the city. I urged him to get out into the unworked cities, where there were but few representatives of our faith. He did so; and today he sees fulfilled what I wrote him at that time. In talking with him recently about his experiences, I inquired, “Would you go back to the little place you had at Nashville?”“Sister White,” he replied, “you could not hire me to go back.”
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 26)
Now, brethren, when you lay your plans, I beg of you to remember that you are not to plan simply to strengthen these training centers at Washington, and to send out a few missionaries to foreign fields; but you are to plan, also, to work the cities right before your eyes.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 27)
W. C. White: By this, do you wish us to understand that we must plan to work the cities in foreign fields too?
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 28)
E. G. White: Yes, the cities in the foreign fields; indeed we should. Means can be raised for the support of our missions abroad. They are not to be left without funds.
(24LtMs, Ms 53, 1909, 29)
Ms 55, 1909
Talk/Lessons From the Sermon on the Mount Madison, Wisconsin August 16, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in WR 09/08/1909; 09/15/1909.
Talk by Mrs. E. G. White at morning worship, Madison, Wisconsin, Sanitarium, August 16, 1909.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 1)
“And seeing the multitudes, He went up into a mountain: and when He was set His disciples came unto Him: and He opened His mouth, and taught them, saying, Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.” [Matthew 5:1-6.]
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 2)
Now if any of you are feeling that hunger and thirst after righteousness, do not be discouraged, but claim for yourselves the promise, “Ye shall be filled.” [Verse 6.]
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 3)
“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the [pure] in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.” [Verses 7-9.]
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 4)
Will you remember that, when you see others in trouble and in difficulty, or at enmity with one another? If you do not know what else to do about it, you can certainly speak words of peace. That may stop their complaining, and prove a blessing.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 5)
“Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and say all manner of evil against you falsely, for My sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 6)
“Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 7)
“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an 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.” [Verses 10-15.]
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 8)
Now Christ gives us a charge. “Let your light so shine before men,” He says, “that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Verse 16.]
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 9)
Our daily experience with Christ should be of the highest value to us. We have an individual part to act in His service. Our blessed Saviour has given us these precious promises for our encouragement. He desires us to know that He is watching over us, and that He will teach us what He expects us to do. If the enemy comes to us in the morning, or during the day, with annoyances, let us remember these precious promises, and not allow ourselves to be ruffled. Let us remember that we are Christ’s representatives, and that we must not, by word or act, offend one another.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 10)
Do you think that perhaps no trials will arise? Certainly there will be trials. If there were not, you might rejoice that you had no devil to tempt you. But you will have temptations till the very close of time. Therefore you need to keep in close companionship with Christ. His angels are commissioned to watch over you. They are your appointed guardians. If some one says something that tends to provoke you, remember that at such a time silence is eloquence. Do not respond in a manner to retaliate. It will be better to say nothing than to speak unadvisedly. We will all have our battles to fight, though these struggles may vary in character according to our disposition and our experience.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 11)
Let us rejoice that Jesus Christ has made it possible for us to lay hold upon divinity. When we feel exceedingly tried, let us remember that there is a heavenly angel by our side. This thought will help us to honor Christ, who has made it possible for us to become sons and daughters of God. Unless we are constantly on our guard, we may be caught unawares and speak hastily. It may then be impossible for us to remove the impression from the minds of those to whom we have spoken; for some do not desire to get rid of such impressions. They seem to delight in cherishing evil. Let us, by keeping our words in harmony with the instructions the Saviour has given us, not give them any occasion for offense.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 12)
As we come in contact with varying dispositions, we shall undoubtedly find great provocation to speak unkindly. But remember that at such times silence is often eloquence. If you refrain from retaliating when you are provoked by others, you will surprise them. And if repeatedly you preserve your dignity under provocation, they will realize that you are in connection with a higher power. This honors God, who gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 13)
The enemy is at work in every way to divert our minds from the study of the Scriptures. In the cars, or wherever you go, you will find men trying to sell trashy magazines. You may be tempted to buy some of these magazines and put them on your tables. But do not place on your tables light reading for the perusal of whoever may come to visit you. Keep the Word there. We should study the Word; for above all other knowledge we should desire to know the way to heaven. In the study of these words of blessing that we have read this morning, we may learn some of the most precious lessons that can be found anywhere.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 14)
In all the world, there is not a better place than in a sanitarium to represent Christ. There you will meet with all kinds of temperaments and dispositions. You will find some that are in trial and perplexity, and who have never risen above their difficulties. If you will at the proper time repeat to them some verse of Scripture, not words of your own, you may be to them a savor of life unto life. You should be furnished with words of Scripture. Leave alone the trashy magazines that cannot give you health of mind. When you have read them, you have missed an opportunity of reading out of the Word the precious promises of God that will shield you from temptations, and that will furnish you with reasons for the faith that you cherish. We should be always able to give reason for our faith, in a manner that will not offend, but that will glorify God.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 15)
I repeat, I know of no better place to gain a valuable experience than right in one of our sanitariums. That is one reason why I have labored so constantly for their establishment. Some people say, We cannot afford so many sanitariums. But if they understood what sanitariums stand for, they could afford them. The Lord desires us to have many of these institutions, and they are to be places where Jesus can be spoken of.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 16)
Let us invite the Saviour into this institution. You need His presence in the sick room. When He walked on earth, He was the mighty Healer, and He is in perfect harmony with every effort to relieve suffering humanity. We are in a world that needs all the strength in word and action that we can give.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 17)
Let us come to God as little children to learn from Him. When you learn His way, you will be comforted by His words; and when you yourselves have been thus comforted, you will then be in a position to speak to others words of comfort. There are sick here, and with all the helpers there should be a strict guardianship over your words and actions; for we do not desire the sick to be afflicted any more than is necessary because of their physical aches and pains. If we learn of Christ daily, we shall have good, pleasant dispositions.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 18)
If we profess to be children of God, let us know that we have a right to be His children because we have accepted Him, and because we are doing just as He teaches in His Word. If we have some spare time, we will not go to a magazine to read some foolish, trifling, lying story, but we will find something in the Word to commit to memory. Then when the enemy besets us, we can resist him with the written Word of God. That is how Jesus met the enemy in the wilderness of temptation, not with arguments of His own to match those of Satan, but with a plain, “It is written.”
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 19)
You can baffle the great enemy by speaking words in season to those that are around you. You can meet his temptations with words of Scripture, and you will thereby become strengthened. You will thus be perfecting characters that will prepare you for a transfer to the future, immortal life, where there will be no danger of being overcome by a tempting devil.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 20)
Let us put our entire trust in our heavenly Father, that we may be filled with His word and meet the devil with a power that he cannot resist. If our hand grasps the hand of Infinity, Satan cannot lead us captive. There is a power in the simplicity of true godliness, for heavenly angels are round about us. We are not left to struggle helplessly against our natural evil dispositions. Wherever we are, we can send up a silent prayer to God and receive from Him just the help that is needed. Our God understands all our needs.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 21)
Our sanitariums have been established in the order of God, that we might be laborers together with Jesus Christ. Although He is now in the heavens, He is the same merciful, compassionate Saviour as when He was here on earth. He will work for us if we will take hold of Him by living faith. We shall not be left alone, to fall beneath the power of Satan.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 22)
O what a blessing the workers in our sanitariums may be if they will learn to speak words in season. I am thankful to see so many here. I realize that there are struggles before us all, but we may be overcomers. We may overcome by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of our testimony.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 23)
Will you not see how much missionary work you can do here in this sanitarium? If you will do this, the presence of God will be here, and you will be strengthened to resist temptations. Let us launch out in faith, armed with an “It is written,” knowing that we can quote the Scripture correctly. If we will press forward, doing our best, the blessing of God will be with us abundantly.
(24LtMs, Ms 55, 1909, 24)
Ms 57, 1909
Talk/Words of Counsel to the Workers in the Madison Sanitarium Madison, Wisconsin August 16, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in MM 173-174, 201-202, 212; RH 12/30/1909; 2MR 42.
Talk given by Mrs. E. G. White to the helpers in the Madison, Wisconsin, Sanitarium, August 16, 1909.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 1)
I cannot feel free to leave this sanitarium without speaking to you of the necessity of earnestly seeking the Lord. This must be done by the workers in all our institutions. A position in a sanitarium is a place of great responsibility. You are not to go on in carelessness and indifference, thinking that because this is the Lord’s institution, therefore He will work for you in any case. Let each one seek for a daily, living experience in service to God. Unless you have such an experience, patients that come in unconverted will ask why those professing to believe in the binding obligations of God’s law do not walk in obedience to His commandments.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 2)
Now is your time to say, Let us seek the Lord with all our hearts, that we may find Him. Let us humble ourselves before Him, that He may teach us. He cannot teach you His way unless you have humble hearts and are daily converted to His will.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 3)
I have thought a great deal about the experiences of the children of Israel. The Lord took them from Egyptian bondage, and for forty years He led them in the wilderness, separate from the idolatrous nations. Consider the lessons which He taught them at the mount, when He proclaimed to them His law! He desired them to be a peculiar people, separate from the wicked nations around them. He desired them to gain an experience that would fit them, not only to possess the land He had promised them, but also to carry out His purposes in their individual experiences. During all these forty years, they were led by Jesus Christ, enshrouded in the pillar of cloud. When the Lord wished them to tarry in any place, there the pillar of cloud would settle. There they would pitch their tents until the cloud lifted and again moved forward.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 4)
Over and over again, when they were brought into difficulties and trials, the Lord worked marvelously in their behalf. But notwithstanding all these things, and even while the Lord was keeping them separate from the nations that might have an evil influence over them, the children of Israel became lax in their observance of God’s commandments—those commandments which, if obeyed, would be their life. Not only did they disregard the Sabbath, but they broke also other commandments. God was greatly displeased with that generation and permitted punishment to come upon them.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 5)
In our institutions, we should take pains to make everything harmonize with the principles that the Lord has outlined before us in His Word. The work should be educational, preparing the workers for the transfer to the high courts above. This education is highly essential. Our sanitariums, which are established at large expense, are to be places where character is molded. In them should be laboring a class of people who have especially consecrated themselves to the service of God, and who seek Him daily for guidance.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 6)
There is not among us that simplicity that there should be. We should come to the Lord just as we are, humbling ourselves before Him, and wrestling earnestly until we receive the Holy Spirit. Why should we not do as the disciples did just before the day of Pentecost? They sought the Lord earnestly, and when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were “all of one accord.” [Acts 2:1.] Notwithstanding the opposition of the powers of darkness was so great that persecution arose, some even being put to death, the disciples witnessed for Christ, and large numbers were converted.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 7)
The Lord revealed Himself unto Saul, one of the foremost in persecution, and his was a case of genuine conversion. The Lord led him to be a mighty apostle. At other times the Lord worked to preserve His people and to open the way before His disciples. Do not these experiences clearly indicate that there is in heaven an observer of all that we are doing?
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 8)
As we draw nearer to the close of this earth’s history, we shall pass through experiences different from any we have yet seen. But we may know one thing—that we have a living God. We know that He has sent His Son into the world, and that Christ still lives. He is the same today as when He worked in power with the apostles.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 9)
We should be careful that we connect with all our sanitariums those who will give a right mold to the work. Characters are to be formed here after the divine similitude. It is not the expensive dress that will give us influence, but it is by true Christian humility that we exalt our Saviour. Our only hope for success in doing good to the people of the world, who come to our sanitariums as guests, is for the workers, each and every one, to maintain a living connection with God. Our dress is to be modest and neat, but this is not so important as is our deportment. That which is of greatest consequence is that the truth be lived out in our lives, that our words be in harmony with the faith we profess to hold. If the workers in our sanitariums will surrender to God, and take a high position as believers in His truth, the Lord will recognize this, and we shall see a great work done in these institutions.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 10)
It is not the wisest course to connect with our sanitariums too many who are inexperienced, who come as learners, while there is a lack of experienced, efficient workers. We need more matronly women, and men who are sound and solid in principle—substantial men who fear God, and who can carry responsibilities wisely. Some may come and offer to work for smaller wages, because they enjoy being at a sanitarium, or because they wish to learn; but it is not true economy to supply an institution largely with inexperienced helpers.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 11)
If the right persons are connected with our sanitariums, and if all will humble their hearts before God, although there may now be a heavy debt upon the institution, the Lord will work in such a way that the debt will be lessened, and souls will be converted to the truth, because they see that the workers are following in the way of the Lord and keeping His commandments. This is the only hope for the prosperity of the Madison Sanitarium. It is useless to think of any other way. We cannot expect the blessing of God to rest upon us if we serve God at will and let Him alone at pleasure.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 12)
It is not necessary that we should cater to the world’s demands for pleasure. There are other places in the world where people may find amusement. We need here substantial men and women; we need those who will reveal the simplicity of true godliness. We need men and women who are solid Christians, who will not feel that if they have had some experience, they must therefore be highly honored. You may have a rich and living experience here; but the Lord cannot be honored by you while you think that it does not matter whether or not you are subdued in spirit, or whether you are really converted. If the work here is to be sustained, we must have those who will carry responsibilities in the fear of God. A preparation for the kingdom of God is no haphazard work. You cannot be religious at times, and at other times irreligious. We must be workers who will follow on to know the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 13)
When the sick come to our institutions, they should be made to realize that there is a divine power at work, that angels of God are present. I wish to emphasize one point: Do not wear a sour countenance or a desponding look. There is danger of getting a sour spirit and of speaking harshly. Remember that you are dealing with invalids, and invalids watch the countenances of those who are about them. They watch to see if they are going to be spoken to encouragingly or discouragingly.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 14)
Your work is not to be confined to this institution. There are surrounding places where your influence should reach. If this sanitarium is conducted as it should be, its influence will grow. Similar institutions should be established in other places. This is why the Lord is laying upon His people the burden of establishing sanitariums, that His name may be glorified.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 15)
Patients should be encouraged to be out of doors as much as is consistent. There is health in the fresh air and in the sunshine. And it is an excellent thing, wherever it is possible, to have the sick engage in the cultivation of the land. This is well for both men and women.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 16)
What we need above everything else is to be converted. It is not safe for us to remain unconverted. We need the Spirit of Christ. You may profess religion, but this alone is not conversion. If you are converted, you will reveal it. As a true missionary for Christ you will employ every capability in an endeavor to make this institution a success. When you are in right relation with God, the very expression of the countenance will testify to the fact. There will be unity among all the workers. The workers here and in every institution need the molding, refining influence of the Holy Spirit upon the features and upon the whole character. When you are once thoroughly converted, your experience will be such that you will never again want to go back to a half-hearted condition. You will then bear the impress of the heavenly and the divine.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 17)
Will you not all put on Christ, not to lay Him off again, but to let His Spirit stamp your mind and character. When all in this institution are truly converted, there will be just as surely a wonderful work done as when on the day of Pentecost the disciples received the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The Lord Himself will be with you, to teach and to lead and to guide. You will see of the salvation of God. You may be disheartened at times. Discouragements will arise, but it is your privilege at all times to lay hold of the hope set before you in the gospel. Watch unto prayer. Believe that God will help you to speak words that will cheer and encourage and increase the faith of those with whom you associate.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 18)
Everything connected with a sanitarium should be neat and orderly. Neatness and order will often have more influence than mere words. In the bathroom everything should be so arranged as to make a favorable impression upon those who visit the institution. All the baths and pails should be made of metal. Wooden vessels absorb the impurities and are liable to convey disease, for they cannot be properly cleansed. Every precaution should be taken to prevent the communication of disease and to promote cleanliness and health.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 19)
The Lord desires His institutions to maintain a high standard. Let all be determined that individually you will act your part, that you will not do or say anything that might offend those with whom you associate. Cultivate a respectful manner. Remember that those who visit the institution are taking your measure. From your manners, your appearance, by your words, and the spirit you reveal, they are receiving their impressions of the institution you represent. The workers in responsible positions should maintain a sacred dignity. All should labor under the guidance of the Holy Spirit or God cannot be glorified in them.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 20)
We have too little of the Spirit of God. We are too lifeless. Let us begin now to seek the Lord in earnest, as though we were determined to find Him. Let us offer up our petitions to God, and He will surely help every one of us to reveal the truth in our lives. He bids us bear living testimony to Him, honor Him by honoring the institution which is His instrument for the accomplishment of His work.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 21)
The sanitarium is beautifully located, but it is not the location alone that will give it the influence it should have. There must be among the workers a thorough conversion. The instruction given me regarding this institution was, “The workers are not all converted. They need conversion, and they need to receive the Holy Spirit.”
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 22)
When you are thoroughly converted, you will be missionaries. You cannot help but be missionaries wherever you are. You will labor to help souls who come here in ignorance of the truth. You will represent the truth in your own character. Then you will see this institution prosper, for God will work through you to see that it is sustained.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 23)
What I would say to you now is that the Lord will bring you light if you will press right on, seeking for the Spirit of God, and persevering unto you receive it. You need to be elevated and ennobled, not by outward dress, but by the heart dress. The heart needs to be softened and subdued and the character molded by the Holy Spirit. When this is accomplished, you will be able to speak the truth in such a way that souls will be converted. You will be instruments of righteousness.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 24)
I hope that you will realize that you have reached a point in your experience where there must be a clearing up, a cleansing of heart and mind, that you may receive the Spirit of God in your hearts individually and that the light of heaven may be seen to abide upon you. God grant that this may be so.
(24LtMs, Ms 57, 1909, 25)
Ms 59, 1909
Talk/Educational Advantages of the Angwin Property Fruitvale, California September 13, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in PUR 09/23/1909.
From a talk given by Mrs. E. G. White, Fruitvale, California, September 13, 1909.
(24LtMs, Ms 59, 1909, 1)
We waited for many months for a decision regarding the title of the property under consideration at Sonoma. Finally the time came when we felt that there should be no more delay in securing a place where we might locate our college. When I learned that our brethren were considering the advantages of a property near the St. Helena Sanitarium, I was deeply interested.
(24LtMs, Ms 59, 1909, 2)
Last Thursday evening, September 9, I returned to St. Helena from a long journey in the eastern states. In crossing the mountains I had been seriously affected by the high altitude and was very feeble. But I felt that I must see this school property at once. So the next morning after my arrival at home, with a few others, I went up Howell Mountain to visit the Angwin place.
(24LtMs, Ms 59, 1909, 3)
I was very happily surprised to find here a place where we need not wait to make great preparations before our school can be opened. Here we may call the students to come, and we can begin the school work just as soon as they are on the ground. The advantages to be found here are many. A great deal of labor has been put forth to improve this property, which has been used in the past as a health resort.
(24LtMs, Ms 59, 1909, 4)
This place is more appropriate for our school than was the property we were previously considering. There was on that place, it is true, one large, very expensive building, but this building was not so well adapted to our school work. Those who erected this building had been very lavish in the use of their means, but the expenditure was not appropriate in a building for common school purposes. At Sonoma other buildings would have had to be erected very soon. But at Angwin there are sufficient buildings for present needs, and our school work can begin at once. These buildings are well adapted to our present necessities. Later on, more may need to be erected. Facilities will be added from time to time as they are needed.
(24LtMs, Ms 59, 1909, 5)
I am very glad that we need be delayed no longer in locating our school, and I am more thankful than I can express, that our school and our sanitarium can be near enough together so that their educational work may blend. The school can help the sanitarium by supplying it with fruit and vegetables, and the sanitarium can help the school by purchasing these things. And the students may receive advantages from both these institutions.
(24LtMs, Ms 59, 1909, 6)
I was able to see only the buildings and their immediate surroundings. Those who have seen the orchards and the large tract of timber can speak of these things. I know that the land near the buildings is good and produces abundantly. The fruit raised in the orchard is excellent. And fruit is of great value. In our schools we should study simplicity in diet. There need not be a large amount of troublesome labor put forth in order to make food palatable. When we are really hungry, we shall be able to relish the simple foods that God has furnished. It will be a great advantage to raise on our own school land a large part at least of the fruits, grains, and vegetables that will be necessary for those in the institution.
(24LtMs, Ms 59, 1909, 7)
At Angwin there are great advantages for us healthwise. The place is elevated, but is not too high. I found that the air was bracing, and that I could breathe freely. There is an abundance of clear, pure water, sufficient for all purposes. This is worth much to us. In the buildings we found a number of porcelain bathtubs and facilities for the treatment of any who may be sick.
(24LtMs, Ms 59, 1909, 8)
The buildings are substantial and in good repair. The whole bears the appearance of good care and neatness. The large supply of good bedding and the mattresses reminded me of what we found in Loma Linda when that property was purchased.
(24LtMs, Ms 59, 1909, 9)
Everything seems to be ready for the students and teachers to begin work. All may show their ingenuity and their industry in carrying forward in a commendable way the work of the farm and orchard. I feel to rejoice that we have substantial, neat, and convenient buildings all ready for our school. We can plan for more facilities as they are needed.
(24LtMs, Ms 59, 1909, 10)
It is true that there is a long hill to climb in order to reach the place, but that is not altogether a disadvantage. Many of us would be greatly benefited in muscle and in sinew if we did more climbing of hills.
(24LtMs, Ms 59, 1909, 11)
The former owner of this property seems to be well pleased that we have secured it. And I believe that the price is very reasonable, for there are horses and carriages, a number of cows, and almost everything that we need to begin work. There is all that we need for the present. Now let us all take hold interestedly to make this school what the Lord would have it to be. We need to seek wisdom from God, who has so wonderfully blessed us in preparing this place for our use.
(24LtMs, Ms 59, 1909, 12)
Ms 61, 1909
Words of Instruction NP September 17, 1909 [typed] This manuscript is published in entirety in 10MR 214-219. +
Individually and as a people we have a most solemn work before us. There is a daily preparation of heart and mind to be gained in order that we may be fitted to work out the purposes of God for us. The perils of the last days are upon us, and at this time we are each determining what our destiny for eternity shall be. Individually we are to form characters that will stand the test of the judgment. Individually we are to give in the church where we are an example of faithfulness and consecration.
(24LtMs, Ms 61, 1909, 1)
The ministry of the Word is designed to prepare a people to stand in the times of temptation in which we live; and church members are to co-operate with the work of ministry by revealing in the life the principles of the truth, that no word shall be spoken or act performed that will lead into false paths or create a condition of things that God cannot approve.
(24LtMs, Ms 61, 1909, 2)
There has been revealed to me the grave dangers we shall meet in these last days of peril and temptation. Our only reliable light and guide for this time is in the Word of God. We must take this Word as our Counsellor, and faithfully follow its instructions, or we shall find that we are being controlled by our own peculiar traits of character, and our lives will reveal a selfish work that will be a hindrance and not a blessing to our fellow men. We need to go to the Word of God for counsel for every step we take, for self is ever ready to strive for the mastery.
(24LtMs, Ms 61, 1909, 3)
It is the duty of those who stand as leaders and teachers of the people to instruct church members how to labor in missionary lines and then to set in operation the great, grand work of proclaiming widely this message which must arouse every unworked city before the crisis shall come when, through the working of satanic agencies, the doors now open to the message of the third angel shall be closed. God requires that we shall give the message of present truth to every city, and not keep the work bound up in a few places. Wherever an opening for the truth can be found, there let men be stationed who are capable of presenting its teachings with a power and conviction that will reach hearts.
(24LtMs, Ms 61, 1909, 4)
The judgments of God are being stayed, that the voice of truth may be heard in its simplicity. Let those who have part in this sacred work be wide-awake and each endeavor to labor in God’s appointed way. Let none set up as the Lord’s way the way of human devisings.
(24LtMs, Ms 61, 1909, 5)
The words were spoken to me with impelling power: Wake up the watchmen to carry the word of warning to every city in America. Build up the waste places. The righteous judgments of God, with their weight of final decision, are coming upon the land. Do not hover over the churches to repeat over and over again the same truths to the people, while the cities are left in ignorance and sin, unwarned and unlabored for. Soon the way will be hedged up and these cities will be closed to the gospel message. Wake up the church members, that they may unite in doing a definite and self-denying work.
(24LtMs, Ms 61, 1909, 6)
Our camp-meetings should not be held again and again in the same places. Carry the message into new cities. If necessary, we must expend less means in the few places where the message has been quite fully preached, that we may go out into other places where the warning has not been given, and where men and women are ignorant of the great crisis that is about to come to all who live upon the earth. We have the word of truth—the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus—to give to the people of this generation. Means is needed that we may do quickly the work that must be done in building up the waste places and raising up the foundations of many generations. We are not to spend our money on things that are not essential. God requires that every available dollar shall be given to the work of opening new fields for the entrance of the gospel message and in lessening the mountains of difficulty that seek to close up our missionary work. For Christ’s sake I ask you to carry out God’s purposes for the opening of missions in every city, in every place. Satan is working with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish. Is it not time that we awake out of sleep? Our apparent devotion to the things of this life contradicts the faith we profess to hold.
(24LtMs, Ms 61, 1909, 7)
The warning message for this time is not being given earnestly in the great business world. Day after day the centers of commerce and trade are thronged with men and women who need the truth for this time, but who gain no saving knowledge of its precious principles, because earnest, persevering efforts are not put forth to reach this class of people where they are.
(24LtMs, Ms 61, 1909, 8)
The publications and periodicals that come from our presses have a definite and far-reaching work to do. These papers are not to repeat and discuss the errors that are all the time coming in to divert the mind from what is truth. Let the articles deal with the truths of the Word of God, giving clear instruction regarding the saving truths for this time and warning of the near approach of the judgments of God and the end of all things.
(24LtMs, Ms 61, 1909, 9)
As the work advances, our publications in all languages should increase in circulation. Our presses are now at work in many lands, sending forth the truth in French, Danish, German, and many foreign languages. Let a spirit of harmony and unity prevail as the work is carried forward; we have no time for contention and strife. In every clime the truth is to go forth as a lamp that burneth. Let every reasoning mind have the privilege of hearing the truth for this time.
(24LtMs, Ms 61, 1909, 10)
In the advocacy of the cause of temperance, our efforts are to be multiplied. The subject of Christian temperance should find a place in our sermons in every city where we labor. Health reform in all its bearings is to be presented before the people, and special efforts made to instruct the youth, the middle aged, and the aged in the principles of Christian living. Let this phase of the message be revived, and let the truth go forth as a lamp that burneth.
(24LtMs, Ms 61, 1909, 11)
The men and women who believe the truth for this time are to be educated to go forth and speak intelligently in regard to the reformation which God calls for in the observance of the true Sabbath, given at the creation of the world to man to be observed by him to the close of time. God will be with those who with faithfulness will give the message of present truth in all its fulness. He will be with them even as He has been with His people in the past.
(24LtMs, Ms 61, 1909, 12)
The world is preparing for the closing work of the third angel’s message. The truth is now to go forth with a power that it has not known for years. The message of present truth is to be proclaimed everywhere. We must be aroused to give this message with a loud voice, as symbolized in the fourteenth chapter of Revelation. There is danger of our accepting the theory of the truth without accepting the great responsibility which it lays upon every recipient. My brethren, Show your faith by your works. The world must be prepared for the loud cry of the third angel’s message—a message which God declares shall be cut short in righteousness.
(24LtMs, Ms 61, 1909, 13)
The message of the apostle James, depicting the misery of the rich who have done wickedly, is to be repeated as a message of warning and appeal. The instruction given in the first and second chapters of First Peter, exhorting believers to a godly life, is to be presented to the people. Let all be impressed with the fact that the time has come when all should work intelligently and earnestly for the accomplishment of the work of salvation.
(24LtMs, Ms 61, 1909, 14)
I am instructed to say to those who have long stood at the head of the work, and who for years have allowed many of our large cities to remain unworked: The Lord will call to account those who have worked out their own plans to do a large work in a few places while they have left undone the work that should have been done in giving the last warning message to the many large cities of our land. There has been with some a spirit of forbidding, a desire to hold back from the work brethren who desired to have a part in it. Some in the blindness of their hearts have been hindering the work, and this has brought unbelief into many hearts. I am now counseled in regard to the need of employing all our energies and all our means for the advancement of the work. We need to use our influence in encouraging others to labor. Let the spirit of sanctified activity be encouraged rather than the spirit that would seek to hinder and forbid, and there will be seen advancement where in the past there has been failure to follow the will of the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 61, 1909, 15)
When the workers in the cause of God are converted in spirit, they will be willing to do the work that is waiting to be done. When they are willing to practice self-denial, they will have spiritual discernment to understand what the purposes of God are. Then they will remove from their hearts that which hinders them from co-operating fully with Him. And when they give evidence that they are determined to carry out the Lord’s plans, and not their own devisings, decided changes will be seen. A spirit of humility and trust in God will reveal that God is a God of wisdom, and that His work is done in righteousness and truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 61, 1909, 16)
Ms 63, 1909
Talk/Words of Counsel Boulder, Colorado September 5, 1909 Previously unpublished.
Instruction given by Sister White to the faculty and heads of departments of the Boulder, Colorado, Sanitarium, September 5, 1909.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 1)
It has been presented to me that this institution at Boulder has had a hard and discouraging experience on account of the opposing influences brought to bear upon it by the rival institution that was set up here in Boulder. I understand that that sanitarium is about to give up its work. The Lord would have this institution stand at all times on the highest platform, to exert an influence that will honor His name. He wants the helpers who connect with this sanitarium to be of such a character that He can unite with them in the accomplishment of the work that they have been called here to do.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 2)
It has been presented to me at different times that unless special efforts are made by the workers in this institution to keep everything running smoothly, wrong impressions will go forth that will do great harm to the institution. Nothing like contention should be allowed to exist in the Boulder Sanitarium, for this will lead the guests and patients to lose confidence and to carry away reports that will injure the work. Patients who leave the institution to go to their homes will tell others of what they have seen and heard in the sanitarium family; and if the report they carry away is unfavorable in character, those who hear it will say, “We do not want to go to that institution.” Just how people feel and act about such matters has been presented to me.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 3)
I was shown that from the first some matters connected with this institution have been conducted on a wrong basis, and that some things have occurred that ought not to be. Personal feelings have been cherished and followed, often regardless of the right. This one and that one has come in to suggest plans of their own devising; and at times when difficulty has arisen, some would take sides. Some have shown that there was an element in their education and temperament that unfits them for acceptable service unless they experience a thorough conversion. When they are converted daily, they will reveal a spirit that knows how to bear and forbear. Sanitarium workers should be kind and cheerful and remember that angels are witnessing their course.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 4)
There is always danger of getting workers into our institutions who are not real helpers. This has been the case in Boulder. The Lord wants everyone connected with our health institutions to be prepared to lift, and to carry burdens bravely, and to exert a decided influence for righteousness and truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 5)
The appearance of the sanitarium grounds and buildings is excellent. Everything seems to be in good order; the buildings are well located, and the surroundings are attractive and beautiful. Inside the building good taste is manifest, yet nothing seems to be extravagant. It is possible, through the grace of Christ, for the family life of the institution to be equally as pleasing. If those connected with the sanitarium will be daily converted, and be filled with the Spirit of God, there is no reason why the work should not be conducted on a high religious plane and exert a wide, uplifting influence.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 6)
Since I have come here this time, matters have been presented to me in this light: If a high spiritual standard prevailed here, the distracting influences that have existed in the sanitarium, and which have counterworked the influence of the truth, would come into harmony. If all those who claim to believe the seventh day to be the Sabbath would work in the spirit of unity, and consider that they must stand on an elevated platform, the Spirit of the Lord would come in here, and the sick would be greatly blessed. Angels of God would be present to impress hearts. But if the workers are careless, and do not sense the consequences of their words and actions, and permit unfavorable impressions to be made by their words and deportment, the agencies of God cannot sustain them in their work. All the workers should be in harmony, that the light of heaven may come in and the work be conducted according to the high standard that God requires. Thus the institution may bear the impress of divinity.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 7)
I have seen that if the difficulties which have existed here can not be removed—the difficulties of jealousy and evil surmisings—it would be better for those who cherish these feelings to leave the institution and go somewhere else. This would be better for the institution and better for themselves. The world is large; and if they are unwilling to conform to the requirements of God’s work, if they are determined that the enemy shall through their influence sow the seeds of discord and strife, if would be better for all that they should depart. As matters have been in the past, God is not glorified, and the workers themselves have not been benefited by their association.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 8)
This institution had difficulties to stand against in the influence of outside parties; but when there are difficulties right among the helpers and physicians, that is something more serious to deal with. The Lord now wants those that have been out of line to come into line by being daily converted, purified, and sanctified. The workers in His institutions are not to feel at liberty to act out feelings and dispositions that will bring dishonor to God. Angels of God are on guard in this institution. The workers must be in harmony and work shoulder to shoulder. They must come close to the great Leader, Jesus Christ. He is ever willing to help those who will guard carefully their words, their spirit, and their deportment. God will test and try His instrumentalities. The trials that have come upon this institution have not been clearly understood. All need the discerning Spirit of God to see things in a correct light. All need to fear God and keep His commandments. The Spirit of God will enable men and women to take a sensible view of the discordant spirit of jealousy and the evil surmisings that have existed here in the past. And there will be a repentance, that needeth not to be repented of.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 9)
From the light I have had God is willing to manifest His power in behalf of the sick who come here. Often the sick are quick to discern what others do not see. If we would render them the highest service, we cannot afford to have their expectations disappointed regarding the character of the service rendered. We can not allow those of a quick temper to remain to have a corroding influence that will bring the frown of God upon the institution. The Lord wants every soul connected with the sanitarium to feel that they are laborers together with God. He wants them to come to Him and bow before Him in prayer and seek His grace and help. Angels of God will work with those who will humble themselves before Him and will put away from the institution all difficulties, bringing their own souls into harmony with right principles. Those who have caused trouble, and who will cause trouble if right principles are not guarded, should now repent and obtain the Spirit of Christ. The Lord will help those who put their dependence upon Him; for He desires that His blessing shall rest upon every worker in the institution.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 10)
The physicians, husband and wife, must stand solidly together; and they will if they are thorough converted. If they are not soundly converted, the difficulty will be seen at once. Again and again the light has been given me that the workers here must labor together in perfect harmony; but if they cannot do so, they should be separated from the institution. If they will be thoroughly converted, and will stay converted, the one great agency which Satan can use to discourage will be conquered. In the world there is plenty of room for those who refuse to give up their own ways in order that they may work in harmony with God.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 11)
God is reasonable. He does not want to enter into His work anything of jealousy, for jealousy is cruel as the grave. Discord and strife are satanic elements. The enemy uses these elements to cause variance between husband and wife. In this case it is the wife that by her evil imaginations is spoiling her own life and the life of her husband. The strife is not of his creation. It is by her jealousy and false conceptions that he is worn out and driven to desperation.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 12)
My sister, will you not now determine to stand in that relation to God that you must occupy if you ever enter the courts of heaven? Will you not make a solemn covenant with God to put away the quarrelsome disposition, the evil imaginations, and ask Him to convert the soul? You have good ability as a physician. God has blessed you with good faculties; and every time I think of you, I consider what you could accomplish were you most thoroughly converted. But unless the disposition is changed, you cannot remain here. What you need is the converting power of God working continually upon heart and life. I am not speaking to hurt your feelings, only those feelings which ought to be hurt and which ought to be brought into line.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 13)
There is skill enough in this medical faculty if that skill is sanctified, and where God can use it; but He will never permit it to be used to tear to pieces because some may have that disposition in them. It is presented to me that the conditions that have existed must not continue. The husband must not be made to suffer continually because of the evil imaginations of the wife. Some course should be pursued so that the experience of those who have come to the institution as helpers shall not be spoiled. These workers should not hear one word or expression that would cause discord or contention. The Lord wants the workers here, both medical faculty and helpers, to be constantly growing in usefulness and power; and if God can work through you, there will be conversions here of those who come to the institution for medical care. When there is a thorough reformation here, and the converting power of God is in your midst, we shall hear of souls being converted through the instrumentality of this institution.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 14)
The sanitarium needs the very best workers—men and women who can stand and hold the fort when the enemy is working in every way to bring in discouragement. He has worked hard thus from the beginning to cripple the institution. If the workers here will labor faithfully for souls, there will be among those who visit this institution many who will be converted. They may not right here take their position for the truth; but the influence under which they have lived in this institution will work upon their minds until they are led to obey the Word of God. Angels of God will work on different minds, to bring them into harmony with God, and to lead them to take up their responsibilities as workers together with Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 15)
The most important thing for us to know is that we are working in harmony with God. The Lord wants the work of this institution to be carried on a high plane and souls to be converted through its instrumentality. It is the privilege of the workers here to speak words of comfort and uplifting to the sick and suffering. This work will have a good influence upon them and upon you. It will teach you how to help others and give you the joy of knowing that through you Christ is working to bring in an order of things where He can work on human minds. Above everything else we should desire to see the work of God move easily and intelligently. If you are working in harmony with the Spirit of God, the sick will understand it, whether they are believers in Christ or not. It is your privilege to make right impressions upon human minds. If this privilege is perverted, impressions will be made that tend to destroy. We do not want to do a work of destruction. Then let harmony prevail among the workers. Don’t bring discouragement upon the matron, who is trying to do her best. Come into line with Christ. “Learn of Me,” He says, “for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest onto your souls; for My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 16)
These words were repeated to me over and over again, “Learn of Me, learn of Me.” If we will learn of Christ, we shall see of the salvation of God in the conversion of souls. Let there be a break here that will lead to the carrying out of the principles I have been presenting to you here today.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 17)
My brethren and sisters, let us strive to create a good, healthy, Christian atmosphere, wherever we are; and those things that we cannot help, the Lord will take care of. Some from the outside would like to create confusion in this sanitarium, and they will do this if you give them opportunity. But pray, pray, pray. Bring your difficulties to the Saviour. He is your Counselor and Helper. He will teach physicians and helpers what to do to relieve suffering. If you will let the converting power of God transform the life, God will work through you and make you a blessing in this institution.
(24LtMs, Ms 63, 1909, 18)
Ms 65, 1909
Talk/“If Thou Wilt Walk in My Ways and if Thou Wilt Keep My Charge” Angwin, California September 29, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in PUR 10/07/1909.
(Remarks by Ellen G. White at the dedication of Pacific Union College, September 29, 1909.)
(24LtMs, Ms 65, 1909, 1)
“And he shewed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him.” [Zechariah 3:1.]
(24LtMs, Ms 65, 1909, 2)
Joshua here stands as the representative of God’s people. Satan is represented as trying to revive Joshua’s past sins, or the past sins of the people of God, so that he shall lose his confidence in God and his hold upon heaven. But we find that Christ stands ready to resist the work of Satan. We read:
(24LtMs, Ms 65, 1909, 3)
“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 was clothed with filthy garments and stood before the angel. And he answered and spake to those that stood before him, saying, 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.” [Verses 2-5.]
(24LtMs, Ms 65, 1909, 4)
“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.] The time had not yet come for Joshua to be glorified. There were those who were watching him, watching for an opportunity to make apparent his defects and failures. Joshua had repented of his past sins, and Christ had pardoned them; but here Satan was bringing them all up before him, that he might place him in a false light. And Christ declares what He will do for Joshua and for all who, like Joshua, are seeking to stand justified before Him. The words were spoken: “If thou wilt walk in My ways, and if thou wilt keep My charge, then thou shalt also judge Mine house, and shalt also keep My courts, and I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by.”
(24LtMs, Ms 65, 1909, 5)
“Hear now, O Joshua the high priest, thou, and thy fellows that sit before thee: for they are men wondered at: for, behold, I will bring forth My servant the BRANCH. For behold the stone that I have laid before Joshua; upon one stone shall be seven eyes: behold, I will engrave the graving thereof, saith the Lord of hosts, and I will remove the iniquity of that land in one day. In that day, saith the Lord of hosts, shall ye call every man his neighbor under the vine and under the fig tree.” [Verses 8-10.]
(24LtMs, Ms 65, 1909, 6)
There is a time coming when God will let it be understood that His people are preferred before transgressors, and we need to stand in a position where it can be seen that our dependence is upon God. Then the Lord will open ways before us that we do not now discern—ways by which He will exalt and honor us.
(24LtMs, Ms 65, 1909, 7)
I believe we have seen this in the case of our school location. We thought that in the Buena Vista property at Sonoma we had secured wonderful advantages. We were much pleased with the place and felt it would answer our purpose, although we knew there would be nearly everything to provide except the one large, costly house. But as time went on, and the trade was not completed, although the owner had a portion of the money in his hands, we felt that we were being kept out of the place for some purpose. I counseled our brethren, saying, “Tell them to put us in possession of the place, or to hand us back our money.” The next thing I heard was that they had handed back our money.
(24LtMs, Ms 65, 1909, 8)
Then the brethren went to work to find another place, and in a little while there came word that the Angwin property could be secured. Later when I visited this place, and marked its many advantages, I wondered how we could have found another site that would better suit our needs than the one we have found here.
(24LtMs, Ms 65, 1909, 9)
During the time of waiting I did not feel discouraged. I felt that the Lord knew all about our perplexities and our needs. When I would kneel before Him in prayer, I would say, “Lord, You know all about it; You know we have done what we could to secure a school property; You know that our plans have been broken up. We have waited long; now, Lord, give us the place that we should have.” And when the word came that this place was found, I said, “The Lord has prepared the way for us.”
(24LtMs, Ms 65, 1909, 10)
We are very grateful to the Lord of hosts for this possession; for we have here just what we hoped to have in the Buena Vista estate—a place where we can study the works of nature, and in the woods and mountains around us learn of God through His works. And here, by the study of His handiwork, we can learn how to present God to others. I thank God with heart and soul and voice for the abundant advantages we have. We realize that the Lord knew what we needed and that it is His providence that brought us here. Our disappointment in regard to the Buena Vista estate was great; and it was hard to know that all our expectations concerning it must be given up; but we thank the Lord that the matter has worked out to the glory of God. Let us be thankful, and let us give expression to our thankfulness.
(24LtMs, Ms 65, 1909, 11)
God wants us here, and He has placed us here. I was sure of this as I came on these grounds. The advantages I see in the cultivated soil go far beyond my expectations. And I am thankful that so many are here today to see these things for themselves. I believe that as you walk through these grounds, you will come to the same decision—that the Lord designed this place for us, and that it has been the work of His providence that has brought it into our possession.
(24LtMs, Ms 65, 1909, 12)
Now we need not wait any longer; our school can assemble and the work begin at once. And at its very beginning, let us determine to walk humbly with God. Let us seek to make such a representation as is given to us in the words I have read to you today. If we will do this—if we will walk in God’s ways and keep His charge—the light of heaven will certainly shine upon us. If we will resolve to do our best here, exercising the physical muscles equally with the brainpowers; if we will work for the harmonious development of all the powers of the being, the blessing of the Lord will rest upon us in large measure.
(24LtMs, Ms 65, 1909, 13)
There is a sanitarium a few miles from here. The two institutions can work together harmoniously. Professor Irwin and his fellow workers and Dr. Rand and his associate helpers can co-operate in their efforts.
(24LtMs, Ms 65, 1909, 14)
Let us take advantage of the privilege placed before us of adding to our faith virtue. This is something that all, both teachers and students, should appreciate. “Add to your faith virtue,” the apostle writes, “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 God and of Jesus our Lord.” [2 Peter 1:5-8.]
(24LtMs, Ms 65, 1909, 15)
This is a wonderful representation. “If ye do these things,” the apostle declares, “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.] Let us make the most of the benefits offered. Let us work out the plan that God has laid down for us and seek in our lives to glorify Him. An eternal life insurance policy is offered to all. The securing of it rests with every individual soul. Teachers and students may have a hope that is big with immortality and full of glory. I thank God that this is our privilege.
(24LtMs, Ms 65, 1909, 16)
Ms 67, 1909
A High Standard NP October 7, 1909 [typed] Portions of this manuscript are published in CG 80-81; HP 216. +
I have been instructed that there is need among us of an educational reform. The teachers in our schools are to become learners of the great Teacher. They are to act their part in unison with Christ in carrying forward the work of the gospel. Laboring together with God, they will be light-bearers. They will seek to reach those who are in need of help; they will reveal the gracious attributes of the divine Teacher; and this will enrich and beautiful their own lives and will reveal that they are indeed Christ’s disciples.
(24LtMs, Ms 67, 1909, 1)
The work represented by the prophet in the 61st and 58th chapters of Isaiah is to be done by all who have a part in educational work. The prophet declares: “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, that He might be glorified.” [Isaiah 61:1-3.]
(24LtMs, Ms 67, 1909, 2)
“They that 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 branch, The restorer of paths to dwell in.
(24LtMs, Ms 67, 1909, 3)
“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 shall honor Him, not doing thine own pleasure, nor doing thine own ways, 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.” [Isaiah 58:12-14.]
(24LtMs, Ms 67, 1909, 4)
What encouragement is here given! Let us bear in mind that our work is reformatory, that Satan is watching all our educational advantages, and that we must be wide-awake.
(24LtMs, Ms 67, 1909, 5)
The standard of excellence is not to be lowered, but is to be constantly raised to a higher, holier level; for through the excellence of the work done through our educational institutions, the attention of many people is to be called to the last great effort being made to present Christ Jesus to save perishing mortals. Let every teacher in our schools be impressed with the fact that to educate children and youth in right principles is the greatest work in which any one can engage. Let the principles of truth and righteousness be carried into the school room as well as into the meetings where we assemble to worship God. The more closely our work is modeled after the divine similitude, the more our schools will receive and impart the true heavenly wisdom. Satan has used the most ingenious methods to weave in plans and sophistries under the name Higher Education. It is by a thorough knowledge of the Word of God and by an exemplification of the simplicity of true godliness, which is the highest education, that the students in our schools, the older and the younger, can thwart Satan’s devices.
(24LtMs, Ms 67, 1909, 6)
Co-Operation on the Part of Parents
Every facility for educating our youth should be highly appreciated by fathers and mothers. We are under solemn covenant to God to educate our children to be subjects of the Lord’s kingdom. Parents are to make their children understand that they are bought with a price, and unitedly they are to train and discipline them, not to love the world, but to love the Lord Jesus, to fear God and keep His commandments.
(24LtMs, Ms 67, 1909, 7)
A sacred duty rests upon parents to guide their children into paths of strict obedience. True happiness in this life and in the future life depends upon obedience to a “Thus saith the Lord.” Parents, let Christ’s life be the pattern. Satan will devise every possible means to break down this high standard of piety as one altogether too strict. It is your work to impress upon your children in their early years the thought that they are formed in the image of God. Christ came to this world to give them a living example of what they all must be, and parents who claim to believe the truth for this time are to teach their children to love God and to obey His law. This is the greatest and most important work that fathers and mothers can do. The third angel’s message reveals the great saving truth for this time. Its truths are constantly unfolding, and it is God’s design that even the children and youth shall understand intelligently what God requires, that they may distinguish between righteousness and sin, between obedience and disobedience.
(24LtMs, Ms 67, 1909, 8)
The great, grand work is now upon us of preparing a people who will be Christlike in character. Who among us will stand in the great time of test and trial that is before us? Who will enter the pearly gates of the city of God? Let fathers and mothers arouse and do their duty. Stem the current now, just now. Let old and young seek the Lord, seek Him with all the heart, that they may be ready with pure, holy characters to meet Him in peace when He comes. Let parents and children repent and be converted. Of some whose names are on the church books, the Lord declares that unless they repent and become Christlike in character, they can never enter the gates of the city of God. Let those who profess to be children of God, but who have been untrue to their covenant with Him, consider what they might have done had they been obedient and true. You might have helped others to Christ had you been faithful to your trust. But you have not appreciated as you should those things that are of eternal value. You are not ready to meet your Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 67, 1909, 9)
Eternal life in the city of God is the reward of obedience in the home life. Children are admonished by the apostle to obey their parents in the Lord, to be helpful and submissive. Those who truly love God will not strive for their own way, and thus bring unhappiness to themselves and others. They will strive to represent Christ in character. How precious is the thought that the youth who strive against sin, who believe and wait and watch for Christ’s appearing, who submit to parental authority, and who love the Lord Jesus will be among those who love His appearing and who meet Him in peace.
(24LtMs, Ms 67, 1909, 10)
These will stand without spot or wrinkle before the throne of God and enjoy His favor forever. They have formed lovely characters; they have guarded their speech; they have not spoken falsely; they have guarded their actions, that they should not do any evil thing, and they are crowned with everlasting life.
(24LtMs, Ms 67, 1909, 11)
We are living in the very last period of this earth’s history. To many the great day of God will come unexpectedly; those who have lived regardless of the requirements of the Word of God will find themselves unholy, unsanctified, unready. Let us as teachers and parents and youth take advantage of every opportunity to become Christlike in heart and life.
(24LtMs, Ms 67, 1909, 12)
Christ “loved the church, and gave Himself for it; that He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word; that He might present it unto Himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing, but that it should be holy and without blemish.” [Ephesians 5:25-27.]
(24LtMs, Ms 67, 1909, 13)
Ms 69, 1909
The Helpers in Our Sanitariums St. Helena, California September 12, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in MM 172-173; UL 269.
I am instructed that our sanitariums are to be cleaned and purified from those persons whose course of action is a discredit to the sacred work of the sanitarium. Our health institutions should preserve a sanctified dignity. Let not helpers be employed here who have not a sense of true dignity. Employ those who give evidence that they are working to meet the standard of perfection, those in whose lives are seen the marks of the divine similitude.
(24LtMs, Ms 69, 1909, 1)
Great wisdom should be exercised in selecting men and women as instructors in our sanitariums. They should be not only those who can speak intelligently on scientific questions, but men and women who have learned to be under the rule of the Spirit of God and who obey the instructions of Christ. They should be able to give wise counsel in a kind and intelligent manner. Fretting and scolding will not benefit, but plain words spoken in a spirit of kindness will accomplish lasting results for good. The Lord will help all who truly desire to learn of Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 69, 1909, 2)
Right impressions cannot be made upon the sick when those who compose the sanitarium family of helpers are disagreeable or uncouth in manner, or cherish a spirit of frivolity, or are subject to jealous freaks. Such workers should not be retained in our institutions; for the enemy is always ready to work upon such minds and through their influence to drive souls away from Christ. Far better would it be to pay higher wages and secure good, sensible helpers in our institutions than to accept those whom you cannot discipline and train.
(24LtMs, Ms 69, 1909, 3)
The pleasant disposition, the beautiful character the Lord will use to bring blessing to the sick. The truths of the Word of God possess sanctifying, transforming power. If received into the heart, and carried into the life, they will prove a savor of life unto life. Let those employed in our institutions be such as will let the light of truth shine forth in their daily words and actions. It is only such that Christ can accept as workers together with Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 69, 1909, 4)
I write thus definitely that all may understand the importance of eradicating evil influences from our sanitariums which are established for the purpose of bringing healing and blessing to suffering human beings who are sick in mind and body.
(24LtMs, Ms 69, 1909, 5)
There is a work to be done for some who feel no special need of help. It is because they do not feel their needy condition, that they do not reform. They carry the mold of a spoiled character. Unless these souls experience the new birth, they will never see the kingdom of heaven; unless evil is put away from the life, they cannot be welcomed to the presence of holy angels. God will never again permit to enter the courts of heaven that which will harm and destroy.
(24LtMs, Ms 69, 1909, 6)
We are beset by Satan on the right hand and on the left. He is constantly seeking to spoil the faith of those connected with the work of God. But our precious faith is not to be corrupted by unconverted elements that Satan can use for the poisoning of minds and the deceiving of souls. We need to pray more and to talk less. We need to learn of Christ and to become like Him in meekness and lowliness of heart.
(24LtMs, Ms 69, 1909, 7)
We need to understand how necessary it is that we die to self. Self-crucifixion will place souls on vantage ground. I entreat those who profess to be Christians to die to self, that you may be stirred with a new life by the Holy Spirit’s power. Satan is working with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish. Daily we need the converting power of God, or we cannot walk in the footprints of Christ. As the mind is enlightened in regard to what is purity and sanctification, and the heart responds to the strivings of the Holy Spirit, a daily conversion will be the result.
(24LtMs, Ms 69, 1909, 8)
In the day of final award, two classes will stand before the Judge of all the earth. To those who have failed to walk in the footsteps of Christ, the words will be spoken: Depart from Me, ye that work iniquity. Those who have brought the pure, unadulterated truths of the word of God into the practical life will hear the benediction: “Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:23.] We can never enter the city of God until we have learned to die to self, and there dwells within the soul the Spirit of Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 69, 1909, 9)
Ms 71, 1909
Interview/The Relation of Loma Linda to Medical Institutions St. Helena, California September 20, 1909 See variant Ms 72, 1909. This manuscript is published in entirety in LLM 424-428.
Report of interview between Mrs. E. G. White, J. A. Burden, and W. C. White, Sanitarium, California, September 20, 1909.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 1)
E. G. White: We want none of that kind of “higher education” that will put us in a position where the credit must be given, not to the Lord God of Israel, but to the god of Ekron. The Lord designs that we shall stand as a distinct people, so connected with Him that He can work with us. Let our physicians realize that they are to depend wholly upon the true God.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 2)
I felt a heavy burden this morning when I read over a letter that I found in my room, in which a plan was outlined for having medical students take some work at Loma Linda, but to get the finishing touches of their education from some worldly institution. I must state that the light that I have received is that we are to stand as a commandment-keeping people, and this will separate us from the world. The Sabbath is a great distinguishing line. As God’s peculiar people, we should not feel that we must acknowledge our dependence upon the transgressors of God’s law to give us influence in the world. It is God that gives us influence. He will give us advantages that are far above all the advantages we can receive from worldlings.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 3)
J. A. Burden: I know that these thoughts are what you have presented to us before. We do not want to cause you to carry a heavy burden. We simply wanted to be sure that we were moving in right lines. If the Lord gives you light, well and good; we will be glad to receive it; and if not, then we will wait.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 4)
E. G. White: If we follow on to know the Lord, we shall know that His going forth is prepared as the morning. There are some who may not be able to see that here is a test as to whether we shall put our dependence on man or depend upon God. Shall we by our course seem to acknowledge that there is a stronger power with the unbelievers than there is with God’s own people. When we take hold upon God, and trust in Him, He will work in our behalf. But we are to stand distinct and separate from the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 5)
I feel a decided interest in the work at Loma Linda, and I desire that it shall exert a powerful influence for the truth. Your success depends upon the blessing of God, not upon the views of men who are opposed to the law of God. When they see that God blesses us, then people will be led to give consideration to the truths we teach.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 6)
We need not tie to men in order to secure influence. We need not think that we must have their experience and their knowledge. Our God is a God of knowledge and understanding; and if we will take our position decidedly on His side, He will give us wisdom. I would that all our people might see the inconsistency of our being God’s commandment-keeping people, a peculiar people zealous of good works, and yet feeling that we must copy after the world in order to make our work successful. Our God is stronger than is any human influence. If we will accept Him as our educator, if we will make Him our strength and righteousness, He will work in our behalf.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 7)
These principles may result in a condition of things that is not just as we would like them to be. We may like to have certain conditions that in the end would result in bondage which we do not anticipate.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 8)
Jesus Christ is our Saviour today, and He is willing to work in our behalf, if we will not put our dependence upon some other power. If we are sustained by the living God, the superiority of His power will be manifested in His people. This is the testimony that I have borne all the way along.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 9)
J. A. Burden: We love to hear the truth over and over again, that we may be sure it is the truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 10)
E. G. White: You have the Word which tells you that God’s commandment-keeping people are to have His special favor, and that they are to be sanctified through obedience to the truth. Shall we unite ourselves with those that are full of error, who have no respect for God’s commandments, and shall our students go forth to obtain the finishing touches of their education from them?
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 11)
W. C. White: What is to be the final outcome? Will all our medical missionaries be simply nurses? Shall we have no more physicians? or shall we have a school in which we can ourselves give the finishing touches?
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 12)
E. G. White: Whatever plan you follow, take your position that you will not unite with those that do not respect God’s commandments.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 13)
W. C. White: Does that mean that we are not to have any more physicians, but that our people will work simply as nurses? or does it mean that we shall have a school of our own to educate physicians?
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 14)
E. G. White: We shall have a school of our own. But we are not to be dependent upon the world, we must place our dependence upon a power that is higher than all human power. If we honor God, He will honor us.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 15)
J. A. Burden: The governments of earth provide that if we conduct a medical school, we must take a charter from the government. That in itself has nothing to do with how the school is conducted. It is required, however, that certain studies shall be taught. There are ten required subjects. Physiology is one. It is required that those who labor as physicians shall be proficient in these studies. In starting our sanitariums for the care of the sick, we must secure a charter from the government; our printing offices must do the same. Would the securing of a charter for a medical school, where our students might obtain a medical education, militate against our dependence upon God?
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 16)
E. G. White: No, I do not see that it would. Only see that you do not exalt men above God. If you can gain force and influence that will make your work more effective without tying yourselves to worldly men, that would be right.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 17)
J. A. Burden: That is the vital point, where we have been hanging for three years. The only thing that we have asked for in this matter is to take advantage of the government provision that would give standing room to our students when they are qualified.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 18)
E. G. White: I do not see anything wrong in that, as long as you do not in any way lift men above the Lord God of Israel or throw discredit upon His power.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 19)
J. A. Burden: In planning our course of study, we have tried to follow the light in the testimonies, and in doing so it has led us away from the requirements of the world. The world will not recognize us as standing with them. We will have to stand distinct, by ourselves.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 20)
E. G. White: We shall always have to stand distinct. God desires us to be separate.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 21)
J. A. Burden: Now the proposition in this letter was to deviate from that, so that standing as we do would enable us to stand with them and to have their advantage. From the instruction that has come, it has seemed to me from the very first that we were to stand by ourselves in a distinct light, following the light that God has given with reference to physical healing, and that when we do that, God will open the way before us and give us prestige with the people. But if we deviate and connect with these other schools, we would find ourselves being thrown more and more into the very things that they are doing, and our students would be molded after their similitude instead of after the similitude of the truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 22)
E. G. White: That is what I am trying to guard against all the time. As we read the Bible we see that God is dishonored when His people go to any worldly power or put their trust in a worldly power. That is where God’s people spoilt their history. You must arrange the matter the best you can, but that which is presented to me is that you are not to acknowledge any power as above that of our God. Our influence is to be acknowledged of God, because we keep His commandments, and His commandments are not grievous.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 23)
W. C. White: Jesus said at one time, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat: all therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works.” [Matthew 23:2, 3.] Now the law says that a man shall not practice medicine unless he has a diploma from a college, and unless he has passed the examination of the state board and has a certificate. The law would not recognize the diplomas of our physicians unless they have studied some things that we do not think are really essential. For instance, in their preparation they have to study a number of things that we think they might get along without, but we can teach them. We do not have to teach these subjects in their way; we can teach them in our way. When it comes to the study of drugs, they teach how to give them. We can teach the dangers of using them, and how to get along without them. In some other schools they teach geology on the evolution basis. We can teach geology and show that evolution is false.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 24)
E. G. White: Well, you must plan these details yourselves. I have told you what I have received, but these details you will have to work out for yourselves.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 25)
J. A. Burden: It seems clear to me that any standing we can lawfully have without compromising is not out of harmony with God’s plan.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 26)
E. G. White: No, it is not. All I can say is that I have had very distinct light, however, that there is danger of our limiting the power of the holy One of Israel. He is the God of the universe. Our influence is dependent upon our carrying out the Word of the living God. We weaken our powers by not placing our dependence upon God and taking hold of His strength. This is our privilege.
(24LtMs, Ms 71, 1909, 27)
Ms 72, 1909
Interview/The Relation of Loma Linda to Worldly Medical Schools St. Helena, California September 20, 1909 Variant of Ms 71, 1909. This manuscript is published in entirety in PC 269-274. +
The Relation of Loma Linda College to Worldly Medical Institutions
Report of interview at the home of Mrs. E. G. White, Sanitarium, California, September 20, 1909. Present, Mrs. E. G. White, W. C. White, and J. A. Burden.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 1)
E. G. White: We want none of that kind of “higher education” that will put us in a position where the credit must be given, not to the Lord God of Israel, but to the god of Ekron. The Lord designs that we shall stand as a distinct, sanctified, and holy people, so connected with Him that He can work with us. Let our physicians realize that they are to depend wholly upon the true God.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 2)
I felt a heavy burden this morning when I read over a letter that I found in my room, in which a plan was outlined for having medical students take some work at Loma Linda, but to get the finishing touches of their education from some worldly institution. God forbid that such a plan should be followed. I must state that the light I have received is that we are to stand as a distinct, commandment-keeping people. The Sabbath is a great distinguishing line, and its observance will separate us from the world. As God’s peculiar people, we should not feel that we must acknowledge our dependence upon men who are transgressing God’s law to give us influence in the world. It is God that gives us influence. He is our exceeding great reward. He will give us advantages that are far beyond all the advantages we might receive from worldlings by uniting with those who do not recognize the law of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 3)
J. A. Burden: I know that these thoughts are what you have presented to us before. We do not want to cause you to carry a heavy burden. We simply wanted to know if we were moving in right lines. If the Lord gives you light, well and good; we will be glad to receive it; if not, then we will wait.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 4)
E. G. White: If we follow on to know the Lord, we shall know that His going forth is prepared as the morning. There are some who may not be able to see that here is a test as to whether we shall put our dependence on man or depend upon God. Shall we by our course seem to acknowledge that there is a stronger power with unbelievers than there is with God’s own people? When we take hold upon God, and trust in Him, He will work in our behalf. But whatever the consequences may be, we are in regard to our faith to stand distinct and separate from the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 5)
I feel a decided interest in the work at Loma Linda, and I desire that it shall exert a powerful influence for the truth. Your success depends upon the blessing of God, not upon the ideas and views of men who are opposed to the requirements of the law of God. When people see that God blesses us, and gives success to our work as we make Him supreme, then they will be led to give consideration to the truths we teach. Many will be compelled to recognize that our methods are superior to those employed in the schools of the world, as they are commonly conducted.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 6)
We need not tie to men in order to secure influence. We need not think that we are dependent upon the knowledge and experience of men who do not recognize the Lord as their Master. Our God is a God of knowledge and understanding, and if we will take our position decidedly on His side to be wholly influenced by His Spirit, He will give us wisdom. I would that all our people might see the inconsistency of those who profess to be God’s commandment-keeping people, a peculiar people zealous of good works, thinking that they must copy after the world’s pattern, in order to make their work successful. Our God is stronger than any human influence. If we will accept Him as our educator, if we will make Him our strength and righteousness, He will work in our behalf.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 7)
The following out of these principles may result in a condition of things that is not just as we would desire it to be. We might like to see certain conditions for the attainment of which we would be dependent on the world, but the result would be an experience that means weakness rather than strength. We should realize a bondage that we do not anticipate.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 8)
Jesus Christ is our Saviour today, and He is willing to work in our behalf, if we will not put our dependence upon some other powers. If we are sustained by the living God, the superiority of His power will be manifested in His people. This is the testimony that I have borne all the way along, and it is the testimony that I shall continue to bear. We must exalt God, who is our wisdom, our sanctification, and our exceeding great reward.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 9)
J. A. Burden: We love to hear the truth over and over again, that we may be sure it is the truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 10)
E. G. White: You have the Word which tells you that God’s commandment-keeping people are to have His special favor, and that they are to be sanctified through obedience to the truth. Shall we unite ourselves with those that are full of error, who have no respect for God’s commandments? and shall our students go forth to obtain the finishing touches of their education from men who, unless they are converted, will not be honored with a place in the councils of heaven?
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 11)
W. C. White: What is to be the final outcome? Will all our medical missionaries be simply nurses? Shall we have no more physicians, or shall we have a school in which we can ourselves give the finishing touches?
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 12)
E. G. White: Whatever plan you follow, take your position that you will not unite or be bound up with those that do not respect God’s commandments.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 13)
W. C. White: Does that mean that we are not to have any more physicians, but that our people will work simply as nurses? or does it mean that we shall have a school of our own where we can educate physicians?
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 14)
E. G. White: We shall have a school of our own. But we are not to be dependent upon the world; we must put our dependence upon a power that is higher than all human power. If we honor God, He will honor us, because we observe all His commandments, which means eternal life.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 15)
J. A. Burden: The governments of earth provide that if we conduct a medical school, we must take a charter from the government. That in itself has nothing to do with how the school is conducted. It is required, however, that certain studies shall be taught. There are ten required subjects. Physiology is one of these. It is required that those who labor as physicians shall be proficient in these subjects. In starting our sanitariums for the care of the sick, we must secure a charter from the government; our printing offices must do the same. Would the securing of a charter for a medical school, where our students might obtain a medical education, militate against our depending upon God?
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 16)
E. G. White: No, I do not see that it would, if a charter were secured on the right terms. Only be sure that you do not exalt men above God. If you can gain force and influence that will make your work more effective without tying yourselves to worldly men, that would be right. But we are not to exalt the human above the divine.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 17)
J. A. Burden: That is the vital point where we have been hanging for three years. The only thing that we have asked for in this matter is to take advantage of the government provision that would give standing room to our students when they are qualified.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 18)
E. G. White: I do not see anything wrong in that, as long as you do not in any way lift men above the Lord God of Israel or throw discredit upon His power. But enter into no agreement with any fraternity that would open a door of temptation to some weak souls to lose their hold on God.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 19)
J. A. Burden: In planning our course of study, we have tried to follow the light in the testimonies, and in doing so it has led us away from the requirements of the world. The world will not recognize us as standing with them. We shall have to stand distinct, by ourselves.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 20)
E. G. White: You may unite with them in certain points that will not have a misleading influence, but let no sacrifice be made to endanger our principles. We shall always have to stand distinct. God desires us to be separate, and yet it is our privilege to avail ourselves of certain rights. But rather than to confuse our medical work, you had better stand aloof and labor with the advantages that you yourselves can offer.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 21)
J. A. Burden: Now the proposition in this letter was to deviate from that, so that standing as we do would enable us to stand with them and to have their advantage. From the instruction that has come, it has seemed to me from the very first that we were to stand by ourselves in a distinct light, following the light that God has given with reference to physical healing, and that when we do that, God will open the way before us and give us prestige with the people. But if we deviate and connect with these other schools, we would find ourselves being thrown more and more into the very things that they are doing, and our students would be molded after their similitude instead of after the similitude of truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 22)
E. G. White: That is what I am trying to guard against all the time. As we read our Bible we see that God is dishonored when His people go to any worldly power, or put their trust in a worldly power. That is where God’s people again and again became ensnared and spoilt their history. You must arrange this matter the best you can, but the principle that is presented to me is that you are not to acknowledge any power as greater than that of our God. Our influence is to be acknowledged of God, because we keep His commandments, and His commandments are not grievous. Here is our standard. Keep God’s commandments as the apple of your eye.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 23)
W. C. White: Jesus said at one time, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat: all therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works.” [Matthew 23:2, 3.] Now the law says that a man shall not practice medicine unless he has a diploma from a college, and unless he has passed the examination of the state board and has a certificate. The law would not recognize the diplomas of our physicians unless they have studied some things that we do not think are really essential. For instance, in their preparation they have to study a number of things that we think they might get along without, but we can teach them. We do not have to teach these subjects in their way; we can teach them in our way. When it comes to the study of drugs, they teach how to give them. We can teach the dangers of using them and how to get along without them. In some other schools they teach geology on the evolution basis. We can teach geology and show that the theory of evolution is false.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 24)
E. G. White: Well, you must plan these details yourselves. I have told you what I have received, but these details you will have to work out for yourselves.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 25)
J. A. Burden: It seems clear to me that any standing we can lawfully have without compromising is not out of harmony with God’s plan.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 26)
E. G. White: No, it is not. All I can say is that I have had very distinct light, however, that there is danger of our limiting the power of the Holy One of Israel in connection with certain plans for connecting our schools with worldly methods. He is the God of the universe, and our influence is dependent upon our carrying out the precepts of His Word. We weaken our powers by not placing our dependence upon God and taking hold of His strength. This is our privilege.
(24LtMs, Ms 72, 1909, 27)
Ms 73, 1909
Sermon/Lessons From the First Chapter of Daniel Council Grove, Kansas August 27, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in 2SAT 314-321.
Sermon delivered by Mrs. E. G. White, Sabbath, August 27, 1909, Council Grove, Kansas, camp-meeting.
The first chapter of Daniel teaches the lesson that what we eat and drink has an influence upon the powers of the mind, and that if we would have healthful bodies and clear minds, we must be careful of our diet. If we are careless in this matter, and eat simply to gratify taste, the digestive organs are impaired, and the brain is confused, and neither can act their part as fully as God intended they should.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 1)
“Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat and with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 2)
“Now God had brought Daniel into favor and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs. And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, I fear my Lord the king, who hath appointed your meat and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which are of your sort? so shall ye make me endanger my head to the king.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 3)
“Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, ten days; and let them give us pulse to eat, and water to drink. Then let our countenances be looked upon before thee, and the countenances of the children that eat of the portion of the king’s meat; and as thou seest, deal with thy servants. So he consented to them in this matter, and proved them ten days. And at the end of the ten days their countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the king’s meat. Thus Melzar took away their portion of meat, and the wine that they should drink; and gave them pulse.” [Verses 8-16.]
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 4)
Daniel and his companions determined to banish from their dietary everything that would defile, and a power from above worked in harmony with their efforts. As a result they had the privilege of following their own course in the obtaining of their education. And the education they gained was better than that gained by any of the magicians, astrologers, or wise men in all the king’s realm.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 5)
Those who desire to come into right relation to God need to study Daniel’s plan. That was a sum proved; you may take the sum and prove it also. There are many who think that those who adopt health reform suffer a loss of physical strength; but if these would test the matter for themselves, they would change their minds on this point. I have tested the value of health reform for thirty years, living just as simply as possible, and my physical ability at the age of 82 has been a surprise to many. In this journey I have taken, entailing five months of constant labor in the desk and out of the desk, my strength has been sustained. In my experience, health reform has given me a wonderful victory.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 6)
The Lord does not want us to have irritable tempers and disturbed and confused minds. He wants us to do for ourselves just what these Hebrew youth did for themselves. We are to let alone the wine that excites and intoxicates. We see all around us too much of the results of its use.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 7)
How earnestly should we plead for the benefits of the truth in this age of the world’s history. How greatly are its principles needed! Consider the city of San Francisco. What was it that brought the judgments of God upon that city? We read the answer in the revelations that have been made of corruption in those who stood in high office. Corruption and drunkenness and robbery are discovered on every hand. And this condition of wickedness is not in San Francisco alone. We who have the truth understand the meaning of these conditions and events. We are living in the last evening of this earth’s history. Is it not time that every soul place himself in right relation to God to act an individual part for the upbuilding of the kingdom of Christ? Is it not time that fathers and mothers do a special work in the family? Let there be no harsh words, no scoldings. This does not reform. Take your children apart when they do wrong, and show them the result of a wrong course of action. Pray with them. That prayer may make such an impression on their minds that they will see that you are not unreasonable. And if the children see that you are not unreasonable, you have gained a great victory. This is the work that is to be carried on in our family circles in these last days. Our children are a sacred responsibility. God requires that they be brought up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 8)
This lesson also teaches the effect of a simple diet upon the physical powers. Students attending school should have provided for them food that will not cause disturbances in the human organism. If you do not know how to provide such food, I ask you to learn how. We are fighting for a kingdom; we are to be laborers together with God, and we must learn to subdue our passions, lest we be shut out of the courts of heaven. If we do not perfect Christian characters here, we cannot enjoy the pleasures of eternal life.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 9)
Daniel stood in a very responsible position in the kingdom of Babylon. There will always be those who will occupy positions of lesser responsibility; but whatever our work, our example may be such that it will lead others into right paths. We need to humble ourselves before God and pray to Him and trust in Him. We do not pray half enough in our families and alone with God. There is a world to be saved, and every talent should be used in the service of God. You may not be able to go outside your family, but you can still do a work for God; and by your own course of action you can encourage those who have missionary work to perform. We cannot afford to miss any opportunity for perfecting a Christian character. Whatever experience may come to others, remember that you, in your lot and place, will be tested by God. There will be times when you will be placed in unfavorable positions; but at such times plead with God, trust in Him, and walk in simple faith before the Lord. Then angels of heaven will impress your minds. Let not your minds be filled with self and self-interests.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 10)
The Lord is looking upon us in mercy and love today. Who will follow out the will of the Lord? Who will study to overcome the hasty temper, remembering that the words they speak are spoken in the hearing of heavenly angels. These heavenly agencies are continually ministering to us; and they will speak through us and by us if we will walk humbly with God. They open for us opportunities to make known a knowledge of the God of heaven to others. Let us acknowledge God as the highest power. Let us cherish our Redeemer’s spirit of meekness and humility of mind. Let us study our lifework, that it may bear the test of the judgment. We shall then stand on vantage ground with Daniel and his companions, overcoming by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 11)
In the third chapter of Daniel, we can read the record of God’s mighty work in behalf of the youth who would not bow to the image that the king had set up; and we may know that the same God is near to us as we stand in His power to honor His name in our experience. The form of the Fourth walked beside the Hebrews in the midst of the fiery furnace, because they refused to bow down to the image and to worship the work of men’s hands.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 12)
“Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonished, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, Did we not cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto him, True, O king. He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and”—the king’s countenance turns pale as he continues—“the form of the Fourth is like the Son of God.” [Verses 24, 25.]
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 13)
Going to the mouth of the furnace, Nebuchadnezzar calls the youth to come forth. “Ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither,” he says. “And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king’s counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire and no power, nor was any hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them. Then Nebuchadnezzar spake and said, Blessed by the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent His angel, and delivered His servants that trusted in Him, and have changed the king’s word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God. Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak anything amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no God that can deliver after this sort.” [Verses 26-29.]
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 14)
The God of the Hebrews is our God. Let us seek to stand in right relation to Him. We have souls to save or to lose, and it depends upon our individual selves whether we save or lose. If we lose, we carry others with us to destruction. All heaven is looking upon us to see what course we will pursue—whether we will overcome by the blood of the Lamb or be careless and indifferent, going on as we please, filling our days with the pleasures of the world and our minds with the foolish novel, while God’s work is neglected and His Word cast aside.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 15)
I ask you to consider these things as you have never yet considered them. I present before you Christ as your only hope. “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.] I present Christ’s character before you. Study it carefully. There is no higher education to be gained than that which you gather from the Word of God. Those who will may gain from it an intelligence and an understanding that is as enduring and as reliable as that which Daniel had, and which preserved him and carried him safely through test and trial. Christ will give judgment to the student of His Word today, as He gave the Hebrew youth judgment. These young men were found to have more wisdom than all the wise men in all the realm of Babylon.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 16)
When the heart is in right condition before God, we shall deny self. Did not God give Jesus, His only begotten Son?—He who was equal with the Father in the making of man. What are you doing to make yourself acceptable before God? Are you cultivating your reasoning powers? Are you preserving your physical powers by a wise and careful diet? Let the wine alone, and everything of the kind. We need to adopt a simple diet if we would have a clear understanding of our duty. Let us remember that we are living in review before God, that we shall have tests to bear, and that our faith in God is to be so cultivated that we can reach up to Heaven in full confidence for sanctification of body, soul, and spirit.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 17)
We need that living faith that will take hold of God; and we can have this if we will study the will of the Lord in all things. In times of poverty and sickness and suffering, it is our privilege to go to the Saviour and tell Him our necessities and ask Him for His help. And if we will rely upon the Word of God, we shall see the fulfillment of His promises. Every day we are meeting temptation and trial in one form or another; but if we walk humbly with God and do our best, seeking daily to come into close relation to Him, He will work in our behalf.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 18)
Study the record of the life and activities of Christ. The Saviour knew that He could do little if He remained in one place. Therefore he moved from city to city and village to village, the crowds often following Him in great multitudes. He gave these followers instruction, teaching them of Himself from the words of the Old Testament Scriptures. As he would present old truths in a new light before them, the people would listen as to something they had never before heard of.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 19)
On one occasion the people gathered about the Saviour until there were 5,000 men, besides women and children. All day they had listened to the great Teacher; and now as evening drew on, the Master said to His disciples, These must be weary; they should have rest and food. But the inquiry arose, Where shall we find food for so great a company? The Saviour asked, How much have you? The disciples replied, Five barley loaves, and a few small fishes. Bid them sit down on the ground, the Saviour commanded. Then breaking the bread, He gave to His disciples and the disciples to the multitudes.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 20)
When the people were satisfied, the Saviour gave the command to his disciples, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] Here Christ taught a precious lesson, one that was to come clear down through the ages to our time. There is an economy that Christ wants each to weave into our experience. There are wants and necessities on every hand to be supplied; there are needy and suffering ones to help. When we stand in right relation to God, we will stand in right relation to the principles of economy. We will know by experience what it means to deny self. We will be willing to sacrifice for the sake of others.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 21)
“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.] Christ accepted the office laid upon Him. Seeing the needs of men, He laid aside His royal robe and crown and came to earth to minister to mankind. And day by day in His life on earth, He was preparing for greater tests to come with stronger power.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 22)
Just before His crucifixion He took His disciples apart that they might pray with Him, that He and they might receive strength to endure. It was here in His agony in the garden of Gethsemane that the cup trembled in His hand. Should He drink it, and thus be separated from God? Should He take the sins of the world upon Him? The woes of a lost race rose up before Him, and He said, “Father, if this cup may not pass from Me, except I drink it, Thy will be done.” [Matthew 26:42.] Then a mighty angel from glory came to His side and strengthened Him to go through the awful trial.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 23)
He was laid in the tomb, and a great stone was rolled up before the door of the tomb. But when the day of His release came, a mighty angel from heaven came and rolled back the stone as it had been a pebble. And Jesus came forth, and proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] He revealed Himself to Mary and to His disciples, bringing rejoicing to their hearts.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 24)
God sent His Son into the world that He might learn by actual experience the needs of humanity. Through humanity combined with divinity He must reach man and enable him to lay hold upon the divine nature.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 25)
Let us not turn from the representation because we cannot be one with the world and at the same time be one with Christ. We do not deserve heaven if we come to Christ in that way. Let us make an entire surrender to God. God wants us to withdraw from association with those who would lead us to withdraw from Him. He wants His people to lay hold with strong determination to work out their salvation with fear and trembling. He wants them to make a covenant with God by sacrifice, to consecrate themselves to God, to bear the suffering part of religion as well as to share its joys. If they cannot do this, they cannot enter the gates of the city of God and have right to the tree of life.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 26)
Let us ever remember that eternal life has been secured for us at the cost of God’s only begotten Son. Considering this, should we not study to know what sacrifices we can make for His cause, what part we can act in advancing the glory of God for the great hereafter? Humanity can grasp the divinity of Christ. This is for us if we will lay hold of it by an intelligent faith. Let us learn what it means to deny self as Christ denied self. He laid aside all that He had with the Father and, clothing His divinity with humanity, came to earth that He might teach men and women how they might overcome. We are living in a time of test. Shall we not decide to stand on the side of Christ in this matter.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 27)
Do you not want the gates of the city of God to be opened freely to you, and you be welcomed in with your children? Do you not want the crown of glory placed upon your brow? Do you not want that life that measures with the life of God? If we enjoy these eternal blessings, we have sacrifices to make in this life. We must reveal that we possess a faith that lays hold upon the living God and a righteousness that overcomes sin. May God bless us here today. How much are we willing to sacrifice in order to co-operate with Jesus Christ in our individual salvation? What are we willing to do that we may be enlightened and may enlighten others? Satan is working with all deceivableness of unrighteousness to set in operation means by which to bring suffering upon God’s people. Let us cultivate the simplicity of true godliness. Let us in our human nature take hold of the divine, that that nature may mold our life, our character, our words and works. Then we shall go straight forward in the name of Jesus Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 28)
There are souls to be saved from their sin. We must lay hold of them by living faith and give them every chance to overcome. I ask you, will you not accept the truth I have presented before you today? Will you not seek to come into harmony with the spirit of this work, that you may have a part in it? Will you not make the effort to put away folly and indulgence and do all in your power to save the souls that are perishing?
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 29)
We need help for the work to be done in different parts of the great missionary field. In Portland, Maine, where the truth was preached with power in 1842-44, our brethren and sisters have need of a little meetinghouse. Very little labor has been given to the city of Portland. There are a few Sabbathkeepers there, but they have no house of worship. We do not hesitate to ask you to help in the erection of this house of worship by giving us of your means; for by so doing you will be laying up in the heavens a treasure that faileth not. We want you to have a part in carrying the message of mercy to the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 30)
We hope to have a large company of believers in Portland, Maine. The power of God was felt at the camp-meeting held there recently; and we hope that many souls will be revived as a result of its work, and that many more will lay hold of the truth of the gospel. Now, if you want to help, do so, and the Lord will let His blessing rest upon you.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 31)
And there are other places in similar need. It is represented to me that there are hundreds of places needing our help. The work of God is a work of self-sacrifice. Who among us is willing to unite in labor for the saving of souls? Those who will here determine to do this, rise to your feet.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 32)
(Congregation rises.) (Praying): My heavenly Father, I have tried to present in my weakness those things that Thou hast presented before me again and again to congregations that I have not seen assembled; and this is one of them. I ask Thee now to make the impression upon the human mind. Thou canst do it; for Thou art God, and beside Thee there is none else. Thou hast given Thine only begotten Son to make plain the way constantly beset with temptations by the enemy. I ask Thee, Lord, to bless this people here today. Sweep back every mist and cloud of darkness, and let the sunlight of Thy glory in. Work by Thy Holy Spirit upon the minds of parents and children, that all may labor together for the spread of the knowledge of the truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 33)
God, the living God, souls are perishing, and Satan is working to call the attention of the people to nothingness and folly. Wilt Thou not go with this people, as they leave this meeting, and teach them daily to lay hold of the merits of the precious Redeemer. Thou hast given so much for these souls; help them to make a covenant with Thee by sacrifice, that they may have a part in that life that measures with the life of God. We want them to have the crown of glory and to strike the harp of gold. Lord, take this people; baptize them with Thy Holy Spirit. Let them see light in Thy light and rejoice in Thy truth. There is a heaven for them to win, a hell for them to shun. Grant that they may be crowned in the kingdom of glory, never again to go out into a sin-cursed world, where all is renewed by Thy sacrifice, our blessed Redeemer.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 34)
Take these souls into Thy keeping. Make the impression upon their minds that heaven must be won by them, that they must withstand the tests of Satan. Bless them this day. Thou hast blessed them. Bless mind, and soul, and body, and help each to arouse to earnest labor for others. Make them laborers together with God in the work of salvation, and Thy blessed name shall have all the glory.
(24LtMs, Ms 73, 1909, 35)
Ms 75, 1909
Sermon/Labor for the Unconverted Boulder, Colorado August 29, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in 10MR 111-112.
Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White at Boulder camp-meeting, August 29, 1909.
“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, and 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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 1)
“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” This promise is worth all the riches of the world. We can bring it to Christ and claim its fulfilment. “For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Verses 7, 8.]
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 2)
It is the duty of every soul before me today to have clean hearts. Then we will have clean lips and clean hands. Let us do our work in such a way that we shall not be ashamed to meet it in the judgment. But if we are not sweet in temper, if we are not clean in heart, if we will not do the works of justice and mercy and the love of God, we will have to give an account to God for the work that we might have done, but failed to accomplish. Every soul is amenable to God to develop a character that will help the next soul. We need to learn the art of overcoming. “They overcame,” we read, “by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.” [Revelation 12:11.] There is a testimony to be borne. Your lips are to be sanctified, your eyes are to be enlightened, that you shall see your opportunities and give a work of counsel to others when it is needed. If they are willing, pray with them. Ask your heavenly Father to be in your midst, to work for you and for them.
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 3)
God would have every soul come into right relation to Him. You are not your own, for you are bought with a price. You are to appreciate that price. When you see souls going out of the way, do not pass by and say no word to help them. Stand by them, and speak some word that will lead to the saving of the soul. They may obtain a heaven of bliss, a life that measures with the life of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 4)
When we are converted to God, we shall understand our duty to labor for those who are around us. We will be laborers together with God. We need to realize that our salvation has been purchased with the infinite price of the life of the Son of God. If we will cleanse heart and mind and body, bringing ourselves into right relation to God, God will give us an influence, a powerful influence for the truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 5)
We hope that this meeting will be a special meeting for every soul here. We have a work to do if we appreciate the great sacrifice that has been made in our behalf. It was made that we might be laborers together with God. But there are so many who profess to be Christians, but who do not live Christ. How little influence His Word has upon them! Yet there is comfort in the Word, power in the Word, educating power, power to sanctify the soul, power to give right to the tree of life and an entrance through the gates to the city where Christ abides.
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 6)
What we need is true religion. Let us not believe a falsehood at a time when a falsehood will prove our ruin and the ruin of many others. You cannot afford to do this. Life, life in the kingdom of glory, is appointed to every soul that lives, because God gave His Son to die, that the transgressor might be forgiven and accept the hope of the gospel. Let us in no case refuse the Word of life and salvation. I feel intensely in earnest as I consider these things; and if I can at this meeting speak words that will be a blessing to you, I shall be more than satisfied.
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 7)
Make this meeting a special occasion for every one of you. Examine your hearts. If you have been dishonest, repent of your wrong and put away the evil. Remember that when you enter any wrong path, you influence others in the same direction. If you have been honest and true, although you may have made mistakes, your soul is precious in the sight of God. Will you not search your hearts carefully, and come to the Lord with broken heart and contrite spirit, telling Him that you have had enough of the old life of service to Satan, and that you want to change leaders? Will you not ask the Lord to forgive your sin and pardon your transgressions? Place yourselves where His blessing can rest upon you. It is you privilege in your human nature to take hold of the divine nature. You cannot of yourself do this work. It was because you could not do it of yourself that God sent Jesus to stand without reproach among men, and by His life of purity and sinlessness to give evidence that humanity can be partakers of the divine nature and overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 8)
Consecrate yourselves to God. Work in harmony with His Word. Exalt the Word. Honor its precepts by a consistent course of action. It is your privilege to receive such blessings as the early disciples received on the day of Pentecost. Then, when their prayers ascended to God, when they were of one accord and one mind, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and every man heard the Word spoken in his own language, and thousands were converted in a day. This was very soon after the ascension of Christ to heaven. Now the people took hold of the Word that had been declared to them during the time of Christ’s ministry. You have a right to claim these blessings if you will comply with the conditions.
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 9)
“What man is there,” the Saviour says, “whom, if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then being evil know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask Him?” [Matthew 7:9-11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 10)
Why, then, do we not ask more often? Why be scant in our words of praise?
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 11)
The Responsibility of Parents
It is the privilege of parents to give to their children an example, in life, in words, in actions, that will help them obtain a fitness for the kingdom that Christ would have them enter.
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 12)
Parents, when difficulties arise in your families, do not speak severely. Often we may pass over the offense as unworthy of notice. If you have been in the habit of speaking in passion, if you have allowed your children to do as they please, you must give account for this to the Master. You must answer for the education you have given them, for the mold of character you have placed upon them. There are none who want to have judgment passed upon them because of neglect. God forbid that you should hear the words spoken to you, Depart from Me, ye that work iniquity. Rather let us strive that we may hear the blessed words of commendation pronounced upon the obedient.
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 13)
Let there be no impatience, no fretfulness. You will meet things that are provoking, but do not be provoked. When the heart is stirred by a spirit not of God, at such times silence is eloquence. Your very silence will have a convincing power. We must be thoroughly converted if we would do our appointed work in the world. This is no cheap, fancy work, but a work that calls for heart service, for diligence, and the strength of divinity united with our humanity. It requires determination of purpose to lead souls to accept the truth as it is in Jesus.
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 14)
Parents, begin to work without delay. Let your powers be sanctified to God. Let your hearts come into harmony with His Holy Spirit. Let your hold upon God be strong. Wrestle with Him until you can say, I know that my Redeemer lives, and that He shall stand on the earth at the latter day; and I shall stand with Him because I seek to carry out His will in the earth.
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 15)
All heaven is interested in your salvation, and angels of God are waiting to do for you what they did for the early disciple on the day of Pentecost. Do your duty to your children, and for those who are ignorant of the truth. Carry out the teachings of the Word in your homes. You must stand in harmony with the God in heaven if you would lay hold of divine power. Humanity may reach divinity through faith in Christ. Then humanity can reach out to humanity, imparting the hope of the gospel to souls who are perishing out of Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 16)
The Holy Spirit came to the disciple Philip, bidding him go to a certain place, where he would find an opportunity to open the Scriptures to a seeker after truth. Philip obeyed and found the Ethiopian eunuch reading the Scriptures. Philip said to him, “Understandest thou what thou readest?” The eunuch answered, “How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he should come up and sit with him.... Then Philip ... preached unto him Jesus. And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more; and he went on his way rejoicing.” [Acts 8:30-31, 35-39.] God wants us to stand in that relation to Him, that we can understand His voice when He speaks to us.
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 17)
“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.] I would press upon every soul the need of receiving the truth in humbleness of mind. Let no pompous words come from your lips. The same Christ that died for your brethren and for your children and your neighbors died for you. “God so loved the world that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Christ wants every soul to come to the truth. Do not turn away from the unconverted, but labor for them in self-sacrifice and with earnest effort consider Him who laid off His royal robe and crown, to come to our world as a poor man. When one came to Him, saying, “Lord, we will follow Thee whithersoever Thou goest,” the Saviour replied: “The foxes have holes, the birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay His head.” [Luke 9:57; Matthew 8:20.]
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 18)
You build houses, and you find satisfaction in doing this, but do you build up the house of the soul? Power is promised to you if you will lay hold of the unbelieving soul and teach him how to believe. There is a work to be done for God in every place. God calls upon ministers and upon those who are acting a part in our sanitariums and in the educational work to labor to win souls for Him. He calls upon you to consider how you lay out your dollars and cents. He requires that a work be carried on through your personal ministry and means. There is a world to be labored for. When you get to the kingdom of heaven, you will wish you had done one hundred times as much as you have in working for Christ and in giving of your means for the upbuilding of His work. Our intelligence belongs to God; our working energies belong to God; our money belongs to Him. We are expected as His professing people to do His work intelligently.
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 19)
Will you not at this meeting get hold of God? Will you not determine to win the crown of glory? Before you is the suffering of the Son of God. Will you not consider what He suffered—He who was without a stain of sin? Repent of your sins, and you will be received by Christ. Let your humanity grasp divinity, and in the power of divinity labor with sanctified powers for the souls who are in danger of losing eternal life.
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 20)
“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, that leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” [Matthew 7:13, 14.] How many will find this path right here? Will there be a few? His arms are ever outstretched to receive every penitent soul. Brethren and sisters, come up higher. There is a crown for you to win. There is a battle for you to fight, and God and His angels will help you in the warfare. Let us take hold together at this meeting, making this a place where God’s honor dwelleth.
(24LtMs, Ms 75, 1909, 21)
Ms 77, 1909
Talk/Words of Counsel and Encouragement Council Grove, Kansas August 26, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in Ev 629.
Talk to the German brethren and sisters at the Council Grove, Kansas, camp-meeting, August 26, 1909.
(24LtMs, Ms 77, 1909, 1)
Elder Spires read the following Scripture:
(24LtMs, Ms 77, 1909, 2)
“The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, until the day in which He was taken up, after that He through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom He had chosen. To whom also He showed Himself alive after His passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: and being assembled together with them, commanded that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith He, ye have heard of Me. For John truly baptized with water, but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost and with fire not many days hence.
(24LtMs, Ms 77, 1909, 3)
“When they therefore were come together, they asked of Him, saying, Lord wilt Thou at this time restore the kingdom to Israel? And He said unto them, It is not for you to know the times and the seasons, which the Father hath put in His own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you, and ye shall be witnesses unto Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth. And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight.... Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a Sabbath day’s journey. And when they were come in, they went into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James and John and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brethren.” [Acts 1:1-9, 12-14.]
(24LtMs, Ms 77, 1909, 4)
“And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
(24LtMs, Ms 77, 1909, 5)
“And there were dwelling at Jerusalem, Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in His own language. And they were all amazed, and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galileans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judea, and in Cappadocia, in Pontus and Asia, Phrygia, and Pamphylia in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. And they were all amazed and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?” [Acts 2:1-12.]
(24LtMs, Ms 77, 1909, 6)
I have a deep interest that all our people in all languages shall receive a large measure of the grace of our lord Jesus Christ. We are living in the last days, and there is a large work to be done among the people of all languages. Therefore every soul that believes the truth for this time, whatever his country or speech, should have an intelligent knowledge of the truths of the third angel’s message, that he may be able to do an intelligent work for God. The Lord will open the understanding of all who will come into right relation to Him. If you will search the Scriptures, and will walk humbly with God, you will find that there will come to you an understanding of the Word, and you will receive power to do a work for God. The Scriptures that our brother has read to you show that a mighty power is at work in our world, and that heaven will co-operate with those who will do the work of the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 77, 1909, 7)
Our great need is to come into right relation to the truth, that we may be sanctified and prepared to work for those who are nigh and afar off. We each have responsibilities to bear. There are souls around us who need to be converted. We must not fold our hands and think we have nothing to do. The truth for this time is very precious, and the Lord wants all to come to a knowledge of its saving principles. He wants you to do your part to awaken others to the importance of the times in which we live. No doubt many of you are doing this work; but we need to grow more and more intelligent in regard to God’s Word, more and more capable in presenting the points of the truth, so that they may take hold of mind and heart. Our time is short. Let us work with all our capabilities, seeking to make the truth for this time plain to those who do not understand it. The blessing of the Lord will rest upon every soul who will take hold of His work intelligently.
(24LtMs, Ms 77, 1909, 8)
Let us put away everything that would hinder us from having a close walk with God. Let it be seen that there is a living connection between us and heaven. The Lord has promised precious blessings to all who follow on to know the Lord. Let us cultivate the simplicity of little children. The precious Bible, the book of God, is our instructor. To all who will walk humbly with God, He will give His Holy Spirit and will minister to them through the agency of holy angels to make right impressions upon human minds.
(24LtMs, Ms 77, 1909, 9)
We read: “They understood every one in his own language.” [Verse 6.] Angels of God opened these subjects before them in such a way that they could take hold of them. Angels will do the same for you. We need to be one in understanding; we need to humble ourselves before God as little children. Then we will readily learn the language we do not now understand. We are striving to obtain the white robes, the righteousness of Christ. It is important that we have an intelligent knowledge as to where to place our faith. It should be upon the sure foundation, the word of God. A wonderful work will be done for us if we will rightly relate ourselves to the work. Heavenly agencies will impress our hearts. We may not understand everything that is said, but nevertheless impressions will be made.
(24LtMs, Ms 77, 1909, 10)
The truth of God is going to all nations and languages and peoples. You can labor for those who need the truth, and in such a humble way that souls will be converted by its teachings.
(24LtMs, Ms 77, 1909, 11)
I had our brother read these words to you, that you might see that heaven and God’s workers on earth are working harmoniously together. It is the one God, the one faith, the one baptism. Let us draw in even cords. Let us keep our hearts humble and draw close to the Great Teacher. If we have the truth in the heart, we shall feel that it is a positive necessity that we seek to enlighten others. If we will do as the disciples did on the day of Pentecost, pray and believe, and come into harmony with one another and with the Word, the Lord will work with us, opening the understanding and the hearts of those whom we seek to reach and bringing them to the knowledge of the truth. And this work will be acknowledged in the courts of heaven.
(24LtMs, Ms 77, 1909, 12)
We have a heaven to win, a hell to shun. Let us do all in our power to help others. Let us not shut up ourselves to ourselves, but let us labor and sacrifice, that others may know the preciousness of a living Saviour. We are God’s little children. Let us learn of Him as little children, that He may work in us and through us. Through our instrumentality the grace of God may come into many hearts.
(24LtMs, Ms 77, 1909, 13)
Have courage in God; have faith in Jesus Christ. Put on the robe of His righteousness, and let the light of heaven come into mind and heart. The Lord says, Go forward. If we will do this, we will secure souls for His kingdom and bring rich blessings to our own souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 77, 1909, 14)
Do not become discouraged. Be faithful in your attendance at the meetings, though you may not understand all that is said. Then the light of heaven, shining into your minds and hearts, will bless you and make you a blessing. The Lord bless each one of you. I am glad to see you.
(24LtMs, Ms 77, 1909, 15)
Ms 79, 1909
Sermon/“That It May Bring Forth More Fruit” Council Grove, Kansas August 26, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in UL 252.
Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White, Council Grove, Kansas, camp-meeting, August 26, 1909.
“I am the true Vine, and My Father is the Husbandman. Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away; and every branch that beareth fruit He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” [John 15:1, 2.]
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 1)
Often when this purging comes to us, we feel that it is a misfortune, when it is no misfortune at all. Christ purges for a reason. He purges, not that we may fight against Him, but that we may bring forth fruit unto the saving of souls—our own souls and the souls of others.
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 2)
When trials come to us, let us not dwell upon the greatness of the difficulties and feel that we cannot have joy in the Lord. It is true we will have changes of feelings. There will come to us times of discouragement and depression. But shall we live by feeling or by faith? When our brethren and friends speak unadvisedly, and cause us grief, let us not be cast down. Let us remember that we are in a world of trial and grief, of sorrow and disappointment. When these experiences come to us, they should drive us to Christ. If they do not, we meet with loss.
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 3)
When tempted to give up under discouragement and difficulty, let us study the life and experiences of Christ. He had to contend against the powers of darkness, that He might not be overcome. We have the same battle to fight, the same victories to win. “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 is our privilege to lay hold on the strength of One who is able to save unto the uttermost all that come unto God by Him. He invites you to present your case at the throne of grace and cast your helpless soul on Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 4)
The purging is not pleasant; but let us remember that Christ came to our world and took humanity, that He might bear the afflictions that humanity must bear and be an example of faithful endurance under every form of trial. God wants us to realize that we are a part of the great human family and that we must bear its tests. My brethren and sisters, let your humanity lay hold of divinity. Go to the footstool of God’s grace and say: Lord, I hang my helpless soul on Thee. Help me to control my speech; teach me to overcome. Christ will give you a spirit of overcoming.
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 5)
“They overcame him,” we read, “by the blood of the Lamb, and the word of their testimony.” [Revelation 12:11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 6)
You may bear a testimony the opposite from that which Satan would have you bear. You may keep heart and mind sanctified by obedience to the truth. Look to Him at morning and at noon and at night. Keep heart and mind fastened upon Christ. This is your privilege. The suffering and death of Christ has paid the price for your redemption, and through faith in Him you may overcome.
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 7)
You have battles to fight, but you may overcome through the blood of the Lamb and the word of your testimony. This is your warfare and your means of victory. Let us not spoil our humanity, that it shall not lay hold upon divine power. If Satan can tempt you to do some unworthy thing, he is well pleased. Remember, when tempted to retaliate in passionate speech, that silence is eloquence. Determine to hold your peace under provocation. Silence is the greatest rebuke you can bring upon the one who would mar your peace.
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 8)
Let the love of Christ dwell in your hearts. You cannot be sanctified through the truth while words and characters are not in harmony with the Spirit of God. If the hasty temper, the unguarded speech is not overcome in this life, you can never be transferred to the courts of God and the presence of Jesus Christ. We must graduate sensibly in this life if we would be transferred to the higher school of the courts above. Let none think that they can with safety seek an education from those who make no profession of keeping the commandments of God, and who do not try to obey Him. It is the privilege of the believer to say, “In His Word Christ has provided me with every advantage. Through belief of this Word and an acceptance of the blood of Christ in my behalf, I can overcome. Christ has made an infinite sacrifice, that I might receive a higher education than the world can give. Through faith in Him it is mine to lay hold of divinity and stand on vantage ground with God.” Christ should be everything to us. Let us not offend the Son of God by putting Him to open shame. But let us depend upon His power, and overcome through His grace, bearing witness to those around us that we are His people and that He is our God.
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 9)
“Now ye are clean through the word that I have spoken unto you,” the Saviour said. “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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 10)
“Now ye are clean, through the word which I have spoken unto you.” [Verse 3.] If you will take that word and carry it out in its fulness, you will find that you have a strength you have not realized before. You may be isolated from your fellow men, but you will have a strong arm to lean upon. God has given Jesus that you might break the power of the enemy. By every deceivable device Satan worked to hinder the Saviour from carrying out the work that God designed should be accomplished through Him; but in the strength of a Thus saith the Lord, the Son of God withstood the temptations of the fallen angel. By the same word and in the same strength you also are to overcome.
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 11)
Let us at this meeting come into right relation to God. Let us improve every opportunity of praying with one another, and of praising the Lord. Let us accept the great sacrifice made for us, that we might come off more than conquerors through Him that has loved us.
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 12)
In the night season, I seemed to be in a meeting where the work was not going as I felt it should in such a meeting. I took up my Bible and read to the believers assembled the words I have read to you. Then I said: I call upon you, my brethren and sisters, to stand in your lot and place. For the sake of your children, for the sake of neighbors and friends, stand in your lot and place to overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of your testimony. Our Christian garments must be without spot and wrinkle; all must be clean that bear the vessels of the Lord. If you will humble your souls before God, and realize your need of having a daily connection with Him, you shall see of His salvation. Will you not come up to the help of the Lord? Will you not fasten your souls by living faith to Christ? Will you accept His principles of service? Will you walk in His ways and receive of heaven’s blessings?
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 13)
Do not, I beseech of you, let this meeting close until you know that you have not come here in vain. Lay hold of the strength of divinity, and learn to overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of your testimony. It is your privilege at this meeting to gain victory after victory—not as the result of another’s struggle for the mastery over sin, but because your own soul is bowed before God, because your own heart cries out after the living God. If you will draw nigh to God, His promise is that He will draw nigh to you.
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 14)
The precious Saviour laid off His royal robe and kingly crown and came into our world to labor as the son of a poor family. His life of perfect obedience His own parents could not understand. But this was to give them an example. The life of Christ was to be a pattern for every human soul, and He would not offend in a single instance. O that at this meeting we might make the same consecration to the will of God. Then we should see of His salvation, and we should carry to our distant homes a deeper love for God and a stronger determination to serve Him. My brethren and sisters, let your hearts be softened by the Holy Spirit of God. Give Christ an entrance into your home. Accept the saving merits of a crucified and risen Saviour. You need Christ, and you can find Him here. Do not return to your homes without taking with you the holy presence of God; do not leave this camp-ground until you have consecrated yourselves to Christ and His service.
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 15)
Christ came in humanity, that humanity might grasp divinity and overcome in His name. Your humanity must lay hold of Jesus Christ. Believe that He saves by His grace. Then you will not be content to say nothing of your faith, but you will seek to enlighten the ignorant. Will you not labor together in confidence for the upbuilding of His kingdom? Will you not make every sacrifice, that you may be accounted a full child of God?
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 16)
I heard the praises of God on this camp-ground. I saw victories gained here. I pray that the Lord will give you a mighty deliverance. Confess your sin to Him. Make thorough work for repentance. Do not wait for Satan to come in with a flood of temptations, but right now begin to reach higher and still higher until you shall be made complete in Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 17)
“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 I 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.” [Verses 5-8.]
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 18)
Here is the evidence that we are His disciples: we bear fruit in our lives to His glory. But, I ask you, what fruit are your lives yielding for Christ? How much have you done for neighbors and friends? How many times have you prayed with them and asked the blessing of God to come to them? How much interest have you manifested for those who are not in the truth? God wants you to arouse. The judgment is near and hasteth greatly, and the work we now do we must do with eternity in view.
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 19)
The Saviour continued: “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.” [Verses 9-12.]
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 20)
The remainder of this chapter is just as full of precious instruction and encouragement as the first part. The Word of God is full of comfort and counsel and encouragement. Ask God to impress its truths upon your mind, that you may be converted. You say, I am converted. Are you? Some may be, but there are a great many who unless they are transformed will never see the kingdom of heaven and the salvation of God. We need a new conversion daily; we need our strength of mind renewed, that we may lay hold of the overcoming power that there is in the gospel.
(24LtMs, Ms 79, 1909, 21)
Ms 81, 1909
Sermon/An Extended Work Nevada, Iowa August 23, 1909 Previously unpublished. August 23, 1909 Sermon, Mrs. E. G. White, Nevada, Iowa, camp-meeting,
“Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy and eat; yea, come buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto Me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto Me; hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Behold, I have given Him for a witness unto the people, a leader and commander to the people. Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and a nation that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for He hath glorified thee.” [Isaiah 55:1-5.]
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 1)
These are very precious words. They teach us that we are not to confine our labors to our homes or our home churches, but that our work is to be an extended one. We have a solemn work to do for the world, and all who have pledged themselves to God by baptism are to labor for the enlightenment of those who are ignorant of the truth for this time. Angels of God are seeking to impress human hearts, seeking to bring hungering souls in connection with those who know and who love the truth. When we realize the needs of a perishing world and our need of co-operating with heavenly agencies, we will exercise all our powers in the service of God for humanity.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 2)
In words of tender appeal the prophet speaks to those who know not of the depths of God’s mercy and pardoning love. “Seek ye the Lord while He may be found,” he says, “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, and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My 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.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 3)
“As the rain cometh down and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: so shall My word be that goeth forth out of My mouth: it shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” [Verses 6-11.] The prophet here represents the work of the Holy Spirit upon the human heart. Through this power and the agency of His Word, God instructs all who follow on to know the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 4)
The prophet continues: “Ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the Lord for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.” [Verses 12, 13.]
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 5)
The faithful worker will realize the fulfilment of these words in his own experience as he plants and sows in faith. He is to remember as he labors for perishing souls that angels of God are also working for results, and through their agency the human agent accomplishes that which he could not do alone. “Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree; instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree; and these shall be to the Lord for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.” [Verse 13.]
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 6)
As professing children of God we are under solemn obligations to seek and to save the lost. My brethren and sisters, God wants you to associate with believers and unbelievers, that you may help all to a fuller knowledge of the truth. Get acquainted with those whom you think you can help; then when you get into conversation with them do not talk of nothingness and folly; but tell of the precious things of God. Read the Word to them. The question with you should not be, Does such a one believe exactly as I do? but, Does he keep the commandments of God? This is the great test question. Angels of God will make impressions upon the mind if, in the spirit of Christ, you will seek to reach and to help souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 7)
“Thus saith the Lord, Keep ye judgment, and do justice: for My salvation is near to come, and My righteousness to be revealed. Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 8)
“Neither let the son of the stranger, that hath joined himself to the Lord, speak, saying, The Lord hath utterly separated me from His people: neither let the eunuch say, Behold I am a dry tree. For thus saith the Lord unto the eunuchs that keep My sabbath, and choose the things that please Me, and take hold of My covenant, even unto them will I give in Mine house and within My walls a place and a name better than of sons and daughters: I will give them an everlasting name that shall not be cut off. Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the Lord, to serve Him, and to love the name of the Lord, to be His servants, everyone that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of My covenant; even them will I bring to Mine holy mountain, and make them joyful in My house of prayer; their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon Mine altar. My house shall be called an house of prayer for all people. The Lord God which gathereth the outcasts of Israel saith, Yet will I gather others to him, besides those what are gathered unto him.” [Isaiah 56:1-8.]
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 9)
If you are in darkness, and do not know what light is, read over some of these precious promises in the book of Isaiah. Accept them as the assurances of a God who never fails, and you will have light in the Lord. There are many who think they have no time to read the precious Word; yet in this book lies the source of our highest education. In the hope of securing worldly honor and a name, men connect themselves with institutions of the world and gather learning from those who do not honor God. But the Lord promises to those who keep His sabbath, and who choose the things that please Him, a name “better than of sons and daughters,”“an everlasting name, that shall not be cut off.” [Verse 5.]
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 10)
“Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek Me daily, and delight to know My ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and that forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of Me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God. Wherefore have we fasted, say they and Thou seest not; wherefore have we afflicted our soul, and Thou takest no knowledge?” [Isaiah 58:1-3.]
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 11)
Here is a people casting reproaches upon God, but the Lord in His reply casts the reproach back upon themselves: “Behold, in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labors. Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high. Is it such a fast as I have chosen? 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 to the Lord?
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 12)
“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?
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 13)
“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 noonday: 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 a spring of water, whose waters fail not.” [Verses 3-11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 14)
I have read these words to you that you might be encouraged to work out this experience in your own lives. I have tried this, and I know the blessings that result from such service for God. I know what it means to labor under the greatest suffering, and to have a pitying Saviour by my side constantly, as a present help in every time of need. We need to have the blessing of the Lord resting upon us every day; for God wants His people to be the most cheerful people on the face of the earth.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 15)
In your home life, when difficulties arise, don’t find fault and scold. Take the blessed Word, and bring its precious light before your family. Present it to your neighbors and friends. The Holy Spirit will work with you, impressing the hearts of those for whom you labor. They will come to understand that the commandments of God have been changed by the man of sin, and that they have been going in the way of the transgressor. Teach these souls how to return and to seek the Lord with the whole heart. In this work you will have a Helper by your side. Christ marks every work to which you put your hand for the glory and honor of His name, and He will let His blessing and comfort rest upon you and give you fruit for your labors.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 16)
I felt it a privilege to go to Portland, Maine, this summer. It was here that I had spent much of my early life. It was here I had heard Father Miller preach the truths of this message, and had seen souls converted to God through his instrumentality. I was very young at that time, but I was even then a laborer for God. It was in Portland that the Spirit of God came upon me, and the Lord showed me what He would do for souls through my efforts. The instruction came to me to write what God should show me for His people. I said, Lord, I am but a child, and I have not written since my accident; how can I write? But the word came again, “Write the things I shall give you.” I took a pen in my trembling hand and found that I could write. My hand grew steady, and since that time, I have written constantly. I am almost 82 years of age, but the Lord who lives and reigns is my strength and my dependence still.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 17)
I am thankful that so much means has been raised for the work in Portland. The believers there have laid the foundation of their meetinghouse, but can get no further in its erection. They lack funds. There are but few in the faith, and their facilities are very meager. I said to our brethren and sisters there, I will ask our people assembled at the camp-meetings to donate of their means for the work in Portland. You have raised something, and I thank the Lord that He has put it into your hearts to help. If there are others who want to help in this good work, I invite you to do so. The blessing of the Lord will rest upon you in every such work.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 18)
At Buffalo, located just outside the city, the believers have a little meetinghouse. I had the privilege of speaking to our people there, and the blessing of the Lord rested upon me. We have seen of the salvation of God on this journey.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 19)
I am glad that you are to have a sanitarium in Nevada. I am thankful for every such institution that I see established, and for every advance step in the cause of present truth. If workers who are consecrated and who appreciate the truth for this time are chosen to carry the work of this institution, there will be precious results seen.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 20)
God has given us great light, that we may let that light shine forth to others. We need to arouse and look after the lost sheep of the house of Israel. We need to do all in our power to lead souls to Christ. It is our work to raise up the foundations of many generations. Let us seek to have a part in every good work, for this will make us laborers together with God.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 21)
There are those here who need to make advanced moves. You may not have a penny to bestow on the cause of God, but you can give yourselves. You can say, I am resolved to follow on to know the Lord and to keep His commandments. Let us right here at this camp-meeting seek to reach others. We are not here to sit and listen to the truth day after day and do nothing for the enlightenment of those around us. The Word says, “Cry aloud, spare not; lift up thy voice like a trumpet.” [Verse 1.] God intends that every soul of us shall work with all the powers of our being. There are many places where work must be done, but we cannot do this work while we sit with folded hands in our homes. God calls us to work diligently, for time is short.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 22)
Consider the labors and struggles of the Son of God. He was a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. The only begotten Son of God, He took upon Himself the sin of the world, that He might reconcile us to the Father. Consider His agony in the garden of Gethsemane, when He sweat as it were great drops of blood. It was here that the mysterious cup trembled in His hand. Should He drink the cup? Should He consent to be separated from the Father? His divine nature shrank from the terrible ordeal. But a mighty angel was sent to minister to Him, and strengthened Him to drink the cup of suffering.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 23)
He was laid in Joseph’s tomb, but He came forth on the morning of the resurrection a triumphant conqueror, and proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, I am the resurrection and the life. And He brought forth with Him from their graves a multitude of saints to testify in their lives to the power of a risen Saviour.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 24)
My brethren and sisters, let us unite with God. Let us do what He wants us to do. Let us deny self and act a part in the great, grand work of soul-saving. Let us pray:
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 25)
Heavenly Father, I have tried to give the message to the people in simplicity. Wilt Thou impress heart and mind with its importance? Show this people their need of the words I have presented to them today, and impress them with the work that they must do for the Master—a work that none can do for them. Let Thy blessing rest upon this congregation in a special manner. Give them courage. Help them to consider the great sacrifice of Christ, made that they might claim His divine power and become subjects of the kingdom of glory.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 26)
Teach this people that there is a world to be saved, and that they must be truly converted if they would do acceptable service for others. Encircle them in the arms of Thy mercy and love, and teach them how to obtain the higher education by uniting with Jesus Christ and with God for the salvation of a perishing world.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 27)
O God, the living God, we can do nothing without Thee. We need Thee here upon this encampment. We want Thy blessing and Thy grace and Thy salvation. We want to lay hold of Thee by living faith. We can do nothing, but Thou canst do all things. Speak to heart and mind. Let the light of truth go forth as a lamp that burneth, and Thy blessed name shall have all the glory.
(24LtMs, Ms 81, 1909, 28)
Ms 83, 1909
Sermon/“Seek Ye the Kingdom of God” Council Grove, Kansas August 29, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in Ev 237-238; 3SM 248-249. August, 29, 1909 Sermon, Mrs. E. G. White, Council Grove, Kansas,
“In the mean time when there were gathered together innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trod one upon another, He began to say unto His disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. For there is nothing covered that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known. Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops. And I say unto you, My friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have nothing more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear Him, which after He hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 1)
“Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.” [Luke 12:1-7.]
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 2)
Often when our workers present the testing Sabbath truth to the people, some stand hesitating for fear of bringing poverty and hardships on themselves and their families. They say, Yes, I see what you are trying to show me in regard to the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath; but I am afraid if I keep the Sabbath I shall lose my position, and shall not be able to provide for my family. And so many keep their worldly position and disobey the command of God. But these Scriptures teach us that the Lord knows all about our experiences; He understands about our inconveniences, and that He has a care for all who follow on to know the Lord. He will never allow His children to be tempted above [that] they are able to bear.
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 3)
Christ declared to His disciples: “Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on. The life is more than meat, and the body than raiment. Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them; how much more are ye better than the fowls? And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit? And if ye then be not able to do that which is least, why take ye thought for the rest?” [Verses 22-26.]
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 4)
Holding up before them the lily of the field in its beauty and purity, the Saviour continued: “Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is today in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will He clothe you, O ye of little faith.
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 5)
“Seek ye not what ye shall eat, and what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.” [Verses 27-31.]
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 6)
Christ is here teaching a precious lesson in regard to His service. Whatever experiences may come to you, He says, serve God. Whatever inconveniences and hardships you may encounter, trust in the Lord. We have no cause to worry and fear, if we take our position for the truth, that we and our families will suffer. To do this is to manifest unbelief in God. “Your Father knoweth what things ye have need of,” the Saviour says. [Matthew 6:8.] If we would study the Word more faithfully, we would increase in faith.
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 7)
We have not time now to give to anxious thought as to what we shall eat and drink, and wherewithal we shall be clothed. Let us live simply and work in simplicity. Let us dress in such a modest, becoming way that we will be received wherever we go. Jewelry and expensive dress will not give us influence; but the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit—the result of devotion to the service of Christ—will give us power with God. Kindness and forethought for those about us are qualities precious in the sight of heaven. If you have not given attention to the acquirement of these graces, do so now; for you have no time to lose.
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 8)
“Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell that ye have, and give alms; 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 12:32-34.]
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 9)
Let us thank God for this precious promise, and hold fast to its assurance of eternal joys awaiting the redeemed ones.
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 10)
“Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning,” the Saviour continued; “and ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he shall return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open to him immediately. Blessed are those servants whom their lord, when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them. And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. And this know that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through. Be ye therefore ready also; for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.” [Verses 35-40.]
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 11)
In this chapter Christ brings to view the enmity that exists between good and evil: “Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth: I tell you, Nay; but rather division: for from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two and two against three. The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.” [Verses 51-53.]
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 12)
It is coming to be seen and felt by religionists in every community that in the hearts of the majority of men there is very little respect for truth and righteousness. Unbelief in God and His Word is everywhere manifest. Those who are not for Him are against Him. Satan is working with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish, seeking to gain control of human minds. And he leads his followers to believe that he will be conqueror because of the large numbers who are uniting with him.
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 13)
While such conditions prevail in the world, we are not to shut ourselves in our homes and think that an assent to truth is all that is required of us. Christ gave Himself a sacrifice for the sins of the world. He suffered death that He might make it possible for humanity to lay hold upon His divine power. The gift of God in Jesus Christ should awaken in the heart of every believer a spirit of self-sacrifice, leading them to deny themselves anything that will further the cause of God in the earth.
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 14)
My brethren and sisters, There are many souls to whom you can speak a word in season, to whom you can read the Scriptures, and with and for whom you can pray. There are many who take no interest in divine things. You can be a blessing to these souls if you will. Do not allow yourselves to associate with them as one who is in harmony with them, thinking that by this means you can win them to Christ. Tell them of the preciousness of the truth of God. Read the Scriptures to them; pray with them. God wants you to associate with believers and unbelievers, that you may help all to a fuller knowledge of the Word.
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 15)
Consider how Christ was nailed to the cross, how He gave His life a sacrifice for others’ sin. Then consider how much you have done for His cause. How many times have you spoken to neighbors and friends, that they might understand the position you occupy and the reasons for your faith? Have you labored according to your abilities? Have you walked before your associates in holiness of life? Can Christ put upon your head the crown of the overcomer, acknowledging you before heaven as one who has done his best in the army of the Lord? These are questions you need to consider.
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 16)
If you have the riches of the grace of Christ in your heart, you will not keep them to yourself while the salvation of souls depends upon a knowledge of the way of salvation that you can give. They may not come to you and tell you their heart longings, but many are hungry, unsatisfied. And Christ died that they might have the riches of His grace. What are you going to do, that these souls may share the blessings that you have enjoyed? You are called to be laborers together with God. You may never be called to the desk to preach, but you have a work to do—the most blessed work that mortals can do. You may co-operate with the Holy Spirit of God in convincing men of sin and revealing to them the righteousness of Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 17)
I see before me many who occupy humble positions in life who, perhaps, do not understand all that God requires of them. You are to devote yourselves to the service of God. “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.” [Matthew 6:33.] You are to let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Simplicity is of the highest value in the sight of heaven. Learn to labor according to Christ’s methods.
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 18)
There is a world to be saved, but it is represented to me that little is being done by those who claim to be the servants of God to win souls for eternal life. Did the Son of God spare Himself, and leave you to ruin? No; He gave up the glory that He had with the Father and gave His life that He might impart life to all. Let us consider Him as He bows in His last prayer to the Father for His disciples, pleading that they might be given grace to walk in His footsteps and continue the work He had begun. We have an eternity of blessings to win or to lose. It rests with us whether we shall hear the words spoken to us, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” or, “Depart from Me, I never knew you.” [Matthew 25:23; 7:23.]
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 19)
My brethren and sisters, Present the truths of the third angel’s message to your neighbors and friends who do not understand them and who see nothing to interest them in the Word of God. You can tell them of the hope of immortality. You can pray with and for them. Some of you can gather your neighbor’s children together and tell them the simple stories of the Bible, explaining their meaning in simple language. Let the Word speak for itself. Let your works be of such a character that they shall not exert an influence contrary to the faith you profess. If you will come into this position of consecration to the work of God, He will multiply your influence for good.
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 20)
Our church members are not doing their work for the Master as they should. If they would lay hold of the power of Christ, and in His spirit seek to bring salvation to others, heavenly agencies would co-operate with them. Christ wants men to receive of His salvation. He waits to give His rich grace to all who will seek for it. If you will speak the simple words of truth to those not in the faith, the righteousness and grace of Christ will appear in the soul, and they will accept the truth as it is in Jesus.
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 21)
I will read a few words from the Second Epistle of Peter and then close. “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you,” the apostle writes, “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, and overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 22)
“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 God 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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 23)
This is the message I bring you today. If you will do these things, if you will live on the plan of addition, you will never fall. Whatever experience may come to you, you will be established. An everlasting life insurance policy is held out to you. Will you strive for it, pray for it, win it?
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 24)
My brethren and sisters, let us proclaim the truth to others in the little time we have left. Let us live day by day on the plan of addition. To all who do this, the promise is given: “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.] May God bless you, is my prayer.
(24LtMs, Ms 83, 1909, 25)
Ms 85, 1909
Sermon/Lessons of Self-Denial, Trust, and Co-Operation Nevada, Iowa August 21, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in UL 247; VSS 220; SD 268; 8MR 291.
Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White, Sabbath, August 21, 1909, Nevada, Iowa.
“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth,” the Saviour said, “where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust doth not corrupt, and where thieves do not break through and steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” [Matthew 6:19-21.]
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 1)
The riches of this world will never advance us in the knowledge of God or in a Christian experience. The Saviour bids us seek for the true riches that are laid up in store for the righteous. The man or woman who truly follows Christ will look upon his earthly possessions as a gift of God, to be used in advancing His honor in the earth.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 2)
To one who came to Him, saying, “We will follow Thee whithersoever Thou goest,” Christ said, “The foxes have holes, the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of man hath not where to lay His head.” [Luke 9:57; Matthew 8:20.] Christ owned nothing in this world, and yet the world was His. Let us study His holy, self-denying example. We have no time to spend on the vanities and follies of this world. If we seek for these things, we give an example that reveals a lack of harmony with the character of Christ. There is a world to be saved, and we should carefully consider the example we give to those around us. We should conform our lives to the life of Him who became a child of humanity, that He might give a perfect example to every human being. From a study of His life and labors and His struggles with temptation, we are to learn how to become partakers of the divine nature and overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust. Nowhere shall we find anything that will help our spiritual life as will a study of the life of Christ. And as we seek to walk in His footsteps, there will come to us a supply of divine grace such as sustained Christ in every circumstance.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 3)
“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.” [Matthew 6:22, 23.]
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 4)
There are many who profess to be followers of Christ who do not have an eye single to His glory. They have their own ideas and standards, and they keep these before them instead of the standard of the Word of God. What we need is pure and undefiled religion. We need to plead for the righteousness that comes to the truly converted soul who accepts the life of the Redeemer as his example. Let us not think that we can pass through this world doing just as we please, and yet be accepted by God as followers of His Son. The gates of the city of God will never be thrown open to those who have not lifted the cross and followed after Christ in self-denial and self-sacrifice. We are never to lose sight of the fact that if ever we come into possession of the kingdom of glory, we must accept by faith the merits of Jesus Christ; we must be partakers of His nature, and through His grace overcome.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 5)
We are to present to the world a life of overcoming—overcoming by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. But in order to do this, we must seek the Lord daily that our natural temperaments and desires may be brought under the converting power of the Holy Spirit and into harmony with the life of Christ. When you submit to these conditions, you will realize Christ’s power and sufficiency. Denying self, and walking humbly with God, you will experience the truth of the words of the Saviour, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 14:6; 8:12.]
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 6)
“No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one and love the other; or else he will hold to one and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Therefore I say unto you, 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? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? 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.” [Matthew 6:24-29.]
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 7)
As you consider the beauties and grace of the flowers of the field, you are to remember that Christ wants you to perfect a character that will represent the beauties of Christ’s character just as the lily represents the workmanship of God. And Christ drew another lesson also: “Wherefore,” He said, “if God so clothe the grass of the field, which is today in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall He not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Wherefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat, or, What shall we drink? or, wherewithal shall we be clothed; (for after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) 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 30-34.]
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 8)
O ye of little faith, Christ speaks these words to you—you for whom He has given His precious life, that soul, body, and spirit may be sanctified through the truth. Some who pass through hardship and discouragements may feel that theirs is a joyless lot. Let them remember that Christ passed through similar experiences. He knew what poverty and hardship was. He bids you believe in His love and follow in His footsteps. He will work through those who have means to provide for those who need.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 9)
My brethren and sisters, there is a world to be saved. What are you doing to co-operate with Christ? What are you doing to represent His humility of spirit? Are you seeking to become acquainted with those who are afflicted and suffering, and who need your help? Are you using your opportunities and advantages and means in winning souls to Christ? You may say, I am not a minister, and therefore cannot preach the truth. You may not be a minister in the generally accepted sense of the word. You may never be called to stand in the desk. Nevertheless you can be a minister for Christ. If you will have your eyes opened to see the opportunities that present themselves for speaking a word to this soul and to that, God will speak through you to lead them to Christ. Christ took human nature, that you might approach Him and learn of Him how to labor for your fellow men. Make use of your knowledge in bringing souls to Christ. Drop a word here and a word there that will lift up Christ before men and lead them to higher and holier purposes.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 10)
From the light that God has given me, I see that there is a great work to be done for every church. Many of us have neglected to study the Scriptures; we have failed to develop such characters as Christ can use. The Son of God left the courts of glory and came to our world to partake of its temptations and hardships, that He might lift us up and make us sons and daughters of God. He calls upon us individually to take up our appointed work wherever we are. We are to watch for souls as they that must give an account. We are to do what we can to minister to the spiritual needs of mankind.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 11)
Christ worked for us when we were unbelievers. What are we doing for our friends and neighbors who do not believe? Christ expects us to become acquainted with the spiritual needs of these souls, and to work for them in meekness and lowliness of heart. Time is passing. Satan is boasting to his evil agencies that he will take possession of the world; and he encourages them to work through every possible means for the accomplishment of this purpose. At this time the followers of Christ should bring a strong counterinfluence to meet the influence of evil.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 12)
My brethren and sisters, let us take God at His word and seek Him in simple faith. Heaven is waiting to open opportunities before those who will walk before God in true simplicity. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for everyone that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.] We do not go to God and ask Him in simplicity for the things that we need. Let us cultivate a truer humility and a firmer dependence upon Him than we have. Until we come to Him as the disciples came before the day of Pentecost, He cannot co-operate with us as fully as He desires. When we yield ourselves fully to Him, He will work as the case requires. All our needs are embraced in the promise, “Ask, and ye shall receive.” [John 16:24.]
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 13)
“What man is there of you,” Christ asked, “whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask Him?” [Matthew 7:9-11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 14)
“Therefore 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.” [Verse 12.] If you want others to do these self-denying works for you, do these acts for them. I am instructed that comparatively few of our people believe the Word of God and carry out its teachings.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 15)
My brethren, you have these promises before you. Do not return to your homes and forget all about them. You may feel that you are unable to do anything; but if you will place yourselves in right relation to the One who made these promises, you will find them fulfilled in your experience. God laid upon His Son to give His life for the life of the world, that man might co-operate with Him in the salvation of the human family. You can stand side by side with the Saviour, working with Him in self-denial and self-sacrifice at every step.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 16)
“Enter ye in at the strait gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leadeth unto destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way that leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.” [Verses 13, 14.]
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 17)
“Ye shall know them by their fruits. 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. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 18)
“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 unto Me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name? and in Thy name have 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.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 19)
“Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock; and the rains descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house, and it fell not; for it was founded upon a rock. And everyone that heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them not, I will liken him unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand. And the rains descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew and beat upon that house; and it fell, and great was the fall of it.” [Verses 16-27.]
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 20)
Every day we are building character. Let us build on the rock Christ Jesus. This sure foundation will stand for every one of us.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 21)
Parents, let no fretful words be spoken. If your children need correction, do it in such a way that you will not leave the devil in their hearts. Read the Word of God to those who understand; and to those who cannot, explain the requirements of Christ. If you will do this, you will find that the light of heaven will come into your homes, and the rich blessing of God will abide with you. You can co-operate with God in the salvation of your family if you will follow the instruction of His Word.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 22)
There are some among us who feel that they must study in the schools of the world in order to receive what the world calls the higher education. But I have been instructed that our people have no need to seek the education that the world gives. Christ has given us everything we need in order to be saved. The instruction of God’s Word is the highest instruction that can be given to men.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 23)
I am bidden to repeat this message again and again. As the professed followers of Christ, we are seeking for a life that measures with the life of God. Then let us search the Scriptures. “Search the Scriptures,” said Christ, “for in them ye think ye have eternal life, and they are they which testify of Me.” [John 5:39.] All the education we can gain from men of the world will do little for our Christian experience but confuse our faith. Let us come into right relation to God, come, just as we are, needy and dependent, and say, Lord, teach me out of Thy Word. Give me the spiritual help I must have if I carry out in my life the principles of righteousness. If we will take hold of the life of Christ and study His teachings, He will show us how to accept the attributes of His divine nature.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 24)
Ministers, in your discourses do not climb up so high that the people cannot understand what you say. I have been instructed that we get altogether too high in our representation of Bible truth. We lose much by not coming to the simplicity of true godliness. God has given us all we need to enable us to reach the souls around us; yet the reformations that were made in Christ’s day, as the result of the presentation of the gospel, are rare today. We need the converting power of God in our hearts to teach us simplicity in words and works.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 25)
We need to have the simple faith in the power of Christ that was manifested by the poor woman who had been afflicted so many years, but when she reached the place where the Saviour was, could not get near enough to Him to present her petition. She said, “If I may but touch His garment, I shall be whole.” [Matthew 9:21.] Acting upon her faith in the Saviour’s power, she reached forward in the crowd as He passed, and succeeded in touching the border of His garment. Immediately she was made whole.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 26)
With a grateful heart she was about to steal away from the throng, but suddenly Jesus stopped. He turned, and looking about Him asked, “Who touched Me?” [Luke 8:45.]
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 27)
The people were astonished at His question, and one of the disciples asked, “Master, the multitude throng and press Thee, and sayest Thou, Who touched Me?” [Verse 45.] But Christ could distinguish between the casual touch of the multitude and the touch of faith, and He desired to make known the story of this woman’s unquestioning belief. He would teach the lesson that it is those who are earnest, those who pant for the salvation of God, who shall be satisfied.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 28)
Seeing that she was discovered, the woman came forward, and falling at the feet of Christ, told her pitiful story. Jesus said to her, “Daughter, be of good comfort, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.” [Verse 48.]
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 29)
I pray that this meeting will not close until impressions are made upon the hearts of believers that will cause them to carry with them to their homes a firm determination to labor for others. As overcomers through faith in Christ, you may take hold of a life that measures with the life of God. When this experience of overcoming is yours, your labors for others will not be without fruit. Your position may be ever so humble; but through the co-operation of heavenly agencies, you may take with you through the gates of the city of God many who have accepted the truth through your efforts.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 30)
May God help us to understand that we must be laborers together with Him. Let us begin right here to be coworkers with heaven. Put away the foolish reading matter, and study the Word of God. Commit its precious promises to memory, so that when we shall be deprived of our Bibles, we may still be in possession of the Word of God. Cultivate the attributes of earnestness, bringing into all your labors for others the simplicity of true godliness. This will help you to reach the hearts of those you are trying to help.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 31)
I am burdened for our large cities, and for your neighbors and friends who have not the light. I pray that God will open the understanding of those who have a knowledge of the truth for this time, that they may act a part in the great, grand work of salvation. Will you not come in lowliness of heart and offer yourselves for service to God? That lowliness is true dignity. Will you not unite in labor for your families and for your friends and acquaintances? If you will do this, you will have a different testimony to bear next time you assemble at camp-meeting.
(24LtMs, Ms 85, 1909, 32)
Ms 87, 1909
Talk/Words Addressed to the Workers at the Boulder Sanitarium Boulder, Colorado September 3, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in SD 268, 365; 6MR 286.
“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. 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 have passed away.” [Revelation 21:1-4.]
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 1)
“And He that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And He said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. And He said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give to him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be My son. But the fearful and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake that burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 2)
“And there came unto me one of the seven angels, which had the seven vials filled with the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will show thee the bride, the Lamb’s wife. And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me that great city the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, having the glory of God; and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal; and had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel.
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 3)
“On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates. And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof. And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with a reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal.” [Verses 5-16.]
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 4)
I will not read any further in this chapter, but I want to say to you this morning, The great provision has been made so that every soul may have the eternal blessings brought to view here. I greatly desire that every one of us shall seek to understand the Word of God. Let us not choose to spend our time in reading the daily newspapers and the frivolous and foolish novel. We can see evil enough without doing this.
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 5)
“And he shewed me a clear 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 are for the healing of the nations. 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.” [Revelation 22:1-3.]
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 6)
“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.” [Verses 4, 5.]
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 7)
“And they shall see His face.” [Verse 4.] The request of Moses was that he might see God. “Shew me Thy glory,” he pleaded. [Exodus 33:18.] The Lord revealed Himself to Moses by a revelation of His divine attributes; but He said, “There shall no man see My face, and live.” [Verse 20.] But to the overcomers the promise is given, “They shall see His face.”
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 8)
“And he said to me, These sayings are faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy prophets sent His angel to shew 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. And I John saw these things and heard them. And when I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship at the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not; for I am thy fellowservant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God. 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 to every man according as his work shall be.” [Revelation 22:6-12.]
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 9)
The thought of this twelfth verse I wish to impress upon the mind of each one here. In view of the Lord’s soon coming, how earnest we should be in forming characters after the divine similitude. But if we stand at last among the redeemed, we cannot do in this life just as we please, gratifying our own desires and inclinations. If we are not following on day by day to know the Lord, we are losing ground. We are to learn that His goings forth are prepared as the morning.
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 10)
“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 enter in through the gates into the city.” [Verses 13, 14.] Is not this worth striving for? If we lose heaven, we lose everything, and there are none of us who can afford to do that. If we keep in view the eternal joys awaiting the overcomer, and trust in Christ as we strive for perfection of character, do you think we shall be unhappy? Should it make us unhappy to imitate Christ’s example of self-denial and ministry? God gave His Son that the world through Him might understand the terms of man’s salvation. Let us study the works of Christ and His sufferings in our behalf. He will quicken the understanding of all who follow on to know the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 11)
The Saviour, when He came to earth, did not take a high position among men; but He made Himself one with the people, that He might come in close touch with them in His work of teaching. He traveled on foot from place to place, teaching and healing the people. He did this that all might have an opportunity to hear His words and to follow Him. And large [crowds] followed Him from place to place. At one time the company numbered five thousand men, besides women and children. All day He taught the people and healed the sick, and those who were healed joined the crowds that were already following the Saviour.
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 12)
“And when the day was now far spent, His disciples came unto Him and said, This is a desert place; ... send them away that they may go into the country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves bread: for they have nothing to eat.... He said unto them, How many loaves have ye? go and see. And when they knew, they said, Five, and two fishes. And He commanded to make all sit down by companies upon the green grass. And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties. And when He had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, He looked up to heaven, and blessed and brake the loaves, and gave them to His disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided He among them all. And they did all eat and were filled. And they took up twelve baskets of the fragments, and of the fishes.” [Mark 6:35-36, 38-43.]
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 13)
Three times this miracle was performed in different localities, so that people in different parts might learn the lessons He would teach thereby.
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 14)
“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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 15)
We are to unite in giving the invitation to others. If we will come into right relation to God, He will let His blessing rest upon us, leading us to believe in Christ and to do His work. It is the privilege of every soul here to become a partaker of the divine nature, if he will follow the light God has given. We have a knowledge of Christ and of the way of salvation. We need to realize daily what a helper we have in Jesus. Let all understand that they can be co-workers with Jesus Christ. It is your privilege to receive grace from Christ that will enable you to comfort others with the same comfort wherewith you yourselves are comforted of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 16)
It should be a great satisfaction to these workers to be in a sanitarium like this where each one is taught to take a part in the work of ministering to others. Let each one seek to do his work as he will wish he and done when the end of all things shall come. Let each try to help the next one. Thus you may have a little heaven here below, and angels of God will work through you to make right impressions upon the minds of those who come as guests and patients to the sanitarium. Christ wants to use you as His servants. Seek to help wherever you can. Cultivate the best dispositions, that the grace of God may rest richly upon you.
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 17)
Young and old may learn to look to God as the One who will heal, as One who sympathizes, who understands their necessities, and who will never make a mistake. Your humanity may lay hold of the divinity of Christ by living faith, and you may learn to carry out in this institution the principles of heaven. This will make you a blessing to all in the institution.
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 18)
Put away all that would hinder you from reaching the high standard set for you in the Word of God. Do not foster a spirit of jealousy or evil surmising or anything that would grieve the Spirit of God. There are those who have this evil in their natures;, and if they continue in it, Satan will work through them to spoil the influence of this sanitarium. We cannot afford to have such characters here. Every worker must stand on the platform of eternal truth. In manifesting a spirit of jealousy, we reveal a characteristic of Satan. We cannot afford to harbor one desire that has its origin in him.
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 19)
We are seeking for the life that measures with the life of God; therefore our natures must be brought into conformity with the will of God. We must so conduct our lifework that we can go to God in confidence and open our hearts before Him, telling Him our necessities and believing that He hears and will give us grace and strength to carry out the principles of the Word of God. What we want is heaven, the victor’s crown, an entrance through the gates of the city of God, the right to eat of the tree of life in the midst of the paradise of God. We want to see the King in His beauty. Then daily let us keep our eyes fixed upon Christ, the perfection of human character, and laying hold of His divinity we shall have the strength of divinity to aid us in overcoming every evil tendency and desire.
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 20)
Christ came to earth to suffer and to die, that we might lay hold on eternal life. He gave Himself, that we might become partakers of the divine nature and overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust. If we have our reasoning faculties, we should know better than to follow a course of jealousy and evil surmising. The Lord bids us work out our salvation with fear and trembling. If we perfect a Christian character, we must put away from our lives every evil thing. There must be no evil surmising cherished in mind or heart. When we are truly converted to God, we shall hate these things that separate us from Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 21)
I have a deep interest in this sanitarium. I was here when this institution was started, and when there were only a few believers here who were seeking to carry out the principles of the truth in this place. God would have this sanitarium and agency for the education of all who connect in any way with it, and we are without excuse if we carry on the work of the enemy here. Let us conduct ourselves free from everything that would spoil the influence of the institution; for one sinner in this line can do much harm.
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 22)
What we need is to be true Christians, to keep our eyes fixed upon Christ, and to follow His example. In His human life Christ’s character was perfect—just as ours may be. We can grasp the divinity of Christ by living faith and in our humanity reveal Christ to the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 23)
Christ desires to give to all at His coming the crown of life. I pray that we who are gathered here today may be among those who will greet Him when He comes in the clouds of heaven, saying, “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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 24)
If we will let Him, the Lord will work in and through this institution.
(24LtMs, Ms 87, 1909, 25)
Ms 89, 1909
Talk/A Work of Preparation Madison, Wisconsin August 18, 1909 Previously unpublished.
Talk by Mrs. E. G. White to the helpers at the Madison Sanitarium, Madison, Wisconsin, August 18, 1909.
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 1)
“And 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 shall be their God. 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.
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 2)
“And He that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And He said unto me, Write, for these words are true and faithful. And He said unto me, It is done, I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be My son.” [Revelation 21:1-7.]
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 3)
“And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God, and of the Lamb. And 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. And there shall be no more curse; for 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 22:1-4.]
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 4)
Moses asked that he might see the face of God, and the Lord said to him, “There shall no man see My face and live.” [Exodus 33:20.] But here is presented a people who are prepared to see even the face of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 5)
“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 to 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 22:10-14.]
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 6)
“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 of the water of life freely.” [Verse 17.]
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 7)
It has been presented to me in clear lines that as a people we are to prepare for a grand and final review of character that will decide our fitness to enter the city of God; and at such a time as this, it behooves us to purify our souls through obedience to the truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 8)
The workers in this sanitarium have the benefit of gaining and understanding of the truth. The Lord desires that every one of you shall know what is written in the Word and what is required of you individually if you would be prepared to enter upon the future, immortal life. There are many who will not enter upon this work of preparation; it is not expected of the worldling that he will do it; but those who are expecting to see the King in His beauty are required to wash their robes of character and make them white in the blood of the Lamb. As you seek for sanctification of life through obedience to the truth, the principles of truth, working in your heart, and the co-operation of heavenly angels will make your heart tender and give you an increasing desire to know what you shall do to be saved.
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 9)
I have read these Scriptures to you, that you might consider what is the preparation required of you in order to be ready to meet the Lord. Are you ready for that event? Are you preparing for it? There are some here who are quite young and inexperienced; but the Lord desires to give these wisdom and knowledge. He wants to take them into a sacred nearness to Himself and to increase their faith. Do not encourage foolishness; let no hasty words be spoken, no unpleasant spirit manifested. Christ wants your words to be select. Let the youth who have given themselves to the work of the Lord put away from their lives everything that is displeasing to Him. Then the light of heaven will come into your souls. The judgment is set; the coming of Christ is rapidly drawing near; we cannot afford to lose one opportunity for preparing for these solemn events.
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 10)
I would say to these young people: You can be a help and blessing to one another if you will. It is your privilege to get together and pray and study the Word of God. This is what we would do in 1844 when we looked for the Lord’s coming very soon. We would go into the groves and pray to God until we realized His blessing upon us. Pray together; let the light of heaven fill your hearts. Be truly converted; do not make any mistake in this matter.
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 11)
You can help and bless and strengthen those around you. There are some here who have gone through a certain training in order that they might gain a certain position. So the one who would gain the life that is promised to every true believer must work for his reward. We do not know how soon the Lord will come. You do not know that your lives will be spared till you have finished your training here. You have no time to lose in getting ready for the coming of Christ. What God requires of you is to bring your life into harmony with the life of Christ. He requires that you be true, that you humble your hearts before Him, that you open your hearts to the reception of His grace. To all who will seek Him with earnest purpose, He will impart His grace and power. It is your privilege to make of this sanitarium a place where angels will love to dwell, and through which God will work for the honor of His name.
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 12)
Our sanitariums are established for the purpose of carrying out the principles of Bible truth. If the workers will humble their hearts before God, and seek Him with full purpose of heart, they will be able to reach the men and women who come to this institution. This will not be because of any virtue in you, but because heavenly agencies are working through you. If with an eye single to the glory of God you watch unto prayer, Christ will accept your service for Him. He wants you to be strong in His strength. He says, “Ask, and ye shall receive.” [John 16:24.]
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 13)
I have read to you this description of the city of God, that you might realize how well worth striving for it is, and that you may help others to seek for it with you. There is a heaven for you to win. The preparation you are making is for eternity.
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 14)
God has given us the blessed Word, and Christ has given His life, that we might have eternal life in the kingdom of glory. All the host of Satan worked against the Saviour during His earthly life, that He might not accomplish the work He came to do. But Christ did not fail nor become discouraged. Christ suffered on Calvary’s cross for you. How much are you willing to deny self? what efforts will you make that God’s name may be magnified in the earth? We are to overcome and put away the habits and practices that are indulged by the worldling. We do not, must not let these have a place in our lives.
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 15)
The Lord wants us to come to Him in the simplicity of true godliness. He wants us to feel our responsibility to form a character for the future eternal life. Christ gave precious lessons to young and old when He said: “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 moth and rust doth not corrupt, and where thieves do not break through and steal; for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.... Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, and 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? ... 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.... Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” [Matthew 6:19-21, 25, 28, 29, 33.]
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 16)
“He that heareth” is to say “Come.” [Revelation 22:17.] Whosoever will may take of the waters of life freely. This message is to be borne to the world; we each have a work to do. May God help us to put away our cheapness of character, and our foolishness. Let those who have come here to learn how to labor put all their capabilities to work. Let them ask themselves the questions: Am I fitting myself to stand in the grand review of God? I pray that we each may seek most earnestly for this preparation, that we may gain that life that measures with the life of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 17)
This is the last time I expect to meet with the workers here. I do not expect to visit this place again; but wherever I am, and wherever you are, let us be preparing to wear through eternity the robe of Christ’s righteousness and the crown of the overcomer.
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 18)
Prayer: My heavenly Father, I have spoken a few words in Thy name to these workers. Thou knowest, Lord, what is before them; and we do not. We commit them to Thee. We pray Thee, for Christ’s sake, to sweep back the mists of darkness with which Satan is trying to becloud the mind. Teach them how to strive successfully for everlasting life.
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 19)
Send the baptism of Thy Holy Spirit upon these students, that they may press the battle to the gates. Give them higher views of what it means to be a follower of the meek and lowly Saviour. Refine, purify, sanctify the whole being; let them not fall into temptation. Move upon human hearts, that they may strive with all their being for that life that measures with the life of God. Help those who are weak; help those who are strong. There is a heaven for these workers to win. If we never see them again in this life, grant that we may meet them in the world to come. We want to see the crown placed on every brow. We want to see them receive the harp of gold and hear them sing in the kingdom of glory the triumphs of the grace of Christ. Take them into Thy care; watch over them, and Thy blessed name shall have all the glory. Amen.
(24LtMs, Ms 89, 1909, 20)
Ms 91, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts on John 17 Boulder, Colorado September 4, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in RH 01/13/1910.
Mrs. E. G. White, Boulder, Colorado, Sabbath, September 4, 1909.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 1)
“These words spake Jesus, and lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify Thy Son, that Thy Son also may glorify Thee; as Thou hast given Him power over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as Thou hast given Him. And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent.” [John 17:1-3.]
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 2)
The eternal life, of which the Saviour speaks, He clearly defines. Let us seek to understand the full meaning of these words:
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 3)
“I have glorified Thee on the earth,” the Saviour continued: “I have finished the work which Thou gavest Me to do. And now, O Father, glorify Thou Me with Thine own self with the glory which I had with Thee before the world was. I have manifested Thy name unto the men whom 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 Mine are Thine, and Thine are Mine; and I am glorified in them.” [Verses 4-10.]
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 4)
I pray that these words may have due weight upon our hearts at all times and in all places. There are many among us who have not considered it their privilege to understand the mystery of godliness; but if they would do this, they would come up on to a higher plane of action.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 5)
“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. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in Thy name: those that Thou hast given Me I have kept; and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled. And now come I to Thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have My joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that Thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that Thou shouldest keep them from the evil.” [Verses 11-15.]
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 6)
It is important that those who are striving for eternal life understand the statement of Christ regarding the means of their sanctification. The Saviour prayed for His disciples, “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.” [Verses 17-19.] Unless we have the sanctification of the Spirit of God, the truth that we claim to believe will be of little advantage to us.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 7)
“As Thou hast sent Me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.” [Verse 18.] It is not for the professing believer to sit down and take life easily, as though there were nothing to be done. There is a great work to be accomplished, and every one who attains unto eternal life is to co-operate with Jesus Christ. “Neither pray I for these alone,” the Saviour said, “but for them also that shall believe in 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.” [Verses 20-23.]
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 8)
Ministers and people are included in these words. All are to be one, even as Christ was one with the Father. There can be no perfection in division. Those who believe in Jesus Christ will be one in their interest for the souls who are perishing out of Christ. The fact is that we have lost sight of our individual responsibility, and we need to take it up in the name of the Lord. When this prayer of Christ’s is answered for His people in this age, when this unity exists among Seventh-day Adventists, there will be a tremendous influence going forth from them to the world. Reformations will take place; first in our own ranks, and then in those for whom we labor, will be seen the transformation of character for which Christ so earnestly prayed.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 9)
“Father, I will that they also whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am; that they may behold Thy 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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 10)
“When Jesus had spoken these words, He went with His disciples over the brook Cedron, where was a garden, into the which He entered, and His disciples. And Judas also, which betrayed Him, knew the place: for Jesus ofttimes resorted thither with His disciples. Judas therefore, having received a band of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons. Jesus therefore, knowing all things that should come upon Him, went forth and said unto them, Whom seek ye? They answered Him, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus saith unto them, I am He. And Judas also, which betrayed Him, stood with them. As soon as He had said unto them, I am He, they went backward, and fell to the ground.” [John 18:1-6.]
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 11)
Christ could have delivered Himself from the hands of His enemies, had He chosen to do so. But He was sent to bear the sins of the world, and He must pay the penalty of man’s transgression. “Then asked He them again, Whom seek ye? and they answered, Jesus of Nazareth. Jesus answered, I have told you that I am He: if therefore ye seek Me, let these go their way: that the saying might be fulfilled which He spake, Of them which Thou gavest Me have I lost none.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 12)
“Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote the high priest’s servant, and cut off his ear. The servant’s name was Malchus. Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which My Father hath given Me, shall I not drink it? Then the band and the captain and the officers of the Jews took Jesus, and bound Him, and led Him away to Annas first; for he was father-in-law to Caiaphas, which was high priest that same year. Now Caiaphas was he which gave counsel to the Jews, that it was expedient that one man should die for the people.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 13)
“And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another disciple: that disciple was known unto the high priest, and went in with Jesus into the palace of the high priest. But Peter stood at the door without. Then went out that other disciple, which was known unto the high priest, and spake unto her that kept the door, and brought in Peter. Then said the damsel that kept the door unto Peter, Art not thou also one of this man’s disciples? He saith, I am not. And the servants and officers stood there, who had made fire of coals; for it was cold: and they warmed themselves: and Peter stood with them, and warmed himself.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 14)
“The high priest then asked Jesus of His disciples and of His doctrine. Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing. Why askest thou Me? Ask them that heard Me what I have said unto them: behold, they know what I said. And when He had thus spoken, one of the officers which stood by struck Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying, Answerest Thou the high priest so? Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness of the evil: but if well, why smitest thou Me?” [Verses 7-23.]
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 15)
I ask you to read these Scriptures at your leisure, and as you read remember that your salvation has been purchased at infinite cost, and that because of this solemn responsibilities rest upon you. I will leave these words with you, and will ask you to consider another Scripture which has a special bearing upon us as a people at this time.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 16)
Luke, writing in the first and second chapters of Acts, says, “The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, until the day in which He was taken up, after that He through the Holy Ghost had given commandment unto the apostles whom He had chosen: to whom also He showed Himself alive after His passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which saith He, ye have heard of Me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 17)
“When they therefore were come together, they asked of Him, saying, Lord, wilt Thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And He said unto them, It is not for you to know the times and the seasons which the Father hath put into His own power. But ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witness unto Me, both in Jerusalem and in Judea, and in all Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth.” [Acts 1:1-8.]
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 18)
“And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak in other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 19)
“And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. And they were all amazed and marveled, saying, Behold, are not all these which speak Galileans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? ... And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 20)
“But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judea, and all ye that dwell in Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken unto my words, for these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing that it is but the third hour of the day. But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel: And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy; and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams. And on my servants and on my handmaidens will I pour out of My Spirit in those days, and they shall prophesy: and I will show wonders in the heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapor of smoke: the sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and notable day of the Lord come: and it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” [Acts 2:1-8, 12-21.]
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 21)
My brethren and sisters, let us study to know what is the work devolving upon us individually. You have something to do for those who are around you, and for those afar off. We have no right to devote all our means for the enjoyment of our present life. We have no right to spend dollars to glorify and indulge self. The judgments of God that are coming upon the earth are certainly not far off, and we should be up and doing our part. As we consider what Christ has suffered for us, we should seek to come into a position of self-denial and self-sacrifice, that we may help in the salvation of the souls that are in peril of everlasting destruction. We can have no excuse to offer to God for neglect of this work.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 22)
Are we getting ready for the judgment? Are we preparing to meet the Lord? There is a work to be done for those who are afar off and for those who are nigh. We are to enter cities and towns and villages that have been left without the message of warning for these last days. We do not realize how near we are to the end of this earth’s history. We do not realize the value of the souls for whom Christ gave His precious life. We need to put on the robe of Christ’s righteousness and work in harmony with Him, in harmony with His ministers, in harmony with all who truly believe the truth for this time.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 23)
My brethren and sisters, we are not half awake. We do not half appreciate the precious time that is passing into eternity. Many are clinging to their old habits and practices, and some are even denying Christ as Peter did. These lose the blessing that they would have at every step if they would follow on to know the Lord. Let us press together. It is no time now for us to quarrel among ourselves, no time to draw apart. Let us not thus counterwork the work that God is seeking to do for us and through us. We need the cementing power of the Spirit of God to come upon this people.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 24)
God has a work for His people to do for the world; and if they will work in harmony with one another and with heaven, He will demonstrate His power in their behalf as He did for His first disciples on the day of Pentecost. Those days of preparation in which the disciples prepared themselves by prayer and a putting away of all disunion brought them into such close relation to God that he could work for them and through them in a marvelous manner. Today God desires to accomplish great things through the faith and works of His believing people. But we need to stand in right relation to God, that we may understand His voice when He speaks to us.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 25)
As a people we have had great light and many privileges, yet we are far behind where we should be in advanced spirituality. Every sanitarium, every institution in our ranks should stand forth as a representative of the living principles of truth. In every department of their work, God’s glory and the advancement of His kingdom should be the first consideration. If the workers in these institutions do not do this, they will be held accountable for the souls that are lost as the result of their unconsecrated lives.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 26)
The Lord wants us to come into line. He wants us to realize the precious privileges that are ours if we will come into right relation to Him. There are in our institutions some who have no understanding of what it means to be truly converted to God. Mental and physical powers are unconverted; their lips speak unsanctified words. Night after night I am unable to sleep because of the representations that are made to me regarding these things. Some of our people are doing all they can to stand in right relation to God, but others are pulling back. There are some who, because of their lack of consecration, are hindering souls from coming to Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 27)
Our medical institutions should stand where the glory of God can be clearly revealed through them. It used to be so in the beginning of our work when the sanitarium was first established at Battle Creek. Now we have sanitariums in many places. An important question for us to answer is, Who shall occupy the positions of greater or less responsibility in these institutions. It should be those whose daily lives emit the light of truth, who with sanctified tongues speak only those words that will prove a blessing to others. If the work is done that God desires to see accomplished as the result of the establishment of our sanitarium work, we cannot hold in these institutions workers who give evidence that they are unconverted. We must have those who are wholly surrendered to God. Time is passing, and souls are perishing for lack of the truth. Let the light shine forth from our sanitariums in clear, distinct rays. May the God of Israel impress upon the hearts and minds of our people the sacredness and the importance of the work to be done. If men and women will co-operate with God with all the powers of their being consecrated to Him, they will stand as ministers of righteousness to their fellow beings.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 28)
I know the burdens that many of our sanitariums carry, and I am instructed to say to those in positions of responsibility in these institutions, Be careful whom you select to connect with the sanitarium. Let every influence be of such a character as will draw with Christ. Then the sick will understand that Christ is there. Let the meek and lowly Saviour be represented in the dress of the workers, in the words they speak, in the spirit they manifest. And if there are those who will not come into harmony, let them go to some other place where there is not so much at stake.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 29)
The blessing of God is waiting to come in large measure upon the workers in the Boulder Sanitarium. I have seen angels of God hovering, hovering, hovering over the workers there. But there are some who refuse to be converted. They feel too important to come under discipline to God. Let the workers understand that they are responsible to God to see that the best influence is exerted in this institution, that the salvation of God may be revealed. The Lord desires to see each one acting his part intelligently as a laborer together with Him, that the light of heaven may come into our institutions and a wonderful work be done.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 30)
Instruction was given me in the night season that I must bear my message to this people, for I was shown that there are those who greatly need a deep heart work done for them. They do not receive enough of the Spirit of God, gained by fasting and earnest prayer. They need to get a view of the heavenly angels co-operating with the human agents for the uplifting of men. They need to accept the promises and assurances of God and walk out on them in faith. They need to learn how to present the truths of the Word to those around them in all their binding force and in all their encouragement, that the sick may feel the influence of the Spirit of God upon heart and mind and character and be converted.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 31)
May God bless you, my brethren and sisters. My heart is drawn out in tenderness and love for you. You are a large company here. Will you not consecrate yourselves to God? We invite you to come to Jesus, to believe in Him, and receive from Him the outpouring of His Holy Spirit. He will give you this if you will ask in faith believing. Then work in harmony with Him to disseminate truth. Let us not go away from this meeting unconverted. If you will seek to answer in your lives individually the last prayer of Christ for His disciples, you will follow on to know the Lord. And you will find that His goings forth are prepared as the morning. This is not like the fading strength and glory of the setting sun. He likens the Christian’s experience to the morning, the rising sun, which is ever increasing in warmth and light and power.
(24LtMs, Ms 91, 1909, 32)
Ms 93, 1909
Talk/Address to the Church Members at Salt Lake City Salt Lake City, Utah September 7, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in CG 244-245; AH 323; 1MCP 170; 1MR 120-121; 10MR 320-322.
By Mrs. E. G. White, September 7, 1909.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 1)
“Ho every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy and eat; yea, come buy wine and milk, without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which satisfieth not? Hearken diligently unto Me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto Me; hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. Behold, I have given him for a witness unto the people, a leader and commander to the people. Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knewest not; and nations that knew not thee shall run after thee, because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for He hath glorified thee.” [Isaiah 55:1-5.]
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 2)
This everlasting covenant the Lord makes with all who seek Him with the whole heart and comply with the conditions of salvation.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 3)
“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; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” [Verses 6, 7.]
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 4)
The words are spoken to those who have once known the Lord and have claimed His name, but who have backslidden from Him. Let these, the prophet says, “return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. For My thoughts are not your thoughts; neither are your ways My 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. For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, that it may bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater; so shall My word be that goeth forth out of My mouth; it shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” [Verses 7-11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 5)
“O thou afflicted, tossed with tempest, and not comforted, behold I will lay thy stones with fair colors, and lay thy foundations with sapphires. And I will make thy windows of agates, and thy gates of carbuncles, and all thy borders of precious stones. And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children. In righteousness shalt thou be established; thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear: and from terror, for it shall not come nigh thee.... No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of Me, saith the Lord.” [Isaiah 54:11-14, 17.]
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 6)
God is doing this for His people in these last days; we have seen of His salvation in a remarkable manner, and we want to continue to see it.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 7)
Our schools are being established in those places where we consider this line of work can be carried forward with success. Our sanitariums are established on the right hand and on the left. We are sending forth our laborers into different fields where the truth has not yet been proclaimed, that those who are waiting for the truths of the third angel’s message may be brought in connection with them. Our schools are established for the education and training of the youth. Through our sanitariums we are seeking to bring to a certain class of people physical and spiritual healing. When afflicted ones are in need, we do not ask them if they are Sabbathkeepers before we give them help. We bring them in connection with our work and try to teach them what it means to be a Sabbathkeeper. We should endeavor to keep before these souls at all times an example of practical faith in the Word of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 8)
We need to come into harmony with God, that He may heal us of our spiritual infirmities. But this is not all that He will do for the believing soul. He will teach us to do the righteous deeds that marked the earthly life of Christ. Let our laborers come into harmony with the great Teacher and work in the simplicity of true godliness.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 9)
“Thy children shall be all taught of the Lord, and great shall be the peace of thy children.” [Verse 13.] Do we give heed to this promise, and are we seeing to it that our children are taught of the Lord? Are we making them understand the requirements of God at the very beginning of their lives? Christ gave His precious life, that they might be partakers of the divine nature and escape the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 10)
Parents, you know something of the inducements by which Satan tries to lead your children into folly. He is working with all his powers to lead them astray. With a determination that many do not dream of, he is seeking to gain control of their minds and to make the commandments of God of no effect in their lives.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 11)
He leads them to grieve the hearts of their parents. Never let the parents at such times manifest anger, never strike a blow in passion. The Lord wants the hearts of these children from their very babyhood to be given to His service. While they are too young to reason with, divert their minds as best you can; and as they become older, teach them by precept and example that you cannot indulge their wrong desires.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 12)
Instruct them patiently. Sometimes they will have to be punished, but never do it in such a way that they will feel they have been punished in anger. By such a course you only work a greater evil. Many unhappy differences in the family circle might be avoided if parents would obey the counsel of the Lord in the training of their children. In righteousness shalt thou be established, God declares;—that is, in doing the works of righteousness.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 13)
We need to present to the youth an inducement for rightdoing. Silver and gold is not sufficient for this. Let us reveal to them the love and mercy and grace of Christ, the preciousness of His Word, and the joys of the overcomer. In efforts of this kind you will do a work that will last throughout eternity.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 14)
“Thy children shall be all taught of the Lord, and great shall be the peace of thy children.” [Verse 13.] O how many times I have brought this promise to the Lord and have proved its truthfulness. I have taken many children into my home and by patient labor and prayer have sought to instruct them according to the light God has given. The Lord has co-operated with my efforts, and these children have responded to my labors in their behalf.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 15)
We are living in the last days of this earth’s history, and it is time we understood what we must do to be saved. The Lord will work intelligently for all who will work intelligently for Him. My brethren and sisters, there is something more for you to do than to sit in your churches Sabbath after Sabbath and to listen to the preaching of the Word. You have a work to do for friends and neighbors. God requires of you that you visit these families and seek to create an interest in the truth for this time. You are not laboring together with God if you neglect the work of helping others to take hold upon eternal realities.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 16)
Our ministers are not to be encouraged to hover about the churches to repeat to the believers week after week the same truths. We have a truth that is saving and precious. The Word of God must be planted in many hearts; the bread of life must be dealt out to many hungering souls. If we will study carefully the 58th chapter of Isaiah with these words I have read to you from the 55th and 54th chapters, you will see that there is a precious and an extended work to be done by the people of God. It is a blessed work to lift up Christ before the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 17)
When the work of the judgment is finished and decisions have been made for eternity, it will be seen that it is those who have given themselves wholeheartedly to the service of God who will stand right with heaven. Some of these may not have been able to leave their families to go to some mission field, but they have been missionaries in their own neighborhood. Their hearts have been so filled with the love of God that their great anxiety has been to win souls for Him. This has been more to them than silver and gold and the precious things of this world. And as they have labored in simplicity to minister the Word of truth, the Spirit of God has sent home the Word to the hearts of the people.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 18)
My brethren and sisters, let us study the simplicity there is in the Word of God. Let us see what we can do to advance the cause of Christ in the earth. Christ was in this world as a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. There were many who set themselves against His work. There will be those who will oppose you. But your work is to preach Christ and Him crucified; and when you do this, the salvation of God will be revealed in the conversion of souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 19)
When your minister is called away to some other place to labor, you can speak words of encouragement and blessing to one another. If you have that living faith that it is the privilege of every believer to possess, you will not hold your minister here to labor for you when there is greater need of his ministry elsewhere. Let the light shine where you are. Lay hold of the power that there is in Christ, and learn to overcome through the merits of His blood and the word of your testimony.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 20)
Since I left my home in California in April, I have visited many places and have spoken to thousands of people. This is the last stop I expect to make before reaching my home again. I would leave these words with you: Carry the work forward in faith and humble dependence upon God. Let each believer have light in himself; then the blessing of God will rest upon you, and you will see the salvation of God in the advancement of His work in this place.
(24LtMs, Ms 93, 1909, 21)
Ms 95, 1909
Sermon/A Message to the Churches Boulder, Colorado September 5, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in VSS 150; 6MR 287.
Discourse by Mrs. E. G. White, Boulder, Colorado, Sunday, September 5, 1909.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 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, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die: for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come upon thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee. Thou hast a few names even in Sardis; which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with Me in white; for they are worthy. He that overcometh, the sane shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels. He that hath an ear to hear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 2)
“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.... 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 that 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. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 3)
“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. 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.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 4)
“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 on My throne; even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father on His throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” [Revelation 3:1-8, 10-22.]
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 5)
These are precious words of counsel and encouragement for every believer in God. God loves His children with a love that is infinite. He so loved us “that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] And for those who accept this sacrifice, He holds in store heaven with all its blessings. If we will take advantage of all that God has done for us, it will be our privilege to see the King in His beauty and to behold His matchless charms. How anxious we should be to understand the movings of the providence of God and to come into right relation to Him. Let us put away everything from our lives that would step in between us and the right experience we should gain. Let us listen for the Saviour’s knock. Let us open the door of the heart and bid Him enter.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 6)
“Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” [1 John 3:1.] Do you want that life that measures with the life of God? Then learn the principles of heaven here. We are not all born with like temperaments, and this is why the Saviour bids us learn of Him who is meek and lowly in heart. Are you learning in your daily experience what Christ has done for you by the sacrifice of His life? He has made it possible for your humanity to grasp divinity, that in the strength of divinity you might labor for humanity as He did. We do not learn of Him as we might. We do not bring into our Christian experience the glory and the joy that we might have. It is the privilege of every believer to overcome through the blood of the Lamb and the word of his testimony.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 7)
My brethren and sisters, where are your children standing in regard to the will of the Lord concerning them? Have you brought them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord? Have you instructed them in His ways? Remember that if you neglect your duty toward these little ones, the Lord will not lay the responsibility of their training upon heavenly agencies. This is a duty that He has placed upon you. You are to be the educators of your children; and you must meet in the judgment the results of your work here. Then your work will be weighed, not by any human measurement, but by the standard of righteousness set by the Judge of all the earth.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 8)
These children are to be sanctified. Fineness of character is to be developed in them. What a world there is about us to be influenced for Christ! Teach your children that they have a part to act. In their conversation and in their deportment they are to exert an influence that will help souls. Teach them in their very childhood to have an interest in those around them and to seek to be a blessing to them.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 9)
“Ye are laborers together”—together—“with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] O if that word “together” were left out, how different would be the outlook! “Ye are laborers together with God,”—the mighty God. Heavenly agencies co-operate with you as you seek to grasp the divinity of Christ. They work intelligently with you as you strive for that life that measures with the life of God. When you grasp the arm of Omnipotent power, you will be able to teach and train your children aright. Not by beating their bodies, but by enlightening their minds in regard to what sin is, will you convert them.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 10)
I have felt such a deep interest in this line of work that I have adopted children in order that they might be trained in right lines. Instead of punishing them when they did wrong, I would hold out inducements to them to do right. One was in the habit of throwing herself on the floor if she could not have her own way. I said to her, “If you will not lose your temper once today, your Uncle White and I will take you in the carriage, and we will have a happy day in the country. But if you throw yourself on the floor once, you will forfeit your right to the pleasure.” I worked in this way for these children, and now I feel thankful that I had the privilege of doing this work.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 11)
I would that every parent in our ranks might have that life that is the result of grasping the power of infinity. We are living in the last days of this earth’s history, when Satan is working in every conceivable way to bring coarseness and roughness into the character. But Christ, the example of every believer, was full of refinement and love and thoughtfulness for others. Satan is seeking to fill the youth with love for the world and its pleasures. He is pleased when parents act as though they considered show and display necessary for themselves and for their children. These are not at all necessary. Parents, teach your children to be truthful, like Samuel. Teach them to bring themselves into right relation to God. If they will take the Word of God as it reads, and follow its instruction, the salvation of God will be with them, and the Holy Spirit will communicate through them.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 12)
It is better to praise the Lord than to complain. Let not our tongues utter words of which we shall be ashamed when Christ shall come in His glory with all the holy angels with Him. We must be clean in lips and in heart; we must be sanctified and refined, even as Christ was. Let us imitate His example. To do this we must understand His Word. His promise to every seeker is, “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.” [Matthew 7:7, 8.]
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 13)
What a revelation God gave to John on the isle of Patmos! His enemies had banished him to this lonely place, thinking he would die there. But God’s eye had been upon His faithful servant, and He knew exactly where to find him. And the Lord gave to John a message, the influence of which his enemies could not destroy. In exiling him to Patmos, they had hoped to silence his voice forever, but he there received a message which was to go to the church to the end of time.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 14)
From John’s experience we may learn the lesson that though men may seek to cut off our influence, if we will put our trust in God, He will give us just the help we need. And if it is His will that we lose our lives in His service, we will find eternal life in His everlasting kingdom. At the call of the archangel we shall come forth in the first resurrection to claim our right of entrance to the city of God and to eat of the tree of life which is in the midst of the Paradise of God. Let us thank God for the abundant provision that has been made for our race.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 15)
If we will study the book of Revelation and seek to understand its full significance, we shall see the necessity of putting away from our lives all the frivolity that so often marks our experience. We will have little desire for the foolish novel and the amusements of the world. Satan is determined to have the victory, and we are half asleep. What we need is workers, men and women who will do their duty in the fear of God. Many will say, We cannot all be ministers. Yes; you can; there is some work of ministry for each to do for perishing souls. There are many lines of work which as Christians we should become interested in. Christ wants every soul to copy His example of self-denial and self-sacrifice. He desires that all men shall have eternal life in the kingdom of God. But we cannot indulge coarseness or discourtesy or self-indulgence there. Therefore we must be daily overcomers here—overcomers by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 16)
To church members and to parents I would say, Go forward in the name of the Lord Jesus. Believe that angels are round about you. Let no coarse, uncouth words fall from your lips. You cannot represent Christ in this way. Stand in right relation to God, that you may teach your children to have spirits that are pure and free from guile. Thus you will be laborers together with God.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 17)
I have felt a deep interest in those cities where the message of present truth was given in the early days of this work, and especially in the city of Portland, Maine. The Spirit of the Lord came upon me at that time, and though I was but a child, I began my labors in the city of Portland. I felt very grateful when, this summer, the Lord gave me another opportunity of speaking to the people of Portland.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 18)
While in Portland, I encouraged the brethren and sisters to go forward with the building of their house of worship, promising that I would solicit the aid of other churches for this work. If you have money that you want to put into the treasure house of heaven, I ask you to help in the work that is going forward for the erection of a meetinghouse in Portland.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 19)
We have no right to spend our money on useless trinkets for our children. Let us teach them by precept and example to save their money for missionary purposes. Do not let pennies and dollars go out of your hands simply for nothingness. There is a world to be saved; there are missionary enterprises to be carried forward in many places.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 20)
We want the truth as it is in Jesus. We want the light of heaven to shine upon us. And God wants us to become acquainted with the simplicity of the Word and to bring that simplicity into our presentation of the Word to others. Satan is working on every hand to bring down the standard of true godliness to a common level. You need to lift up hands and heart and voice to God, pleading that He will enable you to stand on the platform of eternal truth. When you reveal an impatient, jealous, or faultfinding spirit, you give evidence that evil angels are controlling you. But when you come as a humble suppliant to the throne of grace, and cast your helpless soul upon Christ, you make manifest your desire that heavenly agencies shall guide and control your life.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 21)
It has been presented to me that Satan and his host of evil workers are bringing human minds more and more fully under their control. He would be pleased if he could lead the professed people of God to indulge in unlovely traits of character. Let us bear in mind that only the pure and undefiled, only those who are without spot or wrinkle or any such thing will enter the city of God, when the gates are swung back and the nation that has kept the truth enters in. There the harp will be placed in the hand of the overcomer, and the song of redemption through Christ will be led by Heaven’s highest angel. You may have the privilege of joining that song and singing in triumph the glory of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 22)
But parents, how will you feel if on that day you see your children shut out of the kingdom of God? and know that it is because you have not done your duty toward them? God wants you to come into line regarding this matter; He desires that you shall bring your children into harmony with God and heaven. He wants you to lay hold of the mighty power of God, that He may work for you, and through you, for others.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 23)
We would say to you with the apostle Paul, “For Christ’s sake be ye reconciled to God.” [See 2 Corinthians 5:20.] Do not let the little remnant of time we have go to waste. Let us press into the ranks. These young men, these children, need to be converted and to learn to love Jesus. They need to see Him as He is. They need to wash their robes of character and to make them white in the blood of the Lamb. Teach them that it is their privilege to become partakers of the divine nature and to overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust. I pray that many here may be reconciled to God and become laborers together with Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 24)
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.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 25)
“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 be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 26)
“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 you 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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 27)
Here is our eternal life insurance policy, and Peter plainly sets forth that those who would receive it must come to Jesus and appropriate to themselves His matchless charms. My brethren and sisters, who among you will give your hearts, unreservedly to God? How many will seek to save others from eternal ruin? Let those who desire to do this rise to their feet. (Congregation rises.) I thank God for this evidence of the Holy Spirit in our midst. May God clothe you with His salvation and bring you in close relation to Himself. He wants to do this for each one of you. Let us pray:
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 28)
Our heavenly Father, we come to Thee just as we are, needy, dependent, weak, and ask Thee that for Christ’s sake Thou wilt recognize and accept the pledge made here today. I beseech Thee to sweep back every cloud and every power of darkness that would interpose between this people and the work that they have pledged themselves to do. O help them! Baptize them with Thy Spirit. Let the light of heaven come into their minds and hearts. Help them to consider the life of the One who for them was stretched on Calvary’s cross, who to rescue them from the sorrows of the lost, suffered a cruel death. We ask Thee that the blood that was shed to cleanse mankind from sin may atone for us.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 29)
Help us by living faith to carry out every pledge we make. May angels of God strengthen every soul, that the powers of Satan may not discourage. Father, Thou dost love us with a love that is infinite. It cannot be measured. Impress this people with the knowledge that angels are here. Impress them with their privilege of going forth from this place to reveal the glory of God. Let us see light in Thy light. Grant that these souls, as they shall return to their homes, may not forget their pledge. Let the light of heaven shine continually in their hearts and minds. Amen.
(24LtMs, Ms 95, 1909, 30)
Ms 97, 1909
Sermon/I Am the True Vine San Jose, California October 16, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in 1SAT 397-405.
Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White, San Jose, California, Sabbath, October 16, 1909.
“I am the true Vine, and My Father is the Husbandman. Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” [John 15:1, 2.]
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 1)
Jesus is speaking of the fruitless Christian, the professing believer, who, because he does not comply with the conditions of discipleship, departs more and more from Christ. He does not in his life bear the fruits of righteousness; he does not copy the life of Christ. But the true follower of Christ can have no lower standard than His perfect life.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 2)
“And every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” [Verse 2.] “He purgeth it.” Christ suffers trial to come upon His followers, that they may be led to seek the Lord more earnestly. Then when trials come, do not think that the Lord is your enemy. He purges for a reason. He does not want you to be discouraged; but He would prove you to see if you will be true to Him and will conduct yourselves circumspectly under every circumstance. He does not want to drive you away, but to drive you nearer to the Lord. In God is the Christian’s only hope in time of perplexity.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 3)
Do not talk to others about your trials, for they have enough of their own to bear; and our human friends cannot always understand. It is your privilege to go to One who will always understand, because His life on earth was one of constant trial and perplexity, borne without failure and sin.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 4)
“Abide in Me,” Christ says, “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.” Christ would not tell us this if it were impossible for us to abide in Him. He shows us the possibility and the importance of a close relation with Himself. “He that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit; for without Me ye can do nothing.” [Verses 4, 5.]
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 5)
What is the “much fruit” that we must bear? It is fruit of a heavenly nature, the result of lives sanctified by the Holy Spirit of God. When we abide in Christ, and Christ abides in us, we shall be men and women of prayer, of truth, men and women who carry themselves circumspectly before God and before the world. Daily we shall draw from Christ the strength we need to work the works of God. This is what the world needs—a manifestation of the power of truth in Christian characters. What we need is faith in the Word of God, and with true faith we shall have the living witness that our ways please God. Of what worth is religion to us if when we approach God we cannot have the evidence in ourselves that He hears and answers prayer?
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 6)
“Without Me,” He says, “ye can do nothing.” [Verse 5.] Then let us press close to the bleeding side of Christ. In Him our humanity is provided for. In Him we may become partakers of the divine nature and overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 7)
“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.” [Verses 6-8.]
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 8)
It is not enough that now and then you offer a prayer and now and then deal righteously. You are to have the attributes of an abiding Christ working out in your life constantly. How many of us have this experience? Yet we may have it; and having it, we will be the happiest people on the face of the earth. With Christ’s Word abiding in us, we shall give evidence that we have wholly received Him who in His humanity lived a sinless life. In the strength of divinity we shall overcome every tendency to evil.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 9)
But if men abide not in Christ, “they are cast forth as a branch, and is withered.” [Verse 6.] Man may make great claims to piety; but if in his business transactions he does not reveal that the Holy Spirit of God is governing words and actions, he had far better make no profession. Christ’s life and death do not avail for him who chooses to do as he pleases, who follows his own imaginations and carries out his own way and will.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 10)
“As the Father hath loved Me, even 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.” [Verses 9, 10.] Let us thank God that this is our privilege. Though we are sent out into the world, we can keep before us the example of the pattern Man and in His strength carry out the principles of overcoming. It is only the overcoming Christian who will reach the kingdom of heaven. May God help us in this matter, is my prayer. Let us see that we keep His commandments in all our dealings with one another. When we not only talk, but live our religion, we shall show that we are branches of the living Vine.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 11)
“These things have I spoken unto you,” the Saviour continued, “that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” [Verse 11.] I think there was something said when the disciples heard that. Do you not think that if we had that full joy, we would do as we did when we first felt the sanctifying power of God upon our hearts? When we were looking for the coming of the Lord in the early days of this message, we would praise Him in our prayers and in our conversation. There was not one particle of fanaticism among those who truly loved the Lord and were seeking His glory.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 12)
True religion does not demand great bodily demonstrations such as some of you have had the misfortune to witness here. These are no evidence of the presence of the Spirit of God. In 1843 and 1844 we were called to meet just such fanaticism. Men would say, I have the Holy Spirit of God, and they would come into the meeting and roll just like a hoop; and because some would not receive this as evidence of the working of the Spirit of God, they were looked upon as wicked people. The Lord sent me into the midst of this fanaticism, though I was not more than sixteen years of age. Some would come to me and ask, Why do you not join with them? I said, I have another Leader than this, One who is meek and lowly in heart, One who made no such demonstrations as you are making here, or such boasts. These demonstrations are not of Christ, but of the devil. Every particle of selfishness is to be purged from the character. We are to show the difference between the lovers of pleasure and the world, and the lovers of Jesus. “This is My commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, That a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I have commanded you.” [Verses 12-14.]
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 13)
All that was communicated to Him by His Father, Christ makes known to His followers. “Henceforth I call you not servants,” He says, “for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of My Father, I have made known unto you.” [Verse 15.] How was this done? By words merely?—No; by character; by the daily life. It was thus that Christ represented His Father. My brethren and sisters, let us make it known that we are branches of the living Vine in that we represent the character of Christ. By a life of fruit bearing we are to make known the truth of the Word. You may profess a religion that is as high as the heavens; but unless you do the commandments of God, you are certainly not recommending the love of Christ to the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 14)
“If the world hate you, ye know that it hated Me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love His own; but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept My sayings, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you for My name’s sake, because they know not Him that sent Me.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 15)
“If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloak for their sin. He that hateth Me hateth My Father also. 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. But this cometh to pass that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, They hated Me without a cause. But 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 shall bear witness because ye have been with Me from the beginning.” [Verses 18-27.]
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 16)
The difference between the character of Christ and the character of other men of His day was everywhere apparent; and because of this difference the world hated Him. It hated Him for His goodness and His strict integrity. And Christ declared that those who manifest the same attributes would be likewise hated. As we near the end of time, this hatred for the followers of Christ will be more and more manifest.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 17)
Christ took humanity and bore the hatred of the world, that He might show men and women that they could live without sin, that their words, their actions, their spirit might be sanctified to God. We can be perfect Christians if we will manifest this power in our lives. When the light of heaven rests upon us continually, we shall represent Christ. It was the righteousness revealed in His life that distinguished Christ from the world and called forth its hatred.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 18)
We are nearing the close of this earth’s history. Let us ever remember that there is a heaven to win and a hell to shun. There are some among us who refuse to purify their souls by obedience to the truth, and they bring forward their sophistries to show that those who adhere strictly to a “Thus saith the Lord” are altogether too particular. They seek to divert the mind from purity and truth and holiness and the development of Christian character; but such souls stand on Satan’s side of the question.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 19)
Shall those who refuse to be converted, reject the right of entrance through the gates into the city, charge God with severity and harshness? The result of allowing one sinner to enter heaven would be a second rebellion, and God cannot permit another. All who enter the heavenly city must be sanctified through the grace of God; their weaknesses must be brought into such relation to truth that truth shall be their strongest point of character. Only those who have kept the truth—kept it in practice—can enter through the gates into the city of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 20)
The words of Christ are spoken for His people in all ages—for us, upon whom the ends of the world are come. The test that will come to us will be upon the commandments of God. Only as we become partakers of the divine nature shall we learn to overcome. I pray that none in this congregation may lightly regard this great privilege, but that each may be a living branch of the true Vine, bearing fruit to the glory of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 21)
In the life of Christ a perfect pattern has been given to every child of humanity. From infancy to manhood the life of Christ was perfect, teaching us that in everything we should seek perfection. To His work at His father’s bench, He brought the same principle. Some would laugh at Him for the pains He would take; but He would not be turned from His purpose to bring out of that which was imperfect something that would stand the test of proving.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 22)
And in His spiritual as in His temporal life, Christ was perfect. Did He not have temptations? We know that He did. We know that temptation came to Him in every form. He knew what trial was. He spent whole nights in prayer to His Father. He wrestled with the powers of darkness until He overcame. And how fully the glory of the Father was revealed through Him!
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 23)
Should we not honor the One who gave His Son to a life of trial and reproach for us? In giving His Son to a life of suffering, God would teach us that because we suffer we have no reason to feel that we are not children of God, and thus lose faith in Him. When we are in trouble, let us think of this. If we would have more faith, we would see more of the glory of God than we do.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 24)
I think of the children in our families. Are we teaching them to live so that the gates of the city of God will be opened to them? Let fathers and mothers feel the solemn obligation resting upon them to teach their children the way of the Lord in kindness and tenderness and love. The mother should be the first teacher of her child. Parents, be kind and gentle with your children, and they will learn gentleness. Let us demonstrate in our homes that we are Christians. I value as worthless that profession that is not carried out in the home life in kindness and forbearance and love. Let us seek to form characters after the divine similitude. Let us maintain a living connection with heaven.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 25)
Consider the blessed reward in the kingdom of God awaiting those who in this life seek for the divine similitude. There there will be no more trial, no more affliction or pain or death. There we shall receive the crown of the overcomer and the harp of gold. Not for a few short years, but from everlasting to everlasting, we shall live to sing the song of praise to the Lamb. Will you engage in the effort to win these eternal blessings? Will you give your hearts unreservedly to God? He wants you. He stands ready to accept you, ready to forgive when you repent and turn from your sins. You may fail again and again; but again and again He will forgive if you truly repent, and He will bring you off more than conqueror at last through him who has loved you and washed you in His own blood.
(24LtMs, Ms 97, 1909, 26)
Ms 99, 1909
Extracts/The Work of the Pioneers NP ND This manuscript is a compilation from earlier published and unpublished sources.
A compilation from the writings of Mrs. E. G. White.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 1)
From Lt 227, 1903 — (Oct. 9, 1903):
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 2)
The old experienced teachers who have been in the work from the beginning are especially fitted to carry the work forward from point to point. But they cannot do this alone. They must have helpers. The Lord would have His workers unite their efforts, as the workmen do in the building of a house.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 3)
From Lt 21, 1903 — (Jan. 26, 1903):
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 4)
My brethren, you did not go to Australia to supersede the workers already there, but to be their companions in labor. These workers have done pioneer work, preparing the field, and this work has called for much self-sacrifice. They have given themselves without reserve to the Lord’s service. They have united with one another and with God; and He has blessed their faithful efforts. You who have entered into other men’s labors are to be very modest and very kind in your opinion of those who have prepared the way before you. Be courteous to them. Show them all the kindness that you would have them show to you. They are God’s husbandry; God’s building. You who have but lately come to the field are not to set yourselves up as judges of their work. You are all to be laborers together with God. Not one vestige of selfishness or self-exaltation is to be brought into your work....
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 5)
I have been instructed to speak words of encouragement to the men who have been fighting the battles that must be fought by the pioneer worker. There were times when the work went very hard, when it was difficult to obtain means, and when, in response to the call, “Add new territory to the Lord’s kingdom,” these workers sacrificed their earnings. The Lord has greatly blessed their faithful efforts and has given them a precious experience.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 6)
From Ms 125, 1903 (Published in Review Nos. 44 & 46, 1903):
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 7)
When a crisis comes, there is need of men of deep experience in the things of God, men who can carry the work forward with tact and forethought and skill....
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 8)
At this time we need men who are as true as steel to principle. We need the help of every one who has had an experience in the giving of the first and second angels’ messages....
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 9)
The Value of the Experience of Pioneer Workers
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 10)
God never leaves the world without men who can discern between good and evil, righteousness and unrighteousness. God has men whom He has appointed to stand in the forefront of the battle in times of emergency. In a crisis, He will raise up men as He did in ancient times. Young men will be bidden to link up with the aged standard-bearers, that they may be strengthened and taught by the experience of these faithful ones who have passed through so many conflicts, and to whom, through the testimonies of His Spirit, God has so often spoken, pointing out the right way and condemning the wrong way. When perils arise, which try the faith of God’s people, these pioneer workers are to recount the experiences of the past, when just such crises came, when the truth was questioned, when strange sentiments, proceeding not from God, were brought in.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 11)
The experience of these aged workers is needed now; for Satan is watching every opportunity to make of no account the old waymarks—the monuments that have been raised up along the way. We need the experience of the men who through evil report as well as through good report have been steadfast to the truth; men who have not built their house upon the sand, but upon the solid rock....
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 12)
The Lord has self-denying men in the ministry who have been abundant in labor and in self-sacrifice. Let justice be done to those who have borne the burden in the heat of the day. They have grown old in the service of God. They are His men of opportunity, men who will deal justly, love mercy, and who will help where help is needed.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 13)
These men are to be appreciated. They led out in the first of the conflict, when the truth was yet to be established. They carried burdens when there were few to share the burdens. Under all circumstances they were faithful to principle. For the sake of the truth they practiced constant self-denial, and their brethren should deal with them considerately, kindly, generously. The truth for which they have sacrificed everything will bear away the victory. They have labored earnestly for the advancement of the kingdom which is righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit; and they are now to be encouraged and sustained.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 14)
From Ms 135, 1902:
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 15)
The third angel’s message increases in importance as we near the close of this earth’s history. Since the beginning of the proclamation of the first angel’s message, many believers have fallen asleep in Jesus. Faithful standard-bearers have laid off their armor. But the work advances. Fresh workers are brought in as those who fall are laid away to rest until the coming of the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 16)
From Ms 82, 1899:
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 17)
Aged workers are to bear as did John a living testimony of real experience. And when these faithful workers are laid to rest with the words, “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord” [Revelation 14:13], there should be found in our schools men and women who can take the standard and raise it in new places.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 18)
The experienced workers, who have in the past anticipated the wants of the cause, do a noble work when in the place of carrying all the burdens themselves they lay them upon the shoulders of younger men and women and educate them as Elijah educated Elisha. David offered to God a tribute of gratitude because of the divine teaching and guidance he had received. “O God, Thou hast taught me from my youth,” he declared. [Psalm 71:17.] Those who in the message have borne the burden and heat of the day are to remember that the same Lord who taught them in their youth, inviting them, “Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me” [Matthew 11:29], and giving them the light of truth, is just as willing to teach young men and women today as He was to teach them.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 19)
It is wisdom for the men who have borne heavy loads to come apart and rest awhile. These faithful workers should be appreciated as educators. They should be relieved of every taxing load. The Lord Himself will co-operate with them in their efforts to educate. They should leave the wrestling to those who are younger; the future work must be done by strong men and women. The work is under the control of the Author and Finisher of our faith. He can and will give fitness to men of opportunity. He will raise up those who can fight His battles. He never leaves His work to chance. His work is a great and solemn work, and it is to go forward. While the aged standard-bearers are in the field, let those who have been benefited by their labors care for and respect them. Do not load them down with burdens. Appreciate their advice, their words of counsel. Respect them as fathers and mothers who have borne the burden of the work.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 20)
From Ms 6, 1890 — (Nov. 25, 1890):
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 21)
Many of the old, experienced hands have fallen in death. Those who led out in the work of God, and who could tell how it came into existence, have passed away from the scene of action. In every branch of the work, men have been departing from the principles laid down by the Lord Jehovah to control the working of the cause. Inexperienced hands and unsanctified minds have been placing their mold upon the work, and self has been woven into it in every branch.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 22)
From Ms 29, 1907:
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 23)
Those who were in our work at the beginning are passing away. Only a few of the pioneers of the cause now remain among us. Many of the heavy burdens formerly borne by men of long experience are now falling upon younger men.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 24)
This transfer of responsibilities to laborers whose experience is more or less limited is attended with some dangers against which we need to guard. The world is filled with strife for the supremacy. The spirit of pulling away from our fellow laborers, the spirit of disorganization, is in the very air we breathe. By some, all efforts to establish order are regarded as dangerous—as a restriction of personal liberty, and hence to be feared as popery....
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 25)
Among God’s people are some who have had long experience in His work, men who have not departed from the faith. Notwithstanding the great trials through which they have passed, they have remained faithful. These men should be regarded as tried and chosen counselors. They should be respected, and their judgment should be honored by those who are younger or who have less experience, even though these younger men may be in official positions.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 26)
From Lt 183, 1905:
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 27)
Let us thank God, Brother Butler, that there are still some living who have had an experience from the beginning in the proclamation of the great and solemn messages that have come to our world in warning. We know that the Holy Spirit’s power has confirmed the word spoken. We can say, as did John, That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled of the word of life; ... That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ. [1 John 1:1, 3.]
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 28)
From our personal experience we can speak of the truth that has made us what we are—Seventh-day Adventists. Truth felt within is most precious, but truth confirmed by the testimony of the Word and by the Holy Spirit’s power is of the highest value. We can confidently say, The truth that has come to us through the Holy Spirit’s working is not a lie. The evidences given for the last half century bear the evidence of the Spirit’s power. In the Word of God we have found the truth that substantiates our faith. We have watched the influence of the heresies that have come in, and we have seen them come to naught. God has given us sacred, holy truths. Let us hold them fast. I am instructed to say that we are now to present those truths, in plainness and simplicity, to the people of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 29)
From Lt 41, 1904 (Letter to S. N. Haskell, Nov. 26, 1903):
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 30)
Be careful not to overwork. Do not take on burdens that you should avoid. We want the aged men of experience preserved to us. We need them especially at this time to bear earnest, decided testimony to the faith once delivered to the saints. Our people need to understand the reasons of our faith and our past experience.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 31)
How sad it is that so many of our men apparently place unlimited confidence in men who present theories tending to uproot our past experiences and to remove the old landmarks! ... We need to urge all to put on their spiritual eyeglasses, to have their eyes anointed that they may see clearly and discern the true pillars of the faith, and say, “Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are His.” [2 Timothy 2:19.] We need to revive the old evidences of the faith once delivered to the saints.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 32)
From Ms 117, 1901:
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 33)
Those who have grown old and gray in the service of God are not to be pushed aside by less-experienced workers, who know but 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?
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 34)
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.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 35)
From Lt 127, 1903 (Letter to Eld. Haskell):
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 36)
I am sure of one thing: the old heads are precious in the sight of the Lord. They must husband their strength. I can see that strength will be brought to the cause of God by your connecting with Brother Butler. The cause needs men who understand the first, second, and third angels’ messages.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 37)
From Lt 71, 1903:
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 38)
In the future we are to pass through very strait places, and we shall understand the value of having some workers who have been through the giving of the first, second, and third angels’ messages. The voices of these workers are to be heard in distinct utterance, saying, “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard ...” [1 John 1:1.]
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 39)
From Ms 34, 1905:
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 40)
In Sardis, many had been converted through the preaching of the apostles. The truth had been received as a bright and shining light. But some had forgotten the wonderful manner in which they had received the truth, and Jesus found it necessary to send reproof. One after another of the old standard-bearers had fallen, and some had become wearied of the oft-repeated truths. They desired a new phase of doctrine, more pleasing to many minds. They thought they needed a wonderful change and in their spiritual blindness did not discern that their sophistries would uproot all the experiences of the past. But the Lord Jesus could see the end from the beginning. Through John He sent them the warning, “Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” [Revelation 3:3.]
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 41)
From Ms 92, 1903 (Honor to Be Shown to Our Pioneer Workers):
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 42)
The aged standard-bearers in the cause of God are far from being useless. The men who have held the beginning of their confidence steadfast unto the end are not to be accounted second or third in the work of God. They are not to be cast aside as having outlived their usefulness. God has an important part for them to act in His work. By learning of Christ they have obtained a rich experience. When they have made false steps, they did not refuse to be corrected. When they wandered from the path that Christ trod, they allowed Him to lead them once more into it. Thus they learned to help others.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 43)
The apostle John is an example of the way in which God can use aged workers. Read his stirring words, written when he was an old man. Who could bear a firmer, more decided testimony? He writes: 1 John 1:1 to 2:5.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 44)
In his old age John revealed the life of Christ in his life. He lived to be nearly one hundred years old, and over and over again he repeated the story of the crucified and risen Saviour. Persecution came upon the believers, and those young in experience were often in danger of losing their hold on Christ. But the old, tried servant of Jesus steadfastly maintained his faith. From his lips there came ever the same glad message: “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled of the Word of life, ... that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ.” [1 John 1:1, 3.]
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 45)
Christ visited John on the isle of Patmos and gave him a revelation of what would be in the last days of this earth’s history. John writes of this, Revelation 1:1-19.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 46)
We are living in perilous times, and we need the testimonies of the men who can bear a witness similar to that of John. The aged laborers, who have acted a prominent part in the work of God, and who for many years have borne the burden and heat of the day, are not to be set on one side, while young men of far less experience are placed at the front.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 47)
From Lt 339, 1905:
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 48)
Men will arise with interpretations of scripture which are truth to them, but which are not truth. The truth for this time God has given us as a foundation for our faith. He Himself has taught us what is truth. One will arise, and still another, with new light which contradicts the light that God has given under the demonstration of His Holy Spirit. A few are still alive who passed through the experience gained in the establishment of this truth. God has graciously spared their lives to repeat and repeat, till the close of their lives, the experience through which they passed, even as did John the apostle till the very close of his life. And the standard-bearers who have fallen in death are to speak through the reprinting of their writings. I am instructed that their voices are to be heard. They are to bear their testimony as to what constitutes the truth for this time.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 49)
Labors and sacrifices of, Testimonies for the Church 2:502, 650; Testimonies for the Church 3:256, 317-320, 326, 327.
(24LtMs, Ms 99, 1909, 50)
Ms 101, 1909
A Message to Our Ministers and Their Fellow Laborers St. Helena, California December 1, 1909 Previously unpublished.
The judgments of God are in the earth, and, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, we must give the message of warning that He has entrusted to us. We must give this message quickly, line upon line, precept upon precept. Men will soon be forced to great decisions, and it is our duty to see that they are given an opportunity to understand the truth, that they may take their stand intelligently on the right side.
(24LtMs, Ms 101, 1909, 1)
A soul-saving message has been given by the Lord Jesus to those who minister in Word and doctrine. O that every minister of the gospel might feel the necessity of receiving the truth as it is in Jesus, and of giving that message clearly to those who know it not.
(24LtMs, Ms 101, 1909, 2)
In all our large cities the message for this time is to be proclaimed under the influence and leadings of the Holy Spirit. The power of this influence accompanied the labors of Christ and His apostles. They united prayer and the healing of the sick with the work of teaching soul-saving truths; and their labors were confirmed by the marked evidences of inspiration in their words and deeds. By teaching and by practice, the message spoke with convincing power to the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 101, 1909, 3)
We need to come into close connection with Him who walked the earth as the divine Healer. He came not to destroy men’s lives, but to save them: and He calls upon all ministers of the gospel to walk in His footsteps. The healing of the sick is to accompany our evangelical work.
(24LtMs, Ms 101, 1909, 4)
When the Saviour sent the disciples out to preach the Word, He “gave them power ... to cure diseases.” They were “to preach the kingdom of God, and to heal the sick.” [Luke 9:1, 2.] This was the twofold command given them. To our ministers the same command is given. They are to offer prayer for the afflicted, that the Lord God of Israel may take these cases under His oversight. If His workers will co-operate with Him, if they will sense the sacredness of the work that Christ did and the work He would have them do, their ministry will be marked by a sacredness that will give evidence of its heavenly inspiration.
(24LtMs, Ms 101, 1909, 5)
Precious light from the Word of God is ours to give to the people. Let our churches be aroused to take hold of the work. Let ministers, physicians, and all who know the truth go forth in a sensible way into the cities, with Bible in hand, presenting the truth that is of such great consequence to those who will receive it. Let new places be entered and the truth presented in a clear, positive manner, as it was taught by the Lord Jesus. Angels of God will go before the workers and will be their sufficiency. Angels will be in the assemblies, to make an impression upon the hearts of the hearers. Why do not our people break into the cites and present the truth in its important bearings?
(24LtMs, Ms 101, 1909, 6)
Let not our workers be content to go over and over again the ground where the truth is well known, while many fields are left untouched. Let workers be carefully selected, to labor two and two in our cities, under the direction and commission of Jesus Christ. They should study the fourteenth and fifteenth chapters of John, opening their hearts to receive the divine instruction, and looking unto Jesus, the Author and the Finisher of their faith.
(24LtMs, Ms 101, 1909, 7)
God is calling His people at this time to a long-neglected work. The work in the cities is now to be regarded as of intense importance. Let the simplicity of sanctifying truth be revealed to those who have not seen the light that shines from Jesus Christ. I am bidden to keep this matter before the attention of our people, till they shall be aroused to a sense of its importance. We need to unite, and work in perfect harmony, that the truth may be brought to the cities.
(24LtMs, Ms 101, 1909, 8)
Those who acted a part in the message in its early days should rejoice over the thought of repeating the truths whose presentation was then so signally blessed of God. Let not ill-advised lips utter words of discouragement, but plan for this work in faith, knowing that the Lord has led us hitherto.
(24LtMs, Ms 101, 1909, 9)
Ministers, I am instructed to say to you: You do not sense as you should the peril of souls; you do not carry as you should a burden for their salvation. Satan delights to see this, but angels of God are grieved. In the books of heaven there is written concerning you, “They have not heeded the light that has been given.” The spiritual work that God would have done in human hearts is not being accomplished. As ministers of Christ, we need a new conversion. There are great blessings for those who fully surrender to the call of God. We are in constant need of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Spirituality and deep communion with God are altogether too strange to some who are bearing large responsibilities.
(24LtMs, Ms 101, 1909, 10)
The Lord cannot accept as workers those who, knowing the truth, can go on day by day, carrying no real burden for those who know it not. God help us to put on the armor and to act as if we were in earnest. I am instructed to say to our people, Go out into the unworked places, and seek to reach souls. The truth should be everything to believers. When it becomes not only a matter of intelligence, but a quickening power in the life, believers will reveal a piety and grace that will distinguish them from the worldlings.
(24LtMs, Ms 101, 1909, 11)
But many who profess to be believers are unconverted. The agency of the Holy Spirit is not appreciated by them. When truth finds an entrance to the heart, it will work with convincing power. Yes, the heart is the place for the truth to begin its work. Truth is a divine sentiment, a living element that cannot help revealing itself in the life of the receiver; it will work with convincing power in the soul of the one who becomes God’s messenger for the saving of the lost.
(24LtMs, Ms 101, 1909, 12)
Ministers and physicians, you have a special work to do. The commission is:
(24LtMs, Ms 101, 1909, 13)
“Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature; he that believeth and is baptized shall be saved.” [Mark 16:15, 16.] “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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 101, 1909, 14)
Ms 103, 1909
Sermon/Partakers of the Divine Nature Lodi, California November 7, 1909 This manuscript is published in entirety in 2MR 286-291.
An address before the students and faculty of the Western Normal Institute, Lodi, California, by Mrs. E. G. White, November 7 1909.
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 1)
I am glad to see so many before me this morning. I desire that every one of you shall be so related to God that everything you do here shall be done as viewing Him who is invisible. You can keep your minds fixed upon God. Every one of you must individually form a character after the divine similitude.
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 2)
I do not know how many of you have made a profession of Christianity, but I trust that while you are here as students you will all give careful thought to this subject. You can choose whether you will have a hope that is confirmed in Jesus Christ, whether you will during your attendance at this school seek to prepare yourselves for the kingdom of God. In order to make it possible for you to have this advantage, Jesus Christ has given His precious life. If you do not avail yourselves of the privileges thus purchased for you, if through Christ you do not become partakers of the divine nature, you will in the day of final reckoning be found without excuse.
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 3)
Why do we have schools separate from the schools of the world? It is that our youth may receive an education in right lines, that they may understand what is involved in the great sacrifice that has been made in behalf of fallen humanity. “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 the believer in Christ becomes a partaker of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. As it has been presented to me, it is the purpose of our educational institutions to teach students how they may be partakers of the divine nature. This instruction is not to be passed by as of secondary importance. The value of the education received depends upon how the student relates himself to this subject.
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 4)
In our behalf Christ has made a tremendous sacrifice. He laid aside His royal crown, He laid aside His royal robe, and came to this world, born of humble parentage. Many were not attracted by the humility of His life, and He was despised and rejected of men. He suffered persecution, until at length He was crucified and died a shameful death. What does this mean to us? He came as the Saviour of every sinner that will accept of the divine sacrifice. He united in Himself divinity and humanity, that He might be the connecting link between fallen man and the Father. But will men accept of the conditions? Who of you will become partakers of the divine nature? There should be no delay in accepting Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 5)
You will be subject to temptations here. There are brought together here many of various ideas and temperaments. You have come from homes where you have received different molds of thought and education. Unless you are partakers of the divine nature, there is danger that you will lead one another to forgetfulness of God. It were better for you to have your right hand cut off than that you should lead one soul in a wrong direction. In your education, seek for those principles that will help you to form the best possible characters in this life, thus fitting yourselves for the future, eternal life.
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 6)
Now I will read a portion of the first chapter of Second Peter. Notice who are addressed: it is those who have obtained something:
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 7)
“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.” [Verse 1.]
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 8)
“The righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ,” this is our dependence. Through the merits of Jesus, you can be made clean and white in character, if you consecrate yourselves to Him, with a determined purpose that right here in this school you will live a Christian life. You are now forming characters that will determine your future destiny, for life or for death. If there are those here that have never taken hold of Christ by living faith, I entreat of you to do this at the earliest possible moment; for you will suffer great loss if you neglect this.
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 9)
“Grace and peace be multiplied unto you.” How, through your ignorance; through your acting like the world?—“Through the knowledge.” Now here is a knowledge that is worth more than silver or gold or precious stones. It is the “knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.” [Verse 2.]
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 10)
“According as His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness.” [Verse 3.] Then if you are lost, you will be left without excuse. The time is coming when your parents, if they have purified their lives by obeying the truth, will come up to the gates of the city of God, and the gates will open before them. Are their children preparing to enter with them? If the parents have worked out their own salvation with fear and trembling, if they have in the fear of God tried to help their children, their work will be accepted. But perhaps their children have refused to be helped, and have chosen to follow their own inclinations. Will you not, as young people, act in harmony with the knowledge that you have received, and join the army of believers to work out your own salvation with fear and trembling?
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 11)
“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.” [Verse 3.] Every one of you is called. Will you obey the call?
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 12)
“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.” [Verse 4.] If you try to fulfil the Word, if you seek to do the will of God, you will have divine help.
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 13)
“And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue;”—a virtuous character—“and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance;”—temperance in eating and in drinking—“and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity,”—love. [Verses 5-7.]
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 14)
“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.” [Verses 8-11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 15)
Here is a promise that is for every one of you. If you live on the plan of addition, adding grace to grace, you are growing up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, and you may find in this promise an eternal life insurance policy. This is a promise that will stand the test. It is worth far more than any life insurance policy that can be purchased with money. It is a policy that has been provided by God Himself in giving His only beloved Son, that through belief in Him, through accepting of His great sacrifice, you may obtain everlasting life. Having gained the victory, you may enter in through the gates of the city of God and receive an immortal crown.
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 16)
“Wherefore,” says the apostle, “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.” [Verse 12.] Our profession of Christianity will not save us. We must be Christlike.
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 17)
I desire that every one in this school should form a character after the divine similitude, that you shall live upon the plan of addition, adding grace to grace. As you do this, you will be helping some one else. You will be giving an example that will be a help to those that are around you. You cannot afford to lose your interest in the great life insurance policy.
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 18)
There are here in this school young people of various character. There are some here of a light and trifling disposition, some who give very little heed to where they are standing spiritually. But we desire you to become decidedly in earnest in regard to your souls’ salvation; for it means everything to you. And it means much to the school, how you shall conduct yourselves. If you will determine to lay aside all folly, all vanity, and all frivolity, you will thus be helping to elevate this school to the position that God would have it occupy. You cannot afford to follow the inclinations of your own unconverted minds and not try to obtain the victory that has been made possible for you through the sacrifice of Christ. We trust that you may see the King in His beauty.
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 19)
You will doubtless have difficulties to meet, but these difficulties are allowed to come to you, that by overcoming them you may be strengthened to take up the work of God. There is missionary work to be done by every one connected with this school. Through the grace of God, we are to reveal that we are overcomers by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of our testimony. Will you not by living consistent lives show that you are living on the plan of addition?
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 20)
I feel an intense desire that you shall put away all frivolity. Study your Bibles. Read over and over the wonderful lessons that Christ has given to animate you, to strengthen you, and to aid you in spiritual growth. Why, it is a wonderful thing to escape the corruptions that are in the world through lust; yet that is possible if you will comply with the conditions. It rests with you whether or not you will do it. You may have to face grave difficulties, but it is your privilege to be so grounded in the truth that not even the severest persecution can turn you aside from it.
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 21)
What we need is a daily, living experience in the benefits to be derived by obedience to God. We are to encourage faith, to live by faith. This is our privilege; and if we do, then it is not in vain that Christ laid aside His kingly honors and came to this world to suffer and die. He will look upon the purchase of His blood and will be satisfied. In that day the redeemed will cast their glittering crowns at the feet of their Saviour, and all heaven will ring with songs of praise. May we all be partakers of the divine nature and be overcomers. I have tried to speak these words for your benefit, and now I will leave you to study this chapter for yourselves. May the blessing of the Lord rest upon you in the work you have to do, is my desire and prayer.
(24LtMs, Ms 103, 1909, 22)
Ms 105, 1909
Interview/The Relation of Loma Linda College Refiled as Ms 72, 1909.
Ms 107, 1909
A Confusion of the Sacred and the Common St. Helena, California March 5, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in 1SM 38-39; 7MR 290-291.
I am troubled in regard to Brother E. S. Ballenger, who for some years has been a worker in Southern California. He has made some strange statements, and I am pained to see him denying the testimonies as a whole because of what seems to him an inconsistency—a statement made by me in regard to the number of rooms in the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. Brother Ballenger says that in a letter written to one of the brethren in Southern California, the statement was made by me that the sanitarium contained forty rooms, when there were really only thirty-eight. This Brother Ballenger gives to me as the reason why he has lost confidence in the testimonies.
(24LtMs, Ms 107, 1909, 1)
Brother Ballenger is making the statement to others that he has not the confidence in the testimonies of Sister White. This brother’s confidence certainly is easily uprooted if such a circumstance could cause him to lose faith. The letter to which Brother Ballenger refers I do not now call to mind at all. He should send me the written words and see if I can call to mind this special statement which was not a testimony. The information given, concerning the number of rooms in the Paradise Valley Sanitarium, was given not as a revelation from the Lord, but simply as a human opinion. There has never been revealed to me the exact number of rooms in any of our sanitariums; and the knowledge I have obtained of such things I have gained by inquiring of those who were supposed to know. In my words when speaking upon these common subjects, there is nothing to lead minds to believe that I receive my knowledge in a vision from the Lord and am stating it as such.
(24LtMs, Ms 107, 1909, 2)
This experience of Brother Ballenger’s carries me back to my first experience in the message in correcting errors that came in among us after the passing of the time in 1844. The believers were sadly disappointed and scattered in different localities in small companies. Certain ones who claimed to be taught of the Lord would visit these companies, and in prayer and song and preaching they would introduce to the believers sentiments of a fanatical nature, sentiments that were misleading to the people of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 107, 1909, 3)
At this time I was only seventeen years old, but the Lord gave me a message for these fanatical leaders and bade me declare to them the truth. Accordingly, in Portland, Maine, I spoke decidedly against the fanatical work that was being carried on, showing that the common things of life were to be treated by them as if they were intelligent beings. I told them that it was their duty to pray together and to study the Word of God together, but that the fanatical things they were gathering up and dwelling upon were not of the Lord, but from their own devising.
(24LtMs, Ms 107, 1909, 4)
Here were four ministers who were trifling with sacred things, mingling the trivialities of life with their religious worship, and doing this as if such were ordered by the Lord, and making tests of their impressions. But the Lord does not work in this way. I said to them, Your fasting and your strange exercises are not of God. He does not accept that which is cheap and common as part of His worship. At the same time I was instructed not to mingle this class of experience, that which was cheap and common, with my religious experience, for it was misleading the people of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 107, 1909, 5)
When the Holy Spirit reveals anything regarding the institutions connected with the Lord’s work, or concerning the work of God upon human hearts and minds, as He has revealed these things through me in the past, the message given is to be regarded as light given of God for those who need it. But for one to mix the sacred with the common is a great mistake. In a tendency to do this, we may see the working of the enemy to destroy souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 107, 1909, 6)
To every soul whom God has created He has given capabilities to serve Him; but Satan seeks to make this work of service hard by his constant temptation to mislead souls. He works to dim the spiritual perceptions, that men may not distinguish between that which is common and that which is holy. I have been made to know this distinction through a life’s service for my Lord and Master.
(24LtMs, Ms 107, 1909, 7)
There are souls who are struggling with doubts, with none to enlighten them but those who understand the will of the Lord and appreciate His great sacrifice in the gift of His only begotten Son. The statement is, “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.] He gave Him to live a life of humiliation and to die an awful death, that all mankind might hear His blessed invitation and be brought near to God. What a work is given to those who will take up this work for fallen sinful beings. Go, says the great Teacher. Give them the message I have given you. Act the part that heaven has given you to act. I make you responsible for the bearing of this message. My angels will be with you to sustain you and to help you, giving you courage to surmount all difficulties and distinguish the common from the sacred.
(24LtMs, Ms 107, 1909, 8)
The message came to me, Dedicate yourself to the highest work ever committed to mortals. I will give you high aspirations and powers and a true sense of the work of Christ. You are not your own, for you are bought with a price, by the life and death of the Son of God. God calls for your child’s heart and service under the sanctification of the Holy Spirit.
(24LtMs, Ms 107, 1909, 9)
I gave myself, my whole being, to God, to obey His call in everything; and since that time my life has been spent in giving the message with my pen and in speaking before large congregations. It is not I who controls my words and actions at such times.
(24LtMs, Ms 107, 1909, 10)
But there are times when common things must be stated, common thoughts must occupy the mind, common letters must be written and information given that has passed from one to another of the workers. Such words, such information, are not given under the special inspiration of the Spirit of God. Questions are asked at times that are not upon religious subjects at all, and these questions must be answered. We converse about house and lands, trades to be made, and locations for our institutions, their advantages and disadvantages.
(24LtMs, Ms 107, 1909, 11)
I receive letters asking for advice on many strange subjects, and I advise according to the light that has been given me. Men have again and again opposed the counsel that I have been instructed to give because they did not want to receive the light given, and such experiences have led me to seek the Lord most earnestly, that the blindness shown by these men in positions of trust against reason and common sense should not be allowed to prove an injury to the cause of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 107, 1909, 12)
In several instances the Lord has pointed out to me certain properties which He had appointed to have secured to His cause, that the work of health reform might be advanced. I have carried heavy burdens when the presidents of conferences have made determined efforts to resist these advance moves and have set their minds and their plans against the Lord’s will and plan. The Lord has been dishonored by the unbelief expressed by some men in authority who have persistently worked to counterwork the way of the Lord. Whenever the Lord has given instruction for the securing of property which He has designed shall be used for the advancement of His work, there have been some who have stood ready to oppose the work; but in every instance the Lord has blessed with prosperity the work of His faithful servants.
(24LtMs, Ms 107, 1909, 13)
Now the question is asked, Who shall lay anything to the charge of God’s elect? We have had heavy burdens brought upon us by wrong, opposing influences. I have felt sad when special advantages, which the Lord desired His people to have in different fields, have been lost through the unbelief and opposition of men who should have had faith. Over and over again we have had to meet this unbelief and opposition; but God desires to have His work go forward without these opposing elements.
(24LtMs, Ms 107, 1909, 14)
It was not the woman, through whom God was working to secure these properties, against whom these men were fighting, but against God and His work. The Lord was dishonored before His people. The real nature of the opposition is not understood. It is lack of faith that holds men back when the Lord says, Go forward. In every forward movement, the Lord knew all about the hindrances that would have to be met. Let us not be drawn away by human agencies from following the definite directions of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 107, 1909, 15)
We have a forgiving God, one who pardons transgression and sin.
(24LtMs, Ms 107, 1909, 16)
Ms 109, 1909
Foundation Principles of Healthful Dressing NP 1909 Compiled from previously published and unpublished sources.
As followers of the meek and lowly Jesus, we would not discourage the exercise of correct taste, neatness, and order in dress. While we are to guard against needless adorning and display, we are in no case to be indifferent in regard to our outward appearance. All about our persons and our homes is to be neat and attractive. In our dress we should ever seek that which is simple, comfortable, convenient, and appropriate. The youth are to be taught the importance of presenting an appearance above criticism, an appearance that honors God and the truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 1)
There are those who are careless of their apparel and are always harping on pride in dress. They think it a virtue to be untidy and to dress without order and taste. They class decency and neatness with pride and excuse themselves for their neglect of apparel, even upon the Sabbath, under pretense of carrying out that separation from the world which the Word of God requires of His people.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 2)
If these persons had an engagement to meet a friend honored by the world, and they wished to be especially favored by him, they would exert themselves to appear in his presence with the best and neatest apparel they could obtain. Yet when they meet upon the Sabbath to worship the great God, they think it is of no consequence in what dress they appear, or what is the condition of their person. In His house, which is as the audience-chamber of the Most High, where heavenly angels are in attendance, they assemble with but little respect or reverence. All who meet upon the Sabbath to worship God should, if possible, have neat, well-fitting, comely garments to wear in the house of worship.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 3)
Dress, An Index of Character
The dress and its arrangement upon the person are generally found to be an index of the man or woman. Christians are judged by the fruit they bear. While many are today making it their chief study to follow the ever-changing fashions of this world, we should be diligent in fashioning our characters after the Pattern given us in the Word of God. Our habits of eating, drinking, and dressing have a direct bearing upon our spiritual advancement.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 4)
To Shun Extremes
Christians should not take pains to make themselves a gazingstock by dressing differently from the world. If the world introduces a modest, convenient, healthful mode of dress, which is in accordance with the Bible standard, it will not change their relation to God or to the world to adopt it. But if, in following out the dictates of their faith and duty in respect to dressing healthfully and modestly, they find themselves out of fashion, they should not change their mode of dress in order to be like the world. They should manifest a noble independence, and a moral courage to be right, even if all the world differs from them. Christians should shun extremes, humbly pursuing a straightforward course, irrespective of censure or of applause. They should cling to the right for its own merits.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 5)
Not the Main Question
Neither is it best to make the subject of dress the main question in your religion. There is something richer to speak of. Talk of Christ; and when the heart is converted, everything that is out of harmony with the Word of God will drop off of itself.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 6)
While my writings are pointed and plain on the subject of simplicity in dress, I do not carry it on the front. It is not to be made of greater importance than the solemn, testing truth for this time.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 7)
Christian Women as Leaders
It is lamentable fact that many professed Christian women take the lead in patronizing the fashions of the world, and those who make no pretensions to religion follow in their footsteps. Some who are in humble circumstances, in their efforts to keep pace with the ever-changing styles of dress, endure privation and work far beyond their strength in order to retain their place in fashionable society. This temptation is so strong that some, in trying to gain their object, are guilty of dishonesty and theft. Many are led to ruin by the desire for self-adornment.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 8)
Professed Christians, who have by their example opened the door of temptation to their weak sisters, will have a fearful account to meet in the day of final reckoning. Inexperienced ones, charmed with the respect paid to those who dress stylishly, become so infatuated that nothing is too precious to exchange for artificial decorations.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 9)
If Christians women would lead out in the good work of reform, and set the example of dressing with neatness and simplicity, there would be a universal reform in dress. If they would work from a high and elevated platform, they would bring their eating and dressing into conformity with the laws of their being and into obedience to their moral obligations to God. There would be less money, less brain-nerve power, less physical strength squandered for artificial decorations to the sacrifice of natural beauty. We should then have more practical wives and mothers, and there would be a very happy change in many families that are now wretched because of their incorrect ideas of life.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 10)
In following the fashions, women are bending their shoulders to accept a cross heavy to bear. Should Christ demand of them so heavy a cross, so great a sacrifice, they would feel that it were indeed a burden unbearable. But Christ requires of His followers no cross so heavy as the one they subject themselves to in being the slaves of fashion.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 11)
Obedience to Physical Laws
God in His wisdom has established natural laws for the proper control of our dress, our appetites, and our passions; and He requires of us obedience in every particular. Our Creator made no mistake in fashioning the human body. God, who created everything that is lovely and glorious in nature, understood how to make the human form beautiful and healthy. The modern improvements upon His plan are insulting to the Creator. They deform that which He made perfect.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 12)
Many seem to think that they have a right to treat their bodies as they please; but they forget that their bodies are not their own. The Creator who formed them has claims upon them that they cannot lightly throw off.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 13)
Every violation of nature’s laws results in disease. Any course of action in eating, drinking, or dressing, that injures the fine human machinery, interferes with God’s order. Every needless transgression of the laws of our being is virtually a transgression of the law of God and is sin in the sight of Heaven.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 14)
Women especially are the victims of various maladies which might be lessened, if not entirely prevented, by right habits of living. A large share of their sufferings are attributable to their manner of dressing.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 15)
Reaction of the Mind on the Body
Every wrong habit which injures the health of the body reacts upon the mind. Many care-worn, nervous, anxious women are so because they have cheated themselves of the pure air that makes good blood, and the freedom of motion which sends the blood coursing through the veins, and gives live, health, and energy. Women, of all persons, need strength of mind and body to grapple with the ills and anxieties of life; but most of them are so weak and nerveless that they are conquered and crushed by them instead.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 16)
Circulation of the Blood
Perfect health depends upon perfect circulation. A good circulation purifies the blood and secures health, while a poor circulation renders the blood impure and induces congestion of the vital organs.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 17)
The dangers resulting from compression of the waist are not realized by the majority of women, although many able pens have treated upon the subject. It may be claimed that tight-lacing is now nearly or quite abandoned; but it is true today that the clothing of most women is worn too tight for the proper action of the vital organs. When the waist is compressed, the circulation of the blood is impeded, and the internal organs, cramped and crowded out of place, cannot perform their work properly. It is impossible, under such circumstances, to take a full inspiration. Thus the habit of breathing only with the upper part of the lungs is formed, and feebleness and disease are often the result.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 18)
In this way, women have done themselves untold injury; their power to do good in the family and in society is greatly lessened; and if they are mothers, their children are robbed of vitality.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 19)
Every garment worn should be so loose that in raising the arms, the clothing will be lifted also.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 20)
Protection of the Lower Limbs
The limbs, because farthest from the center of circulation, should have even more covering than any other portion of the body; yet they are often not suitably protected, while over the vital organs, where there is naturally more warmth than in other portions of the body, there is an undue proportion of covering.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 21)
If the limbs are properly clothed, fewer skirts are needed; and these should not be so heavy as to impede the motion of the limbs, nor so long as to gather the dampness and filth of the ground; and their weight should be suspended from the shoulders.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 22)
The dress should fit easily, obstructing neither the circulation of the blood nor the free, full, natural respiration. The feet also should be suitably protected from cold and dampness.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 23)
Clad in this way, a woman could take exercise in the open air, even in the dew of morning or evening, or after a fall of snow or rain, without fear of taking cold. Exercise in the invigorating air of heaven is necessary to the healthy circulation of the blood. It is the best safeguard against colds, coughs, and the internal congestions which lay the foundation for so many diseases.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 24)
How Consumption Is Often Contracted
Many suffer from pulmonary disease, not because they have inherited it, but because of some carelessness on their part—by breathing impure air, eating improper food, or dressing unhealthfully. If they would live much in the open air, taking full, deep inspirations, and if they would dress and eat in accordance with the principles of health, they would soon improve. Such persons should take special pains not to allow the extremities to become chilled.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 25)
It is essential to health that the chest should have room to expand to the fullest extent, so that the lungs may be enabled to take full inspirations of air. Many have died of consumption who might have lived their allotted term of years had they dressed in accordance with the laws of their being. The strength of the system is in a great degree dependent upon the amount of pure, fresh air breathed. If the lungs are restricted, the quantity of oxygen received into them is also limited, the blood becomes vitiated, and disease follows. Confinement indoors and consequent deprivation of the invigorating sunlight and the exhilaration of exercise in the pure, open air complete the ruin begun by wrong habits of dress, and feebleness and premature death are the result.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 26)
Some who are threatened with consumption will overcome the disease. Some, yes, many, will be healed through faith in the mighty Healer. “Let him take hold of My strength, that he may make peace with Me,” the Lord says, “and he shall make peace with Me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] Others will be healed through proper eating, drinking, and dressing, and through living largely in the open air. To those who are suffering with this disease I would say, Live out-of-doors all you can. Take exercise regularly. Keep busy. Keep your heart free from all jealousy and evil surmising. Be cheerful, and ask God to help you to improve as fast as possible.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 27)
Weight on the Hips
Another error in the dress of women of the present day is that of wearing their skirts so that the weight is sustained by the hips alone. This heavy weight, pressing upon the bowels, drags them downward and causes weakness of the stomach and a feeling of lassitude, which leads the sufferer to incline forward. This tends further to cramp the lungs and prevents their proper action. The blood becomes impure, and the pores of the skin fail in their office; sallowness and disease result, and beauty and health are gone. Ladies may resort to cosmetics to restore the tint of the complexion, but they cannot thus bring back the glow of health. That which renders the skin dark and dingy also clouds the spirits and destroys cheerfulness and peace of mind. Every woman who values health should avoid hanging any weight upon the hips. The shoulders should be made to sustain the weight of every article of clothing upon the person.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 28)
Bands About the Waist
The habit of fastening the skirts about the body with bands is decidedly injurious to health; for exactly where these bands girt the waist are nerves and large blood vessels which carry the blood to the limbs. These veins and nerves should not be pressed upon, but allowed the most perfect freedom to fulfil the purpose for which nature designed them. God gave appropriate space for the free action of every organ of the body. He formed us in such a way that every muscle could come into play without trespassing upon the function of any other muscle.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 29)
The clothing should be worn so as to give the most perfect freedom of circulation, respiration, and the exercise of every portion of the body. This will go far to prevent the weaknesses which prevail among women to such an alarming extent.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 30)
The Children’s Clothing
Many mothers show very little wisdom in the way they dress their children. They allow the dictates of fashion to rule them to the great detriment of the health of the little ones. They dress their little girls in such a way that their waists are compressed at an early age, and the limbs are left with but slight, if any, protection, when the forces of nature need every advantage to enable them to perfect the physical frame. Little boys also are dressed so as to leave the lower limbs with far less protection than the upper part of the body.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 31)
The limbs, being remote from the center of circulation, demand greater protection instead of less. The veins which convey the blood to the extremities are large, providing for the flow of a sufficient quantity of blood to afford warmth and nutrition. But when the blood is chilled from these parts, the veins contract, and the circulation is retarded. Not only do the extremities suffer from cold, but through lack of nutrition the limbs do not attain their natural development.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 32)
A Cause of Failure in School
Children often sit in the schoolroom for hours with cold arms and feet, as the result of improper dressing. Exposure of the limbs drives the blood from the extremities to the internal organs, and the children become cross and fretful. They do not succeed in their studies as they should, because the brain is surcharged with blood; and the limbs, being deprived of needed nourishment, do not develop properly.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 33)
In the Home
The mother’s dress should be simple, but neat and tasty. The mother who wears torn, untidy clothes, who thinks any dress good enough for home wear, no matter how soiled or dilapidated it may be, gives her children an example that encourages them in untidiness. And more than this, she loses her influence over them. They cannot help seeing the difference between her appearance and that of those who dress neatly, and their respect for her is lessened.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 34)
Mothers, make yourselves attractive, not by wearing elaborately trimmed garments, but those that are neat and well fitting. Let your apparel teach a lesson of neatness. You cannot afford to lose the respect of your children.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 35)
Let the children’s clothing be simple also, and such as can be easily made and frequently changed, that they may cultivate a love for cleanliness and order. Ruffles and ornaments are unnecessary, and their care consumes precious time, and brings useless worry, thus tending to create an atmosphere of gloom and sadness.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 36)
Responsibility of Parents
I am instructed to say to parents, Do all in your power to help your children to have a pure, clean conscience. Teach them to feed on the Word of God. Teach them that they are the Lord’s little children. Do not forget that He has appointed you as their guardians. If you do not act in harmony with the principles of health reform, how can you expect your children to grow up well and strong, with active bodies and clear minds?
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 37)
Disease of some sort is the sure result of improper eating and dressing. If parents will give their children proper food and dress them healthfully, and if they will diligently teach them the Word of the Lord, line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little, with much prayer to our heavenly Father, their efforts will be richly rewarded.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 38)
Parents, God is in earnest with you. Wake up, and work diligently to prepare your children for the heavenly home. Keep the eye of faith fixed steadfastly upon the Lord, and do not allow yourselves to be turned aside from the path of duty. Take up your neglected work, and separate from every sinful practice. Take hold upon the Lord as your helper, and walk in the way of His choosing. Then He will be honored and glorified in your lives.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 39)
There is a sacred, solemn work before us. Those who will make God their trust will be enabled to bring up their children in such a way that they will be saved from the diseases that are brought on by intemperance in eating and drinking, and by wrong habits of dressing. And their children will rise up and call them blessed, because they were not permitted to form wrong habits.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 40)
“The path of the just is as the shining light.” [Proverbs 4:18.] Parents are to gather up the rays of divine light coming to them through the channel of health reform. The warning is given, “Be not envious against evil men, neither desire to be with them.” [Proverbs 24:1.] To women as well as to men is this warning given, to lead them to avoid the evils of the fashionable world. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” [Psalm 111:10.]
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 41)
Self-Denial
To live for God means self-denial in the matter of dress. Much money is spent in the adornment of the person that ought to be devoted to the proclamation of the truth for this time. A world has been committed us; and in the name of Christ Jesus I ask you, my sisters, to dress plainly and neatly, but not for display. Do not try to follow every fashion; get a good fashion, and keep it. Let all see that you have a nobler aim in life than following the ever-changing styles of the world, that you are preparing for the higher life in the kingdom of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 42)
There are many who spend upon dress large sums of money—money that ought to be used in feeding and clothing those who are suffering from cold and hunger. Many of those for whom Christ died have but little, even of the cheapest, most common clothing, while others are spending thousands of dollars in the effort to satisfy the never-ending demands of fashion.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 43)
While our sisters are buying and making up their own and their children’s garments, let them think of the work in the Lord’s vineyard that is still waiting to be done. It is right to buy good material and to have it carefully made; this is economy. But rich trimmings are not needed, and to indulge in them is to spend for self-gratification money that should be put into God’s cause.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 44)
Learn the lesson of self-denial, and teach it to your children. Every penny is needed now in the work that must be done. The necessities of the suffering must be relieved; the naked must be clothed, the hungry fed. And the truth for this time must be proclaimed to those who know it not. By denying yourselves of that which is not necessary, you may have a part in this great work.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 45)
The money spent in the adornment of dress is a misappropriation of God’s money lent us to use in the advancement of His work. When I see our people spending money for needless trimmings and furnishings, I think of Jesus. He might have come to this world adorned with the glory of His kingly power; but He chose a life of self-denial and sacrifice. He came to this world in the garb of humanity. Those who follow in His steps will remember that every dollar they can spare is needed in the work that God has said shall be done in this world.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 46)
To my sisters who are inclined to spend much in trimming their clothes, I would say: Deny self, and put aside the money thus saved, to send to the help of those who need help so much.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 47)
Making an Idol of Self
My heart aches as I am shown how many there are who make self their idol. Christ has paid the redemption price for them. To Him belongs the service of all their powers. But their hearts are filled with self-love and the desire for self-adorning. They give no thought to the words, “Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] Self-gratification is hiding Christ from their view. They have no desire to walk before God in meekness and lowliness. They are not looking to Jesus; they are not praying that they may be changed into His likeness. Their cases are represented by the man who came to the king’s banquet clothed in his citizen’s dress. He had refused to make the preparation required by the king. The garment provided for him at great cost, he disdained to wear. To the king’s demand, “How camest thou in hither not having on the wedding garment?” he could answer nothing; for he was self-condemned. [Matthew 22:12.]
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 48)
The Inward Adorning
Those who cherish and flatter self, fostering pride and vanity, giving to dress and to their appearance the time and attention that ought to be given to the Master’s work, are incurring a fearful loss. Many who are clothed in beautiful outward garments know nothing of the inward adorning that is in the sight of God of great price. Their fine clothing covers a heart that is sinful and diseased, full of vanity and pride. They know not what it means to “seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God.” [Colossians 3:1.]
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 49)
Dressing in Harmony With the Profession
In every particular our dress is to be in harmony with the truth that we profess. My sisters, I ask that you bring your manner of dressing into conformity with the rules given in the Bible. Then the religious services that you attend will be indeed love-feasts, hallowed by the presence of Christ, and you will have means with which to help you poorer sisters.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 50)
Remember also that these sisters may need something more than the aid of your means. Help them with your suggestions, your tact and skill. Show them how to dress simply and yet tastefully. This is missionary work that is acceptable to God.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 51)
Will you not talk these things over together, and see what you can do toward economizing in dress, that you may have something with which to help your poorer sisters? You are members of the royal family. Your names are enrolled in the Lamb’s book of life. Will you not dress in harmony with the instruction found in God’s Word? My sisters, it is not dress that makes you of value in the Lord’s sight. It is the inward adorning, the graces of the Holy Spirit, the kind word, the thoughtful consideration for others, that He values.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 52)
Jesus requires of none of His followers the sort of slavery that fashion demands. He would free them from this self-imposed thralldom. He pities them as He sees them sacrificing health and the best interests of life upon this unholy altar. He invites them, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” He presents His yoke in contrast with the galling one they have placed upon their own necks, and says: “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.] Here is the secret of contentment and peace and happiness—obedience to the laws of nature and of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 53)
The true Christian, possessing the meekness and lowliness of Christ, is content with plain, convenient, healthful garments and seeks to live a life of usefulness and to conform his habits to the example of Jesus. Such a one will find the truest happiness, the reward of well-doing. Such a one will be lifted above the slavery of an artificial life into the freedom and grace of Christlike simplicity.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 54)
The Barren Fig Tree
Families that spend much of their time in dressing for display may be likened to the fig tree which Christ saw afar off. This fig tree flaunted its flourishing branches in the very face of justice; but when Christ came to look for fruit, He searched from the topmost twig to the lowest boughs and found nothing but leaves. It is fruit He hungers for; fruit He must have.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 55)
There is no use in telling our sisters that they must not wear this or that; for if the love of these vain things is in the heart, the mere laying off of the adornments will only be like cutting off the foliage from a tree. We must present the principles of truth, and let them work on the hearts of the people. We may pick the leaves from the tree as often as we please, but this will not cause the tree to die. The next season the leaves will come out again as thick as before. But strike at the root of the tree, and not only will the leaves fall, but the tree will die.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 56)
Those who accept the truth in the love of it will die to the world and will become meek and lowly in heart, like their divine Lord. Just as soon as the heart is right, the dress, the conversation, the life will be in harmony with the Word of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 57)
How Will They Meet the King?
In the night season I was in a company of people whose hearts were filled with vanity and conceit. Christ was hid from their eyes. Suddenly, in loud, clear accents, the words were heard, “Jesus is coming to take to Himself those who on this earth have loved and served Him, to be with Him in His kingdom forever.”
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 58)
Many of those in the company went forth in their costly apparel to meet Him. They kept looking at their dress; but when they saw His glory, and realized that their estimation of themselves and of one another had been so largely measured by outward appearance, they knew that they were without the robe of Christ’s righteousness and that the blood of souls was on their garments.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 59)
When Christ came and took His chosen ones to Himself, these were left, for they were not ready. In their lives, self had been given the first place, and they had not made the necessary preparation to meet their Saviour.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 60)
I awoke with the picture of the agonized faces of these poor, deluded souls stamped on my mind, and I cannot efface that impression. I wish I could describe the scene as it was presented to me. O how sad was the disappointment of those who had not learned by experience the meaning of the words, “Ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” [Colossians 3:3.]
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 61)
I long to be filled day by day with the Spirit of Christ. The treasure of His grace is of more value to me than gold or silver or costly array. When my sisters catch a glimpse of what Christ suffered in their behalf, that they might become children of God by adoption, no longer will they be satisfied with worldly pride and self-love, no longer will they worship self; but God will be the object of their supreme regard.
(24LtMs, Ms 109, 1909, 62)
Ms 110, 1909
Aged Ministers to Have a Part in the Work NP 1909 Previously unpublished.
I have a special message to bear from the Lord which is similar to the testimony I have borne for the last forty years. We are in danger of conducting our camp-meetings in a way which God does not commend. Testimony upon testimony I am to search up and place before our people. The meetings are to be carried in the very best manner to produce the greatest amount of lasting good in impressing minds and hearts both of believers and unbelievers. There has been too much haphazard work done at these important gatherings. The Lord is not always glorified in the way these meetings are left to inexperienced inventions of men.
(24LtMs, Ms 110, 1909, 1)
The question is, Who shall be the ones to bear the message to the people? It is not in the order of God to choose the young men to bear the message to hundreds and thousands of people, but the old men—full of the rich ore of truth—the old, experienced hands are to be selected to bear the message, for they will sense the importance of giving the very message that should come to the people for this present time. Those who are yet living who have been through the experience of presenting the truths comprehended in the third angel’s message from the beginning of its proclamation are to be urged to present in a clear, forcible manner the reasons for our faith in our camp-meetings every day. Their experience of the past and knowledge of the present necessity fit them to preach the Word in the power and spirit of the grand truths that are applicable for this time.
(24LtMs, Ms 110, 1909, 2)
The younger ministers need to learn all possible for them to learn. Young ministers who are present at these meetings are not to be brought to the front while the aged men—like John the apostle, who had his experience in trials and in victories—are not solicited to speak. These aged men have the word of present truth burning in their souls. Once each day let the old stories of their experience be given to the people. Our people who assemble together in large numbers in camp-meetings, need the information and inspiration coming to them from the old, experienced servants of God. Our camp-meetings are for the special purpose of letting these young ministers hear the important messages of present truth for this time from their lips. Let all understand that the men chosen and depended upon to conduct these gatherings should always be experienced men. The aged men who have borne the burden in the heat of the day should always be consulted and always invited to take a prominent place in presenting the truth, and let all the young ministers learn and receive the blessing of hearing.
(24LtMs, Ms 110, 1909, 3)
I am instructed that the younger of the laborers are to have the benefit of listening to the aged ministers who have the experience of truth and the evidence of truth for this time. The young ministers are to exercise their ingenuity in managing, along the lines of becoming acquainted with the men who are unconverted, as used to be in our camp-meetings during the period of 1844. We used to have our camp-meetings in groves of the wood, and every morning the younger, inexperienced men were taken into a tent or out-of-doors into a grove where the ministers would in a most solemn manner read to these young men the messages in the testimonies and then pray with them. Here is where they were learning to be laborers together with God. They learned to seek the Lord most earnestly and were to act their part as evangelists, to seek to open the Word to a class that needed help. Some always responded and some held off, but nearly all finally were converted.
(24LtMs, Ms 110, 1909, 4)
There is a field to use young ministers or ministers of less experience to help them get their bearings in a humble manner, but it is a great mistake to place young talents before the large congregations at camp-meetings. Our camp-meetings are to be of the highest educational order. They are to hear the testimonies from old men of experience and the aged ones who have fought the battles for half a century. They are the ones who are presenting the truth in its important bearings for this time. I am to say, You men who have managed these meetings have acted unwisely. Whoever was in charge of that camp-meeting in Los Angeles made a mistake. Elder Haskell and his wife should both have been on the ground from the commencement to the close, and God would have been glorified in strengthening them to act a distinct part and bear the burden and would have given them strength to bear the message. We need special men to be placed in charge of our camp-meetings, wherever they may be, who shall have the spirit of wisdom and a sound mind to present the truth. And those who have but limited experience in the past half century cannot present all the light with such power as can these old experienced men. Our people are not called out to camp-meetings to hear the ordinary discourses from young ministers. The sanitarium is to be represented by men of years of experience, who give should discourses upon health reform during these meetings.
(24LtMs, Ms 110, 1909, 5)
There is abundance of missionary work to be done. If words have been spoken and there are feelings of dissatisfaction, go to the ones whom you think have erred and follow Christ’s prescription for settling these difficulties. This will soften hearts. Often feelings are cherished because of supposed wrongs that have been done. Brood not over these, to resent them and to feel and nurse your suppositions, but commence to remove these things by speaking to the ones whom you think have injured you. Tell them you want all the rubbish of disunion removed, that no wounds shall be left unattended to, but shall be healed, that not any obstruction may remain to corrode and break forth after the camp-meeting. Cure these things at the first of the meetings, and then your individual heart and mind and soul can appreciate the blessing of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 110, 1909, 6)
The first work is to be reconciled to your brother. Let each engage in the business of humbling his soul before God. Invite any one who has a grudge toward you to present it to yourself and him alone. After you have acted your part with humility, the great Physician will pour in the oil of grace and heal the mind, spirit, and soul. You will be so blessed in having old wounds healed that the Word preached will be tenfold more precious to you. Conquer your own pride. The Word of God demands that you clear the King’s highway. Truth and justice demand that you respect the conviction of the Spirit of God and not continue to be at variance with your brother or sister.
(24LtMs, Ms 110, 1909, 7)
What is the work prescribed for us? “Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; and make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord. Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.”Hebrews 12:12-15. Let not these words be lost out of your mind and heart. You who have erred will never improve your character by vindicating your hasty, harsh course of action. Confess. James chapters 3 and 4. Everlasting consequences depend upon the use of the tongue.
(24LtMs, Ms 110, 1909, 8)
Let all ministers be under Christ’s orders and build up and not tear down. Pray that they may always speak words that, under the Holy Spirit of God, will soften and subdue and not aggravate their fellow workers in the ministry and discourage them. Angels of God have looked with objection upon ministers who have thought it their work to tear down and dictate. The Lord forbids all this and will not suffer it to be continued. Truth and justice demand that we should yield to conviction as soon as we have facts set before us in verity and in truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 110, 1909, 9)
I am distressed as these matters are presented before me. The young ministers of less experience are to consider themselves blessed to hear the words spoken by men who carry the burdens of the cause of God on their souls day and night. The Lord puts His word in their hearts and in their minds to place before the people, under the dictation of the Holy Spirit of God, and the very lessons coming from the lips of old, tried servants of God will be light and grace and power to the saving of many souls. Young men are not to be placed to conduct camp-meetings and that without consulting the men of experience as to how these meetings shall be conducted. The Lord is to move on hearts and minds and give them the special message for hundreds to hear. The people need the words these old veterans, old soldiers of the cross, have to bear. It is not ordinary speeches that God calls for. The Lord has special messages to be borne, to come to the ears and hearts of all these hundreds of people. They do not come to the camp-meetings to listen to very good words in ordinary meetings. There is a great loss to many souls in listening to discourses proper in their place, but not hearing more decided messages which God gives His servants to present.
(24LtMs, Ms 110, 1909, 10)
The managers who took this part upon themselves are in need of learning of these experienced veterans of the cross of Christ. My soul cannot be at rest in such management. God is to be the chief counsellor in these great gatherings; for the end is near, and nearer than many suppose, and every hour is to be filled with important labor. The young men are called to do their work and to be missionaries, laboring all the time possible with young men and women, praying and pleading with them at all our camp-meetings. In these large gatherings, where there are thousands to hear the most forcible truth that can be presented, we are to give the reasons for our faith, to establish and confirm and impress the hearers. The young ministers need to listen to discourses from the old, experienced warriors of the battle, whose hair has become gray in the Lord’s service.
(24LtMs, Ms 110, 1909, 11)
Ms 111, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts on 1 Corinthians 2 Lodi, California November 6, 1909 Previously unpublished.
Sermon at Lodi, California, Sunday, November 6, 1909
“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 anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified. And I was with you in weakness, and in 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. 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. 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.”1 Corinthians 2:1-13.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 1)
“Comparing spiritual things with spiritual.” [Verse 13.] Now this requires that we make a study of the Word.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 2)
“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.”Verse 14. We must have a spiritual knowledge, a spiritual experience in order to be in a position to face the future, to meet opposition, and finally to be transferred to the future life—if alive, to be changed; if in the grave, to be brought up from the grave.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 3)
Now here are things that relate to our eternal interest, and we want to understand them. We do not want to make any mistake here. We cannot afford to make mistakes now. We never could afford it, but we can afford it less now. We are facing eternal realities. We are fitting for the kingdom. We are preparing for a future, eternal life. We are getting ready that we may see the King in His beauty, and we want now to make the very best of our opportunities to prepare for that kingdom. We want to make every effort to understand what is the will of God concerning you and me. Each one wants to know whether he is in a condition to be transferred to the future, immortal life. Are we prepared to stand the trials of these last days? Are we making that preparation? Are we keeping our eye fixed upon the Author and Finisher of our faith?
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 4)
Now we want to make the preparation. We want, every one of us, to be in a right position before God. In your families you want to be ready. Your children—they want to be fitting up for the coming of God. You want to see what missionary work you can do around you. If Christ be in you the hope of glory, you will reveal that fact to all around you. If we are preparing ourselves and our families to stand the test that is just before us, we want to know that we have the preparation, that we shall not fall behind. We want to get ready; for He that is to come will come, and will not tarry.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 5)
We want to ask every one, when you shall go to your homes, to read this second chapter of First Corinthians. Now I will read some of the third:
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 6)
“And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ.”1 Corinthians 3:1. Paul could not speak to the Corinthians as if they were in the advanced state, because they had not been laboring to place themselves in right relation to truth, to obtain a right experience that would bring them in close connection with God. We want to learn all that we should learn. It is high time that we trim our lamps, that we be all ready with the oil of grace in our hearts, that we not be taking a nap, as is represented of the ten virgins, five of whom were wise and five foolish. We cannot be of the foolish order. We must be where we can recognize Christ, where we can understand His will concerning us, that we shall fear to offend God. We want to stand in that position where we know that we shall have a right to the tree of life. Why will we have a right to the tree of life? Because we have eaten of the bread of life here. We have been fed with the heavenly manna from the Word, we have searched its pages, and we know what it says.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 7)
We do not want to be in the position of babes in Christ. We have grown up in the truth, many of us, and we want to stand in a right relation to God, where we can discern what we need and lay hold upon it.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 8)
“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.”Verse 2. Shall this be said of us? Shall we let earthly things, temporal things, and the things that are outside of our eternal interest absorb so much of our time and attention that we shall not have the preparation that is essential for us, that Christ may reveal Himself to us day by day? Why will He reveal Himself to us? Because we are seeking Him. He gave His life for us (John 3:16). Now face the subject; keep it in the mind; carry it with you when you go home: We are preparing to be translated.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 9)
The wickedness that is in our cities, it is impossible for you who are not living there to comprehend. What we want are the benefits that come from serving God. What we want daily is the Bread of Life. What we want is to behold that we may become changed into His likeness, into His image. How do we behold Him? By reading of Him out of His Word, and then dwelling upon the traits of His character, and what His words mean. We ought to understand them, every one of us.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 10)
“For ye are yet carnal: For whereas there is among you envying,”—oh, what a miserable trait that is—“and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?”[1 Corinthians 3] Verse 3. We won’t have any of that—“strife, and divisions.” We won’t allow it. We will come right in unison with Christ, and we will reprove anything of this deleterious order.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 11)
“For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal?”Verse 4. Showing your preference to men, and leaning upon them as though your eternal life depended upon them, will not do.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 12)
“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.”Verses 5, 6. It is God that is the backing of it all. It is His power that makes us. If we are sincere and earnest, and feel determined to believe the truth, then we shall have the truth in rich measure.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 13)
The angels of God are watching. They see every action; they hear every word, every testimony, every prayer; anywhere in any meeting, or wherever you may be, the Lord and His angels are there. He is in this meeting this morning, and we want to be in a position where we shall glorify God.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 14)
“So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labor.”Verses 7, 8. “God that giveth the increase.” It is God that is to make the application of it all.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 15)
“Every man shall receive his own reward.” [Verse 8.] Now here is a lesson you need not go to any of your neighbors to find out. Bear in mind that just according to the interest that you take in religious things you will be enlightened continually. Why? Because the angels of God are around about you to make the impression. Your individual course, your untiring efforts, your earnest prayer, your devotion to seek God—it is these which will give you spiritual understanding to know the truth when it is proclaimed. Each one has to know for himself where he stands.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 16)
“For we are laborers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building.”Verse 9. We all labor together. We are laborers together with God. “Ye are God’s husbandry; ye are God’s building.” Now let us take this into consideration.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 17)
Watch in your family. Don’t speak a cross word. Don’t raise the ire of your children when you should not, because this will not reform them. Take them aside and converse with them and pray with them, and read the Scriptures to them. What a work is this! This is what you want to do. Take time for it. You may say, My farm. Yes, but cannot God bless your farm better if you have a united family, to speak the same things, to work the same order? And will not the Lord let His rich grace rest upon you in wisdom and righteousness?
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 18)
God is working all the time to build up your character. God is working continually to take everything out of your character that will hinder you from having a firm understanding of the Scriptures, from knowing what is required of you, that you may be prepared, when the temptations of the enemy come, to resist them in the name of the Lord God of Israel.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 19)
“According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.”Verse 10. “Wise masterbuilder.” God will teach the master builder, if he will understand that he is co-operating with God, and God is co-operating with him. “I have laid the foundation.” Don’t go and get up some fallacy, and think that that means more than all the church profession, and you want to bring in your fallacy. No; that has been done too many times in our midst. We cannot build upon another man’s foundation. We have got to have a foundation of our own, a peculiarity of character that binds us up with the God of Israel.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 20)
“Let every man take heed how he buildeth.” [Verse 10.] That is what is required of us. We want heaven, and we are too near the ending of this earth’s history to fail now. We must have heaven, or we will lose everything.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 21)
“For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 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.”Verses 11-13. Christ is to be the hope of our calling. Now what is the fire? It is the fire of Satan’s temptations, and he lays a snare for the feet of this one and that one and the other one. If you yield to temptation, then you have lost the battle.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 22)
“If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.”Verse 14. Thank the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 23)
“If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. 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.”Verses 15-17. When you get up in the morning and things do not go just exactly as you want, have you just stepped aside into a room and prayed to the Lord to give you His Spirit? Have you received orders from above? What we want is a living, active, working faith; and if we have this, then we shall grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 24)
“Know ye not that ye are the temple of God?” [Verse 16.] Now remember that. He gives you words, He gives you courage, He builds you up. He is doing a great deal more to perfect your character than you have any idea of, that you shall not lose eternal life by your carelessness or your foolishness, or entering into things that you have no business with.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 25)
“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.”Verse 18. That is, let him be called a fool by the world. Let him be willing to be called foolish. There will be a good many tell you that you are a fool if you do this or that, but when it is the right thing to do, let no man deceive himself.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 26)
“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. 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.”Verses 19-23.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 27)
Now here is the work before us. I have read the second chapter, and I have read the third chapter, and I want you, when you go home, to think these things over, because there are a great many of us who think they are prepared for the Lord’s coming, but they are not. No, they are not. If you will just make an application of these chapters, God will help you to understand them.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 28)
Now I did not expect to dwell on this at all here this morning, but I just opened the Bible, and there it was. I had planned something else, but I will take that something else some other time, and this is enough for you to think of now. And I want every one of you, if you want to bear any testimony here, to bear testimony, and every one be gaining something while you are here. Bear your testimony in the name of the Lord God, and seek in every way you can to separate from you all hindrances, and to know the will of God, and then travel in that pathway and see what it will do for you. You will be free men. You will be all light in the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 29)
I want that you should have an opportunity to speak in this meeting, for every one of us is to confess Christ. Every one of us is to acknowledge his experience, and every one of us is to make his way out of darkness into His marvelous light. God help you at this time.
(24LtMs, Ms 111, 1909, 30)
Ms 112, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts on Hebrews 2 Lodi, California November 8, 1909 Previously unpublished.
Sermon by Mrs. E. G. White, November 8, 1909, Lodi, California
“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? For unto the angels hath He not put in subjection the world to come, 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, 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 unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.”Hebrews 2:1-10.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 1)
I wanted to bring this point before you. We are inclined to think, if we see one suffering, that there is something he has done that he needs to repent of. It may be there is, but it may be nothing more than you have done. But what we want to bring before you is the thought that there is to appear in the lives of every one a simplicity and a true godliness, wherever we are, and in whatever work we are engaged in doing. If we will consider this, and if we will press close to the bleeding side of Jesus Christ, and be willing to be partakers with Christ in His sufferings, we shall be conformed to the image of Christ. And that is what we want.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 2)
Things will come up, in the perfecting of the church in this world as it is, that every one of us will have to act our part. And what I am urging is for all of us to be sanctified.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 3)
“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.”Verse 11. We show ourselves to be one with Christ, partakers with Christ of His sufferings. “For which cause He is not ashamed to call them brethren.” These words I want to bring before you.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 4)
“Saying, I will declare Thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise unto Thee.”Verse 12. We have got to be living, acting Christians; and if we are, we shall surely have burdens laid on us if we are partakers with Christ’s sufferings; we shall have burdens laid on us for other souls. We are not to feel that if we believe in Christ and if we try to follow Him, then our work is ended. It is just begun, and we are to follow on to know the Lord, that we may know His going forth is prepared as the morning. Now that is the work in which we all can act a part. Be sure and take advantage of every opportunity that you have to represent Christ. Keep in view that we are following on to know the Lord, that His going forth is prepared as the morning. We do not get it all at once, but we can understand our work from day to day, to perfect a Christian character right in our home, and especially in the church.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 5)
The church needs the help of all these diversity of operations of the Spirit of God upon the human mind. We are not all led alike. One will see importance in some things, others will see importance in other things, but they are just as important as the ones that the other sees. Coming together, and bringing our testimonies one after another, they are not a facsimile, they are not all just alike, but one has some word to say, and another has some word to say, and every one of us is fitting up to fill our place in the Lord’s great work. “Ye are laborers.” In your own strength? “Together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] You are perfecting a character in and through Jesus Christ, and it is here that we shall realize the benefits of our Saviour.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 6)
But if we feel that we are competent to do everything that shall arise, we may not seek the Lord, and we may not reveal the image of Christ in us in our world, and the Lord wants us to follow on after Him and represent Him in character. Now that is our work. Do it in simplicity, do it in meekness, and we will represent Christ and not extol ourselves, that we are on the highest round of the ladder, when we have got every single step to climb. Now we want to be climbing step by step the ladder of progress and follow on heavenward. That ladder leads through the life of Christ, who has prepared for us a heaven, and we want it. And we want to know that it is our privilege to have it, and we want to go upon that ladder. It may be painful climbing, but we want to go up that ladder, praising God at every step; and although it may be trying to us to climb, we must climb heavenward.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 7)
We are viewing things of eternal interest today. It is that we follow in the footsteps of Jesus Christ, and we want to do that.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 8)
“And again, I will put my trust in Him. And again, Behold I and the children which God hath given me.”[Hebrews 2] Verse 13. That is just what we are trying to do. Because your children are put out to school, it does not relax your responsibility. You are to know whether they are improving, and following on in the right way, and that the religious interests are kept alive in their hearts. The mother’s responsibility is not gone because she sends her children to school. It is doubled, because they are separated from her, and the lesson that the mother gives must come to the children to stand in a position in the school where they can be a blessing to others. Every one can be a blessing to those around him.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 9)
“Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, He also Himself likewise took part of the same.” (Verse 14), first part. Yes, just as a child, Christ came into our world to represent a perfection of character acted, and we must represent a character acted.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 10)
“That through death He might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; and deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. 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 succour them that are tempted.”Verses 14-18.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 11)
Now, my brethren and sisters, let every one of us for Christ’s sake bring ourselves in right relation to all the efforts that are being made to perfect the character of our children. The parents must not throw off that burden and think that is all done. They have examination. They are to find out whether their children are progressing in spiritual views and ideas, or whether they are losing what they have by being associated with so many children. The parents are not to lose their hold on the children; they are to try to work in perfect harmony with all the elevating, all the refining, and all the reproving that are possible, to perfect the character of their children. Now if it was not to perfect the character of your children, you would not feel like sending them right away from you, but you want to see your children, you want to pray with your children, you want to talk with your children. You want in every way to second every good work that is put forth in their behalf, and the parents and the children work in perfect harmony.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 12)
Now this is the work that rests upon us, and I have not much more to say, because I know the time is precious, and I do not mean to take more of it than is essential; but I do want to take up these points that others perhaps will not bring in.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 13)
Mothers, your work does not lessen in sending your children to the school, unless you know they are working in harmony with the lessons that you have given them to prepare for the future, eternal life.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 14)
The Lord is coming soon. We know it, and we know that the end of all things is at hand; and we want to work right in wherever we can to perfect a Christian character ourselves, as a pattern, and then we want to help others, that they may come in perfect harmony with the truth, and with light and obedience. Because they come to the school does not lessen their obedience to the father and the mother. Only teach them to walk according to the instruction that shall be given them by those who understand what it means to overcome by the blood of the Lamb.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 15)
Now I felt afraid that the parents might lose the advantage that they can have right in harmony with their children. Some of them may be far away from home, but notwithstanding that your responsibility keeps up, you must keep it alive and address them letters, and tell them how to obey and how to be a pattern and not to follow anything that may come up, to have a real time of cheerfulness in spirit, and that they are to reveal an education that shall fit them for the service of God. Keep that before them; and if you do keep that before them, you will help the teachers. We are all fitting up to face tremendous realities, and we want to understand it, and not to go to sleep over it.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 16)
We want now to pray as we never have prayed before, and we want to work intelligently, in the name of Jesus Christ, ourselves to be overcomers; and if we do that, the blessing that will rest upon us will be great.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 17)
Christ worked out perfection in our behalf, in behalf of humanity; and we want to bring that point right to the children and tell them what they are doing. Every one of them is to honor their Redeemer, not to think it is all hilarity and glee when they are done with their studies, because that is not the way to do. We want to prepare them for the temptations that will certainly come.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 18)
“Like unto His brethren.” That is, subject to temptations as they were subject to temptations. “That He might be a merciful and faithful high priest.” [Verse 17.] Now you just consider the Son of the living God. In our behalf He has done this.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 19)
Now let us consider these points, every one of us. We need a great deal more humility and a great deal more spirituality than we manifest, unless we shall fall behind when the time of test comes, as it will come to every one. We are not ready to meet it, we are not prepared for it, we have not thought of it. But I want you to think of these things, that Christ went over the ground that we go over, that He was tempted in all points like as we are. You bear this in mind. He overcame in His humanity, through His divine nature, and how do we overcome? Why, He gave His life that we might become partakers of the divine nature.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 20)
I want you to consider that your children are walking over that ground, and you are walking over that ground, and we have an experience to gain that we do not have. We must take these things earnestly to heart, if we are fitting up for the kingdom of heaven. If we are to be partakers of the divine nature, represent it. Represent it in all your movements, and the blessing of God will surely be upon you, and angels of God will be right by you to make the representation, if you walk carefully in the footsteps of the self-denying Saviour, if you are willing to act a part that the truth shall be presented before the people.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 21)
We are not doing one-hundredth part of what we ought to be doing. Here is the world perishing without the truth, and Christ came as a man that He might approach man as a man connected with God, that He might teach us how to become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 22)
Now we are not half awake, we are not half alive, and may God help us that we may come right up to the point, and that we may have a living religion, and a growing interest continually, for we are told that in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh, and we want to be ready. We want to say, Glory to God, glory to God. This is what we have labored for. He has come! He has come, and we will glorify Him. Now let us glorify Him here. We will learn the glorification that we must get here. We must press the battle to the gates and overcome by the blood of the Lamb.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 23)
Your responsibilities will not be less because there are teachers here to come in and teach your children. You are to keep that in view and to do your work intelligently as a mother. You can’t do as if they were right with you, but you can keep your influence in touch with them, and encourage them, and seek in every way to have them honor and glorify God.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 24)
There is a future. Overcome by the blood, and when Jesus comes, you can say, “Lo, this is our God, we have waited for Him and He will save us.” [Isaiah 25:9.] If you can do that, you have gained everything. Let your heart melt before God. Let the light of heaven come into your heart. Let it be revealed in your words and your acts. The light that has been given me is that we do not realize one-twentieth part, and some hardly one-hundredth part, of the blessings that we might obtain through a living, religious experience; and then we are to impart it to those around us.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 25)
And now I will say, The Lord will certainly, certainly help us. Let us work out our own salvation with fear and trembling. And let us work that we shall not lose the heavenly reward. We must have it, and I want to inspire you with the thought that you can have it. All heaven is interested in the battle that you are carrying on, and you may be overcomers through the blood of the Lamb and the word of your testimony. Amen and amen.
(24LtMs, Ms 112, 1909, 26)
Ms 113, 1909
The Work in Portland, Maine and the East Portland, Maine July 3, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in 10MR 16-19.
Here we are, July 3; our journey was rather trying from South Lancaster to Portland, Maine. The cars seemed inferior, and there were some who for a time could not obtain seats. I had a seat with a stranger, and the cars were crowded. We thought this a very uninteresting part of our journey.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 1)
At Portland we found my nephew for whom we were looking and whom I had never seen—the son of my twin sister who has been dead several years. We had a hearty reception. My nephew’s influence helped to obtain the land on which to pitch our tents, and there was plenty of room.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 2)
He and his wife were glad to meet us. They are members of the Baptist church. They are well located, and he is well situated. He has his business to attend to—a store—and we have not seen much of him. His wife appears to be an excellent woman. They have one child who is off at school in Gorham to obtain an education in a favorable location.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 3)
We feel deeply over Portland. We have not been here for many years. We were acquainted with Portland when the great advent movement was going on in 1840-43, when Father Miller, Elder Himes, and many of the leading important speakers were giving the testing message. For years the warning was given in this important city of Portland, and the power of God attended the messages. But time has been passing, and I was given an important message for the people.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 4)
For many years there has not been a special work carried forward; and now we are here, and much light has been given me recently that Portland and these cities in the eastern states, that ought to have been labored for many years ago, must be worked. For years very little has been done to build up the work that ought to have been done in many places. Proper men should have been duly appointed and special efforts made and not leave such a place almost destitute of help. Workers must now be appointed who will make most determined efforts, working and praying and drawing in even cords. Men must be appointed who will first lay hold of the Lord’s gracious promises and then, under subjection to the Holy Spirit, do the very work which has been neglected—build a church or hire a suitable place to build up the work, all under the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 5)
Read Acts and learn the lessons brought to view in the first chapter and following chapters, especially the first chapter. This whole history is of importance to the setting of things in order. We need to encourage a special work to be done.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 6)
“Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith He unto His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.” [Matthew 9:35-38.]
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 7)
“And 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. Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip, and Bartholomew; Thomas, and Matthew the publican; James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus; Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed Him. 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. Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat.”Matthew 10:1-10.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 8)
This chapter is an important one. There is an important message to bear to the people. You will be called to many places; and as you respond, the burden will come to you. You have no time to lose. Our people need now to seek the Lord decidedly to understand that is our conference there is to be a change made. There is to be a division of the working fields and centers made that will give appropriate governing power to each section. Officers are needed with well-balanced minds to give proper attention to such fields as Portland and other parts of Maine that need help. This neglect is to be remedied as fast as possible. Departments must be organized and workers chosen who will assume responsibilities in the fear of God. Some mistakes may be made in choosing men. But let the divisions be made. Have a force of working men who will consent to be worked. And then have the different sections come together in quarterly meetings, and compare notes and counsel together.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 9)
Our cities in the East have been passed by and scarcely worked at all. The question was asked, What have you done for these cities? God asks it. The Lord looks upon this neglected work and declares, Divide, and change and reelect if necessary, but be sure that self is first under rule to God. The Lord is displeased that so large a work, embracing such vast responsibilities, is permitted year after year to be borne by so few—the same men—when the special message has been over and over set before the General Conference that specified centers are to be made.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 10)
We feel now an intensity of burden for places that the last messages have not yet reached. There are the eastern states left unwarned. What will we do to get the truth before cities and in the highways and the byways that have never heard the warning? Christ has pointed them out distinctly. Oh, that the Lord would work upon human hearts and the truth bear its weight with power and be felt in its purity! Now is our time and opportunity to let the light shine forth in clear, distinct rays from the Word of the Lord. Truth and righteousness are to go before us to the people. The work is to be carried forward in earnest, sincere labor and in the pure gospel simplicity. How many restraints are continually raised up lest some means shall be called for in needy places! I am to lift up my voice of warning, for the work has not made a beginning in many places, but many hindrances have been suggested where the Lord designed only encouragement. Urgency should be given, and these hindrances are to be removed. Men of faith are needed, who will not put up the bars because there will be need of means to start the work.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 11)
There is now to be a change, and there must be division of responsibility to remedy the neglect. The same men are not to be selected for all responsibilities, for their past showing is not a confirmation of their wisdom or correct bearings. We have come to a place where there must be a change in the administration. One set of men are not always to stand as qualified for the bearing of large responsibilities. Men are needed who evidence that they are ruled by the Lord and controlled by strictest integrity. I am pained to say there needs to be a change of elements. The present showing is not correct in the sight of God. Many things that should have been done have not been done. Many souls that might have been reached, and the truth bear a decided victory, have not been reached. Nothing has been done in large neglected centers because of the necessity of means to do the work. It is time that a change is made, that the neglected cities are entered everywhere in America. In different sections men are to be appointed to care for these different sections.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 12)
I have, during this last General Conference, refused to see and converse with any in private conversation of their plans. I have therefore been left with the Lord to work me. When many have poured their individual and family troubles into my mind, then if I had a message to bear, some might say, “I told her that;” but if I have no conversation with any one, they cannot say, “I told Sister White that.” The Lord has instructed me what to say. No visitors have been allowed to come largely to Sister White with all their supposed perplexities. They may not understand my words, and I have had to meet things that have been reported Sister White has advised, and they have misstated my words. Now there was a proposition made that no one should visit Sister White unless she called for them to communicate something to them. Therefore I was free from all callers unless it was supposed to be a necessity. Thus I had altogether a more favorable opportunity than ever I have had before in my life—time to think, to call to mind the Lord Jesus’ teachings, and to pray that the Lord would direct and counsel me and give me His Word and His light in counsel.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 13)
Oh, I have felt I bore a heavy burden of responsibility in our large meetings, and statements have been reported that I knew I had never made. Now if I can be left to speak my message before all, and then do the happy thing of writing important matter to be read to those present, misinterpretation would not worry me; for I would have it all written out and therefore could deny any false statement, for the whole congregation had the matter.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 14)
And I found my private talking had wearied me much more than speaking to the whole large congregation, because I could use my abdominal muscles and throw out my words without taxing my throat and my lungs. I thank the Lord I could make the large congregation hear, and my whole system was less taxed than in so many private talks, and I need not worry for I had written them under the special inspiration of the Spirit of God. I felt that the Lord had given me His grace and His light to impart. Therefore when I have talks to give I will write them out; and when my enemies or friends shall unadvisedly report falsely what I say, I can produce the original.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 15)
I never experienced more of the deep moving of the Holy Spirit in talking than I have when reading these testimonies, speaking the messages God has given me; and then I could sleep peacefully, for my enemies could not affirm that Sister White said things that I never did say. This will now be my assurance in the public meetings before a large number. I am so thankful for this relief. I praise the Lord that I can make certain communications before all classes and then if reports are incorrect state exactly “it is written.” I save myself from many trials by having all I should bring before the people written out.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 16)
I wish to speak decidedly that all our books that bear the messages of present truth are to speak now in being sold everywhere, not alone the largest books, but books of every size. Those which children cannot well handle, grown people can manage to handle.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 17)
The book Christ’s Object Lessons I donated to our schools to be sold for the benefit of all who receive them, but especially for many to handle, stating why they sell these books. They are to be sold to pay the expense of the church school tuition. Of all the large sales of Ministry of Healing and Christ’s Object Lessons, I have not appropriated one penny for my own personal benefit.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 18)
I have given some books to those too poor to buy them, and shall continue to do this. I wished to have all who desire to have these books—written in the most simple language. When my copyists, in typing on the machine, have made copies, I have occasionally seen a word introduced that is not my expression. I cut out the sentence and have it recopied. I will have my own simple language of expression. The Lord Jesus accepted me in my childhood experience, and every article I write must be so plain that the little child in years may comprehend it. The language of Christ was so simple in expression that even the unlearned could understand His discourses.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 19)
Read and understand the First Epistle of John. The figures used to illustrate his subject were of a character [the people] could comprehend. Christ’s Object Lessons is easily comprehended, and yet is of the highest order. “Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time. They went out from us, but they were not of us: for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us. But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.”1 John 2:18-21.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 20)
We have the privilege now in 1909 of coming to the light. We are not to be at variance. Representations have been made to me that the Lord is full of mercies to bestow upon us when we will become as little children to learn the will and ways of God out of His Word, which is Spirit and which is life, eternal life. “I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.” [Verse 21.] From henceforth the truth is to go with special power. Men are not in these last times to be bound down and forbidden to go forth and enter any place in the power and under the grace of God and kindle an interest wherever they can.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 21)
Portland is one place specified concerning which I should bear a special testimony, and for which I should be free to ask donations in any place where I should go, no man forbidding me. There must be a meetinghouse, plain but wisely designed, for the accomplishment of the great and telling work which is to be done in that city. A sanitarium should be designed and do a work such as has been done in many places. Temperance shall stand forth in its dignity and in its sacred reformatory work. The people are to understand the truth as it is in Jesus. We profess to have a knowledge of the Word as to what is truth in these last days. Then are we prepared to work in harmony and to graduate when the seal of God shall be placed upon us?
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 22)
Now is our time to prepare for the future events. The Lord has given me largely of His Holy Spirit, and I have borne a decided testimony in Portland, Maine. The Spirit of God was upon me, and the congregation was deeply moved; and the message is to be heard, revived, and given in all our cities in the eastern states. Any who will unite with me in this grand work will be blessed of God. Takoma Park, Washington, has had a great and grand work done in it, and now the eastern work is to be furnished with means to bring the light of truth to the eastern cities. Thus the order was shown me years ago. The work must go from the East to the West and then the warning message was to return to the East and all our cities be awakened. There is not to be a large amount of money continually absorbed in Washington. The cities in the eastern states are in midnight darkness, concerning the testing truth. The truth is to embrace the whole field.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 23)
I have words to write to all who will hear. I am to say to those professed believers who have had light and have felt it their privilege to oppose (not openly but under cover) the work of God to be carried forward in these last days, that their actions are written against them in the books of heaven as counterworking the movements of the Holy Spirit to give His messages to the very ones who need them. These men here and there have through their own imaginations, because they have been reproved and corrected for their wrong course, taken it upon themselves to counterwork the very working agencies the Lord has appointed. They refuse to be influenced by all the proofs given of God. They stubbornly go on in their own way, and it will be found that they have taken upon themselves to sow the seeds of doubt. They have ignored the very messages God has given to His people and yet have been entrusted with religious responsibilities of a high character and held in office to counterwork the very light God has given to His people. This has been done in some places, in San Francisco, in Oakland, and in any place where they may drop tare seeds to make of no account the messages God has given to His people.
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 24)
The Lord would have accepted these men as His workers, but they chose to follow their own line of unsettling the faith of those who believe the messages God has given for the benefit of His people. We are to encourage the faith of the seekers after the truth. The Lord has made decided statements of what is truth and what is error; it has been worked out decidedly. The opposing ones cannot be trusted with responsibilities because they have put up their own bars. It is these objectionable features that brought us from Australia for the healthfulness of His cause to be maintained. The Word of God has been magnified against the counterworking of a few, who, had they taken the right side with Christ, would have been greatly enlightened themselves and others enlightened through them. How many inquiring minds these counterworkers have balanced in the wrong direction will never be known until the judgment shall sit and the books be opened and every case decided. All who will work intelligently with heart and soul on the right side, and cease their opposition to testimonies given to correct their errors, will see what a counterinfluence they have been against truth and sound judgment. The last great conflict is right upon us, and the men and their deceptive influence will stand forth as God shall pronounce it. See Testimonies, Volume Six, (number 34).
(24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, 25)
Ms 114, 1909
Sermon/Sabbath sermon by Mrs. E. G. White to the Philadelphia Church. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania June 12, 1909 Previously unpublished.
(John 15), whole chapter. I want all to hear this, for it is to our eternal interest that we do. Here is the point I wish you to bear in mind. “Every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it that it may bring forth more fruit.” [Verse 2.] When I used to see my husband carting away the branches of our fig trees, I used to say, you will spoil them. “No,” said he, “I am taking away all that which is useless, so that the branches will have opportunity to put forth their best strength without hindrance.”
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 1)
“For every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through 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 you abide in me.” [Verses 2-4.] What does this mean? We have something to do, every one of us. If we appreciate the great sacrifice that has been made in our behalf, then shall we not be in a position to appreciate that sacred life, and shall not we ourselves sacrifice our lives that others may be blessed thereby, helped and strengthened to grow in Christ our living head?
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 2)
There is not one here who knows, independently of deep study, how to rightly relate themselves with their fellow men. If we will recall the life of Christ before His crucifixion, then will we feel the intensity of desire not to disappoint the one who left the royal courts, who laid aside His royal crown and came as a humble man in the sight of all the world. The world did not see or know the sacrifice He made. They did not understand it until the pruning work was done; not until the useless things they were gathering unto themselves were taken away did they even begin to realize what had been done. He allows afflictions to come upon us that we may seek Him, that we may come to Him, that we may place ourselves in a right relation to Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 3)
Our sanitariums are established with the object of doing this, that they may do a work in this world, that the sick and the suffering and those who are likely to die may be brought into connection with godly physicians and nurses. It is true that they may not understand or appreciate the value of the treatments given them, but they are relieved. Suffering humanity is relieved of its distress, then what? The ones who relieved them have opened the way that they may present, to the one restored, the higher life that measures with the life of God. The can show them; they will have opportunity to pray with them, to talk with them and express words of tender sympathy and kindness, and that very lesson will be just as good as a sermon—far better that some sermons.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 4)
What we need is the right relation to God, and every sanitarium that is established should strive in every way possible to get hold of men and women who are tender and sympathetic, who have an intelligence, who know how to treat the needy, suffering, and distressed ones. We make it a point not to force any special doctrine upon them. We leave them, after we have done our duty and while we are doing it, leave them for Christ Himself to make the impression.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 5)
When the afflicted woman touched the Saviour, merely the hem of His garment, she thought it she could just steal a chance to touch Him, she would be healed, so great was her faith. As that crowd kept pressing, pressing closer and closer to Christ, she kept getting a little nearer until the hoped for privilege came. She made the touch of faith. Christ cried out and said: “Who touched me?” Why, said those about Him, here is the crowd pressing You on the right, and on the left, and You ask, Who touched Me? “But somebody has touched me, virtue has gone from me.” [Luke 8:45, 46.]
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 6)
The touch of faith He recognized. The poor woman wept out her affliction and said He made her whole; the affliction she had had for years left her; the touch of faith had made her whole. This is what we want of our institutions. We want God-fearing, religious men at the head; men and women who take hold of Jesus Christ with a living experience, who can speak words of comfort to those who will be influenced by their words. Then too, here is the ministry for the men. They have to wait on the sick and the afflicted, and in so doing, they are drawn upon for the very best talent of communication that is possible, and that is the tenderness of Christ. If in their suffering and affliction they should see you shed some tears in their behalf, they would realize that you did sympathize with them and it would be a great help to them.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 7)
This woman was healed, and she confided it to the multitude. Do you think this made any impression? It made just the impression Christ wanted it to make. What He wants of us is to stand in the right relation to God. We are to be representatives of Christ. If we claim to be the children of God, we must abide in Christ. “I am the true vine and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit He taketh away, and every branch that beareth fruit he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” [John 15:1, 2.]
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 8)
So if trials come upon us, it is our test. It is to see if we will act the Christ-life in that test. When tried and proved, if we will stand true, and if we do, then what is said? “Now ye are clean through 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.” [Verses 3, 4.] Will we believe this? Will we watch unto prayer? Will we minister truth to the hearer? Will we realize the importance of everyone of us being Christians? If you are not a Christian, you cannot bear fruit. Why? Because there is not one who can enter into the courts above until they are laborers together with Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 9)
There is an end to this world, and if we bring our lives into a right relation with Christ, we do not know how much trouble we can save ourselves from, and how much trouble we can save others from. I am so glad that the Saviour can recognize the motive of every movement of our actions; and judged of its worth, if it is to do His will or not. He never passes it by, and when that woman confessed her act, she confirmed the act that she had been made whole. Christ made it a gift to her after suffering for years.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 10)
I have brought this forward because you have a sanitarium in your midst, and everyone who will place themselves in a right relation to God can be a communication of thoughts just such as Christ taught, and live a life just such as Christ lived, and thus you can be one of the greatest blessings to those around you. What a pity it is that Christ should have died in vain to any living soul. What a pity, when the whole heaven is opened before us, that we do not always take our position on the Lord’s side. Isn’t it right to do so? May the Lord help each soul to so conduct their actions, their speech, their life that Christ can acknowledge them and say, Well done, thou good and faithful servant.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 11)
I hope, that if any are here within the sound of my voice to have been halting between two opinions, that you will begin to think it is time to place yourself on the side of Him who clothed His divinity with humanity and came to our world—to do what?—that humanity might be made whole and brought in touch with divinity, that everyone might be saved by practicing His life; by acknowledging Him to be their Saviour. Here you are being weighed in the balance—heaven or the companionship of the evil angels. I want heaven, when I was a child I made up my mind that I would have it. These many years I have loved and been burdened for the children.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 12)
I recall that at one time I was in a congregation, and a child of twelve years came to me and said, “Sister White are you going to speak today?” I replied, I spoke this forenoon, and will speak again tomorrow. With a look of disappointment she replied, “I thought you were going to speak this afternoon, and I told a lot of other children that you would, and that they could understand you, and how disappointed they will be.” How do you think I felt? I felt glad and sorry. I was so sorry that anyone should speak in such a way that children could not understand them. Simplicity is everything to us.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 13)
Christ left the royal courts, that He might come down to this world so that He might live and work in behalf of humanity. What did He do? Travel, travel on foot through the cities, drawing the multitude after Him, talking to them, healing their sick, all day; and at night to be awake for their sake. What was He doing? Pleading with His Father that the crowds that followed Him might not follow in vain. All night He spent often in prayer, and I want to say, we must have a larger part in this life and work of Christ than we have else we shall not be partakers of His divine nature. “Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.... As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine, no more can ye, except ye abide in me.” [Verses 3, 4.] I want you to carry this truth home with you.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 14)
We are told in plain words, “He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same shall bring forth much fruit, and without me, ye can do nothing.” [Verse 5.] Well then, we must be men and women of prayer, we must be men and women of purpose. We cannot speak any way we please. Not a rough word should escape our lips toward our children unless we want them to receive an impression on their minds that does not help them at all religiously. But tell them their faults patiently, just as Christ does with us, and then seek to remove the objectionable features from their characters. That is the way to do it, and the parents at home can do everything, as it were, if they are abiding in Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 15)
“I am the vine, ye are the branches.” [Verse 5.] That is what heaven sent Christ for, that He might represent the intensity of sanctification by His living practice. Who will begin right here today, to obey the Word? Who will begin right now for your children’s sake, for Christ’s sake, to have your lives sanctified, for many of you profess to be Christians. “If ye abide in me, and I in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” [Verse 7.] Now listen to this, everyone of 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.” Do you believe it? Try it. “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.” [Verse 8.] That is the proof: If you speak the Christian word, if you pray the simple prayer of faith and cast your helpless soul upon Christ who is my helper.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 16)
Believe it, take Him at His word, and then try to help others to come to the very place where they can understand what is faith. “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.” Thank God for the simplicity of this, that we all can understand it. “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and your joy may be full.” [Verses 9-11.] So you see it does not bring you joy to be divorced from Christ. It brings you hope, joy, courage and sympathy to be working together for Him. It gives you power to take right hold of those about you and work out Christ’s plan.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 17)
“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.] “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] We have a work to do, to be like Christ, to be winning souls to Christ. “If ye ... abide in my love,” etc. “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.] We have a living Saviour, and when we have a living connection with Christ, then is the divine nature brought in. We are to be partakers of the divine nature, having overcome the temptation of Satan through Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 18)
“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, ever as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this that he lay down his life for his friends;” etc. [Verses 10-13.] True religion, true Christianity, will carry that right out, because we have the perfection of Christ’s character to be revealed—divinity in humanity. That is what it is. Christ did not lay aside His divinity—it was simply clothed in humanity, that He might help us. He came here to restore fallen humanity to God. He came as a little child, that from childhood to manhood He could be the representative of God to humanity. Angels were around Him, and they cared for Him all through His life on earth, that humanity and divinity combined might be the perfection of His character as it may be the perfection of the character of everyone who so desires.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 19)
What we want is the simplicity of true godliness. We hear of this one and that one, that they did so and so, but we often find that they are following their own way, they have marked out their own path and are treading it. They do not take Christ as their guide and model; their ideal of perfection. They think if they go to higher schools for higher education that that is the one thing essential. But by the time they have gotten through, they have lost sight of the simplicity of the Christ-life. They do not appreciate it; they do not desire to live it. Christ did not live and die in vain.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 20)
Let us go back to the 9th verse, and on. “This is my commandment; that ye love one another even as I have loved you.... Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.” [Verses 12, 14.] Therefore the world will hate you because you will not enter into the ways of the world with its sin, its lust and gratification. They persecuted Christ, they will also persecute you. The world is to be overcome, as Christ overcame in our behalf. The world is to have Christ as their example and copy His character; then they will be strong in Christ’s strength to be saved from Satan. May God so help us that we may live the life that measures with the life of Christ. In a little while this world will show what it is—violence, crime, it is showing itself now, but it will increase in sin and wickedness to the end. I beg of you for your soul’s sake to make sure work for eternity.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 21)
November 26th I shall be 82 years old, and I rather feared I would not be able to take this journey, but the Lord has given me strength not only to make the journey, but to be able to speak to thousands. I thank the Lord for this. There is a work for me; there is a work for us all. I want to read just a little more: Matthew 4:12 to end. Now, Christ will make fishers of men out of those who do not have a great education but who love Christ. The spirituality of His teachings will take hold of the mind, the soul, and the capabilities of the men, and they will go forth and preach with acceptance. What we want is men clothed with the righteousness of Christ. What did these disciples do? Verse 20 and on. Now we want this very same kind of workers.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 22)
It has been shown to me that God has His workers everywhere, in every city, in every community. He wants missionaries to work everywhere. Those who claim to be His followers, He wants you to humble your hearts so you can talk to others in a simple and acceptable way; in such a way that they can understand it and take hold of it; that they will be blessed by your coming to them; that they will believe. Oh! if only you could see what has been shown me. If all could only realize the great responsibility that is resting upon us.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 23)
When my son said that it was greatly desired that I should speak here, I did not feel that I could give this little talk. But God has helped me. I do not depend on my own strength; in my own strength I can do nothing. I do not depend on myself at all. I know there is one we call all lean upon and that is Jesus Christ who came to our world and took upon Him the nature of man, that humanity might behold divinity and thus through His help, develop Christlike characters. He wants us to be co-laborers with Him, to help those who are perishing in their sins. That is why our sanitariums are established, that those who minister to the needs of the body may minister to the sin-sick soul at the same time.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 24)
We do not want the world to be lost; we want it to be saved. Those who are thus working can come into contact with those who are sick of body and sick of soul and tell them of the One who purchased life for them by giving His own life. We want everyone to wake up. These cities must be warned. Souls are perishing in their sins. Will you be co-laborers together with Christ? Will you take upon you the life of self-denial for Christ’s sake? Will you reject that Christ who laid aside His crown, His royal robe, came to our world as a little child, and led a life of humility? He invites us to become partakers of the divine life, that we may overcome the wiles of Satan exercised in the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 25)
Oh! my brethren and sisters, it has been presented to me that the gates of the city shall be swung back on their glittering hinges and the saved shall be ushered in. A musical harp shall be placed in their hands, and they shall praise God, and go to everyone who has tried to help them in this world and thank them. They will want to fall on their necks, and the harps in their hands will be touched, and all heaven will be filled with the rich music and songs of praise and thanksgiving to the Lamb. Are you ready to graduate? Are you prepared to enter to a higher school?
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 26)
If you wish to enter the golden gates of the New Jerusalem you will have to have a life that measures with the life of Christ. No sinner will be there. Heaven had one sinner in Satan. And there was war in heaven and Satan and his followers were overcome. And no other sinner dare enter. Every life must be sanctified, every harp will be tuned to the praise of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 27)
I leave this testimony with you and plead with you not to continue in your sins. We have had Christ with us; we know what His life was, and we know what ours must be, and we know we must represent Him to the world. This is why we have sanitariums, so we can represent Christ. We have Christian doctors, we have Christian nurses and we have books there—books that I have written—that all who come may see that the Christ-life is to help every soul who will accept Him as their Saviour; then you can help others here to have a share with the redeemed.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 28)
May God help us to help each other, so that when we, as overcomers get to the New Jerusalem, just as it has been shown to me, one after another will come to us and say, If it had not been for you, I would not be here, and with shining faces and musical harps heaven will resound with the songs of joy of the redeemed. Are you ready to graduate? God help us to make a reality of the Christ-life in us. Amen and amen.
(24LtMs, Ms 114, 1909, 29)
Ms 115, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts on Matthew 3 New York City, New York June 19, 1909 Previously unpublished.
One week ago I spoke to the people where there was a small house of worship. Two hundred people collected, but the house had not proper ventilation, and after speaking one hour, we dispersed. I have not had that health and strength since to stand in the desk before today. We must have good air to breathe, but we had not the air that day. How many were injured by the close atmosphere, I know not. We must make every effort to have fresh air.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 1)
(Matthew 3) chapter. “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. And the same John had his raiment of camel’s hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey. 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.” [Verses 1-6.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 2)
We see the necessity of the steps taken to identify ourselves with Jesus Christ. We are to forsake sins, then to go down into the water and to be baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 3)
“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? 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 ax is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down.” [Verses 7-10.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 4)
Understand this, a profession is not enough. Let every one understand it is the possession of the Holy Spirit of God that we receive, that we retain through obedience, that numbers us and owns us in the heavenly courts as children of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 5)
“And now also the ax is laid unto the roots of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down and cast into the fire.” [Verse 10.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 6)
Now, a false profession is not worth anything. Unless the life of Christ is brought into the soul, unless the heart is brought into the state of humility that will make us to be obedient to the words of Christ, teachable to His word and practice, why then, baptism does not amount to anything. We are to live our baptism. We are to show that we have unity with Jesus Christ and that we have identified our interest with Christ through baptism, to live a new life under God.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 7)
“I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier that 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 thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.” [Verses 11, 12.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 8)
Now we have the two lives presented, a supposition life and we have the true life, and if we suppose that we are children of God, and carry along our own dispositions—we are not humble, we are not meek and lowly, we are not representatives of Jesus Christ in character—why then we shall find our baptism will not save any of us. Do we live out the faith that we claim when we are led down into the water and receive baptism, and are brought up out of the water? Why, then we are to walk in newness of life. That is the representation that is to be given to the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 9)
“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.” [Verse 11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 10)
Well, now we want such a baptism as that to be honored every day of our lives. We cannot afford to be loose and careless and worldly minded, after we have received such a baptism as is here represented.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 11)
“Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner: but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. 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 cometh thou to me? And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he suffered him. [Verses 12-15.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 12)
“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.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 13)
“Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungered. And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.” [Verses 16, 17; 4:1-3.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 14)
What would He do, if He should obey the suggestion of Satan? He puts an “if” in there. Satan raises a doubt whether He is the Son of God. But He answered and said, “It is written.” He does not go over and repeat the argument of Satan—and I wish every body would remember this when they are assailed by doubt and begin to argue and begin to dissect it. Why, they have given the enemy the right of way. We are not to give the enemy the right of way—not at all. It is granted, Christ is the Son of the living God. We are His children and we are to follow every example He has left in His Word.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 15)
“But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” [Verse 4.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 16)
Well that tells everything to us. Some come to me, “What can I do, Sister White? What can I do that I may live the religious life?” I take them right over this ground. I tell them it is just as simple—a little child can understand it, if they want to.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 17)
“Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on the pinnacle of the temple, And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, 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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 18)
You see the “if.” If Christ should take up his temptations and repeat them and answer them, He gives the doubt, He accepts the doubt. It won’t answer for any of us to do that.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 19)
“If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, 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.” [Verse 6.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 20)
Well now, what did he leave out there? “He shall give his angels charge concerning thee in all his ways.” All the ways that God leads Him, not to go on the tramps of Satan, to follow his temptations, and, “in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone.” [Psalm 91:11, 12.] There was the temptation. And let me tell you, men who think themselves very wise are very foolish to repeat the temptations of the enemy, and repeat them and repeat them. We will have nothing to do with them. Go right on and voice the truth with all the strength of your being.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 21)
“Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.” [Matthew 4:7.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 22)
By showing him, giving him an evidence. Why, we are not to do any such thing.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 23)
“Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 24)
“Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan.” He lets him know that He is acquainted with his character. “Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.” [Verses 8-10.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 25)
How many of us believe that? How may in their Christian experience, in their worship of God, make God first, the best, and all and in all? Here He says, “Get thee hence Satan.” [Verse 10.] He rebukes him right there, notwithstanding he presents before Him the whole kingdoms of the world, if He would serve him. Well, the whole kingdoms of the world were not his to give. But the Lord Jesus always takes the affirmative. The affirmative of righteousness, the affirmative of the power of reasoning. He takes the affirmative. If many of us would stop our getting into argument with infidels, and with those who do not live the righteousness of Christ, if we would follow the example of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, why then we would be on safe vantage ground and the enemy could not touch us. Will we think of this? Don’t, I beg of you get into controversy with Satan. Go right on and advance a higher truth. Go right on and proclaim a higher truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 26)
“Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence Satan; for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.” [Verse 10.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 27)
Do we know how much that comprehends? There are but very few that consider it. They can consider many things, but when it comes to the very points that they should consider, they let the enemy come in and lead them, and lead them into controversy. They have given themselves into his power. Don’t get into controversy with those who will only sap your strength, but make an advanced assertion, make an advanced appeal of the future life. If we could have just genuine common sense, when we do take up the subject that is of such intense interest to us, we should find churches everywhere that are strong and efficient and could be trusted in every respect, anywhere, to lead the people. What we want is leaders. We want leaders—those that will stand by the truth as firm as a rock and that will not be misled.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 28)
“Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.” [Verse 10.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 29)
This means that when they come to Christ, that they are to demonstrate their faith in the profession that they have made, and have been baptized in the profession, and have been numbered as the children of the living God. And now here, “Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God and him only shalt thou serve.” [Verse 10.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 30)
“Then the devil leaveth him: and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.” [Verse 11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 31)
Forty days and forty nights without food and then He had to meet the wily foe that supposed he could get the victory. “Then the devil leaveth him and behold angels came and ministered unto him.” [Verse 11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 32)
Now when you are in those controversies with unbelievers, don’t go over their ground and repeat the very words that they say. Go right on and advance another point of truth, and another point of truth. Don’t stop, don’t give your time, don’t give your speech to even repeat the words that they repeat. The angels of God are watching every one of these controversies, and they don’t want you to be in a position to lose your faith. It is worth something to us to gain victories in the name of Him who our heavenly Father donated to the world. He gave His only begotten Son. For it says, that “God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son.” [John 3:16.] And how He suffered you know just how, if you have studied your Bibles.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 33)
To be discarded and all this, what was it for? That man might with the capability of serving God be partakers of the divine nature. You think of that. With every temptation resisted, men become partakers of the divine nature, have overcome the temptations that are in the world through lust. Now what we want is the “ifs” and “ands” of what we are to be in our world, to let our light shine forth to the world in its bright rays, that we shall not be overcome with the temptations of the devil. How? Why, because you can be a partaker of the divine nature in Christ. That is what we are to be.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 34)
In Christ it is our privilege to come to God and to lay hold of Him with living faith, and to say, “I believe in myself I can do nothing, but through the provision thou hast made, I believe that humanity can grasp divinity. I grasp it in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.” Now that is the very work many neglect to do. What is at stake? Your souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 35)
It meant something when God gave Christ to our world. It means everything to suffer. Christ to suffer, for Christ to suffer, Christ to pass over the ground that He passed over; and we want you to remember that now is the time for us to form characters for the future, eternal life; a life that measures with the life of God. Will you consider that?
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 36)
Now he obtained no victory over Christ. But the temptation was so strong, lest there should be one word of intimation that He was not kept by the power of God through faith, that He fainted after His long fast. Did He die? No, no.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 37)
“Then the devil leaveth him; and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.” [Matthew 4:11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 38)
Well now, that is the lesson we are to learn. It is our privilege to carry the battle in the very same way and manner. In every point we are to consider how Christ stood firmly and yet in His weakness, forty days and forty nights without food and tempted of the devil. You just consider it. We want to know who in this congregation is determined to make a business of serving God. We want to know who will be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 39)
Now the subject changes.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 40)
“Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee; 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 the death light is sprung up.” [Verses 12-16.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 41)
Now here is what we want you to understand. And it seems we act as though we had not sufficient victories to gain. It is everything to us to gain victories every day over that temptation of the enemy. “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.” [Verse 16.] Yes, from the very light that Christ had brought them.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 42)
“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.” [Verses 18, 19.] Well, they don’t stop and reason and bring up things why they cannot comply with the conditions.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 43)
“And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their net, and followed him.” [Verses 19, 20.] And many would straightway leave if they could only understand the virtue of believing in, and walking in the footsteps of Christ Jesus.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 44)
“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.” [Verses 21, 22.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 45)
Now, if we want, rays of light will shine upon our pathway, and we will recognize that light as coming from One that clothed His divinity with humanity; that laid aside His royal robe; that laid off His kingly attire and clothed himself with the simple garments of humanity, and came into our world in order that we may have an example, every one of us. Now obedience in these disciples is just what Christ wants to present.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 46)
“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.” [Verse 23.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 47)
“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.” [Verse 24.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 48)
A mighty power had God given to the human family, but whoever you are, you can lay hold of Him by a simple faith and trust in His promises, and believe, and then what? Work out his salvation, just as the disciples were called to work out with Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 49)
“And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judea, and from beyond Jordan.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 50)
“And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him.” [Verse 25; 5:1.]
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 51)
And then here is the lesson that He taught.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 52)
(How long have I spoken? Answer, “Three-quarters of an hour.”)
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 53)
Well, I will leave the rest of this. There is much that connects this with the living experience of those who will weigh the subject as they should, whether eternal life is of that value that they will accept the assertion of Christ and believe His words in simplicity spoken; whether they will accept these words and become converted. You will not be free from trials, for we have a devil that is full of humanity and weakness, and therefore we may expect temptations of the devil. When I speak to you again, I will carry that thought further.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 54)
But I want to say to everyone here, as Christ has been given to our world, an immense sacrifice from heaven. As you trace His suffering life, nailed upon the cross of Calvary, with the nails driven through His hands and feet, no human being in our world could suffer any more than our Saviour suffered. Yet He had to hang His helpless soul, like any sinner, upon the very thing that God gave to our world. He follows out the suggestion, and it is for every one of us if you think you can get into heaven, with having the world, and pleasing the world, and glorifying the world, and let the things of the world come in and take possession of the mind, where is the representation of Christ? Where is the divinity, where is it? Why you don’t show it?
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 55)
Well now, shall we look sensibly upon the plain, common, simple truths and teach them to our children? It is not the show, it is not the parade or any of these things that is going to bring us into covenant with God, but it is practicing the life that He has given us. We may act very loosely in this matter, but mind, every loose action weakens your hold upon Jesus Christ, and you cannot afford it, and neither can I. We want heaven, and we want it at any cost, because the Majesty of glory didn’t fail us in a single point, but carried the life right through. There He hung with the representation before Him of the sinner dammed, and He took the sinner’s portion, and He had taken it here in His representation of humanity.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 56)
We are to act out as far as we possibly can, that we will understand that we must be partakers of the divine nature, if we shall be overcomers through the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. And don’t let us stop and think we can indulge in this luxury and that luxury. All things in our dress that cost means, we want you to understand that that very means is needed in order to bring the truth to foreign countries, and to the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 57)
I almost felt like weeping aloud as I came through the passage, only two hours’ ride, and I saw enough to convince me that there is reform work that is neglected. Missionary work is to be taken up in the name of Jesus Christ and then never, never drop back, but move right forward in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to work wherever we can. And when the trials come, for they will come, and you obtain the victory, you may know that the angels of God are right by your side, and are working with you to obtain that victory.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 58)
So that victory is of highest value to you, because you can see that you are in connection with One that is fully capable of bringing you out conqueror, yea, more than conqueror, through Him that dost loveth you. We want now to begin to make earnest work. Day and night my mind is traveling. Day and night I am working up plans; what can I do to save the perishing souls out of Christ who don’t have a sense of that humanity? The great sacrifice was made that humanity might grasp divinity, and thus divinity gives us the victory as we lay hold of it by the living principle of works, and faith, and by the living testimony that we shall bear to the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 59)
Now, I am not going to detain you any longer. But I want to say, I have felt intensely on these points. I want to know if there are those in this congregation, and I know there are by their countenances, I want to know who will stand with me in the battle. In November I shall be 82 years old, and I have been in the battle ever since I was 15 years old, and now I want to say I have no more thought of giving up the work than I had when God bid me go to work in His name, and He would be with me, and I know He has. I want to tell you, my dear friends, we have a living Saviour; we have an almighty power in Jesus Christ, and He will work out our salvation with us, and we may stand on vantage ground, if we will. But there are to be missionaries in such a congregation as this that will give themselves to the work of bringing the truth before the people. We are not to sit in our homes enjoying what has cost Christ so much. No, no; humanity must grasp divinity, and then push the battle to the gates. Push the battle at every step for souls to join the ranks on the Lord’s side.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 60)
We want to know today who will, during this meeting, give themselves to most earnest effort to lead other lives, their own minds being led.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 61)
The minds of children can be led. A little girl came to me, and she said, “Sister White, are you going to speak this afternoon?”“Why?” I said, “I only came from the desk.” She looked at the company; I think there was about a dozen. “I told them if they would come, they could understand every word you said, and that I could understand it.” I said, “Tomorrow morning is my time, bring all your class mates, sit right down in front, and if you do not understand everything I say, speak right up and ask me, and I will tell you what it is.” That seemed to satisfy her and she consented to give it up for that time.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 62)
Here is the Word, the precious Word of God. It comes to us. Some one is talking of sending their children where they can get a higher education than what our schools can give them. Well, dear friends, they don’t know what higher education is. Why, just as soon as you accept the words of Christ you have the highest education that can ever be given to our world. He has given His life to bring that evidence to you. We want to know who will start with the commencement of this meeting and be determined they will seek the Lord through this meeting. How many will make an effort right here to give themselves to Him that gave His life on Calvary’s cross, the cruel nails driven through His hands, His side pierced, His face marred with the bruises they placed upon Him, while the contemptuously treated Him, and there He yielded up His life for us, and now I want to know who of us will be laborers together with God? Human agency is to be brought into the work—a hundredfold, a thousand hundredfold, is to be brought in, in order to do the work that is necessary.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 63)
Now I ask you, will you make a determined effort during this meeting to act your part? In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, will you at this very meeting take a new hold and seek to help them, and then pray with them? And may we all have evidence that the Lord Jesus will be with us. If you will do this, will you rise up on your feet? Whoever will do it, whoever will take hold of it, rise up on your feet. (Congregation arose.)
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 64)
[Praying:] “Heavenly Father, we take these pledges as true, and we ask Thee to put Thy Spirit upon every one that shall act a part in this service, for it is not they that are acting but the angels of God are sent to minister unto all those shall be brought to a knowledge of the truth by, yes, by the very effort that may be borne in this meeting.”
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 65)
We want now to humble our hearts before God. Bring your children with you. It means everything to have a life, for humanity to lay hold upon divinity and divinity to obtain the victory for us and for our children. God help us is my most earnest prayer.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 66)
I will carry this suggestion along at another time.
(24LtMs, Ms 115, 1909, 67)
Ms 116, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts on Matthew 13. Newark, New Jersey June 20, 1909 Previously unpublished.
Scripture reading, Matthew 13:1-12. O! how thankful I am for these words, because we need them so much. These were the words that Christ was giving that they needed so much, and some fell upon good ground and brought forth fruit. And now we want every one of us to be in a position where they can understand the words, the precious words, of Jesus Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, 1)
The Father gave His Son to the world, His only begotten Son from heaven. He laid aside His royal robe and laid off His royal crown. And there He came as a babe in Bethlehem, that He might take humanity just as it was, and that He might take it from infancy, so that He might know how to bring His teachings to fathers and mothers and children, and for all that should come to hear Him. We think how Christ made such wonderful provisions for us. He came as a poor man. He came as a poor man’s son, that He might know how to sympathize with those who were in poverty and suffering with diseases, so that He might know how to help them, and bring them consolation and help and strength in every time of need. Oh! it was everything to us, that Christ could take us, just as we are, and that He could begin to work for our interests, for the salvation of our souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, 2)
In the Bible is the highest education that can ever be given to man upon the earth. Why? Because that Christ accepted the disposition of man; He had divinity, and He was humanity combined with divinity. See the blessing in that for us—that divinity could be united with humanity. And thus it was that humanity could become sufficient, by faith laying hold upon the divinity of Christ. That is why Christ came just as a little child, and from His earliest childhood, angels guarded Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, 3)
Angels would not permit that Satan should have any power over Him in babyhood or childhood, and then He began to understand what His position was. He knew what His mission was. He was to represent divinity in humanity, so that humanity, although compassed with temptations that they have to meet with while working with their hands, might have divinity to assist them in their struggle with the various problems and dispositions. Previously, their fathers and mothers did not really understand what they should do to care for these children in their very childhood; that not a word should be spoken to annoy them, not to pound them in anger, and thus destroy all their influence over them.
(24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, 4)
What mothers need, and what fathers need, is the precious love of Jesus in their hearts, that the converting power of God should be upon the father’s mind, and the mother’s mind, in dealing with their children. And thus as their children come up in years, they would know that they had Christian parents. Well, you say, What if they are not Christians? Well then, they are sinners; and we want them to become Christians, just as soon as possible, and to bring themselves into connection with God. You want to help them. Why? Because you have children to save. Bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. And then you will have a pleasant home, if you love God and keep His commandments; and if you do not, you shall not have.
(24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, 5)
You want to love God every one of you. Fathers and mothers, that is the work for you, to begin to love God with all your heart, and all your soul. You will have Jesus Christ as your helper to give you a tender and loving heart, and a sweet spirit, that you may teach your children to love the Lord, and that they may have a place in the kingdom of God. When the gates will be swung back upon their glittering hinges, only they that have kept the truth shall enter in. They shall see the King in His beauty. And then mothers who have taught their children not to pattern after the worldly fashions will rejoice with them. I am so glad to see, here today, that so many have not their hats on to prevent the people behind them from seeing. In this, you are casting a good influence.
(24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, 6)
You will find that when sickness may come upon some of your neighbors, they will begin to say: What was it that that minister said, or what did that lady missionary say? And thus you may be enabled to lead them to Christ. But that means that we should always be living missionaries for the Lord, ever sowing the seeds of truth. It may be with you just as it was when Christ was upon the earth, and when He taught His disciples.
(24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, 7)
I only want to speak a few words on this occasion, and then I want to give chance for those who are with us to speak. Then I may have another opportunity that we may meet again. But what we want now is that every one of us shall remember that Christ was a little child, and that He knows just what care and tenderness our children need. That is why He took divinity from childhood, divinity and humanity combined. And when we want our children to become perfect in character, we should ever keep before them the perfection of Christ; and then work out our own salvation.
(24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, 8)
You want to walk on the side of Christ, because He began His work in His very childhood. And He began His work for us, and to give us a pattern.
(24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, 9)
I am so thankful when I consider that when mothers did not know what to do with their children, they said, “We will take them to Jesus. We have heard that if we bring them to Christ, that He will bless them. I am going to take my children to Christ, and here are my neighbors. I want them also to go with me.” Well, there was quite a company there with their children. Christ was teaching in the temple, and these children were brought in; and the disciples began to send them away. They did not want the Saviour disturbed. But Christ caught the words, and 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 takes the little children in His arms, and upon His knees, and then Christ speaks to them in words of comfort, and the mothers go back to their homes. Do you think that they ever forgot the lessons that Christ taught there? He said to His disciples, “Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not.”
(24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, 10)
If we come to Him just as we are, and ask Him to let His blessing rest upon us, then we may exercise that same spirit toward our own children. Now, what we want is heaven. But we know that nothing impure can enter the kingdom of heaven. “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him, might have everlasting life”—that life that measures with the life of God. [John 3:16.]
(24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, 11)
If we will only come to Him just as we are, in meekness and dependence, and tell Him we want Him to bless us, our humanity will take hold of His divinity. Divinity must be combined with humanity, and thus we can walk in unity and know that our work is done in simplicity and meekness and dependence upon God; we will certainly see the results.
(24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, 12)
Well, what a happy family we should be. What peace we could bring into our homes. What joy to our children and ourselves. Then we are partakers of the divine nature, having overcome those dispositions of selfishness and wickedness that separate us from God. By taking right hold of the power of God that He has sent in Jesus Christ—the divine—we shall overcome the corruptions that are in the world through lust. On which side are we? We ought to be on the side of Christ, and of heaven. Oh! I want to be on the side of heaven. I want that life that measures with the life of God. Everlasting life is ours if we will follow on to know the Lord. We shall know His going forth is prepared as the morning. It does not come all at once.
(24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, 13)
It is Christ who says, “Let your light so shine before men that they, by seeing your good works, shall glorify your Father, which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] Now, I ask you, will you take hold of His divine nature? God help us that we may give our hearts to Him this very day. It is hard work, when we have been brought up unconverted, surrounded by temptations upon every side, to yield ourselves to God. But we cannot afford to give up the conflict, for we have a heaven to win, and a hell to shun.
(24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, 14)
We want to bring our children right up to Christ, and the gates of the city, that when the gates are swung back upon their glittering hinges, and only they that have kept the truth may enter in; that as families we may remain unbroken. Let us do everything for our children, that they may have a welcome into the city of God with rejoicing; when the harps of gold are placed in their hands, they will fill all heaven with rich music. Now I want to give chance for some of the rest to talk. I may have another opportunity to talk with you.
(24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, 15)
But what I want is the blessing of God to come right into your hearts. I want you to arouse, and I want you to be able to sing the song of redemption. I want you to join in the song of praise and thanksgiving. Will you do it? God grant that you may. There is a heaven to win, and a hell to shun. We cannot afford to give up the battle, and thus lose heaven, because many of the angels sympathized with Satan, and were cast out of heaven. Take right hold of Jesus Christ, by faith, and the blessing of God will be with you, every step of the way. Oh! will you do it? God grant that you may. Now I will give way to others.
(24LtMs, Ms 116, 1909, 16)
Ms 117, 1909
Sermon/Sabbath sermon by Mrs. E. G. White at Nashua, New Hampshire Camp Meeting Nashua, New Hampshire June 26, 1909 Previously unpublished.
Exodus 20:1-6. Shall we bear that in mind, every one of us, that it means something to us to keep the commandments of God?
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 1)
Verses 7, 8. Now here is an importance attached to the Sabbath, therefore we are to know just what is specified as to God’s holy day. We are to understand it.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 2)
Verses 8-10. It says at the commencement of the chapter that God spake all these words, saying—. Now, I have been reading to you what the Lord has been saying.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 3)
Verse 9. Why should any one go astray on this point? Why should any one pick up the first day of the week, and exalt it as the Sabbath of the Lord our God, when there is not one line of sanctity in it, not one line that God has specified that He will honor those that keep the first day of the week?
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 4)
Verses 9-12. Here is a very remarkable point. Repeated verse 12. If the children honor their parents, the parents must fulfil the requirements of God to their children. They must educate their children in the line of this education that God has spoken to the people. He had told them what commandments to keep, and therefore they must search the Scriptures and understand what is the will of God, and obey Him. This is the true light for us all, and there will be no excuse for any one of us if we make a mistake, and if we are willing to go on venturing in that mistake, not hearing what saith Jehovah. We can see that we have a sad mistake upon us. We want to know what is right.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 5)
Verses 11-24. Here we know there is a very definite specification of what day the seventh day is. God has given us that. But there are two parties in our world. There are those that want to defraud, divert the minds of the people, that they shall not obey the commandments of God, that they shall not follow in the footsteps of Jesus and obey His words.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 6)
We read in Exodus 31:12, 13. We want the truth on every point, because it is not safe for us to accept errors and expect that we are going to have the blessings that will be given to all who obey the truth, when we do not obey it. We want to obey the truth just as it stands.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 7)
Verse 14. He has given them special directions that they might make no mistake.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 8)
Verse 15. Because they would be doing that work right in the face, before the Lord, of His specification of what day they were to observe.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 9)
Verse 16. (For how long?) throughout their generations, etc. verses 17, 18. Now how is that? Why, that they might make no mistake, He has these tables of stone written with the finger of God. And there He has them preserved, that they might ever bear in mind the claims that God has upon them. Well, that is what we want to do.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 10)
Exodus 32:1, 2. There was the smoking mount, there was the voice of God that could be heard, and yet here was their unbelief expressed.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 11)
Verse 3. They went on in their unbelief, and declared that they would go back into Egypt. Well, we can see how easy it is for people to fall back into old habits and old practices. What we want is to serve the living God. He has given us Christ the precious Saviour, His only begotten Son. He has given us Jesus, the precious One, to come and take humanity upon Himself, and there to be with the human agencies upon the earth, with divinity and humanity combined, that every soul that will believe the words of Christ will be in that position that they can be partakers, to grasp the divinity, and by living faith in the divinity, carry out the purposes of God that are expressed. They will be overcomers through the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 12)
Now, Christ gave His life for the world. There was sufficient power that He, the Son of the living God, could embrace humanity, they partaking of the divinity of Christ that was clothed in humanity, that every soul might be an overcomer by being a partaker of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 13)
We know not how long our lives here may be prolonged, but we know that the Word saith the truth, therefore we want to search the Word of God, and we want to see and know what saith the Scriptures. We read that He gave the two tables of testimony, tables of stone written with the finger of God. Israel was right at the foot of the mount, and the glory of the presence of God was revealed in the mount, and yet they got up that unbelief that they would go back into Egypt, and made a calf and worshiped that calf. If they had substantiated this upon the words of the living God that He had given them, they would not have been in danger. But they did not do that, and therefore they had that calf that they were going to follow. Now what does Moses do?
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 14)
Verse 5. Think of “Aaron,” one that had been with Moses to bring the children of Israel along step by step. How could he do it? We can see that there is no dependence to be placed on any man, whatever their experience may be, unless their experience harmonizes with the Word of the living God.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 15)
We must watch, because there are two parties in our world. There are parties that are serving apostasy, and there are parties that are serving God and keeping distinct from apostasy. Which side are we on?
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 16)
Here was Aaron, and Aaron made a proclamation, verses 5, 6. O, that was the people that were waiting right there at the foot of the mount to have a proclamation to confirm them in the faith, and they could not bear the test. O, how can God bear with us, with our foolishness?
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 17)
Verses 7, 8. O, what foolishness! What foolish excuses people will make. They do not serve the living God! It is a strange thing, but they do it.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 18)
Verses 9-11. Against “thy” people. He would not take them as His own people. Verse 12. Now here God was proving Moses. He was testing Moses. And here is Moses pleading, verse 13. The Lord gave Moses this test. But Moses would not receive the choice that was proffered him.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 19)
Verses 13-25. You see God would not arbitrarily destroy that people. He would give them a chance. Verse 26. He said not, Who is on my side, but who is on the Lord’s side? You see they had no excuse. Who is on the side of the highest power in the universe—the Lord God of heaven?
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 20)
Verses 26-28. God had given them every opportunity to return if they would signify that they place themselves on the Lord’s side, but they would not do it. O, what proving the Lord has given His people!
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 21)
Verse 29. There are periods when the people are called to take their position decidedly on the right side.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 22)
Verses 30-35; 33:1. Now you see the promise, notwithstanding their perversity. Verses 2-5-9. There are crises that come with God’s people, many times, and every one of us want to be in a position that we shall acknowledge that the Lord God of hosts, and that we shall not harden our hearts against the Lord, but that we shall humble them.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 23)
Verses 10-13. “this nation.” You see He will not leave that nation out of the question. He holds fast on to them. “Consider that this nation is thy people.” You just think how He holds on and holds on.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 24)
Verses 14, 15. He had no faith that if they should separate themselves from God they would have any victories.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 25)
Verse 16. Unless the Lord went with them. He must have that assurance.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 26)
Verse 16. That they would be a people that would follow the Lord God of Israel, whatever test was brought upon them.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 27)
Verse 17. Now He tells him if he will only let them go, He will make of him a great nation. But he would not do it. Verses 18-23.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 28)
Exodus 34:1, 2. Now you can see that God talks with man. You can see that He comes very nigh unto them that will be moved by His Spirit.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 29)
Verses 3-5, 6. Have you proved Him? Have you made an entire consecration to God and then proved Him?
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 30)
Verses 6-12. Now our God is a jealous God. He wants us to keep His Ten Commandments. He wants us to keep His Sabbath that He has sanctified for His people. He wants every one of us to take the Word, and to see what that Word declares is the Sabbath, the seventh day.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 31)
Verses 13-15. “inhabitants of the land.” How many are mixing up with the inhabitants of the land and going in with them and not serving the Lord God of Israel with all their heart, soul, and mind? How many are accepting this place and that place, and the other, but it is not to glorify God?
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 32)
Verses 16, 17 ... 21-26-35. Now I have read thus, that we might have some idea of what God requires of us. I have read this lest you should become careless and indifferent, and think it does not matter what day you keep. Well, we have the very day specified by God, and you have no kind of excuse, because you have God’s Word. You haven’t an excuse for keeping the first day of the week.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 33)
Now we want to realize the goodness and mercy and compassion of God that has been towards His people, and we want to follow on to know the Lord, that His going forth is prepared as the morning. We want religion. We want a pure and undefiled religion. We want to be in that connection with God that He will acknowledge us. That is why Christ came down from heaven, and became a little child. Angels of God watched Him carefully the first years of His life, and afterward He gave instruction here and there.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 34)
But we feel so thankful that the Lord Himself was with Christ, and kept Him in His younger days, but very soon the Word of God was plainly opened to Him, so that He would stand before priests and rulers and interpret the Scriptures to them so that it astonished them. Well, where did He get all this knowledge?
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 35)
Now when we consider what the Lord has done to keep us a pure people, when we consider, “For God so loved the world—everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] Now this is the love that has been manifested to us. How much have we expressed of self-denial and self-sacrifice? Why every one that has a true knowledge of Jesus Christ and of the Father will understand that they must have the oil of grace in their hearts, or else their profession will be of no account. You must be in communion with God. You must be where you can understand the will of God, and what He will do for you. There is power. All heaven is opened before us, to give us the richest blessings if we will only act as little children. I am glad that I see them here in this tent with the hats off, so that those behind them can have view of the speaker, and can have the benefits of being without them. I want to tell you that we must in every way possible remove every objection, no matter how small it may appear to us, that will stand in the way of one soul accepting the living truth of God in these last days.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 36)
The Lord God of Israel is our God. There will be meetings here several days, and will every soul here seek the Lord with all the heart, that they may know that they have a living hope, then they will love God and they will keep His commandments.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 37)
Fathers and mothers, you have children to save, and you cannot bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord unless you follow in the footsteps of Jesus Christ, unless you follow in the footsteps of self-denial and self-sacrifice. I want heaven. And I want it at any cost. On this journey I have seen the salvation of God. I have know in myself the salvation of God. And I want to say that there are many here, who if they would seek the Lord with all their hearts, fathers and mothers, then educate your children. In a few days, it will be only a short time, the powers of Satan will be that strong that it will be impossible for you to have such advantages as you have here today. And I want to tell you, Appreciate all such advantages. The Lord is soon to come.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 38)
Fathers and mothers, study your words. Never speak a word that will create animosity in the hearts of your children. Let the sweetness of the spirit of your religion be seen in your words, in your deportment in your home. Bring your children up in these last days to choose your society. Bring them up and give them every advantage possible—not in decorating themselves. That is not it. Get them the best books that you possibly can, and open the Scriptures to them and teach them the way of the Lord and pray with them, and the blessing of the Lord will come upon them.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 39)
How many will be converted at this meeting? How many will seek the Lord with all their hearts here, how many will come to the Lord just as you are? You are not to set any particular minute or hour when your meetings are to close. With such meetings as this, it is an entire mistake to think that the very hour that you think it should be, the meeting closes. If the Spirit of God comes into the meeting at any time, we want every one to recognize it, and we want no rules here of this order. We have not come out here in that way. We have come out here in the name of the Lord, against the protest of infirmities, and yet we have come to speak to you, because we may never have another opportunity.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 40)
We want these souls to be saved, and we want these children to be saved. We want the children to come to Jesus Christ; bring them with you when they come. There will be meetings. I want to tell you, Labor for your children. The Lord is coming. We are in earnest in this matter. We want to make no mistake. We want to get ready for the coming of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ in the clouds of heaven.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 41)
And when we see that Christ was sent to our world, O what suffering He endured! He sweat as it were great drops of blood when that cup of suffering trembled in His hand, whether He should drink that cup, or leave the human family to perish. “If it be possible, Father,” He says, “let this cup pass from me. But nevertheless, not my will, but Thine O God be done.” [Matthew 26:39; Luke 22:42.] And an angel came from heaven to strengthen Him to drink the cup. He staggered to His feet, where He had left His disciples, telling them to watch and pray, but He found them sleeping. He said, Sleep on. But it was here the cup trembled in His hands. Should He drink it? An angel came to strengthen Him to drink the cup of suffering. You know what suffering He endured. On the cross of Calvary, the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory was dying to save sinful souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 42)
Who will come to Jesus? Who will give themselves to Jesus today? Who will make a covenant with God by sacrifice this very day? If there are any who have backslidden, if there are any that have forgotten their covenant, if there are any here that want to take a stand for Jesus Christ, will you stand right up and we will try to have a praying season for you. Are there any here, that want to give themselves to Christ to make a start now, of backsliders? Stand right up upon your feet. Here in one. We want more than one. We want those souls to be touched that are here. We want these souls to make a covenant with their God by sacrifice.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 43)
Who will take their position to seek the Lord right here? There is one more. Now who else will take their position? God helps us that we may every one of us take our stand. Let a seat be cleared here. Let these two that have arisen come forward, and then we will have others added to them. We want to pray for you. We want to give you to God. We want to ask His blessing to rest upon you. Let them come right forward here, and make a covenant with our God by sacrifice. There ought to be many souls that will take their stand here today. Let them come. Let every one come that will. The Lord help, that souls may take a stand that they will believe in Jesus Christ. They will.
(24LtMs, Ms 117, 1909, 44)
Ms 118, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts on 2 Peter 1. Nashua, New Hampshire June 27, 1909 Previously unpublished.
2 Peter 1:1-5. Diligence. You will see we have a plan of addition to work upon.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 1)
Verses 5-10. If you fall, your whole life is lost. “For if ye do these things ye shall never fall.”Verse 11. Here you see it is by living upon the plan of addition that we are to obtain that entrance into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. This is our everlasting life insurance policy. A life that measures with the life of God. If you live on the plan of adding virtue to virtue, and thus work day by day to be overcomers, you shall so stand before God that you will have an entrance into the everlasting kingdom. Now here is you life insurance policy. He says, “If ye do these things ....”
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 2)
Verse 10. Now just remember these points, just keep them in your mind. It is your eternal life insurance policy.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 3)
Verse 11. There it is, the everlasting life insurance policy. How much better is that than to spend your life here in order to gain a little property and to insure yourself that you have something.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 4)
Verse 13. Supposing that every one of us was more faithful that we are to guard not only our own interests but the interests of others.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 5)
Now you see, there is a large blessing held for us. Beside this, giving all diligence, etc. to verse 10. There is your life insurance policy, and we want every man and every woman to lay hold of this insurance. And we want every one of us to be in that position that we shall appreciate what it means, the life insurance policy, by living on the plan of adding grace to grace.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 6)
We want heaven; we can make no haphazard work. We must have that light that shineth into our hearts to reflect to the hearts of others.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 7)
Now he says, verses 12-15. You see there is much importance attached to this matter, and I want you to study this especially because here is your life insurance policy, eternal life insurance policy, and that is what we are all seeking. If we lose heaven, we lose everything. We cannot afford to make any mistake in this matter. We want the truth, and we want it on every point.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 8)
Verses 16-18-21. Now we want to study if possible that plan of addition. We will read the first verses again. Verses 1-3. Then there is the plan of addition that I have read to you. Now we want to be in a position that we are overcomers. No matter how much you have studied, no matter how much you think you know, unless you know enough to live upon the plan of addition, you need that education that is written right here in the Word, and then you need to follow it out. We do not want to go stumbling along in the path. We do not want to do that, and not know where our steps are leading us. We are to live upon the plan of addition, adding grace to grace, overcoming every day a readiness to speak impatiently. You have no right to speak a word impatiently even to your children, or to give them a shaking. It won’t shake the evil spirit out, but it will imbue them with the spirit that is not so easy for you to subdue. You want kindness, tenderness, and love; and that love wants to be carried out by every minister of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 9)
There is to be no exaltation of minister above minister. We have had that. We have seen that tried, and we have seen it fail. What we want is to be in that kindness, that love, that tenderness, that Christ manifested toward us.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 10)
We want life, we want eternal life in the kingdom of glory, everlasting life. Christ came to die for us. He left the royal courts. He clothed His divinity with humanity, that He might approach humanity and educate humanity to lay hold of His divinity, so that they might be partakers of the divine nature having overcome, what? The evil dispositions. The temptations that are in the world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 11)
Some of us act just as though there was not any devil at all. As though there was not one seeking for the mastery with all his powers, and with all his being, as he looks forward to the time when the resurrection of the unjust shall come forth. Then he will rally his army. He hopes to gain the victory over the world at last. But we know better than that. We know that if there were but ten righteous men upon the earth, those ten would have a living connection with a living God.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 12)
Christ gave evidence of His willingness to lay aside His royal crown, to lay off His royal robe, and to come to our world as a little child, and then to grow up from childhood. Angels of God guarded Him at every step of His childhood. Then when His reasoning powers began to work, angels of God were still ministering unto Him, and all through His life, even to the time of the suffering. Will He give Himself to death, will He do it? He did do it. And our life, eternal life, is to be made possible if we are partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruptions that are in the world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 13)
Satan with his lusts and with his wickedness is working on the right hand and on the left hand, and in every way possible, to shut off the light, that it shall not come to the people. But we want every minister of Jesus Christ, men or women, that are ministers of the gospel of Christ as teachers that are teaching in our sanitariums and in our colleges—we want every one of us to place ourselves in right relation to God. We want to understand there is a heaven to win and a hell to shun. We want to make continual earnest efforts that we may win that crown of life that is for every one who overcomes.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 14)
O, you cannot afford to lose your gentleness. You cannot afford to become cross and rough and uncourteous. Ministers do that sometimes. God wants ministers of the gospel to manifest the greatest courtesy in the world. Why? Because they are living on the plan of addition. “Add to your faith virtue ... Saviour Jesus Christ.” [Verses 5-11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 15)
Heaven is worth striving for, eternal life in the kingdom of glory. I remember when I stood, not exactly on these premises, but that I have stood in the large gatherings in South Lancaster, and in many places all around—large places—speaking to the people, and I remember when I see the young men—I have seen some of them since I have been on this journey, advanced in years very much—that were in these congregations. I would watch their countenances. Just as soon as I got through my discourse, while they were singing, I would make my way out to the one that I was sure realized what I was saying, and was touched by the Spirit of God. I would just entreat him to come right forward and seek the Lord. Well, I would have to urge sometimes, but we would get a large company before we got through, something as we did here. That is the way I used to do. I felt so intensely while they were in the valley of despair. I felt that if it was possible I would give my life if some persons I had looked upon would take their position for Christ, and most generally they did.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 16)
We must act as though we were laborers together with God. The Lord Jesus has given us His Word. We are to present that Word, and then to try, with all the power that the Lord has given us, to wrench these men from Satan’s grasp, and these women, that he will lose his power over them. Christ has given His life, His precious life, that we might be partakers of the divine nature, and overcome the temptations that are in the world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 17)
And why was He so sorrowful? He clothed His divinity with humanity that humanity might reach humanity, and there He worked in that humanity. But we want ministers to be just as earnest to work for humanity, for the salvation of souls. We do not want one to perish if any effort that we can make will bring them to the knowledge of the truth. We want heaven, and we want it on just the terms that it is given to us. Now I will read a few verses in the fifth chapter of 1st Peter:
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 18)
Verse 1. “Glory that shall be revealed” to verse 4. Isn’t that enough? What greater assurance can you have? Verse 5. The more important your position, the more earnestly are you to represent Jesus Christ, the Author of our salvation. Verse 5. But how do you think I felt here yesterday when I saw that hearts were being moved, and all were interested to help them to take their position, and to come forward and present themselves for the prayers of God’s people, of those that were seeking the Lord. O, I prayed for you in the home that we have close by here.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 19)
Verse 5. Not a single proud thought or action should come into the heart of any minister of Jesus Christ, but they should work interestedly. I believe that they worked thus yesterday, and that the salvation of souls will be the result.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 20)
Verses 6, 7. Now you think of that. Don’t worry. Don’t fret. Don’t scold. It does not do a bit of good. But you just cast your care upon Him, and pray and believe. Verse 8. He is in this congregation today. He will try to instill these thoughts into your mind.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 21)
Verses 9-11. Now, my brethren and my sisters, we have a grand work before us. It is to be laborers together with God. If ye are laborers together with Satan he will try to instill into minds those very things that He Christ would not have in their minds.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 22)
Many are referring to the higher education, that our students must go to unbelievers to perfect their education. What a wonderful ignorance that is. There cannot be a greater ignorance. There cannot be a greater discount placed on the Word of the living God that to suppose that the higher education must be obtained, by what? Putting them under the influence of those that do not keep the commandments of God nor recognize those commandments. Now is that sensible? I am writing on the point, and I want to say the higher education is found in just such words as I have read to you today; that is higher education. “Add to your faith virtue ... Saviour Jesus Christ.” [2 Peter 1:5-11.] Isn’t that the highest education? Add all the Scriptures that shall direct you to such an education as that—you do not need to tack them to men and women that recognize not the authority of God in His law.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 23)
We are seeking for a home, for the golden gates of the city of God to be swung back upon their glittering hinges, and the nations that have kept the truth to enter in. Angels of God are watching every soul. Angels of God are upon your pathway, and you do not need to go from where you are receiving the correct instruction to place yourselves under those that will insinuate error and doubt in your minds and call it the higher education. God is insulted by any such reference.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 24)
Now I want to say, Give yourselves up, as was established when the schools of the prophets were established place after place before Elijah ascended to heaven. He went all around to view the schools of the prophets. And there the Spirit of God would come upon these students, and they would prophesy. And that was just before Elijah was translated to heaven. O we want to see the leaders, we have to see and tell the people that we must depend on an education from those that have a true sense of what is true education, that is how to secure that life which measures with the life of God, that life which procures for them the eternal life policy. It is that that we want every one to have, eternal life by the obedience to God’s Word.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 25)
And when the parents shall bring their children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, they bring them, when the time shall come for them to take their position, they come to the gate of the city and it is swung back upon its glittering hinges and the nations that have kept the truth enter in, and don’t you think they will look upon their children with joy as they see them accepted?
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 26)
O, your children, your children! Don’t expose them to a worldly education, that they cannot receive from the Word an acknowledgment of God’s commandments. Truth, we want truth in the inward parts. Truth that will live, truth that will increase in value day by day. We call upon all teachers, we call upon all our physicians, we call upon all our ministers, in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, not to close that Book and say, Well, our children are not ready for the higher education, and introduce them right into the world where they do not acknowledge the higher education. What we want is to prepare our children for the courts of the Lord. What we want is that Christ should not have died for us in vain. What we want is to bring our children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. And if we have a disposition that is cross and rough, remember there is no entrance can be given to any soul unless they overcome by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 27)
We do not want to mislead a single mind, not a soul, and we do not want our physicians or ministers or any teachers in our schools to talk of a higher education than that which they can give if they read their Bible through, and see what prospect there is there of every one who appreciates the Word of the living God; we want to understand it. May the Lord let His Holy Spirit rest upon us here today. May the work that was begun yesterday continue all through this meeting. We are here for the saving of souls. Nothing else could have persuaded me to have come here at my age, nearly eighty-two years old. Since I was fifteen I have been teaching the Word in its simplicity in the little prayer meetings, and in different ways, until the ministers would send for me to come into congregations and give them that testimony, and I always went. And I would speak in their meetings.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 28)
Now I am weak, to what I have been sometimes, but I thank God I can speak to you. And I want every one of you to just read your Bibles. Here is the educational book. You read very much of it, and you will see how God regards the higher education. It is in the Book. God help us that we may take hold of the educational interest in an altogether different bearing. We want our children associated with the heavenly interests in the heavenly sanctuary, and angels of God round about them. Angels of God are here today. Angels of God were here yesterday, moving upon the hearts. We know that. Now we want you to act just like living men and living women that have an interest in Jesus Christ, that you want to draw with all the power of your influence souls away from Satan’s ranks and place them where the heavenly angels will be their guardians, and will charge of them. We want every one of you to be Christians. We want to the King in His beauty.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 29)
And now if there is one here today before me that wants to come to the Lord Jesus, that prefers to choose His society rather than the society of the world, I call upon you, as I did yesterday, to stand right up, and we will seek in every way possible to lead you to the Lamb of God who taketh away the sin of the world. Whoever makes up their mind will have Jesus as their friend, as their Saviour, as their life, and salvation, for it is He that places the crown, the immortal crown, upon the brow of the overcomer. It is the hand that trembled at the thought of separation from His Father.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 30)
And there was the cup that was placed in His hands of suffering—that because of sin separated Him for a time from His Father—that Christ looked upon, and He sweat great drops of blood, falling down and moistening the sod of Gethsemane. He pled, If it be possible, let this cup pass from Me. And then He said, Nevertheless, not My will, but Thine, O God, be done. It was here that that cup trembled in the hands of Christ. Should He drink it? Of all the suffering, separation from God was what He feared, taking the sins of the whole world upon Himself.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 31)
But an angel comes, a strong angel comes, and that angel strengthens Him to pass through the ordeal, and there it was He took the burden of the world upon Him. And then, when the saints come to city, and the gates are thrown back upon their hinges, and the nations that have kept the truth shall enter in, every soul that will work on the right side will realize what it means to be saved by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 32)
Now I leave my message with you, and I say, Press on. Whoever will stand upon their feet, whoever will take their position for Christ right here, we ask you that you would just stand upon your feet in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. That is my message.
(24LtMs, Ms 118, 1909, 33)
Ms 119, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts on John 15 Nashua, New Hampshire June 29, 1909 Previously unpublished.
John 15:1-4. Shall we heed these words? They are of vital consequence to every one of us, whether we receive this truth or go away and forget all about it. Would He ask you to abide in Him unless it was a possibility? No. “As the branch cannot—in Me.”
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 1)
Verse 5. “Much fruit.” Isn’t that encouraging? If we depend upon God, if we make Him our trust and confidence, then we are abiding in Him. “And the same bringeth forth much fruit; for without me ye can do nothing.”
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 2)
Verse 7. “Ye shall ask what ye will.” Now mark the conditions. Now why cannot we come to God on these promises just as they are, and tell Him, Here Lord, we are determined to bear fruit, and we must have Thy Spirit or we cannot bear fruit, and we want Thy grace.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 3)
Verse 8. “Glorified.” Now how? “That ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.”
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 4)
Verse 9. Now this is Christ Himself that is speaking just before His crucifixion, just before the great test and trials came to His people He gives these words.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 5)
Verses 10, 11. It is the right quality of joy. It is joy that triumphs as an overcomer in overcoming temptations of the enemy, and of hanging their helpless souls upon Jesus Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 6)
Verse 12. That is wonderful. Do you think if we believed this there would be so many little difficulties arising between one and another? No. We do not want these difficulties, we do not need them at all, but we do want to have the peace of Christ in our hearts, that peace that passeth understanding. It is a peace that we can hardly comprehend; it is a restfulness in following the rich promises of God to ourselves. Working upon the plan of salvation, we may have an abiding Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 7)
Verse 12. Is that possible? Would He have said it if it was impossible? Now this means that we have an overcoming work to do, and every day we want that help that cometh alone from God. We want that grace that Christ can bestow upon us.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 8)
Verse 12. Shall we carry it out, so that when we shall meet in the city of our God, we shall greet one another and unhappy differences that we have had will be all gone.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 9)
Now what we want is to learn like little children. Verse 13. Shall we not try? Shall we not make a covenant with God at this meeting, and when we return to our homes shall we not begin to practice that life?
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 10)
Verses 14-16. Because you walk to carry out the very principles that are laid down in the Word.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 11)
Verses 17, 18, 19. Because you do not fall in with all their schemes, and with all the purposes, and you take an opposite course that rebukes them.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 12)
Verses 19-21, 22-27. Now all these things we want to remember, and we want to keep the idea: I am the true vine, and My Father is the husbandman. Verses 1-3. Now it is the abiding Christ. If we will only keep our seasons of prayer; if we will only, when tempted of the enemy, hold our peace; if we will bring ourselves into right relation to God, we shall see of the salvation of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 13)
I am so thankful that we have a Saviour, and that that Saviour is working constantly in our behalf, that we shall follow on to know the Lord that we may know Him whose going forth is prepared as the morning.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 14)
Verses 1, 2. Now, “I am the true vine—taketh away.” He has no use for it. “And every branch that—purgeth it.” What for? “That it—more fruit.”Verses 3, 4. “Abide in Me.” Will you? Will we every one abide in Christ? “And I in you.”Verses 4, 5.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 15)
Now, there is a world to save, and I have thought whether we realize the fact that we have a work to do with unbelievers, that we are not to shut ourselves right up to our own families, and we are not to have so many household cares that we spend so much time keeping our house just as we want it kept that the house of souls is neglected. Now shall we not bear fruit? Shall we not keep this soul in the love of God? Shall we not work right to the point? We ask every one of you for Christ’s sake to do honor to God.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 16)
Now when He sent His disciples out, He told them, I send you forth as sheep among wolves; but they are to keep their hearts in the love of Christ, so that whatever may be brought to bear against them, they will say something that will honor God, that they can win souls. We want every one of us to be in right relation to God.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 17)
I came through the cities on my way, and saw large places that looked as though they have never been worked, and I thought, Who is looking after that? Who is having a decided, determined interest for these souls? A city here, a city there, and somewhere else. Who is it that is looking after that? Men and women, in Christ’s name, work together harmoniously. He speaks of the women that were with Him in the gospel and that were working with Him in the gospel. If we dedicate ourselves unreservedly to God, we shall have a message to bear.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 18)
“Go ye,” said Christ. [Matthew 28:19; Mark 16:15.] After His resurrection, He tells them, Go ye to all the world and preach the gospel. Well, how much of it are we doing? Haven’t we got up so much fussing about ourselves that we forget all about that we have a work to save souls?
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 19)
Before I left Washington, city after city was presented before me that have comparatively nothing done in them, and they were not receiving that light, that grace, and that salvation so that they could reach souls. Now, let us humble our hearts before God. Let us study the Word. We hear the talk about the higher education. The impression is brought in that it is to teach the scholars that, after they have had all that the commandment-keeping people of God can give them, then they must go to the world and attach themselves to the world to get the higher, worldly education. Is that essential? When they talk of higher education, I want you to consider the highest education in this world that Christ came to our world to bring.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 20)
Don’t put it into your children’s minds that they will not have a perfect education unless they hitch onto the world to get the worldly mold. We do not want it. We will have enough of it without that. What we want is a hold on God. We are preparing for the judgment, and as souls were getting ready a voice was heard. There was a very large assembly, and that voice was heard, saying, Come into line, receive the light of heaven in your hearts, reveal it in your countenance, reveal it in your works, so that the world may take knowledge of you that you have been with Jesus and you have learned of Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 21)
“I am the true vine,” said Christ, “and my Father is the husbandman.” [John 15:1.] The time is short, and what is before us is impossible to tell. We know what is before us, but when will that be? It cometh, Christ said, suddenly, and the He gives them warning. When certain things should take place, don’t go into your house to get anything out of it; make your way to the mountains as fast as you can go. Well, what may break forth upon us we know not, but one thing we know, we should be ready. Humble yourselves day by day, and then seek to impart to others the very light that God gives you. As it has been represented to me on this journey, I have felt an intensity of interest as I have been through the cities in different places.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 22)
There was one place, Newark,—there was just as nice a company of people, but very few of them believers. Who is at work there? I thought. Who is going from house to house trying to get the light of truth before the people? How nice they looked. They were not dressed up. They hadn’t their hats on any more that you have, but I thought, O that these people could have a camp right here in this place. They have had great opposition from parties that have been saying everything that they could say to hurt the influence of those that would not unite with them.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 23)
But we want to say, There is a world to be saved, and as we came through the city, it draws so upon me that I have not gotten over it yet. I have been sick ever since we got through to South Lancaster. I could not sleep nights. I was in an agony of distress night after night. What shall we do, Lord, to arouse the people? What can we do to have them take up Thy work and to study it and obey it, and to go forth in earnest?
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 24)
Now, the commission was from Christ. They were to go to all nations, kindreds, tongues and peoples. Well, we are trying to do something of that kind in gathering means, that we may send men to foreign countries. And there my son brought in before me morning after morning people that wanted to be introduced to me. From the impress upon their countenances, they were foreigners. They did not speak our language all of them, some of them did. But here there is an increase of it. They are building their buildings with a purpose of taking these foreigners, these representatives that came to our meeting in Washington. And they wanted to see me in my house, so they were brought in before us to speak a few words. It seemed to gratify them.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 25)
The blessing of the Lord seem to keep me up all through that meeting, and took me right out of myself and out of my passiveness, and out of my weakness, and brought me where there was a strength that I could stand before the people, and I could make thousands hear. And the power of the truth was so great upon my soul that I could present it in the language that they needed. God helped me to bear the message to the people in the power of the Spirit of God. And I was glad of the privilege. But the greatest impression that was made upon my mind was that I could never represent the meekness and lowliness of Christ. He met opposing influence in every way, and yet His meekness and His lowliness was a recommendation that others should understand when they saw Him hang upon Calvary’s cross, and the nails driven through His hands and through His feet, suffering for the sins of the world, enduring all the agony possible.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 26)
After they had shown Him all the indignity that it is possible for a man to be shown, spitting in His face, beating Him with rods, putting a crown of thorns upon His head, and then He hanging on Calvary’s cross, suffering there, the poor thief prays to Him, Remember me, remember me when Thou comest into Thy kingdom. Said Jesus, I will. Here these men that were mocking Him upon the cross when He said that he should be with Him in His kingdom, they were thrilled through and through with the evidence that this was the Son of God. And here He died. When we consider what He endured for us, what are we willing to endure for Him? What are we willing to bear of shame and reproach to endure for Christ? I know there are those here that the light of truth will shine in their hearts, and in their faces, and they will become missionaries for God. But don’t let any one hold back from that.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 27)
Follow your impressions, begin humbly, and meek and lowly, and if you are repulsed, don’t say, I never will go there again, but go right to that very place again and perhaps they will have changed. The angels of God are working with every one that is working. If we could only consider this. And when we come into our meetings, we are not to set the lines just how we are going to move in that meeting, because the Spirit of God has to teach us how to move.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 28)
We have to look to God for directions. We must every one of us be in a position so that the humility we possess will extend to those that are around us. We want to be meek and lowly in heart, and we want to be where the angels of God can speak to us. We want to be in that position that we shall know we have a friend at court, an Advocate, Jesus Christ, in heaven. He is our Advocate, in the heavenly courts, and He says, You are to go to all parts of the world, and Lo, I am with you. I am with you, He says. You will see what is written there upon this subject. Well, don’t then shut yourselves within yourselves and think you have nothing to do.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 29)
If you have a ray of light find somebody to whom you can express it. And here are our publications that are coming out that you can work with. There is a world to save, and we want to come right to Jesus Christ for help, and you want to take that light, and you want to carry it to other souls, and angels of God will go before you. You will not go alone.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 30)
Do you think I would have started out as I have at nearly eighty-two years of age, if I thought that I had not a Saviour that would help me and strengthen me in my necessities? He has done it again and again. He has lifted me out of myself; He has taken me where I had to bear my message, and I know that He had made me His messenger to give that message in Washington, and to give that message since I have been at Washington, and to give that message to you that are here.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 31)
I ask you for Christ’s sake, Let every one of us become a branch in the true Vine, that ye may bear much fruit. It is the bearing fruit that shows that you are united with the living Vine. And I would say to every soul of you, Come nigh to God. At times I have thought that I would hardly live till morning when the representation was presented to me three times distinctly in one night of the sufferings of the Son of God in the garden of Gethsemane, when that cup of suffering was in His hands.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 32)
Shall He drink it? If it be possible, He says, Let this cup pass from Me. And there was the bloody sweat dropping from His brow on the ground. He got up tremblingly, and went to where He had left His disciples, hoping to find them awake, that they could speak a word of sympathy to Him, they were asleep, asleep for sorrow.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 33)
Now, we want every one of us to act our individual part. We have a crown to win. We have a heaven to win. We have eternal life that is offered to us, if you will be a partaker with Christ of His Spirit and sanctification. There is a heaven to win, and I entreat of every soul here today that you will consider for Christ’s sake, consider whether you will take your stand in the right side. I felt that I could not speak one sermon unless I came right to you and asked you if you would not come to Christ. How do you think I felt when they told me the number that were baptized today? I felt that all my anxiety and suffering passed through was nothingness. But I want to say to every one of you what Christ said, “I am the true vine, and my Father—”verses 1, 2.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 34)
Now let us every one help each other. Don’t let us speak any words of irritation, whatever may arise. You will have trials, every one of you, but God will give you grace to bear them. Our Saviour went through this world, and there was that cup trembling in His hands, that cup full of suffering. Let this cup pass from Me, He says; if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me. If not, why He would drink it. But it was a cup of separation from His God, because He took the sin of the whole world upon Him. That is what it was. He could not endure the thought of the sins of the whole world that He was standing under. If it is possible, let this cup pass from Me. But an angel from heaven comes and strengthens the divine Saviour.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 35)
And I want to tell you we have every one of us an individual work to do. Work with your children. For Christ’s sake, do to the utmost of your ability, and those that you see are situated in hard places, help them out. If you are in better places, and if you are not in any better place, your effort to help them will bring you into a better place. So the very effort that we make brings angels of God right around us. We may not see them with our individual eyes.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 36)
But Christ submitted, and He gave Himself up to take the very bitter suffering of a separation from His God because of sin. But we had the evidence that God was with Him from the beginning to the close. He wants every soul of us to consider that we are to bear the part under God for the salvation of the human soul. And God will help us. We may be overcomers by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony (Revelation 12:11).
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 37)
Three times in one night, when I was in Washington, the agony of my soul was so great when I passed through this scene, as it was represented, of Christ’s suffering, what He had endured for us all, and what an ungrateful set we are. But He wants every one of us to humble our hearts before Him, so that He can make us fruit-bearing branches in the Vine, and we shall not have to be cut off.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 38)
While I was in this agony three times, I became unconscious, this agony of seeing Christ, and the bloody sweat that was dropping, moistening the sod of Gethsemane, and He saying, Not My will, but Thine, O God, be done. [Luke 22:42.] That is what He said, and He bore that intense agony, and when stretched on the cross, the poor sinner says, Remember me, etc. And He assured him that He would.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 39)
Such scenes as this ought to wake us up. We are not half awake. We do not see what value Christ placed upon souls. We do not realize that He would have every soul convinced and come to Him, but we let them pass by as though they had no souls to save. We want to wake up, wake up.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 40)
And when that agony went before me at Washington, I thought I was dying. But I came out of it again, weak and trembling, and then went right into it again. For three times I bore that through, but when I came before the people I had a message. You may depend I had a message. It did not come from me, but the Lord used me as His instrument to give that message to the people.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 41)
Now, there is a world to save. There are sinners perishing all around us. Are we going to wake up? Are we going to try to bring them to the knowledge of the truth? To see what the truth means? Will we circulate our pamphlets, and our papers, and will we get them before the people?
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 42)
Before a member of my family is up, I am up tracing the lines that shall come to the people, and the warnings and the entreaties and the message that God gives. For years, when others were asleep, I have been three or four hours with my pen in my hand writing before my breakfast. I want to tell you that we have every one of us a work to do. He has spared my life. The Lord has spared my life to give the very message I am giving to you, and He is sparing your lives, that you may have an influence over other lives. There are souls to be saved in every city.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 43)
As I went to New Jersey, and there looked at the company, with new believers among them, I thought how pleasant it would be for these who were listening, and eager to catch every word, if they could only have the impression of the Spirit of God, and I believed it did come to them.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 44)
Now, I want every soul saved. I know that with the commandments of God, the test is in keeping them. They are to keep His commandments and love His law as the apple of their eye. “Search the Scriptures, for in them ye think ... of me.” [John 5:39.] This is the work that we have before us, and I was taken right out of myself, as it were, when I was at Washington and there, day after day, the message, powerful message was given to me for the people. Why, I could no more have done it unless angels of God had been around about me. I take no credit. It is the Lord God of Israel who put His power upon me, that I was taken right out of myself to present to the people the essential things for their salvation.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 45)
I ask every one of you to search the Scriptures. The commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ are for every one of us.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 46)
I am the true vine—[John 15] verses 1, 2. The purging may be severe, but you may be thankful that you are pruned. But now let every one of us consider a little longer, and we shall see the King in His beauty. A little longer, and He will come to us and prepare us for translation, and we shall be caught up to meet Him in the air, and we shall see the King in His beauty. O, I want you to be there. I do not want a soul lost. I want you to serve the Lord with meekness and humility of mind.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 47)
And now I want to ask, Are there any others? We know that there was a manifestation of some that took their stand, and they have been baptized. I want to know who here are willing to stand on the Lord’s side. This is the last time I can speak to you. I now ask you if there are any who will then take their stand to keep the commandments of God, to be converted daily. Will you rise right upon your feet, will you do this? Will you take your stand that you will serve God, and keep His commandments, and love His law as the apple of your eye? Whoever will, rise now, if you want the position as commandment-keepers on the Lord’s side. Will you stand right up? Mothers, will you give your children the example? Fathers, will you take your position, that you will work on the Lord’s side? We want to know who will add to the names of those that were baptized today and take their position on the Lord’s side. May the Lord give grace. May the Lord give strength. We will wait a few moments. Sing a verse, “Jesus Lover of My Soul.”
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 48)
I made up my mind that whenever I was in a meeting again, I never would leave that meeting without giving an invitation. If there are any here who want to take a position on the Lord’s side, I would give them an opportunity now and clear the way.
(24LtMs, Ms 119, 1909, 49)
Ms 120, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts on Deuteronomy 4 Portland, Maine July 3, 1909 Previously unpublished.
Deuteronomy 4:1, 2, 3, 4. Now you see that God keeps account with His people. Those that shall be obedient and shall walk in humility of mind before God, His eye is over them; His angels are guiding them, His angels protect them.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 1)
And here, verse 4. Now remember this, it makes a difference decidedly with every one of us whether we search the Scriptures diligently to see and obey the Word of the living God, or whether we are careless and do not keep the fear of God before us and His goodness and His mercy and His love that should stimulate us as we think of it, and that we should try to serve the Lord with full purpose of heart.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 2)
Verse 4. Now remember all these things, that the Lord tells His servants who have the care and charge of the work. They are to tell these things over and over and over to the children they are preparing, for what? They are preparing for the heavenly courts above; they are preparing to have an entrance into that kingdom that there shall be no going out from it, no danger of any of these things, because they have kept the word of the Lord. It makes some difference whether we are obedient or disobedient. It makes every difference, and we want to stand in right relation to God today. We want to know on this very third of July—to remember throughout all the excitement that may be produced from this time onward for days—we want you to remember there is a God in the heavens that is watching, and is guarding His people that following in obedience to His will. Let every one of us take heed we should place ourselves in that relation to God that He cannot keep us.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 3)
Verse 5. They wanted to go into that land in strict obedience to all the commandments of God. After they got into that land they may have a determination to follow the Lord closely.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 4)
Verse 6. Some will call you very foolish that you are very particular about this and that. Verse 6. We want just exactly such a testimony, that shall be borne always, that we follow on to know the Lord that His going forth is prepared as the morning.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 5)
Verse 7. Wonderful statement. Will we let this encourage us? Here such a wonderful God, and yet He takes notice, and is so faithful to fulfil all the requirements on His part, if we will fulfill the first on our part as He bids us.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 6)
Verse 7. Thank the Lord. We want to keep thinking of that.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 7)
Verses 8, 9. Well, that will be very wonderful, if you will do your duty to your sons and your daughters as God would have you to do it. He is the one that makes the impression. You act your part. You faithfully teach them in the Scriptures, and the way of the Lord, and encourage their hearts by all these words that I have read.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 8)
Verse 9. That is quite a broad field. Will we do it? That is the question. Will you consider that you are not only bring grace and blessing to yourselves, but also the youth when you are watching and teaching them, and guarding and guiding them, to all patience, to all kindness by your kindness, to all watchfulness by your watchfulness. Then your children will have the impression from the heavenly Father to follow on in the way of obedience. Now this is a great thing.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 9)
Verses 9, 10. We are just as much responsible for these lessons as they were. We are responsible for all these lessons of instruction, to follow on to know the Lord that His going forth is prepared as the morning.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 10)
Verses 11-13. You are to study these Ten Commandments thoroughly and see if you are keeping the very day that is specified in these Ten Commandments. “Verily, my sabbaths ye shall keep them. It is a sign unto you, and it is kept before the Lord as your obedience if you will obey His commandments and reverence His holy day.”
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 11)
Verses 12, 13. These commandments are, after they had been rewritten the second time, these commandments are preserved, and will be brought forth at the last great judgment, for we are to be judged according to the commandments that God has given us.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 12)
Verse 14. Now there they were given a place to come into the land among idolaters, where idolaters and things which God had forbidden would be before them continually. They were to bear it in their minds.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 13)
Verse 15. And here he goes on to say that these things should not be entered into. We have representations over and over and over again that take time and money, and what do they amount to? All the time that is devoted to the work of the Lord is to bring souls into right relation to God. When you diligently study these commandments and follow them to the letter, angels of God write it in the books of heaven. When every one of us is judged, according to the deeds that are done in the body, all this faithfulness will be remembered; and the unfaithfulness will be remembered, to bring punishment, just as surely as God lives.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 14)
Verse 21. What was the matter there? Why here there was not a following out the exact requirement of God that He had given. The Lord said, Speak to the rock. The people were complaining and finding fault with Moses because he did not give them drink. He could not given them drink unless the Lord gave the drink, and the Lord said to Moses to go and take the rod in his hand and speak to the rock and it gave forth its waters. Well, Moses felt so wrought up, so provoked with the children of Israel for their unreasonable course that he said, Shall we bring you water out of this rock? Why, he never could have brought the water out of the rock. He forgot himself for the first time, and it makes me cry nearly every time I read it—so faithful, so true. Rebels, he said, shall we bring you,—and struck the rock when he had no command to strike it. Speak to the rock and it shall being forth water.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 15)
Now these are the very things that we must bear in mind. We must follow the Word of God exactly. If you deviate from it, and think you will come out just as well, you will find in the end you have met with terrible loss. O, Moses begged of the Lord to let him go over, but the Lord did not let him go. Why? Because the example before Israel would make of little account the word of God. The Word of God is precious in His sight, and He wants every old man and middle-aged man, and He wants every soul that lives, to obey His Word to the letter, and not think it will be just as well. It is not convenient for me to keep the Sabbath, although that is in the commandment strictly. It is not convenient, and therefore they go on and take up the first day that God has placed His sanctity upon, and take up the first day of the week. You cannot afford it. Not one of you can afford it. It is to be faithful and true to God’s requirements. The seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 16)
Verse 20. He wants to be fitting you and us for translation to heaven, and He wants you to read all these things. The trials that are brought upon the people are often through their own carelessness. If you would just obey God from day to day and walk in all humility of mind, He would give you your children. He would give you your friends. The angels of God would protect you and your families, because of your obedience. He can trust you that you can be an example to those that are around you.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 17)
It means something for us to be overcomers. But He must show all Israel, even if Moses, that faithful Moses that had suffered so much that he should permit himself to make a mistake—the Lord said, You cannot see that land that you have desired so much. Well, he begged Him to let him see it. No, he had made that mistake before all Israel, and now He could not pardon that transgression and let it go on just as though he was obedient. And let each one of us remember we are serving the same God.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 18)
Verse 21. I feel like crying every time I read it. Verses 22, 23-26. Angels of God were watching. Jesus Christ, the light of the world in the pillar of cloud, had guided them all their way, and when the place came that they were to rest, that cloud halts over right over that place, and there they take notice and they rest until the cloud begins to lift, and then they begin to work, and they get ready to make a move. Now, here was Christ Jesus, the Son of the living God, that was commissioned to come and tell them where to rest and then move when they should move, and there Israel was protected all the way along. And yet there were murmurers and complainers too. God help us as a people that we may know when God guideth, and that we may praise Him and honor Him who has given so great light and opportunities and privileges that we may glorify His name.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 19)
He says, (Verse 30) “latter days” and that is the very times we are living in now—verse 32. Here a messenger right from heaven in the cloudy pillar was guiding them in the way. How careful and kind and tender should they have been to give the example to their children and all that were in that vast army.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 20)
Verses 33-35. We are the people of His care, and He wants that we shall improve upon the great sacrifice that He has made in giving us Jesus, His only begotten Son. He sent Him into the world to come up in humanity, that humanity might grasp the divinity of Christ and have no excuse for sin. Every soul of us, if we are sinful, can repent, and humanity grasps divinity and humanity and divinity combined works out that all the corruptions that are in the world. Lust cannot overcome them, if we connect humanity with divinity. This is the very work that is before us.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 21)
Verses 36, 37. Who is speaking these very words to us, and demanding that all be put in print? Whosoever should take a line from the things that were written here and put their own words in their place, He tells just what shall be done unto them. He tells the punishment that shall come upon them. Therefore the Word of God stands in many cases among many people. We see those in foreign language, heathen you may call them, that have been heathen worshipers, who have been converted. The truth is sent to them, and this is what is taking our means largely. We are gathering all the means we can, and we are depriving ourselves of ministers, we are depriving ourselves of teachers, we are depriving ourselves of the very help that we want to retain, but we have such a deep moving of spirit for those in the foreign lands that we cannot refuse their call, Send us help. And we will help them to translate, so that they can help the people in darkness all around us.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 22)
Yes, our means is being drawn upon continually to sustain the foreign work as well as the sanitariums and the various institutions. We are working with all the powers of our being to extend the knowledge of the truth, and yet we cannot be satisfied. We want men converted, and we want converted women missionaries that keep the commandments of God, who will teach His commandments, for it is only those that keep His commandments, when they have that Word that tells them what the commandments are. We want that every one of us shall make determined efforts to that we will dedicate ourselves to God at this meeting. You need not feel that it is a great condescension on your part. It is a great blessing to you to come in right relation to God. It is a wonderful blessing, and a privilege as well, if you will hold to it.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 23)
Don’t any of you say, It does not matter what day I keep. You go right through the Bible and you see whether it makes any difference or not. What God says is truth and righteousness, and we do not want you to perish. I shall be the 26th of November—82 years old. And yet I am speaking to thousands and thousands of people to try to awaken them to a sense of their accountability to God. I cannot sleep nights, I am in such anxiety. I am pleading with God, and going over the history of the people of God, how He assures them that if they will obey He will deliver them out of their calamities when they call upon Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 24)
Let us prove the Lord. Let us prove Him with heart and soul and voice. And we want to say that just as surely as you prove the Lord, there will be a humility on your part and on my part, and we shall not exalt ourselves so that we will be afraid, almost, to put persons in position of trust for fear they will get clear beyond their bearings. Now we do not want to do that, no, but I will tell you what we do want. We want to see a people that can pray to the Lord and believe He hears them.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 25)
We want to see a people that can come right to the Lord, even at this meeting, and believe He will hear you. We want to see fathers and mothers that are anxious for their children, and can encircle them in their arms, with no hasty words, no passionate speech, no passionate blows to be put upon them. Take them right before the Lord, and tell Him all about it, and then, tell the children that you do not want to correct them and punish them. You want them to love God as you love God, to glorify God as you are trying to do, that you must glorify Him to present these children with clean characters. God help us that we may watch, that we may pray, that we may press the battle to the gates. This is the work before us.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 26)
I want to say a few words more before I shall close my remarks. There is a world to be saved. There is a heathen world. Noble looking men have been brought in now and then to be introduced to me, who had embraced the truth. They have said, We want helpers. Then they would tell of the places God has opened where they need help. They have said, We want means to have a little church and a sanitarium, that we may help our sick.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 27)
We do a great deal in our sanitariums to help the sick. They do not know how to treat their sick, and when we come in and we pray and we work, the Lord gives us the victory, and life is spared; then they are willing to be converted. They prayed for those that are not converted. They do not wait for them to be converted, but they come right in and offer their prayers to Jesus Christ who knows the heart, Jesus Christ who gave His life a sacrifice for man, that humanity might lay hold upon divinity.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 28)
Christ was sent into the world and they crucified Him in the most cruel manner, but He was not left in the grave. He came up, and proclaimed over the sepulcher, He proclaimed the resurrection. He was the life and the strength and the grace through the obedience in His humanity. He did not lose His divinity. He held fast His divinity. They saw humanity and divinity combined. There they were combined, and that is what God wants of us today. I would not be here at my age, traveling as I am, if I did not think some souls would be benefited.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 29)
Portland—I was born in Gorham, and nearly all the first part of my life was spent in Portland. There is where I was converted. There is where the Lord opened before me His light and His grace, and He said, Write it out. Write it. Here was the accident that had destroyed my strength and nerve, a stone thrown broke the bridge of my nose. Well, then I began to talk down lower. In time, by using the abdominal muscles in talking, I could extend my voice to almost any company. Now, it has proved a blessing to me.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 30)
Never has that right hand, from the elbow, been in a situation that I could not use it. Even when all my body has been in agony—for eleven months when I first went to Australia. It was there with their open drains, and all those difficulties I was exposed to, and we knew not the danger, that I could not move without help, and I suffered for eleven months. They built me a kind of a framework that I could use that arm and that hand, and there I wrote twenty-four hundred pages in eleven months. I felt the Spirit of God coming upon me, because I could use that arm. Well, after a while the blessing of God came upon me in a large measure. I bore the test. And now I travel with infirmities, but I do not mind; if I can only get the word before the people, I shall feel that I have done my duty.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 31)
And Portland is where I lived when this accident occurred. They thought I could go to school after I was laid up for about two years. And the strange thing happened. That very girl was the monitor over my section. She knew just exactly what the matter was with me, that I was so nervous that I could not hold a pen in my hand, and she would cry, and the sweat would roll down off of her face. But nevertheless, the Lord said, Write, and I took the pen to write. And lo, my arm was strengthened, the nerves were strengthened, and I have been writing ever since. I have been writing books and books and books by the representation that the Lord has given me. I said, Why I cannot use that hand. Said He, Write, write. And I commenced to write, and I have not stopped writing since—the eleven months even, when I was in such awful suffering, I kept that hand moving, and wrote twenty-four hundred pages in a few months.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 32)
Well, good is the Lord, and greatly to be praised. I have proved Him, and I know that we can trust Him. I want every soul not to get exalted above the simplicity of true godliness. I want that every soul should realize their dependence upon God continually, and then exalt the Lord Jesus Christ, and magnify His name. How? By your humility and by your obedience, by your trying to help somebody else who is ready to perish.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 33)
There is a work to be done for perishing souls. Missionaries are called for from all parts of the foreign countries. They say, We will try to teach you the language, and we want you to come and teach us the truth. From all parts of the world is the word coming. We want every one of you to be in relation to God, so that if you can grow in grace and in the knowledge of the truth. Right around you there are souls perishing, and you are to open the Scriptures to them even if they do not see any beauty in it. Take right hold upon the Scriptures. Show them its simplicity. Show them how God has marked out what He will do for them if they would be obedient.
(24LtMs, Ms 120, 1909, 34)
Ms 121, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts on Acts 2 Portland, Maine July 5, 1909 Previously unpublished.
Acts 2:1-5. Now bear this in mind. This was an occasion when the Lord was manifesting to His people His power, and the outside people were to have a knowledge of the power of Jesus Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 1)
Verse 4. They were all filled with the Holy Ghost. They had been praying then some days. They had been seeking the Lord, and here their petitions were answered.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 2)
Verses 4, 5. This was no private matter. Here was an occasion when heaven was to manifest the power that would be visited upon the people of God in their emergency.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 3)
Verse 5. So you see this was not a thing that was done in private.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 4)
Verses 6-20. We must expect that there will be revelations from heaven that will be given to His people. They shall be given in warnings, and in reproofs, and in explanation of the Word, that all may understand that they have come to the very period that is here prophesied, that will be manifested among the people of God. And we would have every soul on the watchtower.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 5)
Well, what had they been doing? The disciples had been praying ten days that the Holy Spirit might come upon them, and it was in answer to their prayers that they received of the Holy Spirit in large measure. And there was wonderment among the people. Here were men that were traveled in all parts of the world, men that would not understand in regard to these matters about Christ and the crucifixion of Christ, but Christ told them not to leave Jerusalem until they were endued with power from on high. They were not to hurry out of Jerusalem, but they were to stand there to give the Word.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 6)
Christ thought when He was crucified, that there was to be a testimony that would bear with tremendous weight, just such as came on this occasion, and the Lord would give evidence to those that wanted evidence that He was the Creator of the universe; He was the power and glory of His people. And they were to wait there, trusting in Him without fear. They were to lean their whole weight upon the Word of God, and the manifestation of the Spirit which they knew was the manifestation of the Spirit of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 7)
Peter was telling them about it. He was telling them just what had come to pass.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 8)
Verses 16-20, 21. “Whosoever.” Can you take that in? Verse 21. That is an opportunity when they thought they had gained a great victory. Here was the representation of how it will be to those who assembled together. And we read it in other parts of the Word, that when you are in trouble, when you are in perplexity, then gather together and pray. Offer up your petitions to God, and lay right hold of the arm of Omnipotence, and there shall be the glory of God. Well, Satan won’t be dead. No, he is alive. He will work to divert the minds to something else. There will always be differences enough of the minds to take them, if possible, from the light of the evidence of the truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 9)
But here was the sermon given verses 22, 23. Now, they thought that they had gained a wonderful victory, but here it is held out before them what they had done.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 10)
Verse 24. There was Christ. When they thought they had a victory, that great stone was rolled before the door of the sepulcher and sealed, and a guard put around it so that He would not be stolen away, and here He had risen. But you see there were those in heaven that were in co-operation with Jesus Christ. The mighty power of God was to be revealed to all these nations that had come together from all parts of the earth. There was to be a tremendous demonstration, so that all that would believe any evidence would believe that.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 11)
But there was an angel. There was the Roman guard watching the sepulcher, but suddenly the whole place is lighted by the streams of the glory of God that enshrouded the mighty angel who came down to the sepulcher and rolled back that mighty stone. There it was that that voice bid Christ to rise and to triumph in His life. And there He triumphed over that broken sepulcher. The Roman guards saw them. The Roman guards had no power, they fell prostrated to the ground, but they saw it all, they understood it all, and there over the rent sepulcher of Joseph He proclaimed, I am the resurrection and the life. So we know, whatever temptation comes to us, as long as there is a devil in our world, we must be armed with a might and power to resist him.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 12)
How can we do this? Do just as the disciples did. They met together and they prayed together for ten days, and the light of the glory of God came into their midst, and such wonderful things were done under the influence of the heavenly intelligences. Earthly intelligences can do but very little, but when the heavenly intelligences come, and when the power of God is revealed, then the earthly powers have to give back whether they want to or not. There is a Power that rules in the heaven of heavens, and He wants every one of us to know it. He wants us to all understand it, and He wants us to be in a position that we can pray, and He wants us to be in a position that we can humble our hearts before God and walk in all humility of mind. He wants every one of us to be in communion with a Higher Power, because there are two agencies in our world. There is the devil that was cast out of heaven, because there was war in heaven, and he and his angels were emptied out of heaven. Now, we will have these to contend with just as long as God shall consider it essential for us.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 13)
But why are we not getting ready? Why are we not humble before God? Why are we not walking in humility and meekness? Why are we not believing every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God? God will help us and that right early. Here is the Word that is spoken.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 14)
Verses 23-28. Now that is a wonderful promise.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 15)
Verse 29. Amen and amen. We will give God the glory, that even if we should fall and lose our lives, as the disciples did, yet we should come from the dead, and Christ will bring us forth in the resurrection and place crowns of glory upon our heads.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 16)
What we are to be concerned about it? Am I an humble man? Am I a meek man? Because unless I am, I shall be a trouble in the church. All these things are to be considered.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 17)
Verse 40. “untoward.” They did not take to Christ. Why? “For God so loved the world ... should not perish.” [John 3:16.] Although they might lose their lives, yet their names are registered in the Lamb’s book of life, and they will come forth. Christ will bring them forth from the dead, and then He takes them, after that first resurrection, to the gate of the city, and He swings back the gate upon the glittering hinges, and the nations that have kept the truth shall enter in. And there He places the fathers and the mothers who have considered that the greatest work they could do in this world was to bring up their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Why? Because every soul that is really educated will educate their companions—every soul that will take hold of the righteousness of Christ—for humanity has the privilege of grasping divinity in Jesus Christ that they may overcome the temptations that are in the world through lust. This is what every one of us have to understand, and then to come in right relation to God.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 18)
For the promise is unto you and your children. You are to work tenderly with them, not to bring your children up any way haphazard, and feel not responsibility. Ye are laborers together, together with God. We are to take the Word of the living God, and do our duty to our children. You are to work tenderly with them, no scolding, no pounding their flesh in anger. They may need punishment, but let it be brought to them with tears in your eyes. Do not make them feel that you wish to humiliate them, and that you want to place them in the worst position possible, but just talk with them and pray with them.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 19)
I find with the many children that I have taken to bring up, where I saw that they were not educated right, I could talk with them, I could pray with them, and there was no need of pounding their flesh. Now, God wants us to be sensible men and women. He wants us to do right. He wants us to be patient. He does not want us to eat everything that comes in our way. There is a work carried on continually in your system, because of the things you put in your stomach, which never should be there.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 20)
He wants the father and the mother to be temperate in all things, and speak kindly, never scold nor fret to the husband, or the husband to the wife. That is not Christian. There is no Christianity in that. What we want is to be Christians in every sense of the word. What we want is to seek the Lord with all our hearts, and be converted. Unless you do, your family may go to perdition. Fathers, mothers, what about the souls of your children?
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 21)
If you have acted your part righteously, the gates of the city of God will be thrown back upon their glittering hinges, and there your children will be that you tried to educate line upon line, and precept upon precept, here a little and there a little. You are guarding them against the influences that are against Christ. He wants you to have the Christ spirit. Christ gave His life. The Father gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish but have everlasting life. That is what we want them to have. And when they come to the gates of the city, and there are the crowns that are to be placed upon their heads, He throws back the gates and welcomes them in, parents and children. O with what gladness He said, when He was on the earth, Suffer little children to come unto Me.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 22)
There were mothers leaving their homes, and it does not say whether they had a father or not, but they went to see Jesus. They were so troubled and worried to know what to do, and if they could get a blessing from Jesus, O, they thought, how it would help them. So the mothers gathered children as they went along, mothers and children, and they came. Here Christ was, teaching a large crowd of people, and the disciples forbade them. Why, said they, the Master is teaching, He cannot be interrupted in His work. Christ caught the words, and He turned, and He rose upon His feet, and 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.]
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 23)
And there will be a large company if fathers and mothers will do their duty to their children, if they will educate them from the Bible, if they will train them there, they can bring their children up with joy. As Christ sees the children, He embraces them in His arms, the little ones, and takes them into the city of God, and then there is music in heaven among the angels, and the harps are placed in the hands of the parents. Parents and children are together saved, eternally saved to have a life that measures with the life of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 24)
Isn’t it worth something to have our schools and to have our children educated and trained, to have our sanitariums where we can take in the sick and the suffering? O how many times I have stood before them as they have wheeled their sick into the parlor, and there seen their countenances light up with hope as I presented Jesus, the hope of the world, and the joy of all, the blessed Jesus, the precious Saviour. And now I present Him to you all here today.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 25)
He took these little children, when the mothers brought them, and encircled them in His arms, “Suffer the little children to come unto me for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 14.] Fathers and mothers, don’t speak a cross word to your children. Do not speak words that will discourage them. They are little children; they are not grown up. They need to be educated and trained at every step, and they want an example set before them of the father and mother in every respect. And if they are corrected, let it be in kindness and tenderness, that it is to save their souls. The little children were clinging to the knees of Christ, and their ways were around His neck. Just think how the Saviour felt, and you try to feel just as He felt. Bring them to the Saviour. He died for them.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 26)
He gave His life for humanity. And from the humanity in you, fathers, and the humanity in you, mothers, let us just grasp the divinity that is in Jesus Christ, so that you can express Him in your family in words, in tender words, in affectionate words. Thus you can have a power so that you can educate and train your children for the future life. How long? One that measures with the life of God. That life of heaven you can possess. I beg of you, for Christ’s sake, to consider not so much how you shall decorate your children with finery, or how much property you shall gain so as to exceed your neighbor, but what can you do that the humanity in your children, and in your own life, can grasp divinity in the life of Christ, and be overcomers day by day, and bind the children to Jesus.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 27)
What a world we should have if we would do this! There is a tremendous responsibility resting upon the fathers and mothers, and the older brothers and older sisters. Altogether you can be a household of faith, and praise God and glorify God, and you can be happy, and you can win your neighbors to Christ. Your influence will tell for the glory of God. Parents, will you begin in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth—will you begin to have praying seasons in your house, and then with your neighbors’ children, and feel just as much interest that they shall be saved? They have souls. The humanity that is in you sanctified can grasp divinity, and there you can have power that your words will be applied to the hearts of the very ones that you ought to save. God help us.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 28)
God is our helper. We are not left to ourselves to worry our way through nobody knows how. No, we are to have that life that measures with the life of God. Make efforts, self-denying efforts, and you may develop the missionary spirit wherever you are. Try to save the souls that are ready to perish, and build up the cause of God in our world. The Lord wants us to stand before Him. Fully answering the purpose of God in your relation to each other, and in your relation to God, you will save some powers to be given to the work of helping you hand to hand in saving other souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 29)
There is a world to save. In Portland, when fifteen years old, I have pleaded with families until every one of them gave their hearts to God. I lived there. I was born in Gorham, and in Portland I could not get out of my mind the mighty message that came here in 1842, 1843, and 1844, right into this city. I was one that in my youth used to bear my message. I told my son who is here with me, said I, I cannot lay down the armor until I have borne a message to the people of Portland.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 30)
We want to arouse, every soul that wants to revive the spirit of the work, and bring in the third angel’s message with all its sanctifying power, that we shall be ready when the last movement is made. You are laborers together with God, and we must begin the work at home now. We must take right hold of it every day. There is much more I might say, but I am going to reserve it, because I do not wish to weary myself or weary you out, but I have more to say. I want to say a few words.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 31)
The disciples met together to pray, and they sacrificed everything possible that they might reach the people where they were. And they did reach them, hundreds and thousands were converted. Why? Because they message came to them in its simplicity, in its truthfulness. In its very life it came to them, and this is the very work that we want to do and see done in Portland. I felt that I could not lay off my armor. I shall be, next November, 82 years old, and I have been laboring since I was fifteen years old in public labor. But we want souls. We want souls converted, and we want every soul to place themselves in right relation to God in simplicity, that He can move upon the human heart, and that you will be aroused so that your humanity shall see its privilege to lay hold of the very reason Christ was given to our world. Lay hold of what? Divinity. Divinity in Christ by a living faith. You can present that divinity to the Father; you can plead for your children and the unconverted and your own souls, and you can overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust, because your humanity has laid hold with divinity. Therefore the divinity of Christ is for the conqueror.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 32)
But we leave this with you now, and we will have other words to speak in regard to this matter. But O, I want to see the children, I want to see them converted, and I want to see the fathers and mothers and the aged that now feel that no great responsibility rests upon them. Yes there is. I will tell you what it is—to keep ever before you the divinity of Christ. “God so loved the world ... everlasting life.” [John 3:16.]
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 33)
You think of it. Don’t let it pass from your mind, but work it out in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, and if you do, then when the crown is laid upon your head, and the heads of your children, you will take these crowns and lay them at the feet of Jesus. The reward is already for us, and shall you make no great importance of that divinity that humanity can grasp? It is your only hope, and Christ preserved that divinity unsullied. Had He not, we should all perish, and you are to be co-laborers with Jesus Christ in this work of salvation.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 34)
God help us that we may understand what it means with divinity and humanity combined. We must have the divinity of Christ by a living faith and act it out in living power.
(24LtMs, Ms 121, 1909, 35)
Ms 122, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts from Isaiah Portland, Maine July 7, 1909 Previously unpublished.
Isaiah 56:1-10. We see there are two parties that are brought to view here, and we want to be in the party that is assured by the Word of God, by the testimony of that Word that the love of God shall be upon them. We want, every one of us, to study the Scriptures carefully, and then to stand in a position where we may glorify God.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 1)
Verse 1. Now that is a wonderful text. Here God is ready to impart unto us if we follow on to know the Lord, as it is our privilege. The Lord gave His only begotten Son that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish but have everlasting life. We are given an opportunity to form a character after the direction of the Word of God. The Lord describes it in Isaiah 58.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 2)
Isaiah 58:1, 2. “Thou seest not.”verse 3. Do you see the complaint they roll right back on to God? You see that disposition can come upon the human mind.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 3)
Verse 3. Knowledge. Now comes the answer. “Behold, in the day—verse 5. Now the Lord makes a different presentation. Verses 6-14. There is something for every one of us to do. God has given into our hands a work, and if our hearts are in harmony with the Word, the blessings shall come upon us, just as described here. All the waste places shall be built up, and what we want, every one of us, is to understand how our case stands before God. The Lord wants to work for His people, and He wants every one of us to come in harmony with Him. He wants His righteousness to be revealed.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 4)
We need not try to show our humility by putting sackcloth under us. That is nothing to recommend us to God. What we want is to keep God’s commandments, and love His law as the apple of our eye. That is the work that is for every father and mother to do, and their children. There is a great work to be done in this line in all of our cities. The Lord would have us His missionaries. When we see the suffering and afflicted we are to take right hold and relieve them. And when we do this we shall be in harmony with God. We are to reveal God in our life, in our actions, in all of our works.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 5)
Now, every one that is here before me today, Jesus Christ came to our world. The Father so loved the world—. Now, how does the case stand with us today? There are some who may be nearly as old as I am. Perhaps there may be some older, but how does it stand between God and our souls? Have we given ourselves unreservedly to God? Have we been determined that we will do His will?
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 6)
The work is to go forward here in Portland. It has been forwarded in the first angel’s message that was given in Portland, Maine, in which I had, even in my girlhood, a part to act. The work has never ceased, although at times I have been greatly afflicted. They would take me up the stairs, and I would stand before the people with racking pains in my body, and yet with such an evidence that the Lord would work for His people. It seemed that I must present the goodness of God, and the mercy of God, even in my great affliction. And I want to say that it is the goodness of God alone that has spared me alive till the present time. I shall be 82 years old next November, and I have been in active labor since I was fifteen years old. I have seen the great salvation of God. I have seen His willingness to work for His people. I have seen those who would take their position on the Lord’s side as happy a people as I ever looked upon, and this is what we want to see in our midst here.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 7)
We have a work to do in all our cities, and we want to act individually our part. In 1843 there was visiting around from house to house, and there was such an earnestness that often men stood at the desk who knew that their time was measured, that consumption was upon them, and yet they would not leave, because they wanted to give the last note of warning to the people before the should be taken away and their voice silenced.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 8)
There are those that are in health. There are those that can do missionary work, earnest missionary work. How much are we doing to awaken the sensibilities of men and women in our world? The Lord wants us to co-operate with Him. From this that I have read, He wants you to wake up.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 9)
“Behold the Lord’s hand is not shortened.”Isaiah 59:1, 2. Now here is a work of repentance, and those that feel that they are not right with God, don’t let a day go unless you make a thorough consecration of your hearts to God. You cannot afford it. It is too late in the day to trifle with these eternal realities. We want to see the King in His beauty. We want to behold His righteousness.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 10)
Isaiah 60:1, 2. Now this is our blessed assurance. It does not come from human assertions, it comes from the living God to His people.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 11)
Verse 3. “to thy light.” That is just what we want, Jew and Gentile. We want all to come to the light, and kings to the brightness of Thy rising.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 12)
Verse 4. We want to come into right relation with God to co-operate with Jesus Christ. He called His disciples, and where did He call them from? Right from their fishing nets. He called them, and they left their nets and their father where they were fishing, and they came right to Christ, and followed Him. He would sit by the mountainside, and great crowds gathered around Him. But the precious Saviour that was sent to our world, that He might bring to us the precious message of eternal life, wants that every one of us shall realize that God is making a call to us in this very meeting we are having here in this tent. And we want to understand what we shall do, that we may meet the mind of the Spirit of God. Any one that has lost the evidence of their communion with God, we want them to come. We have an intense desire that they shall follow on to know the Lord, that they may know His going forth is prepared as the morning, and He wants every one of us to be worked.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 13)
Well, who is going to work you, the devil or the Lord? There is one or the other. You are under one or the other, and which are you under? Are you under the discipline of God? If you are, I know that we shall understand it at this meeting. But if you will come just as you are, the blessing of God will come upon you in rich measures. Will you try it? Will you consecrate yourselves to God? Now, He wants that every one of us should be bright and shining lights to the world, that they should show the distinction between the lovers of God and the lovers of Satan, those that follow the dictations of the enemy. We don’t want to be on their side.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 14)
Christ went into the wilderness to be tempted forty days and forty nights, and after His temptation the enemy began to throw his coil, and try to get it into His heart, but He did not repeat the words of Satan at all. No, He said, “Thus saith the Lord.” Now whenever you begin to reason with an unbeliever, and they will begin to bring their objections, don’t try to take up their objections, and try to explain them, because you are losing your chance. Christ did not do that. Satan said, “Command that these stones be made bread, why do you go hungry? Command that it be made bread to satisfy your hunger.” [See Matthew 4:3.]
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 15)
What were the words of Christ? “It is written.” Now you hear what is written, “Man shall not live, etc.” [Verse 4.] The word Satan was giving was not proceeding out of the mouth of God to tell Him to satisfy His hunger. No, that was the last temptation that He was to have in that way.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 16)
But then he took Him and placed Him on a pinnacle of the temple, and he said to Him, “It is written that he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee, that he should not fall.” But he did not add, “In all thy ways,”—in the ways that God has marked out for Him. Christ declares, “It is written, Thou shall not tempt the Lord thy God.” [Verses 6, 7; Psalm 91:11.]
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 17)
Then Satan carries Him to a mountain and opens before Him the kingdoms of the whole world. “All these will I give thee, for it is given unto me, if thou will fall down and worship me.” Now Christ speaks out, “Get thee hence, Satan, It is written, etc.” [Matthew 4:9, 10; Luke 4:6.]
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 18)
Now we can see there are two parties in our world. Satan is exercising to the utmost of his ability his powers that he may lead men and women into dangers, and to work against the commandments of God, but you cannot afford it.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 19)
We want ministers; we want laborers; we want sanctified men and women; we want those that can understand to resist Satan’s devices. The time is short now, and we want to try to be co-laborers with Jesus Christ. The great sacrifice in heaven was made. And there was Christ, the Son of the living God, traveling on foot from place to place, and He was teaching the Scriptures to the people, and the people joining Him, until there was five thousand besides women and children. They heard His voice. They understood His words or they could not have been attracted as they were to toil along with children in their arms to hear the words that were spoken.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 20)
Here is the great city of Portland, and they were aroused wonderfully under the first and second angels’ messages, and now the third angel’s message is brought to you from the Word of God. He wants you to lay hold of it, and He wants you to have your mind elevated and ennobled and sanctified through the belief of the truth. Well, then what? You have His words, “Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] That is what your work is. When you begin to be laborers together with God, you will watch what you say in your family. You will guard your words, that they shall not in any way be construed by your children in a wrong way so that they will have their patience stirred up against you, because you are God’s messenger, you are the father of your children. And the mothers, they are to have the most precious words to give to their children.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 21)
There are people in this city to be warned. You cannot afford to lose your strength from God or be separated from Him, because you have a message to bear. You are to carry the truth throughout this city, every one that can go from house to house to give warning. Take pamphlets, take books with you, and see if you cannot get the subject of truth before them. We have but a little time to work. The Lord is soon to come, and we want to be prepared for His coming.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 22)
I ask you, what are you going to do about the truth, and the truths you are listening to? The Lord help you to search the Scriptures yourselves. It is for your eternal interest. Your eternal life is involved in it. Will you take the Word of God as your counsellor? Will you grasp it? God help you that you may be workers together with Jesus Christ. He has a kingdom for us. He wants to establish it, and He wants us “to arise and shine for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.” [Isaiah 60:1.] Verses 2, 3, 4. “Lift up thine eyes round about.” Now just do this. Bring the light of truth in your heart. We have to walk humbly with God. We have characters to form for the eternal life. We must be in a position where we can glorify the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 23)
When he saw the city of Jerusalem He wept over it. Luke 19:37. “Mighty works that they had seen.” Have we seen any? Have we brought ourselves in right relation with God? Have we had humility of heart? Have we seen the necessity of being a light ourselves to the world?
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 24)
Luke 19:33-46. Now similar scenes will be transacted in the last great day. It is upon us, and we want every soul that shall come to these meetings to understand that the Lord Jesus, He it is that gave His life for us that we might be partakers of His divine nature and escape the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 25)
From the light that is given me night after night, it is evident that the people are asleep. They do not know what will come upon them suddenly. There are judgments abroad in the land, and we want that every soul should come to Jesus, and when you come to Him, He will accept you just as you are. He is our Saviour. He went through all that suffering in the wilderness of temptation to resist the enemy, and after He had fasted forty days and forty night, what then? Why, the angels ministered unto Him. What was all this terrible test? It is that you shall understand that our Saviour has passed over the suffering part. He did not shun it for you and for me. He passed over that suffering part that we might be partakers of His divine nature. Now He has given His life, it is given for you, and He is the One that has said that you were to go to warn the world, you are to warn others, and who is doing it?
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 26)
Is this great city to be left in ignorance? We want you to wake up. We want every one that claims to have the righteousness of Christ to reveal the works of Christ in heart and mind and character. Then you will meet the requirement of God. The angels of God will represent to your mind that fulness, that grace, that you can go with a sanctified tongue to speak to unbelievers who are not in the truth—your neighbors, and ever your friends that are in ignorance. Have you any Christ? I beseech of you to reveal it, and to speak of His glory and tell of His power. You have a work to do.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 27)
I would not be here at my age, if I did not believe this. I thought when I left home that it was not possible that I could go from conference to conference, and warn the people in tents, and in meetinghouses, and wherever I could, but go to the large camp meeting and stand there before them day after day. Well, I am certainly better than I was when I left home. Why? Because of the mighty Healer. I believe in Him. I trust in Him. I go whether I feel able to go or not, and when I came to this place from South Lancaster, I felt that I could not sit up in the seat, and I lay down, and the car was crowded. But after I got here, that weakness passed away, because I had work to do. And just so He will work for every one of us.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 28)
I love Jesus, and I want to walk before Him in a perfect way. And I want every one to honor Him. Why? Because He gave His life for us. Only think of it, the suffering, the agony with His hands upon the cross, and the wicked reviling Him, His murderers reviling Him. But one thief wishes to be remembered when He came in His kingdom. He tells him, “Verily I say unto you today,”—not that He should go to His kingdom that day, but while His hands were stretched on the cross He had a perfect power to say to him that he should have a place in His kingdom. [Luke 23:43.] We want to say that we have a living Saviour and He wants to put the crown upon our head, and that we shall come off victorious.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 29)
He wants hundreds of souls in Portland; men and women must have the message. There must be a call to the people from Portland, Maine. They must be brought to a knowledge of the truth. There has a neglect been made in not keeping up the work of the power of God as we have had it before us in our lives. But we want now to make all the efforts that are possible for us to make. How will it be?
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 30)
He will take us just as we are, sinful and blotted. What did He come to the earth for? He came in humanity, that humanity might grasp divinity. He came, that He might come close to humanity, and that His teaching should reach the hearts of humanity. And then as Christ is revealed as the Saviour of the world, here is a message that is to come to those that are in darkness. Will you follow Him? Will you follow the Redeemer? We want you to. Jesus wants you. Your humanity is to grasp divinity by a living faith. That is why Christ came, that humanity might touch humanity, and that divinity might be turned to pardon the transgression of sinners. Now we ask you in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, humble yours hearts before God. We want to walk humbly before Him. We want to confess our weakness. We want to put on Christ. We want to glorify the Son of God, and we ask every one of you to give your hearts to Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 31)
What I am presenting before you? A life, an eternal life that measures with the life God. Will you have it? Will you fight the devil here, or will you let him fight you, and let him get you under his feet? Will you every one rise in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth and will you say, He died for me? I will give my life for Him if He requires it. The angels of God are commissioned to help every soul that will turn their eyes to the cross of Calvary.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 32)
We want to see the work progress in Portland. We want to see the cause built up here. We want that the Word of God shall be in the place that it used to be in 1842, 1843, and 1844. We want the salvation of God to come into this city. We ask you if you will arise in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, and take hold of the Lord Jesus, whose hands were pierced with the cruel nails, His brow bleeding with the strokes that were put upon Him when the barbed crown was placed upon His head. None of you can endure more agony of body that He endured. But we ask you to take Him as He is. Give Him your heart. Teach your children here. Teach them that they can be saved. The little children He took in His arms and blessed them, and Christ will take them in His arms and bless them.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 33)
What we want is the simplicity of true godliness, and when we get that we have an overcoming power to resist the devil. Humanity can grasp divinity and overcome the temptations that are in the world through lust. And now I leave these words with you, and I ask you to just give your heart to God. What more would He do for you? He died for every one of you that you might have eternal life in His kingdom if you accept Him and are washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb.
(24LtMs, Ms 122, 1909, 34)
Ms 123, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts on Luke 17-19 Buffalo, New York July 17, 1909 Previously unpublished.
Luke 17:19—“... faith hath made thee whole.” We need to encourage faith. We need the simplicity that Christ has encouraged us to have all the representations that He has given us, to have a large increase of faith, and that faith growing continually. We are not safe Christians unless we exercise that faith in Jesus Christ that we may exercise when we can read His words in the Scriptures.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 1)
“They are not found that returned to give glory to God ... faith hath made thee whole.”Luke 17:18, 19. How many of us have been learning since we believed that Christ had forgiven our sins? How many, I ask you, have been in a position to be impressed by what they see, to be impressed by what they hear? God wants us to have impressive hearts. He wants us to be in a position that He can make an impression on the human heart.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 2)
“He said unto him, Arise, go thy way, thy faith hath made thee whole.” [Verse 19.] Will we not encourage that faith that takes hold of the promise of God, and then the reality will come to us?
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 3)
Verses 20-27. “When He was demanded of the Pharisees ... the flood came.” Now there had been warnings given there for many years, yet they had not turned to the Lord. Some few did take hold at first, but others mocked them out of it.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 4)
Verses 27-37. “Until the day that Noah entered into the ark ... Lot ... shall it be in the days ... eagles be gathered.”
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 5)
Luke 18:1. Now we see that representations are given by our Lord. “And he spake a parable unto them to this end ... faint.” I am astonished when I find men and women, but especially men in responsible positions, and yet they do not offer a vocal prayer with the care and burdens that come upon them, they do not offer a vocal prayer, and my heart aches.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 6)
Last night I felt such a burden to think of souls that ought to stand under the responsibilities that they bear, seeking their counsel from God every day, morning, noon, and night,—they won’t get any too much.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 7)
“And he spake a parable unto them to this end ... not to faint.”Luke 18:1. Don’t you think we ought to see the many souls converted that we do not see today? If we could only see the interest with which heaven is looking upon the whole scene, we would see that those that are seeking to be righteous have special help. They will ask, and God says He will hear them and answer them. Now, just as many as will humble their hearts before God, and commit the keeping of their souls to God, may not realize at the moment all they would like to, but when they are in peril, Jesus delivers them, and He finds a way out for them. It is the praying souls that are under the special care of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 8)
Verses 2-5. “Saying, There was in a city a judge, ... she weary me.” Now he would be advantaged in that respect.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 9)
Verses 6-8. What a question. The faith will be so filled with objectionable traits that the Lord cannot do anything with them. But there is no need of it. We have a “Thus saith the Lord,” and we can take right hold of this “Thus saith the Lord.”
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 10)
Verses 9-14. “Abased.” Will we take that to heart? “And he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” Then let us humble ourselves so much that we learn our lessons of the great Teacher, and be so glad of the privilege of learning right out of this very book that I am speaking from.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 11)
Verse 15. The mothers had been gathering these children and preparing them for quite a little journey to go and find Christ, that they might receive the blessing that would help them to teach them that Christ had laid His hands upon them and blessed them, and it would be such a help. Therefore she wanted to go and her neighbors united with her, and they accompanied her, and they came with their children. “But when his disciples saw it, they rebuked them.”verse 16.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 12)
I have known little children that have come and asked that I would pray for them. Certainly I will, said I. Well, they never forgot it all their lives.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 13)
Verses 17-24. You see, there was a large crowd around Him, and He must give these lessons. They might assent to things that are good and righteous, but when it comes to the battle to deny self, it is a very hard thing for some.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 14)
Verses 25-27. He sees the intention. He sees the heart surrender, and as soon as He sees the heart surrender, then He gives the help; He gives the power of the overcomer, so that he shall not miss of heaven.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 15)
Verses 26-27. It is God that makes the impression. It is the Lord that impresses. Therefore, when the preaching is going on, we do not know how many hearts are being affected so that sermon will do them good afterward, but we must do our best to present before all the dangers, and the invitations, and the helpfulness that is offered to every one that enters into the strife to become an overcomer. Verses 26-27. He sees the earnestness, He knows the sincerity of every soul, and He places advantages in their way, that they can take hold of these advantages at a time when they need that help.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 16)
Verses 28-33. He held out hope that they might entertain, and it seems that they had almost all of them forgotten that.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 17)
Luke 18:34—19:5. Now here was one that could read and understand the great desires of the people, that they might know Him. Verses 6-9. O, what words of comfort and encouragement this was to those who heard it.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 18)
Verse 10. Will you remember the mission? That is His pass into our world. He left the royal courts, and by the will of His Father He came in our world as a little child. But did He leave His divinity behind Him? No, indeed. He took His divinity with Him. Humanity and divinity combined, to give the lesson to every human being upon the face of the earth that if they would in their humanity have faith in the divinity of Jesus Christ that humanity may overcome all the besetments of the evil that there is in the world, through grasping a living faith in the divinity of Jesus Christ. Thus they could be overcomers by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony. That is a great victory.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 19)
Verses 10-16. Thank the Lord for that testimony, because it is possible. It is possible for humanity to grasp divinity, and when humanity lays holds upon divinity, then the power that comes with that divinity will help every living soul out of their tempers, out of their disposition, out of their unbelief. God wants us to understand that it is a battle that we are in.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 20)
Verses 16-23, 24-37. They were repeating the good works of healing, they were repeating the raising of the dead, and they were repeating all the works that they could remind themselves of, and here a great blessing was coming from their lips. Verses 38, 39. Now the lesson: verse 40. Why? Prophecy must be fulfilled.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 21)
Verses 41-44. Their only hope was in Christ, but they would not receive Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 22)
Verses 45, 46. Robbery in all the offerings that were being presented, it was robbery that they were carrying out.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 23)
Verses 47, 48. Now we can understand that there is always a party that is continually working against the sacred truth that should be maintained. And unless we are wide awake, and see what a work is being done in our world, we shall find that we are overtaken, and that we have lost our chance of eternal life. Now you cannot afford it, not one of you. Self-denial is to be practiced by everyone that shall accept of Jesus Christ. Who was he? The Son of the living God. He laid aside His royal robe. He laid aside His royal crown, and He clothed His divinity with humanity, that humanity may grasp humanity, and that divinity might be grasped by humanity in the living faith of Jesus Christ, that He is their Saviour. We want every one of us to be in a position that we shall understand that we must work out our faith with fear and trembling.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 24)
There is a work to be done in our world. When I saw this city—I have seen it before, but a long time ago—but I felt just as I felt when I have seen the cities. When after my husband had finished his course, and through excessive labor he was borne to the grave, the last words that I caught from him—he could not articulate—Husband, shall I take a work in connection with our sons, shall I carry it on just as you and I have done, for the foreign countries, shall I do it? He nodded. Again I asked him, and he gave me the same motion.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 25)
Now I have taken that right up. I have taken it right up. When I could have my children with me to help me carry the work I was very glad. If not, then I would take it with an attendant that I have had that is with me now, and has been with me for the last thirty years to look after me, which she has done faithfully. Then I would enter the places, and I would speak to the people in Europe; I would speak to them in France; I would speak to them then when I went to Australia. There were battles to fight, I can assure you, and it is impossible to describe anything about it. But I want to say when the Lord sees that we are willing to work, He will give us the power to work. The Lord God of heaven is not unreasonable.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 26)
I thought I could not come on this journey. I thought it was an impossibility for me to leave St. Helena, and all my writings that I had to manage there. But when I came to the General Conference, there was a power from on high that came upon me, and I no more held my peace. There it was, before that immense crowd, coming from all parts of the world, and all nationalities, and God gave His message to me to bear to that large crowd of people. Ever since that time I have been at work. And before that my son said, You need go now only to just one place, and I went to fourteen before I got to the meeting.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 27)
Now, I want to say there are some that I was talking to, but not today. I want to tell you. I want to see the converting power, that every one that reads their Bibles may understand what day God has sanctified. When you read your Bibles on your bended knees, you will see that God has sanctified the seventh day, the Sabbath day, and He wants every one of us to be obedient. Now I tell you to search the Scriptures lest you be left out with those that have darkened their minds, and you cannot afford it. We want life, an eternal life that measures with the life of God. O I know that He will give to every one of you that seek it that blessed assurance that it shall be yours. If you will follow on to know the Lord, you shall know that His going forth is prepared as the morning.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 28)
Well, you know how the preparation of the morning is. We need not describe it. But I want to tell you there is a heaven to win and I want to know how many of you will make a decided movement for eternal life. I want to know how many will consider that our God calls upon them to make a decided movement, else He cannot help you. Who, I ask you, will be determined that you will give yourselves to Him?
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 29)
At every step I have felt that I had to exercise faith and go in feebleness, but when I stood before the people, I could talk to the people and my voice could reach any number. I want to tell you that there is a living God. He wants every soul to have a crown of immortality placed upon his brow. He wants to see His image in you. He wants to see you about His throne. He wants to place a crown of glory upon your brow. He wants to place a harp in your hand, and He wants to throw open the golden gates of the city of God, and welcome every one in that will show that they will keep His commandments here, that they will do His will here in this life.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 30)
It means something to us whether we are obedient or disobedient. I have more to say on this subject, but I want right here to ask you, Who of you will make a decided movement right here? Who will give themselves to the Bible? I do not ask you to believe anything that is not in that. I ask you to believe the Word of Jesus Christ who laid off His royal robe, who laid off His kingly crown, who clothed His divinity with humanity, and walked on foot to give His lessons to the people that would accumulate and accumulate. There they were, and He teaching them. They were hungry, and He knew it.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 31)
Now He says, This people are hungry, and they must have something to eat. Well, we have got nothing but a few loaves and fishes. How can they feed such a multitude? Well, here is a grassy spot, bid them sit down. And there they were seated on that beautiful grass ground, and then He broke up the food in small pieces, and passed them, through His disciples, to the multitude. Now they had enough, and He said, Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost. How much did they gather? Why, on one occasion it was seven baskets full, and on another occasion it was twelve. Here you can see what Christ can do for us. Why don’t we have more faith in Him? That is the question?
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 32)
There will be every sort of error started that will want to break up into parties, and all this, but we have to look to the Ruler. We have to look to Jesus Christ the mighty One. There is life, everlasting life in the kingdom of glory for the overcomer. What more could God offer to you? He will help you in all your wrestling, in all your trials; you can lay it right before Him. I have had to do so in my case on this journey, when it seemed to me I could not stand before the public. But as soon as I was upon my feet, there seemed to be a power upon me, that I could not keep my voice, it had to go to the people. And thus I worked all through that conference. The Lord was with me in that immense conference.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 33)
I have faith in God. I have faith in His Word, and I want every one that wants to have eternal life, I want you to believe in Jesus Christ, the One that can do all things for you. He can minister. He can teach. He can guide them into truth, and let us work for the Master.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 34)
Who is it will take up the work? I have it. I cannot let go of it. I shall work perhaps till I am taken right in the desk. I shall be 82 years old next November, and I want to say, I love Jesus. There is nothing too hard for me to do for the Master. I love Him, and I want to bring souls to Him, remembering that there was a time then that cup of agony was trembling in His hands just before His crucifixion. The idea of sin being upon Him, and separating Him from His Father, it was such that He felt He could not endure it, and the bloody sweat came from His brows, and moistened the sod of Gethsemane. And this is what my Saviour suffered, that humanity might grasp divinity, and that we through the power of divinity might be overcomers by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 35)
Who of you will accept of Christ, and give your life to Him as you never have done before? Who will search the Scriptures to see what is truth? Who will seek all the comfort and encouragement that Christ has given, and I have mentioned only a few items. Who will do so? Let them rise right up. (Congregation rises.) Thank God.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 36)
(Praying:) Heavenly Father, we come to Thee at this time, and present to Thee the covenant that has been made by this people, that they will seek the Lord with all their hearts, that they may find Him. Let Thy blessing come to this people, I pray Thee. Let Thy great grace be upon them. Sweep back every mist and every cloud of darkness, and let the sunlight of Thy glory into their souls, that they may keep this pledge that they have made to thee in standing upon their feet today.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 37)
Thou knowest the hearts of every one. Thou art acquainted with every sorrow. Thou knowest how to heal the broken-hearted. Thou knowest how to set the captives free from the power of Satan. Thou knowest just what to do to break every yoke, that they may seek the Lord, that the angels of God may go with those and accompany them when they shall leave this house. And Thou, heavenly Father, Thou canst give them force and power and healing of soul. Thou canst disappoint the enemy. Thou canst let Thy light shine into the chambers of the mind and into the soul temple. Thou canst take the afflicted ones. Thou canst heal them, and thou canst give peace and quietude to the disturbed minds.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 38)
I come to Thee, my Saviour, and I ask Thee that Thou wouldest give that help that humanity may recognize divinity through Jesus Christ and grasp that divinity, that they may work the good warfare, that they may press the battle to the gates, and the city of God, the gates be thrown back upon their glittering hinges, and the nations that have kept the truth shall enter in.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 39)
We want heaven. We want life, eternal life in the kingdom of glory. Let Thy blessing rest upon this people. Give comfort to the desponding. Lift up the hearts of the despairing, and may they see the Saviour in Jesus Christ, that humanity may grasp divinity, and that the glory of God may be revealed. A little nearer, Lord. A little nearer to this people. Comfort their hearts. Let them see where their hope is. It is to believe every word that has proceeded from the lips of Jesus Christ, and then be obedient to all His requirements.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 40)
O my Saviour, I praise Thee with heart and soul and voice. I thank Thee, my Saviour that thou canst impress these minds. Let them leave this meeting with the deep impression of the Holy Spirit of God. May they see such light in Thy light that they will not trample Thy commandments any more.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 41)
Jesus, we love Thee. We see in Thee matchless charms, and we want this people to come to a knowledge of the truth. We see the unconverted in the cities. We see that help must be given. We see that souls must take up the work, and O, glorify them, my blessed Jesus. Give them truth, the power of the truth in the heart, and may they seek to enlighten the minds that are in darkness, that they may be brought to rejoice in the triumphs of Thy cross, and Thy name shall have all the glory.
(24LtMs, Ms 123, 1909, 42)
Ms 124, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts on Isaiah 55 Buffalo, New York July 18, 1909 Previously unpublished.
Isaiah 55:1, 2-6. Will we listen to that? Will we take heed to it? Verse 7. What precious things there are in the Word, the Word of the living God.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 1)
Verses 8-13; Isaiah 56:1“Thus saith the Lord.” Now it is the Lord that is speaking to you; it is God that is speaking to you out of His Word. Verses 1-12.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 2)
But now there are some things that we need to understand in the Word of God. It is God speaking to us, and we want to avoid all the extreme, and we want in every way to take warning, that we shall not follow in the path of extremes.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 3)
We have here the 58th chapter:verses 1-3. Now let us bring all these things so that we shall fail in doing our part. It is our part we have now. Now here is the reason that they do not realize the special blessing of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 4)
Verses 4-6; verses 7-12 (Breach made in the law of God) verses 13, 14. Now it will be well for us to carry out the principles that are here brought to view. We have duties to do our part, and if we will verify the Word of God as He requires of us, we shall always find that the Lord will verify His promise to us shortly, and He will not fail. Now, we want that every one of us shall understand our duty. There is a work for us to go. Every one to whom God grants the breath of life from day to day, it becomes us to understand how to meet the will and the way of the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 5)
I came through the city of Buffalo a few days ago. And in every city I feel such an intensity for the souls there that have never had an opportunity to hear the truth as we present it from the Word. And when I know that soon there will come unexpectedly disasters as upon the city of Buffalo. Now I want to tell every one of you it is best for us to go to school. You say, How shall we go to school? Well, there are very many ways. You can establish schools among yourselves. You can provide for souls that need a word in season, and when you get ready to do this, just send to Sister White and tell her to send you some of her printed books, Christ’s Object Lessons, and various other books like Ministry of Healing. You want them in any school that you may establish.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 6)
Now, I come to tell you today that when you get ready and want assistance of the books that I have published, I dedicated them to the Lord. They are selling them for students to come to the sanitarium for knowledge in treating the sick. It is no haphazard work. And when the sick are treated, there is to be no sorrowful face that comes into the room. There is to be no scolding nor fretting that comes to their ears, but there is to be a life-giving power from heaven that is to use the one that shall give themselves to the work. We do not say that you have to give yourselves without having any wages, but wages should not stand in the way when you see that the sick and suffering cannot help themselves.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 7)
I have acted my part in the two books that I have given, and I am preparing again that I may make a donation of books, that I may make them for foreign countries, for east and west and north and south. I know that God expects this who gave me the knowledge in the simplest language. How old was I when the light began to come to me? I had been in despair, and the Spirit of God came upon me unexpectedly, and lifted me right up. My twin sister, we slept together. O, she would say, Ellen, you never will live if you do this. I would be up praying in the night, and pleading with God, for it seemed to me I should not live. I was an invalid.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 8)
You see, the difficulty was here: A stone was thrown that broke my nose. Everybody said I would die, but the very ones that pronounced that I should die have heard me, in the city of Portland, stand before the people years ago. Who is that, they said? Why, it is Ellen Harmon. Ellen Harmon, we thought could not live? I am surprised. I did not think she could live, but I can understand every word she says. And it is just as simple to be understood. Well, why did the Lord Jesus choose me? He wanted to go to somebody that could not understand a great many words so that they should have the very simplest words to communicate His will to those that needed it.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 9)
And when I have my workers around me strike off on the typewriter that which I write, and when I see a word they have put in there, that is not my word, some word that someone thinks will make it better, I put my pen right through it. Well, they say, What did you do that for? Because it is not my word. I give the very simplest language, that the little children can understand it. There was one came up to me when I was to speak in a certain place with about a dozen children around her and just about of her age, from ten to fifteen years old. “Mrs. White, are you going to speak this afternoon?”“I cannot speak,” said I, twice. “Well,” said she, “I have invited these girls here”—the tears were streaming down her face—“to come here and they could understand every word you said.”“Well,” said I, “tomorrow I will speak to you and to the children and to the grown people.”“Well,” said she, “we will have to wait. I guess I can get them all tomorrow.”
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 10)
Now we can see that the Lord talks to us out of His Word. And if we will take the Word of the Lord, there are not very many words the children cannot understand. There are some hard pronunciations, but I want to tell you that we need a great deal more of simplicity of godliness, then the sick that are in our midst will not get tired of our words. We need to speak to the sick and suffering in our institutions in the simplest language, and keep everything like annoyance out of our voice, and just try to help and bless the sick. Also, when we are in our households, or our Sabbath school. You look at the Bible. There are some very hard words of names, but they are in that section of the Bible that you do not need to present to the first students that you shall talk with.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 11)
Now what we need is to adapt ourselves to the situation. We want the light of God. We want the grace of God in our own hearts, and we want to communicate it to those that shall be in our presence. We want reformations to take place here in Buffalo. There should be souls seeking the Lord, that they may do just as is represented in Isaiah and that they should not spread sackcloth or ashes under them at all, expecting that is the way to seek the Lord. No, they can just do the essential work necessary to be done to bless the afflicted around us, and it will meet the requirements of God every day.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 12)
There you can come with your afflictions to the Lord, and He has helping hands everywhere. Whenever I see the children, I feel as though I wanted to present to them the little books, a great many little books. They could read them, and they could have knowledge of what the Lord will do for them.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 13)
Can’t we all be missionaries? Can’t every one that claims to be Christian take right hold understandingly and intelligently, and bring them so gently that they will know the will of God imparted to them? We have been in Loma Linda, seeking to bring the simplicity of truth before those patients that would come into the parlor to hear us speak. Then they came into another meeting to take that education, and they begin. Well, we must now order our schools so that they will understand the higher education. Of course that is what we want to do. But what was that? They must attach themselves to the world to get the world’s brand upon them, or else they could not understand the higher education. If God does not speak, if His Word is not enough higher education, what right have I to take and change in any way the Word of God?
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 14)
As He gives me messages to bear, I keep to the simplicity of godliness that every one may understand it. When I write I do the same. If I see one word in the preparation of my articles and coming from the typewriter—if I see a word there—I feel it my duty to put it out, and put my own word there. But it is very seldom that any word is changed. Now I will tell you this, because I want you to understand the simplicity of religion and true godliness. I want every one of you to be in a position that you can understand that the Lord is dealing with us as His children, and when I come to Him I come to Him as His child, and I believe that as my father would give me instruction, Jesus Christ would give me instruction, just what I need.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 15)
Now there has to be a great work done in Buffalo. Yes, there is. If every one will put his heart and shoulder to the wheel, we shall see a wonderful work done in simplicity, and that is what we want. We want the simplicity of true godliness, when you come into the sick room.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 16)
I remember how my son Willie used to be after his father had a paralytic shock. It seemed as though he could hardly live. He would go to the cars, O so sorry, but he would try to get a smile on his face, to go in to his father, and then he came in and spoke to him cheerfully, and not have a single expression of sorrow upon his face. I remember how many times he has gone through that process.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 17)
But I want to tell you, the simplicity of true godliness is to take the Word just as it reads, and when they talk of hitching us on to some parties for the higher education, it is a lower one. No, indeed. We want the simplicity of true godliness. We want that faith that works by love and purifies the soul. We want religion, pure and undefiled religion, while there is such a work and such a necessity. Let us every one of us seek to come close to the Word of simplicity of Jesus Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 18)
Only think of Him. The Father gave Him. The Father gave His Son to die for the sins of the world. And to think of the great sacrifice He made. O, what sacrifices are we willing to make to co-operate with God? Christ clothed His divinity with humanity, that humanity might grasp divinity in those who would see and understand His works.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 19)
And this higher grade, I learned what it was. They must have the insignia of the world pronounced upon them, or they have not the higher education. Well, now we have a large class to educate. We have a large company to educate in America, but not only here, we have the means that are being carried to all parts of the world, that they may bring souls. Now will they come to a knowledge of God’s commandments, of the truth as it is in Jesus Christ. Therefore we feel an intensity, a strong intensity in this matter, that we reach whenever we can. It is not to shut out any of the poor souls. When I see that children are so anxious to get the little books, I keep thinking when I get home I will have little books made and I will take them with me everywhere I go, and I will distribute them to the children.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 20)
We want the simplicity of true godliness. We want to lead our children along. We want to educate them how to know God. And just think of Christ going from place to place on foot, and multitudes following Him all along, till they are so weary and hungry, five thousand that are on His track besides women and children, without anything to eat. Well, what are they going to do? But Christ knows. So He leads them along until He sees they are hungry. “What have you got for them to eat?”“Well, we have only a few loaves, and a few fishes, and what are they among so many?”“Well, bring them along,” He says. So they brought them along, divided them, scattered them to the multitudes. Well, after that He said, “Are all fed?”“Yes.”“How many baskets full did you take up after?”“Now,” said Christ, “gather up the fragments, let nothing be lost.” [Mark 6:38; John 6:5-13; Matthew 16:9, 10.] Now there was a miracle acted out right before them.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 21)
If we had more of the simplicity of godliness, let me tell you we should see thousands of souls converted where we see a hundred. The Scripture has pointed out how it is to be. The night is coming and we must be prepared for it. Now, we want in our household to make one preparation. And what is that? To teach our household to love God to keep His commandments. And when you do that you have done the very work God would have you to do.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 22)
O, we want to see the children enjoying the sweet privilege that is theirs of reading the Word, the Word of life. They can do it when they are young. And no scolding, no fretting. Put it right out of the house. If your children are unruly, take them right away and talk with them, and tell them the sure result, that you cannot allow them to dishonor God, that they must have patience and kindness and goodness, and you just educate them in that way, and you will find that it takes but a few lessons for them to understand it is worship. It is not punishment for your behavior, but it is a word of praise and thanksgiving, and they hear at the altar of God that He is blessing their children. And the children listen to hear what words are spoken to the Creator in regard to them when they tell the Lord, “I thank Thee, O Lord, that thou hast kept my children from being impatient and fretful and wicked and all this.” Tell it to the Lord, and the Lord hears what you say. He sees that you are co-operating with Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 23)
What we want, if possible, is to get into this city. We want that the work should be done in your own church, and then your church be converted, and glorified that they can take up the work. It will not be to devote your whole time on the farm, and the whole time in seeing what you can produce to get rich. No. What are the greatest riches we can any of us have? Can you tell? The greatest riches that any one of us can have is to have the benefits of a life which measures with the life of God. And if you can get this blessing to your children, if you can get it to your families, then they can be with you when you come up to the gate of the city of God—Here am I and the children that Thou hast given me. This amusement outside of the family, this decorating the person, and all these things, they do not bring us any treasure in the heavenly courts. But when we find souls, bring them to Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 24)
I feel so intensely over this subject it seems as though I could hardly speak of it, it is so great. But I feel like speaking of it here to you today. Let every one of us make a pledge to our God that we will take our children and establish schools, keeping in view the higher education. God will bless them if we educate them, then go on to learn more and more and more until the children stand by your side as missionaries to enter into new fields with you. There is a world to save, and what are you doing to bring it about?
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 25)
My son said to me when I left home, Now Mother, I will not ask you but just to go to College View. You just stop off at College View, and then you go to Washington. We want you to speak there, and we can’t let you off there. Well, he agreed that he would not ask me, but he did not need to. As I would go to visit our schools, why I would see the necessities in the highways and the hedges.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 26)
I rode six miles and back again in one day after I had spoken in Madison down there. “Now,” I asked them, “What are you doing there?” There they were at work, but what are you doing? “Why, this little farm we are apportioning it to our children. It is good for nothing, but we are going to get the poison of tobacco out of it if we can”—it had raised tobacco until it could not raise anything—“and then we portion it to our children. And they go out into the highways, and they go off into the mountains, and the hedges, and they go to teach those that have no clothing, that they can go to the schools.”“Well, I am with you,” said I. “I will help you to all the books that you need. That shall be my donation, and I want that you call in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth that you should teach them the simplicity of true godliness.”“That is what we are trying to do.”“Well, thank the Lord,” said I. “I will give you books, but I entreat of you not to neglect the simplest ones in the highways and the hedges.”
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 27)
We haven’t a dollar to waste upon our own bodies, tobacco or wine or liquor, or any of these things, we haven’t a dollar to waste. There is something for us to do in this world. There are souls perishing all around us that do not know any other way than to amuse themselves by drinking wine, and playing ball, and doing other things that they have no business to do. We are to be a people intensely interested in the souls that are to be saved. There is not a soul that we can pass by indifferently. It is heaven that we are after. May the Lord God of heaven help us that we may follow in the footsteps of our Redeemer.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 28)
(Early experience related.) (Rheumatism experience in Australia related.)
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 29)
Now I know that my Redeemer liveth. I know that it is my privilege to take hold of divinity.
(24LtMs, Ms 124, 1909, 30)
Ms 125, 1909
Sermon/Sabbath sermon by Mrs. E. G. White. Three Rivers, Michigan July 24, 1909 Previously unpublished.
Genesis 2:1-3. Now that is some of the evidence that is given to us, which is carried on through the Word of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 1)
Exodus 17:1-4. You can understand that it is no light responsibility that was resting upon the leaders of this occasion to carry out the purpose of God to establish them in a land where they would have plenty—God’s own land, where they would not have lack of food, and where they could educate themselves to follow on to know the Lord, that they might know His going forth is prepared as the morning.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 2)
Verses 4-6. “in Horeb.” Now you see the assurance that they had that there was a leader, and that Leader was in the cloud right before them, to understand all their necessities, and to provide for them, but they were tempted whenever there was any inconvenience.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 3)
Verse 5. That river where their enemies are tempted to pass and the water was permitted to overflow the Egyptians and they perished.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 4)
Verses 6, 7. Now can we understand what that temptation meant? Why, here they murmured at the Lord. They have seen that when Pharaoh had followed after them to pursue them, that He made a dry path through the water for them to pass over. When Pharaoh with his hosts attempted to pass over, and as they were in the midst of the sea and those that had come on the dry land were standing upon the height where the waters ceased to flow, then they could exalt God. But when their enemies followed hard after them, it looked as though they might overtake them, but soon the water was commanded to go forth into its natural course, and the whole army of Pharaoh was destroyed.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 5)
Now we would think that such a manifestation as that would forever settle their faith that God was leading them. And He would have all of us walk and work in such a way that God could be our guide, that God could direct, that God could carry us through difficulties, that we should rejoice in the name of the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 6)
Verses 8-11. The children of Israel were given a positive evidence who was guiding them, that it was no haphazard chance they were taking, but they must look up to their God, who was in the pillar of cloud that was guiding them, and hear what they were to do themselves. They were to exercise that faith that their armies must reach up their hands unto heaven and trust in the living God if they expected to be led and if they expected to be guided. If they expected to be translated that they must look unto God.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 7)
Just so it is with us. He wants every one of these lessons to come home to us, that we may understand that we are not kept by our own power, but that we have a mighty Leader. And here was a Leader commissioned to carry them all through that desert. Who was the leader? None else than Jesus Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 8)
Verses 12-14. It is for our benefit, every one of us. It was not merely for that time, but it was to let you know, every one of you that our help must come from God, and that we must trust in the living God, and serve Him according to His directions if we expect to overcome our enemies and to obtain the victory.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 9)
Verse 14. It is written for something, it is written for you, for me, and for all that have any desire to do the will of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 10)
Verse 14. “Joshua.” After Moses had fulfilled his work, Joshua takes his position.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 11)
Verses 14-16. Because they were determined to have their own way.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 12)
I want to dwell on the subject that I am on now, because some may ask, Why are you keeping the seventh day, when nearly all the world are keeping Sunday? Now we are going to tell you. There was a positive command of God that we should keep the Sabbath day holy.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 13)
Exodus 17:1. Now here was one instance, and there were continual instances, of the working of God to let them see that God was working in their behalf.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 14)
Exodus 15. We need to know how the Lord led the children of Israel. And one point I had passed over, and that was their going to the sea, and the parting of the sea, and the deliverance they had, and then what did they do? Exodus 15:1-6. “Right hand.” Here is where the glory is given.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 15)
Verses 6-9. And so it goes on their song. Now they came to a point. Exodus 16:1-3. “Flesh.” There is the great trouble. “When we did eat bread to the full” ... verse 6. Now He condescends to give them the bread of heaven, that they should eat to stop all their murmuring. If it was angels’ food, it was the best food that possibly could be given to them.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 16)
Verse 5. Why? Here was the Sabbath; they must keep the Sabbath.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 17)
Exodus 17:1. We might think that they would learn after a while to be patient, and to believe and to trust in the Lord with all their heart and mind.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 19)
Verses 2, 3. That is just the history that they were to carry out. I have read the last part of this to you. Now I want to go on to Exodus 19:1-8. Some of us pledge ourselves, but when we come into a hard place, how many of us stand the proving? How many begin to murmur, how many begin to complain, how many commence to fret against the Lord? Wouldn’t it be better when we come into these perplexities to get down in simplicity upon our knees and ask the Lord God of Israel to give us the water that He had given us to show His great kindness still to us? The Lord would have been pleased with that.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 20)
Verses 8, 9. You see that the Lord calculates that they would believe in the Lord forever. Verse 9 last part, verses 10-14. The Lord is pleased with cleanliness always.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 21)
Verses 15-19. There is God talking with the people through Moses. Verses 20-25; Exodus 20:1. He wants all of us to understand what He was telling them.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 22)
Verses 2, 3. They were in the habit of having gods, a good many things that they ought to have had.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 23)
Verses 4-6. There is the pledge God has made for every living soul upon the face of the earth.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 24)
Verses 7, 8. Remember, now here is what He wants you to remember, the Sabbath day to keep it holy. Verses 9, 10. Here is the reason. Verse 11. Now He gives them the commandments—you know what they are.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 25)
Verse 12. That throws a responsibility upon the father and the mother. Just as surely as you educate your children to obey the commandments of God, to honor their father and their mother, and just as surely as you do that, you will not have very much scolding to do. You can tell them what the Bible says, just what God says, to them, and then lay the responsibility upon them, and yourselves. The parents and the children to see that that responsibility is really a pledge to these children all their lifetime.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 26)
Verses 13, 14-20. You are to obey the words of the Lord, and teach them to your children that they may teach them to their children.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 27)
Verses 21-23. O, if every one could remember that there need not be sinners, coveting, murdering, doing everything possible to obtain money. Money is not everything. It is something. We want it, and what do we want it for? Just what we have been doing with it. We want it to send our missionaries to foreign countries. We want it to provide the education that is essential in this part of our world, that we may give them a fitness to go into the foreign countries, and there learn the languages.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 28)
I was introduced at our General Conference to a large party that wished to see Mrs. White, as they had read her writings, and they were noble men; they were missionaries in their own country, some could not speak our language at all, and some could.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 29)
Verses 20-22. And the Lord will talk with us from heaven in a great many ways if we will cultivate the grace of humility, if we will practice it in all our dealing in our churches and out of our churches.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 30)
We are just now in a strait place. Here is Portland, where I was brought up. I was born in Gorham, twelve miles from Portland, and I have spoken to the people there, and I wish you could know how the power of God rested down on Sunday and a congregation fully as large as this congregation. The power of God rested upon me as I spoke to the people, and then I begged of them if they would do service for God, according to His Word, would they rise upon their feet. Well, it seemed the whole congregation was upon their feet, and my heart was all broken up. I bowed right down with them, and I pled with God. I lay right hold of the arm of the Infinite One, and I begged of Him to prepare a place where the people that would keep His Sabbath could live, and that they could do good to all the places that were in Portland, and that was only in one section. This was the place that we heard the message of 1843, in 1841, 1842, 1843. There is where the Lord has put His spirit upon me, and gave me a message to bear to the people. I said I could not do it. And I went into despair, and was in despair for months, but no minister could help me, no one could help me.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 31)
I consented to go with my mother to a little prayer meeting, to please her. I knelt on my knees, and my mouth was opened. No sooner did I begin to speak than the power of God gave voice that reached a mile, and there I dedicated myself to God. There was my uncle a backslider. O, said he, I cannot live in this house; I must get out of it. I know what that is. I have had it. I have passed through that experience of loving and serving God, but I am a backslider, and do get her out of the house. Well, said they, We cannot get her out of the house, she is helpless there. He could not get her out of the house. He the Lord meant that he should have heard that voice; the Lord meant that he should hear it. I do not know what use he made of it, but I want to tell you that from that day the cloud burst.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 32)
I was only a child, a little over twelve years old, when this victory came to me, and O, I have held it with a grip that never would let it go. I went from house to house, and I did not go to greet the people. I went right to my companions, and I talked with them all night long, and I would pray with them until they gave their hearts to God, and thus I went from street to street and house to house, and worked in my childhood, and I have worked ever since.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 33)
Now, here is what the Lord has spoken. Verses 18-23. How many are mocking their God, and selling their souls for gold and for silver, when there is an eternity of bliss that is presented to them if they will keep His commandments? He shows them there is some importance to keeping His commandments. It is verity and truth that He wants them to keep. Why? That they may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world through lust. How? He gave His only begotten Son to come to our world. Why? That humanity might have the example of sinless humanity. That it might grasp the divinity in Christ Jesus, and every sinner that could come to God through Christ, and believe His arm would encircle them to care for them, to protect them.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 34)
They will have trials and difficulties, but they have got a helper I have had trials and have had difficulties all the way along, but it only drove me close to my Saviour. I never thought of divorcing myself from God in order that I might relieve myself of difficulties.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 35)
Verse 22. I think of this when I go into houses in different places, and I see all the things that are created there for sightseeing, and to amuse, and to enrich this home and that home and the other home, when there are souls perishing in our cities; and I lie awake nights. I cannot sleep many nights. I lie awake crying unto God. What will bring them out that they will, every one, heed the word of the Lord? It means everything to you and to me, that they follow on to know the Lord, that they may know His going forth is prepared as the morning.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 36)
Verses 24, 25. Here we have lessons that are given unto us, and I want to still go on and give the evidence.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 37)
Exodus 31:12-15. Whosoever doeth any work on the Sabbath day, where they do it in the face of all the light.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 38)
Verses 16-18. Now we have the history of Israel. You just read it out of the Book.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 39)
Those that committed idolatry when Moses was listening to the words of God there, not eating or drinking, but there he was for forty days and forty nights, and when he came down to them they were worshiping a calf. They had made a calf of gold and were worshiping that golden calf. Now here is the evidence that I have presented.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 40)
Exodus 35:1. Here was Moses who had been forty days and forty nights. But when he came down from the mount there Israel was worshiping the calf. Well, he gave them the privilege. He does not say, every one that will come out on my side, but every one that will come out on the Lord’s side, let them manifest this, and take their position right with the Lord on the Lord’s side. Well, those that did yield lives were preserved, and those that did not, they lost their lives. Thus the Lord tests His people.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 41)
Now I want to say to every one of us that are here that God’s commandments mean something, and He wants every one of us to search the Scriptures. He has given us the Bible and He wants us to have the humility, that meekness, so that we will bow to the Lord’s will. If we will not bow to His will here, we would not bow to His will if we were in heaven. No. He wants us to manifest whether He can trust us in the heavenly courts. He wants every soul saved. He wants every one of us that should be obedient to show our obedience. He wants missionaries, and we will talk of that at some other time, but He wants missionaries to go in every city, and He wants those that have the light of truth to proclaim that truth wherever they are. He wants it. He wants you.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 42)
He wants you, men and women, to come to the Lord, to seek Him with all the heart and mind. I had the proof. The Lord help us every one to be converted. Seek the Lord while He may be found. Call ye upon Him while He is near. Search your Bible and know what God saith, and then when you hear what God saith, you take that right up and do it. Do not ask anybody around you. You are amenable to God, and every soul in us is, and I ask you in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth that you would for Christ’s sake make your peace with God and be obedient. When He says the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God, He has never retracted it. It is that very day. You will find it all through the Scriptures, from the commencement to the close in various places, when He tells them about the Sabbath.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 43)
Now, that Sabbath will sanctify us if we keep it holy. And we want to show the distinction from the world. We want to show that we are obedient children. We want to keep the law of God, and we want to come in unity with heaven, and we want every one to come in unity with God. Do not trifle with the time and the invitations that you may have here to make thorough work for eternity. Come to the meetings and hear what we have to say of the truth, the precious truth of God, then humble your heart before God, and let that heart be softened, to melt under the movings of the Spirit of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 44)
Christ gave His life in order that He might bring every son and daughter of Adam, that He might bring them to the truth. And therefore it is of some consequence to you when God gives His only begotten Son to our world that this world might be brought back to God by their obedience. He came in humanity that humanity might touch humanity, and that divinity might grasp divinity by that living faith that God will acknowledge you as His children, and a crown of immortal glory is prepared to be placed upon the head of every soul that will be obedient.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 45)
Do you wonder then that, although I am nearly 82 years old, I want to tell you that there is a heaven to win, and that is the reason I have consented to come on this journey to speak to the crowds in Washington, and to speak to the people wherever I have been in camp meetings or in any gatherings, and invite them to come.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 46)
Come to Christ, and do not let any one wait until it is too late. Take the Word of God and search it diligently. May the Lord help you to do this! Who will testify today that they will follow on to know the Lord, that they will search the Scriptures, that they will know what truth is, and not harbor error, and then come to a point where it is too late? Too late! They see no light in it, but we want you to be enlightened. Will you come to the Lord? God grant that you may. How many will stand up today and say they will seek the Lord? Whoever will, stand up. (Nearly all rise.) Thank the Lord. I take your pledge. Thank the Lord. I believe that you mean just what you say. Let us pray.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 47)
(Praying:) Heavenly Father, we come to thee on this occasion, just as we are, in our feebleness we have tried to speak words to the people. But we cannot impress the heart, that is Thy work. I have done what I could in an imperfect way to present the Scripture a little here and there, but we ask Thee Lord to give them a heart to search diligently to know what is truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 48)
We thank Thee, heavenly Father for all Thy mercies, for all Thy blessings, that Thou hast not left us in foolishness and ignorance, but that Thou hast prepared Thy Word, which is truth, to show us what is true, to show us what is light, and let Thy Holy Spirit move upon human hearts. This is Thy part of the work. I have spoken in imperfection to Thy people, and now I ask Thee, heavenly Father, that Thou wouldest impress the human minds, and that Thou wouldest let Thy light shine into the chambers of the mind and into the soul temple, and that they may see that God has given His only begotten Son, and He died a death of shame and agony, and He was the only begotten of the Father.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 49)
And I ask Thee, heavenly Father, to help them to grasp the merits of the crucified and risen Saviour, who proclaimed over the rent sepulcher, I am the resurrection and the life. O, my heavenly Father, dispel the clouds that have gathered over the communities and the churches, and let Thine own Word come in to be magnified, come in to be exalted, come in to be obeyed, because these are the terms of their salvation, to keep the commandments of God and live, and His law as the apple of the eye. I ask Thee, Lord, to bless this people, and I ask Thee that Thy light may shine into every human mind. Lord, bless them today. Let Thy grace be given. Let Thy love come into the heart.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 50)
We thank Thee, we thank Thee for this expression that we have had here today, and we believe that they mean it. And now, Lord, encircle us in the arms of Thy divine mercy, and clear the way that these souls may find their Saviour and may rejoice in Thy love, Thy pardoning love, Thy grace, Thy great power to save. We put them into Thy hands, and we ask Thee, Lord, that Thy will may be accomplished, that souls may be saved. Thou lovest them. Thou hast given them every evidence in giving Thine only begotten Son to a shameful death to make a way that these souls shall be sanctified unto God. Now, Lord, we are Thine, to do Thy will during this meeting. I ask Thee, Lord, that angels may be in this encampment, and may move upon the hearts of those that are here.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 51)
Thou, Jesus, that shed Thy blood for humanity, Thou knowest what suffering means. I ask Thee that Thou wouldest in Thy divine mercy break these hearts into softness, and may love be expressed in their works, that God may harmonize with them, and give them that needed grace whereby they can overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony. We want their souls. Thou dost want their souls. We commit them all to Thee, and ask Thee, Lord, to work through this meeting, and Thy name shall have all the glory.
(24LtMs, Ms 125, 1909, 52)
Ms 126, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts from Isaiah Three Rivers, Michigan July 25, 1909 Previously unpublished.
Isaiah 52:1-8. Well, that is just where the Lord wants us to be, seeing eye to eye. He wants that every soul shall come into harmony.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 1)
Verses 9, 10. Now this is prophecy; we may look for it, and we should be joyful that the Lord will make the impression on the human minds and human hearts, so that His people in these last days shall fulfill this prophecy.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 2)
Verses 11, 12. Praise His holy name that He gives us such comforting promises. Thank the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, praise His holy name, for the encouragement that He gives to His people that will press in the pathway of truth and righteousness.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 3)
Verses 13-15. “Many nations.” Now, remember that. This requires missionary work. This requires that not any pennies shall needlessly be expended. Why? Because the Lord has a place for all your means, that souls may be converted, as is here represented.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 4)
Verse 14. “Visage” Whose visage? The Lord Jesus Christ. Verse 15. “Many nations.” Just consider that. Why, there are right among us cities that need labor, earnest labor, and if they had it, they would come to the knowledge of the truth. Verse 15.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 5)
Isaiah 53:1, 2. Well, why was that? Well, everybody that thought they had a message to bear did not exalt themselves, they let God exalt them. Verse 3. Now that is the picture that is represented of Jesus Christ. There were some that esteemed Him. There were those that were lame and sick and suffering, and they beheld Him wherever they could get a chance to do it. They followed the Saviour, and they heard His teachings, as He would be walking, and teaching as He walked, until there was as many as four or five of more thousand that were His hearers. That was the way of the Lord that He is presenting before us.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 6)
Verse 4. I wonder if that is the opinion that we shall give to other people as we do a similar work. But there has been such work done in many places so that they understand the value of the truths which they represent in the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 7)
Verse 5. For the transgression of the very ones that despised and rejected Him. Verses 5, 6. That is too true. “And the Lord hath laid on him ... mouth.”—verse 7. None of His followers understood the intensity of the subject that He was dealing with, to save the souls of mankind. (Finish verse.)
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 8)
Verse 8. “Generation?” Every one of us are to respond, “We will declare it. We will do the work. We will advocate that Christ left the royal courts of heaven, that Christ came to our earth in humanity so that humanity might embrace humanity, and that divinity might lay hold of divinity, and therefore here was what Christ did when He came to our world, and He was so little esteemed.”
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 9)
Verse 8. “His generation.” I wonder how many, if I should ask them today, were declaring His generation—if I should ask them to stand upon their feet, who were declaring His generation. Now this is addressed to every one of us. We have got a solemn responsibility resting upon us, because 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.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 10)
Verse 8. His generation. Every one of us might answer, We will declare His generation, we will declare His work, we will tell what God has done in order to save us so that Christ shall not have died for us in vain.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 11)
Verse 8. Finished. Now consider that for the transgression of my people was He stricken. Verses 9, 10. Thank God for this. Verses 10-12. Now here is the wonderful, wonderful work of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 12)
Isaiah 54:1, 2. What does that mean? You are not to hover around a little church or a larger church. Every soul is bound to become a missionary for those that are around them, and then they will be educated in doing a similar work, to do a larger work, and when the call is made for the missionaries to go forth into foreign countries, we can respond to it. What we want is that every church should be in a position where they will be laborers together—remember the together, don’t separate from God—laborers together with God.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 13)
Verses 4-10. Now as you seek for mercy, it is in doing the very work that He has laid out for you to do in this world. It is not for you to do nothing, and yet the blessing of God rest upon you, but it is to take right hold of the Word of God and encouragement that He has given, and try to wrench souls here from Satan’s grasp.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 14)
Verse 11. Just as soon as they meet the conditions that God has given them.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 15)
Verse 12. This is a representation of the spiritual work that will go forward in our world.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 16)
Verses 13-17; Isaiah 55:1. You see there are conditions. You are to hunger and thirst for righteousness. Put away everything like foolishness that will distract your attention so that your grasp may be on the world. Teach your children the way of the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 17)
Verses 1, 2. You need not look after the indulgences that the world gives. God calls that we shall go a work for Him, that the impression of the Spirit of God may be made upon all with whom we associate.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 18)
Verses 3-5. It is not to sit down in your churches, and hear the minister teaching Sabbath after Sabbath, and working all the time, and you doing nothing. Every one of you are to be ministers of righteousness.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 19)
Verse 5. Now you see what God proposes to do. Verse 6. What more can you ask for, if you will comply with the conditions?
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 20)
Verses 8-13. Now here are other chapters that I will not attempt to bring out now. I want to come right to the fifty-eighth chapter.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 21)
Isaiah 58:1, 2. “Daily.” They make a profession, not in works, but in profession.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 22)
Verses 2, 3. Now bear in mind you are doing no unselfish work. You are exacting labor that is done in the churches that should be missionary work.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 23)
Verses 4-11. Suppose the churches were in this condition, O suppose it, suppose it. I have thought of it again and again.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 24)
Verse 8. “Spring forth speedily.” God cares for the workers. They sometimes work too hard, and are placed in hard places, because the rest of you do not do your duty. But when you come right up in the last stage of this earth’s history, as we are in now, and do your work for God, you are laying up for yourself a crown in the heavenly courts.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 25)
Verse 8. “Righteousness goes before, and the health springs forth speedily.”Verse 9. “Answer.” There is no silence then. Verse 9. There is lots of it that is done, and it discourages the workers.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 26)
Verses 10-14. Now we can see there is something for us to do. Every intelligent human being, God has created you. And He has given you all this encouragement that I have been reading to you. Now if you will follow on to know the Lord, ye shall know His going forth is prepared as the morning. We have so few conversions from the world because we do not follow out the directions of God. We want now to come to time. It is too late now in this period of this earth’s history, it is too late now for us to study how we shall get the most money, and what business we shall be in, that we shall not have any reproach from the world. It is to follow the Bible.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 27)
And when I have been talking to our schools, that we must have them in various places, and then some one will bring out the idea in a paper or some place, then when they get through with their education in a school, they can attach themselves to the world to get the higher education. Now that is just the policy, to get the higher education. Where, I ask you, is a higher education than what I have been reading to you? It is a reproach to the Word of the living God to say that thing, and yet they send it to me in letters over and over again. Here we can have our large schools, and then those that are going to stand in sanitariums and different places, why we are going to have sanitariums right where our schools are. We are going to have educational means to bring every school to understand what they need for their bodies, and how to live, and how to eat, and how to exercise, not to sit down pouring over books. That won’t answer. No. Every muscle must be put into action. That is the light that God gave me when He sent us out to Europe and Australia. Here we had to bring it in, especially in Australia. There was scarcely anything there, but we began to work and dig.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 28)
Wherever we have a school, there is to be the using of the muscles, just as much as to use your brain. We have buried some of our best students before their education was completed. God does not want us to lose our senses, but to reason from cause to effect.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 29)
There is a world to save, and we want that every one of us shall be missionaries, every one that can go out into our cities. There is work that we can give you to do. We are getting publications all the time. I am writing while many of you are sleeping. I am getting off the light that God has given me, putting it into books, and telling and giving advise and counsel, and I want that every soul that is here should take knowledge that there is a living God, and that He expects you to be sensible men and women. He expects you not to overdo in your housework, but make it so simple that you can carry it on, and your children can carry it on with you, and then that they can go to the school, and you can do your work, and all blend together, and they are kept out of the outside society, out of the foolishness and all the nothingness, and keep before them that there is a heaven to win and a hell to shun.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 30)
Now here are the prayers that we make in our houses and in our schools. There are praying seasons, and then there are meetings where they bear their testimonies, the children and the older ones altogether, and they learn splendidly how to be Christians.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 31)
I cannot talk with you any longer now, but I just give you that hint, that there is something to do besides sending your children away from you. You can establish schools where you are, and if you are a Christian you can work in these schools and obtain the confidence of the scholars and of the teachers. We want the converting power of God on the right hand and we want it on the left hand, and we want to see something doing in every place to prepare for the coming of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 32)
Do you know that when you follow God’s plan He lets His blessing rest upon those that do it? We want every one to come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty powers of darkness. We want His light to shine upon us, and He will let it shine if we will let it.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 33)
Pray, and then believe that God answers your prayer, and the light of heaven will circulate in your home. Fathers, have patience with your children, and mothers, never speak a word that will discourage them, but tell them you want them to be fitted, for what? The higher school above, where Christ leads them by the side of the living waters, and the Scriptures that you do not understand, He is opening the Word to you while He leads you to the tree of life, and leads you in the heavenly courts. We want you to teach your children that they are to be transferred to the higher school above, and keep that before them, to meet with God, to be taught of God, and Christ leads by the living waters, and there He opens the difficult portions that you could not understand of the Scriptures.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 34)
Let us all labor for that life which measures with the life of God. That is what we want, a heaven to win, and we shall meet together there in the heavenly courts. God grant that this little talk that I have had with you shall not fall upon barren ground. God grant that we may come up to the help of the Lord. Be kind, and speak together kindly. Remember that we are each bought with a price, even the precious blood of the Son of God. The Son of the living God was given for you. Shall He have died for you and me in vain? God forbid it.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 35)
Teach it to your children that they shall become understanding in the religion of Jesus Christ in their youth. The Lord will help you, and angels will be round about you to impress the light that you shall give to your children in meekness and in prayer, and by faith in God, you will see His salvation.
(24LtMs, Ms 126, 1909, 36)
Ms 127, 1909
Sermon/Reaching the Cities Three Rivers, Michigan July 27, 1909 Previously unpublished.
Revelation 22:1-4. “They shall see his face.” You know the word was spoken to one that was anxious to see His face, to Moses, that no one could see His face and live, but you see here the circumstances have changed. “They shall see his face,” it is when they shall have a place in the city of God. “And his name shall be in their foreheads.” [Verse 4.] Verses 5-17.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 1)
Now, we want that all should understand that we have a message to bear. It does not merely rest upon the ministers. We have a work to do, every one of us. It is not merely to feel that after you have been at the meeting that then that your work is done. There is a world to be saved, and we want every soul to understand that those that have the light are to communicate the light. They are not to hide it under a bushel, but they are to communicate it. “Let your light so shine before men ... good works.” [Matthew 5:16.]
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 2)
Now if they see your good works, and they will in the course that Christ has marked out, they will take knowledge of you, that you have been with Jesus. Now I want to just talk a short time, and I want you to understand that there is a sacred responsibility that rests upon every soul of us, to follow on to know the Lord that we may know His going forth is prepared as the morning.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 3)
We have got light. If we are following on to know the Lord, we have light, we have evidence, we have truth, and that truth is to be justified to the world. And if we remain right in our houses and do but follow on to know the Lord, and do not feel any particular influence to lose and to inspire us to go out to communicate the light that we know to others, then we need converting, because our light is to be communicated. It comes from the highest source, and we see light in Christ Jesus, and we must follow on to know the light. There is a heaven to win, and a hell to shun.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 4)
I want to say just a few words this morning, and then we will leave the meeting to you. I want to say that it is time for us that we were placing ourselves in right relation to God. Now, if you have the knowledge of the truth, then communicate it. If you have not, seek that knowledge that you may communicate it. The light is to shine forth to the world in clear, distinct rays, and if your souls are converted, whoever you are, you cannot hide your light under a bushel, but let your light shine before men that they by seeing your good works may glorify your Father which is in heaven.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 5)
Now here is a message that we cannot turn from, that is in the Word, that they are to go forth to all nations. The light that they have is to be communicated. It is a light for the salvation of souls, and we are to impart that light. There is a world to be saved.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 6)
I am sorry that we do not have a whole congregation. I want to speak to a whole congregation. I want them to know what God requires of every one of them, whether they are Sabbathkeepers or not Sabbathkeepers. There is a heaven to win, and I want to tell you that we want that evidence in ourselves that we cannot keep the light to ourselves, that we must impart it to those that are around us.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 7)
Then how shall we do it? We are to improve every opportunity that we can to get the light distinctly before others. There is not to be a using of the means that you have, because it is in your possession and in your hands, as though you had created these means, as though they were yours. God has put them into the hands of His servants that they may use these means to glorify His holy name. There is a world to be saved. And when I see those large cities, like Buffalo, like Portland, Maine—I have spoken in these two cities so that the little portion of the city was met. And yet the Spirit of God came in great power upon me in giving the message to these few. And I want you every one to have the impression of the Spirit of God, that you have a saving faith, and that this truth must be communicated to all the people possible. There is nothing I have to say but that I want the whole world, if I could get at them to say it to them. I want to tell them! O what a great work there is before us! I want it to be known that we are every one of us to do everything that we can to communicate the light, to open the door to those that are in darkness. And that is just what I wanted to say to the whole congregation. I wanted to tell them just what we have to do, that we have the most sacred work to do, for Christ is coming.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 8)
And we want all the means that are possible, that we may use it intelligently. And remember how Christ worked, walking on foot from place to place, from city to city, and the crowd following Him until there came to be five thousand persons besides women and children, and they had nothing to eat. Well, then what? Tell them to sit down, He said. And they sat down, and He fed them.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 9)
Now we want to be in a position to enter every place possible. If I did not feel the responsibility, I would not at my age be traveling from city to city, and speaking the words at camp meetings and tent meetings, but it is because I know that our people are not half awake. And we want to be in that very position that we shall understand there is a world to be saved. Now, we can have the communication from our heavenly Father, and we can seek light from Him, and we can carry light into the darkest chambers wherever we may be.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 10)
That is what we had to do in Australia. That is what we had to do in the countries where we have traveled. It is to go to them under the most disagreeable circumstances that you can imagine, to stand before the people, while the walls all around were reeking with wet, and running down. There I stood to proclaim the truth, few or many, however it was.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 11)
Now, we want to have the spirit of communication. And we want that all should lift every ounce that is possible to be lifted, in order to get the message before the people.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 12)
We are not all of us a rich company. We are in moderate circumstances. And so they were in the apostles’ times. They had to gather in places where it was possible for them to create an interest in order to help the distant fields who were believing and yet they had no means to advance the work at all.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 13)
The Lord wants us to be thoroughly converted, and stay converted. And it is for us to consider that there is a world to save. There are only just a few places that are entered. Who is communicating to let the message go forth to the people that they shall be warned? I woke up this morning, after resting a few hours, and I could not sleep any more. My mind was traveling, traveling. How can we arouse the people? It is by coming right into close connection with Jesus Christ, holding fast to seek Him with all the heart, that we may find Him. That is the very work. And don’t you let go. Hold right on. There is a world to save, and we want a clear understanding that we may carry the truth to believers and unbelievers, and stir up the minds of the people to meet their God. Now whatever work there is to be done in this line, it never ends. There is no end to it. Just as long as we are on the face of this earth, and there are mortals unwarned every soul of you has a work.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 14)
O, you can reach them if you are under the influence of the Holy Spirit of God, that the souls that are perishing in their sins may be converted and turn unto the light with full purpose of heart. And you will not have to go alone. There are those that will accompany you. There are those that you can speak to and urge to take hold of the work with you in our cities, anywhere and everywhere, and when you begin to do it, you will feel your need of a higher power. But when you shut yourselves up within yourselves, and leave the cities as they have been left!
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 15)
The great cities are to be worked, and they are kept before me day and night. I am speaking to the crowds day and night, whether I am asleep or awake. There are matters that I am giving to the people, to prepare, for He that is to come will come, and will not tarry. And we are unready. Now, let every one lay by him in store of such as God has trusted him with, and let them be ready so that when they can arouse the people, they will not have already laid out everything that they have for things that are unnecessary. We will try to deny ourselves. We will try to follow on to know the Lord, that we may know His going forth is prepared as the morning. And He says, Let you light so shine before men that they by seeing your good works shall glorify your Father which is in heaven.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 16)
Well, how do you expect to enter the cities? That is the question I have asked of our brethren? Do you expect that those that have means in the city are going to come to you and say, Won’t you come and preach to us, when they do not know what the truth is, and we will try to arouse the people. You have to break right in and appoint your meetings, as we used to, anywhere we could get into the cities. And then an interest will be created, and the Spirit of the Lord will just as surely come into these meetings, and we shall see of the salvation of our God.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 17)
We want light, precious light from the Scriptures, and we want to act it, and we want to teach it, and we want to act in that simplicity so that they will understand it. We want to know where our feet are tending. We want to know whether persons will come right up to us and ask us, Why didn’t you warn us? Why did you leave us to be in darkness? Why didn’t you tell us that this thing was to be?
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 18)
Well, the Lord requires us to do this very work, and will we do it? Will we take right hold earnestly to do the very work that God would have us to do, missionary work, anywhere, everywhere?
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 19)
I went into a large city, houses made of brick, and here were whole streets that were all houses, and there was no place to get to only on the front steps, if they could get out anywhere, no garden, the houses packed right in. Who has warned them? Who understands it? I feel such and intensity of desire. It seems as though I could hardly contain myself. I want to tell you that Christ is coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And you want to meet Him with the “You have done your work.” You have done what you could. You have done all you could to enlighten minds. And you want to be prepared for the coming of the Son of man with power and great glory.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 20)
The work must be taken hold of intelligently and willingly, and as you take hold of the work there will be openings in almost every place. They are not coming to you and lay down their money right before your feet, saying, We want you to come and enter our field and go to work. You press right in. Establish your meetings if you do not have but three there. And then you keep at work, and you will have more, and then let others come in another place, not all in one place, but enter these cities, and see what you can do, and the next gathering, if God spares us, there will be a different showing.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 21)
If God gives me strength now at nearly eighty-two years old, I shall be in the cities. I have entered the city of Portland, just a little corner. When we lived there years ago, it was Deering’s Oaks, but they have cut down Deering’s Oaks, and now there are only a few standing there, and there was our camp meeting. And the power of God was upon that camp meeting, and I know that there will be many souls as the result of that effort that we made. But that is only in one little corner. Now where are the people that will be ready to go out into the city and establish places? That is the way we did in 1842, 1843, and 1844. That is the way we did to warn the people. And the ministers would stand in the desk, and they would preach the Word there with such power, of the coming of the Son of man. The leading men, Himes, Miller, and Litch, and others.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 22)
Now God wants us to be in that relation to Him that He can inspire us with His Holy Spirit, and words will be spoken right to the point. That is just what is wanted. There is a world to be saved, and we want to dedicate ourselves to God, heart and soul and mind, and we want to be intelligent in the Word, that we can communicate the Word. We want the Word to be communicated.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 23)
And the means, save it. You may not be wealthy, but you can help a little. And somebody can help more, and some can help less, but let us do our best, that we may create means to press the truth into various places. And when we do that, and it is all that we can do, who does the rest of it? When you have done all that you can do, who does the rest, working with the humble instrument? The angels of God are right about the workers, and the angels of God will be around about every worker that consecrates himself to the work, that has an intensity of desire to bring souls to the knowledge of the truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 24)
It is time, high time that the cities were worked. And when I got into the city of Portland, where I had lived so many years, I just told the Lord all about it, that I could only speak before the people, I could not convert them. I could only give a message before the people, but the Lord God of Israel must do the work. Well, the power of God rested upon me in a similar manner to what it did at the Takoma Park Conference. It rested upon me as I talked, and as I prayed there was a large company that were to occupy seats, and every seat was filled, and yet they could not find room for them all to be seated.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 25)
There they have a little meetinghouse started. The foundation is started, but everybody is very poor, that is interested in the work, and they must have help to build up that little meetinghouse.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 26)
And every soul of us has got to be awake to do our last binding off of the work of God in this world. And if He gives us a little time, we will redeem the time, in the name of the Lord God of Israel, we will redeem it, brethren. We will go right into these houses, and we will take our books, we will make an excuse to sell books, small or large, and we will bring these books, and we will ask them if they do not want to buy a book, and we will get introduced to them, and then you will tell them what you are doing, and you will find more sympathy than you have any idea. I know it, you will find it.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 27)
And the God of Israel will be with the workers. But the little that has been done, I hardly know what to say. We have our sanitariums, we have our institutions, we have places where we can call together companies, and where we can send forth the message that is to be given to companies, but there seems to be a lethargy over those that have the truth and know the truth, and we want to plead with you that every thing that can be done in the line of means, to advance in various places, shall be done, and the Lord will just as surely let His blessing rest upon every worker, if they will do this. Now they say, We cannot get into the cities. They have not tried.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 28)
There are the places. There is Buffalo I thought of. Who has been into Buffalo? Who has tried to labor there, and who has been into these hard places, grand places? Portland has had one little corner, and every seat was just as full, and then there were some that could not set seated. Now we want the power of God to come. The power of God was upon me there as I spoke and as I prayed. What the future influence will be depends very much upon those who are there, and how they will carry the work. But they need help in every way. And don’t let our minds go into merchandise and different things to lay out our work in such a way that we use it all, for we have nothing to spare.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 29)
We want life; we want truth; we want to stand before the people in the name of the Lord God of Israel, tell them that the Lord wants them to have truth, precious truth. That is what we want, not to stand back and say, How can we get in? Begin with a little house, hire a meetinghouse, or a place somewhere, and have meetings, and they will draw. The people will invite you to come in and give the truth to them. That is what they will do. What we want is the truth in the heart.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 30)
And this precious message that we have, everybody wants it. Now brethren and sisters, there are very few brethren here today, but we want to say to those that are here, God has appointed you to a work, and that work must not be neglected. We must begin right around us, wherever we are, whatever city.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 31)
God will open the way as soon as you begin to act as though you would work; He will open the way.
(24LtMs, Ms 127, 1909, 32)
Ms 128, 1909
Prayer of Mrs. E. G. White Battle Creek, Michigan July 29, 1909 Previously unpublished.
[Sermon not transcribed.] Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come to Thee at this time, because we want Thy presence, and we want Thy grace to come to us on this occasion. We ask Thee, heavenly Father, that Thy presence may be with us in a special manner today. Thou knowest us. Thou art acquainted with the hearts of every one that is present on this occasion. And we ask Thee, our heavenly Father, that Thou wouldest impress the mind of every soul that is here today. Thou hast promised that if we ask Thee, we shall find Thee, and we seek Thee on this occasion. Let Thy blessing rest upon those that are assembled together here at this time. We want to be impressed with Thy Spirit.
(24LtMs, Ms 128, 1909, 1)
We ask Thee to pardon us for our transgressions, and we ask that the truth, the Bible truth, may be very precious to us at all times. We want to see light in Thy light. We want the presence of the heavenly angels in our midst. And we know that if we have their presence, we shall have the blessing resting upon us. And we want Thy grace to come to every heart.
(24LtMs, Ms 128, 1909, 2)
Thou knowest us individually. Thou art acquainted with us, and heavenly Father, we want the presence of Jesus Christ in a special manner here today. We want in these last days to have a very forcible impression upon us that we are to seek the Lord diligently, that we are to confess our errors and press our petitions to the throne of grace. And we know that Thy pardon will come to every soul who will humble themselves before Thee. We want Thy light this very day. We want Thy rich grace now, Lord. We want Thy blessing, because we need it. There are many souls under temptations here today, and we want that the impression of Thy Spirit should be upon human minds.
(24LtMs, Ms 128, 1909, 3)
Thou art our Saviour. Thou hast given Thy life for us, and we want at this time to consecrate ourselves to Thee individually, and humble our hearts, and we want that faith that we can press our petitions to the throne of grace. Angels of God are here, and we want that the impression should be made upon every human mind that now is the time for us to seek the Lord most earnestly, because there is a work for us to do for the world to communicate the light of blessed Truth to those that are in darkness. We want that light which comes from above. Sweep back every mist and every cloud from the human mind, and let the angels of God come close to the people here. Bless them, Lord. Teach them this very day.
(24LtMs, Ms 128, 1909, 4)
O, my heavenly Father, that hast given us Jesus Precious Saviour in His humanity to come to earth, that humanity might grasp humanity, and that divinity might grasp divinity. Our Saviour came to lay hold upon the precious souls, and we want Thee now. We want Thy presence.
(24LtMs, Ms 128, 1909, 5)
Ms 129, 1909
Talk/To Workers and Inmates at the Rescue Home. Hinsdale, Illinois August 4, 1909 Previously unpublished.
There is my great pleasure in thinking there is somebody taking hold of this work, and if we can do the very work that is essential to be done, that is what God requires of us. We know the mothers brought their children to the Master. It don’t say whether they were orphan children, it don’t say anything about that, but those mothers came to Christ, and if they could get His blessing upon their children, then they could go forth with courage.
(24LtMs, Ms 129, 1909, 1)
After travelling a long and dusty way to get to where Christ was, the disciples were sending them away. “Why, this is not the place. You should not bring your children here, Christ is teaching.” 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.] There is a lesson that He taught the disciples that He wants every one of us to carry out; they are principles of love, and those are the principles of heaven.
(24LtMs, Ms 129, 1909, 2)
When we see the unfortunate, those who have fallen under the enemy, instead of pushing them right out in darkness, take and bring them into a home where they can have a connection with Christ. That is the best policy that can be done. Those that are united in this work and can carry it forward they will see in the future that the Lord blesses all the efforts of tenderness and kindness. He wants everyone to see the Word of God. If they make mistakes, there is Christ to pardon, there is Christ to forgive. And thus it is with the parties that have been unfortunate.
(24LtMs, Ms 129, 1909, 3)
I believe that Brother Paulson is doing a great work and those that are united with him. That work needs to be done and many souls will be saved. You know how it was with Christ, how He pitied those, and how faithfully they followed Him because they had the pity of the Saviour. And He wants everyone that is in this house and on these premises to be in that position that they will manifest the spirit of tenderness, of kindness and love, and if they will manifest this there will more good to come. They will see evidences of it and the world will see that there is no more selfish work to be accomplished.
(24LtMs, Ms 129, 1909, 4)
What is Christ come to the world for? He saw that humanity did not recognize divinity. He was a human being from His babyhood, but yet here was Christ the Saviour that was helping. Here was humanity helping humanity and humanity was seeing how they could lay hold upon the divinity of Christ. There was humanity laying hold upon divinity and in that way many souls were saved.
(24LtMs, Ms 129, 1909, 5)
Now, I think that is the work that you are doing. Christ came to our world and from a little child that humanity in the human agents around Him were instructed how to lay hold on divinity. Now, this is the very instruction that you are giving, to lay hold on divinity. That makes the work of Christ a very important one. It is a work that many do not realize.
(24LtMs, Ms 129, 1909, 6)
Whenever He saw children He would take them in His arms and bless them and that would make the mothers interested in Christ. Every soul feels their weakness and how the enemy has worked to carry out his purposes, but the Lord sent Jesus to be our Saviour. The Lord is ready to pardon all the transgressions if they come to Him and accept His pardon, and humanity lays hold upon divinity.
(24LtMs, Ms 129, 1909, 7)
I am very glad to see the efforts that are being made. God will bless those that undertake it. We want, every one of us, to be helpers one of another because that is Christ’s work. Christ laid off His royal crown, He laid off His royal robe, He clothed divinity with humanity, that divinity might grasp humanity and humanity might grasp divinity. So there is a combination that if every soul will take hold of Christ as their personal Saviour and give themselves to Him, He will receive them and be their Saviour.
(24LtMs, Ms 129, 1909, 8)
I always feel a tender pity for the young that are brought up in a passionate manner. When I was in Europe, I saw one woman take a child—the child was five years old—she took that child right by the hair of the head and she shook that child and shook it until she nearly shook its brain out, and then she took that child and threw it across the house. That is the way she treated her own child. Now Christ came that humanity might touch humanity. Christ gave His life to save humanity. That is the very work that you are trying to do, and I recognize that such a work would be for the glory of God, and if the mothers would give themselves to Christ and serve Him and glorify Him who has done so much to save them, the pitiful Saviour will let His mercy and love rest upon them.
(24LtMs, Ms 129, 1909, 9)
Don’t let any one be discouraged. We have a worldwide work to do and we must do it. And it we meet around the throne of God there will be those that will come to us and say, “If you had never helped me I should not have been here,” and then they will just embrace us. That has been presented to me again and again. Now let every soul see what Christ has paid for their redemption.
(24LtMs, Ms 129, 1909, 10)
Ms 130, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts on John 14 Elgin, Illinois August 7, 1909 Portions of this manuscript are published in the NIRec 08/17/1909.
John 14. “Let not your heart be troubled.” To verse 3. Let us remember that. While Christ is gone, or going, to prepare a place for every one who shall comply with the conditions, He expects that every soul of us shall be interested in our own eternal interests. Having a knowledge of the infinite sacrifice that our Saviour has made in our behalf, shall we not comply with every condition that He has made that we can co-operate with Christ and Christ with us? It is a mutual work. On our part it is implicit obedience; on Christ’s part it is to stand before the Father in His eternal light, having purchased us with His own blood. Therefore the work is mutual. We have no right to be indifferent; we have no right to be careless. We must show that we have an interest in this world that is of the highest order, in order to give to the world and evidence that we are to be transformed to the higher courts where we shall dwell with our Saviour who has purchased us with His blood.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 1)
Verse 3. “I will come again.” Now He did not leave us helpless. “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.” [Verses 3, 4.] Thomas, one of the doubting ones, saith, verse 6. We shall know that it was with a tremendous price that He has paid for every soul that is in this congregation, that they might be transformed through a living obedience to the requirements of the Word of the living God to the higher courts, that we might have a right to the tree of life, that we might have the gates thrown open before us.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 2)
Parents should educate their children. If they devote that interest in their children that they should devote, it will be the work of a lifetime to prepare their children for a heaven that measures with the life of God. There can be no indifference here; there can be no carelessness in this matter; there can be no supposition that if we let our children do just as they pleased that they will come up with an education prepared for the higher courts. We are to study the Word of God and we are to work with intense interest to educate every one, high or low, that is in our family, by our influence and example, living the Word of God, that they shall have a place with us in the kingdom of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 3)
Verses 6-9. “He that hath seen me hath seen the Father.” It is said that He is in the express image of His Father’s presence. Verse 10. Now bear that in mind. Verse 11. What a statement is that! How high, how broad, how deep, how full! “The very works’ sake.” Did He go, like the priests and rulers, from place to place with a noble and exalted opinion of Himself? He went as a man of poverty.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 4)
He walked from place to place and the multitudes followed Him as He walked, until thousands were added to His congregation, and then He pitied them and He said to them: “Now,” He says to His disciples, “these people are weary, they have been listening to the teachings I have been giving and they are weary and they are hungry.”“Well, what shall we do?”“What have you here to eat?”“Well, we have a few loaves and two small fishes.”“Well, bring them along.” And they brought them. There they divided this little food and He says, “Give to the multitude that they may eat.” And after they were all satisfied He says, “Gather up the fragments that nothing be lost,” and they gathered up, I think it was, five or seven bushels. [Mark 6:38; John 6:5-13; Matthew 16:9, 10.]
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 5)
Now we can see what it means to be connected with Christ. You can understand that you must do your best. It may not be much but do your best, and when you have done your best cast your helpless soul upon Jesus Christ as your Saviour, as your Redeemer, and then just have that faith. What kind of a faith? A faith that works by love and purifies the soul. That is the faith. “Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father in me, or else believe me for the very works’ sake.”[John 14] Verse 12. Do you bear that in mind?
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 6)
Do we show our faith by works that Christ approves? Verse 12. Why what a word is that for Him to speak? “Because I go to the Father.” [John 16:16.] And these are the last lessons that He was leaving with His disciples. “And whatever you shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask anything in my name I will do it.” [John 14:13, 14.] Now, there must be a faith that is carried out in that. There must be a faith that claims the Word. What a wonderful thing it is—our salvation! What a wonderful work!
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 7)
He wants them to take it all in—the connection that He has with the Father, that when He shall go away, why, there they have an advocate with the Father even Jesus Christ the righteous. “Verily, verily, I say unto you.”Verse 12. Did He deceive you in that? Then why not have that simplicity of faith that takes God at His word? Why not believe that He will do just as He said He would? Why, if we will carry out our faith now, right from this meeting, from the advantages that you have had here, and if you walk in the light that God has given you, is it you that does the work? No, He does it. Why, here is Jesus that has given His life for you, that you might be a partaker of the divine nature, He does the work although He has ascended into heaven. He has angels all around, angels that are working upon human hearts right here today. This very present day, the very time that angels of God are right here in our midst. Are they the only ones? No; Satan’s angels are here to turn your minds away from the truth and godliness, that you shall not hear intelligently and that you shall not understand, and he can lay stumbling blocks in your way. Now, don’t let him. How will you prevent it? In prayer. We have not half the simplicity and trust.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 8)
Some people think they must sing. Well now, it is right to sing if that brings souls to the knowledge of the truth in Christ Jesus. That is what we want, living faith. “And these things shall you do, and whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.”“If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it.”“If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father that He shall give you another Comforter and abide with you forever; even the Spirit of truth.” [Verses 12-17.]
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 9)
That is what we want. Satan is advancing at the present day in knowledge that he will bring into every church in existence, for them to accept, and when you accept it, any of you, then he has gained his point. He can lead you on and on until when Christ shall come in the clouds of heaven He will not acknowledge you, and why? Because you have listened to the influence of Satan. “Even the spirit of truth whom the world cannot receive.” Why? Because it does not know Him. There I fear exaltation of self. Now, the very humblest position that we can take is that position that relies upon the “Thus saith the Lord.” Don’t let any satanic influence come in. “I will not leave you comfortless, I will come to you.” Now what an assurance. Will we believe it? Why, He gave His life for us. “At that day ye shall know that I am in the Father, and ye in Me and I in you.”“He that hath my commandments and keepeth them.” [Verses 17, 18, 20, 21.] Now be sure and find out what these commandments are. It would not do to guess at it and be far off.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 10)
Verses 21-23. Can you take in that? Can you accept that promise and say, “I will walk and I will work in harmony with one that laid off His royal robe, that laid aside His royal crown, and took upon Him humanity that humanity might touch humanity and divinity combined with humanity would bring humanity in harmony with God if the human agent would humble his heart to obedience.”
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 11)
Verse 23. “If a man love Me.”
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 12)
Verses 24-31. Well now then, this the next lesson, Chapter 15:1. Now He is explaining, trying to make it so clear that you can understand that the Father and himself are working in co-partnership.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 13)
Verse 2. “Every branch in Me.” Now bear in mind the conditions. “That beareth not fruit.”
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 14)
Verse 3. Now here is our work. “Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away.” What does it mean? It means that you should work out His teachings in truth and righteousness to the world. It is not enough to have your name on the church book. It is enough to go down into the water and be baptized, to come up out of the water with a solemn pledge that you are dead to the world. Now, do you keep that pledge or imitate the fashions and habits of the world? Confess Him to the world. I have seen sights since I have been on this journey, and my heart is stirred to its depths. I said to myself, What can I do, what shall I do to make people understand that there are souls round about them to be saved? They are to work to deny self, to make sacrifices on the right and on the left. Here is Christ as an example. What an example has He given us!
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 15)
“Every branch that beareth not fruit should be taken away.” [Verse 2.] Do you want to be taken away? What part do you bear? What evidence have you that you belong to Jesus Christ? What evidence do you bear to the world around you? What sacrifice did you make to save the shillings and the dollars? It will all be counted just as it is. I want everyone to understand it. Christ will make no mistake in this matter. The heavenly angels, Christ, and the Father are perfectly united. They that will not create a second rebellion in heaven will be there.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 16)
Those who have worked in harmony with the heavenly angels can join Him in the heavenly courts. And if we are of that number, we can glorify God in the heavenly courts. We must cot complain that it is too much to require. Not one will be there who does, for it will be another rebellion if they should. “Every branch in me that beareth not fruit,” not in harmony with Christ. [Verse 2.] Every branch that bears fruit, He will purge, that it may bear more fruit.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 17)
When you have a hard time, do you give right up to it and say, It is no use. I have tried to be a Christian and I have met with disappointment and losses, and all this. What did Christ suffer? He came down to this world to be a man of sorrow and acquainted with grief. Will you consider this? “Every branch that beareth fruit He purgeth it.” [Verse 2.] When you unite yourself in company that has no interest in the truth and you do not try to create an interest, you will not become helpers with Jesus Christ. Every one of us have a work to do.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 18)
It is truth that sanctifies the soul. The truth that purifies the soul, you know, belongs with God. Sit right down and study the Word with your companions. Do not exalt yourself. Study it together. Everyone can be helpers together, helpers together with God. “Every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bear more fruit.” [Verse 2.] They will seek the Lord in their perplexity and tell Christ all about it. You must pray in humility with your family, and you tell your family when in perplexity not to complain, not to tell it outside the family, but work in your household before God. “Now are ye clean through the Word that I have spoken unto you.” [Verse 3.]
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 19)
“Abide in me and I in you.”Verse 4. Now just look at that. Verse 5. Will we unite with consecrated, devoted workers for Christ, for it is only a little while to save souls that are ready to perish. We cannot afford to take a haphazard course; we cannot afford it. There are souls to be lost or saved through our influence.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 20)
Verse 4. Now, we want at this meeting, if it is possible to understand what true conversion is. It is simply taking God at His word and it is following out the teachings of Jesus Christ, lest you should make a mistake, to follow His Word, study it with your family, study it with your children, lest some of your children shall not understand it. Then never speak a cross word because that is of the devil. You want to deal with them just as Christ deals with them. Verse 4. Now consider this. Verse 5. Will you bear that in mind? Verse 6. Well now, that means if you are not connected with Christ, why, you will act just as the world acts; you will fall into temptation and you will do just as the world does. But you cannot afford to do so. It is the living religion you must have way down here in the last end of time. We want to bind off our experience with the likeness of Jesus Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 21)
Now let us see the result. Verse 7. Because you will ask nothing amiss—if you abide in Christ. Christ came from the heavenly courts to help and strengthen, to bring to you, in the form of humanity divinity, the divine Son of God. He came from the heavenly courts, that you might be a partaker of the divine nature having overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust, and you never can do it unless you take right hold of the divinity of Christ by prayer and then claim the promise. You must have a soul-saving experience. We must be a people that thinks more of saving souls that of putting money into dress and into various worldly enterprises to make money. One soul saved is worth a world. You just consider it. I feel it to the very intensity of my being or you would never see me here, nearly eighty-two years old, and yet I feel such an intensity I cannot give up the work.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 22)
Verse 7. You want to study the words. It shall be done unto you because your humanity—the simplicity of a living faith—grasps the promises of God and those promises are laying hold of the divinity of Jesus Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 23)
Verses 8-10. Now you find out these commandments are: “Ye shall abide in my love.”Verse 10. Now the commandments declare that the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord our God. If we accept the man-made sabbath we teach other people error. Now we have found out what is the true Sabbath; now we are seeking to get that before those who do not know it. Verse 10. Now you see the representation. He represents your life in connection with Him and His life in connection with the Father. You just see the sacrifice represented. Verses 11-12. Be sure and bear that in mind. Verse 13. And that is what Christ was doing, that He might bring every soul who was in that position so that they can save their souls through obedience to the Word.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 24)
Now in a family the example of the father and mother in respect to the Word runs through that family. The Word of God is to be our counsellor. That Word brings into that family a kind spirit and works for their salvation. That is what we want to do, “Do these things if ye keep my commandments.”Verse 11. Yes, it will be without an exception; it will be without a blot.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 25)
Are we preparing for the grand review that will take place? We cannot tell just when, but it is very nigh. We want to ask you, Are you preparing for that review? Verse 13. Now I want to say to everyone here: Take this whole chapter—I will not read the remainder of it—but you take it and you take these two chapters that I have dwelt upon and when there is any special conflict that any one expects is going to come up in the church, you just take these two chapters and you read these two chapters, and you will see that they will do in that church if it is a church with humility and the fear of God before them. They will understand that it is no place for them to be in contention in the church. It is not right at all.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 26)
When you come up out of the water you pledge yourself in Jesus Christ to be in harmony with heaven, to be in harmony with Christ and then live your pledge by baptism. I want that every soul of us shall understand there is a work for each of us to do. We are not to be idlers in the Lord’s field. We are to become helpers with Jesus Christ. That is what you should be, to help lift the burden.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 27)
One of the disciples who was in love with his Master’s teaching said, “I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.” He turned to him and knew just what to say, “Foxes have holes, the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.” [Luke 9:57, 58.] Night after night He was upon the ground, sleeping without any good mattress. He was sleeping there. The next day He wanted to reach certain people, and His humanity reached that humanity so that He might win souls to Himself.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 28)
Now we want to say to you, let us have the Word of God to guide us in its simplicity and prize that simplicity in our own lives. You may come to meeting and put on a certain appearance in meeting, but that it is not what Christ wants. He wants a religion that goes through and works in the family with power. Pray and believe and in doing that you can bring a reformation in your homes. You can bring soul after soul to Christ through the very family influence that can be exerted on others.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 29)
What we want is heaven at the cost of all things. What we want is eternal life. What we want is to see souls saved and to know that we have acted a part in their salvation. It is nothing to be preached to all the time and you not do anything particularly yourself. Every man has a work and to every man it is declared that the Lord has given his work, therefore let every influence be exerted to win souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 30)
I pray that the blessing of God may rest upon this attentive audience and pray that the glory of God may be revealed in your lives. Why? Because Christ laid off His golden crown, He laid aside His royal robes. He is willing to do that—the great Teacher, the Son of the living God. He laid off His royalty and came down and was willing to be a little child to help His father at the carpenter’s trade, and then the young around Him laughed at Him being so particular. That did not affect Him. He began singing some of the Psalms. He did that with His beautiful voice, and they joined with Him and soon they found it would not amount to anything to have Him try to do His work carelessly. If He was building, He would build surely and safely. That was His work.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 31)
He calls upon every man and every woman to form characters upon His divine similitude, and there it is that humanity grasps divinity. You know it is your business to be a laborer, that is your work, and if you work in harmony with God you will have a church that is a power. Our churches will become a force, not merely the ministers that carry the message, but you will feel that you got a message at home to carry to your neighbors.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 32)
I have seen these houses in America set close together, and if they have any outdoor air and exercise they set right on the front steps.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 33)
Now here we are in possession of a truth that will bring us into possession of an immortal inheritance, eternal substance, and we will never know pain, disease; we will not be grasping around for tobacco or any of these indulgences, but we will have that company, that society in the heavenly city, so that crowns can be placed on our heads as overcomers. And then those crowns will be laid at the feet of Jesus, and then you will greet your friends that have helped you, that have spoken a word in season and you know they turned the scale at a certain time when you needed their words.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 34)
We have a battle to fight. We have got a heaven to gain, we have got a crown to gain, and may God help every one of us. I know something about this matter. Again and again has it been presented to me that just as a soul was about to decide, there was someone who would come in and present an objection.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 35)
Now remember, you can help us save souls. You can help me. You can help me so that I shall realize that there is a work being accomplished for those that need it. And you can take your children with you to the heavenly city. Are you educating them for this? We want to act as though it were a reality with us.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 36)
I cannot afford to lose my soul. I am going about at my age because people do not understand how to save the souls about them. I want to say to everyone of you, for Christ’s sake do what you can. If you are converted to Christ, have His words and His Spirit. Lay hold of Christ’s life and that divinity and humanity combined will bring you an experience where you will have a rejoicing in the heavenly courts. You will have a golden harp and crown and then everlasting salvation.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 37)
Not a one shall enter into that city that is not an overcomer. Everyone must overcome in this world. The devil himself is to be destroyed in time and heaven will stand free. We want everyone to have an eternal weight of glory. We want you to see the King in His beauty. We want to sing the song of glory. Can you determine yourself that you will walk and keep His commandments just as is written in regard to the Sabbath commandment and everything else that God has given us? Will you not stand before God as those walking for an eternal reward, transformed and going no more out forever, no more sickness, no more sorrow, no more pain?
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 38)
What will you do? How many of you will start on this work and decide that you will have heaven? Christ died, Christ suffered upon the cross, and He was taking the sins of the whole world upon Him. He was separated from His Father and the great bloody sweat came from His brow and moistened the sod of Gethsemane. He said, “If it be possible let this cup pass by Me, nevertheless not My will but Thine be done.” [Matthew 26:39; Luke 22:42.] He staggered and the cup trembled in His hand and it seemed that the destiny of a lost world was upon Him. It was balanced, and a strong angel came from heaven and there he strengthened the Son of man.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 39)
There He hung upon the cross and there it was that there were two thieves, one on the right hand and another on the left hand of Christ. One said, “Save yourself and us if you can.” The other rebuked him, “He does not deserve it.” He said, “Lord Jesus.” There was a suffering Saviour with the nails through His hands and feet. There he asked that he be remembered when He came into His kingdom, and what did He say? “Verily I say unto you today,” being executed as a criminal as He was, “Thou shalt be with me in paradise.” [Luke 23:39-43.] Now we can see how fully He can impress the sinner. God loves the sinner. And now I will ask you, who of you will be willing to endure the sufferings of Christ?
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 40)
Who of us will take the Saviour and leave your pride behind? What does He want? He wants co-laborers, helpers together with God. He wants human agents. He wants you to sacrifice. He wants you, if possible, to cast your influence with His, and it is possible if you make it so. God will help us that we may walk to the front. Who will stand up here and be determined that they will walk to eternal life? Life and immortality will be brought to light to help save souls. Rise right up whoever will.
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 41)
(All the congregation stood up.)
(24LtMs, Ms 130, 1909, 42)
Ms 131, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts on Isaiah 55 Elgin, Illinois August 8, 1909 Previously unpublished. Incomplete.
The 55th chapter of Isaiah: “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread?” [Verses 1, 2.]
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 1)
Can we answer that question? All the indulgences which are tearing down the human being that God has created, false, poisonous things that are put in their lips, just consider it: tearing themselves to pieces, working against God, enfeebling the mind that it cannot discern sacred things. You cannot afford it.
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 2)
“Wherefore do you spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not?” [Verse 2.] Now, your soul and your body are to go in harmony, and whatever light there is in the Word of God that shall give you instruction in regard to keeping yourselves in the very best condition of life and health, it is your duty to follow, to cut off everything in the line of indulgences and not eat of those things that satisfy not. There are things that create an appetite—tobacco, tobacco-smoking, and the taking of intoxicating liquors—poison, poison, the whole of it is. And yet here we tear ourselves to pieces, many do, and then complain against God, what He makes us suffer so for.
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 3)
You just be obedient children to God and keep His law and you will find that you will have strength of body and muscle and clearness of brain to distinguish between right and wrong, between truth and error; and what we want is a living daily experience in the knowledge of the will and ways of God. And when we have this, let me tell you, there will be very many less places that have not been worked than there are now.
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 4)
We see places where we know, as we look, that they should be worked—every place has not been worked. Everyone that hath the knowledge of the truth is to appreciate it and to so express it in character, in words, in walks, that others shall take knowledge of you that you have been with Jesus, and you have learned of Him that walked the earth in sorrow and humbleness of mind, and yet with gladness of spirit because He could be a living example to all that became acquainted with Him. And what we want is the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. We want to follow on that we may know Him, that His going forth is prepared as the morning.
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 5)
Here the thirsty are called: verse 1. What is the only price? Obedience to the will of the benefactor. “Wherefore do you spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not,” that which is weakening the physical strength so that you cannot appreciate the spiritual?
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 6)
We want now to awake. We have got but a little time now. Satan is working with all the deceivableness of unrighteousness to make people depart from the truth, but we cannot afford it. It is the truth we want on every point, and we want to live the truth, to speak the truth in love, and we want every day to see someone that we can help and bless.
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 7)
We are God’s family; we are redeemed by one Saviour. It is one life that is given to save every one of you who is before me today, and therefore should we not have a living interest in those that are perishing all around us and cannot discern between righteousness and error which is death?
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 8)
We want life, life-giving principles. We want to live it in the home. We want to carry it with us wherever we go. We want to save every penny that is possible to be saved from needless indulgences. What for? Why, that these publications can be obtained. Light can be sent to those in foreign countries and far-off nations that we have been trying to educate through the various means of our publications and of our sending missionaries. All this takes money, and you should have your contributions in your houses, your contribution boxes, and teach your children, in the place of spending their means for indulgences which they do not need, to put it in their boxes and contribute, so that the truth may be carried to those that know it not.
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 9)
Verse 2. “Eat ye that which is good.” That is so that you may reason from cause to effect that it will produce no injury to brain, bone or muscle, and then you will have clear discernment to understand the truth in its beauty and in its force and your prospect for eternal life you may make yourself. You are making your prospect every day either for or against the truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 10)
Now may the Lord help us to understand our physical system is ours to keep in excellent condition, that we shall not fail nor be discouraged, that we shall not lose our life untimely through selfish indulgences.
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 11)
We want to remember we are laborers together, together with God. Well now, if He employs us in this world, we must walk to the point. “Hearken diligently unto Me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.” Now that is spiritually. You are to know what is truth. You are to know out of the Word what God has given you that you may cherish it, that you may love it, that you may obey it. Why? Because you have a soul to save, and you have other souls to save when you understand how to save your own soul by obedience to the commandments of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 12)
Verse 2. Why? Because you are feeding on the Word of life and angels are right around you to make the due impression upon the human heart. The angels of God are in this meeting today. It is the angels of God that are trying to make impressions upon human mind whenever discourses are given.
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 13)
“Let your soul delight itself in fatness.” Your soul; yes, it is eating and drinking and dressing, that you can accomplish a work that no one outside of your family can accomplish, and God helps. “Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear and your soul shall live.” Now here is a promise that you are to bring to God when you comply with the conditions: “And I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.” [Verse 3.] Now you study the Word and you will understand what that means.
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 14)
Verses 4, 5. “And nations,” now mark these words, “that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the Lord thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee.”
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 15)
He hath opened your understanding. It is the Bible that is our educator. We are to study the Word faithfully and carry it out explicitly.
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 16)
(Repetition of verse 5.) Now we have had an opportunity to see it when we were in our large camp meeting at Washington; there they came from foreign countries—nice, intelligent looking people to be introduced to the workers, and we were very thankful to speak with them. They came to get all that we have and carry it away, and I thank the Lord our God they had something to carry.
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 17)
Verses 6, 7. “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found,” etc. Will we do it? or will we seek our own convenience and follow our own inclination and do what we please with our means and not be laborers together with God? Gad has entrusted means in your hands, and how in the world can the people have the truth unless every one of us shall have a spirit of sacrifice?
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 18)
Through sanctification of the truth of God right in this Word your will understand it yourself, and will be brought into that position that you will see that you can reach many souls that cannot understand. Why? Because they have been delving all their lives to obtain something in this life that they think will bring them high recognition in the world. Well now, what does God offer us? That life which measures with the life of God, that life which is immortal. Isn’t that enough? Will you not put your whole mind and soul into the subject? What shall I do that I may obtain that transfer that God alone can given to the kingdom of heaven and there rest from every temptation of Satan, for he cannot reach me there? Satan himself will be destroyed ere long. The great battle is going on; it is walking all the time to the point.
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 20)
Now seek ye the Lord while He may be found. Verses 7-11. “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: ... it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it,” if you will let it. If you let it, it will do that. Why, we have an eternal truth presented to us if we will give our services to our Redeemer. And where are your children? Are you educating them for just such a life? God help us!
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 21)
Verses 11, 12. That will be the representation that is made upon your minds; from the very tress that you see around you, you understand more about God. You understand more about your Creator. When persons come and urge my advice whether they shall make their home in the city, my voice says, In the country. In the country—go to work in the country. Till the soil, do anything, but do not mingle in the congested cities unless you have a work to do for those that are already there and a message that you can bear. You may do your best, and then you may have schools, you may have sanitariums. Then letters will come to me: “Sister White, now after our schools have done their work for these students, how shall we get them connected with the higher education of the world?” Who wants it? Tell me who wants it? Verse 11. What was that? Why, He gave you Christ, He gave His only begotten Son that humanity might grasp divinity in Jesus Christ. You take Christ in your soul and then you will find you have wisdom; you need not take them to the world to get something of the world to finish their education. No, indeed; the Bible, the precious Bible—study it and then teach them to carry it out in their life. “For ye shall go out with joy,” etc. Verse 12. Now this is the written word and these are figures that you are to apply and you are to understand what it means.
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 22)
Verse 13. There is where the beauty of it is. “Thus saith the Lord, Keep ye judgment.”Chapter 56:1. We do not have half the judgment we might have. Educate yourself in judgment. Every one of you, put to the tax every capacity that you have in view of the transfer that you are to make to the higher court, that there you shall walk by the side of Christ to get the higher education. That is the only higher education that you can obtain. He carries you with the Book in the hand, and He shows you the meaning of the words of the Book that you do not comprehend, and there, with the tree of life on either side and the path where He leads you, there are the trees for the healing of the nations, where they shall pluck and eat and find no difficulty in taking care of the food that they shall eat.
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 23)
Chapter 55:13; 56:1, 2. You are to remember that God spoke about what day you were to keep. You need not be at all at any loss as to what day it is. “Six days shalt thou labor and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God,” and there He has given you His holiness that He has put upon that Sabbath if you would observe it. [Exodus 20:9, 10.]
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 24)
[Isaiah 56] Verses 2-5. “I will give them an everlasting name that shall not be cut off,” if they will comply with the conditions. Why, they can be the very highest missionaries that are in our world, and they can have sons and daughters that they shall take into their very houses to take care of what needs their care, that need the education from them, and here the Lord takes hold to bring us a knowledge of every line that we can follow on to know the Lord and to do His will so as not to [incomplete].
(24LtMs, Ms 131, 1909, 25)
Ms 132, 1909
Talk/Talk given by Mrs. E. G. White to the Patients and Workers in the Hinsdale Sanitarium. Hinsdale, Illinois August 10, 1909 Previously unpublished.
Matthew 5:1-2. Now we can know who are blessed. Verses 3-5. We want to take these things in when we get a little bit discouraged, thinking we are having a hard, close time. We want to gather up all the precious jewels and promises and we want to consider them. We are the very people in this world that love and fear God, that shall realize His blessings.
(24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, 1)
Verses 14-15. Now a charge comes to us every one that will put their trust in Christ and love Him. Verse 15. “Let your light so shine before men,” etc. [Verse 16.] Now here is the blessed promise for every one of us who will put our trust in Jesus Christ. “For verily I say unto you,” etc. Verse 18. Now we never should feel, because we are afflicted, that we do not have the attention of Christ and that He does not observe us, because He does.
(24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, 2)
We have evidence because He has expressed Himself that as a people we must have charge and care of the afflicted ones and that we must have just such sanitariums as we have here. They were not then so fully developed as they are at the present time, but we begun very small. We begun in our own home. We took the sick and afflicted and the suffering. We had no sanitarium. It was before any sanitarium was created in Battle Creek, but there were so many suffering we took them right into our house and cared for them, and we saw the manifest glory of God in doing this.
(24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, 3)
I remember one lady was thrown from a sleigh. She was the highest teacher in the highest school in Battle Creek. Her husband was with her. She was riding in a sleigh. It was at the time when the fashions were to wear hoops. It had been raining and her husband said, “Wife, jump out, jump out,” and she did, but her hoops caught and she fell on the ice. The blood came out of her nose and ears and they did not think she would live. I said, “Here is our house right close by, take her in and we will do all we can for her.” The doctor came and asked what we were doing for her. We told him we had her feet in a bucket and her hands in another bucket. He looked at her and said, “You know better how to manage her than I do,” and away he went.
(24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, 4)
For four weeks she would not have anyone wait on her but health reformers. She said, “They know what to do. They have done everything for me day and night. They tell me I will recover. I feel so thankful. I do not want to eat anything only just what they prepare.” So the health reform began just that kind of way. We would take the suffering ones right to our own rooms, and the dying ones, we watched over them as best we could. So we got to thinking we should have a sanitarium in Battle Creek. I traveled from place to place and got so weary caring for the suffering ones. They would send for me notwithstanding all the doctors. There was sickness that seemed to be unto death, but we mastered it and the blessing of God came upon the receivers. We had to take the burden. The doctor’s children died, three right at once. Diphtheria was the difficulty.
(24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, 5)
Well, we studied it out and had a sanitarium right in Battle Creek, and then we begun to feel relieved. Then there had to be good common sense used always as to just how to treat the ones that were afflicted. That is just what the sanitariums are for. It is to have an intelligence as to how to treat the afflicted and have a wisdom that will reason from cause to effect and know just how to do the work. So we feel thankful that there are places where we know they are undertaking to care for their sick and afflicted. We felt we had reason to be thankful we had worked along for some time without any help. We fed them and clothed them, but we thank God now that we have sanitariums, and none too many.
(24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, 6)
We are glad to see the provision being made in this place to care for the sick. We are glad that you have Brother Paulson to plan for you the very best that he can do, and everyone of us ought to be thankful, because we know what it is to breast the sickness.
(24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, 7)
One of the first one that came to the sanitarium the first few weeks was one that was taken very sick. Well now, we thought that one should not die, that it would be against the sanitarium. They sent for me. I said, “What is it?” They said, “Here is this woman that is going to die, she is picking the bedclothes nigh unto death.” I said, “What have you done for her?”“We have done what we could.” Then I said, “Let us take hold of the mighty Healer.” Now I know that prayers are being offered for the sick here. I know that. So we knelt down and asked the Lord not to discourage us in our first efforts to do the best we could to relieve the sick. I tell you we were in earnest about it.
(24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, 8)
I felt that case could not be given up, although every appearance was that she was in the last stage of sickness. So they prayed, and while praying, her senses seemed to come to her and she said, “Is this Sister White?”“Yes.”“Well,” said she, “I am glad to see you.” We were glad to hear that from her lips. Well, she lived for years, and I do not know but she is living now.
(24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, 9)
I want to tell you, if we are trusting in God and doing our part, that it is possible to relieve the sick, then we can ask the Lord to bless our efforts to restore the sick and suffering ones. We know and Dr. Paulson knows that He has heard such prayers again and again. If it is the will of God, we know that His light will shine upon the sick one, and we know that He hears prayer because He hears prayer over and over again. And now with the knowledge we have of how to treat the sick, and they get knowledge by coming to the sanitarium as to how they can treat themselves when sick, it is a wonderful gain by coming to the sanitarium. They can see what was done for them while sick and suffering, and they got relief by simple means which God has provided the suffering one. And more than that, they can have an evidence that there is a God back of the human agency and that He works in behalf of the sick and suffering.
(24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, 10)
Now, we are so thankful that we have these sanitariums to which we can bring the sick and suffering ones, and we hope that those suffering with disease can come and make Christ their wonderful Healer, and have trust and faith and look to Him in suffering and distress and believe that He is a God that hears and answers prayers. Now believe in the Lord Jesus Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, 11)
I would no more dare to be out here as I am, at nearly eighty-two years of age, and yet speaking Sabbaths and Sundays—I would no more dare to be here and yet knowing that there are those coming to our large camp meetings, thousands sometimes and more than that. We know that the presence of God is realized by His people and we will praise Him for that, and we want to say that God is the mighty Healer. Back of all it is He that does the work, so our minds should be taken away from the human agents. While we are grateful and thankful for the instruction given to preserve life and keep our health, yet when sickness comes, call upon the Lord and He will, if it is for His glory, answer the petition and will remove away the sickness in accordance with the treatment that has been given.
(24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, 12)
Now I am thankful, Brother Paulson, that we have a mighty God, the One that was crucified for us, who gave His life for us, that His light is upon us, and He said, “Ask and ye shall receive, seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Now we will trust Him and believe that He is our Saviour today, and we want to put our trust in Him this very day. We want to believe that He has not forsaken the earth nor forsaken His people, that He makes ample provision that His people may have attention and be cared for, and the physicians and helpers and those that take care of the sick, understand what they are about. In this provision we are to be very grateful to God for His goodness and mercy and love to us.
(24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, 13)
Now, do not let us for a moment distrust our precious Saviour. Remember Christ lives, He is risen from dead. He has ascended on high; He has led captivity captive and given gifts unto men. Now that is His work, and we do not appeal unto Him as we should in trust and confidence. We are glad for all these helps to lead us to look to Jesus and trust in Jesus, and we believe His Word just as He tells us as little children.
(24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, 14)
Now, Christ was giving wonderful lessons to His disciples and the mothers came with their children. They came that they might go to Jesus and have His hands laid on them and bless them. Now the disciples says, “You must not disturb the Master, He is giving lessons to this crowd.” Christ caught the words and He said, “Suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:13, 14.] What a lesson is that to us! I thank God with my heart and soul and voice that we can put our trust in a higher power and we can be workers together with God. His blessing will rest upon us and will rest upon those that believe in Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, 15)
May the Lord bless the sick. May the Lord bless the afflicted that are not able to walk about as some do, and may the Lord bless those that can walk about, for this is a beautiful place. I thank God that such provision can be made for you here and in every place where such provisions are made. We ought to bow our hearts in thanks to God.
(24LtMs, Ms 132, 1909, 16)
Ms 133, 1909
Talk/Talk given by Mrs. E. G. White to the Heads of Departments of the Hinsdale Sanitarium Hinsdale, Illinois August 13, 1909 Previously unpublished.
Every opportunity seems favorable for the work being carried on here in a way that God would have it. Angels will just as surely make the impression. It is not possible for human beings to be as God, but the Lord can guide them by His Spirit, and this is a place where many will be brought to a knowledge of the truth because this sanitarium is situated just as it is. This was not taken out of Chicago by chance. Our cities are not the place for our people to work to good advantage, and now we must do what we can. Every one that goes to the cities so that they should have less objection raised against the truth, it is better to get outside of the city. From the light that I have, those cities will be terribly visited. This is the large cities.
(24LtMs, Ms 133, 1909, 1)
As I look around and see the changes that Brother Paulson has been showing me and these great opportunities, why, I consider how we used to go to G____ and how we gathered all that would come there. We did not exclude any, especially those working in the line of temperance. We planned right together and there we would work. We would go out every little while and have meetings. Why, these workers did not make their beliefs prominent, and still they were brought in all the time. The very instruction given was making this a question, and they knew that I would not turn aside from the temperance principles. The W.C.T.U. would get me whenever they could. I would tell them, “You know what I believe.” They said, “Certainly.” I used to go whenever they called me.
(24LtMs, Ms 133, 1909, 2)
I want to say it is not driving work that brings souls into the truth, it is simplicity and true godliness. There will be angels of God right around us to make the impression; we cannot make the impression. I felt while talking in Chicago that angels of God were making an impression on the people, and that gave me courage to hope that there will be a work done in Chicago that we have not seen done yet. Everyone that places themselves in right relation to God, what does He say of you? “Ye are laborers together.” That is everything with us, “together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.]
(24LtMs, Ms 133, 1909, 3)
If we have the force of One that cannot be resisted, that is the power of God, we shall see His salvation. Just as surely we shall see and understand, and if we walk in humility of mind and know it is not us, it the Lord that must make the impression, and then honor God in every way possible, we shall see the work accomplished even by us in the cities. There will have to be a work done in cities. We cannot go right in the crowded masses; we have got to have a place where we can speak.
(24LtMs, Ms 133, 1909, 4)
Do not be discouraged; do not talk doubts but just talk faith, and faith is infinite, that faith that lays hold on infinity. When God sees that we acknowledge the infinite, that we do not trust in our own human strength, He will honor us and we shall see the salvation of God. That is just what it is. There is old men and old women who are hungering and thirsting after a better knowledge of spiritual things. Give it to them, give it to them right here.
(24LtMs, Ms 133, 1909, 5)
There is every advantage in what Brother Paulson has been showing me. Take your patients right out under the trees, take them right out of the buildings, and then do not get them poisoned with bad air. Get them right out where they can see nature and God and the angels of God. They make the impression, it is not us that make it; it is the Lord God of heaven working with us. He has not provided these advantages right around us for naught. I have been around; they have showed me more things about the location.
(24LtMs, Ms 133, 1909, 6)
Now have it understood you are going to have a temperance meeting. Then get them the people out. My husband and I did that. One would stop me on the street, “Sister White, did you know what your talk has done? Why it has made my wife a new woman.”“Why, what is that?”“She never would have a door open, complained she was so weak, exhausted, etc. Then you talked about opening windows, breathing pure air, going out planting flowers and working in that way.”
(24LtMs, Ms 133, 1909, 7)
I told them my husband would go and get a carriage and take me, and he would set me right down in a chair and there were things that I could work with and plant, and that is the way he used to do to recover my health, and I recovered it.
(24LtMs, Ms 133, 1909, 8)
Some things we can do and nobody else can do. And when he my husband fell, then I had to take hold and go with him. He thought he could not go anything and so when we were driving home with the lumber I would take hold of one end and he the other. We did not want anybody with us. I wanted him to see that he could do something himself. I would take hold of one end of the lumber and he the other—thanking God if it got lost off on the way! Then we got hoes, and I told all the boys that we were going right out and till the soil. Well, my husband would lean on the hoe more than he would use it. That did not discourage me, we got out in the better air and every one of us got better, and my husband would see that he was not as dilapidated as he thought he was. I wanted him to get out and pick up the lumber that fell from the carriage as we passed. He dreaded to get out, but he found he would live if he did get out. The doctors told him that it was a life and death question. Thus his life was saved and my life was saved.
(24LtMs, Ms 133, 1909, 9)
I want to tell you there are those who, if they will understand that using their muscles and using their faith and being lifted up thus where they can bear an excellent testimony, will find it is worth everything, and every worker can act his part. Do not have all brain work, why the poor brain is used all up. I tried to get a young man to go to school. He did but did not know how to take care of himself and he died. His father was not a believer. I tried to get him to come to my house but he did not, and took another young man with him. He was breathing that air and lost his life. When I saw him come into the meeting I burst right out crying, I knew he was gone. He died.
(24LtMs, Ms 133, 1909, 10)
Now let us have good common sense and place ourselves right where we can have good air, then you get every advantage there is to succeed. When you have a meeting, take them right out of the house and not be in the house. The blessing of the Lord is in having such a place as this. You are not surrounded by unbelievers and if you were it would do them good to see how rational you act in regard to the health question. But this man says, you have saved the life of my wife, and he was a wealthy man who lived out of Battle Creek several miles. Every one can work himself up into health.
(24LtMs, Ms 133, 1909, 11)
Believe and trust in God, that He did not mean you should lay down your life now, and be of good courage. Do not speak a discouraging word to a soul, no matter to whom it is. Talk hope if it is in the very last of life, and if they die let them die praising the Lord. That is the nicest way to die. Now, I know about the subject, I have opened my doors to the consumptives; I have opened my house to them—more than one or two or three or four. I have seen the souls going down. The head printer said, “Will you take me?”“Yes,” I said. We put him into our house and the cholera was around and the family he was with had the cholera and they left him right there alone. A man brought him and put him in our room. The doctor came and said he would not live until morning, he would live until midnight and that was about all. Stephen Belden—we worked and we prayed for him all night long. In the morning when the doctor came, he said, “What have you done for that man?” We prayed all night long. Nothing else would have saved him. He was in the very last stages of cholera. Our God answers prayer. Let everyone talk courage if it is to the very last breath. We kept him with us much longer that we expected him to live. He said, “I want to ride out.” I put up my hand and said, “Don’t ride out now.” I said, “You wait a little longer.” He had one sleeve in his coat on, and sat in the rocking chair, and sat there praising God all the time until the last breath was drawn. Well now, let them die in that way if they will, if they cannot be helped. That is the best way. I buried so many from my own house, I understand it.
(24LtMs, Ms 133, 1909, 12)
Now I want to say to every one, let us talk faith, let us praise God whether we live or die. If they die in the Lord there is a blessed morning of the resurrection. Now I want to say, never be discouraged whatever may come, never be discouraged but just say the Lord loves us, He will do His part. Does He ever fail us? I never knew Him to fail us. I want to say, God lives and we may have to take care of dying ones, but do not be discouraged with them. They may rest from their labors and their works do follow them—the work that they had done.
(24LtMs, Ms 133, 1909, 13)
This intelligent young man studied himself to death. There was the daughter and husband, sister and brother, and they sent them to us as their only hope because the father and mother did not know how to take care of them. Death has no terrors for them. Praise God, praise God. He said, “Will you examine me.” That was about six weeks before he died. I said, “I will.” I put my ear right to the back of his lungs. Said he, “What do you say?” Said I, “You may live just about six weeks.” He lived about that time and then died and we said in his case, Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord. He had many friends and he was an intelligent gentleman. We take them right to our home that we might ease them down to the grave, that was our work. We might say, Praise the Lord with heart and soul and voice and we do not praise the Lord half as much as we ought to.
(24LtMs, Ms 133, 1909, 14)
Here is Christ. He came to our world to die for us, that we might have everlasting life. Do let everyone improve it and be determined they will not have Christ die for them in vain. He passed through all that agony on the cross that none of you can suffer any more than He did. And yet He did all this in behalf of a work to save a ruined world. He came here to our humanity, that humanity might grasp divinity and lay hold upon the divinity that Christ brought into the world. And now let us be thankful always for Christ’s sake.
(24LtMs, Ms 133, 1909, 15)
Ms 134, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts on 2 Peter 1 Fruitvale, California September 15, 1909 Previously unpublished.
2 Peter 1:1. Now here is the source of all our power, and if we would all from the least to the greatest, understand our individual weakness, and then would put our trust in God our helper, we should have all through our conferences experiences that are of the highest value. There is danger of our becoming self-confident.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 1)
Verse 1. Now, if we can all take that in, if can have it sanctified to our understanding, we should have an experience that is as much higher than many of us have today as we can conceive of. The great trouble with us is we lose sight of our connection with the highest power. It is God that gives us our capabilities, and therefore we should feel such an outgoing of thankfulness to God that we should not be spiritually dead at all. It would be a light shining in a dark place wherever we are, and if we are truly converted daily, we shall realize the responsibility of our ministry and how it all depends upon our living connection with God.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 2)
If we have the will in us to be obedient to the will of God, we shall see of His salvation. But we trust too much in our own understanding. We seem to think that we know the whole story, and therefore, we do not depend so fully upon our Saviour as it is our privilege to do. And because we do not, we do not realize His goodness and His power, for if we did, it would be expressed. You would express it. You would express it in the meetings; you could not get up without expressing it. You would express the goodness of God, and you would have no mourning, no complaining.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 3)
Verse 2. You have got that knowledge from the right source. Verse 3. Now here is our calling. Will we meet it, will we understand it? Verse 4. Let us think of that. Verses 5-8. Will you take that home with you? Will you consider that saying? “Ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” And when you take it all in, let me tell you, the praise of God will be in your heart, and upon your lips every day of your life, and when you express the praise of God, others will look upon you in astonishment, and then they will be expressing it. And when we all get to expressing the wondrous works of God with us, we shall see many souls brought to the knowledge of the truth, which we desire.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 4)
We do not have the simplicity of true godliness in our hearts and upon our tongues that we ought to have, because we have a hope big with immortality and full of grace.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 5)
Now the plan of addition is given us. This is just how it will work exactly “Add to your faith”—Verse 8. Now I want to know if we will begin to work on the right experience, if we will begin to work on the plan of addition, adding grace to grace, and the salvation of God will be felt by all that shall come within the savor of our influence.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 6)
Verse 9. “is blind.” He cannot see spiritual things. He cannot discern them, he is blind. He cannot see afar off. “And hath forgotten that he was purged”—verse 10. Now the big promise. Verse 10. Every one of you hear the big promise. Verse 10. There is enough in this expressed, if you study all the time that you shall be on this encampment, and bring into your living experience daily. Live on the plan of addition, adding grace to grace.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 7)
Verse 11. Isn’t that your life insurance policy, eternal life insurance policy? Isn’t this the precious truth that you should keep before you day and night, and that you should know that this is an eternal life insurance promised to you?
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 8)
I wanted to put this before you just as early as I could possibly stand before you on my feet, and I have come to you this morning that I might bring this to you.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 9)
Verses 12, 13. Now we do not have the depth of experience that it is our privilege to have. We do not keep our minds staid upon the things of eternal interest. I have felt such a longing to see our people taking in the Word, living the Word, acting the Word at all times and in all places, and the salvation of God would be imparted to every soul that will walk in humility of mind before God.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 10)
It is humility that we lack. We do not feel our necessity of having a right fast hold of the Mighty One, so that we can give others an experience. It does not mean merely words, it means works at every point, it means works. And it means that our dependence should be placed upon the Mighty One continually. It seems that if we can take hold of this secret of living upon the plan of addition, we shall see the salvation of God in a large degree in all our meetings.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 11)
We want more praise to God. We want to feel it welling up in our hearts. We want it spoken from our lips. We want continually to realize we have a God and we have a truth that is firmly based upon the promises of Jehovah. And we have an immortal life through Jesus Christ that we should be taking it, we should be singing it, we should be praying it, and show to all heaven above that we appreciate the great gift of everlasting life. That is what we need. We need more thanksgiving, and less complaining. Let us put a silence upon our lips to make no complaint. We cannot afford it. Because it shows that our lips are not sanctified, our heart is not sanctified.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 12)
I do not know what you have had at this meeting, because I have not been able to be with you; I am just making a trial this morning. I want to say to you that I have perfect confidence, perfect faith in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, that He will do for us the very wonderful things that He has promised he would do if we will stand in our position to accept it, and to impart it to those that are around us. It is because we do not with our lips glorify our God that there is so little uplifting, so little praise, so little thanksgiving, so little shining of the countenance as if we were beholding the invisible. And if we would carry the truth in the right way, many more souls would be brought to a knowledge of the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore I felt that as nearly as possible I wanted to speak some words on this point.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 13)
Now, you see, it is not robbing God if you draw from Him largely, because as you draw from Him largely, and express the result of your trying, you will send forth the same thanksgiving and praise and glory that He wants you to do by the giving of this word to us. He wants us to be firm believers. We have the truth. The truth revealed has its sanctifying power upon our lips, upon our heart, upon our body. Our whole influence shall be to honor and glorify God in the place of looking at how we feel. This is not where you get grace, it is by looking to the Source of your power.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 14)
I beseech of you, for Christ’s sake to lay right hold of the Source of your strength, for we must give an account to God for all these privileges. You must give an account to God for this privilege that are having, whether you make the most of it or not. It costs something to have these tent meetings. It costs money, it costs strength, it costs time, and we want every soul to show forth the glory of God as it is revealed through Jesus Christ. We want that there should be an adding, that you shall in every way grow in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Then you magnify His power, but it you do not say anything, if you go along and just a little simple testimony, there is no life or power. But let the power spring into your heart; let the power be brought into your soul, and then let it be lifting up the minds, to lay hold upon eternal interests. That is what is needed.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 15)
Verse 8. And if you have that knowledge, I tell you, you will represent it. The thing is, we need converting every day, because the time is so short, and we need the converting power of God to come to the people, believers and unbelievers. What we need is the sacred truth of God in our hearts, and in our souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 16)
Verses 9, 10. What an assurance that is to us! It is right from the heavenly Source. We want to grasp it, and we want to act it. Now let us every one, the remainder of this meeting, let us take right hold of the promise and act it. Do not wait till you feel it, you have something to do in order to feel it; you have to begin the work to praise God to see the beauty of holiness and to express it. The Lord help us to work intelligently.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 17)
Verse 15, 16. Now God has given us such a power, such an influence in Jesus Christ, express it, for Christ’s sake express it. Offer praise and glory to God. For Christ’s sake, measure your experience according to these words that I have spoken to you today from the Word.
(24LtMs, Ms 134, 1909, 18)
Sermon/Thoughts on John 17 San Jose, California October 7, 1909 Previously unpublished.
John 17. “These words spake Jesus ... life eternal.” [Verses 1-3.] Now that is what we want to know. Put your mind right on to it to know.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 1)
“And this is life eternal ... Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent.” [Verse 3.] There is a world in that for us, an eternal world. He has pledged us life eternal if we know it.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 2)
“That they might know Thee ... before the world was.” [Verses 3-5.] What a prayer for Christ to offer, the One that left the royal courts in pity for us that He might save perishing souls. And O, how anxious we should be to reach every soul possible. How earnest we should be to keep the mind centered upon ministry and the great sacrifice He has made in our behalf.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 3)
“And now, O Father, glorify ... before the world was.” [Verse 5.] Before the world was made.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 4)
“I have manifested thy name ... out of the world.” [Verse 6.] Now that is the very work that is resting upon every one of us. Ministers, in giving the Word, they can manifest it.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 5)
“I have manifested thy name ... out of the world.” [Verse 6.] Now we are to do just the work as far as in us in possible that Christ gave us the example.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 6)
“Thine they were, and ... believed that Thou didst send me.” [Verses 6-8.] Now we are to pattern after Christ. Pattern His works, and if we do that, we shall make no miss, we shall have heaven.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 7)
“I pray for them ... that they may be one, as we are one.” [Verses 9-11.] What a request is that to make, “That they may be one as we are.” What a privilege it is! What a position it places us in! It is wonderful. “That they may be one as we are.”
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 8)
“While I was with them in the world ... joy fulfilled in themselves.” [Verses 12, 13.] The Lord does not want us to be light and trifling, nothing in that line, but He wants us to have the joy of being one with Christ. And if we can be one with Christ we can ask what we will, and it shall be done unto us. Let us every one of us place ourselves in the most favorable position, that we may have a part that can rejoice in the wonderful, wonderful sacrifice that was made, lest we should be lost. Now we are where we can grasp the promises.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 9)
“And now come I to thee ... joy fulfilled in themselves.” [Verse 13.] Well, the Lord then does not want us to go mourning and groaning, but He wants us to have faith, He wants us to speak with courage, He wants us to speak in faith to those that are around us. He does not want us to go mourning and groaning. No, He does not want us to have that experience, because Christ took upon Him our sins, that we might have that joy fulfilled in ourselves if we grasp the promises that have been given us in the Word.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 10)
“I have given them thy word ... wouldst keep them from the evil.” [Verses 14, 15.] Now the One that made that prayer, you may be sure if you are in temptation and in trial in the world, that you shall put your trust and confidence in Him, and He will be with you. Will we go groaning and mourning because we do not feel just as we want to? Feeling has nothing to do with it. It is the promises that are left us that we are to grasp, and that we are to enjoy, and that we are to present to others. But if we go along mourning as if we had no Saviour, we dishonor Him, and we must not do that. We must keep our minds uplifted, and think what a sacrifice He had made that our humanity might grasp His divinity, and therefore that we have hope and confidence and trust in the Lord Jesus.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 11)
“I pray not that thou ... thy word is truth.” [Verses 15-17.] And if we are to be sanctified through the Word that we shall believe, we shall be brought into that sacred fellowship to be laborers together with Jesus Christ, to help every soul that is possible to be helped. Christ gave His life for these souls, therefore we should place ourselves in right relation to them, and seek to do all we possibly can to make them overcomers in unity with us.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 12)
“Sanctify them through ... sent them into the world.” [Verses 17, 18.] Now just see our position. There He brings Himself right in relation to us, and us to Him. O, we have solemn responsibilities upon us, not to go gloomy, not to go mourning, because then you cannot represent that blessed, glorious hope, large with faith, and big with immortality. And when we do have such a hope and cherish it, when we meet with disappointments and trials, we think it is not as much as Jesus had. He has given us an example how He acted in all these strait places, and we will try to follow Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 13)
“Sanctify them through ... sent them into the world.” [Verses 17, 18.] Now you just think, we are repeating His work. We are to present and lift up the cross of Calvary and show that we shall all have part in the life that is to come if we will come in unison with Jesus Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 14)
“As thou has sent me ... sanctified through the truth.” [Verses 18, 19.] Then we have a wonderful message, to bring people into Bible truth, just as it is given to us in the Word. We cannot keep silent; we must be acquainted with the Word, and we must present it to men and women. We have a position that we may win souls to Christ. It is a wonderful work.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 15)
“And for their sakes ... through the truth.” [Verse 19.] We want to know that our feet are planted on the platform of eternal truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 16)
“Neither pray I for these ... through their word.” [Verse 20.] Now when we are laboring for souls, to try to have them see the glorious hope of the gospel that is set before them, we may remember that Christ has prayed for them, that Christ is at our right hand, and the angels of God commissioned to do their work to bring them into the truth. That is the very work to be done.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 17)
“And for their sakes ... on me through their word.” [Verses 19, 20.] Now you see that it becomes every one of us to stand in right relation to God, that we may proclaim His Word to souls that are ready to perish and then that we may guard them carefully, tenderly, put no stumbling block in their way, but that we may work in harmony with angels, we may work in harmony with Jesus Christ, and we may perfect a Christian character, because we are doing the very work that Christ has told us to do.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 18)
“Neither pray I for these—through their word.” [Verse 20.] Now, there is an important work for us to do. It won’t do to be light and trifling and giddy, nor will it be right to be censorious, nor will it be right to make the path of the unbeliever ask hard as possible. We must come right to their side and help them, and try to remove their difficulty from them.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 19)
“Neither pray I for these alone ... and I in them.” [Verses 20-26.] Only think of the comparison.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 20)
“That they also may be one ... that thou hast sent me.” [Verse 21.] It is a wonderful importance that is attached to how we carry ourselves, whether we carry ourselves in meekness, in kindness, in tenderness and reach after these souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 21)
“That they all may be one ... that Thou hast sent me.” [Verse 21.] There is a great deal depending on our actions, a great deal depending on how we conduct ourselves as Christians. And if we will take this in, and fully answer that prayer of Christ, we shall have angels to guard us on every side. Yes. Don’t put a stumbling block in their way. Now here is the grand point of it:
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 22)
“And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them.” [Verse 22.] You just think of it! We are doing this work in connection with Christ, trying to save souls that are out of Christ, working for unbelievers to try to have them see what Christ will be to them, and they to Christ. Why, there is a world to be saved. We have a great deal to do.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 23)
“And the glory which ... have given them.” [Verse 22.] The glory! You just think of it. How? How is it that you get the glory? Well, the truth of God’s Word we carry out in practice as we teach sinners and transgressors the way, and as they receive this truth, it is “that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” [Verse 21.]
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 24)
“And the glory which ... as thou hast loved me.” [Verses 22, 23.] Now that is a great statement, and yet Christ made it right in His prayer. Then we will believe it, we will take it. We will act upon it.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 25)
“Father, I will that ... in them, and I in them.” [Verses 24-26.] Now it is our privilege to stand on vantage ground, and if we do not stand on vantage ground, we cannot properly represent our Lord. And we want now to be in that position that we shall believe the truth for the truth’s sake.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 26)
I want to tell you I am so grateful that after the serious trial that came upon me on the journey coming through the elevated bridges where the snow came, I nearly lost my life, and I have been struggling ever since, to get so that I could speak to the people again. I could speak a little to them upon the farm where the school is just being located, and I have spoken to you yesterday. And if you could know how grateful I was to feel that my strength was coming back, and to think that God was going to permit me to be able—I do not know how long—to bear His message still. I am just as thankful as I can be.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 27)
And that last time, they had been pleading and pleading for me to come to different places, to Salt Lake City, saying, You never have been here. Well, Willie thought I had better go, and he would do the most of the speaking, for I had been laboring very hard in Colorado. I could speak a few words. He didn’t speak a word. He had to take care—we were delayed on the cars, and he had to look out for all the baggage, and I stood there one hour. It is the first night I have spoken in Salt Lake City, I guess for forty years. That is, to give a discourse to the people. I may have been in a meeting and spoken a few words.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 28)
But the Lord gave me freedom. There were mothers that had come in, bringing their little children with them, for miles, bringing their children on the cars, and they would have been so disappointed, because they had sent for us to do this; and I was able to speak. I am so grateful to the Lord. I know all the circumstances connected with it were disagreeable before getting there, rain, rain, rain, but the Lord gave me liberty and I never saw a company that was so pleased, and so grateful, that Sister White had really come to speak to them. And I was so glad that I had the privilege.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 29)
I could not sleep that night, it was lost. We could get to bed after speaking, but we had to get right up about three o’clock to take the cars, and there we had to wait for the cars at least an hour.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 30)
Now I want to tell you that I am grateful. Next month I shall be eighty-two years old. God has kept me so that my memory in regard to His Word and the light that He has given me does not dim. I am very thankful for this.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 31)
Now, that is all I am going to say to you at this time, but I am hoping that now I shall be able and that I can again speak to the people. But I have not dared to speak to them in this hot weather that we have had. I wanted to, but I have not dared to.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 32)
Now you may know that I have the deepest interest for you all, that you shall be overcomers by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of your testimony. Let the testimony come, and you will find that the glory of God will be revealed, and Christ, you may know, is laboring with you. May the blessing of God rest upon you shall by my prayer.
(24LtMs, Ms 135, 1909, 33)
Ms 136, 1909
Sermon/Deut. 5:1-3, 4 Lodi, California November 5, 1909 Fragment only; not on file.
Ms 137, 1909
Sermon/Isaiah 55:1-5 Lodi, California November 13, 1909 Fragment only; not on file.
Ms 138, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts on Isaiah 42 Mountain View, California December 11, 1909 Previously unpublished. Incomplete.
Isaiah 42:1-3. I remember when I was in a camp meeting, my brother, two years older than myself, the Spirit of God came right upon him, and he stood up before the congregation and read these words. It just came into my mind what an impression it made upon the people. He held up his right hand—he knew he was going to die in a little while—and read this part: “He shall not fail nor be discouraged till he set judgment in the earth, and the isles shall wait for his law.” [Verse 4.]
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 1)
Verse 5. Here our attention is drawn to the work that God is carrying on constantly with His people, those that will dedicate themselves to Him. The Lord God of Israel is their God, and they are His people. Verse 6. “Thine hand.” What greater evidence can we have than this? “And will keep thee ... Gentiles.” Now that special point I want you to keep in view, “a light to the Gentiles.” It is not to just get up our meetings and feel perfectly satisfied with our camp meetings—the world is to be warned. The message is to go forth in power to the people. And we are not to restrain our labors within our own borders, but we are to advance constantly, that the truth shall go to those that are in the darkness of error. God wants us to be light-bearers to the world. And we are not excused if we neglect this work. We have a special work to do.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 2)
Verses 7, 8. Now, we want to remember that part. We do not want to depend merely on the representation of figures. We do not want to spend money in that line, but we want the truth to stand forth in its beauty. The simplicity that I see in this house is strikingly represented. We want the simplicity of godliness in all that we do here. Why? Because there is a world to save. There are missionaries to go out everywhere, and they are to be sustained. We are not to indulge ourselves in any extravagance. We are just to glorify the Lord in our simplicity, and the children learn to work with the parents, and the parents with the children, and be sure that the household is sanctified to God. That is our business. We are to carry the truth in every line possible in the home life, to connect the children, that we may carry the truth forth in the power of true godliness.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 3)
Verses 8-10. “New song.” That is something that has struck me particularly. Verses 10, 11. Now what does all this mean? We are fulfilling it. It is working so that we can go into the mountains, we can go into the hills, we can go into the highways, and we can go into the byways; but the cities are neglected. And the Lord would have us take up a missionary work for our cities. They are afraid to enter the cities, and they know it will be an expense to do it. They know that, and they have not very much encouragement, but we have got to change upon this point decidedly. Here are the cities that are unwarned, and we want the Spirit of the Lord to go with us at every step, to know that we are glorifying Him, that we are honoring the Lord upon the earth.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 4)
Verse 11. Now I have had the privilege of going into Pennsylvania, and of seeing our sanitarium there. And in several places where I have been, I have been taken by a certain sister that was wealthy, and she wanted to know where to dispose of her means. She would show me the places all around where I would go, and where we could go, but the time did not seem to have come to go there yet. And I want to say there are places everywhere, the highways, yes, mountainous ways, and byways; I have seen them, and the places where you would think that nobody could get the truth before them. I have been in these places. I have seen those that have been labored for by the ministry of the servants of God. I have seen these souls converted, and I was invited to go into the highways and the byways—just to take a look.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 5)
Well, it was quite a journey for me, but I did it. I am glad I did. I saw gray-headed fathers and mothers, and they were studying what they might do. “Here is our family,” they say, “young men who have embraced the truth, and we have got to get a home for their families; for they want to plow right into the highways, and into the byways. They want to go there and work, and we cannot forbid them.”
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 6)
They were three or four young men, smart, intelligent men who had been brought in through the influence of the Madison school. There they began to work, hard work. I asked the father about it. Why, said he, they are trying to cure the land. What is the matter with the land? It has been poisoned by raising tobacco, and now we are trying to bring it back to its healthful state, that our families can be left here, and we go into all this country and the highways and the byways. They cannot come to us out here, they have no decent clothes to wear, and we must—here is a beginning, and we want you to speak to us right here today in this little house. It was a schoolhouse; they made it into a meetinghouse. Well, I did. I never had greater liberty than I did speaking to that congregation.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 7)
Verse 11. And these were some, their houses were placed in the very tops of the mountains. I looked at the father, a noble looking man, and I looked at the mother, an aged woman, and her four sons dealing out the little portions of land to them—they were to go out into these places where nobody else would go, and they had quite a large company there near Madison, and Madison tries to send out help to them whenever they can.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 8)
Verse 10. “End of the earth.” You will do it when the missionary spirit get in you. “Ye that go down to the sea—inhabitants thereof.” Yes, there are just such places that are missionary fields, as well as the cities.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 9)
Verse 11. “Rock, sing.” Yes, there were inhabitants right on the rocks. “Let them sing from the top of the mountains.” And there were places right in the top of the mountains.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 10)
Verses 12, 13-16. Now these encouragements are given for just such a work as I have been seeing carried forward. I make contributions of my books wherever I can in such places. I tell them, Let them have the books, and when they are used up, just let me know and I will supply them.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 11)
Verses 18-22. “spoiled.” But what I want to read is a little further. Isaiah 43:1. “Redeemed thee.” When I came to that part of it seemed as though I could hardly contain myself. “I have called thee by thy name ______”verse 3.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 12)
You understand that, He rescued a people that was once His chosen people, but they went down to Egypt to keep from starving to death. They treated them as slaves. Then the Lord took hold of them again. They felt sorry after he had let them go. He made a path for Israel through the sea, and they were delivered. Now we have a God, and it is best for every one of us to have more trust and confidence in our God than we yet have manifested. We want to stand, as we read these things, where God can work with His people. We know not what times are before us, and we want to be in a position where we may honor and glorify God.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 13)
Isaiah 43:1. “Redeemer.” Praise the Lord! We have enough to praise God for, why do we have so little praise? Don’t you think that angels in heaven would look upon us with pleasure if we realized with thanksgiving in our hearts how much the Lord has done for us? I believe they would.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 14)
“I have called thee by thy name”—verse 3. There He speaks of the judgment that He brought upon Egypt because they would not let Israel go.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 15)
Verses 4, 5. Thus He goes on with this promises. You can read it, chapter after chapter right along, chapters 44, 45, and so go on in Isaiah. I need not repeat it for you, because you can read it yourselves.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 16)
But I do want to tell you, there is altogether too little appreciation of what the Lord has done for us, and what He will do for us if we will follow on to know the Lord; we shall know His going forth is prepared as the morning. Now that is just what we want to know.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 17)
Now I am not going to take up your time this forenoon, I will give you time, every one of you that can, to bear your testimony. I want to speak to you again before I go. And I want you to look over these chapters and see what God has covenanted to do with us. When I consider how little we appreciate the encouragement that God has given us, I cannot sleep. I have not had a night’s sleep, but a very few hours that I could sleep, night after night. I get up at one o’clock, and sometimes at twelve o’clock, and I commence to write and write for the people of God to arouse. The time is passing, and we cannot afford to have it pass unless we see more missionary work, and more missionary spirit that shall come into our churches. We see that the Lord God of heaven uses us, because His name can be glorified, even into the highways and the hedges.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 18)
But here are the cities. The cities are scarcely touched, and what answer can we bring to God in the day of reckoning that we have left them alone? What can we say? God help us to understand, and every one of us to feel that there is not a penny of anything unnecessary that we must expend in just show, in just pride. I do not see any here that are extravagantly dressed, and I want to say, I hope you never will be. I hope that we shall walk humbly with God. I do not want you to feel that I am making any raid on you at all. I want that every one of us in simplicity of faith can come to the Lord just as we are, and cast our helpless souls upon Jesus Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 19)
These young men may be working here. Perhaps they are, perhaps they are children of those that work, but these young men can be learning. I took up the work, young men, when I was twelve years old, and then I could only do a very little. I could read a few passages in the Scriptures, and I could weep. I was an invalid. But they would come to see me, and them I would tell them about the Saviour, how I loved Him, and they could love Him. We want our children to be workers together with us. We want them to feel that they can be laborers together with God.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 20)
And in this situation here, where so many of the publications go forth, we want to say that with the publications work must be done. There must be work done for the people more than we are doing. Every chance that you can get, go to those that know not the truth, get into their congregations, and ask for an opportunity to speak. You need not make any drive on them at all. But you take the Scriptures, and you can read the Word of God just as I have read it to you, passage after passage, and it will be a blessing to them.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 21)
What we want is the simplicity of true godliness. We want it today. We want it every day. I have not had a night’s sleep for months. I go to bed and I can sleep a few hours, then I wake up, and I cannot sleep anymore. I have to get right up and take my pen and commence to write, and write out to this family and that family and the other family, and try to reach some of them that I know are in danger.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 22)
God will help us to work for one another, but we need the simplicity of true godliness. We want to humble our own hearts before God, and we want to feel pity for the young that are exposed to temptations. We want the young in our families to be converted, thus we be laborers together, yes together with God.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 23)
Now, I do not intend to talk with you long, but we want the simplicity of true godliness. Every one of us, that is what we want. And we want to put away our pride of opinion, and any such thing as that. But we want to throw ourselves right in the channel, the current of life where we can bear the message of truth to those that are perishing out of the knowledge of Christ. We are not excused if we put our candle under a bushel. Bring it out, and let it shine forth to those that are in the darkness of error, that they by seeing our light will be led to understand what light from God is. That is what we want to do, and that is what we have been trying to do. My son said, No, mother, I won’t ask you to go but to College View, etc.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 24)
I thank God that He will give us courage in the Lord if we will exercise our sanctified human capability. If you do that, you can reach many souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 25)
Now I am not going to hold this large congregation here. I want to tell you there is a heaven to win, and our ministers and all can take hold with the simplicity of true godliness. They can search how it is spoken of the highways, it is spoken of the wilderness, it is spoken where I have been reading to you in all places, that the salvation of God is to be revealed and souls are to be converted.
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 26)
God help us that we may be among those that have brought these souls to the knowledge of the truth, and then what? There will be more praise to God that you hear now. Your own hearts will be led out, and you will feel so thankful that you cannot hold your peace. You will just praise God, and then others will praise God, just as we read when David fled from Saul, and he followed after him to get him. Well, he came right on to one school of the prophets, and he began to prophesy. The Spirit that was there took hold of him. He was after David, but he did not get David, but David had to hide away from him. We have strange experiences in the work, and we want to stand [incomplete].
(24LtMs, Ms 138, 1909, 27)
Ms 139, 1909
Sermon/Fruit-bearing Branches Mountain View, California December 12, 1909 Previously unpublished.
John 15:1. “Taketh away.” Will we consider that? Fruit is expected of every one that is on the vine. “And every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it.” [Verse 2.] He brings them through a process that will cut away words and spirit that are not in accordance with the mind and will of Christ, to make them fruit-bearing branches.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 1)
“Every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it that it may bring forth more fruit.” [Verse 2.] Now, when the purging comes, don’t consider that you are being separated from the vine. That is not so. He purgeth it that it may increase the quality of the fruit that you bear. So if you do not always feel just as you like to feel, and you wish you had a greater evidence that you were accepted of God, remember there is a way to get it, that is to seek it of Jesus. Go right to Him as a hungry child, to supply all your necessities, and give you just what you need that will make you a fruitful branch in the vine.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 2)
Verses 3-5. You are in a very responsible position here. You are where young men and young women are connected with you in the work, and those who are older in experience and age are the very ones that are to be a help and a strength to the parties that may come in to take a position and that have been here in this office for some time. You are to consider that you are a branch of the vine. If you claim to be a child of God, you are to act like a child of God. You are seek counsel from the Lord. You are to be much with God in prayer, and the more that there are connected with this office the more important it is for every one to have an individual work. I will go through this now, and then I will refer to the work that should be done after I get through with the lesson here.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 3)
I had a very singular experience in my home. I was writing on this subject to one of our people, and while I was writing, I lost all consciousness of anything around me. I was placed in that relation that I could understand what it means to be a branch of the true vine. And it was so wonderful, and yet so simple, that we could every one, be a branch of the true vine. This lesson in the fifteenth of John has been regarded by me with an intensity that I never regarded it before, and I will read it through now.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 4)
Verse 4. “I in you.” If you abide in Christ, He abides in you. Then be careful how you speak. Don’t you let your tongue say one word that is improper for one that is abiding in Christ. You are to represent that you are a branch of the living vine. Verse 4. Will you consider that every morning, every noon, every night? Will you consider it while you are engaged in your labor?
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 5)
Verses 5-7. Now the will of the man is placed as the will of the Son, as the will of Christ, and therefore nothing will transpire with them that shall attain this oneness. It is a wonderful position. I never saw it as I did on this special occasion.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 6)
Verse 8. It rests on whether you bear the fruit that is in Christ Jesus, and act out His life and character. All the profession in the world will never save you unless you have a living connection with the Son of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 7)
Verse 9. Now you just see the comparison. “Continue ye in my love.”Verses 10, 11. What would you do if your joy was full? Could you keep it to yourself? Should not your mind be constantly ascending to God to receive strength from Him to honor your profession? That is what He expects of us.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 8)
Verse 12. Now He did not love us because we were so perfect, but because through Him we could be sanctified through the truth, and obey the truth. Verses 13-16. Why, this came upon me with such power, of the power that we are not grasping the grace that we might have. Now Christ tells things just as they are. We can be laborers together with Jesus Christ in God, to glorify God.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 9)
Verses 17-19. The world will lay stumbling blocks in your way. You need not expect anything else from the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 10)
Verses 20-25. They had no cause whatever to dislike Christ or to hate Him. But it was because His works were perfect with the Father.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 11)
Verses 26, 27. Now here was His lesson to the people to be brought down to us, and we are to take every lesson in this chapter, every phase of it, and bring ourselves into right relation to God.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 12)
The prospect that was before me as I sat there with me pen in my hands and had lost consciousness, why, the scene that was presented, and the works that were being done by Christ! The influence of His Holy Spirit that was being resisted, because they did not come up to the standard that it was their privilege to come up to, and for which the Lord sent Jesus to make it possible that humanity might grasp divinity, and divinity might lift up humanity to become one with Jesus Christ. Humanity and divinity combined could bring in a position of oneness to God that is presented. And when we consider, as when I began to come to myself, the privileges that we were to claim from this chapter—it seemed to me that I was in heaven. It seemed to me my whole being was brought into a unity with Jesus Christ, and that we could have this unity, the human being could take hold of the divine nature, and become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 13)
Now, every soul of us will have battled to fight, and if we will lay right hold of the divine nature, we shall find a help and a strength, and what will it reveal? The praise of God will be upon your lips in the place of worry, and in the place of expressing doubts, and in the place of giving a harsh word to those that are in connection with you. We, every one of us, are to take that joy, and to carry it out to the letter. And if you will do that, then you shall be a partaker of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 14)
Now, study these things. Where you will be in the future at any time, we know not. We know not what trials you will be brought into, but if we do not half live the Scriptures, if we are not benefitted by the divine nature, to be a partaker of that nature, so that we can escape the corruption that is in the world through lust, we are lost. If one of you should be admitted into the kingdom of heaven, not having perfect character after Christ, there would be a satanic influence that would be brought right into the city of God and a second rebellion. But God has provided for that, and He has given lessons, that we might take these lessons and that we might believe that we have to keep these lessons, and not a word escape our lips wherever we are that shall dishonor our Maker.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 15)
We are to be sanctified to God, and every soul that has a connection with the publications, and the work that comes forth from this office, is to dedicate their soul, body and spirit to God, and the natural affection is to be sanctified and holy; then what? You will speak it; you will teach it; you will be converted by it, and you will be helpers to one another to overcome the besetments and transgressions that are in the world through lust.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 16)
Now, these are the points that I want to present to you, that were presented to me, and that I begin to write. I do not know where it is. It is written out somewhere that we lose sight of these things. Ministers lose sight of it, and the people lose sight of it, and the physicians lose sight of it, and therefore it is brought over and over to my mind to speak it to the people. We want sanctified words. And, you know, when Saul was pursuing David that he might find him, they came to the school of the prophets, and just as soon as they came they heard the voice of the prophets, and as they heard the voices there was a wonderful sentiment created in his own mind to forget that he was after David, and to begin to prophesy right with the prophets; the Spirit came upon him. Now, if he had only kept under it, then Saul would have been in an excellent condition, but he did not keep under it.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 17)
We can come into a right position, and we want to see what it must be. Therefore that is why I am speaking to you on this point now. I have not strength to speak to you much, but I want to say to you that day and night my mind is on these subjects, and I consider, from them light given to me regarding the workers in this great work of publishing, that they should not all hug right in there. There should be divisions made, and some in one place, and some in another. There should be divisions made. There is a world to save. It is not to gather right around in here all that can be gathered. There are things that we must understand, that the light may go forth as a lamp that burneth from those that know the truth. There are departments of the work that can be carried on and let light shine forth in different places. That is what I am writing, and trying to bring before our people, and have been for years, but it has been so hard for them to see it.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 18)
Now read this, verses 1, 2. Just as soon as we have the Holy Spirit of God that is resting upon us individually, let me tell you it will be known. Just as surely as the power of God is communicated with us, we shall communicate it to others. And when the communication shall come to souls, there will be a recognition of it, even by unbelievers. They will either get mad or they will leave, they won’t stay in that atmosphere where angels of God are in your midst. They will not stay there. And we want the light that is here to be felt all through wherever they may go, and carry the work that must be carried. There is a work for every soul of us to do.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 19)
Christ left the royal courts; He clothed His divinity with humanity. He came to our world to show us what humanity must be if we ever enter the courts above. If your passions are not overcome, it is time to begin the work. It is time in your families to pray to God until you know that He bestows His Spirit upon you, and that humanity is grasping divinity. When humanity grasps divinity, I tell you there will be a devotion, a sanctification, in every part of our work that is connected with our printing establishments, and every part of our work that is connected with the ministry, and every part of it that is connected with the medical line. It will blend, and the glory of God will be revealed.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 20)
This thing was presented to men in such a way that I have felt an impossibility to present it as it were, that you might understand it, that humanity must grasp divinity, and then you are a partaker of the divine nature. Christ laid off His golden crown, He laid off His kingly robe, and He came into our world to teach just how that you could grasp divinity, that you may be prepared for any trial or any difficulty. And just so it was with the school of the prophets. They went by themselves, they prayed to God until the Holy Spirit rested upon them, and then they went to communicate the light that God had given them. What we want is a living Saviour. What we want is that connection with God that we can understand the temptations of Satan.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 21)
All these books that are in the traveling cars, and presentations of these things, you want nothing to do with them. I told them in my house, said I, If you put on that table in my parlor any of these books, you never will find them again, or you never will know where they went to, because I won’t have them in my house. I won’t have it that I speak to the people, and then these different books are placed there in my house. The books have nothing but worldly thing that are brought in. We do not want a taste of it. What we want is to know that we are in Christ the living vine, and that we are to bring forth fruit to His glory.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 22)
That is all that has brought me here. I did not feel able to come here, but the Lord has given me strength that I could say a few words to you, and I want to tell you that Jesus lives. He left His glory to bring to you in humanity unsullied in the world from a little child. He came up in the Spirit of God, and not a word escaped His lips for which He could be condemned. He is our pattern in all things. And we are to be partakers of the divine nature. Not a coarse word, not a passionate word is to come from your lips. The converting power of God must come into your voice, and then there will have to be a division made here in this place, that the light may be communicated to others that are in darkness. We are preparing for scenes that you can scarcely anticipate, and what we want is to be in Christ, the living vine.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 23)
Now, although He was the living vine, you see He suffered. Yes, He suffered. In the garden of Gethsemane there was that bitter cup of being separated from His Father for bearing the sins, and there the bloody sweat dropped from His brow and moistened the sods of Gethsemane, and He said, My Father, if it is possible, let his cup pass from me. The separation of the Father from the Son was what He felt that He could not endure, and the bloody sweat moistened the sods of Gethsemane. And there was our destiny with that cup trembling in His hands. Would He drink it? Let this cup, He said, pass from Me. And then the future, how it would be if it did pass from Him. Nevertheless, He says, if it be Thy will, I will drink it. And He went to His disciples to see if they were awake to sympathize with Him. They were asleep and I think a good many of us are asleep, asleep spiritually, and now if ever, we want to realize what it is to be believing Christians. We had better awake in the name of the Lord God of Israel.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 24)
Christ said, I will drink it. And an angel came from glory to strengthen the Son of the infinite God to drink this cup of separation from His Father, to be crucified as a sinner. But the Lord God of Heaven protected and brought His Son through. The next we see is when they came to the sepulcher to anoint His body, and lo, there was no Jesus there. Christ had risen. The angels of God from heaven had come down and rolled back that stone from the sepulcher as a pebble. And the Son of God came forth and proclaimed over the rent sepulcher of Joseph, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.] That was the triumph song of victory that came. And now I am going to say, Seek the Lord, while He may be found.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 25)
I have said these few words to you but you have the house so heated up as to put you to sleep rather than to keep you awake. Another morning as mild as this, I beg of you, don’t build a fire in this house when you meet together. You want every vein of your being to be brought into living connection with God. You cannot realize these things if you have the heat as it is now. You cannot afford it. You want to be wide awake, and you want the Spirit of the Highest to overshadow you, and the grace of God to be with you.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 26)
“I am the resurrection and the life,” said Christ. [Verse 25.] And you are to have life, and you are to praise God, and when the true fruit is borne by the vine, you will have the praise of God coming from your lips instead of complaining and finding fault and all this; you will feel that I am in connection with Jesus Christ. He is my Redeemer. I have faith in Him. I will walk, I will work as a true branch of the living vine. Now that is what we want to do, and more words, I do not think would be of use. But I want to tell you, You have a work to do individually. We are not half converted. If we were only half converted, there would be a different representation. But we want the whole conversation, a living unity with Christ, if you can ever unite with Him in the heavenly courts. And I beseech you, for Christ’s sake to come in unity with Him. Now we do not go without Him, because He will be right with us, and He will help us at every step.
(24LtMs, Ms 139, 1909, 27)
Ms 140, 1909
Sermon/Thoughts on John 15 Oakland, California December 18, 1909 Previously unpublished.
John 15:1. They claim to be in Him but they are not there. “Every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” Now we can understand that every thing depends, with us individually, on whether we are fruit-bearing branches. And every branch that beareth fruit in the vine, then what will He do? Verse 2.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 1)
Now, it is for the advantage of every soul of us that we should stand and work in right relation to God. We cannot afford to do any haphazard work. It is too costly a business for us to make a failure again and again. We must be in a position where we can lay hold upon Jesus Christ, and that we can claim His keeping power, and that we may so live before Him that His name may be glorified by us on the earth. We want to be the branches that can bear fruit.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 2)
I was attempting to write upon this once, not long since, and the whole scene was impressed upon my mind, and I lost consciousness. I did not know where I was, but such a wonderful representation!
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 3)
“I am the vine, ye are the branches.” [Verse 5.] Well, the branches must not bear the same fruit as the root and the vine. Therefore we are to stand in that relation to God where the devil cannot in any way rob us of that grace which we want so much, to bear fruit to the glory of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 4)
Well, after a time I aroused, and where was I? I did not know where I was, but the whole advantage had gone before me, and it seemed life and it seemed strength to every soul of us that would take hold of it. And we want now, right down in the very last stage of this earth’s history, to understand our right relation to God.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 5)
Are we bearing fruit? Are we winning souls to Jesus Christ, because ye are laborers together with God? Or are we shutting ourselves up to ourselves, so that we are not working out the true principles of godliness to make a representation in the world?
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 6)
But just see what this text means. Verse 2. Well, now, you may think you are hurt. You are made sad, you are distressed, you feel in some way that you haven’t a right relation to God. Well, then He wants you to have. He wants you to double your efforts that you might be fruit-bearing branches of the living vine.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 7)
“And every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it.” Is the purging good? Doesn’t it hurt you when you are purged? When something comes up and you feel that it is not just right, you want to make a fuss about it. Now don’t let us any more, because the Lord Jesus promised that He permits things to come to us that we shall think soberly and righteously, and that we should consider our case minutely, whether we are fruit-bearing branches, for that means very much to us.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 8)
“He purgeth it that it may bring forth more fruit.”Verses 3, 4. Now just bear that in mind. Well, all this came before me only a few nights ago, and such a representation! I did not know for a time where I was, I could not think where I was, but then this subject seemed so full, so complete, that if we understood it, we would work to the point to know that we are fruit-bearing branches.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 9)
What are you doing for your neighbors that have not heard of the truth? What are you doing for those with whom you come in contact that are sinners? What are you doing to wake them up? And if you should be purged, perhaps you would understand that they might become branches of the vine as well as you, if they had the opportunity. But keeping yourself within yourself, doing just as you please, carrying no special burden or responsibility of the souls of those that are around you, will result in your losing your own soul.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 10)
You do not appreciate it, and therefore you will lose yourself out of the vine. You cannot afford it. It is life, eternal life; it must be with every mortal of us here today or it is death, death, eternal death when Christ shall come, and you cannot afford that Jesus Christ shall have died for you in vain. Can it be so, that the Son of the living God, came to this world, and there He was crucified? There He was bound in the garden of Gethsemane, and pleading that if it was possible, this cup might pass from Him. Now all this was to save you, to save me, and to save every one of us. And shall He have made it for us in vain? What about this matter?
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 11)
Aren’t we careless of our words? Do you worship God in spirit and in truth? Do you have His praise in your lips when you come into the house of God, that you can praise Him, and that you can do Him honor when you are out of the house? I want to ask you if we have not need of being pruned, that we should bring forth more fruit? God help us that we shall not make any mistake.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 12)
Verses 3, 4. Now, if you are abiding in Christ, you will do the works of Christ. You will not let sinners, your very next neighbor or the friends around you, not know anything about what you believe. You will not act more frequently like sinners than you do like saints. You cannot afford it. You are not bearing fruit within to the true vine.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 13)
Now we want, every one of us, to melt our hearts before God. You want, when you come into the house of God, to worship Him. His praise is on your lips, it is in your heart, and God will be honored by your praising Him. God will be honored to see that you are living branches of the vine, and we ought to praise God a hundredfold more than we do now. How is God glorified by our silence and our dumbness? We want right here in the wicked city of Oakland, and in the wicked city of San Francisco, to have a voice that shall be honoring the Lord God of Israel. We want the truth in our hearts, and we want it expressed upon our lips, and we want that our tongues shall praise God, because He has given us Christ.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 14)
What about that? John 3:16. Now speak of Christ, the death struggle that He had before He was treated so shamefully. They spit in His face, they beat Him with thongs, and who was He? He was suffering that you might have an experience that would conform to His teachings, that you might win souls in His person. He made the infinite sacrifice in our behalf. While He was bowed there in agony, He arose and He staggered to where the disciples were, to see if they might speak a word to Him, but they were asleep. He aroused them up; He said, Could ye not watch with Me one hour? He said, Watch and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 15)
Now that cup was trembling in His hand, when He was in that condition, just a little while after He had said, “I am the true vine, and ye are the branches.” [John 15:1, 5.] And here He says, in view of that cup that was trembling in His hands, If it be possible, let this cup pass from me. Nevertheless, indeed, not My will, but Thine be done. And there He was, fainting as it were, dying on the field of battle, when a mighty angel from heaven came down, and lifted His head and put it upon His bosom, and there He drank that cup, He consented to drink that cup of suffering, that was right before Him. And we know how He bore it all the way through, “Not My will,” He said, “but Thine be done.” [Luke 22:42.]
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 16)
It was that you and I might have the privilege of being a branch in the true vine; it was that we might study His life and his character, and that we might follow on to know that Lord, that His going forth is prepared as the morning. Now Christ bore this. Christ suffered all the abuse that would be heaped upon Him, and who was He? The Son of the infinite God. He permitted all this to be poured out in our behalf, that we might be partakers of the divine nature, even Jesus Christ. O that God would help us!
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 17)
[John 15] Verses 3, 4. Now, unless we are abiding in Christ, how do we know we are abiding in Him? Because we are working the works of Christ, we are working in the same line. We are having compassion on those on whom Christ would have compassion, and we are in every way seeking to save the perishing souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 18)
How much have you done for your neighbors? How many efforts have you made to open the Scriptures before your neighbors? I asked you in the name of the Lord, what are you doing? And here we are on the very remnant, the last remnant of time, of this earth’s history, when the gospel can be carried from place to place. In some places, now even, it is closed up, but there are places where we are to work as laborers together. Christ is working for the salvation of souls. He has done His part, and He is still working through His followers, that they shall act their part, and He will give them the power of the Holy Spirit to impress human minds. This the real work to be done in cities, and wherever we may go, there is a work to be done.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 19)
We are to place ourselves in right relation to God, that we may work in harmony with the true vine. “I am the true vine,” He says, “and my Father is the husbandman.” [Verse 1.] Study your Bible. Study it; teach your children to study it. You are either preparing them for the future, immortal life, or you are allowing them to drift right down in the enemy’s lines. You cannot afford it. You want to co-operate with God. You want to know that Christ has borne the great burden on your account, and that you are to be where every time you come into this house you will praise God that you are alive, that you can work the works of God. And God help every one of us to come in right relation to God.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 20)
As I consider this subject, it seems to me it is large and broad and deep and full and eternal in its result of fruit-bearing. Verse 3. “through the word.” if they obey the Word. Verses 4, 5. Now that is just what He expects of us. This is His last lessons that He was giving to His disciples, before He suffered the crucifixion.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 21)
Verse 5. How many souls have you labored for? How many will tell you when the judgment shall fall upon the earth, “Why didn’t you warn me?” Let us take hold. I beseech of you, Seek the Lord with all your heart, that you may find Him. “Without me ye can do nothing.”
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 22)
Verses 6, 7. Well, why shouldn’t His words abide in us? Why shouldn’t we work out the salvation of God? Why shouldn’t we co-operate with God? For He so loved the world, etc. How many will come in the day of judgment, and say, If you hadn’t have warned me, I should not be prepared for this occasion. And when in the city of God the crowns are brought and placed upon the heads of the overcomers, they remember what words this one spoke to them, and that one spoke to them in their faithfulness, and they cast their crowns at the feet of Jesus, and clasp their arms around their neck and say, Your words saved me. I should have lost all this if you had not helped me. Now what we want is to be wide awake. We cannot afford to be anything else. “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you.” Now just see, “Ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.” Now that is assurance. “Herein is my Father glorified that ye bear much fruit.”
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 23)
Verses 8-10. Now you see He places Himself right in the link with us. Verse 11. Why shouldn’t we be thankful, why shouldn’t we be grateful? Why shouldn’t we express it? Why shouldn’t we gather our children around us, and tell them Christ died for them? Why shouldn’t you do it, and why shouldn’t you see that they were deciding on the right side to be Christians?
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 24)
Verses 11, 12. Now, do you suppose you could love one another as Christ loves us, and yet not say anything to warn your neighbors nor your friends nor unbelievers that are around you?
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 25)
I was afraid I might never have a chance to speak this to you again. I had another subject I was to bring, but I thought I would give you this, this time, and I want you to work upon it with all your might, and redeem the time that you have lost. You might have had many souls that you could have brought to the knowledge of the truth if you had only realized the force of the words that I have read to you.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 26)
Verse 12. Do you do it? Or if you see some little thing you can find fault with, you will keep thinking of that little thing. Why, we are the purchase of the blood of Christ; He gave His life for you, and He wants every one of you to be re-converted. He wants the re-converting power of God to go through your midst. I am afraid if you let things go on as they are, you will perish with the wicked, for you have neglected the most solemn obligations that Christ has laid upon you. Now, let us every one see and understand what this Scripture means.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 27)
Verses 13, 14. Now here is the application. You know whether you obey it or not. Verse 15. Thank the Lord with heart and soul and voice. Verses 16, 17. Now, if you do, you cannot be silent as you are, men and women. You cannot do as little as you do on the side of the Master.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 28)
Verses 17, 18, 19. There is such a vast difference, he represents, between the world and obedience to Christ. Now, if you maintain that sacredness of character that belongs to the Christian, you will reveal it in your love for souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 29)
Verses 19, 20, 21. I tell you this today that you may know that you have something to do, everyone of you, if you keep in the living vine.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 30)
Verses 23-26. Now, we can be with Christ in this from the beginning, by taking the chapters that are lessons, that He has given us, not only this chapter, but on through His teachings, and follow it out to the letter. We might have a religion that would bring us in close connection as fruit-bearing branches. We might have a religion that would make an impression upon the world, and we want to be branches of the true vine, that we may bear the fruit of the true vine, and that we may bear the purging of the true vine.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 31)
I beg of you, for Christ’s sake, to come up on a higher level. I was afraid I could not speak today, but God has given me strength of voice. Therefore I will speak to you as the children that He wants to have come in right relation to Himself, so that you shall not be pruned away, but that you shall be pruned to bring forth more fruit, that every one of us shall come in right relation to God. That is my earnest and anxious desire. And I ask of you, Will you make an effort, wherever you live, either in San Francisco or in Oakland, or Berkeley, or what place you come from, I ask you in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth to listen to the words of Christ, to read it over and over and over again until they get into your heart, until your heart burns with the love of Christ that has expressed such interest in every branch in the vine. That which would disturb us, that which would make it so impossible that we can do only a little, He taketh it away, and that which will work in harmony with Christ, He lets it remain, and pruneth it that it may bring forth more fruit to the glory of God.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 32)
We want to be Christians. I expect to meet the testimony, that I give you here today, in the day of judgment. I expect to meet it, and therefore I feel an intense interest that there should be a decided expression here this very day. Every one who will carry out to the very best of his ability these words, not of Sister White, but these words of the Bible, of Jesus Christ, that you will carry them out to the letter, and that you will get in these souls redeemed by the grace of God, I ask you to rise to your feet.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 33)
(Congregation rises.) Thank the Lord. (Praying:) Thou seest the pledge of this people. I beseech of Thee, for Christ’s sake, that this pledge may be so impressed upon them that they will begin to work for their neighbors, that they will work for souls that are ready to perish, that they will open the Scriptures to them, and then their experience will grow, because Christ has taught them to do that very work.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 34)
I ask Thee, Lord, to let Thy blessing rest upon this congregation. O, my Father, my Father, for Christ’s sake make the impression. I cannot make it, but I want Thee to make it, that there shall be a beginning of an altogether different experience. Instead of finding fault, instead of complaining, instead of being untrue to Christ who gave His life to save our souls, may we every one of us stand in right relation to Thee from this hour.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 35)
We want Thee, Lord. We open our hearts to Thee. We want to remain a branch of the true vine, and we want to teach others what it means to be a branch of the true vine. Bless this congregation that right here stands before Thee. O, make the impression. I cannot make the impression, but the Holy Spirit of God can make it, and I ask Thee that they may study this chapter, and that they may bear fruit to the glory of God, and that at last we may meet in the city of God, where parents and children shall be united, because the parents have done their duty to their children.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 36)
O, my Father, my Father, I ask Thee for Christ’s sake to make the impression that Thou alone canst make, and Thy blessed name shall have all the glory.
(24LtMs, Ms 140, 1909, 37)
Ms 141, 1909
The Needs of the Cities NP June 1909 Previously unpublished. + [First page missing.]
... those who take up this work in a humble way to study the third and fourth chapters of Matthew—the record of Christ’s anointing for His mission, and His temptation in the wilderness. After His long fast and severe conflict, Christ lay like one dying on the field of battle. It was then that angels came and ministered to Him.
(24LtMs, Ms 141, 1909, 1)
I have waited and hoped and prayed for a revival of mission work in our cities in America. In the giving of the first and second angels’ messages, men full of the Spirit acted a prominent part in city labor in the East. This work was also carried forward in many of the Southern cities, though not so thoroughly as in the East. There are people living today who heard the first and second angels’ messages preached by Brother Miller and other devoted workers. These should hear the last message of warning to be given to the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 141, 1909, 2)
The needs of the cities are kept before me night after night, and the importance of doing at once the work that should have been going forward these many years. The message of present truth must be preached without delay in the eastern and southern states. Men are to be selected to labor in the cities who will arouse the attention and interest of the people. They should be humble, converted men, men who will be taught of God, and who will continually be extending the sphere of their labors as souls are converted to the truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 141, 1909, 3)
Let not our workers expend large sums of money for houses in which to live. Our works should correspond to our faith. The Lord has greatly blessed us in the many places in furnishing us with builders and facilities for sanitarium work. In southern California, especially, we have been able to secure buildings for sums far below their original cost. In the securing of Loma Linda we know that the Lord worked for us in a special manner. He worked for us also in the securing of the Melrose sanitarium. And He will work for us by giving us facilities by which we may proclaim the message and let the light shine forth in Boston and New York, and other places. In the city of Boston there is a great work before us. There is much for consecrated workers to do in all the large cities. We must work prudently. Let many be trained to undertake the work that is close by us. The Lord is as verily calling His people to work the cities of America as He is calling some to go with the message of truth to distant lands.
(24LtMs, Ms 141, 1909, 4)
I have words to speak to our leading men in Washington. Do not, I beg of you, make a modern Jerusalem of Washington. Let your means be carefully used. It is not the Lord’s design that there shall be a large outlay of means in order to beautify the grounds around our institutions. We need plain and simple buildings, and not a large expenditure in favored places of the means that might be used in establishing small centers in many other parts of the field. Our money is to be used, and our workers are to be employed, in making the rough places smooth, and in preparing a people to stand in the day of the Lord. Every city in our land is to hear this last note of warning to a dying world. Let not a disproportionate amount of means be invested in one place. Every unworked city is a condemnatory testimony to those who have used means in a line of work that does not count for the salvation of souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 141, 1909, 5)
There is talent now confined in Washington that should be employed in proclaiming the truth for this time to the cities of our land. God calls upon the men in Washington to be converted daily, and to study to know what should be their position individually toward this work of warning the world of the soon coming of the King. The spiritual health of our believers demands this kind of labor. Men will be blessed as they engage in personal labor for the saving of the perishing.
(24LtMs, Ms 141, 1909, 6)
Our brethren in Washington are to be men of clear spiritual eyesight, men who can see afar off. I would urge that those who are inclined to settle down near Washington be very careful that they do not deceive themselves. There are some here who ought to be laboring elsewhere, and changes should be made without delay. The Lord is calling for men and means with which to finish up His work. It matters not who they be—leading men or humble apprentices; if they have adaptability for proclaiming the truth and explaining the Scriptures, they should be encouraged to take up this line of work. Let not these men be hindered because it is supposed that the work can be profited by their labors in Washington. There is work to be done in our cities by some who have settled down in Washington. Let us look well to ourselves that we do not lose the instruction of the Holy Spirit, and mold the work according to ideas that will lead men and women into false paths.
(24LtMs, Ms 141, 1909, 7)
There has been exercised a spirit of fearfulness, of caution, of holding back, that has deprived some cities of the message of truth. Had there been more courage and sanctified zeal for the advancement of the work, many laborers would now be working in new territory. This matter has been presented to me again and again, and I have been instructed, Cry aloud, spare not; for My people are not fully aroused to see and sense clearly their opportunities and duty. They are in danger of losing their bearings. Now, now is the time to work the cities of the South. This is the message God has given me to bear. As souls shall be converted to the simplicity of true godliness, by accepting the solemn message they shall hear, they will cheerfully use their means and their talents in helping to carry forward the work.
(24LtMs, Ms 141, 1909, 8)
There are some whom the Lord is calling to engage in His service who are represented by the young man brought to view in the tenth chapter of Mark:
(24LtMs, Ms 141, 1909, 9)
“And when He was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to Him, and asked Him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life? And Jesus said unto him, Why called thou Me good? There is none good but One, that is, God. Thou knowest the commandments, Do no commit adultery, do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honor they father and mother. And he answering said unto Him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth.
(24LtMs, Ms 141, 1909, 10)
“Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, one thing thou lackest: Go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me. And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.
(24LtMs, Ms 141, 1909, 11)
“And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto His disciples, how hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! And the disciples were astonished at His words, but Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!” [Verses 17-24.]
(24LtMs, Ms 141, 1909, 12)
Concerning Elder Prescott, I would say, The Lord has not appointed that he remain so much in Washington. He has talent and ability to present Bible truth to those who are in darkness and error. The Lord will give him tongue and utterance to communicate truth to large and small congregations. Brother Prescott, you have lost much time; you have no more to lose. Put on the armor. If you will take the message of present truth to the souls who are in darkness, you will be blessed in bringing many to light.
(24LtMs, Ms 141, 1909, 13)
You have a special talent that God calls upon you to use in presenting the truth, the simple yet all-powerful truth, the testing truth for this time. You have an important work to do in the ministry. You need to daily humble your heart before the Lord, and to come into possession of a rich measure of the Holy Spirit’s power. You and your wife need to draw together in even cords to bring this precious, saving truth to those who know it not. As you dwell upon the simple evidences of Bible truth before the people, angels of God will be by your side to help you. In connection with others who shall unite with you, you are to present the reasons of our faith to the people. T he power of God will be with you, and many souls will be brought to an understanding of what is the saving, testing truth for this time.
(24LtMs, Ms 141, 1909, 14)
I pray that Brother and Sister Prescott may so dedicate themselves to the work that God can abundantly bless their labors in the winning of many souls to the truth.
(24LtMs, Ms 141, 1909, 15)
Ms 142, 1909
Diary/Working the Cities NP Circa December 18, 1909 EGW note: “This article improve and print without delay.”
Since I have returned from labor, including my stay at Washington, I have had a forcible experience. I tarried a short time at Philadelphia; spoke to the people twice in tents several miles from each other. The Lord gave me strength, especially in occupying these tents to speak to many that were not in the faith. They were most serious and earnest listeners. Since that time I have had a considerable burden, sometimes too great almost to bear.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 1)
In my bed I have been unable to sleep, uplifting my heart to God in prayer. These great cities are to be worked. I cannot call to mind the number of the inhabitants of this one city as I prayed to the Lord Jesus to send out men as missionaries to work in these cities. I have had the deep impression that Baltimore and Washington—at the capital—should now be worked. I know that the way must be prepared now, just now, to present the truth without delay. There are men and women in Battle Creek who should be in these large cities at work.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 2)
Commit yourselves to the Lord, and if there is not money in the treasury make a beginning in a small way. You cannot spend thousands of dollars in a big way at once, but you can begin united efforts in many places, several working in the best way, and then add to your forces. This evangelistic work will go forth as a lamp that burneth.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 3)
“Ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] God would have His figure—the work to create buildings and the cultivation of the soil for the producing of crops—represent the work He requires the ministry to perform. The farmer prepares the ground for the reception of the seed, properly puts in the seed, and carefully looks to protect the growing crops. Everything man does is essential, but God alone can give the harvest. He gives life to the seed, gives the earth the warmth of sunshine, the refreshing showers, and all these varieties of help, with man doing his appointed work.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 4)
“Ye are laborers together with God.” [Verse 9.] Now the Lord calls for men and women who understand the truth to work in their various lines to do their appointed work in this world [with] many gifts being blended in harmonious action, all interested to unite their various capabilities. All the ministerial work and the various branches of the labor must be carried on in a moral, elevated, abiding sense of the power each draws from the Source of all power. We need not lean on human props.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 5)
When will men whom God hath chosen and called depend wholly on God's special grace to impart to them? The result of asking and depending so much on human minds has hindered a large work being accomplished because men are so inclined that if others do not carry out their own individual supposed wisdom, it is their privilege to forbid. This keeps men under men's ideas and they do not cast their helpless souls on God. A weakness that dishonors God is brought in that will never be overcome. The word of man is as uncertain as himself. Men who will go forth to do a work for the Lord in a humble, Christlike way bear with them the divine credentials; they do no uncertain work.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 6)
The work God will have done years ago is not done. Let them go forth as evangelists. Wherever you can find [opportunity], step in—humble, yet believing, trusting, praying, and looking unto Jesus who is the Author and Finisher of your faith. Begin to open the Scriptures and ever keep humble and meek and lowly, and the reward will be the divine definition of conversion. It is turning from their idols to the Scriptures of truth. There will be many conversions, the surrendering of their souls to God. They leave the objects which have ruled their hearts to accept the divine truth. Their hearts and minds are commanded by the Spirit of God. With the teachers, they are to trust in God and He will strengthen them for duties, giving them energy through the quickening influences of His Holy Spirit. They are not to do any half-and-half work. There must be companies that shall be united to go forth and to do the very work that needs to be done, having ministers who can lead out with them. Appoint members who have volunteered to take up the work in the name of the Lord.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 7)
At this time, there is a dearth of means, but let the leading minister find his field and as surely as he shall speak the words of life, some will be interested. The Word of God will be brought home to souls through the Holy Spirit's power. The Apostle Paul writes “For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost: so that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia. For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God-ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing. For they themselves show of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God; and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.”1 Thessalonians 1:5-10.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 8)
From the light given me , there is a work to be done. “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. And I was with you in weakness, and in 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.”1 Corinthians 2:1-8. [Read also] verses 9-13.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 9)
I am to testify, a change must come decidedly to our ministers and to the presidents of our conference. They must wake up and work most earnestly. I testify that a change must come over our ministers and over our physicians. There must be the unity of the Spirit to harmonize, and strength [must] be imparted to all [who are] working to advance the cause of God. This shall be not only in Nashville, but in and with all who shall truly feel that they are God's servants, to minister in the most decided, demonstrated manner through the Holy Spirit's striving in human hearts. All other work is of human agencies and will be of no value in accomplishing the groundwork in the power of the Spirit in the conversion of souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 10)
The light is too much under a bushel. All the work needs a new power. The results produced by human energy are not of value without the Holy Spirit, and if these things shall remain much longer as they now exist, many poor souls will be deceived. Workmen will be puffed up in various lines and the self will be magnified. Poor souls, having a false showing under false influences, are deceived and led into false positions and false professions. We need to go to the root of the working out of principles after God's way and not the ways of poor, finite man. The apostles had no need to go over the recital of their experiences. The work appeared in distinct lines beyond all question. It is not Paul, Apollos, or Cephas that men are to tie to, but God Himself, who through working upon human hearts presents results [that are] deep, thorough, and substantial. Work through the Holy Spirit was manifested. The seed was planted in good ground and took root and brought fruit in abundance.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 11)
There is to be a departure from the old channels and regular lines now. The third angel's message is to go as a lamp that burneth. The testimony is, “Ye turned from idols to God.” [See 1 Thessalonians 1:9.] Every man who is taught of God needs to have a humble spirit and become meek and lowly in heart. If we expect to convince unbelievers we must show results much more clearly in and through the Holy Spirit's influence. Men must see the good works of believers. All contention and dissension will cease when the sanctifying grace of God pervades the soul, being turned away from idols and turned to God. There [may be] gifts that have come to us of value, or investments [realized]. It is your right to turn from these idols, whatever character they may be, and invest in the Lord's cause. If any man has valuable things, if possible turn them into money; do not carry them upon your person. Turn your idols into means to set in operation the blessed work of soul-saving.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 12)
Christ has given every individual who would be denominated as the chosen of God an example in order to save our souls. He calls upon us to make self-sacrifice as He himself, the Prince of Life has made. This is the principle Christ, the Prince of Life, has given to us in order to save our souls—that we can come in His name into the presence of God and plead the merits of the blood of the Son of God. Its fragrance, its value presented to God is fully acceptable. Finite [man] has the privilege of making sacrifice of his idols and through turning to the living God teach other souls.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 13)
What saith the Lord Jesus whom God gave to the world? “He that will come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me.” [Mark 8:34.] These are the terms of His discipleship. This gives evidence of true conversion—if they do this from the heart. The blood of Jesus with all the fragrance of His excellent name will bring the self-sacrificing, believing souls into close relationship with Him. He shares with us all He has, and will we share with Him all our precious things and become identified with Him?
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 14)
[Consider] that tender sermon prayer of Christ. “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 mine are thine, and thine are mine; 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. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled. And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 15)
“I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. 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.”John 17:7-20. That takes in us also. Thank the Lord!
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 16)
“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 17:21-23. Oh, what privileges are granted to everyone who shall comply with the conditions to be thus blended in Christ Jesus as His life is one with the Father!
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 17)
Who then shall be able to separate the believers to reach a lower standard than is [here] outlined? All the strife, all the dissension, is directly of the devil to spoil the individual souls so that they become like Satan, the accusers of their brethren. This calls for a thorough conversion. All strife, all dissension may be avoided if the soul has become a partaker of the divine nature and escaped all the corruption that is in the world through lust. If the human agencies draw apart and hate and express their wicked heart enmity, that soul is not converted, he is on Satan's side, under his black banner of dissension and strife. All this must cease in the human mind and heart.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 18)
This request of Christ in that last prayer is wonderful, and there is expressed all that is possible to be comprehended. Here is the great and precious gift of God—unity with Christ. “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.”John 17:23-26.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 19)
Can any of the human family conceive anything more decidedly full and expressive than these words? It is then possible for each human being to be thoroughly identified with Christ the Son of God. Every truly converted soul shares in the same love of Christ and of one another that Christ presents to us that He has with the Father. His people are to be endowed with His divine nature, through their true conversion that they will then share in the love of the Father as Christ has that love. This is so expressed in character that it is decidedly expressed to the world. Oh, what an evidence is then given to the world that God has sent His Son into the world, that the world through Him—if they might receive Him and believe in Him—may be saved. This has been presented to me in such a decided representation that language cannot express this great love.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 20)
All who are changed in deed are brought into sacred nearness and fellowship in true conversion. The Holy Spirit will be so manifest that all selfishness will be overcome. No one will be fearful that if he unites in labor with another he will fail to stand out as prominently as he desires. The word was spoken by the angel, “Blend. Blend. Union is your strength.”
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 21)
The sense of the marvelous mercy and love will be reflected through believers. Now I resolve to try to impress this upon the minds of all, by pen and voice, that we may no more be so blinded and abused by Satan, but that our perception becomes pure and so sanctified that we may no longer become partakers of the satanic attributes to hurt one another by thought, by spirit, by words, or by deeds. If they will appreciate that prayer of Christ, everyone will be individually transformed in every sense of the word and dismiss those sentiments of selfish self-love, to seek to be first, and have honor as first, hankering for distinction. Sentiments of evil in speech creates suppositions in minds of those who profess to be Christians that are unkind, unjust, and cruel. Why should we consent to be accusers of the brethren like the devil?
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 22)
I am instructed and deeply impressed that there must be a decided change in our thoughts, our plans, our speech, and all our association with each other—in our treatment of our brethren. We are to be united and a strength and blessing to one another. When we will make room in our heart for love in the place of hatred, angels of God will be at work to transform the perverse, warped, selfish character and exhibitions will be made of entirely an opposite character from that which is now manifested.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 23)
As the state of things now are, many pray but do not make the effort to expel the evils out of their heart and dismiss the envy, evil surmises, and hatred. Never, never open the door of the heart to these things again, which grieve the Holy Spirit, which invite the temptations of Satan. The large number of church members are not careful to answer their own prayers by themselves doing that which the Word has plainly specified they should do.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 24)
“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 us-ward 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.”Ephesians 1:15-20.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 25)
Trying times are right upon us, we are even in them now, and yet our professed believers are addressed in the revelation Christ made to John. [Read] Revelation 3:2, 3, 14-21. This is the state of many of our churches today. I have this message to bear: Notwithstanding the appeals made, the representations give, the changes are not made that will bring the churches who know the faith to see and feel what they must do individually, acting their part for their souls’ sake, to heed the counsel of Jesus Christ, “Be zealous and repent.” [Verse 19.] Read, heed it, and change your attitude.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 26)
Never give rest to your souls until you humble yourselves before God and exercise that repentance that needeth not to be repented of. When you will come, consider that God is in earnest with us; then they will be zealous and repent. There will be such a transformation in their spiritual awakening that they will have found Him who is light and life, and their hearts will be all aglow with the love of Jesus Christ. The truth has been lost to some who are ministers of the gospel, and they will continue to be deceived unless they are changed in heart and perception.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 27)
A company was presented before me and the words were spoken by one who was a messenger from heaven. The words spoken were of a character that startled the ones in that assembly. Those who have changed their faith will, unless they heed the note of warning, continue to see that which is false light, that which is leading in false paths. But they have not heeded the warning God has sent them and we must now make most earnest efforts to awaken unbelievers.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 28)
We are not to give our whole time to convince a small portion in one location. The Lord calls ministers and teachers, Go out to places where the truth has scarcely been touched. Go forth to the cities that have scarcely been touched, and proclaim the message of truth. Bible readings are to be given. Souls are perishing in their sins; proclaim to the cities the truth. God will give you souls, for there are hearts that are deeply troubled. Members of large churches are hungering for the bread of life. Let ministers take their helpers and go forth. God will make them fishers of men. This will give the church members at home something to do. “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.”Isaiah 58:1.
(24LtMs, Ms 142, 1909, 29)