Concerning the Auditing Committee Avondale, Cooranbong, New South Wales, Australia January 12, 1896 Previously unpublished.
“Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end; while it is said, Today if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation. For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses. But with whom was he grieved forty years? Was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcasses fell in the wilderness? And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believe not? So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.” [Hebrews 3:12-19.]
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 1)
Many of the Auditing Committee have not been men wise concerning the things which they were handling. Wrong decisions have been made. Those who were counted worthy to hold forth the Word of life and minister to souls ready to perish, deserve different treatment to that which they have received. The Auditing Committee has not always tried, with most humble prayer for guidance, to act in every case toward the servants of Jesus Christ as they would to the person of Christ, or as they themselves would wish to be treated. But said Christ, “inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” [Matthew 25:40.]
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 2)
It is a very serious matter that men, by the word of their own mouth, and some in a hardened, sangfroid manner, have decided what means shall go to the workers in the field. If a worker has been unfortunate enough to make a mistake or to incur the displeasure of the men sitting in judgment upon these matters, words are spoken in disparagement that do not give the one accused a fair chance to explain himself. Hasty decisions are made, and the discouragement brought to the mind by these things, is not small.
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 3)
But as the workers are scattered, and no one goes to their homes to inquire in regard to these matters, the brethren are entirely ignorant as to the result of their decisions. Some few, who have had the courage to protest, have been treated in a discourteous and an arbitrary, overbearing manner. It cannot be said of the men who have acted thus, as the unholy scribe said of Jesus, “Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: for thou regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in truth.” [Mark 12:14.]
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 4)
I will give you a chapter in my experience. We have found it necessary to build a home, and have hired carpenters, painters, and others to do the several portions of the work. The master workman [receives] two dollars per day, working eight hours only. As soon as the eight hours are over, the tools are laid aside, and work ceases. These men do not receive according to the amount of work done, but according to the hours worked. If a man is not an apt, quick workman, but loiters over his work, that is the loss of the one who pays him. Another may be a much quicker workman, showing that he has intellect and can use it; his aptitude and correct judgment may be a treasure to him and a satisfaction to his employer, but he may receive only the same wage. After the week’s work is done, and payment made, the amount of work done has nothing to do with the sum received. A slow, unprofitable man never thinks it his duty to make up for his want of sharp thought, but receives his pay as his right.
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 5)
These men have not the burden of dealing with human minds. Senseless timber and building materials are all they are dealing with. They can hammer just as hard and loud and energetically as they please, and it hurts not the soulless material. But God’s shepherds, who are to watch as well as labor for souls, as they that must give account, cannot work in this way. The chosen missionary must go forth under all circumstances, moving his family from place to place, from country to country. This moving is expensive; for this one move has cost us above $125. In order to exert a good influence, this wife of a missionary must set a proper example in neat and tidy dress. Her children must be educated and trained with much painstaking effort; for everything must be made to tell in missionary lines. The laborer who represents Christ must dress plainly and yet properly, as becoming a minister of Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 6)
The ministers of our conferences cannot say that they have a home, for they are sometimes in this country, and sometimes in that. The people for whom they labor are poor; but Christ came to preach the gospel to the poor, for He says, “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 them 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.] This is the work the Lord’s shepherds are required to do. Money is consumed in travelling from place to place, in settling and unsettling every few months, in buying household goods and selling them or venturing transportation. The entire family have no release from their efforts, for they must always appear cheerful and fresh, that they may bring sunshine into the minds of those who need help.
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 7)
The question has been asked me, “Are you employed by the Conference?” I am. “How many hours do you give?” Hours? God’s servants keep no records of hours. We think not of counting our labor by hours. We must be ready in season and out of season to speak to this young man and that young woman, to write letters to those in peril, and to hold interviews requiring the most earnest, anxious labor, praying for and with the erring and the tempted.
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 8)
My practice is to rise at three o’clock a.m. and write twelve or fifteen pages for the papers before my breakfast. Those who write, as well as talk the truth, have double labor. The eight hour system finds no place in the program of the minister of God. He must watch his chance to minister; he must be ready to entertain visitors He must keep up life and energy of character; for he cannot exert a pleasing, saving influence if he is languid. If he occupies responsible positions, he must be prepared to attend board and council meetings, spending hours of wearisome brain and nerve taxing labor, while others are asleep, in devising and planning with his co-laborers. Who among God’s workers counts his hours of labor as do mechanics. Yet, this kind of labor taxes the mind and draws upon every fibre of the being in such a way as the common laborer cannot appreciate. “When do you find opportunity to throw off care and responsibility?” I am asked, and I answer, “At no period of time can I lay down the burden.”
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 9)
I wish my brethren to take this as a representation of the truth, and no fiction. Those who have a due appreciation of service are God’s minutemen, and must say with Isaiah, “Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.” [Isaiah 6:8.] Those who are laborers together with God must ever consider the duties devolving upon a gospel minister.
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 10)
He cannot say, I am my own; I will do what I please with my time. No one who has given His life to God to work as His minister, lives unto himself. His work is to follow Christ, to yoke up with Christ, and to be a willing agent and co-worker with the Master, receiving His Spirit day by day, and working as Christ worked, neither failing nor being discouraged. He is chosen of God as a faithful instrument to promote missionary work in all lands, and must ponder well the path he travels.
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 11)
Will my brethren consider these things which the Lord has brought before my mind in a most impressive manner? Will those who have never carried the burden of such work, and who suppose that the chosen and faithful ministers of God have an easy time, bear in mind that the sentinels of God are on duty constantly? Their labor is not measured by hours. When their accounts are audited, if selfish men shall, with voice or stroke of pen, limit the worker in his wages, they discourage and depress him.
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 12)
Every minister must have a margin to work upon, that he may have something with which to lead out in good enterprises, building churches and advancing the cause of God in every line, pushing the work with zeal, and laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. “For I the Lord love judgment, I hate robbery for burnt offerings.” [Isaiah 61:8.] And He tells us, “Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn.” [1 Timothy 5:18.] This is a figure of those who work under the eye of God to advance His cause in lifting the minds of men from the contemplation of earthly things to heaven. These God loves, and He would have men respect their rights.
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 13)
Organization is a good thing, but I have the word of the Lord plain and decisive that all who see the necessity of organization must themselves become an example by being organized, and carrying out to the letter the principles of organization in their life practice. It means a great deal to be missionaries in heart and voice and action. Organization, carried out in the life as God means it shall be, brings to every soul who is engaged in the work of God a submission to the divine will of God. It leads them to give themselves to God, to be worked by His Holy Spirit. Any who suppose that it does not mean this are no longer to stand in responsible positions, having voice to control in the great closing work for these last days.
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 14)
A zeal, not at all after the likeness of Christ, not at all after His Word, has been manifested by men who are not in subjection to God, to bring their fellow men into subjection to their plans and ideas. But the meek and lowly Jesus is our Pattern. He had all self-denial, all subjection to God, and yet all the ambition of a conqueror. He longs to extend His sway over every human mind; but O, how unlike the meekness of His Spirit is the spirit of men placed in positions of power by their fellow men. Christ longs to manifest His grace and stamp His character and image, upon the whole world. He was offered the kingdoms of this world, by the one who revolted in heaven, to buy His homage to the principles of evil, but He would not be bought. Satan knew that if he could not overthrow Christ with his masterly temptations, he would lose all he had tried to gain in heaven—to be first and have absolute authority.
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 15)
The world’s Redeemer hungered and thirsted for sympathy and co-operation, that His kingdom might extend and embrace the whole world. He bought the whole earthly territory; it is His purchased inheritance, and He would have men free and pure and holy as the character of God. For the joy that was set before Him He endured the cross and despised the shame. His earthly pilgrimage of toil and self-sacrifice was cheered by the prospect that He would not have all this travail for nought, but would win back the world to its loyalty to God by giving His life for the life of the world. And there are triumphs yet to be accomplished through the blood shed for the world that will bring everlasting glory to God and to the Lamb. The heathen will be given Him for His inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for His possession. Christ will not be satisfied till His victory is complete. He will see the travail of His soul and be satisfied.
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 16)
But those who care for the glory of Jesus Christ will not swell themselves into large proportions, as some have done in connection with the cause and work of God. Their course has been one which hurts and wounds the forces. They work after the line in which the great deceiver has worked since he fell. They would not submit to be ruled and controlled by the Holy Spirit, but have had the spirit of forcing everything to their own ideas, when their brethren in the faith were conscientiously seeking to share the sympathy of Christ and rejoicing in the success of Christ’s work. These men must be converted or their hands will slip off the work, and they, who so eagerly and selfishly sought to work others, will be last.
(11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, 17)
Ms 1a, 1896
Education Refiled as Lt 67, 1895.
Ms 2, 1896
The Value of Studying God’s Word NP February 9, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in UL 54.
The less that children shall become acquainted with the customs and habits of worldly society, the better it will be for the formation of a pure and all-sided character, for the heart and mind will be open to heavenly impressions. Nature was John the Baptist’s school; the Old Testament was his lesson book. The most learned of the rabbis had brought in such a mass of human tradition in their interpretation of the Old Testament Scriptures that the traditions and maxims of men were exalted above the Word of God. So few understood the true requirements of God and practiced pure Christian principles, that all who connected with the religious teachers, expected to receive the proper education in accordance with the Word, became confused.
(11LtMs, Ms 2, 1896, 1)
God has marked out the sphere within which Christian principles must be received and acted out in the life. A decided distinction must be made between the associations that the Lord in His providence has prepared for us and the connections made by ourselves. The Lord requires from parents and guardians and teachers that they guard their children from close intimacies and so-called friendships. Parents should choose for their children the society of those who are not light and trivial in character, and undutiful and disrespectful in the home. Real friendship is a blessing in the home.
(11LtMs, Ms 2, 1896, 2)
An education in the science of the Scriptures never creates infidelity. The variety of sacred history, brought out in clear lines, makes both the Old and New Testament instructive in truth. The Word is a treasured lesson book to all who regard it as it ever should be regarded—the Word of God to humanity. The scholar may search it and find that which reaches the loftiest height of his attainments. By a thorough search over the same ground, represented as digging for hidden treasures, he discovers so rich a variety of gems, so marked a unity, pervaded by the one-inspiring Spirit, that he will never go away unless enriched in understanding, and with the words on his lips, “The entrance of thy word giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” [Psalm 119:130.] The value of this Book is in itself. Its plain, simple language, fitted for every age, is understood by the child student, and is instructive for all classes of people, learned or ignorant, high or low, rich or poor. It is a fountain of life, at which all may drink and be refreshed.
(11LtMs, Ms 2, 1896, 3)
The oftener the New Testament is read, the more instructive it becomes. No one ever wearies of its beautiful words, for they are like precious gems. The deeper the research made into them, the newer and more splendid the light reflected by them. The more we study the Word with a simple, trustful heart, the more we understand the path we must travel in order to reach the Paradise of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 2, 1896, 4)
Our life is something we receive from Christ by a study of His Word. “In him was life,” original, unborrowed. [John 1:4.] He was the Fountain of life. We receive life from the Saviour which He takes back again. That life which God has given us should be put to the very best account, for as human agents we are forming our own destiny. We need to wisely those associates who will best fit us—body, soul, and spirit—for the future country, even the heavenly. In our choices of companions we should not place ourselves under influences which are in any way unfavorable to the formation of pure and correct principles, for we need all the assistance we can possibly obtain, that in our associations we may develop characters after Christ’s likeness.
(11LtMs, Ms 2, 1896, 5)
Christ says, “To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am sat down with my Father on his throne.” [Revelation 3:21.] There are temptations that we must meet. If we yield to them we are on the losing side, and by meeting with defeat again and again, it becomes a habit to do wrong in the place of doing right. We thus reveal that we choose to work out the principles and attributes of Satan, rather than the principles and attributes of Jesus Christ. Such an advance is made in wrong doing by this course that the Word describes it as “wise to do evil.” [Jeremiah 4:22.]
(11LtMs, Ms 2, 1896, 6)
Life in spiritual things is associated with light. If we choose to stand in the army and ranks of Satan, we will know this by the association and connections we form. If we love the atmosphere that surrounds the souls of those who are under Satan’s jurisdiction, we soon become as bad [as], if not worse than, our associates just in that degree to which we partake of that which is objectionable in their spirit, and according to the hereditary traits of our character. If these are positive, weakness, lack of integrity, and general defection will reveal that we are on the side of the enemy.
(11LtMs, Ms 2, 1896, 7)
A Christian will not choose as the object of his affection one who by his course of action neglects Jesus Christ, who daily crucifies the Son of God afresh and puts Him to an open shame. Such reveal by their actions and conversation that they have no respect for the One who gave His life for the life of humanity, enduring for them poverty, temptation, self-denial, and self-sacrifice. Through all His life here He was unappreciated and misunderstood, even by the members of His own family.
(11LtMs, Ms 2, 1896, 8)
Satan was constantly suggesting to His brethren, the sons of Joseph, criticisms of the One who seemed so unlike themselves. Every solicitation to evil was refused by Him, because He would not be persuaded to accept wrongdoing, or to deviate in the slightest from “It is written.” He seemed to have Scripture treasured in heart and mind. He seldom rebuked their course of action, but always had a word from God to speak to them—“It is written.” But His brethren did not want Him to always pursue an undeviating course of right doing, and were constantly seeking to make Him like themselves, saying, There would be no harm in gratifying us in this or that action.
(11LtMs, Ms 2, 1896, 9)
But His life shamed the whited sepulchers, whose outward appearance of sanctity said, We are the most righteous people on the face of the earth. The contrast was unmistakably marked between [“whited sepulchers” and] the rich loveliness of a Godlike disposition and character, in which God’s glory marked each trait of character, and which could hate only one thing in our world—sin. [See Matthew 23:27.] This Christ could not see without sorrow and pain which He could not disguise.
(11LtMs, Ms 2, 1896, 10)
Had Christ conceded even once to the wishes and desires of His brethren with regard to wrong doing, He would have failed as a perfect Pattern, failed to carry out the plan made in the councils of heaven. The world would have been irrevocably lost. Had He allowed any license or excuse for sin or for the evil passions of human nature, Satan’s controversy would have terminated. He would not have worked so determinedly, through the brethren of Christ and through the priests and rulers of Israel, to make the life of Christ as unpleasant as it could be made. But He would not yield, and His undeviating justice and integrity were commented upon with a sneer. Provoked and exasperated as His patience, forbearance, and kindness, they termed it cowardice, saying, You are afraid to do this; you dare not do this or that wrong action. But He answered in words not His own, “It is written, ‘When sinners entice thee, consent thou not.’” [Proverbs 1:10.]
(11LtMs, Ms 2, 1896, 11)
Ms 3, 1896
Parents and Children NP February 11, 1896 Previously unpublished.
“And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and his disciples rebuked those that brought them. But when Jesus saw it he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.”“And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.” [Mark 10:13, 14, 16.]
(11LtMs, Ms 3, 1896, 1)
All parents should study the lesson given in these words. Many are surprised and disappointed because their children are not religiously inclined; but it is because the children do not have parents who love Christ and His truth. What reason have such parents for being disappointed. As soon as their children were born, did they solemnly dedicate them to God? As they grew up, did they conscientiously surround them with the best possible influences? Our faith must be different to what it is now, if we [will] be so highly favored as to see the salvation of our children.
(11LtMs, Ms 3, 1896, 2)
A great and solemn responsibility rests upon all parents to instruct their children so that they shall form characters which God will approve. The Lord Himself has prepared the way for parents, giving them special light by which they may understand the claims of His law. This light must be appreciated by parents as coming from the Lord for the saving of both themselves and their children. God has given us His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. But our faith in Him must be more than a casual faith; it must be definite, not founded on feeling, nor depending on sight, but established upon the Word of God. Although we cannot always see, we may always believe that Jesus Christ is our personal Saviour, that He saves us from sin and transgression, but not in sin. “For the promise,” Peter testifies, “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 other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.” [Acts 2:39, 40.]
(11LtMs, Ms 3, 1896, 3)
The work which parents should do is to show their children the remedy for sin and transgression, to exalt the law, and to show it’s binding claims upon every child and youth. Teach them that the cross of Christ did not abolish the law, for Paul declares, “I had not known sin but by the law.” [Romans 7:7.] The law and the gospel unite to save the souls of the perishing. The law is the instrument which convicts of sin, but has no saving qualities with which to save the transgressor of law. The condemnation of law is death to the sinner. “The soul that sinneth it shall die.” [Ezekiel 18:4.] But help has been laid upon One that is mighty. God sent His own Son into the world in the likeness of sinful flesh to condemn sin in the flesh.
(11LtMs, Ms 3, 1896, 4)
Christ came not to abolish the law, for it is the expression to all mankind of the character they must seek to form, but to condemn sin in the flesh. With a voice that will reach to the end of time, and by the marks of the crucifixion which He will ever bear upon His divine person, Christ proclaimed His abhorrence of all transgression of God’s law. The moral defection of the human family because of transgression is deep and broad, but the angels in heaven are commissioned to proclaim that there is a remedy; “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.]
(11LtMs, Ms 3, 1896, 5)
Parents must have a faith that works by love and purifies the soul. A faith that is not accompanied by works is a dead faith. That faith that comes from God is a working faith; it will commence its work in individual hearts, bringing everything into subjection to Jesus Christ. Self must die, and Christ must live in the heart, an abiding principle and power. “For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.” [Colossians 3:3, 4.]
(11LtMs, Ms 3, 1896, 6)
By earnest, interested effort, these instructions should be given in the home circle. No excuse is prepared in heaven for professed Christians who neglect this work which is so much more important than any other thing. The very first and highest work committed to mortals is to educate and train their children from babyhood to love, reverence, and obey every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 3, 1896, 7)
If children are allowed to take the lines of control in their own hands by being indulged and seldom crossed in their wishes, they become selfish. In babyhood and childhood they control father, mother, and all associated with them. They must be taught that they are under control. If children are not under wise and God-fearing parents, they are under [the control] of evil angels. That which starts in babyhood and develops in childhood becomes a fixed habit. One wrong act after another is repeated until a defective character is formed. By selfish gratification the character is tainted and morally deformed. The tree, which at the beginning might have been easily straightened by right methods, is deformed in growth by neglect.
(11LtMs, Ms 3, 1896, 8)
Parents are responsible for the characters which their children form. They cannot shun this work; they cannot do it by proxy; they must take it up considerately, conscientiously, and firmly, never releasing their efforts. Everything must be made subordinate to this grand and holy work. “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering.”“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in your body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom: teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” [Verses 12, 15-17.]
(11LtMs, Ms 3, 1896, 9)
To children the Lord says, “Children, obey your parents in the Lord; for this is right.” [Ephesians 6:1.] This responsibility then rests upon the children; but they cannot fulfill it unless they are carefully and thoroughly educated to practice obedience because it is right, and be cause God requires it for the present and future happiness of the children, and for the peace and happiness of the parents. God will not excuse any neglect in this line.
(11LtMs, Ms 3, 1896, 10)
Ms 4, 1896
Rightly Dividing the Word NP February 4, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in 3BC 1149; 4MR 55-56. +
“We have also a more sure word of prophecy: whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man; but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” [2 Peter 1:19-21.]
(11LtMs, Ms 4, 1896, 1)
Be careful how you interpret Scripture. Read it with a heart opened to the entrance of God’s Word, and it will express heaven’s light, giving understanding unto the simple. This does not mean the weak-minded, but those who do not stretch themselves beyond their measure and ability in trying to be original and independent in reaching after knowledge above that which constitutes true knowledge.
(11LtMs, Ms 4, 1896, 2)
All who handle the Word of God are engaged in a most solemn and sacred work, for in their research they are to receive light and a correct knowledge, that they may give to those who are ignorant. Education is the inculcation of ideas which are light and truth. Everyone who diligently and patiently searches the Scriptures that he may educate others, entering upon the work correctly and with an honest heart, laying his preconceived ideas, whatever they may have been, and his hereditary prejudices at the door of investigation, will gain true knowledge. But it is very easy to put a false interpretation on Scripture, placing stress on passages, and assigning to them a meaning, which, at the first investigation, may appear true, but which by further search, will be seen to be false. If the seeker after truth will compare Scripture with Scripture, he will find the key that unlocks the treasure house and gives him a true understanding of the Word of God. Then he will see that his first impressions would not bear investigation, and that continuing to believe them would be mixing falsehood with truth.
(11LtMs, Ms 4, 1896, 3)
The Psalmist David in his experience had many changes of mind. At times, as he obtained views of God’s will and ways, he was highly exalted. Then as he caught sight of the reverse of God’s mercy and changeless love, everything seemed to be shrouded in a cloud of darkness. But through the darkness he obtained a view of the attributes of God, which gave him confidence and strengthened his faith. But when he meditated upon the difficulties and danger of life, they looked so forbidding that he thought himself abandoned by God because of his sins. He viewed his sin in such a strong light that he exclaimed, “Will the Lord cast off for ever? will he be favorable no more?” [Psalm 77:7.]
(11LtMs, Ms 4, 1896, 4)
But as he wept and prayed, he obtained a clearer view of the character and attributes of God, being educated by heavenly agencies, and he decided that his ideas of God’s justice and severity were exaggerated. He rejected his impressions as being the result of his weakness, ignorance, and physical infirmities, and as dishonoring to God, and with renewed faith he exclaimed, “This is my infirmity; but I will remember the years of the right hand of the Most High.” [Verse 10.] Most earnestly he studied the ways of God, expressed by Christ when enshrouded in the pillar of cloud, and given to Moses to be faithfully repeated to all Israel. He called to mind what God had wrought to secure for Himself a people to whom He could entrust sacred and vital truth for future ages.
(11LtMs, Ms 4, 1896, 5)
God wrought most wondrously to free more than a million people; and as David considered His pledges and promises to them, knowing they were for all who need them as much as for Israel, he appropriated them to himself, saying, “I will remember the works of the Lord: surely I will remember thy wonders of old. I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings.” [Verses 11, 12.] His faith laid hold of God, and he was strengthened and encouraged; although he recognized God’s ways as mysterious, yet he knew they were merciful and good, for this was His character as revealed to Moses: “The Lord descended in the cloud, and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the Lord. And the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed, The Lord, The Lord God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth.” [Exodus 34:5, 6.]
(11LtMs, Ms 4, 1896, 6)
As David appropriated these promises and privileges to himself, he decided that he would no longer be hasty in judgment, becoming discouraged, and casting himself down in helpless despair. His soul took courage as he contemplated the general character of God as displayed in His teaching, His forbearance, His surpassing greatness and mercy, and he saw that the works and wonders of God are to have no confined application.
(11LtMs, Ms 4, 1896, 7)
But again David’s experience changed. As he saw that transgressors and sinners were allowed to receive blessings and favors, while those who really loved God were compassed with difficulties and perplexities that the open sinner did not have, he thought that God’s ways were not equal. “As for me,” he said, “my feet were almost gone: my steps had well-nigh slipped. For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. For there are no bands in their death: but their strength is firm. They are not in trouble like other men.”“Behold these are the ungodly who prosper in the world; they increase in riches.” [Psalm 73:2-5, 12.]
(11LtMs, Ms 4, 1896, 8)
David could not understand this till he went into the sanctuary of God, and then, he says, “understood I their end.”“Surely thou didst set them in slippery places; thou castest them down to destruction. How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment! they are utterly consumed with terrors. As a dream when one awaketh; so, O Lord, when thou awakest, thou shalt despise their image. Thus my heart was grieved, and I was pricked in my reins. So foolish was I, and ignorant; I was as a beast before thee. Nevertheless, I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by thy right hand.”“It is good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord God, that I may declare all thy works.” [Verses 17-23, 28.]
(11LtMs, Ms 4, 1896, 9)
Ms 5, 1896
Counsels to Parents NP February 10, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in CG 31, 494-495, 499, 510; AH 189. +
“O how I love thy law! It is my meditation all the day. Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me. I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts. I have refrained my feet from every evil way, because I keep thy word. I have not departed from thy judgments: for thou hast taught me. How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth! Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.”“I have done judgment and justice; leave me not to mine oppressors.” [Psalm 119:97-104, 121.]
(11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, 1)
The treatment Christ received in His youth from His brethren was a temptation to arouse resentment, and again and again He was asked, “Why do you submit to such despiteful usage?”“It is written,” He answered, “The fear of the Lord that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.” [Job 28:28.] “My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: for length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.... So shalt thou find favor and good understanding in the sight of God and man.” [Proverbs 3:1, 2, 4.] Thus the world’s Redeemer was armed against His enemies; He had a treasure house filled with the most precious words.
(11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, 2)
Often he was asked, “Why are you so set in being singular from us?”“It is written,” was His reply, “Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways. Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently.” [Psalm 119:1-4.]
(11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, 3)
When young companions pressed Him to do as they did, and not be odd and singular, for they wanted His bright, cheerful suggestions, but not His particular, and as they called it, narrow and straightlaced ways, He answered, “It is written,”“Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. Blessed art thou, O Lord: teach me thy statutes.” [Verses 9-12.] “Why do you not enjoy games and sports, as other youth do?” they questioned. “It is written,” He answered, “I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches. I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways. I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.” [Verses 14-16.]
(11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, 4)
This is a lesson for all children and youth, and a lesson also for all parent as to the class of education their children should receive. “It is written” was the only weapon used by our Saviour in any contest. Through the Holy Spirit the Lord Jesus has given instruction to Paul for all who receive the gospel as the power of God. Paul was as one born out of due time; he was a son of God, and his zeal was evidenced in his burning desire to make known the gospel to others. Again and again he was told, “You carry things to extremes; you are altogether too much of an enthusiast;” but he answered, “Whether we be beside ourselves, it is God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause. For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all then were all dead: and that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. Wherefore henceforth ye know no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” [2 Corinthians 5:13-17.]
(11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, 5)
The Christian life is a life after Christ’s likeness. Human sympathy, and human affection and ties are not to predominate, but ever are to be held tributary to Christ. He is the true light which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. The world was made by Him, but when He came to His own, they received Him not. The Creator of the world came to His own home, and the tenants He had graciously permitted to live in it, as a deed of love, repelled Him. One of the world’s wise men has said, “If perfect truth and holiness were to come to our world, the whole world would be so charmed with his beauty, that it would fall down and worship him.” But in saying this, he showed that he was not really wise, for Christ did come to His own, and His own received Him not. “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” [John 1:12-14.]
(11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, 6)
Every child may receive the knowledge of God if parents will remember the solemn words which have been left on record for them, “Train up a child in the way he should go.” [Proverbs 22:6.] Do not leave the child to train himself, to form habits that are altogether contrary to the mind and will of Christ. Do not allow him to form habits of his own choosing, habits of selfishness, of passion, of idleness. If a child is allowed to have its own way, to choose its own employment, to love pleasure and games above everything else, the whole frame work of the mind is perverted.
(11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, 7)
The work of the parent is seldom done as it should be. Of Abraham God said, “I know him that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment.” [Genesis 18:19.] This is the work that parents neglect, the great responsibility which so few parents understand. They see that their children are sent to school to learn of the things of this life, but they fail to remember that the most precious lessons are those learnt in the home. Children are the property of God; the life of Christ should be their example, and painstaking effort should be made to show them that the requirements of God are not arbitrary exactions, but are for their present and future happiness. Parents, train the will and impulse of your children; teach the young tendrils to entwine about God for support. It is not enough that you say, Do this, or, Do that, utterly regardless and forgetful of what you have required, Prepare the way for you child to obey your commands teach the tendrils to cling to Jesus. Train them to do missionary work, teaching them to commence by practicing self-denial, by saving their pennies to help the needy or to give to the Lord’s work. Teach them to ask the Lord to help them in the little things of life; to be wide awake in to see the small duties which need to be done, to be helpful in the home.
(11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, 8)
The Bible must be taught in the home. “It is written” was the only weapon that Christ used when the tempter came with his deceptions. The teaching of Bible truth is the great and grand work which every parent should undertake. In a pleasant, happy frame of mind place the truth as spoken by God before the children. As fathers and mothers, you can be the object lessons to the children in the daily life by practicing patience, kindness, and love, by attaching them to yourself. Do not let them do as they please, but show them that your work is to practice the Word of God, and to bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. Make the Word of God your text book, and you will be able to train as well as educate your children.
(11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, 9)
Do not teach your children that depends upon a wonderful impression made upon the mind because of sin. From childhood to youth teach them to look to Christ as their Saviour, lead their thoughts to contemplate Christ; teach them that Jesus is the pattern for all childhood. But you cannot educate your children to keep the way of the Lord unless you are under discipline yourself. Give them a reason for your course of Christian obedience; show them by your practice that the Word of God is everything to you, that it teaches everything essential in regard to your duty.
(11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, 10)
You can do nothing in your training if you lead your children to think that the Guidebook is not to be studied by them with your help. Do not depend upon the teachers of the Sabbath school to do your work of training your children in the way they should go. The Sabbath School is a great blessing, it may help you in your work; but it can never take your place. God has given to all fathers and mothers the responsibility of bringing their children to Jesus, teaching them how to pray and believe in the Word of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, 11)
In the education of your children lay not the grand truths of the Bible on one side, supposing that the Sabbath School and the minister will do your neglected work. The Bible is not too sacred and sublime to be opened daily and studied diligently. The truths of the Word of God are to be brought into contact with the supposed little things of life. If rightly regarded they will brighten the common life, supplying motives for obedience, and principles for the formation of a right character.
(11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, 12)
Never do your children the great wrong of placing your God-given duties upon the teachers in the Sabbath school or upon the ministers. It is your parents; take it up, for you can never do a greater or more important work. You have a church in your home to minister unto; feed your little flock with the bread and water of life. This they need first of all things; it is more essential than their physical food, for by it they learn the way to life and happiness.
(11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, 13)
Dress your children plainly, setting them an example in your own simple, tasteful dress. It is your work, as parents, to form their characters, that they may be accepted by God. Teach them that Jesus will receive and bless them in their earliest years. It is not essential that all shall be able to specify to a certainty when their sins were forgiven. The lesson to be taught the children is that their errors and mistakes are to be brought to Jesus in the very childhood of life. Teach them to ask His forgiveness for any wrong done, and that Jesus does hear and pardon, and receive them, just as He received the children brought to Him when He was upon earth. The disciples objected to these children being brought, but Jesus said, “Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 19:14.] Never allow your children to suppose that they are not children of God until they are old enough to be baptized. Baptism does not make children Christians, neither does it convert them; it is but an outward sign, showing that they are sensible that they should be children of God by acknowledging that they believe in Jesus Christ as their Saviour
(11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, 14)
Your children are the property of God; they should be trained and educated and disciplined for the service of God in their earliest years, because they are His by creation and by redemption. The lessons of instruction from God’s Word are to be given them as the all-essential principles in the formation of a character for the future immortal life. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” [Proverbs 9:10], and as the children look to Jesus, receiving instruction from His Word, He receives them, and they become children of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, 15)
In this world there can be families that are a symbol of the family in heaven. The Word of God is a pleasant and profitable study for the young. It is the book from which, during their whole lifetime, they may obtain help and comfort and instruction, and by which they may be furnished for all good works. The words of Christ run through the Scriptures as threads of gold, binding the whole together as a complete system of truth, of which Christ is the living center.
(11LtMs, Ms 5, 1896, 16)
Ms 6, 1896
Sermon/Keep the Commandments Duplicate of Ms 10, 1894.
Ms 7, 1896
The Treatment of the Colored Race NP February 3, 1896 Formerly Undated Ms 7. This manuscript is published in entirety in 4MR 8-9 with 2SM 343.
How little of the spirit of Christ has been manifested in the treatment given to the colored race in this so-called Christian country. The Negro’s color, the features that tell of his African descent, are a badge of humiliation to the whole race, because of the prejudice of the white people against them. They are often treated as if it were a disgrace to sit by their side, or even to worship in the same congregation. There is a large class with white blood in their veins, and bearing in their faces only the slightest trace of African descent, whose lives are embittered by the prejudice against them, being stigmatized as unworthy to associate with the whites, even in the worship of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 7, 1896, 1)
It is a shame for Christians who profess to be themselves redeemed by the blood of the Lamb to take a position to make these men feel that the mark of a humiliated race is upon them—men standing in God’s broad sunlight with mind and soul like other men, with as goodly a frame as has the best developed white man. There are keenly sensitive minds that brood long and intensely over the oppressions suffered, and the slights they are made to feel. Many become jealous, soured, embittered, because of these prejudices, which make them feel every day that they are not like other men, not entitled even to worship God except in a prescribed manner. Even commiseration is humiliating, because it calls the sensitive mind to the misfortune that excites pity.
(11LtMs, Ms 7, 1896, 2)
Many who are not subdued and elevated and made strong in the love of the one Saviour, curse their fate, and curse the white man, and almost blaspheme God who made them. Cannot the children of God see that in conceding to the prejudice against the color of race, they are giving their influence to sanction a long course of neglect, of insult, of oppression? Will not the Lord call those to account who have had a part in this work?
(11LtMs, Ms 7, 1896, 3)
Is not it time for us to live so fully in the light of God’s countenance, we who receive so many favors from Him, that we may know how to treat those less favored, not working from the world’s standpoint, but from the Bible standpoint? Is it not right in this line that Christian effort is most needed? Is it not here that our influence should be brought to bear against the prevailing customs and practices of the world? Should not it be the work of the white people to elevate the standard of character among the colored race, to teach them how Christians should live, by exemplifying the spirit of Christ, showing that we are one brotherhood.
(11LtMs, Ms 7, 1896, 4)
No matter what the gain or the loss, we must act nobly and courageously in the sight of God and our Saviour. Let us as Christians who accept the principle that all men, white and black, are free and equal, adhere to this principle, and not be cowards in the face of the world, and in the face of the heavenly intelligences. We should treat the colored man just as respectfully as we would treat the white man. And we can now, by precept and example, win others to this course.
(11LtMs, Ms 7, 1896, 5)
But there is an objection to the marriage to the white race with the black. All should consider that they have no right to entail upon their offspring that which will place them at a disadvantage; they have no right to give them as a birthright a condition which would subject them to a life of humiliation. The children of these mixed marriages have a feeling of bitterness toward the parents who have given them this lifelong inheritance. For this reason, if there were no other, there should be no intermarriage between the white and the colored race.
(11LtMs, Ms 7, 1896, 6)
Ms 7a, 1896
“Whatsoever a Man Soweth, That Shall He Reap.” NP February 27, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in 14MR 89-98. +
“Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he reap.” [Galatians 6:7.] I want to sow for time and eternity. My heart hungers and thirsts after righteousness. I want my life hid in Christ Jesus, that my sowing shall bring me the right kind of a harvest. I feel deeply in regard to my own self, for every day, in words or in actions, I am sowing either tares or wheat. I want to sow for time [and] eternity. I have lived nearly the period of my allotted time, and what shall the harvest be?
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 1)
I want a quiet and unwavering trust in the Most High. I have experienced His protecting care in a remarkable manner when following in the path of duty. I want to go down in the grave as a shock of corn fully ripe. I want no complaining in my heart; only gratitude should abide there. God’s mercy and His lovingkindness are to be kept, not as a thing out of mind, but as some thing so precious as never to be forgotten. As eye witnesses of His majesty, we may exalt and praise His Holy name. We are with Him in the holy mount.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 2)
Every moment of time is precious and weighty with eternal consequences. We are in a world of appearances which mock and deceive like the apples of Sodom. O, how the Lord looks upon the double-dealing and the duplicity which is in our world. If we could not get a glimpse above and beyond the clouds to the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness, we might well be downcast. But Jesus lives; the bow of promise encircles the throne as a constant assurance that Jesus lives; and because He lives, “We shall live also.” [John 14:19.]
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 3)
Whatever may be the needed discipline of the church militant amid the dragon’s wrath against those who keep the commandments of God and have the faith of Jesus, the benediction is pronounced upon all who love and obey God. The words are positive, but mark their significance. The Alpha and Omega does not utter words that will lead any soul to suppose that a profession of faith without willing, genuine love and obedience will secure to him the entrance into the Holy City and a right to the tree of life. The Lord declares, “This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoreth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.” [Matthew 15:8.] This is mockery to God, speaking with a mouth of guile.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 4)
The discipline in the school of Christ will cause the church to lean upon the arm of her Beloved. The redeemed of the Lord shall at last come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads, in victorious triumph. All the angelic hosts will rejoice over them with singing. But what are the qualifications of our citizens? “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” [Revelation 22:14.]
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 5)
John in the Revelation writes of the unity of those living on the earth to make void the law of God. “These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast. These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them; for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings; and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.”“And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the false prophet.” [Revelation 17:13, 14; 16:13.] All who will exalt and worship the idol sabbath, a day that God has not blessed, help the devil and his angels with all the power of their God-given ability, which they have perverted to a wrong use. Inspired by another spirit which blinds their discernment, they cannot see that the exaltation of Sunday observance is entirely the institution of the Catholic church.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 6)
A corrupt union has been formed to tear down God’s memorial of creation, the seventh day which He hallowed and blessed, and gave to man to be a sign between God and His people, to be observed throughout their generation forever. A period is coming when every one will take sides between the Sabbath of the fourth commandment, which the Lord has sanctified and blessed, and the spurious sabbath instituted by the man of sin. An idol sabbath has been set up as the golden image was set up in the plains of Dura. And as Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, issued a decree that all who would not bow down and worship this image should be killed, so a proclamation will be made that all who will not reverence the Sunday institution will be punished with imprisonment and death. Thus the Sabbath of the Lord is trampled under foot.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 7)
But the Lord has declared, “Woe unto them that decree unrighteous decrees, and write grievousness which they have prescribed.” [Isaiah 10:1.] “The great day of the Lord is near, it is near, and hasteth greatly, even the voice of the day of the Lord: the mighty man shall cry there bitterly. That day is a day of wrath, a day of trouble and distress, a day of wasteness and desolation, a day of darkness and gloominess, a day of clouds and thick darkness, a day of trumpet and alarm against the fenced cities, and against the high towers. And I will bring distress upon men, that they shall walk like blind men, because they have sinned against the Lord: and their blood shall be poured out as dust, and their flesh as the dung.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 8)
“Neither their silver nor their gold shall be able to deliver them in the day of the Lord’s wrath; but the whole land shall be devoured by the fires of his jealousy: for he shall make even a speedy riddance of all them that dwell in the land. Gather yourselves together, yea, gather together, O nation not desired; before the decree bring forth, before the day pass as the chaff, before the fierce anger of the Lord come upon you, before the day of the Lord’s anger come upon you. Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought his judgment; seek righteousness, seek meekness, it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord’s anger.” [Zephaniah 1:14-2:3.]
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 9)
The Lord of heaven permits the world to choose whom they will have as ruler. Let all read carefully the thirteenth chapter of Revelation, for it concerns every human agent, great and small. Every human being must take sides, either for the true and living God, who has given to the world the memorial of creation in the seventh-day Sabbath, or for a false sabbath, instituted by men who have exalted themselves above all that is called God or that is worshipped, who have taken upon themselves the attributes of Satan, in oppressing the loyal and true who keep the commandments of God. This persecuting power will compel the worship of the beast by insisting on the observance of the Sabbath he has instituted. Thus he blasphemes God, “sitting in the temple of God, and showing himself that he is God.” [2 Thessalonians 2:4.]
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 10)
This worship of a false sabbath is a wedge that split the Protestant churches from God, and left them naked. They had not a text of Scripture to sustain their false god, but yet a deception, hoary with age, but still a deception, was commended to reverence, and exalted, while the Sabbath of the fourth commandment was trampled upon and God dishonored. The Bible was before them with a plain “Thus saith the Lord” and the penalty that is the part of the transgressor; but as Adam and Eve in Eden listened to the falsehoods of Satan, so the righteous world are following their example.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 11)
Satan, who was expelled from heaven, is leading the world, blindfolded by his sophistry, in the same way that he led the angels who accepted his theology before a “Thus saith the Lord!” Already the churches are naked, and without a covering. Like the archdeceiver they are without excuse, for they have the Word of God, plain and clear and pointed. While they would rein up the faithful and loyal subjects of the kingdom of God, depriving them of their liberty of conscience, bringing them before magistrates and judges, and pronouncing sentence upon them, delivering them into prison, putting them into the chain gang, and even condemning them to death, they themselves before the universe are showing determined and obstinate contempt of the laws of the eternal Jehovah.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 12)
“And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on mount Zion, and with him a hundred and forty and four thousand, having his Father’s name written in their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping, with their harps: and they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and the elders; and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb.” [Revelation 14:1-4.]
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 13)
One of the marked features in the representation of the one hundred and forty four thousand is that in their mouth there was found no guile. The Lord has said, “Blessed is the man ... in whose spirit there is no guile.” [Psalm 32:2.] They profess to be children of God, and are represented following the Lamb whithersoever He goeth. They are prefigured before us as standing on Mount Zion, girt for holy service, clothed in white linen, which is the righteousness of the saints. But all who follow the Lamb in heaven, will first have followed Him on earth, in trustful, loving, willing obedience; followed Him not fretfully and capriciously, but confidently, truthfully, as the flock follows the shepherd.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 14)
Are these the ones who are bruising and imprisoning their fellow men, humiliating them to the depraved association of those who compose the chain gang? Is this the sign of those who follow the Lamb. No, no. All who do this work evidence that they have chosen the side of one who was expelled from Eden, who was a falsifier of God, and who by oppression tries to compel God’s chosen ones to worship an idol sabbath, which is without one text of Scripture for its authority.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 15)
Did Christ give His followers any such lesson or example? No: He came, not to break down [the] moral power of men, but to restore it. He came to break the power of oppression. His work was to release those who were in bondage to Satan. Those who say, I am a child of God, and yet do work which will grieve and oppress, executing cruel actions against their fellow men, are not following the Lamb whithersoever He goeth, but are followers of another leader. They develop the attributes of Satan, and make it manifest that they are participators and co-workers with him to bind, imprison, and condemn, to cause all the suffering possible to body and mind, because they cannot compel men to be untrue to God and dishonor His work and transgress His holy law.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 16)
These are the ones who have guile in their mouths. These are the ones that profess to be followers of Christ while they are following a leader who was expelled from the courts of heaven. These men, who are working unrighteousness with such zealous zeal, show before the whole world and universe that if Christ was upon the earth, as at His first advent, they would do as did the unbelieving Jews—follow Him as spies, seeking to get Him to say something which they could use against Him to condemn Him to death. If they had opportunity and power, they would do as did Nebuchadnezzar when he set up his golden image in the plains of Dura.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 17)
It is the spirit that dwells in the children of disobedience that decides their future eternal destiny. Men who conceal their convictions of duty because they are afraid of suffering persecution are not following the true, but the false, shepherd. To maintain principle at all hazard is the highest path one can travel, because by doing this we follow Jesus. That which has a “Thus saith the Lord” is right and expedient. God has said, “He that walketh uprightly walketh surely.” [Proverbs 10:9.] If you suffer for the truth’s sake, you are partakers with Christ in His suffering, and will be partakers with Him in His glory.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 18)
God is weary of professional falseness and hollow hypocrisy. “And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.” [Revelation 14:5.] What grand words, how cheering and uplifting. “Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in His holy place? He that hath clean hands and a pure heart: who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully,”“he that walketh uprightly and worketh righteousness, and keepeth the truth in his heart,”“he shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his salvation.” [Psalm 24:3-5; 15:2.]
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 19)
The third angel’s message, following the first and second which have proclaimed the hour of God’s judgment and the fall of mystic Babylon, is proclaimed in louder and more explicit tones, giving a warning to all co-workers in the great anti-Christian apostasy, “And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying Babylon the great is fallen ... and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and the cage of every unclean and hateful bird.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 20)
“For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins and receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities. Reward her as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works; in the cup which she hath filled fill to her double.”Revelation 18:1-5.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 21)
The whole chapter is full of importance and is of consequence to every human agent. Consider this matter it will bear close searching. The men who are denying the Sabbath instituted by God himself, who are trampling upon the commandments of God, are the devil’s spies who seek to find accusation against those who will not reverence a man-made institution and worship an idol sabbath. The observance of the seventh day according to the commandment, reveals to them a neglect of duties which they owe to God. If there was not a people voicing the third angel’s message, they would have no conscientious scruples for Sunday observance, but it is the truth that they do not wish to receive. The Jews did not want their customs and practices to be disturbed; neither do the professed Christian world of today wish to be disturbed. They reject the message of truth which God in mercy hath sent to them to arouse their moral sensibilities. The Jews treated Christ just as professed Christians of today would treat Him should he come as He did at His first advent.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 22)
The world is in co-partnership with the professed Christian churches in making void the law of Jehovah. God’s law is set aside; it is trampled under foot; and from all the loyal people of God the prayer will ascend to heaven, “It is time, O Lord, for thee to work: for they have made void thy law.” [Psalm 119:126.] Satan is making his last and most powerful effort for the mastery, his last conflict against the principles of God’s law. A defiant infidelity abounds.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 23)
After John’s description in (Revelation 16), of that miracle working power which was to gather the world to the last great conflict, the symbols were dropped, and the trumpet voice once more gives a certain sound. “Behold I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.” [Verse 15.] After the transgression of Adam and Eve, they were naked, for the garment of light and security had departed from them. The world will have forgotten the admonition and warnings of God, as did the inhabitants of the Noatic world; as did also, the dwellers in Sodom. They awoke with all their plans and inventions of iniquity, but suddenly the shower of fire came from heaven and consumed the godless inhabitants. “Thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed.” [Luke 17:30.]
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 24)
The world full of rioting, full of godless pleasure, is asleep, asleep in carnal security, putting afar off the coming of the Lord, laughing at warnings, calling those who try to arouse their attention, almost fanatics, enthusiasts, not levelheaded. The lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God are taken unawares. This is the proud boast that is made, “All things remain as they were from the beginning. Tomorrow shall be as this day, only much more abundant.” [2 Peter 3:4.] We will go deeper into pleasure loving. But said Christ, “Behold, I come as a thief.” [Revelation 16:15.]
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 25)
When the scorner, the rejector of truth, has become presumptuous, then the routine of work in the various money making lines is being carried on without regard to principle, when the student is fully engaged in ambitious aims to obtain knowledge of everything but the Bible. Christ comes as thief. The warning has been given, “Watch therefore; for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broke up.” [Matthew 24:42, 43.] Every hour that passes is one hour less for you to make preparation of character for this great event.
(11LtMs, Ms 7a, 1896, 26)
Ms 8, 1896
True Education NP March 26, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in FE 405-415.
“The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple”—to those who are not self-sufficient, but who are willing to learn. [Psalm 119:130.] What was the work of the God-given messenger to our world? The only begotten Son of God clothed His divinity with humanity and came to our world as a teacher, an instructor, to reveal truth in contrast with error. Truth, saving truth, never languished on His tongue, never suffered in His hands, but was made to stand out plainly and clearly defined amid the moral darkness prevailing in our world. For this work He left the heavenly courts.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 1)
He said of Himself, “For this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth.” [John 18:37.] The truth came from His lips with freshness and power, as a new revelation. He was the Way, the Truth, and the Life. His life, given for this sinful world, was full of earnestness and momentous results; for His work was to save perishing souls. He came forth to be the True Light, shining amid the moral darkness of superstition and error, and was announced by a voice from heaven, proclaiming, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” [Matthew 3:17.] And at His transfiguration this voice from heaven was again heard, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.” [Matthew 17:5.]
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 2)
“Moses truly said unto the fathers, A Prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. And it shall come to pass that every soul, which will not hear that Prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people.” [Acts 3:22, 23.] Christ brought to our world a certain knowledge of God, and to all who received His Word and obeyed, gave He power to become the sons of God. He who came forth from God to our world gave instruction on every subject about which it is essential that man should know in order to find the pathway to heaven. To Him, truth was an ever present, self-evident reality; He uttered no suggestions, advanced no sentiments, notions, or opinions, but presented only solid, saving truth.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 3)
Everything not comprehended in truth is the guess work of man. Professedly high and learned men may be fools in the sight of God, and if so, the high and learned statements of their doctrines, however they may please and humor the senses, and though they may have been handed down from age to age [and] rocked in the cradle of popular faith, are a delusion and a falsehood if not found in the inspired lessons of Christ. He is the source of all wisdom, for He placed Himself directly on a level with the eternal God. In His humanity the glory of heavenly illumination fell directly upon Him, and from Him to the world, to be reflected back by all who receive and believe on Him, mingled with His perfection of character and the luster of His own character. While Christ stood forth distinctly in His human personality and appealed in striking but simple language to humanity, He was in such perfect oneness with God that His voice came with authority, as the voice of God from the center of glory.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 4)
In the record He was charged by the Holy Spirit to present, John says of Christ, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him, and without him was not anything made that was made.” [John 1:1-3.] This is the most precious unfolding of definite truth, flashing its divine light and glory upon all who will receive it. What more important knowledge can be received than that given in the Book which teaches of the fall of man and the consequences of that sin, which opened the floodgates of woe upon our world; which teaches also of the first advent of Christ, a helpless babe, born in a stable and cradled in a manger.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 5)
The history of Christ is to be searched, comparing Scripture with Scripture, that we may learn the all-important lesson: What are the terms of salvation? As intelligent agents, invested with personal attributes and responsibilities, we can know in regard to our future, eternal destiny; for the Scripture record given by John, at the dictation of the Holy Spirit, contains no terms that cannot be easily comprehended and that will not bear the most searching and critical investigation.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 6)
Christ was a teacher sent from God, and His words did not contain a particle of chaff or a semblance of that which is non-essential. But the force of much human instruction is comprised in assertion, not in truth. The teachers of the present day can only use the educated ability of previous teachers; and yet with all the weighty importance which may be attached to the words of the greatest authors, there is a conscious inability to trace them back to the first great principles, the source of unerring wisdom, from which teachers derive their authority. There is a painful uncertainty, a constant searching and reaching for assurances that can only be found in God. The trumpet of human greatness may be sounded, but it is with an uncertain sound; it is not reliable, and the salvation of human souls cannot be ventured upon it.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 7)
A mass of tradition, with merely a semblance of truth, is being brought into education, which will never fit the learner to live in this life so that he may obtain the higher, immortal life. The literature placed in our schools, written by infidels and so-called wise men, does not contain the education that students should have. It is not essential that they shall be educated in these lines in order to graduate from these schools to the school which is in heaven. The mass of tradition taught will bear no comparison with the teachings of Him who came to show the way to heaven.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 8)
Christ taught with authority. The sermon on the mount is a wonderful production, yet so simple that a child can study it without being misled. The mount of beatitudes is an emblem of the high elevation on which Christ ever stood. He spoke with an authority which was exclusively His own. Every sentence He uttered came from God. He was the word and the wisdom of God, and He ever presented truth with the authority of God. “The words that I speak unto you,” He said, “they are spirit, and they are life.” [John 6:63.]
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 9)
That which in the councils of heaven the Father and the Son deemed essential for the salvation of man was defined from eternity by infinite truths which finite beings cannot fail to comprehend. Revelations have been made for their instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may glorify his own life and the lives of his fellow men, not only by the possession of truth, but by communicating it. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. I charge you therefore before the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom, preach the word; be instant in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers having itching ears.” [2 Timothy 3:16-4:3.]
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 10)
Jesus brought into His teaching none of the science of men. His teaching is full of grand, ennobling, saving truth, to which man’s highest ambitions and proudest inventions can bear no comparison; and yet things of minor consequence engross the minds of men. The great plan of redemption of a fallen race was wrought out in the life of Christ in human flesh. This scheme of restoring the moral image of God in debased humanity entered into every purpose of the life and character of Christ. His majesty could not mingle with human science, which will disconnect from the great source of all wisdom in a day. The topic of human science never escaped His hallowed lips. By believing in and doing the words of God, He was severing the human family from Satan chariot car. He was alive to the terrible ruin hanging over the human race, and He came to save souls by His own righteousness, bringing to the world definite assurance of hope and complete relief.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 11)
The knowledge current in the world may be acquired, for all men are God’s property, and are worked by God to fulfil His will in certain lines, even when they refuse the man Christ Jesus as their Saviour. The way in which God uses men is not always discerned, but He does use them. God entrusts men with talents and inventive genius, in order that His great work in our world may be accomplished. The inventions of human minds are supposed to spring from humanity, but God is behind all. He has caused that the means of rapid travelling shall have been invented, for the great day of His preparation.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 12)
The use which men have made of their capabilities, by misusing and abusing their God-given talents has brought confusion into the world. They have left the guardianship of Christ for the guardianship of the great rebel, the prince of darkness. Man alone is accountable for the strange fire which has been mingled with the sacred. The accumulation of many things which minister [to] lust and ambition has brought upon the world the judgment of God. When in difficulty, philosophers and the great men of earth desire to satisfy their minds without appealing to God. They ventilate their philosophy in regard to the heavens and the earth, accounting for plagues, pestilences, epidemics, earthquakes, [and] famines by their supposed science. Hundreds of questions relating to creation and providence, they will attempt to solve by saying, This is a law of nature.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 13)
There are laws of nature, but they are harmonious, and conform with all God’s working; but when the lords many and gods many set themselves to explain God’s own principles and providences, presenting to the world strange fire in the place of divine, there is confusion. The machinery of earth and heaven needs many faces to every wheel in order to see the hand beneath the wheels, bringing perfect order from confusion. The living and true God is a necessity everywhere.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 14)
A most interesting and important history is given in Daniel 2. Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, dreamed a dream which he could not bring to his remembrance when he awoke. “Then the king commanded to call the magicians, and the astrologers, and the sorcerers, and the Chaldeans,” those whom he had exalted and upon whom he depended, and relating the circumstances, demanded that they should tell him the dream. The wise men stood before the king in terror, for they had no ray of light in regard to his dream. They could only say, “O king, live forever; tell thy servants the dream, and we will shew the interpretation.” [Verses 2-4.]
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 15)
“The king answered and said to the Chaldeans, The thing is gone from me; if ye will not make known unto me the dream, with the interpretation thereof, ye shall be cut in pieces, and your houses made a dunghill. But if ye will show the dream and the interpretation thereof, ye shall receive of me gifts and rewards and great honor: therefore shew me the dream, and the interpretation thereof. Still the wise men returned the same answer, Let the king tell his servants the dream, and we will show the interpretation of it.” [Verses 5-7.]
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 16)
Nebuchadnezzar began to see that the men whom he trusted to reveal mysteries through their boasted wisdom, failed him in his great perplexity, and he said, “I know of a certainly that ye would gain the time, because ye see the thing is gone from me. But if ye will not make known unto me the dream, there is but one decree for you: for ye have prepared lying and corrupt words to speak before me, till the time be changed; therefore tell me the dream, and I shall know that ye can shew the interpretation thereof. The Chaldeans answered before the king, and said, There is not a man upon the earth that can shew the king’s matter.... It is a rare thing that the king requireth, and there is none other that can shew it before the king, except the gods, whose dwelling is not with flesh.” Then was the king “angry and very furious, and commanded to destroy all the wise men of Babylon.” [Verses 8-12.]
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 17)
Hearing of this decree, “Daniel went in, and desired of the king that he would give him time, and that he would shew the thing the interpretation. Then Daniel went to his house, and made the thing known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions; that they would desire mercies of the God of heaven concerning this secret.” [Verses 16-18.] The Spirit of the Lord rested upon Daniel and his fellows, and the secret was revealed to Daniel in a night vision. As he related the facts, the dream came fresh to the king’s mind, and the interpretation was given, showing the remarkable events that were to transpire in prophetic history.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 18)
The Lord was working in the Babylonian kingdom, communicating light to the four Hebrew captives, that He might represent His work before the people. He would reveal that He had power over the kingdoms of the world, to set up kings and to throw down kings. The King over all kings was communicating great truth to the king of Babylon, awakening in his mind a sense of his responsibility to God. He saw the contrast between the wisdom of God and the wisdom of the most learned men in his kingdom.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 19)
The Lord gave His faithful representatives lessons from heaven, and Daniel declared before the great men of the king of Babylon, “Blessed be the name of God forever and ever: for wisdom and might are his: And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom to the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding. He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what is in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him.” [Verses 20-22.] “There is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets, and maketh known to king Nebuchadnezzar what shall be in the latter days.” [Verse 28.] Glory was not given to the men who stood as oracles in the kingdom, but the men who put their entire trust in God, seeking for grace and strength and divine enlightenment, were chosen as representatives of the kingdom of God in wicked, idolatrous Babylon.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 20)
The historic events relating in the king’s dream were of consequence to him; but the dream was taken from him that the wise men by their claimed understanding of mysteries should not place upon it a false interpretation. The lessons taught in it were given by God for those who live in our day. The inability of the wise men to tell the dream is a representation of the wise men of the present day, who have not discernment and learning and knowledge from the Most High, and therefore are unable to understand the prophecies. The most learned in the world’s lore who are not watching to hear what God says in His Word and opening their hearts to receive that Word and give it to others, are not representatives of His. It is not the great and learned men of the earth, kings and nobles, who will receive the truth unto eternal life, though it will be brought to them.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 21)
Daniel’s exposition of the dream given by God to the king resulted in his receiving honor and dignity. “The king Nebuchadnezzar fell on his face, and worshipped Daniel, and commanded that they should offer an oblation and sweet odors unto him. And the king answered unto Daniel, and said, Of a truth ... your God is a God of gods, and a Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets, seeing thou couldest reveal this secret. Then the king made Daniel a great man, and gave him many great gifts, and made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon, and chief of the governors over all the wise men of Babylon.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 22)
“Then Daniel requested of the king, and he set Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, over the affairs of the province of Babylon: but Daniel sat in the gate of the king.” [Verses 46-49.] “Daniel sat in the gate of the king”—a place where judgment was dispersed, and his three companions were made counselors, judges, and rulers in the midst of the land. These men were not puffed up with vanity, but they saw and rejoiced that God was recognized, above all earthly potentates, and that His kingdom was extolled above all earthly kingdoms.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 23)
So we see that the highest line of earthly education may be obtained, and yet the men possessing it may be ignorant of the first principles which would make them subjects of the kingdom of God. Human learning cannot qualify for that kingdom. The subjects of Christ’s kingdom are not made thus by forms and ceremonies, by a large study of books. “This is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.] The members of Christ’s kingdom are members of His body, of which He Himself is the head. They are the elect sons of God, “a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people” that they should show forth the praises of Him who has called them out of darkness into His marvelous light. [1 Peter 2:9.]
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 24)
“For thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth. The Lord did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because you were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people. But because the Lord loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto your fathers, hath the Lord brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh, king of Egypt.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 25)
“Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations. And repayeth them that hate him to their face, to destroy them: he will not be slack to him that hateth him, he will repay him to his face. Thou shalt therefore keep the commandments and the statutes and the judgments, which I command thee this day, to do them.” [Deuteronomy 7:6-11.]
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 26)
If God’s commandments are to be binding for a thousand generations, it will take them into the kingdom of God, into the presence of God and His holy angels. This is an argument that cannot be controverted. The commandments of God will endure through all time and eternity. Are they, then, given us as a burden? No. “And the Lord commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear the Lord our God, for our good always, that he might preserve us alive, as it is at this day.” [Deuteronomy 6:24.] The Lord gave His people commandments in order that by obeying them they might preserve their physical, mental, and moral health. They were to live by obedience, but death is the sure result of the disobedience of the law of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 27)
The Old and New Testament Scriptures need to be studied daily. The knowledge of God and the wisdom of God come to the student who is a constant learner of His ways and works. The Bible is to be our light, our educator. When we will acknowledge God in all our ways, when the youth are educated to believe that God sends the rain and the sunshine from heaven, causing vegetation to flourish, when they are taught that all blessings come from Him, and that thanksgiving and praise [are] due to Him, when with fidelity they acknowledge God and discharge their duties day by day, and God will be in all their thoughts; they can trust Him for tomorrow, and that anxious care that brings unhappiness to so many lives will be avoided. “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” [Matthew 6:33.]
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 28)
The first great lesson in all education is to know and understand the will of God. Take the knowledge of God with you through every day of life. Let it absorb the mind and the whole being. God gave Solomon wisdom, but this God-given wisdom was perverted when he turned from God to obtain wisdom from other sources. We need the wisdom of Solomon after we have learned the wisdom of One greater than Solomon. We are not to go through human wisdom, which is termed foolishness, to seek true wisdom.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 29)
For men to learn science through men’s interpretation is to obtain a false education, but to learn of God and Jesus Christ is to learn the science of the Bible. The confusion in education has come because the wisdom and knowledge of God has not been honored and exalted by the religious world. The pure in heart see God in every providence, in every phase of true education. They vibrate to the first approach of light which radiates from the throne of God. Communications from heaven are made to those who will catch the first gleams of spiritual knowledge.
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 30)
The students in our schools are to consider the knowledge of God as above everything else. Searching the Scriptures alone will bring the knowledge of the true God and Jesus Christ whom He hath sent. “The preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness: but unto us which are saved, it is the power of God. For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.”“Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.”“But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: that, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.” [1 Corinthians 1:18, 19, 25, 30, 31.]
(11LtMs, Ms 8, 1896, 31)
Ms 9, 1896
The Divine Teacher NP March 23, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in FE 397-404. +
Those who are daily learning of Jesus Christ are fitted to take their position as laborers together with God, and whatever their trade or business may be, they may exert their God-given powers after the similitude of Christ’s character, while He tabernacled in the flesh. The young will carry with them just the influence they received in their school education. God holds teachers responsible for their work as educators. They must learn daily in the school of Christ, in order to uplift the youth who have had a lax training at home, who have not formed studious habits, who have little knowledge of the future immortal life, for which the highest price was paid by the God of heaven in giving His only begotten Son to live a life of humiliation and die a most shameful death, “that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.]
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 1)
God has given us a probation in which we may prepare for the higher school. For this school the youth are to be educated, disciplined, and trained by forming such characters, moral and intellectual, as God will approve. They are to receive a training, not in the customs and amusements and games of this worldly, polluted society, but in Christ’s lines, a training which will fit them to be co-laborers with the heavenly intelligences. But what a farce is that education obtained in literary lines, if it must be stripped from the learner if he is counted worthy to enter upon that life which measures with the life of God, he himself saved as by fire.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 2)
In the past, education has consisted in laboriously loading the minds of the students with material which cannot be of the least value to them, and which will not be recognized in the higher school. The teachers of the Jewish nation professed to educate the youth to understand the purity and excellence of the laws of that kingdom which is to stand for ever and ever, but they perverted truth and purity. Though they said of themselves, “The temple of the Lord, The temple of the Lord are we” [Jeremiah 7:4], yet they crucified the Originator of all the Jewish economy, Him to whom all their ordinances pointed. They failed to discern the veiled mystery of godliness; Christ Jesus remained veiled to them.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 3)
The truth, the life, the heart of all their service was discarded. They held, and still hold, the mere husks, the shadows, the figures symbolizing the true. A figure for the time appointed, that they might discern the true, became so perverted by their own inventions that their eyes were blinded. They did not realize that type met antitype in the death of Jesus Christ. The greater their perversion of figures and symbols, the more confused their minds became, so that they could not see the perfect fulfillment of the Jewish economy, instituted and established by Christ, and pointing to Him as the substance. Meats and drinks and divers ordinance were multiplied until ceremonial religion constituted their only worship.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 4)
In His teaching Christ sought to educate and train the Jews to see the object of that which was to be abolished by the true offering of Himself, the living sacrifice. “Go,” said He, “and learn what that meaneth, I will have mercy and not sacrifice.” [Matthew 9:13.] He presented a pure character as of supreme importance. He dispensed with all pomp, demanding that faith that works by love and purifies the soul as the only qualification required for the kingdom of heaven. He taught that true religion does not consist in forms or ceremonies, outward attractions or outward display. Christ would have taken these to Himself if they had been essential in the formation of a character after the divine similitude. But His citizenship, His divine authority rested upon His own intrinsic merits. He, the Majesty of heaven, walked the earth shrouded in the robe of humanity. All His attractions and triumphs were to be revealed in behalf of man, and were to testify to His living connection with God.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 5)
Christ’s prediction regarding the destruction of the temple was a lesson on the purification of religion, by making of none effect forms and ceremonies. He announced Himself greater than the temple, and stood forth proclaiming, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” [John 14:6.] He was the One in whom all the Jewish ceremony and typical service was to find its fulfillment. He stood forth in the place of the temple; all the offices of the church centered in Himself alone.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 6)
In the past, Christ had been approached through forms and ceremonies, but now He was upon the earth, calling attention directly to Himself, presenting a spiritual priesthood, and placing the sinful human agent at the footstool of mercy. “Ask, and it shall be given you,” He promised; “seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] “If ye ask anything in my name, I will do it. If ye love me, keep my commandments.”“He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me ... and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.” [John 14:14, 15, 21.] “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.” [John 15:9, 10.]
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 7)
These lessons Christ gave in His teaching, showing that the ritual service was passing away, and possessed no virtue. “The hour cometh,” He said, “and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in Spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit; and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” [John 4:23, 24.] True circumcision is the worship of Christ in spirit and truth, not in forms and ceremonies, with hypocritical pretense.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 8)
The deep necessity of man for a divine teacher was known in heaven. The pity and sympathy of God was exercised in behalf of man, fallen and bound to Satan’s chariot car; and when the fulness of time was come, He sent forth His Son. The One appointed in the councils of heaven came to the earth as an instructor. He was no less a being than the Creator of the world, the Son of the Infinite God. The rich benevolence of God gave Him to our world, and to meet the necessities of humanity, He took on Him human nature. To the astonishment of the heavenly host, He walked this earth as the Eternal Word. Fully prepared, He left the royal courts to come to a world marred and polluted with sin. Mysteriously He allied Himself to human nature. “The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.” [John 1:14.] God’s excess of goodness, benevolence, and love was a surprise to the world of grace which could be realized, but not told.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 9)
That Christ, during His childhood, should grow in wisdom and in favor with God and man, was not a matter of astonishment, for it was according to the laws of His divine appointment that His talents should develop and His faculties strengthen by exercise. He sought neither the schools of the prophets nor the learning received from the rabbinical teachers; He needed not the education gained in these schools, for God was His instructor. When in the presence of the teachers and rulers, His questions were instructive lessons, and He astonished the great men with His wisdom and deep penetration. His answers to their queries opened up fields of thought on subjects in reference to the mission of Christ, which had never before entered their minds.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 10)
The stores of wisdom and the scientific knowledge Christ displayed in the presence of the wise men were a subject of surprise to His parents and brothers, for they knew He had never received from the great teachers instruction in human science. His brothers were annoyed at His questions and answers, for they could discern that He was as an instructor to the learned teachers. They could not comprehend Him, for they knew not that He had access to the tree of life, a source of knowledge of which they knew nothing. He ever possessed a peculiar dignity and individuality distinct from earthly pride or assumption, for He did not strive after greatness.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 11)
After Christ had condescended to leave His high command, step down from an infinite height and assume humanity, He could have taken upon Him any condition of humanity He might choose. But greatness and rank were nothing to Him, and He selected the lowest and most humble walk of life. The place of His birth was Bethlehem, and on one side His parentage was poor, but God, the Owner of the world, was His Father. No trace of luxury, ease, selfish gratification, or indulgence was brought into His life, which was a continual round of self-denial and self-sacrifice. In accordance with His humble birth, He had apparently no greatness or riches, in order that the humblest believer need not say Christ never knew the stress of pinching poverty. Had He possessed the semblance of outward show, of riches, of grandeur, the poorest class of humanity would have shunned His society; therefore He chose the lowly condition of the far greater number of the people. The truth of heavenly origin was to be His theme: He was to sow the earth with truth; and He came in such a way as to be accessible to all, that the truth alone might make an impression upon human hearts.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 12)
Christ’s contentment in any position provoked His brethren. They could not explain the reason of His peace and serenity; and no persuasion of theirs could lead Him to enter into any plans or arrangements which bore the impression of commonness or of guilt. On every occasion He would turn from them, plainly stating that they would mislead others, and were unworthy of sons of Abraham. He must set such an example that little children, the younger members of the Lord’s family, would see nothing in His life or character to justify any evil deed. You are altogether too particular and peculiar, said the members of His own family. Why not be as other children? But this could not be, for Christ was to be a sign and a wonder from His youth, as far as strict obedience and integrity were concerned.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 13)
Always kind, courteous, ever taking the part, of the oppressed, whether Jew or Gentile, Christ was beloved by all. By His perfect life and character He answered the question asked in the 15th Psalm: “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.” [Verses 1, 2.] In childhood and youth His course was such that when engaged in work as a teacher, He could say to His disciples, “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.” [John 15:10.]
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 14)
As Christ grew older, and work commenced in His childhood went on, and He continued to increase in wisdom, and [in] favor with God and man. He did not take the part of His own family merely because they were related to Him by natural ties; He would not vindicate their case in a single instance where they had been guilty or injustice or wrong, but He ever vindicated that which He knew to be truth.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 15)
Christ applied Himself diligently to a study of the Scriptures, for He knew them to be full of precious instruction to all who make it the man of their counsel. He was faithful in the discharge of His home duties, and the early morning hours, instead of being wasted in bed, often found Him in a retired place, meditating and searching the Scriptures and in prayer. Every prophecy concerning His work and mediation was familiar to Him, especially those having reference to His humiliation, atonement, and intercession. In childhood and youth the object of His life was ever before Him, an inducement for His undertaking the work of mediating in behalf of fallen man. He would see seed which should prolong their days, and the gracious purpose of the Lord should prosper in His hands.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 16)
“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race which is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at [the right hand of] the throne of God.” [Hebrews 12:1, 2.] These subjects Christ studied in His youth, and the universe of heaven looked with interest upon the One who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross despising the shame.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 17)
By offering Himself to make intercession for the transgression of the human race, Christ executed the office of priest. As a reward, He was to see of the travail of His soul, and be satisfied. His seed should prolong their days on the earth for ever. “Honor thy father and mother, that thy days may be long in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.” [Exodus 20:12.] By His obedience to His father and mother, Christ was an example to all children and youth, but today children are not following the example He has given, and the sure result will be a shortening of their days.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 18)
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ; according as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love. Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ unto himself, according to the good pleasure of his will.” [Ephesians 1:3-5.] Before the foundations of the earth were laid, the covenant was made that all who were obedient, all who should through the abundant grace provided become holy in character, and without blame before God, by appropriating that grace, should be children of God. This covenant, made from eternity, was given to Abraham nineteen hundred years before Christ came. With what interest and what intensity did Christ in humanity study the human race to see if they would avail themselves of the provision offered.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 19)
“This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.] These words are an eye-opener to all who will see. The knowledge of God is a knowledge which will not need to be left behind when our probation closes, a knowledge which is of the most lasting benefit to the world and to us individually. Why, then, should we put the Word of God in the background when it is wisdom unto salvation? “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.” [Hebrews 2:1-3.]
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 20)
We are neglecting our salvation if we give authors who have but a confused idea of what religion means the most conspicuous place and devoted respect, and make the Bible secondary. Those who have been enlightened in reference to the truth for these last days will not find instruction in the books generally studied today in regard to the things which are coming upon our world. But the Bible is full of the knowledge of God, and is competent to educate the student for usefulness in this life and for the eternal life.
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 21)
Study carefully the first chapter of Hebrews. Become interested in the Scriptures. Read and study them diligently. “In them ye think ye have eternal life,” Christ said, “and they are they which testify of me.” [John 5:39.] It means everything to us to have an experimental and individual knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ, “whom he hath sent.” [Verse 38.] “For this is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.]
(11LtMs, Ms 9, 1896, 22)
Ms 11, 1896
Sermon/Address Given by Mrs. E. G. White at Avondale NP March 4, 1896 Previously unpublished.
“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. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there 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: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him. And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads.” [Revelation 22:1-4.]
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 1)
“They shall see his face.” [Verse 4.] Moses pled with God, saying, “I beseech thee, shew me thy glory.” But God said, “Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live. And the Lord said, Behold, there is a place by me, and thou shalt stand upon a rock: and it shall come to pass, while my glory passeth by, that I will put thee in a cleft of the rock, and will cover thee with my hand while I pass by: and I will take away mine hand, and thou shalt see my back parts: but my face shall not be seen.” [Exodus 33:18, 20-23.] Moses could not behold the revelation of the glory of the face of God and live; but here is a promise given to us, “They shall see his face.”
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 2)
When Moses came down from the mount where he had been given a sight of the glory of God, his face was so lighted up that Aaron and all the children of Israel “were afraid to come nigh him.”“And Moses called unto them; and Aaron and all the rulers of the congregation returned unto him, and Moses talked with them.”“And till Moses had done speaking with them, he put a vail upon his face.” [Exodus 34:30, 31, 33.]
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 3)
Many today have veils upon their faces, but it is a veil of sympathy with the customs and practices of the world, and it hides from them the glory of the Lord. God would have us keep our eyes fixed on Him, that we may lose sight of the things of this world. We have but a little time in which to work; there is no time for slothfulness, no time for any one of us to delay that preparation which will enable us to see the face of God. In order to see His face by and by, we must become Christlike here, knowing Him as a present and personal Saviour. All things earthly, which would interpose themselves between our souls and God, must be severed from us, even though it be like cutting off the right hand or plucking out the right eye. And as we draw nigh to God, He will draw nigh to us, encouraging and strengthening us for our conflict.
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 4)
We have no time now to consult our own inconvenience. Christ did not consult His convenience when He left the royal throne of God, and came to this earth, to be crucified by the people whom He came to save. Wonder, O heaven, and be astonished, O earth, that He, who came to win a crown of immortality for humanity, was discarded, and a murderer chosen in His place. At His trial Christ was placed side by side with Barabbas—Christ with His countenance expressive of the Father’s image, and Barabbas, a thief and a murderer. Whom will ye that release unto you? Barabbas, or Jesus? Asked Pilate, and like the bellowing of wild beasts the answer came, “Away with this man, and release unto us Barabbas.” [Luke 23:18.] “What shall I do with Christ?”“Crucify him, crucify him,” echoed and re-echoed through the company, “let him be crucified.” [Luke 23:21; Matthew 27:22.]
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 5)
Today, by our associates, by our life, by our character, we are choosing whom we will have as our king. Heavenly intelligences are seeking to draw us to Christ. Will we respond to their drawing, saying, I will follow on to know the Lord, that I may know that “his going forth is prepared as the morning” [Hosea 6:3], or will we let all responsibility drop from our shoulders, forgetful that our own souls are hanging in the balance. God would have us fight manfully the battles of the Lord, wrestling for the victory day by day, that we may keep the faith once delivered to the saints. The Holy Spirit works with those who will be worked, molds those who will be molded, fashions those who will be fashioned. Day by day we are shaping our destiny for eternal life or for perdition.
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 6)
Christ has made every provision for the encouragement of His followers. To all who believe in Him He says, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do because I go to my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” [John 14:12, 13.] Why need the followers of Christ mourn and be discouraged, when God has said that He is more willing to give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him than parents are to give good gifts to their children?
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 7)
By the power of the Holy Spirit, we may do the works of Christ. “If any man lack wisdom,” He says again, “Let him ask of God, who giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith.” [James 1:5, 6.] That is the only condition. “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] Though we are transgressors of the law of God, yet if we repent in faith, God can work through us the works of Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 8)
Christ came to our world to bring life and immortality to light, and He would have us rejoice in this. In the place of wasting our lives over the pleasures of this world, He would have us understand His work and character; by the sanctifying influence of the Holy Spirit, He would have us one with Him, as He is one with the Father. To the promise, “If ye ask anything in my name, I will do it,” He adds, “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” [John 14:14, 15.] There are many who profess to keep God’s commandments, and yet break them. “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves.” [2 Corinthians 13:5.] Do not stumble into perdition through self-sufficiency.
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 9)
“Thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy: I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” [Isaiah 57:15.] The presence of God in the heart is worth more than all else in the world. Only by receiving Him here, will we be able to see Him face to face.
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 10)
When Christ ascended on high He sent His representative as a Comforter. This representative is by our side wherever we may be, a watcher and a witness to all that is said or done, standing ready to protect us from the assaults of the enemy if we will but place ourselves under His protection. But we must act our part, and then God will act His part.
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 11)
When we are brought into trial and affliction for His sake, the Comforter will stand by our side, bringing to our remembrance the words and teaching of Christ. “Even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him; but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless, I will come to you.” [John 14:17, 18.] With this promise before us, what excuse is there for sin, what excuse for continuing in opposition to God. If we continue in sin, what excuse will there be for us to be present in the day when we stand before God to answer for the deeds done in the body?
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 12)
Are you ready for the judgment? Is your name written in the book of life? Only by looking to Jesus, the Lamb of God, and following in His steps, can you prepare to meet God. Follow Him, and you will one day walk the golden streets of the city of God; and see Him who laid aside His royal garments and His kingly crown, and disguising Himself with humanity, came to our world and bore your sins, that He might lift you up and give you a revelation of His glory and majesty. We shall see Him face to face if we now give ourselves up to be molded and fashioned by Him, prepared for a place in the kingdom of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 13)
Those who consecrate their lives to the service of God will live with Him through the ceaseless ages of eternity. “God himself will be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neighbor sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.”“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 see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads.”“And they shall reign for ever and ever.” [Revelation 21:3, 4; 22:4, 5.]
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 14)
“He that hath my commandments and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.” [John 14:21.] Christ knew that Satan would continue the work begun in the Paradise of God, striving to persuade men to transfer their allegiance from God by transgressing His law. He knew that His followers would be tempted on all sides, and for their encouragement and hope, He promised, I will manifest myself to them.
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 15)
I have realized this manifestation again and again. I have realized when surrounded by a mob who were determined to break up our meeting. The Spirit of the Lord came to our help, and those who had assembled, intent on doing us harm, went away declaring that we had spoken the words of the Lord.
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 16)
When the Lord brought me from the depths of despair, and acknowledged me as His child, His peace filled my soul. I have had sorrows and bereavements since then. My eldest child, the highest branch of the family tree, was broken off; my babe was taken from my arms; and I have folded my husband’s arms over his breast and laid him away to rest till the last trump shall sound, and the dead in Christ shall rise. Did I go to his grave to weep? No; the Lord gave me strength to say, He has done his work; let him rest till the morning of the resurrection, and then I shall see him again. “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their works do follow them.” [Revelation 14:13.]
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 17)
The presence and comfort of the Holy Spirit has been with me. The Lord has manifested himself to me. I have not time to mourn over the dead. Time is short, and I must entreat the living to seek the Lord while He may be found. “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near: let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.] I desire to do the work God has given my to do; “for yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.” [Hebrews 10:37.]
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 18)
“And they shall see his face, and his name shall be in their foreheads.” [Revelation 22:4.] Their minds were given to God in this world, they served Him with their intellect and with their heart, and now He can put His name 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 for ever and ever.” [Verse 5.] They do not go in as those that beg a place there. Christ says to them, “Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the earth.” [Matthew 25:34.] He takes them in as His children, saying, Enter ye into the joy of your Lord. The crown of immortality is placed on the brow of the overcomers. They take their crowns and cast them at the feet of Jesus, and touching their golden harps, they fill all heaven with rich music in songs of praise to the Lamb. Then they “shall see his face,”“and his name shall be in their foreheads.”
(11LtMs, Ms 11, 1896, 19)
Ms 12, 1896
The Work of the Publishing Office NP March 11, 1896 Previously unpublished.
Before me is the light, the very light given on March 11, 1870, twenty-six years ago, in Adam’s Center—the writing which I read in the council room at the Tabernacle. I will copy it from the original.
(11LtMs, Ms 12, 1896, 1)
The Lord revealed to me that the Office of publication in Battle Creek should not be managed in the same way that other business establishments are conducted. The men connected with the Office in Battle Creek should be men of piety, men of wisdom, men who seek counsel of the Lord, and obey His Word.
(11LtMs, Ms 12, 1896, 2)
After the sickness of my husband, a new order of things was established. There was far less seeking counsel of God. Customs and practices of the world were brought in. There was a decided change in wages, which was not after God’s order. Selfishness was exhibited in one direction and another. The Office of publication had been under the Lord’s wise rule. He had specified that it should not be conducted after the world’s policy and on worldly plans, for if this should be, He could not favor His people. The Lord would have the Office conducted after the same order and principles that were specified, and that brought it into existence, for we are nearer the end than at that time. Self-denial should characterize all the responsible men, and all who are favored with a part to act in the management of the Office, just as decidedly as the self-denial and self-sacrifice which should ever be maintained by those who engage in the ministry.
(11LtMs, Ms 12, 1896, 3)
The workers in the Office have no more taxing work, no more expense, no weightier responsibilities, than rests upon and are required of the men who establish the work in other fields. The work in the Office is no more wearing than that which rests upon the messengers bearing the responsibility of the Gospel in holding forth the Word of life to the people. The ministers of Jesus Christ have greater sacrifices to make than those working in the Office, who can live in Battle Creek and be near their families to counsel with them in the management and outlay of means. The husband can indeed be the house band of the family. But ministers must go just where they are sent, they must be ready to supply any emergency. All these things are worthy of consideration.
(11LtMs, Ms 12, 1896, 4)
We see the necessity of all who are and shall be connected with the publishing establishment having a living connection with God by a deep and genuine experience, else there will gradually be [a] trusting alone in human wisdom and judgment, which is not marked with piety and a growing experience in spiritual things. Defective characters will develop a defective work. Unsanctified judgment will sway things in a wrong direction.
(11LtMs, Ms 12, 1896, 5)
Unless those associated in the work, especially those who bear responsibilities, shall feel and work with an eye single to the glory of God, with a full sense of the eternal interests involved in the cross of Calvary, continually having a sense of their own weakness, and depending upon God as their divine helper, they will have their own ideas, and their own supposed wise plans. They will become lifted up in selfishness and pride, and the less they have of the Spirit of God, the greater will be their desire to hold the lines of control over everything. They will not consider who created the funds entrusted them by the Lord, or the self-denial and self-sacrifice required to lay the foundation of the publishing house, or who has done the real sacrificing for its up-building.
(11LtMs, Ms 12, 1896, 6)
Very few who are now connected with it know the real facts in the case, or how much it cost some in self-denial and self-sacrifice. When those whom the Lord moved upon to do this work shall fall at their post of duty, who then will hold firmly the principles of the Lord has repeatedly placed before them, and which must be preserved in order to control the management of this important institution in all lines of its work.
(11LtMs, Ms 12, 1896, 7)
God designs that the periodicals, pamphlets, and books issued from the office shall bless the whole world with rays of light, which like the beams of the sun will penetrate the dense darkness which covers the earth like a funeral pall; but unless men shall advance in spiritual wisdom, in grace, in the knowledge of God and His only begotten Son Jesus Christ, a demoralized state of things will be brought in. There will be a binding up with unconsecrated elements, and a worldly spirit will prevail. Piety will be feeble.
(11LtMs, Ms 12, 1896, 8)
Ms 12a, 1896
“Friday, March 20, I arose early...” Refiled as Ms 12c, 1896.
Ms 12b, 1896
Higher Education NP 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in AH 183; CG 224; 6MR 15-16; 10MR 301. +
“O the depths of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord, or who hath been his counsellor? Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things, to whom be glory forever.” [Romans 11:33-36.]
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 1)
The minds of all students would receive an important discipline if they would search, not merely read, but search the Scriptures. There is great wisdom for every person in an understanding of the word of God. It presents no mysteries; it is the light shining in darkness, but the sad part of this is that the darkness “comprehendeth it not.” [John 1:5.] If men earnestly desire light and a better knowledge of God, they will turn their faces toward the light.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 2)
The Pharisees were continually asking for a sign to be given them of the mission of Christ; but if they had turned their faces toward the Light of the world, they would have discerned the true light. The leaders of the Jewish economy failed to represent the light of that economy, of which Christ was the foundation. Their ceremonial services do not appear to have given them any real conception of the Light of the world.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 3)
When Jesus came to the world as the expositor of divine truth, they could not read in His life anything answering to their expectations, although they had always performed the ceremonies which typified Him. He came just as predicted, but they knew Him not. His mission, His work, the words He spoke of Himself, were as new revelation to them. He was not received as a long expected guest, the substance of all the representation. Notwithstanding that He had been prefigured before them in the types and shadows of their religious services, He did not find a place prepared for Him, but had to create a place for Himself. He appeared as a stranger to the Jewish nation. “Show us a sign,” came from the unreceptive hearts and unbelieving lips of the people.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 4)
Occasionally, divinity flashed through the humanity of Christ, but even then the Priests and rabbis would not be convinced, though their unrenewed hearts felt the disturbing power of the Spirit of God at work with an almost irresistible force. On one occasion Christ came to Nazareth and taught in the synagogue. “And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book he found the place where it was written, The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” [Luke 4:17-19.]
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 5)
“And he closed the book, and gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him. And he began to say unto them, This day is this Scripture fulfilled in your ears. And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth.” [Verses 20-22.] The conviction and assurance that He was the Promised One so strongly impressed their minds, and filled their souls with peace and grace and hope, that every barrier was broken down, and for a moment they endured the seeing of the Invisible in Christ Jesus. The power of God touched their hearts, and they questioned, Why have we been so carried away? They were enthused with the Spirit that sent home the conviction that this was the Messiah.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 6)
But Satan, who had worked with all his devices to captivate their minds to his service, was determined that the blind eyes should not be opened that day, and that souls bound in slavery to his will should not be set at liberty. He and his angels are always on the ground with Christ, striving to counteract His words and His deeds of goodness and love as He works to restore the moral image of God in man. Unbelief came into the minds of Christ’s hearers, and they questioned, Who is this that asserts His power? “Is not this Joseph’s son?” [Verse 22.] This unbelief instilled into their minds worked fast, bringing them under the jurisdiction of Satan’s blinding insinuations; and this rejection of the Holy Spirit’s power and influence was the beginning of an end which meant Calvary.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 7)
Today some are treating the manifestations of the Holy Spirit in the same way. God has come near to bless and revive His children, and empower them to do a special work if they will allow the Holy Spirit to work them, but some have refused the Spirit’s power.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 8)
Duty of Teachers.
The teachers in our schools need to learn in the school of Christ what the rejection of Christ by the people of Nazareth comprehends. There are lessons in the Word of God which apply to their own practice. If they had been more studious in reading and comprehending this Word, which is Light and Truth, it would have been for their eternal wellbeing, and also of the greatest advantage to the students whom they are educating. They would have felt that they had neglected to bring lessons of eternal consequence into their own education, and that therefore they were not capable of teaching others.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 9)
We are to resist the first presentation of the devil’s insinuations to question the movings of the Spirit of God upon the heart, for he would have us reason away with our supposed faculty of discernment and with satanic philosophy, the deep movings of the Holy Spirit, which, if received, would have had a sanctifying influence upon the judgment. All who have not established themselves in thus working under the banner of the prince of darkness will consider where they have not made straight paths for their feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 10)
From the light He has given me, God has shown that the teachers in our schools are occupying a most solemn position of sacred trust. The words they speak, the positions they assume, will have a decided influence upon many souls. But no one should have a particle of weight or influence with others, who would instill unbelief into the mind in regard to the power of the Holy Spirit’s action, teaching that it is undue excitement and fanaticism. This impression is the leaven of Satan, and if introduced and accepted, will work until the whole mind is brought into captivity to Satan. He then molds the thoughts in his line, and where such a beginning is made, many minds are so constituted that it is next to impossible to accept with any assurance the instruction from heaven. The souls for whom Christ has died place themselves where His rejecters did at His first Advent, closing their eyes and their ears, that they may neither see nor hear the manifestations of the Holy Spirit or discern His power in their experience.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 11)
God’s Spirit works to cleanse the soul-temple, but if unbelief is expressed, it fastens itself upon minds, and Satan whispers undue excitement, fanaticism. Thus the current flowing from heaven to enlighten the mind and purify the soul is cut off. Satan’s ingenious devices, working upon human minds to cut off the communication from heaven, fastens souls in such a position of resistance to light and the Spirit of God that many will never again see the light clearly. Thus did the men of Nazareth, and ever after the whole bent of their efforts was to cavil and question and doubt, and ascribe the work of Christ to Satanic agencies.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 12)
Why are men not afraid of their own wisdom? Why do they think they can pronounce upon and interpret the working of God upon His own purchased possession? When this spirit enters a school, it is like a spiritual malaria, poisoning the atmosphere which surrounds the souls of the youth who come to attend school. From homes where they have been under a safe and religious influence, many youth go to school where their educators sow their minds with the seeds of doubt and infidelity.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 13)
The teachers in our schools need to attend diligently and learn in the school of Christ, in order that they may understand from the heart that they must either be doers of the Word of God, or give up their positions as educators. Before success can be subscribed to their efforts as teachers, they need just that fashioning which the Holy Spirit can give them to qualify them, by filling their hearts with a deeper and more consistent piety, to preside over the youth in their charge.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 14)
All heaven has been waiting to communicate with teachers and with students, but some of the teachers have occupied a position similar to that of the Pharisees in the days of Christ. Continued rejection of the light sent from heaven will finally place them as the house of Eli, where their sins shall not be purged with sacrifices or offerings forever. The destiny of souls is now being decided, and much positive teaching is needed in the education of the youth.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 15)
Duty of Parents.
If parents had educated their children according to all the words spoken by the Lord God of Hosts, the Everlasting Father, their children would have been trained at home to know God and His requirements. Although still claimed by the enemy as his property, children should receive the higher class of education from their parents and from their teachers in the Sabbath school. The words spoken by Moses in the mount should be voiced by ministers and instructors all through the land. Higher education is found in the words spoken by the greatest Teacher the world ever knew.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 16)
He who is the fountain of all knowledge has stated the condition of our fitness to enter the heaven of bliss, in the words, “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” [Revelation 22:14.] Obedience to God’s commandments is the price of heaven; and obedience to their parents in the Lord is the all-important lesson for children to learn. Parents are responsible to God as was Eli the priest and the judge of Israel, if they neglect to educate their children to obey, and permit them to disobey. In this they are educating them to disobey their Heavenly Father.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 17)
The ruin of thousands upon thousands of souls will be the result of the neglect of parents to teach their children to obey the commandments of God, thus letting Satan educate them to do his will. Thousands of thousands of parents must give an account of their stewardship to God, for they have neglected to train their children, the heritage of the Lord, to become members of the royal family and children of the Heavenly King. They have indulged their children and permitted them to form habits which make them and their parents unhappy.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 18)
The voice of God, plainly heard by Moses, has been given to His people from age to age. Fathers and mothers, you who take upon yourselves the responsibility of bringing children into the world, keep in your minds and hearts the words spoken by God to His people of all generations. The training of children is the grandest work ever committed to mortals, a work that cannot be ignored or in any wise neglected. If you are unfaithful in your work, the children which are the purchase of the blood of the Son of God, will grow up deformed and ungodly in character. By their influence they will taint and corrupt other youth making them as wicked as themselves. It would have been better if such parents had been childless. Parents will one day see their work in the light God views it, when he looks upon the sons and daughters of men, and sees them full of selfishness, pride, and moral pollution, having no fragrance of piety in them. God abhors this course of action.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 19)
Every child brought into the world is the property of Jesus Christ, and should be educated by precept and example to love and obey God; but by far the largest number of parents have neglected their God-given work by failing to educate and train their children, from the first dawning of reason, to know and love Christ. By painstaking effort parents are to watch the opening, receptive mind, and make everything in the home life secondary to the positive duty enjoined upon them by God—to train their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. God commended Abraham, saying, “I know him that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment.” [Genesis 18:19.] When parents do the work of the Lord as did Abraham, the Lord will guide them in His way.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 20)
Parents are in no way excused by leaving their God-given work to the teachers in day school and Sabbath school. These may help the parents in their solemn, sacred work, but by precept and example parents are required to be teachers in their homes. The words spoken by the Lord are ever to be kept before the children. Speaking face to face with Moses in the mount the Lord said, “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord. And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words which I command thee this day shall be in thy heart: and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thy house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.” [Deuteronomy 6:4-9.]
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 21)
Will parents compare their work, by precept and example, with this teaching? What has been the nature and character of the principles presented in the home life? What account will they have to meet in the judgment when God shall ask, What have you done with my flock, my beautiful flock? The world today would be sown with truth and righteousness if people would keep the words of the Lord. “The Lord commanded us to do all these statutes, to fear the Lord our God, for our good always, that he might preserve us alive, as it is at this day. And it shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandments before the Lord our God, as he hath commanded us.” [Verses 24, 25.] But in the world today the teaching given by parents to their children is in direct opposition to the word of God. Children are taught that God has no law, and in doing this parents work in the lines of the great deceiver, who compassed the fall of our first parents. As they believed the words of the fallen apostate in the place of the words of God, so the churches of today believe the words of Satan and reject the words of God, and sad indeed will be the result. God has not changed one jot or tittle of His law.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 22)
“Know therefore that the Lord thy God he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him, and keep his commandments to a thousand generations. And repayeth them that hate him to their face, to destroy them; he will not be slack to him that hateth them, he will repay him to his face. Thou shalt therefore keep the commandments, and the statutes, and the judgments, which I command thee this day, to do them. Wherefore it shall come to pass, if ye hearken to these judgments, and keep and do them, that the Lord thy God shall keep unto thee the covenant and the mercy which he sware unto thy fathers.” [Deuteronomy 7:9-12.]
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 23)
The instruction given to children has been exactly opposite to the instruction given by the Lord to Moses for the children of Israel and for the world. The professed Christian world is conceding to Satan all that he asked in heaven, when they argue against the law of God. Had God purposed to change His laws of government, He would have done it and retained the covering cherub and his sympathizers in the heavenly courts, but they were expelled.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 24)
“Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets,” said Christ, “I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of the least of these commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven, but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.] The world is taking sides. The nations have drunk of the wine of Babylon, and the lawless in her borders are on Satan’s side, in disobedience and rebellion against God’s laws, exulting in their own traditions as did the Jews, and “teaching for doctrine the commandments of men.” [Matthew 15:9.]
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 25)
The Higher Education of the Bible.
Through Moses, the Lord gave to the children of Israel that instruction he deemed most essential. Read and study his words; for this is higher education. “Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the Lord my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it. Keep therefore, and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people. For what nation is there so great, who hath the Lord nigh unto them, as the Lord our God in all things that we call upon him for? And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day?” [Deuteronomy 4:5-8.]
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 26)
“For who is there of all flesh, that hath heard the voice of the living God speaking out of the midst of the fire, as we have, and lived?”“O that there were such an heart in them that they would fear me, and keep all my commandments always, that it might be well with them and with their children forever!” [Deuteronomy 5:26, 29.] “For thou art a holy people unto the Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 27)
“The Lord did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people. But because the Lord loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto your fathers, hath the Lord brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt. Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations; and repayeth them that hate him to their face to destroy them; he will not be slack to him that hateth him, he will repay him to his face. Thou shalt therefore keep the commandments ... and the judgments, which I command thee this day to do them.” [Deuteronomy 7:6-11.]
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 28)
Where did Moses receive his education that he might educate the children of Israel? He was taken up in the mount to receive his education direct from God. There can be no higher education than this; none so pure, so precious, or so valuable for all mankind. “And the Lord said unto Moses, Write thou these words; for after the tenor of these words have I made a covenant with thee and with Israel. And he was there with the Lord forty days and forty nights; and he did neither eat bread nor drink water. And He wrote upon the tables the words of the covenant, the ten commandments.” [Exodus 34:27, 28.] This instruction was considered so essential that the Lord called Moses into the mount and talked with him face to face, as a man speaketh with his friend.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 29)
“And it came to pass, when Moses came down from mount Sinai with the two tables of testimony in Moses’ hand, when he came down from the mount, that Moses wist not that the skin of his face shone while he talked with them. And when Aaron and all the children of Israel saw Moses, behold the skin of his face shone; and they were afraid to come nigh him.” [Verses 29, 30.] The glory of the Lord was so revealed through the human agent, his face shone with such excellent glory and heavenly brilliancy, that Aaron and the rulers were afraid to come nigh him. “And Moses called unto them: and Aaron and all the rulers of the congregation returned unto him, and Moses talked with them. And afterward all the children of Israel came nigh; and he gave them in commandment all the Lord had spoken with him in mount Sinai. And till Moses had done speaking with them, he put a veil on his face.” [Verses 31-33.]
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 30)
For forty days and forty nights he had been in the presence of God and His angels, receiving the lessons to give to the people, but when he met them, he was obliged to cover his face; for the glory was too much for them to look upon. In giving this remarkable instruction to Moses, God taught that his chosen people should be a repository of truth for the whole world. Why then do the people of God today show so little interest in these wonderful revealings?
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 31)
“And now, Israel, what doth the Lord require of thee, but to fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, to keep the commandments of the Lord thy God, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good? Behold, the heaven and the heaven of heavens is the Lord’s thy God, the earth also, with all that therein is. Only the Lord had a delight in thy fathers to love them, and he chose their seed after them, even you above all people, as it is this day.” [Deuteronomy 10:12-15.]
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 32)
“For the Lord your God is God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward. He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loving the stranger in giving him food and raiment. Love ye therefore the stranger; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name. He is thy praise and he is thy God, that hath done for thee these great and terrible things, which thine eyes have seen.” [Verses 17-21.]
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 33)
The Word of God is to be the Guidebook, the counsellor, the teacher in the highest class of education. The Bible teaches the whole will of God concerning the plan of salvation, and if men are ignorant, it is because they do not choose to be wise. God says of the supposed great men of our world: They must become fools in order to be wise. The sentiments of infidel authors are not needed to perfect an education. In the past, our schools have mingled with that [which is] essential for education, the writing of men who advance error, the sophistries of men who trample underfoot God’s memorial. The Book that reveals the plan of salvation has been made secondary. But how is the honest inquirer after truth to find the way to heaven? Only by the Word of God, from which, even in his ignorance, he will learn the truth and be saved from destructive errors.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 34)
In the Bible every duty of man is made plain. Destructive blunderings in falsehood and error are of Satan’s devising. The study of history, an acquaintance with the countries, nations, and customs referred to in the Word, a study of the men whom the Lord has enlightened, are important helps in an understanding of the Word of God, but are not absolutely essential to enable the inquiring mind to find the path to heaven. The Bible makes plain the pathway of life, and “the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein.” [Isaiah 35:8.] The gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ is made apparent in the Bible.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 35)
The Word of God is adapted to meet the conditions of every mind, and is the science of salvation, and our only safe text book. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness.”“That the man of God my be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17.] In the study of the Word we converse with God; and the heavenly angels are close to the side of every human being, ready to enlighten his mind if he will lay at the door of investigation every prejudice and preconceived opinion. The Bible is our counsellor, unerringly telling us what we must do to regain the Paradise of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 12b, 1896, 36)
Ms 12c, 1896
Concerning Fannie Bolton North Shore, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia March 20, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in FBS 65-67.
Friday, March 20, I arose early, about half past three o’clock in the morning. While writing upon the fifteenth chapter of John, suddenly a wonderful peace came upon me. The whole room seemed to be filled with the atmosphere of heaven. A holy, sacred Presence seemed to be in my room. I laid down my pen and was in a waiting attitude to see what the Spirit would say unto me. I saw no person. I heard no audible voice, but a heavenly Watcher seemed close beside me. I felt that I was in the presence of Jesus. The sweet peace and light which seemed to be in my room it is impossible for me to explain or describe. A sacred, holy atmosphere surrounded me, and there were presented to my mind and understanding matters of intense interest and importance. A line of action was laid out before me as if the unseen presence was speaking with me. The matter I had been writing upon seemed to be lost to my mind and another matter distinctly opened before me. A great awe seemed to be upon me as matters were imprinted upon my mind.
(11LtMs, Ms 12c, 1896, 1)
The question was, What have you done with the request of Fannie Bolton? You have not erred in disconnecting with her, this was the right thing for you to do, and this would bring to her mind conviction and remorse which she must have. She has been tempted, deceived, and almost destroyed. Notwithstanding her perversity of spirit, I have thoughts of mercy and compassion for her. If she will heed My counsel, she shall have deliverance from the snare of Satan. He has desired her soul that he might sift her as wheat.
(11LtMs, Ms 12c, 1896, 2)
Your own soul has been wounded and bruised, but your Saviour has bought her with a great price. He has been wounded; He has been pierced afresh, and put to open shame by this deceived, deluded child. She has been enamored, and [has] listened to the voice of one who is himself far from me. He is not walking in the light, but in a false show, following another leader. He is a man that speaketh proud things of himself. The safe bond of all acquaintance, for those who desire to grow up in Christ [is] perfection of character, is in confiding love and faith in Christ above all others. This are the strong and safe bonds of friendship and union and will never become a snare. The relationship of fleshly acquaintances will need to be strictly guarded.
(11LtMs, Ms 12c, 1896, 3)
The one whom she has thought would bring to her rest, peace, [and] happiness, would bring unrest, sorrow, [and] anguish. The influence of the man whom she thought she loved would cause her to lose interest in the work, and has separated her from God. She has not adorned the doctrine of Christ our Saviour by her actions and experience. He will not accept as His representative the character of influence of him who has led her into a train of experiences that should be avoided by every one. My Spirit does not rest upon him. He is not an acceptable man to handle sacred things. He does not know the only true God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent.
(11LtMs, Ms 12c, 1896, 4)
He has had opportunities and privileges to understand the truth. Had he appropriated it to his individual case, he would have possessed that faith that works by love, and it would have purified his soul. He is working under a deception. He has a work to do in connection with his wife and with his children for which he is accountable, and God holds him responsible. No woman has a right to connect her life with him as a child of God, for in thus doing she will be guilty of the sin of adultery.
(11LtMs, Ms 12c, 1896, 5)
Take heed lest Satan should take possession of mind and will and character. “Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit, there is more hope of a fool than of him.” I have a warning for all such, “Enter not into the path of the wicked.” [Proverbs 26:12; 4:14.] Nets are laid by Satan for the feet of all who turn aside from the straight and narrow way. A blessing is upon the way of the man who has not stood in the way of sinners. “Be ye not envious of evil men, neither desire to be with them.”“The path of the just is as a shining light.” [Proverbs 24:1; 4:18.] The Lord hates all manner of pretence and deception and fraud. Men may appear outwardly moral, while the fear of God is not before their eyes. Those who leave the path of uprightness to walk in the deceived imagination of their own human unsanctified judgment are under the control of satanic agencies. If the weak and erring ones would only receive counsel, they would be helped.
(11LtMs, Ms 12c, 1896, 6)
The feelings which lead men, women, or youth to reject advice is directly opposed to the instruction of God. If the advice had been heeded by these deceived souls, the condition of spiritual deception that has blinded the senses of both would have been avoided. There has been an entering into temptation. There has not been a consideration in harmony with the advice and warnings which God has given. Pride and willing ignorance have [them] led you on and on away, from the Word—a “thus saith the Lord”—away from the principles of God’s holy law to selfish, earthly, sensual desires, walking contrary to the commandments of God. Self has risen up provoked against words wise and safe to follow. The Spirit of God has been grieved from their hearts and understanding. Headstrong obstinacy was convicted by unyielding, because the human agent is unsanctified and unwilling to walk in the way of the Lord.
(11LtMs, Ms 12c, 1896, 7)
Her life has been spoiled for the work for nearly a year by her strong imaginations. Take this poor deluded soul by the hand, surround her with a favorable influence if possible. If she separates now from you, Satan’s net is prepared for her feet. She is not in a condition to be left to herself, now, to be consumed of herself. She feels regret and remorse. I am her Redeemer, I will restore her if she will not exalt and honor and glorify herself. If she goes from you now, there is a chain of circumstances which will bring her into difficulties which will be for her ruin.
(11LtMs, Ms 12c, 1896, 8)
There are those who have not the love of God abiding in their hearts. They are craving ever for a sentimental, earthly love which cannot possibly flourish in a heart consecrated to God’s service. This class will ever give sympathy where it is not called for, where it will mislead, and pervert the experience of others in temptation. Their sentimental, unsanctified ideas of love are not refined, elevated or satisfying. It is a production of self and wholly human.
(11LtMs, Ms 12c, 1896, 9)
You are not to wait for evidence of transformation of character. The Holy Spirit alone can do this work, and mold and fashion this child’s experience after the divine similitude. She has not power, if left to herself, to control a temperament that is always a snare to her unless she keeps in the love of God, unless she humbles herself under the hand of God, and learns daily the meekness and lowliness of Christ. Leave her not to the dangerous sympathies of those who are not wise in Christian experience, who do not understand and estimate the value of the human soul, under test and trial, that needs to be purified from the dross and tried as in a furnace, that they may come forth free from dross as fine gold. It is not the glitter and the tinsel that is estimated of God, but it is a refined and holy life, possessing a sanctified life [spirit] that will make men and women of true moral worth.
(11LtMs, Ms 12c, 1896, 10)
Her only hope is to lose her self-consciousness in the contemplation of the character of Jesus Christ. The true discerning hearts led by the Spirit of God, will die to self and will live their lives in Christ Jesus. They will keep the way of the Lord. They will not stubbornly refuse to give up their way and their will when God shall send them counsels and warnings. The Lord can bless only the obedient. Take heed all who reach up their hands to you, turn not away. You are to help those who need help the most. I came not to call the righteous but sinners to repentance. Satan is trying to over come these souls, but they cost my life blood. The mind has become infatuated by a sentiment thought to be love, but it is altogether to base a sentiment to bear the name of love. It flourishes in the atmosphere of deception and falsehood. These are sins that have been committed against Me. I will give her another trial.
(11LtMs, Ms 12c, 1896, 11)
This light has come to me after earnestly praying that the Holy Spirit would instruct, reprove, and comfort me. I place myself in the hands of God, and while writing, these matters have been opened before me. I shall at once act upon this light given. It is just like our tender, loving, compassionate Saviour to hold out encouragement.
(11LtMs, Ms 12c, 1896, 12)
I obeyed the warning to separate from Fannie. She was my adversary, she was a hindrance to me. And now the word comes to me to cooperate with Jesus Christ in the effort in the saving of a soul. I have had nothing to do in asking the advice of any one. I can no longer delay the writing of this, for last night, March 31, matters were opened before me more impressively, which I write. I understand the matter better and shall work accordingly. I have taken Fannie to my home here at Sunnyside, Avondale, Cooranbong. I shall do all I can to help her heavenward.
(11LtMs, Ms 12c, 1896, 13)
Ms 12d, 1896
Concerning Fannie Bolton North Shore, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia March 20, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in FBS 63-64.
I awakened this morning at half past three. I dressed and as usual asked that the blessing of the Lord would rest upon me, committing my soul to God as unto a faithful creator. I asked that the Holy Spirit would be with me through the day, to mold and fashion my character after the divine similitude. I placed myself in the hands of God as the only thing I can do. Then I commenced writing in my diary some things in regard to (John 15), the true vine and the branches.
(11LtMs, Ms 12d, 1896, 1)
While writing, I had not only a wonderful experience, but was led to decide that the only course I can take conscientiously, and be a co-worker with Jesus Christ, is to take Fannie back again to connect with my work, and do all on my part that I can to save her soul. This will be practicing the lessons that Christ has given us. I have a great fear of offending Jesus Christ by not obeying His words.
(11LtMs, Ms 12d, 1896, 2)
Warnings have been given me. I separated from Fannie because the Lord revealed that she was my adversary, and the enemy was working through her to injure me. She has not been driven off, but she stands like a sheep bleating about the fold. I know not my future, nor her future, but I will (accept) her confessions. I will not longer disregard her pleadings for another trial. I shall not in this go to any one for advice. I believe the Holy Spirit has told me that this is what I should do. I have a work to do for the Master.
(11LtMs, Ms 12d, 1896, 3)
What would Christ do were He in my place? He would open the door and welcome her to the fold. I firmly believe my mind has been worked this morning by the Holy Spirit, and it seems the very thing I must do. Not that I have any evidence to think that there is any marked change in Fannie’s character, but notwithstanding this, in view of her confessions to me, and her pleadings, I will act as I believe Christ would act under the circumstances. He, the precious Saviour, is very precious to me, full of grace and truth. What right have I to close the door of hope to her?
(11LtMs, Ms 12d, 1896, 4)
Fannie has treated me badly; she has hurt my soul. But if she should fall into Satan’s snare, what bitter reflections might come to me if she had lifted her hand to me, and I would not take it. I shall now, without delay, say, “Fannie, I am, in Christ’s stead to heed your requests, and connect you again with His work. I do not ask for promises. All I ask is that you die to self, and live unto Jesus Christ. I have no farther exhortation to give. He alone is your efficiency. Behold not me or any human being. Fix your eye upon Jesus. Behold the Lamb of God who taketh away the sin of the world.”
(11LtMs, Ms 12d, 1896, 5)
If Fannie will walk with God, putting herself out of the question, but accepting and lifting up Jesus, yoking up with Him, she can be an overcomer. I shall take the whole responsibility, for I dare not do otherwise. I shall see that she attends the meeting to be held in Cooranbong, and make some way for her. I cannot tell just what or how, but the Lord will teach. [Text ends here.]
(11LtMs, Ms 12d, 1896, 6)
Ms 13, 1896
Faithfulness in Confessing Christ NP 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in 12MR 227-231.
“Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I also confess before my Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 10:32.] Do you confess Christ in your expenditure of His entrusted means? Is He confessed when most of your income is spent on self, when the Lord’s tenth is withheld, and when gifts and offerings are used for your own pleasure and benefit? It would not be out of place for you to head a column in your domestic account book “Charity.” Had you done this, and had you put down all that you have spent for self, and all that you have used for charity, the list of that spent for self would make a large amount, but how would your column set apart for charity come out? Again I urge you to ask yourself, Do I confess Christ in my expenditure? Heading a column of your account book “Charity,” would make a revelation to you. No other human eye may see that book but yourself, but the Lord Jesus Christ sees it, and your reward in the day of reckoning will be in accordance with your works.
(11LtMs, Ms 13, 1896, 1)
When the question is asked those who have professed to be Christians, “How much owest thou unto my Lord?” [Luke 16:5] many will stand silent and convicted, unprepared to answer, because they have not considered the Lord’s dues and have set apart nothing for charity. Have you been forward with gifts and offerings? Would not an examination of your account book reveal that you have neglected your duty in this respect?
(11LtMs, Ms 13, 1896, 2)
If Christ had that which is His own in tithes and offerings, so much would not be left for selfish outlay on nicknacks and display. Less would be spent for dress, for pleasure excursions, for entertainments, or for display in table fare. We may confess Christ by making no elaborate preparations for visitors; we may deny Him by making more than ordinary preparations, which takes time that rightly belongs to the Lord. Not only do you rob your family of the attention they need in order to prepare an elaborate entertainment, but the practice is followed by others whom you have influenced by your example. The Lord does not judge us according to the highness and elevation of our various spheres, but according to the faithfulness with which we fill them. Before you enter into amusement for the gratification of self, ask yourself the question, Is not this God’s time and money that I am expending needlessly? Open your account book and see how your account stands with God, with your household, and with the world.
(11LtMs, Ms 13, 1896, 3)
Have you confessed Christ by faithfully tithing the mint, the anise, and the rue? When we give the Lord the tithe, we are only giving Him that which is His own, to withhold which is theft and robbery. When we withhold the tithe, we keep back that which God designs shall sustain His work on the earth. For this work of redemption God gave the richest gift of heaven; can we not give one tenth of what we have? Many have forgotten God, and have kept back the tithe. Does your account book reveal that you have faithfully paid the Lord? Are you poor? Then give your little. Have you been blessed with abundance? Then be sure to lay aside that which the Lord registers as His own.
(11LtMs, Ms 13, 1896, 4)
By dealing truly with God, we really deal much more benevolently with ourselves; for when the great day of reckoning comes, every man will be asked, What have you done with the goods which I lent you? As we consider this question many of us need to walk more humbly and with greater self-denial before God. All who feel it a cross not to keep up an appearance in the eyes of the world, I would point to the life and work of Christ, who for our sake became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich. The fear of not keeping up an appearance need not exist, for an appropriate course of action will bring honor rather than discredit from all sensible minds. Confess Christ in this particular, for He has said, “If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] The neglect to confess Christ in your account books cuts you off from the great privilege of having your name registered in the Lamb’s book of life.
(11LtMs, Ms 13, 1896, 5)
Do you confess Christ by visiting the sick, the needy, and the poor? “Pure religion and undefiled before the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and the widow in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.” [James 1:27.] Do your works testify, “I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” [Galatians 2:20.]
(11LtMs, Ms 13, 1896, 6)
As Christ represented the Father to the world, so we are to represent Christ; and every inducement is presented to us that we may represent Christ by keeping the way of the Lord, and faithfully living out every requirement of His Word. This is the power of the Gospel. By doing this we will be as lights shining in a dark place, and will be of more value to the world than sermons or religious ceremonies. The world is watching us, and will criticize us severely. We are constantly making an impression, favorable or unfavorable, upon those with whom we associate. Through us others will look at Christ, but unless we practice the lessons of Christ, we are none of His, and cannot properly represent Him. Cheerfulness will be the fruit borne by the Christian tree, but levity and coarse, unruly conduct are as thorn berries.
(11LtMs, Ms 13, 1896, 7)
The religion of Jesus Christ is a religion of practical godliness, and while the grace of God abides in the heart, the Christian will produce the fruit of industry, frugality, economy; he will not waste, but will gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost. In the lives of those who have Christ abiding in the heart will be seen no avarice, no dishonesty in trade, no over-reaching, for all covetousness is pronounced idolatry; but every species of dishonesty will be put away from the character. Unkindness of disposition will be overcome, for they are made new men in Christ Jesus, and sin no longer reigns in their mortal bodies. Everyone who has thus been renewed will manifest kindness, forbearance, and generosity; in this, confessing that Christ, the hope of glory, is formed within.
(11LtMs, Ms 13, 1896, 8)
The cause of God should be kept in a healthful condition; the treasury should be supplied with means for carrying forward the work of God. Institutions which are established to help orphans, those who are dependent and destitute, the infirm and the aged, should be aided. Those who have the blessing of health should co-operate with Christ by helping the weak. The blessing of God rests upon those who represent Christ by doing this work. Christmas and New Year celebrations can and should be held in behalf of those who are helpless. God is glorified when we give to help those who have large families to support.
(11LtMs, Ms 13, 1896, 9)
But no man who can earn his own livelihood has a right to live on the produce of others. The proverb, “The world owes me a living,” has in it the essence of falsehood, fraud, and robbery. The world owes no man a living who is able to work to gain a living for himself.
(11LtMs, Ms 13, 1896, 10)
“Therefore as ye abound in everything, in faith and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace (liberality) also. I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love. For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. And herein I give my advice; for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago. Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have.
(11LtMs, Ms 13, 1896, 11)
“For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not. For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened. But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality.”“As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.” [2 Corinthians 8:7-15.] “But this I say, He that soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity; for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work.” [2 Corinthians 9:6-8.]
(11LtMs, Ms 13, 1896, 12)
Christ demands the entire service of the soldiers in His army. In His Word He has given the principles of action: “Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.” [Romans 12:11.] These principles should govern our conduct at all times. No allowance is made for lazy, negligent work, or for want of zeal. God has a righteous claim to constant service and supreme love. Your body, your soul, your life, all your God-given capabilities should be consecrated to God for the promotion of His glory.
(11LtMs, Ms 13, 1896, 13)
No one can be a sincere Christian unless he is a laborer together with God, unless he belongs to the family of workers. We must ever bear in mind that we are in co-partnership with God. His work and His cause demand the first consideration. “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” [Matthew 6:33.]
(11LtMs, Ms 13, 1896, 14)
Ms 14, 1896
Qualifications Essential for the Work of God. NP April 28, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in PC 395-398.
In His Word the Lord enumerates the gifts and graces that are indispensable for all who connect with His work. He does not teach us to ignore, learning or despise education, for when controlled by the love and fear of God, intellectual culture is a blessing; yet this is not presented as the most important qualification for the service of God. Jesus passed by the wise men of His time, the men of education and position, because they were so proud and self-sufficient in their boasted superiority that they could not sympathize with suffering humanity and become co-laborers with the Man of Nazareth. In their bigotry they scorned to be taught by Christ. The Lord Jesus would have men connected with His work who appreciate that work as sacred; then they can co-operate with God. They will be unobstructed channels through which His grace can flow. The attributes of the character of Christ can be imparted to those only who distrust themselves. The highest scientific education cannot in itself develop a Christlike character. The fruits of true wisdom come from Christ alone.
(11LtMs, Ms 14, 1896, 1)
Every worker should test his own qualifications by the Word of God. Have the men who are handling sacred things a clear understanding, a right perception of things of eternal interest? Will they consent to yield to the working of the Holy Spirit, or do they permit themselves to be controlled by their own hereditary and cultivated tendencies? It becomes all to examine themselves, to see whether they be in the faith.
(11LtMs, Ms 14, 1896, 2)
Those who occupy positions of trust in the work of God should ever bear in mind that these positions involve great responsibility. The right performance of the solemn work for this time, and the salvation of the souls connected with us in any way, depend in a great degree upon our own spiritual condition. All should cultivate a vivid sense of their responsibility, for their own well being, and their eternal destiny will be decided by the spirit they cherish. If self is woven into the work, it is as the offering of strange fire in the place of the sacred. Such workers incur the displeasure of the Lord. Brethren, remove your hands from the work unless you can distinguish the sacred fire from the common.
(11LtMs, Ms 14, 1896, 3)
Those who have stood as representative men are not all Christian gentlemen. There is prevalent a spirit that seeks the mastery over others. Men regard themselves as authority; they express their opinions, and pass resolutions about matters of which they have no experimental knowledge. Some who have connected with the publishing house at _____, pass through the Office, speaking with different ones, giving directions which they suppose it proper for them to give, when they do not understand what they are talking about.
(11LtMs, Ms 14, 1896, 4)
Great injustice and even dishonesty has been committed in board meetings, in bringing matters before those who have not an experience that will enable them to be competent judges. Manuscripts have been placed in the hands of men for criticism when the eyes of their understanding were so blinded that they could not discern the spiritual import of the subject with which they were dealing. More than this, they had no real knowledge of bookmaking. They had had neither study nor practice in the line of literary productions.
(11LtMs, Ms 14, 1896, 5)
Men have sat in judgment upon books and Mss [manuscripts], unwisely placed in their hands, when they should have declined to serve in any such capacity.
(11LtMs, Ms 14, 1896, 6)
It would have been only honest for them to say, “I have had no experience in this line of work, and should certainly do injustice to myself and to others in giving opinion. Excuse me, brethren; instead of instructing others, I need that some one should teach me.” But this was far from their thoughts. They expressed themselves freely in regard to subjects of which they knew nothing. Conclusions have been accepted as the opinions of wise men, when they were simply the opinions of novices.
(11LtMs, Ms 14, 1896, 7)
The time has come when in the name and strength of God the church must act for the good of souls and for the honor of God. A lack of firm faith and of discernment in sacred things should be regarded as sufficient to debar any man from connection with the work of God. So also the indulgence of a quick temper, a harsh, overbearing spirit, reveals that its possessor should not be placed where he will be called to decide weighty questions that affect God’s heritage. A passionate man should have no part to act in dealing with human minds. He cannot be trusted to shape matters which have a relation to those whom Christ has purchased at an infinite price. If he undertakes to manage men, he will hurt and bruise their souls, for he has not the fine touch, the delicate sensibility, which the grace of Christ imparts. His own heart needs to be softened, subdued by the Spirit of God; the heart of stone has not become a heart of flesh.
(11LtMs, Ms 14, 1896, 8)
Those who are thus misrepresenting Christ, are placing a wrong mold upon the work, for they encourage all who are connected with them to do as they do. For their soul’s sake, for the sake of those who are in danger from their influence, they should resign their position, for the record will appear in heaven that the wrongdoer has the blood of many souls upon his garments. He has caused some to become exasperated, so that they have given up the faith; others have been imbued with his own satanic attributes; and the evil done, it is impossible to estimate. Those only, who make it manifest that their hearts are being sanctified through the truth, should be retained in positions of trust in the Lord’s work.
(11LtMs, Ms 14, 1896, 9)
Let all consider that whatever their employment they are to represent Christ. With steadfast purpose, let every man seek to have the mind of Christ. Especially should those who have accepted the positions of counsellors or directors feel that they are required in every respect to be Christian gentlemen. While in dealing with others we are always to be faithful, we should not be rude. The souls with whom we have to do are the Lord’s purchased possession, and we are to permit no hasty, overbearing expression to escape the lips. Brethren, treat men as men, not as servants to be ordered about at your pleasure.
(11LtMs, Ms 14, 1896, 10)
He who indulges a harsh, overbearing spirit might better become a tender of sheep, as did Moses, and thus learn what it means to be a true shepherd. Moses gained in Egypt an experience as a mighty statesman, and as a leader of armies, but he did not there learn the lessons essential for true greatness. He needed an experience in more humble duties, that he might become a caretaker, tender toward every living thing. In keeping the flocks of Jethro, his sympathies were called out to the sheep and lambs, and he learned to guard these creatures of God with the tenderest care. Although their voice could never complain of mistreatment, yet their attitude might show much. God cares for all the creatures He has made. In working for God in this lowly station, Moses learned to be a tender shepherd for Israel.
(11LtMs, Ms 14, 1896, 11)
The Lord would have us learn a lesson also from the experience of Daniel. There are many who might become mighty men if, like this faithful Hebrew, they would depend upon God for grace to be overcomers, and for strength and efficiency in their labors. Daniel manifested the most perfect courtesy, both toward his elders and toward the youth. He stood as a witness for God, and sought to take such a course that he might not be ashamed for heaven to hear his word or to behold his works.
(11LtMs, Ms 14, 1896, 12)
When Daniel was required to partake of the luxuries of the king’s table, he did not fly into a passion, neither did he express a determination to eat and drink as he pleased. Without speaking one word of defiance, he took the matter to God. He and his companions sought wisdom from the Lord, and when they came forth from earnest prayer, their decision was made. With true courage, and Christian courtesy, Daniel presented the case to the officer who had them in charge, asking that they might be granted a simple diet. These youth felt that their religious principles were at stake, and they relied upon God, whom they loved and served. Their request was granted, for they had obtained favor with God and with men.
(11LtMs, Ms 14, 1896, 13)
Men in every position of trust need to take their place in the school of Christ, and heed the injunction of the great Teacher: “Learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.] We have no excuse for manifesting one wrong trait of character. “Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of Hosts.” [Zechariah 4:6.] In your dealings with others, whatever you see or hear that needs to be corrected, first seek the Lord for wisdom and grace, that in trying to be faithful, you may not be rude. Ask Him to give you the gentleness of Christ; then you will be true to your duty, true to your position of trust, and true to God, a faithful steward, overcoming natural and acquired tendencies to evil.
(11LtMs, Ms 14, 1896, 14)
None but a whole hearted Christian can be a perfect gentleman, but if Christ is abiding in the soul, His Spirit will be revealed in the manner, the words, and the actions. Gentleness and love, cherished in the heart, will appear in self-denial, in true courtesy. Such workers will be the light of the world.
(11LtMs, Ms 14, 1896, 15)
Ms 15, 1896
Revelation NP April 27, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in 13MR 59-73.
The word revelation means all that the definition of the word would signify, and this is the title of the last book of the Bible. A thing revealed is not a thing eclipsed and placed in obscurity and mystery. When a matter is unfolded, the mystery is opened. This book is “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John; who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, of all things that he saw. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.” [Revelation 1:1-3.]
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 1)
In the book of Revelation we read of a special work that God would have His agents do in these last days. They have a special warning to give to the world. All the institutions that have been established in His providence are to lift up the standard of the third angel’s message. God has blessed these institutions, and given them prosperity, as His chosen agents have acted as co-workers with Jesus Christ, and have communicated the wisdom which He imparted. God has given prosperity to the Sanitarium, and to Dr. Kellogg as God’s instrumentality. Your prosperity, Dr. Kellogg, has been in proportion to the efforts you have made to make the truth stand forth in its purity. Your medical practice has been attended with success because of His blessing, and if you will acknowledge Him in all your ways, He will direct you into paths of complete victory. The earnest zeal which has been manifested by Seventh-day Adventists under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, has been acknowledged of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 2)
The Health Institution has not been brought into favor simply because of the talent, skill, or wisdom of one man. It is because God has had faithful instrumentalities that have consented to be worked by the Holy Spirit, and many influences have been combined in bringing about the prosperity of the Sanitarium. The time that has been spent in communing with God, in seeking His help before undertaking to relieve those who were in a critical condition, has brought angels to the side of the doctor and his assistants. In transacting your business that has been so important, you have succeeded, according as you have trusted in God. He has been by your side just as verily as Christ was by the side of those who were suffering when He walked among them on earth.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 3)
It is God who gives power to make men efficient in His service. He will impart power to His workers who have an eye single to His glory. But there is danger that you yourself or your associate physicians may set God aside, and trust in your own wisdom. If any of you entertain the thoughts and cherish the feelings that Nebuchadnezzar cherished, you will be in danger of passing through a trying experience. God had revealed Himself to Nebuchadnezzar in giving him the dream of the great image, and in sending His servant Daniel to explain its meaning. God had made known to the king what should be hereafter, and his kingdom was represented by the head of gold. The king and his counselors were flattered by the idea that the head of gold represented Babylon, and each successive kingdom was represented by a baser metal, signifying that as the nations should separate more and more from God, they would decrease in value. Heathen counselors flattered the king, and caused him to place himself before the people as an object of worship.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 4)
God had greatly honored the king in communicating with him; but He allowed him to follow his own inventions. He set up a golden image in the plains of Dura, and commanded men to bow down before it. It was exceedingly costly and magnificent, representing the kingdom of Babylon and magnifying the king who ruled over that kingdom. But the three Hebrew captives who cherished the knowledge of the true God refused to worship the image that the king had set up, and for their loyalty to the God of heaven they were cast into the burning, fiery furnace. But the Lord Jesus was with them, and preserved them from all harm. He manifested Himself unto them even as He has promised to manifest Himself unto us.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 5)
Jesus says, “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me, and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself unto him.” [John 14:21.] The king saw the form of the Fourth, and was convinced that the God of the three Hebrews was the living God. He acknowledged the wonderful miracle that had been wrought, but because he did not continue to walk in the light he lost the holy impression that had been made upon his mind. But God saw fit to give the king another dream that is recorded in the fourth chapter of Daniel.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 6)
Dr. Kellogg, please read this chapter prayerfully and carefully, and present it before all your associates. Under another symbol, His power and glory was presented before Nebuchadnezzar. Read this with a heart open to understand its significance. The interpretation was plainly given to the proud king and [was] followed by a message from God. The counsel was given to the king in these words, “Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and break off thy sins by righteousness, and thine iniquities by showing mercy to the poor.” For a time Nebuchadnezzar was impressed by the warning and counsel that had been given him, but a heart that is not fully transformed by the grace of God soon loses the impression of the Holy Spirit.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 7)
For twelve months the king was placed on trial, but at the end of that time he manifested the spirit that had led him to set up the golden image. At the end of twelve months he was walking in the royal palace of Babylon. “The king spake and said, Is not this great Babylon, which I have built for the royal dwelling place, by the might of my power and for the glory of my majesty?” While the words of self-glorification were in the mouth of the king, “There fell a voice from heaven saying, O king Nebuchadnezzar, to thee it is spoken; the kingdom is departed from thee. And thou shalt be driven from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field; thou shalt be made to eat grass as oxen, and seven times shall pass over thee; until thou knowest that the Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and gives it to whomsoever he will.” [Verses 30-32.]
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 8)
This message from God was fulfilled. The king of Babylon, because he neglected to heed the testimonies of warning that had been given him, suffered the most humiliating punishments. Warnings had been given him of God; Daniel had appealed to him to change his course of action, to break off his sins by righteousness, in order that this terrible sentence might not be fulfilled. But self-indulgence, inordinate ambition, was not eradicated from his heart, and after a time revealed itself in words of vanity.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 9)
Dr. Kellogg, it is essential that you read carefully and prayerfully this whole chapter. The Lord has placed you in an important position. He will honor you just as long as you honor Him. The dream given to the king of Babylon is a very striking one. Nebuchadnezzar was the greatest ruler, the most powerful king, of the time, and the prosperity of his kingdom, which had been given him of God for the glory of God, caused the Lord to designate that kingdom as the head of gold. But Nebuchadnezzar turned the warnings of God against himself. Instead of tracing out the end of all earthly things and the setting up of God’s everlasting kingdom, he turned aside to follow the imaginations of his proud heart, thinking that his kingdom should be a more extensive and powerful kingdom than it then was.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 10)
The dream given him was very explicit, but the magicians, the astrologers, the soothsayers, and the Chaldeans could not make known to the king his dream or tell the interpretation thereof. Those who do not love and fear God cannot understand the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. They cannot approach unto the throne of Him who dwelleth in light unapproachable; and the things of God are to them mysteries of mysteries. But the king bears testimony to the fact that the servants of God understand the things of God. Daniel told the dream and the interpretation thereof before the king.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 11)
Daniel was esteemed by the king because of his unswerving integrity, for he was faithful in honoring God at all times and in all places. His wisdom was unexcelled, and neither he nor his fellows would make any compromise to secure positions in the court, or even to preserve life itself, when the honor of God was involved. In the early part of his acquaintance with Daniel, the king had found that he was the only one who could give him relief in his perplexity, and now at a later period, when another perplexing vision is given him, he remembers Daniel. Calling him into his presence, he says, “O Belteshazzar, master of the magicians, because I know that the spirit of the holy gods is in thee, and no secret troubleth thee, tell me the visions of my dream that I have seen, and the interpretations thereof.” [Verse 9.]
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 12)
Then Nebuchadnezzar related his dream, saying, “I saw, and behold a tree in the midst of the earth, and the height thereof was great. The tree grew and was strong, and the height thereof reached unto heaven, and the sight thereof to the end of all the earth. The leaves thereof were fair, and the fruit thereof much, and in it was meat for all: and the beasts of the field had shadow under it, and the fowls of the heaven dwelt in the branches thereof, and all flesh was fed of it. I saw in the visions of my head, upon my bed, and, behold a watcher and an holy one came down from heaven. He cried aloud, and said thus, Hew down the tree, and cur off his branches, shake off his leaves, and scatter his fruit: let the beasts get away from under it, and the fowls from his branches.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 13)
“Nevertheless leave the stump of his roots even with a band of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field: and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and let his portion be with the beasts in the grass of the earth: let his heart be changed from a man’s, and let a beast’s heart be given him, and let seven times pass over him.” Now mark what is said by this heavenly messenger as to what is the purpose of the fulfillment of this vision. “The sentence is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the Holy One: to the intent that the living may know that the Most High ruleth in the kingdoms of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the lowest of men.” [Verses 10-17.]
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 14)
This was the dream that came to Nebuchadnezzar, and he appealed to Daniel to declare the interpretation. Daniel was much troubled as he saw the significance of the dream was, but he told the king what would befall him, saying, “Thou shalt be driven from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field, and thou shalt be made to eat grass like oxen, and shalt be wet with the dew of heaven, and seven times shall pass over thee, till thou know that the Most High ruleth in the kingdoms of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will.” [Verse 25.] Then Daniel exhorted the king, as we have before presented, to break off his sins by righteousness, and his iniquities by showing mercy to the poor. But the light from heaven was not accepted, and did not exert a saving influence upon his character. Those who receive light will either change their course of action, or else the Word of the Lord will become less and less palatable, and will finally be set aside. The king did not heed the words of warning, and he greatly perverted his ways.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 15)
The statement, “Thou art this head of gold,” flattered his vanity, and his rule became oppressive. [Daniel 2:38.] He exalted himself, and determined that his kingdom should be like an image that was all gold. He cherished jealousy of other kingdoms, and after the light God gave him had been made clear to his mind, he still perverted his course of action, and exalted himself before God. His rule that had been to a great extent just and merciful, because God had imparted wisdom, now manifested the vanity and oppression of the human heart. The reason God had given him was misapplied and misused in glorifying himself, and was finally dethroned. He followed the instincts of the beasts; he ate the food they ate, and acted as they did. For seven years the king was an astonishment to all his subjects. He was an example of what it is to be humbled of God, because he did not honor God, but made himself as God.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 16)
The Lord gave him the truth, but he did not practice it. The universe of heaven said to the king of Babylon, “Thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.” [Matthew 16:23.] The ways of men are opposed to the ways of God. The Lord Jesus gave lessons to His disciples to show to us all that it is through His grace alone that we shall be able to discern spiritual truths. “If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; even the spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.” [John 14:15-17.]
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 17)
To us who believe have been committed the oracles of God. The books of Daniel and Revelation are full of matter which concerns every one of us. We should study these books, and let the Lord God of Israel communicate truth to us, so that we may be able to communicate the truth to others who live in these last days. The Lord would have His people learn of Jesus. God forbid that those for whom He has wrought shall become highminded and be left to their own way as was the king of Babylon.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 18)
Those who are regarded as wise men, who are exalted to positions of trust, may be tempted to take a course like that of the king of Babylon, but rather let them be taught by the Lord’s dealings with this king and understand that all human glory will certainly be stained. God will leave men to their own exalted ideas, and prove that the wisdom of men is foolishness. God would have men learn through the experience of others that human imaginations are not current with God. The Lord sets His seal upon those who build their characters according to the Pattern shown them in the mount. We are safe only as we follow Jesus, and drink from the fountain of wisdom which is pure and undefiled.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 19)
The lesson that the Lord would have all humanity learn from the history of the king of Babylon is that all those who walk in pride and self-exaltation, He is able to abase. The chastening that came upon the king of Babylon wrought reformation in the heart of the king and transformed him in character. Before his humiliation he was tyrannical in his dealings with others, but now the overbearing, fierce monarch is changed into a wise and compassionate ruler. Before his humiliation he defied and blasphemed the God of heaven, but now he acknowledges His power and seeks earnestly to promote the happiness of his subjects. At last the king had received his lesson. “Come all ye that fear God, and I will make known to you what he hath done for my soul.” [Psalm 66:16.]
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 20)
The Lord designed that the greatest kingdom in the world should show forth His praise. Nebuchadnezzar says, “At the end of the days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the Most High, and I praised and honored him that liveth forever and ever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom is from generation to generation: and all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth; and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?” [Daniel 4:34, 35.]
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 21)
In the experience of Nebuchadnezzar is contained a lesson to which we should give heed, lest we fall into temptation. The perils of the last days are upon us, and we should watch and pray, read and heed the lessons that are given us in the books of Daniel and Revelation. In mercy the Lord has wrought in behalf of the Sanitarium, the college and the Review and Herald office. Just as long as those in connection with these institutions walk humbly with God, heavenly intelligences will co-operate with them; but let all bear in mind the fact that God has said, “Them that honor me I will honor.” [1 Samuel 2:30.] The Lord manifested Himself to the four Hebrew youth in the courts of Babylon. They were surrounded with temptations on every hand, yet God set a hedge about them in order that they should not be corrupted, because they preserved their simplicity of faith. There is a lesson in this for us.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 22)
When the Lord specified that there should be a health and temperance institution at Battle Creek, He also specified what should be its object. It was not to be fashioned after the character of any other institution in the world. It was to stand as a Seventh-day Adventist institution that would give character to His cause in the world. It was also to be an asylum for those who should accept the truth, to which they could resort when sick. It was to be a place where the truth should be made to shine out, not where it should be placed under a bushel. The truth should be the all important thing in the institution. The Lord designed that it should be a place where He would be honored in word and deed, where His law should be magnified, where the true faith of the Bible should ever be made prominent before its patrons.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 23)
In these last days it is our duty to ascertain the full meaning of the first, second, and third angels’ messages. All our transactions should be in accordance with the Word of God. The first, second, and third angels’ messages are all united, and are revealed in the 14th chapter of Revelation from the sixth verse to the close. The whole gospel is to be proclaimed throughout the world.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 24)
The advice given to students to the effect that it is essential for them to go to Ann Arbor in order to obtain a finished education is a mistake. They will obtain an erroneous education in which errors and infidel sentiments will be mingled with truth. Many thus advised become unsusceptible to the truth, and a season spent at Ann Arbor will serve to mold their characters after a false standard. Is the soon coming of Christ a reality to us? Let every student seek to reach the highest point of education and be fitted for an inheritance with the saints in light. If he is educated in such a way as to reach this, he will learn that which will continue through eternal ages.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 25)
The banner of the third angel has inscribed upon it, “The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” [Verse 12.] Our institutions have taken a name which sets forth the character of our faith, and of this name we are never to be ashamed. I have been shown that this name means much, and in adopting it we have followed the light given us from heaven. Let us hear what the Lord saith, “And the Lord spoke unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you: everyone that defileth it shall surely be put to death: wherefore whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people.... It is a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever. For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh day he rested, and was refreshed.” [Exodus 31:12-14, 17.]
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 26)
The Sabbath is God’s memorial to His creative work, and it is a sign that is to be kept before the world. There is to be no compromise with those who are worshiping an idol sabbath. We are not to spend our time in controversy with those who know the truth, and upon whom the light of truth has been shining, when they turn away their ear from the truth to turn to fables. I was told that men will employ every policy to make less prominent the difference between the faith of Seventh-day Adventists and those who observe the first day of the week. In this controversy the whole world will be engaged, and the time is short. This is no time to haul down our colors.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 27)
A company was presented before me under the name of Seventh-day Adventists, who were advising that the banner or sign which makes us a distinctive people should not be held out so strikingly, for they claimed it was not the best policy in securing success to our institutions. This distinctive banner is to be borne through the world to the close of probation. In describing the remnant people of God, John says, “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.] This is the law and the gospel. The world and the churches are uniting in harmony in transgressing the law of God, in tearing away God’s memorial, and in exalting a sabbath that bears the signature of the man of sin. But the Sabbath of the Lord thy God is to be a sign to show the difference between the obedient and [the] disobedient. I saw some reaching out their hands to remove the banner, and to obscure its significance.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 28)
The land that has been abundantly blessed of God is fast filling up the cup of its iniquity. The figures on the side of iniquity are rapidly reaching the sum of corruption which was reached by the Amorites, and by the Jewish nation, once the elect people of God. In the days of Christ they made void the law of God, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men, and this led them to reject the Son of God. When the people accept and exalt a spurious sabbath, and turn souls away from obedience and loyalty to God, they will reach the point that was reached by the people in the days of Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 29)
Oh, if the world could only know this perilous fact, and turn away from the course which they are pursuing! How short-sighted is the policy that is being brought in by the rulers in the land to restore to the man of sin his lost ascendancy! They are manifesting wonderful zeal in taking this spurious sabbath under the care and protection of their legislatures, but they know not what they are doing. They are placing upon a false sabbath divine honors, and when this is fully done, persecution will break forth upon those who observe the Sabbath that God gave in Eden as a memorial of His creative power. Then the commandments of men will be clothed with sacred garments, and will be pronounced holy.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 30)
Shall anyone then choose to hide his banner, to relax his devotion? Shall the people whom God has honored and blessed and prospered refuse to bear testimony in behalf of God’s memorial at the very time when such a testimony should be borne? Shall not the commandments of God be more highly esteemed when men pour contempt upon the law of God?
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 31)
Medical missionaries must be sent into all parts of the world to carry relief to suffering humanity. The president of our General Conference asks, Shall we build or shall we not build? Shall we provide a building to accommodate our students who are being educated for medical missionary work? We answer, There will be no need of building in a short time. If our people will heed the light that God has given them, and will move out of Battle Creek, ample room will be provided for our students who are connected with the Sanitarium. Too many responsibilities now center in Battle Creek. A shaking will take place there, and people will not crowd so constantly and so persistently into Battle Creek as they have done in the past irrespective of the warnings of God. We have not the men to fill positions of trust who will carry forward the work successfully; but let those who remain in Battle Creek be faithful sentinels in carrying the light to other towns and cities. They could do a work for the Master by letting their light shine forth.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 32)
When the law of God is being made void, when His name is dishonored, when it is considered disloyal to the laws of the land to keep the seventh day as the Sabbath, when wolves in sheep’s clothing, through blindness of mind and hardness of heart, are seeking to compel the conscience, shall we give up our loyalty to God? No, no. The wrongdoer is filled with a satanic hatred against those who are loyal to the commandments of God, but the value of God’s law as a rule of conduct must be made manifest.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 33)
The zeal of those who obey the Lord will be increased as the world and the church unite in making void the law. They will say with the Psalmist, “As for me I love thy commandments above gold, yea; above fine gold.” [Psalm 119:127.] This is what will be sure to occur when the law of God is made void by a national act. When Sunday is exalted and sustained by law, then the principle that actuates the people of God will be made manifest, as the principle of the three Hebrews was made manifest when Nebuchadnezzar commanded them to worship the golden image in the plain of Dura. We can see what our duty is when the truth is overborne by falsehood.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 34)
The law of God cannot be made void by the law of a nation. When the law is trampled in the dust, the sacredness of the commandments of God will be vindicated by those who are loyal to Him. We are to make no railing accusation against the nations, for this would close our way so that we could not set the light before the people. Every objection raised against the commandments of God will make a way for the advancement of truth, and enable its advocates to present its value before men. There is a beauty and force in the truth that nothing can make so apparent as opposition and persecution. When this is revealed, many will be converted to the truth.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 35)
Many who profess the truth do not know its preciousness, nor realize the richness of the assurances God has given. And they will not understand this until they are pressed into places of difficulty. But then they will understand what the Saviour means when He says, “I will manifest myself unto them.” [John 14:21.] When surrounded by those who have not the love of God, the Christian will realize how precious it is to have communion with God, and to obtain views of eternal redemption.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 36)
Day by day we are to learn by searching the Scriptures that God does not exalt one man for the purpose of controlling the minds and the practices of another. Everything that is done to direct people to follow the sayings and observe the customs of men, in opposition to what the Lord has said, is wrong. Those who dare to take the guidance of men, should understand that these very men need to be guided by that voice which has said that there is to be no lording it over God’s heritage. We have need of broadminded, deep-thinking men; but we do not need men who, because they are in positions of trust, will think that they should put the yoke upon their fellow men. Those who think that their position gives them this authority had better become Bible students.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 37)
The end [purpose] of all government was beautifully set forth by the Lord in the symbol of a tree that gave shelter to the beasts of the field and to the birds of the air. Nebuchadnezzar was at one time a superior ruler, a man more compassionate toward his subjects than was the ruler of any other heathen nation, and his rule was symbolized by a lofty tree. But the man who thinks it is his prerogative to command his fellow men, and says, You shall, and, You shall not, is entirely out of his place. He takes upon him that which was never given him, and lords it over God’s purchased possession. Every man is accountable to God for his actions. The man in a position of trust who is guided by the Spirit of God will always protect the weak, relieve the needy, and look after the widow and the fatherless.
(11LtMs, Ms 15, 1896, 38)
Ms 15a, 1896
Corliss, Burr Duplicate of Lt 15a, 1896.
Ms 16, 1896
“Let Him That Thinketh He Standeth Take Heed Lest He Fall.” NP May 10, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in 19MR 108-122.
“Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; and were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; and did all eat the same spiritual meat; and did all drink the same spiritual drink; for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them; and that Rock was Christ. But with many of them God was not well pleased; for they were overthrown in the wilderness.” [1 Corinthians 10:1-5.] The experience of Israel, referred to in the above words by the apostle, and as recorded in the 105th and 106th Psalms, contains lessons of warning that the people of God in these last days especially need to study. I urge that these chapters be read at least once every week.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 1)
“Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them, as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” [1 Corinthians 10:6, 7.]
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 2)
In the hearing of all Israel, God had spoken in awful majesty upon Mount Sinai, declaring the precepts of His law. The people, overwhelmed with the sense of guilt, and fearing to be consumed by the glory of the presence of the Lord, had entreated Moses, “Speak thou with us, and we will hear; but let not God speak with us, lest we die.” [Exodus 20:19.] God called Moses up into the mount that He might communicate to him the laws for Israel, but how quickly the solemn impression made upon that people by the manifestation of God’s presence passed away! Even the leaders of the host seemed to have lost their reason. The memory of their covenant with God, their terror when, falling upon their faces, they had exceedingly feared and quaked, all had vanished like smoke. Although the glory of God was still like devouring fire upon the top of the mount, yet when the presence of Moses was withdrawn, the old habits of thought and feeling began to assert their power. The people wearied of waiting for the return of Moses, and began to clamor for some visible representation of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 3)
Aaron, who had been left in charge of the camp, yielded to their clamors. Instead of exercising faith in God, trusting to divine power to sustain him, he was tempted to believe that if he resisted the demands of the people they would take his life, and he did as thy desired. He collected the golden ornaments, made the molten calf, and fashioned it with a graving tool. Then the leaders of the people declared, “These be thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.” [Exodus 32:4.]
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 4)
When Aaron saw the image he had graven, he pleased the people, and he was proud of his workmanship. He built an altar before the idol, “made proclamation, and said, Tomorrow is a feast to the Lord. And they rose up early on the morrow, and offered burnt offerings, and brought peace offerings; and the people sat down to eat and to drink, and rose up to play.” [Verses 5, 6.] They drank and feasted, and then gave themselves up to mirth and dancing, which ended in the shameful orgies that marked the heathen worship of false gods.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 5)
God in heaven beheld it all, and He warned Moses of what was taking place in the camp, saying, “Now therefore let me alone, that my wrath may wax hot against them, and that I may consume them: and I will make of thee a great nation. And Moses besought the Lord his God, and said, Lord, why doth thy wrath wax hot against thy people, which thou hast brought forth out of the land of Egypt with great power, and with a mighty hand? Wherefore should the Egyptians speak, and say, For mischief did he bring them out, to slay them in the mountains, and to consume them from the face of the earth? Turn from thy fierce wrath and repent of this evil against thy people. Remember Abraham, Isaac, thy servants, to whom thou swarest by thine own self, and saidst unto them, I will multiply your seed as the stars of heaven, and all this land that I have spoken of will I give unto your seed, and they shall inherit it forever. And the Lord repented of the evil which he thought to do unto his people.” [Verses 10-14.]
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 6)
As Moses came down from the mountain with the two tables of the testimony in his hand, he heard the shouts of the people and, as he came near, beheld the idol and the reveling multitude. Overwhelmed with horror and indignation that God had been dishonored, and that the people had broken their solemn covenant with Him, he cast the two tables of stone upon the ground, and broke them beneath the mount. Though his love for Israel was go great that he was willing to lay down his own life for them, yet his zeal for the glory of God moved him to anger, which found expression in this act of such terrible significance. God did not rebuke him. The breaking of the tables of stone was but a representation of the fact that Israel had broken the covenant which they had so recently made with God. It is a righteous indignation against sin, which springs from zeal for the glory of God, not that anger prompted by self-love, or wounded ambition, which is referred to in the words of Scripture, “Be ye angry and sin not.” [Ephesians 4:26.] Such was the anger of Moses.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 7)
“And he took the calf which they had made, and burnt it in the fire, and ground it to powder, and strawed it upon the water, and made the children of Israel drink of it. And Moses said unto Aaron, What did this people unto thee, that thou hast brought so great a sin upon them? And Aaron said, Let not the anger of my lord wax hot: thou knowest the people, that they are set on mischief. For they said unto me, Make us gods, which shall go before us; for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.” And Moses “saw that the people were naked; (for Aaron had made them naked unto their shame among their enemies.)” [Exodus 32:20-23, 25.]
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 8)
To us the warning is given. “All these things happened unto them for ensamples; and they are written for our admonition upon whom the ends of the world are come.” [1 Corinthians 10:11.] Mark the influence of their extremes and fanaticism in the service of the great master worker, Satan. As soon as the wicked one had the people under his control, there were exhibitions of a satanic character. The people ate and drank without a thought of God and His mercy, without a thought of the necessity of resisting the devil who was leading them on to the most shameful deeds.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 9)
The same spirit was manifested as at the sacrilegious feast of Belshazzar. There was glee and dancing, hilarity, singing, carried to an infatuation that beguiled the senses. Then the indulgence in inordinate, lustful affections; all this mingled in that disgraceful scene. God had been dishonored; His people had become a shame in the sight of the heathen. Judgments were about to fall on that infatuated, besotted multitude. Yet God in His mercy gave them opportunity to forsake their sins.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 10)
“Then Moses stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on the Lord’s side?” The trumpeters caught up the words, and sounded them through the trumpet, “Who is on the Lord’s side? let him come unto me. And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together unto him.” [Exodus 32:26.] All who were repentant had the privilege of taking their stand beside Moses. “And he said unto them, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, Put every man his sword by his side, and go in and out from gate to gate throughout the camp, and slay every man his brother, and every man his companion, and every man his neighbor.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 11)
“And the children of Israel did according to the word of Moses: and there fell of the people that day about three thousand men.” [Verses 27, 28.] There was no partiality, no hypocrisy, no confederating to shield the guilty, for the terror of the Lord was upon the people. Those who had shown so little sense of the presence and the greatness of God, and who, after the exhibitions of His majesty, were ready to depart from the Lord, would be a continual snare to Israel. They were slain as a rebuke to sin, and to put a fear upon the people to dishonor God.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 12)
I cannot now consider this history further; but I ask you, in every city, in every town, in every household, I ask every individual to study the lesson of this Scripture, bearing in mind the words of inspiration, “Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” [1 Corinthians 10:12.] Here is presented the only election that is brought to view in the Word of God. It is those who take heed lest they fall that will be accepted at last.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 13)
There can be no presumption more fatal than that which leads men to venture upon a course of self-pleasing. In view of this solemn warning from God, should not fathers and mothers take heed? Should they not faithfully point out to the youth the dangers that are constantly arising to lead them away from God? Many allow the youth to attend parties of pleasure, thinking that amusement is essential for health and happiness; but what dangers are in that path! The more the desire for pleasure is gratified, the more it is cultivated, and the stronger it becomes. The life experience is largely made up of self-gratification in amusement. God bids us to beware. “Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” [Verse 12.]
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 14)
I ask you who are living at the very heart of the work to review the experience of years, and see if the “well done” can truthfully be spoken to you. [Matthew 25:21.] I ask the teachers in the school to consider carefully, prayerfully, Have you individually watched for your own soul as one who is co-operating with God for its purification from all sin and for its entire sanctification unto God? Can you by precept and example teach the youth sanctification, not devotion to the arch deceiver, but sanctification through the truth unto holiness, obedience to God?
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 15)
Have you not been afraid of the Holy Spirit? At times it has come with all-pervading influence into the school at Battle Creek, and into the schools in other localities. Did you recognize it? Did you accord it the honor due to a heavenly Messenger? When the Spirit seemed to be striving with the youth, did you say, Let us put aside all study, for it is evident that we have among us a heavenly Guest? Let us give praise and honor to God. Did you, with contrite hearts, bow in prayer with your students, pleading that you might receive the blessing which the Lord was presenting to you? The great Teacher Himself was among you. How did you honor Him? Was He a stranger to some of the educators? Was there need to send for someone of supposed authority to welcome or repel this Messenger from heaven? Though unseen, His presence was among you. But was not the thought expressed that in school the time ought to be given to study, and that there was a time for everything, as if the hours devoted to common study were too precious to be given up for the working of the heavenly Messenger?
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 16)
If you have in this way restricted and repulsed the Holy Spirit of God, I entreat you to repent of it as quickly as possible. If any of the educators have not opened the door of their own hearts to the Spirit of God, but closed and padlocked it, I urge you to unlock the door, and pray with earnestness, “Abide with me.” When the Holy Spirit reveals His presence in your schoolroom, tell your students, The Lord signifies that He has for us today a lesson of heavenly import, of more value than our lessons in ordinary lines. Let us listen; let us bow before God, and seek Him with the whole heart.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 17)
Let me tell you what I know of this heavenly Guest. The Holy Spirit was brooding over the youth during the school hours; but some hearts were so cold and dark that they had no desire for the Spirit’s presence, and the light of God was withdrawn. That heavenly Visitant would have opened the understanding, would have given wisdom and knowledge in all lines of study that would be employed to the glory of God. The Lord’s Messenger came to convince of sin, and to soften the heart hardened by long estrangement from God. He came to reveal the great love wherewith God has loved those youth. They are God’s heritage; and educators need the “higher education” before they are qualified to be instructors and guides of youth.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 18)
The teacher may understand many things in regard to the physical universe; he may know all about the structures of living things, the inventions of mechanical art, the discoveries of natural science; but he cannot be called educated unless he has a knowledge of the only true God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent. A principle of divine origin must pervade our conduct and bind us to God. This will not be in any way a hindrance to the study of true science. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the man who consents to be molded and fashioned after the divine similitude is the noblest specimen of the work of God. All who live in communion with our Creator will have an understanding of His design in their creation, and they will have a sense of their own accountability to God to employ their faculties to the very best purpose. They will seek neither to glorify nor to depreciate themselves.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 19)
The knowledge of God is obtained from His Word. The experimental knowledge of true godliness, in daily consecration and service to God, insures the highest culture of mind, soul, and body; and this consecration of all our powers to God prevents self-exaltation. The impartation of divine power honors our sincere striving after wisdom for the conscientious use of our highest faculties to honor God and bless our fellow men. As these faculties are derived from God, and not self-created, they should be appreciated as talents from God to be employed in His service.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 20)
The heaven-entrusted faculties of the mind are to be treated as the higher powers, to rule the kingdom of the body. The natural appetites and passions are to be brought under control of the conscience and the spiritual affections.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 21)
The Word of God is to be the foundation of all study, and the words of revelation, carefully studied, appeal to and strengthen the intellect as well as the heart. The culture of the intellect is required, that we may understand the revelation of the will of God to us. It cannot be neglected by those who are obedient to His commandment. God has not given us the faculties of the mind to be devoted to cheap and frivolous pursuits.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 22)
The case of Daniel is an instructive one. Daniel was taught by God, and he co-operated with God. He exerted all his powers to work out his own salvation, and God worked in him to will and to do according to His good pleasure. Of Daniel and his companions it is written, “As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom; and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.” [Daniel 1:17.] These youth were sincere, faithful Christians. True education must be all-sided, not one-sided. Such an education Daniel and his fellows were determined to have. They sought to acquire knowledge for a purpose, to honor and glorify God. They must perfect a Christian character and have a clear intellect in order to stand as the representatives of the true religion amid the false religions of heathenism.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 23)
To them the will of God was the supreme law of life. They practiced temperance in eating and drinking, that they might not enfeeble brain or muscle. In order to preserve health, they felt that they must avoid the luxuries of the king’s table, and they would not partake of wine or any stimulating drink. Under God they were in perfect training, that all their faculties might do highest service for Him. God required these youth to keep themselves from idols.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 24)
The religion of Jesus Christ never degrades the receiver; it never makes him coarse or rough, discourteous or self-important, passionate or hard-hearted. On the contrary, it refines the taste, sanctifies the judgment, purifies and ennobles the thoughts by bringing them into captivity to Jesus Christ. God’s ideal for His children is higher than the highest human thought can reach. The living God has given in His holy law a transcript of His character.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 25)
The greatest Teacher the world has ever known is Jesus Christ. And what is the standard He has given for all who believe in Him to reach? “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:48.] As God is perfect in His high sphere of action, so man may be perfect in his human sphere. The ideal of Christian character is Christlikeness. There is opened before us a path of continual advancement. We have an object to reach, a standard to gain, which includes everything good and pure and noble and elevated. There should be continual striving and constant progress onward and upward toward perfection of character. See 2 Timothy 3:14-17; Romans 15:4; Colossians 2:8-10.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 26)
This is the will of God concerning every human being, even your sanctification. In urging our way upward, heavenward, every faculty must be kept in the most healthy condition, to do the most faithful service. The powers with which God has endowed men are to be put to the stretch. “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.” [Luke 10:27.] Man cannot possibly do this of himself; he must have divine power. What shall the human agent do in the great work? “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.” [Philippians 2:12, 13.]
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 27)
Without the divine working, man could do no good thing. God calls every man to repentance, yet man cannot even repent unless the Holy Spirit works upon his heart. But the Lord wants no man to wait until he thinks he has repented before he takes his steps toward Jesus. The Saviour is continually drawing men to repentance; they need only to submit to be drawn, and their hearts will be melted in penitence.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 28)
Man is allotted a part in this great struggle for everlasting life; he must respond to the working of the Holy Spirit. It will require a struggle to break through the powers of darkness, and the Spirit works in him to accomplish this. But man is no passive being, to be saved in indolence. He is called upon to strain every muscle and exercise every faculty in the struggle for immortality; yet it is God that supplies the efficiency. No human being can be saved in indolence. The Lord bids us, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.” [Luke 13:24.] “Wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat; because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.”Matthew 7:13, 14.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 29)
I entreat the students in our schools to be sober-minded. The frivolity of the young is not pleasing to God. Their sports and games open the door to a flood of temptations. You are in possession of God’s heavenly endowment in your intellectual faculties, and you should not allow your thoughts to be cheap and low. A character formed in accordance with the precepts of God’s Word will reveal steadfast principles, [and] pure, noble aspirations. The Holy Spirit co-operates with the powers of the human mind, and high and holy impulses are the sure result.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 30)
Daniel and his companions had a conscience void of offense toward God. But this is not preserved without a struggle. What a test was brought on the three associates of Daniel when they were required to worship the great image set up by King Nebuchadnezzar in the plain of Dura! Their principles forbade them to pay homage to the idol, for it was a rival to the God of heaven. They knew that they owed to God every faculty they possessed, and while their hearts were full of generous sympathy toward all men, they had a lofty aspiration to prove themselves entirely loyal to their God.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 31)
To meet the appeals of the king and his counselors that they could comply with the royal edict, they had a store of arguments set forth most eloquently. The demand appeared contemptible to them. With Daniel as their companion, they had prayed and fasted that they might understand the dream which God gave the king. The Lord had heard their cries, and had given to Daniel wisdom to interpret the dream; thus their own lives and the lives of the astrologers and soothsayers had been saved. Now the very men who had escaped death through the mercy of God to His servants were led by envy and jealousy to secure the decree in regard to the worshiping of the golden image.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 32)
The king declared to the three Hebrew youth, if “ye fall down and worship the image which I have made, well; but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace, and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hand?” The youth said to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego; therefore he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated.” [Daniel 3:15-19.]
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 33)
Those faithful youth were cast into the fire, but God manifested His power for the deliverance of His servants. One like unto the Son of God walked with them in the midst of the flame, and when they were brought forth, not even the smell of fire had passed on them. “Then Nebuchadnezzar spake and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego, 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.” [Verse 28.]
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 34)
Thus these youth, imbued with the Holy Spirit, declared to the whole nation their faith, that He whom they worshiped was the only true and living God. This demonstration of their own faith was the most eloquent presentation of their principles. In order to impress idolaters with the power and greatness of the living God, His servants must reveal their own reverence for God. They must make it manifest that He is the only object of their honor and worship, and that no consideration, not even the preservation of life itself, can induce them to make the least concession to idolatry.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 35)
These lessons have a direct and vital bearing upon our experience in these last days. My soul is deeply stirred at the things that have been represented before me. I feel an indignation of spirit that in our institutions so little honor has been given to the living God, and so much honor to what is supposed to be human talent, but with which the Holy Spirit has no connection. The Spirit of God is not acknowledged and respected; men have passed judgment upon it; its operations have been condemned as fanaticism, enthusiasm, undue excitement.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 36)
God sees that which the blind eyes of the educators cannot discern—that immorality of every kind and degree is striving for the mastery, working against the manifestations of the power of the Holy Spirit. The commonness of conversation and the low, perverted ideas are woven into the texture of character, and defile the soul.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 37)
The low, common pleasure parties, gatherings for eating and drinking, singing and playing on instruments of music, are inspired by a spirit that is from beneath. They are an oblation unto Satan. The exhibitions in the bicycle craze are an offense to God. His wrath is kindled against those that do such things. For in these gratifications the mind becomes besotted, even as in liquor drinking. The door is opened to vulgar associations. The thoughts allowed to run in a low channel soon pervert all the powers of the being. Like Israel of old, the pleasure lovers eat and drink and rise up to play. There is mirth and carousing, hilarity and glee. In all this the youth follow the example of the authors of books that are placed in their hands for study. The greatest evil of it all is the permanent effect these things have upon the character.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 38)
Those who take the lead in these things bring upon the cause a stain not easily effaced. They wound their own souls, and will carry the scars through their lifetime. The evildoer may see his sins and repent; God may pardon the transgressor; but the power of discernment which ought ever to be kept keen and sensitive to distinguish between the sacred and the common is in a great measure destroyed. Too often human devices and imaginations are accepted as divine. Some souls will remain in blindness and insensibility, ready to grasp cheap, common, even infidel sentiments, while they turn against the demonstrations of the Holy Spirit.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 39)
It is a fearful thing for any soul to place himself on Satan’s side of the question, for as soon as he does this a change passes over him, as it is said of the king of Babylon, that his visage changed toward the three faithful Hebrews. Past history will be repeated. Men will reject the Holy Spirit’s working and open the door of the mind to satanic attributes that separate them from God. They will turn against the very messengers through whom God sends the messages of warning. Even now I fear that the very things I am seeking to make plain will be misapplied, misinterpreted, and falsified. Some have felt it a virtue to educate themselves in this line, and by their misapplication they make of no effect the messages God sends.
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 40)
I urge upon all to whom these words shall come, Review your own course of action, and “take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come upon all them that dwell upon the face of the whole earth.” [Luke 21:34, 35.]
(11LtMs, Ms 16, 1896, 41)
Ms 17, 1896
Individual Responsibility NP May 13, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in TM 319-330. +
In the night season I was listening to one who spoke with authority. Words of counsel in regard to the responsibilities that are to be borne in the sacred work of God were spoken. The Teacher said, There should be no haphazard work. Much of this has been done. Men have assumed authority, but the people should not depend upon poor, finite, erring men. They should put their entire trust in the wisdom that finds its strength in the wisdom of God. The inconsistency of centering so many responsibilities in Battle Creek has been presented many times, but the counsels have not been acted upon. The reproofs and warnings from the Lord have been evaded and interpreted and made void by the devices of men. There has been counter-working against God, and the judgment of men has been received.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 1)
In Battle Creek, and in other places, building has been added to building, for the sake of making an imposing display. Men have supposed that this would give character to the work. Their own characters needed the transforming grace of Christ, which would enable them to represent Christ. This alone is sufficient to give character to the work. Nothing can be done without his grace. The Lord suffers impediments to arise, that his wisdom and power may humbly and earnestly and perseveringly sought, and be distinctly manifest. Nothing will so quickly and decidedly separate the soul from God and bring defeat, as for man to lift up his soul unto vanity, and speak proudly and boastingly, and in a masterly manner to his fellow men, who are the property of God. “Ye are not your own; ... ye are bought with a price,” even the precious blood of the Son of God. [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] The Lord alone is to be exalted. Let every human agent keep in his place, and not seek to get into the place where God should be. There has been altogether too much trusting in men.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 2)
In Battle Creek you have evidence that men who have had the most to say are not walking with God. There is abundant activity, but not many are working in partnership with Christ, and those who walk apart, and work from Him, have been the most active in planning and inaugurating their methods. If they had that wisdom that cometh from the Source of all wisdom they would move considerately, and would study more earnestly the relation of cause to effect. They would discern that a few minds in Battle Creek are not to be the power to manage every thing in connection with our work.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 3)
The state conferences must have men at their head who love and fear God—capable men who will learn in the school of Christ to be laborers with Him, to wear His yoke and lift His burdens. They are to be partners with Christ in the sacred service of soulsaving. All the members of the church are to labor interestedly, zealously, not striving, as many have done, to see who shall be the greatest, and how to secure the highest wages, but striving to win souls for Christ, which means a part of the firm, in partnership with Christ. Let all try to do their best.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 4)
The matter was laid before me, which I was trying to present before the brethren. There is altogether too much responsibility imparted to a few men in Battle Creek, and these men need the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, else they will lead God’s heritage in false paths. The conferences are watching every move made at the center of the work. The different conferences have been led to look to the leading men at Battle Creek, feeling that no important move can be made without their approval. This tendency has been growing stronger, until it is a serious hindrance to the advancement of the work. This arrangement should never have been. The Lord would have His people under His jurisdiction. They [should] look to God, inquiring of Him in faith, and follow on to know the working of His providence.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 5)
The arrangement that all monies must go through Battle Creek and under the [control] of the few men in Battle Creek is a wrong way of managing. There are altogether too many weighty responsibilities given to a few men, and some so not make God their Counsellor. What do these men know of the necessities of the work in foreign countries? How can they know how to decide questions which shall come to them asking for information? It would require three months for those in foreign countries to receive a response to their questions, even if there was no delay in writing.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 6)
In each country a man should be appointed to work in the general interests of the cause. He need not be a preacher, and he must not be a policy man. He should be unselfish, a man who loves, who honors and fear his God. His whole time should be devoted to the work. He should plan unselfishly and in the fear of God. Let him be general agent for that country, and let him be connected with a council composed of the very best men, that they may counsel together, and attend to the work within their borders. There should be businessmen appointed to do the same in the different states in America.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 7)
The men who act as presidents of state conferences should be carefully selected. Then let these men bear the responsibilities of the conference in a most thorough, earnest, God-fearing manner. If they are not qualified to do the work thoroughly and successfully, do not keep them in that position.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 8)
A mass of matter is laid before the General Conference; every burden is carried to Battle Creek. This makes the presidents of the state conferences very irresponsible. Many are not growing in aptitude and in judgment. They make mismoves, when they should have advanced experience sufficient to enable them to make right moves, because they seek counsel of God. As presidents of their several conferences, they should realize that they must be faithful in positions of trust. These conferences are to be to them a school, in which they are to reveal managing ability. They are to learn, learn, and educate, educate. They are to do firm, Christlike work, binding it of, so that it shall not ravel out.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 9)
He who is selected as the president of the General Conference should, in the fear of God, stand in his lot and place, without partiality, and with unselfish interests. He should be a faithful steward. He should be a priest and wise ruler over his own house. He should make manifest that he understands the work of governing his own family wisely and in the fear of God. If this is neglected, he will carry his defects with him into his work. If any man evidences that the love and fear of God is kept away from the center of his being lest the truth should control his life-practice, while worldly things are made all and in all, he is not the man, even for local elder.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 10)
Advice is asked of those in Battle Creek regarding matters which could just as well be settled by men on the ground, if they would seek the Lord, and which ought to have been done within their own borders. The Lord declares he is nigh all that call upon Him with a sincere heart. Said Christ, “Ask, and ye shall receive; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.” [Matthew 7:7.] This promise is made doubly and trebly sure. There is no failure with God. Today men who are presidents of conferences are less efficient and strong and able than they should be, because they place man where God should be, and they receive only that which man can give them.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 11)
Presidents of conferences, you will be wise if you will decide to come to God. Believe in Him. He will hear your prayers, and come to your assistance, in much less time than the public conveyances could bring one, two, three, or four men, from a long distance at a great expense, to decide questions which the God of wisdom can decide far better for you. He has promised, “If any man lack wisdom, let him ask of God, who giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him.” [James 1:5.] If you will sincerely humble your hearts before Him, empty your soul of self-esteem, put away the natural defects of your character, overcome your love of supremacy, and come to God as a little child, He will bestow on you His Holy Spirit. When two or three shall agree as touching anything, and shall ask the Lord, in the name of Jesus, it shall be done for them.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 12)
When it is deemed expedient to invest means in school buildings, in sanitariums, or in homes for the poor in any country, in order to establish the work there, the Lord would have those who are living in that locality walk humbly before him, and show that they realize their personal dependence upon Him, and that they believe in His willingness to help them to plan, to devise, to arrange intelligently for His work. He is as willing to give wisdom to those who feel the value of divine grace as to give wisdom to some other mind, who will then, at great expense, communicate the same to you. Where is your faith? Will men turn from the God of wisdom to seek wisdom from finite men, sending for men from a long distance to come and help you out of perplexity. How does the Lord look upon this?
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 13)
Each one may entertain the idea that he believes in God. You are working in one part of His great moral vineyard, and He has told you that if any man lack wisdom, He is to ask of God, who giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not. This world is but a little atom in the vast domain over which God presides, and yet this little fallen world is more precious in His sight than the ninety and nine which went not astray from the fold. If we will make Him our trust, He will not leave us to become the sport of Satan’s temptations. God would have every soul for whom Christ has died become a part of the vine, connected with the parent stock, drawing nourishment from it. Our dependence on God is absolute, and should keep us very humble; and because of our dependence on Him, our knowledge of Him should be greatly increased. God would have us put away every species of selfishness, and come to Him, not as the owner of ourselves, but as the Lord’s purchased possession.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 14)
Daniel sought the Lord three times a day, in earnest prayer for wisdom and strength and courage to carry forward the enterprise of representing the only true God in wicked Babylon. You will often be perplexed to know what to do next; but do not get pen and paper and write your perplexities to Battle Creek. There may be disagreement upon some points, but your Counsellor is nigh. Bow before Him, and tell Him of everything you need. Can the men in Battle Creek give you light? They cannot understand your necessity. Because they are not on the ground, they may say No to some things, when, had you asked of God, He would have answered, “Go forward, and I will be with you, and give you grace.”
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 15)
For many years an education has been given to the people which places God second, and man first. The people have been taught that everything must be brought before the council of a few men in Battle Creek. God has given you an opportunity to see the weakness of finite men. Are there not men in the different states of America who walk right in the sight of God. Are there not registered in the books of heaven the names of those who love and serve God. Cannot they plan. Have those in Battle Creek been given superior reason and wisdom that God will not give those in the churches and state conferences? “If any man lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” [Verse 5.] The churches would realize one hundredfold more of the workings of the Holy Spirit if ministers would educate all to bear in mind that they have a God nigh at hand, and not afar off, and that they can honor God by seeking Him for help and wisdom just where they are. Then will they have ability which will strengthen the General Conference.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 16)
There is talent in every place, but it is not always recognized. This talent should be discerned and set [to] work. Under the operations of the Spirit of God, talent will grow by being used. But God is greatly dishonored when men are placed in the position where God should be. He alone can give unerring counsel. The men in Battle Creek are only men, finite, erring men. Because they have acted as though they were gods of other men’s consciences, they are not to be looked up to as gods. If they had less confidence in themselves, and more confidence in the great I AM, thereby showing that they were emptied of self and had only [an] eye single to the glory of God, they could represent the grace of Christ as counselors.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 17)
Men have been in counsel in Battle Creek who cannot appreciate the situation of matters in the different localities as those can who are right in the ground; and it is not wise for men to seek to men, and place such dependence in a few men at Battle Creek, some of whom have walked apart from God for years. To accept the judgment of these men, and to send for them from a long distance to sit in council, has done great dishonor to God. By this you show that you place men, who are unsanctified in heart, where God should be.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 18)
Supposing that some mistakes are made by those in different places. They may be of far less consequence than the errors made by those at the heart of the work. Cannot you go to the great Leader, who is mighty in counsel, and cannot He restore? Cannot He work in your behalf? Will He not do it if you go to Him as little children go to their parents? There is altogether too much lofty self-sufficiency in the human agent. God cannot work with such an element of pride. If it is not laid down, if self is not humbled, God cannot work. Those who send all their perplexities from the different parts of the world to Battle Creek show the wisdom of men, and not the wisdom of God. A few finite men in Battle Creek, who are not always under the molding of the Holy Spirit, are ready to devise and plan, but God does not plan with them. They have not sought God in humility of mind.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 19)
August 2, 1896
My attention has been called to the instruction the Lord has been pleased to give in Gospel Workers. I have arisen at three o’clock, a.m., and have read the matter in this little book: p. 232, “Conference Presidents” [p. 413 in 1915 edition]. The same things have been presented to me again and again. Will our brethren take heed to these things? Or will they turn aside from the light? The president of the General Conference should act upon the light given, not walk contrary to this light. If you in Battle Creek close your eyes to the testimonies God has been pleased to give you, and think it wisdom to walk in the fire of the sparks of your own kindling, it will spoil the church. Such men are not qualified to become either ministers or presidents of conferences, for they have not taken counsel from the Source of all wisdom.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 20)
He who is placed as a president of [a] conference must learn that the human heart is wayward, and that it needs to be strictly sentineled by watchfulness and prayer. As he seeks the Lord conscientiously and constantly, he is taught of God to grow into a representative man, and can be trusted as God trusted Abraham. He needs the whole armor of God, for he has to fight the good fight of faith, and having done all that the Spirit of God has taught him to do, to stand. His enemies may be those of his own household, his wife and children, or they may be his own hereditary and cultivated tendencies, which continually seek for the mastery. Man is human and defective in character, and must battle for the victory. Everyone who begins aright must begin at his own heart. Let the fervent prayer go forth from unfeigned lips, “Create in me a clean heart, O God,” and it will bring the response, “A new heart will I give thee.” [Psalm 51:10; Ezekiel 36:26.]
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 21)
Lessons need to be learned by all who shall step into places where they are to be proved and tested by God, to see whether they shall be registered day by day as faithful and true stewards of God’s entrusted talents. Have they shown that they have the fear of God before them, whether they are superiors, inferiors, or equals? They need to cherish the truth as an abiding principle, that it may sanctify the soul. The creating, transforming power of God’s Holy Spirit will make them co-partners with Jesus Christ. Yoked up with Christ, they can be more than conquerors through Him.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 22)
The man who is fully sensible that he is in the service of Jesus Christ will aspire for the friendship of God. He will lie low before God, that he may be nothing, and God everything. Such a man is a co-partner with Christ, fitted to preside over a state conference. If he proves himself circumspect, he is prepared for any position, according to his experience and qualifications. Let the churches understand that such a man is to be trusted and sustained. They may go to Him, and talk with Him. Such a man will never feel sufficient to carry the work even of a state conference without the constant grace which God will give. He will not choose to do the work and bear the responsibility alone. Through wise management, he will have the tact to recognize talent in others. He will use those who have this talent, and help them, while they help to share his burdens.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 23)
It is a selfish thing for men who feel that they have some service to do for the Master, to wish to be alone in their work, and to refuse to connect with those who would be a help to them, because they fear that they will not obtain all the credit for doing the good work which they flatter themselves they will do. This has greatly hindered the work of God. Let brother lay hold of brother. Link up a Peter and a John. Let each encourage his brother to stand by his side, doing zealous, interested service as partners in the great work. Two or three can pray together, sing the praises of God together, and grow up into the full stature of workers together with God. Perfect harmony must be cherished. All must serve the Lord as little children, feeling that they are branches in the same parent stock.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 24)
Let the presidents of state conferences walk humbly with God, and they will not have occasion to write to the president of the General Conference to leave his work to settle little matters for them. Even many large matters may be carried to God, and God will give counsel in every state conference. The Lord can be approached by all. He is much more accessible than the president of the General Conference. Let the president of the General Conference educate the presidents of state conferences to take care of their portion of the moral vineyard where they are situated wisely, without laying their burdens up on him.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 25)
Lead these men who have ability and talent to look to God that they may be taught by Him. Teach them to go to the Fountainhead for instruction in righteousness. Search the Scriptures. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17.] What then is your excuse for turning for counsel from one who is infinite in wisdom to finite men who are as weak as yourselves? One has suffered for you, the Just for the unjust.
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 26)
How many petty grievances the men traces upon paper, and pours into the soul of his fellow men. How unwise it is to perpetuate and communicate to others those things you had better have kept to yourself. Never trace a line of discouragement. If you do just as Jesus has told you to do, you will find help. “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly of heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” [Matthew 11:28, 29.]
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 27)
The Lord God has given abundant evidence of His willingness to carry our burdens. As we lift His burdens, He lifts you and the burdens also. He invites all, who labor and are heavy laden, “Come unto me.” You are not told that you just go ’round the world to Battle Creek to tell your troubles and unload your burdens to your fellow men. “Lo, I am with you alway,” Christ says, “even till the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.] “I am a God at hand, and not afar off.” [See Jeremiah 23:23.]
(11LtMs, Ms 17, 1896, 28)
Ms 18, 1896
The Danger of Self-Sufficiency in God’s Work. NP May 30, 1895 [typed May 6, 1898] This manuscript is published in entirety in 1888 1356-1368.
God is continually exercising His love toward the beings formed in His own image. He regarded us of such value that He gave His beloved Son to a shameful death to save us from ruin. No earthly parent ever manifested for his children such tender, disinterested love as He, the holy God, has shown toward the transgressors of His law. He has affectionately studied the happiness of His own heritage, and He delights in the manifestation of harmony and love among His children.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 1)
As sons and daughters of God, and members of the royal family, we are to learn of Him daily, that we may do His will and represent His character. The love of God received into the heart is an active power for good. It quickens the faculties of the mind and the powers of the soul; it enlarges the capacity for feeling, for loving. He who loves God supremely will love all the children of God. He will over approach them with a respectful demeanor. And whatever his position of trust, his own considerate courtesy will win for him confidence and respect. If this spirit pervaded our institutions, leading everyone to manifest toward his fellow-workers a love that is without dissimulation, these institutions would be a representation of heaven on earth. They would be a perpetual testimony to the world of what sanctifying truth can do when practiced by the receiver. Every man desires that this love may be exercised toward himself; and God calls upon him to reveal the same spirit toward others.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 2)
The Lord will never sanction the exercise of arbitrary authority, nor will He serve with the least selfishness or dishonesty in the dealing of men with their fellow men. Yet these things have been manifest in the management of affairs in connection with the work in Battle Creek. Words cannot express too strongly the offensive character of the disposition to rule or ruin which has for years been revealed, and which has been strengthening by exercise.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 3)
As the state of things existing in the Office of publication has been presented before me by the Holy Spirit, I have not withheld the message that God has given me for the men in responsible positions. Again and again I have been moved upon to reprove the selfishness that, as you know, has prevailed in many lines of the work. Men who know little of the working of the Spirit of God upon their own hearts have exalted themselves beyond measure in undertaking to force others to accept their terms and come under their control. There are those who regard no man’s judgment as superior, or even equal to their own. They are narrowing the work by disregarding the suggestions of men of experience, because these ideas do not coincide with their own plans. At the same time, these very ones are not willing for others to exercise their independent judgment. Plans are set on foot for restricting the liberty of the workers. Through these oppressive plans, men who should stand free in God are trammelled by restrictions from those who are only their fellow laborers.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 4)
Men in the office at Battle Creek have acted as if they had jurisdiction of other men’s intellect and conscience, and could manipulate them to serve any purpose which they might choose. They have had an opportunity to reveal how much they themselves really have the cause of God at heart. If it can be advanced through their plans for compelling others to sacrifice for it, they are glad to see its prosperity. While grasping all the benefit possible for themselves, they have, both in the matter of royalties and other lines felt it their prerogative to crowd down the very ones whom God was using to diffuse light. Of the work of these persons they have made very little, while they made much of their own, that bore the stamp of the unsanctified human agent. It would have been better for the cause today if these men had never put their hand to the work. They have tried to force their ideas upon those who have the cause much nearer their hearts than some of these who are so forward to dictate.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 5)
How does the spirit of self-exaltation and grasping for arbitrary authority compare with the spirit and example of Christ? Our people, who talk of religious liberty, have lessons to learn as to what liberty in Christ really is. The Lord has marked the oppression that has been practiced. To the men that are working in lines that are not in accordance with Bible principles He declares that He will not accept the means gained in this way.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 6)
Brother Olson’s eyes have not always been clear to discern; he himself has been misled, and has sanctioned wrong by sustaining men that were not walking in the light. His course has not been pleasing to God, in favoring many of the propositions that have been acted upon since the Minneapolis meeting. Since that meeting, he has not, at all times, borne a straightforward, unflinching testimony for the right. From his compromising position, the men who were trying to carry things according to their own will have thought that he sustained their plans.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 7)
Now it is represented to me that financial matters have become embarrassed. The employment of worldly plans and methods by some of our responsible men has entangled their feet in the snares of Satan, and has laid a net in which the Lord’s work is becoming entangled, and from which there will be difficulty in extricating it. Now Brother Olsen shrinks from taking a decided course, for he fears the results.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 8)
If the Lord had not sent line upon line, and precept upon precept, the case would be entirely different. But light has been given, and yet many have chosen darkness rather than light. I tell you that which I know: God has been greatly dishonored by the conniving to bring money into the office by robbing brain workers of their rights. Brother Olsen needs to have, as co-laborers, different men to represent the cause of God—men who are surrounded by an entirely different atmosphere.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 9)
To those at the heart of the work, who have treated their fellow men as if they had hearts of steel, I testify that upon the record of the books of heaven they stand enrolled as those that are not doers of the words of Christ. Your ingenious devising and your confederating to sustain one another will not avail to give you a more favorable showing before God. You must be brought to see what has been the foundation principles of your management. The selfishness, the oppression and robbery, must cease before God can look with favor upon your work.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 10)
And you, my Brother Olsen, are not clear before your God. While you allow yourself to be influenced and molded as you have been, you are virtually saying to those whom God reproves, It is well with you. For years the Lord has been setting their sins before them, yet the reproofs and warnings are unheeded. What does it mean? I am sore troubled in your behalf, because you do not regard the light given. Unless you shall make a decided change in your policy, and no longer permit yourself to be guided by the words of unwise counsellors, the light in you will become darkness, and you will not have a clean record in the books of heaven.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 11)
Biblical Institutes.
The holding of so many Biblical institutes among our own people is not wise. The object is good in itself, but there is a more urgent work to be done in carrying the light of truth into regions where it has not penetrated. The laborers held to work for those who already have a knowledge of the truth are kept away from the people who know it not. Souls in spiritual blindness, prejudiced by those who misrepresent the truth, have been left unhelped. O the neglect that will be charged against individuals, organizations, and churches in that day when every man shall be judged according to the deeds done in the body. Then it will be found how great was the measure of responsibility for failing to extend the work to the regions beyond.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 12)
The Lord has bidden us look to Jesus for spiritual knowledge, not that we may hide the light under a bushel, but that it may give light to all who are in the house. God has given His Son “for a light of the Gentiles; to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison house.” [Isaiah 42:6, 7.] Please read also Isaiah 43:9-13; 44:3-8.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 13)
When institutes and similar meetings are held, let them be held at some other place than Battle Creek. Let them give character to the work and spread the knowledge of the truth in localities where it is not known. This may not be convenient, but, I ask, was it convenient for Christ to leave the royal courts? Was it convenient for Him to leave His honor, His glory, and His high command, and humble Himself to become one with us? Our Saviour came to this world that was all scared and marred with the curse. He did not go to worlds unfallen, but to those who needed Him most. His example we, to whom He has entrusted His work, are to copy. He calls us to feed the hungry sheep and lambs. Christ reached to the very depths of human woe that He might rescue us, but how do His methods of labor compare with those of many who profess to believe on Him?
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 14)
Building in Battle Creek.
You ask in regard to the propriety of erecting more buildings for our work in Battle Creek. Has not the light been given in regard to this matter? No doubt many urge, “It will be more convenient to have additional buildings.” What if it is? Shall the Lord’s money be used in adding building to building, when there are so many places where there are none? Have you, my brother, read the testimonies on this point, and then put them aside, as others have done, and never looked at them again? In what kind of condition is Battle Creek, that you should seek to bring in more people to be leavened with the influences that prevail there? The cloud of God’s wrath is already gathering over the cities where great light has been shining and has not been appreciated, and where those who profess the truth have misrepresented it in their characters, in their spirit, and in the atmosphere that surrounds their souls.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 15)
From the very last letter I sent to Battle Creek, but a few weeks ago, I read the testimony, “The money spent in enlarging the institutions in Battle Creek might far better be devoted to planting the truth in places where it had not yet taken hold.” Money has been entrusted to human agents to be invested, to be put out to the exchanger and increased by use. Again and again the men in positions of truth have had laid before them the necessity that the Lord’s vineyard be more equally worked. Places in the very shadow of Battle Creek are overlooked. The field is the world. Every part of it is the Lord’s, and should receive due attention. No one locality is to swallow up every resource that can be obtained to multiply its facilities, while the larger parts of the field are left destitute. This policy is not inspired of God. The gracious calls of mercy are to be given to all parts of the world.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 16)
Read the Word; read and consider; do not be so active that you cannot stop to hear the counsel of God. Our people must have the testimonies, many of which have reached only to Battle Creek, to be there argued away. Those whom the Lord has warned feel that the warning means something else; they explain it to signify exactly the opposite of that which the Lord has said.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 17)
With the example of Christ before you, can you plead convenience for the erection of more buildings and the centering of more interests in Battle Creek? Our people have deep, earnest lessons to learn in the experience presented in the words of Christ: “He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] You are not to choose the most convenient task, and, because selfish practices have been followed, continue the same course. Look to Christ, and learn how He dealt with humanity. He loved His neighbor better than He loved Himself. He denied Himself that He might be a perfect example for us.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 18)
With unfeigned reliance upon the righteousness and efficiency of our Redeemer, we are to consider that as sons and daughters of God we are no longer our own. In receiving Christ we become dead unto the world. Our high vocation—the very highest that any human being can have in this life—is this, that we are called to be children of God. The whole future life is to be consecrated to the service of God. Sacred obligations rest upon every soul. All the faculties of mind and body are God’s property; and every hour spent in selfish gratification or self-uplifting will bring it’s returns in a harvest which none will care to garner.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 19)
Personal Appeal.
God calls upon you who are connected with His instrumentalities to do His work according to His plans, not your own. He calls for an entire consecration of yourselves to Him. If you heed the requirement, it will be a blessing to you in this life and the inheritance of life eternal. There is now a precious period, though short, allotted to you for repentance and improvement.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 20)
Brethren A. R. Henry and Harmon Lindsay, God is in earnest with you. Your duty is plain and imperative. Your minds need cultivation, that you may discern heavenly things, and choose them above the common and the earthly. Let not the present opportunity pass unimproved. Unless the warnings that God in His mercy is sending to you are heeded, before a long time shall elapse, you will make shipwreck of faith.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 21)
You have sown the seeds of unbelief all along the line. And you have so long refused the evidence of the operation of the Holy Spirit that it is questionable whether you will ever again recognize the light from heaven. It may even appear as darkness to you, until the time shall come when every knee shall bow, and every tongue shall confess to God.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 22)
Instead of regarding it as your imperative duty to cultivate personal piety, with a zeal proportionate to the preciousness of the holy faith you profess, and the responsibility of your position, you have suffered yourselves to drift along, your impulses controlled by unholy imaginations and prejudices, until your course is an offense to God. What wonder that you lead the minds of others into the same channels? What wonder that some, following you, turn away from the rock foundation of eternal truth, to build, as you are building, upon the sand. It is a grievous robbery of God to become so blinded, as you are today, because you have refused heaven’s light, slighted the appeals that God has sent you, and have done your best to prove them inconsistent, and have declared them untrue. Your assertions have not made them untrue, but by your resistance against God, your hearts have become hard and stubborn.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 23)
Again I appeal to you: Will you now be zealous and repent? You have shown your zeal in strong words and oppressive measures toward your brethren. Now I beseech you to give evidence of earnest repentance before it shall be forever too late.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 24)
Those who, notwithstanding the light given, have yoked up with you as men imbued with the Spirit of God, and actuated by a self-denying interest in His cause, make themselves responsible for the influence you have exerted and will exert contrary to the truth. Guilt will rest upon those who have placed increasing responsibilities upon you, when you have no living connection with God.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 25)
A condition of things has been brought about that, unless God in mercy shall interpose, will work disaster to His cause. Inexperienced minds are being troubled at the outlook. For reasons that you can give, God is not moving upon the hearts of His people to supply the treasury. When you shall receive the Holy Spirit’s unction by returning unto the Lord with full purpose of heart, you will see yourselves in a new light altogether. You who are finite, erring, and unsanctified, have supposed that God’s children were put under your jurisdiction, for you to plan for them, and bring them to your terms. The policy you have labored so hard to establish in your connection with the work is an offense to God.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 26)
He has never justified any arrangement, through organization, discipline, or laws, whereby men who have evidenced that they are not susceptible to the Holy Spirit’s moving shall use their power to sustain others in a like disregard of the Spirit’s work. But such has been the arrangement that has prevailed. You have made it hard for those whom you do not especially like, while others who are self-serving have been favored and exalted. Partiality and hypocrisy have excluded the Spirit of God from many hearts, and [have] left them as destitute of His grace as the hills of Gilboa were destitute of dew or rain. Let it no longer [be] regarded as your privilege to control God’s heritage.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 27)
The Lord Himself will turn and overturn, and set things in order. He has the responsibility of His own work, and He has not entrusted the management of His people to unsanctified human hands.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 28)
It is hard for men to learn their real weakness and ignorance and inefficiency. It is hard for the ambitious heart to receive God’s ideas and plans with unquestioning faith and obedience. Some have very high ideas of the importance of their own individuality, and by their headstrong course are saying, We want not God’s way, but our own way.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 29)
The time is near when God by His providence will make manifest what principles have been cherished by the men connected with the management of His work. Unless these men are converted, they will be separated from the work. But the appeals and warnings given have had no more effect upon their hearts than the messages of Christ had upon the Pharisees, and I greatly fear in their behalf, lest they shall continue to walk in the same path, manifesting the same exacting and intolerant spirit, as did the ruling Pharisees; I fear that the same judgments will fall upon them because they have rejected the Lord’s reproof, and have set the stumbling block of their iniquity before their eyes.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 30)
My brethren, in the name of the Lord I counsel you to seek Him by repentance and confession. Let your sins of omission and commission go beforehand to judgment, that pardon may be written against your names, that you may be accounted worthy to stand before Him when He shall appear.
(11LtMs, Ms 18, 1896, 31)
Ms 19, 1896
Diary NP May 1896 Previously unpublished.
On our trip to Tasmania about a year ago, I spoke on one Sabbath in Launceston to the little flock who have turned their feet into the royal path cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in. My discourse was taken from 2 Peter 1. I had much freedom in speaking. There are, I think, seventeen who are keeping the Sabbath in this place as the result of the labors of Brethren Baker and Teasdale. There were about forty assembled, including children. We had a precious season together, many testimonies being borne to love of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 19, 1896, 1)
On the Sunday following a larger number assembled than on the previous day. The Lord blessed me with freedom as I presented before them the love of God for the human family. All listened with the deepest interest.
(11LtMs, Ms 19, 1896, 2)
At the close of the meeting a tall, well-dressed lady hastened to the stand, and grasped my hand, saying, “O, I am so glad to see you. I wish to thank you for writing that book, Great Controversy; it was the means of saving the soul of my son. He was sick, we knew he could not live. He asked me for some book that would be of some help to him spiritually. Some time previous I had purchased this book, but did not understand much about its contents. My son read it through with intense interest. He said to me: ‘I have found in this book that which I have failed to find in any book in your library. The more I read, the more beautiful are the truths which are brought out; and every time I read it I find something that helps me. I am not now afraid to die.’ He found rest in Jesus Christ, and died in perfect peace.”
(11LtMs, Ms 19, 1896, 3)
I asked her his age. She replied, “He was thirty years old.” She continued, “That book was everything to him. He told me if ever I met the person who wrote it, I must tell her what it had done for him, and I promised him I would do so.
(11LtMs, Ms 19, 1896, 4)
“It is seldom in the house for any length of time, but is God’s messenger, carrying light and blessing to others. I lend it to one and another, and all who read it say they never read a book which makes the Bible so plain and clear to their understanding.”
(11LtMs, Ms 19, 1896, 5)
I asked her name; she told me, but failing to speak distinctly I lost it. Thinking our brethren would be able to tell me, I inquired of them; but what was my surprise to learn that they did not know the woman, nor, indeed, had even seen her before. They think they can find out who she is; but if not, we cannot know where that book, so much prized, has been travelling, and what its visit may have done for the families to which it has gone.
(11LtMs, Ms 19, 1896, 6)
The greatest trouble with the people here has been that they are very much more loyal to their minister than they are to their God. They are a church-going people, and are warned by their ministers not to go and hear us; the result has been that those who have come to listen to the truth have been but few in number.
(11LtMs, Ms 19, 1896, 7)
The stay-away argument is an opposition that is hard to handle; but the work that has been done is the sowing of the seed. I believe God has a people in this place, and they must be warned.
(11LtMs, Ms 19, 1896, 8)
Brethren Baker and Teasdale say that in this meeting we had the largest attendance they have seen at any time in this place. The first thing is to get the ears of the people; but if those who have ears will not listen, no one can compel them to hear. This is the difficulty in this country. They have ears, but they hear not; eyes have they, but they see not. But if we can get them to contemplate the cross of Calvary, the great plan of redemption, then the soul is gained [and] their hearts are willing to see wondrous things out of His law.
(11LtMs, Ms 19, 1896, 9)
Ms 20, 1896
Faithfulness to God NP June 1, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in TDG 161.
“He that is faithful in that which is least, is faithful also in much.” [Luke 16:10.] The real Christian is a servant of Christ. His work for Christ must be thoroughly well done. Nothing must come in to divert his mind from his work. Other matters can have proper attention, and yet be held subordinate; but Christ’s service requires the whole man—the heart, the mind, the soul, the strength. He will not accept a divided heart. He expects us to do our best. And nothing faithfully done for Him is insignificant in His sight. The widows two mites, teach us that the smallest offering, if it is our best, and is given with the whole heart, is of value in the sight of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 20, 1896, 1)
Every man is required to do the work assigned him of God. We should be willing to render small services, doing the things that are to be done, which some one must do, improving the little opportunities, if these are the only opportunities, we should still work faithfully. He who wastes hours, days, and weeks, because he is unwilling to do the work that offers, humble though it may be, will be called to render an account to God for his misspent time. If he feels that the can afford to do nothing, because he cannot obtain the desired wages, let him stop and think that that day, that one day, is the Lord’s. He is the Lord’s servant. He is not to waste his time. Let him think, I will spend that time in doing something, and will give all I earn to advance the work of God. I will not be counted a do nothing.
(11LtMs, Ms 20, 1896, 2)
When a man loves God supremely, and his neighbor as himself, he will not stop to inquire whether that which he can do is bringing in much or little. He will do the work, and accept the wages offered. He will not set the example of refusing a job because he cannot count upon as large wages as he thinks he should have. The Lord judges a man’s character by the principles on which he acts in dealing with his fellow men. If in common business transactions his principles are defective, the same will be brought into his spiritual service for God. The threads are woven into his whole religious life. If you have too much dignity to work for yourself for small wages, then work for the Master; give the proceeds into the Lord’s treasury. Make an offering of gratitude to God for sparing your life. But do not on any account be idle.
(11LtMs, Ms 20, 1896, 3)
Ms 21, 1896
Communications to Leading Brethren “Sunnyside,” Cooranbong, Australia June 6, 1896 Previously unpublished. +
This morning I will state the matters which have been opened to me and urged upon my mind by the Holy Spirit of God. I must speak those things which I have heard. Every provision has been made for the sinful human race. By receiving Jesus Christ, and believing in him, those who were dead in trespasses and sins are brought nigh by the blood of Christ. The love of Christ and its constraining power is what is needed in the heart. This grace, coming through faith in Christ Jesus, makes an end of sin in the human heart. The sinner sees the fountain which has been prepared, at infinite cost, that he may wash his robes of character, and make them white in the blood of the Lamb.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 1)
And the Lord Jesus says, “Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.” [Revelation 3:4.] O blessed, blessed possibility. “He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment, and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my father, and before his angels.” [Verse 5.] “Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 10:32.]
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 2)
“And I heard as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in pure linen, clean and white; for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.” [Revelation 19:6-8.] Here are the possibilities open to the servants of God. Those who seek the Lord sincerely will always find Him to be the propitiation for their sins. He has made reconciliation for iniquity. In his epistle to the Hebrews, Paul states, “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.” [Hebrews 2:17.]
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 3)
“Know ye not, brethren, for I speak to them that know the law, how that the law hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth? For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband as long as he liveth. But if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband. So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress. But if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man. Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ, that he should be married to another, even to him that is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sin, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held, that we should serve him in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter.” [Romans 7:1-6.]
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 4)
“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: by whom we also have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience experience; and experience, hope; and hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts, by the Holy Spirit which is given unto us.” [Romans 5:1-5.]
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 5)
In what sense can it be said that God is reconciled to the sinner? Will He excuse my guilt if I continue to transgress? We may all understand the meaning of this reconciliation. Every obstruction is removed, and through Jesus Christ, access to God is secured. Man is urged and welcomed to the pardoning love of God. By His love for fallen man God is honored and glorified and magnified through Jesus Christ. God can be just, and yet pardon the transgressor. O what love, what matchless love. The justice, holiness, and truth of Christ is vindicated in the law, and therefore there is nothing to hinder God’s mercy descending, abundant, free, and full, in pardon, taking away sin and imputing the righteousness of Christ. Those who accept this pardon form themselves into a glorious channel of co-partnership with Jesus Christ, to communicate the grace of pardoning love to those who are in the darkness of error.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 6)
God justly condemns all who will not receive and believe in Jesus Christ as their personal Saviour. Christ is standing hungry at the door of our hearts, longing to pardon all who will come unto Him that they may have life. O, what words what precious words are these. He is not merely merciful, but is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Our work is to hear his voice open the door of our hearts, and welcome the heavenly Guest. We then stand before God and the whole heavenly universe as innocent, though undeserving, while Jesus carries our guilt. He takes the load, which it was the lot of the sinner to bear.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 7)
What responsive love, what gratitude, what thank offerings should ascend to God, because Christ has died to make reconciliation for our sins, and by His complete obedience bring in everlasting righteousness! Christ has paid all that man owes to God from the beginning of his life. Sin is the transgression of the law, and through Christ man must now render perfect obedience to that law. By His righteousness of active obedience, Christ clothes me with His righteousness, in order that I shall not continue in sin, but perfect a character after the similitude of Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 8)
June 7
As you see, I commenced this letter yesterday, but other things have been urged upon me. I am sorry to have to continue to write matters bringing censure from the Lord upon those in responsible positions.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 9)
In the night season I was in an important meeting. I was greatly burdened, and I was urged to speak. But I knew not what words I should speak. I said, “I have no strength. My heart aches.” I inquired, Why have you daubed the walls of Zion with untempered mortar? When you felt that something should be done in the case of Brother A. R. Henry and Brother Harmon Lindsay, why did you frame flimsy excuses. As faithful stewards why did you not say plainly, Brethren Henry and Lindsay, the Lord has signified that you are not the men for the place you occupy. For years you have been working counter to the Holy Spirit of God. Both of you have had strong convictions of the truth, such as the Lord gave to the Jewish nation; but you would not see the light. You have resisted evidence until your souls are well-nigh ruined. Your only hope is to gather up the rays of light you have despised and rejected, and in contrition of soul do thorough work for repentance, for nothing short of this will God accept.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 10)
But, O, how ashamed should those be who have turned away from the counsel of God, and have tried to cover up the impression God would have made upon these men. Unfaithful stewards, the censure of God is upon you. The Work of God has been receiving a wrong mold. Reproofs have come to you from the Lord, and some have felt deeply over the matter, but in some things they have acted unwisely. While they believed the testimonies, they neglected to move as wise men who have a sense of the value of the souls for whom Christ has died. Others who were given plain testimonies buried them away as far as possible, that others should not know of the reproofs given. When the matter was presented to them, they went on, contrary to the testimonies in almost every point, putting their own construction upon them, saying that they did not mean thus and so, when they meant just as stated, to correct and arrest them in the course they were pursuing. It was to reprove their wrong course of action that the Lord sent the testimonies, but they did not take heed to them.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 11)
Others have acted indifferently. They cared for none of the cautions or reproofs. They had a self-sufficient, masterly spirit. This evidenced that the grace of God was not in their hearts. They dictated, and tried to force their opinions and their ideas upon others. They made of no account the words of reproof given to them. By precept and example they were filled with their own doings, and counteracted the work to be done. They would not concede to right; they would not consent to correct wrongs, and to walk in the light. Self, self, self, was their center. No unity was seen, but disorder and dissension was manifested.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 12)
The effect of grace on the human heart never leads to exalted ideas, but puts self in the dust, and exalts Jesus. Grace always imparts to the character a modesty, a meekness and lowliness of heart, showing that those who possess it are diligent, earnest workers in the school of Christ. They have a sense of propriety and good taste. The love of Jesus always opens and expands the heart. But there is great need of constant watchfulness. That important personage, self, needs to be vigilantly guarded, that it shall not try to rule God’s heritage, or to compel the conscience of their brethren. This kind of work is offensive to God. Those who have been the most zealous in doing this work, have eyes, but they see not; ears have they, but they hear not, lest they should be converted, and I should heal them, saith the Lord.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 13)
I am perplexed to know how to present the truth, as it is, before you, and yet so that those who believe the testimonies will treat them as wise, level-headed men should, so that they will not move impulsively, and make of none effect the influence of the testimonies, which they must receive and act upon. When correction has come, not only have those who have despised the human channel through whom the Lord works, acted wrongly, but the ones who want the testimonies to be acted upon have moved indiscreetly. What can be done to set things in order, so that all shall move with clear, intelligent judgment, under the molding influence of the Spirit.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 14)
June 10
In the night season I seemed to be in a room where a few men were assembled. These seemed to be earnestly engaged in business transactions. I was surprised to see Elder Olsen leaning over a desk, casting up accounts. One of commanding appearance gently touched him on the shoulder, and said, What is your business here tonight? Elder Olsen answered, I was figuring up the cost of the publication of certain books. The question was then asked him, Who gave you this work to do? The Lord has not laid this work upon you. The Master has not counselled you to do this. You cannot do this class of work successfully. God has not given you the qualifications necessary for the work of devising and planning in financial matters. He has given to every man his work, according to his known ability. He does not require you to gather any such burdens to your soul. Do you not know that the work of God is being covered up with false sentiments and principles? The people are being led in false paths. Many mistakes are being made. The present state of things is not the working of the providence of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 15)
You are out of your place. You have not stood in faithful steadfastness. From your first connection with the work, you have not set wrongs right. You have been misled. Your individuality has been, in a large measure, merged in men who have closed their eyes and ears to the voice of Jesus, who is seeking entrance to the door of their hearts, longing to soften and subdue them. You have heard with their ears, and seen with their eyes, and followed their judgment.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 16)
The Lord has not given you this financial work to do. It will be a terrible weight upon your soul. You are mingling the common fire with the sacred. Neither has He provided for you as helpers those whom you have chosen as you counsellors and your companions in your journeys from place to place. Through human influence you have been led blindfolded. The specious working of the prince of darkness has not been discerned by you. Satan works through men who withdraw from God, and close the door of their hearts against Jesus. Thus he binds many under his yoke, and they stand under his banner. It is not along men of gross passions through whom he works out his purposes. He secures many souls by attaching them with silken threads to men whom they suppose have ability, but who have taken a decided part with the enemy of Jesus Christ to work against the Lord.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 17)
Through your connection with the men whom you have chosen as companions, they have obtained an influence over you which has enabled them to devise, plan, and execute, and you have been bound up with them. You have given your decisions as a captive who was being bound, and who was without power to break the spell upon him. You have had most painful convictions, but you have never viewed matters in regard to the testimonies in a clear, correct light. You have been walking in a path where Christ has not led the way.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 18)
Others have been leavened and misled by your position. You professed to believe the testimonies, and yet did not walk in the light which God was pleased to give you. Unless these men who have leavened the work make a desperate effort, their pride and stubbornness of heart will lead them where they will never return to the safe path. When doing the service of God, beware with whom you become linked in friendship. Do not yoke up with men whom you know are not led by Christ. Do not allow your voice, your influence, or your example to mislead. Beware lest you yourself prove to be an agent whom the enemy uses to place upon the work of God a mold that is not God’s inscription, and is not after God’s fashioning.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 19)
Much that has been done for several years will have to be counteracted. This means, to some,the undermining of faith and confidence in the work. Woe unto men to whom God hath entrusted talents and acquirements, but who have perverted them to a wrong use. O, may God pity and save His heritage.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 20)
Those who abuse God’s entrusted talents with ingratitude, use His gifts as weapons wherewith to oppress His people. They have assaulted the most sacred things and made light of truth and righteousness; and you know it. What more can God do for these men to save them from making complete shipwreck than what He has already done? What means can He devise more than they have had that will make them susceptible to the office work of the Holy Spirit? Woe to men and women who are honored and exalted by being kept in high positions, and who cover the sins of injustice and robbery and oppression with bewildering enchantments, who lead the minds of all that they can, away from sacred restraints.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 21)
Woe to those who obliterate the line of demarkation between the world and the cause of God by their profession of faith, which is mingled with injustice and fraud, thus giving such a mold to the sacred cause of God that nothing can now be regarded as sacred. Nothing that has been molded by their counsel and methods and influence is now reliable. Had these men whose words the Lord does not voice, walked in the counsel of the Lord, they would not have walked into delusions when light was flashing all around them. They have deceived the weak understanding of those who know them only by the influence their position gives them.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 22)
There are many like-minded who hang upon their words, as if the false, perverted ideas they presented possessed the power of truth and righteousness. O what blindness, what deception! While they speak smooth words, the poison of asps is under their tongue. Under the pretense of superior light and understanding of the inward working of things, they present matters connected with our institutions, and imperceptibly they sow the seeds of suspicion and deception, and scatter the sparks of rebellion against the work of the Lord and the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness; and they boast of their works.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 23)
Woe unto those who are betrayers of sacred trusts, betrayers of men. Their part will soon be acted. O that they would break this deception now, even now in this their day, that they might know the things which belong unto their peace. The very ones who have been and are still being deceived, will, unless a thorough reformation is wrought, lift up their hands to God in complaint and mourning, to draw down upon themselves the punishment they have earned.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 24)
Be not deceived! God will not be mocked. Mistake not the present omens as a final decision. The decision will be pronounced by Him who never makes a mistake. He weighs actions, and actions testify to character. The wrongdoings of men have their season and time, and unless they repent, He who weighs with other scales than those held in the hands of infatuated, blinded, worldly-wise men, who view transactions from a worldly standpoint, will reward them according to their deeds. Their glory, their usurped authority, their putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity, will bring its sure results. All these things have their limit, their season. All come to an end. “All flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: but the word of the Lord endureth forever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.” [1 Peter 1:24, 25.]
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 25)
“Behold I lay in Zion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. 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 offense, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient, whereunto also they were appointed.” [1 Peter 2:6-8.] Mark the words. God had appointed the Jews, as His purchased possession, to honor and glorify His name by faithful service, by being co-laborers with Jesus Christ. But they did not keep the faith.
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 26)
So today the showers of God’s blessings, that He has directed earthward to soften and subdue the obdurate heart, have been despised by men connected with His work. Better, far better, would it have been for the work and cause of God if these men had not had any connection or part in it. The light that lighteneth every man that cometh into the world shined in their hearts, but they turned from this light, and cherished opposition and unbelief. Their words, ridiculing the words and appearance of the Holy Spirit of God, have had an influence upon many as the words of wise men. But did those rejecting the Spirit of God know that there was a Watcher beside them, recording in His book their words and the result, marking down all their scoffing and all their ridicule at the outpouring of the Holy Spirit?
(11LtMs, Ms 21, 1896, 27)
Ms 22, 1896
“The publishing institution was arranged...” Refiled as Ms 25a, 1891.
Ms 23, 1896
Illustrations of Heavenly Things Extract from Lt 90, 1896.
Ms 23a, 1896
The Law Our Schoolmaster Extract from Lt 96, 1896.
Ms 23b, 1896
How to Secure Peace NP July 25, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in UL 220; 15MR 158-161.
“If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.”Romans 12:18.
(11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, 1)
Shortly before His crucifixion, Christ bequeathed to His disciples a legacy of peace: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you.” [John 14:27.] Christ bears the title of the Prince of peace, and yet He says of Himself, “Think not that I am come to find peace on earth; I am not come to send peace, but a sword.” [Matthew 10:34.] In explanation of this apparent contradiction, He has said, “In the world ye shall have tribulation;”“in me ye shall have peace.” [John 16:33.] He told them that the time would come when they would be hated of all men for His name’s sake; that they would be brought before kings and rulers; that to destroy their lives would be esteemed a service done to God and religion. This has been fulfilled. Every indignity reproach, and cruelty that Satan can instigate human hearts to devise has been visited upon the followers of Jesus.
(11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, 2)
We have been highly favored in living under a government where we can worship God according to the dictates of our conscience. But human nature is no more in harmony with then principles of Christ today than it was in past ages. The world is still in opposition to Jesus. The same hatred that prompted the cry, “Crucify him, crucify him,” and led to the rejection of Christ, still works in the children of disobedience. [Luke 23:21.] The same satanic spirit which in the Dark Ages consigned men and woman to prison, to exile, and the fagot; that conceived the exquisite torture of the inquisition; that produced the massacre of Saint Bartholomew, and kindled the fires of Smithfield is still at war with malignant energy in unregenerate hearts, who are saying of Christ, “We will not have this man to reign over us.” [Luke 19:14.]
(11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, 3)
The peace that Christ calls His peace, and which He bequeathed to His disciples, is not a peace which prevents all divisions; but it is a peace which is given and enjoyed in the midst of divisions. The peace that the faithful defender of the cause of Christ has, is the consciousness that he is doing the will of God, and reflecting His glory in good works. It is an internal rather than an external peace. Without are wars and fightings through the opposition of avowed enemies, and the coldness and suspicion of those even who claim to be friends.
(11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, 4)
Christ enjoins upon His followers to “love your enemies, ... do good to them that hate you, and pray for them that despitefully use you, and persecute you.” [Matthew 5:44.] He would have us love those who oppress us and do us harm. We must not express in words and acts the spirit they manifest, but improve every opportunity to do them good.
(11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, 5)
But while we are required to be Christlike toward those who are our enemies, we must not, in order to have peace, cover up the faults of those we see in error. Jesus, the world’s Redeemer, never purchased peace by covering iniquity, or by anything like compromise. Though His heart was constantly overflowing with love for the whole human race, he was never indulgent to their sins. He was too much their friend to remain silent while they were pursuing a course which would ruin their souls—the souls He had purchased with His own blood. He was a stern reprover of all vice; and His peace was the consciousness of having done the will of His Father, rather than a condition of things that existed as the result of having done His duty.
(11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, 6)
He labored that man should be true to Himself in being all that God would have him, and true to His higher and eternal interest. Living in a world marred and seared with the curse brought upon it by disobedience, he could not be at peace with it unless he left it unwarned, uninstructed, and unrebuked. This would be to purchase peace at the neglect of duty.
(11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, 7)
Every one who loves Jesus and the souls for whom He died will follow after the things that make for peace. But His followers are to take special care lest in their efforts to prevent discord, the truth is surrendered, lest in warding off divisions, they make a sacrifice of its principles. True brotherhood can never be maintained by compromising principle. As surely as Christians approach the Christlike model, and become more and more pure in spirit and in action, searching out and reproving sin, so surely will they experience the strength and venom of that old serpent the devil. The opposition of the children of disobedience is excited by a Christianity that is spiritual.
(11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, 8)
“If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” [Romans 12:18.] A duty is here enjoined upon us. We are to strive to live at peace with all men. Every care should be taken on the part of Christians to give no offense, that the truth be not evil spoken of. But the text suggests that no amount of diligence and care will preserve this harmony in all cases. Dissensions will arise even between individual members of the Church, because they are not Christlike in character.
(11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, 9)
But there will be a point where members must be separated from its fellowship because of their unchristian course of action. In the home they are oppressive and a reproach to the cause of Christ. Their practices are inconsistent with truth and religion, and to retain them in church fellowship would be faithless to the Master.
(11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, 10)
The church, as a body is to do all in its power to promote union, and prevent schisms. This rule is designed to guide every individual member in his treatment of others. If unsound doctrine is introduced, it will endanger the flock of Christ. It is the duty of those in authority, who are jealous for the truth as it is in Jesus, to make a firm, decided protest. This expression of rebuke will often be used to create sympathy for the reproved. The harm that is thus done to precious souls and to Christ’s kingdom is not considered. At this crisis is the time to decide who are God’s faithful sentinels, who will be true to principle, who will bear in mind that truth is too dearly purchased for its least principle to be surrendered.
(11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, 11)
That peace and harmony is not worthy of the name which is secured by mutual concessions to avoid all differences of opinion. On points of feeling between man and man, concessions would sometimes be made, but never should one iota of principle be sacrificed in order to obtain harmony. All our words and actions pass in review before God, and if we wish to stand in the judgment as having done all that we could to have a correct influence over our fellow men, we must repay kind acts for acts of mischief and malice. Christ is our Pattern; He would have us follow Him.
(11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, 12)
To those who have been injured without a cause, the words of this Scripture apply, “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” [Verse 18.] Their failure to comply with the instruction given in the text is not due to the course of action that they themselves have pursued, but to the envy, jealousy, and evil surmising of those who have been in the wrong. Thus a division is caused. How can it be healed?
(11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, 13)
Shall the man that has sinned against, misjudged, and maligned be called to account, to find something in his past course by which he can humiliate himself, and acknowledge himself in the wrong for the sake of making peace? No. If he has conscientiously gone forward under the oppression of wicked feelings that have been welcomed in the hearts of the fault-finding, if he has been patient under the abuse, if he has tried to do his duty, he is not to humble himself to acknowledge that he is guilty. He does the offenders a great wrong thus to take their guilt upon his soul, admitting that he has given them occasion for their course of action, when he has done so such thing. This is very gratifying to those who have done the work of the enemy; but heaven’s books record the facts just as they stand.
(11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, 14)
Concessions that are not true from the one who has been wrongfully treated gratifies the feelings of the carnal heart. Their position has been interpreted by them as zeal for God, when in truth it is zeal to do the work of the adversary of souls. They do not dig out from their hearts the root of bitterness, but leave the fibers to spring up when Satan shall stir them up again to active growth. But the axe must be laid at the root of the tree. Heart work is needed. True conversion is essential; the nature must be renewed after the divine image, until the work of grace is completed in the soul.
(11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, 15)
There is a work for us to do. We must begin here to cultivate against our traits of character which lead us to err in decisions that will make it hard and unfavorable for others. This is giving advantage to the enemy. We are not commended for a zeal that savors of Pharisaism, for this is not of Christ. We should not go to an extreme in false charity, neither of unbending severity in cases where kindness and mercy and love would have a telling power.
(11LtMs, Ms 23b, 1896, 16)
Ms 24, 1896
Unselfishness Among Brethren Sunnyside, Cooranbong, Australia September 9, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in 1SM 175. +
We are of good courage in the Lord. I have spoken four Sabbaths in succession in the upper room of the saw mill, and have realized the presence of the Holy Spirit in our meetings. If we expect success in any line of our work, we must have faith. We realize in part of the world that we need to keep our eyes fixed upon Jesus. If we constantly put our trust in Him, believing that He will be our strength, we shall see of His salvation.
(11LtMs, Ms 24, 1896, 1)
We rejoice that in every meeting we see those who have heard the truth, and although they have not yet decided to obey, yet they attend the meetings. We also feel thankful that at our meeting of September 3, some were present who have lately decided to obey the truth. One family is fully convinced, but if the husband accepts the truth, he loses his position. This is a heavy cross, and they hardly dare venture, but we must have faith. We must pray that the Lord Jesus Christ will give them His grace and reveal Himself to them as their Redeemer, as One who loves them and cares for them, and who will not leave them to perish.
(11LtMs, Ms 24, 1896, 2)
In several localities here Bible readings are being held, and some are interested in the truth. We hope that they will hear and receive and obey the truth. Since the Institute which was held here last March and April, several have decided to obey the Lord and keep His commandments.
(11LtMs, Ms 24, 1896, 3)
We see that there is much work to be done, and at this time, when outward appearances are not the most flattering, we are drawn out to recount the experiences of the past. We see that in every country the same ground must be travelled over. We can call to mind many times when, after lifting, as we supposed, all that we could possibly lift to advance the work, we have not realized all that we hoped we should. We dared not relax our efforts, for this would have given the enemy an advantage. But God has not changed, and He will work for us if we give Him opportunity. We can now see reasons why the Lord has not wrought in our behalf as we longed to see Him work. We are sure that there has not been among the workers that consecration, that faith, that self-denial, that spirit of sympathy and unity and love which there should have been.
(11LtMs, Ms 24, 1896, 4)
If the workers in the Lord’s moral vineyard do not cherish faith, confidence, and love for their fellow laborers, they cannot expect that the heavenly showers of grace will descend on the barren portions of the Lord’s vineyard, to revive it, to cause hearts to be softened and subdued by the Holy Spirit’s power.
(11LtMs, Ms 24, 1896, 5)
Whatever their calling or mission, men who are presenting the truth to others must keep contrite and humble, laboring in the spirit of Christ wherever they are. If they subdue self, and walk humbly before God, He will reveal Himself to them. They will not only repeat, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness; that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17], but they will believe and experience it. This experience is essential for all who are seeking to be laborers together with God.
(11LtMs, Ms 24, 1896, 6)
Our 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. I am the vine, ye are the branches. He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit; for without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:4, 5.]
(11LtMs, Ms 24, 1896, 7)
There must be less working in self, and more working in and by and through Jesus Christ. When the Lord Jesus, who can never misjudge, sees men and women opening and explaining the Scriptures, while they themselves are disregarding the principles which would lead them to cultivate a most tender regard and respect for their fellow laborers, He cannot give them the victories He would be glad to bestow. When He sees that success would injure the human agent and lead him to glorify himself instead of giving God the glory, He withholds the blessing which insures success. Then the large amount of means expended does not accomplish what so many hoped and prayed that it might. Disappointment comes, and faith is lost. But there is seldom a close self-examination in regard to what spirit was manifested by the workers.
(11LtMs, Ms 24, 1896, 8)
Christ prayed for His followers, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; and that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory (character) which thou gavest me, I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one. I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:17-23.]
(11LtMs, Ms 24, 1896, 9)
Here is the sum proved. When the laborers have an abiding Christ in their own souls, when all selfishness is dead, when there is no rivalry, no strife for the supremacy, when oneness exists, when they sanctify themselves, so that love for one another is seen and felt, then the showers of grace of the Holy Spirit will just as surely come upon them as that God’s promise will never fail in one jot or tittle. But when the work of others is discounted, that the workers may show their own superiority, they prove that their own work does not bear the signature it should. God cannot bless them.
(11LtMs, Ms 24, 1896, 10)
To all who humble their hearts before Jesus, putting self out of sight, not in pretension but in genuine humility, the Lord will manifest Himself. There need not be so many failures seen in the expensive efforts put forth in camp meetings and tent meetings; there need not be so few sheaves to bring to the Master. “This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.” [John 6:29.]
(11LtMs, Ms 24, 1896, 11)
Jesus, our Sacrifice, is the price of heaven; faith in Him is the way to heaven. He asks you first to believe in Him, and then to work in and through Him. When we understand that we must daily conquer temptation, that we must daily refrain our tongues from evil, that they shall speak no guile, then we will show true earnestness in the work of God. Each one of us should put forth definite efforts in this line.
(11LtMs, Ms 24, 1896, 12)
We must show no deadly apathy in respect to examining ourselves in the light of God’s standard of righteousness, His holy law; because it is for our eternal interest that we keep our own souls in the love of God as vessels unto honor. This is no indifferent matter; it cannot be trifled with. By our course of action we are determining whether the Holy Spirit can abide with us. If self is the supreme object of attention, if we seek to be first, the sure result of such a spirit will be seen, and we shall find ourselves last.
(11LtMs, Ms 24, 1896, 13)
The Bible is the voice of God speaking to the souls of all who will obey its teachings, and it declares, “Seeing ye have purified your souls through obeying the truth unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently; being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever.” [1 Peter 1:22, 23.]
(11LtMs, Ms 24, 1896, 14)
In this country money is greatly needed; more laborers are needed, but the greatest need of all is a vital connection with Jesus Christ. We are to occupy for Christ till He comes. Christ has ordained that His children shall live in such close, loving relation to Himself that they will embrace their brethren in this Christlike love. It is the purpose of the Holy Spirit to make those who believe in Jesus Christ one with Him, that they may radiate upon one another nothing but a cementing spirit of unity. Christ’s divine charge is that we should illustrate before the world the power and excellence of His likeness and character.
(11LtMs, Ms 24, 1896, 15)
Ms 25, 1896
Wise and Unwise Use of Money Sunnyside, Cooranbong, New South Wales, Australia September 28, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in 16MR 256-266.
“Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.... Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: And all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him.... I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.” [Revelation 1:3, 7, 8.]
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 1)
“Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance.” [Ephesians 6:11-18.]
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 2)
“But that they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil; which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith; and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, ....” [1 Timothy 6:9-12.]
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 3)
The Lord has need of thee. The Lord has a work for thee to do for Him. Place yourself under the bloodstained banner of Prince Immanuel. You need to have the words in the last clause of (1 Timothy 6:12) true in your case. “And hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.” When the charge from God comes to you, “I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession; that thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: Which in his times he will show, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honor and power everlasting. Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy: that they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” [Verses 13-19.]
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 4)
My brother, I write these things to you, which, is the word of the Lord to you. Temptations surround you. The Lord has committed to you talents to be used to His name’s glory. To be entrusted with the use of money is a talent from God not to be demerited, not to be misapplied, to be an injury to the user by selfishly and unwisely appropriating these trusts to administer to selfish ends, but to be wisely employed to confer its benefits to the saving of souls for whom Christ has died.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 5)
A selfish use of riches proves one unfaithful to God, and unfits the steward of means for the higher trust of heaven. So far from an inactive life in heaven those who prove themselves faithful in this life shall be stewards of much higher responsibilities. “If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, if ye have not used the worldly goods that I have committed to your trust to advance my interests as one of the firm, who shall commit to your trust the true riches?” [See Luke 16:11.] Riches are not ours. All is God’s.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 6)
Those who invest the Lord’s goods in expensive buildings, in the extravagant adornment, furniture, in dress, in needless ornaments of show or display, are embezzling our Lord’s goods that are only lent us for a time to prove what is in our hearts, to see if we will individually appreciate the responsibilities entrusted to our hands to advance the interests of the firm of which the Lord has honored us by taking us in connection with Himself as partners. And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man’s, who shall give you that which is your own?
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 7)
There are many advantages Satan manages to place in our way to enamor the mind, to lead to extravagance in the indulgence of appetite, to create false surroundings which are dangerous to the spirituality of the soul. These opportunities to advantage one’s self are a temptation from Satan to entangle the human agent into gratifications of hurtful practices, in intemperance and hurtful lusts that destroy the sense of the value of their own souls.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 8)
When Satan works to ruin souls, he comes clothed like an angel of light, as a friend, and representing himself as Jesus Christ. We need divine enlightenment at every step. There is no safety for our souls unless we commit the keeping of our souls to God in faith and earnest supplications.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 9)
As money is a snare, made so by the greed after it, we need to be guarded on every side. We are put into possession of money for a little while to try us individually. The soul has its test, whether money stands as having greater power over us than God and his requirements. Our Saviour says, “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” [Matthew 6:24.] If the human agent act wisely, in the use of means which comes into his possession, he evidences that money is not his god. Mammon is not his master. It shall be made, in the hands of faithful stewards, to serve the purpose of God always. Then will the entrusted talents be so wisely employed as to gain for the steward a rich experience, directly and indirectly, and enable him to be rich in good works, blessing his fellow men. He is not required to part with his money in large sums and thus shift his responsibility upon other men. He is to acquire wisdom to stand as [a] faithful steward, dealing with his Lord’s goods with wisdom and discrimination.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 10)
There has not been all that wisdom exercised that the Lord requires of His stewards. Large investments have been made which was not the wisest thing to do in trading upon our Lord’s entrusted goods, for temptation has come in consequence of doing this, placing out of their power means which they afterwards see they could use in various lines as the necessity of the cause of God shall present itself to them, as the standard of Truth is raised in new fields, and in places where the standard of truth is to be planted.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 11)
Churches need to be built to accommodate those who have moral courage to accept the truth when the whole world is opposed to its principles, and will use every opportunity to hedge up the way of God’s commandment-keeping people.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 12)
There must not be a moving in by impulse. There should not be a pressure brought to bear upon those who have means, that they will virtually shift their responsibility upon other men. Every man and woman who [is] under the rule to God [is] to listen to His counsel. The workings of the arch-adversary of souls will be revealed in various ways. The deceitfulness of riches oft ensnares the soul.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 13)
There is a positive necessity for the steward of God to pray much that he may not be deceived in any wise in handling the Lord’s goods. He is a steward, a partner in the firm, and if he moves not by impulse but from a sense of conviction that he must invest his Lord’s goods to advance the glory of God in the work of saving souls to Jesus Christ, then [he] himself will be benefitted eternally, if he holds fast his confidence and faith and trust in God firmly unto the end.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 14)
The improvement of God-given talents composes a strong feature in our probationary state in the development of character. Now we are on test and trial to reveal Christian character. If we are unguarded now, if we let time pass and act indifferent to the requirements of God, if we misuse our talent of reason, of intellect, if we fritter away upon amusements and self-gratifications our precious opportunities and talents, we are being conquered by the enemy in this life and depriving God of the service due Him, and are imperiling our interests for eternity.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 15)
If individually we recognize and accept our responsibilities, if we seek the Lord as did Daniel, if we have the moral courage, we will conquer, and the eternal benediction will be ours. Satan works himself in to make the Lord’s entrusted talents of means a source of evil to corrupt the whole man by keeping his heart fastened upon his earthy treasures, and ignoring God and destroying himself physically, mentally, and morally. Satan has usurped the title as god of this world. He is not thus only as man shall choose him to be thus.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 16)
He was represented as Barabbas when placed beside Jesus, who made the world and all things that are therein. The opportunity was given to man to choose “whom shall I release unto you, Barabbas or Christ?” [Matthew 27:17.] The roar of voices was like wild beasts: “Barabbas, Barabbas, Release unto us Barabbas.” [Luke 23:18.] Here was Satan personified, chosen before Christ, the Son of God. What exaltation had Satan on that occasion! What exaltation he had on every such occasion.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 17)
Now in our world the choice is being made. “Barabbas, Barabbas.” But what shall be done with Christ? “Crucify Him.” [Verse 21.] This is being repeated in our world today. Whom are we individually choosing? We are demonstrating our choice.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 18)
Money has a great value because it can do great good. Absolute necessities are met, and the faithful steward to God can bring relief at a time when help is needed. Money may be withheld from the treasury “that there may be meat in mine house.” [Malachi 3:10.] The Lord’s money is misused in extravagance, in indulgence of appetite. This entrusted capital should be used to relieve human suffering, to clothe the naked, to feed the hungry, to advance the truth, to build up the kingdom of God in our world. There are constant tests, constant temptations, constant trials; but if the agent will bring himself under control of God, and to wise men, every one who acquired a competence more than is sufficient to sustain frugal living and supply his personal wants is thrown upon his own responsibility to acknowledge God as the beneficent giver, and to keep his heart with all diligence to do righteousness.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 19)
“And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? How readest thou? And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself. And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.” [Luke 10:25-28.]
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 20)
This entire chapter is worthy of careful study, but the points I wish you to take in and understand is the lesson contained in verses 25-37. When God is loved supremely, then property of any description will be looked upon as talent loaned to be used with wisdom, to take its proper place subordinate to the eternal interests. Sanctified judgment is to be exercised as to how to appropriate the goods of trust to best advance the glory of God. Money cannot confer happiness without [unless] the Lord’s name is glorified with its use. When the money charms the heart because it is [in] the hands of the human agent it is a snare; it is a master, not an agent for accomplishing the greatest amount of good. It is regarded above the favor of God, takes the place of an idol, and is worshiped as such. But when property, money, or any other thing interposes itself between man and his obedience to God, that money is ruinous to the eternal interests of the soul. We cannot serve God and mammon.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 21)
When men allow property to get too strong a hold of the mind, it is a snare. When one uses the property lent him in trust to gratify any passion, it becomes a snare, for it fosters pride and leads its possessor into extravagance in its outlay, and his soul is imperiled, serving lust. To serve God with the heart and mind and affection, we must work for His name’s glory, and use His entrusted gifts as one who must give an account to God as to how he had used his Lord’s goods.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 22)
We are ever to consider that no amount of property can make us independent of God. He gives us intellect; He gives us life and health; if we will obey His sovereign will, His blessing will abide with us. His word is our assurance. There is no dependence to be placed in property, and wealth cannot keep us in peace. We may depend upon it, but it cannot be our physician to heal or restore us from infirmities.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 23)
But when prosperity comes to the human agent, does he give glory to God? Does he honor God with thanksgiving? Does it increase his faith and love to God and his fellow men, or does he trust in his riches and expect to be favored and honored for his riches? Does he become impatient of restraint? Unless heart, mind, and soul are daily consecrated to God, and unless he renders thanksgiving to God for his entrusted gifts, thankful that the Lord has placed his talent in his hands to do good, to advance His cause, to bring in his gift—tithes and offerings to the Lord’s treasury as property accumulates—there will be a turning of these talents into wrong channels, where they will do positive harm to the human agent and prove a temptation to allure and harm souls for whom Christ has died.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 24)
We may make the Lord’s entrusted gifts just what God designed they should be—a blessing to the needy. Read (2 Corinthians 9:11), [12:]“Being enriched in everything to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God. For the administration of this service not only supplieth the wants of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God.” The whole chapter is a lesson to be practiced.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 25)
If we manifest that we acknowledge God as the Giver to whom we must give an account, there will be a watchfulness to make wise investments in the expenditure of means, with an eye single to the glory of God. Thus our will will be brought into conformity to the will of God. The world, its habits, its practices, and its customs will not be the standard. Our own inclinations will not lead to extravagance in the outlay of means, but we will conform to the rules of Christian principles—to be of greatest benefit and usefulness to our fellow men.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 26)
The Lord is soon to come. We are to do our best as laborers together with God, exerting our God-given faculties to a good purpose: helping others by our carefulness to practice economy; teaching our children that we live, not to please ourselves; teaching habits of industry and not dressing for display; teaching all with whom we come in contact to develop better faculties and to form their characters after the character of Christ; and teaching that whether we eat or drink or whatsoever we do, to do all to the glory of God. By using the money to advance God’s glory, all such work may be accomplished, and indolence will not be encouraged.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 27)
Giving to advance the truth, because it is the truth as it is in Jesus, increases our love for the truth. To give to the Lord’s cause that which He has entrusted to us to bestow wisely at times when the cause and work of God needs help, provides a fund from which to draw to sustain the work in its different branches, and this giving will be a personal benefit in uplifting and strengthening the one who invests. When one shows his special interest in this way, that action will react upon himself in this world, and the deed lives in the record of heaven to bring its reward in the future eternal world.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 28)
There are schools to be established for the education and training of youth in science and in the knowledge of the Scriptures, which is the true Bible science, to prepare young men and women to become intelligent in the Scriptures and prepare them for earnest missionary work in communicating the light that God has given them.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 29)
The humblest child of God may act a part in this grand work. They should have the privilege, even if it requires self-denial and self-sacrifice, to contribute according to their ability. The education of should be of a different order than that which has been in the past. The Word of the Most High, who is infinite in wisdom, will, if carefully studied, become enlarged and continually enlarging in light and interest. The welfare of children and youth in all parts of the world demand far more in their interests and welfare than has been given them.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 30)
The religious affections need to be educated and trained and enlisted in revealing the principles of the Word of God by being brought into practical life, and will evidence in gifts and offerings made to extend the knowledge of the truth. We are having the last message of warning, the last call of mercy, to give to our world, and this message will be far-reaching in its influence. And if we have an abiding Christ, our words and works will tell in its beneficial action upon ourselves, and be an active agent in the saving of souls and in glorifying God.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 31)
What will be the gratitude of souls that shall meet us in the heavenly courts as they understand the interest and sympathy and love which has been revealed for their souls? They felt the burden to labor and to invest means to place souls in positions where they could learn the truth, and in their turn became channels of light. Receiving the light from the Word of God they communicated that light to others and became a part of the Lord’s firm, co-partners with Jesus Christ in saving souls ready to perish. While all praise, all honor, and all glory will be given unto God and to the Lamb as our Redeemer, there will be no detracting from the glory of God in expressing gratitude to the instrumentality God has employed for the salvation of the souls ready to perish.
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 32)
Those redeemed by the blood of the Lamb will meet there, and know, the very ones who called their attention to [the] uplifted Saviour. What blessed converse they have with these souls. “I was a sinner,” say they, “without God, and without hope in the world, and you came to me and drew my attention to the precious Saviour as my only help, and I believed in Him. I repented of my sins and was made to sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.”
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 33)
And other redeemed ones rejoice as they meet those who have had a burden in their behalf. They say, “I was a heathen in heathen lands. You left your friends and comfortable homes and came to teach me how to find Jesus and believe in Him as the only true God. I demolished my idols and worshiped God, and now I see Him face to face, saved, eternally saved to ever behold Him whom I now love. I then saw Him only by an eye of faith, but now I see Him as He is. I now can express my gratitude to Him who loved me, who gave His own life for me, with a pure, immortal tongue, for His redeeming mercy.”
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 34)
Others will express their gratitude to those who fed the hungry, who clothed the naked. “When despair bound my soul in unbelief, the Lord sent you to me to speak words of faith and hope and comfort. You brought me food for my physical necessities, and you opened to me the Word of God, awakening me to my spiritual necessities. You treated me as a brother. You sympathized with me in my sorrows, and restored my bruised and wounded soul that I could grasp the hand of Christ that was reached out to save me. You taught me patiently in my ignorance that I had a heavenly Father who cared for me. You read to me the precious promises of God’s Word. You inspired in me faith that He would save me. My heart was softened, subdued, broken as I contemplated [that] Christ gave His life for me. I became hungry for the Word of life, and the truth was precious to my soul; and I am here, saved, eternally saved to ever live in the presence of Him, and to praise Him who gave His life for me.”
(11LtMs, Ms 25, 1896, 35)
Ms 26, 1896
Systematic Benevolence. NP September 25, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in RH Supp. 12/01/1896. +
“Hearken unto me, my people, and give ear unto me, O my nation; for a law shall proceed from me, and I will make my judgment to rest for a light of 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 heaven’s, 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 they dwell therein shall die in like manner; but my salvation shall be forever, and my righteousness (which is His holy law, the transcript of His character) shall not be abolished. Hearken unto me, ye that know righteousness, the people in whose heart is my law; fear ye not the reproach of men, neither be ye afraid of their revilings. For the moth shall eat them up like a garment, and the worm shall eat them like wool; but my righteousness shall be forever, and my salvation from generation to generation.” [Isaiah 51:4-8.] This whole chapter is worthy of close, earnest study, and we would do well to commit it to memory.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 1)
“And now, O ye priests, this commandment is for you. If ye will not hear it, and if ye will not lay it to heart, to give glory unto my name, saith the Lord of hosts, I will even send a curse upon you, and I will curse your blessings; yea, I have cursed them already, because ye do not lay it to heart. Behold, I will corrupt your seed, and spread dung upon your faces, even the dung of your solemn feast; and one shall take you away with it.” [Malachi 2:1-3.]
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 2)
The Lord requires of all who claim to be His people far more than they give Him. He demands that all who claim to believe on Jesus Christ, reveal to the world, by their fruits, that Christianity which was exemplified in the life and character of Jesus Christ. If the Word of God is enshrined in their hearts, they will give a practical exhibition of the power and purity of the gospel. The gospel thus given to the world is of much more value to them than sermons, or professions of godliness that do not reveal good works. Let all who name the name of Christ remember that individually they are making an impression, favorable or unfavorable to Bible religion, on the minds of all with whom they come in contact.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 3)
“And ye shall know that I have sent this commandment unto you that my covenant might be with Levi, saith the Lord of hosts. My covenant was with him of life and peace; and I gave them to him for the fear wherewith he feared me, and was afraid before my name. The law of truth was in his mouth, and iniquity was not found in his lips; he walked with me in peace and equity, and did turn many away from iniquity.... But ye are departed out of the way; ye have caused many to stumble at the law; ye have corrupted the covenant of Levi, saith the Lord of hosts. Therefore have I made you contemptible and base before all the people, according as ye have not kept my ways, but have been partial in the law.” [Verses 4-6, 8, 9.]
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 4)
They claimed to obey the law of God, but where its requirements interfered with their personal interests, they were not heeded. They were very strict in the observance of some portions of the law, but offended God by lightly esteeming those requirements which touched their earthly treasures.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 5)
Christ declared, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind.... This do, and thou shalt live.” [Luke 10:27, 28.] This commandment, which He had given to Moses when enshrouded in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night, He again lays down as the condition of eternal life.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 6)
In (Leviticus 19) are recorded words given by Christ to Moses to speak to the children of Israel. Read what the people of God in ancient times were enjoined to do, and what not to do; for these are the principles contained in the royal law: “Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honor the person of the mighty: but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbor.” [Verse 15.] Personal preferences and partiality are not to appear in the life-practice of the Christian.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 7)
“Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbor, and not suffer sin upon him.” [Verse 17.] Here faithful dealing with sins practiced by those who claim to be children of God, is enjoined. Be they men in poverty, or be they mighty men, handling large responsibilities, no partiality is to be shown to those in the wrong, no hypocrisy practiced in dealing with them, whatever their position. If that position involves sacred interests, God’s faithful watchmen are to be the more earnest and determined that in the fear of God not one evil principle shall pass unnoticed. If those in the wrong refuse to repent and correct their faults, let them be separated from the work, for the corrupting principles of evil will leaven all with whom they are connected.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 8)
“Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself: I am the Lord.” This authority is undisputed. “The stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God. Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment, in meteyard in weight, or in measure. Just balances, just weights, a just ephah, and a just hin, shall ye have: I am the Lord your God, which brought you up out of the land of Egypt. Therefore shall ye observe all my statutes, and all my judgments, and do them: I am the Lord.” [Verses 18, 34-37.] “Sanctify yourselves, therefore, and be ye holy; for I am the Lord your God. And ye shall keep my statutes, and do them: I am the Lord which sanctify you.”“And ye shall be holy unto me; for I the Lord am holy, and have severed you from other people, that ye should be mine.” [Leviticus 20:7, 8, 26.] “Ye shall observe to do therefore as the Lord your God hath commanded you: ye shall not turn aside to the right or to the left. Ye shall walk in all the ways which the Lord your God hath commanded you, that ye may live, and that it may be well with you, and that ye may prolong your days in the land which ye shall possess.” [Deuteronomy 5:32, 33.]
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 9)
Here is the work of the minister of righteousness: “The law of truth was in his mouth, and iniquity was not found in his lips: he walked with me in peace and equity, and did turn many away from iniquity; For the priest’s lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth; for he is the messenger of the Lord of hosts.” But a solemn charge is made by the Lord God of Israel: “Ye are departed out of the way; ye have caused many to stumble at the law; ye have corrupted the covenant of Levi, saith the Lord of hosts. Therefore have I also made you contemptible and base before all the people, according as ye have not kept my ways, but have been partial in the law. Have we not all one father? hath not one God created us? why do we deal treacherously every man against his brother, by profaning the covenant of our fathers? Judah hath dealt treacherously, and an abomination is committed in Israel and in Jerusalem; for Judah hath profaned the holiness of the Lord which he loved, and hath married the daughter of a strange god. The Lord will cut off the man that doeth this, the master and the scholar, out of the tabernacles of Jacob, and him that offereth an offering unto the Lord of hosts. And this ye have done again, covering the altar of the Lord with tears, with weeping, and with crying out, insomuch that he regardeth not the offering any more, or receiveth it with good will at your hand.”“Ye have wearied the Lord with your words. Yet ye say, Wherein have we wearied him? When ye say, Everyone that doeth evil is good in the sight of the Lord, and he delighteth in them; or, Where is the God of judgment?” [Malachi 2:6-13, 17.]
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 10)
The words in (Malachi 3:1-4) lay down the work essential to be done in the church of God. “Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me; and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold he shall come, saith the Lord of host. But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner’s fire, and like fuller’s soap: and he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness.” A message which is as a two-edged sword is to be given to the people, to clear away the evils that are seen among them. A living testimony that will awaken the paralyzed conscience, is to be borne. A work is to be done to cleanse our institutions from every evil.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 11)
“And I will come near you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his rights, and fear not me, saith the Lord of hosts.” [Verse 5.] All the sins here specified have been coming in among the people who claim to be the people of God; and it is high time that there was a reformation, a transformation of character. Who among us, who are called commandment-keepers, have been “partial in the law,” neglecting the living principles which are a transcript of the character of God? Has not the imperfect example of those who have departed from the law of God caused many to stumble at the law? “Therefore have I made you contemptible and base before all the people, according as ye have not kept my ways, but have been partial in the law.” [Malachi 2:9.]
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 12)
There can be no offering made to the Lord in righteousness until practical right doing is brought into the daily life. When does God say that the offering of Judah and Jerusalem shall be pleasant unto Him as in the former years? When “he shall be a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of Levi, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness.” [Malachi 3:3.]
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 13)
“Then I turned,” writes Zechariah, “and lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a flying roll. And he said unto me, What seest thou? And I answered, I see a flying roll; the length thereof is twenty cubits, and the breadth thereof ten cubits. Then said he unto me, This is the curse that goeth forth over the face of the whole earth; for every one that stealeth shall be cut off as on this side according to it; and everyone that sweareth shall be cut off as on that side according to it. I will bring it forth, saith the Lord of hosts, and it shall enter into the house of the thief, and into the house of him that sweareth falsely by my name: and it shall remain in the midst of his house, and shall consume it with the timber thereof, and the stones thereof.” [Zechariah 1:1-4.]
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 14)
“And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, Ye shall be holy; for I the Lord your God am holy. Ye shall fear every man his mother, and his father, and keep my sabbaths: I am the Lord your God. Turn ye not unto idols, nor make to yourselves molten gods: I am the Lord your God. And if ye offer a sacrifice of peace offerings unto the Lord, ye shall offer it at your own will. It shall be eaten the same day ye offer it, and on the morrow; and if ought remain until the third day, it shall be burnt in the fire. And if it be eaten at all on the third day, it is abominable; it shall not be accepted. Therefore every one that eateth it shall bear his iniquity, because he hath profaned the hallowed thing of the Lord: and that soul shall be cut off from among his people.” [Leviticus 19:1-8.] “For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.” [Malachi 3:6.]
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 15)
God has revealed His character toward fallen man by giving them a Saviour, Jesus Christ. He covenanted not to stir up His wrath against the perversity of His children, not to censure them in His hot displeasure, until every advantage had been given them through all their period of probation. And even when they shall refuse His warnings, His messages of invitation, the presentation of His righteousness, when they continue to sin in the face of light and evidence, still He will not break forth upon them His great anger. He leaves all judgment to His Son, whom He gave as a sin offering for the world.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 16)
God has a yearning desire to save the purchase of the blood of Christ from the sure result of a wrong course of action, which, if persisted in, will bring upon them the wrath of the rejected Lamb. Mercy, rich and free, is presented in the gift of Christ’s righteousness. Those who scorn this precious gift, who despise and reject the Saviour, who refuse the invitation, “Let him take hold of my strength, that he may make peace with me; and he shall make peace with me.” [Isaiah 27:5.] Reject the offer of the attributes of a character which will constitute them sons and daughters of God. “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name (what name? Immanuel, the Son of God); which were borne, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” [John 1:12-14.]
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 17)
The Word is our Instructor. All who will be doers of the Word, in sincerity and truth, will behold His glory, “the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” Then there is indeed a new birth, a transformation of character. “Of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace.” [Verses 14, 16.] This makes us “living epistles, known and read of all men.” [See 2 Corinthians 3:2.] “He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true. For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him. The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hands. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life; and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” [John 3:33-36.]
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 18)
“It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassion fail not. They are new every morning; great is thy faithfulness.” [Lamentations 3:22, 23.] “Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them. Return unto me, and I will return unto you, saith the Lord of hosts.” This is the message which must be proclaimed. “Return unto me, and I will return unto you.”“But ye said, Wherein shall I return?” [Malachi 3:7.] God gives his people reproofs, warnings, and instruction. But there seems to be a manifest neglect of righteous principles. The Lord sends messengers to bear to the churches His reproofs and warnings, that their wrong may be corrected, and to give the invitation, “Return unto me, and I will return unto you,” and yet self-vindication is shown in the words, “Wherein shall we return?”
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 19)
The reproof and warning and promise of the Lord is given in definite language in Malachi 3:8. “Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me.” But the question of the disobedient is, “Wherein have we robbed thee?” The Lord answers, “In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse; for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.” [Verses 8, 9.] The Lord of heaven challenges those whom He has supplied with His bounties to prove Him. “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.” [Verse 10.]
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 20)
This message has not grown weak because of its age. It is just as binding now, just as fresh in its importance, as God’s gift are fresh and continual. There is no difficulty in understanding our duty in the light of the Word of God, this message given by His holy prophet. We are not left to stumble along in darkness and disobedience. The truth is plainly stated, and it can be clearly understood by all who wish to be honest in the sight of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 21)
“Your words have been stout against me saith the Lord. Yet ye say, Wherein have we spoken so much against thee? Ye have said, It is vain to serve God: and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully (margin, in black) before the Lord of hosts?” [Verses 13, 14.] God does not require His people to do this. Christ is the light of the world, and He says, “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] But the mournful complaint continues, “And now we call the proud happy; yes, they that work wickedness are set up; yes, they that tempt God are even delivered.” [Malachi 3:15.] This is the language of a soul in darkness. It is the sure result on the character of everyone who cannot see and understand his obligations to give to God that portion which He has specified as His own. The Lord lays His hand upon that portion which He has specified that you shall return to Him, and says, I allow you to use my bounties, after you have laid aside the tenth, and come before me with gifts and offerings.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 22)
The tithe is not the poor fund. Strictly, honestly, and faithfully, if possible without any failure, this is to be brought to the treasury of God. With it God’s faithful messengers are to be sustained who are opening the Word of God, and communicating the light received to those who are in darkness.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 23)
God’s delegated messengers are not to hover about the people who have heard and received and been long in the truth. God’s people are not to be weak, dependent on human beings to do their God-given work for them. His messengers are to carry the triumphs of the cross of Calvary into new regions, calling upon the church to send their prayers as sharp sickles into the harvest field.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 24)
Much more labor than should be, is devoted to the churches. The world is to receive the message. Let the church appoint pastors who are devoted to the Lord Jesus. If those chosen show that they are unfitted for their charge, if they do not do their work faithfully, if they neglect to appoint officers who will be faithful to their charge and see that the tithe is brought in, if they neglect this part of the work, which involves so much—a blessing or a curse—they should be relieved of their responsibilities, and other men should be tested and tried.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 25)
God’s messengers should see that His requirements are faithfully discharged by the members of the churches. It is because so little is made of God’s special injunctions that darkness and temptation and trial are brought upon the church. God says that there should be meat in His house, and if the money in His treasury is tampered with, if it is regarded as right for individuals to make what use they please of the tithe, which is especially devoted to the support of those who are bearing God’s message to the world; the Lord cannot bless. He cannot sustain those who think that they can do as they please with His money.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 26)
The Lord calls for your tithes to be put into His treasury, and besides this, He calls for your gifts and offerings. No one is compelled to present his tithe, or his gifts and offerings, to the Lord. But just as surely as God’s Word is given to us, just so surely will He require His own with usury at the hand of every human being. If men are unfaithful in rendering to God His own, if they disregard God’s charge to His stewards, they will not long have the blessing of that which the Lord has entrusted to them.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 27)
The Lord has given to every man his work. His servants are to act in co-partnership with Him. If they choose, men may refuse to connect themselves with their Maker, they may refuse to give themselves to His service and trade upon His entrusted gifts; they may fail to exercise frugality and self-denial, and may forget that the Lord requires a return of what He has given them; but all such are unfaithful stewards. A faithful steward will do all he possibly can in the service of God. The one object before him will be the need for the message of truth to be given, not only in his own neighborhood, but in the regions beyond. When men cherish this spirit, the love of the truth, and the sanctification they will receive through the truth, will banish avarice, overreaching, and every species of dishonesty.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 28)
In our transactions with our fellow men, as well as in our relations with God, we are to show strict justice and honesty. Our fellow men are of as much value, as estimated by the price Christ has paid for them, as we are, and God calls upon us to treat them as we would wish to be treated. He wants no sharpers connected with His work; He wants no men to handle His work who will deliberately contrive to place before their fellow workers or strangers plans which will mislead. Those connected with God’s work are not to take advantage of others, in order to bring means into the treasury, while they themselves improve every opportunity to gratify their own desire for property and for wealth which they have not earned. The Lord will not sustain in His service men who are self-indulgent, who do not represent to those associated with them the character and work of Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 29)
By every species of unfair dealing, either with God or with our fellow men, we are sowing the seed for a very bitter harvest. The Lord requires all who claim to be His servants to reveal the principles of heaven in all their works. They are to show kindness to all men, cherishing patience, long-suffering, forbearance, [and] generosity. This is living the gospel, and only to those who thus serve Him will God say, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will make thee ruler over many things. Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:21.]
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 30)
It will not be long before probation closes. If you do not now serve the Lord faithfully, how will you meet the long list of unfaithful dealings? Not long hence, a call will be made for a settlement of accounts, and you will be asked, “How much owest thou unto my Lord?” [Luke 16:5.] I would beseech all who have refused to deal honestly with God, to think of their deficiency, and if possible to make restitution. If this cannot be done, in humble penitence pray that God for Christ’s sake will pardon your great debt. Begin now to act like Christians. Make no excuse for failing to give the Lord His own. Now, while mercy’s sweet voice is still heard, while it is not yet too late for wrongs to be righted, while it is called today, if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 31)
God calls for fathers, for mothers, and for their children to become co-partners with Him in the great work of rescuing their own souls from Satan’s power by uniting with Christ, by striving with heart and mind and strength to save themselves through faith. When you have been converted through the grace of Christ, God calls upon you to wear the His yoke, and labor in His lines to save other souls that are bound up with Satan, who do not realize their danger and peril. Hear me, for Christ’s sake, hear me. The season of God’s mercy will soon be ended. The calls for sinners to repent and be converted will soon be heard no more. That God whose calls you have refused, that Saviour whose spirit you have grieved and insulted, will soon rise in His anger to punish transgressors. Dare we think of what the wrath of the Lamb means?
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 32)
Every day you remain in sin you are grieving God by your impenitence. Will you not remember that the time is just upon you when the last day of mercy will come? Then God will rise up out of His place to punish the world for their iniquity. Then the earth shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain. The tempests of God’s wrath which have been gathering will burst with pitiless fury. I beg of you, who shall read these words, to hear me for your soul’s sake. Venture not one step further in your impenitence. “Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little.” [Psalm 2:12.]
(11LtMs, Ms 26, 1896, 33)
Ms 27, 1896
Counsels to Parents and Children Ashfield, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia September 4, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in RH 11/17/1896.
Yesterday Sister McEnterfer accompanied me to Ashfield. We were pleased to meet Brethren Farnsworth and Israel at the station. Brother and Sister Farnsworth have just ended their long voyage over the Pacific Ocean. They did not have a pleasant or enjoyable trip, and were glad to feel solid ground once more under their feet.
(11LtMs, Ms 27, 1896, 1)
On Sabbath Brethren Israel and Farnsworth attended the morning meeting in the Parramatta church. At the same time a meeting was being held in Sydney, in a hall which is hired by the Sydney church. I spoke to the people in Ashfield. The service was held in their new church, and I felt grateful to our heavenly Father for such a neat little chapel where we could worship God upon His holy Sabbath. Brother Semmens opened the meeting with prayer. The Lord gave me freedom to speak to those assembled. As I looked upon the earnest, interested faces of the children, my heart was touched, and I addressed myself to them, encouraging them to do service for God.
(11LtMs, Ms 27, 1896, 2)
In their early years, children may be useful in God’s work. They are the younger members of the family, and He will give them His grace and His Holy Spirit, that they may overcome impatience, fretfulness, and all sin. Jesus loves the children. He has blessings for them, and He loves to see them obedient to their parents. He desires them to be His little missionaries, denying their own inclinations and desires for selfish pleasures to do service for Him; and this service is just as acceptable to God as the service of grown-up children.
(11LtMs, Ms 27, 1896, 3)
The Lord Jesus received the mothers who brought their children to Him for His blessing. He appreciated their earnest desire that in their very early childhood their children should be brought to Him, that He might put His hands upon them, and give them a blessing. What comfort and encouragement this should give parents to teach their children that Jesus loves them, and will receive and bless them. Parents, teach your children that Jesus has given His own precious life in order that they may come to Him and receive His blessing.
(11LtMs, Ms 27, 1896, 4)
Children should pray for grace to resist the temptation which will come to them, temptations to have their own way and to do their own selfish pleasure. As they ask Christ to help them in their life-service to be truthful, kind, obedient, to bear their responsibilities in the family circle, He will hear their simple prayer. When very young, children may be taught to be useful in the home life, to live to please Jesus, that they may become members of the family above. They may be missionaries in the home, relieving, as far as possible, the weary mother, who has so many cares and burdens to bear.
(11LtMs, Ms 27, 1896, 5)
Help your children, parents, to do the will of God by being faithful in the performance of the duties which really belong to them as members of the family. This will give them a most valuable experience. It will teach them that they are not to center their thoughts upon themselves, to do their own pleasure, or to amuse themselves. Patiently educate them to act their part in the family circle, to make a success of their efforts to share the burdens of father and mother and brothers and sisters. Thus they will have the satisfaction of knowing that they are really useful.
(11LtMs, Ms 27, 1896, 6)
Let pleasant words only be spoken by parents to their children, and respectful words by children to their parents. Attention must be given to these things in the home life, for if, in their character building, children form right habits, it will be much easier for them to be taught by God, and to be obedient to His requirements.
(11LtMs, Ms 27, 1896, 7)
Children, as well as those of older years, are exposed to temptations, and the older members of the family should give them, by precept and example, lessons in courtesy, cheerfulness, affection, and in the faithful discharge of their daily duties. Children must be taught that they are a part of the home firm. They are fed, and clothed, and loved, and cared for; and they must respond to these many mercies by bringing all the happiness possible into the family of which they are members. Thus they become children of God, missionaries in the home circle.
(11LtMs, Ms 27, 1896, 8)
If parents neglect the education of their children, they deprive them of that which is necessary for the development of a symmetrical, all-sided character, which will be of the greatest blessing to them all through their life. If children are allowed to have their own way, they receive the idea that they must be waited upon, cared for, indulged, and amused. They think that their wishes and their will must be gratified. Educated in this way, they carry through all their religious experience the deficiencies of their home training.
(11LtMs, Ms 27, 1896, 9)
God would have our families a symbol of the family in heaven. Let parents and children bear this in mind every day, relating themselves to one another as members of the family of God. Then their lives will be of such a character as to give to the world an object lesson of what families who love God and keep His commandments may be. Christ will be glorified; His peace and grace and love will pervade the family circle like a precious perfume. A beautiful offering, in the child life of Christian missionaries, will be made to God. This will make the heart of Jesus glad, and will be regarded by Him as the most precious offering He can receive.
(11LtMs, Ms 27, 1896, 10)
May the Lord Jesus Christ be an object of worship in every family. If parents give their children the proper education, they themselves will be made happy by seeing the fruit of their careful training in the Christlike character of their children. They are doing God the highest service by presenting to the world well ordered, well-disciplined families, who not only fear the Lord, but honor and glorify Him by their influence upon other families; and they will receive their reward.
(11LtMs, Ms 27, 1896, 11)
Ms 28, 1896
To Those Concerned in Publishing Mount of Blessing: Ashfield, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia October 4, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in PM 70-71, 151-152; TDG 286; UL 291.
While on my way to attend the Adelaide camp meeting, I have taken time to look more carefully into the little book, Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing. It makes me ashamed and disgusted when I think that right at heart of the work, where there are so many and great interests, work that has been in your hands more than a year should come to me as it has done. It makes my heart ache when I think of the publishing institution. The men who have charge of the different departments are so burdened with responsibilities that they have no time to do correct work, but send to the world such a specimen as this.
(11LtMs, Ms 28, 1896, 1)
What impression must this make upon my mind in view of the things that the Lord has revealed to me in connection with the methods and plans devised for taking up more responsibilities, and your plans in reference to consolidation, taking under your guidance and control all institutions nigh and afar off? You are simply stretching yourselves beyond your measure. You have not the men who are capable of carrying such responsibilities as you have already embraced.
(11LtMs, Ms 28, 1896, 2)
There is far more activity in this direction in the various lines of the publishing institution than there is a manifestation of the divine attributes to blend the workers in unity of purpose and action. Self and selfishness has placed its brand upon the sentiments advanced by the workers. They have no union one with another.
(11LtMs, Ms 28, 1896, 3)
I have been shown that Satan and his angels who are doing his bidding, clothed in garments of light, are walking through every room in the office, looking with eager interest upon every branch of the work, urging the workers to present false principles and bring a cheapness into the work to destroy, if possible, the sacred, elevating, ennobling principles of the truth.
(11LtMs, Ms 28, 1896, 4)
The hearts of many of the workers are imbued with the same spirit that Satan cherished before his fall and which led to the rebellion in heaven. And he knows just how to bring this about now. For some time his deceiving power has been coming in and taking the lines of control. Selfish motives have been gradually and almost imperceptibly creeping in, until the objectionable methods and unscriptural principles have become interwoven with the work, and a singular blindness has been the result.
(11LtMs, Ms 28, 1896, 5)
Financial embarrassment is upon the work. While long journeys have been undertaken that things might be set in order in conferences at a distance, there was a hundredfold greater necessity for faithful ability to be brought into the work at the greatest center. If there was need of capable men who would work wisely in distant fields, how much greater the need to have most earnest, decided work done right at home where so large interests are centered. The inconsistency of these things has been clearly presented before me. There has been a departure from clean, pure, righteous principles until the very senses, the power of discrimination, has become perverted.
(11LtMs, Ms 28, 1896, 6)
All have opportunities to witness for God and for His truth in a world of darkness. Christ said to His disciples, “Ye are the light of the world ... Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”“Ye are the salt of the earth; but if the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted?” [Matthew 5:14, 16, 13.] This is the condition of the Review and Herald Office. The salt has lost its savor. The form of salt remains, but its valuable, preserving properties are gone. That which should be pure and undefiled has become corrupted with selfishness. God will not accept your work unless you become converted and can present to Him an offering in righteousness.
(11LtMs, Ms 28, 1896, 7)
Our lifetime is precious, and every action should be considered. It has been granted us that we might, if we will lay hold of it in the right spirit, accomplish a work that will be acknowledged by the Lord as good, enduring as eternity. It is an intensely solemn thing to live in view of the account we must render to God of our time, our talents, and our influence. These are precious things, talents that are not to be buried in the earth, but used. We are not to hide our talents; they are God’s entrusted gifts for wise improvement, that they may accumulate in His service, and that at His coming He may receive His own with usury.
(11LtMs, Ms 28, 1896, 8)
No man is called by God, in the use of the talents entrusted to him, to lay off his individual responsibility that another man may do his trading for him. To every man God has given his work, and man is accountable to God for how that work is done. The soul that accepts the great trust that God has given him cannot transfer that talent to another. No man can transfer his influence to another person, to serve for him, or to be mind or judgment for him.
(11LtMs, Ms 28, 1896, 9)
We are each in the service of God. He is our Teacher, and every lesson He shall give is to be appreciated and acted upon. We are not called upon to give account of our talents to man, but to God. Our mind, our judgment, our tact, our wisdom—all are given to us of God, to be improved for Him, and it is God who will call us to account for the way in which we have used His gifts.
(11LtMs, Ms 28, 1896, 10)
The human agent, however lofty his position, did not to consider himself ruler over his fellow men. It will be all he can possibly do to live his own life, to make his own record after the principles of God’s Word. If he will do this, he will not be ashamed to meet that record when he shall give account of himself to God.
(11LtMs, Ms 28, 1896, 11)
The period of life in every case is beset with temptation, and it is through faith in Jesus Christ alone that we shall find grace to help in every time of need. But each worker has a life to live, a character to form. Each period of life brings with the passing years some special opportunities for work; and each advancing year must be made use of, improved to the very best of human capability. This, with the aid of divine agencies, will show improvement, advancement onward and upward, walking step by step in a safe path heavenward.
(11LtMs, Ms 28, 1896, 12)
Each day, each hour of life, from childhood to youth, from youth to middle age, and onward to old age, our life history is being as faithfully recorded in the books of heaven as the polished plate of the artist reflects the features of the sitter. Each day, each hour, brings with it advantages which the human agent must improve. We cannot afford to lose a moment by doing careless work for the Lord. We must use our entrusted talents with fidelity, that earnest, honest, pure, clean work may bring glory to God. Nothing less will be accepted by Him. Our work in this world is to reveal the pure principles that are current in heaven. This is the only kind of work that will be acknowledged in the courts of heaven, and accepted as pure and holy by the Lord.
(11LtMs, Ms 28, 1896, 13)
Ms 29, 1896
For the Church at North Fitzroy North Fitzroy, Australia October 31, 1896, Sabbath Portions of this manuscript are published in OHC 131, 209; 4MR 411-412. +
I fear greatly for the church at North Fitzroy. The Lord has been working there. We have held morning meetings and feel thankful that there are some hungry souls who have desire to eat of the bread of life; that there are some who are receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit. Others who have not chosen to assemble with us have lost more than they have any idea of.
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 1)
When Christ was upon earth, the sick, both in body and soul, came to Him, and He healed them all. When the blind man came to Him, Christ touched His eyes; but he only received a partial restoration; he could not see all things clearly. Jesus then touched his eyes a second time and bade him to look up, and then he could see every man clearly. This is the work that needs to be done for this church. We may appoint meetings, as we have done, but many who have drawn the curtain of unbelief around their souls, and who walk in darkness, know not at what they stumble. And they refuse to come to the light, lest their deeds shall be reproved.
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 2)
To the Pharisees Christ said, “Ye will not come to me that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] Every soul needs the light and life that Christ alone can give, and more and more of this light will be given us as we improve the opportunities we have for obtaining it. But there are those who refuse the precious privilege brought within their reach, the opportunities for obtaining light and comfort and knowledge in heavenly things, who refuse to partake of the heavenly banquet prepared for them. But these are as accountable to God as if they had heard and rejected the message which He has sent them. Christ says of all such, “And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.” [John 3:19, 20.]
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 3)
Those who love Jesus and the truth will avail themselves of every privilege that God sends them by His servants. The stay-away argument only testifies against those who might, but will not, come, because they have no appreciation of the light. By these arguments they say, “We have no desire for reproofs, for warnings, or for consolation. Let us alone.”
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 4)
Many could not get to camp meeting, but the Lord has favored them with privileges that would be of the greatest benefit to them. All who desire light and knowledge may, through God’s appointed agencies, come and receive it. Murmurings and complainings and much talking will not bring happiness or grace, and yet many will not come to Jesus and find in His presence that rest and assurance that He has promised. The lesson that Christ desires all to learn of Him is, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 5)
The Lord is not unforgiving, that He will not forgive our mistakes. His great heart of pity and love is drawn out to all those who are blind and lose their way. And to those also who have led these souls into darkness, and have become blind leaders of the blind, His pity and forgiveness are extended. Do you want blind eyes opened? Then come to Jesus. He says, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in their midst.” [Matthew 18:20.] Jesus is in every assembly that has gathered together to learn of Him, to hear His Word. And He can make all see clearly. He never makes mistakes. But serious blunders are made because His people do not receive His counsel, but choose to go forward in the light of the sparks of their own kindling. These will lie down in sorrow if they do not come to Jesus and have their blind eyes opened. They will continue walking contrary to God’s will, not humble enough to bear Christ’s yoke, but [will] become helpless, withering branches that bear no fruit that God will accept.
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 6)
There has been enmity between God and your souls, and you will never become reconciled to Him by keeping away from Him. He has said, “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you.” [James 4:8.] Every soul must come and partake of the heavenly banquet for his individual self. All the precious things God that have been provided at such an infinite cost will do you no good, will not strengthen and invigorate you, and produce spiritual growth, unless you eat the words of God, and make them a part of yourself.
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 7)
There is need for the children of God, those who profess to be His servants, to awake. The words of Christ to them are, “Forsake not the assembling of yourselves together, as the manner of some is.” [Hebrews 10:25.] While we must maintain our personality and have our own personal experience, we must bear in mind that in religious gatherings the festal board is spread, the banquet set, for all, and that we cannot be benefited by the food, the Word of God, unless we partake of it ourselves, and make a practical application of it to our own souls. In doing this we shall be strengthened—soul, body, and spirit. Then every individual soul will reveal what the gospel is to him. Every song of praise will find a response in his heart. Every petition to God will lift his soul into a higher, holier atmosphere.
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 8)
Christ declared, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father; so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me.” [John 6:53-57.] No one can eat this flesh and drink this blood for another. Each must come to Christ with his own soul hunger, each must have his own convictions, feel his own soul’s need, and learn of Christ for himself.
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 9)
Tell Jesus your wants in the sincerity of your soul. You are not required to hold a long controversy with, or preach a sermon to God; but with a heart of sorrow for your sins, say, “Save me, Lord, or I perish.” [See Matthew 8:25.] There is hope for such souls. They will seek, they will ask, they will knock, and they will find. When Jesus has taken away the burden of sin that is crushing the soul, you will experience the blessedness of the peace of Christ. Then, filled with sacred joy and reverence, you will find words with which to tell the story of the Saviour’s wonderful love.
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 10)
The ministry of Christ has been portrayed in prophecy. Through the prophet Isaiah, Christ 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.]
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 11)
Christ did not come to the scribes and Pharisees. They were so thoroughly encased in self, so full of pride, of self-sufficiency, exalting their intellectual religion, and extolling their all-sufficient spirituality, that Christ could not reach them. They could not take in His words; they were to them as if in an unknown tongue. Although He was a light shining in the darkness, they comprehended Him not. Christ came to the meek and lowly, the broken hearted, the oppressed, and suffering of humanity. And His words were comprehended by this class, while they were unintelligible to the priest and rulers.
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 12)
God is seeking for the humble, contrite heart. “For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a humble and contrite spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” [Isaiah 57:15.] These understand the language of Jesus Christ, and every word He speaks is the right word in the right place.
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 13)
Christ charged those whom He healed to tell the good news in the home circle, but not to the world. He would not convert the world by His miracles. His work was to present the Word, that man might not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. His prayer for them was, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth.” [John 17:17.] And His words to Nicodemus were, “Marvel not that I say unto you, Ye must be born again.” [John 3:7.] Your will must be placed in subjection to the will of God. It is then that the restoration of the moral image of God in the human heart commences.
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 14)
God wants the gift of your whole heart just as it is. And He says, “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.” [Ezekiel 36:26.] God cannot work for a man who cherishes a perverse will. A self-serving will has shut away thousands from the kingdom of heaven. But when we place ourselves in the hands of the Lord without the least reservation, to be molded and fashioned after His similitude, God will work, and make our will complete in His will.
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 15)
Christ came from the heavenly courts to raise up workers, to be His messengers, co-operating with Him in presenting His message of mercy to the world. They are to be the ministers of His grace, in His service, and their hearts should throb in unison with the heart of Christ. It should be their meat and drink to do the will of Him who has called them to His service. If they are not advantaged in eternal things, of what value is the earthly to them?
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 16)
God calls for young men and young women who are strong. He will keep them by His power, and make them instruments through whom He can accomplish His great work of redemption. Consecration to the work will bring its reward. He lays the Christian under obligation to Him at every step. They are to put on the Lord Jesus Christ, making no provision for the flesh to fulfill the lusts thereof. Then let your cry be, “Teach me thy way, O God.” [Psalm 27:11.] Those who represent Christ to the world should be men of earnest prayer. The Lord will enable them to gain strength in their activity in the good work of the Lord. Wheresoever God’s Spirit or Providence may lead them, they should be ready to go. Their talents, their possessions, should not be counted as their own. They are stewards of the manifold grace of God, and servants to the Church for Christ’s sake.
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 17)
The work of the salvation of souls is to be carried forward in our world by aggressive warfare, in the midst of opposition, peril, loss, and human suffering. Christianity is to be wrought out in self-denying and cross-bearing. By His experience in our world the Lord did not mark out a path to heaven that is easy and flattering. He declared to His followers, “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 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.” [John 15:18-21.]
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 18)
Life is too precious to be trifled away. Therefore live the life of Christ. Express your gratitude to God for His great love for you by continual growth in grace. You are a branch in the living Vine, and you must daily draw nourishment from it. This will result in your bearing fruit.
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 19)
“But cannot I do as I please with myself?” asks one. You may try it at your cost; but you will find that the Lord, whose you are by creation and redemption, knows your case. He came to pay the redemption price to save you from eternal ruin. He knows the value of every soul He came to save. And He knows that if you will be obedient, you will have a life that is immortal, a treasure that is imperishable. Each individual has heavenly resources at his command, if he will by faith lay hold on the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour.
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 20)
“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High, shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” [Psalm 91:1.] The time has now come when we need to hide in the cleft of the Rock and view the character of God. Enoch walked with God 300 years. He reflected upon God, he contemplated His character, and his life was well-pleasing in the sight of God. And on the part of His children today there should be just such a meditation upon the Word of God. It should not only be read, but carefully studied, for it furnishes the only safe standard and guide in the formation of moral character and the only sure road to intellectual culture.
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 21)
“And these words which I command thee this day shall be in thine heart; and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and thou shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thine house, and upon thy gates.” [Deuteronomy 6:6-9.]
(11LtMs, Ms 29, 1896, 22)
Ms 30, 1896
The True Aim and Purpose of Christian Colleges NP October 3, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in 3SM 311; 2MR 220-221.
There is a great deficiency in our schools in the line of composition, writing, and bookkeeping. These are as essential for the practical life as the science of grammar. Bookkeeping should stand as one of the most important branches of education. There is not one in twenty who knows how to keep accounts correctly. Attention should also be given to reading, for this is a branch of study greatly neglected. It requires much training to be able to read properly. Through the lack of this training, one half of the force of the other instruction will be lost. Teachers who are not competent to give instruction in this line, and to teach correct pronunciation and where to place the emphasis, should become learners till they can read with proper emphasis, and with a full, clear, distinct tone of voice.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 1)
Those also who teach the Word of God to others should be taught how to read and speak impressively. Ministers who have but a short time to study should not place themselves under teachers who cannot discern the need of learning all that can be learned in a short time. Teachers who have a certain prescribed course, which they wish all to pursue with the same degree of thoroughness, are not the best for those whose time is limited. They go so deeply and minutely into subjects that it is impossible, without taking a regular course, to follow and derive much benefit.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 2)
The most precious moments of our ministers are nearly lost for the want of a teacher who can take in the situation and manage the matter judiciously, drilling them patiently and kindly in the branches most essential for practical use in their ministerial work. They need a special drill in reading and writing, and in keeping accounts correctly. Having learned the simple rules, they should bend their minds to the acquisition of knowledge in connection with their labor, so that they may be “workmen that need not be ashamed.” [2 Timothy 2:15.] They can master one branch of science after another, while they are engaged in the work of teaching the truth, if they will wisely employ their time. Golden moments are thrown away, in unimportant conversation, in indolence, and in doing those things that are of little consequence, that ought to be used every day in useful employment that will fit us more nearly to approach the high standard.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 3)
Self must in no case be exhibited. The good of the students should ever be kept in view; and the future immortal life, which it is their privilege to share, should never be sight of for a moment.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 4)
Teachers occupy a most solemn and important position in dealing with minds, and they should feel that they are working for time and for eternity. In no case should they lose sight of their responsibilities, or trifle with them. With dull scholars they will have a trial, and must bear patiently with their ignorance. With sensitive, nervous students they must deal tenderly and very patiently, remember that they are hereafter to meet these students before the judgment seat of Christ, and all the work done will be brought in review before God. God forbid that they should hear the fearful words, “I gave you charge of these youth, that you might have an opportunity to be My representative, showing forth My grace to them, in kindness of manner, in patience, in meekness, but you wasted the golden opportunity in practicing the lessons God required you to teach them, and thus souls are lost that might have been saved to do acceptable work for the Master.”
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 5)
I wish I could find language to express the importance of our college. All should feel that it is one of God’s instrumentalities to make known the knowledge of Himself to man. Our teachers, ministers, and professors may have the power of Christ ruling in their hearts and exemplified in their lives. The instructors may do a greater work than they have hitherto calculated upon. Minds are to be molded and character developed by interested experiment, which, by the help of Christ, will prove wholly successful. Let your work be blended with prayer and faith that God will honor your efforts. In the fear of God encourage and strengthen every endeavor to develop the highest faculties, even if it is marked with great imperfection.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 6)
The minds of many youth are rich in talents which are put to no available use, because they have lacked opportunity to develop them, and teachers have not felt the necessity of calling upon God for wisdom that they may discern the possibilities and probabilities of the youth. Their physical powers have been strengthened by exercise; but the faculties of the mind lie hidden, because the discernment and God-given tact of the educator have not been exercised in bringing them into use. Aids to self-development must be given to the youth. They must be drawn out, stimulated and encouraged and urged to action, and this from the highest consideration only, that they may glorify God.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 7)
Workers are needed all over the world. The truth of God is to be carried to foreign lands, that those who are in darkness may be enlightened. Work should be done, that will qualify the students to be laborers together with God.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 8)
God requires that a zeal be shown in this direction infinitely greater than has hitherto been manifested. As a people we are in some respects far behind in missionary work. We are not doing one twentieth part of the good we might accomplish in positions [of] trust, because selfishness prevails to a large extent among us. Some are envious of others, fearing that they will be more highly esteemed than themselves.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 9)
Cultivated intellects are now needed in every part of the work of God, for novices cannot do the work acceptably in unfolding the hidden treasure to enrich souls. God has devised that schools shall be an instrumentality for developing workers for Jesus Christ of whom He will not be ashamed, and this object must ever be kept in view. The height man may reach by proper culture has not hitherto been realized. We have among us more than an average of men of ability. If their capabilities were brought into use, we should have twenty ministers where we now have one. Physicians, too, would be educated to battle with disease. Cities and towns are steeped in sin, yet there are Lots in every Sodom. The poison of sin is at work at the heart of society. God calls for reformers to stand in defense of the laws He has established to govern the physical system, and to maintain an elevated standard in the training of the mind and the culture of the heart.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 10)
People must be educated to think for themselves; but even knowledge may a power for evil as well as good, just in accordance to the direction given to it. Therefore, men who are employed as instructors of the youth must be connected with God, must be men of wisdom. Students must be impressed with the fact that knowledge alone may be a power in the hands of those who educate to destroy. It was a very intelligent being, occupying a high position among the angelic throng, who finally became a rebel; and many a mind of superior intellectual attainments is now being led captive by his power. They have not made God their trust. The sanctified knowledge which God imparts is of the right quality, and will tell to the glory of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 11)
Brother _____ takes too many responsibilities upon himself. He is inclined to think that some portions of the work cannot be done so well by anybody else, and therefore he is constantly wearied and worn with work, and cannot do justice to it all. If he would lay some of the burdens upon others, he might be relieved. Others will never learn to bear responsibilities while he carries them himself. If they should not accomplish the result by the exact round he would have follows himself, he must not be discouraged, for everyone cannot work with his mind and brain. Each must have a mind of his own. If mistakes are made, he should finally point them out; but he should never exaggerate them, thus intimidating the one who is willing to help, so that he will not attempt the work again.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 12)
A teacher’s work is to educate and discipline. He will sometimes find blundering helpers, but he should not be so ungenerous as to make their errors appear in the worst light. There is danger of allowing the judgment to become warped by prejudice in talking over the defects of teachers and students. By working under this baleful influence, much harm is done. There has been a neglect to educate workers by patient training to bear burdens. Therefore talents have remained hidden which might have been growing and doubling.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 13)
Brother _____ has capabilities to excel as a teacher. By overcoming some deficiencies of character he may become an efficient minister. But difficulties attend his efforts in this direction. Unless great care is exercised, he will endanger his vocal organs. He will not have power of endurance to meet the changes and disadvantages which a minister of the gospel must meet. If Brother _____ will preserve his connection with God, relying wholly upon Him, emptying his soul temple from every defilement, aiming continually for a higher, holier standard, working in self-denial, practicing self-control, he will become an instrument of righteousness, and be a great blessing to the college and our institutions in Battle Creek.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 14)
The teachers in our college should feel that while sowing the seeds of knowledge they have the most favorable opportunity for sowing seeds of truth which shall spring up and blossom into fruit. The workers in this college should feel that they have the most important missionary field in the world. If the capabilities of all engaged in the work as instructors are used as God would have them [used], they will be most important missionaries for God.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 15)
It is a terrible fact, and one which should make the hearts of parents tremble, that the colleges to which our youth have been sent for the cultivation of the mind have endangered and almost ruined their morals. As innocent youth, when placed with hardened criminals, learn lessons of crime they never before dreamed of, so pure-minded young people, through association with teachers and pupils of corrupt habits, lose their purity of character and become vicious and debased. Parents should awake to their responsibilities and understand what they are doing in sending their children from home to colleges where there is danger of their becoming demoralized.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 16)
The college at Battle Creek should stand higher in moral tone than any other college in the land, that the safety of the children entrusted to her care may not be endangered. If teachers practice self-denial in the fear of God, working with the spirit of Christ for the salvation of the souls of the students, God will crown their efforts with marked success. God-fearing parents will be more concerned in regard to the characters their children bring home with them from college than in regard to the success and advancement made in their studies.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 17)
But while the teachers may work diligently and unselfishly, and Christians may exert what influence they can for the salvation of their fellow students, yet there will be those in every literary institution who will choose a course of evil, impenitence, and sin. All the world is being drawn to Christ, but all will not respond to His drawing. The way of truth, and the path of obedience and holiness, have no attractions for them! They are wedded to sin, their talents are sacrificed at the shrine of Satan.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 18)
In our college the ambition should not be so great to send forth intellectual giants, as to make a success in the holy work of educating men and women to cherish firm principles, and to live for the higher, immortal life. A line of Bible history should be the foundation of knowledge. The teachers in our college, from the highest to the lowest grade, should have a burden for the souls of the students. They should have a spirit of wrestling with God as did Jacob: “I will not let thee go except thou bless me.” [Genesis 32:26.] Such will be blessed in the work.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 19)
The work of a minister of the gospel cannot be more important than the work of a teacher in the college. Efforts should be made, not only to connect with the school those who can teach the sciences, but those who will be continually growing, and becoming better qualified for their position of trust. Teachers who become vain, careless, and worldly will not do for our work. Men are wanted who, knowing defects will stand in the way of their usefulness, will make most earnest effort to overcome them. This work has been too much neglected by the professors in our college. They are not advancing as they should and become adapted to the work.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 20)
Professor _____ does not bear the responsibilities he should. The errors of the past should prove [as] warnings to show the dangers of the future. Professor _____ is of a selfish nature and needs the continual grace of God in order to make the sufferings of others his very own. He should feel that he is dealing with the younger members of the Lord’s family, and should treat the students as he would Christ, in the person of His saints. Personal manners and Christian courtesy will be practiced as natural qualities of a pure elevated character.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 21)
There is danger of Pharisaical exactitude burdening the mind with worldly forms and customs which will, in many cases, become all-important, making a world of an atom, and an atom of a world. The grace of Christ, with its purifying, ennobling influence, will do more for us than all the worldly education upon education that is made so essential. To many, the externals are the sum total of religion, and yet it will be evidenced that the heart has not that genuine courtesy which alone is of value with God. If they are spoken to about their faults, they have so little Christian politeness that the minister whom God has sent with His message of warning is lost sight of in their effort to criticize his attitude, his gestures, and the formation of his sentences. They think themselves the paragons of wisdom, but they pay no heed to the words of God from the courts of heaven. To all such, God says that they will have to become fools in order to know the true wisdom of Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 22)
I was shown that our college was designed of God to accomplish the great and good work of saving souls. It is only when brought under the full control of the Spirit of God that the talents of an individual are rendered useful to the fullest extent. The precepts and principles of religion are the first steps in the acquisition of knowledge, and lie at the very foundation of true education. Knowledge and science must be vitalized by the Spirit of God in order to serve the noblest purposes. The Christian alone can make the right use of knowledge. Science, in order to be fully appreciated, must be viewed from a religious standpoint. Then all will worship the God of science.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 23)
The heart which is ennobled by the grace of God can best comprehend the real value of education. The attributes of God are seen in His created works, and can be appreciated only as we have a knowledge of the Creator. The teachers must be acquainted not only with the theory of the truth, but must have an experimental knowledge of the way of holiness, in order to lead the youth to the foundation of truth, to the Lamb of God who taketh away the sins of the world. Knowledge is power only when united with true piety. A soul emptied of self will be noble. Christ, abiding in the heart by faith, will make us wise in God’s sight.
(11LtMs, Ms 30, 1896, 24)
Ms 30a, 1896
Message for the Church at Ashfield Ashfield, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia October 4, 1896 [typed December 3, 1898] This manuscript is published in entirety in HM 11/1897.
According to appointment, I met with the church at Ashfield Sunday evening, October 4. W. C. White went to meet his appointment at Parramatta, and there was no one at Ashfield to assist me. I opened the meeting with prayer, and then I spoke to the people under the deep moving [of the] Spirit of God. I had a decided message from the Lord for the people. I could not but present before them their danger. There are many, who, though members of churches, are unconverted. But there is no excuse for any one remaining in a cold, lifeless state spiritually. Christ has warned us, “Be not ye the servants of men.” [1 Corinthians 7:23.] But there is danger that we will serve men instead of serving the Lord Jesus.
(11LtMs, Ms 30a, 1896, 1)
The Bible is God’s voice speaking to us just as surely as though we could hear him with our ears. The Word of the living God is not merely written, but spoken. Do we receive the Bible as the oracle of God? If we realized the importance of this Word, with what awe would we open it, and with what awe would we open it, and with what earnestness would we search its precepts. The reading and contemplation of the Scriptures would be regarded as an audience with the Most High.
(11LtMs, Ms 30a, 1896, 2)
God’s Word is a message to us to be obeyed, a volume to be pursued diligently, and with a spirit willing to take in the truths written for the admonition of those upon whom the ends of the world are come. It must not be neglected for any other book. If we do not the ways of God, we need converting. If we practice this Word, it will start an elevating influence on our mental, moral, and physical life. Eternal interests are involved in this work; the truth must do something for the receiver. Let us study and eat the Word of God; for we are built up from that which we eat. When we open the Bible, let us compare our lives with its requirements, measuring our character by the great moral standard of righteousness.
(11LtMs, Ms 30a, 1896, 3)
The message to the church at Ephesus is a close, decided, personal testimony to them for leaving their first love, and an earnest call to repentance, lest their candlestick be moved out of its place. We need to heed these words of warning, and repent of our sins. But you cannot depend upon ministers to come and help you, for they must go to places where the word of God has never been heard. The last message of mercy must be given to the world. The members of our churches must read and study the Word of God for themselves, praying to Him for light and strength.
(11LtMs, Ms 30a, 1896, 4)
It is not enough in the Christian life that few changes be made. The work of reform must be deep and thorough. True Christians will not close their eyes to their own defective characters. Wrong habits, which have been formed, must be changed. Much talking that in no way glorifies God is done by professed Christians. Many gossip over the faults committed by others; but those who do this do not engage in Christian conversation with the one they think in the wrong. They have no desire to meet him face to face and in a kindly, Christian way tell him his faults and pray with him, and then leave the whole matter with God.
(11LtMs, Ms 30a, 1896, 5)
As long as the members of a church in any locality shall feel at liberty to handle character as they have done in the past, and to act as judges of one another, God cannot bless them. We must keep off the enemy’s ground. He is the accuser of the brethren, and accuses them before God day and night. He tempts them to sin, and constantly leads them to transgress the law of God. Then he presents their defection and transgression as a reason why he should work his will to destroy them, and why God should not interpose His power against Satan’s power.
(11LtMs, Ms 30a, 1896, 6)
I tell you in the name of the Lord God of heaven that those who profess to believe the truth need that transformation of character that will build up and encourage the church, in the place of weakening and destroying it. Jesus is the Restorer; Satan is the destroyer. You cannot afford to sow one seed of doubt, for one seed of doubt sown will spring up in other minds and bear a harvest that you will not care to garner.
(11LtMs, Ms 30a, 1896, 7)
We have no time to spend in cultivating and cherishing our unlovely traits of character. The hour of grace is fast passing. Christ has borne long with the world, but the cup of long-deferred wrath is fast filling. God has given us light, great light. Have we walked in the light? Have we lived the light? Have not some, fully satisfied with their own unsanctified, irreligious lives, walked directly contrary to the light?
(11LtMs, Ms 30a, 1896, 8)
I would ask you to look back and review the history of your lives. How is it with you in your families? Have your words been true and kind and pure and edifying? Or have the words you have spoken been of a repining, complaining character? Have you gathered up the objectionable features and the defects in the characters of others, and made them apparent, while you yourselves were unholy and unsanctified in thought and word and action. There is great weakness where there should be strength.
(11LtMs, Ms 30a, 1896, 9)
Time is passing. Christ speaks to your individual hearts, as He spoke to Philip: “Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip?” [John 14:9.] But thank God it is not yet too late to repent. Mercy still lingers. Will you, in this your day, heed the words of invitation and mercy? Will you know the things which belong unto your peace? The gracious invitation is still sounding. The things which belong unto your peace are still presented to you for acceptance.
(11LtMs, Ms 30a, 1896, 10)
This generation is making itself guilty of the rejection of Christ. He presents invitations and warnings. Shall these solemn warnings be rejected? Bear in mind that if they are, you yourselves are responsible. “Ye will not come unto me, that ye might have life.” [John 5:40.] The world is rushing on madly, blindly, infatuated with amusements, with horse-racing and gambling, without a thought of the final retribution that is coming. Whole cities are being destroyed by fire and tempest. Is your house built securely on the solid rock?
(11LtMs, Ms 30a, 1896, 11)
As a church will you work intelligently and considerately for God? As sons and daughters of God, will you prove yourselves to be the light of the world, shining amid moral darkness? Will you keep the standard of truth uplifted, testifying to the pure light of truth by your words and your influence? Will you help one another? To be faithful stewards of the grace of God, will you build one another up in the most holy faith? Will you strive to strengthen those who are weak in the faith?
(11LtMs, Ms 30a, 1896, 12)
Some have a strong, masterly spirit for the wrong. They are dead weights, stumbling blocks in the pathway of others, causing them to fail in doing their God-appointed work for time and eternity. But shall the temple of the human soul be thus wrecked for eternity? Will not those in this house of worship rise up, in their God-given, moral independence and say, “I will no longer give God a divided heart? I will serve Him with undivided affections. I will no longer misrepresent His sacred truth. I will arise and shine. I will sanctify myself through the truth. I will obey the truth.” Will you not make this resolve today, [1896]? Will you not today pledge yourselves before God to seek him with all your heart, to cease from all evil speaking, to put away every trait of character that has dwarfed and crippled your religious life? Will you not resolve to be fully on the Lord’s side?
(11LtMs, Ms 30a, 1896, 13)
Pardon and peace are yours today if you will reach forth your hand and take them as the first gifts of God. If today, in simple faith and sincerity of soul, you cast yourselves prostrate before the mercy seat, you will receive the pardoning love of Jesus Christ. Notwithstanding your ingratitude and unthankfulness, and your resistance of warning and invitations, Jesus will receive you just as you are if you will receive Him. Henceforth, wearing His yoke and lifting the cross, you will be able to say, “I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me.” [Galatians 2:20.] Let it be recorded in the books of heaven that this day, October [1896], this church made a covenant with God by sacrifice.
(11LtMs, Ms 30a, 1896, 14)
I invited all who wanted to give themselves to God in a sacred covenant, and to serve Him with their whole hearts, to rise to their feet. The house was full, and nearly all rose. Quite a number not of our faith were present, and some of those arose. I presented them to the Lord in earnest prayer, and we know that we had the manifestation of the Spirit of God. We felt that a victory had indeed been gained.
(11LtMs, Ms 30a, 1896, 15)
Ms 31, 1896
Testimony Concerning the Views of Prophecy Held by Bro. John Bell, No. 1 Cooranbong, New South Wales, Australia November 8, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in 17MR 1-5.
I have not been able to sleep since half past one o’clock. I was bearing to Brother John Bell a message which the Lord has given me for him. The peculiar views he holds are a mixture of truth and error. If he had passed through the experience of God’s people as He had led them the last forty years, he would be better prepared to make the correct application of Scripture. The great waymarks of truth, showing us our bearings in prophetic history, are to be carefully guarded, lest they be torn down and replaced with theories that would bring confusion rather than genuine light. I have been cited to the various erroneous theories that have been presented over and over again. Those who advocated these theories presented Scripture quotations, but they misapplied and misinterpreted them. The theories supposed to be correct were incorrect, and yet many thought them the very theories to be brought before the people. The prophecies of Daniel and John are to be diligently studied.
(11LtMs, Ms 31, 1896, 1)
There are those now living who in studying the prophecies of Daniel and John, received great light from God as they passed over the ground where special prophecies were in process of fulfillment in their order. They bore the message of time to the people. The truth shone out clearly as the sun at noonday. Historical events, showing the direct fulfillment of prophecy, were set before the people, and the prophecy was seen to be a figurative delineation of events leading down to the close of this earth’s history. The scenes connected with the working of the man of sin are the last features plainly revealed in this earth’s history. The people now have a special message to give to the world, the third angel’s message. Those who, in their experience, have passed over the ground acted a part in the proclamation of the first, second, and third angel’s messages are not so liable to be led into false paths as are those who have not had an experimental knowledge of the people of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 31, 1896, 2)
God’s people are to warn the world to prepare for the second appearing of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, who is coming with power and great glory, when the cry of peace and safety is being sounded from every part of the Christian world, and the sleeping church and the world will be asking in scorn, “Where is the promise of his coming? ... All things continue as they were from the beginning.” [2 Peter 3:4.]
(11LtMs, Ms 31, 1896, 3)
Christ was taken up into heaven in a cloud composed of living angels. The angels declared to the men of Galilee, “Why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus which is taken up from you into heaven shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.” [Acts 1:11.] This is the great event to be contemplated and talked of. The declaration of the angels was that He should come in the same manner as He went up into heaven.
(11LtMs, Ms 31, 1896, 4)
And the second appearing of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ is to be kept fresh before the minds of the people. Let all understand this. Jesus is coming again. The same Jesus that ascended into heaven, escorted by the heavenly host, is coming again. The same Jesus who has been our Advocate, our Friend at court, pleading the cases of all who accept Him as their Saviour, will come the second time to be admired in all them that believe.
(11LtMs, Ms 31, 1896, 5)
There have been one and another who in studying their Bibles thought they discovered great light, and new theories, but these theories have not been correct. The Scripture is all true, but by misapplying Scripture men arrive at wrong conclusions. We are engaged in a mighty conflict, and it will become more close and determined as we near the final struggle. We have a sleepless adversary, and he is constantly at work upon human minds [that] have not had a personal experience in the teachings of the people of God for the last fifty years. Some will take the truth applicable for that time, and place it in the future. Events in the chain of prophecy that had their fulfillment away in the past are made future, and thus by these theories the faith of some is undermined.
(11LtMs, Ms 31, 1896, 6)
From the light that the Lord has been pleased to give me, you are in danger of doing the same work, presenting before others truths which have had their place, and done their specific work for the time, in the history of the faith of the people of God. You recognize these facts in Bible history as true, but apply them to the future. They have their force still in their proper place, in the chain of events that have made us as a people what we are today, and as such, they are to be presented to those who are in the darkness of error.
(11LtMs, Ms 31, 1896, 7)
The true workers with Jesus Christ are to co-operate with their brethren who have had an experience in the work from the very rise of the third angel’s message. These followed on step by step receiving light and truth as they advanced, bearing one test after another, lifting the cross that lay directly in their pathway, and pressing on to know the Lord, whose goings forth are prepared as the morning. You and others of our brethren must accept the truth as God has given it to His students of prophecy, as they have been led by a genuine, living experience, advancing point by point, tested, proved, and tried, until the truth is to them a reality. From their voices and pens the truth in bright, warm rays has gone to all parts of the world. And that which was to them testing truth, as brought by the Lord’s delegated messengers, is testing truth to all to whom this message is proclaimed.
(11LtMs, Ms 31, 1896, 8)
The burden of the warning now to come to the people of God, nigh and afar off, is the third angel’s message. And those who are seeking to understand this message will not be led by the Lord to make an application of the Word that will undermine the foundation and remove the pillars of the faith that has made Seventh-Day Adventists what they are today. The truths that have been unfolding in their order, as we have advanced along the line of prophecy revealed in the Word of God, are truth, sacred, eternal truth today. Those who passed over the ground step by step in the past history of our experience, seeing the chain of truth in the prophecies, were prepared to accept and obey every ray of light. They were praying, fasting, searching, digging for the truth as for hidden treasures, and the Holy Spirit, we know, was teaching and guiding us.
(11LtMs, Ms 31, 1896, 9)
Many theories were advanced, bearing a semblance of truth, but so mingled with misinterpreted and misapplied Scriptures that they led to dangerous errors. Very well do we know how every point of truth was established, and the seal set upon it by the Holy Spirit of God. And all the time voices were heard, “Here is the truth.”“I have the truth; follow me.” But the warnings came, “Go not ye after them. I have not sent them, but they ran.” [See Luke 21:8; Jeremiah 23:21.]
(11LtMs, Ms 31, 1896, 10)
The leadings of the Lord were marked, and most wonderful were His revelations of what is truth. Point after point was established by the Lord God of heaven. That which was truth then, is truth today. But the voices do not cease to be heard, “This is truth. I have new light.” But these new lights in prophetic lines are manifest in misapplying the Word and setting the people of God adrift without an anchor to hold them. If the student of the Word would take the truth which God has revealed in the leadings of His people, and appropriate these truth, digest them, and bring them into their practical life, they would then be living channels of light. But those who have set themselves to study out new theories have a mixture of truth and error combined, and after trying to make these things prominent, have demonstrated that they have not kindled their taper from the divine altar, and it has gone out in darkness.
(11LtMs, Ms 31, 1896, 11)
According to the light God has given me, you are on the same track. That which appears to you to be a chain of truth is, in come lines misplacing the prophecies and counterworking that which God has revealed as truth. The third angel’s message is our burden to the people. It is the gospel of peace and righteousness and truth. Here is our work, to stand firmly to proclaim this. We need now to have every piece of the armor on.
(11LtMs, Ms 31, 1896, 12)
Ms 32, 1896
Testimony Concerning The Views Of Prophecy Held By Brother John Bell, No. 2 NP December 6, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in 17MR 6-23. +
The proclamation of the first, second, and third angels’ messages had been located by the Word of Inspiration. Not a peg or pin is to be removed. No human authority has any more right to change the location of these messages than to substitute the New Testament for the Old. The Old Testament is the gospel in figures and symbols. The New Testament is the substance. One is as essential as the other. The Old Testament presents lessons from the lips of Christ, and these lessons have not lost their force in any particular.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 1)
The first and second messages were given in 1843 and 1844, and we are now under the proclamation of the third; but all three of the messages are still to be proclaimed. It is just as essential now as ever before that they shall be repeated to those who are seeking for the truth. By pen and voice we are to sound the proclamation, showing their order and the application of the prophecies that bring us to the third angel’s message. There cannot be a third without the first and second. These messages we are to give to the world in publications, in discourses, showing in the line of prophetic history the things that have been, and the things that will be.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 2)
The book that was sealed was not the book of Revelation, but that portion of the prophecy of Daniel which related to the last days. The Scripture says, “But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.” [Daniel 12:4.] When the book was opened, the proclamation was made, “Time shall be no longer.” [Revelation 10:6.] The book of Daniel is now unsealed, and the revelation made by Christ to John is to come to all the inhabitants of the earth. By the increase of knowledge a people is to be prepared to stand in the latter days.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 3)
“And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of water.” [Revelation 14:6, 7.]
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 4)
This message, if heeded, will call the attention of every nation and kindred and tongue and people to a close examination of the Word, and to the true light in regard to the power that has changed the seventh-day Sabbath to a spurious sabbath. The only true God has been forsaken, His law has been discarded, His sacred Sabbath institution has been trampled in the dust by the man of sin. The fourth commandment, so plain and explicit, has been ignored. The Sabbath memorial, declaring who the living God is, the Creator of the heavens and the earth, has been torn down, and a spurious sabbath has been given to the world in its place. Thus a breach has been made in the law of God. A false sabbath could not be a true standard.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 5)
In the first angel’s message men are called upon to worship God, our Creator, who made the world and all things that are therein. They have paid homage to an institution of the Papacy, making of no effect the law of Jehovah, but there is to be an increase of knowledge on this subject.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 6)
The message proclaimed by the angel flying in the midst of heaven is the everlasting gospel, the same gospel that was declared in Eden when God said to the serpent, “I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.” [Genesis 3:15.] Here was the first promise of a Saviour that would stand on the field of battle to contest the power of Satan and prevail against him. Christ came to our world to represent the character of God as it is represented in His holy law, for His law is a transcript of His character. Christ was both the law and the gospel. The angel that proclaims the everlasting gospel proclaims the law of God; for the gospel of salvation brings men to obedience of the law, whereby their characters are formed after the divine similitude.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 7)
In the 58th chapter of Isaiah, the work of those who worship God, the Maker of the heavens and the earth, is specified: “They that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations.” God’s memorial, His seventh-day Sabbath, will be uplifted. “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 (no longer trample it under your feet), 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 12-14.]
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 8)
The history of the church and the world, the loyal and the disloyal, is here plainly revealed. The loyal, have turned their feet into the way of God’s commandments, to respect, to honor and glorify Him who created the heavens and the earth. The opposing forces have dishonored God by making a breach in His law, and when light from His Word has called attention to His holy commandments, revealing the breach made in the law by the papal authority, then, to get rid of conviction, men have tried to destroy the whole law. But could they destroy it? No; for all who will search the Scriptures for themselves will see that the law of God stands immutable, eternal, and His memorial, the Sabbath, will endure through eternal ages, pointing to the only true God in distinction from all false gods.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 9)
Satan has been persevering and untiring in his efforts to prosecute the work he began in heaven, to change the law of God. He has succeeded in making the world believe the theory he presented in heaven before his fall, that the law of God was faulty, and needed revising. A large part of the professed Christian church, by their attitude, if not by their words, show that they have accepted the same error. But if in one jot or title the law of God has been changed, Satan has gained on earth that which he could not gain in heaven. He has prepared his delusive snare, hoping to take captive the church and the world. But not all will be taken in the snare. A line of distinction is being drawn between the children of obedience and the children of disobedience, the loyal and true and the disloyal and untrue. Two great parties are developed, the worshipers of the beast and his image, and the worshipers of the true and living God.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 10)
The message of (Revelation 14), proclaiming that the hour of God’s judgment is come, is given in the time of the end; and the angel of (Revelation 10) is represented as having one foot on the sea and one foot on the land, showing that the message will be carried to distant lands, the ocean will be crossed, and the islands of the sea will hear the proclamation of the last message of warning to our world.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 11)
“And the angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to heaven, and sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer.” [Verses 5, 6.] This message announces the end of the prophetic periods. The disappointment of those who expected to see our Lord in 1844 was indeed bitter to those who had so ardently looked for His appearing. It was in the Lord’s order that this disappointment should come, and that hearts should be revealed.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 12)
Not one cloud has fallen upon the church that God has not prepared for; not one opposing force has risen to counterwork the work of God but He has foreseen. All has taken place as He has predicted through His prophets. He has not left His church in darkness, forsaken, but has traced in prophetic declarations what would occur, and through His providence, acting in its appointed place in the world’s history, He has brought about that which His Holy Spirit inspired the prophets to foretell. All His purposes will be fulfilled and established. His law is linked with His throne, and satanic agencies combined with human agencies cannot destroy it. Truth is inspired and guarded by God; it will live, and will succeed, although it may appear at times to be overshadowed. The gospel of Christ is the law exemplified in character. The deceptions practiced against it, every device for vindicating falsehood, every error forged by satanic agencies, will eventually be eternally broken, and the triumph of truth will be like the appearing of the sun at noon day. The Sun of Righteousness shall shine forth with healing in His wings, and the whole earth shall be filled with His glory.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 13)
All that God has in prophetic history specified to be fulfilled in the past has been, and all that is yet to come in its order will be. Daniel, God’s prophet, stands in his place. John stands in his place. In the Revelation the Lion of the tribe of Judah has opened to the students of prophecy the book of Daniel, and thus is Daniel standing in his place. He bears his testimony, that which the Lord revealed to him in vision of the great and solemn events which we must know as we stand on the very threshold of their fulfillment.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 14)
In history and prophecy the Word of God portrays the long, continued conflict between truth and error. That conflict is yet in progress. Those things which have been, will be repeated. Old controversies will be revived, and new theories will be continually arising. But God’s people, who in their belief and fulfillment of prophecy have acted a part in the proclamation of the first, second, and third angels’ messages, know where they stand. They have an experience that is more precious than fine gold. They are to stand firm as a rock, holding the beginning of their confidence steadfast unto the end.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 15)
A transforming power attended the proclamation of the first and second angels’ messages, as it attends the message of the third angel. Lasting convictions were made upon human minds. The power of the Holy Spirit was manifested. There was diligent study of the Scriptures, point by point. Almost entire nights were devoted to earnest searching of the Word. We searched for the truth as for hidden treasures. The Lord revealed Himself to us. Light was shed on the prophecies, and we knew that we received divine instruction.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 16)
This scripture expresses something of the exercises we were passing through: “Bow down thine ear, and hear the words of the wise, and apply thine heart unto my knowledge. For it is a pleasant thing if thou keep them within thee; they shall withal be fitted in thy lips. That thy trust may be in the Lord, I have made known to thee this day, even to thee. Have not I written to thee excellent things in counsels and knowledge, that I might make thee know the certainty of the words of truth; that thou mightest answer the words of truth to them that send unto thee?” [Proverbs 22:17-21.]
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 17)
After the great disappointment there were few who set themselves to seek the Word with all their heart. But some souls would not settle down in discouragement and deny that the Lord had led them. To these the truth was opened point by point, and entwined with their most hallowed recollections and sympathies. The searchers after truth felt that the identification of Christ with their nature and interest was complete. Truth was made to shine forth, beautiful in its simplicity, dignified with a power and invested with an assurance unknown before the disappointment. We could then proclaim the message in unity. But among those who had not held fast their faith and experience, there was great confusion. Every conceivable opinion was presented as the message of truth; but the Lord’s voice was, “Believe them not; for I have not sent them.” [See Jeremiah 12:6; 27:15.]
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 18)
We walked carefully with God. The message was to be given to the world, and we knew that this present light was the special gift of God. The impartation of this gift was the prerogative of God. His disappointed ones, who were still seeking after truth, were led step by step to communicate to the world that which had been communicated to them. The prophetic declarations were to be repeated, and the truth essential for salvation was to be made known. The work moved hard at first. Often the hearers rejected the message as unintelligible, and the conflict began in decided earnest, especially upon the Sabbath question. But the Lord manifested His presence. At times the veil which concealed His glory from our eyes was drawn aside. We beheld Him in the high and holy place.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 19)
The Lord will not lead minds now to set aside the truth that the Holy Spirit has moved upon His servants in the past to proclaim.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 20)
Many will honestly search the Word for light as those in the past have searched it; and they see light in the Word. But they did not pass over the ground, in their experience, when these messages of warning were first proclaimed. Not having had this experience, some do not appreciate the value of the truths that have been to us as waymarks, and that have made us as a people what we are. They do not make a right application of the Scriptures, and thus they frame theories that are not correct. It is true that they quote an abundance of Scripture, and teach much that is true; but truth is so mixed with error as to lead to wrong conclusions. Yet because they can weave Scripture into their theories, they think they have a straight chain of truth. Many who did not have an experience in the rise of the messages, accept these erroneous theories, and are led into false paths, backward instead of forward.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 21)
Satan is working that the history of the Jewish nation may be repeated in the experience of those who claim to believe present truth. The Jews had the Old Testament Scriptures, and supposed themselves conversant with them. But they made a woeful mistake. The prophecies that refer to the glorious second appearing of Christ in the clouds of heaven they regarded as referring to His first coming. Because He did not come according to their expectations, they turned away from Him. Satan knew just how to take these men in his net, and deceive and destroy them.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 22)
Sacred, eternal truths had been given them in trust for the world. The treasures of the law and the gospel, united as closely as the Father is united with the Son, were to be presented to all the world. The prophet declares, “For Zion’s sake will I not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, until the righteousness thereof go forth as brightness, and the salvation thereof as a lamp that burneth. And the Gentiles shall see thy righteousness, and all kings thy glory: and thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of the Lord shall name. Thou shalt also be a crown of glory in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God.” [Isaiah 62:1-3.] This is that which the Lord had spoken concerning Jerusalem. But when Jesus came to our world just as prophecy had declared He would come, His divinity clothed with humanity, with majesty and lowliness combined, His mission was misunderstood. The delusive hope for a temporal prince led to misapplication of Scripture.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 23)
Jesus came as an infant of days, of poor parentage. But there were some who were willing to receive the heavenly Guest. For these the angel messengers veiled their glory, and the heavenly chorus rang over the hills of Bethlehem with Hosannas to the newborn King. The humble shepherds believed Him, received Him, and worshiped Him. But the very ones who ought to have been the first to welcome Jesus did not discern Him. He was not the one their ambitious hopes desired. The false path they had entered, they continued to follow to the end. They became unteachable, self-righteous, and self-sufficient, fancying they possessed true light and that they were the only safe instructors of the people.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 24)
The very same Satan is at work to undermine the faith of the people of God at this time. There are persons ready to catch up every new idea. The prophecies of Daniel and the Revelation are misinterpreted. These persons do not consider that the truth has been set forth at the appointed time by the very men whom God was leading These men followed on step by step in the of prophecy, and those who have not had a personal experience in this work are to take the Word of God and believe on “their word” [John 17:20] who have been led by the Lord in the proclamation of the first, second, and third angels’ messages. These messages, received and acted upon, are doing their work to prepare a people to stand in the great day of God. If we search the Scriptures to confirm the truth God has given His servants for the world, we shall be found proclaiming the first, second, and third angels’ messages.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 25)
It is true that there are prophecies yet to be fulfilled. But very erroneous work has been done again and again, and will continue to be done by those who seek to find new light in the prophecies, and who begin by turning away from the light that God has already given. The messages of (Revelation 14) are those by which the world is to be tested, they are the everlasting gospel, and are to be sounded everywhere. But the Lord does not lay upon those who have not had an experience in His work the burden of making a new exposition of these prophecies, which He has, by His Holy Spirit, moved upon His chosen servants to explain.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 26)
According to the light God has given me, this is the work which you, Brother John Bell, have been attempting to do. Your views have found favor with some, but it is because these persons have not discernment to see the true bearing of the arguments you present. They have had but a limited experience in the work for this time, and they do not see where your views would lead them, They are ready to assent to your statements; they see nothing in them but that which is correct. But they are misled because you have woven together much Scripture in constructing your theory. Your arguments appear conclusive to them.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 27)
Not so, however, with those who have an experimental knowledge of the truth that applies in the last period of this earth’s history. While they see that you hold some precious truth, they see also that you have misapplied Scripture, placing it in a framework and making it give force to that which is not present truth. Because some accept that which you have written, do not become elated. It is most trying to your brethren who have confidence in you as a Christian, and who love you as such, to state to you that the network of argument which you have thought of so great consequence is not the theory of truth that God has given His people to proclaim for this time.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 28)
The light God has given me is that the Scriptures you have woven together you yourself do not fully understand. If you did, you would discern that your theories tear up the very foundation of our faith.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 29)
My brother, I have had many testimonies to correct those who have started out in the same way you are now travelling. These persons seemed sure that they were led by God, and they have come with their different theories to ministers who were preaching the truth. I said to these ministers, “The Lord is not in this; be not deceived, neither take the responsibility of deceiving others.” At camp meetings I have had to speak plainly in regard to those who were thus leading away from right paths. With pen and voice I have borne the message, “Go not after them.” [Luke 17:23.]
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 30)
The hardest task I ever had to do in this line was in dealing with one who, I knew, wanted to follow the Lord. For some time he had thought he was obtaining new light. He was very ill, and must soon die. And O, how my heart hoped he would not make it necessary for me to tell him just what he was doing. Those to whom he presented his views listened to him eagerly, and some thought him inspired. He had a chart made, and reasoned from the Scriptures to show that the Lord would come at a certain date, in 1894, I think. To many, his reasoning seemed to be without a flaw. They told of his powerful exhortations Most wonderful views passed before him. But what was the source of his inspiration? It was the morphine given him to relieve his pain.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 31)
At our camp meeting at Lansing, Michigan, just before I came to Australia, I had to speak plainly in regard to this new light. I told the people that the words they had heard were not the truth of inspiration. The wonderful light, which presented such a show of truth, was the result of a misapplication of Scripture. The Lord’s work would not close up in 1894. The word of the Lord to me was, “This is not truth, but will lead into strange paths, and some will become confused over this representation, and will give up the faith.”
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 32)
Other persons have written to me of most flattering views which have been presented to them, and some have had them put in print. A new life has seemed to stir them; they are full of zeal; but the word comes to me as it has come to me in regard to the theories you hold, “Believe them not.” [Jeremiah 12:6.] You have a mixture of truth and error, so combined that you think it all genuine. Here is where the Jews stumbled. They wove a fabric that appeared to them a beautiful thing, but it led them to refuse the light Christ brought to them. They thought they had great light, and in that light they walked, and rejected the pure, true light which Christ had come to give. Intensity is taking possession of minds, urging them into different ventures, which lead them they know not where.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 33)
No one has a true message fixing the time when Christ is to come or not to come. Be assured that God gives no one authority to say that Christ delays His coming five years, ten years, or twenty years. “Be ye also ready; for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” [Matthew 24:44.] This is our message, the very message that the three angels flying in the midst of heaven are proclaiming. The work to be done now is that of sounding this last message of mercy to a fallen world. A new life is coming from heaven and taking possession of all God’s people. But divisions will come in the church. Two parties will be developed. The wheat and tares grow up together for the harvest.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 34)
The work will grow deeper and become more earnest to the very close of time. And all who are laborers together with God will contend most earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints. They will not be turned from the present message, which is already lightening the earth with its glory. Nothing is worth contending for but the glory of God. The only rock that will stand is the Rock of Ages. The truth as it is in Jesus is the refuge in these days of error.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 35)
God has warned His people of the perils before them. John beholds the things which will be in the last days, and he sees a people working counter to God. Read Revelation 12:17; 14:10-12; [and] chapters 17 and 13. John sees the company who have been deceived. He says, “I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.” [Revelation 16:13-15.]
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 36)
From those who have rejected truth, the light of God has departed. They did not heed the message of the True Witness, “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.” [Revelation 3:18.] But that message will do its work, and a people will be prepared to stand without fault before God. John beheld this company, and he says, “Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honor to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white; for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.” [Revelation 19:7, 8.]
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 37)
Prophecy has been fulfilling, line upon line. The more firmly we stand under the banner of the third angel’s message, the more clearly shall we understand the prophecy of Daniel, for the Revelation is the supplement of Daniel. The more fully we accept the light presented by the Holy Spirit through the consecrated servants of God, the deeper and surer, even as the eternal throne, will appear the truths of ancient prophecy; we shall be assured that men of God spake as they were moved upon by the Holy Ghost. Men must themselves be under the influence of the Holy Spirit in order to understand the Spirit’s utterances through the prophets. These messages were given, not for those that uttered the prophecies, but for us who are living amid the scenes of their fulfillment.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 38)
I would not feel that I could present these things if the Lord had not given me this work to do. There are others besides yourself, and more than one or two, who like you think they have new light, and are all ready to present it to the people. But it would be pleasing to God for them to accept the light already given and walk in it, and base their faith upon the Scriptures, which sustain the positions held by the people of God for many years. The everlasting gospel is to be proclaimed by human agents. We are to sound the messages of the angels which are represented as flying in midst of heaven, with the last warning to a fallen world. If we are not called upon to prophesy, we are called to believe the prophecies, and to co-operate with God in giving light to other minds. This we are trying to do.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 39)
You can help us, my brother, in many ways. But I am commissioned of the Lord to say to you that you are not to be self-centered. Take heed how you hear, how you understand, and how you appropriate the Word of God. The Lord will bless you in drawing in even lines with your brethren. Those whom He has sent forth to proclaim the third angel’s message have been working in unison with heavenly intelligences. The Lord does not lay upon you a burden to proclaim a message that will bring discord into the ranks of believers. I repeat, He is not leading anyone by His Holy Spirit to frame a theory that will unsettle faith in the solemn messages He has given His people to bear to our world.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 40)
I advise you not to regard your writings as precious truth. It would not be advisable for you to immortalize by putting in print that which has cost you so much anxiety. It is not the Lord’s will that this matter should be brought before His people, for it will work to hinder the very message of truth they are to believe and practice in these last days of peril.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 41)
The Lord Jesus said to His disciples when He was with them, “I have many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.” [John 16:12.] He could have made disclosures which would have absorbed the attention of the disciples and caused them to lose sight of His former instruction that He wished to be the subject of their most earnest thought. But He withheld those things which they would have been amazed to hear, and which would have afforded them opportunity to cavil, to create misunderstanding and disaffection. He would give no occasion for persons of little faith and piety to mystify and misrepresent the truth, and thus create factions.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 42)
Jesus could have presented mysteries which would have given subject for thought and investigation for generations, even to the close of time. Himself the source of all true science, He could have led men to the and age after age their minds would have been so thoroughly absorbed that they would have felt no desire to eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 43)
Jesus well knew that Satan is constantly working to excite curiosity, and busy men with conjecture. Thus he seeks to eclipse the grand and momentous truth which Christ wished to be ever prominent before their minds. “For this is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.]
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 44)
There is a lesson for us in those words of Christ spoken after the feeding of the five thousand. He said, “Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost.” [John 6:12.] These words meant more than that the disciples should gather the broken pieces of bread into baskets. Jesus meant that they should mark His words, should study the Scriptures, and treasure every ray of light. Instead of searching for a knowledge of something that God had not revealed, they were carefully to gather up what He had given them.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 45)
Satan had tried to eclipse from human minds the knowledge of God, and to eradicate from their hearts the attributes of God. Man was seeking out many inventions, from which he supposed that he himself had originated, and he thought himself wiser than God. That which God had revealed was misconstrued, misapplied, and mingled with satanic delusions. Satan will quote Scripture in order to deceive. He tried to deceive Christ in this way. So he still tries to deceive men. He will lead them to misconstrue the Scriptures, and make them testify to falsehood. Christ came to adjust truths that had been misplaced and made to serve the cause of error. He recalled them, repeated them, placed them in their proper position in the framework of truth, and bade them stand fast for ever. Thus was it with the law of God, with the Sabbath, and with the marriage institution. We are to study His example. Satan seeks to obliterate everything that would keep the true God in remembrance, but the followers of Christ are to treasure up what God has revealed. No truth of His word, opened to them by His Spirit, is to be set aside.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 46)
Theories will be continually agitated to divert the mind, to unsettle the faith. Those who have had the actual experience in the unfolding of the prophecies, have been made what they are today, Seventh-day Adventists, by these prophecies. They are to stand with their loins girt about with truth, and with the whole armor on. Those who have not had this experience are privileged to hold the message of truth with the same confidence. The light that God has been pleased to give His people will not weaken their confidence in the path in which He has led them but will strengthen them to hold fast the faith. We must hold the beginning of our confidence firm unto the end.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 47)
“Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.] Here we stand, under the third angel’s message. “And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.” [Revelation 18:1-5.]
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 48)
Thus the substance of the second angel’s message is again given to the world by that other angel who lightens the earth with his glory. These messages all blend in one, to come before the people in the closing days of this earth’s history. All the world will be tested, and all that have been in the darkness of error in regard to the Sabbath of the fourth commandment will understand the last message of mercy that is to be given to men.
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 49)
Our work is to proclaim the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. “Prepare to meet thy God” is the warning to be given to the world. [Amos 4:12.] It is a warning to us individually. We are called upon to lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us. There is a work for you, my brother, to do, to yoke up with Christ. Make sure that your building is on the rock. Do not risk eternity on a probability. You may not live to participate in the perilous scenes on which we are now entering. The life of no one of us is assured for any given time. Should you not watch every moment? Should you not closely examine your own self, and inquire, What will eternity be to me?
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 50)
The great burden of every soul should be, Is my heart renewed? Is my soul transformed? Are my sins pardoned through faith in Christ? Have I been born again? Am I complying with the invitation, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] Do you count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus? And do you feel it your duty to believe every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God?
(11LtMs, Ms 32, 1896, 51)
Ms 32a, 1896
Prepare to Meet the Lord NP 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in 18MR 57-64.
A crisis has arrived in the government of God on earth. The enmity to God has struck it roots deep in human hearts. It has become widespread, both in the world and in the professed churches of Christ. The world and the professed people of God are united by the all-pervading principle of aversion to God’s government. Their opposition to the law of God is sufficient to bind them together, to bear together the burden of their accumulated guilt. Any indication of returning to loyalty and obedience to God is denounced as treachery against the confederacy of disloyalty. A wakeful impiety is quickened into an instinctive vigilance, and rouses to demonstration of hatred against the testing truth for this time. Wherever the truth shall be proclaimed, it will be opposed in a decided manner, for men possess the attributes which Jesus charged upon the Jews when He said, “Ye are of your father the devil,” and “ye do the deeds of your father.” [John 8:44, 41.]
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 1)
Everything has been moving on just as the Lord has revealed in prophecy that it would. Something great and decisive is soon to take place, else no flesh would be saved. The character of God will not be compromised. Under the wrath of God, universal desolation will soon reach all parts of the known world. There have been lightnings and earthquakes, fires and floods, calamities by sea and by land; but who reads these warnings? What impression is made upon the world? What change in their attitude is seen? No more than was seen in the inhabitants of the Noachic world. The people are just as ardent today in their games, in the horse racing, in their love of amusement, as were the antediluvians, who “knew not until the flood came, and took them all away.” [Matthew 24:39.] They had heaven-sent warnings, but refused to listen. By their attitude they declared, We want not thy way, O God; we want our own way, our own will.
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 2)
Today the world is made, and insanity is upon them, which is hurrying them on to eternal ruin. Every species of indulgence prevails, and men become so infatuated with vice that they will not listen to warnings or appeals. The Lord declares, to the people of the earth, “Choose you this day whom ye will serve.” [Joshua 24:15.] All are now deciding their eternal destiny. Men need to be aroused to realize the solemnity of the time, and the nearness of the day when human probation shall be ended.
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 3)
God gives no man a message that it will be five or ten or twenty years before this earth’s history shall close. If it were forty or one hundred years, the Lord would not authorize men to proclaim it. He would not give any living being an excuse for delaying the preparation for His appearing. He would have no one say, as did the unfaithful servant, “My Lord delayeth his coming” [Matthew 24:48] for this leads to reckless neglect of opportunities and privileges to prepare for that great day. Every soul who claims to be a servant of God is called to do His service as if every day might be the last.
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 4)
Let all who would cooperate with God unite in proclaiming the present truth, the message of the third angel: “If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation, and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the Holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb; and the smoke of their torment ascendeth up forever and ever, and they have no rest day nor night who worship the beast and his image, and whose receiveth the mark of his name.” Then the eyes of John rest upon God’s people, and he exclaims, “Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:9-12.]
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 5)
“And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors, and their works do follow them. And I looked, and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a sharp sickle. And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in thy sickle, and reap; for the time is come for thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe.” [Verses 13-15.] Read the following verses, 16-20; also chapter 15. Let all these things be the subject of mediation.
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 6)
The words of Christ have a direct application to this time, “Watch therefore; for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. Therefore be ye also ready; for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. Who then is that faithful and wise servant, ... whom his Lord when he cometh shall find so doing? Verily I say unto you, that he shall make him ruler over all his goods.” [Matthew 24:42-47.]
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 7)
Let everyone to whom the Lord has given light from His Word be sure that he makes a right use of that light. Let him be guarded that he does not presume to feed the flock of God with food that is not appropriate for the time.
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 8)
“Lift up your voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins.” [Isaiah 58:1.] Talk of the speedy appearing of the Son of man in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. Put not off that day. God has given no man light to say, “My Lord delayeth his coming.” [Matthew 24:48.] Let the inquiry be made, Shall I stand at the right hand or at the left hand of the Judge at that day? “Seeing all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness.” [2 Peter 3:11.]
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 9)
“But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My Lord delayeth his coming, and shall begin to smite his fellow servants”—how? by his words, by expressing suspicion, by his evil thinking and evil speaking. It is thus that confidence is changed to doubt and unbelief—“and to eat and drink with the drunken; the lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of. And shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” [Matthew 24:48-51.]
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 10)
It is essential that all shall know what atmosphere surrounds their own souls, whether they are in co-partnership with the enemy of righteousness, and unconsciously doing his work, or whether they are linked up with Christ, doing his work, and seeking to establish souls more firmly in the truth.
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 11)
Satan would be pleased to have any one and every one become his allies to weaken the confidence of brother in brother, and to sow discord among those who profess to believe the truth. Satan can accomplish his purposes most successfully through professed friends of Christ who are not walking and working in Christ’s lines. Those who in mind and heart are turning away from the Lord’s special work for this time, those who do not co-operate with Him in establishing souls in the faith by leading them to heed His words of warning, are doing the work of the enemy of Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 12)
It is a most serious matter to go from house to house, and under pretense of doing missionary work, cast in the seed of mistrust and suspicion. Each one speedily germinates, and there is created a distrust of God’s servants who have His message to bear to the people. When God speaks through His servants, the seed sown [of mistrust and suspicion] has developed into a root of bitterness. The word falls upon hearts that will not hear, on hearts that will not respond. No earthly or heavenly power can find access to the soul.
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 13)
Who is accountable for these souls? Who shall eradicate that poisonous root of bitterness that has prevented them from receiving the word of the Lord? A good sister or a brother planted the evil seed, but how can that one restore the soul thus imperiled? The tongue that should have been used to the glory of God in speaking words of hope and faith and confidence in God’s workmen has turned away a soul from Jesus Christ. Those who themselves despised the words of Christ, and refused to hear His voice and to be converted, have leavened other minds with the leaven of evil surmisings and evil speaking.
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 14)
This is the day of the Lord’s preparation. We have no time now to talk unbelief and to gossip, no time now to do the devil’s work. Let every one beware of unsettling the faith of others by sowing seeds of envy, jealousy, disunion; for God hears the words, and judges, not by assertions, which are yea and nay, but by the fruit one’s course of action produces. “By their fruits ye shall know them.” [Matthew 7:20.] The seed sown will determine the character of the harvest.
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 15)
So long as the people of God are in this world they will have to meet conflict and trouble and deception, because men choose the attributes of Satan instead of the attributes of God. There is a conscience that is not good. There are those whose words are “yea” and “nay” in regard to the same thing. [See 2 Corinthians 1:18, 19.] How are we to deal with those who make these false statements? We should not try to deal with them. The Lord God of Israel will deal with minds according to His knowledge, for He reads the heart. The less we have to do with untruthful elements, the better it will be for the church.
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 16)
Bear in mind always that the human brotherhood are not sin-bearers. Jesus alone can bear the sins of the transgressor. We are to leave them with Him. The conscience needs to be converted. The heart that is not true needs to be renewed, but we cannot do this work. We must leave the sinner with God. He has borne long with the false tongue. He does not force men to forsake evil, and we must let men falsify if they will. The Lord is our only trust. We are to rest in Him, and be still. We may feel that the Lord’s work is in jeopardy through the deceptions of those who deal falsely, but we should not feel thus. We are not to think that the issue of the conflict is in our hands. There will be a glorious victory. Our duty is to walk by faith. In His own time God will deal with the deceiver, and He will reward every man according to his work.
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 17)
Jesus says, “Behold, I come as a thief; blessed is he that watcheth and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.” [Revelation 16:15.] Here is the great burden to be carried away by every individual. Are my sins forgiven? Has Christ the Burden-bearer, taken away my guilt? Have I a clean heart, the righteousness of Jesus Christ by faith? Woe be to any soul who is not seeking a refuge in Christ, and conforming the character to the character of Christ. Woe be [to] all who shall in agnosia divert the mind from this work, and cause any soul to be less vigilant now.
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 18)
The Lord wants all to understand His providential dealings now, just now, in the time in which we live. There must be no long discussions presenting new theories in regard to prophecies which God has already made plain. Now the great work from which the mind should not be diverted is the consideration of our personal safety in the sight of God. Are our feet on the Rock of ages? Are we hiding ourselves in the only Refuge? The storm is coming, relentless in its fury. Are we prepared to meet it? Are we one with Christ as He is one with the Father? Are we heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ? Are we working in co-partnership with Christ?
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 19)
Already kingdom is rising against kingdom. There is not now a determined engagement. As yet the four winds are held until the servants of our God shall be sealed in their foreheads. Then the powers of earth will marshal their forces for the last great battle. How carefully should we improve the little remaining period of our probation. How earnestly should we examine ourselves. How [earnestly] should we consider and cherish faith before God. How [earnestly] should we eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God, that is, carefully study the Word, eat it, digest it, make it a part of our being. We are to live the Word, not keep it apart from our lives. The character of Christ is to be our individual character. We are to be transformed by the renewing of our hearts. Here is our only safety. Nothing can prevail to separate a living Christian from God.
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 20)
It is discipline of spirit, cleanness of heart and thought that is wanted. This is of more value than brilliant talent, than tact or knowledge. An ordinary mind, trained to obey a “Thus saith the Lord,” is better qualified for the Lord’s work in all circumstances than are those who have capabilities and do not employ them rightly. Christ is truth. He is the truth of ancient types. He is the truth because He is the fulfillment of ancient prophecies.
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 21)
Men may suppose that they shall be saved, and yet they perish. They may take pride in great knowledge in worldly things, but if they have not a knowledge of the true God, of Christ, the Way, the Truth, the Life, they are deplorably ignorant, and their acquired knowledge will perish with them. Secular knowledge is power; but the knowledge of the Word, which has a transforming power upon the human mind, is imperishable; it is knowledge sanctified. It is life and peace and joy forever. The deeper knowledge men may have, sanctified wholly unto God, the more they will appreciate the value of Jesus Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 32a, 1896, 22)
Ms 33, 1896
Ministers and Business Matters NP November 27, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in SpTA #9 63-67. +
I was awakened at half past eleven o’clock. Matters of importance had been presented before me. I was in an assembly consisting of a number of our people who had the burden of the work upon them. They were laying out work for the future, consulting as to how the work could be managed in the most successful manner. W. C. White was explaining his plan and that which he desired to have accomplished, and several others had matters to present for consideration. Finances were the great burden of some, and they were studying how to limit the workers, and yet realize all the results essential. One brother had spoken in reference to plans for his part of the moral vineyard. Then there stood among us One with dignity and authority, who proceeded to state principles for our guidance. I have strength to write only a few points, although the things suggested affected me deeply.
(11LtMs, Ms 33, 1896, 1)
To several the Speaker said, Your work is not the management of financial matters. It is not wise for you to undertake this. God has burdens for you to bear, but if your attention is called to lines for which you are not adapted, your efforts will not prove successful. This will bring upon you discouragement that will disqualify you for the very work you should do, which requires a discriminating mind and deep, unselfish judgment.
(11LtMs, Ms 33, 1896, 2)
Far too little attention is given to the preservation of physical health. Nothing is gained by robbing nature of her hours for rest and recuperation. To allow one man to do the work of four, or of two or three, will result in irreparable loss. There is need of physical vigor in order for healthful thought. Fewer committee meetings should be attended by men who are employed to write and to speak the Word. Many minor matters should be adjusted without keeping one or two men on the strain constantly. Under such a strain the mind loses its vigor. Its action cannot be a healthful and all-sided as if it were allowed proper periods of sleep and refreshment. An abundance of physical exercise is required in order to keep the machinery in healthful action. You may load on to one man the care and burden which should be divided with several, but you will gain nothing by this.
(11LtMs, Ms 33, 1896, 3)
Men should be educated as business men. Experience is of value. Elder Farnsworth has his field assigned him in New Zealand, but let him keep his hands off the machinery. If he should undertake the management of financial matters, he would be disappointed; and failing there, he would not do as efficient, whole-sided work in the preaching and teaching of the Word. Let the business management be left with men who better understand how to plan and financier.
(11LtMs, Ms 33, 1896, 4)
You work at great disadvantage when you suppose that because one man can fill a certain position, he is qualified to fill several positions. There is great necessity of selecting men as students, to learn rapidly all they can in business lines of education. This line of work is essential, and those who do the business in the work of God are not to assume responsibilities which they suppose themselves capable of bearing. Those who carry responsibilities of the work have erred in allowing persons to be placed as managers of financial matters when there was the best of evidence that these persons had not tact nor ability for the position.
(11LtMs, Ms 33, 1896, 5)
The case of Daniel, portrayed in a very limited manner by the prophetic pencil, has a lesson for us. It reveals the fact that a business man is not necessarily a sharp policy man. He can be a man instructed of God at every step. Daniel, while prime minister of the kingdom of Babylon, was a prophet of God, receiving the light of heavenly inspiration. Worldly, ambitious statesmen are represented in the Word of God as the grass that groweth up, and as the flower of the grass that fadeth. Yet the Lord would have intelligent men in His work, men qualified for the various lines of the work. Especially are business men needed, not irreligious business men, but those who will weave the great, grand principles of truth into all their business transactions.
(11LtMs, Ms 33, 1896, 6)
Men who have qualifications for the work need to have their talents exercised and perfected by most thorough study and training. Not one business man that has any appointment in the work needs to be a novice. If men in any line of work need to improve their opportunities to become wise, efficient business men, it is those who are using their ability in the work of building up the kingdom of God in our world. The lessons of the present time are for all to understand, but they are very feebly appreciated. There should be greater thoroughness in labor, more vigilant waiting, and more vigilant working in prospect of the events now taking place and swelling to larger importance as we near the close of earth’s history. The human agent is to reach for perfection, to be an ideal Christian, complete in Jesus Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 33, 1896, 7)
Those who labor in business lines should exercise every precaution against error through wrong principles or methods. Their record may be like that of Daniel in the courts of Babylon. In all his business transactions, when subjected to the closest scrutiny, there was not found one item that was faulty. He was a sample of what every business man may be. But the heart must be converted and consecrated. The motives must be right with God. The inner lamp must be supplied with the oil that flows from the true messengers of heaven through the golden tubes into the golden bowl. Then the Lord’s communication never comes to man in vain. God will not accept the most splendid services unless self in laid upon the altar, a living, consuming sacrifice. The root must be holy, else there can be no sound, healthful fruit, which alone is acceptable to God.
(11LtMs, Ms 33, 1896, 8)
Truths, precious, vital truths, are bound up with man’s eternal well-being both in this life and in the eternity which is opening before us. “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy word is truth.” [John 17:17.] The Word of God is to be practiced. The Word of God liveth and endureth forever. While worldly ambition and worldly projects, and the greatest plans and purposes of men, shall fade like the grass, “they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament: and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.” [Daniel 12:3.]
(11LtMs, Ms 33, 1896, 9)
Man’s experience and history are occupied with himself, his own achievements and victories. God’s history, as traced with unerring accuracy in the books of heaven, describes men as seen in the light of eternity. All his motives and all his actions are seen in their relation to eternal realities. Everything said and done has a reference to tremendous issues which we must meet again.
(11LtMs, Ms 33, 1896, 10)
Ms 34, 1896
Words to the W. C. White Household Sunnyside, Cooranbong, New South Wales, Australia November 27, 1896 Previously unpublished.
I was unable to sleep after eleven o’clock. In the night season I had been instructed of God. I have been made to feel deeply. One stood in our midst. Willie, his wife May, and several others were present. Words of deep import were spoken. The Speaker said, addressing W. C. White, There is need of taking heed to all the light which the Lord has permitted to shine upon your pathway. Your family needs the transforming influence of the Spirit of God. There is not a heavenly atmosphere circulating through the house. The enemy is busy with his temptations, and should the members of the family view their daily experience, when they were brought face to face with truth, they would be startled with the representation. They would see that their daily lives are not after the divine similitude. In the light of truth they would see that their religious experience is not a living reality; that they are living much as the non-professor lives, cherishing much the same spirit, doing the same work, enjoying the same atmosphere. Your religion must be based on faith, real, deep, heartfelt faith, made perfect by works. There must not be self-pleasing. The life of Christ in this world must be our Pattern. He lived not to please Himself.
(11LtMs, Ms 34, 1896, 1)
The Speaker addressed my son, W. C. White, as a laborer together with God. He addressed May as one who was standing under great responsibilities. He said, You must be steadfast in the faith once delivered to the saints. You will find it a very pleasant life to walk with Jesus. But there is danger of becoming careless, deficient in piety and devotion. You have new responsibilities, and these precious children are the gift of God. Study your Bible in faith. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. You need to draw nigh unto God; as parents, humble yourselves before Him, ask most sincerely for an understanding heart to know and believe and obey every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God, as revealed to you in His Word. Faith does not originate with yourselves nor proceed from yourselves. It is a gift of God. You must both consider and move in your family as united, wise teachers, always acting from principle, never from impulse.
(11LtMs, Ms 34, 1896, 2)
Your family is too large. Connect with your family only those who move with wisdom and calm judgment. It is not wise to associate together those who are only children in experience. Can these elements, mingling together, have a proper uplifting influence over one another? If any one is brought into your family, it should be one who is a true teacher and will act her part in the molding and fashioning of character. Your children are of such an age and temperament that they especially need quiet time to read the Bible, time to study the Word. There is a misapprehension as to what constitutes true education. The children need to become familiar with the little duties of life, the part of the work they are supposed to be fitted to do. Their work should pass under examination. They should be taught to do it thoroughly and well. This class of education should receive special attention; it cannot in any wise be neglected. The coming year must show a large improvement over the past year. Every one of the family should have the matter urged upon them to improve in caretaking, in the formation of orderly habits, in the care of clothing. The garments should be kept clean and neatly mended.
(11LtMs, Ms 34, 1896, 3)
Your daughter Ella has lost much in her character-building during the year 1896. Addressing Willie, the Speaker said, You have had great light. From the light the Lord has been pleased to give, you know that light must not be ignored, or hidden under a bushel. All who receive light must shine as lights in our world. From the head of the family to the youngest member, God has taken you into covenant relation with Himself. His angels are watching to see how they can minister unto your family, how they can work with your children, that they shall reflect the likeness of Christ in character, conforming to the divine image. There is altogether too much stir and bustle, noise and confusion, disorder, untidiness, and general forgetfulness of God in daily duties. Your family are in danger of keeping the form of godliness in profession of faith when you have lost the reality. Be careful, watch and pray, else you will grasp the shadow, and lose the substance.
(11LtMs, Ms 34, 1896, 4)
A cold, dead faith is worthless. You are warned of your danger; be armed against temptation by prayer and watching thereunto. Let a living faith run like threads of gold through the daily experience in the performance of little duties. Then all the daily work will be of such a character as to promote Christian growth, the vital principles of faith, trust, and love for Jesus will penetrate into the most minute details of daily life. “Whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” [1 Corinthians 10:31.] There will be a looking unto Jesus; love for Him will be the continual motive, giving vital force to everything that is undertaken. There will be striving after righteousness, a hope that maketh not ashamed. There is no need of discouragement. Jesus loves you all. He has not forgotten, and He never will forget, the self-denial, self-sacrifice, the consecration to the work.
(11LtMs, Ms 34, 1896, 5)
The Speaker addressed the children, Ella and Mabel: There must be a striving most earnestly for the grace of Christ. The experience and education of the former child-life is becoming indistinct, obliterated. There are altogether too few thoughts of Christ. The Lord has permitted responsibilities to increase in your family not to depreciate, but to bind the family in firm links together. These little ones will need an influence that shall not tend to draw away from Christ, but to bring them in faith close to Christ. You need to have a far clearer, deeper sense of what constitutes true religion in practice.
(11LtMs, Ms 34, 1896, 6)
In the performance of household duties, careless, neglectful habits are being formed. The house-work should be done with as little noise and confusion as possible. The study of books is not to be made primary, to the neglect of home duties and the discomfort of the family. Everything must be done decently, and in order. This is the most valuable education the children can have. This is the light which the Lord has given. The habit of disorder now indulged will, unless corrected, be carried into every phase of life, and the life will be spoiled for usefulness, spoiled for true missionary work. The fewer members in the family, the less work will have to be done,
(11LtMs, Ms 34, 1896, 7)
He addressed Ella and Mabel: You are both entrusted with a precious gift from the Lord. You both have had precious opportunities to learn how to use your abilities to the best account. Your mother needs your help as members of the firm. The eldest daughter should make her studies secondary. She has need of a kind of education which she is sadly neglecting. Be true to home duties. Take heed to the counsel and instruction of your mother. Respect her words, obey her requests, for this is a part of your education that will fit you to become a member of the family above. Ella, God has a work for you to do which you have not appreciated. Teach your younger sister by precept and example. Be faithful in the little duties. Be a real, living Christian in the home. Let Christian principles rule the heart and control the conduct. You can bind up your heart with the heart of your mother. Heed every suggestion that she makes, but do not make it a necessity for her to tell you what you should do. Discern for yourself.
(11LtMs, Ms 34, 1896, 8)
Notice for yourself if all things in your bed chamber would be pleasing for the heavenly angels to view. Have everything in such nice order that when the angels of God shall pass through your room, they may see nothing defiling or disorderly, nothing to taint the purity of the atmosphere. Special directions were given to the armies of the children of Israel that in their tents and around their premises everything should be neat, lest the angel of God should pass through their encampment and see their uncleanness. Would the Lord be particular to notice these things? He would, for the fact is stated, lest in viewing their uncleanness he could not go forth with their armies to battle against their enemies. In like manner all your actions are noticed of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 34, 1896, 9)
Let it be your first work to see that everything in your room is put in order, the dirt and dust carefully removed. Let nothing that would taint the atmosphere remain in the room, for it is an offense to God. Remove it as quickly as possible. Let the kitchen be kept sweet and clean. Books are to be laid aside for their proper season, and no more study should engross the mind than can be attended to without neglecting the household duties. God is displeased with the habits you are forming, which, unless corrected with perseverance and resolution, will overcome you for time and for eternity. Form correct habits, even in your dress; let the appearance be neat and attractive, for angels in heaven are taking notice of these things. Your habits in everything, in dress, in work and study, may be right, praiseworthy, such as to make you a help and comfort to your mother, who has a large and constant responsibility in the care of the two little children.
(11LtMs, Ms 34, 1896, 10)
What a blessing you can be to your mother in helping her as one of the family firm, and in helping yourselves in the formation of correct habits. Then she will not have you as a constant source of anxiety and discouragement. You are old enough to learn your lessons of duty from the Word. Watch against a disposition to put off the very work that should be done at the proper time and in its proper manner. It will be a very easy matter for you to form habits of neglect by failing to do the very things that should be done at the right time. Slackness and neglect will testify against you, and unless these faults are neglected, they engraft upon the character the enduring habits of disorder and untidiness, which it is very difficult to overcome. Few are aware of the controlling power of habit. But it may be made a power for good instead of evil. You may fill your place in the household as a thoughtful, caretaking, practical Christian, working for Jesus, doing the little duties which are often disagreeable, but which must be done and not delayed.
(11LtMs, Ms 34, 1896, 11)
These two children, Ella and Mabel, are the Lord’s stewards in the household, to do their duties with thoroughness and fidelity. You can be lights to others, but your present development of character is displeasing to God. The Lord has given you both diversified gifts; these are to be carefully cherished, to perfect the order and completeness of the household. In doing your daily duties promptly, neatly, faithfully, you are missionaries. You are bearing witness for Christ. You are showing that the religion of Christ does not, in principle or practice, make you untidy, coarse, disrespectful to your parents by giving little heed to their counsel and instruction. Bible religion, practiced, will make you kind, thoughtful, faithful. You will not neglect the little things that should be done to give a neat, wholesome appearance even to the kitchen, which has shown unfaithfulness. “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.” [Luke 16:10.]
(11LtMs, Ms 34, 1896, 12)
Ms 34b, 1896
The Proclamation of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Angels’ Messages Duplicate of Ms 32, 1896.
Ms 35, 1896
Adopting Infant Children NP December 16, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in 14MR 301-310.
From time to time, persons have asked my counsel in regard to the advisability of adopting infant children. Among these were several wives of ministers. Before answering these questions, I have tried, as far as possible, to learn all the circumstances of the case. And I have not dared to give counsel unless I knew that the Lord was leading me.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 1)
There are some who have no little ones of their own, who may do good by adopting children. Those who have not the sacred responsibility of proclaiming the Word and laboring directly for the salvation of souls, have duties in other lines of work. If they are consecrated to God, and are qualified to mold and fashion human minds, the Lord will bless them in caring for the children of others. But let the children of believers have our first consideration.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 2)
There are among Sabbathkeepers very many large families of children that are not properly cared for. Many parents give evidence that they have not learned of Christ the lessons that would make them safe guardians of children. Their children do not receive proper training. And there are among us many children whom death has deprived of the parent’s care. There are those who might take some of these children, and seek to mould and fashion their characters according to Bible principles.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 3)
My husband and I, though called to arduous labor in the ministry, felt it our privilege to gather into our home children who needed care, and helped them to form characters for heaven. We could not adopt infants, for this would have engrossed our time and attention, and would have robbed the Lord of the service He required of us in bringing many sons and daughters to Him. But we felt that the Lord’s instruction in (Isaiah 58) was for us, and that His blessing would attend us in obedience to His Word to His Word. All can do something for the needy little ones by helping to please them in homes where they can be cared for.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 4)
But I dare not counsel our ministers and missionaries, who are continually moving from place to place, to encumber themselves by adopting children, especially helpless infants. Those who have children of their own must share the responsibility of training them to do service for God. It is the wife’s duty to care for her children and her husband. The Lord will give her strength to do this work if she will put her trust in Him and obey the laws of life and health. And husband and wife are to unite in the work of bringing up their children in the love and fear of God. A well-ordered, well-disciplined family will have a powerful influence for good. But if you have no children of your own, it may be that the Lord has a wise purpose in withholding from you this blessing. It should not be taken as evidence that it is your duty to adopt a child. In some cases this might be advisable. If the Lord bids you take an infant to bring up, then the duty is too plain to be misunderstood. But as a rule, it would not be wise for a minister’s wife to encumber herself with such a responsibility.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 5)
The work of God demands most earnest labor. And the Lord would have ministers and their wives closely united in this work. The husband and wife can so blend in labor that the wife shall be the complement of the husband. The Lord desires them unitedly to watch for His voice, to draw closer and still closer unto Him, feeding upon His Word, and receiving light and blessing to impart to others. They should be as free as possible to attend camp meetings and other general gatherings. And the wife may continually be a great help to her husband in visiting and other personal labor.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 6)
If the companion of a minister is united with her husband in the work of saving souls, it is the highest work she can do. But the care of a little child would absorb her attention, so that she could not attend meetings and labor successfully in visiting and personal effort. Even if she accompanies her husband, the child is too often the burden of thought and conversation, and the visit is made of no effect. Those whom God has called to be co-laborers with Him are to have no idols to absorb and affection that He would have directed in other lines.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 7)
The wives of many of the Lord’s servants have united heartily with their husbands in the work of saving souls. Through her unselfish interest to advance the cause of God, the wife has made her husband’s work much more complete. But with some it is a hard lesson to learn to bring their will into harmony with the will of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 8)
The experience of one sister, as she related it to me some years ago, is full of instruction. She inquired of me: “Do you think I am assuming too great responsibility in seeking to understand the reasons of our faith, so that I can do missionary work with my husband? I greatly desire to grow into a self-sacrificing worker with him. Am I out of my place in trying, as far as possible, to keep pace with him in understanding the Word of God and the various lines of the work? He has sometimes asked me questions which made me feel that I ought to be able to help him see some things in a clearer light. Am I wrong in this earnest desire? I pray much that I may make no mistake. But it seems to me that the relation of husband and wife is most sacred and solemn. If I thought I was bound in marriage ties merely to be petted, and treated as a child, that I was to amuse my husband and he to amuse me, I should be most unhappy. God has given me reason, capabilities, talents, which I must increase by using. I feel that they are a sacred trust, which I must employ to the glory of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 9)
“We once had two dear children, and I allowed my mind to be almost wholly absorbed with them, notwithstanding my husband was often burdened with the cares of his labor, and wanted counsel. I allowed the care of my children to occupy too much of my time, and I gave him so little. He did not complain; but I was blind, O so blind. Even with the care of my children, I could have united with him in searching the Scriptures, and two of one heart can work more successfully than one. I might have learned to copy his letter, and might have assisted him in keeping his accounts. But when I thought of this, I excused myself by saying, He knows I have my hands full. I was proud of my children, and bought many little needless things to dress them, and spent time needlessly in preparing their clothing to excite admiration. I now know that my children were my idols. I loved them before the Lord. I allowed them to absorb my interest, so that I had little to give to my husband, or to qualify myself to help souls.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 10)
“When my little ones were removed from me by death, I murmured and wept as if I were hardly dealt with. I would not be consoled for my loss. I would not admit that my husband loved the children fully as much as I did. I made his heart sad by my rebellious grief. But my eyes were opened, and I saw my error. I saw that he realized the value of the souls of his children, because he was a physician of souls, and he placed a higher estimate upon his loved ones than I did.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 11)
“My selfish sorrow nearly killed me, and crippled my husband in his labors. But the Lord had mercy upon us, and he let me see the selfishness of my heart. Now I am as one who has awakened out of a deep sleep. I am not in the world to amuse myself, to seek to be amused or petted, or to work for my own selfish interests. I am here to do my duty. I try to show that I respect and honor my husband by being interested in his work in the various lines of the cause of God. I no longer make myself miserable over things I cannot help, but try to adapt myself to circumstances. If the Lord sees fit to give me another child, I shall hold it, not as a plaything, but as a sacred, entrusted charge; not as an idol, but a soul that I am to train for the courts above.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 12)
“I am trying to help my husband bear his burdens. I do most of his copying. The work was not pleasant to me at first, but I have overcome my dislike for it. I no longer feel that sentimentalism must be woven through all our experience in the married life. As God’s workmen, we should be seeking to do Him service, to honor His name, keeping the eye fixed upon Jesus, and encouraging each other to work the works of Christ. My husband says he can rest, and I can encourage him now, because we are both interested in seeking to save souls who are out of Christ. I have for a time to study hard and pray much to overcome my weakness of character, and become, in some degree, what a woman should be, a true helpmeet. I desire not to lead into sin, as did Eve, but with a firm hold upon Jesus I would lead away from sin and pride and love of show, into the quiet paths of meekness and lowliness of heart.”
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 13)
Then she said that she had been advised to take an infant to bring up. She asked if I thought it her duty to do this. I advised her to take this question to God. I told her that she should be closely united with her husband in his work. She should keep his respect and love as a true woman whom God was teaching and leading. “You can,” I said, “cultivate an aptitude to work for the children. You can reach their hearts, and win them to Christ. These children you may bring to the gates of the city of God with your own little ones, saying, Here are we, father, mother, children, and a large number whom thou hast given us as sheaves for Christ.”
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 14)
We need carefully to search our hearts and study our motives. Selfishness may prompt the desire to do what appears to be an unselfish and praiseworthy act. The reason that many urge for desiring to adopt a child, the longing for something on which to center their affection, reveals the fact that their heart is not centered upon Christ; it is not absorbed in His work.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 15)
When I have heard a wife mourning that her husband did not show her all the affection she thought he should, I have sent a silent petition to God that this soul might be refreshed with the Word. From the light God had given me, I knew that she needed to drink deep of the cool waters of Lebanon instead of the turbid streams of the valley. When women will feed upon the words of Christ, when their thirsty souls shall drink of the water of life, they will have far less sentimentalism, and far greater spirituality. They will purify their souls by obeying the truth.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 16)
If a woman’s life is connected with one whom God has chosen to be a laborer together with God, let her consider that she can make her husband’s heart tired, and his soul sad by her unconsecrated course of action. If self clamors for attention, and unless great devotion is shown to her, she becomes unhappy, and she may greatly hinder him in his work. She needs to learn of Christ, who lived not to please Himself. He is our example in all things.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 17)
If the wife is a co-laborer with Christ in the work of saving souls, she will keep abreast of her husband in cultivating mind and heart. She will endeavor to stand equal with him in knowledge of the Word of God, and in obedience to all its requirements. She will keep her own soul refreshed by eating the Word, and drinking the waters from the wellsprings of life. Then the words she speaks will not be prompted by envy or jealousy; they will proceed from a sanctified heart that has been daily learning lessons at the feet of Jesus. Thus instead of making herself a helpless burden, to be the object of his solicitude, and to demand a large share of his attention, the wife may strengthen her husband to do the highest service for God.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 18)
The light which God has given me in regard to ministers’ wives is, If their life is kept in close consecration to God, as is the duty of all who are laborers together with Him, they will find so many souls to minister unto, that they will have no opportunity to be lonesome, or to cultivate selfishness in any line. Jesus 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 11:29, 30.] Those who heed this invitation will have no thought of repining, no thought of loneliness. Their work is to do the will of Christ. As they do this, they will have sweet peace and rest of soul.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 19)
The question of adopting a child, especially an infant, involves most serious responsibilities. It should not be lightly regarded. One who has herself taken a baby to bring up, may feel that unless other ministers’ wives shall follow her example, they are remiss in their duty, but this is an error. Our duty is not decided by what others may plan for us. The question for each to settle is, in doing this, shall I be merely gratifying my own wishes, or is it a duty the Lord has appointed for me? Is this His way, or a way of my own choosing? All are to be workers for God. Not one is excused. Your talents are not your own, to employ as you shall fancy. Inquire, What would the Lord have me do with His entrusted talents? Shall I labor for the saving of many souls? Shall I follow the directions of Isaiah 58:6-11?
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 20)
There are deep, earnest lessons for us to learn, else self will be our center, the controlling power of our lives. The duty is of the present is vigilant working, and earnest, solemn waiting in view of the solemn event of our Lord’s second appearing, working, watching, praying—these constitute the ideal of Christian duty and responsibility, making the perfect man in Christ Jesus. Our life is not to be all waiting, not all bustle and activity and excitement, to the neglect of personal piety. The door of the heart must be always open to Jesus, that we may always hear His voice of invitation, “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.” [Revelation 3:20.] We are to be “not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.” [Romans 12:11.]
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 21)
There is always danger of taking upon ourselves a work that the Lord has not placed in our hands, and neglecting that which He has given us to do, and which would better honor His name. That which to human eyes may appear praiseworthy, may not be the very thing God has chosen for us to do. Then let us individually consider the many branches of the work. There are various kinds of missionary work to do. Consider prayerfully what work would best tell for the advancement of the cause of God. If there is a humble, unselfish heart and a contrite spirit in seeking to know the Lord’s will, He will lead each of us in the path where He would have us walk.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 22)
Let no one feel condemned because she does not take a child to care for. The Lord may have greater work for you to do in teaching those who know not God now to do His will. “Thus saith the Lord, ... 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 Sabbaths, 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 of daughters: I will give them an everlasting name, that shall not be cut off.” [Isaiah 56:1, 3-5.]
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 23)
I have written these things, that Satan may not allure any of my brother ministers or their companions into positions where they will be prevented from doing the very work that the Lord has assigned to them. We must watch, we must pray, and when the Lord says, Whom shall I send to do this errand for Me, we should be ready to respond, “Here am I; send me.” [Isaiah 6:8.] Serious work is to be done. It has been waiting for unselfish, consecrated workers. Brethren and sisters, open your hearts to the Holy Spirit of God, and devote your God-given capabilities to working as for your lives to pull souls out of the fire. Keep in the channel of light, for there is to be more direct communication from heaven to earth. We have not a moment to lose. There is a heaven to win and a hell to shun.
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 24)
I call upon my brethren to come to the help of the Lord against the mighty. I call upon my sisters to stand by their side and help them in the work. “Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.]
(11LtMs, Ms 35, 1896, 25)
Ms 36, 1896
Obedience the Condition of Success NP December 9, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in TDG 352; 3MR 186-187; CTr 180.
The strength of nations and of individuals is not found in the opportunities and facilities that appear to make them invincible; it is not found in their boasted greatness. That which alone can make them great or strong, is the power and purpose of God. They themselves, by their attitude toward His purpose decide their own destiny.
(11LtMs, Ms 36, 1896, 1)
Human histories relate man’s achievements, his victories in battle, his success in climbing to worldly greatness. God’s history describes man as heaven views him. In the divine records all his merit is seen to consist in his obedience to God’s requirements. His disobedience is faithfully chronicled as meriting the punishment he will surely receive. In the light of eternity it will be seen that God deals with men in accordance with the momentous question of obedience or disobedience.
(11LtMs, Ms 36, 1896, 2)
Hundreds of years before a people has come upon the stage of action, the prophetic pen, under the dictation of the Holy Spirit, has traced its history. The prophet Daniel described the kingdoms that would rise and fall. Interpreting to the king of Babylon the dream of the great image, he declared to Nebuchadnezzar that his kingdom should be superseded. His greatness and power in God’s world would have its day, and a second kingdom should arise which also should have its period of test and trial as to whether the people would exalt the one Ruler, the only true God. Not doing this, their glory would fade away, and a third kingdom would occupy their place. Proved by obedience or disobedience, this also would pass away; and a fourth strong as iron, was to subdue the nations of the world. This Word, opened by the infinite God to finite man, recorded on the prophetic page, and traced on the pages of history, declares that God is the ruling power. He changeth the times and the seasons, He removeth kings and setteth up kings, to fulfil His own purpose.
(11LtMs, Ms 36, 1896, 3)
Under King Nebuchadnezzar, Babylon was the richest and most powerful kingdom on the earth. Its riches and splendor have been faintly portrayed by Inspiration. But when God’s time had come, that kingdom of pride and power, ruled by men of the highest intellect, was broken, shattered, helpless. Christ has declared, “Without me ye can do nothing.” [John 15:5.] Illustrious statesmen did not regard themselves as dependent upon God. They thought that they themselves had created all their grandeur and exaltation. But when God speaks, they are as the grass that groweth up, and the flower of the grass that fadeth away. The Word and will of God alone liveth and endureth forever.
(11LtMs, Ms 36, 1896, 4)
The voice of God, heard in past ages, is sounding down along the line from century to century, through generations that have come on the stage of action and passed away. Shall God speak, and His voice not be respected? What power mapped out all this history, that nations, one after another, should fill in their predicted time and place, unconsciously witnessing to the truth of which they themselves knew not the meaning?
(11LtMs, Ms 36, 1896, 5)
History and prophecy testify that the God of the whole earth revealeth secrets through His chosen light-bearers to the world. A skeptical world, talking and writing of higher education, is prating of things which they do not understand. They do not see that true higher education comprehends a more perfect knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ, whom He has sent. There are few who understand that all true human science is from the God of science, and that God demonstrates to the world that He is king over all.
(11LtMs, Ms 36, 1896, 6)
Nebuchadnezzar, through his terrible humiliation in the loss of his reason, was brought to see his own weakness, and to acknowledge the supremacy of the living God. He declared, “At the end of the days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the Most High, and I praised and honored him that liveth forever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom is from generation to generation. And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing. And he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou? ... Now I Nebuchadnezzar praise and extol and honor the king of heaven, all whose works are truth and his ways judgment: and those that walk in pride he is able to abase.” [Daniel 4:34, 35, 37.]
(11LtMs, Ms 36, 1896, 7)
To every man, God has assigned a place in His great plan. By truth or falsehood, by folly or wisdom, each is fulfilling a purpose, bringing about certain results. And each, according as he chooses obedience or disobedience, is deciding his own eternal destiny. To every one is given freedom to act, and upon everyone rests the responsibility of his own actions. But our words and actions must pass the test of God’s high standard, or we shall be bound up with the wicked, to receive an eternal retribution.
(11LtMs, Ms 36, 1896, 8)
The centuries have their mission. Every moment has its work. Each is passing into eternity with its burden: Well done, thou good and faithful servant, or Woe to the wicked and slothful servant. God is still dealing with earthly kingdoms. He is in the great cities. His eyes behold, his eyelids try the doing of the children of men. We are not to say, God was, but [say], God is. He sees the very sparrows’ fall, the leaf that falls from the tree, and the king who is dethroned. All are under the control of the Infinite One. All around is changing. Cities and nations are being measured by the plummet in the hand of God. He never makes a mistake. He reads correctly. Everything earthly is unsettled, but the truth abides forever.
(11LtMs, Ms 36, 1896, 9)
In the eyes of the world, those who serve God may appear weak. They may be apparently sinking beneath the billows; but with the next billow they are seen rising nearer to their haven. “I give unto them eternal life,” saith our Lord, “and none shall be able to pluck them out of my hand.” [John 10:28.] Though kings shall be cast down, and nations removed, the souls that through faith link themselves with God’s purposes shall abide forever. “They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament, and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.” [Daniel 12:3.]
(11LtMs, Ms 36, 1896, 10)
Ms 37, 1896
“Will A Man Rob God?” NP August 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in PH087.
“Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Those who will do this willingly, because it is the right thing to do, dispensing with everything unnecessary; those who will study the life of Christ, and pray with heart, and soul, and voice, in the family circle, when walking the streets, when engaged in business, always bearing in mind the exhortations the Lord has given, “Pray without ceasing;”“continuing instant in prayer.”“Watch unto prayer,” will have a divine Companion with them who will lead them in paths of safety. [1 Thessalonians 5:17; Romans 12:12; 1 Peter 4:7.] Let not your thoughts be diverted from the point; but saying, “I will follow thee, my Saviour,” make your words true.
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 1)
It is a solemn thing to be entrusted with talents. It is a wonderful responsibility. I have some very decided statements to make to all who claim to follow the Lord, to be faithful and obedient to His Word. The Word of the Lord has come to me upon the subject of systematic benevolence. The tithing question is a matter that is so plainly stated in God’s Word that not one living soul needs to misunderstand it. The Lord has given men talents to use to His name’s glory; but He makes one reserve. To Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden He said, “Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it.” [Genesis 2:16, 17.] Here was the test that was to prove the loyalty of Adam and Eve. But they did the very thing the Lord had forbidden, and as a result the floodgates of woe were opened to our world.
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 2)
God has given to man abundantly. He says, “I will lend you these goods of mine to trade upon: but I require you to return to me the tenth of all your increase.” Through Moses, directions had been given how the Lord’s talents of means should be appropriated; and again in Malachi this instruction is repeated. With all the blessings that the Lord bestows upon man, He tells him how they are to be used; and in obedience to His will there is safety and security. But when men set up their own ideas and plans, and do as God has forbidden with the talents He has entrusted to them, He counts them as “disobedient, unthankful, unholy.” [2 Timothy 3:2.]
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 3)
The Old Testament needs to become our study book more than it has been. We need to learn and obey the directions there, given by the Lord when speaking to Moses in the pillar of cloud. The Most High ruleth in the heavens. His resources are without limit. His goodness and His love are manifested over all the works of His hands. The whole course of His providence attests His character and His merciful designs. “The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season. Thou openest thine hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing.” [Psalm 145:15, 16.]
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 4)
And why is it that these blessings are so continually given, notwithstanding the perversity and ingratitude of the human hearts that are blessed with these earthly treasures? The answer is easy of comprehension, and all may understand. It is through the incarnation of the Son of God. He was rich in majesty, in honor, and in glory; but for the sake of saving the heritage of God, He became poor, “that we through his poverty might be rich.” [2 Corinthians 8:9.] The saving power of the Holy Spirit was sent to guide men into all truth. Light, life, and immortality were brought to light through the infinite sacrifice of the only begotten Son of God. And this self-denial and self-sacrifice is to be represented to the world in the character of all who are true Christians—not professors merely, but those who are following the requirements of Jesus Christ. God desires that we shall be Christlike, that we shall bear His image, imitate His example, and like Him, live the law of God in our daily life.
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 5)
Selfishness, worldly policy, and worldly principles are not consistent with Christian character. No man can live to please himself and still enjoy the approval of God. Worldly conformity and worldly attachments are expressly forbidden in the Word of God. The warning voice is lifted, “Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.” The mighty power of the Holy Spirit is to work, producing a new character, a new birth, “that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.” [Romans 12:2.]
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 6)
Conformity to the world can be prevented by the Truth, by feeding on the Word of God, by its principles circulating through the entire life current, and working out that Word in the character. Christ exhorts us by the apostle John to “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” This is plain language, but it is God’s measure of every man’s character. “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” [1 John 2:15, 16.] “They that will be rich (those who are resolved by every possible way to obtain money and enjoy it in the world) fall into temptation and a snare, and into many and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” [1 Timothy 6:9, 10.] How true this is! It can be traced in the experience of every church.
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 7)
It is the selfishness, the unsanctified thoughts and works, that have grieved the Lord, and have turned away His blessing from His people. The third chapter of Malachi is one of weighty importance to all who live upon the earth; for here is plainly revealed the will and purpose of God, and the turning away of those who claim to be the people of the Lord into false and forbidden paths. Will you take your Bible, and read this carefully, and solemnly, under the influence of the Holy Spirit of God? Make an application to yourself of these decisive words.
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 8)
Verse five is applicable to many, “I will come near to you to judgment, and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not me, saith the Lord of hosts.” There is a work of restoration to be done before God will accept the repentance, or heal the wounds, that sin has made. “For I am the Lord, I change not: therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed (in your evil doings). Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them. Return unto me, and I will return unto you, saith the Lord of hosts. But ye said, Wherein shall we return?” [Verses 6, 7.]
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 9)
How many are asking this question at this point in their experience, as if they were altogether innocent of any wrongdoing? The answer comes, “Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.” [Verse 8.] You have withheld from Me the portion that I had reserved that I might advance My work, that the gospel of My kingdom might be sent to all parts of the world, as a witness to all nations. You have lived to please yourselves; you have manifested selfishness; you have taken My reserved talents to use for your own advantage. You would not deny self, take up your cross, and follow me, your Lord. It is not because you could not do this, but because you would not. You have not chosen the humble, self-denying life of which your Redeemer has given you an example. You preferred to run the risk, to venture the salvation of your souls, in practicing a system of robbery toward God, robbing Me of treasure that I had reserved to carry forward My work in the world, that it might be a praise in all parts of the earth. At the center of the work you have put your hands into My treasury, and the funds which should have been to you a sacred trust, you have consumed in incidental expenses, which self-denial and self-sacrifice, a limiting of some of your selfish indulgences, would have provided for. But self, self,self, has been indulged, and My treasury has been robbed of the funds brought to it in order that there might be meat in my house to sustain My servants in opening the Scriptures to those who are nigh and afar off.
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 10)
In Battle Creek much money has been expanded which would have brought honor and glory to God had it been invested in foreign missions. Oh, how we have needed money in this mission, and still the interests are centering in Battle Creek. We need some of the facilities you have there; but no one feels a burden to spare some of your abundance. Oh, that the Lord would open blind eyes to discern what you have been doing. The Lord’s treasures have been selfishly invested according to the devising of men, to make a grand appearance, “to give character to the work.”
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 11)
“Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.” [Zechariah 4:6.] In giving character to the work, the Spirit of God will accomplish more than any expensive buildings. Difficulties have been accumulating for years. Pride has budded.
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 12)
I was shown that it is wrong to use the tithe for defraying the incidental expenses of the church. In this there has been a departure from correct methods. It would be far better to dress less expensively, cut down your indulgences, practice self-denial, and meet those outgoes. By so doing you will have a clear conscience. But you are robbing God every time that you put your hands into the treasury for funds to meet the running expenses of the church.
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 13)
Ministers who could do a most precious work are kept out of the field because there is no money to sustain them. Those who dare to reduce the means to be used for supporting the ministry may see the sure result in the warnings given by Malachi.
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 14)
What is the example given at the center of the work? Let those who profess to be followers of the meek and lowly Jesus dispose of some of their idols, such as bicycles, and various other things. Then there will be no need of robbing the treasury of God for church expenses. Christ for our sake became poor, that we through His poverty might be rich. But the professed followers of Christ do not follow His example. Let every one study how to help forward the work of God in home missions and in foreign countries. The Lord has a serious account to settle with those who have done exactly opposite to that which he has counselled them to do. The money they have bound up in Battle Creek is needed in missionary fields, to supply even the most meager facilities. The work cannot be advanced because there is no money to work the fields.
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 15)
Will you in Battle Creek, who have spread yourselves contrary to the expressed will of God in your buildings and in your selfish acceptance of wages, allow the treasury to be robbed that the laborers shall not be sustained in home and foreign ministerial work? God looks with disfavor upon your selfish appropriation of the means that is consecrated for a special purpose. You have followed this plan that you might have a better opportunity to indulge self, and make little self-denial for Christ’s sake. This is something you need to adjust quickly. Make no delay. Will a man rob God? Will he steal God’s means to settle outgoing expenses when the ministry needs every dollar?
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 16)
This matter should open the eyes of all our people to see how easy it is to depart from justice, truth, and the keeping of the way of the Lord, when there is a desire to follow a certain course, and God does not lead the way. What do these infringements mean to those who give their consent to this robbery of God’s treasure? Let the prophet speak: “Ye are cursed with a curse; for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.” [Malachi 3:9.] Read now the words of the prophet to the close of the chapter, and then let there be a short time of silence, five or ten minutes of close examination of the hearts of all who read. There has been altogether too little heed given to the warnings, reproofs, and counsels from the Lord. It is a solemn record that many will have to meet in that great day when every man shall be judged according to his works.
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 17)
From the light which God has given me it would be for our advantage to study the directions given to Israel. Read Malachi four. Verse four especially has a meaning which all have not comprehended. Let it be carefully considered.
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 18)
The Lord has of late given me special testimonies to bear in regard to the warnings and promises He has given through Malachi. After I had spoken with great plainness to the church in Sydney, and was putting on my wraps in the dressing room, the question was asked me, “Sister White, do you think my father should pay tithes? He has met with great loss recently, and he says that as soon as he cancels his debt, he will pay tithes.”
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 19)
I asked, “How do you regard our obligations to God, who give us life and breath, and all the blessings we enjoy? Would you have our indebtedness to God continually increasing? Would you rob Him of the portion which He has never given us to use for any other purpose than to advance His work, to sustain His servants in the ministry? For the answer to your question the prophet Malachi asks, ‘Will a man rob God? But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee?’ as though there was a willingness to misunderstand this subject. The answer comes ‘In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse; for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.’ [Malachi 3:8, 9.] After such a statement, would I dare say to you, You need not pay tithes as long as you are in debt? Shall I tell you to be sure to pay all you owe any man, although you rob God to do so?”
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 20)
If all would take the Scripture just as it reads, and open their hearts to understand the Word of the Lord, they would not say, “I cannot see the tithing question. I cannot see that in my circumstances I should pay tithes.” Will a man rob God? The consequence of so doing is plainly stated, and I would not risk the consequence. All who will take a whole-hearted, decided position to obey God, who will not take the Lord’s reserved funds, His own money, to settle their debts, who will render to the Lord the portion that He claims as His own, will receive the blessing of God which is promised to all who obey Him.
(11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, 21)
Ms 38, 1896
Shall I Be Clothed With Immortality? NP December 15, 1896 Previously unpublished.
All the associations, with which we are brought into contact here, are that we may, through faith in Jesus Christ, become one with God. Whatever our surroundings, we are to form characters for the higher life. Severe temptations will come; affliction will come; but these influences are for educational purposes—not to degrade us, to bring us down to the level of our low surroundings, but that “looking unto Jesus,” we may be prepared for the future, immortal life. [Hebrews 12:2.] Jesus died a shameful death in order that we might have characters like His own character. How sad it would be to disappoint Him in the saving of one soul, and that your own soul! And the loss of your own soul will mean the loss of other souls. The power of your example will leaven others.
(11LtMs, Ms 38, 1896, 1)
Every soul who does not receive Christ as his personal Saviour receives, in the place of Christ, satanic agencies. He comes under the control of the great apostate. Christ has declared, “He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Here the principle is plainly stated. Our Redeemer understood this, and was desirous that all should be saved through faith in Him. His prayer, recorded in the seventeenth chapter of John is full of instruction of the highest type. This prayer, uttered in the hearing of His disciples, was a sample of His intercession carried on in heaven, within the vail, for all who receive Him and believe on His name, even unto the ends of the earth.
(11LtMs, Ms 38, 1896, 2)
Christ is our Advocate. He intercedes for us as our High Priest. That which He has expressed in His prayer on earth is the assurance of His intercession above. He paid the ransom price for our souls with His own blood, which He gave for the life of the world. This life was not given for the world that He might justify men in transgression and sin. No; but that He might, through the repenting sinner’s reception of, and belief in, Him, take away his sins; that by faith in Christ as the propitiation for his sins, he might cease to sin.
(11LtMs, Ms 38, 1896, 3)
The life practice of the believing child of God should exalt the gospel of Christ. It should testify of the power of the Word upon the human life. Christ has said, “If ye love me keep my commandments.” [John 14:15.] “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 17:19, 20.] Here is where the responsibility of individual influence comes in. The words of the disciple of Christ will simply be a voicing of the words of Christ, and are to be received from his servants as the words of Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 38, 1896, 4)
Christ set Himself apart to achieve the redemption of men, that they might have an example in Him of their individual service to God, and how to discharge its duties. We are to remember that Christ prayed for us in His humanity; He prays for us as officiating High Priest within the vail.
(11LtMs, Ms 38, 1896, 5)
“Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” [Verses 20, 21.] What courage, what increase of faith, what trust we should have in God as we recall this petition of the Son of God. We can estimate the value He places upon those who receive and believe on Him by this prayer made to His Father in our behalf. Through His prayer on earth and intercessions in heaven, He brings all His true followers into close living union and relationship to Himself. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God,”“heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ.” [John 1:12; Romans 8:17.] Thus the sacred union is formed between Christ and those who receive Him by faith as their personal Saviour. They are one with Christ, as Christ is one with God.
(11LtMs, Ms 38, 1896, 6)
The teachings of Christ individualize. He counts person by person, and the possibilities He has brought within the reach of each, through faith in Him, of being one with God, of gaining immortality through Christ. “Who will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, eternal life; but unto them that are contentious (those who contend against the truth, who stir up strife, who do not cultivate kindness, sympathy, compassion, goodness, and love), and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first and also of the Gentile; but glory, honor, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile: for there is no respect of persons with God.” [Romans 2:6-11.]
(11LtMs, Ms 38, 1896, 7)
Ms 39, 1896
“Make Straight Paths For Your Feet.” NP December 31, 1896 Formerly Undated Ms 114. Portions of this manuscript are published in OHC 53; 3BC 1142, 1161; 6BC 1086; 7BC 921; 10MR 296-297; 11MR 49-51.
Many who claim to be Christians are not Christians. The position of the saved and the lost is not now as plain and unmistakable as it will be by and by. At times the contrast is scarcely discernible. Our only safety is in refusing to follow any one in a questionable course. Stand firmly for the right. When the Lord makes up His jewels the contrast between the righteous and the wicked will be decidedly marked. “Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God, and him that serveth him not.” [Malachi 3:18.] Then murmurers and accusers, those who are envious and jealous, will be found standing on their own side, with Satan and his angels.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 1)
The man who loves God meditates on the law of God day and night. He bears the fruit of a branch vitally connected with the vine. He is instant in season and out of season, working always for the Lord. His work is not measured by the eight-hour system. He works at all hours and is never off duty. As he has opportunity, he does good. Everywhere, at all times and in all places, he finds opportunity to work for God. He is one of the Lord’s evergreen trees. He carries fragrance with him wherever he goes. Wholesome atmosphere surrounds his soul. The beauty of his well-ordered life and a godly conversation inspires in others faith and the hope and courage in the Lord. He heeds the injunction of the apostle Paul, “Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees.” [Hebrews 12:12.]
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 2)
“Make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way.” This Christianity in practice. “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.” [Verses 13, 14.] Give yourselves to the Lord, and then you will be prepared to work for Him. Do not exert an influence which will break the hold of any trembling soul from God. Remember that your conversation has a great influence for good or evil. By sowing evil in the minds of the weak, who have no vital connection with God, by telling them what little confidence you have in your brethren, you tear away the last shred of hold which their brethren have on them, because you destroy their confidence in them.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 3)
The words of the apostle should teach you to be very careful how you snap the thread of your faith by talking of your motes of difficulty and dwelling upon them until you make them appear large in your own eyes and in the eyes of others, who do not know them or you in your inner heart life.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 4)
Do not allow the devil to use your tongue and your voice to ruin those weak in the faith, for at the day of final reckoning God will call upon you to give an account of your work. Do not manufacture grievances. Do not think that you must receive special consideration, special favor. If you are not favored as you think you ought to be, do not let the root of bitterness spring up, whereby many are defiled.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 5)
By your words you may cause others to become suspicious. They will then think evil as you do, and will begin to accuse as you have done. Thus you put them on a track in which they cannot be at peace with their brethren. They sell their birthright for a morsel of sympathy, that they may hear themselves petted and praised by those who do not know whether their hearts are cleansed or defiled. What is the sympathy of poor mortals worth? God alone can look beneath the surface. He measures the spirit, and He alone can know what men are.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 6)
Seek to be an evergreen tree. Wear the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. Cherish the grace of love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness temperance. This is the fruit of the Christian tree. Planted by the rivers of water, it will always bring forth its fruit in due season.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 7)
The Christ the Christian loves is the Bread of life. He who eats His flesh and drinks of His blood becomes one with Christ. The Word of God is his meat and his drink. He represents the character of Christ and is always fresh and green. His foliage is unwithering and unfading. He prospers in whatever he does; for he does not look merely to this present life to receive his reward; but labors earnestly and truly, and his reward is an eternity of blessedness. “The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree; he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing.” [Psalm 92:12-14.]
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 8)
God’s chosen ones are to reveal to the world their union one with another. It is not possible for a few to walk to heaven alone because they can agree with no others. God’s people are a unit. If some entertain ideas so peculiar that God’s people cannot accept them, they should compare notes in a teachable spirit, and be willing to learn. They should make the most strenuous efforts to be one, to come into the unity of the faith in the bonds of peace.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 9)
“So speak ye and do as they that shall be judged by the perfect law of liberty. For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath showed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment. What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say ye have faith, and have not works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works is dead, being alone. Yea, a man say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: show me thy faith without thy works. and I will show thee my faith by my works.” [James 2:12-18.]
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 10)
The Lord has called us to unity in the bonds of Christ and fellowship and love. In His prayer for His disciples, Christ said, “Neither pray I for these alone; but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one; I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:20-23.]
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 11)
We see that which the Lord requires of us. Shall we not put our pride and our dignity where it will not be as easily bruised and wounded? Shall we not lay it all at the feet of Christ? Shall we not allow our minds to be sharpened by the Holy Spirit, that we may not act like children in our association with one another, but as Christ’s brave soldiers, going without the camp, and bearing the reproach for His sake? “A new commandment I give unto you,” Christ says, “that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.] Shall we not, at the beginning of the year 1897, covenant with God that we will not be like the children of the wicked one, pettish, envious, jealous, and full of evil surmisings, but like the tree that is known by its good fruit. Then by our unity and love for one another all men will understand that we are Christians. Shall we not cherish love, rather than strife and malice and hatred?
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 12)
“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. 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. 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 command you.” [John 15:7-14.]
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 13)
“And you hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins; wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience; among whom ye all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace are ye saved;) and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. That in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved, through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” [Ephesians 2:1-8.]
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 14)
No provision has been made for Christians to draw apart from each other. By our unity and love we are to reveal the character of Christ. “Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; and walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and has given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God, for a sweet smelling savor.” [Ephesians 5:1, 2.] There is a class named in this chapter that we are not to associate with. If we cannot lift them up, they will pull us down. We know the will of God. Shall we not practice His Word? Shall we not love each other as brethren?
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 15)
“Put on therefore as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering, forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any; even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things, put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of God dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” [Colossians 3:12-17.]
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 16)
The Word of God clearly points out our duty. We are to cultivate kindness and forbearance and love. We are to represent Christ in character. Evil speaking, accusing, and faultfinding, misrepresenting our brethren because our own individual ideas are not considered as of the highest value, can find no place in a Christian’s life. By our conduct we show what our influence and the principles we hold are worth. If self is our center, self will be seen in all we do. If Christ is our center, we shall bear His likeness.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 17)
“For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves. Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. See that none render evil for evil; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.” [1 Thessalonians 5:9-15.]
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 18)
Are we striving most earnestly to obey these words? Shall we not eat and practice them? Shall we not draw nigh to God, fearing to sin against Him by being unjust to our brethren? Then we shall fear to offend His children. We will not wound or bruise His heritage. If we hope in His mercy for sinners, we shall manifest the most tender interest for all for whom Christ has died. We shall not, because our ideas are exalted and honored as we think they should be, handle the reputation of our brethren in a way that offends God, who loves them as He loves us, and who takes as much pleasure in them as He does in us.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 19)
Let those who believe the Word of God sink the shaft deep into the mines of truth. They will then behold wondrous things out of God’s Word. They will understand the prayer of Christ, “This is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.] The more one knows of God and of Jesus Christ, the more correct will be his knowledge of himself.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 20)
The Lord is very pitiful and of tender mercy. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.”“The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.... As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.” [Psalm 103:13, 8, 12.] The Lord looks upon His redeemed heritage with pity. He is ready to pardon their sins if they will surrender and be loyal to Him. In order to be just and yet the justifier of the sinner, He lays the punishment of sin on His only begotten Son.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 21)
“The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in them that hope in his mercy.” [Psalm 147:11.] But it is only through the value of the sacrifice made for us that we are of value in the Lord’s sight. It is because of the imputed righteousness of Christ, that we are accounted precious by God. For Christ’s sake He pardons them that fear Him. He does not see in them the vileness of the sinner; He recognizes in them the likeness of His Son, in whom they believe. In this way only can God take pleasure in any of us. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:12.]
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 22)
The more perfectly the Lord sees the character of His beloved Son revealed in His people, the greater is His satisfaction and delight in them. God Himself and the heavenly universe rejoice over them with singing, because Christ has not died for them in vain. The believing sinner is pronounced innocent, while the guilt is placed on Jesus Christ. The righteousness of Christ is placed on the debtor’s account, and against his name on the balance sheet is written, Pardoned. Eternal Life.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 23)
But if men do not reflect the spirit and attributes of Christ, God cannot take pleasure in them. It depends upon the belief and the hope we have in the mercy of God whether we find our hearts’s best treasure. Those only who by prayer and watchfulness and love work the works of Christ can God rejoice over with singing.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 24)
Were it not for Christ’s atoning sacrifice, there is nothing in us in which God can delight. All the natural goodness of men is worthless with God. He will not take pleasure in any man that retains his old nature, and is not so renewed in knowledge and grace that he is a new man in Christ Jesus. Our education, our talents, our means, are gifts entrusted to us by God, that He may see how we will use them. If we use them to glorify self, if we live for self, the Lord says, I cannot delight in them, for Christ has died for them in vain. One word which exalts self causes the light of God’s countenance to be withdrawn.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 25)
The Lord takes none to heaven but those who are first made saints through the grace of Jesus Christ, those in whom He can see Christ exemplified. When the love of Christ is an abiding principle in the soul, we shall realize that we are hid with Christ in God. Then we can say, “I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” [Galatians 2:20.] Look to Calvary. Let every proud look be humbled. Look unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith, “who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” [Hebrews 12:2.]
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 26)
The graces of Christ’s spirit must be cherished and revealed by the sons and daughters of God. By their humility, their penitence, their desire to be like Jesus, to be conformed to His will by practicing His lessons in their daily life, they honor Him. Their constant fear of God is a fear to disobey or disregard one injunction. They hope in God, and commit the keeping of their souls to Him, as unto a faithful Creator. “Thus saith the high and lofty One who inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy, I dwell in the high and holy place with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” [Isaiah 57:15.] The cry of the broken heart is as music in His ears, because He can restore and heal.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 27)
“Ye are God’s husbandry.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] As one takes pleasure in the cultivation of a garden, so the Lord takes pleasure in His believing sons and daughters. A garden demands constant labor. The weeds must be removed; new plants must be set out; branches that are making too rapid a development must be pruned back. So the Lord works for His garden, the plants of the Lord. He cannot take pleasure in any development that does not reveal the graces of the character of Christ. The blood of Christ has made men and women God’s precious charge. Then how careful each one should be not to manifest too much freedom in pulling up the plants the Lord has placed in His garden. Some plants are so feeble that they have hardly any life in them, and for these ones the Lord has a special care.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 28)
“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 that 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.] Here is the work which every son and daughter of God must do. To adorn the doctrine of Christ our Saviour, we must have the same mind which was in Christ. Our likes and dislikes, our desire to favor self to the disadvantage of others must be overcome. Let the peace of God rule in your hearts. Christ must be in us a living, working power.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 29)
Our names are registered as Christians. We go to the Lord’s table; we profess to be sons and daughters of God, members of the Lord’s family, children of the heavenly King. Then let us show that we love Jesus by enthroning Him in the heart, by denying self for the sake of others. Let us work together harmoniously, staunch members of one family. The Lord knows the ways of His righteous children. Every word, every thought, every motive is open before the eyes of Him who sees all things. But too often those who claim to believe the truth deny Christ by the lack of faith they have in their brethren. Too often evil is watched for; things are seen in the worst light; words and actions are misconstrued and misinterpreted. Many talk vigorously about mere suppositions; but their own hearts, their own faults, trouble them little. If they would devote their tongues [and] their voices to the confessing of their sins, if they would humble their hearts before God, it would be better for them.
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 30)
God has not made any man or woman a sin-bearer. He has not laid upon any soul the duty of confessing his brother’s defections and sins. Each one is to search his own heart, and confess for his sins. Draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to you. Leave your brethren in the hands of God. Let Him who knows the heart in all its waywardness be able to deal with you in mercy because you have shown mercy and tenderness, and compassion, and love. “Make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.” [Hebrews 12:13.]
(11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, 31)
Ms 40, 1896
The Workers Needed in Cooranbong NP December 31, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in 2MCP 572; 5MR 448-449; 9MR 377. +
The Lord has sent us to this country for wise purposes. We are most decidedly on missionary soil. In the work which we are doing, we need men who are not traitors, who will not work more interestedly for themselves than for God; who will not be indifferent either in the army or in the home guards. We must have helpers who will work disinterestedly. All are under bonds to God to be faithful, vigilant, brave, and patriotic. We shall have weighty and solemn responsibilities to bear, and those who will make a covenant with God by sacrifice to love as brethren, not only those who will favor and accommodate them, but all who are in service; those who will make every effort to use their God-given talents in the service of God; those who will stand shoulder to shoulder with their brethren, drawing in even lines, are the men God delights to own, and with whose efforts the heavenly intelligences can co-operate.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 1)
Those who put their heart and soul into service of the Master, doing their duty to God and to their fellow men, will not be free from temptation. Satan will tempt every one whom He will not need an invitation to take mind and heart under his guidance and control. When tempted, will God’s workers stand firm to principle, or will they use their God-given powers to dishonor God?
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 2)
The voice and tongue are gifts from God, and if rightly used, they are a power for God. Words mean very much. They may express love, devotion, praise, melody to God, or hatred and revenge. Words reveal the sentiments of the heart. They may be a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. The tongue is a world of blessing, or a world of iniquity.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 3)
My brother, when circumstances shall occur that make it necessary for you to speak words of reproof, instruction, or correction in righteousness, restrain your tongue. Do not misuse the precious talent lent you by God to do good with and to be a blessing to others. Do not utter harsh and impatient words. Keep that fire and that burst of passion out of your voice. Do not hurt the souls of your brethren by scolding, by commanding, by violent gesticulations. Angels of God are present when you do this, and they are made ashamed of you.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 4)
What, are you a commander? Then speak not harshly, but as a brother Christian should speak to a brother Christian. In the name of Jesus, who with His own blood has paid the purchase money, that men may be co-workers with Him, I ask you not to offend or hurt any soul by your impatience at their ignorance. Restrain your wrath; it does no good to any of your fellow workers in your business or in the church. Remember that the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. You should come out from temptation without speaking one word to offend. “If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able to bridle the whole body.” [James 3:2.]
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 5)
There will come into this work men of varied temperaments, weak on some points. Men chosen as elders of the church or are as deacons will be tempted on some points; but whatever the temptation may be, they may conquer it. Will they fight the enemy? Will they drive him from them, and stand as victor, or will they do the work Satan wishes them to do by putting into another’s mind the thoughts of evil they have been tempted to cherish? They do good service for Satan by communicating those evil thoughts to another mind, setting him to watch with keen scrutiny, to think and speak evil of his brethren, and to pass along the dish prepared by Satan to poison others. This is the root of bitterness springing up, whereby many are defiled.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 6)
This work has been carried on unscrupulously on the grounds we have purchased for the establishment of a school. But no one should feel at liberty to enter the army of Satan and unite with him by pointing their weapons of warfare against their fellow workmen, because they think that they themselves are not specially favored. If any one has come to this place to be served instead of to serve, if they have come for their own advantage, and not to do the utmost to increase facilities for the work of God, this is not the place for them. God does not take pleasure in men who place their interest first.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 7)
We are not here in Cooranbong to study selfish interests. We are not here to help Satan in his work, or to add the weight of our unconsecration to the load some one must carry. Those that are desirous to ride and let others pull the load will not do here. It is not encouraging for those who are putting their money and their anxious care into the work, who are working on the right hand and on the left, to hear bitter murmurings and complaints from those who ought to be burden bearers. When those who ought to act like brave, loyal men change captains, and place themselves under the control of another leader, the outlook is made most discouraging.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 8)
This is a most poverty-stricken region. But if the workers will give back to God their entrusted ability, acting their part disinterestedly, the Lord God of hosts will work with them. Many will come here who need pity and compassion. They will need succor, for they will be weak. Young men will come on these grounds, who will need help. In the strength of Him whose lovingkindness is exercised toward the helpless, the ignorant, and those counted as the least of His little ones, their future must be shaped. “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren,” Christ says, “ye have done it unto me.” [Matthew 25:40.] The brows of those who do this work will wear the crown of sacrifice. They will receive their reward for acting their part in this enterprise of establishing and carrying forward a school which will give the proper education. But if at the very start of the work strife is seen, if suspicion is peddled around and traded upon, doubt and unbelief will be sown in the minds of those who shall come on the ground.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 9)
I ask, in the name of the Lord, that those who have certainly been at work in lines of faultfinding and accusing be converted, or go to some other locality as soon as they can. If they have educated themselves to spend little time in searching their own hearts with true contrition, but feel it a duty to prove and test their brethren by their measuring rod, let them go where less harm will be done by this kind of work. In unity there is strength; in disunion there is weakness. No one who has engaged in the work of criticizing should locate here, because education in this line is not to be given. Those who are loyal and steadfast to principle are the men and women that are wanted.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 10)
We must guard every point, for Satan is unwearied in his work of temptation. Watch well your words; guard well the spirit that prompts your words. Stand as faithful sentinels over your own defective attributes of character, that you may take no liberty that will prove a stumbling block to your weak brother. Be careful how you treat those for whom Christ has died. Do not make crooked paths for your feet, paths which will turn his feet out of the way of life. I wish all to remember that a day is coming when every case will be revealed. Then the plague spot, the rock of offense, that wrecked your bark, will be seen. Then many will realize that the tongue, though a little member, can do a weight of mischief. Many, eternally lost, will then in their despair look with reproach upon the ones who sowed the seeds of bitterness in their hearts, who put suspicious thoughts into their minds.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 11)
The whole of the eighteenth chapter of Matthew is a practical lesson. Will we hang it in the chambers of the mind, in memory’s hall, that we may oft read and ponder and obey the lesson so essential for us to practice and weave into our Christian experience?
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 12)
Many who think themselves first class Christians do not obey the holy law of God. They do not love God with all their heart and with all their soul and with all their mind and with all their strength. They do not love their neighbor as themselves. But these are the only terms upon which we can secure eternal life. Then should we not practice the principles Christ has laid down? Should we not individually cultivate the garden of the soul, that we may remove every weed, every tare that Satan has sown while we have neglected our garden, because we have been so fully occupied in finding the weeds in our neighbor’s garden? If each one will take his own garden under his own special stewardship, and purify his own thoughts, bringing them into captivity to Jesus Christ, [he] will not scatter [his] words recklessly hither and thither, without careful consideration as to their lodgment and the result.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 13)
In His lesson Christ said, “Blessed are they that hear the word of God and keep it.” [Luke 11:28.] This is the work devolving upon all. All are to hear the Word of God and keep it. If we do not do this, we are not serving God. “He that is not with me,” said Christ, “is against me, and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] Christ came to our world to live the law of God in humanity, and this we can do only through the grace of Christ. What are we doing on this school ground? Are any of us here to gather to ourselves more money? Are we here to add our weight to the burden of others? Are we here to instill the poison of disaffection into the minds of new comers, to make them suspicious, to cause them to lose confidence in their brethren? This root of bitterness owes its growth to selfishness, to the depravity of the heart. “The love of money is the root of all evil; which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” [1 Timothy 6:10.]
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 14)
This class must be met right in our midst. What shall we do? Shall we let these discordant elements prevail? Shall we allow the leaven of evil to be introduced into other minds because it is brought here? Will those bringing this disaffection allow their own prejudices to prevail? Will they allow their love of money to gain the victory, or will they overcome their sin, and let Christ take it away? Will those who have means venture something to advance the work, or will they stand by and do nothing unless they are paid for it, saying, “I have no confidence in the management here.” It is much easier to tear down another man’s building than to go to work yourself and build for time and for eternity. It is much easier to take a review of what has been done, and then tell how much better it could have been done, than to do anything. All these fretting, complaining ones, who will not do anything to improve the condition of things, who sit on the stool of criticism, calling the attention of those who come upon the ground to what might have been done, are stumbling blocks, and had better go away, taking their envy, jealousy, and evil surmisings with them.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 15)
It is our privilege to inquire, What kind of elements will work harmoniously together? Those who will not betray sacred trusts, who will seek to build up, and not to tear down, we promise to unite with.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 16)
“Finally be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous.... For he that will love life and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers; but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil. And who is he that will harm you if ye be followers of that which is good?” [1 Peter 3:8, 10-13.] “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 covereth a 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.”“Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him that hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” [1 Peter 4:7-10; 2:9.]
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 17)
God demands that our faith shall produce the fruit of good works. All who will help us to do true missionary work, to bless others, have the approval of God and are welcome here. But do not remain here, I beseech of you, if you are going to hinder the work by sowing seeds of discord. If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, and you say to them, I am very sorry for you. Depart in peace; be warmed and filled. I wish you were comfortable, and at the same time, [you] do not give them what is needful for the body, what does it profit? This may be applied to those who shall come upon this ground. If you have a true interest in the work, if you are willing to do God’s service faithfully, if you are not bound about by your own selfish plans, the Lord can work in co-partnership with you. But men who work for their own personal advantage, have not the right spirit or the right influence, will not be approved by God.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 18)
It is gold of character that God estimates as of value. He reads the purposes; He has seen the disaffection where men should have been one in Christian unity. Christ is hungry and thirsty to see Christians working upon Christian principles. In all their affliction He was afflicted, and He longs to see His children manifesting His character. “Will a man rob God?” [Malachi 3:8.] Human brotherhood is needed. All dissension, bickering, and self seeking is not of God, but of Satan.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 19)
In the last great day those who have sympathized with self, and by their words of suspicion have turned in the wrong direction the scale on which the soul of a human being was hanging, will see their mistake. When their strength and influence were needed to turn the balance for the right, they sowed their seeds of suspicion and criticism, standing under Satan’s banner and doing his work, and the blood of souls will be charged to them. They will be held accountable for what they might have done had they been instant in season and out of season in the work of Christ. The wrong impression made upon human minds may live long after those that have made these impressions are dead.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 20)
If possible, I would awaken the sluggish mind to realize that we are bought with a price. “Ye are not your own, for ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] Think of what Christ suffered in order to ransom man from the slavery of sin. Think of what opportunities are within our reach if we would but see our privileges. Looking at it from this standpoint no one will venture to degrade himself in any way. The mind, the physical organism, the soul temple, every nerve, sinew, and muscle, may be weakened and crippled through inaction. But this is not pleasing to God. He did not make the human body the weak, inefficient habitation that we now see.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 21)
God made man upright, fitted to stand in his God-given capabilities. He created him to possess a nature allied to the angels, an inheritance of life eternal. He delights in those who do not always remain children, who have the mind of Christ, and grow up into Christ. God’s family here below are to wait and watch for opportunities of blessing others. They are to be the sons and daughters of God. The Holy One has given rules of guidance, and the weakest saint need not fall short of the standard of righteousness.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 22)
Life in the branch grafted into the living vine means growth. God has made every provision that His children shall possess divine strength and power, so that they shall not sink below the level of the brute creation. He designs that through obedience to His laws man shall deserve the report made of John and of Christ. Of John, the pen of inspiration traces the words, “And thou, child, shall be called the prophet of the Highest; for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; to give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring from on high hath visited us, to give light to them that sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit.” Of Jesus we read, “And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.... And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” [Luke 1:76-80; 2:40, 52.] This human life may be repeated in the life of every child and youth.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 23)
This testimony may be borne of all who will resist temptation, who will educate themselves to respect themselves, not as lords, but as human beings, whose redemption cost heaven an infinite price. They are to cut loose from the slavery of Satan’s power, and look upon themselves as too precious and valuable to descend to any cheap ideas or common, mean practices, and so dishonor body and soul that the Lord is ashamed to call them brethren. They are to reverence themselves by reverencing God, who gave Jesus to ransom them. Thus they may make of themselves, through Christ, powerful, consecrated workmen, who can co-operate with God in the great work of restoring in man the moral image of God. In order to understand and reverence themselves, they must reverence God. This will give them correct ideas of their entire dependence upon God. Then they may be called sons of God, and angels will dwell amongst them.
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 24)
In all business transactions never forget that you are dealing with minds that are God’s property. Be kind, be pitiful, be courteous. Let there be no overbearing, no stirring up the human passions by unadvised words. Respect God’s property. Treat each other with tenderness and courtesy. Lose not a single opportunity for qualifying yourself intellectually to work for God, that through your influence you may qualify others. Will God’s people in Cooranbong exert every God-given faculty to the fullest extent of their ability to become examples to others in word, in spirit, and in action? O, many will regret that their ideas of Christianity were not uplifted with an uplifted Saviour. Seek to be uplifted in Christ. By your obedience to God reverence yourselves as the purchase of His dear Son. This work is as lasting as eternity. Then shall we, as sons and daughters of God, forget our royal birth? Shall we not rather honor our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ? Shall we not show forth the praises of Him who hath called us out of darkness into His marvelous light?
(11LtMs, Ms 40, 1896, 25)
Ms 41, 1896
Words of Comfort Refiled as Ms 41, 1897.
Ms 41a, 1896
True Education “Sunnyside,” Cooranbong, New South Wales, Australia December 20, 1896 See variant Ms 41b, 1896. This manuscript is published in entirety in 1SAT 278-291. +
(To be read at camp meeting.)
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 1)
In the night season some things were opened before me in reference to the work and the school that will soon be opened in this locality. The light given me was that we must not pattern after the similitude of any school that has been established in the past. We must study the Word of God critically as the great lesson book, in order to know what the school may become under the receiving and doing of the Word of God. Unless we are guarded, we shall experience those hindrances to the spiritual education that have retarded the work of our schools in America by misapplication and miscalculation of the work most essential.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 2)
When Christ was working in our world, He had but few followers, and those whom He called His disciples were, by the maxims and customs of the scribes and Pharisees, constantly kept back from the advancement they might have made in supplying their great want and becoming efficient in usefulness. Through the rabbis, customs had come down from generation to generation, and these were made all-essential, even of more force than the Ten Commandments. Thus the precepts of men were taught and dwelt upon as of more value than a “Thus saith the Lord.”
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 3)
I have been warned that the teachers in our school should not travel over the ground that many of the Battle Creek teachers have gone over in their experience. Will ministers and teachers bear this in mind? Popular amusements for students were brought in there under a deceptive garb. Satan approached as an angel of light, and he worked most actively. If he could obtain the sanction of the teachers in the school at the great heart of the work, every school established would follow in its tread. The leaven of evil, introduced and sanctioned at Battle Creek, would spread the properties introduced to all with whom it had any connection.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 4)
The Lord has thought it essential to give reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness on many things in regard to the management of schools among Seventh-Day Adventists. All the light that has been given must be carefully heeded. No man or woman should be connected with our schools as educators who have not had an experience in obeying the Word of God. That which the Lord has spoken in the instruction given to our schools is to be strictly regarded, for if there is not, in some respects, an education of altogether a different character in our schools than has been given in Battle Creek, then we need not go to the expense of purchasing land, and erecting school buildings.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 5)
In every school Satan has tried to make himself the guide of the teachers who instruct the students. It is he who has introduced the idea that selfish amusements are a necessity. Students sent to school for the purpose of receiving an education to become evangelists, ministers, and missionaries to foreign countries should not have received the idea that amusements are essential to keep them in physical health, when the Lord has presented before them that the better way is to embrace in their education manual labor in the place of amusements. These amusements, if practiced, will soon develop a passion that gives disrelish to useful, healthful exercise of mind and body. Such exercise makes students useful to themselves and others.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 6)
This education, in felling trees, tilling the soil, erecting buildings, as well as in literature, is the very education our youth should each seek to obtain. As soon as possible a printing press should be connected with our school, in order to educate in this line. Tent making also should be taken hold of. Buildings should be erected, and masonry should be learned. There are also many things which the lady students may be engaged in. There is cooking, dress making, and gardening to be done. Strawberries should be planted, plants and flowers cultivated. This the lady students may be called out of doors to do. Thus they may be educated to useful labor. Thoughtful, necessary work is essential for all to have to prepare them to be missionaries. Bookbinding also, and a variety of trades should be taken up. These will not only be putting into exercise brain, bone, and muscle, but will also be gaining knowledge.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 7)
The greatest curse of our world in this our day is idleness. It leads to needless amusements merely to please and gratify self. The students have had a superabundance of this way of passing their time. They are now to have a different education, that they may be prepared to go forth from the school with an all-round education. We are to keep before the school the development of the useful arts, acquiring adaptability and talents to be employed to be colaborers with God. This kind of knowledge will open to them doors of welcome for the foreign fields, and the building of plain, simple homes will be essential.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 8)
The proper cooking of food is a most essential acquirement, especially where meat is not made the staple article of diet. Something must be prepared to take the place of meat, and these foods must be well prepared so that meat will not be desired. Culture on all points of practical life will make our youth useful after they shall leave the school to go to foreign countries. They will not then have to depend upon the people to whom they go to cook and sew for them, or build their habitations. And they will be much more influential if they show that they can educate the ignorant how to labor with the best methods and to produce the best results. This will be appreciated where means are difficult to obtain. They will reveal that missionaries can become educators in teaching them how to labor.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 9)
A much smaller fund will be required to sustain such missionaries, because they have put to the very best use their physical powers in useful, practical labor combined with their studies, as essential acquirements in education. And wherever they may go, all that they have gained in this line will give them a welcome and standing room. If the light God has given were cherished, students would leave our schools free from the burden of debt, because they can be useful and their help is of value.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 10)
It is also essential to understand the philosophy of medical missionary work. Wherever the students shall go, they need an education in the science of how to treat the sick, for this will give them a welcome in any place, because there is suffering of every kind in every part of the world. Sanitariums are to be established, and thus the body is to be brought into exercise which is essential for health.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 11)
The education given in our schools is one-sided. Students should be given an education that will fit them for successful business life. The common branches of education should be fully and thoroughly taught. Bookkeeping should be looked upon as of equal importance with grammar. This line of study is one of the most important for use in practical life, but few leave our schools with a knowledge of how to keep books correctly.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 12)
The reason that today so many mistakes are made in accounts is not because those in charge of them are dishonest but because they have not a thorough knowledge of bookkeeping. They are not prompt in making a faithful, daily estimate of their outgo. These mistakes have placed them in the ranks of dishonest men when, designedly, they are not dishonest. Many a youth, become ignorant of how to keep accounts, has made mistakes which have caused him serious trouble. Those who have a living interest in the cause and work of God should not allow themselves to settle down with the idea that they are not required to know how to keep books.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 13)
Education, true education, means much. The time devoted in school to learning how to eat with your fork, in place of your knife, is not the most essential. These little matters of form and ceremony should not occupy time and strength. Those students who are at first somewhat coarse and awkward will soon overcome this. If the teachers are themselves courteous and kind and attentive, if they are true in heart and soul, if they do their work as in the sight of the whole universe of heaven, if they have the mind of Christ and are molded and fashioned by the Holy Spirit, they will behave, not in a simpering, affected manner, but as ladies and gentlemen of solid worth. And if students have before them the teachers’ example of propriety, they will day by day be educated in proper manners.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 14)
To establish our school in Cooranbong, in this out of the way place seemed surprising to some. It has required some hard work to make a beginning. If the work is well begun, it will cost time and money. But a thing begun right is half done. It is the first steps that cost, but in holding what is already gained, they will make a continual advance in the right direction. All are not wise to see this.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 15)
By the blessing of the Lord the work has been started, and on these grounds now the help of every one is needed. The students must be taught how to begin. The educators must be men and women who have had experience, can patiently instruct, and will lead the students in the right way at every step they advance. Teach Bible manners; teach purity of thought and the strictest integrity. This is the most valuable instruction that can be given. Keep Jesus, the Pattern, ever before your students by your example. This will act a prominent part in restoring the moral image of God in those under your charge. Teachers, you have no time, no duty, to teach students the forms and ceremonies of worldly customs of this age of corruption, when everything is perverted to outward appearance and display. This must never find a place in our school. Good, wholesome, sensible words always spoken politely are essential. This reform is not to be brought in as non-essential.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 16)
All religious exercises are to be treated with the greatest solemnity and reverence. The teaching given should be of a higher class, of a more sacred and religious character, than has been given in schools generally. Human nature is worth working for, and it is to be elevated and refined. There is a work which God alone can do for those who are deficient. They must be fitted with the inward adorning which is in the sight of God of great price. But the teachers can co-operate with God. Through the grace of God in Jesus Christ, which bringeth salvation and immortality to light, teachers may co-operate with God, and His heritage may be educated, not in the minuteness of etiquette, but in the science of salvation and godliness, and this will prepare the sons and daughters of God to be finally transformed by the finishing touch of immortality, and in heaven they will carry forward more thoroughly the education begun in the schools here below. We shall be learners through all eternity.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 17)
Every student should aspire to obtain a fitness by the inward adorning of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. Therefore all should in this life make diligent use of every opportunity and privilege to obtain all the knowledge possible for a qualification for that higher life in the future world. God requires of every youth the full development and cultivation of all his powers. Every faculty of mind, soul, and body, is to be taxed to the highest to understand the Word of God and have a correct knowledge of the people and their manners, who are chosen the elect of God, and who will receive the “Well done” from the lips of their Master, and compose the family of God in heaven. [Matthew 25:21.] This is work that every one can do. Some are incapable of managing or organizing, but these can go co-operate in this school below with those who have a talent for this important work.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 18)
The teachers are to educate the youth to realize that if they receive Christ and believe on Him, they will be brought into close relationship with God. He gives them power to become the sons of God, to associate with the highest dignitaries in the kingdom of heaven and to unite with Gabriel, with cherubim and seraphim, with angels and the archangel. “And he showed me a pure river of water of life clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded his fruit every month; and the leaves of the tree were 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. And they shall see his face, and his name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle; neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light, and they shall reign forever and ever.” [Revelation 22:1-5.]
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 19)
In His teaching our Saviour did not encourage any to attend the rabbinical schools of His day, for the reason that their minds would be corrupted with the continually repeated, “They say,” or “It hath been said.” The Lord can do more with minds that have no connection with schools where infidel authors are pursued. These lesson books He reaches out His hand to remove, and in their stead places the Old and New Testament Scriptures. Those who will search the Scriptures for themselves, because it is the Word of God, who are willing to dig for the truth as for hidden treasures, will receive for their prize that wisdom which cometh alone from God. If they will not rely upon their own smartness, and not trust in their own inventions and their supposed fruitful minds, if they will give the working of the mind into the Lords hands, and yoke up with Jesus Christ, they will not take steps where Jesus does not lead the way.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 20)
The aim of life should be to obey the call of Christ, “Follow me.” Those whose minds are kept pure and uncrowded with too many small items, who will let their mind give its strength to those things that will be received not from their standpoint, but from the light that God has given, will be continually gaining in knowledge. And this knowledge will direct them in straightforward channels. By their aftersight they will be able to give thanks to God that they have studiously chosen to know and understand what saith the Lord to His servant.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 21)
The Word of God is to be studied and taught. Converse with God through the medium of His Word. Thus our characters will be transformed. The ideas and habits once thought essential will be changed. God’s Word is to be our lesson book. It is through the medium of this Word that we are to learn all about that better country, and the preparation essential for every one to obtain an entrance into the kingdom of God, and come into possession of eternal life. That Word obeyed cheerfully and willingly will ennoble your whole being in this life.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 22)
“Because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of His only begotten Son into your hearts, and your voice crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods. But now, after that ye have known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? Ye observe days and months and times and years.” [Galatians 4:6-10.] The observance of holidays in this country is a great evil. We want not to give sanction to the days and many traditions that are brought in. We need not pay any heed to them.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 23)
We all need to understand more and still more perfectly the life of Christ. He was the perfect image of God. He came to our world the great Teacher, and he will educate all who will be educated. Whoever longs for honor and distinction will find that the standard of virtue and holiness, strictly, steadfastly adhered to as revealed in the Word of God, will place him as a wise man among the most noble advisers and counsellors, for God’s Word will elevate a man. His Word, if obeyed will sanctify and refine and ennoble the entire man. There will be no cheap timbers brought into the structure of character-building.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 24)
The natural, inherited tendencies, if erratic, will be by the obedient, corrected by the Word; they will not be cherished as virtues, and imitated by learners, who will, in their turn, educate others, thus transmitting and perpetuating faulty sentiments that should never see the light of day. We are to be impelled by pure, disinterested motives, having no prejudices or preferences to strengthen, no set notions or ideas that Christ has never taught. Truth sanctifies the hearer, the mind, the will, for they are, if obedient, partakers of the divine nature.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 25)
The direction has been given to the students in the school of Christ: “As new born babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.” [1 Peter 2:2.] This is indeed eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of God. “Whoso eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood,” said Christ, “hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father; so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. This is that bread that cometh down from heaven; not as your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness and are dead; he that eateth this bread shall live forever.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 26)
“These things saith he in the synagogue, as he taught in Capernaum. Many therefore of his disciples, when they heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it? When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, And doth this offend you? What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing; the words that I speak unto you, they are Spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. From that time many of the disciples went back, and walked no more with him.” [John 6:54-66.]
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 27)
There are many who have no greater depth of faith and spiritual perception than had the disciples who forsook their Lord because their limited comprehension could not discern His words. The feeding upon the divine Word of God is the divine element which the soul needs in order to secure a healthy development of all its spiritual powers. In all our schools this word is to be made the essence of education; it is this that will give sanctified strength, wisdom, integrity, and moral power, if it is brought into the experience. It is not the words of worldly wisdom, it is not the maxims of men, not the theory of human beings, but it is the Word of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 28)
We shall have to guard against the steadfast holding to ideas and maxims that have been presented us as essential from a human standpoint. Every soul who would be successful in warring the good warfare can be so only on one condition—that he “receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.” [James 1:21.] Those who have dug deep for the hidden treasure, will find their reward in the precious veins of valuable ore, and these will make them wise unto salvation. All the wiles and subtleties of satanic agencies cannot beguile you from the position of steadfast self-denial if you are carefully following the example of your Saviour. You will meet the enemy’s treacherous advances with the words, “Get thee behind me, Satan.” [Luke 4:8.]
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 29)
Our time is precious. We have but few, very few days of probation left us in which to qualify ourselves for the future eternal life. We are not to devote these precious moments to forms and ceremonies, or cheap, superficial education. Think deeply before you speak. God designs that we shall keep the mind in pursuit of something tangible, something that we will not leave behind in this world, but that we can take with us into the higher school. The minds of the youth need the Word of God for instruction, that they may be throughly furnished unto all good works. The teachers will need to be very simple when teaching from the Scriptures. The students must be given line upon line, line upon line; precept upon precept, here a little, and there a little. Do not leave the slightest impression on the minds of your students that they are restricted and forced to wear a yoke of restraint that is unnecessary.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 30)
Strive to understand thoroughly every passage that you read. Fix one verse in mind, and after you have studied it prayerfully yourself, trying to understand thoroughly every word expressed, present [that verse to the students]. It is of little advantage to skim over the surface of the Scriptures. If we would understand fully the words of Christ, thought must be brought into the searching of the Scriptures. We should open the Scriptures with great reverence, and not in a slothful, lazy manner. The word of Christ is spirit and life to the receiver. The words of Christ to the Pharisees were, “Ye search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life; and they are they which testify of me.” [John 5:39.] They were searching the Scriptures for evidence of Christ’s appearing, gathering up every evidence in regard to the manner in which they supposed He would come, while Christ was in their midst, and they did not discern Him by the use of faith. “Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life,” He said. “I receive not honor from men,” He said to the opposing Pharisees. [Verses 40, 41.]
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 31)
“But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. I am come in my Father’s name, and ye receive me not; If another shall come, in his own name, him ye will receive.” They rejected Christ, their Messiah, and chose Barabbas. “How can ye believe which receive honor one of another, and seek not the honor that cometh from God only? Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father: there is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust. For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me; for he wrote of me: ‘The Lord thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him shall ye harken. And I will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him. And it shall come to pass that whosoever will not hearken unto my words, which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him.’ But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?” [John 5:42-47; Deuteronomy 18:15, 18, 19.]
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 32)
In this our day, as in Christ’s day, there will be a misreading and misinterpreting of the Scriptures. If the Jews had studied the Scriptures with earnest, prayerful humble hearts, their searching would have been rewarded with a true knowledge of the time, and not only the time, but also the manner of Christ’s first appearing. They would not have ascribed the glories of the second appearing of Christ to His first advent. They had the testimony of Daniel; they had the testimony of Isaiah and other prophets; they had the teaching of Moses; and here was Christ Himself in their midst, and still they were searching the Scriptures for evidence in regard to His coming. They were doing to Christ, at the same time, the very things that it had been prophesied they would do. They were so blinded that they knew not the time of His visitation, or what they were doing. Thus they were fulfilling the Scripture.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 33)
Many are doing the same thing today, in 1897, because they have not had experience in the testing message comprehended in the first, second, and third angels’ messages. There are those who are searching the Scriptures for proof that these messages are still in the future. They gather together the truthfulness of the messages, but they fail to give them their proper place in prophetic history. Therefore such are in danger of misleading the people in regard to locating the messages. They do not see and understand the time of the end, or when to locate the messages. The day of God is coming with stealthy tread, but the supposed wise and great men are prating about “higher education,” which they suppose originates with finite men. They know not the signs of Christ’s coming, or of the end of the world.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 34)
The evidence of the soon coming of Christ is right upon us, and many of us are asleep. We do not half gather up the important truths that are for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. If we receive and believe the word of God, we should be farther in advance spiritually than we are today. Iniquity abounds everywhere, and the love of many has waxed cold. Unless we understand the importance of the moments that are swiftly passing into eternity, and make ready a people to stand in the great day of God, we shall be registered in the books of heaven as unfaithful stewards. The watchman is to know the time of the night.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 35)
Everything is now clothed with a solemnity that all who believe the truth should feel and sense. They should act in reference to the great day of God. The plagues of God are already just upon the world, and we need to be preparing for that great day. We have not time now to spend in speculative ideas, or in haphazard movements. We should fear to skim the surface of the Word of God. When the light shine in our hearts, we shall, by all our words and works, live in accordance with that light, understand the words of God, and make it our spiritual, daily food, as represented by Christ as eating His flesh and drinking His blood. Then we will be prepared to teach the Word of God as we never have done before. We must sink the shaft deeper in the minds of truth. All the little things of life are but a mote now. Those that pertain to eternity are of great consequence.
(11LtMs, Ms 41a, 1896, 36)
Ms 41b, 1896
True Education “Sunnyside,” Cooranbong, New South Wales, Australia December 20, 1896 [typed May 24, 1897] Variant of Ms 41a, 1896. Portions of this manuscript are published in 6MR 136-137.
In the night season some things were opened before me in reference to the work and the school that will soon be opened in this locality. The light given me was that we must not pattern after the similitude of any school that has been established in the past. We must study the Word of God critically as the great lesson book, in order to know what the school may become under the receiving and doing of the Word of God. Unless we are guarded, we shall experience those hindrances to the spiritual education that have retarded the work of our schools in America by misapplication and miscalculation of the work most essential.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 1)
When Christ was working in our world, He had but few followers, and those whom He called His disciples were, by the maxims and customs of the scribes and Pharisees, constantly kept back from the advancement they might have made in supplying their great want and becoming efficient in usefulness. Through the rabbis, customs had come down from generation to generation, and these were made all-essential, even of more force than the Ten Commandments. These precepts of men were taught and dwelt upon as of more value than a “Thus saith the Lord.”
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 2)
I have been warned not travel over the ground that many of the Battle Creek teachers have gone over in their experience. The amusement question, which was brought in there under a deceptive garb. Satan approached as an angel of light, and he worked most actively. If he could obtain the sanction of the teachers of the school at the great heart of the work, every school established would follow in its tread. The leaven of evil introduced and sanctioned at Battle Creek would spread the properties introduced to all with whom it had any connection.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 3)
The Lord has thought it essential to give reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness on many things in regard to the management of schools among Seventh-Day Adventists. All the light that has been given must be carefully heeded. No man or woman should be connected with our schools as educator who has not had an experience in obeying the Word of the Lord. That which the Lord has spoken in the instruction given to our schools is to be strictly regarded, for if there is not in some respects an education of altogether a different character in our schools than had been carried on in Battle Creek, then we need not go to the expense of purchasing lands and erecting school buildings.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 4)
In every school Satan has tried to make himself the guide of the teachers who instruct the students. It is he who has introduced the idea that amusements are a necessity. Students sent to school for the purpose of receiving an education to become evangelists, ministers, and missionaries to foreign countries have received the idea that amusements are essential to keep them in physical health, when the Lord has presented before them that the better way is to embrace in their education manual labor in the place of amusements. This latter will soon become a passion that gives disrelish to useful, healthful exercise of mind and body, and which makes them useful to themselves and others.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 5)
This education, in felling trees, tilling the soil, as well as in literature, is the education our youth should seek to obtain. Farther on, a printing press should be connected with our school, in order to educate in this line. Tent making also should be taken hold of. Buildings should be erected, and masonry should be learned. There are also many things which the lady students may engage in. There is cooking, dressmaking, and gardening to be done. Strawberries should be planted, plants and flowers cultivated, and this the lady students may be called out of doors to do. Thus they may be educated to useful labor. Bookbinding also, and a variety of trades should be taken up. These will not only be putting into exercise brain, bone, and muscle, but will also be gaining knowledge.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 6)
The greatest curse of our world is idleness. It leads to amusements merely to please and gratify self. The students have had a superabundance of this way of passing their time. Now they are to be prepared to go forth from the school with an all-round education.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 7)
The proper cooking of food is a most essential acquirement, especially where meat is not made the staple article of diet. Something must be prepared to take the place of meat, and these foods must be well prepared, so that meat will not be desired. Culture on all points of practical life will make out youth useful after they shall leave the school to go to foreign countries. They will not then have to depend upon the people to whom they go to cook and sew for them, or build their habitations. And they will be much more influential if they show that they can educate the ignorant how to labor with the best methods, and to produce the best results. This will be appreciated where means are difficult to obtain. They will reveal that missionaries can become educators in teaching them how to labor. A much smaller fund will be required to sustain such missionaries, because they have put to the very best use their physical powers in useful, practical labor combined with their studies. And wherever they may go, all that they have gained in this line will give them standing room.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 8)
It is also essential to understand the philosophy of medical missionary work. Wherever the students shall go, they need an education in the science of how to treat the sick, for this will give them a welcome in any place, because there is suffering of every kind in every part of the world.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 9)
Education, true education means much. The time devoted in the school education in learning how to eat with your fork in the place of your knife is not the most essential. These little matters of form and ceremony should not occupy time and strength. Those students who at first are somewhat course and awkward will soon overcome this. If the teachers are courteous, kind, and attentive; if they are true in heart and soul to do their work as in the sight of the whole universe of heaven, if they have the mind of Christ and are molded and fashioned by the Holy Spirit, they will behave, not in simpering affectation, but as ladies and gentlemen. And if they have the teacher’s example of propriety, the students will day by day be educated by their proper manners. Teach Bible manners; teach purity of thought and strictest integrity; this is the most valuable instruction that can be given.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 10)
As teachers, let all keep Jesus, the Pattern, ever before them in your own actions, and this will act a prominent part as co-workers with Jesus in restoring the moral image of God in those in your charge. You have no time to teach them the forms and ceremonies of this age of corruption, when everything is perverted to outward appearance and display. This must never find a place in our school. This kind of reform is not to be brought in as essential.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 11)
All religious exercises are to be treated with the greatest solemnity and reverence. The teaching should be of a higher class, of a more sacred, religious order, than has been in schools in general. Human nature is worth working upon, and it is to be elevated, refined, sanctified, and fitted with the inward adorning which is in the sight of God of great price. Through the grace of God in Jesus Christ, which bringeth salvation and immortality and eternal life to light, His heritage may be educated, not in the minuteness of etiquette, but in the science of salvation and godliness. This will prepare the sons and daughters of God to be transformed by the finishing touch of immortality, and to carry forward more thoroughly in heaven the education begun in the schools here below. We shall be learners through all eternity.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 12)
Every student should aspire to obtain a fitness by the inward adorning of a meek and quiet spirit, which in the sight of God is of great price. Therefore he should in this life make diligent use of every opportunity and privilege to obtain all the knowledge possible for a qualification for that higher life in the future world. God requires of every youth the full development and cultivation of all his powers. Every faculty of mind, soul, and body, is to be taxed to the highest to understand the Word of God, and have a correct knowledge of the people and their manners, who shall receive the “Well done” from the lips of the Master. [Matthew 25:21.]
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 13)
The teachers are to educate the youth that if they receive Christ and believe on Him, they will be brought into close relationship with God. He gives them power to become the sons of God, to associate with the highest dignitaries in the kingdom of heaven, to unite with Gabriel, the cherubims and seraphims, with angels and the archangel. “And he showed me a pure river of water of life clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded his fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were 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. And they shall see his face, and his name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle; neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign forever and ever.” [Revelation 22:1-5.]
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 14)
I have many things to say unto you, Brother Herbert Lacey. The Lord has been my counsellor, and He has given me words for you. You are not prepared to be placed at the head of the work in the school. You have need to be a constant learner. If you are a teacher, many things will have to be unlearned, and many things learned of a different order. If this is not so, you will encourage the very things the Lord has been seeking to correct in the school at Battle Creek. You will introduce methods and plans that are not inspired of God, and that will be misleading.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 15)
When any idea has been cherished by you, it is very hard matter for you to part with it. But these are things that you may and will have to learn in the school of experience. Make yourself thoroughly familiar with the Word of God. If you do not do this, projects and aims will imprint themselves on your mind that should not be entertained, for it is not the way of the Lord. In all honesty you will come to conclusions which will need to be sifted. It is essential to your spiritual clearness of eyesight to have a more elevated direction. The common customs and practices of school life in some things cannot be brought in the school at Cooranbong. Your thoughts and ideas will change by experience if you earnestly and humbly inquire at each step, “Is this the way of the Lord?”
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 16)
The word was given me in regard to you: “You cannot trust the guiding and managing of a vessel of boys who have not served in that line; neither can you trust the molding of minds and characters with youth who have not years of experience to understand the workings of God. It will take older heads, those who have had larger experience, to devise and plan for the youth to obtain an all-sided character. Let not the work pass into the hands and be managed by those who have but little experience. The word was given me for you, Brother Herbert Lacey, that yourself and wife have yet to obtain a different kind of experience. The word was spoken, Keep your hands off the machinery. You will make mistakes if you now attempt to run a school. It is not left for you to plan and devise, but, learn all you possibly can. Let your souls be transformed by the grace of Christ Jesus, and your minds absorbed in meditating and studying the glorious truths concerning the life of the great Teacher. The Word of God is to be your food.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 17)
Follow Christ to the very letter, and then you will find that the elevated standard of virtue and holiness is placed before you in the gospel. Unless this is the case, you cannot as teachers do the work that is essential to be done to prepare the souls of those who shall come to the school to be transformed to the higher grade. There is with you both ideas and plans which you think essential that must not be brought in with pen or with voice. There are many imaginings and schemes and ambitions that you may suppose essential that should have no standing room, for we do not want that these ideas be brought in before the students, that they may be molded according to their likes and dislikes. Let every teacher sow the precious seed of truth in their minds. Your work should be more after the order of the teaching of Jesus Christ. He is the standard Teacher. Then let us not exalt as all-essential that which we have no record of Him teaching.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 18)
Our Saviour in His teaching did not encourage any to attend the rabbinical schools of His day, for the reason that their minds would be corrupted with the continually repeated, “They say,” or “It hath been said.” The Lord can do more with minds that have no connection with schools where infidel authors are perused. These lesson books He reaches out His hand to remove, and in their stead to place the Old and New Testament Scriptures. Those who will search the Scriptures for themselves, because it is the Word of God, who are willing to dig for truth as for hidden treasures, will receive for their prize that wisdom which cometh alone from God. If they will not rely upon their own smartness, nor trust in their own inventions and fruitful mind; if they will give the working of that mind into the Lord’s hands, and yoke up with Jesus Christ, they will not take steps where Jesus does not lead the way.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 19)
The aim of life should be to obey the call of Christ, “Follow me.” Those whose minds are kept pure and uncrowded with too many small items, who will let their mind give its strength to those things that will be received not from their standpoint, but from the light that God has given, will be continually gaining in knowledge that will direct in straightforward channels. By their aftersight they will be able to give thanks to God that they have studiously chosen to know and understand what saith the Lord to His servant.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 20)
The Word of God is to be studied and taught. Then the yearning desire for higher attainments in the divine life with grow. Converse with God through the medium of His Word, and transformation of character of our own ideas, and of habits, which now you deem all essential, will take their place. God’s Word is to be our lesson book. It is through the medium of His Word that we are to learn all about that better country, and the preparation essential for every one to obtain an entrance into the kingdom of God. That Word will ennoble your whole being.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 21)
You need to understand the life of Jesus Christ. He was the perfect image of God. He came to our world, the great Teacher, and He will educate all who will be educated. Whoever longs for honor and distinction will find that the standard of virtue and holiness, strictly, steadfastly adhered to, will place him as a wise man among the most noble advisers and counsellors; for God’s Word will elevate a man. His Word, if obeyed, will sanctify and refine and ennoble the entire man. There will be no cheap timbers brought into the structure of character building. The natural, inherited tendencies, if erratic, will be corrected by the Word, and not be cherished and imitated by learners [who] in turn educate others, thus transmitting and perpetuating faulty sentiments that should never see the light of day.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 22)
We are to be impelled by pure, disinterested motives, having no prejudices or preferences to strengthen, no set notions or ideas that Christ has never taught. You are to be very cautious how you move. Do not start out on your independent judgment, but consider, Here are those who have been working this ground, who have carried the burden. They have had much perplexity over two years, and it will be best for me to consult with them, and know just how to co-operate with them.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 23)
I have been directed to Brother and Sister Haskell as experienced servants of God, who will be efficient workers as helpers and counsellors. They both have had experience in managing the interests of the cause of God. Sister Haskell has been a school teacher for many years, and it will be a great blessing to the school to have the help and benefit of her all around experience. I value their capabilities of entering into the work. They are a God-sent help in this time of necessity.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 24)
We are nearing the end of time, and it is most essential that we walk humbly with God. We cannot fit up the building with carpets or enter into any preparation that requires an outlay of means, for we have none. I have been constantly handing out means, investing thousands of dollars to keep the work moving; but I know that we must heed the instruction given us in Melbourne to study economy in every line. Christ said of the scribes and Pharisees: “Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God.” [Matthew 22:29.] These both let us learn in the school of Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 25)
We must make the Scriptures our counsellor, and be doers of the Word if we would have a knowledge of the power of God. Our desires will have to be bound about. We are of necessity obliged to plan and devise and economize. We cannot manage as if we had a bank on which to draw in case of emergency. Therefore we must not get into straightened places. I am glad that Brother and Sister Haskell in their experience have learned that there is a limit to means, and while we would be pleased to have many things that we have not in our school building, we must look at the old furniture, the bureaus, tables, washstands, and other articles, and say, We must make them do.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 26)
Sister Lacey, you will have a new experience here. In America there is an altogether different state of things. There they have facilities; and they have been reproved that they have made such extravagant outlay of means in our school interests. Now, my sister, we will necessarily have put away everything that will make a display or show. Everything will have to [be] brought within the narrow compass of that which we can be assured we can sustain. It will be far better for the students coming to our schools to see and understand our poverty in regard to means for themselves. In the school in Melbourne, I carried through a large number of scholars, but I cannot do this now. But I know that the Lord will help us if we are willing to follow His example, and not perpetuate a desire to make an appearance. This principle should be discerned by the Word of God and cut away from the life practice by the Holy Spirit’s power.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 27)
The direction has been given to the students in the school of Christ: “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.” [1 Peter 2:2.] This is indeed eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of God. “Whoso eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood,” said Christ, “hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father; so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. This is that bread that came down from heaven; not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead; he that eateth of this bread shall live forever. These things saith he in the synagogue as he taught in Capernaum.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 28)
“Many therefore of his disciples, when they heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it? When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you? What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing; the words that I speak unto you, they are Spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my father. From that time many of the disciples went back, and walked no more with him.” [John 6:54-66.]
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 29)
There are many who have no greater depth of spiritual perception than had the disciples who forsook their Lord because their limited comprehension did not discern His words. The feeding upon the divine Word of God is the divine element which the soul needs to secure a healthful development of all its spiritual powers. In all our schools this Word is to be made the real essence of education; and it is this that will give strength, wisdom, integrity, and moral power, if it is brought into the experience. It is not the words of worldly wisdom, it is not the maxims of men, it is not the theory of human beings, but it is the Word of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 30)
We shall have to guard against the steadfast holding to ideas and maxims that have been presented us as essential from a human standpoint. Every soul who would be successful in warring the good warfare can be so only on one condition—that he “receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.” [James 1:21.] Those who have dug deep for the hidden treasure, will find their reward in the precious veins of valuable ore, and these will make them wise unto salvation. All the wiles and subtleties of satanic agencies cannot beguile you from the position of steadfast self-denial if you are carefully following the example of your Saviour. Then you will meet his [the enemy’s] treacherous advances with his words, “Get thee behind me, Satan.” [Luke 4:8.]
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 31)
My brother and sister whom I love in the Lord, you have many things to learn. A new experience must be gained by a close, careful, earnest education in the school of Christ. “Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me,” says the great Teacher, “for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:29, 30.]
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 32)
Our time is precious. We have now but few, very few days of probation left us in which to qualify ourselves for the future eternal life. We are not to devote these precious moments to forms and ceremonies. God designs that we shall keep the mind in pursuit of something tangible, something that we can take with us into the higher grade. The minds of the youth need the Word of God for instruction, that they may be “thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:17.] The teacher will need to be very simple when teaching from the Scriptures. They must be given line upon line, line upon line; precept upon precept, precept upon precept, here a little, and there a little.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 33)
Strive to understand thoroughly every passage that you read. Fix one verse in the mind, and after you have studied it prayerfully yourself, striving to understand thoroughly every word expressed, present that verse to the students. It is of little advantage to skim over the surface of the Scriptures. If we would understand fully the words of Christ, thought must be brought into the searching of the Scriptures. We should open the Scriptures with great reverence, and not in a slothful, lazy manner. The words of Christ to the Pharisees were, “Ye search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life; and they are they which testify of me.” [John 5:39.]
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 34)
They were searching the Scriptures for evidence of Christ’s appearing, gathering up every evidence in regard to the manner in which they supposed He would come, while Christ was in their midst. “And ye will not come to me,” He said, “that ye might have life. I receive not honor from men. But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. I am come in my Father’s name, and ye receive me not; If another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive. How can ye believe, which receive honor one of another, and seek not the honor that cometh from God only? Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father: there is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 35)
“For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: for he wrote of me. ‘The Lord thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him shall ye hearken ... And the Lord said unto me, ... I will raise up a prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him. And it shall come to pass that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him.’ But if ye believe not his writings, how shall ye believe my words?” [John 5:40-47; Deuteronomy 18:15, 17-19.]
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 36)
In ours, as in Christ’s day, there may be a misreading and misinterpreting of the Scriptures. If the Jews had studied the Scriptures with earnest, prayerful hearts, their searching would have been rewarded with a true knowledge of the time, and not only the time, but also the manner, of Christ’s appearing. They would not have ascribed the glorious second appearing of Christ to His first advent. They had the testimony of Daniel; they had the testimony of Isaiah and the other prophets; they had the teachings of Moses; and here was Christ in their very midst, and still they were searching the Scriptures for evidence in regard to His coming. And they were doing unto Christ the very things that had been prophesied they would do. They were so blinded they knew not what they were doing.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 37)
And many are doing the same thing today, in 1897, because they have not had experience in the testing message comprehended in the first, second, and third angels’ messages. There are those who are searching the Scriptures for proof that these messages are still in the future. They gather together the truthfulness of the messages, but they fail to give them their proper place in prophetic history. Therefore such are in danger of misleading the people in regard to locating the messages. They do not see and understand the time of the end, or when to locate the messages. The day of God is coming with stealthy tread, but the supposed wise and great men are prating about “higher education.” They know not the signs of Christ’s coming, or of the end of the world.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 38)
The evidence of the soon coming of Christ is right upon us, and many of us are asleep. We do not half gather up the important truths written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. Iniquity is abounding everywhere, and the love of many has waxed cold. Unless we understand the importance of these moments that are swiftly passing into eternity, and make ready a people to stand in the great day of God, we shall be unfaithful stewards. The watchman is to know the time of night. Everything is now clothed with a solemnity that all who believe the truth should feel and sense. They should act in reference to the great day of God. The plagues of God are just upon the world, and we need to be preparing for that great day.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 39)
We have no time now to spend in haphazard movements. We should fear to skim the surface of the Word of God. When the light shines in our hearts, we shall, in all our words and works, live in accordance with that light. We must now teach the Word of God as we never have done before. We must sink the shaft deeper in the minds of truth. All the little things of life are but a mote now. Those that pertain to eternity are of great consequence.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 40)
May 1
There are many things to write of, but I have such an intensity of feeling that it is consuming me. May God help me is my prayer. Let all seek the Lord most earnestly. You have perceptive faculties, Brother and Sister Lacey. God has given you talents, and you must use them to a purpose. May the Lord help you.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 41)
I was shown the necessity of connecting with the school some one of experience, some one who understood the principles of an all-round education, who had taken in the subjects that have been before our people, and have brought the same into his practical life. Proper education means much. O, that all could understand these matters in their true bearing. Physical, mental, and moral industry must be all combined in proper education, and everything that would be detrimental to the spiritual interests of the school must be cut away from the process of education.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 42)
I have prayed most earnestly to the Lord to move upon some one of His chosen men or women who have had a practical knowledge of educating in right lines, and who could unite with the students, and say, Come and let us engage in manual labor. I have had a great burden to have Brother Haskell come to Australia and connect with, and give Bible studies in, the school. His experience in the searching of the Scriptures and in religious exercises in the work from his youth till the present time has qualified him to stand as first in the school and to be counsellor and instructor in Bible lines. Let his age and experience as the chosen servant of God bring to him respect. There is ever to be connected with the school the talent of experience—how to manage and mold and teach the youth. This is an experience which you have not at the present time; and as this is an important matter, I shall present it before you, and hope that you will understand the whole matter.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 43)
I have written such on education, and will, when able, present it to the whole school. When your active, fruitful mind shall be exercised in the different lines, be sure that you do not bring in the very things presented at Battle Creek and Healdsburg which have been an offense to God in the past history of the management of that school. Have you brought with you the impressions you received of education at Battle Creek to be an influence here. If you had known all in regard to the testimonies given them, I am sure that the ideas that yourself and wife have had and brought with you would not seem essential to you. The Lord was grieved at the attitude taken by the teachers at Battle Creek.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 44)
It is exceedingly hard for you to give up an idea when once you have cherished it. Thus it would be a dangerous experiment to put Sister Lacey in as matron of the school, and yourself as preceptor, to take the place as director or manager. You have both to learn many things. You have to obtain a different kind of education than you have received. You are to understand that the path that has been gone over in Healdsburg or in Battle Creek, or in any other college, cannot be travelled by the school in Cooranbong. It is not the supreme thing for you to bring into the school your notions, your ideas, your plans, for they would certainly be detrimental to the school just as far as you have entertained them. I have not spoken very plainly to you in regard to these things, for I have written so largely upon these matters to Battle Creek that I supposed you understood them and were prepared to carry them out.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 45)
Economy should be exercised in everything connected with the school. Those who come to the school generally leave homes that are unadorned, where they have been accustomed to eat simple food without a number of courses. They are accustomed to plain, hearty food at noon, and a simple evening meal. There must be a strict regard to economy or a heavy debt will be incurred. Keep within bounds. Shun the incurring of debts as you would shun leprosy. But if you work on the other plan, it will hurt you more than you suppose.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 46)
The management must not be left to yourself or to your wife, for you would make grave mistakes if you followed your own inclinations in many things. While we have so many ways in which to use our means; while thousands are already starving [and] dying under plague of famine, bloodshed, and fire, it becomes every one of us to carefully consider, and not get any needless articles in order to make an appearance.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 47)
When these matters were opened before me in Melbourne, I bore my testimony decidedly against any outlay of means that would plunge the school in debt. What to do I did not know; but light came. Here it is: “Brother Haskell will connected with your school, and he will take heed to carry out the instruction that God has graciously given. His age and experience must be respected. Hold up his hands, and in no case demerit his counsel.”
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 48)
We all need to be baptized into a higher faith, and be prepared to work in Christ’s lines. The importance of physical taxation combined with the mental should be understood. If the instruction that has been given for years had been received, searched into, and studied from cause to effect, there would be many less students who would leave the school, where they have been acquiring an education, heavily in debt. They would have used their God-given abilities in useful physical as well as intellectual labor. This important phase of education would have kept them free from the bondage of debt. If all the edges had been bound about, which all must learn to do who engage in the work of God in any line, their education would be much more solid and all around.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 49)
There is great need of teachers who have an all round education. Appetites must be held in control, and not be misdirected. By students and teachers the physical powers must be carefully considered, or they will fail to tax the physical sufficiently to correspond with the taxation placed upon the mental. The physical powers must not be left unemployed or misemployed as they have been in instituting amusements to exercise the muscles. These are lessons that no student needs to attend school to learn. We have naught of this in the lessons of Christ. Let the physical be employed in useful labor that will be doing good. Let no one consider that he is departing from his dignity as a teacher if he uses the hands and arms and brings solidity to his muscles by useful exercise. This is God’s plan. Mind and heart will suffer with the indulgence of sedentary habits.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 50)
Educate the inactive to put into exercise the limbs and muscles that God has given to be used, and it will bring its sure reward. If one part of the human body is exercised to the neglect of other portions, some of those members not used will become strengthless. If one member suffers through inaction, the whole body—brain, nerve, bone, and muscles—will become enfeebled. O, how much every student and teacher needs the higher, more thorough self-education, and a correct understanding of what we are and what we may be through self-discipline, that all our powers may be used to glorify God.
(11LtMs, Ms 41b, 1896, 51)
Ms 42, 1896
A Dream About W. C. White and J. H. Kellogg Sunnyside, Cooranbong, Australia December 30, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in 18MR 286-287.
On Wednesday night I had a dream. In my dream I was preparing to attend an important meeting where we expected to meet Dr. Kellogg and W. C. White. Willie came into the room unexpectedly, and I was surprised and glad to greet him. There was altogether a changed look upon his countenance. He said, “Mother, I have it; I have found peace and rest and fullness in Jesus Christ. I know now, as never before, what it means to abide in Christ. My heart, my mind, my flesh, are all the Lord’s. My will is to do the will of God. I feel a new and spiritual life, and all who have this spiritual life are ‘alive unto God.’ [Romans 6:11.] Christ is the very substance, the fountain of life, to every believing heart. I feel the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness shining in my heart. I realize that I am in the presence of God, under the protection of One who never slumbers nor sleeps. I know that in God I live, and that every step I take, every beat of my heart, every motion of my pulse, is the action of His power. As never before I am alive to a sense of His preserving care.”
(11LtMs, Ms 42, 1896, 1)
Then the door opened, and Dr. Kellogg came in, the very same light shining in his countenance. Willie linked his arm in that of the doctor’s, and said, “The Lord has given us both an advanced and rich experience. We have been learning that we ourselves cannot help soul or body, try as hard as we may. But now we can say, ‘I will therefore lay me down, and take quiet sleep; and I will awake for the Lord sustaineth me.’ Being alive to a sense of God’s presence, we are alive to His favor. It is more precious to us than the praise or honor of the greatest men of the earth. The Lord has lifted upon us the light of His countenance.
(11LtMs, Ms 42, 1896, 2)
“Now we will make known God as never before. Our conversation will be in heaven, and we will draw souls to His attractive loveliness. Our hope of success is in the truth we bring before the people, presenting it in every line in prophetic history, leading step by step to the close of time with the simple exhibitions of the wonders of the cross of Calvary. Truth is a continually increasing power. The love displayed by the Saviour on Calvary’s cross vindicates the immutability of the law of God. There is seen the law magnified. And His grace, His peace, His pardon, and eternal life are for all who are obedient. That sacrifice on the cross purchased the crown of immortality for all who will look unto Christ and live.”
(11LtMs, Ms 42, 1896, 3)
I have two more pages, but I cannot stop to find them. I will send them if I can. But let me tell you, the power of God was upon you both, and expressed in your countenances. You kept saying, “We are one in Christ Jesus.” [See Galatians 3:28.]
(11LtMs, Ms 42, 1896, 4)
Ms 43, 1896
Political Controversy Cooranbong, Australia December 27, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in GCDB 02/17/1897.
“In the mean time when there were gathered together an 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.” [Luke 12:1.]
(11LtMs, Ms 43, 1896, 1)
There were a great number who wanted to hear Jesus. They were attracted to Him, for His teachings were simple and plain. Searching truths were spoken. Our Saviour presented before the people of that time the character of their sins. His plain words aroused the consciences of the hearers, but Satan’s counterworking agencies were seeking for a place for their theories, to attract minds from the plainly spoken truth. As the great Teacher would speak impressive truth. The Scribes and Pharisees, under pretense of being interested, would assemble around the disciples and Christ, and divert the minds of the disciples by starting questions to create controversy. They pretended that they wanted to know the truth. Christ was interrupted on this occasion as on many other occasions. And He wished His disciples to listen to the words He had to say, and not allow anything to attract and hold their attention. Therefore He warned them, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” [Verse 1.] They feigned a desire to get as close as possible to the inner circle. As the Lord Jesus presented truth in contrast to error, the Pharisees pretended to be desirous of understanding the truth, yet they were trying to lead His mind in other channels. Hypocrisy is like leaven or yeast.
(11LtMs, Ms 43, 1896, 2)
Leaven may be hidden in the flour, and its presence is not known until it produces its effect. By insinuating itself, it soon pervades the whole mass. Hypocrisy works secretly, and if indulged, it will fill the mind with pride and vanity. There are deceptions practiced now similar to those practiced by the Pharisees. When the Saviour gave this caution, it was to warn all who believe in Him to be on guard. Watch against imbibing this spirit, and becoming like those who tried to ensnare the Saviour.
(11LtMs, Ms 43, 1896, 3)
A man who had a dispute with his brother, supposing that the brother would not do him justice, presented the case to Jesus, saying, “Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me.” Jesus said, “Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you?” [Verses 13, 14.] Jesus could have told this man just what was right. He knew the right in this case, but the brothers were in a quarrel because both were covetous. Jesus virtually said, It is not my business to settle controversies of this kind. He came for another purpose, to preach the gospel, and so to arouse men to a sense of eternal realities that they might not lose eternity from their reckoning.
(11LtMs, Ms 43, 1896, 4)
So it is not the work of a minister to settle the temporal affairs of the people. Christ gives men an example, that His work and that of His followers is to persuade souls to be reconciled to God. Many things will arise to divert the mind from God and the truth for this time; but we are not to enter into the controversies that are coming to the front. They are started in the councils of hell, and the children of God are not to turn aside to the right hand or the left. Let them press on their way, looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith.
(11LtMs, Ms 43, 1896, 5)
The Lord Jesus is disappointed in His people. He is the Captain: they are to file under His banner. They have no time, wisdom, or strength to spend in taking sides with political parties. Men are being stirred with an intense activity from beneath, and the sons and daughters of God are not to give their influence to this political strife. But what kind of a spirit takes hold upon our people when those who believe we are now under the third angel’s message, the last message of mercy to the world, brothers in the same faith, appear wearing the badges of opposing political parties, proclaiming opposite sentiments and declaring their divided opinions.
(11LtMs, Ms 43, 1896, 6)
Watchmen upon the walls of Zion, the people are asking you, What of the night? Can you tell them with assurance and authority, The morning cometh, and also the night? God is our Father, Christ is our Saviour. See 2 Peter 1:16-21.
(11LtMs, Ms 43, 1896, 7)
There is danger, decided danger, for all who shall link themselves up with the political parties of the world. There is fraud on both sides. God has not laid upon any of our people the burden of linking up with either party. We are under Christ’s banner, and every one who names the name of Christ is to depart from all iniquity. Sorrow and trial will come. The faith of every one is being tested. But our Lord is truth; He is love, and His scepter stretcheth over the universe. Surprises await every one. We know not what political crisis will come next. But in regard to the political agitators, the word of the Lord to us is, “Go not ye after them.” [Luke 21:8.] True wisdom will not lead us to follow the example of the foolish rich men of the parable. True wisdom is revealed in seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.
(11LtMs, Ms 43, 1896, 8)
Ms 44, 1896
Diary “Sunnyside,” Cooranbong, Australia December 4, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in Te 88-89; CD 425; 4Bio 271.
Today I picked the first ripe peach, deep red in color, from my orchard. These peach trees were planted one year ago the last of September. We have several nectarine trees, bearing red-cheeked, fine-looking fruit, some of which is nearly ripe. Next year we will have quite an abundance of fruit if the blessing of the Lord rests upon our trees. I want to connect the Lord with everything with which we have to do. I want, O so much, to have Jesus in all my thoughts.
(11LtMs, Ms 44, 1896, 1)
On Sabbath, November 21, I spoke to the people in Newtown. We had a precious meeting. The Lord gave me great freedom. Sunday evening I departed from my usual custom and consented to speak in the chapel at Ashfield. I had my text selected, (Ephesians 6:10-18), and had read it only five minutes before I opened my Bible in the pulpit. But when I stood before the people, I opened to another Scripture, (1 Corinthians 9:24-27), and read it as if this were the subject I had designed to speak upon.
(11LtMs, Ms 44, 1896, 2)
The church was full, and the Lord gave me special freedom and power before the people, believers and unbelievers. At the close, several told how glad they were to listen to that discourse, saying it was just what they needed. The strangest part of the matter was this: It did not enter into my mind that the Lord had taken away from me the text selected and had given me another subject, one that had not come into my mind; neither did it come into my mind until the next day. I had much freedom, and believe that the Lord gave me my subject.
(11LtMs, Ms 44, 1896, 3)
Then the American mail must be sent; and for this I wrote very taxingly. On the following Wednesday, the Norfolk mail was to go. I applied myself to writing very diligently. But at noon on Tuesday, I felt that my strength was used up. After eating a very sparing dinner, I was taken suddenly ill, vomiting and purging. The family were all in Sydney. I was the only one in the house. Maggie Hare came home first, and was alarmed to find me so ill. She knew not what to do for me. About six o’clock, Sara McEnterfer came, and I can recollect no more. Sara worked over me until two o’clock in the morning. I knew nothing during the night. In the morning the fever left me, and I decided to return to Cooranbong. Sara and I left in the morning, and arrived home safely. I have been very sick, and at times have suffered intense pain. The bloody flux gave me much suffering. I can eat but very little; I dare not eat but I am improving gradually. I look haggard; but I have courage, and believe that I shall gain strength.
(11LtMs, Ms 44, 1896, 4)
Willie came from Sydney last night, and I have had a short interview with him today. Brethren Baker, Semmens, and W. C. White thought they had secured a very good location at Strathfield for the Health Home; but this is a failure. In some way, there were those connected with the enterprise who manifest a most bitter spirit against Seventh-day Adventists. The result was a most decided refusal to rent the building to us. The way seems to be closing up on every side. We must look to the Lord in faith, and pray most earnestly that He will open the way before us. We may be compelled to build a Sanitarium.
(11LtMs, Ms 44, 1896, 5)
These are the difficulties that obstruct our way. But the Lord has a place for us somewhere. We need an institution where the sick may be treated without drugs. This matter is continually presented before me. Our institutions are established that the sick may be treated by hygienic methods, discarding almost entirely the use of drugs.
(11LtMs, Ms 44, 1896, 6)
It is the duty of every human being, for his own sake, and for the sake of humanity, to inform himself or herself in regard to the laws of organized life, and conscientiously to obey them. There is a terrible account to be rendered to God by men who have so little regard for human life as to treat the body so ruthlessly in dealing out their drugs. It is the duty of every person to become intelligent in regard to disease and its causes. We must study our Bible in order to understand the value that the Lord places upon the men and women whom Christ has purchased at such an infinite price. Then we should become acquainted with the laws of life, that every action of the human agent may be in perfect harmony with the laws of God. When there is so great peril in ignorance, is it not best to be wise in regard to the human habitation fitted up by our Creator, and over which He desires we shall be faithful stewards? We are not excusable if, through ignorance, we destroy God’s building by taking into our stomachs poisonous drugs under a variety of names we do not understand. It is our duty to refuse all such prescriptions.
(11LtMs, Ms 44, 1896, 7)
We wish to build a sanitarium where maladies may be cured by nature’s own provisions, and where the people may be taught how to treat themselves when sick, where they will learn to eat temperately of wholesome food, and be educated to refuse all narcotics—tea, coffee, fermented wines, and stimulants of all kinds, and to discard the flesh of dead animals.
(11LtMs, Ms 44, 1896, 8)
Let simple food be recommended, and such physical exercise as will call into play the living machinery. Ministers have within their reach the very best medicine, and that which will accomplish the most satisfactory results. It is to use not only the organs of mind, but of the body that God has given them. Physical exercise in useful labor is the Lord’s prescription for preserving health. We have a wonderful habitation, and the Lord requires us to keep it in order. We are under obligation to God to keep the human structure in a healthful, wholesome condition, that every muscle, every organ, and the intellect may be used in the service of God proportionately.
(11LtMs, Ms 44, 1896, 9)
This is the work that needs to be done in this country. Ignorance prevails, and all need to study to acquire knowledge, that they may impart knowledge both by precept and example. Perverted appetite has been indulged. Tea and coffee drinking is a sin, an injurious indulgence, which, like other evils, injures the soul. These darling idols create an excitement, a morbid action of the nervous system, and after the immediate influence of its stimulus is gone, it lets down below par just to that degree that its stimulating properties elevated above par. We want a sanitarium, not to deal out drugs, but to educate our fellow beings to let them alone. By eating and drinking to the glory of God, we shall avoid much sickness. Proper exercise, combined with mental taxation, will be a great blessing.
(11LtMs, Ms 44, 1896, 10)
Educate, educate, educate in regard to the right formation of moral character. It is intemperance in eating, the reckless habit of overloading the stomach, that produces erroneous thinking and hasty, passionate teaching. Licentious eating begets licentious thinking. By pampering the animal appetite, a balance of power is given to the animal propensities.
(11LtMs, Ms 44, 1896, 11)
Ms 46, 1896
Parable of the Marriage. NP 1896 Formerly Undated Ms 45. Previously unpublished.
“The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, which made a marriage for his son, and sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden to the wedding: and they would not come. Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, behold, I prepared my dinner: my oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready: come unto the marriage. But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his merchandise, and the remnant took his servants and entreated them spitefully, and slew them. And when the king heard thereof, he was wroth, and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city. Then saith he to his servants, the wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye can find, bid to the marriage. So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests.” [Matthew 22:2-10.]
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 1)
In this parable the Lord illustrates the manner in which God deals with men in regard to the gospel invitation. He presents the parable of a certain king who made a marriage supper for his son, and sent out invitations to those who thought themselves worthy to be bidden. But when the final call was made, “Come: for all things are now ready,” they would not come. [Luke 14:17, 18.] The general invitation is refused; but in order that he may assure himself that his guests understand the invitation he sends forth his servants to invite them personally to the feast; but although they are assured that all things are now ready, “they all with one consent began to make excuse.” [Verse 18.]
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 2)
One said, “I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it. I pray thee have me excused. And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them. I pray thee have me excused. And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.” [Verses 18-20.] The manner of excuses urged for refusing the invitation cover the whole ground of excuses presented to the Spirit of God for refusing the gospel invitation. Men declare that they cannot jeopardize their worldly business by giving attention to the demands of the gospel. They hold their worldly enterprises as supreme, and think they have no time to serve God.
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 3)
They make the excuse that they have no time to search the Scriptures to see what is truth. They have no time to pray, “Lead us not into temptation.” [Matthew 6:13.] They neglect to be doers of the words of Christ, when He says, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” [Verse 33.] They reveal the fact that they place less value upon things of eternal interest than they place upon things of this world. They place less value upon the great sacrifice made in their behalf to secure to them the rich treasures of grace and truth than they do upon the things which perish with the using.
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 4)
Men do not see the littleness and the cheapness of the reasons which they offer as an excuse for refusing the gospel invitation. Great and abundant blessings have been secured to them by an infinite sacrifice, yet they dare to put aside the riches of the grace of Christ as a matter of minor consequence, and to place their temporal concerns, and the gratification of their own selfish desires above the eternal that are presented to them. They do not appreciate the great condescension of God in giving His Son to die for a sinful world that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. They think that if they give consideration to the gospel message their worldly interests will be imperilled.
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 5)
They cannot make up their minds to run any risk of losing any worldly advantage, and therefore they refuse the invitation and insult the God of heaven, who furnishes them with every temporal good that they have in the world. They do not realize that if Christ had not died, taking their guilt upon His own divine soul, they would have had none of the blessings which they now enjoy. It was through His condescension, through His humiliation in bearing the stroke of justice for their sins, that they have the privilege of a second trial, the privilege of a second probation.
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 6)
Yet they are not led by these blessings to devote to God their life-service. He could remove the blessings; He could disappoint their expectations; He could send to them adversity; He could scatter to the winds all they call their own; He could visit them with judgment because of their ingratitude of His rich mercies, but they do not think of this, nor appreciate His longsuffering. Christ has purchased them as His inheritance. Their bodies, souls, and spirits belong to Him, and all they have is His possession. Man should regard himself and his goods in this light, but instead of this he allows the very blessings that God has given him to become a hindrance, to be a separating wedge between him and his God, and to constitute an excuse for not surrendering his mind and will to God. In many cases the Lord has scattered that which man has piled up, because he made this an excuse for refusing to obey the truth.
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 7)
The third excuse that is offered is, “I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.” [Luke 14:20.] Our Saviour would teach us that the dearest earthly relation should not in any case divert our affections from God. We belong to Christ both by creation and redemption, and we practice robbery when we refuse to give God our heart-service. We are not to allow any earthly tie to stand between us and the gracious invitation of mercy.
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 8)
Many are held back from obeying the Word of God, from living in harmony with their convictions, because their wives or their husbands will not accept the truth of God. The husband says, “I cannot take my position for the truth of God when my wife is opposed to it. It would make it exceedingly hard for me to do so.” When the wife hears the gracious invitation of mercy, “Come: for all things are now ready,” she says, “I beg you, have me excused. My husband refuses the invitation of mercy. He says his business stands in the way. I must go with my husband, and therefore I cannot come.” The children’s hearts are impressed when they hear the invitation. They desire to come, but they excuse themselves on the ground that they love their father and their mother, and if they do not accept of the truth, then the children cannot be expected to come. Therefore they say, “Have me excused.”
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 9)
The invitation to the gospel feast came to the Jewish people. The people of God are represented as the Bride, the Lamb’s wife, and the Jews understood that as the people of God they must be at the marriage feast. Again the banquet is taken as a symbol of the feast of the gospel. Rich provision was made in the grace of God, in the Holy Spirit, in the treasures of truth, that were open to those who would receive the truth. Christ represented Himself as the Bread of life. The king is God, the son is the Lord Jesus Christ, whose marriage represents a close union with His church for whom He gave Himself, “that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” [Titus 2:14.]
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 10)
The servant came and showed his lord how those who were invited to the gospel feast made light of his gracious invitation, and how they had treated it with contempt as a matter unworthy of their notice, and how they had gone about their temporal business as if the gracious invitation had not been extended, and as though the feast had not been provided at infinite cost. He showed his lord how one had gone to his merchandise, how another had turned to social attractions, and another had gone to his farm, as though the requirements of God could be ignored and forgotten.
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 11)
Those who made excuse turned to the world as though they could respect and trust it; but God’s service was uncertain and questionable. They would trust the god of this world, serve mammon, and place contempt upon the benefits that Christ had provided. But they carried the matter still further. They were not satisfied to reject the message, to offer contemptible excuses, but they were provoked at being disturbed in their self-complacency. Conviction had stirred their soul, and they used harsh and bitter words. They despised the truth which reproved their sins, they hated the arguments which they could not meet from the Scriptures, and they entreated the messengers spitefully, and slew them. When the king heard of their wicked deeds, he sent forth his army and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city.
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 12)
In this parable Jesus plainly warned the Jews of the fate that awaited Jerusalem in rejecting the only means that God had provided to save them. The Romans were permitted to carry out their purpose and to destroy the fated city. Then said He to His servants, “The wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage. So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all that they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests.” [Matthew 22:8-10.] In Luke the Lord bids His servants to “go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in ... Bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.... For I say unto you that none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper.” [Luke 14:21, 23, 24.]
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 13)
The question is often asked, Why is it that there are not more great men, not more noted men, among the ranks of those who believe the truth? The parable answers this question. Christ has sent an invitation to the great men of the earth for whom He has paid the ransom of His own precious blood. They have heard the messenger say, “Come: for all things are now ready” [Verse 17], but they have also listened to the voice of the wily foe, and have adopted the varied excuses which he has framed for them in refusing the gracious call.
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 14)
Jesus by being a Sin-bearer, has opened a way whereby all may come unto Him who desire eternal life above every other earthly consideration. But great men, worldly-wise men, have refused the heavenly benefits, for this present world was their god. They refused Him who could have given real value to their characters, and who could have brought them back to their allegiance to God and His commandments. They would not take upon themselves the marriage contract and partake of the marriage supper, but framed foolish excuses to avoid the obligation. They would not associate with Him who would make them truly great and valuable, but turned aside from Him who could have turned their crosses into crowns.
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 15)
They did not believe the promise, “I will make a man more precious than fine gold. Even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir.” [Isaiah 13:12.] They would not permit Him to place His own image and superscription upon them, to work the miracle of changing them into His obedient, loyal children. God allows every one to choose his own Lord, and this is the reason we have so few worldly-wise men in the ranks of Jesus.
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 16)
“And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them, If any man come to me, and hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, yea and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.” [Luke 14:25, 26.] This scripture is not to be taken to mean that we are to feel any enmity towards any of our relatives or friends, for this would not be in accordance with the commands of God, which enjoins upon us the duty of honoring father and mother, and of loving our neighbors as ourselves; but it means that no earthly relationship shall be regarded as an excuse for disobeying God. Husband and wife, parents and children, relatives and friends are to obey the requirement of God. We are His inheritance, His sons and daughters, both by creation and by the ransom that has been paid for our redemption.
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 17)
Our first duty is to God, and we are to obey Him, even if it is against the will of father or mother, relatives or friends, or against the rulers of our land. If our relatives are in opposition to the commandments of God, they are on the enemy’s side of the question, and to follow their example would be to show insult to the Spirit of God. Where Christ abides in the heart we shall feel our moral accountability, and will not live to please ourselves. We shall realize the force of what Christ says, “Whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.” [Verse 27.]
(11LtMs, Ms 46, 1896, 18)
Ms 47, 1896
The Lack of Unity a Cause of Failure NP 1896 Drawn from Lt 103, 1896. This manuscript is published in entirety in 14MR 289-300. To those who were working in _____. Dear Brethren:
The question has often presented itself to my mind, Why has the labor put forth in _____ at such large expense brought such limited results? There is an answer to this question. The Lord has been pleased to reveal to me that the same efforts put forth in another place, by the same persons and in the same spirit, would have brought the same results. The Lord could not give victory while those who taught the truth to unbelievers did not themselves practice that Word. The Spirit of God was not cherished, and that union which should exist among God’s workmen was not seen. Disaffection was working, and criticism was heard. The workers got in each others’ way. Some earnestly desired to tell what “I did” and how “I labored,” but said nothing which would show what their fellow workmen had done.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 1)
By standing apart and yielding to suspicions of evil, by cherishing envy and jealousy, the workers have opened a door through which Satan entered. God’s holy name was greatly dishonored, and the work that needed to be done for the people could not go forward because of the spirit manifested.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 2)
Those who are engaged in the sacred work of opening the Word of God to others, must be sure that they themselves are eating and digesting that Word. They must watch over themselves, weeding from heart and character the fungus growth which causes deformity and weakness. “Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and all evil speaking, as new born babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.” [1 Peter 2:1, 2.] Have you done this, or have you thought that you had no battles to fight with self, and so allowed your unsanctified impulses to control mind and judgment?
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 3)
All that is enumerated in this verse—the products of the carnal mind and unsanctified heart—have influenced the workers more or less, and the effort which cost so much money, so much weary anxiety, so much hard work, has been made of little effect, because the workers did not eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of man. Self was mingled with nearly everything, and the wrong influence of this has been far-reaching. This spirit of rivalry is not from God, but from beneath.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 4)
We are fellow pilgrims, seeking a better country, even a heavenly. God will never say to us, “Well done, good and faithful servant” [Matthew 25:23], at the end of our journey, if we now cherish a spirit which craves to crowd out and supplant others. Malice, guile, hypocrisy, envy, and evil speaking are things which God abhors, and no one who reveals those fruits in his life will enter the kingdom of heaven.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 5)
In the hearts of all who desire to follow Christ, there is natural depravity which must be uprooted, lest the representation of Christ be marred. Even at our camp meetings and special gatherings, selfishness is manifested by those in attendance. Covetousness, vanity, hastiness of temper, are cherished. An inclination to pick at straws, to think and speak evil of others, is too plainly manifested. This is a work which is in direct opposition to the work of God. Sister _____, you know not the harm you have done by following this course of action.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 6)
Those who make fault finding their work, may appear to be constantly anxious and interested in regard to the welfare of others. They may seem to be actively engaged in good work. But their work does harm, and by the Lord it is not regarded as of value. “They say,” is whispered here and there; by blind suggestions other minds are filled with suspicion and distrust; uneasiness is created. Those who have listened to the “They say,” call to mind something they have observed in their brethren, which might have been wrong, and much is made of that which is worthy of but little notice. These apparently innocent words strike long, fibrous roots into the minds of those that hear them, and untold harm is done. Seeds of bitterness are planted; evil suggestions rankle in human hearts, and the seed springs up to bear an abundant harvest.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 7)
The enemy of all righteousness sets in operation objectionable missionary work of this kind. One who is professedly working for Christ is tempted by him to probe the minds of others, and ask their opinions of words which have been spoken. In this way suspicion and envy are planted in many breasts. If those who carry on this missionary work could see it as it is regarded by the Lord of heaven, if for one day they could trace the course of their work and see its baleful results, they would repent. To do good to all, to faithfully perform our home duties, to devote our time to comparing our lives with the life of Christ, praying for a humble, sanctified mind—this is the missionary work which the Lord requires us to do. Angels of heaven cannot work with the human agent who sows the seeds of dissension and strife, but evil angels attend him wherever he goes.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 8)
“I say unto you, through the grace given unto me,” writes Paul, “to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every men the measure of faith.” [Romans 12:3.] “Be kindly affectioned one to another, with brotherly love; in honor preferring one another.” There is need for all to learn lessons of humility and thoughtfulness in the school of Christ. If this is neglected, harshness and roughness, which misrepresent Christ, will be revealed. “Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.”Romans 12:9, 10. This whole chapter should be an eye opener to all who accept the statement, “Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.]
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 9)
Had the workers in _____ heeded this Word, and brought these principles into their daily experience; had they, by their unity, given evidence that God had sent His Son into the world, God would have given them special victories, but did you in honor prefer one another? Has your love been without dissimulation? These injunctions have been disobeyed, and had God blessed you while you were manifestly disregarding His Word, it would have been to His own dishonor, and it would have ruined the workers. See 1 Peter 1:13-19.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 10)
The forms of unbelief are varied, for Satan watches every opportunity to crowd in some of his attributes. There is in the natural heart a tendency to be exalted or puffed up if success attends the efforts put forth. But self-exaltation can find no place in the work of God. Whatever your intelligence, however earnestly and zealously you may labor, unless you put away your own tendencies to pride, and submit to be guided by the Spirit of God, you will be on losing ground. Spiritual death in the soul is evidence by spiritual pride and a crippled experience; those who have such an experience seldom make straight paths for their feet. If pride is nourished, the very qualities of the mind which grace, if received, would make a blessing, become contaminated. The very victories which would have been a savor of life unto life, if the glory had been given to God, become tarnished by self-glory. These may seem to be little things, unworthy of notice, but the seed thus scattered brings forth a sure harvest. It is these little sins, so common that they are often unnoticed, that Satan uses in his service.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 11)
Men will never be prepared to do the work of God acceptably unless they take themselves in hand and endeavor, firmly and constantly, to correct their own errors. No one is to take the position that his own way is perfect, that he had no need to reach a higher standard. “Seeing that ye have purified your hearts in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently.” [Verse 22.] This work is too often left undone. Many are working in an entirely different manner from that which is given to them as a standard of perfect service.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 12)
If you would engage in the work of saving souls, the knowledge of God and of His Word must circulate in your heart, as the vital currant of life circulates through your body. Jesus Christ must be studied; His Spirit must pervade your work. Self must die. Otherwise you might better choose some other work, for your service will not honor God.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 13)
“Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; have your conversation honest among the Gentiles; that, whereas they speak against you as evil doers, they may by your good works which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.” For “ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who has called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” [1 Peter 2:11, 12, 9.]
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 14)
The Dangers of Indulging Appetite
Every Christian should understand that there is a decided warfare going on between the chosen people of God and the powers of darkness. When men are content to live merely for this world, the inclination of the heart unites with the suggestions of the enemy, and his bidding is done. But when they seek to leave the black banner of the power of darkness, and range themselves under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel, the struggle begins, and the warfare is carried on in the sight of the universe of heaven.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 15)
Every one who fights on the side of right, must fight hand to hand with the enemy. He must put on the whole armor of God, that he may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 16)
Our foes are within and without. We are assailed by temptations which are numerous and deceiving, the more perilous because not always clearly discerned. Often Satan conquers us by our natural inclinations and appetites. These were divinely appointed, and when given to man, were pure and holy. It was God’s design that reason should rule the appetites, and that they should minister to our happiness. And when they are regulated and controlled by a sanctified reason, they are holiness unto the Lord.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 17)
But men’s natural appetites have been perverted by indulgence. Through unholy gratification they have become “fleshly lusts, which war against the soul.” [Verse 11.] Unless the Christian watches unto prayer, he gives loose reign to habits which should be overcome. Unless he feels the need of constant watching, ceaseless vigilance, his inclinations, abused and misguided, will be the means of his backsliding from God.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 18)
Jesus Christ gave His life in order to save us, soul and body. He desires to restore the moral image of God in man. In order that this may be accomplished, we must co-operate with Him. The very flesh of our bodies must be consecrated to His service. But can this be done while we place in our stomachs food which will strengthen feelings that war against holiness and happiness and purity?
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 19)
A healthy experience demands growth, and growth demands that careful attention be paid to the laws of nature, that the organs of the body may be kept in a sound state, untrammeled in their action. There is a great need that temperance in all things be taught and practiced. Tobacco and liquor of all kinds becloud man’s reason and place him below the brute creation. These things must be strictly avoided. And only food of the most wholesome character should be used, for we are built up from the food we eat. That which we place in the stomach becomes flesh and blood, and we can make our blood impure by eating meat and other injurious articles.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 20)
God has given great light in regard to the subject of health reform, and important changes have been made by many. Wrong habits have been conscientiously corrected; injurious practices and customs have been given up. Light which God has given has been received and acted upon, and lessons which are right to the point have been given.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 21)
The Word of God is clear in regard to these things. It tells us that our appetites must be closely guarded, and that by eating the flesh and drinking the blood of the Son of man, our minds are to be kept pure and free to do His will. Among the workers in _____, there were some who saw the importance of these things, who were God-fearing, temperate, and economical. As these men saw the disposition to gratify appetite, and the selfishness which it revealed, they felt fearful for the progress of the work. Their faith was dampened. Brother _____ labored to bring in health reform, but the example of Brother _____ was in harmony with those who had just embraced the truth, and who had not received the light in regard to healthful living. Thus the work of Brother _____ was made hard by those who ought to have been converted by the light which God has given on this point.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 22)
Brother ----- has made meat his staple article of diet. He loves meat, and has established himself in the habit of eating it. He may be strong enough to stand a meat diet, but it is not so with his wife and family, who are not strong and well. His wife suffers and cannot tell why, but gratification of appetite is the greatest cause of her ill-health. Brother ----- knows what the Word of God teaches in this matter, but he does not practice it. This is not pleasing God.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 23)
“Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye do,” the Word of God declares, “do all to the glory of God.” [1 Corinthians 10:31.] Those who neglect to walk in the light, in order that they may glorify their appetites, bring mischief to themselves and to others. The Lord cannot manifest His glory through men who disregard His Word.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 24)
You know not the danger of eating meat merely because your appetite craves it. By partaking of this diet, man places in his mouth that which stimulates unholy passions. Unhallowed emotions fill the mind, and the spiritual eyesight is beclouded; for the tendency of self-gratification is to corrupt the taste and the judgment. By furnishing your table with this kind of food, you go counter to the will of God. A condition of things is brought about which will lead to a disregard of the precepts of God’s law.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 25)
A plain, simple but liberal diet of fruits, vegetables and grains is the best for those who are preparing for the work of God. The lower nature, with all its inclinations, must be subdued and crucified, for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. It is absolutely necessary for Christians to keep the body under, bringing it into subjection, and uprooting every affection and impulse which is contrary to the will of God. The food which we eat will help or hinder us in doing this.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 26)
But it is not an easy matter to overcome hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong. Self is masterful, and strives for the victory. But to “him that overcometh” the promises are given. [Revelation 2:7.] The Lord presents the right way, but He compels no one to obey. He leaves those to whom He has given the light to receive or despise it, but their course of action is followed by sure results. Cause must produce effect. Thus the Lord dealt with the children of Israel. See Patriarchs and Prophets, 365-368.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 27)
Eating the flesh of dead animals was permitted by God because men were determined to break down every rule or regulation in order to gratify perverted taste. But if an appetite for this diet is cultivated, serious diseases will be the result. The evidences of the curse that came upon the earth because of sin abound everywhere. The whole creation was involved, and today animals languish under this curse. Disease prevails among them to an alarming extent. Cancers and tumors are very often seen. The tissues of the swine are peopled with living creatures; and yet this living mass is eaten and relished by men and women. Tubercular consumption is communicated by the practice of meat eating, and thus disease is extended.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 28)
Will the Lord work a miracle to counteract the evils of a meat diet? He cannot do this; for in so doing He would dishonor His name. But in His Word He lifts the danger signal, showing plainly the evils from which He would save us, and if people prefer to risk the consequences, their course will produce the sure result. Too soon they will learn that they have brought suffering upon themselves by persisting in their own way. Their appetites craved meat; the Lord would not force them into the right way.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 29)
In the warfare between good and evil, the Lord requires each one to remain faithful to his post of duty. If this is the home, take hold earnestly and willingly to make home a pleasant place. If your duty lies in the kitchen, seek to be a perfect cook. Prepare food which will be healthful, nourishing, and appetizing, so that the members of the family need not resort to stimulants of any kind. This is true missionary work.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 30)
Parents should give strict heed to every ray of light which God has given on the subject of health reform, for we are living in a degenerate age when there is danger that passion will drive the youth into corrupting and revolting sins, into self-pollution, which ruins the mind, destroying the memory and enfeebling every other faculty. If their consciences are aroused to see this subject in its true bearing, parents can do much to guard their children from temptation. But if they place upon their tables the flesh of dead animals, if they encourage their little ones to eat this food, they sow seeds which will bring forth a harvest of corruption.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 31)
Parents have a most solemn obligation resting upon them to conform to right habits of eating and drinking. Set before your children simple, wholesome food, avoiding everything of a stimulating nature. The effect which a meat diet has upon nervous children is not to make them sweet tempered and patient, but peevish, irritable, passionate, and impatient of restraint. Virtuous practices are lost, and corruption destroys mind, soul, and body.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 32)
Much injury is done to health by the variety of the food which is seen on so many tables. Take the different dishes which are placed on the table at one meal, and put them all together in one vessel. Stir them up together. Does it make the stomach turn to look at it? Leave it for a few hours and it will ferment. Yet thousands compel their stomachs to receive just such a mass as this every day. Half masticated meat, condiments, spices, pies, and sweet puddings are washed down with tea and coffee. The abused stomach is obliged to take them, and do the best it can with them.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 33)
Is there not sin in placing upon the table such a variety at one meal? Often the desire to return to moral integrity is expressed. But this will never be until we return to simple, healthful foods, until we eat and drink to glorify God, not to gratify our perverted appetites.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 34)
Died because of bad cooking; died because of sour bread; died of medication; died of an abused stomach—this might be written over the graves of many. This suicidal process is gradual. Nature bears the abuse as long as possible, but in the end she must succumb. The oil in the lamp of life is mixed with a variety of injurious substances, and the lamp refuses to burn longer. It is extinguished, not because God willed it, but because of the manifest disregard of nature’s laws.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 35)
What we eat and drink has an important bearing upon our lives and characters, and Christians should bring their habits of eating and drinking into conformity to the laws of nature. We must sense our obligations to God in these matters. Obedience to the laws of health should be made a matter of earnest study, for willing ignorance on this subject is sin. Each one should feel a personal obligation to carry out the laws of healthful living.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 36)
Many turn away from the light, offended because a word of caution is given, and ask, “May we not do as we please with ourselves?” Did you create yourselves? Did you pay the redemption price for your souls and bodies? If so, you belong to yourselves. But the Word of God declares, “Ye are bought with a price,”“the precious blood of Christ.” [1 Corinthians 6:20; 1 Peter 1:19.] The Word of God tells us plainly that our habits are to be strictly guarded and controlled. “Abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul.” Shall we do this? The Word of God is perfect, converting the soul. If we diligently heed its precepts, we shall be conformed, physically, spiritually, into the image of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 37)
“I beseech you, therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your minds, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.” [Romans 12:1, 2.] “If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.”“What! know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 3:17; 6:19, 20.]
(11LtMs, Ms 47, 1896, 38)
Ms 48, 1896
“When he saw the multitude, he was moved...” Refiled as Ms 64, 1897.
Ms 49, 1896
“In common with the Jewish teachers...” Formerly Undated Ms 123. Refiled as Ms 72, 1897.
Ms 50, 1896
“For many months I have been waiting...” Formerly Undated Ms 122. Refiled as Lt 18, 1897.
Ms 51, 1896
Canvassers Bringing Debt on the Publishing Houses Refiled as Ms 24a, 1894.
Ms 52, 1896
Miscellaneous “Scraps” NP 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in 4MR 358; 9MR 91. +
Better far would be the cross, the disappointment, the shattered earthly prospect, the neglect of friends, the disapproval of the world, than to sit with princes, and lose heaven.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 1)
One passion after another, one project after another, sways the heart, and expels the Holy Spirit from the soul. The love of the world is permitted to come in and take possession of, and rule, the heart; but the Lord Jesus would have us, as rational creatures, place a right estimate upon eternal things, so as not to lose eternity out of our reckoning.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 2)
Those who are called of God should be in touch with God, in order that they may have fine, keen, clear perceptions of what constitutes equity in judgment. Men in responsible positions should remember that [the] Ten Commandments are to be practiced in every line of work lest the cause of truth shall bear the imperfections of the mold of man, and God be dishonored, and stumbling blocks be laid before the precious souls, over which they will stumble to their ruin.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 3)
The cause of God must be represented by men whose hearts are tender, pure, true, and compassionate as is the heart of Christ. Those who handle the sacred work in Christ’s stead must have a pure heart, and clean hands. They must adopt Christ maxims, for if they fail to do so, they will be deceived, betray Christ, and dishonor the truth of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 4)
The Lord loves us, and all He asks is that you respond to His love. Think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you. The blacksmith puts the iron and steel into the fire to test them, that he [may] know what manner of metal they are. The Lord allows His chosen ones to be placed in the furnace of affliction in order that He may see what temper they are of, and whether He can use them, and mold and fashion them for His work.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 5)
Even in this life Christ is judge of all the earth, and measures characters by the divine standard. Those who delight in the law of God are not under the law, for the law of God is an instrument of strength to them, a wall of protection, a refuge for guardianship, and does not bring condemnation; for to those who are in harmony with it, it is holy, just, and good.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 6)
The chaff and wheat are mingled in an indistinguishable manner. But when some crisis comes, when test and trial pass over the people, those who are symbolized by chaff are driven away; those who are represented by wheat remain. When God takes us in hand He will accomplish His purpose for our good. Though our past course may not have been in harmony with the Lord, though our paths have been turned aside from the ways of God, yet if we will cling to Him, He will change our course so that we shall keep the way of the Lord.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 7)
Sanctified activity has an effectual influence, for it is a force that molds after heaven’s order. But the love of Jesus must pervade the hearts of those who would serve Him. Love is borne of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 8)
Selfish ambition is not the fruit that grows upon the Christian tree, which is for the healing of the nations. Christlike propositions will not bear the semblance of selfishness. Those who are workers together with God with one hand lay hold of needy, sinful, helpless, fallen humanity, and with the other they grasp the throne of God, and lift, and build men up in the most holy faith. They manifest a perseverance that will not be defeated or discouraged by failure. But the work of saving souls will not be successful if carried on simply by men’s finite methods. Let God work. Yes, let God work by His own conditions and plans and ways, and let men wonder and admire. The branch grafted into the vine will flourish and bear fruit to the glory of God, because the vital forces flow from the living vine to the branch. Christian religion is today on trial for its life. It will not live through the multiplicity of men’s plans in turning things upside down, but through the life-giving properties that are in Jesus Christ. Draw nigh to God and He will draw nigh to you.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 9)
The universe of heaven is calling upon us, the world is calling upon us to give a reason of the hope that is within us. We shall not do this by originating many plans in our human wisdom; but by unselfishness, by self-denial, by being full of grace, and truth. We are in great danger of losing Christ, the vital essence of the message. We shall not work the works of God because of possessing talent or having great knowledge, for more than mortal ability must be brought into the devising of successful plans. In their supposed human wisdom, men may turn and overturn, and yet not cure existing, discouraging evils.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 10)
While professing to preach Christ, we are in sore danger of losing the spirit of Christ because of neglecting to practice His words, which is called eating His flesh and drinking His blood. We need more of Christ’s love in our lives to transform our characters. It is a vitalizing current from Jesus.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 11)
God Himself is not in our assemblies because the cold iron of self remains unmelted. We know little of the midnight struggles of Jacob in surrendering all to God, and exercising conquering faith in God.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 12)
Union with Christ is a union with God through Christ. There is a life in the soul of every one who has formed this mystical, spiritual union with Christ that never fades or fails.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 13)
We should assemble together, believing that we shall receive comfort and hope, light and peace, from Jesus Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 14)
They have been taken by the cleaver of truth as rough stones from the quarry of the world, and have been brought into God’s workshop to be hued and squared by axe and chisel, to be fitted up by test and trial for a place in God’s heavenly temple, and they are very precious in the sight of the Lord. Though they are to be hued and squared, and fitted and polished for the heavenly building, yet even in the rough, they are precious in the sight of God. The axe and the hammer and the chisel of trial and test are in the hands of One who is skillful, and are used not to destroy, not to bring to nothingness, but to work out the perfection of every soul, that as precious stones transformed and polished, the children of God may find their place in the building of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 15)
The Lord will no more cast off the humblest, lowliest believer in Jesus, than He will demolish His throne. We are accepted in the Beloved. We are members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King, heirs of God, and joint heirs with Jesus Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 16)
The church of God upon the earth are one with the church of God above. Believers on the earth and those who have never fallen in heaven are one church. Every heavenly intelligence is interested in the assemblies of the saints, who on earth meet to worship God in spirit and truth, and in the beauty of holiness. In the inner court of heaven they listen to the testimonies of the witnesses for Christ in the outer court on earth, and the praise and thanksgiving that comes from the earth below is taken up in the heavenly anthem, and praise and rejoicing sounds through the heavenly court because Christ has not died in vain for the fallen sons of Adam. While angels drink from the Fountain head, the saints on earth drink of the pure streams flowing from the throne of God, making glad the city of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 17)
Oh, that we could all realize the nearness of heaven to earth! When the earthborn children know it not, they have the angels of light as their companions, for they are heavenly messengers sent forth to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation. A silent witness guards every soul that lives, seeking to win and draw him to Christ. The angels never leave the tempted one a prey to the enemy who would destroy the souls of men if permitted to do so. As long as there is hope, until they resist the Holy Spirit to their eternal ruin, men are guarded by heavenly intelligences. Let us all bear in mind that in every assembly of the saints below are the angels of God, listening to the thanksgiving, the praise, the supplication that is offered by the people of God in testimonies, songs, and prayers. Let them remember that their praising is supplemented by the choirs of the angelic host above.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 18)
As we journeyed homeward, my mind was called out in contemplation of these precious themes, and I was filled with an intense longing to pass along some of these precious thoughts to my brethren and sisters. O that with pen and voice, I could represent the privileges of the children of God as they really exist! O that we who are pilgrims and strangers in this foreign country, seeking a better country, even a heavenly, might comprehend Christ, the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He says, “No man cometh unto the Father but by me.” [John 14:6.] The path He has marked out is so plain and distinct that the veriest sinner, loaded with guilt, need not miss his way. Not one trembling seeker need to fail of finding the true path, and of walking in pure and holy light, for Jesus leads the way. The path is so narrow, so holy, that sin cannot be tolerated therein, yet access to the path has been made for all, and not one desponding, doubting, trembling soul needs to say, “God cares nought for me.”
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 19)
Every soul is precious in His sight, “for God so loved the world,” even in its blackness and disobedience, even with the heavy shadow of sin and Satan upon it, “that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] When Satan was triumphing as the prince of the world, when he claimed the world as his kingdom, when he was all marred and corrupted with sin, God sent His messenger from heaven, even His only begotten Son, to proclaim to all the inhabitants of the world, “I have found a ransom. I have made a way of escape for all the perishing. I have your emancipation papers provided for you, sealed by the Lord of heaven and earth.” You may have freedom upon the condition of faith in Him who is able to save unto the uttermost all who come unto God by Him.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 20)
A ransom has been provided at infinite cost, and it is not because there is any flaw in the title which has been purchased for you that you do not accept it. It is not because the mercy, the grace, the love of the Father and Son is not ample, and has not been freely bestowed, that you do not rejoice in pardoning love, but it is because of your unbelief, because of your choice of the world, that you are not comforted with the grace of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 21)
It is your love of disobedience, your pleasure in sin, your enjoyment of rebellion, that has blunted your perceptions until you fail to discern the things which make for your peace. If you are lost, it will be because you will not come unto Christ that you might have life. God waits to bestow the blessing of forgiveness of sins, of pardon for iniquity, the gift of righteousness upon all who will believe in His love and accept of His salvation. Christ is ready to say to the repenting sinner, “Take away the filthy garments from him.” [Zechariah 3:4.]
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 22)
Christ is the connecting link between God and man. The blood of Jesus Christ is the eloquent plea that speaks in behalf of sinners. “The blood of Jesus Christ his Son, cleanseth from all sin.” [1 John 1:7.]
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 23)
Jerusalem, the holy land. What made it holy? The Majesty of heaven clothed His divinity with humanity and dwelt upon our earth. He was despised and rejected of men; in Jerusalem He was crucified by wicked hands. I have not the slightest inclination to visit Jerusalem, to see where it is thought probable that Jesus trod, where He may have labored, and where He may have been crucified. The means which might be expended thus I would prefer to treasure, that I may point souls to the Saviour risen from Jacob’s tomb, and proclaiming, “I am the resurrection and the life.” [John 11:25.]
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 24)
I can trace His footprints in the sure word of prophecy, and can obtain a better idea of His works, and of His ways, than I could by visiting Jerusalem, defiled with unholy feet and unholy deeds. I could not expend money to visit these places when the living interests of Christ’s kingdom are to be presented to the people. We are to teach the Word of God, and to be doers of that Word, which is represented as building on the rock; the structure thus built will withstand the storm and the tempest, because it is founded upon the eternal Rock.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 25)
I wish to see Jerusalem when the fires of the last great day shall have cleansed it from all sinful defilement. Jerusalem is now no more sacred to me than any other place on the globe. Wherever by His Holy Spirit Jesus makes known His presence, wherever His righteousness shines forth in bright and glorious beams, wherever His divine love illuminates the humble places of the earth, wherever His honor dwells, there I am pleased to be. Christ looks with sadness upon the delusions that ensnare human minds who are so eager to behold the places where His feet are supposed once to have trodden, and yet who do not heed His command, “Follow me,” who do not walk in the light as He is in the light. A shadow is resting over Jerusalem, a terrible shadow, which I have no desire to come under. Everywhere a curse is visible, which I have no desire to look upon. I can see marks of the curse everywhere.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 26)
To be able to say I have visited Jerusalem would not shed a distinct ray of light upon one soul. It would not enable me better to tell men and women what they must do to be saved. I present the Word of God in truth. I listen to the precious lessons which Christ gave His disciples. In my mind the scene of His ministry, the places where He taught by the lakeside, are clothed with the solemnity and beauty which nature and the Word of God have given them. I am content; I would not have dark pictures. I do not wish to look upon the desecrated shrines, with all the repulsive features that would meet my view. I would not be hired to behold the traces of the curse so evidently resting upon Jerusalem. I hope to see this spot when the earth shall be made new, when I shall behold Him whom my soul loveth, in His majesty and glory crowned as King of kings and Lord of lords.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 27)
I have not one word of encouragement for any person, neither have I money to impart to any person, to visit Jerusalem. As it now is, it would never be a picture that I would wish to hang in memory’s hall. Brethren, do you believe that you will soon see Jesus? Then do not needlessly expend means that is of so great value to save precious souls, they need never get a sight of Jerusalem under the curse, but with inspired words you can point them to the New Jerusalem, to Jesus the Mediator of the better covenant, who ever liveth to make intercession for us, and whose intercession is wholly efficacious in our behalf. I know that Christ looks with sadness upon those who are searching for the places He passed over while in the flesh, but who fail to recognize Him as a living Saviour, on any ground, in any place. He says, “Lo, I am with you alway, even to the end of the world.” [Matthew 28:20.] Men may search in vain for the footprints of Christ in Jerusalem. I care more for where He is now—in heaven—and for what He is doing in my behalf.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 28)
Give to Jesus your devotion where He is in the heavenly sanctuary, seek for the Holy Spirit as His representative wherever His people bow to worship Him. It becomes us to know more of Jesus by an experimental knowledge, as a personal Saviour. We should be gathering up every ray of divine light, not looking to old Jerusalem where Christ was once, but to the New Jerusalem where He is now. Let us be gathering from the tree of life that God has planted, leaves that shall be for the healing of the nations, and fruit, precious, life-giving fruit as food to the soul.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 29)
O, search with prayer, most earnest prayer, to know what God has written, and to trace the footprints of Jesus in His life of perfect obedience to His Father’s commandments. Endeavor to catch the inspiration in expounding the Word, the sure word of prophecy, that it shall not be as a dead letter, but a living, burning, shining light from the throne of God, preparing a people to endure the trials, the sufferings and persecutions, which Christ endured.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 30)
Who can be made to understand that the inner life must be hid with Christ in God? Such are in the habit of praying, for Christ prayed. Such are in the habit of searching the Scriptures for themselves, and more earnestly as they see the day approaching. Such ones, who love God supremely and their neighbors as themselves, will give themselves to God as a free-will offering, and that gift will include all they have. None can give themselves without reserve unless their possessions also are included and they are dispensing their God-given trust of means as the Lord’s goods. They produce fruit in good works.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 31)
Many will allow a brother to struggle along unaided under adverse circumstances, and by thus doing, they give to one precious soul the impression that they are thus representing Christ. It is no such thing.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 32)
Should laborers in the cause of God exact from the poor that which they have not power to bestow, whether in service or in money, the Word of God comes to them, be they ministers or people, “I hate robbery for burnt offerings.” [Isaiah 61:8.] Whenever money is exacted for the cause by methods that cause suffering from hunger or for want of clothing, God will judge the one who does it, and all who suffer this to be done come under the censure of the Lord.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 33)
There is need of the tender sympathy of Christ in the human hearts, love for human beings whom Christ has esteemed of such value that He gave His own life to save them from ruin. They are precious, more precious than any gold you can bring into the treasury. To turn every dollar and every penny into “the cause,” and rob the needy of the means whereby to give bread to their family, is not a kind of faithfulness that will meet with the approval of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 34)
Truth, precious truth, is sanctifying in its influence. The sanctification of the soul by the operation of the Holy Spirit is the implanting of Christ’s nature in humanity. It is the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ revealed in character, and the graces of Christ brought into active exercise in good works. Thus the character is transformed more and more perfectly after the image of Christ, in righteousness and true holiness. There are broad requirements in divine truth stretching out into one line after another of good works. The truths of the gospel are not unconnected; uniting, they form one string of heavenly jewels, as in the personal work of Christ, and like threads of gold they run through the whole Christian work and experience.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 35)
Christ is the complete system of truth. He says, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” [John 14:6.] All true believers center in Christ; their character is irradiated by Christ; all meet in Christ, and circulate about Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 36)
Every minister may exercise himself to bring large revenues and smaller rivulets into the treasury of God; it is his work to do this, but the question is, Does he do it by neglecting in any way the necessities of the needy and distressed, overlooking the real wants of suffering humanity, being so particular as to paying tithes of mint and rue and anise and cummin, and neglecting the weightier matters of the law? These ought ye to have done: manifest the love of Jesus in relieving the needy, the distressed, the suffering. Let it be printed on the mind that mercy and the love of God are to be expressed to the children of God. Search heaven and earth, and there is no truth revealed more powerful than that which is manifested in mercy to the very ones who need your sympathy aid in breaking yoke, and setting free the oppressed. Here the truth is loved, the truth is obeyed, the truth is taught as it is in Jesus.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 37)
There is a great amount of truth professed, but truth practiced in relieving our fellow men is of great influence, reaching unto heaven, and compassing eternity. Every soul in our world is on trial; every man’s experience, the common life history, tells in unmistakable language whether he is a doer of Christ’s words and His works. There is constantly recurring a large array of little things that God alone sees to act out in these things the principles of truth will bring a precious reward. The great and important things are recognized by nearly all, but the knitting of these things with the supposed smaller things of life, and closely connecting them as one, is too rarely done by professed Christians. Religion is too much profession, and too little reality.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 38)
Divine truth exercises little influence upon our fellow men, when it should exercise much influence through our practice. Truth, precious truth, is Jesus in the life, a living, active principle. “Love one another,” says Christ, “as I have loved you.” [John 13:34.] You cannot lay the vigilance of Christianity to rest by passing over the cases of your brethren who are in distressed circumstances.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 39)
You may feel that you are doing God’s service while leaving the yoke of oppression upon their necks, because it is in your power to do this, and pressing every dime possible in to the great treasury. Your motives may be good, but it is a false theory that will permit distress and want in the effort to help the cause of God. The glory of heaven is in lifting up the fallen, speaking peace to aching, distressed hearts that are crying unto God for relief, while their fellow men who might relieve, priest and Levite pass by on the other side.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 40)
Great principles and minute practices cannot be disconnected in a symmetrical life. Such disconnection misrepresents the religion of Christ and mars the character. The one class of work is made up of great things and regulated by the law of God, while in the other, made up of so called little things, the law of God, “Thou shalt love thy neighbor,” is ignored. [Leviticus 19:18.] This sphere of work is left to caprice, subject to variation of feeling, to natural and cultivated tendencies or inclinations; and let me say that these little things, left to impulse, often shamefully neglected, mean much to those who are really affected by the neglect. These neglects cut off a large portion of the life of God from the soul, because the human agent is not in co-operation with God, and thus a large revenue of praise and thanksgiving is prevented from going forth to God from human hearts and human lips. Thus God is robbed of the glory that belongs to Him. Our religion will bless where ever it acts. Let the Christian religion act, and it will bless. Where ever it works, there is brightness.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 41)
Talk it, pray it, act it, the love of Jesus for fallen humanity. Let every soul become imbued and radiant with the Word and Spirit and love of God, and be a medium through which the light and blessing may be communicated to our world. Let the loveless, Pharisaical religion of forms and ceremonies be cleansed away from the heart and life of every Christian, and let the sweet influence of the Spirit of God have a controlling power upon every soul. Let men unite themselves to their fellow men by the golden links of the chain of love.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 42)
The cause of God is the cause of the oppressed and poor. The Lord expects His shepherds to look carefully after the sheep of His pasture and show a personal interest in the oppressed; they are to feed the hungry. If they neglect one case brought to their notice where there is real want of food and clothing, God will surely requite this; He pronounces no blessing on those who neglect the personal labor for the poor. 2 Corinthians 9:6-15. Here are the good works which cause love to God to deepen in the heart because of the kindness and love expressed in relieving the poor and the oppressed. Thanks and praise are awakened in the hearts of God’s needy ones and flow back to God, and angels join the songs of praise coming from human lips, which glorify God. God’s cause can afford to be just.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 43)
Those who love God ought to feed both the sheep and the lambs. They are God’s agents to do this very work. With busy hands, with sensitive hearts, with tongues that are as the pen of a ready writer, they are to win the unconcerned and unbelieving, and inspire their brethren and sisters with a missionary spirit. They are not to say “go on,” but “come on.”
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 44)
A mere profession of faith does not make us Christians. The vital question is, Have we the mind of Christ? Our heavenly Father gave Christ to our world as a Sin-bearer in order that not one who would believe in Him should perish, but have everlasting life. Having made so priceless a donation to men, will He not with Christ freely give us all things? In the gift of His Son, all heaven was opened up that its priceless treasures might enrich the men and women of faith. The love of God has been revealed to the hearts of believers, that they should diffuse the light of heaven.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 45)
Love is the basis of godliness. No man has love to God, no matter what his profession may be, unless he has unselfish love for his brother. As we love God because He first loved us, we shall love all for whom Christ died. We shall not feel like letting the soul who is in the greatest peril, and in the greatest need, go unlabored for, and uncared for. We shall not feel like holding the erring off, or letting them alone to plunge into further unhappiness and discouragement, and to fall on Satan’s battleground.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 46)
Every one who has been free to condemn, to dishearten, and to discourage, who has failed to give tender kindness, sympathy and compassion to the tempted and the tried, will in his own experience be brought over the ground over which others have passed, and will feel what others have suffered because of his want [of] sympathy, until he shall abhor his hardness of heart and open the door for Jesus to come in.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 47)
When Christ abides in the soul, He will be revealed in the uplifting of those who most need uplifting. Our neighbor is every person who needs our help. Our neighbor is every soul who is wounded and bruised by the adversary. Our neighbor is every one who is the property of God. If we desire healthfulness of soul, a sunshiny experience, we must put into practice the rules given us in the 58th chapter of Isaiah.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 48)
Every poor, tried soul needs light, needs tender, sympathizing, hopeful words. Every widow needs the comfort of helpful, and encouraging words that others can bestow. Orphans who are lent to Christians in trust for God are too often passed by and neglected, and yet they are bought with a price, and are just as valuable in the sight of God as we are. They may be ragged, uncouth, rough, destitute, cold, and hungry, yet as God’s property, Christians should have a lively interest in them. They are members of the household of God for whom Christians are responsible. “Their souls,” saith God, “will I require at thine hands.” [Ezekiel 3:18.] They must be cared for, they must receive special attention. You cannot expend your means in a better way than by opening your doors to make homes for them. When the Lord sees that you are faithful in doing what you can to relieve human misery, He will move upon others to provide means to care for those who need help.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 49)
Christian principles will always be made visible. In a thousand ways the inward principles will be made manifest. Christ abiding in the soul is as a well that never runs dry. Where He abides there will [be] an overflowing of beneficence. There will be acts of love for the needy, and provision will be made for the destitute. “But this I say, he which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.” [2 Corinthians 9:6.]
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 50)
Where Christ abides in the heart there will be deep yearnings of soul for the salvation of those who do not believe in Him. Let Christians reveal to every son and daughter of Adam the fact that they are more anxious to practice the good works of Christ in this world, and to be numbered as God’s chosen ones, than to be seeking for riches.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 51)
Worldly maxims and worldly practices sap spirituality from the heart and life. Conformity to the world means resemblance to the world in meeting the world’s standard. But how dwelleth the love of God in the soul of him who assimilates to the world? No man can serve the world and Jesus Christ at the same time. There is an irreconcilable antagonism between Christ and the world. Every one who loves Jesus has a solemn work to do for the world, for “ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] Christ sought to save the world not by conformity to it, but by revealing to the world the transforming power of the grace of God to mold and fashion the human character after the likeness of the character of Christ. To go over to the world in our practices will not influence the world to change its principles and practices.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 52)
With an eye single to the glory of God, we are to live above the world, and yet in every way we are to seek to let the heavenly light shine forth in Christlike actions, and thus exert a powerful influence to save sinners. The moment a professed Christian goes over the line, and follows the fashions of the world, he becomes an idolater, and a stumbling block to sinner. You can draw the world with you only as you wear Christ’s yoke; but you can have no influence upon the world in lowering yourself to its low level. Remember Christ gave Himself to save you, and you can do no less than to give yourself to save souls for whom Christ died.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 53)
When the children of Israel were on their journey through the wilderness, the Lord protected them the venomous serpents, but there came a time when, because of Israel’s stubbornness and impenitence and transgression, the Lord removed His restraining power from these reptiles whose sting was deadly, and many were bitten and died. Then it was that the brazen serpent was lifted, that all who repented and looked to it in faith might live. In the time of confusion and trouble such as never was since there was a nation, the uplifted Saviour will be presented to the people in all lands and in all places, that all who look may live.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 54)
When the Lord see His people binding about their imaginary wants, practicing self-denial, not in a mournful, regretful spirit, as Lot’s wife left Sodom, but joyfully for Christ’s sake, and because it is the right thing to do, then the work will go forward with power.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 55)
Watch the stealthy approach of the enemy, watch against old habits and natural inclinations, lest they exert themselves; force them back and watch; force them back, if need be, a hundred times. Watch the thoughts, watch the plans, lest they become selfish and self-centered. Watch and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. Watch over the souls whom Christ has purchased with His own blood. Watch for the opportunities to do them good.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 56)
Like Mary, we need to sit at the feet of Jesus to learn of Him, having chosen that better part which will never be taken from us. Like Martha, we need to be ever abounding in the work of the Lord. The highest Christian attainments can be reached only by being much on our knees in sincere prayer. Our hands and our hearts, our whole being, must be devoted to the work. One fiber of the root of selfishness remaining in the soul will spring up when least expected, and thereby will many be defiled.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 57)
The truth as it is in Jesus is a refreshing portion. All may rejoice in the study of the truth. With earnest purpose they may seek to know what is truth. The truth received changes the heart, inspiring the faith that works by love and purifies the soul. “The entrance of thy word giveth light, it giveth understanding unto the simple,”—to all who will be humble enough to be doers of the Word. [Psalm 119:130.] How do we live on the flesh of the Son of God? By searching His written Word, by digging deep for the hidden treasures contained therein. Whenever a question was brought to Christ, His inquiry was, “Have ye not read? What saith the Scriptures? How readest thou?” And His command was “Search the Scriptures.” [John 5:39.]
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 58)
Christ could have answered every perplexing question that troubled the heart of man from the depths of His own divine wisdom; but He did not do this. He directed the minds of the inquirers to that which was written in His own inspired Textbook. When tempted of the devil, He met Satan’s artful insinuations with, “It is written.” That which is brought to us as truth on the authority of popes’, ministers’, or synods’ decisions is not the sure Word, the unerring Word of prophecy. A “thus saith the Lord” is of more value than the most eloquent assertions of men. The Psalmist saith, “Thy word standeth sure.” It is as unfailing as the everlasting hills, and upon it we may rely. Be sure that you have the Word of God, then follow its teachings implicitly.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 59)
I presented the case of Moses as he pleaded with God for one spiritual blessing after another, advancing step by step, not selfishly, but taking the people with him. He made intercession for the people, encircling them with the arm of faith and, like our merciful Saviour, laying hold on the throne of God, he presents the people sinful as they are before the mercy seat. “And Moses returned unto the Lord, and said, O, this people hath sinned a great sin,” etc. [Exodus 32:31.]
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 60)
An intensity of feeling overwhelms the man of God. He is so burdened for sinful Israel that he can scarcely give utterance to his thoughts. How similar was his earnestness and burden for sinful Israel to the burden felt by the world’s Redeemer when He wept over Jerusalem, speaking in broken utterances, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem ... how often would I [have] gathered your children together, as a hen gathereth her brood under her wings; but ye would not.” [Luke 13:34.] Again, on the crest of Olivet He beheld the city, and wept over it, saying, “O that thou hadst known, even thou, in this thy day the things that belong unto thy peace.” [Luke 19:42.] Here comes the pause. How hard for Jesus to pass the irrevocable sentence upon the doomed inhabitants of Jerusalem.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 61)
Jerusalem had not known the day of her privilege, the day of precious opportunities, when Christ was in the midst of her. Mercy had long hovered over the impenitent, stubborn, rebellious people; but she is about to depart. It was not yet too late as Jesus looked upon the city; but when the sun should set behind the hills, the day of mercy and reprieve for Jerusalem would be ended. Jesus pronounced the irrevocable sentence, “But now they are hid from thine eyes.” [Verse 42.]
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 62)
The man Moses was not yet satisfied. “And Moses said unto the Lord, See, thou sayest unto me, Bring up this people; and thou hast not let me know whom thou wilt send with me. Yet thou hast said, I know thee by name, and thou hast also found grace in my sight.” We read that “The Lord spake unto Moses face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend.” But though so manifestly favored of God, Moses still pleads for a further revelation of His divine favor. He says, “I pray thee, If I have found grace in thy sight, show me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight: (He will not separate himself from the people) and consider that this nation is thy people.” [Exodus 33:11-13.]
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 63)
Did the Lord’s rebuke rest upon Moses as upon one that had been presumptuous in pressing his case before the Lord? To Moses the situation was one that demanded urgency. He realized that his only help was in God, and he would not allow the transgression of Israel to cut them off from God. The Lord continues to test and prove the quality of Moses’ love and faith. The Lord shows no displeasure because Moses holds firmly and steadily to the point, but He answers his appeal, and says, “My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.” [Verse 14.]
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 64)
Those who commit their burdens to the Lord, as did Moses, will find that God will give them rest. But though Moses was assured of the presence of God, he is not ready to cease his petitions. He desires to become more thoroughly acquainted with Him who shall be the invisible Leader of Israel, and he still holds his own and Israel’s case before the Lord. “And he said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence. For wherein shall it be known here (at this present time) that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? Is it not in that thou goest with us? So shall we be separated? I and thy people, from all the people that are upon the face of the earth. And the Lord said unto Moses, I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken: for thou hast found grace in my sight, and I know thee by name.” [Verses 15-17.]
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 65)
In (Deuteronomy 7:6) it is recorded that the Lord did hear and did fulfill His covenant with Moses in regard to Israel. And yet when the Lord had made such abundant promises to him, he still desired larger things, and ventures to make a marvelous request. “And he said, I beseech thee, show me thy glory.” [Exodus 33:18.] Was this presumption? Was he asking too large things of God? He held the Lord with a firm hand of faith, and would not cease his importunings. The Lord does not turn from him or rebuke him, but still favors his request. “And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the Lord before thee ..., for it is a terrible thing which I will do with thee.” [Exodus 33:19; 34:10.]
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 66)
O, what love, what wondrous love God has revealed to His people in all ages! From generations He hath made His love known. His wondrous works declare His majesty and power. To Moses He revealed His glory, portraying before him His character, and when Moses failed [one] one occasion to give Him due respect, God was greatly displeased. The natural passions of the man were excited, and he who should have given all glory to God by the manifestation of patience, meekness, and forbearance was angry with a rebellious people. Will men in high position of trust remember this lesson from God, given to all the inhabitants of the earth to be studied as long as time shall last? The Lord has done great things for His people, and they should send back to Him praise and thanksgiving.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 67)
I have been catching the very longings of the Spirit of Jesus Christ and have felt His love for souls who know not God, and Jesus Christ whom He hath sent. Those who accept the truth in the love of it will know what it is to have the Spirit of Christ take possession of them, for the love of Christ constraineth them. Saved through the belief of the truth, they will be endowed with Christlike energy, and their one purpose will be to save those for whom Christ died. Every soul saved means many souls saved through trading upon the talents which the Lord has given. Every soul who has been quarried out from the world through the mighty Cleaver of truth will do the same work for others as they have done for them.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 68)
It is the Christian’s privilege to connect himself with Christ, the Light of the world, and improve every opportunity to catch the bright spiritual beams from the Sun of Righteousness. Every ray of light that is improved upon will increase capacity to gather light and to shed it forth again to the world. The Christian does not fulfil the purpose of God unless he is continually receiving grace for grace, and gaining increased spiritual apprehension of the value of eternal truths applicable for this time. We are to grow in grace and in the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 69)
The Christian is to develop in spiritual knowledge, to have a comprehension of the science of the plan of salvation. He is to develop, through learning in the school of Christ, until he shall have breadth of comprehension and know how to adapt himself to the people in introducing and presenting the truth. This he may learn from the great Teacher until in Christlikeness he may present the truth and not repulse or be repulsed. Spiritual inaptitude, spiritual ignorance and inability, is a sign of spiritual slothfulness.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 70)
The heart of Christ is full of tenderness toward His heritage. The ear of the Lord is open to all the cries of those who are in His service, and He has promised, “I will guide thee with mine eye.” [Psalm 32:8.] Walk humbly with your God, and ask Him to make your course of duty plain. When God speaks to His representatives, and asks them to be laborers together with Him, they will do the same kind of work that Jesus announced as His work when He stood up to read in the synagogue at Nazareth. He opened the book of the prophet Isaiah, and read, “The Spirit ....” [Luke 4:16-18; Isaiah 61:1.]
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 71)
His great heart of love takes in all the sorrows of His children. If the human agents, from whom we might expect help, fail to do their part, let us be comforted in the thought that the heavenly intelligences will not fail to do their part. They will pass by those whose hearts are not tender and pitiful, kind and thoughtful, and ready to relieve the woes of others, and will use any human agent that will be touched with the infirmities, the necessities, the troubles, the perplexities of the people for whom Christ died.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 72)
He who can influence even the most lowly, and can win them to Christ, is co-operating with divine agencies in seeking to save that which was lost. In presenting to the sinner a personal, sin-pardoning Saviour, we reach a hand of sympathy and Christlike love to grasp the hand of Christ by faith. We form a link of union between the soul and the Saviour.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 73)
We may expect too much of others. The time has been, and history may be repeated, when to many our light will not appear as light. If our works and our spirit be misrepresented, if our motives are misconstrued, if we are criticized, if our mission and character are misinterpreted, if our humility be misjudged, our independence and firmness and boldness be called rashness, yet we must move on, crying, “Courage in the Lord.” There is no stern conflict without a victory. If our eyes are not removed from Him who is the great General of armies, we shall have the victory. Abel, the very first Christian of Adam’s children, died a martyr. Enoch walked with God, and the world knew him not. The day will come when the faithful, the righteous, shall shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. That kingdom is made up of righteousness, peace and joy. Its subjects are the pure in heart, the peace-makers, the persecuted for Christ’s sake; all who love God in sincerity and truth will be there.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 74)
It is the kingdom of our Father; a homelike representation is given, in order to remove from the mind the overwhelming awfulness and grandeur. It is our Father that holds the scepter; the kingdom is our Father’s. The mansions prepared for the righteous are prepared by Him who gave His life that we might be found heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ. Love without misinterpretation, without affection, is there, pervading the entire kingdom of God. Peace, rest, and joy are its atmosphere. We shall sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of our Father.
(11LtMs, Ms 52, 1896, 75)
Ms 53, 1896
A Knowledge Of Physiology Necessary In Education NP April 24, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in TDG 123; 10MR 299.
All education should be broad and should have for its foundation the fear and love of God. All the knowledge acquired aside from the wisdom and knowledge of God may be regarded by the world as highly desirable, but without the knowledge of how to grasp by faith the better gifts of God’s grace, education will only increase the perils of every learner. Dangers beset the path of every one whose heart and intellect are not brought into captivity to Jesus Christ. The love of God in the heart makes rough places plain, and works those changes in character that will be to the glory of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 1)
Few understand what is comprehended in true education. The larger number of people take but a surface view of this matter and obtain their education without considering that the Lord Jesus Christ should be directly connected with it. Selfishness, self-exaltation, and self-glorification form the sum and substance, the aim and object, of much of the education of today. Students spend much time and money in gaining that knowledge which is not at all essential, and which they only use to gratify their selfish ambition. They use their education for a purpose of glorifying themselves, crowding their minds with that which is not necessary, because they wish to be counted as learned by the world, and therefore must include everything that is included in education from the world’s standpoint. But all zeal to obtain knowledge aside from God’s wisdom [only] places God’s entrusted gifts on the enemy’s side. By their wrong practices and habits many students carry on Satan’s work, and Christ, who has given His life, that through His own humiliation, suffering, and ignominious death He might make a way for them to win the life immortal in the kingdom of God, is dishonored by their course of action. They need to learn the lesson taught by the greatest Teacher the world ever knew, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” [Matthew 6:33.]
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 2)
Shall the education given in our schools be after God’s order or after the wisdom of this world, which the Lord pronounced foolishness? Shall the hearts of the students become estranged from God by eating of the tree of knowledge which hardens the heart into disobedience, and administers to vanity and pride? Shall not the education given in our schools be of that character which will give a more decided knowledge of God’s Word, and which will bring the soul into a vital connection with God, arousing every better feeling of the soul, and keeping God before the mind’s eye? This is the education which is as enduring as eternity.
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 3)
I wish to inquire of the teachers in our schools, What class of work are you accomplishing? Will you consider how little thought you have given to God, how seldom your mind has gone out to God? Listen to the words of Inspiration, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” [Philippians 2:5.] Teachers are to do much more for students than merely to give them a book knowledge. They are to act as shepherds to the flock under their charge, watching for souls as those that must give account, for to them is given the responsibility of fashioning the minds and characters of those whom they are educating. Teachers are not true educators unless they themselves are learners in the school of Christ, receiving true education from the divine instructor.
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 4)
Above all books, the Word of God must be made the basis of education, irrespective of previous habits and customs. Its living principles, running through our lives like threads of gold, will be our only safeguard in all trials and temptations; its divine instruction is the only way to success. What greater work can you do as teachers than to study the Word, that you may bring it into your work. Only by yoking up with Christ, the great Educator, and drawing with Him, can you be successful in your work, for where God is not remembered, believed in, and honored, evil will be introduced, and time will be occupied in baffling [puzzling or struggling] with this that should be occupied in other ways.
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 5)
Teachers should teach every student to care for the body, the wonderful organism given them of God, for we read in God’s Word, “What, know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] They should teach them that to neglect or misuse any of their powers is to be unfaithful to the trust God has given them—to cooperate with Christ in the work of restoring their minds and bodies, so that they may do acceptable service for the Lord of heaven, 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.]
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 6)
An intelligent knowledge of physiology would help students to understand and adore their Creator. By precept and example they would educate others, and would put to shame those who have pampered their appetites and indulged their inclinations to the uttermost, and who show marked ignorance as to the sure result of this course of action on their physical, mental, and moral powers. Students are to understand themselves. Many have thought this knowledge non-essential, but it is more necessary than a study of the dead languages, for it is impossible to have a true education without a knowledge of the human structure.
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 7)
Why is there such ignorance in regard to this subject, which means so much to every one? Thousands, yes, millions, who walk the earth, are suffering from their own wrong course of action. Should not those for whom Christ has given His life, place a value upon their own happiness, peace, and healthfulness by obeying nature’s laws? We are the Lord’s property by creation and by redemption, and He requires that we study how to care for our bodies, observing carefully the laws of life, health, and purity. It is our duty to preserve and honor our bodies, in order that we shall not, by neglect, by selfish indulgence, by perverted appetite and passions, make ourselves bodies of corruption and impurity, loathsome in the sight of God, dying while life remains.
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 8)
How strongly and brightly shines the mercy and loving-kindness of God in His dealings toward His heritage. He has said, “My people have forgotten me days without number.” [Jeremiah 2:32.] “Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb? yea, they may forget, yet will I not forget thee.” [Isaiah 49:15.] All heaven has the deepest interest in our welfare, that Satan shall not control us and conform us to his character. “For behold the day cometh that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble; and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of Hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch. But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of Righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth and grow up as calves of the stall.” [Malachi 4:1, 2.]
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 9)
“Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.” [1 Corinthians 10:31.] It is of greater importance for students to learn these practical lessons that mean so much to them than to study Latin or Greek. By showing contempt for the laws of nature, men and women lay the foundation for misery and suffering. Through the weakness of their moral powers they are abject slaves to passion. Some are digging their graves with their own teeth; others defile soul and body and weaken their brain power by yielding to vile habits of moral pollution. By this they close the gates of the city of God against themselves, for the penalty of violated laws must be realized. The punishment must come.
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 10)
The practice of eating at all times, and of eating too largely even at stated times, is deleterious to health, and those who do this will never have sound health. The digestive organs are kept at work, grinding like a mill, and indigestion is the sure result of overburdening the stomach, even with simple food. Some fancy that they are always hungry, but this is because the digestive organs have become weak through overwork. After the stomach has carried a heavy load, it needs a complete rest, but the overeater, thinking that he is hungry, puts another task upon the already weak and abused stomach. He has a morbid appetite, and does not relish wholesome food, but takes many unhealthful things to satisfy the demands of his perverted appetite.
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 11)
As long as food is taken without allowing at least five or six hours between the meals, the digestive organs are overworked. A late supper, taken by one of sedentary habits, will produce indigestion and a diminished relish for good food, because the food taken is not properly digested through the sleeping hours. The disturbance created sometimes results in paralysis or apoplexy, and is the beginning of an end which is death.
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 12)
The success of acquiring a good memory and a calm, uniform temper depends not upon circumstances, but very much upon the way in which the stomach is treated. If food is taken at any and every time, the organs of digestion are abused and man must pay the penalty. Nature will not suffer abuse without proclaiming it in disordered nerves and muscles, and intellect. The gourmand, for this he may be called who overloads his stomach, should remember that the nerve power must be called upon to take care of the burden placed upon the stomach, and the brain is enfeebled in being deprived of the power necessary to strengthen the memory. If a student pursues this course, he is not prepared to do the work a student should do, and the word goes out, He is breaking down through overwork. But the foundation for disease was laid by wrong habits, not through too earnest application to study. Misuse of his physical and mental powers is the cause of his breakdown.
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 13)
May argue that inclination is a proper guide in regard to eating. Had the laws of health always been strictly obeyed, nature would regulate this matter, but when the inclination has been used to gratify a desire for all kinds of food, it is not a proper guide. A perverted taste cannot indicate that which it would be wise to place in the stomach; for it does not relish plain, simple food, but craves for something that tastes good. If we follow our inclinations, discord will come in, for the prostrated energies of the stomach will be incapable of judging anything properly.
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 14)
There are lessons to be learned in this line which, if observed, will bring health to body and mind. If the habits of eating and drinking are kept intelligently under the control of the human agent, and he eats and drinks to the glory of God, his life will be lengthened. Eat to live; do not live to eat. The latter process will eventually destroy the pleasure of eating. Some make their stomach their god; their digestive organs become thoroughly diseased, and their happiness destroyed by their wrong practices.
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 15)
Students should have an intelligent knowledge of their physical organization. This will be of more value to them than a drilling in Greek or Latin. Those studies are not essential for their life practice, but as long as they shall live, they have a house that God has made for them to inhabit, and it is for their present happiness and future eternal good to know how to practice temperance in all things.
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 16)
Taking a certain course of study is not education. The physical as well as the mental powers must be exercised. Many lessons may be learned in connection with agriculture. Working the soil is one of the best kinds of employment, calling the muscles into action and diverting the mind. The sedentary habits of the student need to be varied by active exercise in some useful labor which will help him to gain an all-sided knowledge of practical life.
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 17)
But violent exercise should never be taken immediately after eating. For hal an hour after eating mental and violent physical exercise should be avoided. After this the student is prepared for close study, but before he takes his next meal, he should take some exercise which will set the organs of his body in action.
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 18)
All who would preserve health—ministers, teachers, students, any confined at sedentary occupation—should vary their program. Let the line of thought be broken up. The Lord is not glorified by any one continually suffering from sickness. The habits of eating and drinking should be intelligently understood, and the exercise essential to keep the physical organs in action should be combined with mental work.
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 19)
God has sent His warning. Will human beings heed it? Many who are advocating the claims of God’s law encourage and educate wrong appetites, which they indulge at the expense of health. Although they live where light is shining all around them, they close their eyes and will not become intelligent upon the subject of their own habitations. The lessons contained in (Romans 12:1, 2; Romans 13:11-14; 1 Corinthians 1:2-8; 6:18-20) should be studied by all. “What, know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.”“Let not sin therefore, reign in your mortal bodies, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin; but yield ye yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.” [Romans 6:12, 13.]
(11LtMs, Ms 53, 1896, 20)
Ms 54, 1896
True Education Sunnyside, Cooranbong, Australia May 7, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in 8MR 251.
For months to come I might write upon the subject of true education as it has been presented to me at different times and at different places. I shall ever have to present education, not as it is looked upon from the standpoint of the human educators of this age, but as it is regarded by the only true God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent. When educators urge upon the students that the education essential for them to obtain must be brought into their practical life, they will use different methods in this work. This education can truthfully be termed “the higher education.” God is dishonored by the way in which this subject is regarded by those who are considered learned men, by those who attempt to cut and carve the Scriptures. He that sitteth in the heavens scorns their pretensions; He calls these worldly wise men mad. Far better would it be for them if they would become fools in their own estimation, if they would learn of Christ that they might become wise.
(11LtMs, Ms 54, 1896, 1)
Often many years are spent in studies that are conducted in wrong lines, to useless ends, and the mind is trained in a wrong channel. It is taught to grasp those things that are not only utterly worthless, but which are an injury to the mental and physical health. Thus time is wasted which might be put to good account. A limited knowledge of many things which the student will never use is gained. He obtains a slender store of knowledge upon many subjects that is of no value to him, when there is a knowledge which he might obtain, which would be of the highest service to him if brought into his practical life, and which would become a store house of wisdom from which to draw in time of need.
(11LtMs, Ms 54, 1896, 2)
So long have many students taxed the mind to learn simply nothing that will be useful, and which their reason tells them is so, that their mental powers have become incapable of vigorous exertion and persevering efforts in comprehending those studies which are of vital consequence to them. Their school education has consumed time and money, sometimes at terrible cost to their loving, well-meaning parents and guardians, but often this money and time is lost, and the misapprehension of the student’s real necessities has led to mistakes in the choice of his life work.
(11LtMs, Ms 54, 1896, 3)
Bible studies never produce these effects. Those who have not felt the necessity of studying hard have never laid the foundation for an acquirement of real knowledge of how to read their Bibles intelligently, how to obtain a knowledge from the Word of the living God, how to love God supremely and their neighbor as themselves. This is the real essence of education. Upon these principles hang all the law and the prophets. This class of education is “Higher Education.”
(11LtMs, Ms 54, 1896, 4)
The education which would supersede this, or dismiss it from the mind as Felix dismissed the apostle Paul when he reasoned with him of temperance, of righteousness, and of judgment to come, is not of God. The words of the apostle made the heart of Felix tremble. The governor dismissed the grand reasoner with the words, “Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season I will call for thee.” [Acts 24:25.] A very large class of people are doing this very thing. They are resisting the Spirit of God, because their minds are called to the deep subjects of truth, problems high as heaven and broad as the world. They say, “I cannot bring them into my lessons, for the subjects treated upon will so deal with my conscience that it will unfit me for the daily routine of study presented before me. I have never mastered the Bible problems. Go thy way, and when I have a more convenient season, I will call for you.” Thus God’s great Lessonbook is laid aside. It is not regarded as the one thing needful.
(11LtMs, Ms 54, 1896, 5)
But to many there comes a call which they cannot so easily dismiss. Sickness and death enter their chamber, and then they realize that they have only studied their Bibles in a casual manner, that they have compelled themselves to read it as a disagreeable task. When they stand face to face with the dread messenger of death, who says, “I have come for thee; set thy house in order, for thou shalt die and not live” [2 Kings 20:1], what satisfaction do they derive from all the years spent in the training and education, while they have neglected the one thing needful, a preparation for the future immortal life?
(11LtMs, Ms 54, 1896, 6)
“Would that I had pursued a different line of study,” they now say. “That which I ought to have gained, a preparation for the future immortal life, of this I am ignorant.” The storm is beating upon their house, and too late they find it is built upon sliding sand. Worse than wasted now seems to them the time devoted to their studies—studies that have not given them a knowledge of how to die. They have not built upon the solid rock, but on sliding sand; and the future before them is all uncertainty.
(11LtMs, Ms 54, 1896, 7)
Ms 55, 1896
Diary “Sunnyside,” Cooranbong, New South Wales, Australia October 1, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in 8MR 365; 12MR 95. +
On October 1, 1896, we assembled on the school grounds to lay the corner stone of our first school building. A draft for one thousand pounds had come a few days before, and we were able to walk by sight. The Lord has moved upon the hearts of Sister Wessels and her sons to grant my request for a loan of one thousand pounds at four and a-half per cent interest.
(11LtMs, Ms 55, 1896, 1)
This was an important occasion, but only a few were present. It had been hurriedly planned that I should have the privilege of laying the corner stone, as I was to leave the following day for Sydney, on route for Melbourne and Adelaide. We had a season of prayer and singing, and then I took the stone in my hand, and laid it in position. My heart was filled with gratitude to God that He had opened the way that we could erect this first building. We praised the Lord for this favor. The building had been delayed for want of means, and the faith of our people had almost come to a stand still. Many, I fear, had lost faith. But I knew that God would work in our behalf, and prepare the way.
(11LtMs, Ms 55, 1896, 2)
Our faith has been tested and tried. We have been pressed with poverty on every side. Families were continually coming to me and telling me that they had no money to buy bread, but what could I do? I could not pay my own workers any wages, and our grocery bills were accumulating. For three or four months my workers could not be paid, but they were willing to suffer inconvenience. I received from Battle Creek six hundred dollars. This would barely set me straight with my creditors, but some of them were willing to wait. I immediately set to work on my garden men who were in need, some of them destitute of daily food. One man with a family of four children came to me and said that they had had nothing but squash to eat for a week. I gave them a cow; for they must have something for their children. We also ploughed their land for them, my hired man doing the work. To another family I loaned a cow, that they might have milk for their children. I cannot see such poverty as this, without great pain of heart, for I know that there is enough in the world to sustain all if economy were practiced by those who have the means.
(11LtMs, Ms 55, 1896, 3)
I have awakened in the night season sorely distressed over the situation. To what source could we look for help? One night I fell asleep and dreamed that I was weeping and praying before the Lord. A hand touched me on the shoulder, and a voice said, “I have means in many families in Africa that is being bound up in worldly enterprises. Tell them the Lord has need of it. Send to the Wessels brothers. It will do them great good to help to advance my work with their entrusted means by erecting buildings where a proper education can be given to young men and women, that they may go out to teach others what they must do to be saved. Tell them to lay up treasure for themselves in heaven, where moth will not corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal; for where their treasure is, there will their heart be also.
(11LtMs, Ms 55, 1896, 4)
“The children of Sister Wessels must be sanctified to me. I have heard the mother’s prayers, and if they will come to me, I will give them peace and rest. Satan desires their souls, that he may sift them as wheat, but I have prayed for them. I have written their names on the palms of my hands. Although some do not now receive Me, yet the truth will become truth to them if they will not turn away from the Holy Spirit’s strivings. Jesus has died for them. They are His property.
(11LtMs, Ms 55, 1896, 5)
“Talents of means must flow into the treasury from these who are now dead in trespasses and sins. The hearts of many who know the truth are bound upon their worldly treasure. Selfishness must die. The church needs to be reconverted. The Holy Spirit must move upon hearts that are now fast bound in selfishness.”
(11LtMs, Ms 55, 1896, 6)
Discouraging reports have gone forth from this place. Those who should have come up to the help of the Lord against the mighty have thrown themselves as stumbling blocks in the way of our progress. May the Lord convict their hearts, and give them a firm faith. The faith of many is at a low ebb. It is an unusual thing to them to go into the midst of a forest and there make a place for school buildings. But my faith has not wavered from the first. Things look very dark sometimes, but aggressive warfare must be done.
(11LtMs, Ms 55, 1896, 7)
So far no ministerial labor has been done in Newcastle, twenty-five miles from here. There is not a Sabbathkeeper there. But the Lord knows that there is work to be done in that mining city, that there are souls to be saved. If there is not so, why are we here? God has placed us here, and He can spread a table in the wilderness. The Lord help His people to have faith instead of doubts. Our warfare is aggressive, and we must “Go forward.” [Exodus 14:15.] We walk by faith, looking not at the things that are seen, but on the things that are unseen. The Lord God omnipotent has His plans and His resources. He says to us, Establish your schools out of the cities, in localities where there will be few enticements to allure the youth from truth and righteousness.
(11LtMs, Ms 55, 1896, 8)
I was very desirous to see this building erected, but I was afraid the faith of my brethren would fail. I never felt more sure that the Lord would work in our behalf. He will honor them that honor Him. He loves His commandment-keeping people. I prayed earnestly for the Lord to open the way for us to build, and when there seemed no prospect of securing means, He sent the needed help. He has located the school here, and means will come, for He has promised the He will never fail us.
(11LtMs, Ms 55, 1896, 9)
Ms 56, 1896
Extract from Diary Sunnyside, Cooranbong, New South Wales, Australia July 10, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in LS 360-362.
I had a very beautiful dream last night. My husband seemed to be with me and we were walking about our little farm in the woods, consulting together just as we used to do in regard to the work. He said to me, “What are you doing in reference to a school building?”“We can do nothing,” I said, “unless we have means, and I know not where means are coming from. But I am not going to encourage unbelief. I will work in faith. I have been tempted to tell you a discouraging chapter in our experience, but I will talk faith. If we look at the things which are seen, we shall be discouraged. We have no school building. Things seem to be at a stand still. We need educated young people who can communicate the truth to others. If this school could be started, it would develop workers for God, and youth would go forth to testify for Christ.”
(11LtMs, Ms 56, 1896, 1)
“What do you expect to do with the land?” my husband asked. “We shall do all that human ability and experience can do,” I said. “We will put in the seed, and plant the orchard, and thoroughly test the land. We know that the orange trees will yield us their fruit. In Martinsville the trees that are planted receive no cultivation, yet they yield their harvest of golden fruit. One year ago we started, and now the peach trees are loaded with their beautiful fragrant blossoms.
(11LtMs, Ms 56, 1896, 2)
“I have been taught,” I said, “that while we work the soil, we are to learn precious lessons. We must sow in faith and hope for results. And in the same way that we cultivate the grounds, we are to cultivate the garden of the soul, that it may produce its harvest for the benefit of all with whom we associate. The parable of the sower contains a lesson which it is for our advantage to study. The care which we give to the soil, to make it fruitful, we must give to our life and character, that they may produce precious fruit. That which we sow we shall also reap again. We sow the seed, hoping to reap a harvest of its kind. We plant the trees, that they may yield us their rich treasure of fruit. Lessons from the cultivation of the soil will be the most profitable instruction we can receive.”
(11LtMs, Ms 56, 1896, 3)
My husband said, “Ellen, you are on missionary ground. You are to sow in hope and faith, and you will not be disappointed. One soul is worth more than all that was paid for this land, and already you have sheaves to bring to the Master.”
(11LtMs, Ms 56, 1896, 4)
We walked the whole length of the grounds we had prepared for cultivation. Strawberry plants had been set out, and we observed that some were in blossom, while others bore green berries. As we advanced we saw some ripe fruit.
(11LtMs, Ms 56, 1896, 5)
“Ellen,” my husband said, “do you remember when we entered Michigan and travelled in a wagon to the different localities to meet with the humble companies who were observing the Sabbath, how forbidding was the prospect, how hard the field seemed? In the heat of summer, our sleeping room was often the kitchen, heated by large fireplaces, where the cooking had been going on all through the day, and we could not sleep. Do you remember how we lost our way, and when we could obtain no water, you fainted? We tried to milk a cow to get you some refreshment, but failed. With a borrowed axe we cut our way through the forest until we came to a log shanty where we were accommodated and given some bread and milk. We remained there that night, prayed and sang with the family, and in the morning left them one of our pamphlets.
(11LtMs, Ms 56, 1896, 6)
“We were greatly troubled over this circumstance. Our guide knew the way perfectly, and why we should get lost was something we could not understand. Years after, at a camp meeting, we were introduced to several persons who told us their story. That visit, made as we thought by mistake, that book we left them, was seed sown. The leader, a man of intelligence, introduced us to his family and neighbors, twelve in number, who were keeping the Sabbath. Several others from the same district, who had not been able to come to the meeting, were keeping the Sabbath. Twenty in all were converted by what we supposed to be a mistake. But this was the work of the Lord, that light might be given to those who desired to know what is truth.”
(11LtMs, Ms 56, 1896, 7)
Thus we conversed together. As we returned, the grounds over which we had passed were bearing fruit. Said my husband, “The fruit is ready to be gathered.” As we came to another part, I exclaimed, “Look, look at the beautiful berries. We need not wait until tomorrow for them.” As I gathered the fruit, I said, “I thought these plants were inferior in every way, and hardly worth the trouble of putting into the ground. Who would have supposed that they would do so well. I never looked upon such an abundant yield.”
(11LtMs, Ms 56, 1896, 8)
My husband said, “You are working on missionary ground. The work commenced in new fields, in Rochester, N.Y., in Michigan, in Oakland, in San Francisco, and in the European fields was quite as unpromising as the work in this field. But the work you do in faith and in hope will bring you into fellowship with Christ and His faithful servants. The work must be carried on in simplicity, in faith and hope, and the spiritual and eternal results will reward your labors.”
(11LtMs, Ms 56, 1896, 9)
I awoke. It was very early, half past one o’clock; but I dressed, and after lifting my heart in thanksgiving to God for the encouragement given, I wrote out the dream.
(11LtMs, Ms 56, 1896, 10)
We shall have trials and discouragements to encounter. I know that new trials are before me, for whenever I am to be sorely pressed with temptation, encouragement is given me. Christ said, “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing, and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value that many sparrows. Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.... I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law, and a man’s foes shall be they of his own household.” [Matthew 10:29-32, 35, 36.]
(11LtMs, Ms 56, 1896, 11)
This is the result of accepting Christ. That portion of the family which refuses to believe, to the saving of the soul, will be at enmity with those who do believe. But Christ says, “He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And he that taketh not his cross and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.” [Verses 37, 38.]
(11LtMs, Ms 56, 1896, 12)
Ms 57, 1896
The Great Controversy NP December 30, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in 18MR 358-367. +
We are living the closing scenes of the earth’s history, and what is now done for God is accomplished under the most disadvantageous circumstances. Satan has great skill and wonderful ability. Before his fall God entrusted him with power and wisdom. But he became filled with self-exaltation, and thought that he should be first in heaven. Sin entered the world through this self-seeking, this striving for the supremacy.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 1)
Satan began his work by doing just as men who ought to know better are doing today. He complained of the supposed defects in the management of heavenly things, and sought to fill the minds of the angels unfallen with his disaffection. Because he was not supreme ruler, he sowed seeds of doubt and unbelief against Christ. Because he was not as God, he strove to instill into the minds of the angels his own envy and dissatisfaction.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 2)
Thus the seeds of alienation were planted, afterwards to be drawn out and presented before the heavenly courts as proceeding, not from Satan, but as originating with the angels. So he would show that they thought as he did. Satan whispered his disaffection to the angels. There was at first no pronounced feeling against God. But the seed had been sown, and the love and confidence of the angels was marred. The sweet communion between them and God was broken. Every move was watched, every action was viewed in the light in which Satan had made them see things.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 3)
That which Satan had instilled in the minds of the angels, a word here and a word there, opened the way for a long list of suppositions. In his artful way he drew expressions of doubt from them. When he was interviewed, he accused those whom he had educated. He laid all the disaffection on the ones whom he had led. As one in holy office, he manifested an overbearing desire for justice, which was entirely contrary to God’s love and compassion and mercy. It was most difficult to make the deceiving power of Satan apparent. His power of deceiving increased with practice. If he could not defend himself, he must accuse in order to make himself appear just and righteous and the Lord God arbitrary and exacting.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 4)
Just such transactions are taking place today. Many place such confidence in their own ideas that they present their theories as if they could make no mistake. Once their words are spoken, they never go back, never repent, never feel that they need forgiveness. They feel that they are simply infallible. Thus it has been in past history; thus it will be again. Religions confidence becomes infallibility. How can those deluded ones think that they are the only ones led and taught of God? When this spirit is manifested, what can be done? You cannot convince them, because they say, “God has led me.” They will not acknowledge that they have acted from wrong principles. They maintain that they have moved rightly. The only course that can be pursued is to leave them to develop their principles. They may never see their errors, but others may be convinced and saved. To attempt to unmask them would be to call sympathy to their side.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 5)
Great efforts will be made by those who suppose their own wisdom to be supreme, in exactly the same lines on which Satan worked, and which caused so much mischief in the Paradise of God. The very same working is revealed in 1896. The very same principles are upheld. When a man selected to a position of trust, to preside over important interests, large and broad, or interests of less consequence, but still important, Satan stirs up the minds of those who are selfish, who are not consecrated to God’s service with an eye single to His glory. He puts into their hearts the spirit of criticizing and accusing. If they are not specially advantaged, they will tell others of the mistakes and errors of the one against whom they are working. This step taken, Satan, whose special business it is to create alienation and strife, will place matters before these persons in a most deceiving way, and they will bring against those in positions of trust the most unjust and false charges, in order to discourage and destroy God’s servants.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 6)
The principles of the character of God were the foundation of the education constantly kept before the heavenly angels. These principles were goodness, mercy, and love. Self-evidencing light was to be recognized and freely accepted by all who occupied a position of trust and power. They must accept God’s principles and convince all who were in the service of God, through the presentation of truth and justice and goodness, [that] this was the only power to be used. Force must never come in. All who thought that their position gave them power to command their fellow men and control conscience must be deprived of their position.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 7)
These principles are to be the great foundation of education in every administration on the earth. In every church the rules given by God are to be observed and respected. God has enjoined this. His government is to be moral. Nothing is to be done from compulsion. Truth is to be the prevailing power. All service is to be done willingly and for love of the service of God. All who are honored with positions of influence are to represent God, for when officiating they act in the place of God. In everything their actions must correspond with the importance of their position. The higher the position, the more distinctly will self-sacrifice be revealed, if they are fit for the office.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 8)
Satan’s representations against the government of God, and his defense of those who sided with him, were a constant accusation against God. These murmurings and complaints were groundless. Yet God allowed Satan to work out his theories. He could have handled Satan and all his sympathizers as easily as one can pick up a pebble and cast it to the earth. But by this He would have given a precedent for the violence of man which is so abundantly shown in our world in the compelling principles. The Lord’s principles are not of this order. All the compelling power is to be found under Satan’s government. God would not work on this line; he would not give the slightest encouragement for any human being to set himself up as God over another human being, and cause him mental or physical suffering. This principle is wholly of Satan’s creation.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 9)
In the councils of heaven it was decided that principles must be acted upon which would not at once destroy Satan’s power, for it was His purpose to place things upon an eternal basis of security. Time must be given for Satan to develop the principles which were the foundation of his government. The heavenly universe must see the principles, which Satan declared were superior to God’s principles, worked out. God’s order must be contrasted with the new order after Satan’s devising. The corrupting principles of Satan’s rule must be revealed. The principles of righteousness, expressed in God’s law, must be demonstrated as unchangeable, eternal, perfect.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 10)
Every heart that is controlled by these principles in 1896 will be loyal. When those who are in God’s service resort to accusation, they are adopting Satan’s principles to cast out Satan. It never will work. Satan will work. He is working upon human minds by his crooked principles. These will be adopted and acted upon by those who claim to be loyal and true to God’s government. How shall we know that they are untrue, disloyal? “By their fruits ye shall know them.” [Matthew 7:20.]
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 11)
The Lord saw the use that Satan was making of his power; and He set before him truth in contrast with falsehood. Time and time again during the controversy, Satan was ready to be convinced, ready to admit that he was wrong. But those he had deceived were ready also to accuse him of leaving them. What could he do—submit to God, or continue in a course of deception? He chose to deny truth, to take refuge in misstatements and fraud.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 12)
The Lord allowed Satan to go on and demonstrate his principles. God did establish Himself, and He carried the worlds unfallen and the heavenly universe with Him, but at a terrible cost. His only begotten Son was given up as Satan’s victim. The Lord Jesus Christ revealed a character entirely opposite to that of Satan. As the high priest laid [aside] his gorgeous, pontifical robes, and officiated in the white linen dress of a common priest, so Christ emptied Himself and offered sacrifice, Himself the priest, Himself the victim.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 13)
By causing the death of the Sovereign of heaven, Satan defeated his own purposes. The death of the Son of God made the death of Satan unavoidable. Satan was allowed to go on until his administration was laid open before the worlds unfallen and before the heavenly universe. By shedding the blood of Christ, he uprooted himself, and was seen by all to be a liar, a thief, and a murderer.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 14)
God sees that the same course of action is being pursued the world over. Men and women come to the place where the road diverges: it is either right or wrong. Thousands upon thousands clothe themselves in what they suppose to be an impenetrable disguise, and choose the wrong. To make their course plain to others by abrupt disclosures would only cause a larger number to choose the side of wrong. Thus the wrong doers would be sustained and many souls would be ruined. God does not force any one. He leaves all free to choose. But He says, “By their fruits ye shall know them.” [Verse 20.] The Lord will not write as wise those who cannot distinguish between a tree that bears thorn berries, and a tree that bears olives.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 15)
I beseech of all who engage in the work of murmuring and pitying themselves because something has been said or done that does not suit them, and that does not, as they think, give them due consideration, to remember that they are carrying on the very work Satan began in heaven. They are following in his track, sowing unbelief, discord, and disloyalty, for no one can entertain feelings of disaffection, and keep it to himself. He must tell others that he is not treated as he should be. Thus others are led to murmur and complain. This is the root of bitterness springing up, whereby many are defiled.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 16)
Thus Satan works today through his evil angels. He confederates with men who claim to be in the faith; and those who are trying to carry forward the work of God with fidelity, having no man’s person in admiration, working without partiality and hypocrisy, will have just as severe trials brought against them as Satan can bring through those who claim to know the truth. Proportionate to the light and knowledge these opposers have, is Satan’s success. The root of bitterness strikes down deep, and is communicated to others. Thus many are defiled. Their statements are confused and untruthful, their principles are unscrupulous, and Satan finds in them the very helpers he wants.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 17)
Through dissension and alienation, Satan reaps his harvest of souls. He leads those who are ambitious for money, ambitious to be first, too proud to be anything but the highest, to murmur and complain. These poor souls have not overcome their natural and hereditary tendencies, and he leads him into sin.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 18)
As the end draws near, Satan will stir up minds, in proportion to their capabilities and knowledge, to sow seeds that will produce a harvest they will not care to garner. He works in so deceiving a way that he himself is not detected, and then he reaps the benefit of the disaffection of those he had tempted. He is all prepared to hurl charges through them against those whom God would have stand stiffly for the truth.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 19)
Satan must deceive in order to lead away. “In vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird.” [Proverbs 1:17.] Underhand work must be done; a deceiving influence must be exerted; false pretenses must be set forth as truth; suspicion must be lulled to sleep. Satan will clothe temptation and sin with the garments of righteousness, and by this deception he will win many to his side. Christ pronounced Satan a liar and a murderer. O, that unwary souls would learn wisdom from God.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 20)
Cain and Abel are given us in Bible history to represent the two orders in humanity. Abel was faithful and loyal to God, and he was preferred by the Lord. Cain was disloyal; he wished his own ideas to prevail. Abel protested against these principles as disloyal. As the eldest, Cain thought that his methods and plans should have the supremacy. It made him very angry that Abel would not concede to his views, and his anger burned so hot that he killed his brother Abel. Here the two principles of right and wrong are developed.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 21)
Test and trial will come to every soul that loves God. The Lord does not work a miracle to prevent this ordeal of trial, to shield His people from the temptations of Satan. If they are tempted severely, it is because circumstances have been so shaped by the apostasy of Satan that temptations are permitted in order that characters may be developed that will decide the fitness of the human family for the home in heaven, characters that will stand through all the pressure of unfavorable circumstances in private and public life, and though tried by every species of Satan’s temptation, through the grace of God grow brave and true, and firm as a rock to principles, and come forth from the fiery ordeal of more value than the golden wedge of Ophir. Those who have such characters God will endorse with His own superscription as His chosen elect.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 22)
The firmness manifested by Daniel must be shown by God’s children. All temptations to depart from pure and holy principles must be unhesitatingly rejected. There must be a firm adherence to right principles. As a people we are to stand unmoved by all Satan’s delusions, even when he comes as an angel of light. Thus may we constantly contend for the faith once delivered to the saints.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 23)
All who love God and are loyal to His government will be tempted to change leaders. But God has said, “Thou shalt have no other gods before Me.” [Exodus 20:3.] “Thou shalt love the Lord God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.” [Luke 10:27.] The Lord accepts no half heart. He demands the whole man. Religion is to be brought into every phase of life, carried into labor of every kind. The whole man is to come under God’s control. He must not suppose that he can take supervision of his own thoughts. They must be brought into captivity to Jesus Christ. Self cannot manage self; it is not sufficient for the work. Whoever tries to do this will be worsted. God alone can make and keep us loyal.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 24)
Satan contrives through evil angels to form an alliance with professedly pious men, and thus to leaven the church of God. Fallen men and fallen angels are, through apostasy, in the same confederacy, leagued to work against good. They unite in a desperate companionship. Satan knows that if he can induce men, as he induced angels, to join in rebellion under the guise of servants of God, he will have in them his most successful allies in his enterprise against heaven. Under the name of godliness, he can inspire them with his own accusing spirit and charge them with evil. They are his trained detectives. Their work is to create feuds, to make charges which create discord and bitterness among brethren, to set tongues, in active service for Satan, to sow seeds of dissension by watching for evil, and speaking of that which will create discord.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 25)
Christ prayed for His disciples, “Sanctify them through the truth, Thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; that they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee; that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. 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 perfect in one: and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:17-23.]
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 26)
God has expressed His will in this prayer of thirst for the unity of His believing people. But there is an unwearied conflict kept up upon this earth, polluted and marred with the curse. Satan works to make the prayer of Christ of none effect. He makes continual efforts to create bitterness and discord, for where there is unity there is strength, a oneness which all the powers of hell cannot break. And all who shall aid the enemies of God by bringing weakness and sorrow and discouragement upon any of God’s people through their own perverse ways and tempers are working directly against the prayer of Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 27)
All the friends of the powers of darkness, notwithstanding their jarrings and their bitter recriminations, which are continual, are linked together as with bands of steel in the great object of disloyalty to Jehovah.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 28)
The only remedy for our institutions, our churches, our families, and for individuals, is entire conformity to the will and character of God. Unless God shall work through the two olive trees, His witnesses, causing them to empty from themselves the golden oil through the golden tubes into the golden bowls, His churches, and hence to the burning lamps, representing His churches, no one is safe for one moment from the machinations of Satan. He will, if possible, deprave human nature and assimilate it to his own corrupt principles. But this golden oil will revive the Spirit of God in the hearts of man. A Christlike principle will be introduced like leaven. Through the inspiration of the Spirit of God, satanic agencies will be overcome.
(11LtMs, Ms 57, 1896, 29)
Ms 58, 1896
“The Least Of These My Brethren” NP 1896 Formerly Undated Ms 17. Portions of this manuscript are published in 17MR 25.
When Jesus described to His disciples the scenes of His second coming and the great final separation between those who serve God and those who serve Him not, He represented the decision of that day as turning upon one point. When the nations are gathered before the judgment seat of Christ, there will be but two classes, and their eternal destiny will be determined on the ground of what they have done or have not done for Christ in the person of the poor and the suffering.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 1)
To those upon the right hand will be said, “Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.” [Matthew 25:34-36.]
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 2)
But those whom Christ commends are unconscious of the good deeds they have performed. They know not that they have been ministering to Christ; and to their perplexed inquiries, Jesus answers, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” [Verse 40.]
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 3)
A little before, Jesus had told His disciples of the scenes that were before them, how they were to be hated of all men, to be persecuted and afflicted; He had told them that those who forsook friends or home for His sake should receive, even in this life, a hundredfold. Now He declares that a special blessing shall rest upon all who minister to their brethren for Christ’s sake. Many would be driven from their homes and brought to poverty. Many would be in distress through disease and privation. Many would be cast into prison. In all these, said Jesus, you are to recognize Me. As you would minister to Me, so you are to minister to them. This is the evidence that you are My disciples.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 4)
When the Hebrew people were suffering in Egypt under the hand of their task-masters, God looked upon them, and He called Israel His son. He bade Moses go to Pharaoh with the message, “Israel is my son; even my firstborn: and I say unto thee, Let my son go, that he may serve me.”Exodus 4:22, 23. The Lord did not wait until His people went forth and stood in triumph on the shores of the Red Sea before He called Israel His son; but while they were degraded, downtrodden, enduring all that the power and invention of the Egyptians could impose to make their lives bitter and to destroy them, He undertook their cause, and declared, “Israel is my son, even my firstborn.”
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 5)
Pharaoh scornfully demanded, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go?” And he said, “I know not the Lord, neither will I let Israel go.”Exodus 5:2. The Israelites were his slaves, despised by the very lowest of his people. The God of such a race the proud monarch feared not, nor would he obey. But the word of the Lord will not return unto Him void; it will accomplish the thing whereunto it is sent. God’s message to the king of Egypt was, “Let my son go, that he may serve me; and if thou refuse to let him go, behold, I will slay thy son, even thy firstborn.”Exodus 4:23.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 6)
The angel of the Lord went through the land of the Pharaohs with thunder and flame, and with “the pestilence that walketh in darkness” (Psalm 91:6) until the pride of every household was laid low. “And he brought forth his people with joy, and his chosen with gladness: and gave them the lands of the heathen: and they inherited the labor of the people; that they might observe his statutes, and keep his laws.”Psalm 105:43-45. God cares no less for His children today than He cared for Israel.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 7)
When the mother and brothers of Christ came desiring to see Him, the Saviour looked upon His disciples and said, “Behold my mother and my brethren! For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.”Matthew 12:49, 50. All who have been born into the heavenly family are in a special sense the brethren of our Lord. And Jesus said, “Whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, ... he shall in no wise lose his reward.”Matthew 10:42.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 8)
The love of Christ binds together all the members of His family, and wherever that love is made manifest, there the divine relationship is revealed; for “every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.”1 John 4:7.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 9)
Those to whom the Saviour’s words of commendation are spoken in the judgment may have known little of theology, but they have cherished the principles of Christ. Through the influence of the divine Spirit they have been a blessing to those about them. Even among the heathen are those who cherish the spirit of kindness, who have given all the help in their power to the missionaries that have been sent to them. There are those who worship God ignorantly, and to whom the message of light is never brought by human instrumentality, yet they will not perish; the works of God which they have wrought are evidence that the Holy Spirit has touched their hearts, and they are recognized as the children of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 10)
How surprised and gladdened will be the lowly among the nations and among the heathen to hear from the lips of the Saviour, “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” [Matthew 25:40.] How glad will be the heart of Infinite Love as His followers look up with surprise and joy at His words of approval.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 11)
But the words of Christ identify His interest, not only with His people in the world, but, in a wider sense, with every child of Adam. When Jesus would uplift men to become members of the heavenly family, He humbled Himself to become a member of the earthly family, and by partaking of our nature He became the Son of man, the Son of Adam, and a brother to every son and daughter of our fallen race. “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son,” (John 3:16) and thus the Saviour has identified Himself with suffering humanity. “While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us;” and He bids us, “Love one another, as I have loved you.” [Romans 5:8;] John 15:12. Christ’s love embraces the fallen, the erring, and the sinful; and every deed of kindness done to uplift a fallen soul, every act of mercy, is accepted as done to our Saviour.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 12)
The angels of heaven are sent forth to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation. We know not now who they are; it is not yet made manifest who shall overcome and share the inheritance of the saints in light; but angels of heaven are passing throughout the length and breadth of the earth, seeking to comfort the sorrowing, to protect the imperiled, to win the hearts of men to Christ. Not one is neglected or passed by. God is no respecter of persons, and He has an equal care for all the souls He has created.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 13)
As in Christ’s name you open your doors to His needy and suffering ones, you welcome with them unseen angels, who minister to these children of want and sorrow. You are inviting the companionship of heavenly beings. They bring a sacred atmosphere of joy and peace. They come with praises upon their lips, and an answering strain is heard in heaven. Every deed of mercy makes music there. The Father from His throne numbers the unselfish workers among His most precious treasures.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 14)
Those on the left hand of Christ, whom He condemned as having neglected Him in the person of the poor and suffering, were unconscious that they had dealt unjustly. Satan had so blinded them that they had not perceived what they owed to their brethren. They had been self-absorbed, and cared not for others’ needs.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 15)
Upon the rich, God bestows their wealth that they may relieve and comfort His suffering children; but the rich are in danger of becoming indifferent to the wants of others. Too often they come to feel themselves superior to their poor brethren. They do not put themselves in the poor man’s place. They do not understand the temptations and struggles of the poor, and mercy dies out of their hearts. The rich shut themselves away from the poor in costly dwellings; their churches are too splendid for the entrance of the poor; and the means that God has given to bless the needy is spent in pampering pride and selfishness.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 16)
The poor are robbed daily of the education they should have concerning the tender mercies of God, for He has made ample provision that they should be comforted with the necessities of life. They are compelled to feel the poverty that narrows life, and are often tempted to become envious, jealous, and full of evil surmisings. Those who have not themselves endured the pressure of want too often treat the poor in a contemptuous way, and make them feel that they are looked upon as paupers.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 17)
But Christ beholds it all, and He says, It was I who was hungry and thirsty. It was I who was a stranger. It was I who was sick. It was I who was in prison. When you were feasting at your bountifully spread table, I was famishing in the hovel or the empty street. When you shut the door of your luxurious home against Me, I had not where to lay My head. While your wardrobe was filled with rich apparel, I was destitute. While you were at liberty to pursue your pleasures, I languished in prison, and you came not unto Me. When you doled out [to] the famished child the pittance of broken food that could not satisfy her hunger, when you gave the flimsy garments that could not shield her from the biting frost, did you remember that you were giving to the Lord of glory?
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 18)
All the days of your life I was near you in the person of the afflicted and the poor, but you did not see Me, you would not enter into fellowship with Me, and now I know you not.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 19)
When in answer to the inquiry, “What shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” Jesus bade the rich young man, “Sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, ... and come and follow me,” (Mark 10:17-22; Matthew 19:16-21), He was but presenting that which, in the conversation with His disciples, He declared to be the great test at the final judgment. For the spirit of love and self-sacrifice is the touchstone of the character. “He that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?”1 John 4:20.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 20)
Compassion for the afflicted and suffering the Lord accounts as among the first fruits of repentance—the first outflowing of love from a renewed heart. He says, “Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil; learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.”Isaiah 1:16, 17. And of one who had been faithful before God it is said, “He judged the cause of the poor and needy; then it was well with him: was not this to know me? saith the Lord.”Jeremiah 22:16.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 21)
Christ’s words in regard to our duty to the poor show the spirit in which all work for God is to be done, and open a field where all may find something to do. “The poor always ye have with you” (John 12:8), said Jesus, and none need complain that there is no place where they can labor for Christ. As long as there are hungry ones in God’s world to be fed, naked ones to be clothed, perishing souls that need the bread of life, there is work for us to do. Every comfort we have, every gracious gift of God to us, every piece of money needlessly expended, pleads for the poor and the naked.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 22)
Many feel that it would be a great privilege to visit the scenes of the Saviour’s life on earth, to walk where He trod, to look upon the lake beside which He loved to teach, and the hills and valleys on which His eyes so often rested. But we need not go to Nazareth, to Bethany, or to Jerusalem, in order to walk in the steps of Jesus. We shall find His footprints by the sickbed, in the hovels of poverty, in the crowded alleys of the great city, and in every place where there are human hearts in need of consolation. In doing as Jesus did when He was on earth, we shall walk in His steps.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 23)
Those who realize, even in a limited degree, what redemption means to them and to their fellow men will comprehend in some measure the vast needs of humanity. Their hearts will be moved to compassion as they behold the widespread destitution in our world—multitudes suffering for the want of food and clothing, and far greater multitudes under the shadow of a terrible doom, in comparison with which physical suffering fades into nothingness.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 24)
Millions upon millions of human souls ready to perish, bound in chains of ignorance and sin, have never so much as heard of the Saviour’s love for them. Were your condition and theirs to be reversed, what would you desire them to do for you? All this, so far as lies in your power, you are bound by the most solemn obligation to do for them. Christ’s rule of life, by which every one of us must stand or fall in the judgment, is, “Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them.”Matthew 7:12.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 25)
In revealing the love of Christ, object lessons are of far more value than mere precept. Deeds of mercy will touch the heart and make an ineffaceable impression upon the mind. The most persuasive eloquence is the word that is spoken in love and sympathy.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 26)
The love of God, manifest in His followers, will melt away the barriers of race and caste, and will remove the obstacles with which men have barred souls away from the truth as it is in Jesus. The message of God’s grace is to be spoken to those that are afar off and to them that are nigh. Right in our own families may be souls that need help—souls that are starving for sympathy, starving for the bread of life. These should not be passed by. But God calls upon us also to turn our eyes to “the regions beyond.” [2 Corinthians 10:16.] In Christian lands time and energy and means are devoted to those who already have a knowledge of Christ and His Word, instead of being used to enlighten the ignorant and uplift the fallen. Churches are tended like sick lambs by those who should be seeking for the lost sheep. If Christians would minister to other souls who need their help, thousands who are now wandering in the desert of sin would be rejoicing in the fold of Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 27)
Why not go to work at once? There is danger in delay. The souls whom you might find, whom you might bring to Jesus, speedily pass beyond your reach. Satan has prepared some net for their feet, and tomorrow they may be working out the plans of the archenemy of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 28)
In that day when the Chief Shepherd shall demand, “Where is the flock that was given thee, thy beautiful flock?”“What wilt thou say when he shall punish thee?”Jeremiah 13:20, 21. “If thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn unto death, and those that are ready to be slain; if thou sayest, Behold, we knew it not; doth not he that pondereth the heart consider it? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth not he know it? and shall not he render to every man according to his works?”Proverbs 24:11, 12.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 29)
Christ has given His precious life in order to establish a church capable of caring for sorrowful, tempted souls. A company of believers may be poor, uneducated, and unknown; yet if they are humble in heart, and labor with faith and prayer, they may do a work in the home, the neighborhood, the church, and even in “the regions beyond,” whose results shall be as far-reaching as eternity. [2 Corinthians 10:16.]
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 30)
It is because this work is neglected that so many young disciples never advance beyond the mere alphabet of Christian experience. The light which was glowing in their own hearts, when Jesus spoke to them, “Thy sins be forgiven thee” [Matthew 9:2], they might have kept alive by helping those who needed help. The restless energy that is so often a source of danger to the young might be directed into channels through which it would flow out in streams of blessing. Self would be forgotten in earnest work to do others good.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 31)
Those who minister to others will themselves be ministered unto by the Chief Shepherd. They themselves will drink of the living water, and they will not be longing for exciting amusements, or for some change in their lives. The great topic of interest will be how to save the souls that are ready to perish. Social intercourse will be profitable. The love of the Redeemer will draw hearts together in unity.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 32)
When we realize that we are workers together with God, His promises will not be spoken with indifference, but will burn in our hearts, and kindle upon our lips. To Moses, who through the long years of wilderness wandering was called to minister to an ignorant, undisciplined, and rebellious people, God gave the promise, “My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.” And he said, “Certainly I will be with thee.”Exodus 33:14; 3:12. The same assurance is given to all who labor in Christ’s stead for His afflicted and suffering ones.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 33)
Love to man is but the earthward manifestation of the love of God. It was to implant in the human heart that principle of love which would make us children of one family that the King of glory became one with us. And when among the followers of Christ His parting words are fulfilled, “Love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:12), when we love the world as He has loved it, then for us His mission is accomplished. Heaven is begun on earth. God with us has become God in us.
(11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, 34)
Ms 60, 1896
God’s Claims On His Stewards Sydney, New South Wales, Australia October 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in SpTA #9 67-74.
Friday, October 2, W. C. White and Sara McEnterfer, my secretary, accompanied me to Sydney. We were met at Ashfield by Brother Semmens, and during our stay in Sydney were entertained at his house. Sabbath, W. C. White met with the church at Parramatta. Brother Schowe conducted the morning meeting at Ashfield, and Brother Semmens conducted the service at Newtown. Sabbath afternoon I met with the church at Ashfield. The Lord gave me a message for the people assembled. I presented before them the third chapter of Malachi. I cannot see how the Lord could present His requirements in a clearer and more forcible manner than He has done in this chapter.
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 1)
All should remember that God’s claims upon us underline every other claim. He gives to us bountifully, and the contract which He has made with man is that he is to return to Him the tenth of his possessions. God graciously entrusts His stewards with His treasures, but He lays His hand upon the tenth, saying, “This is mine.” Just in proportion as God has given His property to man, so man is to pay a faithful tithe of all His substance. This distinct arrangement was made by Jesus Christ Himself.
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 2)
This work involves solemn and eternal results, and it is too sacred to be left to human impulse. We should not feel free to deal with this matter as we may choose. In answer to the claims of God, regular reserves should be set apart as sacred to His work.
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 3)
Besides the tithe, the Lord demands the firstfruits of our increase as His. These He has reserved, in order that His work in the earth may be amply sustained, and that His servants may not be limited to a meager supply. The Lord’s messengers should not be handicapped in their work of holding forth the Word of life. As they teach the truth, they should have means which they can invest for the advancement of the work which must be done at the right time in order to have the best and most saving influence. Deeds of mercy must be done, the poor and suffering must be aided. Gifts and offerings should be appropriated for this purpose. Especially in new fields, where the standard of truth has never yet been uplifted, this work must be done. If all, both old and young, would do their duty, there would be no dearth in the treasury. If all would pay a faithful tithe, and devote to the Lord the firstfruits of their mercies, there would be a full supply of funds for His work. But the law of God is not respected or obeyed, and this has brought a pressure of want.
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 4)
Every extravagance should be cut out of our lives, for the time which we have to work is none too long. All around us we see suffering humanity. Families are in want of food; little ones are crying for bread. The houses of the poor lack proper furniture and bedding. Many live in mere hovels, which are almost destitute of all convenience. The cry of the poor reaches to heaven. God sees; God hears. But many glorify themselves. While their fellow men are poor and hungry, suffering for want of food, they expend much on their tables and eat for more than they require. What an account men will by and by have to render for their selfish use of God’s money! Those who disregard the provision God has made for the poor will find that they have not only robbed their fellow men, but that in robbing them, they have robbed God and have embezzled His goods.
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 5)
All things belong to God, and all the good that man enjoys comes because of the mercy of God. He is the great and bountiful Giver of all. His love is manifest to all in the abundant provision which He has made for man. He has given us probationary time in which to form characters that will fit us for the courts above. And it is not because He needs anything that He asks us to reserve part of our possessions for Him.
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 6)
The Lord created every tree in Eden pleasant to the eyes and good for food, and He bade Adam and Eve freely enjoy his bounties. But He made one exception. Of the tree of knowledge of good and evil they were not to eat. This tree God reserved as a constant reminder of His ownership of all. Thus He gave them an opportunity to demonstrate their faith and trust in Him, and their perfect obedience to His requirements.
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 7)
So it is with God’s claims upon us. He places His treasures in the hands of humanity, but requires that one tenth shall be faithfully laid aside for His work. He teaches us the lesson that He requires this portion to be placed in His treasury. It is to be rendered to Him as His own; it is sacred, and is to be used for sacred purposes, for the support of those who carry the message of salvation to all parts of the world. He reserves this portion that means may ever be flowing into His treasure house, and that the light of truth may be carried to those who are nigh and those who are afar off. By faithfully obeying this requirement, we prove that we realize that all belongs to God.
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 8)
And has not the Lord a right to demand this much of us? Did He not give us His only begotten Son because He loved us and desired to save us from death? And shall not our gratitude offerings flow into the Lord’s treasury, to be drawn therefrom to advance His kingdom in the earth? God is the owner of all our goods, and shall not gratitude to Him prompt us to make freewill offerings and thank offerings, thus acknowledging His ownership of soul, body, spirit, and property? Had God’s plan been followed, means would now be flowing into His treasury; and funds to enable ministers to enter new fields, and workers to unite with ministers to lift up the standard of truth in the dark places of the earth, would be abundant.
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 9)
It is a heaven-appointed plan that men should return to the Lord His own, and this is so plainly stated that men and women have no excuse for misunderstanding or evading the duties and responsibilities God has laid upon them. Those who claim that they cannot see this to be their duty reveal to the heavenly universe, to the church, and to the world, that they do not want to see this plainly stated requirement. They think that if they followed the Lord’s plan, they would detract from their own possessions. In the covetousness of their selfish souls, they desire to have the whole capital, both principal and interest, that they may use it for their own benefit.
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 10)
God lays His hand upon all man’s possessions, saying, “I am the owner of the universe, and these goods are mine. The tithe you have withheld I reserved for the support of my servants in their work of opening the Scriptures to those who are in the regions of darkness, who do not understand my law. In using My reserve fund to gratify your own desires, you have robbed souls of the light which I made provision they should receive. You have had opportunity to show loyalty to Me, but you have not done so. You have robbed Me, for you have stolen my reserved fund. ‘Ye are cursed with a curse.’” [Malachi 3:9.]
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 11)
The Lord is longsuffering and gracious, and He gives those who have done this wickedness another chance. “Return unto me,” He says, “and I will return unto you.” But they say, “Wherein shall we return?” [Verse 7.] Their means have been made to flow in channels of self-service and self-glorification, as if their goods were their own, and not lent treasures. Their perverted consciences have become so hard and unimpressible that they do not realize the great wickedness they have done in so hedging up the way that the cause of truth could not advance.
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 12)
Man, finite man, though using for himself the talents which God has reserved to publish salvation, to sent the glad news of a Saviour’s love to perishing souls, and hedging up the way by his selfishness, inquires, “Wherein have we robbed thee?” God answers, “In tithes and in offerings. Ye are cursed with a cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.” [Verses 8, 9.] The whole world is engaged in robbing God. With the money He has lent them they indulge in dissipation, in amusements, revellings, feasting, and disgraceful indulgences. But God says, “I will come near you to judgment.” [Verse 5.] The whole world will have an account to settle in that great day when every one shall receive sentence according to his deeds.
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 13)
God pledges Himself to bless those who will obey His commandments. “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground, neither shall you vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts. And all nations shall call you blessed; for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the Lord of hosts.” [Verses 10-12.]
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 14)
With these words of light and truth before them, how dare men to neglect so plain a duty? How dare they disobey God when obedience to His requirements means prosperity in temporal and spiritual things, and disobedience means the curse of God? Satan is the destroyer. God cannot bless those who refuse to be faithful stewards. All He can do is to permit Satan to do his destroying work. We see calamities of every shape and in every degree coming upon the earth; and why? The Lord’s restraining power is not exercised. The world has disregarded the Word of God. They live as though there were no God. Like the inhabitants of the Noachic world, they refuse to have any thought of God. Wickedness prevails to an alarming extent, and the earth is ripe for the harvest.
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 15)
“Your words have been stout against me, saith the Lord. Yet ye say, What have we spoken so much against thee? Ye have said, It is vain to serve God, and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance, and that we have walked mournfully before the Lord of hosts? And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, they that tempt God are delivered.” [Verses 13-15.] Those who withhold from God His own make these complaints. The Lord asks them to prove Him by bringing their tithe into His storehouse, and to see whether He will not pour them out a blessing. But they cherish rebellion in their hearts, and complain of God, and at the same time they rob Him, and embezzle His goods. When their sin is presented to them, they say, “I have had adversity; my crops have been poor; but the wicked are prospered. It does not pay to keep the ordinance of the Lord.”
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 16)
But God does not want any to walk mournfully before Him. Those who thus complain of God have brought their adversity on themselves. They have robbed God, and His cause has been hindered because the money that should have flowed into His treasury was used for selfish purposes. They showed their disloyalty to God by failing to carry out His prescribed plan. When God prospered them, and they were asked to give Him His portion, they shook their heads, and could not see that it was their duty. They closed the eyes of their understanding, that they might not see it. They withheld the Lord’s money, and hindered the work which He designed should be done. God was not honored by the use of His entrusted goods. Therefore He let the curse fall upon them, permitting the spoiler to destroy their fruits and to bring calamities upon them.
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 17)
In (Malachi 3:16) an opposite class is brought to view, a class that meet together, not to find fault with God, but to speak of His glory, and tell of His mercies. These have been faithful in their duty. They have given to the Lord His own. Testimonies are borne by them that make the heavenly angels sing and rejoice. These have no complaints to make against God. Those who walk in the light, who are faithful and true in doing their duty, are not always complaining and finding fault. They speak words of courage, hope, and faith. It is those who serve themselves, who do not give God His own, that complain.
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 18)
“They that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him. Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.” [Verses 16-18.]
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 19)
This meeting made a deep impression upon the people. After the discourse, testimonies were borne. We know that the Lord was in our midst, working to send the truth home to the hearts of the people.
(11LtMs, Ms 60, 1896, 20)
Ms 61, 1896
Diary, January 1896 NP January 1-11, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in 4Bio 260. January 1, 1896 Sunnyside, Avondale, Cooranbong, New South Wales
1895 has passed into eternity with its burden of record. A new year has opened upon us, and there are no changes we can make in the old year. How stands our record?
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 1)
The day has opened beautifully. My heart was drawn out in prayer to God for the pardon for our past transgressions and sins. We rendered to God an offering of thanksgiving and praise for all His blessings given us in the preservation of our lives. Our blessings have been without number and yet how unmindful have we been, how little glory have we reflected back in praise and honor and thanksgiving! Whoso offereth praise glorifieth God. How many, upon the celebration of Christmas, had a sense of the works of their Creator? How many did not have Christ and His self-sacrificing love in their minds! They follow self-indulgence. This is the order of the day. Who will confess Christ by developing a Christlike character? Who will continue to deny Christ before man? Christ says He will deny such before His Father in heaven. Then let us be sure to honor Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 2)
Sarah Belden and I went with the mail to the post office. We learned that Brother Starr was expected, and we rode to the station to get goods that had been ordered. Brother Starr and wife came. We were glad to greet them. They rode up with me to our place-Brother and Sister Rousseau, Brother and Sister Starr, Sarah Belden, and I. As we came from the depot there were men, women, and children all coming from Morisset to Cooranbong. The day was hot and mothers with babies in their arms and two or three other children surrounding them looked so weary. I thought, What is creating so great excitement? It was a horse race. We were hailed by a weary mother solicitous for her boy about six years old, carrying a large satchel of lunch. She wished we might take him in. I looked upon two mothers, each carrying a ten-months-old child, and two other children tired and heated. I said to one mother, Give me your babe; to the next, Get right in with your babe. We had the two families all in the took them to the school building. The place where they were going was close by.
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 3)
Thursday, January 2, 1896 Avondale, Cooranbong, N. S. W.
The atmosphere was very warm. Sarah Belden and I rode down with the mail to the post office. We took Brother Starr to the station. Brother Rousseau rode with us and had business to do at the mill. Brother Richardson called at our place. He stepped off the cars at Dora Creek and walked up and found our place, then took dinner with us in our dining tent. Our horses took him to station at Dora Creek.
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 4)
Sabbath, January 4, 1896
Word came that Brother Rousseau was not well and solicited me to take the meeting, which I did. This was in the dining room full of our people and some not of our faith. Two windows were open, but the weather was warm and the atmosphere oppressive. I spoke about the Saviour at the well of Sychar, the Samaritan woman coming to draw, Christ asking her to give Him to drink. Read this history, write it out in full, speak it in the meetings where you assemble. Let the Spirit of God come into your hearts.
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 5)
We need every day to be taught of God. The Lord saw all the dangers when He called Abraham. Are you elected to become members of the Lord’s family? Ministers, are you sensing your responsibilities? If you are, you will be a representative of Christ in your example, that all your associates will see that you are constantly learning and teaching the most solemn message ever given to mortals. We are to be examples after the Christlike pattern.
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 6)
Never lose sight of your mission or cease to sense your responsibilities as God’s messenger. Come out from the world in speech, in action. Every truly converted soul must maintain a separate holy character. Satan is watching to find some points which he can use to advantage. Will you give Satan his desire to make the students in our schools, by their lax familiarity—young men, middle-aged men, and women—pursue a course of action light and trifling? Will our ministers have the holy charge? Let them maintain their separate holy character as under discipline to Jesus Christ. Unless you watch and pray you will not be guarded. Teachers, ministers, be watchful. We know that there are some who are not careful to consider. God grant you may all put on Christ’s garments of holiness and purity.
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 7)
[Sunday, January 5, 1896]
Sunday was very oppressive. The land breeze seemed hot as heat from a furnace. The hammering and sawing and painting are all going on with the closing up of the work on our cottage. We are figuring closely to save expense. We have planned a kitchen and that gives me the dining room for my working room.
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 8)
Monday, January 6, 1896
Heat continues oppressive. A cool breeze is beginning to be felt. It is a sea breeze. In afternoon it clouded up, threatening rain. There was thunder and quite severe lightning, with heavy rain. Now everything will be revived and glad to drink in the refreshing, blessed rain. The air is cool and reviving.
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 9)
[January 7, 1896]
Tuesday morning. The heat is passing away.
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 10)
Wednesday, January 8, 1896 Avondale, Cooranbong, N. S. W.
Sara McEnterfer, Sister Shannon, and I rode in our platform wagon to the hotel and to the post office. We learned that Elder Starr was not going to Sydney as he expected. He would remain over until January 9. On our way to the post office we received a telegram from Willie White, stating the boat was to leave Sydney for Cooranbong next Friday. All directions must be given at once.
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 11)
May Israel was going to Newcastle to obtain supplies for family and provender for the beasts. We took her to the station, about three miles. We found Brother Lacey at our house when we returned. He took dinner with us.
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 12)
And now we see two men taking down one of the old forest monarchs. We fear it may not fall just as it is supposed to fall. It is a very high tree and should have been uprooted ere this. It stands close by our washhouse, and we fear may blow down upon it someday. I can do but little but watch and wait. It is of great size. But the monarch of the forest must come down. The ax, the iron wedges, the heavy mallet, and the saw are all at work in their fit places.
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 13)
The monarch of the forest has come down with a tremendous crash, splintering the breaking its top. The heart of the tree was rotten. The rest was nearly as hard as iron, perfectly sound. We must get bullock teams and, after the saw and ax have divided it in sections draw it away. It is not good for firewood, neither is it good for building purposes, but only to burn.
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 14)
Just received letter from W. C. White saying to expect fruit tonight.
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 15)
Thursday, January 9, 1896
Sara McEnterfer and I hitched up Jessie beside Colson’s colt and we were pleased to see she was able to travel. She hurt her leg and it was much swollen, but Brother McKee has cared for it and bathed and fomented it, and we were glad of an opportunity to ride after Jessie. We met Brethren McCullagh and Sherwood at the school. We drove to the station to meet May Israel who had gone to trade at Newcastle. We must have provisions and provender for horses. We found fruit, picked up seven cases in our wagon, and in the afternoon went for other boxes, seven more, and a trunk. Brother and Sister Shannon moved Thursday.
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 16)
Friday, January 11, 1896
We have another beautiful morning. Slept little last night. Many things perplex my mind. Received telegram that we are to meet our family at twelve o’clock train. Oh how much I feel my need of the grace of Jesus Christ in my heart continually, as an ever-flowing stream! Then I can refresh and bless others.
(11LtMs, Ms 61, 1896, 17)
Ms 62, 1896
Diary, February 1896 NP February 9-27, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in TMK 133, 147, 266, 349; 3MR 407-408; 11MR 114; 12MR 58; 4Bio 255, 261-263, 387; FBS 63. Sunday, February 9, 1896 [Sunnyside, Cooranbong, N. S. W.]
May Lacey White, Mabel White, Sister M. A. Davis, and I visited Sister Lacey’s. Her husband, May’s father, is in Sydney. We returned with some flower roots to set out; planted a part that night.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 1)
Brother and Sister Hughes, two of their daughters, and Fannie Bolton came to our place. Fannie expected to leave the next day, but caught the heel of her shoe on coming down stairs, sprained her ankle again, and it is decided she cannot go on her journey. Brother Sherman came to see Willie.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 2)
This day was one of great activity, with the unpacking of goods and the preparation of a place for W. C. White to make a temporary home for his family, for the present, by use of a tent and laundry rooms. I have had feelings of exhaustion today, and not a little perplexity of mind over the case of Fannie. She wishes to come back to work for me, but I have felt it impossible. I know not of any special change wrought in her that I dare trust her. And yet my mind is troubled exceedingly. Shall I feel altogether clear that I have divorced her from the work? Shall I be prepared to meet the result of this course of action on my part in that great day when the judgment shall sit and the books be opened?
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 3)
Monday, February 10, 1896
I arose at half past four a.m. At five I was at work spading up ground and preparing to set out my flowers. I worked one hour alone, then Edith Ward and Ella May White united with me, and we planted our flowers. Then we set out twenty-eight tomato plants, when the bell rang for morning prayers and breakfast. I think I have received no harm from my vigorous exercise, but feel better for the work done.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 4)
After breakfast I read manuscript—two short chapters on the life of Christ. Brethren Hughes and Brandstater, and his son, kindly offered to transplant my cauliflower, and received seventy-five plants to set out in his grounds. I consider they have done me a special favor. Grounds are prepared for vegetables to be put in—potatoes, beans, peas, and other things. W. C. White and Mabel drew dressing [mulch or fertilizer] in a little cart from barnyard to garden, but then it became too dark to see how to work.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 5)
Tuesday, February 11, 1896
Tuesday morning I rose at half past three o’clock and again wrote a little in my diary. Worked some in the orchard, tying up the trees. A tuft of grass is put between the stake and the tree so that the tree shall not be marred.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 6)
At five, Willie and I walked down to our garden, which is some distance from the house, and planted peas. We worked until seven a.m. and were prepared for our morning family prayer and for breakfast. I felt too weary to do more out of doors. We planned about many things that must be done on the ground.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 7)
In the afternoon Brother and Sister Prescott came up. We had a long talk. I read important matters to them. Our conversation was profitable. We could see some matters in a clearer light. The problem of studies in our school was canvassed. I had matter, written some time ago, but could not find it till books were unpacked.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 8)
Wednesday, [February 12, 1896]
Rode to Cooranbong with Sister Belden. We purchased some articles for the furnishing of their home and were glad to find these articles were cheaper than we expected. The articles answered the purpose well. Brother and Sister Prescott rode up with us.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 9)
Thursday, February 13, 1896
Awoke in the morning at four o’clock. Commenced writing. Found some special writings dated 1874; very important instruction in them. I am writing out some things upon education to go in next mail.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 10)
Rain has been falling, some every day. Our settling is going forward. There is work being done to complete Willie’s house, which is very humble but will be comfortable. Everything is in activity about the premises. Brother Whiteman, Brother Richardson, and Robert McCann are at work upon the cistern. They have to wait for brick and this hinders them. Brick has to be drawn from the school grounds, where they are making good brick, better than they can obtain in Sydney. Brother McCann and Willie are cutting through a road from our location to school grounds, so that we can draw lumber and brick from the grounds and save two miles travel.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 11)
In the afternoon Professor Prescott and wife again visited me in my room. We had a long talk in regard to the management of school matters. As questions were asked, the Holy Spirit revived many things in my mind and I could tell them the way many matters concerning our educational interest had been presented to me. We are to lay the situation of dearth of means before the whole school and then make known the Lord’s plan as presented to me. In place of devoting time to inventing amusements to use their muscles, they can strengthen nerves and muscles to good advantage in the work that needs to be done on the school grounds. If we shall be compelled to hire the work done, the price of tuition must be increased. Every student may consider it to be his privilege to have a part in saving means they would pay for hiring work done, that [they] themselves can do. Earning their expenses is to be considered a part of their education. Every student is to exercise brain and bone and muscle. Here is the education of the whole man, right on the ground—an education essential for all, for there is work for all to do.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 12)
Friday, February 14, 1896
[I] awake at half past two, and seek the Lord, as is my practice, for wisdom and grace, mingling my prayers with thanksgiving for His tender, loving compassion toward us.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 13)
The words of (Isaiah 40:28-31) seem appropriate, and impressed upon my mind. Study this chapter prayerfully, and chapter 50. My prayer is, Help me, O my heavenly Father, to trust wholly in Thy wisdom and not to lean to my own understanding. Guide Thou my pen and direct my speech that I shall not sin against Thee with voice or pen. I must have grace. I plead, Teach me Thy truth, that I shall not err from Thy way. O my Lord, I am weakness itself, but Thou are strength, fortitude, and courage to Thy people, if they will only diligently make Thee their trust. We have too small faith, altogether too small. My cry is, Lord, help my unbelief.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 14)
Professor Prescott came to see me and read several letters to me in regard to the highest education, education in our schools. One was from Professor Griggs. We had some important matters to consider.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 15)
Friday noon we had a thunderstorm and there was a heavy downpour of rain. We fear bridges will be overflowed if this rain continues. Workmen can do nothing, for it rained heavily all the afternoon. But this forbidding work out of doors brings us together to study how everyone should work interestedly for the benefit of the physical, mental, and moral influence, for the lasting future good of our school.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 16)
Sabbath, February 15, 1896
The Lord is good and merciful. I want my gratitude offering constantly ascending to God. I long to have a deeper sense of His goodness and of His changeless love. I long daily for the waters of life. I know that God wants me to receive strength from Him that I may strengthen others by the light He gives me in representations.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 17)
I must continually have my strength in God. My dependence must not waver. No human agency must come between my soul and my God. The Lord is our only hope. In Him I trust, and He will never, no never, fail me. He hath hitherto helped me when under great discouragement because of pressures of outward circumstances.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 18)
I have often been reminded that we must individually cultivate thanksgiving and praise to God. There is altogether too little praise offered to God. But it shall not be so. I will thank the Lord and praise His holy name. I will praise the Lord that in Him I can trust at all times. He is the health of my countenance and my strong tower into which I can run and be safe. He understands my necessities and He will give me the light of His countenance, that I may reflect light upon others. I will not fail nor be discouraged. I look to Thee, my heavenly Father, to give strength and grace, and to lift up upon me the health of Thy countenance. I will praise the Lord at all times and not wait for a happy flight of feeling. Then praise the Lord, for He is good, and His mercies will attend me morning, noon, and night. A happy flight of feeling is not evidence; His Word is my assurance.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 19)
Sunday, February 16, 1896
I arise at half past three o’clock and make every effort to prepare my mail to leave Monday morning for America. I was charged not to allow my mind to be confused, but to study carefully [Isaiah?] (chapter 51), and let my mind be impressed with the instruction that is in this chapter—the first eleven verses.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 20)
The Lord God understands, and He will work if His people will conform their minds to the direction of the Word of the Lord God which I have given them that they may move carefully. Let them go forward and cultivate the powers of mind and soul and body. The instruction the Lord has given is to improve by exercise. God says to every one, “Go forward and cultivate every capacity of the mind and increase every gift of ability. The world is teeming with new human inventions.” We are ever to bear in mind that God would have every soul receive His words of instruction and continually increase in efficiency.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 21)
Monday, February 17, 1896
I arose early to close up the mail. I wrote a letter to Brother Tait and sent several letters written with my own hand to Edson White. I was led out to write to Brother Tait, and the Lord let His Holy Spirit rest upon me. My pen traced the words very rapidly and we succeeded in getting it copied, and then I had a breathing spell. I could let down a little from the pressure.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 22)
The Lord grant that I may this day be wholly His, this day speak and write and do the work essential as a Christian. We cannot serve Him with the whole heart unless our will and our way are surrendered to God and His Word and His way are chosen as the best, and the only safe course to pursue.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 23)
The breaking-up team came today to plow our land. There are seven yoke of heavy oxen with an immense plow to cut through the roots of the eucalyptus. It was interesting to see how obedient are the dumb animals to the word of their master. I noticed the strongest looking ox, one of the leaders, had on a leather blinder such as is worn by horses. I asked the meaning. The master of these animals said that he had often to look after the oxen near the plow and watch for strong roots, and that this ox, if he knew his master was not watching him, would shirk his duty. He put blinders on so the ox could not see that his master was not close beside him, but at a distance. He would suppose his master was nigh and would do his work, that he was fully able to do.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 24)
I thought, This is a lesson to all who claim to be Christians. How many are eye servants! If they have a sense that the eye of God is upon them, they will conduct themselves as if in view of the whole universe of heaven. If the eye is taken off from Jesus, how soon the work testifies to the same. May the Lord help us to be watchful, prayerful, and faithful under all circumstances.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 25)
Tuesday, February 18, 1896
I thank the Lord I was able to sleep until quarter before four o’clock. I am thankful for every hour’s sleep I obtain, for the reason that I can gain refreshment to do better work. I wrote some things after seeking the Lord in prayer. After breakfast there were things that required attention. The creek has risen and covered some of my tomatoes that were sown on the banks of the creek as an experiment. Brother Connell has dug a ditch to conduct the water from the land to the open creek, and the water has been pouring through the channel for some time. The ox team is taking away great logs from near the house. It takes two men to hold the plow, breaking up, and another to follow and with a pickaxe cut away the roots of the trees that obstruct its passage.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 26)
Sara McEnterfer and I prepared curtains to cover the shelves in my room, which reach from floor to ceiling and answer as book shelves, and a place to store papers and other goods.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 27)
In the afternoon Brother and Sister Prescott came. We had a good visit with Sister Prescott. Brother Prescott was with Marian in the interest of the book, Life of Christ. He is reading it, for it is the last reading before publication.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 28)
Willie is free, now that the mail has gone, to get himself comfortably arranged in his close quarters. They seem to be comfortably situated.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 29)
The cistern is now bricked up and it is now to be cemented. This will be a great treasure to obtain water to be kept for drinking purposes, and is so large it will not fail us if we have drought. We have five large iron tanks beside. Wells are uncertain and are obtained at great expense. The drought last year lasted from February until the next December. We had only a slight occasional shower.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 30)
Boxes of peaches came from Sydney. We need them. We are often having a shortage of fruit.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 31)
Wednesday, February 19, 1896 Sunnyside, Avondale, N. S. W.
I awoke at two o’clock; could not sleep longer. Arose and commenced writing at half past two o’clock. I am so thankful I can use my eyes; often, however, I am compelled to bind up the left eye.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 32)
We rode out in our platform wagon with Brother and Sister Prescott. While riding I read important matter written to Battle Creek, addressed to Elder Olsen, in reference to some things that they were managing all wrong. Both W. C. White and Brother Prescott were so much surprised at the revelations made. I was more than surprised that Brother Prescott had not an understanding of these things that have been going on in Battle Creek. What does it mean? We must all be wide awake, else the enemy will take advantage of circumstances. Words were spoken: “Watch and pray lest ye enter into temptation.” [Mark 14:38.]
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 33)
Things are being swayed in wrong lines. There are long journeys that should be avoided. The time and money thus spent will be needed to do continually in our large cities the work that means so much to those who have never heard the reasons of our faith. As I have labored since 1843 and 1844, I have felt so thankful that the Lord has permitted time to last to do more fully the missionary work that was needing to be done to warn our cities.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 34)
Oh, our wise heavenly Father made the infinite sacrifice of His only begotten Son! He gave Him to our world, that the world might, through the merciful provisions made, accept the Word—Bible truth—and prepare for the great event of His coming. That which caused the believing church so much sorrow in their disappointment in the time of His coming has been a reason of thanksgiving for the delay. Now the angels of God are preparing the way for the truth to reach all nations.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 35)
There are thousands in the cities, in the byways and the highways, to hear the warning message. Are we awake? Do we understand there is a world to have the warning? The cities are all to be worked diligently. We must arouse and do a great work. There are many more to hear the last warning message to a perishing world. We have no time to delay, for Satan is doing his best to destroy souls.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 36)
I now praise God for His long and merciful forbearance. The message has been carried to many countries. It is a world-wide message. There is most diligent work to do to warn our cities. We have had opportunity to send the light to many thousands who have rejoiced in the truth and sacrificed their time and their means to build up the sanitariums and churches in all parts of America. Schools have been established and new fields are opening, many in new countries. The work at times has moved slowly because of dearth of means, and in various places the work has not been done that the Lord Jesus has signified should be done, to bring the light before all people. It is for the need of the Holy Spirit that many more places are not hearing the last message of warning. It is the unconsecrated elements that need to be aroused to consecrate themselves and become qualified to do most earnest work. Angels are waiting to fit up converted men and women to do this work if they will consecrate their whole heart, mind, and soul to the work. We have no time to lose.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 37)
I am instructed it is the human agencies in our world that need to be corrected and converted and to walk and work humbly with God—to be laborers together with God. There are those who work in their own self-importance and spoil the blessed representations the angels [would] make through them if they were humble and prayed more and talked less. The Lord Jesus is dishonored. The truth, Bible truth, if lived, if obeyed, will sanctify the soul and all such will bear fruit.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 38)
Thursday, February 20, 1896 Sunnyside, Avondale, N. S. W.
I arose early, a great while before day, and sought the Lord in prayer. I want to understand my duty in regard to how far I ought to try to please others at great expense to myself and my horses. There is a proposition to be one of a party to take Brother [Romero] and his mother in my carriage drawn by my horses about ten miles up a mountain road. I am informed the road is very bad. Working the roads in this country is not conducted as in America. They always calculate to make a safe passage for travelers, but they do not do this careful work here. They move recklessly in their work, and if travelers pass over the road, they are supposed to get over at their own risk.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 39)
Brother Romero has a position in the Echo office. He is reliable and is a hardworking man. He has worked too constantly days and nights, and he is sick. Word came by letter that Brother Romero was suffering with neuralgia. His mother proposed to pay his expenses from her own not-too-well-filled purse, and she would accompany him to Sydney. They would visit Cooranbong and asked for our carriage to meet them at the station at Morisset, which we did. The proposition was made by someone that we compose a party—Brother and Sister Prescott and his niece and little lad Louis, and Sisters Rousseau and Mills and I—to accompany them in our carriage and take the party in from Melbourne.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 40)
Friday, February 21, 1896
Let Friday morning come into consideration as the last of the six days of labor and have Friday a day of binding off, not accumulating work. This day is preparation day. We would come up to the Sabbath with our work closed up in proper shape and not dragging into the Sabbath. We must commence in the morning to look after every piece of clothing if we have neglected to do this through the week, that our garments may be neat and orderly and comely to appear in the place where God’s people assemble to worship Him. There must be no garments left to be pinned together, to supply the stitches which should have been taken the day before. Entering upon new business should be avoided, if possible, but endeavor to close up the things already started that are half accomplished. Prepare everything connected with the household matters so that there shall be freedom from worries, and the mind be prepared to rest and to meditate upon heavenly things.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 41)
There needs to be much more close investigation of the week past. Review it and see if, as a branch of the living Vine, you have drawn nourishment from the parent Vine to bear much fruit to the glory of God. If there has been feverish excitement, if hasty words have been spoken, if passion has been revealed, these have surely been the working on Satan’s side of the question. Clear the heart by confession. Sincerely make everything right before the Sabbath. Examine your own selves, whether ye be in the faith. We need to guard our own souls constantly, lest we make a great profession but, like the flourishing fig tree spreading its branches in pretentious foliage, reveal no precious fruit. Christ is hungering to see and receive fruit. Leaves of profession without fruit are to Christ just as worthless as those of the fig tree which He cursed.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 42)
The Lord is waiting to behold in His followers that which they have learned of Him. “Learn of me,” said Jesus, “for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”Matthew 11:29, 30.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 43)
The humble dependence upon God, the faith that takes Him at His word and trusts Him at all times and under all circumstances, is the wearing of the yoke of Christ. The Christian brings all his passions under control to God. Then if the thoughts are brought into captivity to Jesus Christ, there is a healthful growth in beauty and grace of character.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 44)
Sabbath, February 22, 1896
Said Christ, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.”“I am the vine, ye are the branches.”“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, 5, 2. That unpruned branch may have looked good to human eyes, but the eye of One who never slumbers nor sleeps leaves it not alone to die of discouragement. The Husbandman pruneth it, that it may produce fruit unto life eternal, revealing a faith that works by love to God and purifies the soul.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 45)
Whenever professed Christians are constantly flaunting their leaves of profession before the eyes of others, there is no real fruit to the glory of God. Their religious life and experience seem satisfactory to themselves. They have exaggerated emotions, effusive expressions of fervor, and highest exaltations. Their religion consists largely in feeling and excitement. There is very little in their own souls that corresponds to their profession of faith. Self is their ideal of perfection. They value more the outward impression they make upon others than the inner which is hidden with Christ in God.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 46)
Let everyone who would reveal Christ by being a doer of His word become rooted in Christ Jesus, rooted and grounded in the truth. Put away all self-assertion. Let living and acting the lessons of Christ Jesus speak of your perfect obedience to Jesus Christ. Let the fruitbearing be seen.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 47)
The formation of the character must go on day by day, hour by hour. The inward working of the Holy Spirit is revealed outwardly in the appearance of fruit, ripening and perfecting to the glory of God. The inward life speaks in the outward action, in the producing of rich fruit. This is showing forth the praises of Him who hath called them out of darkness into His marvelous light. If the Lord Jesus is formed within, the hope of glory, the life will be rich in good works, corresponding with the truth which they profess to believe.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 48)
Sunday, February 23, 1896
I could not sleep after two o’clock. I sought the Lord in prayer, and then tried to write. The rain fell softly all day. The creek is rising. We fear the water may overflow our garden. We have tomatoes we are just now enjoying from the vines. We hope not to lose them. The atmosphere is very depressing. We feel little strength, because there seems to be no vitality in the atmosphere to revive us.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 49)
Not much work could be done Sunday. Willie invited to his tent home Brethren Roberts and Bulah. They are from Newcastle. Brother Roberts has within a few months accepted the truth. Brother Bulah has been engaged in canvassing in Newcastle, twenty miles from here. These brethren slept in W. C. White’s office, my front room, sat at our table for breakfast, and were with us in morning worship.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 50)
There seems to be no place to entertain visitors. We will have to shoulder this burden largely, as we have done fully in Granville, New South Wales. We are the Lord’s missionaries and we must not complain, even if our important work of writing must be interrupted. But the people need the matter I am preparing.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 51)
Many that are sick come to Cooranbong to change their surroundings. We are trying to gather means for a small sanitarium in Avondale. We shall have it, for we need it. We have to distribute our visitors the best way possible. The Lord will see our necessities, our dearth of means. Those of all nationalities come for help, and if we have a sanitarium in running order, the sick can be treated, and there will be healthful results without the use of drugs. They leave in health. They tell others what a blessing they have received, with no questionable drugs to affect their system. Then others will be helped. A spirit of inquiry is aroused, and the Lord makes these institutions the means for the conversion of souls.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 52)
Monday, February 24, 1896
We are thankful this morning that there is prospect of a cessation of rain. A large amount of rain has fallen. Much damage must be the result.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 53)
We turn water into the cistern from the tanks today. Brother Whiteman expects his wife, accompanied by Sister Radley, from Castle Hill. We sent our horse and carriage to the station to bring them up. They design to spend two weeks here on a visit.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 54)
Tops of trees are being cut off, for there is danger of winds so swaying the tops of these high trees as to break them down and do damage to the house. This day I can gather strength to do scarcely anything.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 55)
Sister Lucas came from Sydney to remain with us several weeks and help us in our sewing. We are missionaries, and the Lord understands our every necessity. There is need of a physician right here in Avondale, but how can we support one is the question. Families in every direction are looking to us for help. Sara is sent for in the night. She rides horseback five or six miles to give treatment to the souls and bodies of the suffering ones. Yet they realize not benefit. The Lord will help us if we will rely upon His Word. Will we bring our sick to the Lord in faith? Our health institutes must be increased. We must walk out on faith and follow the Lord’s plans in the simple means He has provided under the physicians who have knowledge, who know how to treat the sick.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 56)
Tuesday, February 25, 1896
I am very thankful to the Lord; I have slept until past five o’clock. This is an unusual circumstance. In the night the atmosphere seemed so close I could scarcely obtain vitality to breathe. I sought the Lord for His watchcare and His grace that I may be kept in quietude and peace through this day.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 57)
Our family numbers twelve. We wish to have the grace of Christ in our hearts expressed in words and in our actions. I was led out in prayer to pray most earnestly for the Holy Spirit’s guidance through the day.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 58)
It is misting again. The weather is disagreeable. We must bring more sunshine into our own hearts and reveal the patience of Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 59)
The stove has been moved in the kitchen for the chimney to be built for the stovepipe. We have had the smoke filling our kitchen when the wind was in a certain direction. The chimney has come nearly to the iron roof. Now the rain comes again and the work cannot proceed. Thus the kitchen is all disarranged in order to build the chimney, which cannot be completed, and we must permit our niece Sarah Belden to labor under difficulties.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 60)
Wednesday, February 26, 1896
I awoke at twelve o’clock p.m. and could not sleep. I decided to dress and see if I could write. I commenced to write at a quarter before one o’clock and continued until seven a.m. I have written ten pages of letter paper before breakfast. It continues to rain, and much rain has fallen during the night. I have some matters upon my mind in regard to the soon coming of our Lord in the clouds of heaven, and I am tracing upon paper that which I am impressed to write.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 61)
Tuesday, February 27, 1896
I was unable to sleep past two a.m. My heart is oft times oppressed. I long for the wisdom which God alone can give me. I feel deeply the responsibilities resting upon me. Oh for physical and mental strength to do my whole duty and yet not be presumptuous! “Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit.”John 15:8.
(11LtMs, Ms 62, 1896, 62)
Ms 63, 1896
Diary, March 1896 New South Wales, Australia March 7-29, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in FBS 64-65. Sabbath, March 7, 1896 [Sunnyside, Cooranbong, N. S. W.]
Sabbath Sara, Brother Connell, and I rode through the woods to the school ground. Quite a congregation of men, women, and children were seated on plain hard boards without backs, and only the cover of the sawmill over their heads. A fly of a tent had been put up to shield me from wind or sun.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 1)
I had freedom in speaking. Oh, how my heart felt the burden for the souls that were perishing out of Christ! There were parents, there were children who needed to be converted. They were out of Christ, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy. There were girls who were intoxicated with reading novels. Their minds were spoiled and ruined for useful labor. But never were there youth that I have seen whose lives were entirely perverted and ruined for anything good. Oh how I longed to see these souls affected and their hearts melted and broken! I feel deeply burdened that God shall take these souls and work with them, poor ruined wrecks of humanity, until they shall be converted.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 2)
Sunday, March 8, 1896
Sunday morning I was not able to sleep after one o’clock. I am much troubled in regard to Willie McKnight. He is in peril. I was awakened with remorse of soul on his account, as if my soul was in the desperate condition his soul is in. I felt wonderfully troubled. His course has been very singular. He has been boarding with a family who have no love for God. They are disreputable and I greatly fear for him, lest he has already become corrupted.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 3)
Monday, March 9, 1896
This day Brother Whiteman and wife and Sister Radley from Castle Hill left for their home.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 4)
March 12, 1896
This past night I have slept well; did not leave my bed until nearly five o’clock. This is a rare thing in my experience.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 5)
Wednesday, March 18, 1896 North Shore, Sydney, N. S. W.
I slept until two o’clock. Yesterday was a very hard and trying day for me.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 6)
We left Cooranbong for the station Wednesday. We had, Sara and I, the compartment to ourselves with the exception of a young woman and two of her children. We did not become weary. We changed cars twice to get to New Fern Station, then walked to Brother Israel’s. He was all prepared to leave for Parramatta to attend the funeral of Sister Keel, a colored sister. Before she died a letter was sent us by her dictation, soliciting me to care for one of her children who was a very unruly boy. She felt if I could take the supervision of him she should feel at rest. Oh, I so wish I could, but I could see no way to do this. The sufferings and anxiety of this dear sister are ended and she is at rest.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 7)
We found Sister Israel very, very bad. There were thoughts that they might be obliged to take her to the asylum. She has been raving wild. I could find no peace there and went to North Shore on the tram, then changed for omnibus, then for the boat, then for the tram, then walked and walked, and could not find the place where Brother and Sister Starr lived. It was a very hot day and I felt so weary I had to sit down by the roadside. I felt that I must fall down exhausted, but we found their hired home at last and we were thankful. Went to rest early. Brother Rousseau came a little after dark. The two families, Brother Pallant’s and Brother Starr’s, were broken up and moving. We were very weary. Retired early.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 8)
Matthew 10:40-42. We have our work to do and hitherto hath the Lord helped me. “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me, for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] I have proved this word of Christ and have found that rest. Let all come in full faith to Jesus.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 9)
Thursday, March 19, 1896 North Shore, Sydney, N. S. W.
I could not sleep past two o’clock a.m. I sought the Lord in prayer and then commenced my writing. Some things are urging themselves upon my mind in reference to the case of Brother McCullagh, who is very much reduced in health. What can we do to help him is the question. May the Lord give wisdom is my prayer.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 10)
I have received a letter from Fannie Bolton, very much after the same that she has previously written. While I feel pity and sadness for her, I do not feel that I can again connect with her. Yesterday I wrote some things in reference to the past, in the experience I have had with Caldwell and _____. Then I was writing upon the fifteenth chapter of John. “I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.”
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 11)
As I was writing a heavenly atmosphere pervaded the room. I have had the same experience many times in my life. I lost all sense of everything around me. I saw no symbol, no person, but a communication was made to me as if words were spoken:
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 12)
“Fannie Bolton is not under the ministration of the Holy Spirit. Although she has proved herself unworthy to be connected with the work in which you are engaged, yet take her to your home and treat the poor deceived child as one who needs help. She cannot ever be connected with the work that is to go forth in all the meekness and lowliness of Christ. She needs your help in more ways than one. Testify to her that you pardon her, and let her return to her home as she desires. Be careful whom you connect with you in your work, for you must not carry such burdens, but bear testimony that you will help her to come to Jesus and repent. Open the door for her to come to Me, for it is I whom she has wounded and has misrepresented. But I will forgive her past falsifying if she will see it is I whom she has wounded and falsified in misrepresenting the work I have chosen you to do.”
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 13)
I decided to take Fannie Bolton home with us and take care of her, although she has done me great injury, misstated me, cast reflection upon my work, and left the impression upon minds that she was the one who made my books. She has confessed to me and yet she repeats the same false statements. I shall do all I can to help the poor soul.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 14)
Friday, March 20, [1896] North Shore, N. S. W.
I arose at half past two a.m. All is confusion in the daytime, but these early hours are precious to me. All is quiet now and I can write.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 15)
Left North Shore with Elder Israel. We visited Elder McCullagh, riding nine miles. The family were at Sydney. We decided Fannie should go with us to Cooranbong. She is very feeble and needing care. Rode nine miles to Elder Israel’s. This makes twenty miles I rode on Friday, after leaving the home where Brother Starr had been living. We had a prayer season with Brother McCullagh.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 16)
Evening after the Sabbath, March 21
I awoke early in the morning and commenced to trace some important matters with my pen. We rode seven miles and a half to where the tent was pitched, and I spoke to a good congregation. The Lord gave me much freedom. Two prominent men were present who were deeply interested in the truth. One, I believe, has taken hold of the Sabbath. Our meeting continued late. We had a social meeting. We returned to Brother Israel’s. Fifteen miles we traveled, going and coming from meeting.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 17)
The Lord is still moving upon hearts, and souls are being convicted. We thank the Lord that some are yielding to the drawings of Jesus Christ. Oh, how few among the many will accept the truth! How few will receive Jesus!
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 18)
Sunday, March 22, 1896 At Elder Israel’s
We do thank and praise our heavenly Father. Light, precious light, is penetrating the darkness that has enclosed the mind of Sister Israel. She is being healed. Satan is being defeated. The Lord is good, praise His holy name forever and forever! The Lord is giving relief to this family that have so long been oppressed.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 19)
Sara McEnterfer, Elder Israel, and I rode nine miles to see Elder McCullagh. The blocks of wood that were in the road were very slippery and we were obliged to go considerably out of our way, for the horse was smooth shod. We had but a short visit, conversed a little and prayed with him. He is improving and, we hope, will be able to attend the meetings. Had [a] talk with Fannie Bolton and proposed to take her to my home and see if a change will not do her good.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 20)
We rode seven and half miles to the Ashfield church. I had not attended meeting there since I was at the dedication and gave the dedicatory discourse. The house was well filled. The Lord gave me great freedom in speaking. Souls are constantly embracing the truth. We are so glad, so glad. We will praise the Lord with heart and soul and voice.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 21)
I am so grateful to our dear Saviour for all that He has done in these places of importance so near Sydney. We feel grateful for these houses of worship built where the believers and also those not of our faith can be benefited. We see enough to do on the right hand and on the left hand. Our people, those who have newly come to the faith, need to be visited, encouraged, strengthened; and those who do receive the truth need to be set to work to help those of their friends who know not the truth. We are so grateful, for light God has given us is being taken from under the bushel and set on a candlestick.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 22)
Monday, March 23, [1896]
We left Brother Israel’s. Elder Israel took us in his carriage to visit Sister James. We were so sorry to find an alienation between her and her daughter-in-law. Oh how much we need the grace of God to change our own natural ways and habits and let the Spirit of God rule in our hearts. We prayed with our sister and then returned to Elder Israel’s.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 23)
We met a brother and sister from Queensland, and a brother from South Africa who came to Australia for work and was unsuccessful. He wants to return but has no money. We decided to help him if we could obtain the money, but money is very, very scarce, and we know not what to do to keep all things moving.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 24)
We left for Strathfield, Brother Israel taking us in his carriage to avoid changing cars. We found every compartment occupied. We were obliged to take seats in a compartment occupied by five men and one woman, but in about half an hour all the men left the compartment and the one woman beside ourselves has now left. I rested some, for I was very tired. Reached Morisset about half past eight o’clock. The team came for us, and we rode to our home, seven miles. It was a beautiful moonlight night, but the roads were bad and we were compelled to go through the brush, _____ leading the horses. We arrived home safely, praising the Lord that no accident and befallen us.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 25)
We have oft been placed in difficult circumstances in our travels, but the hand of the Lord has shielded us from harm and wonderfully preserved us. I felt so grateful to God; I praise His holy name for the assurance I have daily of His great goodness to all who will come to Him and let Him be their helper and friend in every time of need. We need so much the keeping power of God, for we are sometimes in peril.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 26)
We must have faith in the Word of God, for we need to present the wonderful truths to those we shall meet in our travels on the cars and also to speak a word in season to chance acquaintances. We need so much to study the Word and have faith in the Word as the voice of God to us.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 27)
“And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: And they lifted up their voices and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them he said unto them, Go show yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, and fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole.”Luke 17:12-19.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 28)
The nine lepers were healed of their leprosy and were not exercised thereby to believe in Christ as the only begotten Son of God. Therefore their healing was not of the soul, as well as of the body. The sins of the soul were still defiling the men. In this we have our lesson. The healing of disease is no evidence that the sins of the soul are healed. The one man healed in body and soul manifested fruit in giving glory to God.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 29)
Faith in Jesus Christ as the Sin Pardoner will take away his sin and restore the sinsick soul. He is cleansed; he is pardoned. We need now in our teaching to educate the darkened minds, that all may come to Christ and be healed of physical and spiritual disease.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 30)
Oh what a work is before us here in Australia! Here is just as verily a work to be done for souls as for those who are of foreign tongues. We will, O God, give Thy name the glory for the good work Thou art doing for the souls in darkness. We need more workers in this field. We need to help those newly come to the faith to obtain light from the Word, that they may help us in our work to help other souls that need the truth, and thus be letting their light shine forth amid the moral darkness. They may open the Scriptures to others, that they may behold the wondrous things of the Word of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 31)
Friday, March 27, [1896] [Cooranbong]
This morning I felt my heart full of praise and thanksgiving to God. A sweet peace pervaded my mind. I said, All my worries I will leave at the footstool of mercy.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 32)
I spoke to the people assembled under the large tent. The Lord gave me a very plain testimony to bear. Then I requested an interview with Caldwell in the presence of our Brethren Prescott, Rousseau, Daniells, Starr, and W. C. White. I laid out before them the unchristian course he had been pursuing. His influence was not good. His course with Fannie Bolton was not at all as it should be and their intention to marry was not carried out.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 33)
Sabbath, March 28
I spoke at eleven o’clock. I also attended the afternoon meeting. We had a good meeting. Many confessions were made and the Spirit of the Lord came in.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 34)
Sunday, [March 29, 1896]
I was unable to sleep past half past twelve.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 35)
I arose and took my pen and tried to put upon paper the matter that burdened my mind.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 36)
I attended the second session of the forenoon meeting at ten o’clock a.m. I read matter which I had written upon education in our schools. I then tarried to hear Elder Starr give a lesson to the class. I was very, very tired. Wrote a letter to Elder Corliss advising him not to move hastily away from his place of labor.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 37)
I have just opened and read a letter from Pastor Anderson of Hobart, Tasmania. This epistle speaks of Sister Hubert being persecuted by her husband and Elder Wilson. It is not surprising that Brother Hubert should have an earnest desire that his wife should believe the truth, the Word of the living God. The truth has always encountered opposition. The messengers of truth have been followed by reproach and falsified; and opposition of the strongest character has been awakened against them.
(11LtMs, Ms 63, 1896, 38)
Ms 64, 1896
Diary, April 1896 NP April 6-10, 1896 Previously unpublished. Monday, April 6, [1896] Sunnyside, Cooranbong, N. S. W.
I arose at half past two o’clock and commenced writing important matters upon truth, present truth, for these last days.
(11LtMs, Ms 64, 1896, 1)
Last night about ten o’clock Mrs. May Lacey White presented her husband with twin boys. Her labor was long protracted but not very severe. These boys are a delight to the father and the mother and grandmother. They are lively little chaps. The eldest is one pound heavier than the last born; seems considerably more than a pound larger. The last born was apparently dead but the nurse understood her business. She put cold water upon him rubbed him in oil and brandy, and he came back to life. He is lively as the larger. He weighs five pounds and a half, the first born six pounds and a half. Mother and children are doing excellently well!
(11LtMs, Ms 64, 1896, 2)
I praise the Lord for His keeping care. Oh how grateful we are that we may trust the Lord continually. In the hope we have in the Lord we rejoice always, for His great mercy expressed to us.
(11LtMs, Ms 64, 1896, 3)
Tuesday, April 7 Sunnyside, Cooranbong
I slept little last night but awoke at three o’clock and wrote eight pages for Sister Israel. I send her two pages per week. She has been in despair for all of eight months. But the Lord was with us when we visited in Sydney March 18. We found she had just had a very severe attack of frenzy. She had climbed out of the window and gone to the neighbor’s in her nightdress, screeching at the top of her voice. Brother Israel was afraid he would be compelled to place her in an asylum for the insane. We had a hard time, as she was determined to talk with me and ask me questions.
(11LtMs, Ms 64, 1896, 4)
But when we visited her the next Friday we could labor with her better. Thank God, the power of the enemy is broken. She seems to be sitting at the feet of Jesus and learning of Him. She says she knows that angels of God came with Sister White to her home. I write to her a letter every week. This keeps up a connection between us, and I can talk to her with the pen upon faith.
(11LtMs, Ms 64, 1896, 5)
This day a lawyer and two teachers of the public school were present, Mr. Matthews, his wife, and two children. Oh that there might more be interested and come out to hear! In the evening meetings there are more; the tent is full. I read to those present most important matter which seemed to interest those not of our faith. The subject was education—how to place their children under the influence of correct teaching, where the physical can be properly educated for the benefit of themselves healthwise. Then their mental and moral powers will be equally benefited, and a wholesome experience will be obtained. This will be an all-round education. The heart, the mind, the soul, and the body are converted to the service of the Lord. We need strength, physical, mental, and religious.
(11LtMs, Ms 64, 1896, 6)
Wednesday, April 8, [1896]
Wednesday arose early, attended meetings in tent and read important matter upon education. The teachers of the public schools were present, and seemed to be much interested. Sarah Belden and I rode out in afternoon to Martinsville to look at some cows with object of purchasing. We selected two cows that will be fresh milkers, one in four weeks, the other in three months. It was very dark before we got home, but our horse is gentle.
(11LtMs, Ms 64, 1896, 7)
Our meeting in forenoon was precious. Brother Prescott spoke upon the subject of education, presenting the matter in its true bearings. We were all deeply interested. The evening meetings I do not attend, for I must have my sleep the first part of the night.
(11LtMs, Ms 64, 1896, 8)
Thursday, [April 9, 1896]
I arose at half past two o’clock, and, after committing myself to God, I commenced writing important communications. As soon as breakfast was past Willie White and I went to visit Brother Lacey’s. The road is very rough but we have a gentle horse, and succeeded in reaching the small home, with forty acres of land, he has purchased. The house contains but four rooms. Two of the family are accommodated at Mrs. King’s, a short distance away. The man whose home they rented would not let him remain, and he was compelled to move right in the midst of this interesting institute. I had a profitable talk with Minnie Hawkins.
(11LtMs, Ms 64, 1896, 9)
Brother Lacey has not yet seen his grandchildren. He is very proud of his boys.
(11LtMs, Ms 64, 1896, 10)
Sister Rousseau called, and we conversed together. I learn Brother McCullagh has come to the meeting. I am glad this is so, for I do want him to get all the good possible. He had been very sick, and it was questionable whether he would recover.
(11LtMs, Ms 64, 1896, 11)
Friday, April [10, 1896]
I thank the Lord I have had more hours of sleep than usual. I did not leave my bed until four o’clock. I could offer to God thanksgiving and praise for the blessing of sleep. I retired at eight o’clock. May Israel leaves to go to her home and let her father come to the meeting for a short time. Elder McCullagh and wife called on us with Sister Shannon. We had a short visit and attended the morning meeting to hear what Brother Prescott has to say upon education. His remarks were excellent.
(11LtMs, Ms 64, 1896, 12)
Ms 65, 1896
Diary, June 1896 Cooranbong, Australia June 6-19, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in 7MR 86; 4Bio 388. Saturday, June 6, 1896 Sunnyside, Cooranbong, N. S. W.
I was quite sick all day Friday. My head pained, back of eyes. It was a sharp pain. I used pulverized charcoal put in a cotton cloth bag the size required, wet with hot or cold water, and kept it on the parts affected. Took sitz bath at night. Slept well. This morning my head is somewhat relieved. I have rheumatic pains in right shoulder, across kidneys, and on left side. Dictate words for Marian to write for me.
(11LtMs, Ms 65, 1896, 1)
Wednesday, June 17, [1896]
Wednesday May Lacey and W. C. White and Ellen G. White rode to the depot at Morisset. The road was bad but the atmosphere clear and reviving. We had a precious opportunity of conversing and reading letters on the way. W. C. White was on his way to meet and have an interview with Brother and Sister Starr, who were returning to Queensland, the field of labor which they left to come to Sydney to labor and to attend the Bible Institute held in Cooranbong.
(11LtMs, Ms 65, 1896, 2)
We had plans to talk over and settle as to what shall be done in the advancing of the work here. We have made some important decisions which we will now work to, trusting in the Lord to give us His blessing, which means success. We have every worker diligently employed in various lines to keep the paper supplied with articles. I seek to wrote upon subjects which will do the churches the most good. Marian’s hope is to find something that she can use in the book, Life of Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 65, 1896, 3)
We have now a large family of thirteen, and it takes considerable food to supply them. We furnish four quarts of milk to W. C. White’s family daily, sometimes more, [and] a quart or three pints of milk to Brother McCann, who is working on the land. His son Robert and the father have the use of my tent and have volunteered to work for me to pay for seven pounds I loaned them two years ago. We find them in want of provisions. They are working out their indebtedness because they are anxious to do this. We supply a family, Brother Lawrence’s, one quart of milk per day, and still another family one quart.
(11LtMs, Ms 65, 1896, 4)
Thursday, June 18, 1896
My eyes trouble me, but I am thankful that at my age—sixty-nine years—I can write. I have been oft unable to sleep after two o’clock. Sometimes I arise and write at twelve o’clock and one o’clock. I am compelled to keep my bed, awake or asleep, these cold, frosty mornings until three or four o’clock. I have suffered much with pain in back of left eye, and with pain in left cheek bone. I am obliged to shade the eye, and I fear I must be compelled to cease using it by lamplight. My heart is full of matter I am longing to write out. The truth burns in my soul like fire. I must trace the words upon paper. How can I forbear?
(11LtMs, Ms 65, 1896, 5)
Sara and I went to Dora Creek to meet Willie at the station. He came from Newcastle. We enjoyed conversing together as we rode up from Dora Creek to our home. The air is getting sharp at four and five o’clock a.m. Had heavy frost this morning. Willie was very much gratified with his interview with Brother Starr, for it will save him a large amount of writing and the postage, which is not a small item in our mail business.
(11LtMs, Ms 65, 1896, 6)
June 19, [1896]
Slept more hours last night than I have done in any one night since coming to Australia—eight hours. Wonderful for me! Retired at half past eight and slept until half past four. I feel thankful to my heavenly Father for this much time in sleep. I found the ground covered with frost, and it seemed to be frozen. I am thankful for the precious rest I am having in sleep, thankful for the clearness of mind the Lord has given me.
(11LtMs, Ms 65, 1896, 7)
Oh, I so much desire to glorify my Redeemer with pen and voice, with heart and soul! I am writing upon subjects which stir every fiber of my being. The pre-existence of Christ—how invaluable is this truth to the believer! How full of mightiness and power! What solid rock foundation we stand upon if our faith is centered in Him who was from the beginning and yet humbled Himself to humanity and gave His precious life to save a perishing world!
(11LtMs, Ms 65, 1896, 8)
Ms 66, 1896
Diary, July 1896 Cooranbong, Australia July 2-5, 1896 Portions of this manuscript are published in TMK 127. Thursday, July 2, [1896] Sunnyside, Cooranbong, N. S. W.
We are having cool, frosty nights. I could not sleep after half past twelve o’clock. Write I must, and relieve my mind of its burden. My spirit has no rest because of the existing state of things in Battle Creek, which affects every institution that has been brought into existence.
(11LtMs, Ms 66, 1896, 1)
Sent large mail to South Africa.
(11LtMs, Ms 66, 1896, 2)
Saturday, July 4, [1896]
Spoke to those assembled, numbering eighty, in the upper story of the new mill, from Ephesians 6:10-18.
(11LtMs, Ms 66, 1896, 3)
Sunday morning, July 5 Cooranbong
Heavy frost; very cold for this country. Quite a shell of ice on the water. We are having beautiful days. The sky is clear and the atmosphere bracing. I am not generally blessed with sleep until four o’clock a.m., but I [have been] able to sleep more than usual for a few nights past. I will thank the Lord my God for His great goodness and mercy and love expressed to the human family.
(11LtMs, Ms 66, 1896, 4)
I am impressed we should cultivate cheerfulness; and what does this do? It reveals to the world the peace and comfort that it is our privilege to claim. It is not honoring our Lord and Saviour to carry a shade of gloom. Many do this; but shall we change this aspect?
(11LtMs, Ms 66, 1896, 5)
“Give ear, O ye heavens, and I will speak; and hear, O earth, the words of my mouth. My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distill as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass: Because I will publish the name of the Lord; ascribe ye greatness unto our God. He is the Rock, his work is perfect; for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he. They have corrupted themselves, their spot is not the spot of his children; they are a perverse and crooked generation.”Deuteronomy 32:1-5.
(11LtMs, Ms 66, 1896, 6)
“Not the spot of his children.” They do not possess the character of the sons and daughters of God, do not in spirit, in words, in actions, appear as the people who love God and keep His commandments. “Do ye thus requite the Lord, O foolish people and unwise? is not he thy father that hath bought thee? hath he not made thee and established thee?”verse 6. Read verses 7, 8, 9.
(11LtMs, Ms 66, 1896, 7)
“For the Lord’s portion is his people; Jacob is the lot of his inheritance. He found him in a desert land, and in the waste howling wilderness; he led him about, he instructed him, he kept him as the apple of his eye.”Verses 9, 10.
(11LtMs, Ms 66, 1896, 8)
The tenderness of God to His people, His unceasing care for them, the riches of the wisdom of the methods He has taken to lead them to Himself, demand our gratitude offerings expressed in most earnest devotion to serve Him with all humility of mind and contrition of soul. The Lord is gracious, and He would have His people represent His loving kindness by acknowledgment in cheerful thanksgiving to God. All who appreciate the favors of God will be a happy people. The silver and gold and treasures of every description which men have accumulated belong to the Lord, and He has a perfect right to the disposal of them.
(11LtMs, Ms 66, 1896, 9)
Ms 67, 1896
Diary Fragment Ashfield, New South Wales, Australia December 21, 1896 Previously unpublished.
Willie, Sara, May Israel, Sister Graham, and I left the Morisset Station last night at six o’clock. The second-class cars were about as bad and inconvenient as they could be. We did not get to rest until midnight. I was not well enough to take this trip, but Willie leaves this day for America at four o’clock p.m. and must sign papers before lawyers. And houses have been hunted up that may answer as a beginning for a Health Home. We ride out this early morning to see these houses. Rent for the cheapest is one hundred and twenty pounds a year.
(11LtMs, Ms 67, 1896, 1)
If we could only have money to erect even a cheap building, it would be more profitable. But we see no other way. I must do my level best to draw in all the money I can from America, and be responsible for borrowed money to make even a beginning. Some will not listen at all to the idea of having a sanitarium. Others are afraid they will be expected to do something. Brother Lawrence, for instance. His money he clenches with so tight a grip he will do nothing or next to nothing anywhere. But we mean to try and see what can be done.
(11LtMs, Ms 67, 1896, 2)
Brethren Daniells and Salisbury came to see and consult and get some knowledge of the work Willie has been doing, and to see how it shall be done in his absence. We take advantage of this time to have these men show some little interest in this movement. The Lord must have some means for us somewhere. We may have to build. We do not know just what to do. We cannot expect donations from those not in our faith, but the Lord can move upon minds to help in the work. Time is passing and Satan is moving from beneath with intensity of action.
(11LtMs, Ms 67, 1896, 3)
[Page missing.]
(11LtMs, Ms 67, 1896, 4)
... to Battle Creek. I have greatly desired to come face to face with those who have acted a prominent part in the wonderful strange movements that have taken place in Battle Creek. I think I could speak to them in the name of the Lord and they would hear me, they would understand, but I think that will never be.
(11LtMs, Ms 67, 1896, 5)
Two o’clock p.m. I have just taken some nourishment and feel a little stronger. I was in a meeting where a large number were assembled and questions were started in reference to devoting so much time and expense to the roughest class of humanity. The question was presented in this form, is it in the order of the Lord that such an amount of labor should be devoted to the lower class, when by so doing there is so great a dearth of labor put forth for those who have not sunk so low in the scale of humanity?
(11LtMs, Ms 67, 1896, 6)
One arose and said, There should be special efforts made to restore the moral image of God in man, and to make encouraging experiments in our large cities. But while the labor in these lines should be done, there should be consideration not to absorb so largely in this class of work that there is little means or strength to supply suitable labor to act as missionaries in these large cities. The Lord would have all our work arranged as a part of, and acting harmoniously with, the great whole. Many devoted souls are needed to carry the truth in many localities and make it their special work to proclaim the message of warning to the world in direct lines of well-organized labor. There is much being lost because the work is not managed proportionately. The work must be so arranged that men and women shall feel the great need of putting their talents and ability to the very best account.
(11LtMs, Ms 67, 1896, 7)
Ms 68, 1896
Criticizing, Condemning, and All Evil Speaking To Be Put Away NP December 26, 1896 [typed] Formerly Undated Ms 144. This manuscript is published in entirety in PC 356-360.
It is the duty of God’s servants to work constantly with an eye single to His honor and glory. No man’s person is to be respected or looked upon with admiration if his heart and soul are not enlisted in the work of God, unless he seeks to carry forward that work with self-sacrificing efforts. There are those who think more highly of themselves than they ought to think. They speak evil of their brethren because after a thing is done they can look back and tell how differently they would have done it, but their forethought would not have been any better than that of their brethren had they been in their place. God sees that faults and imperfections have characterized the lives of the very ones who speak evil of their brethren.
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 1)
Keep yourselves off the judgment seat. All judgment is committed unto the Son of God. Your words and your works will not be judged according to the light in which you view them, but according to God’s unerring standard. By uniting and talking with those who have grievances, by emptying your heart of all the hard feelings and wounds and bruises you have sustained, you have made great blunders. God will hold you accountable for every seed of that kind which you have sown in human hearts. Satan will water that seed and inspire you with all the bitterness and evil speaking and wrath and malice that he can.
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 2)
Oh, how can anyone suppose that he can be in harmony with Christ and indulge in this cruel and wicked work? All who do so are departing from the Word of God, disregarding that Word, and failing to act out the lessons of Jesus Christ. Talking with solemn earnestness the Counsellor has said: “There are many who, when their own ideas and will are crossed, reveal a bitterness of spirit. They cherish the same feelings as an unconverted man. They watch for an opportunity to complain, and thus set a wrong example for others.”“In that day,” declares the Word of God, “shall the deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity, and out of darkness. The meek shall also increase their joy in the Lord, and the poor among men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel. For the terrible one is brought to nought, and the scorner is consumed, and all that watch for iniquity are cut off; that make a man an offender for a word, and lay a snare for him that reproveth in the gate, and turn aside the just for a thing of nought.” [Isaiah 29:18-21.]
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 3)
Here is one man professing to be a Bible Christian. But if everything does not harmonize with his ideas, he looks upon himself as abused. He feels justified in making a great fire out of a spark. Another brother in connection with the work of God thinks that he has been treated unjustly. What if he has? Does not the Lord know all about that? It would not be surprising if the human agent did not know himself, for the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 4)
A condition of things has been coming into existence that is not after the order of Christ. Those who look for evil, who are ready to charge those who do not meet all their expectations by accommodating them and carrying out their ideas with evil, who feel at liberty to judge their brethren and misconstrue their motives, are not Christians. Those who encourage and sustain persons who are not walking in the ways of the Lord are aiding Satan by doing his work. They are not feeding on Christ, the Bread from heaven. They have ever lived for self. Self has been their center. As long as they can be first, all goes well.
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 5)
I wish my brethren who shall read the words I am placing on paper to carefully consider that which I present before them. No man liveth for himself. Whatever course of action the human agent may pursue, others are influenced. God alone knows the extent of this individual responsibility. Apparent influence may be deceiving; real influence requires all that there is of a man. Whatever the position or surroundings of old or young, they carry with them an influence. Their responsibility is great. No one can be lax, self-indulgent, self-serving, and be counted worthy of eternal life.
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 6)
Never let your tongue and voice by employed in discovering and dilating upon the defects of your brethren, for the record of heaven identifies Christ’s interests with those He has purchased with His own blood. “Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren,” He says, “ye have done it unto me.” [Matthew 25:40.] We are to learn to be loyal to one another, to be true as steel in the defense of our brethren. Look to your own defects. You had better discover one of your own faults than ten of your brother’s. Remember that Christ has prayed for these, His brethren, that they all might be one as He is one with the Father. Seek to the uttermost of your capabilities to be in harmony with your brethren to the extent of Christ’s measurement, as He is one with the Father. Then your evil thinking and evil speaking will cease. You will not become bitter and hard against them because they do not make enough of your merits and show special partiality to you. Those who are missionaries for the Master will have the spirit of truth and righteousness.
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 7)
“Love as brethren; be pitiful; be courteous.” [1 Peter 3:8.] True moral worth does not seek to have a place for itself by evil thinking and evil speaking, by demeriting others. All envy, all jealousy, all evil speaking, with all unbelief, must be put away from God’s children.
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 8)
Satan works zealously to cause men to offend on this point. Those whose tongues are so free to utter words of criticism, the adroit questioner who draws out expressions and opinions which have been put into the minds by sowing seeds of alienation, are his missionaries. They may repeat the expressions they draw from others as originating with the ones they so slyly led on to forbidden ground. These persons seem always to see something to criticize and condemn. They treasure up everything of a disagreeable nature, and then leaven others. Their tongues are ready to exaggerate everything evil. What a great matter a little fire kindleth! They scatter their fire brands, putting doubts and mistrust into other minds, falsifying because they view everything in a false light. Thus neighbors and churches are leavened.
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 9)
Jesus said to His disciples, “Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” [Matthew 16:6.] His voice comes sounding down the lines to our time, “Beware of that misrepresenting tongue, which is not content unless leagued with the disaffected, with those who are tempted to think that they have been misused.” Self, self, self is their theme. They have become envious and jealous, and Satan has helped them, putting his magnifying glass before their eyes, until a mote looks to them like a mountain, and they think themselves the most abused persons in the world. With a beam on their own eye, they are very much interested in pulling the mote out of their brother’s eye.
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 10)
It is satanic to be an accuser of the brethren, to delight to tell of the imperfections and wrongs of others. Those who suppose themselves to be God’s missionaries, and yet work upon the minds of those who are weak and inexperienced in the faith, may see the time, if they are converted, when they will wish to counteract their past work. But it is not an easy matter to do this. Eternity alone will reveal on whose side everyone has been working, and the good or ill they have wrought.
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 11)
Shall the attributes of the enemy be revealed in the life-practice of professed Christians? Shall men who put on the armor and stand as faithful sentinels for God, refusing to favor any man and seeking to do the work God has given them to do with humble faith and sincerity, be despised by men who know not that they have given themselves to do the work of Satan? Oh how much better it would be if those who thus judge others would themselves feed on the flesh and blood of the Son of God, studying and practicing the Word of God!
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 12)
Men who have large opinions of themselves are often in error, but they will not confess this. Envy and jealousy are diseases which disorder all the faculties of the being. They originated with Satan in Paradise. After he had started on the track of apostasy, he could see many things that were objectionable. After he fell, he envied Adam and Eve in their innocency. He tempted them to sin, and to become like himself, disloyal to God. Those who accept of his attributes will demerit others, misrepresent and falsify in order to build up themselves.
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 13)
These persons are generally incurable, and as nothing that defileth can enter heaven, they will not be there. They would criticize the angels. They would covet another’s crown. They would not know what to do, or what subjects to converse upon unless they could be finding some errors, some imperfections, in others. Oh that such ones would be changed by following Christ! Oh that they would become meek and lowly of heart by learning in the school of Christ! Then they would go forth, not as missionaries for Satan, to cause disunion and alienation, but as missionaries for Christ, to be peacemakers, to work with Christ in restoring, not to bruise and mangle character. Let the Holy Spirit of God come in and expel this unholy passion, which cannot in the slightest degree survive in heaven. Let it die. Let it be crucified. Open the heart to the attributes of Christ who was pure, holy, undefiled, without guilt.
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 14)
“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” [Proverbs 4:23.] The Word of God tells us that the heart is to be kept as a temple, holy unto God. The unconverted heart is represented as a habitation for the evil one, who brings in a whole brood of unholy thoughts and stirs up the natural passions. But the Spirit of God must cleanse the soul from its defilement. Every room must be purified. The conscience must be quickened by the Holy Spirit. Truth must take hold of the thoughts and actions. Holy vigilance must keep guard to spy out the approach of the enemy. Woe unto that man who falls asleep and lets the enemy take possession of his house.
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 15)
Genuine conversion is needed, not once in years, but daily. This conversion brings a man into new relation with God. Old things, his natural temper, natural passions, and hereditary traits of character, pass away, and the man is renewed, converted, sanctified. But this work needs to be continued or else the heart will become estranged from God; for just as long as Satan lives, he will make an effort to carry out his will. The human agent will constantly encounter a strong undercurrent. His heart needs to be barricaded by faithful watchfulness and unceasing prayer, else the embankment will give way, and like a mill stream, the undercurrent of natural and cultivated tendencies will sweep away the safeguard. Then the old objectionable traits of character will assert their sway. No renewed heart can keep in a condition of sweetness and grace without the application of the salt of the Word. Divine grace must be applied daily, else no man will stay converted.
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 16)
It is the sufferings of our Redeemer in His life and death that makes it possible for fallen man to become refined and elevated. As the divine substitute and surety, He elevates the fallen race in character, and brings their minds into healthful sympathy with the divine mind. Those who are partakers of the divine nature see that trueheartedness means continual humiliation, self-denial, and self-sacrifice. Those who have spiritual eyesight will discern that God does not honor those who are honored by the world, but those who are true to principle.
(11LtMs, Ms 68, 1896, 17)
Ms 69, 1896
Upholding The Law Of God NP 1896 Formerly Undated Ms 145. Portions of this manuscript are published in 1SM 115; 3BC 1133, 1152; 4BC 1143-1144.
All who advocate truth in distinction to error have a special work to do in vindicating the law of God. Men inspired by a power from beneath have considered it their duty to uphold as the Sabbath of the Lord, the first day of the week. By thus disregarding the claims of God, ministers who claim to preach the gospel are echoing the words of old to Adam and Eve in Eden, that if they transgressed the law, they would not die, but would be as gods, knowing good and evil. By their influence and example, these false shepherds have caused a lie to be received as truth. With persevering energy they have labored to establish a spurious sabbath, and this man-made institution has received the homage of the greater part of the world. But this does not make a day holy which God has given us as a common working day. Though their error be hoary with age, though the world bow in reverence to it, it still remains an error and a delusion, for God says, “To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” [Isaiah 8:20.]
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 1)
Well-nigh universal contempt is shown to the law of God, and all who are loyal to Him have a sacred and solemn work to do in magnifying the law, and making it honorable. God placed His sanctity upon the seventh day, and gave it to men to keep holy; and He says, “My covenant will I not break, nor alter the thing that is gone out of my mouth.” [Psalm 89:34.] By rendering obedience to His commandments, we uphold the honor of God in the earth.
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 2)
Satan works against the law with untiring energy, and God calls upon His people to be witnesses for Him by pressing the battle to the gates. This work must advance, or it will go backward. In this war there is no release. Those who take part in it must put on the whole armor of God, that they may fight manfully in the warfare against evil.
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 3)
Often God’s soldiers find themselves brought into hard and difficult places, they know not why. But are they to relax their hold because difficulties arise? Is their faith to diminish because they cannot see their way through the darkness? God forbid. They are to cherish an abiding sense of God’s power to uphold them in their work. They cannot perish, neither can they lose their way, if they will follow His guidance, and strive to uphold His law.
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 4)
Jesus says, “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 shall break one of these least commandments and shall teach men so (by precept and example) shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.] In the councils of heaven the violators of the least commandments of God are registered as of least value among men. This decision is pronounced in the councils of the kingdom of heaven to show that not one of these moral precepts is to be trifled with. Men are not to consult their convenience or pleasure when it is a question of obeying God.
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 5)
God will bring them into judgment for disregarding His law. They will not be taken into the kingdom of heaven and treated as inferior subjects; they will never enter the kingdom of heaven, but in that kingdom God and Christ and the holy angels in counsel pronounce them as the least in all God’s creation. God does not regard those who mislead the inexperienced as proper religious teachers. He says, “Whosoever shall do and teach them (the commandments), the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” [Verse 19.] Those who do and teach the commandments of God are recognized in heaven as those who are one with Christ and with God, and they are accounted great by the angelic hosts. How careful should we be to obey the commandments of God, and exercise our entrusted talents in showing to a disobedient world that we honor God by keeping His law which is a transcript of His character. All human intelligences are to obey the law of God, not making for themselves a lower standard than that which the Lord has given through Jesus Christ, the world’s Redeemer.
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 6)
David was greatly tried in his day in seeing men pouring contempt upon God’s law. Men threw off restraint, and depravity was the result. The law of God had become a dead letter to those whom God had created. Men refused to receive the holy precepts as the rule of their life. Wickedness was so great that David feared lest God’s forbearance should cease, and he sent up a heart-felt prayer to heaven, saying, “It is time for thee, Lord, to work, for they have made void thy law. Therefore I love thy commandments above gold, yea, above fine gold.” [Psalm 119:126, 127.] If David thought in his day that men had exceeded the limits of God’s mercy, and that God would work to vindicate the honor of His law, and bring the wickedness of the wicked to an end, then what influence should the widespread iniquity of our day have upon those who love and fear God?
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 7)
When there is widespread disobedience, when iniquity is increasing to a swelling time, will the professed Christian world be evil with the evil, unrighteous with the unrighteous? Shall we place our influence on the side of the great apostate, and shall universal scorn be heaped upon God’s law, the great standard of righteousness? Shall we be swept away by the strong tide of transgression and apostasy? Or shall the righteous search the Scriptures, and know for themselves the conditions upon which the salvation of their souls depend? Those who make the Word of God the man of their counsel will esteem the law of God, and their appreciation of it will rise in proportion as it is set aside and despised. Loyal subjects of Christ’s kingdom will re-echo the words of David and say, “It is time for thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void thy law. Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold.” [Verses 126, 127.] This is the position those will occupy who love God sincerely and their neighbors as themselves. They will exalt the commandments in proportion as contempt increases.
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 8)
The point is fast being reached when the iniquity of transgressors will be to the full. God gives nations a certain time of probation. He sends light and evidence that, if received, will save them, but if refused as the Jews refused light, indignation and punishment will fall upon them. If men refuse to be benefited, and choose darkness rather than light, they will reap the results of their choice. “Behold, the Lord cometh out of his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no longer cover her slain.” [Isaiah 26:21.]
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 9)
The professed Christian world is advancing, as did the Jewish nation, from one degree of sinfulness to a greater degree, refusing warning after warning, and rejecting a thus saith the Lord, while crediting the fables of men. The Lord god will soon arise in His wrath, and pour out His judgments upon those who are repeating the sins of the inhabitants of the Noachic world. Those whose hearts are fully set in them to do evil, as were the hearts of the inhabitants of Sodom, will like them be destroyed. The fact that God had long forbearance, patience and mercy, the fact that His judgments have been long delayed, will not make the punishment any less severe when it does come.
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 10)
The Jewish nation is before us as an example of the termination of God’s long forbearance. In the destruction of Jerusalem the destruction of the world is typified. The lips of Him who ever pronounced blessings upon the penitent, and spoke encouragement to the poor and suffering, and brought gladness to the humble, pronounced a curse upon those to whom He had presented light, who would not appreciate or accept light. Those who thought to evade the clear, distinct Word of God, and cherish man-made traditions, He declared would be found guilty of all the blood of the prophets which had been slain from the foundation of the world. [Luke 11:50.]
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 11)
Again and again God had arrested the Jews in their wicked course by severe chastisement, but they provoked Him by their wicked works, casting away the law of the Lord of Hosts, and finally refusing to reverence His only begotten Son. Each century of transgression treasured up wrath against the day of wrath. Jesus bade the stubborn and impenitent nation to fill up the measure of their iniquity. Their wicked works were not forgotten nor overlooked. When the time of retributive judgment was fully due, the mandate was sent forth from the sacred place of the Most High for the vindication of God’s honor and the magnifying of His law.
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 12)
In these last days the history of the Jewish nation is being repeated in the Christian church. Notwithstanding the fact that they have before them the example of the Jewish nation in rejecting light, they are doing as they did, and doing despite to the Spirit of grace. The time is drawing near when it will be fully demonstrated that it is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. There shall be a time of trouble such as never was since there was a nation, and the severest of punishment will fall upon those who have educated the people to accept error in place of truth, to walk in paths that have not been cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in.
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 13)
God keeps a reckoning with nations, and when men fully make His law void, then destruction cometh. The Lord is permitting him who is a hater of God and man to do his will on land and sea. God’s protecting mercy is gradually being withdrawn. Calamities on land and sea are warnings from God, telling the earth what shall be when His light is wholly rejected. Overtures of mercy are still presented to the human family, but this will not long continue, for the figures of iniquity are steadily increasing. The fallen churches are uniting with the world and apostatizing from the truth, and the ministry of wrath is about to begin. On the register above, the summing of impiety is kept with unerring accuracy, and the figures are fast reaching their limit. Still God is at work calling to repentance, presenting promises of forgiveness and favor. God would use every entrusted capability, every jot of consecrated influence [to work against the] ingratitude, contempt of the restraining grace of Christ, which would keep men back from presumptuous sins, from pride, selfishness, and covetousness which prevail on every hand.
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 14)
Now is the time when every particle of influence should be put to exercise, not to work on Satan’s side of the question, but on the Lord’s side. Not a new commandment, but the old commandment which we had from the beginning, is to be vindicated. Vigorous piety is to increase and make for itself a place on the earth. The standard of truth is to be elevated in new places, and to be carried into regions beyond. God calls for men to consecrate themselves wholly, and to place themselves and their means upon the altar for the building up of the interests of His kingdom in the world. Everything is to be done that can be done to shed forth light into the darkened places of the earth, and we have but little time in which to do a great work. Will you be on the Lord’s side in the last battle of the controversy?
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 15)
He who has moral courage to be true to principle, to obey a “thus saith the Lord,” will always be an annoyance among his neighbors who do not regard the Word of the Lord, and who think it matters little whether men obey or disobey God. But the duty remains to conscientiously take the position of rendering loving service to god, because He had shown His love toward the human agent in giving His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. He who takes this position, which is sustained by the Word of God, will find that it disturbs his neighbors, it disturbs the members of his family who will not yield their hearts to the claims of the truth. But in spite of this painful situation, Christ will have His witnesses in all parts of the world. Far and near the rays of light from those who fear God and keep His commandments are spreading, and many who now walk in darkness will place themselves wholly on the Lord’s side.
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 16)
The law of God is being trampled under foot; the blood of the covenant is being despised; and can we fold our hands and say we have nothing to do? Let us arouse! The battle is raging. Truth and error are nearing their final conflict. Let us march under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel, and fight the good fight of faith, and win eternal honors, for the truth will triumph, and we may be more than conquerors through Him who loved us. The precious hours of probation are closing. Let us make sure work for eternal life, that we may glorify our heavenly Father, and be the means of saving souls for whom Christ died.
(11LtMs, Ms 69, 1896, 17)
Ms 69a, 1896
Diary/Duties of Faithful Parenting; Loyalty to God's Law NP c. 1896-1897 Last portion used in Ms 69, 1896.
Marriage is a serious business and should not be entered into thoughtlessly and recklessly. The father of the family should be pure, upright, free from the slavery of any habit or practice that will not elevate, ennoble, and enlarge his usefulness. He is to be the head, the center of the family, bearing the weightiest responsibilities. He is the houseband, to bind the family circle together like Abraham, the father of the faithful, combining faith and works together, each having their respective places. His family is his heritage, under his influence, supervision, and control. Therefore it is not possible for him to be faithful to his God given trust to make his family a sample of the family of heaven unless business shall take a secondary place and the love and fear of God the first place. “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you.” [Matthew 6:33.]
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 1)
A true man before God is that man who, with all his house, fears God. The Lord Jesus abides in the hearts of the members of his family. The rule, the standard, of master, children, and servants is: “They shall keep the way of the Lord.” [Genesis 18:19.] “The curse of the Lord is in the house of the wicked.” [Proverbs 3:33.] The question of the father of the household, of the mother who stands by his side as his helper, is not, “What will others do?”“What will others think of me?”“What will my neighbors think of me?” Shall the father of the children consider it is for their present convenience and neighborly feelings to do according to their wishes? Have they paid the ransom for the souls of father, mother, or children?
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 2)
[Neither] parents nor children, nor any member of the household, need expect to be blessed of their heavenly Father if they keep their eye upon their neighbors to see if they are pleasing or displeasing them in keeping the way of the Lord and educating the children to keep His commandments. We should consider our homes our own province, where neighbor, minister, the church, or the world are not to dictate or control. The home is to be made a Bethel, a holy temple where God presides, for we are all living as in sight of the eternal world. The love and fear of God combined is true, pure, unadulterated religion. The love of Christ makes the united heads of the family a firm of themselves, and the children are taken in as a part of the firm. The blending of hearts in the service of Christ will bring peace and joy, a holy contentment, but every other principle will leave the heart restless and dissatisfied. It will prove a harder task to manage or govern a family than for the king to rule his kingdom.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 3)
Parents, if your children are encouraged to seek the companionship of those who do not regard the law of God—that law made in the Guidebook the rule of life so that none need to err in understanding its holy requirements—the sure result will be that the laws of the household will be disregarded. The Word of God is to be your counselor and director that you may reach the portals of bliss. God's Word is to be the rule of life, of practice; from this there can be no turning aside to manufacture a map of your own to reach the paradise of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 4)
Parents, are you daily inquiring, What is the way of the Lord? If you turn your feet out of the safe paths, your children will follow you; and you must render an account to God why they have, under your discipline and influence, walked away from the paths of truth and obedience to God's requirements. Will the excuse stand in the judgment: “I didn't wish to displease my neighbors?” But what about God? Did you carefully study His will, His pleasure, that yourselves and your children should please the Lord by keeping all of His commandments? Is it not sin to set aside the commandments of God, that you may have the favor and pleasure of your neighbors? Have you considered the path you have entered upon, the choice you are making for yourselves and for your children? The Lord Jesus has paid the ransom for your souls and the souls of your children.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 5)
The Word testifies that many of the priests and rulers believed on Him but did not confess Him for fear of being turned out of the synagogue. Why? [Because] they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God. Parents, an awful responsibility rests upon you. If you find no pleasure in wholehearted service to God now, when light is brought to your very doors, and you close that door lest truth and the rays of righteousness shall penetrate the darkness of worldliness that surrounds you, bear in mind you are making your choice that you prefer the society and friendship of your neighbors rather than the friendship of God. You are educating and training your children by precept and example that it is of no account whether they break the commandments of God or choose the ways and companionship of those who despise His commandments and trample them under their feet.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 6)
These children are bought with a price. They are the property of Jesus Christ, and the loss of their souls will be reckoned unto you who have those under your guardianship [but who] are entering the path of those who trample upon the law of Jehovah. You feel no burden of responsibility to lead your children in a path that you yourselves do not choose to travel. The children receive error because their parents, in the full face of light, have chosen error before truth. Society is full of disobedient, unthankful, unholy children, and yet parents face the darkness and choose the darkness rather than the light. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” [Psalm 111:10.] The religion of home becomes a discarded thing. Parents feel that they are under the censure of God, yet they lead their children on in the same way that they choose.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 7)
I have a word from the Lord to you: “I will approach nigh unto you in judgement.” [Malachi 3:5.] Truth and righteousness are exiled from the home, saying, “I want not Thy ways, O, God. I want to follow my own impulse. I care not to respect the restraint the service of God brings. I want not the yoke Jesus placed upon my neck.”
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 8)
The most precious possession God can give to human agents is their children, to watch over and guide, to train up in the love and fear of God, that they shall not be left to become the sport of Satan's temptations and lost to Christ, lost to heaven, and swell the ranks of the unbelieving who are commandment breakers. Oh, the Lord is soon to come, and the inquiry every day should be, How shall I subdue the spirit of worldliness which is constantly seeking to insinuate its deadly influence upon my soul bought at such an infinite price? Do you cultivate love for Jesus who took the punishment of your sins upon His own divine soul? Have you ever considered how many might have eternal life who are now so well-satisfied with their present life that they have lost eternity and the result of their present life out of their reckoning?
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 9)
It is time you consider seriously your responsibility and influence. On whose side are you placing your influence? Jesus, who died to save you and your children, says to you, “He that is not for Me is against Me. He that gathereth not with Me, scattereth abroad.” [Matthew 12:30.] You cannot compute the amount of influence you may exert over those who have not the love and fear of God, who are in the darkness of error. “You are not your own, you are bought with a price, therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] You are privileged to be coworkers with Jesus Christ to save your own souls and the souls of your children, teaching them to live not to please their associates and in thus doing displease God.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 10)
You are responsible for the precepts and example you give to your children in this line—that the love and fear of God is to be always first. What your neighbors do and say and think is not to mould and fashion your words or your course of action. You are to avoid, and by your example, teach your children (who are God's heritage purchased at infinite cost) to avoid transgressing one jot or one tittle of the law of God given us as a rule of life.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 11)
You are responsible to God to [show] to your neighbors, by precept and example, that you follow the high biddings of God to practice obedience to all His requirements, avoiding all plots of treason and disloyalty. It is your quiet yet active, earnest, sincere piety that is deciding your own destiny and that of your loved ones for the future life. It will not answer for you to place yourselves farther and farther away from religious influences, away from the truth, and suppose that you will have a lamp and light to your feet to avoid the pitfalls Satan is constantly devising and planning to entrap you. God requires of you more than you have ever given Him—the whole heart—and then you will have His glory in view and discharge your God-entrusted responsibilities, not looking to please your neighbors, not feeling their pulse to see if it beats in harmony with your own. There is One who owns you by creation and redemption.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 12)
Study to show yourselves approved unto God, workmen that needeth not to be ashamed; then you can truthfully say, “The Lord of Hosts is with us, the God of Jacob is our refuge.” [Psalm 46:7.] Will you consider that an adulterated Christianity is surrounding us? It is now that we are to heed the third angel's message, and the message is to the churches: “Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” [Revelation 2:5.] There must be a turning unto God in obeying His commandments. There must be much more praying done, and watching unto prayer, else you will be walking in darkness.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 13)
You are not keeping the commandments of God. You are so blinded by the sophistries of Satan that you do not feel or sense your peril. “What will it profit a man if he gain the whole world and lose his own soul, or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” [Mark 8:36, 37.] Is eternal life of value to you? Is heaven of more value to you than this world? Is this world to absorb your mind and engross your attention, and you live as you choose and as your neighbors choose to have you, hiding your light—that which your conscience convinces you is truth—and sacrifice heaven? Will it pay? God calls upon you to change your course of action for your own soul's sake, fathers and mothers, and for your children's sake, and to let your life become a living testimony for God: “Ye are My Witnesses.” [Isaiah 43:10.]
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 14)
I ask fathers and mothers who have the responsibility of bringing up children, Are they being trained in every way that they should be to know God and Jesus Christ as their personal Saviour? Are you feeling a responsibility for their souls? Do you have your family prayer at night and in the morning, and thus by precept and example teach your children to ask God for His blessing, to render to God praise and thanksgiving for His great mercies and loving kindness to them and to their parents? The question is, Are you working for your Master? Are you in spirit and in attitude expressing the idea that to be a Christian is a wearisome service rather than saying with John the Beloved, “What manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God; therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not”? Can you introduce Jesus Christ to your children: “Beloved, now are we the sons and daughters of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” [1 John 3:1, 2.]
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 15)
The Christian life must be the theme of conversation—every word, every tone of the voice, brought into the service of the Lord to honor His holy name. Talk of His love. Speak of His great goodness in giving Jesus to our world. Tell of His power. Do not for a moment let the seducing sophistry of Satan take effect in your mind, so that you dilute religion—Bible religion—with worldliness in order to attract your neighbors or your children. [Lift] higher your standard for living a holy, consecrated life before the world, before your neighbors, and before your children. You are not educating your children for the society of heavenly angels and teaching them that the love of God, the love of Jesus—His purity, His holiness—is accessible to them, and laboring to have them understand the simplicity of the service of Christ. Home religion—what is home life without Jesus and our assurance of His presence?
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 16)
Your work placed in your hands, father and mother, is to keep the minds of your children pure and uncontaminated from the world. In order to do this, you must, by studying the Word, obtain a different kind of experience than you, father or mother, have hitherto had. You will have rich food in studying your Bibles. Study the life and lessons of Christ Jesus and, reading and praying with the door of your heart open to receive the teachings of the Holy Spirit, you will be truly converted. You are not now in a right position with God. Do not, I entreat you, make it necessary for the Lord to afflict you, to withdraw from you the blessings which He has given you, because the blessings He bestows upon you are treated as though they were yours by right and yet made a hindrance rather than a blessing. The Lord who gave His life for you and for your children has left an injunction: “Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me.” [John 5:39.]
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 17)
Unless there is a most earnest, decided purpose to cultivate our own spirituality to a higher degree, accepting light, the light we already have becomes darkness. Unless there is a constant necessity felt for prayer to our heavenly Father for His wisdom, and a searching of the Scriptures to know His way and to be kept by the power of God, then it will become very easy to drift farther and farther away from God and unite our interest with those who know not the truth and who will not accept the truth. We need spirituality to discharge our duties daily in the fear of God. The Bible history tells us that when men deliberately turn away from God and the messages He sends them, the Lord turns away from them. What is the result? “Therefore I scattered them with a whirlwind among all nations.” [Zechariah 7:14.] “He that honoreth me I will honor. He that despiseth Me,” (and the message I send,) “I will lightly esteem.” [1 Samuel 2:30.] This is not making God a hard master, it is simply a declaration of the effect of the cause, an eternal necessity of results.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 18)
The Sun of Righteousness will shine upon all who will follow Christ. “They that follow Me shall not walk in darkness.” [John 8:12.] We belong to Christ. He has bought us, bought our children. We can educate them to think more highly of earthly pleasures and earthly treasures than of the heavenly. If we give the world all the advantage of obtaining mind, heart, and soul service, every chink is filled, the worldly tide fills every space, and the Word of God is left out. The bright light proceeding from Christ is not admitted. The spirit, the principles, that dwell in the heart of the disobedient dwell in the heart of those who link up in harmony with them.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 19)
The Lord will have the whole heart or nothing. The lawyer asked of Jesus, “What shall I do that I may have eternal life?” The Lord Jesus answered, “What saith the Scriptures? how readest thou?” The lawyer answered, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, with all thy mind, with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and thy neighbor as thyself.” Christ responded, “Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.” [Luke 10:25-28.] How are we treating this question? The law of God is plainly revealed. Will you or I venture to find some other way whereby we shall obtain the precious boon of eternal life? Will we, to whom God has given the opportunity to obtain light and knowledge, refuse to receive the message sent from heaven? Shall we refuse the light because in accepting the truth we see it will cause a separation from those who will not hear, who will not believe? Shall there be concession made with you or me to bind up in bundles with the world? They have “pulled away the shoulder” [Zechariah 7:11], because the yoke of Christ they would not take, and refused to lift His burden. Christ says, “I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love.” [John 15:10.]
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 20)
Those who are disloyal to God and turn from the truth of God to fables stop their ears lest they shall hear. They act like disobedient, stubborn children. And then they will blame and accuse the truth-loving and obedient ones in the service of Christ of creating disunion among neighbors and dissension in families. Christ was accused of creating dissension in families. But it is the truth that works upon human hearts. Some see the cross involved in accepting the truth, and refuse it. Some members of the family yield to the influence of the Holy Spirit of God and open their hearts to Jesus. Such divisions have ever been and ever will be. Shall I conclude to remain in darkness and unbelief, and refuse light from heaven, because this will separate me from my neighbors? Which will we choose—Christ or the world? Will we bear in mind that God's law is binding upon the soul of every man? Some will keep it through the merits of Jesus Christ, hanging their helpless souls on Christ. Some will pull away the shoulder, refuse the yoke of Christ, put their fingers in their ears, and care not to hear the words of the Lord, but this does not do away [with] the law of God. It is plain and decided: “thou shalt” and “thou shalt not.”
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 21)
Men may walk into the dark cellar of unbelief and declare it is midnight at midday. Shall we believe what they say? If they will come out of the cellar or cave, they will see the Sunshine. Christ said of the Jews, “I have come a light into the world, but men have chosen darkness rather than the light, because their deeds are evil.” [See John 3:19.] As soon as men choose God as their portion, there will be a separation from the world. A neglected God is a terrible calamity to the men who choose darkness rather than light.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 22)
Men cannot neglect God and be really rich; heaps of money is not true riches. The man does not really own any of these possessions. He is not a proprietor of his possessions; God can scatter faster than he can accumulate. Any amount of gold and silver may be, as he supposes, in his possession, and yet if he has not Christ, the Bread of life, the Water of salvation, he is perishing with hunger and thirst. Those who regard all they possess as the Lord's, an entrusted gift, and hold it as thus, will be faithful stewards for God. He is strong who shares his strength with those who are weak. The great lesson the Lord would have us learn is to acknowledge Him in all His ways. The family is to be an educating school for the future higher grade—the saints in light.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 23)
I now wish you to read the Bible carefully and prayerfully. You cannot have searched the Scriptures carefully and prayerfully, as a man searching for hidden treasures, and not have found the jewels of truth. The gospel of St. John is full of treasures more to be valued than real estate, gold, or silver. It is of great consequence to your soul that you know what saith the Scripture. What God hath spoken in His Word standeth fast forever, and it is your Guidebook, and mine, to heaven. If you neglect to study your Guidebook and miss your way and lose your own soul, and by your teaching and example lead your children to consider it of no special consequence whether they heed a “thus saith the Lord” or “what saith my neighbors?” the loss of their souls and the loss of the souls of your neighbors will lie at your door, because your example led them to regard lightly the law of the Lord. Your example led them to suppose it was of no special consequence whether you or they were a doer of the Word of God. You strengthened them in disobedience to the commandments of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 24)
Although men refuse to see the light that shineth in darkness, it does not extinguish the light. Of Christ John says, “In Him was [life] and the [life] was the light of men, and the light shineth in darkness, and the darkness comprehendeth it not. [There was a man sent of God].... The same came ... to bear witness of the Light, that all men through Him might believe.... He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own, and His own received Him not.” [John 1:4-7, 10, 11.] What does this mean? Just this: The very ones who claimed to be children of God did not receive the Son of God. When He came, the Light of the world, to dispel the moral darkness of the world, why did not Christ receive acknowledgement and recognition from those He came to save? When He was their only hope, He came. He did not come in just the way to suit their opinions and ideas. They were too proud and self-righteous to admit that the ideas of the priests and rulers were incorrect and needed remodeling. The repentance, the conversion, essential for their salvation they would not consent to receive. They preferred to count Christ as an imposter, because His teachings were not in harmony with their own teachings.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 25)
This same spirit is manifested today in the Christian world claiming to be the children of God. They reject truth sent from heaven, as the Jewish nation rejected Christ, because the truth advocated does not coincide with the errors which they have received. “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name, which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.” [Verses 12, 13.] Receiving Christ as our personal Saviour is represented as being born again. “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” [Verse 14.] Who beholds Him in this light? Those who receive Him by faith as the Son of God, the Word made flesh, the Light of the world, are blessed with viewing spiritual things, seeing Christ as full of grace and truth, and are partakers of the divine nature. “And of his fullness have we all received, and grace for grace.” [Verse 16.]
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 26)
The reception of the grace of Christ makes a marked change of character which is called “born of God.” That grace is diffusive, and as the believing soul opens his mind and heart to receive truth as it is in Jesus, he obtains a glimpse of the righteousness of Christ in the law and he exclaims, “Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.” [Psalm 119:18.] “Simon Peter, 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.” [2 Peter 1:1-4.] Here, in Second Peter, chapter one, is brought to light the whole Christian [life].
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 27)
“Ye are a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men.” [1 Corinthians 4:9.] To love and serve God and follow out your own convictions in regard to obeying the truth is making you Christ's witnesses by precept and example. While you are required to manifest moral independence, to believe all the Scriptures say and obey the Word of God, it will be a constant temptation to associate with unbelievers and follow their lead. But to stand in the world as a faithful soldier of Jesus Christ, knowing your neighbors are demeriting you and consider you foolish to advocate the law of the Lord as perfect converting the soul, and separate from your neighbors in practice, making yourself singular—[you say,] “I cannot lift this cross.” I know that there has been cowardice practiced ever since Christ came into the world. Ashamed to acknowledge Christ because of the relation you sustain to your neighbors, there is a shrinking from the consequence of obeying the truth, because it will make it unpleasant for you among your neighbors.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 28)
Do you wish to hide your light, the truth, under a bushel? “Let your light so shine that men, by seeing your good works, shall glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] You will necessarily differ from the world and from professed Christians who are so [resistant to] obeying the commandments of God. “If ye love Me,” said Christ, “keep My commandments”—you are not to be ashamed of Me or of My words. John 14:15. [Read also] verse 16. “He that hath My commandments and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love Him and will manifest Myself unto him.”John 14:21. “He that loveth Me not, keepeth not My sayings.”John 14:24. Here is the test of discipleship.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 29)
We are sorry that there are some who are too cowardly to own the truth. You feel dependent upon your neighbors for agreeable companionship and do not want to displease them. But your cowardice, your hiding your light so that it shall not shine distinctly in good works, so that they may see with a certainty you are in harmony with the obedient, commandment-keeping people of God, constitute you a stumbling block to your neighbors. They stumble over your disregard of God, taking license from you to follow pernicious ways.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 30)
Your life is far from being a representation of Christ. There is no excuse that can avail. Why do you not walk in the way of God's commandments with a perfect heart, not saying, “What will my neighbors say?” We are not to ask, “What might my neighbors say?” for they may feel surprised; but you should say with them in view, “I must know the terms of eternal life and comply with the conditions. I cannot lose the presence and favor and love of God out of my soul because it will bring me in peace with my neighbors.” Peace at such a cost is dearly purchased.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 31)
The question for you and me to settle today, while it is called today, is: Whose side am I on—the side of God and Jesus Christ and angels? [I am] in the very best of company, for I am a son, a daughter, of the Lord Jesus. My Father, whose property I am, what does He think of me? The work of lifting the cross of Christ is resting upon us personally. We are not to look to men for their good opinion but to our heavenly Father, and then, approved of God, move forward in the ranks with a heaven-born spirit of independence that will not fear to be alone or stand alone, for in obedience to God you are never alone. Hear the words of Christ: “As the Father loveth 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.” [John 15:9, 10.]
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 32)
Be very sure that you are not, by precept and example, in any way placing yourself in the ranks of those who are transgressors of God's law. You are deciding in these last precious hours of probation your own eternal destiny. You are evidencing to the world, to angels, and to men your choice. With your family you are taking the very side that is your deliberate choice, and the decision you make in this important matter may be for eternity. You are evidencing to the world, to angels, and to men in just what measure you have decided to show your respect to spiritual and eternal realities. Christ would not have clothed His divinity with humanity and come to our world, all seared and marred with the curse, if it was not to redeem the world from transgression of the law of God. He came to bring moral power to man—the virtue of His righteousness—that he might be elevated in the scale of moral value with God so that the Lord would accept the human family if they would return to their loyalty.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 33)
Who will be on the Lord's side from their own free willing obedience to His commandments? Who will have appreciation of this great humiliation on the part of Christ and stand with our Substitute and Surety, recognized of God and the whole universe of heaven? [They are] a spectacle unto the world, to angels, and to men, distinctly and definitely God's chosen, because they have received Christ fully as their Saviour and set every faculty of their being [to be] consecrated to His service, forming a character after Christ's likeness, that they may be obedient members of the Lord's family. Christ died for you to open a way,that you who are transgressors of His law shall become obedient children through His own merits, for to this end Christ our Passover was sacrificed for us. He subjected Himself to humiliating ignominy to lift up you, a sinner, through His own perfection of character, and yet you have been so unconcerned in regard to your eternal interest that you do not relish heavenly things.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 34)
Christ was punished for your sins, [punishment] judiciously inflicted, that you should not perish eternally. And how lightly you esteem these things! Christ, the Sin-bearer who knew no sin, was made to be sin for us, that we might be made righteous through His sufferings and shame in our behalf. What kind of hearts have we, with all this history of the life and love and suffering of Christ in our behalf, and yet we are not fully in sympathy with our Redeemer? Can we wonder that the human nature of Christ staggered and trembled in Gethsemane as He prayed that the cup might pass from Him, if it could be possible and man not perish? But in that anguish, unendurable to finite nature, the loss of your soul, and that of the world, was weighed, and it seemed such a terrible loss that Christ consented to drink the cup. “Not My will but Thy will, O God, be done.” [Luke 22:42.] Nature, if unsustained by Divinity, would have died on this field of battle in our behalf—Christ to bear the wrath of His Father in consequence of sin; Christ to suffer for our sins, loaded with the sins of the whole world.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 35)
“O, if it were possible, let this cup pass from Me.” [Matthew 26:39.] But the woes of a sinful, disobedient world come up before Him, a tide of human anguish that men are ignorant of. They know not the terrible consequence of their own iniquity. Christ was bearing the agony of a lost world. It is only through His sacrifice that everlasting salvation can come to a single soul who has transgressed the law of God, and yet your mind, your individual experience, is such that it seems a very light matter to not be a decided commandment keeper. You have not been a partaker in spirit with the sufferings of Christ. You do not want to be disturbed in your ease just now but do very much as you please. You are about decided you will not suffer reproach for the truth's sake. You have no sense of what Christ has suffered to bring salvation within your reach and make it possible for you to return to your loyalty to God—with your name registered in the book of life to stand uncondemned because you receive and believe in Him who was condemned for you.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 36)
But what is the duty now of those who have light in regard to the truth? “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.] How shall we evidence that we are on Christ's side of the question, to recognize the binding claims of the law of God, unless by precept and example we reveal the same? The screen is not to be cowardly placed before us in our actions. Our light is not to be put under a bushel or under a bed, but is to be put on a candlestick where it may give light to all that are in the house. The light is to shine for what purpose? To expose and condemn the darkness. Moral degeneracy prevails. Right must be made to stand in contradiction to sin and unrighteousness. The light is to discern and condemn sin, therefore those who think they can pass along and be in harmony with men who are going on in disobedience and transgression and sin make a terrible mistake, for they will find themselves written in the registers of heaven, “transgressors of God's law.” [They are] virtually saying to the sinner, “It is well with thee.”
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 37)
Transgression and sin are rebuked by obedience and loyalty. Men whom you think hopeless, who will never see the truth and [to whom you feel] you must make concessions to please them, might have been saved by your steadfast faith and practice in right doing. You caviled in telling them all the time that it is a terrible affliction to keep God's commandments and live, and [to keep] His law as the apple of your eye. The man in the neighborhood who has the moral courage to be true to principle, to obey a “Thus saith the Lord,” will be an annoyance to those who disregard the Word of the Lord and who do not think it really matters whether men obey God or disobey Him. But when you conscientiously take your position to love and serve God—who has shown His love and service for the human agent in giving His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life—standing firmly to the written Word, “Thus saith the Lord,” it disturbs your neighbor; it disturbs the members of your family who will not yield their hearts to believe the truth.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 38)
These witnesses for Christ will be all through our world, and the voice of truth from God will be loved and make its impression. A God-fearing, obedient character that reverences God's commandments will send its rays of light far and near and, if decided wholly on the Lord's side, will find something of an echo amid the unconcerned and those in darkness. It is not too late for the conscience to be aroused so that it will not yield. The true, wholehearted inquirer for truth will see and understand what is truth.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 39)
We are to consider that we are to do service for God. If we have hitherto misapplied our capabilities, we have dishonored God and must render an account to God for the good the Lord had given us capability to do, and we did not do because we did not improve our opportunities to become more and more settled, rooted, and grounded in the truth. No one can live to himself and have the heavenly benediction, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” [Matthew 25:23.] The solemnity of our life would be much more deeply infused upon mind and heart if we looked at ourselves and our influence in the light of the Word of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 40)
We are to consider that many with whom we are brought in contact with are getting their only knowledge of God and Jesus Christ through our lives, our words, our actions. Then what a positive necessity that our thoughts and our words should be right in every respect, else we fail in being partners with Jesus Christ in manifesting the truth. Is the heart right? We can, through prayer and faith, know that our hearts are one with the heart of Christ, and that God loves us as He loved Jesus Christ. “Therefore,” says the world's Redeemer [through the apostle Paul,] “While we were yet sinners Christ died for us.” [Romans 5:8.] Because He kept His Father's commandments His abiding place was the Father's love.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 41)
God has made known His will in regard to us through His Word. “As the Father hath sent Me into the world so have I sent you into the world to save the world, but if the salt has lost its savour, wherewith shall it be salted?” [See John 20:21; Matthew 5:13.] With our Bible speaking to us individually, clear and distinct upon these subjects, how can any one of us who has the Bible in our possession remain in darkness if we read the Scriptures and search the Scriptures with the interest that we should have where eternal interests are involved? If we care not to hear the voice of God speaking to us out of His Word—if one goes to his farm, another to his merchandise, and says, I cannot comply with the heavenly invitation, “Come to My supper for all things are now ready”—if the invited souls begin, with one consent, to make their excuses, the Lord is dishonored, His invitation slighted. [Luke 14:17-19.]
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 42)
Men's selfish interests are made all-absorbing. The Guidebook which would place questions of eternal interest before their minds is neglected, and the world—its associations, its atmosphere—is preferred to the instruction from heaven. They do not care to hear the voice of God speaking to them of heavenly things. [Unless] they place themselves and their children away from influences which absorb the mind and draw their attention from truth and righteousness, they walk in the same path the world travels, away from God, and are registered in God's books as one with the world. They have chosen their portion, to be with the unbelievers of the truth, because they suppose they can serve self better and please their neighbors.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 43)
God calls to them, “Follow Me and ye shall not walk in darkness. I am the Light of the world.” [John 8:12.] But they answer back, “Lord, I do not wish to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, for that will not please my neighbors. I do not want to cause any dissension among my neighbors; therefore, I will link up my interest with my neighbors, for it would be very unpleasant to obey Your injunction. I know that Thy Word is pledged: ‘Come out from the world and be ye separate and touch not the unclean, and I will receive you, I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.’ [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] But the carnal heart says, This will make it very inconvenient for me. I should displease my neighbors with whom I am acquainted, with whom I have lived for long years. I cannot follow You, Jesus. I must not break up my association with my neighbors. I will walk in the path they walk.”
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 44)
Choosing to be in conformity to the will of God is choosing to obey His commandments and abide in His love, “as I,” said Christ, “have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.” [John 15:10.] Brethren, you are in the valley of decision. You are making your choice for eternity, not only for yourselves as parents but for your children who are the property of God, bought with the blood of Jesus Christ. Your sentiments, your example, the manner in which you treat the plain injunctions of the Word of God, the character of your influence, are deciding their future eternal destiny. And if you lead in false paths and your children learn through this association to regard the great moral standard of character as lightly as you give them [example of] in your life and by your association and practice, what will you do in rendering up your account to God when the judgment shall sit, and the books be opened, and every man shall be judged out of those things that are written in the books?
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 45)
Christ's words will appear in all their significance, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill” every specification of the law just as it was given in Eden, just as it was proclaimed from Sinai. “For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, not one jot or one tittle shall pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break” (violate or disobey) “one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so,” (by precept or example,) “shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:17-19.] The councils of the universe of heaven register them as the least of value among men who compose the human family. This is the decision made and pronounced in the heavenly courts, the kingdom of heaven.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 46)
Not one of these moral precepts is to be trifled with because it is convenient for man to please himself rather than obey God, and in just the degree that he shall do this, God will bring him into judgment. These commandment violators will not be taken into the kingdom of heaven and then treated as inferior subjects of that kingdom, for disobedient subjects will never enter the kingdom of heaven, but the kingdom of heaven pronounces them the least in all God's creation. They are not reckoned by God as proper religious teachers, for they mislead the inexperienced and lead them into forbidden paths. [But] “whosoever shall do and teach them” is recognized in heaven as one with Christ and with God, called great by the angels and archangels, cherubim and seraphim. How careful we should be, then, to obey the commandments of God and exercise all our trusted capabilities of talents to show to a disobedient world that we do honor God by keeping His law which He has given as a transcript of His character for all human intelligence to copy, that no mistake may be made by them to reach a lower standard than God has given them through Jesus Christ, the world's Redeemer.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 47)
In David's time he was greatly afflicted to see more than a common contempt put upon God's law. This was a time of extraordinary depravity because men had thrown off the restraint of the law of God. “They made void the law.” The law was to them a dead letter. The human beings whom God had created were refusing to receive the ten holy precepts as the rule of their life. When wickedness was so great, David expected that the forbearance of God would cease, and he sent up his heartfelt prayer, “It is time for Thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void Thy law.” [Psalm 119:126.] David thought in his day that men had exceeded the limits of God's mercy, therefore God must now work and vindicate the honor of His law and bring the wickedness of the wicked to an end.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 48)
But what influence will this widespread iniquity have upon men who love and fear God in this age of the world? By the widespread disobedience and increased swelling of iniquity will the professed Christian world be evil with the evil, unrighteous with the unrighteous? Will [the professed Christian] place his influence on the side of the great first apostate? Will the universal scorn placed upon God's law, His great moral standard of righteousness, lead him to regard that law slightly and he be swept away by the strong tide of transgression and apostasy? Will the perception of the righteous become more clear and distinct as they search and research the Scriptures, that they may learn for themselves the conditions [prescribed] for the salvation of souls?
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 49)
All who make the Word of God the man of their counsel will esteem the law of God in proportion as it is set aside and despised. The echo from David will be heard by the loyal and true subjects of Christ's kingdom: “They have made void Thy law. Therefore I love Thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold.” [Verses 126, 127.] This is the only safe and true position that those who love God sincerely and their neighbor as themselves can take. The love and steadfast promotion of the commandments of God grow with the increasing contempt which professed Christians, in harmony with the world, put on these commandments which are a transcript of the character of God. The point is fast being reached when the iniquity of the transgressor will be full. God allows nations a probation, a certain time, and He sends light and evidence which, if received, will save them. But if they refuse the message as the Jews refused the light that came into the world for their benefit, if they choose darkness rather than light, they can expect nothing but indignation and punishment. “He cometh out of his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for her iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and no more cover her slain.” [Isaiah 26:21.]
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 50)
The [professed] Christian world is advancing, as did the Jewish nation, from one degree of sinfulness to a greater, refusing all warnings, rejecting a “Thus saith the Lord,” and accrediting fables. And the Lord God will soon arise in His wrath and evidence [His judgments] in His dealings with men who are repeating the sins of the inhabitants of the Noachic world—those whose hearts, like that sinful race, were fully set in them to do evil, and as did the inhabitants of Sodom; and both were destroyed. God's long forbearance, His long patience and mercy, makes not the punishment any less severe because long delayed. The Jewish nation is before us as an example. In her destruction is typified the destruction of the world.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 51)
On one occasion Christ's lips, that had ever been opened in blessing and in encouragement to the poor, the suffering, and the humble, pronounced a curse upon those who had light presented to them but did not appreciate the light, and sought to evade the clear and distinct Word of God for man-made traditions. He declared that the blood of all the prophets which had been shed from the foundation of the world would be required of that nation He addressed. [Luke 11:50.] Long had God borne with the Jewish nation. He had arrested them again and again by His chastisement, but they provoked God by their wicked works, casting off God and refusing Jesus Christ. Each century was treasuring up wrath. Jesus bade the stubborn and impenitent to fill up the measure of their iniquity. Their wicked works were not forgotten nor overlooked, and when the mandate went forth from the sacred place of the Most High, it was because the time had come for God's retributive justice to vindicate His honor and magnify His law, and present it as honorable, sure, and steadfast forever.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 52)
In these last days the history of the Jewish nation is being repeated in the [professed] Christian world, and men are doing despite to the Spirit of God and, notwithstanding the example before them of the Jewish nation, they are doing as they did, and the time is now soon to come when it will be demonstrated that it is a fearful thing to have worn out the patience of God. There shall be throughout the whole earth a time of trouble such as there never was since there was a nation, and the punishment will fall more surely upon those who have educated and deceived the people to accept of errors in the place of truth, to turn from the commandments of God to walk in paths God has not cast up for them to walk in. God keeps a reckoning with nations, and when the law of God is fully made void, then the destruction cometh.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 53)
The Lord is visiting in the earth, permitting the hater of God and man to do his will. God's mercy is gradually being withdrawn, the calamities on land and sea are the warning of God speaking to the world of what will be. The messages and invitations of mercy are still presented to the human family while the figures of their iniquity are steadily increasing, the world and fallen churches uniting in their apostasy. The ministry of wrath is preparing, the Divine patience becoming exhausted, and the register is being kept of the swellings of iniquities with the unerring accuracy of the Omnipotent. As the figures are fast reaching their fullness, still God is at work, calling to repentance with promise of forgiveness and pardon. Every consecrated capability God will use. Every jot of consecrated influence He will require now in His service.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 54)
Ingratitude and contempt of the restraining grace of God, which would [hold] them back from presumptuous sins, pride, selfishness, and covetousness, are prevailing everywhere. And now every voice, every particle of influence, is to be exercised, not on Satan's side of the question but on the Lord's side. No new but the old commandments from the beginning are to be vindicated. Vigor of piety is to increase and make for itself a place in the earth. The standard of truth is to be elevated in new places, in regions beyond. This calls for men wholly consecrated, and the lent, entrusted capital of means man is to lay upon the altar to build up the interest of the kingdom of God in our world. Everything is to be done that can be done to reflect light to the dark places of the earth. We have little enough time to work. The Lord is coming.
(11LtMs, Ms 69a, 1896, 55)
Ms 70, 1896
Systematic Benevolence NP September 27, 1896 [typed] Previously unpublished.
God’s bounties are given to man to be acknowledged by him in returning to the Lord the portion He claims in tithes and offerings. By giving to the Lord His due, God’s children present to the world a constant evidence that they are mindful that all their mercies, all their entrusted treasures, come from God and belong to God.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 1)
Cain and Abel made offerings to God. Abel brought as his sacrifice the firstling of the flock. This was the very choicest gift he could bring, for it was the Lord’s specified claim. But Cain brought only of the fruits of the ground, and his offering was not accepted by the Lord. We are not to bring to the Lord an offering like that of Cain. We are to give the Lord our own individual lives, as the purchased possession of the beloved Son of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 2)
By our offerings we acknowledge our dependence upon God. To Him we are indebted for life itself. Were it not for His miracle-working power, which by day and by night causes vegetation to flourish, there would be no harvest to gather. The sun, which brings us light and warmth, ripening that which the earth produces, is His gift. The whole Word of God proclaims the love and benevolence of His character, and the merciful designs of His government. “The eyes of all wait upon thee,” writes the Psalmist, “and thou givest them their meat in due season. Thou openest thine hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing.” [Psalm 145:15, 16.]
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 3)
Man’s indebtedness to God, and his entire dependence upon Him, should lead him to acknowledge God as the Giver of all blessings in giving Jesus to our world. God desires that the memories of men, women, and children should be freshened in the year 1896. He desires that their hearts be filled with gratitude, and that they connect their outward, worldly blessings with the atonement of the great sacrifice made in their behalf. “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.]
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 4)
Well and appropriate was the festal anthem of the Jewish nation, “Hosanna, blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.” [Mark 11:9.] It seems strange to the human mind that in these festivals of rejoicing, which were observed after the ingathering of nature’s treasure, the sacrificial offerings should be so important a feature. To outward appearance it was a strange combination to mingle the sacrifice of beast with their expression of joy and gladness. But this was built upon the true foundation. Christ Himself was the foundation of all these ceremonial services. When, in these festal gatherings, these holy convocations, blood was shed, and offering made to the Lord, the people were thanking God for the promise of a Saviour. They were expressing the truth that without the shedding of the blood of the Son of God, there could be no forgiveness of sins. These impressive, jubilant celebrations were right and acceptable in the sight of God. Christ is to be regarded and appreciated as the Source from whence all our blessings come.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 5)
But when the Jewish people departed from God, they lost sight of the true significance of these festal celebrations. When Christ, with His divinity clothed with humanity, stood among them, witnessing their jubilant festivals and solemn services, which in type signified Himself, He was not recognized. He who was the foundation of all these services was not honored by those who were celebrating them. His eye looked upon the leafy encampments, His ear heard the words of song, and understood their import. But the actors knew not the deep meaning of the words they uttered or of the songs they sang. Thousands of voices shouted, “Hosanna, Come Saviour;” thousands of voices prayed for the coming of Him who even stood in their midst, and who they would not receive. They knew Him not.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 6)
Thus, by precept and example, the Jewish nation tore down what they were trying to maintain by outward ceremonies. So enveloped were they in darkness that the influence, produced by their words and by their sacrificial offerings and their jubilant rejoicing, was destroyed by their example. The power of the principles in representation was not accepted by God; their offerings did not bear the divine credentials, for they were neutralized by wrong practice.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 7)
Those in Christ’s day who confederated to make a grand display pledged themselves with the same mind to murder the Son of God, He who was symbolized by all their religious ceremonies. Their hearts were devoid of the spirit of true worship, and were filled with wicked purposes, hypocrisy, and all manner of corruption.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 8)
The Lord has committed to us talents of money, talents of tact and qualification for service. He allots to some five talents, to others two, and to others one. God’s whole family are responsible moral agents. From the lowliest to the highest, all are entrusted with gifts from God. They are to employ every capability for God; they are to use the smallest gift, improving it to the glory of God. By diligent exercise, their gifts will grow. The Lord has given to every human agent according to his several ability, and each one is to be a worker in God’s great moral vineyard. The Lord expects all to do their best. The interest He requires will be in proportion to the amount of entrusted capital. Now is our solemn period of sacred trust.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 9)
The incarnation of the Son of God is but dimly comprehended by those who are placed in positions of responsibility and trust. If the spirit of self-denial and self-sacrifice imbued the hearts of all those who claim to be children of God, every soul at the head and heart of the work would represent Jesus in character. But this has not been for years. Were the men in positions of responsibility connected with God, the streams of salvation flowing from Christ to human hearts, the revelation of life and immortality brought to light through Jesus Christ, would make an impression on the work and cause of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 10)
The requirement of God’s Word is that we should be like Christ, that we should bear Christ’s image, that we should follow His example, and live His pure, unselfish life. Christ went about doing good. He cheerfully gave His life to ransom the world from sin. For our sake He became poor, that we through His poverty might be made rich. Selfishness, self-pleasing, self-serving cannot be consistent with a Christian life.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 11)
We must constantly recognize, before believers and unbelievers, our dependence upon God for life, for breath, and for the use of our faculties. He is our Creator, and we are His by redemption. Our bodies, our souls, our lives, are God’s not only because they are His free gift, but because He constantly supplies us with His benefits, and gives us strength to use our blessings. God has ordained that men, women, and children should be educated by His Word to become co-laborers with Christ in the great work of dispensing His gifts to the world.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 12)
The great lesson we are daily to learn is that we are stewards of God’s gifts, stewards of money, of reason, of intellect, of influence. All these are lent talents; and God would have us realize that He has a right to mind and soul and body and spirit. “Know ye not,” asks Paul, “that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] The claim of creation is God’s claim to our entire service. The claim of redemption is a claim which we are to realize every hour of our existence. It is a claim of love, as well as of right, of love without a parallel.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 13)
The streams of salvation are poured into our hearts through the grace of Jesus Christ. All our possessions are gained for us by Him who purchased us with His own blood. God has placed signal honor on the human race, for we read, “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:12.]
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 14)
All who are sons of God will represent Christ in character. Their works will be performed by the infinite tenderness, compassion, love, and purity of the Son of God. And the more completely soul and body are yielded up to the Holy Spirit, the greater will be the fragrance of the offering. Shall we not give to Jesus all the powers He has redeemed? If you will do this, He will renew your heart, convert your conscience, sanctify your affections, purify your thoughts, and set all your powers to work in Christ’s lines. The motives and thoughts of your mind will be brought into captivity to Christ Jesus.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 15)
As Christians we are to follow our Leader step by step in the heavenward way. He has enjoined upon us, “Love not the world, neither the things of the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” This is the sign which is uplifted to distinguish between the children of God and the children of the wicked one. “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but of the world.” [1 John 2:15, 16.]
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 16)
“They that will be rich,” those who are fully determined to obtain riches and enjoy the world, “fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts.” [1 Timothy 6:9.] For a time Satan holds out before them many attractions and opportunities, but that which the Word of God pronounces the sure result, must come upon them. That snare into which they fall drowns them in destruction and perdition. “For the love of money is the root of all evil; which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” [Verse 10.]
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 17)
Those who allow a covetous disposition to take possession of them, cherish and develop those traits of character which will place their names on the record books of heaven as idolaters; and no idolater “hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.” [Ephesians 5:5.] “The wicked boasteth of his heart’s desire, and blesseth the covetous, whom the Lord abhorreth.” [Psalm 10:3.] Covetous men are classed with idolaters, adulterers, thieves, drunkards, revilers, extortioners, none of whom, the Word of God declares, shall inherit the kingdom of God. [Colossians 3:5; 1 Corinthians 6:9, 10.]
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 18)
These attributes are ever opposed to the exercise of Christian beneficence. They are the fruit of selfishness, and reveal themselves in a neglect of duty, in a failure to use God’s entrusted gifts to advance His work.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 19)
The property which we possess is not our own; it is a lent talent, and it is to be used for God. It is not to be regarded as our own, to use as our fancy shall direct. It is to be employed in doing the will of God in behalf of truth and righteousness. The Lord hath need of that talent.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 20)
Rich and poor must awaken to their God-given responsibility in this matter. God would have us work to the uttermost of our ability to honor and glorify Him. None of us are to underrate our talents, and hide them, our entrusted gifts, in the earth. However small our talent, it is important that we use it wisely. By doing good with that talent, one soul who will dedicate his powers to the Master’s service may be brought to God, and that one soul may win other souls. Thus the one talent, improved, becomes many talents.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 21)
We cannot place an accurate estimate upon our talents. God bids you use your entrusted gifts, small or large, in whatever sphere you may be called to act. His gifts are not to be absorbed in worldly pursuits. Many have left the one and the two and the five out of their reckoning, but by doing this they rob God. An account will have to be rendered for each talent; and day by day, hour by hour, by the use we make of our gifts, we are deciding our own destiny, deciding what decisions shall be given in the day of judgment. Our whole life-work is bound up in the solemn period of the judgment scene.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 22)
Bear in mind that your money belongs to the Lord. He will one day reckon with His servants, that He may know how much each one has gained by trading. Our whole eternal interests are involved in the use we make of our property, our time, our strength, our capabilities; and our reward will be proportionate to our works. “Behold I come quickly,” said Christ, “and my reward is with me, to give unto every man according as his works shall be.” [Revelation 22:12.]
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 23)
The whole value of the life-work is measured by the employment of the entrusted talents. They are the instrumentalities with which we are to work, and our final reward will depend upon the piety and the earnestness and unselfishness which characterizes our work. Day by day we are making our work for eternity. Read Malachi 3. The subject is here presented in a striking, plain, sharp, decided manner. It is not traced by human pen, but is the voice of God speaking for the benefit of all living upon the earth.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 24)
Christians must practice temperance in all things. We have no right to neglect that body and strength and soul and mind which are to be given to the Lord is consecrated service. We are made up of body and senses, as well as of conscience and affections. Our impulses and passions have their seat in the body; therefore there must be no abuse of any of our organs.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 25)
The law of temperance must pervade the whole life of a Christian. We are to keep the glory of God in view. He is to be in all our thoughts. Every influence that would captivate our thoughts, every worldly power that would divide our mind, must be cut away. The love of worldly things must not be allowed to divert the mind from God. We are under sacred obligations to God to govern our body, to rule our appetites and passions, so that they shall not lead us away from purity and holiness, or take our minds from the work God requires us to do.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 26)
*****
Life is the gift of God. A misuse of any of the organs of the body shortens life, reduces that period which God designs we should live. If unhealthful habits are carelessly indulged—in late hours, immoderate eating, the gratification of the appetite for dainties at the expense of health, thus laying the foundation for feebleness, the neglect of physical exercise, in overwork of the mind and body, in allowing the passions to be indulged—the nervous system becomes unbalanced. Those who thus shorten their lives by disregarding nature’s laws, are guilty of practicing robbery toward God.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 27)
God desires that we shall have a care, a regard, and an appreciation for our bodies—the temple of the Holy Spirit. He desires that the body shall be kept in the most healthful condition possible, and under the most spiritual influences, that the talents that He has given us may be used to render perfect service to Him.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 28)
There should be on the part of each one an intelligent knowledge of the human structure, that the body may be preserved in the healthful condition necessary in order to do the work of trading upon the Lord’s goods, and that every talent may be employed with the glory of God in view. Those who form habits that lessen physical force, that weaken the brain nerve power, and lessen the vigor of mind or body, are making themselves inefficient for the work that God has given them to do. On the other hand, a healthful, wholesome life is most favorable for the perfection of Christian character, and the development of all the powers of mind and body.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 29)
The very uncertainty of life should cause every human agent to feel the necessity of working to the utmost of his ability to do good and become a blessing to humanity. No one is sure of a day. Accident, sickness, or death may come at any moment. We, none of us know how long our life will last, and while we have it in our possession, it should be most precious in our estimation. It is our duty to keep our bodies, as the property of God, free from all disease and preserve them in health. We are not our own. This life is not ours. We are Christ’s purchased possession. And we read in God’s Word, “His servants shall serve him.” [Revelation 22:3.] Then let us personally devote our lives in doing God’s will.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 30)
If our individual influence is to be rightly used, and increase in efficiency, the first great secret for us to recognize is that whatever degree of influence we possess, be it great or small, it will increase by being exercised, for God co-operates with the human agent. One may be given credit for natural energy of character, which, if used to honor and glorify God, will increase in growth and accomplish much good; but God is the Source from whence all our capabilities spring. He is personally dealing with each one of us, and we are to recognize the talents that He has bestowed, and make the best use of them. They must not be allowed to weaken and decay through misuse and indolence on the part of the human agent. The words of inspiration exhort us: “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” [Philippians 2:12, 13.]
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 31)
It is our privilege to increase our influence in whatever sphere of life we may be placed. We are God’s servants, to whom we must individually yield ourselves. We are to obey Him; for He knows just what He would have us do as His workers, and what position we can acceptably fill. He wants each individual believer to act the part assigned him. He supplies by His own power those points of character that are essential for the very place that He wishes each to fill. The life that is dedicated to God, He will not leave to become the victim to Satan’s temptations, nor to be used as natural inclination may choose. The true believer is brought into close contact with his Redeemer. “Come unto me,” He says, “all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.]
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 32)
Here we have plainly revealed to us that if we preserve the meekness and lowliness of Christ, if we walk humbly by the side of the Burden-bearer, if we come in close contact with our Redeemer, in being thus yoked up with Him, He will impart to us His own individuality.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 33)
As we individually exercise for usefulness in His service the endowments given us of God, we become one with Christ, and our responsibility is in and through Him. But the human agent, on his part, must not attempt to shape circumstances for himself; he must avoid everything that he knows will have a tendency to dampen or extinguish earnest zeal and devotedness for the service of God. The love of God cannot live in the heart where selfishness is carefully enshrined. Fleshly lusts are against the holy principles of purity and godliness.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 34)
The human agent himself often makes many of the worries and trials that press his path by endeavoring to meet the world’s standard. But the Lord desires that he shall fix his eyes upon Jesus, and study God’s will. In thousands and ten times ten thousand ways the Lord has given knowledge and endowments and opportunities to man, that by their diligent use he may become better qualified to do the duties and bear the responsibilities that are required of him as the servant of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 35)
Every one may add to his talents by improving those which he already has. In looking to, and fashioning the mind after, outward surroundings, we can never increase our ability. The Lord expects us to gain a valuable knowledge, to increase our ability, to improve the talents that we have. We can only do this by working on the plan of addition. And if we do this, we shall find that God is working for us on the broader plan of multiplication. He says, “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.” [2 Peter 1:2-4.]
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 36)
Read still further in this chapter and see the plan of addition worked out and proved: “And beside all 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.” [Verses 5-8.] This is sanctified ambition, to advance, to increase in wisdom, and in favor with God and man, to live the Word of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 37)
Every true Christian will be ready for instant action, depending not on his own preparedness, but trusting in God. He will be instant in season, and out of season. Whatever the circumstances may be, he will be armed and equipped, and standing prepared for service. At all times and in all places, he will be ready to speak, to pray, to sing the praises of God, to use his influence for the Master. His sanctified energies and endowments will be employed in exalting the Lord Jesus, in magnifying the truth, and in extending the interest of the kingdom of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 38)
All are to stand as minutemen, ready to file into service at a moment’s warning, losing no opportunity that offers itself to hold forth the Word of life, to make known to others the unsearchable riches of Christ, for that opportunity neglected is forever beyond recall. Be ever ready to make the most of every presented opportunity for exercising your influence for the Master. From hour to hour in your varied life, these opportunities will open before you. They will be constantly coming and going. That opportunity of speaking in the hearing of some soul the Word of life may never offer itself again. Therefore let no one venture to say, “I pray thee have me excused.” [Luke 14:18, 19.]
(11LtMs, Ms 70, 1896, 39)
Ms 71, 1896
Higher Education NP March 14, 1896 [typed] Previously unpublished. +
Higher education is ever to be kept before the students in our schools as that knowledge which is secured by diligently searching the Scriptures. If the parents and teachers had taught children the positive requirements of God, as God has commanded them to do, thousands would today be keeping the commandments of God. But every device of Satan has been set in operation to make of none effect the law of God, and to make intricate that which God has made plain.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 1)
The whole plan of salvation is plainly delineated in the Word of God; there every obligation is revealed, and every privilege declared to those who seek diligently to the words of God in regard to obedience to His holy law. Those who keep this law will live in it, but to those who transgress, the result is expulsion from the presence of God. Blessings follow in the path of obedience, but the transgression of God’s law will bring its sure result. Impiety, ungodliness, sins of every stripe and type are seen in the world, for in making void the law of God the human family are doing the very work which God has said would bring calamity, disease, and death upon the world. God’s delineation of the result of disobedience and transgression has been and is being fulfilled, and yet man goes on in continued defiance of God and His law.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 2)
If the words of God, spoken in the mount, had ever been kept before children, the Lord would have had an army of missionary workers. His godly instructions would have been treasured and made to govern the whole conduct of life. But the precepts presented before children by their parents and before congregations by the ministers, have been in direct opposition to the Word of God. The precepts of the law of God, brought into the home life and carried out in all business transactions, would fit a people to regain Paradise which was lost by disobedience; but man has taught for doctrines the commandments of men, making a false sabbath as a god which all are to reverence. And if this false god is not reverenced, the stocks, imprisonment, confiscation of goods, the chain gang, await the offender.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 3)
The moral fall of the churches is described by John in the Revelation. “And after these things,” he says, “I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 4)
“And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.” [Revelation 18:1-5.] We are now on the eve of the fulfillment of the greatest work the world has ever witnessed. Soon the angels of heaven all bear the message on behalf of God’s commandment-keeping people, “Reward her even as she has rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works; in the cup which she hath filled, fill to her double.” [Verse 6.]
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 5)
All that the courts of justice have done in framing laws directly in opposition to God’s law, in oppressing His people by compelling them to observe man-made statutes, will be visited upon them. While they enforce these statutes as supreme, they themselves are defying God, the Sovereign of the universe, to His face, by transgressing His law, obedience to which would have proved their highest good. The evil that results from ignoring the law of God and establishing human laws, executing them against those who are loyal and true to God, delights Satan, for it is working out his attributes.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 6)
God has borne long with the perversity of man, but a time is just before us which will make such a stir in our world as never has been made before. The proclamation goes forth, “Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works; in the cup which she hath filled, fill to her double. How much she hath glorified herself and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her; for she saith in her heart, I sit a queen, and am no widow, and shall see no sorrow. Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire; for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her.” [Verses 6-8.]
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 7)
In openly making void the law of God and exalting human laws, the church has been living in transgression of God’s Word. She has turned away from the truth of God’s Word. The words spoken from the cloudy pillar to Moses to give to the chosen people of God, and by them to be given to the world, have been discarded and disobeyed, while human laws and human traditions have been exalted. Those who keep God’s memorial Sabbath are hated, and every charge which can be invented to make them trouble, is carried into effect.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 8)
But this is the last great effort which satanic agencies, united with deceived and corrupted churches, will make. When all human calculation seems powerless and the case is desperate, God will interfere, and will be distinctly recognized. He will no longer be robbed of the honor due to His name through the perversity of men who seek glory for themselves. He will work when every human power is of no avail. When the height of guiltiness is reached, when the laws of men are made supreme and the law of God made void, God avenges the people who have vindicated His law.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 9)
The righteous are to pray as never before. God has promised that He will avenge His own elect who cry day and night to Him, though He bear long with them. When truth appears to be overborne by falsehood, when an idol sabbath is erected as was the golden image in the plains of Dura, when the rulers take their place to compel the conscience, and by legislation exalt a spurious sabbath, Protestantism abjures the principles which gave her the name of Protestant, and supports an institution of the Papacy. Then it is time for God to work in indignation and vengeance. To those who give their power to suppress religious liberty He says, “Therefore shall her plagues come in one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be utterly burned with fire; for strong is the Lord God who judgeth her.” [Verse 8.]
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 10)
At Calvary God declared Himself as a God who will avenge sin, giving unmistakable evidence that He will punish sin by giving His only begotten Son as man’s substitute. There is not a sinner in our world whose sins were not laid upon this surety. Our work is to accept this grand and glorious provision, although it is incomprehensible and mysterious that the punishment of every sinner was laid upon Jesus, that the guilt of every individual pressed upon Him. Christ alone by bearing both the divine and the human nature, could be a sin-bearer for the human race. Every soul who repents of his sin, finds forgiveness through Christ’s righteousness, But all who do not believe in Christ as their personal Saviour will bear the full penalty of their sins. “Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” [Galatians 6:7.]
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 11)
I am pained beyond measure as I see how full of unbelief and how far behind the light those are who have had the truth presented to them in clear lines over and over again. Some of the teachers in our schools, the principal leaders in our institutions, are apparently like blind men. They are not keeping pace with the unfolding of the truth, but are, as it were, asleep, discerning not the signs of the times. The teachers who have pursued the same old routine in our schools, who have failed to accept and appreciate the light as it has come to the people of God, have not received that fitness which will prepare them to walk in further light. They are not pleased when light comes. The Word of God has been made of none effect by those who have thus not received and obeyed the manifestations of the Spirit of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 12)
The work of the Holy Spirit is to bring men to repentance by revealing truth. Not new truth alone, but old truth, which has been forgotten and buried up, is to be presented to man in a forcible light. “He shall testify of me,” said Christ of the Holy Spirit. [John 15:26.] “He shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you.” [John 16:14.] “He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” [John 14:26.] After His resurrection, Christ appeared to the two disciples as they travelled to Emmaus, “and beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself.” [Luke 24:27.]
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 13)
If parents and teachers would dwell largely upon these things, we should see far more accomplished in our schools than we see now. But the Bible is made secondary. The words of men, their traditions, customs, and practices hold the minds of the teachers in regard to what constitutes essential education. In their work of educating they have turned from the mount where the voice of God was heard, presenting the principles of holiness, justice, and mercy. Every other study must not be brought into active school life. The one knowledge which is essential is the knowledge of God. “This is life eternal that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.]
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 14)
“Who is the wise man that may understand this? and who is he to whom the mouth of the Lord hath spoken, that he may declare it, for what the land perisheth and is burned to like a wilderness, that none passeth through. And the Lord saith, Because they have forsaken my law, which I set before them, and have not obeyed my voice, neither therein; but have walked after the imagination of their own heart, and after Baalim, which their fathers taught them. Therefore thus saith the Lord of hosts, the God of Israel: Behold, I will feed them, even this people, with wormwood, and give them water of gall to drink.”“Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the Lord which exercise loving-kindness, judgment, righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the Lord.” [Jeremiah 9:12-15, 23, 24.]
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 15)
God has made every provision that His people may perfect a character which He can approve, by obtaining a knowledge of Him and of the laws of His kingdom. But during the whole period of probation Satan will never fold his hands and go to sleep. He will assail every one with his temptations, for he is working in every way to gain the world to His service. We shall be confronted again and again by his power; our spiritual foe will never relax his efforts to make the law of God objectionable to us and to fill our minds with enmity against that law. “The carnal mind is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.” [Romans 8:7.] Its imperfection opposes perfection; its impurity is not in harmony with purity. Sin cannot bind up with holiness.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 16)
“The wages of sin is death.” [Romans 6:23.] There is no possibility that God will abolish His law to meet the sinner in his fallen state; the transgressor of law must reap that which he has sown. The Governor of the universe has a law, and penalties to meet the transgression of that law. But “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.] Not by passing over sin does God save the sinner; He saves him by the gift of His only begotten Son, who was made a substitute and a surety for the transgressor. Christ, the innocent One, was treated as a criminal, that the sinner, through faith in Him, might be treated as innocent. He suffered not only in body, but in soul, to secure the ransom of the sinner. As He bore the guilt of the whole world, He endured the hiding of the Father’s face. He suffered the wrath of an offended God as the sinner will suffer who continues to remain in impenitence and transgression.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 17)
The Son of the Infinite God was punished for man’s transgression, that sinners might be forgiven through repentance toward God faith toward in our Lord Jesus Christ. One who was equal with God became a sin-bearer for the world. The price paid for the forgiveness of sin is beyond all computation, for it was the punishment of Jesus Christ. Would that every student could have a deeper knowledge of what sin is. If every one who claims to believe on Jesus Christ as their substitute and surety would study and more fully comprehend the plan of redemption, they would present before the universe of heaven and before the world characters that would have a convincing power upon transgressors.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 18)
The Lord Jesus Christ came to our world to vindicate the honor and glory of God. In His life He withstood every temptation that man is called to endure, bearing a living testimony that law of God can be obeyed by humanity through divine power. By His perfect obedience to the law Christ testified that by offering Himself for the sins of world He became our Sin-bearer, the bread of life to all who eat of Him. “For the bread of life is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.”“And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.” [John 6:33, 35.] Jesus is to the world as the tree of life to which Adam and Eve had access in the garden of Eden. When by disobedience the fallen pair were deprived of the fruit of this tree, they lost everlasting life. The tree of knowledge became a curse to them, not because of its poisonous qualities, but because of their disobedience. This tree was attractive to them, and in their great desire for it, they partook of it, and let their purity and allegiance to God.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 19)
But Christ presents Himself as the Lifegiver, the tree of life to the world. By feeding upon His flesh and drinking His blood, our spiritual life is perfected. “I am the living bread which came down from heaven;” Christ said, “if any man eat of this bread he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.”“The Jews therefore strove among themselves saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat? Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me and I in him.”“As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father; so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me.” [Verses 51-57.] Thus the human family are placed in the same relation to Christ as Christ was to God.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 20)
When Jesus taught these things in the synagogue at Capernaum the Jews mocked at the ideas He presented. Even the disciples stumbled over His words in regard to eating His flesh and drinking His blood. They were easily influenced by the words of the Jews, who, before them, pretended to take the words of Christ in the most literal sense. But Christ was presenting before them the benefits all would secure who continued to believe on Him. By accepting the atonement He had made for them, they would gain eternal life. “It is the Spirit that quickeneth,” Christ continued, “the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” [Verse 63.]
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 21)
Jesus gave these words as a last test and trial for those who have not been receiving His words as as spirit and life. Some, who had not genuine faith in Him, were offended at His words. They were living upon the doctrines, customs, and maxims, which had been, and were still, repeated by the Jewish rabbis; and their experience in spiritual things was after the order and character of this food. They did nor receive and eat the words of Christ as hungry men eat temporal food. They did not drink in the truth of His words when He said that He was the life of the world. They did not bring the truth into their practical life, and their souls were not strengthened, revived, and conformed to the life and character of Christ; the useless forms, multitudinous exactions, man-made ordinances and commandments of the Pharisees were exalted by them, and therefore they had no root in themselves.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 22)
“There are some of you that believe not.”“For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given him of my Father. From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and art sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.” [Verses 64-69.] Simon Peter and the rest of the twelve, save Judas, became more fully established by this experience; but the disciples who went away from Jesus did not, at any time, return to Him. They had taken their side, as many will today; they had chosen the form without the spirit, the husks without the kernel. In every age people have turned away from truth in the same way, placing themselves in the army of the great deceiver by failing to accept truth and make it a part of themselves.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 23)
The people did not believe Christ when He told them in the synagogue that they must receive eternal life by eating His flesh and drinking His blood, thus becoming a partaker of the divine nature bequeathed to them in the pardon of sins, as the result of the great sacrifice He was making on their behalf; but if they had searched the Scriptures and brought the words of Christ into their practical life, into the muscles and sinews of their spiritual life, the truth would have proved to be a quickening spirit. Being incorporated into the soul, it would have become life and peace and assurance through faith and prayer.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 24)
The truth as it is in Christ is a grand and glorious subject. Of himself man is unable to comprehend it; without a living faith in Christ he cannot give [to] truth that honor which it deserves. Only by giving to our spiritual being that food, which secures to us a character like Christ’s, can we reflect His image. Only by acquainting ourselves with the character of Christ can we arrive at a knowledge of God. Our life must be hid with Christ in God. Had the Jews had a correct knowledge of God, they would have recognized the perfect likeness of Christ. The regenerating spirit of Christ works upon the hearts of all who receive Him, giving the true knowledge of God in the character of Jesus Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 25)
“For this cause,” said Paul in writing to the Ephesians, “I bow my knees unto the Father of the Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” [Ephesians 3:14-19.] All who believe in Jesus Christ, studying His life and voicing His words, will be unable to think of anything that can compare with the excellence of His character; and they will turn from every other representation as dim and imperfect.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 26)
The Holy Spirit never leaves that soul unassisted who is looking to Jesus; He takes of the things of Christ and shows them to him, strengthening the vision to behold Christ. If the eye is kept fixed upon Jesus, the work of the Holy Spirit ceases not until the soul is conformed to His image. Then, turning from the common and uninviting, we all, with open face, can behold in Christ our Redeemer, the glory of the Lord. Our minds become as His mind as we contemplate the perfection and excellence of His character.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 27)
A life of conformity to the image of Christ is a life of prayer and praise from the human agent which will defeat the lie of Satan that man cannot keep the commandments of God. By partaking of the divine nature, man can be obedient to all the commandments of God. “The glory which thou gavest me,” said Christ, “I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one.”“I in them and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me.” [John 17:22, 23.]
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 28)
This is the education all will receive who are learners in the school of Christ; this is higher education. But there is constant danger of our institutions travelling over the same ground as did the Jews, conforming to customs, practices, and traditions which God has not given. Some cling to old habits and a love of different studies with tenacity and firmness, as if the salvation of both teachers and students depended upon books which have been placed in the schools. By doing this they turn away from the special light God has given in His Word, and give to the students a deficient education.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 29)
Christ taught the people as one having authority, and not as the scribes. There was an uncertain hesitancy about their manner of teaching. They labored to maintain their influence by persevering repetition of childish tradition. Higher education did not come through their public teaching, for they dwelt upon a boundless round of trivial ceremonies which were powerless to leave one correct impression upon the mind or character. These foolish religious ceremonies were confirmed by authority which had not the least significance, for it did not proceed from God. If anything would put God from their hearts, it was these outward observances.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 30)
As these teachers listened to the words of Christ, they were deeply stirred in spirit; He spake as never man spake, repeating nothing which had formed the discourses of the rabbis, but laying before them new and intensely interesting subjects. His momentous appeals went to their hearts and consciences, causing them to realize that they were men who should be striving for immortality rather than dwelling on trivialities unworthy of their attention. They were convicted and convinced that He spoke the truth, but they would not give up their own traditions or their religious ceremonies or practices for the words of Christ. This was their condemnation.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 31)
This is the reason for the feeble piety which exists among believers today. Their minds are so occupied with a variety of other things that there is no room for Christ to be an abiding Guest in the soul temple. All time lost in that which does not cause the soul to become more assimilated into the likeness of Christ is so much time lost for eternity, and this we cannot afford; for every moment is freighted with eternal interests.
(11LtMs, Ms 71, 1896, 32)
Ms 72, 1896
Amusements NP February 9, 1896 [typed] Previously unpublished.
“As it was in the days of Noe, so also shall it be in the days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all.” [Luke 17:26, 27.]
(11LtMs, Ms 72, 1896, 1)
At the present day the line of demarcation between professed Christians and worldings is scarcely discernable. But unless the preacher of godliness is abiding in Christ and receiving nourishment from Him as the branch receives nourishment from the vine, he cannot in any way help the sinner. “Watch and pray” said Christ to His disciples, “lest ye enter into temptation.” [Mark 14:38.] Satan is spreading his net to catch unwary souls, and those who are not on guard will be taken in the net of the wily foe. The careless ones, indifferent to the warnings of the Word of God, will be constantly in trouble through their own natural, hereditary tendencies, and a separation will take place between them and the divine Teacher. By them the Light of life will not be discerned, and the knowledge of the way of righteousness fades from their souls.
(11LtMs, Ms 72, 1896, 2)
It has always been essential that God’s people should be distinct and peculiar, “in the world, but not of the world” [see John 17:11, 14]; but it is more necessary now than ever; for we are living in the very last days of this earth’s history. Satan has come down with great power, working “with all deceivableness of unrighteousness,”“because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.”“As a roaring lion he walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” [2 Thessalonians 2:10; Revelation 12:12; 1 Peter 5:8.] Every amusement that will occupy the minds of the people is being set forth to attract and ensnare the youth. Men of gray hairs, and those who have come to years of maturity, are co-operating with evil angels to make the amusement question the great and all-absorbing theme of the day, and they have so far succeeded that the most debasing influences that prevail, because of the passion for amusement, have come to be regarded as on a level with duty.
(11LtMs, Ms 72, 1896, 3)
Pleasure and amusement is the prevailing sentiment of this age. Betting and horse racing for a meager reward creates an enthusiasm that is not aroused by subjects of eternal interest, but which overshadows the important themes Jesus came to our world to make prominent. Cricket, baseball, gambling, and the variety of plans and methods which the synagogue of Satan has prepared to entrap unwary souls, are common and all-absorbing. Papers filled with the recital of the success of these various games are placed before the young as food for their minds, that the matter of amusement may predominate over their eternal interests.
(11LtMs, Ms 72, 1896, 4)
This is the very work that Satan has meant should be done, that the inhabitants of the world today should become as the inhabitants of the flood. In the days of Noah, God saw “that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” [Genesis 6:5.] “And the Lord said, My Spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years.” [Verse 3.] “And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.
(11LtMs, Ms 72, 1896, 5)
“And the Lord said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man and beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made them. But Noah found grace in the sight of the Lord,” for he “was a just man, and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.”“The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with violence and God looked upon the earth, and, behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth. And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and behold, I will destroy them with the earth.” [Verses 6-9, 11-13.]
(11LtMs, Ms 72, 1896, 6)
There exists in our world a similar state of things as existed before the flood. The religion of the Bible is a very rare thing. Amusements and ambitious projects are being constantly invented to glorify and exalt man to the conclusion of the One who has created man, and who has redeemed him at an infinite cost to heaven. The love of pleasure is increasing; an appetite is being indulged for those things which have no place in nature, but which are introduced by a power that is from Satan, that the moral image of God may be defaced in man.
(11LtMs, Ms 72, 1896, 7)
With His divinity veiled by humanity, Christ came to this world that He might touch humanity. By becoming one with us He became our example, a Pattern for all humanity, in order that, by following His example, the image of God might be restored in us. In the beginning, when darkness was upon the face of the earth, “God said, Let there be light: and there was light.” [Genesis 1:3.] And when spiritual darkness covered the earth, and gross darkness the people, God said again, “Let there be light.” He sent Jesus, “the light of the world,” to bring truth to the world. [John 8:12.] “The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.” [John 1:14.] The divine instructor came when darkness appeared to be universal and complete. The Lord of truth looked from heaven, but darkness covered the earth like a funeral pall, and His image could not be discerned. He must descend and shine.
(11LtMs, Ms 72, 1896, 8)
When Christ came to our world, many were hungering and thirsting for the knowledge of God and virtue. But many were sitting in darkness and in the shadow of death. Christ came to counteract the work of the destroyer by restoring, in all who would receive Him, the moral image of God. In the synagogue at Nazareth He announced His work: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the broken-hearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering the sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised.” [Luke 4:18.] The prophet says of Him, “The Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising,”“and the isles shall wait for his law.” [Isaiah 60:3; 42:4.]
(11LtMs, Ms 72, 1896, 9)
He is predicted as the Messenger of the Covenant who was to be revealed, and the Sun of Righteousness, who was to arise and shed forth His beams throughout the world. “Hear, O heavens, and be astonished, O earth!” When the fulness of the time had come, and the promised One came to our world, it was no less a personage than the only begotten Son of God, the Eternal Word. It was a surprise of grace to all the heavenly host. Mercy and benevolence came to dwell upon the earth to subdue the stubborn, obdurate heart, and to win the heart and mind of man by revealing God in human flesh.
(11LtMs, Ms 72, 1896, 10)
During Christ’s work on the earth, Satan disputed every inch of the way with Him. He called together his hellish councils, and with untiring perseverance, earnestness, and energy brought in the same extravagance and excesses in intemperance and pleasure that he is bringing in today to enamor and attract the minds of the people, from the highest to the lowest. He filled the mind with imagery, presented in plays and scenes, which would bewilder the senses and mingle the pure, the elevated, and the sacred with the common, bare, and spurious.
(11LtMs, Ms 72, 1896, 11)
Everything Satan could do, he has done to defile the imagination and corrupt the morals, that the image of God might be obliterated in man. Thus it was in the days of Noah. The warning was given to the inhabitants of the Noachic world, but they laughed it to scorn, and scoffed at the preacher of righteousness, calling him a crazy fanatic for building an ark on dry land. But when their probation was fully expired, the rain descended in torrents, and they reaped the fruits of their disobedience. “As it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man.” [Luke 17:26.]
(11LtMs, Ms 72, 1896, 12)
Ms 73, 1896
The Manifest Working of the Holy Spirit at Battle Creek College NP April 30, 1896 This manuscript is published in entirety in SpTEd 77-83.
“Then Jesus said unto them, yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth. While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of the light.” [John 12:35, 36.] Some men in the Battle Creek college have had a false idea as to what constitutes duty. The Lord God of heaven had caused His Holy Spirit from time to time to move upon the students in the school, that they might acknowledge Him in all their ways, so that He might direct their paths.
(11LtMs, Ms 73, 1896, 1)
At times the manifestation of the Holy Spirit has been so decided that studies were forgotten, and the greatest Teacher the world ever knew made His voice heard, saying, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls: for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] The Lord knocked at the door of hearts, and I saw that angels of God were present. There seemed to be no special effort on the part of the teachers to influence these students to give their attention to the things of God; but God had a Watcher in the school, and though His presence was unseen, yet His influence was discernable. Again and again there has been manifest tokens of the presence of the holy Watchman in the school. Again and again the voice of Jesus has spoken to the students saying, “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.” [Revelation 3:20.]
(11LtMs, Ms 73, 1896, 2)
The Lord has been waiting long to impart the greatest, truest joys to the heart. All those who look to Him with undivided hearts He will greatly bless. Those who have thus looked to Him have caught more distinct views of Jesus as their Sin-bearer, their all-sufficient sacrifice, and have been hid in the cleft of the rock to behold the Lamb of God who taketh away the sins of the world. When we have a sense of His all-sufficient sacrifice, our lips are tuned to the highest, loftiest themes of praise. When the students thus behold Jesus, the suspension of their studies was counted as no loss. They were catching glimpses of Him who is invisible. They earnestly sought the living God, and the live coal of pardon was placed upon their lips.
(11LtMs, Ms 73, 1896, 3)
The Holy Spirit wrought not only for those who had lost their first love, but also for souls who had never placed themselves on the Lord’s side. The holy Watcher drew these souls that there might be an ingathering to Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit wrought so that the Lord’s presence could be distinguished, and His work acknowledged. Tokens of His grace and favor called forth rejoicing from the hearts of those who were thus blessed, and it was known that the salvation of God was among His people. The bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness was shining into the chambers of the heart and mind.
(11LtMs, Ms 73, 1896, 4)
The manifestation of the Holy Spirit was similar to its manifestation in the days of Samuel and Saul in the school of the prophets. On one occasion the showers of grace were outpoured, and all that were gathered together were prophesying. Saul drew near, and though when he came he was filled with a restless, envious, jealous spirit because of David, yet he caught the spirit that was animating those who were praising God, and he also sang praises. The word of inquiry went out, “Is Saul also among the prophets?” [1 Samuel 19:24.] The Lord would be glorified if hallelujahs of rejoicing were heard in our schools. The willing and obedient who have received the teaching of the Holy Spirit will rejoice in the Lord, saying, “O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good, and his mercy endureth forever.” [Psalm 106:1.]
(11LtMs, Ms 73, 1896, 5)
If the people of God rightly appreciated the temporal and spiritual blessings which the Lord has poured upon them through Jesus Christ, continual praise would be upon their lips. We have had an experience in being relieved from spiritual bondage similar to that of the Israelites who were set free from the bondage of Egypt. Have we not had chains of oppression broken, and Red Seas of impossibilities opened up before us? Have we not been fed with manna from heaven? Have not the words of Christ come home to the soul, “This is the bread which cometh down from heaven that a man may eat thereof and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven. If any man eat of this bread he shall live forever: and the bread which I shall give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” [John 6:50, 51.] We are to continually feast upon this heavenly manna. We are to drink continually of the Water of life. Jesus says, “If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink.” [John 7:37.]
(11LtMs, Ms 73, 1896, 6)
Would it not be well for us to observe holidays unto God, when we could revive in our mind the memory of His dealing with us? Would it not be well to consider His past blessings, to remember the impressive warnings that have come home to our souls so that we shall not forget God? The world has many holidays, and men become engrossed with games, with horse races, with gambling, smoking and drunkenness. They show plainly under what banner they are standing. They make it evident that they do not stand under the banner of the Prince of life, but that the prince of darkness rules and controls them.
(11LtMs, Ms 73, 1896, 7)
Shall not the people of God more frequently have holy convocations in which to thank God for His rich blessings? Shall we not find time in which to praise Christ for His rest, peace, and joy, and make manifest by daily thanksgiving that we appreciate the great sacrifice made in our behalf, that we may be partakers of the divine nature? Shall we not speak of the prospective rest in the Paradise of God, and tell of the honor and glory in store for the servants of Jehovah? “My people shall dwell in a peaceable habitation, and in sure dwellings, and in quiet resting places.” [Isaiah 32:18.] We are homeward bound, seeking a better country, even an heavenly.
(11LtMs, Ms 73, 1896, 8)
The world is full of excitement. Men act as though they had gone mad over low, cheap, unsatisfying things. How excited have I seen them over the result of a cricket match! I have seen the streets in Sydney densely crowded for blocks, and on inquiring what was the occasion of the excitement, was told that it was because some expert player of cricket had won the game.
(11LtMs, Ms 73, 1896, 9)
I felt disgusted. Why are not the chosen of God more enthusiastic? They are striving for an immortal crown, striving for a home where there will be no need of the light, of the sun or moon, or of lighted candle, for the Lord God giveth them light, and they shall reign forever and ever. They will have a life that measures with the life of God; but the candle of the wicked shall be put out in ignominious darkness, and then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in kingdom of their Father.
(11LtMs, Ms 73, 1896, 10)
Why should we not expect the holy Watcher to come into our schools? Our youth are there to receive an education so that they may do all in their power to acquire a knowledge of the Most High God, and to make Him known as the only true God. They are there to learn how to present Christ as a sin-pardoning Savior. They are there to gather up precious rays of light, in order that they may diffuse light again. They are there to show forth the loving kindness of the Lord, to speak of His glory, to sound forth the praises of Him who hath called us out of darkness into His marvelous light. Those who are faithful will be clothed with white robes, will have palms of victory in their hands, and will stand in the heavenly courts. John says, “I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; and cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.” [Revelation 7:9, 10.]
(11LtMs, Ms 73, 1896, 11)
Again and again the heavenly messenger has been sent to the school. When His presence has been acknowledged the darkness has fled away and the light has shone forth, and hearts have been drawn to God. The last words spoken by Christ to John were, “And 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.] When we respond to God, and say, “Lord, we come,” then with joy will we draw water out of the wells of salvation. Shall we not keep holy festivals unto God? Shall we not show that we have some enthusiasm in His service? With the grand ennobling theme of salvation before us, shall we be as cold as statues of marble? If men can become so excited over a cricket match, or a horse race, or over foolish things that bring no good to anyone, shall we be unmoved when the plan of salvation is unfolded before us? Let the school and the church henceforth have festivals of rejoicing unto the Lord.
(11LtMs, Ms 73, 1896, 12)
I do not recommend pleasure parties where young people assemble together for mere amusement, to engage in cheap, nonsensical talk, and where loud boisterous laughter is to be heard. I do not recommend this kind of a gathering, where there is a letting down of dignity and the scene as one of weakness and folly. Many times young men for whom heavenly intelligences have been waiting in order to number them as missionaries for God, are drawn into the gatherings for amusements and are carried away with Satan’s fascinations. Instead of being afraid to continue their association with girls whose depth of mind is easily measured, whose character is of a cheap order, they become enamored of them, and enter into an engagement.
(11LtMs, Ms 73, 1896, 13)
Satan knows that if these young men enter into an engagement with cheap minded, pleasure-loving, worldly-minded, irreligious young women, they will bind themselves to stumbling blocks. Their usefulness will be largely crippled if not utterly destroyed. If the young men themselves succeed in making an unreserved surrender to God, yet they will find that they are greatly crippled by being bound to an untrained, undisciplined, un-Christlike wife, who is dead to God, dead to piety, and dead to true holiness. Their lives will prove unsatisfying and unhappy.
(11LtMs, Ms 73, 1896, 14)
These gatherings for amusement confuse faith, and make the motive mixed and uncertain. The Lord accepts no divided heart. He wants the whole man. He made all there is of man. He offered a complete sacrifice to redeem the body and soul of man. That which He requires of those whom He has created and redeemed is summed up in these words, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind ... Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” [Matthew 22:37-39.] God will accept nothing less than this.
(11LtMs, Ms 73, 1896, 15)
Ms 74, 1896
God in Nature NP May 20, 1896 [typed] This manuscript is published in entirety in CT 185-188.
While the Bible should hold the first place in the education of children and youth, the book of nature is next in importance. God’s created works testify to His love and power. He has called the world into being, with all that it contains. God is a lover of the beautiful; and in the world which He has fitted up for us He has not only given us everything necessary for our comfort, but He has filled the heavens and the earth with beauty. We see His love and care in the rich fields of autumn, and His smile in the glad sunshine. His hand has made the castle-like rocks and the towering mountains. The lofty trees grow at His command; He has spread earth’s green velvet carpet and dotted it with shrubs and flowers. Why has He clothed the earth and trees with living green instead of a dark, somber brown? Is it not that they may be more pleasing to the eye? And shall not our hearts be filled with gratitude as we read the evidence of His wisdom and love in the wonders of His creation?
(11LtMs, Ms 74, 1896, 1)
The same creative energy that brought the world into existence is still exerted in upholding the universe and continuing the operations of nature. The hand of God guides the planets in their orderly march through the heavens. It is not because of inherent power that year by year the earth continues her motion round the sun and produces her bounties. The word of God controls the elements. He covers the heavens with clouds and prepares rain for the earth. He makes the valleys fruitful and “grass to grow upon the mountains.” [Psalm 147:8.] It is through His power that vegetation flourishes, that the leaves appear and the flowers bloom.
(11LtMs, Ms 74, 1896, 2)
The whole natural world is designed to be an interpreter of the things of God. To Adam and Eve in their Eden home, nature was full of the knowledge of God, teeming with divine instruction. It was vocal with the voice of wisdom to their attentive ears. Wisdom spoke to the eye and was received into the heart, for they communed with God in His created works. As soon as the holy pair transgressed the law of the Most High, the brightness from the face of God departed from the face of nature. Nature is now marred and defiled by sin. But God’s object lessons are not obliterated; even now, rightly studied and interpreted, she speaks of her Creator.
(11LtMs, Ms 74, 1896, 3)
As divine truth is revealed in Holy Writ, so it is reflected, as from a mirror, in the face of nature; and through His creation we become acquainted with the Creator. And so the book of nature becomes a great lesson book, which instructors who are wise can use in connection with the Scriptures to guide lost sheep back to the fold of God. As the works of God are studied the Holy Spirit flashes conviction into the mind. It is not the conviction which logical reasoning produces, but unless the mind has become too dark to know God, the eye too dim to see Him, the ear too dull to hear His voice, a deeper meaning is grasped and the sublime, spiritual truths of the written Word are impressed on the heart.
(11LtMs, Ms 74, 1896, 4)
The most effective way to teach the heathen who know not God is through His works. In this way, far more readily than by any other method, they can be made to realize the difference between their idols, the works of their own hands, and the true God, the Maker of heaven and earth. The same principle applies to the ignorant, neglected colored race in that part of America where slavery once existed. When these lowly members of the human family have learned to know God through His works, a foundation will be laid for the spiritual truths of the written Word which will elevate and purify their characters.
(11LtMs, Ms 74, 1896, 5)
There is a simplicity and purity in these lessons directly from nature that makes them of the highest value to others besides the heathen. The children and youth, all classes of students, need the lessons to be derived from this source. In itself the beauty of nature leads the soul away from sin and worldly attractions and toward purity, peace, and God. For this reason the cultivation of the soil is good work for children and youth. It brings them into direct contact with nature and nature’s God. And that they may have this advantage, in connection with our schools there should be, as far as possible, large flower gardens and extensive lands for cultivation.
(11LtMs, Ms 74, 1896, 6)
An education amid such surroundings is in accordance with the directions which God has given for the instruction of youth, but it is in direct contrast with the methods employed in the majority of schools. Parents and teachers have disregarded the counsel of the Lord. Instead of following the light He has given, they have walked in the sparks of their own kindling. The minds of the young have been occupied with books of science and philosophy, where the thorns of skepticism have been only partially concealed with vague, fanciful fairy stories, or with the works of authors who, although they may write on Scripture subjects, weave in their own fanciful interpretations. The teaching of such books is as seed sown in the heart. It grows and bears fruit, and a plentiful harvest of infidelity is reaped and the result is seen in the depravity of the human family.
(11LtMs, Ms 74, 1896, 7)
A return to simpler methods will be appreciated by the children and youth. Work in the garden and the field will be an agreeable change from the wearisome routine of abstract lessons to which their young minds should never be confined. To the nervous child, who finds lessons from books exhausting and hard to remember, it will be especially valuable. There is health and happiness for him in the study of nature, and the impressions made will not fade out of his mind, for they will be associated with objects that are continually before his eyes.
(11LtMs, Ms 74, 1896, 8)
God has, in the natural world, placed in the hands of the children of men the key to unlock the treasure house of His world. The unseen is illustrated by the seen; divine wisdom, eternal truth, infinite grace, are understood by the things that God has made. Then let the children and youth become acquainted with nature and nature’s laws. Let the mind be developed to its utmost capacity, and the physical powers trained for the practical duties of life. But teach them also that God has made this world fair because He delights in our happiness, and that a more beautiful home is [being] prepared for us in that world where there will be no more sin. The Word of God declares, “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” [1 Corinthians 2:9.]
(11LtMs, Ms 74, 1896, 9)
The little children should come especially close to nature. Instead of putting fashion’s shackles upon them, let them be free like the lambs, to play in the sweet, fresh sunlight. Point them to shrubs and flowers, the lowly grass and the lofty trees, and let them become familiar with their beautiful, varied, and delicate forms. Teach them to see the wisdom and love of God in His created works, and as their hearts swell with joy and grateful love, let them join the birds in their songs of praise.
(11LtMs, Ms 74, 1896, 10)
Educate the children and youth to consider the works of the great Master Artist, and to imitate the attractive graces of nature in their character building. As the love of God wins their hearts, let them weave into their lives the beauty of holiness. So shall they use their capabilities to bless others and honor God.
(11LtMs, Ms 74, 1896, 11)
Ms 75, 1896
Remarks Concerning Foreign Mission Work NP November 12, [1896?] Previously unpublished.
There seem to be so many fields right around here that ought to be worked that are not worked, that I do not know about stretching out so far just yet. In the persecution that arose [in apostolic times], the saints, the believers, were scattered around through different places, and they preached the gospel. Well, now, they were not ministers. We have got to begin to handle, as we have not yet done, those who are not ministers, not waiting until they are ordained, but take men that we know fear God and make them feel that it is possible for them to go and take hold of the work in these countries. Many of them could do just as much and just as well as ministers. Whereas the large cities in these countries ought to have more experienced laborers to take hold of the work, [lay workers should] go and labor as laborers (the ministers have got to fill these different places) and use their experience as best they can, and do the best they can.
(11LtMs, Ms 75, 1896, 1)
But from the light that I have had there has not been all that training of men for workers, and bringing them right up close in connection with ministerial labor, and appreciating their talents, and teaching them how to use them so they could go out and go right in to such places as these and work, all over, all around, and let the light shine, as should have been. God does not rest His work on a few ministers. He does not do it. We have let the matter settle in our minds altogether too strongly and too firmly that it is a full-fledged minister that must be prepared to take hold of the work.
(11LtMs, Ms 75, 1896, 2)
Those in the churches should feel the burden of labor and the work, and ministers should encourage those that feel any burden in that direction unless there is something positive in their life and in their character that makes it very objectionable. As soon as they begin to experience a desire to work, our finite minds must not pronounce upon it, and think that they must go through the minister’s ordeal, all the way through, before they can be accepted as laborers. Let them go out. Let them test their power, their ability, and see what they will do, and not go to them and say, “You aren’t a minister.”
(11LtMs, Ms 75, 1896, 3)
Another thing I want to tell you that I know from the light as given me: it has been a great mistake that men go out, knowing they are children of God, like Brother Tay, [who] went to Pitcairn as a missionary to do work, [but] that man did not feel at liberty to baptize because he had not been ordained. That is not any of God’s arrangements; it is man’s fixing. When men go out with the burden of the work and to bring souls into the truth, those men are ordained of God, [even] if [they] never have a touch of ceremony of ordination. To say [they] shall not baptize when there is nobody else, [is wrong]. If there is a minister in reach, all right, then they should seek for the ordained minister to do the baptizing, but when the Lord works with a man to bring out a soul here and there, and they know not when the opportunity will come that these precious souls can be baptized, why he should not question about the matter, he should baptize these souls.
(11LtMs, Ms 75, 1896, 4)
This is the very work [described in the Scriptures], as I have been writing on the life of Christ in regard to these [believers] being scattered, how because of the persecution they went everywhere preaching the Word of God; they were preaching the gospel everywhere, and as souls were raised up they were baptized. Philip was not an ordained minister, but when the eunuch began to inquire about this matter, Philip opened to him the Word, and then what? He says, “What doth hinder my being baptized?” [Acts 8:36.] Sure enough, what did hinder? It was not considered that anything hindered, and Philip went down and baptized him.
(11LtMs, Ms 75, 1896, 5)
Well, there are these things that need to be considered before men shall ever go into these countries, and if you are going to have the ordained ministers from what we have now, the ordained ministers will be few and far between. There must be men that shall be commissioned or encouraged by our brethren to go out, and if they feel that it is best to have these men ordained—some of them—why, ordain them; but if not, let them go out and let them do to the very best of their ability. They are conscientious men and are accountable to God. We must not put men into straight jackets that are going out to proclaim the gospel of peace among those that are in midnight darkness and idolatry and all these things. And we must lead these men with our prayers, earnest prayers, and our hearts to go with them, and bid them Godspeed, and for the Lord to prosper them. That is what we must do.
(11LtMs, Ms 75, 1896, 6)
And then the work you see here. Are these men being educated all the time? You must sit and call on the church from now until the judgment and tell them that they must all be missionaries, and they must all take hold. What will you do? Make them missionaries. Who is encouraging them to be missionaries, and who is coming right by their side, and taking right hold of them, and lifting them up, and saying, Do the best you can; open the Scriptures wherever you can? Go, and thus encourage them, hold them up, and we must not in any way hinder those that love and serve God. We must not do that work, because there is a world to be warned, and when do you suppose we are going to get around to warning them? When do you think that the warning is going unless we shall stir up the people to do this work and let them go into these countries that have not been visited?
(11LtMs, Ms 75, 1896, 7)
But at the present time there is more work than can possibly be done, fruit to gather, right at our own door. Here was one point given me in Switzerland where our brethren wanted to go way off to commence work in Germany when they had not worked right around in Basel and in places all around there. Well, they had written to Brother Butler, and he [had] said, Go along. Well, Brother Butler should have kept his voice to himself, because we were right on the ground where we knew all about the matter. But they could not be held; they were going to go. That night a dream came to me, and the dream was: We were berrying, and here were different companies that were to gather these berries. And right around where the wagon was stationed, the supplies were in the wagon, and those that would wander way off to get the berries got nothing, but they were very eager to be sure to get their supplies, and so they would come back to get their supplies. But close by the wagon were bushes loaded with the most beautiful berries, and they had been falling off and off. And they wandered. Why did not they come here before, why did not they come before, why did they leave these fields unworked? Why did they leave these cities unworked? It seemed to me I felt such a solemnity, such a distress, and I kept gathering the berries, and I had some to bring into the wagon, but the rest seemed to be wandering off and leaving the work right at hand.
(11LtMs, Ms 75, 1896, 8)
I believe we need not leave the work at hand, and yet we can encourage men and women to go into these districts. We must have more of a missionary spirit; we must be better missionaries, educated so that we shall acknowledge talent where it is. You say such a man has not had an education. So he has not. How big an education did the fishermen have? The Jews were surprised that they did not have more. They said, “These are unlearned and ignorant men.” [Acts 4:13.] So they did not consider that they had an education, and yet they preached the Word of God with power.
(11LtMs, Ms 75, 1896, 9)
It is not the education that is going to make men laborers. We want to get all the education that we can, but at the same time men who have no education are not to be restricted as though they were not fit to go until they had the education. If they are humble men, if they are God-fearing men, then the Lord can use them to go fishing. He will use men just as He used the fishermen, and if they have vitality and earnestness and devotion, the Lord will give them His power, His grace.
(11LtMs, Ms 75, 1896, 10)
He will work with every one that will work, if they are devoted to Him, and, more than that, He will be to them the greatest Educator the world ever knew. He will take those men that will commit themselves to Him, and He will educate them. He will train them. He will fit them for the work. This is what we want.
(11LtMs, Ms 75, 1896, 11)
We want our ministers to feel that they are under obligation to God to present individuals that shall go out and that shall work in different places to the very best of their ability. While they are under [the ministers’] watchcare, and while [the ministers] can give instruction and can fit them to go out, let them gather [themselves] right by their side, and not feel they are ignorant men. They can do more. They can do a great deal; they can open the Bible where they can, and teach the gospel. They need not stand in the desk.
(11LtMs, Ms 75, 1896, 12)
But here is the very thing that needs prudence and carefulness. You say it will make us a lot of trouble. So it will, because some will go before they have any particular burden, and they will want to go. But is not that the very thing we will have to bear? Certainly it is. We have kept our hands too firmly to keep people back instead of urging them forward. It is some of the urging that is needed. Whether they are learned or can give an eloquent prayer or an eloquent speech, but one thing is essential—that they should be men that love and fear God and walk in humility before Him. And this is the only way we can let our light shine to the world.
(11LtMs, Ms 75, 1896, 13)
Ms 76, 1896
Diary/Private Matter Regarding the Training of Children “Sunnyside,” Cooranbong 1896 Previously unpublished.
You ask me to advise in regard to the training of children. Parental obligations are made very plain in the Word of God. There are rules I will write out, as I have done over and over again, in regard to the management of children.
(11LtMs, Ms 76, 1896, 1)
Bro. _____ and his wife are not walking and working in the light. They have a serious matter and I shall now write the facts in the case, bringing out only that which is essential to call them to their neglected duties. Their children are not trained and managed. The neglected work of the first three years of the life of a child is a sad loss. Indulgence of appetite has held sway over the parents, and the education of the father in the work of the ministry has been after a perverted order. His combative spirit has not been favorable to the development of correct habits and attitudes in the home, and in connection with brethren a criticizing spirit has held sway. There has not been an even discipline toward his children. Severity and indulgence—just as his mind happened to be influenced—has made the education of his children to be of an objectionable character, and the seeds sown is the harvest reaped. The conversations in regard to matters of his brethren have not been as God would have them, and the respect and reverence that should be encouraged has been largely neglected.
(11LtMs, Ms 76, 1896, 2)
The son of Bro. _______ has been the idol and pet of the home. He has not been the twig bent in the right direction. But, now, as the seed sown so will be the harvest. Satan will work through the child to spoil his own character and give pain to his indulgent parents. It is a lamentable thing when parents, with the Bible before them, do not obey its directions. Every father and mother should be impressed with a solemn sense of their own responsibilities. The great burden of [the father's] life work should be to daily seek grace from God for guidance to make his course of action toward his children that of a faithful pastor to meet every difficulty with the plain, “Thus saith the Lord.” Seek the Lord at every step to make every year of the children's life pleasant with the Lord, for this trust in your hands, my brother, my sister, is the most solemn responsibility you can possibly bear. You have a sacred, solemn work. The religion of the Bible is to have your Redeemer preside in your home and fit yourselves and your children “for the home of the Lord forever.” You now have sorrow because you see the result of indulgence and severity at times.
(11LtMs, Ms 76, 1896, 3)
Every father is to realize he is the priest in his home—he is the houseband. In the management and guidance of his children [he is] to take the Word of God, lay it open before him, compare the Lord's counsel with his course of action to ascertain if he has been following the way of the Lord, and [to] inquire as he reads, as he searches for the wisdom of God, “Am I teaching my children the counsel of the Most High?” [See Psalm 107:11.] Parents work into the character of their children their own defective elements. They have a solemn, serious work to guide [their children] at every step, to close every door of temptation, whether it is pleasant or unpleasant to their children. If they do their duty and walk in the light God has given in His Word, God will set the influences of heaven in operation to work with [the father's] earnest, prayerful efforts to be a true guide to his children. He will not be blind to their inclinations and unholy practices and will repress many unholy, unsanctified plans.
(11LtMs, Ms 76, 1896, 4)
A mother should be one to cooperate with the father in all his efforts to elevate the standard in the home. This has not been done as it should have been.
(11LtMs, Ms 76, 1896, 5)
Ms 77, 1896
Diary/Laboring Together With God NP Circa 1896 Previously unpublished.
1 Corinthians 3:9. “For we are labourers together with God”—not apart from God and opposed to His law. After the Lord created Adam in His own image, that is, with mind and will and moral faculties which, though finite, were after the similitude of God's mind and God's will, He placed him in the Garden of Eden. The Lord had planted every tree that is pleasant to the sight and good for food. Four rivers ran by this Garden and the whole land was enriched with precious stones and gold and silver. The Lord instructed Adam how to care for the Garden. He was put there to dress it and keep it. The Lord gave employment to Adam and Eve, the pleasant employment of dressing the Garden. Adam was the first man that labored together with God. There was nothing to interpose between Adam and Eve and their Maker.
(11LtMs, Ms 77, 1896, 1)
God was their Teacher, Master, and Father. There was no envy, jealousy or fear, because sin had not entered their souls, and precious were the instruction and seasons of conversation with God. But there was a time when the tempter made his way into Eden and tempted Adam and Eve to listen to his words. It was the serpent that spoke, for Satan disguised himself in the form of a serpent, and his temptation came in speech through the serpent. His very first temptation was to be jealous of God who had done everything for him to make him happy in the heavenly courts before his rebellion. He framed up falsehoods and charged God that in forbidding their eating the fruit of the tree of knowledge He was withholding wisdom that would make them wise. Strange to say, Eve was deceived; Adam was not but was persuaded by his wife and both ate of the forbidden tree.
(11LtMs, Ms 77, 1896, 2)
The Lord pronounced a curse on man for the transgression of His law and a curse upon the earth because of man's sin. Although Adam was still permitted to tend the garden and to be a laborer together with God, after his disobedience he was to earn his bread by the sweat of his brow. Then God, in Eden, gave the first gospel sermon. The Lord said to the serpent, “I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shall bruise his heel.” [Genesis 3:15.]
(11LtMs, Ms 77, 1896, 3)
Although man had disobeyed God and fallen, yet the blessing of laboring together with God was not removed. Sin does not exclude man from working at daily toil, but never more would the labor question stand on high and holy ground as it had done. The more sinful man becomes, the less enjoyment he finds in tilling the soil and doing the things that will please God. The more there is separation of the soul from God, the more true it is that the bread is earned by the sweat of the brow, and the more unpleasant the reflection of man against his Maker because he is not permitted to give loose rein to his individual inclinations to make his own laws himself, according to his own ideas. Satan is working through the human agency to please himself. The agriculturist, the tiller of the soil, still has great encouragement. If he has given his entire heart, soul, and body to God, the labor will be to him much less; and his repentance will evidence itself by his obedience, accepting the Lord's plans and receiving the Lord's directions.
(11LtMs, Ms 77, 1896, 4)
Ms 78, 1896
Diary — The Art of Teaching NP Circa 1896 Previously unpublished.
Let the teachers in our Sabbath schools be sure that they themselves are converted, that they know individually that Christ is their personal Saviour, and are learning the lessons of Him who is the Light of the world. Teachers cannot properly instruct the little children or the youth unless they themselves know the Scripture they attempt to teach. The conception needs to be clear, in harmony with the Divine Instructor, and the presentation of every idea clear. The teachers should not talk for the sake of talking or of hearing themselves talk, but they should know the subject they wish to present in simplicity and clearness to the students in their class. Without that tact or capability of the teacher to present subjects clearly, he will lose the opportunity of making an impression. Double up your classes if necessary and consider that your words are worth speaking.
(11LtMs, Ms 78, 1896, 1)
Genuinely converted teachers, who can come right down to the method of instructing in simplicity will be impressed by the spirit of the truth. There is no doubt that in every day school and in religious Sabbath schools there is a want of apt teachers who can present the truth in its simplicity, because they themselves are not genuinely converted. There is need of the head and heart and soul and strength of the teacher to be brought to the work. If they are under the sanctification of the Holy Spirit, they will manifest it. Those who have a head theory alone cannot reach the heart. Teachers need to be sized up not by their intellectual greatness but by their sanctified ability to appreciate the minds of the students. Having heard the truth from their teachers and learned it themselves, they have enjoyed its savor of influence and can communicate their experience and understanding with earnest, simple words.
(11LtMs, Ms 78, 1896, 2)
Because you feel the precious value of the truth yourself, and you have been taught of God, you can teach others. The large Sabbath schools with a mixed number of teachers do not advance as fast in the understanding of the Word as a small school, for in the large school many teachers are enlisted who themselves should be placed as learners in a class to be educated and not teachers. Some teachers know so little of practical piety and what it means to be consecrated and taught of God. They cannot teach that which they themselves have never learned. This is the saddest part of the representation. Let all who accept a class to teach know that they themselves have been taught of God.
(11LtMs, Ms 78, 1896, 3)
No one can teach true Bible religion unless they have experienced the same in their own mind, heart, and soul. And let not such unconverted ones be urged to take a class who themselves do not drink of the waters of life. Better to double up your classes and let the communications be made, even to a class of different ages. That which will interest the young will be good for those older in the same class. How can teachers urge the children to come to Christ and deny self for Christ's sake when they themselves have not surrendered their own wills, their own hearts, to Jesus Christ? How can duties be presented before a class where the teacher has not entered into and submitted to the very same experience in order to obtain the truth as it is in Jesus?
(11LtMs, Ms 78, 1896, 4)
How can teachers urge that duties be practiced when they have shunned these duties all their lives? Let not one young person accept a class to teach who will only give their students lip talk. Children can discern the right ring in the voice, and the words and spirit of the teacher. It is the children's due that the teacher have a real, individual, genuine, solid experience so that on Sabbath they can speak in a reverent, sacred, softened tone of the precious Saviour's love and His great interest in all for whom He has given His sacred life. Make your sentences short and forcible for the scholars. Oh, that I could write words that all can feel and experience themselves because they long to understand “What must I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.]
(11LtMs, Ms 78, 1896, 5)
Ms 79, 1896
The Moral Law NP February 1, 1896 Previously unpublished.
“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.” [Matthew 5:17, 18.]
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 1)
A government, of whatever character, supposes a governor. This world has a governor—the God of the universe. His guardian care is universal, extending to man and beast, reaching even to the little sparrow; for Christ declares, “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall to the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” [Matthew 10:29, 30.]
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 2)
God has special regard for righteousness of character. In his word we are told that “he delighteth not in the strength of the horse; he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man. The Lord taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in them that hope in his mercy.” [Psalm 147:10, 11.] He calls on the earth to fear him, and commands all the inhabitants of the world to stand in awe of him, and yet he invites the most simple to seek him, “if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us.” [Acts 17:27.]
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 3)
In God’s moral government, which is a government based upon a distinction between right and wrong, laws are essential to secure right actions. But Lucifer took the position that wrong existed in heaven and in this world as the result of the law, and that it need not have been had there been no law. This brought against God’s government the charge of being arbitrary, and made God responsible for all moral deficiencies. But right and wrong are not based upon God’s moral government; God’s moral government is based upon a distinction between right and wrong. The erroneous view which many have of this subject cause them to rebel against God’s law of government as arbitrary; but moral law is a necessity where free moral agents exist.
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 4)
The law of God is the expression of his character, and in his holy word it is pronounced holy, just, and good. David says, “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.” [Psalm 19:7.] With all the exalted influence and glory he possessed before his fall, Satan could not change the smallest letter of the law; and as an apostate and a traitor, he has still been unable to alter it. If he has succeeded in his purpose of gaining the professed Christian world to his side, and if the world and the church have formed a bond of fellowship to make void the law of God, that does not prove that it has been changed. To admit that God instituted a law so imperfect in character that it needed to be changed, would be to stamp God as changeable and imperfect. But God has spoken on this point; let us heed what he says. “My covenant will I not break, nor alter the thing that this is gone out of my lips.” [Psalm 89:34.]
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 5)
As Creator of heaven and earth and thousands of world that have never fallen, God is governor over all, and bound to exercise a moral government throughout the universe. To exact less than obedience to his law from moral agents, would be to abandon them to ruin. Should he not enforce his law by the penalty of death, the whole universe would be in confusion. The moral law is God’s barrier between the moral agent and sin. Infinite wisdom places before man the distinction between right and wrong, between sin and holiness; but God’s government is a government of free will, and there is no act of rebellion or obedience which is not a free will act.
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 6)
God is supreme, and finite man must not question his right to govern the universe, and rule the moral agents which he has created. God asserted his right to rule when he declared, “Thou shalt have no other gods before me;”“for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea and all that in them is.” [Exodus 20:3, 11.] He is Creator and preserver of the worlds, upholding the universe by the word of his power. Nature and science bear witness that he has a right to govern his own creation; angels are subject to God’s moral government; therefore let man bow in adoration before him.
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 7)
While the Scriptures present the fact that God is a moral governor, they also make it plain that man is under the highest moral obligation to acknowledge him as ruler, and to obey his laws with heart and soul, trusting in his power for help and protection. This law which man is called upon to obey, as the standard of right for the moral universe, is the most wise and holy counsel of God. It is a moral law, and has its foundation in the difference of the quality of moral agents. Positive law is the expression of the will of the law-giver. Moral law is universal; positive law is not necessarily universal, but may be restricted or extended according to the will of the law-giver. Moral law must be immutable, while positive law may be enacted, changed, or abolished, as the lawgiver may determine.
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 8)
The Decalogue, or moral code of God, consists of two tables of stone, upon which God engraved with his own finger the foundation principles of our entire duty as his subjects. The first table contains the four commandments defining the duty of man to God; the second table contains six commandments, defining the duty of man to his fellow-man. These arms of the law were recognized by our Saviour when he declared that the whole law hung upon the two great principles of love to God and love to man. Other commands may be found in the Scriptures, but only as a specification of that which is contained in the ten commandments of the Decalogue.
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 9)
The moral code of the Old Testament is found in full force in the New Testament. At the opening of his ministry, Christ, in his sermon on the Mount, gave an exposition of important portions of the law, the sense of which had been buried under human customs and traditions. He brought out the pure principles of God’s law, freeing it from the spurious and burdensome exactions placed upon it by man. As he showed the far-reaching claims of the law upon human hearts, the Pharisees saw that their pet theories, customs, and practices were being swept away his plain statements. Jealousy took possession of their hearts; for they felt that their teaching and influence over the people was becoming of none effect. In their hearts they had so long mingled human customs and practices with divine commands that when Christ did not recognize these customs and traditions, they thought he was making of none effect the law of God. But Christ read their thoughts, and suddenly they were startled by the words, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law till all be fulfilled.” [Matthew 5:17, 18.]
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 10)
When asked by the lawyer, “Which is the great commandment in the law?” Jesus answered, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.” [Matthew 22:35-40.] Christ urged home upon his hearer that it was not enough for him to believe, but that he must be a doer of the law. In the claims of these two great principles, is the binding force of the whole law and of all the moral precepts found in the prophets. If these two commandments are brought into the gospel, all that hangs upon them is also brought into the gospel. “Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.” [Romans 3:31.]
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 11)
The objection sometimes brought against the law—that nowhere in the New Testament are all the commandments of the Decalogue specified—has no force; for the expressions so oft repeated—“the law”“The commandments of God”—mean the whole, not a part. And are we not told that whosoever “shall offend in one point, he is guilty of all?” [James 2:10.]
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 12)
Christ’s work was to rid the commandments of the traditions and customs placed upon it by the Jews, which made it impossible to be kept. This work of covering the law with exactions, had been planned by the adversary of God’s law and the enemy of Jesus Christ, in order that Christ’s pure ministry should not harmonize with the teaching of the scribes and Pharisees. They had yielded to temptation in departing from the Lord, and though presenting to the people the law, which, with the annexed rigorous exactions was a yoke which neither they nor their fathers were able to bear, they did not keep it themselves. This led to the declaration of Christ, “Except your righteousness exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.” [Matthew 5:20.]
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 13)
In his teaching Christ fully developed the genuine principles of the law, making it plain that it does not merely concern the outward actions, but has to do with the heart, reaching even to the unspoken thoughts. While stripping from the law the burdensome minutiae which only belittle, Christ exalted the law, holding it forth in its original purity as a perfect system of morality, far deeper and broader than the law as presented to the people by the Jews. His life, by precept and example, was a living illustration of the law of god. He made it honorable by his perfect conformity to its requirements.
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 14)
This moral code, taught in the Old and New Testaments, is an exclusive rule of duty, admitting no other law of any kind or from any source, and allowing no exception in obedience. The Lord has given this rule of righteousness—the only foundation of true religion—and it must be obeyed. Sooner than disobey the least of God’s commandments we had better sacrifice all our temporal interests—houses, lands, riches, liberty, even life itself. “For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.” [Matthew 16:25.] Adam and Eve found this to be so in their experience, and every son and daughter of Adam will see it verified if they venture to transgress because it is convenient for them to do so.
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 15)
In loyalty to the law, we have many noble examples in the prophets and apostles, who endured imprisonment, torture, death itself, rather than break one of God’s commands, when they might have escaped by a single act of disobedience. Peter and John have left a record as heroic as any in the gospel dispensation. When called before the high priest, and commanded not to speak at all nor to preach in the name of Jesus, they answered, “Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye. For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard. So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done.” [Acts 4:19-21.] Called once more before the council, the high priest asked them, saying “Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and behold ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man’s blood upon us. And Peter and the other apostles answered, and said, We ought to obey God rather than man.” [Acts 5:28, 29.] In this answer we have evidence that no human authority has a right to place us under obligation to claims which will cause us to disobey our rightful Sovereign, whose subjects we claim to be.
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 16)
By willing obedience to all God’s commandments, we will show our supreme love for him, and will be among that class of whom it is said, “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” [Revelation 22:14.]
(11LtMs, Ms 79, 1896, 17)
Ms 80, 1896
True Worship NP June 10, 1896 [typed] Previously unpublished.
The worship of God does not consist in outward ceremonies, or the observance of man-made creeds. Said Christ, “In vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrine the commandments of men.” [Matthew 15:9.] And again, “God is a spirit; and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.” [John 4:24.]
(11LtMs, Ms 80, 1896, 1)
Christ came to our world at a time when moral power was fast disappearing from among men. Genuine religion had become corrupted. In its place formality and legalism had reared the most rigid exactions. A round of superstitions and externals was made essential, while inward piety was, in a great measure, only a pretense. As the necessity for purity of heart was lost sight of, outward forms and ceremonies multiplied. Wickedness of every kind triumphed. The Bible was misapplied, and modelled to suit the ideas and imaginations of men. The cleansing of hands and cups and utensils was considered of more consequence than the purification of the soul. From age to age these maxims and traditions had been cherished; and with each succeeding age additional inventions had been received with credulity, thus closing the way for the presentation of righteousness and truth.
(11LtMs, Ms 80, 1896, 2)
Christ came at a time when he was most needed to set before a perishing world the truth in its purity. He came to remove the mass of rubbish which had confused their spiritual understanding and perverted true worship, that the plan of salvation should not become buried under a mass of erroneous theories, a complication of maxims, falsehoods, and authoritative dogmas. He did not require submission to the assertions and theories of man’s invention. He firmly and continuously resisted the sayings which rabbis, priests, and rulers had woven into the framework of truth, declaring before the assembled multitudes: “Ye teach for doctrines the commandments of men; ye make void the law of God through your traditions.” [Matthew 15:9, 6.]
(11LtMs, Ms 80, 1896, 3)
Christ, in his sermon on the mount, stripped from the law this covering of rubbish, the “Thou shalt” and “Thou shalt not” of priests and rulers, and let the words of God in his great moral standard of righteousness appear in their true light. Christ taught them truth and righteousness. He required his hearers to accept nothing except that which they could bring to the law and to the testimony. If the words of their teachers were not in accordance with the words of God, their message was false and was to be rejected. If in the Word of God there were no other lessons given than those spoken by Christ from the mount, this was light, which, if practiced, would have given men wisdom to shun false paths, and enable them to gain heaven. Let all bear this in mind.
(11LtMs, Ms 80, 1896, 4)
The efforts of Christ’s enemies to entice him by praise and flattery, to make him believe they were his friends, were unavailing. He read their purposes as an open book, and they knew he detected their efforts to ensnare him. He was constantly assailed; but in pity, sympathy, and love he continued to labor for the salvation of lost, ungrateful men. Firmly and unswervingly, without feelings of revenge, without deviating one hair from principle, he told the truth, and followed and taught the law of heaven, which is righteousness and justice.
(11LtMs, Ms 80, 1896, 5)
The disciples of Christ will heed the Master’s instruction. Their religion will not consist in outward observances, but will be founded on love to God, which leads to love for one another. The true spirit of worship is full of gratitude, humility, long-suffering; it is self-sacrificing, forbearing, merciful, and forgiving. It extends its influence over others; for it leads to active usefulness, and sanctifies the whole life.
(11LtMs, Ms 80, 1896, 6)
Many spend their precious moments in wishing they could do some great thing. Their desires are apparently very great; but they do nothing in the sphere where God has placed them. They neglect the opportunities within their reach; for they are too common-place for them to see and improve. Idle and useless, they wish and hope and look for some great thing to come for them which it will be an honor for them to do. Unless their consciences are enlightened, and they have the mind of Christ, they will always be dissatisfied. Christ spent his life in doing good just where he saw good to be done within the sphere where he lived and to those objects within his reach. He was not received in his own country and among his own people; but he found work among them on every hand. There were some places, however, where he did not many mighty miracles on account of their unbelief; for he himself declared, “A prophet is not without honor save in his own country, and in his own house.” [Matthew 13:57.]
(11LtMs, Ms 80, 1896, 7)
Here is a lesson for the discontented wishers, who refuse to take up the simple duties of life, and consume their time in trying to make themselves happy in following their own inclinations. Christ denied all selfish desires, all worldly aggrandizement and avaricious ambition. Pride and envy, resentment and jealously, were excluded from his heart. He was always awake to the necessities of suffering humanity. The Father, whose eye can discern the least taint of imperfection, looking into the inner sanctuary of the soul, saw nothing but purity, excellence, and divine loveliness. This is true worship; and the life of Christ is the pattern which we are to copy.
(11LtMs, Ms 80, 1896, 8)
Ms 81, 1896
The Responsibility of Christian Parents NP September 6, 1896 [typed] Previously unpublished.
Character building is a most important work, and if the right materials are used, a noble character may be formed. It is the privilege of parents to exert an influence over their children that will result in the saving of their precious souls. But they must exercise firmness if they would keep the wayward feet in the path that God has marked out for them to walk in.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 1)
With the infant in its mother’s arms the work of education is to begin, and the authority of the parent to be established. Little children should be taught to respect their parents, and render obedience to the law of the household. Satan well knows that the advantage that is gained in this respect is not only for time, but for eternity; for when children are taught to respect and obey their parents, they are also learning to reverence and obey the requirements of god.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 2)
The name of Jesus, the world’s Redeemer, should be familiar to the minds of the children from the earliest dawn of reason. With soft voice, and reverential tones, the Word of God should be read to them, selecting the most interesting portions. When tact and skill are exercised, an interest will be awakened in the Scriptures, and they will have a reverence for sacred things.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 3)
God is grieved with the lightness, and trifling, and careless indifference that is manifested by the youth of today.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 4)
Reverence for God does not, as many think, show a weak spirit born of ignorance; wherever it exists it is an evidence of a sound mind. True worship of God is one of the surest safeguards against the skepticism and infidelity that are flooding the world in these last days. Let parents set their children an example in these things. Take your children by your side in the house of God. What more beautiful sight can there be than to see the father, mother, and children together in the place of worship?
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 5)
When a number of young boys or girls are allowed to be seated together, the influence they exert is not always the best. The glances and whisperings that often pass between them create irreverence and indifference to Bible teachings. When appeals are made to the unconverted to take their stand on the Lord’s side, and one of these remains proud and self-defiant, he holds the others in the same attitude. And should one have the courage to heed the invitation of the Spirit of God, it is hard work for him to break away from this ring of associates, and start out alone. He has to meet the opposition and ridicule of his companions, who are hardening their hearts, and despising the salvation offered them by the Prince of Life through his ambassadors.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 6)
I have heard mothers, when advised on this point, say, “I shall not make my children sit with me.” And they did not; and as a result, the youth who might have been moulded for good, were found inattentive, irreverent, and mischievous, and the most solemn messages from God leave no impressions on their minds and hearts. These parents thought it old fashioned to control their children in this matter, I have watched the result of this course of indulgence, and have found that these children have no respect for the worship of God, no love for the truth or God’s law, and as soon as they are old enough to enter business for themselves, they put the Sabbath on one side as though it had no further claims upon them.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 7)
God has presented before us the example of Abraham. He was the father of the faithful. His strict regard for God’s requirements was exercised in his home. And the Searcher of hearts said of him, “I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him.” The record also states the result, “And they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment.” [Genesis 18:19.] If Abraham had neglected this work of discipline in regard to the training of his children, they would have grown up regardless of the requirements of their parents. This would lay the foundation for them to be likewise regardless of the commandments of God. Abraham cultivated home religion. The fear of the Lord circulated through his tent. “I know him,” said God, “that he will command his household and his children after him.” There will be no betrayal of sacred trusts with Abraham; no yielding to weakness and indulgence in permitting his children to have their own way, and choose their course. The law of God is Abraham’s standard. He will keep the requirements of God, and teach his children and household to do the same. Blind affection, that indulgence which is the worst kind of cruelty, will not be practiced by him. The young will not be permitted to order and command. God has made Abraham the head, and he will command.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 8)
Simplicity, truthfulness, patience, reverence, and obedience should characterize the life and pursuits of those who profess Christ. Parents must take the lead in these things; in all their words and actions they must acknowledge God as their Father and their Friend. Their course of action must be elevated, their conversation pure. Parents must abide in Jesus in order to have Jesus abiding in their hearts by faith. Christ enshrined in the heart will reveal his beauty of character in every action. Simplicity and godly sincerity will be manifest in the daily life; the force of will and natural energy will be tempered and adorned with the “meekness and gentleness of Christ.” [2 Corinthians 10:1.]
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 9)
Parents are to take a higher, holier stand, and exalt in their homes God’s great standard of righteousness. They as well as their children are to come under the laws of their Maker, and be ruled by him. The Holy One of Israel has given rules for the guidance of all, and any deviation therefrom, on the part of either parents or children, incurs the sore displeasure of God. Christian parents are to work with an object in view. They must labor to bring their children to accept of God’s plans, and yield obedience to his wise restrictions. In this work they will be co-laborers with Jesus Christ.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 10)
The associations of the children should be select, and chosen by the parents themselves; for the influence they are under at an early age will mould their character for life. The education and discipline that a child receives, will not end him with him, but will be reproduced in those with whom he has influence. If you let your child grow up without training and discipline, the same lawlessness, disrespect, selfishness, and independence will be reproduced in his associates.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 11)
May God help you, parents to arouse to the responsibilities of your God-given work. Let your life in the home prove the reality and fervor of your piety. Let your works be in accordance with profession of faith. Bring your children up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. God has given you these young lives to train for his service. You must cultivate the soil of the heart, and sow in it the precious seeds of truth, that will spring up and bear fruit to the glory of God. You are not to teach them external good merely; God requires that the principles the govern their actions and control their thoughts shall be right. Teach them truthfulness, forethought, and kindness; teach them to be neat and thorough and painstaking. Thus you may train them for God and heaven. These valuable traits of character will not come of themselves; they must not be left to chance work; for this will give Satan an opportunity to lure them right and truth. From the first dawn of intellect no pains must be spared to form right habits of thought and action.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 12)
Many parents hold themselves at a great distance from their children, thus severing the connecting link that should bind the one to the other. If parents thus maintain an unbending dignity, their children will never confide their joys and sorrows to them, or come to them for counsel. If they throw a chill upon everything that conduces to their pleasure and happiness, and innocent amusement, they will take their own course whenever opportunity affords. Children should find in their parents friends and companions. This need not interfere with the dignity of the parent. While the mother is firm and unyielding where it is necessary for the present and eternal good of her children, she may be in tender sympathy with them in all their trials and disappointments, their pleasures and joys.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 13)
Parents, let your children see that you love them, and will do all in your power to make them happy. If you do so, your necessary restrictions will have for greater weight in their young minds. Place yourselves under the guidance and control of God. Let not Satan find place in your heart, and influence your judgment. Your children will respect you if they see that you are governed, not by impulse, but by the principles of God’s Word. The youth and children are exposed to temptation, and they need the lines to be held in firm and steady hands. Let them feel that they can trust you. Your example will have an influence upon their minds that will be interwoven into their life and character.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 14)
You have a work to do for your children, dear parents, which they cannot do for themselves. God has given them to you to train, that they may become inhabitants of his kingdom. You have precious lessons to give them in order that they may have well-balanced minds and symmetrical characters. Teach them the importance of time, and how to improve it. Impress upon their young minds that they must learn to be useful, that life was not given them to be trifled away. While their earliest years may be given to play and freedom, as the young lambs in the field, yet it is in the duty of mothers to teach the little hands and feet to do what they can to lighten others’ burdens. Teach them that to do something that will benefit others and be a blessing to humanity is worth striving for.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 15)
Teach the older members of the family to help bear the burdens of the household, that they may not rest too heavily upon the few. Teach them, also, not to look upon this as drudgery, but as a duty, essential for their own well-being, and for the happiness of those they love. Teach them that idleness is sin; and give to each his allotted task. This will fit them for greater duties, and graver responsibilities.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 16)
This, parents, is your work; will you do it? If you neglect it, you are throwing open the door for Satan to enter in and employ your children in his service. There will be idle talk, vain, frivolous amusements sought to wile away the hours—in numberless ways evils will be indulged that would be prevented if habits of industry were cultivated. You will see your children grow up useless, indolent, selfish, unfitted in every way to take up the duties of life, and stand at the head of families of their own.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 17)
Parental neglect is registered in the books of heaven. It should be the careful, diligent study of parents that they fail not in discharging their duty in this respect, lest through some neglect of their part, their children be found among the disobedient, unthankful, and unholy, subjects of Satan’s kingdom, doing his will and pleasure. Far better would it be for such had they never been born.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 18)
While the Lord will not excuse indifference and neglect on the part of parents in the training of their children, neither will he approve a mismanagement that is arbitrary, severe, and loveless. There must be no violent domineering, no hasty, impassioned threats. Justice and mercy are twin sisters, standing side by side; neither is perfect without the other. Parents should guard their children, restraining the evil tendencies, while they encourage and strengthen the good.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 19)
Many children in this age are ruined as far as their own happiness, and that of their parents, is concerned, by mistaken indulgence. Parents do not see the importance of controlling their children and bringing them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. It is not soft pleadings and indulgence that will put good material into character building; but wise, judicious training. Parents must follow God’s Word to the letter, and exercise their God-given faculties to educate and train their children to love, to fear, and honor him. The laws which our heavenly Father has enacted and enjoined, though restricting and commanding, flow from a heart that holds the good of his creatures first.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 20)
Well may the wisest and most experienced feel burdened with responsibility in the training of their children. None can fulfil their duty in this respect unless they daily seek for wisdom and strength from God to do their work with fidelity. The Lord must be your counsellor, dear parents: you must have his Holy Spirit’s influence upon your own heart, sanctifying your judgment, or you can never cope with your antagonist in this conflict. The powers of darkness are at work with all deceivableness of unrighteousness, to take your children out of your hands, and out of the hands of their Redeemer, and place them in their ranks. Satan wills that your children shall grow up unmindful of God, without reverence for sacred things, and they need to be taught daily, their minds moulded by example as well as precept. The child who is accustomed to witness the graces of Christ revealed in the life of those whom he loves and obeys, who, before he can intelligently grasp the truths of God’s Word for himself, has had his religious character developed, will not generally grow up careless and unconcerned in regard to those things that are for his eternal interest.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 21)
“Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” [Galatians 6:7.] Teach your children that to sow to the flesh will be to reap only corruption; to sow to the flesh will be to reap only corruption; to sow to the spirit, will be to reap life everlasting—a life that runs parallel with the life of Jehovah. This is the sowing time. In these golden moments you must sow the precious seed which will blossom into correct habits, and be laying upon the foundation gold, silver, and precious stones, that will stand the test of the fires of the last days.
(11LtMs, Ms 81, 1896, 22)
Ms 82, 1896
All Things Loss for Christ’s Sake NP 1896 Previously unpublished.
We are now living upon the borders of the eternal world; and is this a time for vain thoughts and selfish actions? The angels of heaven are looking upon us. They are in every meeting and are weighing and measuring the moral worth of the worshippers. The characters of those who profess to be the children of God are tested in the golden scales of the heavenly sanctuary. The exact measurement of every soul is known and recorded in the books of heaven.
(11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, 1)
How shall we stand the scrutiny of Heaven? Only by having in and upon us the righteousness of Christ. Then what think ye of Christ? Is he the bread of life to your soul? Is he the water of life? Is your soul humbled and abased as you contemplate your spiritual poverty and nakedness? Then Jesus is made of God unto you wisdom, sanctification, and redemption. By contemplation of his glory the brightness and attraction of every other interest will grow dim, and with humble confidence you may point to him and say, “This is he whom my soul loveth.” With overflowing love and gratitude you may exclaim, “This is he who gave his own life that I might not perish, but have eternal life.” You may plead with God, saying “Holy Father, look not upon me, but upon Christ my righteousness. Look not upon me, but upon the face of thine Anointed.”
(11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, 2)
O that every professed follower of Christ might know what it is to have the precious revealings of the Holy Spirit, that the soul might be filled with enlarged and ever-expanding views of the purity, goodness and mercy of our sin-pardoning Saviour! Were the mind educated and trained to behold Jesus until he was the subject of your thoughts, the theme of your conversation, then would the frivolous lives you have been leading appear to you as they are—empty, and void, and unsatisfactory. Let the mind be filled with Christ, and refined by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and you will not then need to be urged to consider your obligation to those who sit in the darkness. When you yourselves appreciate the precious Word of God, when it is opened to your understanding, you will be stirred to intense interest for the souls of those for whom Christ has died. You will be willing to endure hardness, to be self-denying, and will do your utmost not only by giving gifts and offerings to the Lord, but by giving yourselves to the work, that you may impart the light of the knowledge of the truth to those who are bound in error and darkness. It is the great privilege of every soul to deny self for Christ’s sake, not simply on some special occasion, but to deny self daily for the advancement of the work of God in the earth. How much have you sought to render back to God for the gift of precious light he has bestowed upon you that your soul may be saved? Have you rendered back to him talents of money, influence, and ability? If the truth that has been brought to you does not seem sufficient value to move your soul to sincere gratitude, to diligent effort for others, to fervent love for Jesus, manifested in offerings of what you can give for the advancement of his cause, then you have not that love of the truth, that depth of experience, which will enable you to be overcomers in the daily trials and temptations of life.
(11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, 3)
No one can live unto himself alone. Everyone has an influence for good or evil, and the character of that influence is determined by the thoughts and actions of men. He who is truly converted to God will make the fact manifest by living for God, and he will do his utmost to advance the work of God in the earth. But what need there is of an earnest, prayerful, self-denying spirit. The truth cannot advance in these colonies, and souls be won for Christ, unless those who profess to believe it, shall arouse to greater diligence than ever before. The heavenly intelligences wait for co-operation of the human agents, that great things may be done in spreading abroad the knowledge and light of the truth. Why not make earnest efforts to arouse from your sluggish indifference, and work for the Lord as his agents should? The reason why so many are in a dying spiritual condition is that their talents are unimproved, and opportunities are wasted. You have not done what you could to give the light which God has given you to others; and should the Master come now, you would assuredly meet the fate of the slothful, unfaithful servant.
(11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, 4)
Let the older brethren and sisters set a worthy example before the youth and children. Do you expect the Lord to bless you with light when you do not seek to disseminate it to those who sit in darkness? Do you expect that your love for Jesus will be increased, when in this great missionary field you do nothing for the souls for whom he died? When your country was considered in the General Conference in America, most earnest appeals were made that messengers might cross the Pacific, and establish the truth in these colonies; and to these appeals many responded; some denied themselves greatly in order to raise means to start the work here. And now that the work has grown to the proportions that it has in these lands, will not those who have received light and blessing by the self-denial of others, manifest the same spirit, and deny self, that others may be benefited? Men and means must be found in order to accomplish the great work that must be done in Australia, New Zealand, Tasmania, and the islands of the Pacific.
(11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, 5)
Many who profess the truth in these colonies have need to educate themselves as to what is meant by self-denial and cross-bearing for Christ’s sake. Much more in smaller or larger sums might flow into the treasury than has flowed in since you have professed to give your hearts to the Lord. You have been made the depositaries of the treasures of the truth, but have not grown in spiritual understanding and power. Many have been careless and indifferent, and have shown a marked want of integrity and uprightness. Like the foolish virgins you have slumbered and slept, and instead of keeping your vessels filled with the oil of grace, trimmed and burning and brighter, you have allowed them to burn dim and flicker out in darkness. How can you expect the Lord to bless you, when you feel no burden resting upon you to keep your souls in the love of God by earnest and diligent use of the talents he has entrusted to you? When you individually, as members of the church, feel that you are called upon to do something every day, to do to the utmost of your ability, the heavenly angels will minister unto you, and increase your ability to trade with and increase your talents. I call upon you who profess to have advanced light, to sink your empty vessels into the depths of the ocean of the fullness of God’s love, and draw feely, steadily, continually. Let Christ be in you a well of water springing up unto everlasting life. Do you desire spiritual life and health? Then work, practice self-denial and cross-bearing.
(11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, 6)
Everyone who has joined himself to Christ has duties to perform according to his ability. God has placed upon his followers weighty responsibilities; and just as soon as a soul obeys the call of God he is to look upon himself as bound to work for Jesus, whether he is young or old, whether he is possessed of one, two, or five talents.
(11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, 7)
The opinion is prevalent that holidays are days when men and women may cast off every restraint and burden, and use the time in pleasure-seeking and festivity. But is not time golden, and should it not be employed in doing good? Not one day should pass into eternity without a record of some good work performed in the name and for the glory of the Master. Christ has opened a fountain of life for the perishing world, and those who have joined themselves to him, should unite with all his agents who by voice, influence, and means are seeking to awaken an interest in others by setting before them God’s invitations of mercy. All should present to the world the truth as it is in Jesus, that by prayer and tact and wisdom they may create a desire for the salvation which is in Christ. By their words, by representing Christ in character and life, they should give the invitation of Christ, who is saying, “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” [Matthew 11:28.] But alas! how much has been done to dishonor God, and to deny Christ by cheap talk, by eager chasing after pleasure, by spending money for selfish gratification. Professed Christians have acted as though there was no burden of responsibility resting upon them to enlighten others, no need of self-denial that souls might be saved. But the example of Christ is before us, and nothing should be done to lessen the efficiency of the gospel.
(11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, 8)
God call upon those who profess his name to seek for true conversion. Many are at ease, and they know not what it is to experience true religion. “Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near.” [Isaiah 55:6.] Let every voice say, “Come,” let every influence and ability be exercised to win souls to the Lord. You cannot be too enthusiastic, you cannot be too much in earnest in seeking to save that which is lost. Not one is excused from the work, though he may be able to do but little; for through the doing of what he has ability to do, he may gain courage and faith and grace to do a larger work.
(11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, 9)
Instead of learning to work in the way that Christ would have us, many have wasted their time in foolish talking and pursuits, they have lived to please themselves, and have not laid up their treasures above. Let not such think that to them will be said, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things.” [Matthew 25:21.] The words appropriate to their cases will be, “You have been attentive to self, lived to please and favor and glorify self, and your portion must be with unbelievers. You have chosen to be like them in words and actions. You did not deny self for my sake. You were not obedient to my commandments, and I cannot receive you into my kingdom. You wasted your opportunities, and did not value the probationary time I graciously gave you to form characters for eternal life. You did not have respect unto the recompense of reward. You have not loved me who died for you, but have refused to comply with the conditions upon which the heavenly benefit was conferred. You refused to come out from the world and to be separate, and touch not the unclean, although I promised to be a Father unto you, and pledged my word that you should be my sons and daughters, members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. You despised my words, and cared not for my entreaties. The disposition which led you to do this in probationary time is unchanged, although I declared to you that as your Redeemer, I was able to save unto the uttermost all that came unto God by me. You did not come, but drew apart from me, and chose other associates, and loved other society. Though I had chosen you, you had not chosen me, and you have made your own choice.”
(11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, 10)
“When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: and before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: and he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on his left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer him saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungered, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. Then shall he say unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: for I was an hungered, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. Then shall they answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungered, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me.” [Verses 31-45.]
(11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, 11)
Day by day, in the common incidents of life, men are determining their eternal destiny. Eternal reward or punishment is meted out according to that which the human agent has done, or what he has not done. The whole life’s tendency, the disposition, and the actions are examined in the courts of heaven to see whether men as probations have formed characters after the pattern given them in Christ Jesus, or after the pattern of the character of him who is the enemy of all righteousness. Everyone is deciding his own destiny.
(11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, 12)
But “behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be as stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch. But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings.” [Malachi 4:1, 2.] The sun rises, and beam follows beam of light, and the light expands. Thus is it with the Sun of Righteousness. More and more distinctly the believer may discern his mission, his mercy, his love and tender compassion. Christ is admired in all that believe, he is more and more loved, more and more implicitly obeyed, and devotedly served. We behold the light of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! Behold this wisdom as it shines in the plan of salvation, as God seeks to recover lost man from his degradation and ruin. What a marvel it is that man will choose and cling to delusions! What a wonder that he will be infatuated with things that are passing away, while he neglects the imperishable treasure!
(11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, 13)
Is not Jesus the glory of infinite wisdom? In him all fullness dwells. In him are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. Could finite men appreciate what the wisdom of Christ could do for them, in moulding and elevating their characters, they would exalt Christ as the wisdom of God. Man who is proud in his own wisdom and way, must become a fool that he may be wise. His human reasoning and knowledge must be laid beneath the cross of Calvary, his own righteousness must be surrendered, and like Daniel when he stood before the heavenly messenger and saw his glory, he must exclaim, “My comeliness was turned in me into corruption.” [Daniel 10:8.] All in which humanity glories must be counted as loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ the Lord.
(11LtMs, Ms 82, 1896, 14)