[6Red 50.2]          Jesus here explicitly stated to Peter the fact and manner of his death; he even referred to the stretching forth of his hands upon the cross; and after he had thus spoken he repeated his former injunction: "Follow me." The disciple was not                                                                              51  disconcerted by the revelation of his Master. He felt willing to suffer any death for his Lord. Peter saw that John was following, and a desire came over him to know his future, and he "saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me." Peter should have considered that his Lord would reveal to him all that it was best for him to know, without inquiry on his part. It is the duty of every one to follow Christ, without undue anxiety as to the duty assigned to others. In saying of John, "If I will that he tarry till I come," Jesus gave no assurance that this disciple should live until the second coming of Christ; he merely asserted his own supreme power, and that even if he should will this to be so, it would in no way affect the work of Peter. The future of both John and Peter was in the hands of their Lord, and obedience in following him was the duty required of each.  {6Red 50.2}
[6Red 51.1]          John lived to be very aged; he witnessed the fulfillment of the words of Christ in regard to the desolation of Jerusalem. He saw the stately temple of the Jews in ruins, and not one stone left upon another that was not thrown down. Peter was now an entirely converted man; but the honor and authority received from Christ did not give him supremacy over his brethren. He was venerated, and had much influence in the church because of the favor of God in forgiving him his apostasy, and intrusting to him the feeding of his flock, and because he ever remained one of the closest followers of Christ in his daily life.                                                                              52   {6Red 51.1}
[6Red 52.1]                  Meeting of the Brethren.          Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. And when they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted." There were others besides the eleven who assembled on the mountain-side. After he had revealed himself to them, certain followers of Jesus were only partially convinced of his identity with the crucified One. But none of the eleven had any doubt upon the subject. They had listened to his words, revealing the straight chain of prophecy in regard to himself. He had eaten with them, and shown them his wounded side and his pierced hands and feet, and they had handled him, so there was no room for unbelief in their minds.  {6Red 52.1}
[6Red 52.2]          This meeting at Galilee had been appointed by the Saviour; the angel from Heaven had announced it to several of the disciples; and Jesus himself had given them special directions in regard to it, saying, "After I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee." The place upon the mountain-side was selected by Jesus, because of its accommodation for a large company. This meeting was of the utmost importance to the church, which was soon to be left to carry on the work without the personal presence of the Saviour. Jesus here designed to manifest himself to all the brethren that should assemble, in order that all their doubt and unbelief might be swept away.  {6Red 52.2}
[6Red 52.3]          The appointment of Jesus was repeated to those who believed on him, while they were yet lingering at Jerusalem, attending the festal                                                                              53  occasions which followed the passover. The tidings reached many lonely ones who were mourning the death of their Lord; and they made their way to the place of meeting by circuitous routes, coming in from every direction, that they might not excite the suspicion of the jealous Jews. With the most intense interest they assembled together. Those who had been favored with a sight of the resurrected Saviour recounted to the doubting ones the messages of the angels, and their interviews with their Master. They reasoned from scripture, as Jesus had done with them, showing how every specification of prophecy relating to the first advent of Christ had been fulfilled in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.  {6Red 52.3}
[6Red 53.1]          Thus the favored disciples passed from group to group, encouraging and strengthening the faith of their brethren. Many of those assembled heard these communications with amazement. A new train of thought was started in their minds regarding the crucified One. If what they had just heard was true, then Jesus was more than a prophet. No one could triumph over death, and burst the fetters of the tomb, but Messiah. Their ideas of Messiah and his mission had been so confused by the false teachings of the priests that it was necessary for them to unlearn what had been taught them, in order to be able to accept the truth, that Christ, through ignominy, suffering, and death, should finally take his throne.  {6Red 53.1}
[6Red 53.2]          With mingled anxiety, fear, and hope, they waited to see if Jesus would indeed appear to fulfill his appointment. Thomas recounted to an eager, listening crowd his former unbelief, and                                                                              54  his refusal to believe unless he saw the wounded hands, feet, and side of his Lord, and put his finger in the prints of the nails. He told them how his doubts were swept away forever by the sight of his Saviour, bearing the cruel marks of the crucifixion, and that he wished for no farther evidence.  {6Red 53.2}
[6Red 54.1]          While the people were watching and waiting, suddenly Jesus stood in their midst. No one could tell from whence or how he came. The disciples recognized him at once, and hastened to pay him homage. Many who were present had never before seen him, but when they looked upon his divine countenance, and then upon his wounded hands and feet, pierced by the nails of the crucifixion, they knew it was the Saviour, and worshiped him.  {6Red 54.1}
[6Red 54.2]          But there were some who still doubted; they could not believe the joyous truth. "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in Heaven and in earth." This assurance of Jesus exceeded all their expectations. They knew of his power, while he was one among them, over disease of every type, and over Satan and his angels; but they could not at first grasp the grand reality that all power in Heaven and on earth had been given to Him who had walked their streets, and sat at their tables, and taught in their midst.  {6Red 54.2}
[6Red 54.3]          Jesus sought to draw their minds away from himself personally, to the importance of his position as the heir of all things, an equal with God himself; that through suffering and conflict he had gained his great inheritance, the kingdoms of Heaven and of earth. He wished them to understand at once how ample was his authority,                                                                              55  and, as one above all powers and principalities, he issued the great commission to his chosen disciples:--  {6Red 54.3}
[6Red 55.1]          "Go ye, therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen."  {6Red 55.1}
[6Red 55.2]          A wide door was thus thrown open before his amazed listeners, who had heretofore been taught the most rigid seclusion from all save their own nation. A new and fuller interpretation of the prophecies dawned upon their minds; they labored to comprehend the work that was assigned them. The world regarded Jesus as an impostor; only a few hundreds ranked under his banner, and the faith of these had been fearfully shaken by the fact of his death, and they had not been able to settle upon any definite plan of action. Now Christ had revealed himself to them in his resurrected form, and had given them a mission so extensive that, with their limited views, they could scarcely comprehend it. It was difficult for them to realize that the faith which had bound them to the side of Jesus should not only be the religion of the Jews, but of all nations.  {6Red 55.2}
[6Red 55.3]          Superstition, tradition, bigotry, and idolatry ruled the world. The Jews alone claimed to have a certain knowledge of God, and they were so exclusive, both socially and religiously, that they were despised by every other people. The high wall of separation which they had raised made the Jews a little world to themselves, and they called all other classes heathen and dogs.                                                                              56  But Jesus committed to his disciples the scheme of making known their religion to all nations, tongues, and people. It was the most sublime enterprise ever intrusted to man--to preach a crucified and risen Saviour, and a full and free salvation to all men, both rich and poor, learned and ignorant--to teach that Christ came to the world to pardon the repentant, and to offer them a love high as heaven, broad as the world, and enduring as eternity.  {6Red 55.3}
[6Red 56.1]          They were to teach the observance of all things whatsoever Jesus had commanded them, and were to baptize in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Jesus was about to be removed from his disciples; but he assured them that although he should ascend to his Father, his Spirit and influence would be with them always, and with their successors even unto the end of the world. Christ could not have left his followers a more precious legacy than the assurance that his presence would be with them through all the dark and trying hours of life. When Satan seems ready to destroy the church of God, and bring his people to confusion, they should remember that One has promised to be with them who has said, "All power is given unto me in Heaven and on earth."  {6Red 56.1}
[6Red 56.2]          Persecution and reproach have ever been the lot of the true followers of Christ. The world hated the Master, and it has ever hated his servants; but the Holy Spirit, the Comforter which Christ sent unto his disciples, cheers and strengthens them to do his work with fidelity during his personal absence. The Comforter, the Spirit of truth, was to abide with them forever, and Christ assured them that the union existing between                                                                              57  himself and the Father, now also embraced them.  {6Red 56.2}
[6Red 57.1]         The understanding of the disciples, which had been clouded by misinterpretation of the prophecies, was now fully opened by Jesus, who shed a clear light upon those scriptures referring to himself. He showed them the true character of his kingdom; and they now began to see that it was not the mission of Christ to establish a temporal power, but that his kingdom of divine grace was to be manifested in the hearts of his people, and that only through his humiliation, suffering, and death, could the kingdom of his glory finally be established.  {6Red 57.1}
[6Red 57.2]          The power of death was held by the devil; but Jesus had removed its stinging despair, by meeting the enemy upon his own territory and there conquering him. Henceforth death would be robbed of its terror for the Christian, since Christ himself had felt its pangs, and risen from the grave to sit at the right hand of the Father in Heaven, having all power in Heaven and on earth. The conflict between Christ and Satan was determined when the Lord arose from the dead, shaking the prison-house of his enemy to its foundations, and robbing him of his spoils by bringing up a company of the sleeping dead, as a fresh trophy of the victory achieved by the second Adam. This resurrection was a sample, and an assurance, of the final resurrection of the righteous dead at Christ's second coming.  {6Red 57.2}
[6Red 57.3]          Jerusalem had been the scene of Christ's amazing condescension for the human race. There had he suffered, been rejected, and condemned. The land of Judea, of which Jerusalem was the metropolis, was his birthplace. There, clad in the garb of humanity, he had walked with men,                                                                              58  and few had discerned how near Heaven came to earth when Jesus dwelt among them. It was, therefore, very appropriate that the work of the disciples should begin at Jerusalem. While all minds were agitated by the thrilling scenes of the past few weeks, it was a most fitting opportunity for the message to be borne to that city.  {6Red 57.3}
[6Red 58.1]          As the instruction of Jesus to the apostles was drawing to a close, and as the hour of his separation from them approached, he directed their minds more definitely to the work of the Spirit of God in fitting them for their mission. Through the medium of a familiar intercourse, he illuminated their minds to understand the sublime truths which they were to reveal to the world. But their work was not to be entered upon till they should know of a surety, by the baptism of the Holy Ghost, that they were connected with Heaven. They were promised new courage and joy from the heavenly illumination they should then experience, and which would enable them to comprehend the depth and breadth and fullness of God's love.  {6Red 58.1}
[6Red 58.2]          After being fitted for their mission by the descent of the Holy Ghost, the disciples were to proclaim pardon for sin, and salvation through repentance, and the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour, and to reveal the principles of the kingdom of Christ, beginning at Jerusalem, and from thence extending their labors throughout Judea, and into Samaria, and finally to the uttermost parts of the earth. Here is a lesson to all who have a message of truth to give to the world: Their own hearts must first be imbued with the Spirit of God, and their labors should commence at home; their families should have the benefit                                                                              59  of their influence; and the transforming power of the Spirit of God should be demonstrated in their own homes by a well-disciplined family. Then the circle should widen; the whole neighborhood should perceive the interest felt for their salvation, and the light of truth should be faithfully presented to them; for their salvation is of as much importance as that of persons at a distance. From the immediate neighborhood, and adjoining cities and towns, the circle of the labors of God's servants should widen, till the message of truth is given to the uttermost parts of the earth.  {6Red 58.2}
[6Red 59.1]          This was the order which Christ instituted for the labors of his disciples; but it is frequently reversed by the evangelical workers of this time. They neglect the inner circle; it is not felt to be a necessity that the quickening influence of the Spirit of God should first operate upon their own hearts, and sanctify and ennoble their lives. The simplest duties, lying directly in their path, are neglected for some wider and more distant field, where their labors are frequently expended in vain. Whereas in a field easier of access they would have labored with success, and encountered fewer trials, gaining influence and new courage as the way opened and broadened before them.  {6Red 59.1}
[6Red 59.2]          The apostles might have entreated the Lord that, in view of the unappreciated efforts which had been put forth in Jerusalem, and the insult and cruel death to which Christ had been subjected, they might be permitted to seek some more promising field, where they would find hearts more ready to hear and receive their message. But no such plea was made. Jesus was the sole director of the work. The very ground                                                                              60  where the greatest of all teachers had scattered the seeds of truth, was to be thoroughly cultivated by the apostles until those seeds should spring up and yield an abundant harvest. In their labors the disciples were to endure the hatred, oppression, and jealousy of the Jews; but this had been experienced by their Master before them, and they were not to fly from it.  {6Red 59.2}
[6Red 60.1]          Before his death, Jesus had said to his disciples, while comforting them in view of his approaching humiliation and death, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you." Now, after the conflict and the victory, after triumphing over death, and receiving his reward, in a more emphatic manner he bestowed upon them that peace which passeth all understanding. He qualified them to enter upon the work which he had commenced. As he had been sent by his Father, so he sent forth the disciples. He breathed upon them, and said, "Receive ye the Holy Ghost."  {6Red 60.1}
[6Red 60.2]          The apostles were not sent forth to be witnesses for Christ until they had received that spiritual endowment necessary to fit them for the execution of their great commission. All professions of Christianity are but lifeless expressions of faith until Jesus imbues the believer with his spiritual life, which is the Holy Ghost. The evangelist is not prepared to teach the truth, and to be the representative of Christ, till he has received this heavenly gift.  {6Red 60.2}
[6Red 60.3]          Men in responsible positions, who are proclaiming the truth of God in the name of Jesus without the spiritual energy given by the quickening power of God, are doing an unreal work, and cannot be certain whether success or defeat                                                                              61  will attend their labors. Many forget that religion and duty are not dreary sentimentalisms, but earnest action. It is not the great services and lofty aspirations which receive the approval of God, but the love and consecration through which the service is performed, be it great or little. Storms of opposition and rebuffs are God's providences to drive us under the shelter of his wing. When the cloud envelops us, his voice is heard: "Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you."  {6Red 60.3}
[6Red 61.1]          The act of Christ in breathing upon his disciples the Holy Ghost, and in imparting his peace to them, was as a few drops before the plentiful shower to be given on the day of Pentecost. Jesus impressed this fact upon his disciples, that as they should proceed in the work intrusted to them, they would the more fully comprehend the nature of that work, and the manner in which the kingdom of Christ was to be set up on earth. They were appointed to be witnesses for the Saviour; they were to testify what they had seen and heard of his resurrection; they were to repeat the gracious words which proceeded from his lips. They were acquainted with his holy character; he was as an angel standing in the sun, yet casting no shadow. It was the sacred work of the apostles to present the spotless character of Christ to men, as the standard for their lives. The disciples had been so intimately associated with this Pattern of holiness that they were in some degree assimilated to him in character, and were specially fitted to make known to the world his precepts and example.  {6Red 61.1}
[6Red 61.2]          The more that the minister of Christ associates                                                                              62  with his Master, through contemplation of his life and character, the more closely will he resemble him, and the better qualified will he be to teach his truths. Every feature in the life of the great Example should be studied with care, and close converse should be held with him through the prayer of living faith. Thus will the defective human character be transformed into the image of his glorious character. Thus will the teacher of the truth be prepared to lead souls to Christ.  {6Red 61.2}
[6Red 62.1]          Jesus, in giving the disciples their first commission, had said, "I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of Heaven, and whatsoever thou ［referring to responsible men who should represent his church］ shalt bind upon earth shall be bound in Heaven, and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in Heaven." In renewing the commission of those to whom he had imparted the Holy Ghost, he said, "Whosesoever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whosesoever sins ye retain, they are retained." These words conveyed to the disciples a sense of the sacredness of their work, and its tremendous results. Imbued with the Spirit of God, they were to go forth preaching the merits of a sin-pardoning Saviour; and they had the assurance that all Heaven was interested in their labors, and that what they did on earth, in the spirit and power of Christ, should be ratified in Heaven.  {6Red 62.1}
[6Red 62.2]          Jesus did not, by this assurance, give the apostles or their successors power to forgive sins, as his representatives. The Roman Catholic Church directs its people to confess the secrets of their lives to the priest, and from him, acting in the place                                                                              63  of Christ, to receive absolution from their sins. The Saviour taught that his is the only name given under Heaven whereby men shall be saved. Jesus, however, delegated to his church upon earth, in her organized capacity, the power to censure and to remove censure according to the rules prescribed by inspiration; but these acts were only to be done by men of good repute, who were consecrated by the great Head of the church, and who showed by their lives that they were earnestly seeking to follow the guidance of the Spirit of God.  {6Red 62.2}
[6Red 63.1]          No man was to exercise an arbitrary power over another man's conscience. Christ gave no ecclesiastical right to forgive sin, nor to sell indulgences, that men may sin without incurring the displeasure of God, nor did he give his servants liberty to accept a gift or bribe for cloaking sin, that it may escape merited censure. Jesus charged his disciples to preach the remission of sin in his name among all nations; but they themselves were not empowered to remove one stain of sin from the children of Adam. Nor were they to execute judgment against the guilty; the wrath of an offended God was to be proclaimed against the sinner; but the power which the Roman Church assumes to visit that wrath upon the offender is not established by any direction of Christ; he himself will execute the sentence pronounced against the impenitent. Whoever would attract the people to himself as one in whom is invested power to forgive sins, incurs the wrath of God, for he turns souls away from the heavenly Pardoner to a weak and erring mortal.  {6Red 63.1}
[6Red 63.2]          Jesus showed his disciples that only as they                                                                              64  should partake of his Spirit, and be assimilated to his merciful character, would they be endowed with spiritual discernment and miraculous power. All their strength and wisdom must come from him. When dealing with obstinately offending members, the holy men of the church were to follow the directions laid down by Christ; this, the only course of safety for the church, has been traced step by step by the apostles with the pen of inspiration.  {6Red 63.2}
[6Red 64.1]          When the church takes up the case of an offender, the prayer of faith will bring Christ into the midst as an all-wise counselor. Men are in danger of being controlled by prejudice or the reports and opinions of others. Their own unsanctified judgment may balance their decisions. Therefore, where important decisions are to be made in reference to individuals in the church, the judgment of one man, however wise and experienced he may be, is not to be regarded as sufficient to act upon.  {6Red 64.1}
[6Red 64.2]          Jesus has said, "Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst." With Christ to preside over the council of the church, how cautiously should each man speak and act. Prayer should be offered for the erring, and every means be used to restore him to the favor of God and the church; but if the voice of the church is disregarded, and his individual will is set up above it, then the offender must be promptly dealt with, and the decision of the brethren, made with prayer and faith, and according to the wisdom given them of God, is ratified by Heaven.  {6Red 64.2}
[6Red 64.3]          The repentance of the sinner is to be accepted by the church with grateful hearts. The church                                                                              65  is empowered to absolve sins only in the sense of assuring the repenting sinner of the forgiving mercy of the Saviour, and in leading him out from the darkness of unbelief and guilt, to the light of faith and righteousness. It may place his trembling hand in the loving hand of Jesus. Such a remission is ratified by Heaven. The directions of the apostles in regard to condemnation or acquittal in case of church trials are to remain valid till the end of time. And the promise of Christ's presence in answer to prayer should comfort and encourage his church today as much as it comforted and encouraged the apostles whom Christ directly addressed. Those who despise the authority of the church despise the authority of Christ himself.  {6Red 64.3}
[6Red 65.1]         Notwithstanding the refusal of Heaven's best gift by Jerusalem, the work of the apostles was to commence there. The first overtures of mercy were to be made to the murderers of the Son of God. There were also many there who had secretly believed on Jesus, and many who had been deceived by the priests and rulers, but were ready to accept him, if it could be proven that he was indeed the Christ. The apostles, as eyewitnesses, were to testify of Jesus and his resurrection. They were to open to the people the prophecies relating to him, and to show how perfectly they had been fulfilled. They were to bring before the people the most convincing evidence of the truths which they taught, and they were to proclaim the joyful tidings of salvation to the world.  {6Red 65.1}
[6Red 65.2]          As all minds were interested in the history and mission of Jesus, because of the events                                                                              66  which had just transpired at Jerusalem, this was a time when the preaching of his gospel would make the most decided impression upon the public mind. At the commencement of their work the disciples were to receive a marvelous power. Their testimony of Christ was to be confirmed by signs and wonders, and the performance of miracles by the apostles, and those who received their message. Said Jesus, "They shall cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents ［as in the case of Paul］, and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover."  {6Red 65.2}
[6Red 66.1]                      Ascension of Christ.          After the meeting of Jesus with the brethren, at Galilee, the disciples returned to Jerusalem; and while the eleven were gathered together in the city Jesus met with them, and again led their minds out into the prophecies concerning himself. He deeply impressed upon their understanding the necessity of thoroughly studying the ancient prophecies regarding Messiah, and of comparing them with the facts of his life, death, and resurrection, in order to establish their fulfillment in himself. They were to diligently trace link after link of sacred truth revealed by the prophets, in types and figures representing the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. He lifted the vail from their understanding, concerning the typical system of the Jews, and they now saw clearly the meaning of the forms and symbols which were virtually abolished by the death of Christ.                                                                              67   {6Red 66.1}
[6Red 67.1]          The Saviour of the world, as a divine Conqueror, was about to ascend to his Father's throne. He selected the Mount of Olives as the scene of this last display of his glory. Accompanied by the eleven, he made his way to the mountain. The disciples were not aware that this was to be their last season with their Master. He employed the time in sacred converse with them, reiterating his former instructions. As they passed through the gates of Jerusalem, many wondering eyes looked upon the little company, led by one whom a few weeks before the priests and rulers had condemned and crucified.  {6Red 67.1}
[6Red 67.2]          They crossed the Kedron, and approached Gethsemane. Here Jesus paused, that his disciples might call to mind the lessons he had given them while on his way to the garden on the night of his great agony. He looked again upon the vine which he had then used as a symbol to represent the union of his church with himself and his Father; and he refreshed the memory of his followers by repeating the impressive truths which he had then illustrated to them. Reminders of the unrequited love of Jesus were all around him; even the disciples walking by his side, who were so dear to his heart, had, in the hour of his humiliation, when he most needed their sympathy and comfort, reproached and forsaken him.  {6Red 67.2}
[6Red 67.3]          Christ had sojourned in the world for thirty- three years; he had endured its scorn, insult, and mockery; he had been rejected and crucified. Now, when about to ascend to his throne of glory--as he reviews the ingratitude of the people he came to save--will he not withdraw his                                                                              68  sympathy and love from them? Will not his affections be centered on that world where he is appreciated, and where sinless angels adore him, and wait to do his bidding? No; his promise to those loved ones whom he leaves on earth is "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Before his conflict, he had prayed the Father that they might not be taken out of the world, but should be kept from the evil which is in the world.  {6Red 67.3}
[6Red 68.1]          At length the little company reach the Mount of Olives. This place had been peculiarly hallowed by the presence of Jesus while he bore the nature of man. It was consecrated by his prayers and tears. When he had ridden into Jerusalem, just prior to his trial, the steeps of Olivet had echoed the joyous shouts of the triumphant multitude. On its sloping descent was Bethany, where he had often found repose at the house of Lazarus. At the foot of the mount was the garden of Gethsemane, where he had agonized alone, and moistened the sod with his blood.  {6Red 68.1}
[6Red 68.2]          Jesus led the way across the summit, to the vicinity of Bethany. He then paused, and they all gathered about him. Beams of light seemed to radiate from his countenance, as he looked with deep love upon his disciples. He upbraided them not for their faults and failures; but words of unutterable tenderness were the last which fell upon their ears from the lips of their Lord. With hands outstretched in blessing them, and as if in assurance of his protecting care, he slowly ascended from among them, drawn heavenward by a power stronger than any earthly attraction. As he passed upward, the awe-struck disciples looked with straining eyes for the last glimpse of                                                                              69  their ascending Lord. A cloud of glory received him out of their sight, and at the same moment there floated down to their charmed senses the sweetest and most joyous music from the angel choir.  {6Red 68.2}
[6Red 69.1]          While their gaze was still riveted upward, voices addressed them which sounded like the music which had just charmed them. They turned, and saw two beings in the form of men; yet their heavenly character was immediately discerned by the disciples, whom they addressed in comforting accents, saying, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into Heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into Heaven." These angels were of the company that had been waiting in a shining cloud to escort Jesus to his throne; and in sympathy and love for those whom the Saviour had left, they came to remove all uncertainty from their minds, and to give them the assurance that he would come to earth again.  {6Red 69.1}
[6Red 69.2]          All Heaven was waiting to welcome the Saviour to the celestial courts. As he ascended he led the way, and the multitude of captives whom he had raised from the dead at the time when he came forth from the tomb, followed him. The heavenly host, with songs of joy and triumph, escorted him upward. At the portals of the city of God an innumerable company of angels awaited his coming. As they approached the gates of the city, the angels who were escorting the Majesty of Heaven, in triumphant tones addressed the company at the portals: "Lift up your heads, O ye gates, and be ye lifted up, ye everlasting doors, and the King of Glory shall come in!"                                                                              70   {6Red 69.2}
[6Red 70.1]          The waiting angels at the gates of the city inquire in rapturous strains, "Who is this King of Glory? The escorting angels joyously reply in songs of triumph, "The Lord, strong and mighty! The Lord, mighty in battle! Lift up your heads, O ye gates, even lift them up, ye everlasting doors, and the King of Glory shall come in!" Again the waiting angels ask, "Who is this King of Glory?" and the escorting angels respond in melodious strains, "The Lord of hosts! He is the King of Glory!" Then the portals of the city of God are widely opened, and the heavenly train pass in amid a burst of angelic music. All the heavenly host surround their majestic Commander as he takes his position upon the throne of the Father.  {6Red 70.1}
[6Red 70.2]          With the deepest adoration and joy, the hosts of angels bow before him, while the glad shout rings through the courts of Heaven: "Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing!" Songs of triumph mingle with music from angelic harps, till Heaven seems to overflow with delightful harmony, and inconceivable joy and praise. The Son of God has triumphed over the prince of darkness, and conquered death and the grave. Heaven rings with voices in lofty strains proclaiming: "Blessing, and honor, and glory, and power be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever!"  {6Red 70.2}
[6Red 70.3]          He is seated by the side of his Father on his throne. The Saviour presents the captives he has rescued from the bonds of death, at the price of his own life. His hands place immortal crowns upon their brows; for they are the representatives,                                                                              71  and samples, of those who shall be redeemed, by the blood of Christ, from all nations, tongues, and people, and come forth from the dead, when he shall call the just from their graves at his second coming. Then shall they see the marks of Calvary in the glorified body of the Son of God. Their greatest joy will be found in the presence of Him who sitteth on the throne; and the enraptured saints will exclaim, My Beloved is mine, and I am his! He is the chief among ten thousand, and altogether lovely!  {6Red 70.3}
[6Red 71.1]          The disciples returned to Jerusalem, not mourning, but full of joy. When last they looked upon their Lord, his countenance shone with heavenly brightness, and he smiled lovingly upon them. Those hands that had so often been stretched forth in the act of blessing the sick and the afflicted, and in rebuking demons--those hands which had been bruised by the cruel nails, were mercifully extended, as though in the disciples they embraced the whole world, and called down a blessing upon all the followers of Christ. Beams of light seemed to emanate from those dear hands and to fall upon the watching, waiting ones.  {6Red 71.1}
[6Red 71.2]          The most precious fact to the disciples in the ascension of Jesus was that he went from them into Heaven in the tangible form of their divine Teacher. The very same Jesus, who had walked, and talked, and prayed with them; who had broken bread with them; who had been with them in their boats on the lake; who had sought retirement with them in the groves; and who had that very day toiled with them up the steep ascent of Olivet,--had ascended to Heaven in the form of humanity. And the heavenly messengers                                                                              72  had assured them that the very same Jesus whom they had seen go up into Heaven, should come again in like manner as he had ascended. This assurance has ever been, and will be till the close of time, the hope and joy of all true lovers of Christ.  {6Red 71.2}
[6Red 72.1]          The disciples not only saw the Lord ascend, but they had the testimony of the angels that he had gone to occupy his Father's throne in Heaven. The last remembrance that the disciples were to have of their Lord was as the sympathizing Friend, the glorified Redeemer. Moses veiled his face to hide the glory of the law which was reflected upon it, and the glory of Christ's ascension was veiled from human sight. The brightness of the heavenly escort, and the opening of the glorious gates of God to welcome him, were not to be discerned by mortal eyes.  {6Red 72.1}
[6Red 72.2]          Had the track of Christ to Heaven been revealed to the disciples in all its inexpressible glory, they could not have endured the sight. Had they beheld the myriads of angels, and heard the bursts of triumph from the battlements of Heaven, as the everlasting doors were lifted up, the contrast between that glory and their own lives in a world of trial, would have been so great that they would hardly have been able to again take up the burden of their earthly lives, prepared to execute with courage and faithfulness the commission given them by the Saviour. Even the Comforter, the Holy Ghost which was sent to them, would not have been properly appreciated, nor would it have strengthened their hearts sufficiently to bear reproach, contumely, imprisonment, and death if need be.  {6Red 72.2}
[6Red 72.3]          Their senses were not to become so infatuated                                                                              73  with the glories of Heaven that they would lose sight of the character of Christ on earth, which they were to copy in themselves. They were to keep distinctly before their minds the beauty and majesty of his life, the perfect harmony of all his attributes, and the mysterious union of the divine and human in his nature. It was better that the earthly acquaintance of the disciples with their Saviour should end in the solemn, quiet, and sublime manner in which it did. His visible ascent from the world was in harmony with the meekness and quiet of his life.  {6Red 72.3}
[6Red 73.1]          The disciples returned to Jerusalem rejoicing, not that they were deprived of their Master and Teacher, for this was to them a cause for personal mourning rather than joy. But Jesus had assured them that he would send the Comforter, as an equivalent for his visible presence. He had said, "If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father." They rejoiced because Jesus had wrought out salvation for man; he had answered the claims of the law, and had become a perfect offering for man; he had ascended to Heaven to carry forward the work of atonement begun on earth. He was the Advocate of man, his Intercessor with the Father.  {6Red 73.1}
[6Red 73.2]          Jesus, who was born in Bethlehem; who worked with his earthly father at the carpenter's trade; who sat in weariness by Jacob's well; who slept in weariness in Peter's fishing-boat; who hungered and thirsted; who took little children in his arms and blessed them; who was rejected, scourged, and crucified,--ascended in the form of a man to Heaven, and took his place at the right hand of God. Having felt our infirmities, our sorrows, and temptations, he is amply fitted to                                                                              74  plead for man as his representative. Jesus, when upon earth, was the most perfect type of man; and it is the Christian's joy and comfort that this patient, loving Saviour is to be his King and Judge; for "the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son."  {6Red 73.2}
[6Red 74.1]          We are not inclined to associate kingly glory and judicial authority with the self-denial, patience, love, and forgiveness shown in the life of Christ; yet these attributes qualified the Saviour for his exalted position. The qualities of character which he developed on earth constitute his exaltation in glory. His triumphs were gained by love, not by force. In coming to Christ the sinner consents to be elevated to the noblest ideal of man.  {6Red 74.1}
[6Red 74.2]          "Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world?" The attributes which exalted Christ, if obtained by his followers, will place the scepter in their hands, and they shall be kings and priests with God. Christ pledged himself to keep the law which Adam transgressed, and to magnify that law and make it honorable by demonstrating that it was not arbitrary, and could be kept inviolate by man. Christ showed by his life that the law of God is faultless, and that man, by disobeying it, brings upon himself the evils which its restrictions seek to avert from him.  {6Red 74.2}
[6Red 74.3]          When the disciples returned to Jerusalem alone, people looked at them, expecting to see in their faces expressions of sorrow, confusion, and defeat; but they saw there gladness and triumph. They did not wail over disappointed hopes, but were continually in the temple praising and blessing God. The priests and rulers were at a                                                                              75  loss to understand this mystery. After the discouraging events connected with the trial, condemnation, and ignominious death of their Master, the disciples were supposed to be defeated and ashamed; but they now came forth with buoyant spirits, and countenances beaming with a joy not born of earth.  {6Red 74.3}
[6Red 75.1]          They told the wonderful story of Christ's glorious resurrection, and ascension to Heaven, and many believed their testimony. The disciples had no longer a vague distrust of the future; they knew that Jesus was in Heaven; that his sympathies were unchanged; that he was identifying himself with suffering humanity, receiving the prayers of his people; that he was pleading with God the merits of his own precious blood, showing his wounded hands and feet, as a remembrance of the price he had paid for his redeemed. They knew that he would come again escorted by the heavenly host, and they looked upon this event, not as a dreaded calamity, but as an occasion for great joy and longing anticipation. They knew that he would stand again upon the Mount of Olives, while the Hebrew hallelujahs should mingle with Gentile hosannas, and myriads of voices should unite in the glad acclamation of "Crown him Lord of all!" They knew that he had ascended to Heaven to prepare mansions for his obedient children, and that he would return and take them unto himself.  {6Red 75.1}
[6Red 75.2]          With joy the disciples related to their brethren the news of their Lord's ascension. They now felt that they had a Friend at the throne of God, and were eager to prefer their requests to the Father in the name of Jesus. They gathered                                                                              76  together in solemn awe and bowed in prayer, repeating to each other the assurance of the Saviour, "Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name he will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name; ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full." During the ten days following the ascension, they, with one accord, devoted the time to prayer and praise, waiting for the descent of the Holy Ghost. They extended the hand of faith higher and higher, with the mighty argument, "It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us."  {6Red 75.2}
[6Red 76.1]          "Great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory." The Saviour came into the world, outwardly the son of David, not manifesting the full significance of his character. His spirit was subject to that discipline and experience through which humanity must in some measure pass. His divinity was veiled beneath humanity. He hid within himself those all-powerful attributes which belonged to him as one equal with God. At times his divine character flashed forth with such wonderful power that all who were capable of discerning spiritual things pronounced him the Son of God.  {6Red 76.1}
[6Red 76.2]          Christ exiled himself to the world that he might bring heavenly light within the reach of humanity. The Jews did not comprehend the twofold character of Christ; and as he did not assume temporal, kingly power, and establish his reign on David's throne, bringing into subjection                                                                              77  every foreign authority, the Jewish dignitaries refused to accept him. They could not connect man's suffering, grief, and poverty with their idea of the Messiah. Yet this was the only Saviour the word of God through his prophets had ever predicted.  {6Red 76.2}
[6Red 77.1]          The Jews utterly failed to understand the spiritual connection which identified Christ with both the human and the divine, and gave fallen man a presentation of what he should strive to become. Christ was God in the flesh. As the son of David, he stood forth a perfect type of true manhood, bold in doing his duty, and of the strictest integrity, yet full of love, compassion, and tender sympathy. In his miracles he revealed himself as Lord. When he was asked by Philip to show him the Father, he answered, "Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? He that hath seen me, hath seen the Father."  {6Red 77.1}
[6Red 77.2]          The Jews were continually seeking for and expecting a Divinity among them that would be revealed in outward show, and by one flash of over-mastering will would change the current of all minds, force from them an acknowledgment of his superiority, elevate himself, and gratify the ambition of his people. This being the case, when Christ was treated with contempt, there was a powerful temptation before him to reveal his heavenly character, and to compel his persecutors to admit that he was Lord above kings and potentates, priests and temple. But it was his difficult task to maintain the level of humanity.  {6Red 77.2}
[6Red 77.3]          In the intercessory prayer of Jesus with his Father, he claimed that he had fulfilled the                                                                              78  conditions which made it obligatory upon the Father to fulfill his part of the contract made in Heaven, with regard to fallen man. He prayed: "I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. ［That is, he had wrought out a righteous character on earth as an example for men to follow.］ And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self, with the glory which I had with thee before the world was." In this prayer he farther goes on to state what is comprehended by the work which he has accomplished, and which has given him all those who believe on his name.  {6Red 77.3}
[6Red 78.1]          He values this recompense so highly that he forgets the anguish it has cost him to redeem fallen man. He declares himself glorified in those who believe on him. The church, in his name, is to carry to glorious perfection the work which he has commenced; and when that church shall be finally ransomed in the Paradise of God, he will look upon the travail of his soul and be satisfied. Through all eternity the ransomed host will be his chief glory.  {6Red 78.1}
[6Red 78.2]          Jesus, the Majesty of Heaven, humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross; "wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name." This mighty Saviour has promised to come again, and to take his church to the mansions he has prepared for them. While he is in Heaven carrying on the work of intercession and atonement commenced on earth, his life and character are to be exemplified by his church upon earth. He has promised that, "He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do, because I go unto my                                                                              79  Father." And again, "Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name." "Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you."  {6Red 78.2}
[6Red 79.1]          He who considered it not robbery to be equal with God, once trod the earth, bearing our suffering and sorrowing nature, and tempted in all points like as we are; and now he appears in the presence of God as our great High Priest, ready to accept the repentance, and to answer the prayers of his people, and, through the merits of his own righteousness, to present them to the Father. He raises his wounded hands to God, and claims their blood-bought pardon. I have graven them on the palms of my hands, he pleads. Those memorial wounds of my humiliation and anguish secure to my church the best gifts of Omnipotence.  {6Red 79.1}
[6Red 79.2]          What a source of joy to the disciples, to know that they had such a Friend in Heaven to plead in their behalf! Through the visible ascension of Christ all their views and contemplation of Heaven are changed. Their minds had formerly dwelt upon it as a region of unlimited space, tenanted by spirits without substance. Now Heaven was connected with the thought of Jesus, whom they had loved and reverenced above all others, with whom they had conversed and journeyed, whom they had handled, even in his resurrected body, who had spoken hope and comfort to their hearts, and who, while the words were upon his lips, had been taken up before their eyes, the tones of his voice coming back to them as the cloudy chariot of angels received him: "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world."                                                                              80   {6Red 79.2}
[6Red 80.1]          Heaven could no longer appear to them as an indefinite, incomprehensible space, filled with intangible spirits. They now looked upon it as their future home, where mansions were being prepared for them by their loving Redeemer. Prayer was clothed with a new interest, since it was a communion with their Saviour. With new and thrilling emotions and a firm confidence that their prayer would be answered, they gathered in the upper chamber to offer their petitions, and to claim the promise of the Saviour, who had said "Ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full." They prayed in the name of Jesus.  {6Red 80.1}
[6Red 80.2]          They had a gospel to preach--Christ in human form, a man of sorrows; Christ in humiliation, taken by wicked hands and crucified; Christ resurrected, and ascended to Heaven, into the presence of God, to be man's Advocate; Christ to come again with power and great glory in the clouds of heaven, and to receive the obedient and loyal to himself.  {6Red 80.2}
[6Red 80.3]          The apostles went forth with courage and hope, to do their Master's work with fidelity. They knew that the most acceptable way of waiting for Christ was to work for him. It was theirs to direct others to the coming Lord, and to teach them to wait patiently for his appearing. This work was given to every disciple of Christ.  {6Red 80.3}
[7Red 3.2]         The disciples began to hope that the wonderful descent of the Holy Ghost would influence the Jewish people to accept Jesus. The Saviour forbore to farther explain, for he knew that when the Holy Spirit should come upon them in full measure their minds would be illuminated and they would fully understand the work before them, and take it up just where he had left it.  {7Red 3.2}
[7Red 3.3]          The disciples assembled in the upper chamber, uniting in supplications with the believing women,                                                                              4  with Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren. These brethren, who had been unbelieving, were now fully established in their faith by the scenes attending the crucifixion, and by the resurrection and ascension of the Lord. The number assembled was about one hundred and twenty. While they were awaiting the descent of the Holy Ghost, they supplied the office left vacant by Judas. Two men were selected, who, in the careful judgment of the believers, were best qualified for the place. But the disciples, distrusting their ability to decide the question farther, referred it to One that knew all hearts. They sought the Lord in prayer to ascertain which of the two men was more suitable for the important position of trust, as an apostle of Christ. The Spirit of God selected Matthias for the office.  {7Red 3.3}
[7Red 4.1]          Both men who had been selected were considered to be persons of stern integrity, and in every way worthy of the vacant position; but notwithstanding the disciples were intimately acquainted with them, they felt that their own judgment was imperfect, and trusted the selection only to the Lord, whose eyes could read the hidden secrets of the heart. There is a lesson for our time in this occurrence. Many who are apparently well qualified to labor for God, are urged into the ministry, without a proper consideration of their case, and at length become a grievous burden to the church instead of burden-bearers. If the church of the present time would act as cautiously and wisely as did the apostles in filling the vacancy among them, much perplexity and serious injury, might be saved the cause of God. The work has often suffered much by                                                                              5  putting persons forward to do that which they were not capable of doing.  {7Red 4.1}
[7Red 5.1]          After filling the vacancy in the apostolic number, the disciples gave their time to meditation and prayer, being often in the temple, testifying of Christ, and praising God. The Pentecost was a feast celebrated seven weeks after the passover. Upon these occasions the Jews were required to repair to the temple and to present the first-fruits of all the harvest, thus acknowledging their dependence on the great Giver of all good, and their obligation to render back to God, in gifts and offerings to sustain his cause, that which he had intrusted to them. On this day of divine appointment, the Lord graciously poured out his Spirit on the little company of believers, who were the first-fruits of the Christian church.  {7Red 5.1}
[7Red 5.2]          "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." The Holy Ghost assuming the form of tongues of fire divided at the tips, and resting upon those assembled, was an emblem of the gift which was bestowed upon them of speaking with fluency several different languages, with which they had formerly been unacquainted; and the appearance of fire signified the fervent zeal with which they would labor, and the power which would attend their words.                                                                              6   {7Red 5.2}
[7Red 6.1]          Under this heavenly illumination, the scriptures which Christ had explained to them, stood forth in their minds with the vivid luster and loveliness of clear and powerful truth. The vail which had prevented them from seeing the end of that which was abolished was now removed, and the object of Christ's mission and the nature of his kingdom were comprehended with perfect clearness.  {7Red 6.1}
[7Red 6.2]          The Jews had been scattered to almost every nation, and spoke various languages. They had come long distances to Jerusalem, and had temporarily taken up their abode there, to remain through the religious festivals then in progress, and to observe their requirements. When assembled, they were of every known tongue. This diversity of languages was a great obstacle to the labors of God's servants in publishing the doctrine of Christ to the uttermost parts of the earth. That God should supply the deficiency of the apostles in a miraculous manner was to the people the most perfect confirmation of the testimony of these witnesses for Christ. The Holy Spirit had done for them that which they could not have accomplished for themselves in a lifetime; they could now spread the truth of the gospel abroad, speaking with accuracy the language of those for whom they were laboring. This miraculous gift was the highest evidence they could present to the world that their commission bore the signet of Heaven.  {7Red 6.2}
[7Red 6.3]          "And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own                                                                              7  language. And they were all amazed, and marveled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galileans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?"  {7Red 6.3}
[7Red 7.1]          The priests and rulers were greatly enraged at this wonderful manifestation, which was reported throughout all Jerusalem and its vicinity; but they dared not give way to their malice, for fear of exposing themselves to the hatred of the people. They had put the Master to death, but here were his servants, unlearned men of Galilee, tracing out the wonderful fulfillment of prophecy, and teaching the doctrine of Jesus in all the languages then spoken. They spoke with power of the wonderful works of the Saviour, and unfolded to their hearers the plan of salvation in the mercy and sacrifice of the Son of God. Their words convicted and converted thousands who listened. The traditions and superstitions inculcated by the priests were swept away from their minds, and they accepted the pure teachings of the Word of God.  {7Red 7.1}
[7Red 7.2]          The priests and rulers, determined to account for the miraculous power of the disciples in some natural way, declared that they were simply drunken from partaking largely of the new wine prepared for the feast. Some of the most ignorant seized this suggestion as the truth; but the more intelligent knew that it was false; and those speaking the different languages testified to the accuracy with which they were used by the disciples. And Peter, in answer to the vile accusation of the priests, addressed the assembly in these words:--  {7Red 7.2}
[7Red 7.3]          "Ye men of Judea, and all ye that dwell at                                                                              8  Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words; for these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel: And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams."  {7Red 7.3}
[7Red 8.1]          The effect of Peter's words was very marked; and many who had ridiculed the religion of Jesus were now convinced of its truth. It was certainly unreasonable to suppose that more than one hundred persons should become intoxicated at that unseasonable hour of the day, and on the occasion of a solemn religious festival. This wonderful demonstration was before the customary meal at which wine was taken. Peter showed them that this manifestation was the direct fulfillment of the prophecy of Joel, wherein he foretold that such power would come upon men of God to fit them for a special work.  {7Red 8.1}
[7Red 8.2]          Peter traced back the lineage of Christ in a direct line to the honorable house of David. He did not use any of the teachings of Jesus to prove his true position, because he knew their prejudices were so great that it would be of no effect. But he referred them to David, whom the Jews regarded as a venerable patriarch of their nation.  {7Red 8.2}
[7Red 8.3]          On that memorable occasion, large numbers who had heretofore ridiculed the idea of so unpretending a person as Jesus being the Son of God, became thoroughly convinced of the truth, and acknowledged him as their Saviour. Three                                                                              9  thousand souls were added to the church. The apostles spoke by the power of the  Holy Ghost; and their words could not be controverted, for they were confirmed by mighty miracles, wrought by them through the outpouring of the Spirit of God. The disciples were themselves astonished at the results of this visitation, and the quick and abundant harvest of souls. All the people were filled with amazement. Those who did not yield their prejudice and bigotry were so over-awed that they dared not by voice or violence attempt to stay the mighty work, and, for the time being, their opposition ceased.  {7Red 8.3}
[7Red 9.1]          This testimony in regard to the establishment of the Christian church is given us, not only as an important portion of sacred history, but also as a lesson. All who profess the name of Christ should be waiting, watching, and praying with one heart. All differences should be put away, and unity and tender love one for another pervade the whole. Then our prayers may go up together to our Heavenly Father with strong, earnest faith. Then we may wait with patience and hope the fulfillment of the promise.  {7Red 9.1}
[7Red 9.2]          The answer may come with sudden velocity and overpowering might; or it may be delayed for days and weeks, and our faith receive a trial. But God knows how and when to answer our prayer. It is our part of the work to put ourselves in connection with the divine channel. God is responsible for his part of the work. He is faithful who hath promised. The great and important matter with us is to be of one heart and mind, putting aside all envy and malice, and, as humble supplicants, to watch and wait. Jesus, our Representative and Head, is ready to                                                                              10  do for us what he did for the praying, watching ones on the day of Pentecost.  {7Red 9.2}
[7Red 10.1]          Jesus is as willing to impart courage and grace to his followers today as he was to the disciples of the early church. None should rashly invite an opportunity to battle with the principalities and powers of darkness. When God bids them engage in the conflict it will be time enough; he will then give the weak and hesitating boldness and utterance beyond their hope or expectation.  {7Red 10.1}
[7Red 10.2]         The same scorn and hatred that was manifested against Christ may be seen now to exist against those whom he has evidently chosen to be his co-workers. Those whose spirits rise up against the doctrines of truth make hard work for the servants of Christ. But God will make their wrath to praise him; they accomplish his purpose by stirring up minds to investigate the truth. God may allow men to follow their own wicked inclinations for a time, in opposing him; but when he sees it is for his glory, and the good of his people, he will arrest the scorners, expose their presumptive course, and give triumph to his truth.  {7Red 10.2}
[7Red 10.3]          The arguments of the apostles alone, although clear and convincing, would not have removed the prejudice of the Jews which had withstood so much evidence. But the Holy Ghost sent those arguments home with divine power to their hearts. They were as sharp arrows of the Almighty, convicting them of their terrible guilt in rejecting and crucifying the Lord of glory. "Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus                                                                              11  Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."  {7Red 10.3}
[7Red 11.1]          The disciples and apostles of Christ had a deep sense of their own inefficiency, and with humiliation and prayer they joined their weakness to his strength, their ignorance to his wisdom, their unworthiness to his righteousness, their poverty to his inexhaustible wealth. Thus strengthened and equipped they hesitated not in the service of their Master.  {7Red 11.1}
[7Red 11.2]          Peter urged home upon the convicted people the fact that they had rejected Christ because they had been deceived by the priests and rulers; and if they continued to look to them for counsel, and waited for those leaders to acknowledge Christ before they dared to do so, they would never accept him. Those powerful men, although they made a profession of sanctity, were ambitious, and zealous for riches and earthly glory. They would never come to Christ to receive light. Jesus had foretold a terrible retribution to come upon that people for their obstinate unbelief, notwithstanding the most powerful evidences given them that Jesus was the Son of God.  {7Red 11.2}
[7Red 11.3]          "Then they that gladly received his word were baptized; and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul; and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles."  {7Red 11.3}
[7Red 11.4]          From this time forth the language of the disciples was pure, simple, and accurate in word and accent, whether they spoke their native tongue or a foreign language. These humble men, who                                                                              12  had never learned in the school of the prophets, presented truths so elevated and pure as to astonish those who heard them. They could not go personally to the uttermost parts of the earth; but there were men at the feast from every quarter of the world, and the truths received by them were carried to their various homes, and published among their people, winning souls to Christ.  {7Red 11.4}
[7Red 12.1]                      The Cripple Healed.          A short time after the descent of the Holy Spirit, and immediately after a season of fervent prayer, Peter and John, going up to the temple to worship, saw a distressed and poverty-stricken cripple, forty years of age, who had known no other life than one of pain and infirmity. This unfortunate man had long desired to go to Jesus and be healed; but he was almost helpless, and was removed far from the scene of the great Physician's labors. Finally his earnest pleadings induced some kind persons to bear him to the gate of the temple. But upon arriving there he discovered that the Healer, upon whom his hopes were centered, had been put to a cruel death.  {7Red 12.1}
[7Red 12.2]          His disappointment excited the pity of those who knew how long he had eagerly hoped and expected to be healed by Jesus, and they daily brought him to the temple, that the passers-by might be moved to give him a trifle to relieve his present wants. As Peter and John passed, he begged charity from them. The disciples regarded him with compassion. "And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us." "Silver and gold have I none; but such                                                                              13  as I have give I thee. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk."  {7Red 12.2}
[7Red 13.1]          The poor man's countenance had fallen when Peter declared his own poverty, but grew bright with hope and faith as the disciple continued. "And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up; and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God. And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple; and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him."  {7Red 13.1}
[7Red 13.2]          The Jews were astonished that the disciples could perform miracles similar to those of Jesus. He, they supposed, was dead, and they had expected all such wonderful manifestations to cease with him. Yet here was this man who had been a helpless cripple for forty years, now rejoicing in the full use of his limbs, free from pain, and happy in believing upon Jesus.  {7Red 13.2}
[7Red 13.3]          The apostles saw the amazement of the people, and questioned them why they should be astonished at the miracle which they had witnessed, and regard them with awe as though it were through their own power they had done this thing. Peter assured them it was done through the merits of Jesus of Nazareth, whom they had rejected and crucified, but whom God had raised from the dead the third day. "And his name, through faith in his name, hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know; yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect                                                                              14  soundness in the presence of you all. And now brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers. But those things which God before had showed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled."  {7Red 13.3}
[7Red 14.1]          The manner of Jesus in working his miracles was very different from that of his apostles. His language was that of one who possessed power in himself: "Be thou clean." "Peace, be still." Neither did he hesitate to accept the honor offered him on these occasions, nor seek to divert the minds of the people from himself, as though his miracles were not wrought by his own power, for his own glory. But the apostles wrought miracles only in the name of Jesus, and refused to receive the least honor to themselves. They claimed to be only instruments of that Jesus whom the Jews had crucified, but whom God had raised and elevated to his right hand. He was to receive all the honor and praise.  {7Red 14.1}
[7Red 14.2]          After the performance of this miracle, the people flocked together in the temple, and Peter addressed them in one part of the temple, while John spoke to them in another part. The apostles, having spoken plainly of the great crime of the Jews, in rejecting and putting to death the Prince of Life, were careful not to drive them to madness or despair. Peter was willing to lessen the atrocity of their guilt as much as possible, by presuming that they did the deed ignorantly. He declared to them that the Holy Ghost was calling for them to repent of their sins and to be converted; that there was no hope for them except through the mercy of that Christ whom                                                                              15  they had crucified; through faith in him only could their sins be canceled by his blood.  {7Red 14.2}
[7Red 15.1]          This preaching the resurrection of Christ, and that through his death and resurrection he would finally bring up all the dead from their graves, deeply stirred the Sadducees. They felt that their favorite doctrine was in danger, and their reputation at stake. Some of the officials of the temple, and the captain of the temple, were Sadducees. The captain, with the help of a number of Sadducees, arrested the two apostles, and put them in prison, as it was too late for their cases to be examined that night.  {7Red 15.1}
[7Red 15.2]          These opponents of Christ and of the doctrines of the apostles, could but believe, although they refused to acknowledge, that Jesus had risen from the dead and remained on the earth for forty days afterward; the evidence was too convincing for them to doubt it. Yet, nevertheless, their hearts did not soften, nor their consciences smite them for the terrible deed they had committed in putting him to death. When the power from Heaven came upon the apostles in so remarkable a manner, fear held them from violence, but their bitterness and malice were unchanged. Five thousand had already embraced the new doctrine taught by the apostles, and both Pharisees and Sadducees decided among themselves that if those teachers were suffered to go unchecked, their own influence would be in greater danger than when Jesus was upon earth. If one or two discourses from the disciples could accomplish such marvelous results, the world would soon believe on Christ if they were left free, and the influence of priests and potentates would be lost.  {7Red 15.2}
[7Red 15.3]          The following day Annas and Caiaphas, with                                                                              16  the other dignitaries of the temple, met together for the trial of the prisoners, who were then brought before them. In that very room, and before those very men, Peter had shamefully denied his Lord. All this came distinctly before the mind of the disciple, as he now appeared for his own trial. He had now an opportunity of redeeming his former wicked cowardice.  {7Red 15.3}
[7Red 16.1]          The company present remembered the part Peter had acted at the trial of his Master, and they flattered themselves that he could be intimidated by the threat of imprisonment and death. But the Peter who denied Christ in the hour of his greatest need, was the impulsive, self-confident disciple, differing widely from the Peter who was before the Sanhedrim for examination that day. He had been converted; he was distrustful of self, and no longer a proud boaster. He was filled with the Holy Spirit, and through its power he had become firm as a rock, courageous, yet modest, in magnifying Christ. He was ready to remove the stain of his apostasy by honoring the name he had once disowned.  {7Red 16.1}
[7Red 16.2]          Hitherto the priests had avoided having the crucifixion or resurrection of Jesus mentioned; but now, in fulfillment of their purpose, they were forced to inquire of the accused by what power they had accomplished the remarkable cure of the impotent man. Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, addressed the priests and elders respectfully, and declared: "Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. This is the stone which was set at naught of you                                                                              17  builders, which is become the head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other; for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."  {7Red 16.2}
[7Red 17.1]          The seal of Christ was on the words of Peter, and his countenance was illuminated by the Holy Spirit. Close beside him, as a convincing witness, stood the man who had been so miraculously cured. The appearance of this man, who but a few hours before was a helpless cripple, now restored to soundness of body, and being enlightened concerning Jesus of Nazareth, added a weight of testimony to the words of Peter. Priests, rulers, and people were silent. The rulers had no power to refute his statement. They had been obliged to hear that which they most desired not to hear,--the fact of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, and his power in Heaven to perform miracles through the medium of his apostles on earth.  {7Red 17.1}
[7Red 17.2]          The crowning miracle of raising Lazarus from the dead had sealed the determination of the priests to rid the world of Jesus and his wonderful works, which were fast destroying their own influence with the people. But here was a convincing proof that the death of Jesus had not put a stop to the working of miracles in his name, nor to the promulgation of the doctrine he had taught. Already the news of the miracle, and the preaching of the apostles, had filled all Jerusalem with excitement.  {7Red 17.2}
[7Red 17.3]          The defense of Peter, in which he boldly avowed from whence his strength was obtained, appalled them. He had referred to the stone set at naught by the builders which had become the head of the corner. These builders were the                                                                              18  authorities of the Jewish church, who should have perceived the value of Him whom they rejected. In those words he directly referred to Christ, who was the foundation-stone of the church.  {7Red 17.3}
[7Red 18.1]          The people were amazed at the boldness of the disciples. They supposed, because they were ignorant fishermen, they would be overcome with embarrassment when confronted by the priests, scribes, and elders. But they took knowledge that they had been with Jesus. The apostles spoke as he had spoken, with a convincing power that silenced their adversaries. In order to conceal their perplexity, the priests and rulers ordered the apostles to be taken away, that they might counsel among themselves.  {7Red 18.1}
[7Red 18.2]         They all agreed that it would be useless to deny that the man had been healed through power given the apostles in the name of the crucified Jesus. They would gladly have covered up the miracle by falsehoods; but the work was done in the full light of day and before a crowd of people, and had already come to the knowledge of thousands. They felt that the work must be immediately stopped, or Jesus would gain many believers, their own disgrace would follow, and they would be held guilty of the murder of the Son of God.  {7Red 18.2}
[7Red 18.3]         But notwithstanding their disposition to destroy the disciples, they dared not do worse than threaten them with the severest punishment if they continued to teach or work in the name of Jesus. Thereupon Peter and John boldly declared that their work had been given them of God, and they could not but speak the things which they had seen and heard. The priests would gladly have punished these noble men for                                                                              19  their unswerving fidelity to their sacred calling, but they feared the people, "for all men glorified God for that which was done." So, with repeated threats and injunctions, the apostles were set at liberty.  {7Red 18.3}
[7Red 19.1]          While Peter and John were prisoners, the other disciples, knowing the malignity of the Jews, had prayed for them unceasingly, fearing that the cruelty exercised upon Christ would be repeated upon their brethren. As soon as the apostles were released they sought their anxious brethren and reported to them the result of the examination. Great was the joy of the believers, and they again betook themselves to prayer, that greater strength might be imparted to them in the work of the ministry, which they saw would meet the same determined opposition which Christ encountered when upon earth. The disciples had no desire to glorify themselves, but sought to exalt Jesus, and to rescue souls through his saving message.  {7Red 19.1}
[7Red 19.2]          While their united prayers were ascending in faith to Heaven, the answer came. The place where they were assembled was shaken, and they were filled with the Holy Ghost. They went forth to their work, speaking the Word of God with convincing power, and there were daily large additions to the church. Great numbers had collected at Jerusalem to observe the sacred feast. The exciting scenes of the crucifixion and resurrection had called out a much larger number than usual. When the truth taught by the apostles was brought suddenly and with convincing power before them, thousands were converted in a day.  {7Red 19.2}
[7Red 19.3]          These early believers were most of them                                                                              20  immediately cut off from family and friends by the zealous bigotry of the Jews. Many of the converts were thrown out of business, and exiled from their homes because they followed the convictions of their consciences, and espoused the cause of Christ. It was necessary to provide this large number, congregated at Jerusalem, with homes and sustenance. Those having money and possessions cheerfully sacrificed them to the existing emergency. Their means were laid at the feet of the apostles, who made distribution to every man according as he had need; and there were none among them who lacked.  {7Red 19.3}
[7Red 20.1]          One example of noble benevolence is particularly mentioned in the Scriptures: "And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas (which is, being interpreted, the son of consolation), a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles' feet." This was the effect of the pouring out of the Spirit of God upon the believers. It made them of one heart and soul. They had one common interest,--the success of the mission intrusted to them. Their love for their brethren, and the cause which they had espoused, was far greater than their love for money and possessions. They acted out their faith, and by their works testified that they accounted the souls of men of far greater value than any earthly heritage.  {7Red 20.1}
[7Red 20.2]          When selfish love of the world enters the heart, spirituality dies. The very best antidote for love of the world is the outpouring of the Spirit of God. When the love of Christ takes full possession of the heart, we shall strive to follow the example of Him who for our sakes became                                                                              21  poor, that through his poverty we might be made rich. When it becomes apparent that the Spirit of truth weakens the affections of its disciples from the world, and renders them self-sacrificing and benevolent, in order to save their fellow-men, the advocates of the truth will have a powerful influence upon their hearers.  {7Red 20.2}
[7Red 21.1]          As a contrast to the example which has been cited, another case has been recorded by the inspired pen which leaves a dark stain upon the first church: "But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, and kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet." This couple had noted the fact that those who had parted with their possessions to supply the wants of their poorer brethren were held in high esteem among the believers. They therefore, upon consulting together, decided to sell their property, and affect to give all the proceeds into the general fund, but really to retain a large share for themselves. They thus designed to receive their living, which they intended to estimate much higher than it really was, from the common stock, and to secure the high esteem of their brethren.  {7Red 21.1}
[7Red 21.2]          But a holy God hates hypocrisy and falsehood. The apostles were impressed by a sense of the true state of the case, and when Ananias presented himself with his offering, representing it as the entire proceeds of the sale of his property, Peter said to him, "Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? While it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power?                                                                              22  Why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? Thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. And Ananias, hearing these words, fell down, and gave up the ghost; and great fear came on all them that heard these things."  {7Red 21.2}
[7Red 22.1]          Peter asked, "Was it not thine own?" thus showing that no undue influence had been brought to bear upon Ananias and Sapphira to compel them to sacrifice their possessions to the general good. They had acted from choice. But in pretending to be wrought upon by the Holy Ghost, and attempting to deceive the apostles, they had lied to the Almighty.  {7Red 22.1}
[7Red 22.2]          "And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in. And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much. Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? Behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out. Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost; and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband. And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things."  {7Red 22.2}
[7Red 22.3]          This signal manifestation of the wrath of God upon the dissemblers was a check which Infinite Wisdom knew was needed. The church would have been disgraced; if, in the rapid increase of professed Christians, there were persons professing to serve God, but worshiping mammon. There are many Ananiases and Sapphiras in our day, whom Satan tempts to dissemble, because of their love of money. By various plans and                                                                              23  excuses they withhold from the treasury of God the means intrusted to them for the advancement of the cause of God. Should the punishment of Ananias and Sapphira be visited upon this class, there would be many dead bodies in our churches requiring burial.  {7Red 22.3}
[7Red 23.1]          This marked judgment upon two avaricious hypocrites, whose sin had been detected by the evidence of the Spirit of God to the apostles, excited the reverential awe of all the new converts. From that time there was greater caution manifested by them, and a more thorough self-examination, testing the motives of their actions. In any great religious movement there is always a class who are carried away by the current of feeling, but who soon reveal selfishness and vain-glory. Such persons can never be an honor to the cause they advocate.  {7Red 23.1}
[7Red 23.2]          The discernment of the apostles in detecting hidden sin added to the confidence of their brethren in them and the message which they preached. The apostles continued their work of mercy, in healing the afflicted and in proclaiming a crucified and risen Saviour, with great power. Numbers were continually added to the church by baptism, but none dared join them who were not united heart and mind with the believers in Christ. Multitudes flocked to Jerusalem, bringing their sick, and those who were vexed by unclean spirits. Many sufferers were laid in the streets as Peter and John passed by, that their shadows might fall upon and heal them. The power of the risen Saviour had indeed fallen upon the apostles, and they worked signs and miracles that daily increased the number of believers.  {7Red 23.2}
[7Red 23.3]          These things greatly perplexed the priests and                                                                              24  rulers, especially those among them who were Sadducees. They saw that if the apostles were allowed to preach a resurrected Saviour, and to do miracles in his name, their doctrine that there was no resurrection of the dead would be rejected by all, and their sect would soon become extinct. The Pharisees saw that the tendency of their preaching would be to undermine the Jewish ceremonies, and make the sacrificial offerings of none effect. Their former efforts to suppress these preachers had been in vain; but they now felt determined to put down the excitement.  {7Red 23.3}
[7Red 24.1]          The apostles were accordingly arrested and imprisoned, and the Sanhedrim was called to try their case. A large number of learned men, in addition to the council, were summoned, and they counseled together what should be done with these disturbers of the peace. "But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said, Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught."  {7Red 24.1}
[7Red 24.2]          When the apostles appeared among the believers, and recounted how the angel had led them directly through the band of soldiers guarding the prisons, and bade them resume the work which had been interrupted by the priests and rulers, the brethren were filled with joy and amazement.  {7Red 24.2}
[7Red 24.3]          The priests and rulers in council had decided to fix upon them the charge of insurrection, and accuse them of murdering Ananias and Sapphira, and of conspiring to deprive the priests of their authority and put them to death. They trusted                                                                              25  that the mob would then be excited to take the matter in hand, and to deal by the apostles as they had dealt by Jesus. They were aware that many who did not accept the doctrine of Christ were weary of the arbitrary rule of the Jewish authorities, and were anxious for some decided change. If these persons became interested in and embraced the belief of the apostles, acknowledging Jesus as the Messiah, they feared the anger of the entire people would be raised against the priests, who would be made to answer for the murder of Christ. They decided to take strong measures to prevent this. They finally sent for the supposed prisoners to be brought before them. Great was their amazement when the report was brought back that the prison doors were found securely bolted, and the guard stationed before them, but that the prisoners were nowhere to be found.  {7Red 24.3}
[7Red 25.1]          Soon the report was brought: "Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people." Although the apostles were miraculously delivered from prison, they were not saved from examination and punishment. Christ has said when he was with them, "Take heed to yourselves, for they shall deliver you up to councils." God had given them a token of his care, and an assurance of his presence, by sending the angel to them; it was now their part to suffer for the sake of that Jesus whom they preached. The people were so wrought upon by what they had seen and heard that the priests and rulers knew it would be impossible to excite them against the apostles.  {7Red 25.1}
[7Red 25.2]          "Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence; for they feared                                                                              26  the people, lest they should have been stoned. And when they had brought them, they set them before the council; and 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." They were not as willing to bear the blame of slaying Jesus as when they swelled the cry with the debased mob: "His blood be on us and on our children!"  {7Red 25.2}
[7Red 26.1]          Peter, with the other apostles, took up the same line of defense he had followed at his former trial: "Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men." It was the angel sent by God who delivered them from prison, and who commanded them to teach in the temple. In following his directions they were obeying the divine command, which they must continue to do at any cost to themselves. Peter continued: "The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him."  {7Red 26.1}
[7Red 26.2]          The spirit of inspiration was upon the apostles, and the accused became the accusers, charging the murder of Christ upon the priests and rulers who composed the council. The Jews were so enraged at this that they decided, without any further trial, and without authority from the Roman officers, to take the law into their own hands, and put the prisoners to death. Already guilty                                                                              27  of the blood of Christ, they were now eager to imbrue their hands in the blood of his apostles. But there was one man of learning and high position whose clear intellect saw that this violent step would lead to terrible consequences. God raised up a man of their own council to stay the violence of the priests and rulers.  {7Red 26.2}
[7Red 27.1]          Gamaliel, the learned Pharisee and doctor, a man of great reputation, was a person of extreme caution, who, before speaking in behalf of the prisoners, requested them to be removed. He then spoke with great deliberation and calmness: "Ye men of Israel, take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men. For before these days rose up Theudas, boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves; who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed him, were scattered, and brought to naught. After this man rose up Judas of Galilee in the days of the taxing, and drew away much people after him; he also perished; and all, even as many as obeyed him, were dispersed. And now I say unto you, Refrain from these men, and let them alone; for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to naught. But if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God."  {7Red 27.1}
[7Red 27.2]          The priests could not but see the reasonableness of his views; they were obliged to agree with him, and very reluctantly released the prisoners, after beating them with rods, and charging them again and again to preach no more in the name of Jesus, or their lives would pay the penalty of their boldness. "And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that                                                                              28  they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ."  {7Red 27.2}
[7Red 28.1]                        The Seven Deacons.          "And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration." These Grecians were residents of other countries, where the Greek language was spoken. By far the larger number of converts were Jews who spoke Hebrew; but these had lived in the Roman Empire, and spoke only Greek. Murmurings began to rise among them that the Grecian widows were not so liberally supplied as the needy among the Hebrews. Any partiality of this kind would have been grievous to God; and prompt measures were taken to restore peace and harmony to the believers.  {7Red 28.1}
[7Red 28.2]          The Holy Spirit suggested a method whereby the apostles might be relieved from the task of apportioning to the poor, and similar burdens, so that they could be left free to preach Christ. "Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word."  {7Red 28.2}
[7Red 28.3]          The church accordingly selected seven men full                                                                              29  of faith and the wisdom of the Spirit of God, to attend to the business pertaining to the cause. Stephen was chosen first; he was a Jew by birth and religion, but spoke the Greek language, and was conversant with the customs and manners of the Greeks. He was therefore considered the most proper person to stand at the head, and have supervision of the disbursement of the funds appropriated to the widows, orphans, and the worthy poor. This selection met the minds of all, and the dissatisfaction and murmuring were quieted.  {7Red 28.3}
[7Red 29.1]          The seven chosen men were solemnly set apart for their duties by prayer and the laying on of hands. Those who were thus ordained, were not thereby excluded from teaching the faith. On the contrary, it is recorded that "Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people." They were fully qualified to instruct in the truth. They were also men of calm judgment and discretion, well calculated to deal with difficult cases of trial, of murmuring or jealousy.  {7Red 29.1}
[7Red 29.2]          This choosing of men to transact the business of the church, so that the apostles could be left free for their special work of teaching the truth, was greatly blessed of God. The church advanced in numbers and strength. "And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith."  {7Red 29.2}
[7Red 29.3]          It is necessary that the same order and system should be maintained in the church now as in the days of the apostles. The prosperity of the cause depends very largely upon its various                                                                              30  departments being conducted by men of ability, who are qualified for their positions. Those who are chosen of God to be leaders in the cause of truth, having the general oversight of the spiritual interest of the church, should be relieved, as far as possible, from cares and perplexities of a temporal nature. Those whom God has called to minister in word and doctrine should have time for meditation, prayer, and study of the Scriptures. Their clear spiritual discernment is dimmed by entering into the lesser details of business, and dealing with the various temperaments of those who meet together in church capacity. It is proper for all matters of a temporal nature to come before the proper officers, and be by them adjusted. But if they are of so difficult a character as to baffle their wisdom, they should be carried into the council of those who have the oversight of the entire church.  {7Red 29.3}
[7Red 30.1]          Stephen was very active in the cause of God, and declared his faith boldly. "Then there arose certain of the synagogue, which is called the synagogue of the Libertines, and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen. And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake." These students of the great Rabbis had felt confident that in a public discussion they could obtain a complete victory over Stephen, because of his supposed ignorance. But he not only spoke with the power of the Holy Ghost, but it was plain to all the vast assembly that he was also a student of the prophecies, and learned in all matters of the law. He ably defended the truths he advocated, and utterly defeated his opponents.                                                                              31   {7Red 30.1}
[7Red 31.1]          The priests and rulers who witnessed the wonderful manifestation of the power that attended the ministration of Stephen, were filled with bitter hatred. Instead of yielding to the weight of evidence he presented, they determined to silence his voice by putting him to death. They had on several occasions bribed the Roman authorities to pass over without comment instances where the Jews had taken the law into their own hands, and tried, condemned, and executed prisoners according to their national custom. The enemies of Stephen did not doubt that they could pursue such a course without danger to themselves. They determined to risk the consequences at all events, and therefore seized Stephen and brought him before the Sanhedrim council for trial.  {7Red 31.1}
[7Red 31.2]          Learned Jews from the surrounding countries were summoned for the purpose of refuting the arguments of the accused. Saul, who had distinguished himself as a zealous opponent of the doctrine of Christ, and a persecutor of all who believed on him, was also present. This learned man took a leading part against Stephen. He brought the weight of eloquence and the logic of the Rabbis to bear upon the case, to convince the people that Stephen was preaching delusive and dangerous doctrines.  {7Red 31.2}
[7Red 31.3]          But Saul met in Stephen one as highly educated as himself, and one who had a full understanding of the purpose of God in the spreading of the gospel to other nations. He believed in the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and was fully established in regard to the privileges of the Jews; but his faith was broad, and he knew the time had come when the true believers should                                                                              32  worship not alone in temples made with hands; but, throughout the world, they might worship God in Spirit and in truth. The vail had dropped from the eyes of Stephen, and he discerned to the end of that which was abolished by the death of Christ.  {7Red 31.3}
[7Red 32.1]          The priests and rulers prevailed nothing against his clear, calm wisdom, though they were vehement in their opposition. They determined to make an example of Stephen, and, while they thus satisfied their revengeful hatred, prevent others, through fear, from adopting his belief. Charges were preferred against him in a most imposing manner. False witnesses were hired to testify that they had heard him speak blasphemous words against the temple and the law. Said they, "For we have heard him say, that this Jesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the customs which Moses delivered us."  {7Red 32.1}
[7Red 32.2]          As Stephen stood face to face with his judges, to answer to the crime of blasphemy, a holy radiance shone upon his countenance. "And all that sat in the council, looking steadfastly on him, saw his face as it had been the face of an angel." Those who exalted Moses might have seen in the face of the prisoner the same holy light which radiated the face of that ancient prophet. The shekinah was a spectacle which they would never again witness in the temple whose glory had departed forever. Many who beheld the lighted countenance of Stephen trembled and veiled their faces; but stubborn unbelief and prejudice never faltered.  {7Red 32.2}
[7Red 32.3]          Stephen was questioned as to the truth of the charges against him, and took up his defense in a                                                                              33  clear, thrilling voice that rang through the council hall. He proceeded to rehearse the history of the chosen people of God, in words that held the assembly spell-bound. He showed a thorough knowledge of the Jewish economy, and the spiritual interpretation of it now made manifest through Christ. He began with Abraham, and traced down through history from generation to generation, going through all the national records of Israel to Solomon, and taking up the most impressive points to vindicate his cause.  {7Red 32.3}
[7Red 33.1]          He showed that God commended the faith of Abraham, which claimed the land of promise, though he owned no foot of land. He dwelt especially upon Moses, who received the law by the dispensation of angels. He repeated the words of Moses which foretold of Christ: "A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear." He presented distinctly before them that the sin of Israel was in not heeding the voice of the angel, who was Christ himself. Said he, "This is He that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers, who received the lively oracles to give unto us."  {7Red 33.1}
[7Red 33.2]          He made plain his own loyalty to God and to the Jewish faith, while he showed that the law in which they trusted for salvation had not been able to preserve Israel from idolatry. He connected Jesus Christ with all the Jewish history. He referred to the building of the temple by Solomon, and to the words of both Solomon and Isaiah: "Howbeit the Most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands." "Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool. What house                                                                              34  will ye build me? saith the Lord; or what is the place of my rest. Hath not my hand made all these things?" The place of God's highest worship was in Heaven.  {7Red 33.2}
[7Red 34.1]          When Stephen had reached this point there was a tumult among the people. The prisoner read his fate in the countenances before him. He perceived the resistance that met his words, which were spoken at the dictation of the Holy Ghost. He knew that he was giving his last testimony. Few who read this address of Stephen properly appreciate it. The occasion, the time and place should be borne in mind to make his words convey their full significance.  {7Red 34.1}
[7Red 34.2]          When he connected Jesus Christ with the prophecies, and spoke of the temple as he did, the priest, affecting to be horror-stricken, rent his robe. This act was to Stephen a signal that his voice would soon be silenced forever. Although he was just in the midst of his sermon, he abruptly concluded it by suddenly breaking away from the chain of history, and, turning upon his infuriated judges, said, "Ye stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost; as your fathers did, so do ye. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which showed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers; who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it."  {7Red 34.2}
[7Red 34.3]          At this the priests and rulers were beside themselves with anger. They were more like wild beasts of prey than like human beings. They rushed upon Stephen, gnashing their teeth. But he was not intimidated; he had expected this.                                                                              35  His face was calm, and shone with an angelic light. The infuriated priests and the excited mob had no terrors for him. "But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up steadfastly into Heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, and said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God."  {7Red 34.3}
[7Red 35.1]          The scene about him faded from his vision; the gates of Heaven were ajar, and Stephen, looking in, saw the glory of the courts of God, and Christ, as if just risen from his throne, standing ready to sustain his servant, who was about to suffer martyrdom for his name. When Stephen proclaimed the glorious scene opened before him, it was more than his persecutors could endure. They stopped their ears, that they might not hear his words, and uttering loud cries ran furiously upon him with one accord. "And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this he fell asleep."  {7Red 35.1}
[7Red 35.2]          Amid the agonies of this most cruel death, the faithful martyr, like his divine Master, prayed for his murderers. The witnesses who had accused Stephen were required to cast the first stones. These persons laid down their clothes at the feet of Saul, who had taken an active part in the disputation, and had consented to the prisoner's death.  {7Red 35.2}
[7Red 35.3]          The martyrdom of Stephen made a deep impression upon all who witnessed it. It was a sore trial to the church, but resulted in the conversion of Saul. The faith, constancy, and glorification of the martyr could not be effaced from                                                                              36  his memory. The signet of God upon his face, his words, that reached to the very soul of all who heard them, except those who were hardened by resisting the light, remained in the memory of the beholders, and testified to the truth of that which he had proclaimed.  {7Red 35.3}
[7Red 36.1]          There had been no legal sentence passed upon Stephen; but the Roman authorities were bribed by large sums of money to make no investigation of the case. Saul seemed to be imbued with a frenzied zeal at the scene of Stephen's trial and death. He seemed to be angered at his own secret convictions that Stephen was honored of God, at the very period when he was dishonored of men. He continued to persecute the church of God, hunting them down, seizing them in their houses, and delivering them up to the priests and rulers for imprisonment and death. His zeal in carrying forward the persecution was a terror to the Christians in Jerusalem. The Roman authorities made no special effort to stay the cruel work, and secretly aided the Jews, in order to conciliate them, and to secure their favor.  {7Red 36.1}
[7Red 36.2]          After the death of Stephen the disciples were restrained in their active ministry, and many of the believers who had temporarily resided in Jerusalem now retired to their distant homes because of the violent persecution against them. But the apostles dared not leave Jerusalem till the Spirit of God indicated it to be their duty to do so; for Christ had bidden them to first work in that field. Although the priests and rulers bitterly persecuted the new converts, they did not venture for a time to arrest the apostles, being overawed by the dying testimony of Stephen, and realizing that their course with him had injured                                                                              37  their own cause in the minds of the people.  {7Red 36.2}
[7Red 37.1]          Christ had commanded his disciples to go and teach all nations; but the previous teachings which they had received from the Jews made it difficult for them to fully comprehend the words of their Master, and therefore they were slow to act upon them. They called themselves the children of Abraham, and regarded themselves as the heirs of divine promise. It was not until several years after the Lord's ascension that their minds were sufficiently expanded to clearly understand the intent of Christ's words, that they were to labor for the conversion of the Gentiles as well as that of the Jews.  {7Red 37.1}
[7Red 37.2]                       Conversion of Saul.          The mind of Saul was greatly stirred by the triumphant death of Stephen. He was shaken in his prejudice; but the opinions and arguments of the priests and rulers finally convinced him that Stephen was a blasphemer; that Jesus Christ whom he preached was an impostor, and that those ministering in holy offices must be right. Being a man of decided mind, and strong purpose, he became very bitter in his opposition to Christianity, after having once entirely settled in his mind that the views of the priests and scribes were right. His zeal led him to voluntarily engage in persecuting the believers. He caused holy men to be dragged before the councils, and to be imprisoned or condemned to death without evidence of any offense, save their faith in Jesus. Of a similar character, though in a different direction, was the zeal of James and John, when they would have called                                                                              38  down fire from heaven to consume those who slighted and scorned their Master.  {7Red 37.2}
[7Red 38.1]          Saul was about to journey to Damascus upon his own business; but he was determined to accomplish a double purpose, by searching out, as he went, all the believers in Christ. For this purpose he obtained letters from the high priest to read in the synagogues, which authorized him to seize all those who were suspected of being believers in Jesus, and to send them by messengers to Jerusalem, there to be tried and punished. He set out upon his way, full of the strength and vigor of manhood, and the fire of a mistaken zeal.  {7Red 38.1}
[7Red 38.2]          As the weary travelers neared Damascus, the eyes of Saul rested with pleasure upon the fertile land, the beautiful gardens, the fruitful orchards, and the cool streams that ran murmuring amid the fresh green shrubbery. It was very refreshing to look upon such a scene after a long, wearisome journey over a desolate waste. While Saul, with his companions, was gazing and admiring, suddenly a light above the brightness of the sun shone round about him, "and he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest; it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks."  {7Red 38.2}
[7Red 38.3]          The scene was one of the greatest confusion. The companions of Saul were stricken with terror, and almost blinded by the intensity of the light. They heard the voice, but saw no one, and to them all was unintelligible and mysterious. But Saul, lying prostrate upon the ground, understood the words that were spoken, and saw                                                                              39  clearly before him the Son of God. One look upon that glorious Being, imprinted his image forever upon the soul of the stricken Jew. The words struck home to his heart with appalling force. A flood of light poured in upon the darkened chambers of his mind, revealing his ignorance and error. He saw that, while imagining himself to be zealously serving God in persecuting the followers of Christ, he had in reality been doing the work of Satan.  {7Red 38.3}
[7Red 39.1]          He saw his folly in resting his faith upon the assurances of the priests and rulers, whose sacred office had given them great influence over his mind, and caused him to believe that the story of the resurrection was an artful fabrication of the disciples of Jesus. Now that Christ was revealed to Saul, the sermon of Stephen was brought forcibly to his mind. Those words which the priests had pronounced blasphemy, now appeared to him as truth and verity. In that time of wonderful illumination, his mind acted with remarkable rapidity. He traced down through prophetic history, and saw that the rejection of Jesus by the Jews, his crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension had been foretold by the prophets, and proved him to be the promised Messiah. He remembered the words of Stephen: "I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God;" and he knew that the dying saint had looked upon the kingdom of glory.  {7Red 39.1}
[7Red 39.2]          What a revelation was all this to the persecutor of the believers. Clear, but terrible light had broken in upon his soul. Christ was revealed to him as having come to earth in fulfillment of his mission, having been rejected,                                                                              40  condemned, and crucified by those whom he came to save, and as having risen from the dead, and ascended into the heavens. In that terrible moment he remembered that the holy Stephen had been sacrificed by his consent; and that through his instrumentality many worthy saints had met their death by cruel persecution.  {7Red 39.2}
[7Red 40.1]          "And he, trembling and astonished, said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do." No doubt entered the mind of Saul that this was the veritable Jesus of Nazareth who spoke to him, and that he was indeed the long-looked-for Messiah, the Consolation and Redeemer of Israel. And now this Jesus, who had, while teaching upon earth, spoken in parables to his hearers, using familiar objects to illustrate his meaning, likened the work of Saul, in persecuting the followers of Christ, to kicking against the pricks. Those forcible words illustrated the fact that it would be impossible for any man to stay the onward progress of the truth of Christ. It would march on to triumph and victory, while every effort to stay it would result in injury to the opposer. The persecutor, in the end, would suffer a thousand-fold more than those whom he had persecuted. Sooner or later his own mind and heart would condemn him; he would find that he had indeed been kicking against the pricks.  {7Red 40.1}
[7Red 40.2]          The Saviour had spoken to Saul through Stephen, whose clear reasoning from the Scriptures could not be controverted. The learned Jew had seen the face of the martyr reflecting the light of Christ's glory, and looking like the face of an angel. He had witnessed his forbearance                                                                              41  toward his enemies, and his forgiveness of them. He had further witnessed the fortitude and cheerful resignation of other believers in Jesus while tormented and afflicted, some of whom had yielded up their lives with rejoicing for their faith's sake.  {7Red 40.2}
[7Red 41.1]          All this testimony had appealed loudly to Saul, and thrust conviction upon his mind; but his education and prejudices, his respect for priests and rulers, and his pride of popularity, braced him to rebel against the voice of conscience, and the grace of God. He had struggled entire nights against conviction, and had always ended the matter by avowing his belief that Jesus was not the Messiah, that he was an impostor, and his followers were deluded fanatics.  {7Red 41.1}
[7Red 41.2]          Now Christ had spoken to Saul with his own voice: "Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?" And the question, "Who art thou, Lord?" was answered by the same voice, "I am Jesus, whom thou persecutest." Here Christ identifies himself with his suffering people. Saul, in persecuting the followers of Jesus, had struck directly against the Lord of Heaven. Jesus declares that in afflicting his brethren upon earth, Saul had struck against their Head and Representative in Heaven. In falsely accusing and testifying against them, he had falsely accused and testified against the Saviour of the world. Here it is plainly seen that Christ suffers in the person of his saints.  {7Red 41.2}
[7Red 41.3]          When the effulgent glory was withdrawn, and Saul arose from the earth, he found himself totally deprived of sight. The brightness of Christ's glory had been too intense for his mortal                                                                              42  sight, and when it was removed the blackness of night settled upon his vision. He believed that this blindness was the punishment of God for his cruel persecution of the followers of Jesus. He groped about in terrible darkness, and his companions, in fear and amazement, led him by the hand into Damascus.  {7Red 41.3}
[7Red 42.1]          How different from what he had anticipated was his entrance into that city! In proud satisfaction he had neared Damascus, expecting on his arrival to be greeted with ostentation and applause because of the honor conferred upon him by the high priest, and the great zeal and penetration he had manifested in searching out the believers, to carry them as captives to Jerusalem, there to be condemned, and punished without mercy. He had determined that his journey should be crowned with success; and his courageous and persevering spirit quailed at no difficulties nor dangers in the pursuance of his object. He had determined that no Christian should escape his vigilance; he would inquire of men, women, and children concerning their faith, and that of those with whom they were connected; he would enter houses, with power to seize their inmates, and to send them as prisoners to Jerusalem.  {7Red 42.1}
[7Red 42.2]          But how changed was the scene from that which he had anticipated! Instead of wielding power, and receiving honor, he was himself virtually a prisoner, being deprived of sight, and dependent upon the guidance of his companions. Helpless, and tortured by remorse, he felt himself to be under sentence of death, and knew not what farther disposition the Lord would make of him.                                                                              43   {7Red 42.2}
[7Red 43.1]          He was taken to the house of the disciple Judas, and there he remained, solitary and alone, studying upon the strange revelation that had broken up all his plans, and changed the entire current of his life. He passed three days in perfect blindness, occupying that terrible time with reflection, repentance, and earnest prayer, neither eating nor drinking during the entire period. With bitterness he remembered Stephen, and the evidence he had given of being sustained in his martyrdom, by a power higher than that of earth. He thought with horror of his own guilt in being carried away by the malice and prejudice of the priests and rulers, closing his eyes and ears against the most striking evidence, and relentlessly leading the van in the persecution of the believers in Christ.  {7Red 43.1}
[7Red 43.2]          He was in lonely seclusion; he had no communication with the church, for they had been warned of the purpose of his journey to Damascus by the believers in Jerusalem; and they believed that he was acting a part, the better to carry out his design of persecuting them. He had no desire to appeal to the unconverted Jews; for he knew they would not listen to or heed his statements. He seemed to be utterly shut out from human sympathy; and he reflected, and prayed with a thoroughly broken and repentant spirit.  {7Red 43.2}
[7Red 43.3]          Those three days were like three years to the blind and conscience-smitten Jew. He was no novice in the Scriptures, and in his darkness and solitude he recalled the passages which referred to the Messiah, and traced down the prophecies, with a memory sharpened by the conviction                                                                              44  that had taken possession of his mind. He became astonished at his former blindness of understanding, and at the blindness of the Jews in general, in rejecting Jesus as the promised Messiah. All now seemed plain to him, and he knew that it was prejudice and unbelief which had clouded his perceptions, and prevented him from discerning in Jesus of Nazareth the Messiah of prophecy.  {7Red 43.3}
[7Red 44.1]          This wonderful conversion of Saul demonstrates in a startling manner the miraculous power of Christ in convicting the mind and heart of man. Saul had verily believed that to have faith in Jesus was virtually to repudiate the law of God, and the service of sacrificial offerings. He had believed that Jesus had himself disregarded the law, and had taught his disciples that it was now of no effect. He believed it to be his duty to strive with his utmost power to exterminate the alarming doctrine that Jesus was the Prince of life; and with conscientious zeal he had become a persevering persecutor of the church of Christ.  {7Red 44.1}
[7Red 44.2]          But Jesus, whose name of all others he most hated and despised, had revealed himself to Saul, for the purpose of arresting him in his mad career, and of making, from this most unpromising subject, an instrument by which to bear the gospel to the Gentiles. Saul was overwhelmed by this revelation, and perceived that in opposing Jesus of Nazareth, he had arrayed himself against the Redeemer of the world. Overcome by a sense of his guilt he cried out, "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?" Jesus did not then and there inform him of the work he had assigned him,                                                                              45  but sent him for instruction to the very disciples whom he had so bitterly persecuted.  {7Red 44.2}
[7Red 45.1]          The marvelous light that illuminated the darkness of Saul was the work of the Lord; but there was also a work that was to be done for him by the disciples of Christ. The answer to Saul's question is, "Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do." Jesus sends the inquiring Jew to his church, to obtain from them the knowledge of his duty. Christ performed the work of revelation and conviction; and now the penitent was in a condition to learn of those whom God had ordained to teach his truth. Thus Jesus gave sanction to the authority of his organized church, and placed Saul in connection with his representatives on earth. The light of heavenly illumination deprived Saul of sight; but Jesus, the great Healer, did not at once restore it. All blessings flow from Christ, but he had now established a church as his representative on earth, and to it belonged the work of directing the repentant sinner in the way of life. The very men whom Saul had purposed to destroy were to be his instructors in the religion which he had despised and persecuted.  {7Red 45.1}
[7Red 45.2]          The faith of Saul was severely tested during his three days of fasting and prayer at the house of Judas, in Damascus. He was totally blind, and in utter darkness of mind as to what was required of him. He had been directed to go to Damascus, where it would be told him what he was to do. In his uncertainty and distress he cried earnestly to God. "And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And                                                                              46  he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus; for, behold, he prayeth, and hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight."  {7Red 45.2}
[7Red 46.1]          Ananias could hardly credit the words of the angel messenger, for Saul's bitter persecution of the saints at Jerusalem had spread far and near. He presumed to expostulate, and said, "Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem. And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name." But the command to Ananias was imperative: "Go thy way, for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel."  {7Red 46.1}
[7Red 46.2]          The disciple, obedient to the direction of the angel, sought out the man who had but recently breathed out threatenings against all who believed on the name of Jesus. He addressed him: "Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight and be filled with the Holy Ghost; and immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales, and he received sight forthwith, and arose and was baptized."  {7Red 46.2}
[7Red 46.3]          Christ here gives an example of his manner of working for the salvation of men. He might have done all this work directly for Saul; but this was not in accordance with his plan. His                                                                              47  blessings were to come through the agencies which he had ordained. Saul had something to do in the line of confession to those whose destruction he had meditated; and God had a responsible work for the men to do whom he had authorized to act in his stead.  {7Red 46.3}
[7Red 47.1]          Saul becomes a learner of the disciples. In the light of the law he sees himself a sinner. He sees that Jesus, whom in his ignorance he had considered an impostor, is the author and foundation of the religion of God's people from the days of Adam, and the finisher of the faith now so clear to his enlightened vision, the vindicator of the truth, and the fulfiller of the prophecies. He had regarded Jesus as making of none effect the law of God; but when his spiritual vision was touched by the finger of God, he learned that Christ was the originator of the entire Jewish system of sacrifices; that he came into the world for the express purpose of vindicating his Father's law; and that in his death the typical law had met its antitype. By the light of the moral law, which he had believed himself to be zealously keeping, Saul saw himself a sinner of sinners. He repented, that is died to sin, became obedient to the law of God, had faith in Jesus Christ as his Saviour, was baptized, and preached Jesus as earnestly and zealously as he had once denounced him.  {7Red 47.1}
[7Red 47.2]          The Redeemer of the world does not sanction experience and exercise in religious matters independent of his organized and acknowledged church. Many have an idea that they are responsible to Christ alone for their light and experience, independent of his recognized followers                                                                              48  on earth. But in the history of the conversion of Saul, important principles are given us, which we should ever bear in mind. Saul was brought directly into the presence of Christ. He was one whom Christ intended for a most important work, one who was to be "a chosen vessel" unto him; yet he does not personally impart to him the lessons of truth. He arrests his course and convicts him; but when asked by him, "What wilt thou have me to do?" the Saviour places him in connection with his church, and lets them direct him what to do.  {7Red 47.2}
[7Red 48.1]          Jesus is the Friend of sinners; his heart is touched by their woe; he has all power, both in Heaven and upon earth; but he respects the means which he has ordained for the enlightenment and salvation of men; he directs sinners to the church, which he has made a channel of light to the world.  {7Red 48.1}
[7Red 48.2]          Saul was a learned teacher in Israel; but, while in the midst of his blind error and prejudice, Christ reveals himself to him, and then places him in communication with his church, which is the light of the world. In this case Ananias represents Christ, and also represents Christ's ministers upon earth, who are appointed to act in his stead. In Christ's stead, Ananias touches the eyes of Saul that they may receive sight. In Christ's stead, he places his hands upon him, and, praying in Christ's name, Saul receives the Holy Ghost. All is done in the name and by the authority of Christ; but the church is the channel of communication.                                                                              49   {7Red 48.2}
[7Red 49.1]                   Paul Commences His Ministry.          Paul was baptized by Ananias in the river of Damascus. He was then strengthened by food, and immediately began to preach Jesus to the believers in the city, the very ones whom he had set out from Jerusalem with the purpose of destroying. He also taught in the synagogues that Jesus who had been put to death was indeed the Son of God. His arguments from prophecy were so conclusive, and his efforts were so attended by the power of God, that the opposing Jews were confounded and unable to answer him. Paul's Rabbinical and Pharisaic education was now to be used to good account in preaching the gospel, and in sustaining the cause he had once used every effort to destroy.  {7Red 49.1}
[7Red 49.2]          The Jews were thoroughly surprised and confounded by the conversion of Paul. They were aware of his position at Jerusalem, and knew what was his principal errand to Damascus, and that he was armed with a commission from the high priest that authorized him to take the believers in Jesus, and to send them as prisoners to Jerusalem; yet now they beheld him preaching the gospel of Jesus, strengthening those who were already its disciples, and continually making new converts to the faith he had once so zealously opposed. Paul demonstrated to all who heard him that his change of faith was not from impulse nor fanaticism, but was brought about by overwhelming evidence.  {7Red 49.2}
[7Red 49.3]          As he labored in the synagogues his faith grew stronger; his zeal in maintaining that Jesus was                                                                              50  the Son of God increased in the face of the fierce opposition of the Jews. He could not remain long in Damascus, for after the Jews had recovered from their surprise at his wonderful conversion, and subsequent labors, they turned resolutely from the overwhelming evidence thus brought to bear in favor of the doctrine of Christ. Their astonishment at the conversion of Paul was changed into an intense hatred of him like unto that which they had manifested against Jesus.  {7Red 49.3}
[7Red 50.1]          Paul's life was in peril, and he received a commission from God to leave Damascus for a time. He went into Arabia, and there, in comparative solitude, he had ample opportunity for communion with God, and for contemplation. He wished to be alone with God, to search his own heart, to deepen his repentance, and to prepare himself by prayer and study to engage in a work which appeared to him too great and too important for him to undertake. He was an apostle, not chosen of men, but chosen of God, and his work was plainly stated to be among the Gentiles.  {7Red 50.1}
[7Red 50.2]          While in Arabia he did not communicate with the apostles; he sought God earnestly with all his heart, determining not to rest till he knew for a certainty that his repentance was accepted, and his great sin pardoned. He would not give up the conflict until he had the assurance that Jesus would be with him in his coming ministry. He was ever to carry about with him in the body the marks of Christ's glory, in his eyes, which had been blinded by the heavenly light, and he desired also to bear with him constantly                                                                              51  the assurance of Christ's sustaining grace. Paul came in close connection with Heaven, and Jesus communed with him, and established him in his faith, bestowing upon him his wisdom and grace.  {7Red 50.2}
[7Red 51.1]         Paul now returned to Damascus, and preached boldly in the name of Jesus. The Jews could not withstand the wisdom of his arguments, and they therefore counseled together to silence his voice by force--the only argument left to a sinking cause. They decided to assassinate him. The apostle was made acquainted with their purpose. The gates of the city were vigilantly guarded, day and night, to cut off his escape. The anxiety of the disciples drew them to God in prayer; there was little sleeping among them, as they were busy in devising ways and means for the escape of the chosen apostle. Finally they conceived a plan by which he was let down from a window, and lowered over the wall in a basket at night. In this humiliating manner Paul made his escape from Damascus.  {7Red 51.1}
[7Red 51.2]          He now proceeded to Jerusalem, wishing to become acquainted with the apostles there, and especially with Peter. He was very anxious to meet the Galilean fishermen who had lived, and prayed, and conversed with Christ upon earth. It was with a yearning heart that he desired to meet the chief of apostles. As Paul entered Jerusalem, he regarded with changed views the city and the temple. He now knew that the retributive judgment of God was hanging over them.  {7Red 51.2}
[7Red 51.3]          The grief and anger of the Jews because of the conversion of Paul knew no bounds. But he was                                                                              52  firm as a rock, and flattered himself that when he related his wonderful experience to his friends, they would change their faith as he had done, and believe on Jesus. He had been strictly conscientious in his opposition to Christ and his followers, therefore when arrested and convicted of his sin, he immediately forsook his evil ways, and professed the faith of Jesus. He now fully believed that when his friends and former associates heard the circumstances of his marvelous conversion, and saw how changed he was from the proud Pharisee who persecuted and delivered unto death those who believed in Jesus as the Son of God, they would also become convicted of their error, and join the ranks of the believers.  {7Red 51.3}
[7Red 52.1]          He attempted to join himself to his brethren, the disciples; but great was his grief and disappointment when he found that they would not receive him as one of their number. They remembered his former persecutions, and suspected him of acting a part to deceive and destroy them. True, they had heard of his wonderful conversion, but as he had immediately retired into Arabia, and they had heard nothing definite of him farther, they had not credited the rumor of his great change.  {7Red 52.1}
[7Red 52.2]         Barnabas, who had liberally contributed his money to sustain the cause of Christ, and to relieve the necessities of the poor, had been acquainted with Paul when he opposed the believers. He now came forward and renewed that acquaintance, heard the testimony of Paul in regard to his miraculous conversion, and his experience from that time. He fully believed and                                                                              53  received Paul, took him by the hand and led him into the presence of the apostles. He related his experience which he had just heard-- that Jesus had personally appeared to Paul while on his way to Damascus; that he had talked with him; that Paul had recovered his sight in answer to the prayers of Ananias, and had afterward maintained that Jesus was the Son of God in the synagogues of the city.  {7Red 52.2}
[7Red 53.1]          The apostles no longer hesitated; they could not withstand God. Peter and James, who at that time were the only apostles in Jerusalem, gave the right hand of fellowship to the once fierce persecutor of their faith; and he was now as much beloved and respected as he had formerly been feared and avoided. Here the two grand characters of the new faith met--Peter, one of the chosen companions of Christ while he was upon earth, and Paul, a Pharisee, who, since the ascension of Jesus, had met him face to face, and had talked with him, and had also seen him in vision, and the nature of his work in Heaven.  {7Red 53.1}
[7Red 53.2]          This first interview was of great consequence to both these apostles, but it was of short duration, for Paul was eager to get about his Master's business. Soon the voice which had so earnestly disputed with Stephen was heard in the same synagogue fearlessly proclaiming that Jesus was the Son of God--advocating the same cause that Stephen had died to vindicate. He related his own wonderful experience, and with a heart filled with yearning for his brethren and former associates, presented the evidences from prophecy, as Stephen had done, that Jesus, who had been crucified, was the Son of God.                                                                              54   {7Red 53.2}
[7Red 54.1]          But Paul had miscalculated the spirit of his Jewish brethren. The same fury that had burst forth upon Stephen was visited upon himself. He saw that he must separate from his brethren, and sorrow filled his heart. He would willingly have yielded up his life, if by that means they might have been brought to a knowledge of the truth. The Jews began to lay plans to take his life, and the disciples urged him to leave Jerusalem; but he lingered, unwilling to leave the place, and anxious to labor a little longer for his Jewish brethren. He had taken so active a part in the martyrdom of Stephen that he was deeply anxious to wipe out the stain by boldly vindicating the truth which had cost Stephen his life. It looked to him like cowardice to flee from Jerusalem.  {7Red 54.1}
[7Red 54.2]          While Paul, braving all the consequences of such a step, was praying earnestly to God in the temple, the Saviour appeared to him in vision, saying, "Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem; for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me." Paul even then hesitated to leave Jerusalem without convincing the obstinate Jews of the truth of his faith; he thought that, even if his life should be sacrificed for the truth, it would not more than settle the fearful account which he held against himself for the death of Stephen. He answered, "Lord, they know that I imprisoned and beat in every synagogue them that believed on thee. And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto his death, and kept the raiment of them that slew him." But the reply was more decided than before: "Depart;                                                                              55  for I will send thee far hence unto the Gentiles."  {7Red 54.2}
[7Red 55.1]          When the brethren learned of the vision of Paul, and the care which God had over him, their anxiety on his behalf was increased; for they realized that he was indeed a chosen vessel of the Lord, to bear the truth to the Gentiles. They hastened his secret escape from Jerusalem, for fear of his assassination by the Jews. The departure of Paul suspended for a time the violent opposition of the Jews, and the church had a period of rest, in which many were added to the number of believers.  {7Red 55.1}
[7Red 55.2]                     The Ministry of Peter.          Peter, in pursuance of his work, visited the saints at Lydda. There he healed Aeneas, who had been confined to his bed for eight years with the palsy. "And Peter said unto him, Aeneas, Jesus Christ maketh thee whole; arise, and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. And all that dwelt at Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord."  {7Red 55.2}
[7Red 55.3]          Joppa was near Lydda, and at that time Tabitha--called Dorcas by interpretation--lay there dead. She had been a worthy disciple of Jesus Christ, and her life had been characterized by deeds of charity and kindness to the poor and sorrowful, and by zeal in the cause of truth. Her death was a great loss; the infant church could not well spare her noble efforts. When the believers heard of the marvelous cures which Peter had performed in Lydda, they greatly desired him to come to Joppa. Messengers were sent to him to solicit his presence there.                                                                              56   {7Red 55.3}
[7Red 56.1]          "Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber; and all the widows stood by him weeping, and showing the coats and garments which Dorcas made while she was with them." Peter had the weeping and wailing friends sent from the room. He then kneeled down, and prayed fervently to God to restore life and health to the pulseless body of Dorcas; "and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes; and when she saw Peter, she sat up. And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive." This great work of raising the dead to life was the means of converting many in Joppa to the faith of Jesus.  {7Red 56.1}
[7Red 56.2]          "There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, a devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God always." Though Cornelius was a Roman, he had become acquainted with the true God, and had renounced idolatry. He was obedient to the will of God, and worshiped him with a true heart. He had not connected himself with the Jews, but was acquainted with, and obedient to, the moral law. He had not been circumcised, nor did he take part in the sacrificial offerings; he was therefore accounted by the Jews as unclean. He, however, sustained the Jewish cause by liberal donations, and was known far and near for his deeds of charity and benevolence. His righteous life made him of good repute, among both Jews and Gentiles.                                                                              57   {7Red 56.2}
[7Red 57.1]          Cornelius had not an understanding faith in Christ, although he believed the prophecies, and was looking for Messiah to come. Through his love and obedience to God, he was brought nigh unto him, and was prepared to receive the Saviour when he should be revealed to him. Condemnation comes by rejecting the light given. The centurion was a man of noble family, and held a position of high trust and honor; but these circumstances had not tended to subvert the noble attributes of his character. True goodness and greatness united to make him a man of moral worth. His influence was beneficial to all with whom he was brought in contact.  {7Red 57.1}
[7Red 57.2]          He believed in the one God, the Creator of Heaven and earth. He revered him, acknowledged his authority, and sought counsel of him in all the business of his life. He was faithful in his home duties as well as in his official responsibilities, and had erected the altar of God in his family. He dared not venture to carry out his plans, and bear the burden of his weighty responsibilities, without the help of God; therefore he prayed much and earnestly for that help. Faith marked all his works, and God regarded him for the purity of his actions, and his liberalities, and came near to him in word and Spirit.  {7Red 57.2}
[7Red 57.3]          While Cornelius was praying, God sent a celestial messenger to him, and "he saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day, an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius." He was afraid, yet knew that the angel was sent of God to instruct him, and said, "What is it, Lord? And he said                                                                              58  unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter. He lodgeth with one Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea-side. He shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do."  {7Red 57.3}
[7Red 58.1]         Here again God showed his regard for the gospel ministry, and for his organized church. His angel was not the one to tell the story of the cross to Cornelius. A man, subject as himself to human frailties and temptations, was to instruct him concerning the crucified, risen, and ascended Saviour. The heavenly messenger was sent for the express purpose of putting Cornelius in connection with the minister of God, who would teach him how he and his house could be saved.  {7Red 58.1}
[7Red 58.2]          Cornelius was gladly obedient to the message. "And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually; and when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa." The explicitness of these directions, in which was even named the occupation of the man with whom Peter was then making his home, evidences that Heaven is well acquainted with the history and business of men in every grade of life. God is cognizant of the daily employment of the humble laborer, as well as of that of the king upon his throne. And the avarice, cruelty, secret crimes, and selfishness of men are known to him, as well as their good deeds, charity, liberality, and kindness. Nothing is hidden from God.                                                                              59   {7Red 58.2}
[7Red 59.1]          Immediately after this interview with Cornelius, the angel went to Peter, who was praying upon the housetop. While praying he was shown a vision, "and saw heaven opened, and a certain vessel descending unto him, as it had been a great sheet knit at the four corners, and let down to the earth; wherein were all manner of four-footed beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or unclean. And the voice spake unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. This was done thrice; and the vessel was received up again into heaven."  {7Red 59.1}
[7Red 59.2]          Here we may perceive the workings of God's plan to set the machinery in motion, whereby his will may be done on earth as it is done in Heaven. Peter had not yet preached the gospel to the Gentiles. Many of them had been interested listeners to the truths which he taught; but the middle wall of partition, which the death of Christ had broken down, still existed in the minds of the apostles, and excluded the Gentiles from the privileges of the gospel. The Greek Jews had received the labors of the apostles, and many of them had responded to those efforts by embracing the faith of Jesus; but the conversion of Cornelius was to be the first one of importance among the Gentiles.  {7Red 59.2}
[7Red 59.3]          By the vision of the sheet and its contents, let down from heaven, Peter was to be divested of his settled prejudices against the Gentiles; to understand that, through Christ, heathen nations                                                                              60  were made partakers of the blessings and privileges of the Jews, and were to be thus benefited equally with them. Some have urged that this vision was to signify that God had removed his prohibition from the use of the flesh of animals which he had formerly pronounced unclean; and that therefore swines' flesh was fit for food. This is a very narrow, and altogether erroneous interpretation, and is plainly contradicted in the scriptural account of the vision and its consequences.  {7Red 59.3}
[7Red 60.1]          The vision of all manner of live beasts, which the sheet contained, and of which Peter was commanded to kill and eat, being assured that what God had cleansed should not be called common or unclean by him, was simply an illustration presenting to his mind the true position of the Gentiles; that by the death of Christ they were made fellow-heirs with the Israel of God. It conveyed to Peter both reproof and instruction. His labors had heretofore been confined entirely to the Jews; and he had looked upon the Gentiles as an unclean race, and excluded from the promises of God. His mind was now being led to comprehend the world-wide extent of the plan of God.  {7Red 60.1}
[7Red 60.2]          Even while he pondered over the vision, it was explained to him. "Now while Peter doubted in himself what this vision which he had seen should mean, behold, the men which were sent from Cornelius had made inquiry for Simon's house, and stood before the gate, and called, and asked whether Simon, which was surnamed Peter, were lodged there. While Peter thought on the vision, the Spirit said unto him,                                                                              61  Behold, three men seek thee. Arise therefore, and get thee down, and go with them, doubting nothing; for I have sent them."  {7Red 60.2}
[7Red 61.1]          It was a trying command to Peter; but he dared not act according to his own feelings, and therefore "went down to the men which were sent unto him from Cornelius; and said, Behold, I am he whom ye seek; what is the cause wherefore ye are come? And they said, Cornelius the centurion, a just man, and one that feareth God, and of good report among all the nation of the Jews, was warned from God by an holy angel to send for thee into his house, and to hear words of thee. Then called he them in, and lodged them." Thus they communicated their singular errand to the apostle, and, according to the direction he had just received from God, he at once agreed to accompany them on the morrow. He courteously entertained them that night, and in the morning set out with them for Caesarea, accompanied by six of his brethren, who were to be witnesses of all he should say or do while visiting the Gentiles; for he knew that he should be called to account for so direct an opposition to the Jewish faith and teachings.  {7Red 61.1}
[7Red 61.2]          It was nearly two days before the journey was ended and Cornelius had the glad privilege of opening his doors to a gospel minister, who, according to the assurance of God, should teach him and his house how they might be saved. While the messengers were upon their errand, the centurion had gathered together as many of his relatives as were accessible, that they, as well as he, might be instructed in the truth. When                                                                              62  Peter arrived, a large company were gathered, eagerly waiting to listen to his words.  {7Red 61.2}
[7Red 62.1]          As Peter entered the house of the Gentile, Cornelius did not salute him as an ordinary visitor, but as one honored of Heaven, and sent to him by God. It is an Eastern custom to bow before a prince or other high dignitary, and for children to bow before their parents who are honored with positions of trust. But Cornelius, overwhelmed with reverence for the apostle who had been delegated by God, fell at his feet and worshiped him. Peter shrank with horror from this act of the centurion, and lifted him to his feet, saying, "Stand up; I myself also am a man." He then commenced to converse with him familiarly, in order to remove the sense of awe and extreme reverence with which the centurion regarded him.  {7Red 62.1}
[7Red 62.2]          Had Peter been invested with the authority and position accorded to him by the Roman Catholic Church, he would have encouraged, rather than have checked, the veneration of Cornelius. The so-called successors of Peter require kings and emperors to bow at their feet; but Peter himself claimed to be only an erring and fallible man.  {7Red 62.2}
[7Red 62.3]          Peter spoke with Cornelius and those assembled in his house, concerning the custom of the Jews; that it was considered unlawful for them to mingle socially with Gentiles, and involved ceremonial defilement. It was not prohibited by the law of God, but the tradition of men had made it a binding custom. Said he, "Ye know how that it is an unlawful thing for a man that is a Jew to keep company, or come unto one of another                                                                              63  nation; but God hath showed me that I should not call any man common or unclean. Therefore came I unto you without gainsaying, as soon as I was sent for; I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me."  {7Red 62.3}
[7Red 63.1]          Cornelius thereupon related his experience, and the words of the angel that had appeared to him in vision: "Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, and said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of God. Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house of one Simon, a tanner, by the sea-side; who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee. Immediately therefore I sent to thee; and thou hast well done that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God. Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons; but in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him." Although God had favored the Jews above all other nations, yet if they rejected light, and did not live up to their profession, they were no more exalted in his esteem than other nations. Those among the Gentiles who, like Cornelius, feared God, and worked righteousness, living up to what light they had, were kindly regarded by God, and their sincere service was accepted.  {7Red 63.1}
[7Red 63.2]          But the faith and righteousness of Cornelius could not be perfect without a knowledge of                                                                              64  Christ; therefore God sent that light and knowledge to him for the farther development of his righteous character. Many refuse to receive the light which the providence of God sends, them, and, as an excuse for so doing, quote the words of Peter to Cornelius and his friends: "But in every nation he that feareth Him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him." They maintain that it is of no consequence what men believe, so long as their works are good. Such ones are wrong; faith must unite with their works. They should advance with the light that is given them. If God brings them in connection with his servants who have received new truth, substantiated by the Word of God, they should accept it with joy. Truth is onward. Truth is upward. On the other hand, those who claim that their faith alone will save them, are trusting to a rope of sand; for faith is strengthened and made perfect by works only.  {7Red 63.2}
[7Red 64.1]          Peter preached Jesus to that company of attentive hearers; his life, ministry, miracles, betrayal, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension, and his work in Heaven, as man's Representative and Advocate, to plead in the sinner's behalf. As the apostle spoke, his heart glowed with the Spirit of God's truth which he was presenting to the people. His hearers were charmed by the doctrine they heard, for their hearts had been prepared to receive the truth. The apostle was interrupted by the descent of the Holy Ghost, as was manifested on the day of Pentecost. "And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy                                                                              65  Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days."  {7Red 64.1}
[7Red 65.1]          The descent of the Holy Ghost upon the Gentiles was not an equivalent for baptism. The requisite steps in conversion, in all cases, are faith, repentance, and baptism. Thus the true Christian church are united in one Lord, one faith, one baptism. Diverse temperaments are modified by sanctifying grace, and the same distinguishing principles regulate the lives of all. Peter yielded to the entreaties of the believing Gentiles, and remained with them for a time, preaching Jesus to all the Gentiles thereabout.  {7Red 65.1}
[7Red 65.2]          When the brethren in Judea heard that Peter had preached to the Gentiles, and had met with them, and eaten with them in their houses, they were surprised and offended by such strange movements on his part. They feared that such a course, which looked presumptuous to them, would tend to contradict his own teachings. As soon as Peter visited them, they met him with severe censure, saying, "Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them."  {7Red 65.2}
[7Red 65.3]          Then "Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying, I was in the city of Joppa praying; and in a trance I saw a vision, a certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me. Upon the which when I had                                                                              66  fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw four-footed beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air. And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat. But I said, Not so, Lord; for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth. But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common. And this was done three times; and all were drawn up again into heaven. And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me. And the Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover, these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house. And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter; who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved." He pleaded that the vision admonished him no longer to keep up the ceremonial distinction of circumcision and uncircumcision, nor to look upon the Gentiles as unclean, for God was not a respecter of persons. His caution was made manifest to his brethren from the fact that, although commanded by God to go to the Gentile's house, he had taken with him six of the disciples then present, as witnesses of all he should say or do while there.  {7Red 65.3}
[7Red 66.1]          He recounted the events of this first meeting with the Gentiles, saying, "And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning. Then remembered I the word of                                                                              67  the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, what was I, that I could withstand God?"  {7Red 66.1}
[7Red 67.1]          The disciples, upon hearing this account, were silenced, and convinced that Peter's course was in direct fulfillment of the plan of God, and that their old prejudices and exclusiveness were to be utterly destroyed by the gospel of Christ. "When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life."  {7Red 67.1}
[7Red 67.2]                   Deliverance of Peter.          Herod was professedly a proselyte to the Jewish faith, and apparently very zealous in perpetuating the ceremonies of the law. The government of Judea was in his hands, subject to Claudius, the Roman emperor; he also held the position of tetrarch of Galilee. Herod was anxious to obtain the favor of the Jews, hoping thus to make secure his offices and honors. He therefore proceeded to carry out the desires of the Jews in persecuting the church of Christ. He began his work by spoiling the houses and goods of the believers; he then began to imprison the leading ones. He seized upon James and cast him into prison, and there sent an executioner to kill him with a sword, as another Herod had caused the prophet John to be beheaded. He then became bolder, seeing that the Jews were well pleased with his acts, and imprisoned Peter. These                                                                              68  cruelties were performed during the sacred occasion of the passover.  {7Red 67.2}
[7Red 68.1]          James was one of the three favored disciples who had been brought into the closest relationship with Christ. James, John, and Peter were his chief witnesses after his death. They saw the transfiguration of the Saviour, and beheld him glorified. They were in the garden with him during the night of his agony. James and John were the sons of Zebedee, the ones whom Jesus had asked, "Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?" When James was rudely thrust into prison, and unceremoniously summoned to execution, he understood more fully than ever before, the words of his Lord upon that occasion.  {7Red 68.1}
[7Red 68.2]          There was great grief and consternation at the death of James. When Peter was also imprisoned, the entire church engaged in fasting and prayer. While the Jews were celebrating the memorial of their deliverance from Egypt, and pretending great zeal for the law, they were at the same time persecuting and murdering the believers in Christ, thus transgressing every principle of that law. At these great religious gatherings they stirred one another up against the Christians, till they were united in a bitter hatred of them.  {7Red 68.2}
[7Red 68.3]          The people applauded the act of Herod in causing the death of James, though some of them complained of the private manner in which it was accomplished, maintaining that a public execution would have had the effect to more thoroughly intimidate all believers and                                                                              69  sympathizers. Herod therefore held Peter in custody for the purpose of gratifying the Jews by the public spectacle of his death. But it was suggested to the ruler that it would not be safe to bring the veteran apostle out for execution before all the people who were assembled in Jerusalem for the passover. It was feared that his venerable appearance might excite their pity and respect; they also dreaded lest he should make one of those powerful appeals which had frequently roused the people to investigate the life and character of Jesus Christ, and which they, with all their artifice, were totally unable to controvert. In such a case, the Jews apprehended that his release would be demanded at the hands of the king.  {7Red 68.3}
[7Red 69.1]          Peter's ardent zeal in vindicating himself, and in advocating the cause of Christ, had lost to the Jews many of their brethren, and they stood in great dread of his having an opportunity to lift up his voice in the presence of all the nations and people that had come to the city to worship. Therefore the apostle was placed under charge of sixteen soldiers, who alternated in guarding him day and night. But it was in vain that the puny arm of man was lifted against the Lord. He, by the putting forth of his might, was about to stay the precious blood which the Jews would have been emboldened to shed, had not divine power interposed.  {7Red 69.1}
[7Red 69.2]          While the execution of Peter was being delayed, upon various pretexts, until after the passover, the church of Christ had time for deep searching of heart, and earnest prayer. Strong petitions, tears, and fasting were mingled                                                                              70  together. They prayed without ceasing for Peter; they felt that he could not be spared from the Christian work; and they felt that they had arrived at a point, where, without the special help of God, the church of Christ would become extinct.  {7Red 69.2}
[7Red 70.1]          Meanwhile worshipers of every nation sought the temple which had been dedicated to the service of God, and which remained, to all appearance, the same as when the shekinah had glorified it, with the exception of additional embellishment. But God was no longer to be found in that palace of loveliness, glittering with gold and precious stones, and presenting a spectacle of grandeur and beauty to all beholders.  {7Red 70.1}
[7Red 70.2]          The day of Peter's execution was at last appointed; but still the prayers of the believers ascended to Heaven. And while all their energies and sympathies were called out in fervent appeals, angels of God were guarding the imprisoned apostle. Man's extremity is God's opportunity. Peter was placed between two soldiers, and was bound by two chains, each chain being fastened to the wrist of one of his guard. He was therefore unable to move without their knowledge. The prison doors were securely fastened, and a strong guard was placed before them. All chance of rescue or escape, by human means, was thus cut off.  {7Red 70.2}
[7Red 70.3]          The apostle was not intimidated by his situation. Since his re-instatement after his denial of Christ, he had unflinchingly braved danger, and manifested a noble courage and boldness in preaching a crucified, risen and ascended Saviour. He now called to mind the words of Jesus                                                                              71  addressed to him: "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest; but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not." He believed the time had now come when he was to yield up his life for Christ's sake.  {7Red 70.3}
[7Red 71.1]          The night before his appointed execution, Peter, bound with chains, slept between the two soldiers, as usual. Herod, remembering the escape of Peter and John from prison, where they had been confined because of their faith, took double precautions on this occasion. The soldiers on guard, in order to secure their extra vigilance, were made answerable for the safe-keeping of the prisoner. He was bound, as has been described, in a cell of massive rock, the doors of which were bolted and barred. Sixteen men were detailed to guard this cell, relieving each other at regular intervals. Four comprised the watch at one time. But the bolts and bars, and Roman guard, which effectually cut off from the prisoner a possibility of human aid, were only to result in making the triumph of God more complete in Peter's deliverance from prison. Herod was lifting his hand against Omnipotence, and he was to be utterly humiliated and defeated in his attempt upon the life of the servant of God.  {7Red 71.1}
[7Red 71.2]          On this last night before the execution, a mighty angel, commissioned from Heaven, descended to rescue him. The strong gates which shut in the saint of God, open without the aid of human hands; the angel of the Most High enters,                                                                              72  and they close again noiselessly behind him. He enters the cell, hewn from the solid rock, and there lies Peter, sleeping the blessed peaceful sleep of innocence and perfect trust in God while chained to a powerful guard on either side of him. The light which enveloped the angel illuminated the prison, but did not waken the sleeping apostle. His was the sound repose that invigorates and renews, and that comes of a good conscience.  {7Red 71.2}
[7Red 72.1]          Peter is not awakened until he feels the stroke of the angel's hand, and hears his voice saying, "Arise up quickly." He sees his cell, which had never been blessed by a ray of sunshine, illuminated by the light of Heaven, and an angel of great glory standing before him. He mechanically obeys the voice of the angel; and in rising lifts his hands, and finds that the chains have been broken from his wrists. Again the voice of the angel is heard: "Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals."  {7Red 72.1}
[7Red 72.2]          Again Peter mechanically obeys, keeping his wondering gaze riveted upon his heavenly visitant, and believing himself to be dreaming, or in a vision. The armed soldiers are passive as if chiseled from marble, as the angel again commands, "Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me." Thereupon the heavenly being moves toward the door, and the usually talkative Peter follows, dumb from amazement. They step over the motionless guard, and reach the heavily bolted and barred door, which swings open of its own accord, and closes again immediately, while the guard within and outside the door are motionless at their posts.                                                                              73   {7Red 72.2}
[7Red 73.1]          The second gate, which is also guarded within and without, is reached; it opens as did the first, with no creaking of hinges, or rattling of iron bolts; they pass without, and it closes again as noiselessly. They pass through the third gateway in the same manner, and at last find themselves in the open street. No word is spoken; there is no sound of footstep; the angel glides on before, encircled by a light of dazzling brightness, and Peter follows his deliverer, bewildered, and believing himself to be in a dream. Street after street is threaded thus, and then, the mission of the angel being completed, he suddenly disappears.  {7Red 73.1}
[7Red 73.2]          As the heavenly light faded away, Peter felt himself to be in profound darkness; but gradually the darkness seemed to decrease, as he became accustomed to it, and he found himself alone in the silent street, with the cool night air upon his brow. He now realized that it was no dream or vision that had visited him. He was free, in a familiar part of the city; he recognized the place as one which he had often frequented, and had expected to pass for the last time on the morrow, when upon the way to the scene of his prospective death. He tried to recall the events of the last few moments. He remembered falling asleep, bound between the two soldiers, with his sandals and outer garment removed. He examined his person, and found himself fully dressed, and girded.  {7Red 73.2}
[7Red 73.3]          His wrists, swollen from wearing the cruel irons, were now free from the manacles, and he realized that his freedom was no delusion, but a blessed reality. On the morrow he was to have                                                                              74  been led forth to die; but lo, an angel had delivered him from prison and from death. "And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews."  {7Red 73.3}
[7Red 74.1]          The apostle made his way direct to the house where his brethren were assembled together for prayer; he found them engaged in earnest prayer for him at that moment. "And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda. And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate. And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel. But Peter continued knocking; and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished. But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go show these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he departed, and went into another place."  {7Red 74.1}
[7Red 74.2]          Joy and praise filled the hearts of the fasting praying believers, that God had heard and answered their prayers, and delivered Peter from the hand of Herod. In the morning the people gathered together to witness the execution of the apostle. Herod sent officers to bring Peter from prison with great display of arms and guard, in order to insure against his escape, to intimidate all sympathizers, and to exhibit his own power.                                                                              75   {7Red 74.2}
[7Red 75.1]          Meanwhile terror and mortification had seized the Roman guard at the prison, when they found that the prisoner was gone. It had been expressly stated to them that their lives would be answerable for the life of their charge, and for that reason they had been specially vigilant. But the God of Heaven had thwarted the purpose of wicked Herod. There was the guard at the door of the prison, the bolts and bars of the door still fast and strong, the guard inside, the chains attached to the wrists of the two soldiers; but the prisoner was gone.  {7Red 75.1}
[7Red 75.2]          When the report of these things was brought to Herod, he was exasperated, and charged the keepers of the prison with unfaithfulness. They were accordingly put to death for the alleged crime of sleeping at their post. At the same time, Herod knew that no human power had rescued Peter. But he was determined not to acknowledge that a divine power had been at work to thwart his base designs. He would not humiliate himself thus, but set himself boldly in defiance of God.  {7Red 75.2}
[7Red 75.3]          Herod, not long after Peter's deliverance from prison, went down from Judea to Caesarea, and there abode. He there made a grand festival, designed to excite the admiration and applause of the people. Pleasure-lovers from all quarters were assembled together, and there was much feasting and wine-drinking. Herod made a most gorgeous appearance before the people. He was clad in a robe, sparkling with silver and gold, that caught the rays of the sun in its glittering folds, and dazzled the eyes of the beholders. With great pomp and ceremony he stood                                                                              76  before the multitude, and addressed them in an eloquent oration.  {7Red 75.3}
[7Red 76.1]          The majesty of his appearance, and the power of his well-chosen language, swayed the assembly with a mighty influence. Their senses were already perverted by feasting and wine; they were dazzled by his glittering decorations, and charmed by his grand deportment and eloquent words; and, wild with enthusiasm, they showered upon him adulation, and proclaimed him a god, declaring that mortal man could not present such an appearance, or command such startling eloquence of language. They farther declared that they had ever respected him as a ruler, but from henceforth they should worship him as a god.  {7Red 76.1}
[7Red 76.2]          These people had refused to acknowledge Christ, whose coarse and often travel-stained garments were worn over a heart of divine love, rich with that inward adorning, a meek and gentle spirit. Their eyes, blinded by sin, refused to see, beneath that humble exterior, the Lord of life and glory, though his mercy and divine power were revealed before them in works that no man could do. But they were ready to bow down and worship, as a god, the haughty king, whose splendid garments of silver and gold were worn over a corrupt and cruel heart. They did not attempt to penetrate his vain display, and read the depravity and deceit of his character, and wickedness of his daily life.  {7Red 76.2}
[7Red 76.3]          Herod knew that he deserved none of this praise and homage; yet he did not rebuke the idolatry of the people, but accepted it as his due. The glow of gratified pride was on his countenance as he heard the shout ascend: It is the                                                                              77  voice of a god, and not of man! The same voices which now glorified a vile sinner, had, but a few years before, raised the frenzied cry of, Away with Jesus! Crucify him, crucify him! Herod received this flattery and homage with great pleasure, and his heart bounded with triumph; but suddenly a swift and terrible change came over him. His countenance became pallid as death, and distorted with agony; great drops of sweat started from his pores. He stood a moment as if transfixed with pain and terror, then, turning his blanched and livid face to his horror-stricken friends, he cried in hollow, despairing tones. He whom you have exalted as a god is struck with death!  {7Red 76.3}
[7Red 77.1]          He was borne in a state of the most excruciating anguish from the scene of wicked revelry, the mirth, and pomp, and display of which he now loathed in his soul. A moment before, he had been the proud recipient of the praise and worship of that vast throng--now he felt himself in the hands of a Ruler mightier than himself. Remorse seized him; he remembered his cruel command to slay the innocent James; he remembered his relentless persecution of the followers of Christ, and his design to put to death the apostle Peter, whom God had delivered out of his hand; he remembered how, in his mortification and disappointed rage, he had wreaked his unreasoning revenge upon the keepers of the prisoner, and executed them without mercy. He felt that God, who had rescued the apostle from death, was now dealing with him, the relentless persecutor. He found no relief from pain of body or anguish of mind, and he expected none. Herod                                                                              78  was acquainted with the law of God, which says, "Thou shalt have no other gods before me," and he knew that in accepting the worship of the people he had filled up the measure of his iniquity, and had brought upon him the just wrath of God.  {7Red 77.1}
[7Red 78.1]          The same angel who had left the royal courts of Heaven to rescue Peter from the power of his persecutor, had been the messenger of wrath and judgment to Herod. The angel smote Peter to arouse him from slumber; but it was with a different stroke that he smote the wicked king, bringing mortal disease upon him. God poured contempt upon Herod's pride, and his person, which he had exhibited decked in shining apparel before the admiring gaze of the people, was eaten by worms, and putrefied while yet alive. Herod died in great agony of mind and body, under the retributive justice of God.  {7Red 78.1}
[7Red 78.2]         This demonstration of divine judgment had a mighty influence upon the people. While the apostle of Christ had been miraculously delivered from prison and death, his persecutor had been stricken down by the curse of God. The news was borne to all lands, and was the means of bringing many to believe on Christ.  {7Red 78.2}
[8Red 3.1]         8Red - Redemption: or the Teachings of Paul, and his Mission to the Gentiles (1878)      TO THE READER         NEXT TO THE TWO CHIEF CHARACTERS OF THE OLD AND NEW TESTAMENTS, MOSES AND JESUS CHRIST, THE APOSTLE PAUL, THROUGH HIS LABORS AND WRITINGS, HAS HAD MORE INFLUENCE UPON THE WORLD THAN ANY OTHER PERSON. THE CALL OF THIS REMARKABLE MAN, AND HIS BEING COMMISSIONED TO GO TO THE GENTILES, MARKED AN ERA IN THE PROGRESS OF THE GOSPEL. THE READER WILL BE PLEASED TO READ THE FOLLOWING THOUGHTS UPON THIS SUBJECT, FROM ONE SO WELL QUALIFIED TO WRITE UPON IT, AS THE AUTHOR OF THIS WORK.                                                     		 PUBLISHERS                     	The Teachings of Paul             Ordination of Paul and Barnabas.          The apostles and disciples who left Jerusalem during the fierce persecution that raged there after the martyrdom of Stephen, preached Christ in the cities round about, confining their labors to the Hebrew and Greek Jews. "And the hand of the Lord was with them; and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord." When the believers in Jerusalem heard the good tidings they rejoiced; and Barnabas, "a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith," was sent to Antioch, the metropolis of Syria, to help the church there. He labored there with great success. As the work increased, he solicited and obtained the help of Paul; and the two disciples labored together in that city for a year, teaching the people, and adding to the numbers of the church of Christ.  {8Red 3.1}
[8Red 3.2]         Antioch had both a large Jewish and Gentile population; it was a great resort for lovers of ease and pleasure, because of the healthfulness of its situation, its beautiful scenery, and the wealth, culture, and refinement that centered there. Its extensive commerce made it a place of great importance, where people of all nationalities were                                                                              4  found. It was therefore a city of luxury and vice. The retribution of God finally came upon Antioch, because of the wickedness of its inhabitants.  {8Red 3.2}
[8Red 4.1]          It was here that the disciples were first called Christians. This name was given them because Christ was the main theme of their preaching, teaching, and conversation. They were continually recounting the incidents of his life, during the time in which his disciples were blessed with his personal company. They dwelt untiringly upon his teachings, his miracles of healing the sick, casting out devils, and raising the dead to life. With quivering lips and tearful eyes they spoke of his agony in the garden, his betrayal, trial, and execution, the forbearance and humility with which he endured the contumely and torture imposed upon him by his enemies, and the Godlike pity with which he prayed for those who persecuted him. His resurrection and ascension, and his work in Heaven as a Mediator for fallen man, were joyful topics with them. The heathen might well call them Christians, since they preached of Christ, and addressed their prayers to God through him.  {8Red 4.1}
[8Red 4.2]          Paul found, in the populous city of Antioch, an excellent field of labor, where his great learning, wisdom and zeal, combined, wielded a powerful influence over the inhabitants and frequenters of that city of culture.  {8Red 4.2}
[8Red 4.3]          Meanwhile the work of the apostles was centered at Jerusalem, where Jews of all tongues and countries came to worship at the temple during the stated festivals. At such times the apostles preached Christ with unflinching courage, though they knew that in so doing their lives                                                                              5  were in constant jeopardy. Many converts to the faith were made, and these, scattering to their homes in different parts of the country, dispersed the seeds of truth throughout all nations, and among all classes of society.  {8Red 4.3}
[8Red 5.1]          Peter, James, and John felt confident that God had appointed them to preach Christ among their own countrymen at home. But Paul had received his commission from God, while praying in the temple, and his broad missionary field had been presented before him with remarkable distinctness. To prepare him for his extensive and important work, God had brought him into close connection with himself, and had opened before his enraptured vision a glimpse of the beauty and glory of Heaven.  {8Red 5.1}
[8Red 5.2]          God communicated with the devout prophets and teachers in the church at Antioch. "As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them." These apostles were therefore dedicated to God in a most solemn manner by fasting and prayer and the laying on of hands; and they were sent forth to their field of labor among the Gentiles.  {8Red 5.2}
[8Red 5.3]          Both Paul and Barnabas had been laboring as ministers of Christ, and God had abundantly blessed their efforts; but neither of them had previously been formally ordained to the gospel ministry by prayer and the laying on of hands. They were now authorized by the church, not only to teach the truth, but to baptize, and to organize churches, being invested with full ecclesiastical authority. This was an important era for the church. Though the middle wall of partition between Jew and Gentile had been broken                                                                              6  down by the death of Christ, letting the Gentiles into the full privileges of the Gospel, yet the vail had not yet been torn away from the eyes of many of the believing Jews, and they could not clearly discern to the end of that which was abolished by the Son of God. The work was now to be prosecuted with vigor among the Gentiles, and was to result in strengthening the church by a great ingathering of souls.  {8Red 5.3}
[8Red 6.1]          The apostles, in this, their special work, were to be exposed to suspicion, prejudice, and jealousy. As a natural consequence of their departure from the exclusiveness of the Jews, their doctrine and views would be subject to the charge of heresy; and their credentials as ministers of the gospel would be questioned by many zealous, believing Jews. God foresaw all these difficulties which his servants would undergo, and, in his wise providence, caused them to be invested with unquestionable authority from the established church of God, that their work should be above challenge.  {8Red 6.1}
[8Red 6.2]          The brethren in Jerusalem and in Antioch were made thoroughly acquainted with all the particulars of this divine appointment, and the specific work of teaching the Gentiles, which the Lord had given to these apostles. Their ordination was an open recognition of their divine mission, as messengers specially chosen by the Holy Ghost for a special work. Paul witnesses, in his Epistle to the Romans, that he considered this sacred appointment as a new and important epoch in his life; he names himself, "a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God."  {8Red 6.2}
[8Red 6.3]          The ordination by the laying on of hands, was,                                                                              7  at a later date, greatly abused; unwarrantable importance was attached to the act, as though a power came at once upon those who received such ordination, which immediately qualified them for any and all ministerial work, as though virtue lay in the act of laying on of hands. We have, in the history of these two apostles, only a simple record of the laying on of hands, and its bearing upon their work. Both Paul and Barnabas had already received their commission from God himself; and the ceremony of the laying on of hands added no new grace or virtual qualification. It was merely setting the seal of the church upon the work of God--an acknowledged form of designation to an appointed office.  {8Red 6.3}
[8Red 7.1]          This form was a significant one to the Jews. When a Jewish father blessed his children, he laid his hands reverently upon their heads. When an animal was devoted to sacrifice, the hand of the one invested with priestly authority was laid upon the head of the victim. Therefore, when the ministers of Antioch laid their hands upon the apostles, they, by that action, asked God to bestow his blessing upon them, in their devotion to the specific work which God had chosen them to do.  {8Red 7.1}
[8Red 7.2]          The apostles started out upon their mission, taking with them Mark. They went into Seleucia, and from thence sailed to Cyprus. At Salamis they preached in the synagogues of the Jews. "And when they had gone through the isle unto Paphos, they found a certain sorcerer, a false prophet, a Jew, whose name was Barjesus; which was with the deputy of the country, Sergius Paulus, a prudent man; who called for Barnabas and Saul, and desired to hear the                                                                              8  word of God. But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith."  {8Red 7.2}
[8Red 8.1]          The deputy being a man of repute and influence, the sorcerer Elymas, who was under the control of Satan, sought by false reports, and various specious deceptions, to turn him against the apostles and destroy their influence over him. As the magicians in Pharaoh's court withstood Moses and Aaron, so did this sorcerer withstand the apostles. When the deputy sent for the apostles, that he might be instructed in the truth, Satan was on hand with his servant, seeking to thwart the purpose of God, and prevent this influential man from embracing the faith of Christ. This agent of Satan greatly hindered the work of the apostles. Thus does the fallen foe ever work in a special manner to prevent persons of influence, who could be of great service to the cause, from embracing the truth of God.  {8Red 8.1}
[8Red 8.2]          But Paul, in the Spirit and power of the Holy Ghost, rebuked the wicked deceiver. He "set his eyes upon him, and said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord? And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand. Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord."  {8Red 8.2}
[8Red 8.3]          The sorcerer had closed his eyes to the evidences of truth, and the light of the gospel, therefore the Lord, in his righteous anger, caused his                                                                              9  natural eyes to be closed, shutting out from him the light of day. This blindness was not permanent, but only for a season, to warn him to repent, and to seek pardon of God whom he had so offended. The confusion into which this man was brought, with all his boasted power, made all his subtle arts against the doctrine of Christ of none effect. The fact of his being obliged to grope about in blindness, proved to all beholders that the miracles which the apostles had performed, and which Elymas had denounced as being produced by sleight of hand, were in truth wrought by the power of God. The deputy was convinced of the truth of the doctrine taught by the apostles, and embraced the gospel of Christ.  {8Red 8.3}
[8Red 9.1]          Elymas was not a man of education, yet he was peculiarly fitted to do the work of Satan. Those who preach the truth of God will be obliged to meet the wily foe in many different shapes. Sometimes it is in the person of learned, and often in the person of ignorant, men, whom Satan has educated to be his successful instruments in deceiving souls, and in working iniquity. It is the duty of the minister of Christ to stand faithfully at his post, in the fear of God, and in the power of his strength. Thus he may put to confusion the hosts of Satan, and triumph in the name of the Lord.  {8Red 9.1}
[8Red 9.2]          Paul and his company now continued their journey, going into Perga, in Pamphylia. Their way was toilsome, they encountered hardships and privations, and were beset by dangers on every side, which intimidated Mark, who was unused to hardships. As still greater difficulties were apprehended, he became disheartened, and refused to go farther, just at the time when his                                                                              10  services were most needed. He accordingly returned to Jerusalem, and to the peace and comfort of his home.  {8Red 9.2}
[8Red 10.1]          Mark did not apostatize from the faith of Christianity; but, like many young ministers, he shrank from hardships, and preferred the comfort and safety of home to the travels, labors, and dangers of the missionary field. This desertion caused Paul to judge him unfavorably and severely for a long time. He distrusted his steadiness of character, and his devotion to the cause of Christ. The mother of Mark was a convert to the Christian religion; and her home was an asylum for the disciples. There they were always sure of a welcome, and a season of rest, in which they could rally from the effect of the fierce persecutions that everywhere assailed them in their labors.  {8Red 10.1}
[8Red 10.2]          It was during one of these visits of the apostles to his mother's that Mark proposed to Paul and Barnabas that he should accompany them on their missionary tour. He had witnessed the wonderful power attending their ministry; he had felt the favor of God in his own heart; he had seen the faith of his mother tested and tried without wavering; he had witnessed the miracles performed by the apostles, and which set the seal of God upon their work; he had himself preached the Christian faith, and had longed to enter more fully into the work, and entirely devote himself to it. He had, as the companion of the apostles, rejoiced in the success of their mission; but fear and discouragement overwhelmed him in the face of privation, persecution, and danger; and he sought the attractions of home at                                                                              11  a time when his services where most needful to the apostles.  {8Red 10.2}
[8Red 11.1]          At a future period there was a sharp contention between Paul and Barnabas concerning Mark, who was still anxious to devote himself to the work of the ministry. Paul could not, at that time, excuse in any degree the weakness of Mark in deserting them and the work upon which they had entered, for the ease and quiet of home; and he urged that one with so little stamina was unfit for the gospel ministry, which required patience, self-denial, bravery, and faith, with a willingness to sacrifice even life if need be.  {8Red 11.1}
[8Red 11.2]          Barnabas, on the other hand, was inclined to excuse Mark, who was his nephew, because of his inexperience. He felt anxious that he should not abandon the ministry, for he saw in him qualifications for a useful laborer in the field of Christ. This contention caused Paul and Barnabas to separate, the latter following out his convictions, and taking Mark with him in his work.  {8Red 11.2}
[8Red 11.3]          Mark, therefore, accompanied Barnabas to Cyprus, and assisted him there. Paul was afterward reconciled to Mark, and received him as a fellow-laborer. He also recommended him to the Colossians as one who was a "fellow-worker unto the kingdom of God," and a personal comfort to him, Paul. Again, not long prior to his death, he spoke of him as profitable to him in the ministry.  {8Red 11.3}
[8Red 11.4]          Paul and Barnabas next visited Antioch in Pisidia, and on the Sabbath went into the synagogue, and sat down; "and after the reading of the law and the prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the                                                                              12  people, say on." Being thus invited to speak, "Paul stood up, and beckoning with his hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God, give audience." He then proceeded to give a history of the manner in which the Lord had dealt with the Jews from the time of their deliverance from Egyptian bondage, and how a Saviour had been promised of the seed of David. He then preached Jesus as the Saviour of men, the Messiah of prophecy.  {8Red 11.4}
[8Red 12.1]         When he had finished, and the Jews had left the synagogue, the Gentiles still lingered, and entreated that the same words might be spoken unto them the next Sabbath day. The apostles created a great interest in the place, among both Jews and Gentiles. They encouraged the believers and converts to stand fast in their faith, and to continue in the grace of God. The interest to hear the words of the apostles was so great that the whole city came together on the next Sabbath day. But now, as in the days of Christ, when the Jewish priests and rulers saw the multitudes that had assembled to hear the new doctrine, they were moved by envy and jealousy, and contradicted the words of the apostles with blasphemy. Their old bigotry and prejudice were also aroused, when they perceived great numbers of Gentiles mingling with the Jews in the congregation. They could not endure that the Gentiles should enjoy religious privileges on an equality with themselves, but clung tenaciously to the idea that the blessing of God was reserved exclusively for them. This had ever been the great sin of the Jews, which Christ, on several occasions, had rebuked.  {8Red 12.1}
[8Red 12.2]          They listened, on one Sabbath day, with                                                                              13  intense interest to the teachings of Paul and Barnabas, who preached Jesus as the promised Messiah; and upon the next Sabbath day, because of the multitude of Gentiles who assembled also to hear them, they were excited to a frenzy of indignation, the words of the apostles were distorted in their minds, and they were unfitted to weigh the evidence presented by them. When they learned that the Messiah preached by the apostles was to be a light to the Gentiles, as well as the glory of his people Israel, they were beside themselves with rage, and used the most insulting language to the apostles.  {8Red 12.2}
[8Red 13.1]          The Gentiles, on the other hand, rejoiced exceedingly that Christ recognized them as the children of God, and with grateful hearts they listened to the word preached. The apostles now clearly discerned their duty, and the work which God would have them do. They turned without hesitation to the Gentiles, preaching Christ to them, and leaving the Jews to their bigotry, blindness of mind, and hardness of heart. The mind of Paul had been well prepared to make this decision, by the circumstances attending his conversion, his vision in the temple at Jerusalem, his appointment by God to preach to the Gentiles, and the success which had already crowned his efforts among them.  {8Red 13.1}
[8Red 13.2]          When Paul and Barnabas turned from the Jews who derided them, they addressed them boldly, saying, "It was necessary that the Word of God should first have been spoken to you; but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles. For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the                                                                              14  Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth."  {8Red 13.2}
[8Red 14.1]          This gathering in of the Gentiles to the church of God had been traced by the pen of inspiration, but had been but faintly understood. Hosea had said, "Yet the number of the children of Israel shall be as the sand of the sea, which cannot be measured nor numbered; and it shall come to pass that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people, there it shall be said unto them, Ye are the sons of the living God." And again, "I will sow her unto me in the earth; and I will have mercy upon her that had not obtained mercy; and I will say to them which were not my people, Thou art my people; and they shall say, Thou art my God."  {8Red 14.1}
[8Red 14.2]          During the life of Christ on earth he had sought to lead the Jews out of their exclusiveness. The conversion of the centurion, and that of the Syrophenician woman, were instances of his direct work outside of the acknowledged people of Israel. The time had now come for active and continued work among the Gentiles, of whom whole communities received the gospel gladly, and glorified God for the light of an intelligent faith. The unbelief and malice of the Jews did not turn aside the purpose of God; for a new Israel was being grafted into the old olive-tree. The synagogues were closed against the apostles; but private houses were thrown open for their use, and public buildings of the Gentiles were also used in which to preach the Word of God.  {8Red 14.2}
[8Red 14.3]          The Jews, however, were not satisfied with closing their synagogues against the apostles, but desired to banish them from that region. To effect this purpose they sought to prejudice                                                                              15  certain devout and honorable women, who had great influence with the government, and also men of influence. This they accomplished by subtle arts, and false reports. These persons of good repute complained to the authorities against the apostles, and they were accordingly expelled from those coasts.  {8Red 14.3}
[8Red 15.1]          On this occasion the apostles followed the instruction of Christ: "Whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily, I say unto you, it shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of Judgment than for that city." The apostles were not discouraged by this expulsion: they remembered the words of their Master: "Blessed are ye when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad; for great is your reward in Heaven; for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you."  {8Red 15.1}
[8Red 15.2]                Preaching Among the Heathen.          The apostles next visited Iconium. This place was a great resort for pleasure-seekers, and persons who had no particular object in life. The population was composed of Romans, Greeks, and Jews. The apostles here, as at Antioch, first commenced their labors in the synagogues for their own people, the Jews. They met with marked success; numbers of both Jews and Greeks accepted the gospel of Christ. But here, as in former places where the apostles had labored, the unbelieving Jews commenced an unreasonable                                                                              16  opposition of those who accepted the true faith, and, as far as lay in their power, influenced the Gentiles against them.  {8Red 15.2}
[8Red 16.1]          The apostles, however, were not easily turned from their work, for many were daily embracing the doctrine of Christ. They went on faithfully in the face of opposition, envy, and prejudice. Miracles were daily wrought by the disciples through the power of God; and all whose minds were open to evidence were affected by the convincing power of these things.  {8Red 16.1}
[8Red 16.2]          This increasing popularity of the doctrine of Christ stirred the unbelieving Jews to fresh opposition. They were filled with envy and hatred, and determined to stop the labors of the apostles at once. They went to the authorities, and represented their work in the most false and exaggerated light, leading the officers to fear that the entire city was in danger of being incited to insurrection. They stated that great numbers were attaching themselves to the apostles, and suggested that it was for secret and dangerous designs.  {8Red 16.2}
[8Red 16.3]          In consequence of these charges, the disciples were repeatedly brought before the authorities; but in every case they so ably defended themselves before the people, that, although the magistrates were prejudiced against them by the false statements they had heard, they dared not condemn them. They could but acknowledge that the teachings of the apostles were calculated to make men virtuous, law-abiding citizens.  {8Red 16.3}
[8Red 16.4]          The unprejudiced Jews and Greeks took the position that the morals and good order of the city would be improved, if the apostles were allowed to remain and work there. Upon the                                                                              17  occasions when the apostles were brought before the authorities, their defense was so clear and sensible, and the statement which they gave of their doctrine was so calm and comprehensive, that a considerable influence was raised in their favor. The doctrine they preached gained great publicity, and was brought before a much larger number of unprejudiced hearers than ever before in that place.  {8Red 16.4}
[8Red 17.1]          The Jews perceived that their efforts to thwart the work of the apostles were unavailing, and only resulted in adding greater numbers to the new faith. The rage of the Jews was worked up to such a pitch on this account that they determined to compass their ends in some manner. They stirred up the worst passions of the ignorant, noisy mob, creating a tumult which they attributed to the efforts of the apostles. They then prepared to make a false charge of telling force, and to gain the help of the magistrates in carrying out their purpose. They determined that the apostles should have no opportunity to vindicate themselves; but that mob power should interfere, and put a stop to their labors by stoning them to death.  {8Red 17.1}
[8Red 17.2]          Friends of the apostles, although unbelievers, warned them of the designs of the malicious Jews, and urged them not uselessly to expose themselves to their fury, but to escape for their lives. They accordingly departed from Iconium in secret, and left the faithful and opposing parties to battle for themselves, trusting God to give victory to the doctrine of Christ. But they by no means took a final leave of Iconium; they purposed to return, after the excitement then                                                                              18  raging had abated, and complete the work they had begun.  {8Red 17.2}
[8Red 18.1]          Those who observe and teach the binding claims of God's law frequently receive, in a degree, similar treatment to that of the apostles at Iconium. They often meet a bitter opposition from ministers and people who persistently refuse the light of God, and, by misrepresentation and falsehood, close every door by which the messenger of truth might have access to the people.  {8Red 18.1}
[8Red 18.2]          The apostles next went to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia. These were populated by a heathen, superstitious people; but among them were souls that would hear and accept the doctrine of Christ. The apostles chose to labor in those cities because they would not there meet Jewish prejudice and persecution. They now came in contact with an entirely new element,-- heathen superstition and idolatry.  {8Red 18.2}
[8Red 18.3]          The apostles, in their work, met all grades of people, and all kinds of faith and religions. They were brought in opposition with Jewish bigotry and intolerance, sorcery, blasphemy, unjust magistrates who loved to exercise their power, false shepherds, superstition, and idolatry. While persecution and opposition met them on every hand, victory still crowned their efforts, and converts were daily added to the faith.  {8Red 18.3}
[8Red 18.4]          In Lystra there was no Jewish synagogue, though there were a few Jews in the place. The temple of Jupiter occupied a conspicuous position there. Paul and Barnabas appeared in the city together, teaching the doctrine of Christ with great power and eloquence. The credulous people believed them to be gods come down from Heaven. As the apostles gathered the people                                                                              19  about them, and explained their strange belief, the worshipers of Jupiter sought to connect these doctrines, as far as they were able, with their own superstitious faith.  {8Red 18.4}
[8Red 19.1]          Paul addressed them in the Greek language, presenting for their consideration such subjects as would lead them to a correct knowledge of Him who should be the object of their adoration. He directed their attention to the firmament of the heavens--the sun, moon, and stars--the beautiful order of the recurring seasons, the mighty mountains whose peaks were capped with snow, the lofty trees, and the varied wonders of nature, which showed a skill and exactitude almost beyond finite comprehension. Through these visible works of the Almighty, the apostle led the minds of the heathen to the contemplation of the great Mind of the universe.  {8Red 19.1}
[8Red 19.2]          He then told them of the Son of God, who came from Heaven to our world because he loved the children of men. His life and ministry were presented before them; his rejection by those whom he came to save; his trial and crucifixion by wicked men; his resurrection from the dead to finish his work on earth; and his ascension to Heaven to be man's Advocate in the presence of the Maker of the world. With the Spirit and power of God, Paul and Barnabas declared the gospel of Christ.  {8Red 19.2}
[8Red 19.3]          As Paul recounted the works of Christ in healing the afflicted, he perceived a cripple whose eyes were fastened upon him, and who received and believed his words. Paul's heart went out in sympathy toward the afflicted man, whose faith he discerned; and he eagerly grasped the hope that he might be healed by that Saviour,                                                                              20  who, although he had ascended to Heaven, was still man's Friend and Physician, having more power even than when he was upon earth.  {8Red 19.3}
[8Red 20.1]          In the presence of that idolatrous assembly, Paul commanded the cripple to stand upright upon his feet. Hitherto he had only been able to take a sitting posture; but he now grasped with faith the words of Paul, and instantly obeyed his command, and stood on his feet for the first time in his life. Strength came with this effort of faith; and he who had been a cripple walked and leaped as though he had never experienced an infirmity.  {8Red 20.1}
[8Red 20.2]          This work performed on the cripple was a marvel to all beholders. The subject was so well known, and the cure was so complete, that there was no room for skepticism on their part. The Lycaonians were all convinced that supernatural power attended the labors of the apostles, and cried out with great enthusiasm that the gods had come down to them from Heaven in the likeness of men. This belief was in harmony with their traditions that gods visited the earth. They conceived the idea that the great heathen deities, Jupiter and Mercury, were in their midst in the persons of Paul and Barnabas. The former they believed to be Mercury; for Paul was active, earnest, quick, and eloquent with words of warning and exhortation. Barnabas was believed to be Jupiter, the father of gods, because of his venerable appearance, his dignified bearing, and the mildness and benevolence which was expressed in his countenance.  {8Red 20.2}
[8Red 20.3]          The news of the miraculous cure of the cripple was soon noised throughout all that region, until a general excitement was aroused, and priests                                                                              21  from the temple of the gods prepared to do the apostles honor, as visitants from the courts of Heaven, to sacrifice beasts to them, and to bring offerings of garlands and precious things. The apostles had sought retirement and rest in a private dwelling, when their attention was attracted by the sound of music, and the enthusiastic shouting of a vast assembly, who had come to the gate of the house where they were abiding.  {8Red 20.3}
[8Red 21.1]          When these ministers of God ascertained the cause of this visit and its attendant excitement, they were filled with indignation and horror. They rent their clothing, and rushed in among the multitude to prevent farther proceedings. Paul, in a loud, ringing voice that rose above the noise of the multitude, demanded their attention; and, as the tumult was suddenly quelled, he inquired,--  {8Red 21.1}
[8Red 21.2]          "Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein; who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways. Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness."  {8Red 21.2}
[8Red 21.3]          The people listened to the words of Paul with manifest impatience. Their superstition and enthusiasm had been so great in regard to the apostles that they were loth to acknowledge their error, and have their expectations and purposes thwarted. Notwithstanding the apostles positively denied the divinity attributed to them by the heathen, and Paul made a masterly effort to                                                                              22  direct their minds to the true God as the only object worthy of worship, it was still most difficult to turn them from their purpose.  {8Red 21.3}
[8Red 22.1]          They reasoned that they had with their own eyes beheld the miraculous power exercised by the apostles; that they had seen a cripple who had never before used his limbs, made to leap and rejoice in perfect health and strength through the exercise of the marvelous power possessed by these strangers. But, after much persuasion on the part of Paul, and explanation as to the true mission of the apostles, the people were reluctantly led to give up their purpose. They were not satisfied, however, and led the sacrificial beasts away in great disappointment, that their traditions of divine beings visiting the earth could not be strengthened by this example of their favor in coming to confer special blessings upon them, which would exalt them and their religion in the estimation of the world.  {8Red 22.1}
[8Red 22.2]          And now a strange change came upon the fickle, excitable people, because their faith was not anchored in the true God. The opposing Jews of Antioch, through whose influence the apostles were driven from that coast, united with certain Jews of Iconium, and followed upon the track of the apostles. The miracle wrought upon the cripple, and its effect upon those who witnessed it, stirred up their envy and led them to go to the scene of the apostles' labor, and put their false version upon the work. They denied that God had any part in it, and claimed that it was accomplished through the demons whom these men served.  {8Red 22.2}
[8Red 22.3]          The same class had formerly accused the Saviour of casting out devils through the power of                                                                              23  the prince of devils; they had denounced him as a deceiver; and they now visited the same unreasoning wrath upon his apostles. By means of falsehoods they inspired the people of Lystra with the bitterness of spirit by which they were themselves actuated. They claimed to be thoroughly acquainted with the history and faith of Paul and Barnabas, and so misrepresented their characters and work that the heathen idolaters, who had been ready to worship the apostles as divine beings, now considered them as worse than murderers, and that whoever should put them out of the world would do God and mankind good service.  {8Red 22.3}
[8Red 23.1]          Those who believe and teach the truths of God's Word in these days meet with similar opposition from unprincipled persons who will not accept the truth, and who do not hesitate to prevaricate, and even to circulate the most glaring falsehoods in order to destroy the influence and hedge up the way of those whom God has sent with a message of warning to the world. While one class make the falsehoods and circulate them, another class are so blinded by the delusions of Satan as to receive them as the words of truth. They are in the toils of the arch-enemy, while they flatter themselves that they are the children of God. "For this cause, God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie; that they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness."  {8Red 23.1}
[8Red 23.2]          The disappointment experienced by the idolaters in being refused the privilege of offering sacrifices to the apostles, prepared them to turn against these ministers of God with a zeal which approached that of the enthusiasm with which they had hailed them as gods. The malicious                                                                              24  Jews did not hesitate to take full advantage of the superstition and credulity of this heathen people to carry out their cruel designs. They incited them to attack the apostles by force; and they charged them not to allow Paul an opportunity to speak, alleging that if they did so he would bewitch the people.  {8Red 23.2}
[8Red 24.1]          The Lystrians rushed upon the apostles with great rage and fury. They hurled stones violently; and Paul, bruised, battered, and fainting, felt that his end had come. The martyrdom of Stephen was brought vividly to his mind, and the cruel part he had acted on that occasion. He fell to the ground apparently dead, and the infuriated mob dragged his insensible body through the gates of the city, and threw it beneath the walls. The apostle mentions this occurrence in the subsequent enumeration of his sufferings for the truth's sake: "Thrice was I beaten with rods; once was I stoned; thrice I suffered shipwreck; a night and a day I have been in the deep; in journeyings often; in perils of waters; in perils of robbers; in perils by mine own countrymen; in perils by the heathen; in perils in the city; in perils in the wilderness; in perils in the sea; in perils among false brethren."  {8Red 24.1}
[8Red 24.2]          The disciples stood around the body of Paul, lamenting over him whom they supposed was dead, when he suddenly lifted his head, and arose to his feet with the praise of God upon his lips. To the disciples this seemed like a resurrection from the dead, a miracle of God to preserve the life of his faithful servant. They rejoiced with inexpressible gladness over his restoration, and praised God with renewed faith in the doctrine preached by the apostles.                                                                              25   {8Red 24.2}
[8Red 25.1]          These disciples had been newly converted to the faith through the teachings of Paul, and had stood steadfast notwithstanding the misrepresentation and malignant persecution of the Jews. In fact, the unreasoning opposition of those wicked men had only confirmed these devoted brethren in the faith of Christ; and the restoration to life of Paul seemed to set the signet of God upon their belief.  {8Red 25.1}
[8Red 25.2]          Timothy had been converted through the ministration of Paul, and was an eye-witness of the sufferings of the apostle upon this occasion. He stood by his apparently dead body, and saw him arise, bruised and covered with blood, not with groans nor murmurings upon his lips, but with praises to Jesus Christ, that he was permitted to suffer for his name. In one of the epistles of Paul to Timothy he refers to his personal knowledge of this occurrence. Timothy became the most important help to Paul and to the church. He was the faithful companion of the apostle in his trials and in his joys. The father of Timothy was a Greek; but his mother was a Jewess, and he had been thoroughly educated in the Jewish religion.  {8Red 25.2}
[8Red 25.3]                      Jew and Gentile.          The next day after the stoning of Paul, the apostles left the city, according to the direction of Christ: "When they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another." They departed for Derbe, where their labors were blessed by leading many souls to embrace the truth. But both Paul and Barnabas returned again to visit Antioch, Iconium, and Lystra, the fields of labor where they                                                                              26  had met such opposition and persecution. In all those places were many souls that believed the truth; and the apostles felt it their duty to strengthen and encourage their brethren who were exposed to reproach and bitter opposition. They were determined to securely bind off the work which they had done, that it might not ravel out.  {8Red 25.3}
[8Red 26.1]          Churches were duly organized in the places before mentioned, elders appointed in each church, and the proper order and system established there. Paul and Barnabas labored in Antioch some time; and many Gentiles there embraced the doctrine of Christ. But certain Jews from Judea raised a general consternation among the believing Gentiles by agitating the question of circumcision. They asserted, with great assurance, that none could be saved without being circumcised, and keeping the entire ceremonial law.  {8Red 26.1}
[8Red 26.2]          This was an important question, and one which affected the church in a very great degree. Paul and Barnabas met it with promptness, and opposed introducing the subject to the Gentiles. They were opposed in this by the believing Jews of Antioch, who favored the position of those from Judea. The matter resulted in much discussion and want of harmony in the church, until finally the church at Antioch, apprehending that a division among them would occur from any further discussion of the question, decided to send Paul and Barnabas, together with some responsible men of Antioch, to Jerusalem, and lay the matter before the apostles and elders. There they were to meet delegates from the different churches, and those who had come to attend the approaching annual festivals. Meanwhile all                                                                              27  controversy was to cease, until a final decision should be made by the responsible men of the church. This decision was then to be universally accepted by the various churches throughout the country.  {8Red 26.2}
[8Red 27.1]          The apostles, in making their way to Jerusalem, called upon the brethren of the cities through which they passed, and encouraged them by relating their experience in the work of God, and the conversion of the Gentiles to the faith. Upon arriving at Jerusalem, the delegates from Antioch related before the assembly of the churches the success that had attended the ministry with them, and the confusion that had resulted from the fact that certain converted Pharisees declared that the Gentile converts must be circumcised and keep the law of Moses in order to be saved.  {8Red 27.1}
[8Red 27.2]          The Jews were not generally prepared to move as fast as the providence of God opened the way. It was evident to them from the result of the apostles' labors among the Gentiles that the converts among the latter people would far exceed the Jewish converts; and that if the restrictions and ceremonies of the Jewish law were not made obligatory upon their accepting the faith of Christ, the national peculiarities of the Jews, which kept them distinct from all other people, would finally disappear from among those who embraced the gospel truths.  {8Red 27.2}
[8Red 27.3]          The Jews had prided themselves upon their divinely appointed services; and they concluded that as God once specified the Hebrew manner of worship, it was impossible that he should ever authorize a change in any of its specifications. They decided that Christianity must connect                                                                              28  itself with the Jewish laws and ceremonies. They were slow to discern to the end of that which had been abolished by the death of Christ, and to perceive that all their sacrificial offerings had but prefigured the death of the Son of God, in which type had met its antitype, rendering valueless the divinely appointed ceremonies and sacrifices of the Jewish religion.  {8Red 27.3}
[8Red 28.1]          Paul had prided himself upon his Pharisaical strictness; but after the revelation of Christ to him on the road to Damascus, the mission of the Saviour, and his own work in the conversion of the Gentiles, were plain to his mind; and he fully comprehended the difference between a living faith and a dead formalism. Paul still claimed to be one of the children of Abraham, and kept the ten commandments in letter and in spirit as faithfully as he had ever done before his conversion to Christianity. But he knew that the typical ceremonies must soon altogether cease, since that which they had shadowed forth had come to pass, and the light of the gospel was shedding its glory upon the Jewish religion, giving a new significance to its ancient rites.  {8Red 28.1}
[8Red 28.2]          The question of circumcision was warmly discussed in the assembly. The Gentile converts lived in a community of idolaters. Sacrifices and offerings were made to senseless idols by these ignorant and superstitious people. The priests of these gods carried on an extensive merchandise with the offerings brought to them; and the Jews feared that the Gentile converts would bring Christianity into disrepute by purchasing those things which had been offered to idols, and thereby sanctioning, in some measure, an idolatrous worship.                                                                              29   {8Red 28.2}
[8Red 29.1]          Also the Gentiles were accustomed to eat the flesh of animals that had been strangled; while the Jews had been divinely instructed with regard to the food they should use. They were particular, in killing beasts, that the blood should flow from the body, else it was not regarded as healthful meat. God had given these injunctions to the Jews for the purpose of preserving their health and strength. The Jews considered it sinful to use blood as an article of diet. They considered that the blood was the life; that the shedding of blood was in consequence of sin, and was a sacred emblem of the Son of God.  {8Red 29.1}
[8Red 29.2]          The Gentiles, on the contrary, practiced catching the blood which flowed from the victim of sacrifice, and drinking it, or using it in the preparation of their food. The Jews could not change the customs which they had so long observed, and which they had adopted under the special direction of God. Therefore, as things then stood, if Jew and Gentile came to eat at the same table, the former would be shocked and outraged by the habits and manners of the latter.  {8Red 29.2}
[8Red 29.3]          The Gentiles, and especially the Greeks, were extremely licentious; and many, in accepting Christianity, had united the truth to their unsanctified natures, and continued to practice fornication. The Jewish Christians could not tolerate such immorality, which was not even regarded as criminal by the Greeks. The Jews, therefore, held it highly proper that circumcision, and the observance of the ceremonial law, should be brought to the Gentile converts as a test of their sincerity and devotion. This they believed would prevent the accession to the church of those who were carried away by mere feeling, or who adopted                                                                              30  the faith without a true conversion of heart, and who might afterward disgrace the cause by immorality and excesses.  {8Red 29.3}
[8Red 30.1]          The questions thus brought under the consideration of the council seemed to present insurmountable difficulties, viewed in whatever light. But the Holy Ghost had, in reality, already settled this problem, upon the decision of which depended the prosperity, and even the existence, of the Christian church. Grace, wisdom, and sanctified judgment were given to the apostles to decide the vexed question.  {8Red 30.1}
[8Red 30.2]          Peter reasoned that the Holy Ghost had decided the matter by descending with equal power upon the uncircumcised Gentiles and the circumcised Jews. He recounted his vision, in which God had presented before him a sheet filled with all manner of four-footed beasts, and had bidden him kill and eat; that when he had refused, affirming that he had never eaten that which was common or unclean, God had said, "What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common."  {8Red 30.2}
[8Red 30.3]          He related the plain interpretation of these words, which was given to him almost immediately in his summons to go to the Gentile centurion, and instruct him in the faith of Christ. This message showed that God was no respecter of persons, but accepted and acknowledged those who feared him, and worked righteousness. Peter told of his astonishment, when, in speaking the words of truth to the Gentiles, he witnessed the Holy Spirit take possession of his hearers, both Jews and Gentiles. The same light and glory that was reflected upon the circumcised Jews, shone also upon the countenances of the uncircumcised Gentiles. This was the warning                                                                              31  of God that he should not regard the one as inferior to the other; for the blood of Jesus Christ could cleanse from all uncleanness.  {8Red 30.3}
[8Red 31.1]          Peter had reasoned once before, in like manner, with his brethren, concerning the conversion of Cornelius and his friends, and his fellowship with them. On that occasion he had related how the Holy Ghost fell on them, and had said, "Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ, what was I that I could resist God?" Now, with equal fervor and force, he said, "God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us, and put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. Now, therefore, why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?"  {8Red 31.1}
[8Red 31.2]          This yoke was not the law of the ten commandments, as those who oppose the binding claim of the law assert; but Peter referred to the law of ceremonies, which was made null and void by the crucifixion of Christ. This address of Peter brought the assembly to a point where they could listen with reason to Paul and Barnabas, who related their experience in working among the Gentiles. "Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them."  {8Red 31.2}
[8Red 31.3]          James bore his testimony with decision--that God designed to bring in the Gentiles to enjoy all the privileges of the Jews. The Holy Ghost saw good not to impose the ceremonial law on the Gentile converts; and the apostles and elders,                                                                              32  after careful investigation of the subject, saw the matter in the same light, and their mind was as the mind of the Spirit of God. James presided at the council, and his final decision was, "Wherefore my sentence is that we trouble not them which from among the Gentiles are turned to God."  {8Red 31.3}
[8Red 32.1]          This ended the discussion. In this instance we have a refutation of the doctrine held by the Roman Catholic Church--that Peter was the head of the church. Those who, as popes, have claimed to be his successors, have no foundation for their pretensions. Nothing in the life of Peter gives sanction to those pretended claims. If the professed successors of Peter had imitated his example, they would have taken no authoritative position, but one on an equality with that of their brethren.  {8Red 32.1}
[8Red 32.2]          James, in this instance, seems to have been chosen to decide the matter which was brought before the council. It was his sentence that the ceremonial law, and especially the ordinance of circumcision, be not in any wise urged upon the Gentiles, or even recommended to them. James sought to impress the fact upon his brethren that the Gentiles, in turning to God from idolatry, made a great change in their faith; and that much caution should be used not to trouble their minds with perplexing and doubtful questions, lest they be discouraged in following Christ.  {8Red 32.2}
[8Red 32.3]          The Gentiles, however, were to take no course which should materially conflict with the views of their Jewish brethren, or which would create prejudice in their minds against them. The apostles and elders therefore agreed to instruct the Gentiles by letter to abstain from meats offered to idols, from fornication, from things strangled,                                                                              33  and from blood. They were required to keep the commandments, and to lead holy lives. The Gentiles were assured that the men who had urged circumcision upon them were not authorized to do so by the apostles.  {8Red 32.3}
[8Red 33.1]          Paul and Barnabas were recommended to them as men who had hazarded their lives for the Lord. Judas and Silas were sent with these apostles to declare to the Gentiles, by word of mouth, the decision of the council: "For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things: that ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication, from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well." The four servants of God were sent to Antioch with the epistle and message, which put an end to all controversy; for it was the voice of the highest authority upon earth.  {8Red 33.1}
[8Red 33.2]          The council which decided this case was composed of the founders of the Jewish and Gentile Christian churches. Elders from Jerusalem, and deputies from Antioch, were present; and the most influential churches were represented. The council did not claim infallibility in their deliberations, but moved from the dictates of enlightened judgment, and with the dignity of a church established by the divine will. They saw that God himself had decided this question by favoring the Gentiles with the Holy Ghost; and it was left for them to follow the guidance of the Spirit.  {8Red 33.2}
[8Red 33.3]          The entire body of Christians were not called to vote upon the question. The apostles and elders--men of influence and judgment--framed and issued the decree, which was thereupon                                                                              34  generally accepted by the Christian churches. All were not pleased, however, with this decision; there was a faction of false brethren who assumed to engage in a work on their own responsibility. They indulged in murmuring and fault-finding, proposing new plans, and seeking to pull down the work of the experienced men whom God had ordained to teach the doctrine of Christ. The church has had such obstacles to meet from the first, and will ever have them to the close of time.  {8Red 33.3}
[8Red 34.1]          Jerusalem was the metropolis of the Jews, and there were found the greatest exclusiveness and bigotry. The Jewish Christians who lived in sight of the temple would naturally allow their minds to revert to the peculiar privileges of the Jews as a nation. As they saw Christianity departing from the ceremonies and traditions of Judaism, and perceived that the peculiar sacredness with which the Jewish customs had been invested would soon be lost sight of in the light of the new faith, many grew indignant against Paul, as one who had, in a great measure, caused this change. Even the disciples were not all prepared to willingly accept the decision of the council. Some were zealous for the ceremonial law, and regarded Paul with jealousy, because they thought his principles were lax in regard to the obligation of the Jewish law.  {8Red 34.1}
[8Red 34.2]          When Peter, at a later date, visited Antioch, he acted in accordance with the light given him from Heaven, and the decision of the council. He overcame his natural prejudice so far as to sit at table with the Gentile converts. But when certain Jews who were most zealous for the ceremonial law came from Jerusalem, he changed his                                                                              35  deportment toward the converts from paganism in so marked a degree that it left a most painful impression upon their minds. Quite a number followed Peter's example. Even Barnabas was influenced by the injudicious course of the apostle; and a division was threatened in the church. But Paul, who saw the wrong done the church through the double part acted by Peter, openly rebuked him for thus disguising his true sentiments.  {8Red 34.2}
[8Red 35.1]          Peter saw the error into which he had fallen, and immediately set about repairing it as far as possible. God, who knoweth the end from the beginning, permitted Peter to exhibit this weakness of character, in order that he might see that there was nothing in himself whereof he might boast. God also saw that, in time to come, some would be so deluded as to claim for Peter and his pretended successors, exalted prerogatives which belong only to God; and this history of the apostle's weakness was to remain as a proof of his human fallibility, and of the fact that he stood in no way above the level of the other apostles.  {8Red 35.1}
[8Red 35.2]              Imprisonment of Paul and Silas.          After a time Paul again visited Lystra, where he had been greeted as a god by the heathen; where the opposing Jews had followed on his track, and by falsehood and misrepresentation had turned the reverence of the people into insult, abuse, and a determination to kill him. Yet we find him again on the scene of his former danger, looking after the fruit of his labors there.  {8Red 35.2}
[8Red 35.3]          He found that the converts to Christ had not been intimidated by the violent persecution of the apostles; but, on the contrary, were confirmed                                                                              36  in the faith, believing that through trial and suffering, the kingdom of Christ would be reached.  {8Red 35.3}
[8Red 36.1]          Paul found that Timothy was closely bound to him by the ties of Christian union. This man had been instructed in the Holy Scriptures from his childhood, and educated for a strictly religious life. He had witnessed the sufferings of Paul upon his former visit to Lystra, and the bonds of Christian sympathy had knit his heart firmly to that of the apostle. Paul accordingly thought best to take Timothy with him to assist in his labors.  {8Red 36.1}
[8Red 36.2]          The extreme caution of Paul is manifested in this act. He had refused the companionship of Mark, because he dared not trust him in an emergency. But in Timothy he saw one who fully appreciated the ministerial work, who respected his position, and was not appalled at the prospect of suffering and persecution. Yet he did not venture to accept Timothy, an untried youth, without diligent inquiry with regard to his life and character. After fully satisfying himself on those points, Paul received Timothy as his fellow-laborer and son in the gospel.  {8Red 36.2}
[8Red 36.3]          Paul, with his usual good judgment, caused Timothy to be circumcised; not that God required it, but in order to remove from the minds of the Jews an obstacle to Timothy's ministration. Paul was to labor from place to place in the synagogues, and there to preach Christ. If his companion should be known as an uncircumcised heathen, the work of both would be greatly hindered by the prejudice and bigotry of the people. The apostle everywhere met a storm of persecution. He desired to bring the Jews to Christianity, and sought, as far as was consistent with the faith, to remove every pretext for opposition.                                                                              37  Yet while he conceded this much to Jewish prejudice, his faith and teachings declared that circumcision or uncircumcision was nothing, but the gospel of Christ was everything.  {8Red 36.3}
[8Red 37.1]          At Philippi, Lydia, of the city of Thyatira, heard the apostles, and her heart was open to receive the truth. She and her household were converted and baptized, and she entreated the apostles to make her house their home.  {8Red 37.1}
[8Red 37.2]          Day after day, as they went to their devotions, a woman with the spirit of divination followed them, crying, "These men are the servants of the most high God, which show unto us the way of salvation." This woman was a special agent of Satan; and, as the devils were troubled by the presence of Christ, so the evil spirit which possessed her was ill at ease in the presence of the apostles. Satan knew that his kingdom was invaded, and took this way of opposing the work of the ministers of God. The words of recommendation uttered by this woman were an injury to the cause, distracting the minds of the people from the truths presented to them, and throwing disrepute upon the work by causing people to believe that the men who spoke with the Spirit and power of God were actuated by the same spirit as this emissary of Satan.  {8Red 37.2}
[8Red 37.3]          The apostles endured this opposition for several days; then Paul, under inspiration of the Spirit of God, commanded the evil spirit to leave the woman. Satan was thus met and rebuked. The immediate and continued silence of the woman testified that the apostles were the servants of God, and that the demon had acknowledged them to be such, and had obeyed their command. When the woman was dispossessed of the spirit                                                                              38  of the devil, and restored to herself, her masters were alarmed for their craft. They saw that all hope of receiving money from her divinations and soothsayings was at an end, and perceived that, if the apostles were allowed to continue their work, their own source of income would soon be entirely cut off.  {8Red 37.3}
[8Red 38.1]          A mighty cry was therefore raised against the servants of God, for many were interested in gaining money by Satanic delusions. They brought the apostles before the magistrates with the charge that "these men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble our city, and teach customs which are not lawful for us to receive, being Romans."  {8Red 38.1}
[8Red 38.2]          Satan stirred up a frenzy among the people. Mob spirit prevailed, and was sanctioned by the authorities, who, with their official hands, tore the clothes from the apostles, and commanded them to be scourged. "And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailer to keep them safely; who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks."  {8Red 38.2}
[8Red 38.3]          The apostles were left in a very painful condition. Their lacerated and bleeding backs were in contact with the rough stone floor, while their feet were elevated and bound fast in the stocks. In this unnatural position they suffered extreme torture; yet they did not groan nor complain, but conversed with and encouraged each other, and praised God with grateful hearts that they were found worthy to suffer shame for his dear name. Paul was reminded of the persecution he had been instrumental in heaping upon the                                                                              39  disciples of Christ, and he was devoutly thankful that his eyes had been opened to see, and his heart to feel, the glorious truths of the gospel of the Son of God, and that he had been privileged to preach the doctrine which he had once despised.  {8Red 38.3}
[8Red 39.1]          There, in the pitchy darkness and desolation of the dungeon, Paul and Silas prayed, and sung songs of praise to God. The other prisoners heard with astonishment the voice of prayer and praise issuing from the inner prison. They had been accustomed to hear shrieks and moans, cursing and swearing, breaking at night upon the silence of the prison; but they had never before heard the words of prayer and praise ascending from that gloomy cell. The guards and prisoners marveled who were these men, who, cold, hungry, and tortured, could still rejoice and converse cheerfully with each other.  {8Red 39.1}
[8Red 39.2]          Meanwhile the magistrates had returned to their homes congratulating themselves upon having quelled a tumult, by their prompt and decisive measure. But upon their way home they heard more fully concerning the character and work of the men whom they had sentenced to scourging and imprisonment. They also saw the woman who had been freed from Satanic influence, and who had been a very troublesome subject to them. They were sensibly struck by the change in her countenance and demeanor. She had become quiet, peaceful, and possessed of her right mind. They were indignant with themselves when they discovered that, in all probability, they had visited upon two innocent men the rigorous penalty of the Roman law against the worst criminals. They decided that in the morning they would command them to be                                                                              40  privately released, and escorted in safety from the city beyond the danger of violence from the mob.  {8Red 39.2}
[8Red 40.1]          But while men were cruel and vindictive, or criminally negligent of the solemn responsibilities devolving upon them, God had not forgotten to be gracious to his suffering servants. An angel was sent from Heaven to release the apostles. As he neared the Roman prison, the earth trembled beneath his feet, the whole city was shaken by the earthquake, and the prison walls reeled like a reed in the wind. The heavily bolted doors flew open; the chains and fetters fell from the hands and feet of every prisoner.  {8Red 40.1}
[8Red 40.2]          The keeper of the jail had heard with amazement the prayers and singing of the imprisoned apostles. When they were led in, he had seen their swollen and bleeding wounds, and he had himself caused their feet to be fastened in the instruments of torture. He had expected to hear bitter wailing, groans, and imprecations; but lo! his ears were greeted with joyful praise. He fell asleep with these sounds in his ears; but was awakened by the earthquake, and the shaking of the prison walls.  {8Red 40.2}
[8Red 40.3]          Upon awakening he saw all the prison doors open, and his first thought was that the prisoners had escaped. He remembered with what an explicit charge the prisoners of the night before had been intrusted to his care, and he felt sure that death would be the penalty of his apparent unfaithfulness. He cried out in the bitterness of his spirit that it was better for him to die by his own hand than to submit to a disgraceful execution. He was about to kill himself, when Paul cried out with a loud voice, "Do thyself no harm; for we are all here."                                                                              41   {8Red 40.3}
[8Red 41.1]          The severity with which the jailer had treated the apostles had not roused their resentment, or they would have allowed him to commit suicide. But their hearts were filled with the love of Christ, and they held no malice against their persecutors. The jailer dropped his sword, and called for a light. He hastened into the inner dungeon, and fell down before Paul and Silas, begging their forgiveness. He then brought them up into the open court, and inquired of them, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?"  {8Red 41.1}
[8Red 41.2]          He had trembled because of the wrath of God expressed in the earthquake; he had been ready to die by his own hand for fear of the penalty of the Roman law, when he thought the prisoners had escaped; but now all these things were of little consequence to him compared with the new and strange dread that agitated his mind, and his desire to possess that tranquility and cheerfulness manifested by the apostles under their extreme suffering and abuse. He saw the light of Heaven mirrored in their countenances; he knew that God had interposed in a miraculous manner to save their lives; and the words of the woman possessed by the power of divination came to his mind with peculiar force: "These men are the servants of the most high God, which show unto us the way of salvation."  {8Red 41.2}
[8Red 41.3]          He saw his own deplorable condition in contrast with that of the disciples, and with deep humility and reverence asked them to show him the way of life. "And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. And they spake unto him the word of the Lord, and to all that were in his house." The jailer then washed the wounds of the apostles,                                                                              42  and ministered unto them; and was baptized by them. A sanctifying influence spread among the inmates of the prison, and the hearts of all were opened to receive the truths uttered by the apostles. They were convinced also that the living God, whom these men served, had miraculously released them from bondage.  {8Red 41.3}
[8Red 42.1]          The citizens had been greatly terrified by the earthquake. When the officers informed the magistrates in the morning of what had occurred at the prison, they were alarmed, and sent the sergeants to liberate the apostles from prison. "But Paul said unto them, They have beaten us openly, uncondemned, being Romans, and have cast us into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily? nay, verily; but let them come themselves and fetch us out."  {8Red 42.1}
[8Red 42.2]          Paul and Silas felt that to maintain the dignity of Christ's church, they must not submit to the illegal course proposed by the Roman magistrates. The apostles were Roman citizens, and it was unlawful to scourge a Roman, save for the most flagrant crime, or to deprive him of his liberty without a fair trial and condemnation. They had been publicly thrust into prison, and now refused to be privately released, without proper acknowledgments on the part of the magistrates.  {8Red 42.2}
[8Red 42.3]          When this word was brought to the authorities they were alarmed for fear the apostles would make complaint of their unlawful treatment to the emperor, and cause the magistrates to lose their positions. They accordingly visited the prison, apologized to the apostles for their injustice and cruelty, and themselves conducted them out of the prison, and entreated them to depart                                                                              43  out of the city. Thus the Lord wrought for his servants in their extremity.  {8Red 42.3}
[8Red 43.1]          The magistrates entreated them to depart, because they feared their influence over the people, and the power of Heaven that had interposed in behalf of those innocent men who had been unlawfully scourged and imprisoned. Acting upon the principles given them by Christ, the apostles would not urge their presence where it was not desired. They complied with the request of the magistrates, but did not hasten their departure precipitously. They went rejoicing from the prison to the house of Lydia, where they met the new converts to the faith of Christ, and related all the wonderful dealings of God with them. They related their night's experience, and the conversion of the keeper of the prison, and of the prisoners.  {8Red 43.1}
[8Red 43.2]          The apostles viewed their labors in Philippi as not in vain. They there met much opposition and persecution; but the intervention of Providence in their behalf, and the conversion of the jailer and all his house, more than atoned for the disgrace and suffering they had endured. The Philippians saw represented in the deportment and presence of mind of the apostles the spirit of the religion of Jesus Christ. The apostles might have fled when the earthquake opened their prison doors, and loosened their fetters; but that would have been an acknowledgment that they were criminals, which would have been a disgrace to the gospel of Christ; the jailer would have been exposed to the penalty of death, and the general influence would have been bad. As it was, Paul controlled the liberated prisoners so perfectly that not one attempted to escape.  {8Red 43.2}
[8Red 43.3]          The Philippians could but acknowledge the                                                                              44  nobility and generosity of the apostles in their course of action, especially in forbearing to appeal to a higher power against the magistrates who had persecuted them. The news of their unjust imprisonment, and miraculous deliverance, was noised about through all that region, and brought the apostles and their ministry before the notice of a large number who would not otherwise have been reached. Christianity was placed upon a high plane, and the converts to the faith were greatly strengthened.  {8Red 43.3}
[8Red 44.1]          Thus we have the establishment of the church at Philippi under peculiar circumstances, and its numbers steadily increased. Among them were men of wealth and influence, whose noble generosity and ready sympathy were ever on the side of right. They often came to the aid of the apostles in their affliction and pecuniary necessity. Paul said of these brethren, "Now ye Philippians, know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity."  {8Red 44.1}
[8Red 44.2]          He sends also salutations from the brethren to Caesar's household; for officers in the employment of the emperor had been converted under the labors of the apostles, and through the manifestation of God in their deliverance from prison.  {8Red 44.2}
[8Red 44.3]                  Opposition at Thessalonica.          After leaving Philippi, Paul and Silas made their way to Thessalonica. They were there privileged to address a large concourse of people in the synagogue, with good effect. Their                                                                              45  appearance bore evidence of their recent shameful treatment, and necessitated an explanation of what they had endured. This they made without exalting themselves, but magnified the grace of God, which had wrought their deliverance. The apostles, however, felt that they had no time to dwell upon their own afflictions. They were burdened with the message of Christ, and deeply in earnest in his work.  {8Red 44.3}
[8Red 45.1]          Paul made the prophecies in the Old Testament relating to the Messiah, and the agreement of those prophecies with the life and teachings of Christ, clear in the minds of all among his hearers who would accept evidence upon the subject. Christ in his ministry had opened the minds of his disciples to the Old-Testament scriptures; "beginning with Moses and the prophets, he expounded unto them, in all the Scriptures, the things concerning himself." Peter, in preaching Christ, produced his evidence from the Old-Testament scriptures, beginning with Moses and the prophets. Stephen pursued the same course, and Paul followed these examples, giving inspired proof in regard to the mission, suffering, death, resurrection, and ascension of Christ. He clearly proved his identity with the Messiah, through the testimony of Moses and the Prophets; and showed that it was the voice of Christ which spoke through the prophets and patriarchs from the days of Adam to that time.  {8Red 45.1}
[8Red 45.2]          He showed how impossible it was for them to explain the passover without Christ, as revealed in the Old Testament; and that the brazen serpent lifted up in the wilderness symbolized Jesus Christ, who was lifted up upon the cross. He taught them that all their religious services and                                                                              46  ceremonies would have been valueless if they should now reject the Saviour, who was revealed to them, and who was represented in those ceremonies. He showed them that Christ was the key which unlocked the Old Testament, and gave access to its rich treasures.  {8Red 45.2}
[8Red 46.1]          Thus Paul preached to the Thessalonians three successive Sabbaths, reasoning with them from the Scriptures, upon the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. He showed them that the expectation of the Jews with regard to the Messiah was not according to prophecy, which had foretold a Saviour to come in humility and poverty, to be rejected, despised, and slain.  {8Red 46.1}
[8Red 46.2]          He declared that Christ would come a second time in power and great glory, and establish his kingdom upon the earth, subduing all authority, and ruling over all nations. Paul was an Adventist; he presented the important event of the second coming of Christ with such power and reasoning that a deep impression, which never wore away, was made upon the minds of the Thessalonians.  {8Red 46.2}
[8Red 46.3]          They had strong faith in the second coming of Christ, and greatly feared that they might not live to witness the event. Paul, however, did not leave them with the impression that Christ would come in their day. He referred them to coming events which must transpire before that time should arrive. He warned them that they should "be not shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. Let no man deceive you by any means; for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition."                                                                              47   {8Red 46.3}
[8Red 47.1]          Paul foresaw that there was danger of his words being misinterpreted, and that some would claim that he, by special revelation, warned the people of the immediate coming of Christ. This he knew would cause confusion of faith; for disappointment usually brings unbelief. He therefore cautioned the brethren to receive no such message as coming from him.  {8Red 47.1}
[8Red 47.2]          In his Epistle to the Thessalonians, Paul reminds them of his manner of laboring among them. 1 Thessalonians 2:1-4. He declares that he did not seek to win souls through flattery, deception, or guile. "But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts." Paul rebuked and warned his converts with the faithfulness of a father to his children, while, at the same time, he cherished them as tenderly as a fond mother would her child.  {8Red 47.2}
[8Red 47.3]          When the Jews saw that the apostles were successful in obtaining large congregations; that many were accepting their doctrines--among them the leading women of the city, and multitudes of Gentiles--they were filled with envy and jealousy. These Jews were not then in favor with the Roman power, because they had raised an insurrection in the metropolis not long previous to this time. They were regarded with suspicion, and their liberty was, in a measure, restricted. They now saw an opportunity to take advantage of circumstances to re-establish themselves in favor, and, at the same time, to throw reproach upon the apostles, and the converts to Christianity.  {8Red 47.3}
[8Red 47.4]          This they set about doing by representing that the leaders in the new doctrine were raising a tumult among the people. They accordingly                                                                              48  excited the passions of the worthless mob by cunningly devised falsehoods, and incited them to make an uproarious assault upon the house of Jason, the temporary home of the apostles. This they did with a fury more like that of wild beasts than of men. They had been instructed by the Jews to bring out Paul and Silas, and drag them to the authorities, accusing them of creating all this uproar, and of raising an insurrection.  {8Red 47.4}
[8Red 48.1]          When they had broken into the house, however, they found that the apostles were not there. Friends who had apprehended what was about to occur, had hastened them out of the city, and they had departed for Berea. In their mad disappointment at not finding Paul and Silas, the mob seized Jason and his brother, and dragged them before the authorities with the complaint: "These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also; whom Jason hath received; and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, one Jesus."  {8Red 48.1}
[8Red 48.2]          The Jews interpreted the words of Paul to mean that Christ would come the second time in that generation, and reign upon the earth as king over all nations. The charge was brought against the apostles with so much determination that the magistrates credited it, and put Jason under bonds to keep the peace, as Paul and Silas were not to be found. The persecuting Jews flattered themselves that by their course toward the Christians they had regained the confidence of the magistrates, and had established their reputation as loyal citizens, while they had, at the same time, gratified their malice toward the apostles, and transferred the suspicion which had                                                                              49  heretofore rested upon themselves to the converts to Christianity.  {8Red 48.2}
[8Red 49.1]          In his first Epistle to the Thessalonians, Paul says, "For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost; so that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia."  {8Red 49.1}
[8Red 49.2]          Those who preach unpopular truth in our day meet with determined resistance, as did the apostles. They need expect no more favorable reception from a large majority of professed Christians than did Paul from his Jewish brethren. There will be a union of opposing elements against them; for however diverse from each other different organizations may be in their sentiments and religious faith, their forces are united in trampling under foot the fourth commandment in the law of God.  {8Red 49.2}
[8Red 49.3]          Those who will not themselves accept the truth are most zealous that others shall not receive it; and those are not wanting who perseveringly manufacture falsehoods, and stir up the base passions of the people to make the truth of God of none effect. But the messengers of Christ must arm themselves with watchfulness and prayer, and move forward with faith, firmness, and courage, and, in the name of Jesus, keep at their work as did the apostles. They must sound the note of warning to the world, teaching the transgressors of the law what is sin, and pointing them to Jesus Christ as its great and only remedy.                                                                              50   {8Red 49.3}
[8Red 50.1]                  Paul at Berea and Athens.          At Berea Paul commenced his work again by going into the synagogues of the Jews to preach the gospel of Christ. He says of them, "These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily, whether these things were so. Therefore many of them believed; also of honorable women, which were Greeks, and of men not a few."  {8Red 50.1}
[8Red 50.2]          We here see that questioning doubts and obstinate unbelief were not commended by the inspired apostle. In the presentation of the truth, in these last days, a diligent searching of the Scriptures should be awakened in those who honestly desire to be right. This will produce similar results to those that attended the labors of the apostles in Berea. Those who preach the truth in these days meet many who are the opposite of the Bereans. They cannot controvert the doctrine presented to them, yet they manifest the utmost reluctance to investigate the evidence offered in its favor, and assume that even if it is the truth it is a matter of little or no consequence whether or not they accept it as such. They think that their old customs and faith are good enough for them. But the Lord, who has sent out the apostles and their successors to their work, giving them a message to bear to the world, will hold the people responsible for the manner in which they treat that message of heavenly origin. God will judge all according to the light which has been presented to them.  {8Red 50.2}
[8Red 50.3]          The apostles taught during the day, disseminating                                                                              51  light to those who were in darkness; and then, through the larger portion of the night, labored with their hands to sustain themselves without calling upon any one for material aid. They did this to remove all suspicion that they were seeking personal advantage. Paul afterward writes, "For ye remember, brethren, our labor and travail; for laboring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God."  {8Red 50.3}
[8Red 51.1]          The minds of the Bereans were not narrowed by prejudice, and they were willing to investigate and receive the truths preached by the apostles. If men and women would follow the example of the noble Bereans, in searching the Scriptures daily, and in comparing the messages brought to them with what is there recorded, there would be thousands loyal to God's law, where there is one today. Even many who profess to love God have no desire to change from error to truth, but cling to the pleasing fables of Satan's creation. Error never sanctifies the receiver; but truth of heavenly origin purifies the heart.  {8Red 51.1}
[8Red 51.2]         The unbelieving Jews of Thessalonica, filled with jealousy and hatred of the apostles, not content with having driven them from their labors among the Thessalonians, followed them to Berea, and again stirred up the excitable passions of the lower class to do them violence. The teachers of the truth were again driven from their field of labor. Persecution followed them from city to city. This hasty retreat from Berea deprived Paul of the opportunity he had anticipated of again visiting the brethren at Thessalonica.  {8Red 51.2}
[8Red 51.3]          Although the opposers of the doctrine of Christ                                                                              52  could not hinder its actual advancement, they still succeeded in making the work of the apostles exceedingly hard. God, in his providence, permitted Satan to hinder the return of Paul to the Thessalonians. The faithful apostle pressed on through opposition, conflict, and persecution, to carry out the purpose of God as revealed to him in vision.  {8Red 51.3}
[8Red 52.1]          Paul was sent from Berea to Athens. He was accompanied on his journey by some of the Bereans who had been newly brought into the faith, and who were desirous of learning more concerning the way of life from his teachings. When the apostle arrived at Athens, he sent these men back with a message to Silas and Timotheus to join him immediately in that city. The latter had remained behind in Berea to carry on the work so well commenced there, and to guide the new converts into the mysteries of their holy faith.  {8Red 52.1}
[8Red 52.2]          Athens was indeed the metropolis of heathendom. Paul did not here meet with ignorant, superstitious idolaters, as at Lystra; but he encountered a people famous for their intelligence and education. Sculpture, representing gods, and deified heroes of history and poetry, met the eye in every direction; while magnificent architecture and paintings represented the national glory, and the national worship of imaginary gods.  {8Red 52.2}
[8Red 52.3]          The senses were entranced by the beauty and glory of art. Sanctuaries and temples, erected with a total disregard to cost, reared their lofty forms on every hand. Victories of arms, and deeds of renowned men, were commemorated by tablets, and inscriptions upon marble. All these                                                                              53  things made this renowned city like a vast gallery of art. As Paul looked upon the beauty and grandeur surrounding him, and saw the city crowded with idols, his spirit was stirred with jealousy for God, whom he saw dishonored on every side.  {8Red 52.3}
[8Red 53.1]          His heart was drawn out in deep pity for the citizens of that grand metropolis, who, notwithstanding their intellectual greatness, were given to idolatry. Paul was not deceived by the grandeur and beauty of that which his eyes rested upon, nor by the material wisdom and philosophy which encountered him in this great center of learning. He perceived that human art had done its best to deify vice and make falsehood attractive by glorifying the memory of those whose whole lives had been devoted to leading men to deny God.  {8Red 53.1}
[8Red 53.2]          The great moral nature of the apostle was so alive to the attraction of heavenly things, that the joy and splendor of those riches that will never fade occupied his mind, and made valueless the earthly pomp and glory with which he was surrounded. As he saw the magnificence of the city, and its costly devices, he realized their seductive power over the minds of the lovers of art and science; his mind was deeply impressed by the importance of the work before him in Athens. He longed with affection for the sympathy and aid of his fellow-laborers. His solitude in that city of magnificence, where God was not worshiped, was oppressive. As far as human fellowship was concerned, he felt himself to be utterly isolated. In his Epistle to the Thessalonians he expresses his feelings in these words; "Left at Athens alone."                                                                              54   {8Red 53.2}
[8Red 54.1]          Paul's work was to bear the tidings of salvation to a people who had no intelligent understanding of God and his plans. He was not traveling for the purpose of sight-seeing, nor to gratify a morbid desire for new and strange scenes. His dejection of mind was caused by the apparently insurmountable obstacles which presented themselves against his reaching the minds of the people of Athens. Grieved and indignant at the idolatry everywhere visible about him, he felt a holy zeal for his Master's cause. He sought out his Jewish brethren, and, in the Jewish synagogue of Athens, proclaimed the doctrine of Christ. But the principal work of Paul in that city was to deal with paganism.  {8Red 54.1}
[8Red 54.2]          The religion of the Athenians, of which they made great boast, was of no value, for it was destitute of the knowledge of the true God. It consisted, in great part, of art-worship, and a round of dissipating amusement and festivity. It wanted the virtue of true goodness. Genuine religion gives men the victory over themselves; but a religion of dry intellect and taste is lacking in the essential qualities to raise its possessor above the evils of his nature, and to connect him with God. On the very stones of the altar in Athens this great want was expressed by the inscription, "To the Unknown God." Yes, though boasting of their wisdom, wealth, and skill of art and science, the learned Athenians could but acknowledge that the great Ruler of the universe was unknown to them.  {8Red 54.2}
[8Red 54.3]          The great men of the city seemed hungering for matters of discussion, in which they would have opportunity to display their wisdom and oratory. While waiting for Silas and Timotheus                                                                              55  to meet him, Paul was not idle, "He disputed in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him." The great men of Athens were not long in finding out this singular teacher, who propounded such strange things to the people on all suitable occasions.  {8Red 54.3}
[8Red 55.1]          Some who prided themselves upon the depth of their intellectual culture entered into conversation with him. This soon drew a crowd of listeners about them. Some were prepared to ridicule the apostle, as one far beneath them, socially and intellectually, and said jeeringly among themselves, "What will this babbler say? Other some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods; because he preached unto them Jesus and the resurrection."  {8Red 55.1}
[8Red 55.2]          The Stoics and the Epicureans encountered him; but they, and all others who came in contact with him, soon saw that he had a fund of knowledge even greater than their own. His intellectual power commanded the respect and attention of the more intelligent and learned; while his earnest, logical reasoning, and his power of oratory, held the promiscuous audience. Thus the apostle stood undaunted, meeting his opposers on their own ground, matching logic with their logic, and philosophy with their philosophy.  {8Red 55.2}
[8Red 55.3]          They reminded him of Socrates, a great philosopher, who was condemned to death because he was a setter forth of strange gods. Paul was counseled not to endanger his life in the same way. But the apostle's discourse riveted the attention of the people; and his unaffected wisdom commanded their admiration and respect. He was not silenced by the science or irony of the                                                                              56  savants; and, after bandying many words with him and satisfying themselves that he was determined to accomplish his errand among them, and tell his story at all hazards, they decided to give him a fair opportunity of doing so.  {8Red 55.3}
[8Red 56.1]          They accordingly conducted him to Mars' Hill. This place was the highest on the Athenian coast, and its recollection and associations were such as to cause it to be regarded with superstitious awe and reverence, that with some amounted to dread. There courts of justice had been held to determine upon criminal cases, and to decide difficult religious questions. There was a platform in the open air, with seats for the judges hewn out of solid rock. This platform was reached by stone steps. At a little distance below stood the temple of the gods, and their sanctuaries; and massive architecture, sculpture, and statuary made the place one of great magnificence.  {8Red 56.1}
[8Red 56.2]          Here the Athenians conducted Paul, away from the public thoroughfares, and the tumult of promiscuous discussion; for the frivolous, thoughtless class of society did not care to follow him to this place of highest reverence. Here the apostle could be heard without interruption. Learned men addressed him: "May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is? for thou bringest certain strange things to our ears; we would know, therefore, what these things mean." "Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' Hill and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. For as I passed by and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, To The Unknown God. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you. God that made the world and all                                                                              57  things therein, seeing that he is Lord of Heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; neither is worshiped with men's hands, as though he needed anything, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; and hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; that they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us."  {8Red 56.2}
[8Red 57.1]          Thus, in the most impressive manner, with hand outstretched toward the temple crowded with idols, Paul poured out the burden of his soul, and with deep reasoning revealed the fallacies of the religion of the Athenians. His words could not be controverted. Pointing to their statuary and idols, he declared to them that God could not be likened to forms of men's device. The works of art could not, in the faintest sense, represent the glory of the infinite God. He reminded them that their images had no breath nor life. They were controlled by human power; they could move only as the hands of men moved them; and those who worshiped them were in every way superior to that which they worshiped. Pointing to noble specimens of manhood about him, he declared, "Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device."  {8Red 57.1}
[8Red 57.2]          Man was created in the image of this infinite God, being blessed with intellectual power, and a perfect and symmetrical body. He declared that the heavens were not large enough to                                                                              58  contain God; yet how much less able were those temples made with hands. Paul, under the inspiration of his subject, soared above the comprehension of the idolatrous assembly, and sought to draw their minds beyond the limits of their false religion to right views of the true Deity, whom they instinctively acknowledged, and had called the "Unknown God," This glorious Being, whom he now declared unto them, was independent of man, needing nothing from his hand to add to his power and glory.  {8Red 57.2}
[8Red 58.1]          The people were carried away with admiration of Paul's reasoning and eloquence. The Epicureans began to breathe more freely, believing that he was strengthening their position, that everything had its origin in blind chance; and that certain ruling principles controlled the universe. But his next sentence brought a cloud to their brows. He asserted the creative power of God, and the existence of his overruling providence. He declared unto them the true God, who is the living center of government.  {8Red 58.1}
[8Red 58.2]          This divine Ruler had, in the dark ages of the world, passed lightly over heathen idolatry; but now he had sent them the light of truth, through his Son; and he exacted repentance from all men unto salvation; not only from the poor and humble, but from the proud philosopher, and the princes of the earth. "Because He hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that Man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead."  {8Red 58.2}
[8Red 58.3]          As Paul thus spoke of the resurrection from the dead, his speech was interrupted. Some                                                                              59  mocked; others put his words aside, saying,"We will hear thee again of this matter." Thus the teaching of the apostle was brought to a close; for the Athenians, though enjoying the reputation of high literary and scientific culture, clung to their idolatry, and turned away from the light of a true and reasonable religion. When a people are wholly satisfied with their own attainments, little more need be expected of them. Highly educated, and boasting of their learning and refinement, the Athenians were yearly becoming more corrupt, and having less desire for anything better than that which they possessed.  {8Red 58.3}
[8Red 59.1]          The labors of Paul in Athens were not wholly in vain. Several became converts to Christianity, and joined themselves to him. His words also, and the description of his attitude and surroundings, as traced by the pen of inspiration, were to be handed down through all coming generations, bearing witness of his unshaken confidence, his courage in loneliness and adversity, and the victory he gained for Christianity, even in the very heart of paganism.  {8Red 59.1}
[8Red 59.2]          The providence of God has given us this glance at the life of the Athenians, in all their knowledge, refinement, and art, yet marked with vice and shame, that he might show how through his servant he rebuked idolatry, and the sins of a proud, self-sufficient people. The words of Paul memorialize the occasion, and give a treasure of knowledge to the church. He was placed in a position where he might easily have spoken that which would irritate his proud listeners, and bring himself into difficulty. Had his oration been a direct attack upon their gods, and the great men of the city who were before him, he would have                                                                              60  been in danger of meeting the fate of Socrates. But he carefully drew their minds away from heathen deities, by revealing to them the true God, whom he acknowledged, but who was to them unknown, as they themselves confessed by a public inscription.  {8Red 59.2}
[8Red 60.1]                     Paul Goes to Corinth.          Paul did not wait for his brethren, but, leaving them to follow him, went at once to Corinth. Here he adopted a different course of action from that which had marked his labors at Athens. While in the latter place, he had adapted his style to the character of his audience; and much of his time had been devoted to the discussion of natural religion, matching science with science, logic with logic, and philosophy with philosophy. But when the apostle reviewed the time and labor he had there devoted to the exposition of Christianity, and realized that his style of teaching had not been productive of much fruit, he decided upon a different plan of labor in the future. He determined to avoid discussions of theories and elaborate arguments as much as possible, but to urge the doctrine of salvation through Christ upon sinners. In his epistle to his Corinthian brethren, he afterward described his manner of laboring among them:--  {8Red 60.1}
[8Red 60.2]          "And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching                                                                              61  was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power; that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God."  {8Red 60.2}
[8Red 61.1]          Here the apostle has given the most successful manner of converting souls from ignorance and the darkness of error, to the light of truth. If ministers would follow more closely the example of Paul in this particular, they would see greater success attending their efforts. If all who minister in word and doctrine would make it their first business to be pure in heart and life, and to connect themselves closely with Heaven, their teaching would have greater power to convict souls, and many would be converted to God.  {8Red 61.1}
[8Red 61.2]          Corinth presented to the apostle an important field. It was a large mercantile city, closely connected with Rome. Paul saw that if the gospel could be established there it would be rapidly communicated to all parts of the world. The Jews who had recently been banished from Rome, because of their continual insurrections, had taken up their residence at Corinth. Many who were innocent of any wrong were violently persecuted and were compelled to suffer with the guilty. Among this class were Aquila and Priscilla. Paul made the particular acquaintance of these persons, because their trade and his own were the same.  {8Red 61.2}
[8Red 61.3]          The apostle preached through the day, and at night worked with Aquila and Priscilla at tent-making. While in a city of strangers, he would not be chargeable to any one, but labored with his hands for his own support; and while thus preaching and working, he presented the highest type of Christianity. He combined teaching                                                                              62  with his labor; and, while toiling with those of his trade, he imparted to his fellow-workmen knowledge in regard to the way of salvation. In this way he had access to many whom he could not otherwise have reached.  {8Red 61.3}
[8Red 62.1]         Corinth was regarded as a very unpromising field of labor. Idolaters were there in numbers, and Venus was their favorite goddess. A large number of dissolute women were employed in connection with the worship of this reigning deity, for the purpose of attracting pleasure-seekers of lax morals. The Corinthians were sunken to the depths of moral pollution.  {8Red 62.1}
[8Red 62.2]          Paul found himself in the midst of a numerous population of Greeks and Jews. People from all parts of the world were called to this place. The apostle, according to his custom, preached first in the synagogue every Sabbath. When Silas and Timotheus joined him, they labored together with Paul. But when he taught that Jesus was the Messiah, the Jews were angry. "And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean; from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles. And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man's house, named Justus, one that worshiped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue."  {8Red 62.2}
[8Red 62.3]          The apostle, in his teaching, dwelt upon Christ, and proved from Moses and the prophets that he was the long-looked-for Messiah. He did not labor to charm the ear with oratory, nor to engage the mind with philosophical discussions, which would leave the heart untouched. He preached the cross of Christ, not with labored                                                                              63  eloquence of speech, but with the grace of God; and his words had a powerful effect. "And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord, with all his house; and many of the Corinthians, hearing, believed and were baptized."  {8Red 62.3}
[8Red 63.1]          Paul met the worst opposition from the Jews. They hindered his labor in every way possible, blaspheming the Spirit and power which everywhere attended him, and attributing to Satanic agency the miracles he wrought in the name of Christ. The conversion and baptism of Crispus had the effect to exasperate instead of to convince these stubborn opposers. Their opposition increased as the converts to Christianity increased in numbers. Similar results attend the labors of those who seek to win souls to the present truth. Many professed Christians are the most bitter and unreasonable opposers, in defiance of the most convincing evidence.  {8Red 63.1}
[8Red 63.2]          Paul was very anxious to understand his duty, and the Lord gave him evidence that he was interested in his work, and cognizant of his anxiety and discouragement. A vision was given him in the night season, assuring him of the divine presence and support, promising him safety and success, and urging him not to keep silence, but to continue his efforts with renewed courage. In the moment of severe trial, conscious strength was thus given him of God to prepare him for still greater demonstrations on the part of the Jews.  {8Red 63.2}
[8Red 63.3]          The increased success of Paul in presenting Christ to the people, roused the unbelieving Jews to more determined opposition. They arose in a body with great tumult, and brought him before                                                                              64  the judgment-seat of Gallio, who was then deputy of Achaia. They expected, as on former occasions, to have the authorities on their side, and with loud and angry voices preferred their complaints against the apostle, saying, "This fellow persuadeth men to worship God contrary to the law."  {8Red 63.3}
[8Red 64.1]          The proconsul, disgusted with the bigotry and self-righteousness of the accusing Jews, refused to take notice of the charge. As Paul prepared to speak in self-defense, Gallio informed him that it was not necessary; that the affair did not come under his authority. Then turning to the angry accusers, he said, "If it were a matter of wrong or wicked lewdness, O ye Jews, reason would that I should bear with you. But if it be a question of words and names, and of your law, look ye to it; for I will be no judge of such matters. And he drove them from the judgment-seat."  {8Red 64.1}
[8Red 64.2]         For the first time during Paul's labors in Europe, the mob turned on the side of the minister of truth; and, under the very eye of the proconsul, and without interference from him, the people violently beset the most prominent accusers of the apostle. "Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes, the chief ruler of the synagogue, and beat him before the judgment-seat. And Gallio cared for none of those things."  {8Red 64.2}
[8Red 64.3]          Gallio was a man of integrity, and would not become the dupe of the jealous and intriguing Jews. Unlike Pilate, he refused to do injustice to one whom he knew to be an innocent man. The Jewish religion was under the protection of Roman power; and the accusers of Paul thought that, if they could fasten upon him the charge of violating the laws of their religion, he would                                                                              65  probably be given into their hands for such punishment as they saw fit to inflict. They thus hoped to compass his death.  {8Red 64.3}
[8Red 65.1]          Both Greeks and Jews had waited eagerly for the decision of Gallio; and his immediate dismissal of the case, as one that had no bearing upon the public interest, was the signal for the Jews to retire, baffled, and enraged, and for the mob to assail the ruler of the synagogue. Even the ignorant rabble could but perceive the unjust and vindictive spirit which the Jews displayed in their unreasonable attack upon Paul. Thus Christianity obtained a signal victory. If the apostle had been driven from Corinth at this time, because of the malice of the Jews, the whole community of converts to the faith of Christ would have been placed in great danger. The Jews would have endeavored to follow up their advantage, as was their custom, even to the extermination of Christianity.  {8Red 65.1}
[8Red 65.2]          "And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the Word of God among them."  {8Red 65.2}
[8Red 65.3]                     Apollos at Corinth.          Paul's next scene of labor was at Ephesus. He was on his way to Jerusalem to celebrate the Feast of Pentecost; and his stay at Ephesus was necessarily short. He reasoned with the Jews in the synagogue, and produced such a favorable impression that he was entreated to tarry there, and to protract his labors among them. His plan to visit Jerusalem prevented him from doing so; but he promised to visit them on his return. He left Aquila and Priscilla to                                                                              66  carry forward the good work which he had begun.  {8Red 65.3}
[8Red 66.1]          It was at this time that Apollos, an Alexandrian Jew, visited Ephesus. He had received the highest Grecian cultivation, and was a scholar and an orator. He had heard the teachings of John the Baptist, had received the baptism of repentance, and was a living witness that the work of the prophet was not in vain. Apollos was a deep student of the prophecies, and was a powerful expounder of scripture, publicly proclaiming his faith in Christ, as far as he himself had received the light.  {8Red 66.1}
[8Red 66.2]          Aquila and Priscilla listened to this able speaker, and saw that his teaching was defective. He had not a thorough knowledge of the mission of Christ, his resurrection and ascension, and of his Spirit, the Comforter, which he sent to his people. They accordingly sent for Apollos, and the educated orator received instruction from them with grateful surprise and joy. They explained the scripture to him more clearly than he had before understood it, and he became one of the ablest defenders of the Christian church. Thus a deep scholar and brilliant orator learned the way of the Lord more perfectly from the teachings of a Christian man and woman whose humble employment was that of tent-making.  {8Red 66.2}
[8Red 66.3]          Apollos, having seen new light in regard to the way of salvation through Christ, accepted it gladly, and reasoned from the Scriptures with greater power and success than he had ever before done. He felt anxious to visit Corinth, and the Ephesian brethren wrote to the Corinthians to receive him as a teacher who was in full harmony with the acknowledged church of Christ. He accordingly went to Corinth, and labored                                                                              67  with the very Jews who had rejected the truth as preached to them by Paul. He urged with them from house to house, both publicly and privately, showing them Christ in prophecy; that he was Jesus whom Paul had preached, and that all their expectations of another Messiah to come were in vain. Thus Paul planted the seed of truth, and Apollos watered it; and the fact of Apollos supporting the mission of Paul gave character to the past labors of the apostle among them.  {8Red 66.3}
[8Red 67.1]          His success in preaching the gospel occasioned some of the church to exalt his labors above those of Paul, while he himself was working in perfect harmony with Paul for the advancement of the cause. This rival spirit threatened to greatly hinder the work. Paul had purposely presented the gospel to the Corinthians in its veriest simplicity. Disappointed with the result of his labors in Athens, where he had brought his learning, eloquence, and ability to bear upon his hearers, he determined to pursue an entirely different course in Corinth. He presented there the plain, simple truth, unadorned with worldly wisdom, and studiously dwelt upon Christ, and his mission to the world. The eloquent discourses of Apollos, and his manifest learning, were contrasted by his hearers with the purposely simple and unadorned preaching of Paul.  {8Red 67.1}
[8Red 67.2]          Many declared themselves to be under the leadership of Apollos, while others composed another party perseveringly adhering to the instructions of Paul. Satan came in to take advantage of these imaginary differences in the Corinthian church, tempting them to draw comparisons between the ministers who taught the                                                                              68  way of salvation. Some claimed Apollos as their leader, some Paul, and some Peter. Thus Paul, in his efforts to establish Christianity, met with conflicts and trials in the church as well as outside of it. Factions were beginning to rise through the influence of Judaizing teachers, who urged that the converts to Christianity should observe the ceremonial law in the matter of circumcision.  {8Red 67.2}
[8Red 68.1]          They still maintained that the original Israel were the exalted and privileged children of Abraham, entitled to all the promises made to Abraham. They sincerely thought that in taking this medium ground between Jew and Christian, they would succeed in wiping out the odium which attached to Christianity, and gather in large numbers of the Jews who would not otherwise embrace the true faith. They vindicated their position, which was in opposition to that of Paul, by showing that the course of the apostle, in accepting the Gentiles into the church without circumcision, prevented more Jews from accepting the faith than there were accessions from the Gentiles. Thus they excused their opposition to the results of the calm deliberations of God's acknowledged servants.  {8Red 68.1}
[8Red 68.2]          They refused to admit that the work of Christ embraced the whole world; but claimed that he was the Saviour of the Hebrews alone; therefore they maintained that the Gentiles should receive circumcision before being admitted to the privileges of the church of Christ. After the decision of the council at Jerusalem concerning this question, many were of this same opinion, but did not then venture to push the matter farther. The council had, on that occasion, decided that                                                                              69  the Jewish Christians might observe the ordinances of the Mosaic law if they chose, while they should not be made obligatory upon the Gentile Christians. The opposing class now took advantage of this to urge a distinction between the observers of the ceremonial law and those who did not observe it, holding that the latter were removed farther from God than the former.  {8Red 68.2}
[8Red 69.1]          Here Paul was forced into the battle, to argue the question whether the converts to Christianity should be Jews in every respect, save their belief that Jesus Christ was the Messiah, or whether they should discern to the end of that which had been abolished by the death of Christ, and bear evidence that they were children of Abraham, not merely in their bodies, but in their hearts, showing by their righteous lives the merits of the grace of Christ.  {8Red 69.1}
[8Red 69.2]          Paul's indignation was stirred. His voice was raised in stern rebuke: "If ye be circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing." The party maintaining that Christianity was valueless without circumcision arrayed themselves against the apostle, and Paul had to meet them in every church which he had raised up; in Jerusalem, Antioch, Galatia, Corinth, Ephesus, and Rome. God urged him out to the great work of preaching Christ and him crucified; that circumcision or uncircumcision was nothing. The Judaizing party looked upon Paul as an apostate, bent upon breaking down the partition wall which God had established between the Israelites and the world. They visited every church which he had organized, creating divisions. Reasoning that the end would justify the means, they circulated false charges against the apostle, and endeavored to                                                                              70  bring him into disrepute. As Paul, in visiting the churches, followed after these zealous and unscrupulous opposers, he met many who viewed him with distrust, and some who even despised his labors.  {8Red 69.2}
[8Red 70.1]          These divisions in regard to the ceremonial law, and the relative merits of the different ministers teaching the doctrine of Christ, caused the apostle much anxiety and hard labor. In his Epistle to the Corinthians, he thus addresses them on the latter subject:--  {8Red 70.1}
[8Red 70.2]          "Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?"  {8Red 70.2}
[8Red 70.3]          He also explains the reason of his manner of labor among them: "And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat; for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. For ye are yet carnal; for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?"  {8Red 70.3}
[8Red 70.4]          He thus shows them that he could not, when with them, address them as those who had an experience in spiritual life and the mystery of                                                                              71  godliness. However wise they might have been in worldly knowledge, they were but babes in the knowledge of Christ, and it was his work to instruct them in the first rudiments, the very alphabet of Christian faith and doctrine. It was his task to sow the seed, which another must water. It was the business of those who followed him to carry forward the work from the point where he had left it, and to give spiritual light and knowledge in due season, as they were able to bear it.  {8Red 70.4}
[8Red 71.1]          When he came to them they had no experimental knowledge of the way of salvation, and he was obliged to present the truth in its simplest form. Their carnal minds could not discern the sacred revealings of God; they were strangers to the manifestations of divine grace. Paul had spoken to them as those who were ignorant of the operations of that grace upon the heart. They were carnal-minded, and the apostle was aware that they could not comprehend the mysteries of salvation; for spiritual things must be spiritually discerned. He knew that many of his hearers were proud believers in human theories, and reasoners of false theologies, groping with blind eyes in the book of nature for a contradiction of the spiritual and immortal life revealed in the Book of God.  {8Red 71.1}
[8Red 71.2]          He knew that criticism would set about controverting the Christian interpretation of the revealed word, and skepticism would treat the gospel of Christ with scoffing and derision. It behooved him to introduce most carefully the great truths he wished to teach them. True Christianity is a religion of progress. It is ever giving light and blessing, and has in resource still greater                                                                              72  light and blessing to bestow on those who receive its truths. The illuminating influence of the gospel of Christ, and the sanctifying grace of God, can alone transform the carnal mind to be in harmony with spiritual things.  {8Red 71.2}
[8Red 72.1]          Paul did not venture to directly rebuke the licentious, and to show them how heinous was their sin in the sight of a holy God. His work was, as a wise teacher, to set before them the true aim and object of life, impressing upon their minds the lessons of the divine Teacher, which sought to bring them up from worldliness and sin, to purity and immortal life. The spiritual senses must be matured by continual advancement in the knowledge of heavenly things. Thus the mind would learn to delight in them; and every precept of the Word of God would shine forth as a priceless gem.  {8Red 72.1}
[8Red 72.2]          Paul had especially dwelt upon practical godliness, and the character of that holiness which must be gained in order to make sure of the kingdom of Heaven. He wished the light of the gospel of Christ to pierce the darkness of their minds, that they might discern how aggravating to God were their immoral practices. Therefore the burden of Paul's preaching among them had been Christ, and him crucified. He wished them to understand that the theme for their most earnest study, and greatest joy, should be the grand truth of salvation through repentance toward God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ and in the saving merits of his blood.  {8Red 72.2}
[8Red 72.3]          The philosopher turns aside from the light of salvation because it puts his proud theories to shame. The worldling refuses to receive it, because it would separate him from his earthly                                                                              73  idols, and draw him to a holier life, for which he has no inclination. Paul saw that the character of Christ must be understood before men could love him, and view the cross with the eye of faith. Here must begin that study which shall be the science and the song of the redeemed through all eternity. In the light of the cross alone can the true value of the human soul be estimated.  {8Red 72.3}
[8Red 73.1]          The refining influence of the grace of God changes the natural disposition of man. Heaven would not be desirable to the carnal-minded; their natural, unsanctified hearts would feel no attraction toward that pure and holy place; and if it were possible for them to enter, they would find nothing there congenial to them, in their sinful condition. The carnal propensities which reign in the natural heart must be subdued by the grace of Christ, before fallen man can be elevated to harmonize with Heaven, and enjoy the society of the pure and holy angels. When man dies to sin, and is quickened to new life in Christ Jesus, divine love fills his heart; his understanding is sanctified; he drinks from an inexhaustible fountain of joy and knowledge; and the light of an eternal day shines upon his path, for he has the light of life with him continually.  {8Red 73.1}
[8Red 73.2]          Paul now sought to impress upon them the fact that he himself, and the ministers who followed him, were only men, commissioned of God to teach them the truth; that they were individually engaged in the same work, which was marked out for them by their Heavenly Father; that they were all dependent upon him for the success which attended their labors. "For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of                                                                              74  Apollos; are ye not carnal? Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase."  {8Red 73.2}
[8Red 74.1]          The consciousness of being God's servants inspires the minister with energy and diligence to perseveringly discharge his duty, with an eye single to the glory of his Master. God has given to each of his messengers his distinctive work; and, while there is a diversity of gifts, all are to blend harmoniously in carrying forward the great work of salvation. They are only instruments of divine grace and power.  {8Red 74.1}
[8Red 74.2]          Paul says, "So, then, neither is he that planteth anything, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one; and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labor. For we are laborers together with God; ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building." The teacher of Christ's truth must be near the cross himself, in order to bring sinners to it. His work should be to preach Christ, and to studiously avoid calling attention to himself and thus encumbering the sacred truth, lest he hinder its saving power.  {8Red 74.2}
[8Red 74.3]          There can be no stronger evidence in churches that the truths of the Bible have not sanctified the receivers than their attachment to some favorite minister, and their unwillingness to accept and be profited by the labors of some other teacher who is sent to them in the providence of God. The Lord sends help to his church as they need, not as they choose; for short-sighted mortals cannot discern what is for their best good.                                                                              75  It is seldom that one minister has all the qualifications necessary to perfect any one church in all the requirements of Christianity; therefore God sends other ministers to follow him, one after another, each one possessing some qualifications in which the others were deficient.  {8Red 74.3}
[8Red 75.1]          The church should gratefully accept these servants of Christ, even as they would accept their Master himself. They should seek to derive all the benefit possible from the instruction which ministers may give them from the Word of God. But the ministers themselves are not to be idolized; there should be no religious pets and favorites among the people; it is the truths they bring which are to be accepted, and appreciated in the meekness of humility.  {8Red 75.1}
[8Red 75.2]          In the apostles' day, one party claimed to believe in Christ, yet would not give due respect to his ambassadors. They claimed to follow no human teacher, but to be taught directly from Christ, without the aid of ministers of the gospel. They were independent in spirit, and unwilling to submit to the voice of the church. Another party claimed Paul as their leader, and drew comparisons between him and Peter, which were unfavorable to the latter. Another declared that Apollos far exceeded Paul in address, and power of oratory. Another claimed Peter as their leader, affirming that he had been most intimate with Christ when he was upon earth, while Paul had been a persecutor of the believers. This party spirit was in danger of ruining the Christian church.  {8Red 75.2}
[8Red 75.3]          Paul and Apollos were in perfect harmony. The latter was disappointed and grieved because of the dissension in the church; he took no                                                                              76  advantage of the preference shown himself, nor did he encourage it; but hastily left the field of strife. When Paul afterward urged him to visit Corinth, he declined, and did not do so until long after, when the church had reached a better spiritual state.  {8Red 75.3}
[8Red 76.1]          In writing to the Corinthians, Paul speaks of Apollos as one who had watered the precious seed sown by himself. He made no mention of the false teachers who were sent to Corinth to destroy the fruit of his labor. Because of the darkness and division in the church, he wisely forbore to irritate them by such references, for fear of turning some entirely from the truth. But he called the attention of the Corinthians to his work among them, saying, "According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise master-builder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ."  {8Red 76.1}
[8Red 76.2]          Paul, as a champion of the faith, did not hesitate to declare the character of his work. But he did not thereby exalt himself when he asserted that he was a wise master-builder, who had laid the foundation for another to build upon. He had just stated, "For we are laborers together with God." He claimed no wisdom of his own; but divine power, uniting with his human efforts, had enabled him to present the truth in a manner pleasing to God. He was a co-laborer with Christ, a diligent worker in bringing spiritual knowledge from the Word of God and the works of Christ, to all whose hearts were open to evidence. United with Christ, who was the greatest                                                                              77  of all teachers, he had been enabled to communicate lessons of divine wisdom that met the necessities of all classes and conditions of men, and which were to apply to all times, all places, and all people. In so doing, Paul took no glory to himself, as a humble instrument in the hands of God.  {8Red 76.2}
[8Red 77.1]          God gave Paul the wisdom of a skillful architect, that he might lay the foundation of the church of Christ. This figure of the building of a temple is frequently repeated in the Scriptures, as forcibly illustrating the building up of the true Christian church. Zechariah refers to Christ as the Branch that should build the temple of the Lord. He also refers to the Gentiles as helping in this building: "And they that are far off shall come and build in the temple of the Lord."  {8Red 77.1}
[8Red 77.2]          Paul had now been working in the Gentile quarry, to bring out valuable stones to lay upon the foundation stone, which was Jesus Christ, that by coming in contact with that living stone, they might also become living stones. In writing to the Ephesians, he says, "Now, therefore, ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner-stone; in whom all the building, fitly framed together, groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord. In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God."  {8Red 77.2}
[8Red 77.3]          Some ministers, through their labors, furnish the most precious material: gold, silver, and precious stones, which represent true moral worth sanctified and purified by the Spirit of God. The false material, gilded to imitate the true,--                                                                              78  that is a carnal mind, and unsanctified character, glossed over with seeming righteousness,--may not be readily detected by mortal eye; but the day of God will test the material. "Every man's work shall be made manifest; for the day shall declare it."  {8Red 77.3}
[8Red 78.1]          The precious stones represent the most perfect Christians, who have been refined and polished by the grace of God, and affliction which they have endured with much prayer and patience. Their obedience and love resemble that of the great Pattern. Their lives are beautified and ennobled by self-sacrifice. They will endure the test of the burning day, for they are living stones. "Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out."  {8Red 78.1}
[8Red 78.2]          Many, from worldly policy, endeavor, by their own efforts, to become as polished stones, but cannot be living stones, because they are not built upon the true foundation. The day of God will reveal that they are, in reality, only hay, wood, and stubble. The great temple of Diana was ruined; her magnificence utterly perished; those who shouted, "Great is Diana of the Ephesians," perished with their goddess and the temple which enshrined her. Their religion is forgotten, or seems like an idle tale. That temple was built upon a false foundation, and when tried, it was found to be worthless. But the stones that Paul quarried out from Ephesus were found to be precious and enduring.  {8Red 78.2}
[8Red 78.3]          Paul laid himself upon the true foundation, and brought every stone, whether large or small, polished or unhewn, common or precious, to be connected with the living foundation stone, Christ                                                                              79  Jesus. Thus slowly ascended the temple of the church of God. The apostle says, "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are."  {8Red 78.3}
[8Red 79.1]          Paul, in vision, had a view of the city of God, with its foundation of precious stones; and he represents the true Christian converts to be gold, silver, and precious stones. But the Jews made the work of Paul exceedingly difficult. They were continually claiming to be the only true children of Abraham, and therefore the only legitimate building-stones for God's house; and when the Gentiles accepted the truth, and were brought to the true foundation, they murmured about this material. Thus they hindered the work of God; nevertheless, the apostle unflinchingly continued his labors.  {8Red 79.1}
[8Red 79.2]          Paul and his fellow-workmen were skillful architects because they had learned from Christ and his works. They had not only to build, but to tear down. They had to contend with the bigotry, prejudice, and violence of men who had built upon a false foundation. Through the power of God the apostles became mighty in pulling down these strongholds of the enemy. Many who wrought as builders of the temple of Christ's church could be likened to the builders of the wall in Nehemiah's day: "They which builded on the wall, and they that bore burdens, with those that laded, every one with one of his hands wrought in the work, and with the other hand held a weapon."  {8Red 79.2}
[8Red 79.3]          One after another of the noble builders fell at his work by the hand of the enemy. Stephen                                                                              80  was stoned; James was slain by the sword; Paul was beheaded; Peter was crucified; John was exiled. And yet stone after stone was added to the building, the church increased in the midst of the terrible persecutions that afflicted it, and new workers on the wall took the place of the fallen.  {8Red 79.3}
[8Red 80.1]          These faithful builders sought diligently to bring precious material to the living foundation. Paul labored to have his own heart, affections, and character correct and in harmony with the law of God; and then earnestly sought to bring about the same result with his converts. He exhorted Timothy: "Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine." This is the duty of every teacher of Bible truth, to illustrate in his own life the active Christian virtues, to be pure in heart, given to holy conversation, to be good, and to do good.  {8Red 80.1}
[8Red 80.2]          God will not accept the most splendid service, or the most brilliant talent, unless it is laid upon, and connected with, the living foundation stone; for this alone gives true value to the ability possessed, and makes it a living service to God. We may look back through centuries, and see the living stones gleaming like jets of light through the rubbish of moral darkness, errors, and superstition. These precious jewels shine with continually increasing luster, not alone for time, but for eternity. Although dead, the words and deeds of the righteous of all ages testify to the truth of God. The names of the martyrs for Christ's sake are immortalized among the angels in Heaven; and a bright reward awaits them when the Life-giver shall call them from their graves.  {8Red 80.2}
[PH139 5.1]         PH139 - The Relief of the Schools (1900)                       Special Testimony            Help to be given to our Schools.          I have not been able to sleep since one o'clock. I am troubled in regard to the debt on the Battle Creek College. I now ask the Review and Herald what it will do to relieve the situation.  {PH139 5.1}
[PH139 5.2]         In the night season, I seemed to see several looking over the account books of the Review and Herald. In these books was recorded the interest money loaned to the school.  {PH139 5.2}
[PH139 5.3]                        The Matter of Interest.          Notwithstanding the light given by God, ten thousand dollars was called for and double that amount was used in building an addition to the school. The managers of the Review and Herald had much to do in this matter. These things must be considered. The Review and Herald is not required to pay the college debt; for if this were done, calls would be made for other schools to be helped in the same way. But the interest on this debt should be made as low as possible. Interest should not be charged upon interest, neither should those who have loaned money charge a higher rate of interest than they themselves pay. One institution should have the tenderest and most kindly feelings for its sister institution. The work done in one is as much the Lord's work as the work done in the other.                                                                              6   {PH139 5.3}
[PH139 6.1]              Sister White's Gift to the Schools.          The time has come when the Lord would have all the powers of his people brought into exercise to relieve the situation of our schools. In order to help in this cause, I have proposed giving my book on the parables. I feel very anxious that the General Conference shall act unselfishly in regard to this book, which is to be published to help the schools. This is a time when the Conference should stand before the people in a better light than it has hitherto done.  {PH139 6.1}
[PH139 6.2]                    A Call To All Our People.          We shall call upon the people to help to the utmost of their ability just now. We shall call upon them to do a work which will be pleasing to God in purchasing the book. We shall ask that every available means be used to help to circulate this book. We shall ask that the whole field be supplied with canvassers. We shall call upon our ministers, as they visit the churches, to encourage men and women to go out as canvassers, to make a decided forward movement in the path of self-denial by giving part of their earnings to help our schools to get out of debt. Surely they can do this much to help the matter.  {PH139 6.2}
[PH139 6.3]          A general movement is needed, but this must begin with individual movements. Let each member in each family in each church make determined efforts to deny self. Let us have the whole-hearted co-operation of all in our ranks. Let us all move forward willingly and intelligently to do what we can to relieve those of our schools that are struggling under a pressure of debt. Let the officers of each church find out who among the members has been sent to school,                                                                              7  and helped by the school. Then let the church refund the tuition money. Let those who have had success in canvassing come up to the help of the Lord. As they handle this book, let them in the name of the Lord work in faith.  {PH139 6.3}
[PH139 7.1]          The movement I have suggested will result in reconciliation. It will unify the churches. If all will help to lift the debts on our schools, the publishing house in Battle Creek will be strengthened to do its part. Therefore it is for the interest of the school in Battle Creek to act a full part in helping to pay back the money that has been so long bound up in it.  {PH139 7.1}
[PH139 7.2]          The schools must be helped. Let all lift harmoniously and help as much as they possible can. Great blessings will come to those who will take hold of this matter just now. Let no discouragement be offered by our ministers, as though it were not a proper thing to do. They should take hold of this work. If they do it aright, cheerfully, hopefully, they will find it a very great blessing. The Lord does not force any man to work, but to those who will place themselves decidedly on his side, he will give a willing mind. He will bless the one who works out the spirit which He works in. God will make the movement for the help of our schools a success if it is made in a free, willing spirit, as to the Lord. Only in this way can be rolled back the reproach that has come upon our schools all over the land. If all will take hold of this work in the spirit of self-sacrifice, for Christ's sake, and for the truth's sake, it will not be long before the jubilee song of freedom can be sung through our borders.  {PH139 7.2}
[PH139 7.3]          Let our ministers consecrate themselves to God. We need so much,-O so much!-humble men, who feel it a pleasure to do their very best. A                                                                              8  glorious gospel work opens before the converted, faithful minister. He is to help his fellow men to a better understanding of the word. The influence exerted by the minister with whom God works is weighty and momentous. The Lord is highly pleased with the minister who works humbly and willingly. Those who are wholly consecrated to God will ever seek wisdom from on high to enable them to bear their heavy responsibilities. They will be patient, forbearing, courteous, knowing that they are Christ's representatives. They will show a deep earnestness and fervor in prayer, and in their appeals to individuals and congregations.  {PH139 7.3}
[PH139 8.1]                   Unprofitable Ministry.          There are in the ministry young men who have been receiving wages from the Conference, yet whose labors bring nothing in, who are only consumers. I have been instructed that this need not be. It would not be if our young ministers were worked by the Spirit of God.  {PH139 8.1}
[PH139 8.2]          Some of our ministers might better stop and consider. Let them ask themselves how much they have received from the Conference, and how much their labors have been blessed in the conversion of souls. If you are not producers as well as consumers, what is the value of your work? How can the cause of God sustain as workers those who are not sanctified by the truth? Begin at the beginning of this year to consecrate yourselves to God. Wait not. Make an entire surrender.  {PH139 8.2}
[PH139 8.3]          Should not our ministers study this question? Many of our young ministers, if truly converted, would do much by entering the canvassing field.                                                                              9  They would there obtain an experience in faith. Their knowledge of the Scriptures would greatly increase, because as they imparted to others the light given them, they would receive more to impart. Let them enter the canvassing fields, and see what they can do in the way of producing. By meeting people and presenting to them our publications, they will gain an experience which they could not gain by simply preaching. As they go from house to house, they can converse with those whom they meet, carrying with them the fragrance of Christ's life.  {PH139 8.3}
[PH139 9.1]          The faithful youthful Timothy was taught by experienced men of God's appointment how to read the Word and how to explain it to others. Paul, his father in the gospel, addressed him in the words, "Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ."  {PH139 9.1}
[PH139 9.2]                       The Canvasser.          It is the canvasser's duty to cultivate the talents God has given him, to maintain his connection with God, to help always where he can. He has positive and constant need of the angelic ministration; for he has an important work to do, a work that he can not do in his own strength. "Thanks be unto God which always causeth us to triumph through our Lord Jesus Christ, and maketh manifest the favor of his knowledge by us in every place. For we are unto God as a sweet savor in Christ, in them that are saved and in them that perish. In the one we are as a savor                                                                              10  of death unto death; and to the other the savor of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?"  {PH139 9.2}
[PH139 10.1]          In his work the canvasser will be brought in contact with those who are in feeble health, who need the light on health reform, and with those who are dissatisfied with their religious experience, who are longing for something which they have not. To these he is to open the Word of Truth, rightly interpreting its meaning. "For we are not as many who corrupt the Word of God, but as of sincerity, but as of Christ in the sight of God speak we in Christ."  {PH139 10.1}
[PH139 10.2]          Ever remember that there are those who teach for doctrine the commandments of men. They make void the law of God by their traditions, like the Pharisees whom Christ exposed, saying, "Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God." The precious gems of truth are buried beneath a mass of error. By the sophistry of religious teachers the meaning of the plain, clear Word of God is hidden. The people are left in perplexity.  {PH139 10.2}
[PH139 10.3]          By his work, the converted, consecrated canvasser is sowing the seeds of truth. This work must be done without delay; for we have but a short time in which to work. Speak to them in a way that will win their confidence. Pray for the sick. Ask the Lord to restore and heal suffering humanity. He has declared, "These signs shall follow them that believe."  {PH139 10.3}
[PH139 10.4]                      Personality of Satan.          Men and women are wandering in the mist and fog of error. They want to know what is truth. Tell them; not in high-flown language, but with the simplicity of children of God. Satan is on                                                                              11  your track. He is an artful opponent, and the malignant spirit which you meet in your work is inspired by him. Those whom he controls echo his words. If the veil could be rent away from their eyes, those thus worked would see Satan playing all his arts to win them from the truth. There are those who do not believe in the personality of Satan. These do not oppose his work in their hearts. They are ignorant of his devices.  {PH139 10.4}
[PH139 11.1]          Instead of becoming like the world, we are to become more and more distinct from the world. Satan has combined and will continue to combine with the churches in making a masterly effort against the truth of God. Everything that is done by God's people to make inroads upon the world will call forth determined opposition from the powers of darkness. The enemy's last great conflict will be a most determined one. It will be the last battle between the powers of darkness and the powers of light. Every true child of God will fight bravely on the side of Christ. Those who in this great crisis allow themselves to be more on the side of the world than of God, will eventually place themselves wholly on the side of the world. Those who become confused in their understanding of the Word, who fail to see the meaning of antichrist, will surely place themselves on the side of antichrist. There is no time for us to assimilate with the world. Daniel is standing in his lot and in his place. The prophecies of Daniel and of John are to be understood; they interpret each other. They give to the world truths which everyone should understand. These prophecies are to be witnesses in the world. By their fulfillment in these last days, they will explain themselves.                                                                              12   {PH139 11.1}
[PH139 12.1]                     Punishment of the World          The Lord is about to punish the world for its iniquity. He is about to punish religious bodies for their rejection of the light and truth which has been given them. The great message, combining the first, second, and third angels' messages, is to be given to the world. This is to be the burden of our work. Those who truly believe in Christ will openly conform to the law of Jehovah. The Sabbath is the sign between God and his people; and we are to make visible our conformity to the law of God by observing the Sabbath. It is to be the mark of distinction between God's chosen people and the world.  {PH139 12.1}
[PH139 12.2]          It means much to be true to God. This embraces health reform. It means that our diet must be simple, that we must be temperate in all things. The many varieties of food so often seen on tables is not necessary, but highly injurious. Mind and body are to be preserved in the best condition of health. Only those who have been trained in the knowledge and fear of God should be chosen to take responsibilities. Those who have been long in the truth, yet who can not distinguish between the pure principles of righteousness and the principles of evil, whose understanding in regard to justice, mercy, and the love of God is beclouded, should be relieved of responsibilities.  {PH139 12.2}
[PH139 12.3]          God has important lessons for his people to learn. Had these lessons been learned before, his cause would not be where it is today. One thing must be done. The truth is not to be withheld from ministers or men in positions of responsibility for fear of incurring their displeasure. There are to be connected with our                                                                              13  institutions men who with meekness and wisdom will declare the whole counsel of God. God's wrath is kindled against those who in carnal security and pride have shown contempt for his management. They are endangering the prosperity of the cause.  {PH139 12.3}
[PH139 13.1]         Every false way is a deception, and if sustained will in the end bring destruction. Thus the Lord permits those who maintain false plans to be destroyed. At the very time when praise and adulation is heard, sudden destruction comes. There are those who, notwithstanding they know of the reproof received by others, because of unfaithfulness, turn away from admonition. These are doubly guilty. They knew the Lord's will, and did it not. Their punishment will be proportionate to their guilt. They would not take heed to the word of the Lord.      (Signed.)                                Ellen G. White,        Sunnyside, Cooranbong, N. S. W., Australia.                                                                              14   {PH139 13.1}
[PH139 14.1]                Correspondence Relative to the            Disposition to be made of Mrs. E.           G. White's Book, "Christ's Parables                  and Object-Lessons."                                                                   -       (Extract from letter to Elder and Mrs. S. N. Haskell,        written from "Cooranbong, N. S. W., Oct.        24, 1899," and signed by Mrs. E. G. White.)            I have had conversation with W. C. White, and made a proposition to him, that I would give the royalty on my coming book, "The Parables," if the Review and Herald and the Pacific Press would donate their press work, and making of the books in neat, saleable style, and let all the avails be used to help relieve the debts upon our schools. This book will never grow old, and the avails shall go to the schools everywhere to help them. I thought this movement on my part would provoke others to self-denial and to benevolence and mercy, to take right hold of this matter and get out "The Parables" to do this work. Well, the Lord is, I believe, willing to help us in this work. I shall only draw upon the books to give some to the poor that can not buy. W. C. White enters into this plan with great satisfaction. Of course we have not time to get this all before you in definiteness as we will when we have time.                                                    -                                                                                18   {PH139 14.1}
[PH139 18.1]     (First part of a Testimony from Mrs. E. G. White,        copied at Cooranbong, N. S. W., Nov. 21, 1899.        Written in Maitland, N. S. W., some time in        November.)     Dear Brethren Irwin and Haskell:--        I have some things upon my mind which I must communicate to you. I will state the matter as well as I can. I have thought much, "How can I help the school in Battle Creek, and help to wipe out that large debt?" It came to me that the only way I could do was to make a gift of the book soon to be issued, "The Parables." I wish this book to be used in the interests of all our schools. I will require no royalty, if our printing office in Battle Creek will find the material and do the work of printing and binding the book. Others can give illustrations, and those who canvass for the work can act their part by taking smaller commission. The Conference has pledged the interest on the debt, and this will help in the proposition I have made. We will all share in the act of benevolence and help the schools to help themselves out of their embarrassment. If we will all harmonize in this work, the Lord will be pleased, and the ones who act a part the Lord will bless. If the Review and Herald find the material, print and bind the book free of cost, they will be doing no more than they would have done had they given the interest on the debt.                                                                              19   {PH139 18.1}
[PH139 19.1]          I have not time to write much, for the mail leaves this morning. I awakened at half past twelve o'clock, and am now writing to you. I have not the faculty for stating the matter regarding the book as precisely as I would like, but you can understand me, I hope. The Pacific Press would act a part in behalf of the Healdsburg school and the great whole proportionately. The Echo office also would do its part. There should be a general work of benevolence done, that we may accomplish the most in helping our schools. I will give the manuscript of the book as my portion. This, I understand, is now waiting for my last reading of some of the last chapters.  {PH139 19.1}
[PH139 19.2]          Now, my brethren, will you consider this proposition, and see what the Review and Herald will do, and what the Pacific Press will do, and what the canvassers will do in reducing their commission? Will you see if you can not secure donations of illustrations that will make the book attractive and saleable without great cost? Can you see light in this? Let me know if you will do your best to accomplish this transaction. My heart is deeply stirred in regard to the debt upon our schools all over the world. This state of things should not exist. Will you unite with me in creating something that will change this order of things? In the name of the Lord, do something, and do it now. Arouse the people to do something in regard to these school debts.                                                                   -    {PH139 19.2}
[PH067 1.1]         PH067 - The Removal to Washington (1903)          The Removal to Washington.          "In 1855 the brethren in Michigan opened the way for the office of publication to be removed to Battle Creek. . . . The cause had apparently come to                                                                              2  a halt, orders for publications were very few and small. . . . Those were days of sadness. . . . From the time we moved to Battle Creek, the Lord began to turn our captivity. . . . New life was given to the cause, and success attended the labors of our preachers. The publications were called for, and proved to be just what the cause demanded.  {PH067 1.1}
[PH067 2.1]         "I saw that special efforts should be made in the West with tents; for the angels of God are preparing minds there to receive the truth. This is why God has moved on some in the East to move to the West. Their gifts can accomplish more in the West than in the East. The burden of the work is in the West, and it is of the greatest importance that the servants of God should move in his opening providence.  {PH067 2.1}
[PH067 2.2]          "I saw that when the message shall increase greatly in power, then the providence of God will open and prepare the way in the East for much more to be accomplished than can be at the present time. God will then send some of his servants in power to visit places where little or nothing can now be done; and some who are now indifferent, will be aroused, and will take hold of the truth."                                                                              3   {PH067 2.2}
[PH067 3.1]          "The evils of centering so many responsibilities in Battle Creek have not been small. The dangers are great. There are unconsecrated elements that only wait for circumstances to put all their influence on the side of wrong. I can never feel exactly safe in regard to Battle Creek."                                                                              4   {PH067 3.1}
[PH067 4.1]          "Years ago the large responsibility that is centered in Battle Creek should have been distributed. The people are encouraged to center in Battle Creek, and they pay their tithe and give their influence to the building up of a modern Jerusalem that is not after God's order. In this work other places are cut off from facilities which they should have. Enlarge ye, spread, yes; but not in one place. Go out and establish centers of influence in places where nothing, or next to nothing, has been done. Break up your consolidated mass; diffuse the saving beams of light, and shed light into the darkened corners of the earth. A work needs to be done something like that which is described as an eagle stirring up her nest. 'Moab hath been at ease from his youth, and he hath settled on his lees, and hath not been emptied from vessel to vessel, neither hath he gone into captivity; therefore his taste remained in him, and his scent is not changed.' This is true of many Christians who are coming into Battle Creek. Many have a spasmodic zeal, but it is like a meteor that flashes across the heavens, and goes out."  {PH067 4.1}
[PH067 4.2]          "Why have not the men and women who have so frequently gathered to the large assemblies in Battle Creek put into practice the truth which they have heard? . . . The work that has been done for them has not been prized as it should have been, or they would have                                                                              5  gone forth into the darkened places of the earth, and shed abroad the light which God has shed upon them. . . . Many have gone into the grave in error, simply because those who professed the truth have failed to communicate the precious knowledge they have received. If the light that has shone in super-abundance in Battle Creek had been diffused, we would have seen many raised up to become laborers together with God."  {PH067 4.2}
[PH067 5.1]          "God expects practical work in getting out of Battle Creek. Too many are there now, and too many interests are being piled up in Battle Creek. Were those interests divided and located in other cities, where the light and knowledge might bless other localities, it would be in God's order. The Lord does not want a second Jerusalem in Battle Creek. There will have to be strong reformations and transformations and transferring of facilities and institutions if the will of God is done. Short-sighted mortals can not discern that crowding so much into Battle Creek is taking away from other localities opportunities and privileges which they so much need, and which God designs they should have."                                                                              6   {PH067 5.1}
[PH067 6.1]          "In one year, two of our largest institutions have been destroyed by fire. . . . When the Battle Creek Sanitarium was destroyed, Christ gave himself to defend the lives of men and women. In this destruction God was appealing to his people to return to him. And in the destruction of the Review and Herald Office, and the saving of life, he makes a second appeal to them. He desires them to see that the miracle-working power of the Infinite has been exercised to save life, that every worker may have opportunity to repent and be converted. God says, 'If they turn to me, I will restore to them the joy of my salvation. But if they continue to walk in their own way, I will come still closer; and affliction shall come upon the families who claim to believe the truth, but who do not practice the truth, who do not make the Lord God of Israel their fear and their dread.'"  {PH067 6.1}
[PH067 6.2]          "For years the warning has been given to our people, Get out of Battle                                                                              7  Creek. But because of the many interests established there, it was convenient to remain, and men could not see why they should move."  {PH067 6.2}
[PH067 7.1]          "Will those who have collected in Battle Creek hear the voice speaking to them, and understand that they are to scatter out into different places, where they can spread abroad a knowledge of the truth, and where they can gain an experience different from the experience that they have been gaining?"  {PH067 7.1}
[PH067 7.2]          "In reply to the question that has been asked in regard to settling somewhere else, I answer, Yes. Let the General Conference offices and the publishing work be moved from Battle Creek. I know not where the place will be, whether on the Atlantic Coast or elsewhere. But this I will say, Never lay a stone or a brick in Battle Creek to rebuild the Review Office there. God has a better place for it. He wants you to work with a different influence, and connected with altogether different associations from what you have had of late in Battle Creek."                                                                              8   {PH067 7.2}
[PH067 8.1]          "I have no special light, except what you have already received, in reference to New York and the other large cities that have not been worked. Decided efforts should be made in Washington, D. C. It is a sad thing that the record stands as it does, showing so little accomplished there. It will be best to consider what can be done for this city, and see what ways of working will be the best.  {PH067 8.1}
[PH067 8.2]          "In the past, decided testimony has been borne in regard to the need of making decided efforts to bring the truth before the people of Washington. I shall find what I have written on this point, if I can, and send it to you.                                                                              9   {PH067 8.2}
[PH067 9.1]          "May the Lord help us to move understandingly and prayerfully. I am sure that he is willing that we should know, and that right early, where we should locate our publishing house. I am satisfied that our only safe course is to be ready to move just when the cloud moves. Let us pray that he will direct us. He has signified, by his providence, that he would have us leave Battle Creek. In the large Tabernacle there, many meetings, many ministerial institutes have been held. Light and power have been centered there when they should have been scattered far and near, in the many cities yet unworked. Small centers should have been made in many places, to represent the truth. Thus much good would have been accomplished. New members would have been added to the ranks of believers. With an increase of numbers would have come an increase of tithe, providing means to carry the message to other places.  {PH067 9.1}
[PH067 9.2]          "New York needs to be worked, but whether our publishing house should be established there, I can not say. I should not regard the light I have received as definite enough to favor the movement.  {PH067 9.2}
[PH067 9.3]          "Let us all lift our hearts to God in prayer, having faith that he will guide us. What more can we do? Let him indicate the place where the publishing house should be established. We are to have no will of our own, but are to seek the Lord, and follow where he leads the way."                                                                              10   {PH067 9.3}
[PH067 10.1]          "During the past night many things have been presented to me regarding our present dangers, and some things about our publishing work have been brought most distinctly to my mind.  {PH067 10.1}
[PH067 10.2]          "As our brethren search for a location for the Review and Herald                                                                              11  Publishing House, they are earnestly to seek the Lord. They are to move with great caution, watchfulness, and prayer, and with a constant sense of their own weakness. We must not depend upon human judgment. We must seek for the wisdom that God gives.  {PH067 10.2}
[PH067 11.1]          "God understands our situation. He alone knows where the Review and Herald Publishing House should be established. 'The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.'  {PH067 11.1}
[PH067 11.2]          "In regard to establishing the institution in New York, I must say, Be guarded. I am not in favor of it being near New York. I can not give all my reasons, but I am sure that any place within thirty miles of that city would be too near. Study the surroundings of other places. I am sure that the advantages of Washington, D. C., should be closely investigated.  {PH067 11.2}
[PH067 11.3]          "The workers connected with the publishing house must be closely guarded. Our young men and young women must not be placed where they will be in danger of being ensnared by Satan.  {PH067 11.3}
[PH067 11.4]          "We should not establish this institution in a city, nor in the suburbs of a city. It should be established in a rural district, where it can be surrounded by land. In the arrangements made for its establishment, the climate must be considered. The institution should be placed where the atmosphere is most conducive to health. This point should be given an important place in our considerations; for wherever the office of publication is established, preparation                                                                              12  must also be made to fit up a small sanitarium and to establish a small agricultural school. We must, therefore, find a place that has sufficient land for these purposes. We must not settle in a congested center.  {PH067 11.4}
[PH067 12.1]          "My brethren, open up the work intelligently. Let every point be carefully and prayerfully considered. After much prayer and frequent consultation together, act in accordance with the best judgment of all. Let each worker sustain the other. Do not fail or become discouraged. Keep your perceptive faculties keen and clear by learning constantly of Christ, the Teacher who can not err. Avoid all that would endanger your eternal interests. The foe, keen and wary, stands ready to take the helm if he is given opportunity. He watches his chance to seduce souls to their ruin.  {PH067 12.1}
[PH067 12.2]          "I have seen heavenly angels watching with intense interest the movements of the people of God. I have seen Satan presenting false securities, while a hand was stretched out, pointing the other way. One reckless movement, one imprudent step, and the surging waves of some strong temptation would have to be met."                                                                              15   {PH067 12.2}
[PH067 15.1]          "We have been praying for light regarding the location of our work in the East, and light has come to us in a very decided way. Positive light has been given me that there will be offered to us for sale places upon which much money has been expended by men who had money to use freely. The owners of these places die, or their attention is called to some other object, and their property is offered for sale at a very low price.  {PH067 15.1}
[PH067 15.2]          "In regard to Washington, I will say that twenty years ago memorials for God should have been established in that city, or rather, in its suburbs. It was in the providence of God that our people were offered the church that they recently purchased there. I am glad that this church is so nearly paid for.  {PH067 15.2}
[PH067 15.3]          "We are many years behind in giving the message of warning in the city that is the capital of our nation. Time and time again the Lord has presented Washington to me as a place that has been strangely neglected. There should be a sanitarium in Washington. The people in the nation's capital should know what we are doing. Let the work stand high upon its eternal foundation as gospel medical missionary work. Why should not this work be carried forward in Washington? Why should not the leaders of the American people have the privilege of learning the Lord's will?                                                                              16   {PH067 15.3}
[PH067 16.1]          "If there is one place above another where a sanitarium should be established, and where gospel work should be done, it is Washington. We can not estimate how great an influence would have gone forth from Washington in favor of the truth had a sanitarium been established there twenty years ago. Above all places, this place should now be worked. Satan is working there against Jehovah with all his might.  {PH067 16.1}
[PH067 16.2]          "I present this to you as a matter that is stirring me mightily. One thing is certain: we shall not be clear unless we at once do something in Washington to represent our work. I shall not be able to rest until I see the truth going forth as a lamp that burneth.  {PH067 16.2}
[PH067 16.3]          "I dare not now write all the words that have been given me on this subject. In the future I may feel free to write them.  {PH067 16.3}
[PH067 16.4]          "From the light given me, I know that, for the present, the headquarters of the Review and Herald should be near Washington. If there is on our books and papers the imprint of Washington, D. C., it will be seen that we are not afraid to let our light shine. Let the publishing house be established near Washington. Thus we shall show that we are trying to do what God has bidden us to do proclaim the last message of mercy to a perishing world. We should begin our work there in a limited way at first, and increase as the Lord may favor us.  {PH067 16.4}
[PH067 16.5]          "The Lord is good. He is going before us. The Lord has been striving with me, and I say to you, We must                                                                              17  make decided moves, and quickly bring things into order that God may see a different representation, lest his wrath come upon us, and we be not able to escape. The Lord calls for sanctified minutemen. He has no use for men who try to serve God and Baal. Let us pray much, and let us refuse to say one word that will irritate a fellow worker. We are to provoke one another to love and to good works, not to anger.  {PH067 16.5}
[PH067 17.1]          "Let us take hold of the arm of infinite power. Let us walk humbly before God, but let us be giants in meeting discouragement and difficulty. We must have increased faith. Let us praise God. He is our strength, our shield, and our defense, our front guard and our rearward."  {PH067 17.1}
[PH067 17.2]          "Our people far and near need to ask themselves how the Lord regards their neglect of important centers in America. There are many places in this country in which the truth has never been proclaimed. Many years ago there should have been a sanitarium in Washington, D.C. But men have chosen their way in many things, and the places to which the truth should have found entrance, by the establishment of medical missionary work, have been neglected.  {PH067 17.2}
[PH067 17.3]          "The Lord has opened this matter to me decidedly. The publishing work that has been carried on in Battle Creek                                                                              18  should for the present be carried on near Washington. If after a time the Lord says, Move away from Washington, we are to move. We are pilgrims and strangers in this earth, seeking a better country, even a heavenly. When the Lord tells us to move, we are to obey, however inconvenient and inconsistent such a command may seem to us to be."                                                                              25   {PH067 17.3}
[PH067 25.1]           Our Work at the Nation's                 Capital.          "Elmshaven," Sanitarium, Cal.,                        July 5, 1903.            My Dear Brethren and Sisters in America: For some time I have been strongly impressed that decided efforts should be put forth to proclaim the testing truths of the third angel's message in the city of Washington, the capital of the American nation. It is a sad thing that our record stands as it does, showing so little accomplished in this city. If there is any place in the world that should have the full rays of present truth, it is Washington, the city that is the very heart of this nation.  {PH067 25.1}
[PH067 25.2]          O, how much we lose by failing to do as Christ has instructed us to do! In the first chapter of Acts are recorded special directions that Christ gave to his disciples in regard to proclaiming the gospel. "When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be                                                                              26  witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.  {PH067 25.2}
[PH067 26.1]          "And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven."  {PH067 26.1}
[PH067 26.2]          After this the disciples were filled with holy boldness; for had they not the assurance that Jesus would be with them always? They knew they had a Friend at court.  {PH067 26.2}
[PH067 26.3]          "Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a Sabbath-day's journey. And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren."                                                                              27   {PH067 26.3}
[PH067 27.1]          "When the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.  {PH067 27.1}
[PH067 27.2]          "And there were dwelling at Jerusalem. Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven . . . Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, Cretes and Arabians."  {PH067 27.2}
[PH067 27.3]          In the days of the apostles, Jerusalem was a great center of influence, and in this place light from heaven was to shine in its most powerful rays upon the Lord's witnesses who were to bear the gospel message.  {PH067 27.3}
[PH067 27.4]          Read the whole of the second chapter of Acts, and see if you are not convinced that there has been a decided failure to understand that one of our first duties is to make at the nation's capital a                                                                              28  special representation of the truth for this time. Why did we so long pass by Washington, neglecting to establish one signal memorial in this city? Let us determine that we will no longer be unfaithful stewards of this part of the Lord's vineyard.  {PH067 27.4}
[PH067 28.1]          Our brethren in Washington have been favored in finding properties suitable to use in carrying on various lines of our work. This is a fulfillment of the light given me, that in different sections of the country we should be able to secure, at low prices, properties that could be utilized for our institutional work. In Washington a few months ago a meeting-house, in good condition, and admirably adapted to the needs of our work, was offered for sale at a price much below its first cost, and was purchased by our people there. I am glad that this church is so nearly paid for.  {PH067 28.1}
[PH067 28.2]          Again and again the Lord has presented Washington to me as a place that has been strangely neglected. In looking through my diaries. I have found some things that I wrote more than twelve years ago in regard to the work in Washington, and the necessity of establishing there some memorial for God. The following was written March 12, 1891: --  {PH067 28.2}
[PH067 28.3]          "Nearly the entire day I have been                                                                              29  entertaining visitors who desired counsel. Brother Robinson, superintendent of the New York and Washington district, came in company with Brother Wright to consult with me in regard to the advisability of building a church in Washington, D. C., combining a church, a mission home, and a reading-room in one building, to cost probably twenty-five thousand dollars. They proposed to invite our brethren all over the field to give one hundred dollars each toward this enterprise.  {PH067 28.3}
[PH067 29.1]          "When we were in Washington during the week of prayer, I had made a similar suggestion to Elder Washburn, saying that as the situation appeared to me, important interests should be established in this city. I could see no better way of letting the light shine forth from the very seat of government, the capital of the nation. It seems strange that some memorial of present truth has not been established there before. I advised that a meeting-house be built.  {PH067 29.1}
[PH067 29.2]          "The brethren of the Washington City church are poor, and while they will do all that they can, they are not able to carry the whole burden. The church must be located in a desirable part of the city. The purchase of a suitable lot and the erection of a plain but large, well-ventilated, and skillfully constructed                                                                              30  building--something that will stand as an object lesson of neatness and thoroughness--will require a considerable sum.  {PH067 29.2}
[PH067 30.1]          "Other visitors came in, and I closed this interview in regard to the work in Washington."                                                                   -    {PH067 30.1}
[PH067 30.2]          In my diary of 1889--fourteen years ago-I find precious matter in regard to entering new fields. I will quote a few paragraphs:--  {PH067 30.2}
[PH067 30.3]          "True missionary workers will not colonize. God's people are to be pilgrims and strangers on the earth. The investment of large sums of money in one place is not in the order of God. Plants are to be made in many places. Schools and sanitariums are to be established in places where there is now nothing to represent the truth. These interests are not to be established for the purpose of making money, but for the purpose of spreading the truth. . . .  {PH067 30.3}
[PH067 30.4]          "The principles of present truth are to become more widespread. There are those who are reasoning from a wrong point of view. Because it is more convenient to have the work centered in one place, they are in favor of crowding everything together in one locality. Great evil is the result. Places that should be helped are left destitute.                                                                              31   {PH067 30.4}
[PH067 31.1]          "What can I say to our people that will lead them to follow the course that will be for their present and future good? Will not those in Battle Creek heed the light given them by God? Will they not deny self, lift the cross, and follow Jesus? Will they not obey the call of their Leader to leave Battle Creek, and build up interests in other places? . . .  {PH067 31.1}
[PH067 31.2]          "It is not God's plan for our people to crowd into Battle Creek. God says: 'Go work today in my vineyard. Get away from the places where you are not, needed. Plant the standard of truth in towns and cities that have not heard the message. Prepare the way for my coming. Those in the highways and hedges are to hear the call.'  {PH067 31.2}
[PH067 31.3]         "God will make the wilderness a sacred place, as his people, filled with the missionary spirit, go forth to make centers for his work, to establish sanitariums where the sick and afflicted can be cared for, and schools, where the youth can be educated in right lines. . . .  {PH067 31.3}
[PH067 31.4]          "There is a great work to be done. All around us are souls perishing in sin. Are we doing what we can to save them? The commission given to the disciples is given to us, and to us also is promised the power promised to them,--the power that they received on the day of Pentecost,                                                                              32  when, like a rushing, mighty wind, the Holy Ghost came down and filled the room in which they were sitting. Under the influence of this power they went everywhere, preaching the word, and thousands were converted."                                                                   -    {PH067 31.4}
[PH067 32.1]          What a work might have been accomplished, if we had done our duty years ago! Can we stand clear in the sight of God, if we now fail of understanding our duty? The Lord calls on us to awake to a realization of the opportunities presented before us to let our light shine in the city of Washington, by establishing there memorials that will hasten forward the proclamation of the third angel's message to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people.  {PH067 32.1}
[PH067 32.2]          Let us take hold of the arm of infinite power. Let us walk humbly before God, but let us be giants in meeting discouragement and difficulty. We must have increased faith. Let us praise God. He is our strength, our shield, and our defense, our front-guard and our rearward.                             Ellen G. White.  {PH067 32.2}
[PH146 5.2]          "God requires things to be set in order. He calls for men of decided fidelity. He has no use in an emergency for two-sided men. He wants men who will lay their hand upon a work and say, This is not according to the will of God. It is this miserable work in dealing with wrongs that God has condemned. . . .  {PH146 5.2}
[PH146 5.3]          "The work that will meet the mind of the spirit of God has not yet begun in Battle Creek. When the work of seeking God with all the heart commences, there will be many confessions made that are now buried. I do not at present feel it my duty to confess for those who ought to make, not a general, but a plain, definite confession, and so cleanse the Lord's institutions from the defilement that                                                                              6  has come upon them. They do not meet the point. They do not see. They do not repent. They do not cleanse the soul-temple. The evil is not with one man or with two. It is the whole that needs the cleansing and setting in order.  {PH146 5.3}
[PH146 6.1]          "'Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.' Unless there is a thorough reformation and turning unto the Lord, he will surely turn his face from his institution, the publishing house. Take no false panacea for wounds and bruises. Go to Jesus. Tell him that you must be cleansed and restored. There is not one beyond hope if you will come just as you are. You may put on counterfeit garments of righteousness. You may smile and say that all these little difficulties are made up of little or nothing. But God says to you in Battle Creek, 'Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.'"  {PH146 6.1}
[PH146 6.2]             Here is another, dated Aug. 29, 1897:--            "Reformation has not yet begun in Battle Creek. Changes in places and positions have been made, but the hearts of those who have not been molded after the divine similitude, are not changed. They see not, nor understand over what they have stumbled."  {PH146 6.2}
[PH146 6.3]          This is to Edson White, and here it speaks to him personally:--            "Do not be surprised that I am solicitous for you. I am very much so when you are in Battle Creek: for I am afraid in your behalf. I am afraid that you will follow the counsel of men, failing to walk where Christ leads the way. I have had opened before me many schemes that men in position of trust have entered into,--schemes that lead away from Christ and righteous principles. Those who entered into these schemes are still blinded; they can not see at what they stumble."  {PH146 6.3}
[PH146 7.1]          "God would have the Office of publication kept pure and clean by righteous principles. Then he will advance his work through consecrated workers. I have little hope that I shall be understood. I have thought that Satan helps minds to misconstrue, misinterpret, and misjudge everything I say, and I have less hope today of being understood than I have had at any time in my life labor."  {PH146 7.1}
[PH146 7.3]         Here is Aug. 26, 1898:--        "There is a work to be done that has not yet been done. The temple courts are not yet cleansed."  {PH146 7.3}
[PH146 7.7]          "He ［God］ calls for an entire change in principles that have come in to divert the minds                                                                              8  and draw away the hearts to serve the plans of Satan. . . . May the Lord help and strengthen you and give you clear discernment. While there should be discipline maintained, often the ones who have exacted so close discipline have not had self under control, and oft acted like grown-up children,--pettish, irritable, severe. The rebuke of God has been upon them; but now the Holy Spirit is needed to cure this disease caused by the satanic agencies."  {PH146 7.7}
[PH146 8.3]          "I received your letter, giving an account of your efforts to set things right in the Office. This is the thing that was needing to be done; but there are things which I have had presented to me in regard to the responsible men in the General Conference and the Review and Herald Office ［I might say here to the General Conference Association brethren, that in hunting through this matter of the Review and Herald I found some pointers that will be a help to you in this connection］ of a very aggravating character. God will not sanction their scheming to make money in ways that he calls unjust. The measures which they have taken to turn those who have prepared books from their rights, the Lord calls dishonest."  {PH146 8.3}
[PH146 9.1]          "The Lord has presented before me the work that has been done in this line, and I have written in regard to it again and again. It is defrauding. The Lord has declared that he will blow upon the gain they receive from every such work. Unjust dealing stands charged against them. A close investigation should be made of the principles which have led to this unjust dealing, this sin of covetousness. Special methods have been devised to bring profits into the Office, which will result in tenfold greater subtraction in other lines than that which they thought they had gained. These principles have produced corruption in business transactions. If the Testimonies sent to Elder Olsen are in your hands, you have the light which has been given."  {PH146 9.1}
[PH146 9.3]          "This crooked dealing began with ［these two holes in the paper here］. The Lord opened up these things. . . . Were the Lord Jesus upon the earth today, he would reprove the same practises that he reproved in the courts of the temple. To the church-members he would say, 'Take these things hence. It is written. My house shall be called a house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.' These denunciations he has uttered for years against the managers in the Office of publication. The opinion of those handling sacred things has been that God did not expect them to be too liberal in business deal. The income must be brought into the work and cause of God; therefore scheming and artful presentations                                                                              10  and false representations have been made. And if it is never revealed in this time of probation, the future will show accounts standing in the books of heaven that reveal dishonesty, sharpness in business deal. These can never be washed away by the blood of the Lamb until full repentance and Restitution show the conversion of the soul from sinful practises to righteousness."  {PH146 9.3}
[PH146 10.2]          "These can never be washed away by the blood of the Lamb until full repentance and restitution show the conversion of the soul from sinful practises to righteousness."  {PH146 10.2}
[PH146 10.7]          "All these sharp practises in deal have dishonored God. They misrepresent his character                                                                              11  and work through the very instrumentality that should be kept free from every taint of defilement and corrupting principle. Will they read and be instructed by the case of Achan? My brother, you have taken hold of the lesser evils ［that is referring to the investigation of the hands in the Office］; will the investigation now go to the higher responsibilities?"  {PH146 10.7}
[PH146 11.4]          "Will every principle be considered? Were the minds of the men who have united in sustaining this sharp practise, so darkened that they could not see that the tendency of these methods of deal was to destroy purity and justice and holiness in so sacred a work?  {PH146 11.4}
[PH146 11.5]          "The practises carried on for years have been reproved. They have been an offense to God. Have those men who have stood in high places supposed that they could depart from righteousness in their dealing, and God look on indifferently? Have these men dismissed the work of God from their counsels? Have they consented to blind their eyes and reason to a straightforward manner of deal in handling the work of God? Shall men who stand in high places and lay their souls a manacled victim on the altar of lust, be sustained?                                                                              12   {PH146 11.5}
[PH146 12.1]          "'Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness,' said Christ. This is the positive requirement of God. But this, the simplest, plainest injunction contained in the word of Him who is judge of every man's actions, has been deliberately set aside. Men connected with the Review and Herald Office have departed from Christian principles, to carry out a system of sharp dealing in contracts and practise. They have flattered themselves that it was the cause of God to be advantaged at the loss of others, therefore they would gather from every source possible to bring money into the treasury. But God declares, I hate robbery, for burnt-offering. Systems and rules have been made that bear not the signature of God; for they militate against the principles of the law of God. Men have managed things in a selfish, egotistical manner. After making laws, they have treated them as did the Jews, as of more consequence than the laws of God, the principles of which they were breaking every day. They laid burdens upon men's shoulders grievous to be borne, and then carried out to the letter their presumptuous rules and regulations which dishonored their Creator. It is these things that turned the face of God from the Review and Herald Office.  {PH146 12.1}
[PH146 12.2]          "Every moment of the life of a Christian should be one of high-souled integrity. The speculations that have been entered into are a shame to the cause and work of God. We have a most solemn message to give to the world. The Lord is coming. The end of all things is at hand. Everything connected with the Review and Herald Office should be clean and pure, holy and undefiled. In every action we perform we are to keep the eye single to the glory of God. All dishonest intriguing, all secret plans to obtain the advantage in the dealing with the writers of books ［there is the point］, wraps up a curse in the heart of the one who entertains such suggestions; and the larger the advantage gained, the more decided will be the disapproval of God.  {PH146 12.2}
[PH146 12.3]          "The men handling sacred responsibilities have been faithfully warned off the ground they                                                                              13  were traveling upon. Had they heeded the warnings and counsel to let God be recognized as a party in all their business transactions with their brethren and fellow men, they would have kept ever before them as their maxim, 'Thou God seest me,' as sacredly as when bowed before God in prayer. In keeping the Lord ever before us, we shall be warned and fortified. He who forgets the just and holy principles of truth in the days of busy activity, is like the man who feels that he needs no pilot, and casts his pilot overboard in the most dangerous seas.  {PH146 12.3}
[PH146 13.1]          "God calls upon all who claim the name of Christians to keep their eyes fixed upon the Author and Finisher of their faith. They are to act under the divine eye, to adopt the divine standard, to make God their counselor in all their proceedings. Selfish, cheap ideas, little, mean advantages, should not be allowed to steal in and mar the nobility of the principles that should control all the proceedings in temporal matters.  {PH146 13.1}
[PH146 13.2]          "And how much more particular should we be in our deal with those of like faith in any line. In this capacity men are to act as God's entrusted stewards. Whether God appointed them to stand in positions of trust, or whether they set themselves there, the holiness and justice and truth of God should shine forth in every action. This will be of far greater consequence to them than any amount of gain.  {PH146 13.2}
[PH146 13.3]          "It is of the highest importance that every worker should be connected with God, in order to be enabled to repress the first leaning to an evil action. When sinners in Zion entice them, they must not consent. Every true child of God will have courage to repress the unprincipled, to rebuke sin, and encourage that which is pure. Then the fear of the Lord would be evidenced as the beginning of wisdom.  {PH146 13.3}
[PH146 13.4]          "The man whose heart is imbued with the Holy Spirit will not do an unrighteous action toward his fellow man. He will consider that that man, poor though he may be, is the purchase of the blood of the Son of God. The Lord has put                                                                              14  the price of that man's soul before the universe of heaven and before the world,--the price of his own life. The cross of Christ testifies to the value that the Lord places upon every human being. Then let man be careful how he treats his fellow man, for he is bought with a price.  {PH146 13.4}
[PH146 14.1]          "A grave mistake has been made in allowing engrossing business matters to burden the ministers who are handling sacred things, so that their sense of the sacred becomes dim and mingled with the common, crushing out godliness from the soul. Inspired by Satan, men have framed scheme after scheme. Not content with the prosperity of the cause of God by dealing righteously and with justice and mercy, those in positions of trust have sought to obtain control of everything that they could, to manage them in their way, according to their supposed wisdom, but to the disadvantage of others. Their plans always seemed to them too limited; they thought they must branch out and grasp more and still more power and control. They wrapped themselves up in scheme after scheme, and entanglement after entanglement, until there seemed to be no bounds to their ambitious desires, when they were not fitted to carry much smaller responsibilities properly and honestly and in the fear of God. They gathered into their embrace many responsibilities so engrossing as to distract their attention from the high concerns of eternity, the soul's highest interests. Thus the clear discernment of those who should have understood spiritual things departed. The cause of God was made a matter of merchandise. They laded themselves down with many things from which they should have kept entirely clear, until their spiritual eyes were blinded. They kept up an unsanctified activity.  {PH146 14.1}
[PH146 14.2]          "I might go to much larger lengths in these matters, but what will it amount to? Those who have entered into the scheming principles, those who have co-operated together in this work of injustice, have so confused their senses that                                                                              15  righteous principles are not discerned. They are scattered, but not reformed, not converted. Would it not be wise to clear the King's highway, that the Lord may remove his displeasure at the moral degeneracy of his work? Holy things are brought down to a common level. The cause of truth has been dishonored. Men greedy of gain have brought their evil propensities into the work of God. They have resorted to any means that they might obtain what they wanted. 'Who is wise? and he shall understand these things; prudent? and he shall know them; for the ways of the Lord are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall.'"  {PH146 14.2}
[PH146 15.2]          "I feel very sad indeed when I read the report of the financial condition of the Conference. I see in this report the fulfilment of the words spoken to me, that the Lord would hear the cries of his blood-bought heritage, and would answer their prayers."  {PH146 15.2}
[PH146 16.1]          "The temple of God must be cleansed, that his name shall not be dishonored by men who are not connected with him. My heart is pained as, in my dreams, I am visited, and appealed to, by different ones, placing the corruptions in the Office of publication, before me. I awaken to find it a dream, but know it to be the truth."  {PH146 16.1}
[PH146 16.3]          "There have been dishonesty, fraud, the turning away of a man from his rights, and disregarding the principles of the commandments of God. You have had men, schemes, and devising of plans, with the idea that you could as a Board have power to do anything that would serve the Conference, and bring in a revenue. But it was more grievous in the sight of God because you there were covering the dishonest practises, saying, 'The temple of the Lord! The temple of the Lord are we!' Yes; but that temple was just as much in need of cleansing as the temple courts in the days when Christ was upon the earth. The Lord hates the mixture he                                                                              17  saw in the earthly temple. Unholy bartering in the temple courts brought forth the righteous indignation of an insulted God."  {PH146 16.3}
[PH146 17.2]          "'And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.' Luke 19:41, 42. 'And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the money changers, and the seats of them that sold doves, and said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer, but ye have made it a den of thieves.' Matthew 21:12, 13. It was here divinity flashed through humanity, and the priests and rulers fled from before him; for there was as the appearance of a flashing sword, turning every way like the sword to guard the tree of life. I send you these things with a trembling of soul, for I scarcely can gather faith to believe that they will receive credence, or work reforms; but I dare not hold my peace."  {PH146 17.2}
[PH146 17.4]          "Now, Brother Olsen, I can not, dare not, hold my peace. I shall cry aloud and spare not. But I beg of you to hold fast the hand of God, and to see and act in the light of God. We are living in the solemn scenes of this earth's history. If ever there was a time when things should be called by their right name, it is now. This is no time to call sin righteousness, and righteousness                                                                              18  sin. We must lay hold by faith now. It is time for every one to be wide-awake. I may have to write still more plainly if God calls for me to do it. I shall speak, and shall not hold my peace. I am sorry, so sorry, that you have not heeded the cautions God has given you, and I fear for you that the outcome of matters will kill you. But God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. He will not have his word return unto him void, for it shall perform the thing whereto it is sent. But I beg of you rather to let things go by default than to set men to help matters in any line who are not with the work with God, soul, body, and spirit. Who can be found to take things as they are now, and set them in order? I can not see; but the Lord has men prepared for emergencies, and who will, under God, work out reforms; but it can now be only at a terrible cost and against terrible odds. I suppose you do not see the need of my writing this, but I think you will in time. I carry a heavy load, and I call on you in the name of the Lord to do your duty. I call on you at least not to encourage men to think you stand with them and sustain them, and thus give them influence."  {PH146 17.4}
[PH146 18.1]          HERE IS ANOTHER ONE:--          When the Testimonies came, "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."  {PH146 18.1}
[PH146 19.1]          "The Lord permitted the men in the Review Office to have an opportunity of manifesting what character they would develop. They have shown that they could not resist the temptation to commit robbery of God, if they had a chance, confederating to take from his treasury all they could grasp; some were ready to receive more than they did. They knew that this was unjust and dishonest. Are they as willing that others should have what is only their due because God has given them ability, tact, mental capacity, equal to, and in advance of, them?--No, no; they would bring under the contribution to the treasury every available talent of ability to acquire means to be employed in the advancement of the work. Their tact in this line of robbery is great. They felt authorized to accept of large remuneration for their own work in restricting others, denying them the opportunities and means Providence had offered them to labor as his instrumentalities, to carry on his work. God says, 'I hate robbery for burnt offering.' The men who value their own souls will, by the grace of God, guard against the first tinge of unfairness in deal, the first approach to the ungodly practises of the world,-- the practises that prevailed in the days of Noah and Lot. The poison has been at work for a long time, and others are drinking of the cup. Wake up, Brother Olsen, wake up."  {PH146 19.1}
[PH146 19.2]          NOW THE APPLICATION IS PLAINLY MADE:--          "I have had the matter presented before me: If one is moved by the Spirit of God to Publish a Book which is adapted to supply a need, to advance the truth, and the selfish spirit which has been manifested for years by responsible men in the publishing house shall work until the book is brought under their control, and they manage to absorb all the profits themselves, the one who prepares the book is deprived of the very thing the Lord designed he should have in order to do a certain work in his vineyard. This will not be the last of such devising. The beginning is not the end. That God who gave his life for the world has                                                                              20  instrumentalities which he will use, that you and your co-laborers little suspect. When the Lord puts his hand to the work, let men keep their hands off from the ark.  {PH146 19.2}
[PH146 20.1]          "I have been made to suffer keenly, in more ways than one, from the spirit that prevailed during my stay in Battle Creek. Night after night the Lord presented before me what would be. The council meetings were not of a character to inspire confidence in some of the leading men; they seemed to be so determined and so zealous. The Lord Jesus was looking upon some of these meetings with grieved disapproval.  {PH146 20.1}
[PH146 20.2]          "The same spirit that led to the course of action which was pursued toward myself, has lived, and has been revealed toward others. We know that God is not pleased with your taking so great liberties to bring individuals to the terms you have decided upon in your councils. God is not working with the men who are laying their plans to obtain control of everything. The Lord would have his institutions in different parts of the world stand in union with other institutions. But one is not to swallow up the others. Each is to maintain its own individuality, and the weaker are to receive help from the institutions that have the largest revenue. The men who conduct matters in Battle Creek have much to learn on this point. God says, 'I will have mercy, and not sacrifice.'  {PH146 20.2}
[PH146 20.3]          "There is a disposition to grasp everything, and to destroy individuality and ignore individual accountability; yet no compunction has thus far been aroused. A state of things is coming in after the mold of men, and not after the Lord's order. When the truth becomes an abiding principle in the soul, then we shall see the words of the prophet fulfilled: instead of the thorn, the fir tree will spring up; instead of the brier, the myrtle, and life's desert will blossom as the rose.  {PH146 20.3}
[PH146 20.4]          "We have had an experience in the work of God. There were times when the enemy came in great power to destroy; from hour to hour the                                                                              21  men of faith had to depend on the blessings that came from God. The great topic of interest was how to save the souls of those that were ready to perish. The great plan of salvation drew men close together in unity and love. The social intercourse was profitable. The love of the Redeemer, and the ways and means of saving perishing souls was the burden of our hearts. Holiness, and the Author and Finisher of our faith were the interesting subjects."  {PH146 20.4}
[PH146 26.1]          "All who follow Christ fully, will understand what this means. ［What is referred to is the quotation from Christ that he read that day in the synagogue, "The Spirit of God is upon me, to bind up the broken hearted," etc.］ They will have the honor of being co-laborers with Jesus Christ, to do the very same work that he accomplished in this world, in restoring the moral image of God in man. We are laborers together with God. Believest thou this? The knowledge, the capabilities, the powers, God has given us are not to be hoarded as men hoard their riches. We are not to do as the selfish, money-loving men of this age are doing. The passion to accumulate their possessions and retain their power has grown upon the men of the world. In their selfishness they buy up wheat and goods so that others in their need will have to buy of them; then they charge whatever prices they desire. This is the spirit that is prevailing in the world, and is making the money-hoarder Satan's copartner in robbing the poor. This is keenly felt by the poorer classes, and the devil leads them to do his will in stubbornly resisting the things they can not help. Thus selfishness and violence is exercised by man over his fellow man. The ones who are robbed and injured become exasperated, and violence and wickedness and cruelty are created in the world.  {PH146 26.1}
[PH146 26.2]          "This Christ declared would be. 'As it was in the days of Noah,' he said, 'so shall it be when the Son of Man shall be revealed. They were eating and drinking, planting and building, marrying and giving in marriage, until the flood came and took them all away.'  {PH146 26.2}
[PH146 26.3]          "This is to be when the Son of Man shall be revealed. But God designed that in all this outlay of means the brotherhood of the human family should be considered. It was his purpose that those who had large talents of means should trade upon their entrusted capital, to increase the talents lent them, and invest them in turning men from sin to righteousness. In seeking first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, men could be men in the sight of God,-- fallen through                                                                              27  sin and transgression, but purchased with a price, ransomed from Satan's power. Christ gave his own life for the life of the world, that man might through the facilities and opportunities and privileges given him of God, recognize his own value.  {PH146 26.3}
[PH146 27.1]          "Says the apostle: '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.' 'Him that defileth the temple of God,' by covetous practises, by selfishness, thereby making the lot of his fellow men more trying, by abetting Satan in his work, and becoming a copartner with satanic agencies, 'him will God destroy.'  {PH146 27.1}
[PH146 27.2]          "The greed of the moneyed man increases as it is indulged, and This Spirit will Rule the Church unless its members are followers of Christ. 'Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this: To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.'  {PH146 27.2}
[PH146 27.3]          "This Worldly Policy has Wrestled for the Victory Among Seventh-Day Adventists, and the principles which should have been kept pure and unadulterated Have Been Overcome, and Selfishness has Come Into the Very Courts of the Lord. The Lord has permitted those who did not love the light, who departed from a plain 'Thus saith the Lord,' to walk in the sparks of the fire of their own kindling; but he says. 'They shall lie down in sorrow.'  {PH146 27.3}
[PH146 27.4]          "This Condition of Things has been Created in Our Conferences and Churches under a religious cloak which has existed in world. Confederacies have been formed to make their showing stand out as superior, and they have gained the name of having done a large work in their responsible positions of trust. They flatter themselves that they were doing God service when they were establishing principles of robbery. ［Now here it is again.］ They were depriving their brethren of their rights in Gathering Everything in the Book Line Under Their Control, and Making Their Own Laws and Rules,--rules that were not after God's                                                                              28  order at all, but which revealed the very attributes of Satan."  {PH146 27.4}
[PH146 28.2]          "It was this spirit that was manifested by the priests and temple officials in their gatherings for the Passover. Cattle were bought by the dignitaries, the moneyed men, who oppressed those of whom they purchased. The representation was made ［to these owners out in the country, who had the cattle, the sheep, and the doves, and whoever had these to sell］ that these animals were to be offered as a sacrifice to God at the Passover, and thus urged, the owners sold them at a cheap price. Then these scheming men brought their purchases to the temple,--purchases which meant double robbery,--robbery of the men of whom they had purchased, and robbery of those who wished to sacrifice, to whom they were again sold at exorbitant prices."  {PH146 28.2}
[PH146 28.4]          "They used the courts of the temple as though the animals brought there made them of the highest value. O, what deceit, what hypocrisy was practised! Twice Christ's displeasure was evidenced against them. Divinity flashed through humanity, and he drove out the buyers and sellers from the temple courts, saying, 'Take these things hence. It is written, My Father's house shall be a house of prayer, but ye have made it a den of thieves.' He overturned the tables of the money-changers, and priests and people fled from before that one Man                                                                              29  as though an army of soldiers with drawn swords were pursuing them.  {PH146 28.4}
[PH146 29.1]          "This Work has been Carried on at Battle Creek. The Publishing Office was turned from its original design; men Made Terms With Authors; councils were formed; schemes were entered into. While one author ［I have not been able to find that man yet, but I am hunting for him］ was engaged in the services of a meeting at a distance, the expenses of one man were paid to go and see this brother, and induce him to make the lowest figures on his books. They urged that they wished to get this important matter before as many people as possible, and that the book would have a very much larger sale if it were sold at cheap prices. The Royalty was Placed at the Lowest Figures. Then this Confederacy Held this Example Up as a Rule for others. Warnings were given me that all this was the working out of a system of Oppression and Robbery, and that The Whole Institution was Leavened Throughout With Corrupt Principles, that the light of God was fast departing from all who were engaged in this confederacy."  {PH146 29.1}
[PH146 35.1]          "It was this spirit that was manifested by the priests and temple officials. . . . Cattle were bought by the dignitaries, the moneyed men, who oppressed those of whom they purchased. . . .  {PH146 35.1}
[PH146 35.2]          "This work has been carried on at Battle Creek. The publishing Office was turned from its original design; men made terms with authors; . . . The royalty was placed at the lowest figures. Then this confederacy held this example up as a rule for others."  {PH146 35.2}
[PH146 35.4]          "Warnings were given me that all this was the working out of a system of oppression and robbery, and that the whole institution was leavened throughout with corrupt principles, that the light was fast departing from all who engaged in this confederacy."  {PH146 35.4}
[PH146 35.6]          "God sanctioned none of this spirit. He could not place his signature upon this devising. He would forsake these men, remove his Spirit from those who entered upon this course, and the glory of his presence would depart from them. The cause of God in any line is not to be advanced by such policy; for it is born of Satan, and can only have his inspiration. All who do not repent and seek to set things right, God will leave to stumble on in darkness."  {PH146 35.6}
[PH146 35.7]          That means right now.  {PH146 35.7}
[PH146 35.8]          "They have not discerned unrighteousness in practise. They have secured books, and diverted them from their original design to make up the sum which they wished to secure. But every                                                                              36  page of that dark history is written in the books of heaven, to react upon every soul who has engaged in these schemes unless they shall repent with that repentance that needeth not to be repented of. ［The repentance that needeth not to be repented of is described in 2 Corinthians 7:11.］ The Lord can not tolerate any such transactions as those that have been professedly done in his name. He abhors all such satanic principles.  {PH146 35.8}
[PH146 36.1]          "What shall be done in the future? Lest you offend God, place no responsibility upon any man who has become leavened by connection with this work, unless he shows that he has a sense of the evil practises, and separates them from the institution; unless he condemns all that savors of injustice, overbearing, or lording it over God's heritage. There has been a betrayal of sacred trusts. The work of God has been abused, and covered up with men's unsanctified attributes, and God says, 'shall I not judge for these things?'  {PH146 36.1}
[PH146 36.2]          "It is for such workings as these that Christ says, 'I came not to send peace but a sword.' May God grant that never again shall this policy exist in our institutions, that no events or combination of events shall lead men to repeat the past.  {PH146 36.2}
[PH146 36.3]          "There is a work to be done, that has not yet been done. The temple courts are not yet cleansed as they must be before the work which Christ did after the cleansing of the temple can be done. Then all the sick were brought to him, and he laid his hands upon them, and healed them all. Here was revealed true godliness, true righteousness, a true use of the temple for a practical purpose which brought no defilement."  {PH146 36.3}
[PH146 37.4]          "Men connected with the work of God have been dealing unjustly, and it is time to call a halt. The holy principles God has given are represented by the sacred fire; but common fire has been used in place of the sacred. False propositions have been assumed as truth and righteousness, and everything has been managed in such a way as to carry out these propositions, which are a misrepresentation of God's character. Plans contrary to truth and righteousness have been introduced in a subtle manner, on the plea that this must be done, and that must be done, because it is for the advancement of the cause of God. Men have taken advantage of those whom they supposed to be under their jurisdiction. They were determined to bring the individuals to their terms; they would rule or ruin. This devising leads to oppression, injustice, and                                                                              38  wickedness. There will be no material change for the better until a decided movement is made to bring in a different state of things.  {PH146 37.4}
[PH146 38.1]          "The plea some are so ready to urge, 'The cause of God,' or 'Working in behalf of the cause of God,' to justify themselves in presenting robbery for burnt offering, is an offense to God. He accepts no such transactions; prosperity will not attend these movements. The Lord of heaven does not accept the strange fire offered to him. Let men deal with men upon the principles of the ten commandments, bringing these principles into their business transactions; for the great and holy and merciful God will never be in league with dishonest practises; not a single touch of injustice will he vindicate. The cause of God is free from every taint of injustice. It can gain no advantage by robbing the members of the family of God of their individuality or of their rights. All such practises are abhorrent to God.  {PH146 38.1}
[PH146 38.2]          "Let all bear in mind that the Lord's eye is upon all their works, and that he expects fidelity from his servants. When the four Hebrew youth were receiving an education for the court of the Babylonish king, they did not feel that the blessing of the Lord was a substitute for the taxing effort required of them."            Page 34: --  {PH146 38.2}
[PH146 38.3]          "The goodness, mercy, and love of God was proclaimed by Christ to Moses. This was God's character. When men who profess to serve God ignore his paternal character, and depart from honor and righteousness in dealing with their fellow men, Satan exults; for he has inspired them with his attributes. They are following in the tract of Romanism. Those who are enjoined to represent the attributes of the Lord's character, step from the Bible platform, and in their own human judgment devise rules and resolutions to force the will of others. But when men are forced to follow the prescriptions of other                                                                              39  men, an order of things is instituted that overrides sympathy and tender compassion, blinding the eyes of men to mercy, justice, and the love of God. Moral influence and personal responsibility are trodden underfoot."  {PH146 38.3}
[PH146 39.2]          "The righteousness of Christ by faith has been ignored by some; for it is contrary to their spirit, and their whole life-experience. Rule, rule, has been their course of action; and Satan has had an opportunity to represent himself through them. When one who professes to be a representative of Christ engages in sharp dealing, and presses men into hard places, those who are thus oppressed will either break every fetter of restraint, or will be led to regard God as a hard master. They cherish hard feelings against God, and their souls are alienated from him,  just as Satan planned it should be: This hard-heartedness on the part of men who claim to believe the truth, Satan charges to the influence of truth itself, and thus men become disgusted, and turn from the truth. For this reason no man should have a responsible connection with our institutions who thinks it no important matter whether he have a heart of flesh or a heart of steel. Such men may think they are representing the justice of God, but they do not represent his tenderness, and the great love wherewith he has loved us. Their human inventions, originating with the specious devices of Satan, appear fair enough to the blinded eyes of men, because they are inherent in their nature. A lie, believed and practised, becomes truth to them. Thus the purpose of Satan, that men should reach these conclusions through the working of their own inventive minds, is accomplished.  {PH146 39.2}
[PH146 39.3]          "Men fall into error by starting with false premises, and then bringing everything to bear to                                                                              40  make the error true. In some cases the first principles have a measure of truth interwoven with the errors, but it does not lead to any just action; and this is why men are misled. In order to reign and become a power, they employ Satan's methods to justify their own principles. They exalt themselves as men of superior judgment, and profess to stand as representatives of God. These are false gods.  {PH146 39.3}
[PH146 40.1]          "Sinful men can find hope and righteousness only in God; and no human being is righteous any longer than he has faith in God, and maintains a vital connection with him. A flower of the field must have its root in the soil; it must have air, dew, showers, and sunshine. It will flourish only as it receives these advantages, and all are from God. So with men. We receive from God that which ministers to the life of the soul. We are warned not to trust in man, nor to make flesh our arm. A curse is pronounced upon all that do this. . . .  {PH146 40.1}
[PH146 40.2]          "Let no plans or methods be brought into any of our institutions that will place mind or talent under the control of human judgment; for this is not in God's order."  {PH146 40.2}
[PH146 40.4]          "God has given to man, talents of influence which belong to him alone, and no greater dishonor can be done to God than for one finite agent to purchase from men their God-given talent, or the product of such talent, to be absolutely under his control, even though the benefits of the same be used to the advantage of the cause."                                                                              41   {PH146 40.4}
[PH146 41.4]          "In such arrangements, one man's mind is ruled by another man's mind, and the human agent is separated from God, and exposed to temptations. Satan's methods tend to one end,--to make men the slaves of men. And when this is done, confusion and distrust, jealousies and evil surmisings, are the result. Such a course destroys man's faith in God, and in the principles which are to control his work, to purge from guilt and from every species of selfishness and hypocrisy.  {PH146 41.4}
[PH146 41.5]          "The Lord of heaven, who made our world, and who created man, guards the interests of every soul. To every man he has given his work. We are laborers together with God. There are diversities of gifts, and every man should appreciate the moral and spiritual capital which God has entrusted to him. No one should treat these entrusted talents with indifference. No one is accountable for the talents he has never had; none should complain of the smallness of their gifts. Every one is to trade on that which God has entrusted to him, working where he can, doing the best possible service for the Master. Our talent, well used, will gain other talents, and these still others. The man with a few pence can serve God faithfully with his pence. If he does this, he is judged as faithful in the sight of God as the one who has improved pounds.  {PH146 41.5}
[PH146 41.6]          "All are to realize their individual responsibility to employ their talents to the glory of God according to their ability. Let no man or council of men assume the responsibility of making as little as possible of these talents, according to their human estimate of God's entrusted qualifications. No man is to weigh in the balances of human judgment the talents God has                                                                              42  given to other men. Let every man appreciate God's gifts to him, and faithfully trade upon them. No man is to merge his individuality into that of any other man. No man should be urged to make another man his steward. There are diversities of gifts, and a large work to be done in our world in the use of God's entrusted goods. Let us never forget that we are here to be fashioned by the hand of God, fitted to do the work he has given us to do. That work is our own, the accountability is our own; it can not be transferred to another."  {PH146 41.6}
[PH146 42.2]          "Let not human agents interpose to take another's work out of the hands of God into their own finite hands. I have borne abundant testimony, setting forth the fact that The Ability to Write a Book, is, like every other talent, a gift from God, for which the possessor is accountable to him. This talent No Man Can buy or sell without incurring great and dangerous responsibility. Those who labor to bring about changes in the publication of books, to place the books wholly under the control of the publishing houses or the Conference, know not what they are talking about. Their eyes are blinded, and they work from a wrong standpoint. Selfishness is a root of bitterness whereby many are defiled.  {PH146 42.2}
[PH146 42.3]          "The efforts that have been made to turn all the profits derived from the talents of writers into the hands of the Conference or The Publishing House, Will Not Prove a Success; for the plan is not just and equal. From the light given me by God, the efforts made in this direction by those at the heart of the work are not heaven-inspired. It is a very narrow conceited arrangement, devised by human minds, and it does not bear the marks of God. Every man's special work is appointed him of God, and he is                                                                              43  individually responsible to God. When men connected with the publishing business make decisions and transact business As They Have Done and Propose to Do at Battle Creek, they give evidence that Changes Should be Made as Soon as Possible; for God is not in any such plan.  {PH146 42.3}
[PH146 43.1]          "Those who write books Are Not to be Left Under the Control of Men Who Have No Experimental Knowledge of Authorship. These men have a high appreciation of their own ability, but they have shown how little they appreciate the human agent to whom God has given a certain work to do. They belittle men to whom God has given talents to use to his glory. He never designed that any man should sell his stewardship, as if he were not capable of managing the talents given him. The ideas which prevail, that, in order to give to the cause of God, a writer must place all the profits of his work, beyond a mere pittance, where other men shall control it for him, or invest as shall suit their ideas, ARE AN Error."  {PH146 43.1}
[PH146 44.4]          "Long ago when such ideas were first advanced, they should have been treated as they deserved. Men took into their own hands responsibilities which they were not capable of treating justly or managing successfully. They have given evidence of this in the past in the fact that they would resort to unfair means, in order to wring from men God's entrusted talents for their own appropriation. But the very persons whom God has entrusted with his goods are held responsible to trade upon them, and thus develop talent.  {PH146 44.4}
[PH146 44.5]          "Every soul who has become the servant of God through the grace of Jesus Christ, has his own peculiar sphere of labor. He is not to be bought of sold, but he is to understand that, `ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by the tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot; who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, who by him do believe in God, that raised him from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God. Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently.' Who have greater need to be doers of this inspired injunction than have those who are living at the very close of this earth's history?  {PH146 44.5}
[PH146 44.6]          "It is not our property that is entrusted to us for investment. If it had been, we might claim discretionary power; we might shift the responsibility                                                                              45  upon others, and leave our stewardship with others. But This Can Not be, because the Lord is testing us Individually. If we act wisely in trading upon our Lord's goods and multiplying the talents given us, we shall invest this gain for the Master, praying for wisdom that we may be divested of all selfishness, and laboring most earnestly to advance the precious truth in our world.  {PH146 44.6}
[PH146 45.1]          "Some men or councils may say, 'That is just what we wish you to do. The Conference Committee will take your capital, and will appropriate it for this very object.' But the Lord has made us Individually his stewards. We Each hold a solemn responsibility to invest this means Ourselves. A portion it is right to place in the treasury to advance the general interests of the work; but the steward of means will not be guiltless before God, unless, so far as he is able to do this, he shall use that means as circumstances shall reveal the necessity. We should be ready to help the suffering, and to set in operation plans to advance the truth in various ways. It is not in the province of the Conference or Any Other Organization to relieve us of this stewardship. If you lack wisdom, go to God; ask him for yourself, then work with an eye single to his glory.  {PH146 45.1}
[PH146 45.2]          "By exercising your judgment, by giving where you see there is need in any line of the work, you are putting out your money to the exchangers. If you see in any locality that the truth is gaining a foothold, and there is no place of worship, then do something to meet the necessity. By your own action encourage others to act, in building a humble house for the worship of God. Have an interest in the work in all parts of the field.  {PH146 45.2}
[PH146 45.3]          "While it is not your own property that you are handling yet you are made responsible for its wise investment, for its use or abuse. God does not lay upon you the burden of asking the Conference or any council of men whether you shall use your means as you see fit to advance the work of God in destitute towns and cities, and impoverished                                                                              46  localities. If the right plan had been followed, so much means would not have been used in some localities, and so little in other places where the banner of truth has not been raised. We are Not to Merge Our Individuality of Judgment Into Any Institution IN OUR WORLD. We are to look to God for wisdom, as did Daniel."  {PH146 45.3}
[PH146 46.2]          "Brain-workers have a God-given capital. The results of their study belongs to God, not to man. If the worker faithfully gives to his employer the time for which he receives his pay, then his employer has no further claim upon him. And if by diligent and close economy of moments, he prepares other matter valuable for publication, it is his to use as he thinks will best serve the cause of God. If he gives up all but a small royalty, he has done a good work for those who handle the book, and he should not be asked to do more. God has not placed upon the Publishing Board the responsibility of being conscience for others. They should not persistently seek to force men to their terms.  {PH146 46.2}
[PH146 46.3]          "The authors are responsible to God for the use which they make of their means. There will be many calls for money. Mission fields will have to be entered, and this requires much outlay. Those to whom God has entrusted talents, are to trade upon these talents according to their ability; for they are to act their part in carrying forward these interests. When the members of the Board take it upon themselves to urge that all the profits from our denominational books shall go to the Publishing Association and the agents, and that The Authors, After Being Paid for the Time and Expense of Writing a Book, Should Relinquish Their Claim to a Share in the Profits, They are Undertaking a Work Which They can not Carry Out. These book-writers                                                                              47  have as much interest in the cause of God as do those who compose the Board of Trustees. Some of them have had a connection with the work almost from its infancy."  {PH146 46.3}
[PH146 47.2]          "Several times it has been pointed out to me that there has been a close, ungenerous spirit exercised toward Brother H. from the very first of his labors in Battle Creek. It makes me feels sad to state the reason. It was because he went there a stranger and in poverty. Because he was a poor man, he has been placed in unpleasant positions, and made to feel his poverty. Men connected with our institutions have thought that they could bring him to their terms, and he has had a very unpleasant time. There are sad chapters in his experience, which would not have passed into history if his brethren had been kind, and had dealt with him in a Christlike manner. The Lord's cause should always be free from the slightest injustice; and no act connected with it should savor in the smallest degree of penuriousness or oppression.  {PH146 47.2}
[PH146 47.3]          "The Lord guards every man's interest. He was always the poor man's friend. There is a most wonderful dearth of Christlike love in the hearts of nearly all who are handling sacred things. I would say to my brethren everywhere, Cultivate the love of Christ! It should well up from the soul of the Christian like streams in the desert, refreshing and beautifying, bringing gladness, peace, and joy into his own life, and into the lives of others. 'None of us liveth to himself.' If there is shown the least oppression of the poor, or unjust dealing with them in either small or great things, God will hold the oppressor accountable.  {PH146 47.3}
[PH146 47.4]          "Do not seek to make terms which are not just and fair with either Elder J. or Prof. H., or with any other brain-worker. Do not urge or force them to accept the terms of those who do not know                                                                              48  what it is to make books. These men have a conscience, and are accountable to God for their entrusted capital and the use they make of it; you are not to be conscience for them. They want the privilege of investing the means which they may acquire by hard labor, when and where the Spirit of God shall indicate."  {PH146 47.4}
[PH068 9.1]         PH068 - Rolling Back the Reproach (1900)                 Special Testimony          Help to be Given to our Schools.          I have not been able to sleep since one o'clock. I am troubled in regard to the debt on the Battle Creek College. I now ask the Review and Herald what it will do to relieve the situation.  {PH068 9.1}
[PH068 9.2]         In the night season, I seemed to see several looking over the account books of the Review and Herald. In these books was recorded the interest money loaned to the school.  {PH068 9.2}
[PH068 9.3]                    The Matter of Interest.          Notwithstanding the light given by God, ten thousand dollars was called for and double that amount was used in building an addition to the school. The managers of the Review and Herald had much to do in this matter. These things must be considered. The Review and Herald is not required to pay the college debt; for if this were done, calls would be made for other schools to be helped in the same way. But the interest on this debt should be made as low as possible. Interest should not be charged upon interest, neither should those who have loaned money charge a higher rate of interest than they themselves pay. One institution should have the tenderest and most kindly feelings for its sister institution. The work done in one is as much the Lord's work as the work done in the other.                                                                              10   {PH068 9.3}
[PH068 10.1]              Sister White's Gift to the Schools.          The time has come when the Lord would have all the powers of his people brought into exercise to relieve the situation of our schools. In order to help in this cause, I have proposed giving my book on the parables. I feel very anxious that the General Conference shall act unselfishly in regard to this book, which is to be published to help the schools. This is a time when the Conference should stand before the people in a better light than it has hitherto done.  {PH068 10.1}
[PH068 10.2]                    A Call to All Our People.          We shall call upon the people to help to the utmost of their ability just now. We shall call upon them to do a work which will be pleasing to God in purchasing the book. We shall ask that every available means be used to help to circulate this book. We shall ask that the whole field be supplied with canvassers. We shall call upon our ministers, as they visit the churches, to encourage men and women to go out as canvassers, to make a decided forward movement in the path of self-denial by giving part of their earnings to help our schools to get out of debt. Surely they can do this much to help the Master.  {PH068 10.2}
[PH068 10.3]          A general movement is needed, but this must begin with individual movements. Let each member in each family in each church make determined efforts to deny self. Let us have the whole-hearted co-operation of all in our ranks. Let us all move forward willingly and intelligently to do what we can to relieve those of our schools that are struggling under a pressure of debt. Let the officers of each church find out who among the members has been sent to school,                                                                              11  and helped by the school. Then let the church refund the tuition money. Let those who have had success in canvassing come up to the help of the Lord. As they handle this book, let them in the name of the Lord work in faith.  {PH068 10.3}
[PH068 11.1]          The movement I have suggested will result in reconciliation. It will unify the churches. If all will help to lift the debts on our schools, the publishing house in Battle Creek will be strengthened to do its part. Therefore it is for the interest of the school in Battle Creek to act a full part in helping to pay back the money that has been so long bound up in it.  {PH068 11.1}
[PH068 11.2]          The schools must be helped. Let all lift harmoniously and help as much as they possibly can. Great blessings will come to those who will take hold of this matter just now. Let no discouragement be offered by our ministers, as though it were not a proper thing to do. They should take hold of this work. If they do it aright, cheerfully, hopefully, they will find it a very great blessing. The Lord does not force any man to work, but to those who will place themselves decidedly on his side, he will give a willing mind. He will bless the one who works out the spirit which He works in. God will make the movement for the help of our schools a success if it is made in a free, willing spirit, as to the Lord. Only in this way can be rolled back the reproach that has come upon our schools all over the land. If all will take hold of this work in the spirit of self-sacrifice, for Christ's sake, and for the truth's sake, it will not be long before the jubilee song of freedom can be sung through our borders.  {PH068 11.2}
[PH068 11.3]          Let our ministers consecrate themselves to God. We need so much,--O so much!--humble men, who feel it a pleasure to do their very best. A                                                                              12  glorious gospel work opens before the converted, faithful minister. He is to help his fellow men to a better understanding of the word. The influence exerted by the minister with whom God works is weighty and momentous. The Lord is highly pleased with the minister who works humbly and willingly. Those who are wholly consecrated to God will ever seek wisdom from on high to enable them to bear their heavy responsibilities. They will be patient, forbearing, courteous, knowing that they are Christ's representatives. They will show a deep earnestness and fervor in prayer, and in their appeals to individuals and congregations.  {PH068 11.3}
[PH068 12.1]                  Unprofitable Ministry.          There are in the ministry young men who have been receiving wages from the Conference, yet whose labors bring nothing in, who are only consumers. I have been instructed that this need not be. It would not be if our young ministers were worked by the Spirit of God.  {PH068 12.1}
[PH068 12.2]          Some of our ministers might better stop and consider. Let them ask themselves how much they have received from the Conference, and how much their labors have been blessed in the conversion of souls. If you are not producers as well as consumers, what is the value of your work? How can the cause of God sustain as workers those who are not sanctified by the truth? Begin at the beginning of this year to consecrate yourselves to God. Wait not. Make an entire surrender.  {PH068 12.2}
[PH068 12.3]          Should not our ministers study this question? Many of our young ministers, if truly converted, would do much by entering the canvassing field.                                                                              13  They would there obtain an experience in faith. Their knowledge of the Scriptures would greatly increase, because as they imparted to others the light given them, they would receive more to impart. Let them enter the canvassing fields, and see what they can do in the way of producing. By meeting people and presenting to them our publications, they will gain an experience which they could not gain by simply preaching. As they go from house to house, they can converse with those whom they meet, carrying with them the fragrance of Christ's life.  {PH068 12.3}
[PH068 13.1]          The faithful youthful Timothy was taught by experienced men of God's appointment how to read the Word and how to explain it to others. Paul, his father in the gospel, addressed him in the words, "Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ."  {PH068 13.1}
[PH068 13.2]                         The Canvasser.          It is the canvasser's duty to cultivate the talents God has given him, to maintain his connection with God, to help always where he can. He has positive and constant need of the angelic ministration; for he has an important work to do, a work that he can not do in his own strength. "Now thanks be unto God which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savor of his knowledge by us in every place. For we are unto God a sweet savor of Christ, in them that are saved and in them that perish: to the one we are the savor                                                                              14  of death unto death; and to the other the savor of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?"  {PH068 13.2}
[PH068 14.1]          In his work the canvasser will be brought in contact with those who are in feeble health, who need the light on health reform, and with those who are dissatisfied with their religious experience, who are longing for something which they have not. To these he is to open the Word of Truth, rightly interpreting its meaning. "For we are not as many who corrupt the Word of God, but as of sincerity, but as of Christ in the sight of God speak we in Christ."  {PH068 14.1}
[PH068 14.2]          Ever remember that there are those who teach for doctrine the commandments of men. They make void the law of God by their traditions, like the Pharisees whom Christ exposed, saying, "Ye do err, not knowing the Scriptures, nor the power of God." The precious gems of truth are buried beneath a mass of error. By the sophistry of religious teachers the meaning of the plain, clear Word of God is hidden. The people are left in perplexity.  {PH068 14.2}
[PH068 14.3]          By his work, the converted, consecrated canvasser is sowing the seeds of truth. This work must be done without delay; for we have but a short time in which to work. Speak to them in a way that will win their confidence. Pray for the sick. Ask the Lord to restore and heal suffering humanity. He has declared, "These signs shall follow them that believe."  {PH068 14.3}
[PH068 14.4]                    Personality of Satan.          Men and women are wandering in the mist and fog of error. They want to know what is truth. Tell them; not in high-flown language, but with the simplicity of children of God. Satan is on                                                                              15  your track. He is an artful opponent, and the malignant spirit which you meet in your work is inspired by him. Those whom he controls echo his words. If the veil could be rent away from their eyes, those thus worked would see Satan plying all his arts to win them from the truth. There are those who do not believe in the personality of Satan. These do not oppose his work in their hearts. They are ignorant of his devices.  {PH068 14.4}
[PH068 15.1]          Instead of becoming like the world, we are to become more and more distinct from the world. Satan has combined and will continue to combine with the churches in making a masterly effort against the truth of God. Everything that is done by God's people to make inroads upon the world will call forth determined opposition from the powers of darkness. The enemy's last great conflict will be a most determined one. It will be the last battle between the powers of darkness and the powers of light. Every true child of God will fight bravely on the side of Christ. Those who in this great crisis allow themselves to be more on the side of the world than of God, will eventually place themselves wholly on the side of the world. Those who become confused in their understanding of the Word, who fail to see the meaning of antichrist, will surely place themselves on the side of antichrist. There is no time for us to assimilate with the world. Daniel is standing in his lot and in his place. The prophecies of Daniel and of John are to be understood; they interpret each other. They give to the world truths which everyone should understand. These prophecies are to be witnesses in the world. By their fulfillment in these last days, they will explain themselves.                                                                              16   {PH068 15.1}
[PH068 16.1]                      Punishment of the World.          The Lord is about to punish the world for its iniquity. He is about to punish religious bodies for their rejection of the light and truth which has been given them. The great message, combining the first, second, and third angels' messages, is to be given to the world. This is to be the burden of our work. Those who truly believe in Christ will openly conform to the law of Jehovah. The Sabbath is the sign between God and his people; and we are to make visible our conformity to the law of God by observing the Sabbath. It is to be the mark of distinction between God's chosen people and the world.  {PH068 16.1}
[PH068 16.2]          It means much to be true to God. This embraces health reform. It means that our diet must be simple, that we must be temperate in all things. The many varieties of food so often seen on tables is not necessary, but highly injurious. Mind and body are to be preserved in the best condition of health. Only those who have been trained in the knowledge and fear of God should be chosen to take responsibilities. Those who have been long in the truth, yet who can not distinguish between the pure principles of righteousness and the principles of evil, whose understanding in regard to justice, mercy, and the love of God is beclouded, should be relieved of responsibilities.  {PH068 16.2}
[PH068 16.3]          God has important lessons for his people to learn. Had these lessons been learned before, his cause would not be where it is today. One thing must be done. The truth is not to be withheld from ministers or men in positions of responsibility for fear of incurring their displeasure. There are to be connected with our                                                                              17  institutions men who with meekness and wisdom will declare the whole counsel of God. God's wrath is kindled against those who in carnal security and pride have shown contempt for his management. They are endangering the prosperity of the cause.  {PH068 16.3}
[PH068 17.1]         Every false way is a deception, and if sustained will in the end bring destruction. Thus the Lord permits those who maintain false plans to be destroyed. At the very time when praise and adulation is heard, sudden destruction comes. There are those who, notwithstanding they know of the reproof received by others, because of unfaithfulness, turn away from admonition. These are doubly guilty. They knew the Lord's will, and did it not. Their punishment will be proportionate to their guilt. They would not take heed to the word of the Lord.     (Signed.)                             Ellen G. White,        Sunnyside, Cooranbong, N. S. W., Australia.                                                    -    {PH068 17.1}
[PH068 17.2]     (Extract from letter to Elder and Mrs. S. N. Haskell, written from "Cooranbong, N. S. W., Oct. 24, 1899," and signed by Mrs. E. G. White.)            I have had conversation with W. C. White, and made a proposition to him, that I would give the royalty on my coming book, "The Parables," if the Review and Herald and the Pacific Press would donate their press work, and making of the books in neat, saleable style, and let all the avails be used to help relieve the debts upon our schools. This book will never grow old, and the avails shall go to the schools everywhere to help them. I thought this movement on my part would provoke others to self-denial and to benevolence and mercy, to take right hold of this matter and get out                                                                              18  "The Parables" to do this work. Well, the Lord is, I believe, willing to help us in this work. I shall only draw upon the books to give some to the poor that can not buy. W. C. White enters into this plan with great satisfaction. Of course we have not time to get this all before you in definiteness as we will when we have time. . . .  {PH068 17.2}
[PH068 18.2]          "How can I help the school in Battle Creek, and help to wipe out that large debt?" It came to me that the only way I could do was to make a gift of the book soon to be issued, "The Parables." I wish this book to be used in the interests of all our schools. . . .  {PH068 18.2}
[PH068 18.3]          My heart is deeply stirred in regard to the debt upon our schools all over the world. This state of things should not exist. Will you unite with me in creating something that will change this order of things? In the name of the Lord, do something, and do it now. Arouse the people to do something in regard to these school debts.                                         E. G. White.                                                                              19   {PH068 18.3}
[PH068 19.1]                   A Work Which All Must Do.                       St. Helena, Cal., October, 1900.        I can not at this time write much. I do not feel it my duty to write all that I could write in truth, for it would not be the best thing to do. I must wait and watch and pray. I feel that the Holy Spirit is working you who are on the other side of the Rocky Mountains. But I have not light now that I should visit Battle Creek, and I shall not do this without a plain Thus saith the Lord. When God sees that the work he has given me will not be refused, and rejected, and his instruction misstated and misappropriated, then I shall have a work to do in connection with those who will co-operate with me in the last great work before us. Calamities, earthquakes, floods, disasters by land and by sea, will increase. God is looking upon the world today as he looked upon it in Noah's time. He is sending his messages to people today as he sent them in the days of Noah. There is in this age of the world a repetition of the wickedness of the world before the flood. Many helped Noah build the ark who did not believe the startling message, who did not cleanse themselves from all wrong principles, who did not overcome the temptation to do and say things which were entirely contrary to the mind and will of God.  {PH068 19.1}
[PH068 19.2]         Have faith in God. He gave me the idea of giving "Christ's Object Lessons" for the relief of the schools. He is testing his people and institutions in this thing, to see if they will work together and be of one mind in self-denial and self-sacrifice. Carry forward this work without flinching, in the name of the Lord. Let God's                                                                              20  plan be vindicated. Let his proposition be fully carried out and heartily indorsed as the means of uniting the members of the churches in self-sacrificing effort. Thus they will be sanctified, soul, body, and spirit, as vessels unto honor, to whom God can impart his Holy Spirit. By this means they will accomplish the work God designs to have done.  {PH068 19.2}
[PH068 20.1]          Stir up every family, every church, to do the very utmost of their power, everyone consecrating himself to God, putting the leaven of evil out of his heart, out of the home, and out of the church. Let every family make the most of this the Lord's opportunity. Let self-denial and self-sacrifice be revealed. Let the teachers in the school do as others of God's servants are doing -- cut down their wages. This self-sacrifice will be required of us all. Let all place themselves where they will be sure to receive the answer to their prayers. It is the cause of God which is at stake.  {PH068 20.1}
[PH068 20.2]          The preciousness of life is to be appreciated because this life belongs to the Master. As long as we live, we are ever to bear in mind that we are bought with a price. Christ made of himself a whole and complete sacrifice for us, to make it possible for us to receive the gift of everlasting life. "Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's." We have enlisted under Christ's banner for life service, and great responsibilities and possibilities are within our reach. There are in the providence of God particular periods when we must arise in response to the call of God, and make use of our time, our intellect, our whole being, body, soul, and spirit, fulfilling to the utmost of our ability the requirements of God. Just now let not the                                                                              21  opportunity be lost. Let all work together. Let children act a part. Let every member of the family do something. Educate, educate. This is an opportunity which God's people can not afford to lose. God calls. Do your best at this time to render to him your offering, to carry out his specified will; and thus make this an occasion for witnessing for him and his truth. In a world of darkness let your light shine forth. Let canvassers do their best in canvassing for the book "Christ's Object Lessons." Their work will serve a double purpose. They will place in the homes of the people a book containing most precious light, seed sown to bring truth to souls ready to perish. In receiving this seed into their hearts, they will save their souls through belief of the truth. At the same time means will be gathered for the relief of the schools. Twofold good will thus be accomplished in this work. Let it be done heartily as unto the Lord.  {PH068 20.2}
[PH068 21.1]          Let all think soberly; for it is a solemn thing to live. Your life is not your own. You are kept by the power of God, and Jesus Christ desires to live his life in you, perfecting your character He desires you to work to the utmost of your knowledge and power to carry out the purpose for which he gave you life. Use every capability as his.  {PH068 21.1}
[PH068 21.2]          My brethren, after you have done all you can do in this work for the schools, by sanctified energy and much prayer, you will see the glory of God. When the trial has been fully made, there will come a blessed result. Those who have sought to do God's will, having laid out every talent to the best advantage, become wise in working for the kingdom of God. They learn lessons of the greatest consequence to them, and                                                                              22  they will feel the highest happiness of a rational mind. This is the result that will surely come if you fulfill the purpose of God. Peace and intelligence and grace will be given. It is the design of God that we should all glorify him, regarding his service as the chief end of our existence. The work that God calls you to do he will make a blessing to you. Your heart will be more tender, your thoughts more spiritual, your service more Christlike. "If ye abide in me," Jesus said, "and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you." In considering these things my spirit rejoices in God.  {PH068 21.2}
[PH068 22.1]          I could not sleep past two o'clock this morning. During the night season I was in council. I was pleading with some families to avail themselves of God's appointed means, and get away from the cities to save their children. Some were loitering, making no determined efforts. The angels of mercy hurried Lot and his wife and daughters by taking hold of their hands. Had Lot hastened as the Lord desired him to, his wife would not have become a pillar of salt. Lot had too much of a lingering spirit. Let us not be like him. The same voice that warned Lot to leave Sodom bids us, "Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean." Those who obey this warning will find a refuge. Let every man be wide awake for himself, and try to save his family. Let him gird himself for the work. God will reveal from point to point what to do next.  {PH068 22.1}
[PH068 22.2]          Hear the voice of God through the apostle Paul, "Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God that worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. "Lot                                                                              23  trod the plain with unwilling and tardy steps. He had so long associated with evil workers that he could not see his peril until his wife stood on the plain a pillar of salt forever.  {PH068 22.2}
[PH068 23.1]          There is to be a decided work done to accomplish God's plan. Make every stroke tell for the Master in the work of canvassing for "Christ's Object Lessons." God desires his people to be vitalized for work as they have never been before, for their good and for the upbuilding of his cause. Ministering angels will be round about the workers.  {PH068 23.1}
[PH068 23.2]          Let our institutions make every effort to free themselves from debt. Let every family arouse. Let the ministers of our churches and the presidents of our conferences awaken. Then he will tell you what to do next.  {PH068 23.2}
[PH068 23.3]          You will need to have patience with the tardy ones, who do not feel the necessity of doing anything promptly, thoroughly, earnestly. They have so much to say, so much unbelief to express, and so much criticising, that they lose the peace and joy and happiness in the purposes of God before they can decide to move. We must become men and women of God's opportunity. I am so glad that so much harmonious action has been shown in striving to carry out this purpose of God, and to make the most of his providences.                    (Signed) Mrs. Ellen G. White.      Nov. 14, 1900.                                                                              24   {PH068 23.3}
[PH068 24.1]           Testimonies Referring to the Reorganization                 of Battle Creek College.                              Extracts.               "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N. S. W.,                         Australia, Dec. 16, 1898.        Let great care be exercised. The work of our schools, Sanitarium, and publishing houses should be so arranged that men who are selfish and covetous, who move under Satan's generalship, can not take advantage of circumstances to make all the trouble possible. In the past Satan has used men acting a part in the work of God. As any time he chose he has played his human instrument, causing notes of discord to be heard, to bring confusion and perplexity into the cause of God. Too much power has been given to unworthy men.  {PH068 24.1}
[PH068 24.2]          Those under Satan's dictation become very zealous in their work. They magnify self, and work at cross purposes with God. Therefore too much caution can not be shown by men who are chosen of God and faithful, to see that in every institution God has established every part of the work is firmly bound about, that the cause shall not be hindered by the counsels of those inspired from beneath, that Satan shall not intrude through unconverted, unconsecrated men.  {PH068 24.2}
[PH068 24.3]          The school in Battle Creek should be made secure from ruthless hands, and unconsecrated minds, from men who work to bring in elements that are in no way qualified to strengthen, purify, or ennoble the institution. Let men be chosen from responsible positions who give evidence that God is using them as represented in the words, "Ye                                                                              25  are God's husbandry; ye are God's building." When God by his Holy Spirit works upon the character, the building is designed by no human architect, erected by no human skill. It is a building designed and fashioned by the great Master Builder. It is garrisoned by heavenly intelligences, and its foundation can never be moved.  {PH068 24.3}
[PH068 25.1]                         Extracts.               "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N. S. W.,                           Australia, Feb. 22, 1899.        The time came for the Sanitarium to be placed upon a more sure foundation, and for the school to receive thorough reconstruction. Satan was working through his agents in a masterly manner. His instruments were all ready to fall into line, and to be worked by him. These called evil good and good evil. Had they not been resisted and defeated, there would have been as fearful a state of rebellion as when the spies returned who were sent to view the land of Canaan. When they returned from their work, they brought back an evil report. They acknowledged all the advantages of the promised land. They displayed the fruit they had found there, and then they magnified the difficulties, showing their unbelief in the God who was leading them. They said all they could to discourage, and they discouraged all Israel. They bore false witness. They did not remember how the Lord had helped them under every difficulty. The people broke forth into lamentations, mourning, and faultfinding.  {PH068 25.1}
[PH068 25.2]          The men that brought up an evil report of the promised land died by the plague, while Caleb and Joshua lived; but though the Lord thus manifested his power to slay and to keep alive, the leaven of evil that had been introduced                                                                              26  worked so effectually that the people would have stoned God's faithful witnesses. They were not transformed in character. They were prepared, as we have seen men prepared in our day, to exalt their judgment, and pervert the judgment of God.  {PH068 25.2}
[PH068 26.1]          This history was recorded for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. Here is seen a determination to disregard the will of God. In their unbelief the people refused to go up to take the land. When they found that because of unbelief they must wander in the wilderness for another forty years, they said, We will go up now. But Moses told them that they had no permission to go up. If they had gone when the Lord said Go, the armies of the Lord's host would have gone with them; but because of their rebellion and delay, the Lord refused to give them victory. But the people said, We will go up; we will not wander in this wilderness any longer. And Moses said, "Go not up, for the Lord is not among you; that ye be not smitten among your enemies. For the Amalekites and the Canaanites are there before you, and ye shall fall by the sword; because ye are turned away from the Lord, therefore the Lord will now be with you. But they presumed to go up unto the hill top; nevertheless the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and Moses, departed not out of the camp. Then the Amalekites came down and discomfited them, even unto Hormah."  {PH068 26.1}
[PH068 26.2]          Calebs have been greatly needed in different periods of the history of our work. Today we need men of thorough fidelity, men who follow the Lord fully, men who are not disposed to be silent when they ought to speak, who are as true as st el to principle, men who do not seek to make                                                                              27  a pretentious show, but who walk humbly with God, patient, kind, obliging, courteous men, who understand that the science of prayer is to exercise faith and show works that will tell to the glory of God and the good of his people. Our institutions, whatever their character, can prosper only by the manifestation of the self-denying, self-sacrificing spirit which was manifested in their foundation. The principles of entire consecration must be maintained. Christ himself has said, "Ye can not serve God and mammon." "He that is not with me (voicing my words) is against me." God will have no men in his work who offer divided service. His servants are to take the position that they will not sanction any evil work. To follow Jesus requires wholehearted conversion at the start, and a repetition of this conversion every day.  {PH068 26.2}
[PH068 27.1]         There have been times when a crisis has determined character. This has been again and again. When the time came for our institutions to receive new organization, the elements of character ruling men were revealed. Those who had not been in harmony with truth and righteousness, who did not bear the approval of God, strove to obtain the ascendency. But it was not the Lord's design that their voice, their decisions, should have influence in board or council meetings. The only way in which they can be a strength to the work and cause of God is by keeping quiet until they know whether they are on Satan's side or on Christ's.  {PH068 27.1}
[PH068 27.2]          There are men who have put out their spiritual eyesight. They can not distinguish between the sacred and the common. Their voice is the loudest when they are in the enemy's service. It will be greatly to their credit to keep still. This is                                                                              28  their strength. Silence is their eloquence. It means very much to every man whether he is on the Lord's side of the question or on Satan's side.  {PH068 27.2}
[PH068 28.1]          God's people today have far greater light than had ancient Israel. They have not only the increased light which has been shining upon them, but the instruction given by God to Moses, to be given to the people. God specified the difference between the sacred and the common, and declared that this difference must be strictly observed. This lesson is given also to modern Israel. That which God has set apart as sacred must ever be respected as sacred. Christ was the foundation of the Jewish economy. When type met antitype in his death, the need for sacrificial offerings ceased. But the lessons regarding practical obedience, given by Christ from the mount of blessing, were still binding.  {PH068 28.1}
[PH068 28.2]         The Lord has given his people great light and precious instruction. What sorrow, what shame, what agony of soul, has been felt by God's faithful servants who have stood as did Joshua and Caleb, to hear Israel cast off their leader, and choose one of their rebellious number to lead them back to Egypt. In their complaints the Israelites blasphemed God. God had signified that the defense of the land of Canaan had departed, and that now was the opportune time for them to enter it. Caleb declared the truth for that and every time: "The land, which we passed through to search it, is an exceedingly good land. If the Lord delight in us, then he will bring us into this land, and give it us: a land which floweth with milk and honey. Only rebel not ye against the Lord, neither fear ye the people of the land: for they are bread for us: their defense is departed from them, and the Lord is                                                                              29  with us: fear them not. But all the congregation bade stone them with stones. And the glory of the Lord appeared in the tabernacle of the congregation before all the children of Israel." The manifestation of the Lord's glory was needed to quell the mad and blasphemous utterances of the people, and to save the lives of his servants from the maddened throng.  {PH068 28.2}
[PH068 29.1]          Has there not been seen in modern Israel manifestations similar to this? Has not the loud, boisterous voice of rebellion been heard in your council meetings and in your board meetings? . . .  {PH068 29.1}
[PH068 29.2]          Men are to be carefully selected. They are to be men of moral perception, men who are acquainted with the work they are handling. . . . Surely there is need now of bold, fearless Calebs, who, under the influence of the Spirit, will use the talents of hearing and speaking with heroic courage, disregarding all personal dangers and anxieties.  {PH068 29.2}
[PH068 29.3]          After the rebellion of the children of Israel because of the evil report of the spies, the Lord purposed to destroy them. Had they not walked and worked at cross purposes with him? When he planned for them to obtain easy access into Canaan, did they not listen to the report of the faithless spies, who under control of Satan did the very work he intended them to do? The spies broke down the courage of all Israel by the lying report, and developed a rebellion that called for the presence of God himself to adjust matters.                                                    -    {PH068 29.3}
[PH068 29.4]                       St. Helena, Cal., Oct. 16, 1900.        Much has been said on this line ［on the line of selling the Battle Creek College and having the school moved out of Battle Creek］, but for years                                                                              30  nothing has been done. Had this movement been made when the Lord indicated that it was duty, the showing would be very different from what it is at the present time. But circumstances have changed, and the movements that might have been made with advantage in the past will not at this time be advisable. All the reasons I shall not attempt to lay before you. Many things will be revealed in the future that are not discerned now. . . .  {PH068 29.4}
[PH068 30.1]          Let not your desire to get out of Battle Creek lead to a work similar to the defeat of Israel through the testimony of the unfaithful spies. The Lord was holding back the armies that inhabited Canaan, but because of unbelief the children of Israel did not make the right moves at the right time; and their opportunity was lost. Then the people, determined to avert the judgment pronounced by the Lord, decided to follow their human impulses; and the result is plainly outlined. . . .               Ellen G. White.  {PH068 30.1}
[PH147 1.1]         PH147 - The Sanitarium Must Not be Cramped (1907)        	The Sanitarium Must Not be Cramped     	The Work in Washington, D. C.            Sanitarium, California, May 30, 1907.          I have a message to bear to our people throughout the field. There is a decided and thorough work to be done in Washington, D. C. The time is long past that should have seen this field faithfully worked. The last message of warning must be carried to those who need the truth. Men of God who have this message in their hearts should be chosen to carry it to the people of Washington and neighboring towns. One of authority was represented to me as standing before our people, and pleading that workers be sent to Washington; and I was instructed to urge this subject upon the minds of our laborers.  {PH147 1.1}
[PH147 1.2]         Brethren and sisters, God has given to every man his work. He calls upon church-members in every place to dedicate themselves to the Lord and to His service. Let us go forth, and present the truth from house to house, to souls who are starving for the bread of life. We must come into line.  {PH147 1.2}
[PH147 1.3]          "Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest." These words teach us how the field is to be supplied with workers who will labor for the salvation of souls. When church-members bring the precepts of Christ into the life practice; when they confess their sins to one another, and offer up prayers to God, He will graciously manifest His power through them.  {PH147 1.3}
[PH147 1.4]          In every possible way, humble efforts should be made to win souls to the truth.  {PH147 1.4}
[PH147 1.5]          The third angel's message is to be proclaimed all through the suburbs of Washington. The people living in these suburbs are precious to God. Those who believe the truth                                                                              2  for this time now arouse, and earnestly take hold of the work that needs to be done. We must be wide awake to the needs of the situation, and perform the work with wisdom.  {PH147 1.5}
[PH147 2.1]          There should be no cramping of the sanitarium work at Takoma Park. I have been shown that the national capital should have every advantage. The workers there are to bring the truth before the ruling powers, and means must flow into that field in order that the work there shall make a presentation that will commend it to those who are accustomed to refinement and plenty. No mean impression must be given to those statesmen whose only knowledge, perhaps, of this people and the third angel's message, may be received through the sanitarium work. It will be very essential that the means expended for the work in Washington shall be economically handled.  {PH147 2.1}
[PH147 2.2]          We need to realize that we are living in critical times. There is no time to be lost if we would make the right impression regarding the work. Satan is making every effort possible to undermine our confidence of men in the law of God, causing them to regard it as of little importance. But men should remember that the God of heaven proclaimed His law from Mt. Sinai with His own voice, that men might realize its importance. The Lord does not want the people who stand for His law in the earth, and who are to accomplish His closing work in the world to represent that law and that work in a cheap manner. God's purpose in guiding us to Washington, the capital of our nation, was that we might represent His work there in a sensible way. In connection with His work, He would not have anything of a cheap and faulty character.  {PH147 2.2}
[PH147 2.3]          It would also be a great mistake to close up the work of the Branch Sanitarium we have operated in Washington. Some have thought that when our institution at Takoma Park should be in running order, we might do this. But instruction regarding this matter                                                                              3  has been given me by higher authority than that of man; and I have been shown that to close up the work of the first institution would be a grievous mistake. There are men holding positions of responsibility in the world who are patronizing our treatment-rooms there, and we must not cut off from them this opportunity of gaining a knowledge of the truth for this time.  {PH147 2.3}
[PH147 3.1]          A branch sanitarium in the city will lead to an acquaintance with the larger institutions at Takoma Park. Through these institutions the light of truth is to shine forth to counselors and statesmen.  {PH147 3.1}
[PH147 3.2]          From the light the Lord has given me, I know there is a great work to be accomplished in Washington, and every laggard power must be aroused to act its part. A special work should also be done in this city in the establishing of schools, that the people may be educated along Christian lines. In our schools established in this city, the word of God is to be exalted as the study book, and the law of God is to be honored and obeyed. The discipline of our schools is to be of the highest type.  {PH147 3.2}
[PH147 3.3]          God calls for us to advance step by step in the building up of His work. We are now doing what should have been done twenty years ago. Some have thought that we as a people were unable to stem the current and criticism. But I have been shown that if we had advanced in the way of reform as the light came to us, we would have a very different showing than now appears. In following the instruction of our great leader, difficulties would have been overcome; the consciousness of the approval of God would have made our ministers and physicians, and the teachers in our schools valiant men of God. In the fullest sense of the word, they would have been laborers together with God.  {PH147 3.3}
[PH147 3.4]          We must individually learn the lesson that the treasures of knowledge are with the Most High. The discourses of the men who profess to honor and reverence the law of                                                                              4  God must be earnest, sincere and solemn, as befits the time in which they live. Their appeals for temperance must speak powerfully to the senses of men. The love of God is to be expressed in word and action.  {PH147 3.4}
[PH147 4.1]          Those who are engaged in the work for these last days must identify themselves with Christ. They must become partakers of the divine nature, and thus escape the corruption that is in the world through lust.  {PH147 4.1}
[PH147 4.2]          I appeal to my brethren and sisters throughout the American field. See that the work in Washington is not delayed for want of means. It is very important that the Sanitarium be fully equipped for its work. Let the cause of truth in Washington triumph gloriously.  {PH147 4.2}
[PH147 4.3]          These words were spoken regarding the work in Washington: "The work at the heart of the nation is not to be handicapped. The Sanitarium must do its part in convincing the influential men of America of the importance of the third angel's message, and our books must be handled in a way that will secure their largest circulation."  {PH147 4.3}
[PH147 4.4]          In the completion of the Washington Sanitarium, let simplicity and good taste prevail. This institution is to do an important work for the people of Washington. Through its influence inquiries will be made concerning our faith, and information will be given that will find a lodgment in some minds. One is standing back of the cause of present truth in Washington who will be present help in every emergency. Hold firmly to the principles of truth. Guard the soul vigilantly, that you may not be found warring against the Spirit of God. Gird on the armor of Christ's righteousness. Be strong; yea, be strong.                       (Signed) Ellen G. White.  {PH147 4.4}
[PH069 6.1]         PH069 - The Sanitarium Patients at Goguac Lake (1878)               Mrs. White's Address.          We are happy to have the privilege of meeting our friends by the lake-side in this beautiful grove. Our merciful Heavenly Father has brought us once more in safety across the plains from the Pacific coast, and in return we would render him the tribute of our grateful hearts.  {PH069 6.1}
[PH069 6.2]         Our Saviour often preferred the fields, the groves, and the lake-sides for his temples. People flocked to these places in great crowds to listen to the words of truth which fell from his divine lips. He had special reasons for choosing those natural sanctuaries; the familiar objects of nature were thus presented to the eyes of his hearers, and he used those objects to simplify his teachings, binding his truths firmly upon the minds of the people by the lessons drawn from nature to illustrate his meaning.  {PH069 6.2}
[PH069 6.3]          Upon one occasion, early in the morning, the disciples, who were fishing, discerned their Master walking upon the beach. They immediately pulled for the shore where they could converse with him from their boats. But Jesus could not long remain hidden from                                                                              7  the multitude who sought him unceasingly. His fame as the wonderful Healer of disease had spread far and near; and as he stood upon the beach, the people hurried thither, bringing their sick friends to lay before him, and implore him to heal them. His great heart of love was filled with divine pity for the objects of distress appealing to him for help.  {PH069 6.3}
[PH069 7.1]          Whatever way he might turn, there lay the suffering and dying, supplicating his mercy, and pleading for the blessing of peace and health which they believed he could give them. Some of the sufferers feared they would be overlooked among the many who were urging their cases before the great Physician. Though they despaired of gaining his personal attention, yet they would not leave his presence, believing that if they could even approach near enough to touch him, that touch would bring healing to them. Eagerly the wasted hands of the sick were stretched out amid the crowd to touch the dress or person of Christ, and as many as reached him received in their suffering bodies an answer to the touch of faith.  {PH069 7.1}
[PH069 7.2]          The dreary and disconsolate, whose minds had been imprisoned in the sepulcher of despair, were attracted to the presence of Jesus. Those who were mourning over the                                                                              8  disappointed hopes of the present, and trembling in contemplation of a starless future, came to Christ, the Light of the world, as their only hope. With tender compassion he bent over the forms of the suffering, the despondent, and the dying. His lips pronounced the glad words, "Son, be of good cheer; thy sins are forgiven thee." Hope took the place of gloom and despair in the hearts of those whom Jesus blessed; health and joy animated their countenances; the lips that had but lately uttered only words of grief and doubt, now shouted the praise of God.  {PH069 7.2}
[PH069 8.1]          Disease fled from the touch of the Deliverer, and perfect health and soundness took the place of suffering and decay. Every applicant to Christ was relieved; not one mourner was left in pain; every desponding soul was tranquilized by his words of hope and forgiving love. Then the great Teacher commenced his lessons of instruction to the awe-struck, wondering crowd. But he was so jostled by the multitude, who were all eager to get within hearing of his voice, that he was finally crowded down to the brink of the lake, and had no place to set his feet. He therefore turned and beckoned to Peter, who was in his boat near the land. The disciple drew near, and the Saviour stepped into the open                                                                              9  boat, and bade Peter thrust out a little from the shore.  {PH069 8.1}
[PH069 9.1]          The Majesty of Heaven took his position, not upon David's throne, but on the seat of a fisherman's swaying boat. And here the great Teacher taught his precious truths to the multitude, binding up those sacred lessons with illustrations drawn from the occupations of men, and the familiar objects of nature around them. This gave the stamp of reality to his instruction. The illustrations there presented to the listening multitude were to be repeated through all the ages. The truths thus represented were to be immortalized and imprinted on the hearts of millions who were to come.  {PH069 9.1}
[PH069 9.2]          It was in the clear light of morning, and the illustrations employed by the great Teacher were impressive, though simple. He made use of the lofty trees, the cultivated soil, the barren rocks, the flowers of beauty struggling through the clefts, the everlasting hills, the glowing flowers of the valley, the birds, caroling their songs in the leafy branches, the spotless lily, resting in purity upon the bosom of the water. All these objects that made up the living scene around them were made the medium by which lessons were impressed upon the minds of his hearers. They were thus brought home to the hearts of all, meeting                                                                              10  the capacity of all who heard, and leading them gently up from the contemplation of the Creator's works in nature to nature's God.  {PH069 9.2}
[PH069 10.1]          The buds and blooming flowers of this bouquet which I hold, God has touched with varied delicate tints, most beautiful to the eye. The artistic skill of earth can produce nothing that will compare with the natural beauties given us by the great Master-Artist. As we look upon the lofty trees waving with fresh, green foliage, and the earth covered with its green velvet carpet, and the flowers and shrubs springing from the earth, we should remember that all these beauties of nature have been used by Christ in teaching his grand lessons of truth. As we look upon the fields of waving grain, and listen to the merry songsters in their leafy homes, and view the boats upon the water of the lake, we should remember the words of Christ upon the lake-side, in the groves, and on the mountains, and the lessons there taught by him should be repeated to us by the similar objects of nature which surround us. Such scenes should be sacredly regarded by us, and should bring joy and gladness to our hearts.  {PH069 10.1}
[PH069 10.2]          The deceiver of souls is constantly at work seeking to divert the minds of those who have not a knowledge of God in his created works, from the beautiful things in nature, and cause                                                                              11  them to regard with indifference the manifold blessings with which their heavenly Father has surrounded them. Satan suggests to their minds the thought that God is a stern judge, to be regarded with utmost dread, that his severe justice is tyranny. The pitying love of God is thrust from their minds, and their hearts are set in defiance of their Maker. He who is their very best friend is regarded as watching and spying upon their actions, and registering them in his book of records, taking satisfaction in pouring out his wrath upon their offending heads.  {PH069 10.2}
[PH069 11.1]          But Paul, in his Epistle to the Hebrews, has said, "Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight; but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do." This he presents to us as an encouragement rather than a discouragement: "Seeing then that we have a great high priest that is passed into the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession; for we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come ［not with cringing fear, but］ boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need."                                                                              12   {PH069 11.1}
[PH069 12.1]          All Heaven is interested in the happiness of man. God is represented as a present help in our necessities. Christ identified himself with man; he understands his every infirmity and weakness. He is a sympathizing friend in all our afflictions, and will be our refuge when we are assailed by fierce temptation.  {PH069 12.1}
[PH069 12.2]          Christ makes the necessities of his children his own personal interest. He regards any slight or neglect of his brethren as a slight to himself, and a benefit conferred upon the humblest of them, as if it were conferred upon himself. He says, "I was a hungered, and ye gave me meat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink; I was a stranger, and ye took me in. . . . 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."  {PH069 12.2}
[PH069 12.3]          He whom Providence has blessed with plenty, but who padlocks the door of his heart, to keep back all generous impulses, that would find expression in deeds of charity and kindness, will hear from the lips of the Master the solemn words, "I was a 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. . . . Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me."                                                                              13   {PH069 12.3}
[PH069 13.1]          Love of Christ cannot exist in the heart without a corresponding love for our fellowmen. Love to God and to our neighbor are the ruling principles of the true Christian's life. The redeeming love of Christ should awaken all the affection and self-sacrificing devotion of the human heart.  {PH069 13.1}
[PH069 13.2]          God calls for earnest workers. The physical and the spiritual health suffer from inaction. The idler in the vineyard, he who lives for self-alone, is ever dissatisfied with himself and with others; the gloom and chill of discontent are mirrored upon his countenance. But he who is drawn out of, and away from, self, who, like his Master, identifies himself with suffering humanity, will be softened and refined by the exercise of sympathy for others. Courtesy, patience, and gentleness will characterize such a one, and will make his presence a continual joy and blessing. His countenance will shine with the luster of true benevolence.  {PH069 13.2}
[PH069 13.3]          Those who labor hardest to secure their own happiness are miserable. Those who forget self in their interest for others have reflected back upon their own hearts the light and blessings they dispense to them. It is our duty to work for Christ; all that we possess is given us by him. If it were not for his advance capital of grace, we should                                                                              14  have nothing to improve. All that we have is given us on trust. Yet when he rewards us with his approval, it is as though the merit were our own: "Well done, good and faithful servant." It is not the greatness of the work which we do, but the love and fidelity with which we do it, that wins the approval of the Saviour. It is the use which we make of our talents which determines our woe or weal. We may have faith to remove mountains, and understand all mysteries, and give our bodies to be burned, yet without charity--that love which finds utterance in good works, that feeds the hungry, clothes the naked, and visits the afflicted--we are "as sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal."  {PH069 13.3}
[PH069 14.1]         Let the thought encourage us that Christ pities the erring, and desires to comfort the despondent, and encourage the weak. He is fully acquainted with the peculiar trials of every life. He never misjudges our motives, nor places a wrong estimate upon our character. Men may do us injustice, we may suffer by calumny and suspicion, but the Saviour knows our inmost thought, and cannot judge our actions wrongly. We may tell him all our griefs and perplexities, and he will never abuse our confidence, nor turn a deaf ear to our complaints.  {PH069 14.1}
[PH069 14.2]          In one of his most impressive lessons                                                                              15  Christ says, "Behold the fowls of the air; for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your Heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit to his stature?" The great Teacher is here leading out minds to understand the parental care and love which God has for his children. He directs them to observe the birds flitting from tree to tree, or skimming upon the bosom of the lake, without a flutter of distrust or fear. God's eye is upon these little creatures; he provides them food; he answers all their simple wants. Jesus inquires, "Are ye not much better than they?" Then why despond, or look into the future with sadness and foreboding?  {PH069 14.2}
[PH069 15.1]          It is not the thought and anxiety of man that provides for his wants, and that causes him to grow in youth and to develop strength; but God is silently doing his work for man, adding to his stature as he progresses to maturity, and opening his mind to knowledge.  {PH069 15.1}
[PH069 15.2]          Again he says, "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 than many sparrows."  {PH069 15.2}
[PH069 15.3]          If God cares for and preserves the little                                                                              16  birds, will he not have far greater love and care for the creatures formed in his image?  {PH069 15.3}
[PH069 16.1]          "And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin; and yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these." The courtly robes of the greatest king that ever sat upon an earthly throne, could not compare, in their artificial splendor, with the spotless beauty of the lilies fashioned by the divine hand. This is an example of the estimate which the Creator of all that is beautiful, places upon the artificial in comparison with the natural.  {PH069 16.1}
[PH069 16.2]          God has given us these things of beauty as an expression of his love, that we may obtain correct views of his character. We are not to worship the things of nature, but in them we are to read the love of God. Nature is an open book, from the study of which we may gain a knowledge of the Creator, and be attracted to him by the things of use and beauty which he has provided with such a lavish hand to make us happy.  {PH069 16.2}
[PH069 16.3]          "Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith! Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat?                                                                              17  or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?"  {PH069 16.3}
[PH069 17.1]         Much unnecessary care and anxiety is felt in regard to our future, concerning what we shall eat and drink, and wherewithal we shall be clothed. The labor and worry of needless display in apparel causes much fatigue and unhappiness, and shortens our lives. Our Saviour would not only have us discern the love of God displayed in the beautiful flowers about us, but he would have us learn from them lessons of simplicity, and of perfect faith and confidence in our Heavenly Father.  {PH069 17.1}
[PH069 17.2]          If God cares to make these inanimate things so beautiful, that will be cut down and perish in a day, how much more careful will he be to supply the needs of his obedient children, whose lives may be as enduring as eternity. How readily will he give them the adornment of his grace, the strength of wisdom, the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit. The love of God to man is incomprehensible, broad as the world, high as heaven, and as enduring as eternity.  {PH069 17.2}
[PH069 17.3]          "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth his handiwork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge. There is no speech nor language where their voice is not heard." Notwithstanding that the love of God speaks        Sanitarium.                                                                              18  to us through the lofty trees, the lovely flowers, the babbling brooks, and all the innumerable objects in nature, and in manifold blessings that brighten our lives, many turn from these expressions of God's love, which should make them cheerful and trusting, and brood over scenes of darkness, permitting their minds to dwell upon the idea that God is a stern judge of terrible exactitude.  {PH069 17.3}
[PH069 18.1]          The truth is that our Heavenly Father pities and loves his children. The repentant erring ones are warmly welcomed to his favor. Peter apostatized from Christ, although he had been greatly favored by being brought in close connection with him. He had witnessed his transfiguration, and had frequently seen his divine power flashing through the disguise of humanity.  {PH069 18.1}
[PH069 18.2]          Jesus had warned him that he would not bear the test in the hour of his Lord's humiliation and trial. Peter was greatly grieved that Jesus should doubt the truth of his ardent assertion that he would go to prison or to death for the sake of his Lord. But that very night, when the dear Saviour most needed the sympathy and support of his disciples, Peter denied him with cursing and swearing. The pitying, forgiving look of Jesus recalled the disloyal disciple to his                                                                              19  senses, and broke his heart with an unspeakable grief and remorse.  {PH069 18.2}
[PH069 19.1]          He went out into the darkness, and wandered he cared not whither. At length he found himself in Gethsemane, and falling prostrate upon the spot where Jesus had lately bowed in the hours of his agony, pressed his face upon the sod that had been moistened by the bloody sweat of his Master. There he wept bitterly, sincerely repented, and became a converted man.  {PH069 19.1}
[PH069 19.2]          Peter's reformation was so far accepted by Christ that after his resurrection he made special mention of him, sending him a message that he should see him in Galilee. How thoughtful and considerate this act of the Saviour! He who had been tempted like as we are tempted, understood the humiliation of Peter, and mentioned his name among the first in his message, to evidence to the sorrowing disciple that his Master remembered and acknowledged him, notwithstanding his surprising apostasy.  {PH069 19.2}
[PH069 19.3]          Soon after this, Jesus revealed himself to Peter. At the Sea of Galilee he prepared food for him and his two brethren, John and James, and called them from their occupation on the water, saying, "I will make you fishers of men." Jesus did not cast Peter off; but as he had three times denied his Master,                                                                              20  he tested his loyalty by three times putting to him the question, "Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?" Three times the answer came, not in the old proud and boastful manner, but in subdued and earnest tones from a humble heart, and quivering lips: "Yea, Lord, thou knowest that I love thee."  {PH069 19.3}
[PH069 20.1]          Jesus re-instated Peter in his former position of trust. He gave him the commission, "Feed my lambs," and the twice-repeated injunction, "Feed my sheep." The naturally impetuous and overbearing Peter, who once repulsed the mothers that came to Christ bringing their little children to receive his blessing, now that he was converted, was prepared to nurse the lambs of the Master's fold, as well as to care for the more experienced sheep. Here we see the defeat of Peter turned into a victory.  {PH069 20.1}
[PH069 20.2]          Christ had once said to him, "When thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren." Peter was now prepared for the important work of trust which our Lord gave him. He was no longer boastful and self-confident, having no patience with those whom he thought weaker and less zealous than himself. An abiding sense of his disgraceful fall prepared him to be compassionate toward the weak and erring. With humble gratitude he would recall and relate his experience                                                                              21  concerning his fall, and the pitying love of his Master in forgiving his apostasy, accepting his repentance, establishing him again in his confidence, and trusting him with a more responsible work than had previously been given him.  {PH069 20.2}
[PH069 21.1]          This story of Peter's apostasy and its results illustrates the manner of God's dealing with men. Peter himself leaves the fullest record of his own apostasy. This was for the warning of others, that they might avoid falling into a like sin. He knew many who should come after him would feel secure in their own strength, and the honesty of their good intentions and resolves; yet the hour of temptation would find them unarmed by watchfulness and prayer, and they would fall as he had done, because they had not made God their strength.  {PH069 21.1}
[PH069 21.2]          But notwithstanding the degradation of their Godlike manhood to assimilate with the heartless and debased, notwithstanding they may have fallen a prey to appetite and passion, led by despicable persons whom in their secret hearts they despise; yet the disciple would teach that if they arouse to a sense of their condition, face about and leave their evil habits, calling upon God to help them to resist temptation, he will never turn from them nor reject their petition, but will                                                                              22  comfort and sustain them by his forgiving love. "Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God."  {PH069 21.2}
[PH069 22.1]          God have, in his Son, the best gift that he could bestow upon man. Christ, the Majesty of Heaven, consented to leave the heavenly courts, and lay aside his robes of royalty, to come to a world all stained and marred by the curse, to take man's nature, and to reach to the very depths of human misery and woe, that by his own example of perfect character he might elevate and ennoble fallen man.  {PH069 22.1}
[PH069 22.2]          He brings his divine power to unite with man's human efforts, that in Christ's glorious name the creature of earth may be a victor on his own account. He takes the sins of man upon himself, and imputes his righteousness to all who will lay hold of his merits by faith. The Redeemer of the world encircles the fallen race with his strong human arm, while with his divine arm he grasps the throne of the Infinite.  {PH069 22.2}
[PH069 22.3]          Jesus offers man his divine aid, to help him in overcoming the temptations of Satan on the points of appetite and passion. Such love as this cannot be measured. The afflicted, the desponding and weary are invited to come to the Saviour with all their griefs and burdens. If they will place their hands                                                                              23  confidingly in his, he will cling to them more firmly than they can cling to him. He will lead them safely, and preserve them from stumbling; no one ever raised a hand to Christ for help in vain.  {PH069 22.3}
[PH069 23.1]          It is manifesting great ingratitude toward God to dwell upon the dark side of affairs, and let the shadows of despair shut from our souls the Sun of Righteousness. Sorrow comes and goes; it is the lot of man; we should not seek to magnify it, but rather dwell upon that which is bright and pleasant. When winter spreads its icy covering over the earth, we do not let our gladness freeze up with the flowers and brooks, and continually mourn because of the dismal days, and the chilling winds. On the other hand, we reach forward in imagination to the coming summer, with its warmth, and life, and beauty. Meanwhile we enjoy all the sunshine that comes to us, and find much comfort, in spite of the cold and snow, while we are waiting for nature to put on her fresh, bright garments of rejoicing.  {PH069 23.1}
[PH069 23.2]          Just now a cloud has shut from our sight the bright rays of the sun, and we are left in the shadow. Should we fret and repine because of this, and forget everything else that is bright and lovely around us? No; we should forget the cloud, and remember that                                                                              24  the sun is not blotted out, but has only veiled its face for a moment, to shine forth again in greater apparent brightness, and to be prized and enjoyed more highly than if it had never been hidden.  {PH069 23.2}
[PH069 24.1]          God is not pleased to have us pass our lives in despondency and gloom, magnifying every trouble that visits us. By so doing we not only make ourselves miserable, but cloud the happiness of those around us. We should not search out, and linger over, the dark shadows in our life experience, but rather open our eyes, and arouse our senses to see and appreciate the many blessings surrounding us, which should make us not only grateful but very happy.  {PH069 24.1}
[PH069 24.2]          It is God's will that we should be cheerful. He would have us open our hearts to the sunbeams of heaven; he would have our spirits mellowed by his love and goodness, apparent in our own lives, and in the things of nature surrounding us. Those who are brought in contact with us are affected for good or evil by our words and actions. We are unconsciously diffusing the fragrance of our character upon the moral atmosphere surrounding us, or we are poisoning that atmosphere by thoughts, words, and deeds which have a deleterious influence upon those                                                                              25  with whom we associate. "No man liveth to himself."  {PH069 24.2}
[PH069 25.1]          It is selfish to devote our precious time to mourning over disappointed hopes, indulging a useless grief that clouds the family circle. We should be cheerful, if only for the benefit of those who depend more or less upon us for happiness. We should be careful lest our unconscious influence unbalance others, and turn them from the work which God designed that they should do.  {PH069 25.1}
[PH069 25.2]          It is our duty to make the best of everything, and to cultivate a habit of looking at the bright side of things. Let the cloud that shadows us pass over, while we wait patiently till the clear blue sky again appears, and the blessed sunshine is revealed.  {PH069 25.2}
[PH069 25.3]          Many persons take a melancholy pleasure in feeling and talking as if the chief object of those with whom they are associated is to make them miserable. The sufferings of most such persons are self-created; they view everything from a false standpoint, and all things are perverted to their eyes. This is a terrible form of selfishness. Let us all forget self as much as possible, cultivate cheerfulness, seek to brighten the lives of others, and we shall then have less desire to complain of our own lot; we shall in fact lose sight of our selfish cares and gloom.                                                                              26   {PH069 25.3}
[PH069 26.1]          Those who have borne the greatest sorrows are frequently the ones who carry the greatest comfort to others, bringing sunshine wherever they go. Such ones have been chastened and sweetened by their afflictions; they did not lose confidence in God when trouble assailed them, but clung closer to his protecting love. Such ones are a living proof of the tender care of God, who makes the darkness as well as the light, and chastens us for our good. Christ is the light of the world; in him is no darkness. Precious light! Let us live in that light! Bid adieu to sadness and repining. Rejoice in the Lord always; and again I say, Rejoice.  {PH069 26.1}
[PH069 26.2]          The afflicted may take courage, the desponding may hope, for they have a sympathizing friend in Jesus. All our troubles and griefs we may pour into his sympathizing ears. When we associate together let it not be to talk darkness and unbelief, to recount the gloomy chapters in our life experience. Let us talk of the love of God that has been manifested to us, that is seen in nature, in the firmament of the heavens, in all the wise arrangements of Providence. Let us search out the rays of sunshine that have brightened our pathway, and linger over their memory with grateful hearts. Let us dwell upon the matchless                                                                              27  love of Christ; for in him we have a constant theme of rejoicing. In him is no darkness. He is the Light of life, the chief among ten thousand, and the one altogether lovely.                                                    -    {PH069 26.2}
[PH148 3.1]         PH148 - The Second Tithe (1901)                  The Sydney Sanitarium                  Special Testimony.          We have the most lively interest in the work in Australia, and we earnestly desire to see it advancing along its different lines. And especially do we desire to see the successful establishment of the Sydney Sanitarium. This work has been long delayed, and should now be pushed forward with vigor.  {PH148 3.1}
[PH148 3.2]                  Object of the Sanitarium.          The Lord has repeatedly given instruction regarding the importance of this institution, and the necessity for its establishment. He desires the Sanitarium to be built that we may co-operate with His instrumentalities in relieving the sufferings of humanity.  {PH148 3.2}
[PH148 3.3]          In the work in the Sanitarium, physicians, matron, and nurses are to co-operate with God in restoring the sick to health. In doing this, they co-operate with Him in restoring His image in the soul. Let us not limit the Holy One of Israel. Is not Christ officiating for us in the sanctuary above, at the right hand of God? Is He not making intercession for those who are suffering physically and those who are suffering spiritually? He invites them to come to Him who was dead, but is alive forevermore.                                  -4-  {PH148 3.3}
[PH148 4.1]          God desires suffering human beings to be taught how to avoid sickness by the practice of correct habits of eating, drinking, and dressing. Many are suffering under the oppressive power of sinful practices who might be restored to health by an intelligent observance of the laws of life and health, by co-operating with Him who died that they might have eternal life. This is the knowledge that men and women need. They need to be taught how to study the divine laws given by Christ for the good of all mankind. This is the work that is to be done in our Sanitarium in Australia.  {PH148 4.1}
[PH148 4.2]          God's instrumentalities should seek to follow in the foot-steps of the divine Healer. Those who come to the Sanitarium should be taught how to take care of the body, remembering the words, "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" Yes; we are God's property, and the path of obedience to Nature's laws is the direct path to heaven. He who is converted from errors in eating, drinking, and dressing, is being prepared to hear and receive the truth into a good and willing heart. Many, by practising the laws of Nature and by receiving the renovating grace of God into the soul, obtain a new lease of physical and spiritual life. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Let Wisdom's voice be heard; for her ways are ways of pleasantness and all her paths are peace.  {PH148 4.2}
[PH148 4.3]                   To Do All in Our Power.          I feel a special burden for the Sanitarium in Sydney. Let our brethren and sisters study carefully and prayerfully the present situation. There is need for them to do all they can to advance the work on the Sanitarium. They must depend largely upon themselves; for the brethren and sisters in America have been drawn upon heavily, and just now they are                              -5-     straining every nerve to relieve the embarrassed institutions in Scandinavia. We are doing our utmost to relieve the emergencies in Norway, Denmark, and Australia.  {PH148 4.3}
[PH148 5.1]          The inhabitants of the heavenly universe are looking with intense interest upon God's enterprises in different parts of the world. Let our people in Australia awake and rally to the help of the Sydney Sanitarium. Let them do all in their power to set this institution in operation as soon as possible. God says, "Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?" Take this word as a message from heaven, to which you are to pay profound attention, that you may understand the heavenly mandate, and be prepared to answer, "Here am I; send me."  {PH148 5.1}
[PH148 5.2]                 The Glory of the Gospel.          It is the glory of the gospel that it is founded upon the principle of restoring in the fallen race the divine image by a constant manifestation of benevolence. This work began in the heavenly courts. There God decided to give human beings an unmistakable evidence of the love with which He regarded them. He "so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."  {PH148 5.2}
[PH148 5.3]          The Godhead was stirred with pity for the race, and the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit gave themselves to the working out of the plan of redemption. In order fully to carry out this plan, it was decided that Christ, the only begotten Son of God, should give Himself an offering for sin. What line can measure the depth of this love? God would make it impossible for man to say that He could have done more. With Christ He gave all the resources of heaven, that nothing might be wanting in the plan for man's uplifting. Here is love--the contemplation of which should fill the soul with inexpressible gratitude!                                 -6-     Oh, what love, what matchless love! The contemplation of this love will cleanse the soul from all selfishness. It will lead the disciple to deny self, take up the cross, and follow the Redeemer.  {PH148 5.3}
[PH148 6.1]                   All Should Have a Part.          The establishment of churches and sanitariums is only a further manifestation of the love of God, and in this work all God's people should have a part. Christ formed His church here below for the express purpose of showing forth through the members the grace of God. Throughout the world His people are to raise memorials of His Sabbath,--the sign between Him and them that He is the one who sanctifies them. Thus they are to show that they have returned to their loyalty, and stand firmly for the principles of His law.  {PH148 6.1}
[PH148 6.2]          Sanitariums are to be so established and conducted that they will be educational in character. They are to show forth to the world the benevolence of heaven, and though Christ's visible presence is not discerned in the building, yet the workers may claim the promise, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." He has assured us that to those who love and fear Him, He will give power to continue the work He began on this earth. He went about doing good, teaching the ignorant, and healing the sick. And His work never stopped with an exhibition of His power to heal physical disease. He made each work of healing an occasion of implanting in the heart the divine principles of His love and benevolence. Thus His followers are to work.  {PH148 6.2}
[PH148 6.3]                   Uniting with the Angels.          The inhabitants of the heavenly universe are appointed to go forth to come into close touch with human instrumentalities who act as God's helping hand. In the performance of this mission of love,                                 -7-     angels mingle with the fallen race, ministering to those who shall be heirs of salvation. Divine and human agencies unite in the work of restoring the image of God in man. All who partake of the divine nature are appointed of God to unite with the angels in carrying forward with untiring zeal the plan of redemption.  {PH148 6.3}
[PH148 7.1]               The Second Tithe and Its Object.          To promote the assembling of the people for religious services, as well as to provide for the poor, anciently a second tithe of all the increase was required. Concerning the first tithe, the Lord had declared, "I have given the children of Levi all the tenth in Israel." But in regard to the second He commanded, "Thou shalt eat before the Lord thy God, in the place which He shall choose to place His name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstling of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the Lord thy God always." This tithe, or its equivalent in money, they were for two years to bring to the place where the sanctuary was established. After presenting a thank-offering to God, a special portion to the priests, the offerers were to use the remainder for a religious feast, in which the Levites, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow participate. Every third year, however, this second tithe was to be used at home, in entertaining the Levite and the poor, as Moses said, "That they may eat within thy gates, and be filled." This tithe would provide a fund for the uses of charity and hospitality.  {PH148 7.1}
[PH148 7.2]          The contributions required of the Hebrews for religious and charitable purposes amounted to fully one-fourth of their income. So heavy a tax upon the resources of the people might be expected to reduce them to poverty; but, on the contrary, the faithful observance of these regulations was one of the                                 -8-     conditions of their prosperity. Malachi 3:11. Shall we, who enjoy the full light and privileges of the gospel, be content to give less to God than was given by those who lived in the former, less favored dispensation? Nay, as the blessings we enjoy are greater, are not our obligations correspondingly increased?  {PH148 7.2}
[PH148 8.1]                     A Call to Action.          Shall we not as a people awaken to our responsibility? Shall we not manifest our love for God and our fellow-men by giving of our means to carry forward the work for this time, while the way is still open for work to be done?  {PH148 8.1}
[PH148 8.2]          The principles of Christ's love demand action. When this appeal shall come to you, let no one show his lack of faith by objecting to send the money raised to the place where it is most needed. Let no one raise an unbelieving hand to say that money shall not be sent to the Sydney Sanitarium. Do not conspire to quench the spark of benevolence; rather unite to fan it to a strong, steady flame.  {PH148 8.2}
[PH148 8.3]          All the money is the Lord's, and we now call upon our people in Australia to unite in carrying to a successful completion the work on the Sydney Sanitarium. The light given me is that this work can and must be done. Let not the work on the Sanitarium be hindered for lack of means. Let not this institution stand unfinished, as a reproach to our churches. Let those to whom the Lord has given the talent of means help to accomplish this work. Carry the work through in the name of the Lord Let all our people arise and see what they can do. Let them show that the spirit of God is moving them to action.  {PH148 8.3}
[PH148 8.4]          As you consider the situation, return to the Lord His own in gifts and offerings. The love of Christ demands your offerings. He whose heart is filled                                   -9-     with the love of Jesus will behold in every fellow-being a memorial of the love expressed by Christ for the human race. This love will cause their gratitude to flow forth in words and deeds of mercy and benevolence. Receiving and giving, they work in harmony with Christ's example.  {PH148 8.4}
[PH148 9.1]          The love expressed on Calvary should be revived, strengthened, and diffused among our churches. Shall we not do all we can to give power to the principles which Christ brought to this world? Shall we not strive to establish and give efficiency to the benevolent enterprises which are now called for without delay? Christ's believing people are to perpetuate His love. This love is to draw them together round the cross. It is to divest them of all selfishness, and bind them to God and to one another.  {PH148 9.1}
[PH148 9.2]          Meet around the cross of Calvary in self-sacrifice and self-denial. As you stand before the cross, and see the royal Prince of heaven dying for you, can you seal your heart, saying, "No; I have nothing to give"? God will bless you as you do your best. As you approach the throne of grace, as you find yourself bound to this throne by the golden chain let down from heaven to earth to draw men from the pit of sin, your heart will go out in love for your brethren and sisters who are without God and without hope in the world.  {PH148 9.2}
[PH148 9.3]          God help us to feel that now, just now is our time and opportunity to work for the Master. As we see the love that has been shown for us, shall not our love be awakened and enlarged, so that nothing will seem too much for us to do for God? Let us do something and do it now. Let us arouse from our apathy, and, catching the inspiration of God's love, work as never before for the Master. Let everyone now do his duty, laboring actively with Jesus Christ. A life beautified with holiness is not a life of idle contemplation, but a life filled up with earnest work for                                 -10-     the Master, whose light shineth more and more unto the perfect day. As Seventh-day Adventists, we have a work to do in witnessing for Christ. If indeed the Lord is coming, it is time to sell what we have and give alms. It is time to put out your money to the exchangers, time to place every dollar you can spare into the treasury of the Lord, that institutions may be erected for the education of workers, who shall be instructed as were those who attended the school of the prophets. If the Lord comes and finds you doing this kind of work. He will say, "Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."                                             Mrs. E. G. White.  {PH148 9.3}
[PH070 2.1]         PH070 - The Selection of Articles for our Papers (1899)             The Selection of Articles for our Papers         Our power and efficiency as Seventh-day Adventists is largely dependent on the literature which comes from our presses. An indiscriminate class of articles should not be published in our periodicals. Cheap, worthless stories should find no place in them. There are articles of romance and fiction which contain no seeds that will bear good fruit. I would say to our editors, Be careful in the selection of the matter which is to go to the world. Show the greatest caution and discernment. Be careful that the Review and Herald, and the Signs of the Times are kept free from worthless matter. Precious matter from what has already been printed can be found for our papers.  {PH070 2.1}
[PH070 2.2]         The tastes of some who write for our papers need to be educated and refined. The editors of the Review and Herald and the Signs of the Times should refuse to fill the columns of these papers with articles manufactured by minds which reveal themselves in their productions. Articles in any way coarse should be refused as matter unworthy of notice,--the production of those who know nothing of pure, elevated, and sanctified communion with God. Let no rough, uncouth presentation find place in our papers. The articles which go to thousands of readers should show purity, elevation, and sanctification of soul, body, and spirit on the part of the writer. The pen should be used as a means of sowing seed unto eternal life. This is a "Thus saith the Lord."                                                                              3   {PH070 2.2}
[PH070 3.1]          The articles published in our papers should contain pure provender, thoroughly winnowed from chaff. We are living in a most solemn time. Let our editors call for articles giving living experience. Let the ministers regard it as a part of their duty to send short articles of experience to our papers. It will be food for those who are laboring in isolated places, in foreign countries, and the islands of the sea, to hear in this way from the friends with whom they have been associated. These experiences may be to the readers as a love-feast, because the writers have been eating the bread which came down from heaven.  {PH070 3.1}
[PH070 3.2]          We do not need romance, for in the daily life we meet with real experiences, which, if told in short articles and in simple words, would be helpful to many. Let our workers try this. We want truth, solid truth, from solid, consecrated men, women, and youth. You who love God, whose minds are stored with precious bits of experience, and with the living realities of eternal life, kindle the flame of love and light in the hearts of God's people. Help them to deal with the problems of life.  {PH070 3.2}
[PH070 3.3]          Speech and pen are to be under the control of the Holy Spirit. If this is not the case with the writers for our periodicals, they might better lay aside the pen, and take up work of another order. God calls us into the mount to talk with Him, and when by faith we behold Him who is invisible, our words will not be cheap and common. The space in our papers is too precious to be filled up with articles that are not the best. Crowd in subjects weighty with eternal interests. Put not the crib                                                                              4  too high for the minds of the common people. Let the articles be written with Christlike simplicity, and let them be free from all chaff and stubble, for this will be consumed as worthless. God calls for consecrated pens. The articles published in our papers should be full of practical, elevating, ennobling thoughts, which will help and teach and strengthen the mind that reads them. God help our editors to choose wisely.  {PH070 3.3}
[PH070 4.1]          Words of Counsel in Regard to the             Publication and Sale of Books.            Letters have come to me with inquiries regarding the publication of books, asking whether there was not danger of placing before the people many things which do not relate to the truths so important to us as a people. I have been instructed that the common stories put into book form are not essential to our well-being. The world is flooded with this class of literature, and the fact that such books find a ready sale is by no means evidence that they are the books which should be circulated. The passion for stories is bringing into existence many thousands of worthless books, which are as hay, wood, and stubble. These books are written by those whose minds have been educated to run in a channel of romance. Everything that the imaginative mind can think of is woven into the book, and presented to the world as mental food. But very often it has no food value. "What is the chaff to the wheat?" We do not need novels; for we are dealing with the stern realities of life.                                                                              5   {PH070 4.1}
[PH070 5.1]          Cheap, worthless romances are not to be advertised or sold by our publishing houses. Many of the books now offered for sale are not after God's order. There might have been a time when the sale of these books would have been more seemly, but we are now altogether too near the close of this earth's history to keep before the attention of the people a class of books which do not contain the message which our people need. Draw their attention to books treating on practical faith and godliness. Cleanse and sanctify the camp. There is an abundance of books which will give light to the world.  {PH070 5.1}
[PH070 5.2]          I can not understand why our papers should contain so many notices of books unessential for this time. Plenty of such books can be obtained in all bookstores. Why not draw the minds of the people to subjects relating to the words of eternal life? Why not make an effort to obtain communications, simple, real, and true, from our workers in all parts of the world? God calls for this class of reading. We have no time to devote to commonplace things, no time to waste on books which only devote to commonplace things, no time to waste on books which only amuse.  {PH070 5.2}
[PH070 5.3]          The matter published in our papers should be such as will help those who read it. The space in these papers should be devoted to the publication of living, earnest matter, which concerns the salvation of the soul. Will our brethren consider this matter, and keep hay, wood, and stubble out of our papers?  {PH070 5.3}
[PH070 5.4]          The work of ministers and writers is to prepare a people to meet God. The standard of truth has                                                                              6  been lowered in the dust. Family religion, family holiness, is now to be honored as never before. As a sanctifier, reprover, and comforter, the Holy Spirit is to do the work essential for this time. If ever a people needed to walk before God as did Enoch, Seventh-day Adventists need to now, showing their sincerity by pure words, clean words, words full of sympathy, tenderness and love. But it is not to end here. There are times when words of reproof and sharp rebuke are called for. Those who are out of the right way need more than soft words to bring them back. Moral renovation must take place in every heart, else souls will perish in their sins. If we brought the instruction contained in the twelfth chapter of Romans into the practical life, we would be true believers. Those whose faith is spurious will show by their daily exhibition of character that they are not true Christians. Those who have put on Christ are transformed by the renewing of their minds. By their own experience they prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God.                          Ellen G. White.  {PH070 5.4}
[PH149 0.2]     Table of Contents    To Managers and Workers............................................ 3-15  Consolidation of the Publishing Work.............................. 16-29    To Men in Responsible Positions, etc............................ 18  To General Conference Committee, etc.............................. 21    To the Pacific Press............................................ 25    Personal Letters to C. H. Jones................................. 27  General Testimony to Pacific Press................................ 30-39  Associations and Discipline....................................... 40-44  To the Directors.................................................. 45-51  To the Workers.................................................... 52-67  To Washington and Mountain View................................... 68-75  Prices on Publications............................................ 76-78  {PH149 0.2}
[PH149 3.1]       Chap. 1 - To the Managers and Workers in Our Institutions         In the providence of God we have institutions established among us to advance the promulgation of truth, but they do not reach the efficiency they might if the workers were wholly consecrated to God. The Lord has made every provision that these institutions may reach a high standard, that they may attain to a larger growth and wider usefulness, and that those employed in them may possess Christian virtues and graces. But those connected with these instrumentalities are not all devout and spiritual. They do not represent the spirit and character of Christ. They are not ensamples to those connected with them, because they do not live in communion with God, earnestly seeking by faith and fervent prayer to know His will that they may do it.  {PH149 3.1}
[PH149 3.2]              Missionary Institutions          These instrumentalities are missionary institutions. The Lord designed that they should be a power for good; and if all who are connected with them are consecrated, if they are meek and lowly in heart, Christ will give them most precious lessons in His school. In our health institutions, our publishing houses, our schools, all should work harmoniously to carry out the purpose of God, and everything connected with the institutions should tend toward reform. The managers and helpers should have the true missionary spirit                                                                              4  as a daily, abiding principle; for they are in a field that requires the highest kind of missionary work. Our institutions, properly conducted, will exert a far-reaching influence, and if the managers and workers are Christians, they will be as shining lights. They will educate those connected with them in the principles of truth.  {PH149 3.2}
[PH149 4.1]          A responsibility to spread the knowledge of right principles rests upon who have received the light. This responsibility should be felt by every man and woman who claims to be a Seventh-day Adventist, and much more by those who are connected with our institutions. All should realize that these institutions are an important part of the Lord's great work for the salvation of souls. Let it be the aim of all to be laborers together with God for the uplifting of humanity. All should be educators by precept and example. . . .  {PH149 4.1}
[PH149 4.2]                 The Superintendent          Wisdom is needed in the selection of managers in the various departments. It is impossible for one to control others until he learns to control himself. The superintendent should be a man who loves and fears God. He should sacredly guard his reputation, giving no occasion for anyone to reproach the cause of God. He should not be narrow-minded, a man of one idea. One who is changeable, now indulgent, then cold and unapproachable, or critical, exacting, and domineering, is not                                                                              5  fitted for this position, nor is he who will cherish suspicion, jealousy, passion, or stubbornness. These traits are not pleasing to God, and will not be manifested by any who take Jesus for their pattern and counselor. The superintendent must manifest the spirit of Christ; yet he should be firm to restrain evil. A neglect of this duty shows him to be unfit for his position. God requires of a steward that he be found faithful. A manager must be a growing man in order to meet the difficulties as well as the opportunities that are constantly arising. He should be quick to discern what needs to be done, and take active measures to accomplish the work at the right time. There are many rules made, many regulations passed, that fall dead because they are not carried into effect. Time is spent in board meetings, councils, and business meetings, matters are discussed, and resolutions made; and then if these resolutions die a natural death, things are left in a worse state than if no action had been taken.  {PH149 4.2}
[PH149 5.1]                  Those in Responsibility          If those who hold positions of trust are persons who love and fear God, they will realize that a sacred responsibility is theirs, because of the measure of authority and the consequent influence which their position gives them. They are dealing with varied minds, and they should move discreetly, for they are representatives of the institution. They should be                                                                              6  kind and courteous, manifesting Christian politeness toward all with whom they are brought in contact, both believers and unbelievers. Brethren, you are to represent the family to the heavenly King. You are to watch for souls as they that must given an account. We should never forget that Jesus, in the infinite sacrifice that He has made, has proved His love for every man, woman, and child; He has shown what value He places upon every soul. All have been purchased by the price of His own blood.  {PH149 5.1}
[PH149 6.1]          Let your influence be persuasive, binding people to your hearts, because you love Jesus, and these souls are His purchased possession. This is a great work. If, by your Christlike words and actions, you make impressions that will create in their hearts a hungering and thirsting after righteousness and truth, you are a colaborer with Christ. Those who have a leading influence in the institutions should be men and women who possess devotion and piety, who are not narrow and selfish in any matter; but conscientious, self-denying, and self-sacrificing, ever dealing with the workers as they would wish to be dealt with, having an eye single to the glory of God. Men of such a character will keep the way of the Lord. The workers should seek to make it as easy as possible for those who bear the burden of responsibility, and have many cares and perplexities to engage their attention.                                                                              7   {PH149 6.1}
[PH149 7.1]                     Right Principles          All need to have right principles placed before them in a judicious manner. Men of investigating minds will thus receive the key of knowledge, and will bring out treasures of thought for the enriching of other minds -- thought that will result in the saving of souls. Circumstances will call forth words and decisions in favor of the right, and many will thus be swayed in the right direction. Words and works flowing from the heart imbued with the love and fear of God become a widespread blessing -- a blessing that is carried into the highways and byways of life.  {PH149 7.1}
[PH149 7.2]          There are words spoken that are not Christlike,-- bitter, harsh, wicked words. This should not be. . . . Leaders in our institutions have many and weighty responsibilities. Their only safety is in keeping their thoughts and impulses under the control of the Great Teacher. They have golden opportunities for doing good; they can speak words in season that will guide and mold the many and varied minds with which they are brought in contact. Daily they should take their stand for God as though it were the last day they should serve in this capacity. Show men and women connected with the institution how pure and noble they may become. Let them see that you have firm confidence in God, and that He is your source of strength, that you are resting wholly upon His promises. Fulfill your duty with promptness, while claiming your heavenly Father's                                                                              8  help in overcoming all weakness of character. With the hand of faith grasp the arm of Infinite Power, put your whole being into your work. Ever keep a winning, courteous, kind spirit, and every room may be transformed into a Bethel. . . .  {PH149 7.2}
[PH149 8.1]          God demands more of us than we are willing to give Him. None are to be forward or obtrusive, but we are quietly to live out our religion, with an eye single to the glory of God. "Learn of Me," says Christ; "for I am meek and lowly in heart." Then we shall shine as lights in the world, without noise or friction. None need fail; for One is with them who is wise in counsel, excellent in working, and mighty to accomplish His designs. He works through His agents, seen and unseen, human and divine. This work is a grand work, and will be carried forward to the glory of God if all who are connected with it will make their works correspond to their profession of faith. Purity of thought must be cherished as indispensable to the work of influencing others. The soul must be surrounded by a pure, holy atmosphere--an atmosphere that will tend to quicken the spiritual life of all who inhale it. . . .  {PH149 8.1}
[PH149 8.2]                   A Lowered Standard          In the present state of society, with the lax morals of not only youth but those of age and experience, there is great danger of becoming careless, and giving especial attention to favorites, and thus creating envy, jealousy,                                                                              9  and evil surmising. But few realize that they drive away the Spirit of God with their selfish thoughts and feelings, their foolish, trifling talk. When admonished, they say, "I meant no harm." What do these frivolous ones mean? Do they forget that that which they sow they shall also reap? This silly, nonsensical conversation reveals a weak character and is an offense to God. If the grace of Christ were planted in their hearts, and striking its roots down deep into good soil, they would bear fruit of an altogether different character. They would be acquiring moral stamina, that strength of purpose and solidity of character which are essential for the great and good work that ought to be done. Others would feel their influence, and would take knowledge of them that they were led and taught by Jesus.  {PH149 8.2}
[PH149 9.1]          Many of these trifling, frivolous ones make a profession of religion, and this hollow form of godliness has been so long tolerated that it has pervaded our institutions, and extends to our churches. The standard of piety is lowered into the dust.  {PH149 9.1}
[PH149 9.2]          Careful attention should be given to the moral standing and influence of everyone employed in our institutions. If the workers are in any way impure in heart of life, it will be revealed in their words and actions, notwithstanding their efforts to conceal the truth. If they are not strictly moral, there is danger in employing them, for they will be in a position where they can mislead those who desire                                                                              10  to reform, and can confirm them in unholy, defiling practices. . . .  {PH149 9.2}
[PH149 10.1]          Our probation is short at best; we have no time to spend in erratic movements. The familiarity of married men with married women and with young girls, is disgusting in the sight of God and holy angels. The forwardness of young girls in placing themselves in the company of young men, hanging around where they are at work, entering into conversation with them, talking common, idle talk, is belittling to womanhood. It lowers them, even in the estimation of those who indulge in such things. There is a positive necessity for reform. All frivolity, all undue attention of men to women, or women to men, must be condemned and discontinued. These things have produced great evil in the world.  {PH149 10.1}
[PH149 10.2]          The first appearance of irregularity in conduct should receive attention. The young should be taught to be frank yet modest in all their associations. They should be taught to respect just rules and authority. If they refuse to do this, after the right kind of labor has been bestowed upon them, let them be dismissed, whatever position they occupy; for they will demoralize others.  {PH149 10.2}
[PH149 10.3]                God's Purpose for Us          Those who labor in our institutions are there for the purpose of promoting the intellectual and spiritual welfare of those under their care. They must make their work a                                                                              11  matter of earnest prayer and study, that they may know how to deal with human minds and accomplish the object before them. . . .  {PH149 10.3}
[PH149 11.1]          The mind may be so elevated that divine thoughts and contemplations come to be as natural as the breath. All the faculties of the soul are to be trained. We must do God's work intelligently. We must know the truth; and to know this is to know God. . . .  {PH149 11.1}
[PH149 11.2]          Managers and workers, are your souls united to Christ as the branch is united to the living vine? If you have not been renewed in the spirit of your mind, for your soul's sake make no delay to have your life hid with Christ in God.  {PH149 11.2}
[PH149 11.3]          This is the first business of your life. When Christ is abiding in the heart, you will not be light, trifling, and immodest, but circumspect and reliable in every place, sending forth pure words, like streams from a pure fountain, refreshing all with whom you come in contact. If you decide to continue your idle talk and frivolous conduct, go to some other place, where your influence and example will not be so widely felt in contaminating other souls. What you all need is such a sense of the purity and holiness of Christ as will lead you to despise this pretense of religion, which blesses no one, gives no peace of conscience, no repose of faith. . . .  {PH149 11.3}
[PH149 11.4]              A Higher Standard Demanded          It is time that we as Christians reach a much higher standard. God forbid that any                                                                              12  institution that He has planted shall become a means of decoying souls, a place where iniquity is taught. Let all learn in the school of Christ, meekness, purity, and lowliness of heart. Let them hang their helpless souls on Jesus. Live in the light shining from the oracles of God. Educate mind and heart to pure, elevated, holy thoughts. "Be ye holy in all manner of conversation." Whatever influence you have, direct it to exalting Jesus, and not self. Unless you do this, you are a false guide, leading souls away from the Truth, the Life, the Light of the world; and the more pleasing and attractive your manners, the greater the harm you do.  {PH149 11.4}
[PH149 12.1]          I tell you every soul needs a genuine conversion. All your faculties need to be consecrated to God, that you may not encourage the evils prevailing in society, but may counteract them. Many have been cultivating habits that lead directly to earthly and sensual actions; and unless the power of God shall break the snare, souls will be lost in consequence. God has claims upon you that you do not realize; for you have not brought Christ into your lives. Great decision of character will now be necessary on your part, to change this order of things. No weak efforts will accomplish the work. You can not do it for yourselves; you must have the grace of Christ, or you can never overcome. All your plans will prove a failure unless you are actuated by higher motives, and upheld by                                                                              13  greater strength, than you can have in and of yourselves. "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." There will be no relish for trifling conversation on the part of those who are looking to Jesus for strength, depending upon His righteousness for salvation. By faith they accept Christ as their personal Saviour, and become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.  {PH149 12.1}
[PH149 13.1]                  "Without Partiality"          There should be no giving of special favors, or attentions to a few, no preferring of one above another. This is displeasing to God. Let all bear in mind the words of inspiration: "The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy." When you pass by one who is in need of your sympathy and kindly acts, and bestow your favors upon others simply because they are more pleasing to you, remember that Jesus is insulted in the person of His afflicted ones. He says, "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." To the surprised inquiry, "Lord, when saw we Thee" thus? the answer is given,                                                                              14  "Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these ［who were afflicted and needed your sympathy］, ye did it not to Me." "They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick." The bruised and wounded, the lame of the flock, are among us, and these test the character of those who claim to be children of God. The Lord will not excuse the wrongdoer. He will never sanction partiality to the wealthy or oppression of the weak. He requires exact and impartial justice; more than this, He requires that His followers shall always have compassion for the suffering, pity and love for the erring. . . .  {PH149 13.1}
[PH149 14.1]          The question is, Shall we be Bible Christians? Will we disregard the plainest instruction given us in the Word of life, and erect a false standard whereby to measure our characters? Is this a safe thing for us to do? . . .  {PH149 14.1}
[PH149 14.2]          Let those who claim to be Bible believers act out their faith by obedience to all the requirements of God. Christ has invited you, "Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls." . . .  {PH149 14.2}
[PH149 14.3]          Do those who claim to believe the Testimonies read and practice their teachings? All the light given in the living oracles and in the Testimonies, which all may read and apply, can condemn them in the day of God if they do not heed the instruction given. . . .  {PH149 14.3}
[PH149 14.4]          Brethren, the days of our probation are nearly ended. It is time to awake out of                                                                              15  sleep. You are in a position of great responsibility. You need to watch unto prayer. Watch against habits of sin. Keep a watch over the tongue. Watch for opportunities to do good and bless others, ever looking to Jesus, growing in grace and a knowledge of the truth. If you want the higher life, you must live the higher life in the lower life of this world. We are working for time and for eternity. A well built life is formed by living upon the plan of addition, laying up one grace after another, in good works, in faith, patience, temperance, benevolence, courage, self-denial. "Ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building." Learning of Christ you will not be a jumble of opposites and inconsistencies, today sober and devout, tomorrow careless and frivolous.  {PH149 14.4}
[PH149 15.1]         Christ has made every provision that your character may be harmonious through the grace given you. Then build it harmoniously. Let the structure rise stone on stone. Catch the rays of divine light from Jesus, and let them shine upon the pathway of others who are in darkness. All the universe of God is looking upon us with intense interest.  {PH149 15.1}
[PH149 16.1]       Chap. 2 - Consolidation of the Publishing Work       Important Principles in Institutional                   Organization            The subject of consolidating our publishing work, to bring it under one management, has been presented to me, and I have been shown what the outcome would be. It would result in bringing all the publishing houses under the control of a man-made power at Battle Creek, which already has far to extensive a rule. It will be urged that since the publishing interest in Battle Creek is under the supervision of the General Conference, matters are placed on a different basis, and that the objections to consolidation are removed. But the same influences that have been leading away from the principles upon which our publishing institutions were founded, are still working. There is a change of name, but to a great degree the management is the same. It is no time for any institution among us to act out the principles of Rome in seeking to bring everything under its own control. . . .  {PH149 16.1}
[PH149 16.2]          There must be no confederacy to ignore the individuality of the publishing work on the Pacific Coast. Let not our brethren attempt to submerge the identity of the Pacific Press in the publishing house at Battle Creek, thinking to increase the strength of both. The Pacific Press has been led to depend too largely upon Battle Creek; its managers should have                                                                              17  discerned the talents to be found on the Pacific Coast, and would have shown true wisdom in securing all the ability possible in order to make their work a complete whole. Let the Battle Creek publishing house and the Pacific Press regard each other as sister institutions. In cooperation they can exert a healthful influence upon each other, but not in consolidation. These institutions are not to become merged into one. . . .  {PH149 16.2}
[PH149 17.1]          The light that I have had for years is that these institutions must stand separate, each preserving its own individuality. A nearer relation than this will tend to the injury of both. . . .  {PH149 17.1}
[PH149 17.2]          I fear that the managers of the Pacific Press have accepted propositions without the careful and prayerful consideration which should have been given them. No proposition should be accepted, no matter whence it may come, unless it is definitely stated in writing, and a copy given to the managers of each institution. Then let several of the leading men together bring the matter before the Lord; spread out the writing before Him, and with earnest prayer seek for clear discernment and sharp discrimination to decide whether the plans proposed are for the glory of God and the good of both institutions. As you ask for wisdom, believe that you receive, and you shall have; for God has promised it. . . .                                                                              18   {PH149 17.2}
[PH149 18.1]          I repeat, the fact that the General Conference has taken the control of the publishing work does not remove the objection to consolidation. . . .        July, 1896.                                                    -    {PH149 18.1}
[PH149 18.2]           To the Men in Responsible Positions                    in Battle Creek              Granville, N. S. W., September, 1895.            Dear Brethren: . . . Consolidation means that all institutions are to be merged into the Battle Creek institutions. For years something of this kind has been proposed by one and another. But according to the light I have had, the plan is wrong, decidedly wrong. Let every institution stand in its own individuality, doing its respective work in its own locality. . . .  {PH149 18.2}
[PH149 18.3]          The Pacific Press should stand in its own moral independence, carrying on its work beyond the Rocky Mountains, in a little world of its own. ［SEE LATER TESTIMONY, PAGE 25.］ Its managers are responsible to God to do their work as in full view of the universe of heaven.  {PH149 18.3}
[PH149 18.4]         Men are coming to trust in men, and to make flesh their arm; and when that arm is not linked in the arm of Christ, they will find that they are leaning upon a broken reed.  {PH149 18.4}
[PH149 18.5]          The publishing houses were established in America in the counsel of God, under His direction and supervision, and they should                                                                              19  stand in their own individuality, as sister institutions. Never should they be so related to each other that one shall have power to control the running of the other. If one institution shall adopt a policy which the other does not sanction, the other institution is not to be corrupted, but is to stand in its God-given responsibility, true to the principles that were expressed in its establishment, and carrying forward the work in harmony with those principles. . . .  {PH149 18.5}
[PH149 19.1]          Every institution should work in harmony with the other institutions, but farther than this they should not go toward confederacy or merging into one. Already there are men who supposing themselves wise, are trying to shape matters according to their ideas. Things may for a time appear to prosper in their hands, but the result will be that which they do not now anticipate. . . .  {PH149 19.1}
[PH149 19.2]          When every institution is merged into the one that is greatest,--that is, measured by her power of control,--that one will indeed be a ruling power, and if the principles of action in the most powerful institution are corrupted, as is now the case, and as has been in the history of the past, every other institution must follow the same path, else a determined influence will be brought to bear against it. The difficulty is not in the institution, but in the members.  {PH149 19.2}
[PH149 19.3]          This position to press men into hard places if you can not bring them to your                                                                              20  ideas, is not according to God's order. Those who do this when it suits them, are bringing souls into unbelief and temptation, and driving them on Satan's battlefield. They forget that God will deal with them as they deal with their fellow men. God's cause is not to be molded by one man, or half a dozen men. . . .  {PH149 19.3}
[PH149 20.1]          God's instrumentalities are not chosen of men, or under their jurisdiction. They are to prepare a people to stand in the day of the Lord. . . . By no sharp dealing or underhand advantage is the Lord to be glorified or His truth served. Money acquired in this way to supply the treasury will benefit no one; for God will not serve with the sins of oppression and selfishness.  {PH149 20.1}
[PH149 20.2]          It should be written on the conscience as with a pen of iron upon a rock, that no man can achieve true success while violating the eternal principles of right. There must be a cleansing of the institutions similar to Christ's cleansing of the temple of old. "It is written," saith the Lord, "My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves." There are in our institutions today, transactions similar to those that took place in the temple court in Christ's time; and all heaven is looking on. . . .  {PH149 20.2}
[PH149 20.3]         The publishing houses were brought into existence in a spirit of sacrifice, and no persons should have been permitted to hold a responsible position in the work, who desired to                                                                              21  work according to the world's policy. The consecration and purity of the worker will be evidenced by the principles manifested in his attitude toward every child of God. The publishing house was established for the purpose of doing business upon the principles of justice and equity, judging every case without partiality and without hypocrisy. In our institutions the spirit of Christ was to be a witness to the world of the character of God, a living epistle, known and read of all men. . . .  {PH149 20.3}
[PH149 21.1]          God requires every man to be punctual, just, and without guile in his lips or in his heart. Be righteous in all dealings with your fellow men if you would have not only the name but the character of a Christian. Those who depart from Bible principles, and vindicate their defects as righteous, have never received the true knowledge of Christ or the experience of being in truth doers of the Word. There is nothing in the Word of God that glosses over or excuses one phase of selfishness, one approach to overreaching or dishonesty. . . .                                                    -    {PH149 21.1}
[PH149 21.2]     To the General Conference Committee and the        Publishing Boards of the Review and              Herald and Pacific Press              William St., Granville, April 8, 1894.        Dear Brethren: I would address to you words of counsel. I have received a letter from Brother C. H. Jones in reference to changes                                                                              22  which it is proposed to make in the publication of our periodicals. Questions are asked in reference to these matters. One is, "Shall our periodicals be combined in one paper or magazine?" . . .  {PH149 21.2}
[PH149 22.1]          I can not see wisdom in the policy of having all our periodicals combined in one paper or magazine. Each of our periodicals has its own place, and is to do a specific work. Let our brethren inquire, Has the necessity of this work, and its object, changed? If you think so, then wherein? . . .  {PH149 22.1}
[PH149 22.2]          The present is a time of special peril. In 1890 and 1891 there was presented to me a view of dangers that would threaten the work. . . . Propositions which to their authors appeared very wise would be introduced, looking to the formation of a confederacy that would make Battle Creek, like Rome, the great head of the work, and enable the office of publication there to swallow up everything in the publishing line among us. This is not God's wisdom, but human wisdom. Those matters have been coming up again and again in different aspects, but this policy of consolidation would, if adopted, result in marring the work. God would have His work move firmly and solidly, but no one branch is to interfere with or absorb other branches of the same great work. From time to time for years, in the past, God has been pleased to give me special light on these points. I was                                                                              23  shown that the small periodicals, as well as the larger ones, are to come forth from the publishing houses and be scattered like the leaves of autumn to answer the wants of the cause in its growth and extension. . . .  {PH149 22.2}
[PH149 23.1]          The work of publication was represented to me by the figure which Christ used, the vine. In the different branches of this great work, as in the branches of the vine, there is to be unity in diversity. This is God's plan, the principle that runs through the entire universe. In God's wise arrangement there is diversity, and yet He has so related each part to others that all work in harmony to carry out His great plan in extending the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ whom He hath sent. However there may appear to be dissimilarity, the work is one great whole, and bears the stamp of infinite wisdom. God and Christ are one, Christ and His disciples are one, we in Christ, and Christ in God. . . . Each branch bears its burden of fruit, and all together make a harmonious whole, a complete, beautiful unity. This is harmony according to the Lord's order.  {PH149 23.1}
[PH149 23.2]          Warnings have been given me that the publishing house on the Pacific Coast should not, in thought, word, or deed, depreciate the office at Battle Creek, neither should the publishing house at Battle Creek look with envy and jealousy upon the instrumentalities the Lord has established upon the Pacific Coast.                                                                              24  Plans should be carefully considered in Battle Creek, that they may in no case militate against the work in Oakland. . . .  {PH149 23.2}
[PH149 24.1]          I understand something about these two institutions, for my husband and I had to lead out in establishing them and carrying them forward. The Lord gave special directions as to how they should be conducted. These principles I have not withheld from those who were numbered as believers in the truth.  {PH149 24.1}
[PH149 24.2]          The work has been presented to me as, at its beginning, a small, very small rivulet. The representation was given to the prophet Ezekiel of waters issuing "from under the threshold of the house eastward . . . at the south side of the altar." Please read Ezekiel 47. Mark verse 8. . . . This work was represented to me as extending to the east and to the north, to the islands of the sea, and to all parts of the world. As the work increases, there will be a great and living interest to be managed by human instrumentalities. The work is not to be centered in any one place, not even in Battle Creek. Human wisdom argues that it is more convenient to build up the interest where it has already obtained character and influence; mistakes have been made in this line. Individuality and personal responsibility are thus repressed and weakened. The work is the Lord's, and the strength and efficiency are not all to be concentrated in any one place.                                                                              25   {PH149 24.2}
[PH149 25.1]                    To the Pacific Press        Twenty years ago ［1876］, I was surprised at the cautions and warnings given me in reference to the publishing house on the Pacific Coast; that it was ever to remain independent of all other institutions; that it was to be controlled by no other institution, but was to do the Lord's work under His guidance and protection. . . . It must maintain its own individuality, and be strictly guarded from any corruption. It must not be merged into any other institution. The hand of power and control at Battle Creek must not reach across the continent to manage it.  {PH149 25.1}
[PH149 25.2]          At a later date, just prior to my husband's death, the minds of some were agitated in regard to placing these institutions under one presiding power. Again the Holy Spirit brought to my mind what had been stated to me by the Lord. I told my husband to say, in answer to this proposition, that the Lord had not planned any such action. He who knows the end from the beginning, understands these matters better than erring man.  {PH149 25.2}
[PH149 25.3]          At a still later date the situation of the publishing house at Oakland was again presented to me. I was shown that a work was to be done by this institution which would be to the glory of God if the workers would keep His honor ever in view; but that an error was being committed by taking in a class of work which had a tendency to corrupt the                                                                              26  institution. I was also shown that it must stand in its own independence, working out God's plan, under the control of none other but God.  {PH149 25.3}
[PH149 26.1]          The Lord presented before me that branches of this work would be planted in other places, and carried on under the supervision of the Pacific Press; but that if this proved a success, jealousy, evil surmisings, and covetousness would arise. Efforts would be made to change the order of things, and embrace the work among other interests at Battle Creek. Men are very zealous to change the order of things, but the Lord forbids such a consolidation. Every branch should be allowed to live, and do its own work.  {PH149 26.1}
[PH149 26.2]          Mistakes will occur in every institution, but if the managers will learn the lesson all must learn,--to move guardedly,--these errors will not be repeated, and God will preside over the work. Every worker in our institutions needs to make the Word of God his rule of action. Then the blessing of God will rest on him. He can not with safety dispense with the truth of God as his guide and monitor. If man can take one breath without being dependent upon God, then he may lay aside God's pure, holy Word as guidebook. The truth must take control of the conscience and the understanding in all the work that is done. The Holy Spirit must preside over thought and word and deed. It is to direct in all temporal and spiritual actions.  {PH149 26.2}
[PH149 26.3]          It is well pleasing to God that we have praise and prayer and religious services, but Bible                                                                              27  religion must be brought into all we do, and give sanctity to each daily duty. The Lord's will must become man's will in everything. The Holy One of Israel has given rules of guidance to all, and these rules of guidance are to be strictly followed; for they form the standard of character. No one can swerve from the first principles of righteousness without sinning. But our religion is misinterpreted and despised by unbelievers, because so many who profess to hold the truth, do not practice its principles in dealing with their fellow men. . . .  {PH149 26.3}
[PH149 27.1]          If those connected with the work of God will not hear His voice and do His will, they should be separated entirely from the work. God does not need the influence of such men. I speak plainly; for it is time that things were called by their right name. Those who love and fear God with all their hearts are the only men that God can trust. But those who have separated their souls from God, should themselves be separated from the work of God, which is so solemn and so important.        May, 1896.                                                    -    {PH149 27.1}
[PH149 27.2]         Extracts from Personal Letters from          Mrs. E. G. White to C. H. Jones                 Cooranbong, N. S. W., July 8, 1895.            Dear Brother Jones: There is need for the Pacific Press to stand in God, subject to no human power of control in their action. You                                                                              28  are not to hold yourself to seek permission of the authorities of Battle Creek whether you shall or shall not pursue a line of work that seems impressed upon you to do. The Lord is the one to whom you are to be amenable. All the light heretofore given me of God is that these institutions out of Battle Creek should not be absorbed by Battle Creek. It would be an injury to both parties. Each is to stand in harmony one with the other, yet preserve their individuality of action, responsible to God and Him alone. If one pursues a course of selfish action, or of absorbing everything by just or unjust means, my voice can not be silent. I shall be heard, for God has given me His word. I look upon consolidation in unity, and helpfulness of one another, as sound principle; but I do not and can not give my influence to consolidation in blending the institutions in one great whole. . . .  {PH149 27.2}
[PH149 28.1]          I tell you in the fear of God, stand in God to do His will, to keep the ways of the Lord, to do justice and judgment. Let there be no betrayal of sacred trusts on your part. . . . Walk humbly and softly before God. If God sees the least injustice done to one of His children, He will punish for these things. . . . The Lord God is ruler of the world, ruler of His own subjects.  {PH149 28.1}
[PH149 28.2]          God would have the Pacific Press Publishing House stand free and clear, and untrammeled by any power. God would have every                                                                              29  one of His institutions rise above the frosty atmosphere in which the human agent will be if left to himself. Inclined to live and breathe, he must live and breathe in the holy, pure, life-giving atmosphere of heaven, else sentiments, and plans, and resolutions will clog and impede our heavenly advance movements. . . .                                                    -    {PH149 28.2}
[PH149 29.1]                    Cooranbong, N. S. W., Aug. 2, 1895.          . . . I beg of you and all the officials at the Pacific Press to know that every move you make is in the light of the counsel of God. The moves being made of consolidation mean placing all your powers under the jurisdiction of the powers in office at Battle Creek. I say, God forbid that you should adopt the plans and be controlled by the principles that have ruled them like the laws of the Medes and Persians.  {PH149 29.1}
[PH149 29.2]          God has presented to me, which I have presented to you, that the Pacific Press should stand on its own individuality, relying upon God, doing its work in God, as His instrumentality-- the human agent working with God, contrite in spirit, meek and lowly in heart, ready to be taught of God, but not subject to any earthly power that shall propose plans and ways that are not after the light God has given. Be on guard. Be on guard, and do not sell your religious liberty to any office or to any man, or board or council of men.  {PH149 29.2}
[PH149 30.1]       Chap. 3 - A General Testimony        True Sense of the Sacredness of the Work            In regard to matters at the Pacific Publishing House, there has not been that faithfulness which God requires. There should be a deeper sense of the sacredness of the work, and each and all should be faithful in their several departments of the work. But there is a great lack of stability with some. When special attentions are shown by young men to the young ladies, and they in turn encourage these attentions, and the company of young men, involving neglect of duties, becoming frivolous and unguarded in deportment, it is wrong to encourage such a course of conduct by retaining them in the office in connection with the work; and when marriages occur no display should be countenanced.  {PH149 30.1}
[PH149 30.2]          I was shown that there is not, with a number of those at work in the office, a true sense of religious things. Those who have left the East for the Pacific Coast should not in their daily and religious life pursue a course which is not worthy of imitation. They disgrace and misrepresent those who are connected with the work in the East. They should be circumspect in their conduct. Their daily religious life is very defective. Eternal interests are placed below the temporal. I saw that against the names of several now at work in the Signs office was written in the ledger of heaven, "Wanting--weighed in the balance and found                                                                              31  wanting." As the searching eyes of the Judge rested upon these unfaithful ones, their countenances became pale, and terror seized them. Some had not been guilty of any great wrong, but they had not let their light so shine before men that others, by seeing their good works, would reflect glory to God. You who are working in the office may avail yourselves of religious privileges if you will, so that you may have spiritual strength to put forth spiritual exercise for your own benefit and that of others. Prayer meetings are neglected, religious duties are left undone, and the conscience is at ease. What does this spiritual slothfulness say in favor of Christ? Just this, that your own business, or the mechanical work in which you are engaged, is of more consequence than the service of God.  {PH149 30.2}
[PH149 31.1]           Importance of Religious Services            You may work with earnestness in the performance of your mechanical duties, and then, without interest or earnestness, go to religious service, showing that you have no heart in such service. How can such professors grow? It is impossible. They ever remain dwarfs in religious things, and when the judgment shall sit and the books be opened, their names come under the head of slothful servants,--weighed in the balance and found wanting.  {PH149 31.1}
[PH149 31.2]          The preached Word will be powerless for the conviction and conversion of souls, while a sleepy, lazy, and backslidden church are all that are left to sustain the efforts of the laborer.                                                                              32  The efforts of Christ's ambassadors will be successful only when sustained by an earnest, praying, working people. Prayer meetings are neglected, while concerts, singing schools, and various entertainments are faithfully patronized. "It's only a prayer meeting," is often repeated by church members; I can not call them Christians. Exciting popular lectures will interest the church members and call them out, when the prayer meeting has no attraction for them. This reveals the true spiritual condition of the church. God is not pleased with this state of things. Spiritual and eternal things are not appreciated, while temporal matters are exalted above things of eternal interest.  {PH149 31.2}
[PH149 32.1]          A prayer meeting will always tell the true interest of the church members in spiritual and eternal things. The prayer meeting is as the pulse to the body; it denotes the true spiritual condition of the church. A lifeless, backslidden church has no relish for the prayer meetings. Young men and women of no depth of religious experience, who are vain and proud and frivolous, can feel no satisfaction in engaging in religious exercises. They prefer to pass the time in flirtations or reading novels, or in other ways of pleasing and gratifying the feelings of the natural heart.  {PH149 32.1}
[PH149 32.2]                   All Should be Workers          Not one of the workers in the office is excused from being a worker in the church of God.                                                                              33  Those who are capable of engaging in labor in the office are capable of being workers in the church. There is missionary work to be done everywhere. Everyone in the office who professes the name of Christ should be put into regular, systematic labor of some kind in the church. Every man and woman is required of God to do something for the advancement of His cause. Every institution like the publishing house on the Pacific Coast should have rules and discipline, requiring those who work in the office to be earnest workers in the church. If there is a neglect in attending evening meetings or the meetings on the Sabbath, it should be inquired into, and if valid reasons are not given, they should be urged or admonished to attend these meetings, so essential to their spiritual strength. Without this spiritual strength the influence of these laborers will not be good, and the religious tone in the office will not be correct. Those who profess to be engaged in the sacred work of God should not excuse the neglect of the service of God because of their own work. Such work can be laid aside much better than the service of God, for His strength and grace are every day essential for the performance of daily duties, and the opportunities and privileges for spiritual strength can not be slighted or neglected without backsliding from God. Backsliders are not wanted to engage in the sacred work of God.  {PH149 32.2}
[PH149 33.1]          In order to retain spiritual life the laborers should improve every means of grace to gather                                                                              34  strength, not as spectators, but as workers in the church, doing the duties which must be done in the various departments. There must be respect shown for, and interest in, the worship of God, and faithful attendance upon it, by all those connected with the office who have a name as children of God. As the body needs temporal food, so does the soul need spiritual food, and there should be individual effort put forth by all to place themselves in connection with all the means of grace that have been provided. Every ray of light they can gather to their souls should be cherished, for moral darkness surrounds us everywhere, and is clouding the pathway of all, and leaving its impress of darkness upon the mind, and its baleful influence upon the character.  {PH149 33.1}
[PH149 34.1]                 The Holy Spirit Necessary          Peculiar qualities and powers are developed either for good or evil. In order to have them exercised for good, these powers must be under the controlling influence of the Spirit of God; then their influence will be sensibly felt for good, whatever their possessors may do, or wherever they may be. Each is giving by words and deportment a daily lesson to others, either for their benefit or injury while life shall last. The Lord's service is not regarded by many as sacred and essential, if we judge by their neglect of these sacred privileges. Our own work must be done, but it must not be placed above eternal interests. A faithful                                                                              35  discharge of duties in temporal things is necessary, but it should never take the place of religious devotion, and crowd out the time that should be given to it, lest the spiritual strength languish.  {PH149 34.1}
[PH149 35.1]                How Hearts Become Hardened          There has been a sad departure from right principles. The Word of God declares that God hardened the heart of Pharaoh. This was done when, giving Pharaoh warnings and revealing God's miraculous power before him, he braced himself up to resist the light, and refused to acknowledge the Monarch of heaven and yield to His requirements. Every time that Pharaoh resisted the Spirit of God his heart grew harder and more difficult to impress, until the restraining influence of the Spirit of God was removed. Pharaoh sowed continually the seeds of obstinacy, and he reaped obstinacy, and he kept up his determined spirit of obstinacy till he perished in the Red Sea.  {PH149 35.1}
[PH149 35.2]          God did not compel Pharaoh to be lost. Every man who is lost destroys himself. When a man turns from the light given of God, and refuses to walk in it, that light becomes darkness to him. When the light comes before him again, it is so dim that he scarcely recognizes it. When the words of reproof come from God to the wrongdoer, there is a stirring of heart, an arousing of conscience. The hearts of the hearers are convicted and Satan trembles for his power. Individuals go from the house of                                                                              36  God determined to resist pride, mortify lust, and overcome avarice. But they do not humble their souls before God and repent, and make right the wrongs of the past. They do not make a decided change and plead with God for help, relying on His strength, and the impression soon wears away. They feel for a time the sense of their condition, but realize not the heinous character of sin. They become indifferent and the old defects of character appear, whether it is pride and vanity, worldliness and selfishness, or petty dishonesty, overreaching in trade, sensuality, or lust for gain. They go forward as eagerly as though they had lost time during the little arousing of conscience. They may, after this relapse, listen to the denunciations against sin and the works of ungodliness, the Spirit of God may rest upon the speaker with unusual fervor, and the power of God be in every word, but they are not much moved; they have been hardened by the stifling of their convictions.  {PH149 35.2}
[PH149 36.1]                 All in Subjection to Christ          Business interests, social endearments, ease, honor, reputation, must be held in subjection to the claims of Christ. We often think we make great sacrifices for the truth, but we do not in reality. The great apostle to the Gentiles, we think, from our standpoint, made sacrifices when he turned from wealth, social distinction, and high honorary titles, to link his name and destiny with that of a peculiar people, everywhere                                                                              37  spoken against, but he says he counted all things but loss that he might win Christ. Was he a loser by the exchange? He says he was abundant in labors, in deaths oft, five times he received forty stripes save one, he was stoned, was a night and a day in the deep, in perils by land and by sea, in the city and in the wilderness, from robbers and from his own countrymen; that he performed his mission in weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness; and yet sounding along the line, come down to us from the old hero of faith the words, "For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, not angels, nor principalities, nor powers, not things present, nor things  to come, not height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."  {PH149 36.1}
[PH149 37.1]          When the crown of martyrdom was about to press his brow, he was confined in a dungeon, deprived of comfortable food and clothing, and separated from his many friends; but one, or sometimes two, were with him to receive the words that God spoke to him to be handed down to us. But when his first answer was given to the tyrant Nero, he says, "No man stood with me, but all men forsook me." A solitary prisoner, on trial for his life, persecuted and abandoned. But did Paul think he was making a great sacrifice in his religious life? There come to us these words from him: "For I                                                                              38  reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." He affirms that he received the highest consolations: "I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation." This hero of faith left his testimony, enduring as eternity, upon the work for his time. He molded the character of the age in which he lived by his religious experience and his powerful intellect.  {PH149 37.1}
[PH149 38.1]          The life of Paul was a success. The influence and work of Paul, the grand reformer, can never perish; they are immortalized. His Christian character shines forth with the brightness of the firmament. The whole Christian life of Paul was a preparation for the future, immortal life. In the dark dungeon, a prisoner for God, he looked over his life with satisfaction, and knowing that he had not been playing a losing game, he exclaims, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." Then fixing his eye upon the things that are unseen, the immortal future, which had been the inspiring motive of his Christian life, in confident assurance he exclaims: "Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing."  {PH149 38.1}
[PH149 38.2]          In confident expectation of the crown of life, the battle shout of this great warrior comes down along the lines to us, seeming to rob even                                                                              39  death of its triumph. Those who will dare to be true to principle and live for God and the future immortal life, who will not submit to the forms, customs, and ideas of this corrupt age, will not be understood by the world, any more than Christ was known and understood. But they are understood in heaven; their names are recorded in the Lamb's book of life.            Battle Creek, Mich., Nov. 7, 1879.  {PH149 38.2}
[PH149 40.1]       Chap. 4 - Associations and Discipline         Dear Young Friends at Work in the Signs Office: I have been thinking much in regard to you and your religious life since I left the office. I was shown that the office of publication at Oakland should have the most strict discipline. In this age the young are so weak in moral power that they have but little strength to withstand temptation.  {PH149 40.1}
[PH149 40.2]          Improper and Premature Courtships          The reason is, they are not truly changed in heart and therefore are unchanged in character. Young men and young women associating together, having weak principles and but little faith and devotion, become easily infatuated with each other and fancy they are in love. Their constant attention to one another soon has its influence, and spiritual things are not appreciated. As in the days before the flood, there is an influence to continually draw the mind from God, and to fasten the affections upon the human instead of the divine. The girls in the office, some of them, are entirely unprepared to serve God; their thoughts are vain and unconsecrated; they are superficial; they have not the fruits of the Christian life. They must have a deep and thorough conversion, or they will never see the kingdom of God. Now, these young persons associating together in the office, forming attachments with view to marriage, and giving themselves up to these attachments, are unfitting themselves for the                                                                              41  work. They can not do their work with singleness of purpose, fidelity, and integrity. They are unfitted by this infatuation, and a demoralizing influence is felt all through the office. Young gentlemen and ladies leave their home and home influence and come to labor in the office; and it is a wrong done to their parents to form attachments and contract marriages without their counsel and advice in the matter. Such things grieve the Spirit of God. It is due their parents that they consult them in so important a step, and that they be aided by the experience and mature judgment of their parents. The young men or young women do not look beneath the surface; they see each other under the most favorable circumstances, and do not detect those traits of character which the mother, in her earnest interest for her son or daughter, sees, and knows will make or mar the happiness of those she loves.  {PH149 40.2}
[PH149 41.1]          When these youth come to the office, the parents feel that they are safe under the guardianship of those in whom they have the highest confidence. Then how cruel to have this confidence abused! These young persons pair off, associate together, the young men escort the favored one to and from meeting, walk and ride together, with no parent's eye to see or voice to warn; and these attentions ripen into stronger attachments, and marriages are contracted without the knowledge of the parents, and the fifth commandment is broken.                                                                              42   {PH149 41.1}
[PH149 42.1]             Duty of Manager of the Office          These things should not be allowed in the Signs office. If they can not be broken up, dismiss the parties, write to their parents, and return them to their care and guardianship, making a plain statement of the case. I saw that foolish marriages would be entered into. Young girls are forward, not modest and retiring as they once were. They engage the attention of the young men, do the courting by seeking their attention, hanging around and talking with them. And it is a fact that the associations of the young men and women can not be encouraged without marriage being thought of and soon contracted. I write this to warn the young men and women not to be betrayed into foolish attachments which will prove their ruin in the end. Young men of promise in the office will be beguiled and infatuated with thoughts of marriage that should not enter their minds for years. Just as soon as the step is taken, farewell to their usefulness; they are fettered, and as far as rising higher and filling positions of trust, are useless.  {PH149 42.1}
[PH149 42.2]          God will accept the services of the young men and young women, if they will consecrate themselves to Him without reserve. But when they begin to form these incautious, immature attachments, devotion, consecration, and religion are made of but little account. It is death to religious fervor, death to growth in grace. It is a time when the most solemn and serious thoughts should occupy the mind, and the most                                                                              43  thorough consecration should be cherished. We are forming characters; brick is laid upon brick, one upon another, and the structure is going up, a beautiful temple to God. These young men may rise to almost any height in intellectual advancement and spiritual power. I warn these young men not to marry, and the young ladies not to be given in marriage, until they have gained knowledge, experience, and success in their efforts to reach the high standard for which they have thought to aim. . . .  {PH149 42.2}
[PH149 43.1]           Necessity of Rules and Discipline            I was shown that God is in no way honored or glorified in these marriages, and rules must be made to remove this influence from the office. Our youth must take a more elevated standard in the office if they would perfect Christian character. They should be present at the hour of prayer, at the prayer meeting, ready and zealous to do service for God. They want to understand the high claims of God upon them. Great learning is not required, genius or eloquence, but a pure, humble heart, longing for righteousness. If these young men and young women were one tenth as interested in refining the life and in elevating and ennobling the character, that they may do better and holier service for God, as in pleasing and gratifying self, a great and good work would be done by their noble efforts. These youth must habituate themselves to think of                                                                              44  something more noble and elevating than themselves. They do not pray, do not watch unto prayer; they are unacquainted with Jesus. They have much to learn and but little time to learn it in; no time to spend in frivolity and gratification of self. If they will see the need of thorough conversion, if they will pray, and watch unto prayer, God will make them wholly His, and they may do much for His cause. But God is dishonored by the thoughts and behavior of many of the young in the office. Those who come to the office with good purposes are spoiled by the unconsecrated influence of some employed there. This must not longer exist. Plain talk and plain action must be taken in these cases.        Portland, Ore., May 10, 1880.  {PH149 43.1}
[PH149 45.1]       Chap. 5 - To the Directors                  What Will Bring Prosperity          I have been instructed by the Lord in regard to some things connected with the office of publication in Oakland, Cal. I saw that financial embarrassment was causing distress of mind, and having a tendency to weaken the courage of those who bear heavy responsibilities. Many prayers are offered that God will work in giving prosperity to the office. I was shown that the Lord will work when the workers will cooperate with Him. When the souls of the workers are knit with Christ, the power of God will be manifest among them. There has been a decided lack of faith. . . .  {PH149 45.1}
[PH149 45.2]          The world is deluged with books that might better be consumed than circulated. Books upon Indian warfare and similar topics, published and circulated as a money-making scheme, might better never be read by the youth. There is a satanic fascination in such books. The heart-sickening relation of crimes and atrocities has had a bewitching power upon many youth, exciting them to see what they can do to bring themselves into notice, even by the wickedest deeds. Even the enormities, the cruelties, the licentious practices, portrayed in more strictly historical writings, have acted as leaven in many minds, leading to the commission of similar acts. Books that delineate the satanic practices of human beings are giving publicity to evil works. These                                                                              46  wicked, horrible particulars need not be lived over, and none who believe the truth for this time should act a part in perpetuating the memory of them. . . .  {PH149 45.2}
[PH149 46.1]          There is another class of books--love stories, frivolous tales--that are a curse to everyone who reads them, and this although the author may attach a good moral. Often religious sentiments are woven all through these books; but in most cases, Satan is but clothed in angel robes to deceive and allure the unsuspicious. The mind is affected in a great degree by what it feeds upon. The readers of frivolous and exciting tales become unfitted for the duties lying before them. They live an unreal life, and have no desire to search the Scriptures, to feed upon the heavenly manna. The mind that needs strengthening is enfeebled, and loses its power to contemplate the great problems which relate to the mission and work of Christ, the plan of salvation. These subjects will fortify the mind, awaken the imagination, and kindle the strongest desire to overcome as Christ overcame.  {PH149 46.1}
[PH149 46.2]          The youth must take heed what they read, as well as what they hear. I have been shown that they are exposed to the greatest peril of being corrupted by improper reading. Could a large share of the books published be consumed, a plague would be stayed that is doing its fearful work upon human minds and corrupting human hearts. Satan is constantly seeking to lead both the youth and those of mature age to be                                                                              47  charmed with foolish stories. None are so confirmed in right principles, so secure from temptation, that they can feel safe, and think no one need feel anxious about them. Resolutely discard all this trashy reading, which will not increase your spirituality, but will introduce into your mind sentiments that captivate the imagination, so that you think less of Jesus, and dwell less upon His precious lessons. . . .  {PH149 46.2}
[PH149 47.1]          The office should be regarded as a school for the education of the workers. There is need of personal effort for their uplifting in all that constitutes a noble character. The minds of many of the youth are already sown with the seeds of evil, that are ready to spring into life and produce an abundant harvest. Strive to implant pure principles in the soul. Encourage the youth to store the mind with valuable knowledge. Let that which is good occupy the soul and control its powers, leaving no place for low, debasing indulgences. Let the standard of piety and devotion be elevated. . . .  {PH149 47.1}
[PH149 47.2]               Power of a Faithful Example          By a godly example, those who occupy responsible positions can maintain the elevated character of the office. Not to do this is to incur guilt, to be unfaithful stewards, blameworthy before the heavenly intelligences, who are waiting to cooperate with the human agencies in order to save souls. Christians are to shine as lights amid the moral darkness of the world. They are to be representatives of                                                                              48  Christ, patterns for all who come within the sphere of their influence. They are exhorted to fidelity, and to the highest attainments of piety. The Word of God is plain upon this point. "Do all things without murmurings and disputings: that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; holding forth the word of life." In our own lives we should present to the world an illustration of the holy character of the truth which we profess to believe. This has not been done by many who are connected with the office. An indolent man occupying a position of trust in our institutions will make upon many minds an impression unfavorable to the truth. "By their fruits ye shall know them." The lights of the world are so to shine that men, by seeing their good works, may be led to glorify our Father who is in heaven. How terrible it is for any who bear His name, to give to the world, through a defective character, a distorted image of Christ! They are constantly stumbling-blocks. . . .  {PH149 47.2}
[PH149 48.1]         There are those engaged in the work in the office who have no living connection with Christ. Arguments, exhortations, reproofs, correction in righteousness, every consideration urging them to reach a higher standard, is treated with a cool indifference or with silent contempt and persistent resistance. They know nothing of heart consecration. They are                                                                              49  satisfied; their minds have become so debased by their own course that they have no disposition to change. They have no love for anyone but themselves. Shall this state of things continue? . . .  {PH149 48.1}
[PH149 49.1]               Economy and Indebtedness          It is true that the publishing house has furnished means to support branches of the work in distant fields, and has aided in carrying other enterprises. This is well. None too much has been done. The Lord sees it all. But from the light He has given me, every effort should be made to stand free from debt. This heavy indebtedness is eating into the vitals of the publishing house.  {PH149 49.1}
[PH149 49.2]          Result of Unselfishness and Sacrifice            Now, if all will go to work unselfishly, with an eye single to the glory of God, humbling their hearts and repenting of their sins, God will work in their behalf. Souls will be converted, and the piety and devotion of the workers will be felt by unbelievers. The only security against failure is to be found in entire surrender to God, daily seeking His counsel in all things, keeping the light burning, and daily reflecting its bright rays to others.  {PH149 49.2}
[PH149 49.3]          Let a work of reformation, deep and thorough, take place in the office. Let there be seen a spirit of self-sacrifice. Expend your means carefully. Cultivate economy. Do not act toward Christ as though you believed the                                                                              50  wicked accusations of the unfaithful servant: "I knew thee, that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed." As you look to the cross of Calvary, inquire, "How can I work for the Master?" Do not calculate how little you can do to reach the very lowest standard, but arouse to grasp the fullness that there is in Christ, that you may do much for Him.  {PH149 49.3}
[PH149 50.1]          Workers who are not diligent and faithful do incalculable harm; they are setting an example for others. There are those in the office who are rendering whole-hearted, cheerful service; but will the leaven not affect them? Shall the office be left without some sincere examples of Christian fidelity? When men claiming to be representatives of Christ reveal that they are unconverted, their characters degraded, gross, selfish, impure, they should be separated from the office, for their moral powers are so perverted and weakened that they can not be trusted. I know not what I can say to arouse them. Will these sentinels that are sleeping at their post arouse from their deathlike slumber, and come under the vitalizing influence of the Spirit of God? Will they continue to betray sacred trusts, or will they become missionaries for the Master?  {PH149 50.1}
[PH149 50.2]                 Words to the Faithful          There are those connected with the office whose hearts are bound up with the work. They see many things that are not as they should be,                                                                              51  but know not what course to pursue to correct the evils. They are pained to see many who profess the truth go astray. To all these the Lord sends reproofs and warnings; the straight and narrow way that leads to life, and the glorious reward, are pointed out, and the perfect standard of Christian character is held up before them. Although some are so estranged from God that they do not recognize His voice. though a strange infatuation leads them in their perversity of heart to strive against the manifestations of the Spirit of God, let not those who are striving earnestly to do the work and will of God become discouraged. Let each work earnestly, prayerfully, holding his torch in his hand, shedding light upon willing and unwilling eyes. Having their orders from heaven, they are to be true and faithful, in all things representing the compassion of Christ.  {PH149 50.2}
[PH149 51.1]          The consistent religious life, the holy conversation, the unswerving integrity in all business deal, the active, benevolent spirit, the godly example, are the medium through which light is conveyed to the world, and conviction takes hold upon the hearts and consciences of unbelievers. The Lord will work through His human agents if they will cooperate with Him. . . .  {PH149 51.1}
[PH149 51.2]          May the Lord bless you all with wisdom and grace and His peace, is my prayer.  {PH149 51.2}
[PH149 51.3]          North Fitzroy, Victoria, December, 1891.  {PH149 51.3}
[PH149 52.1]       Chap. 6 - To the Workers         I have a message for you who are engaged in the work at the office, especially for those who are engaged in handling sacred things.  {PH149 52.1}
[PH149 52.2]          "Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth. While ye have the light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light."  {PH149 52.2}
[PH149 52.3]                  Turning from the Light          Those  who turn away from the precious light that God has permitted to shine upon them in messages of warnings, of caution and reproof, would not believe if greater light were shed upon their pathway. They would not be inspired with faith, when they have failed to believe in and act upon the light which has already been given them. "Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed? . . . He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart." How does the Lord harden the hearts of men? --In the same way in which the heart of Pharaoh was hardened. . . .  {PH149 52.3}
[PH149 52.4]                 Result of Rejecting Light          All are left free to choose whom they will serve. They may listen to the suggestions of Satan, and come to look upon matters as he does, reasoning after the same manner, and the result will be that they will follow the same                                                                              53  course of stubborn resistance to the light that Satan pursued in the courts of heaven. Those who reject the light which God sends them, will walk in sparks of their own kindling, and will lie down in sorrow at last.  {PH149 52.4}
[PH149 53.1]                     Serious Danger          Among the workers in the office there are those whose hearts are not pure, whose hands are defiled with iniquity, and whose ways are perverted, so that they in no way represent Christ. Satan is beside them to influence them in a course of evil; and as they yield to him, they influence others to take the same course. . . .  {PH149 53.1}
[PH149 53.2]          I have been aroused by the Spirit of the Lord to sound an alarm, that these world-bound souls may be awakened to the peril in which they are placed through their course of backsliding. For Christ's sake, let all those who profess to be Christian's, depart from all iniquity, all dishonesty. For Christ's sake, for your own soul's sake, I urge you to reform. Let there be a solemn consideration of your privileges and responsibilities. Let there not be found among you a selfish, earthly ambition for place and position or money-getting. This spirit prevails to a large extent, and the religion of Christ is brought down to a low, common level. There is great need that the converting power of God may be felt throughout the office, that all may realize that the words of Christ are to be fulfilled in life and character. Every day Jesus is in that office taking note of every worker in                                                                              54  every department and line of work. The voice of God speaks to all who are there employed, warning and reproving them in His Word, and through the testimonies of His Spirit. But these warnings are first neglected, then despised, then stubbornly resisted and assailed.  {PH149 53.2}
[PH149 54.1]                Separation from the World          While the probation is graciously granted to you, come out from the world, separate yourselves from its customs, its maxims, and its influences, and put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh to fulfill the lusts thereof. At whatever cost or humiliation to yourselves, you must do this if you would inherit eternal life. . . .  {PH149 54.1}
[PH149 54.2]          The whole heart must be entered and purified by the searching Spirit of God. Jesus will not abide in the soul where pride exists; and if we desire His presence, the soul temple must be cleansed of all evil occupants. If the door of the heart is open to Jesus, He will come in, and His presence will expel every unholy thought, and by faith we may hold sweet communion with God. If Jesus abides in the heart, we shall glorify Him in our lives; for the Christian is to let his light shine forth to the world in good works.  {PH149 54.2}
[PH149 54.3]                   Losing the First Love          Many of you have lost your first love, and you are not preparing yourselves by gaining an experience in true devotion and service to God, to stand in the great day of God. It is essential                                                                              55  that you become so rooted and grounded in the faith that you will be able to stand when deception and error as a thick cloud will cover the inhabitants of the earth. While good works will not buy your salvation, yet good works are essential for salvation; for they are an evidence of genuine faith which works by love and purifies the soul.  {PH149 54.3}
[PH149 55.1]          Unless your heart is stayed upon God, and you are coworker with Christ Jesus, you will be filled with self-confidence, pride, self-sufficiency, and you will be given to the indulgence of self and the sin of unbelief, which so easily besets the soul, and thus you will become the captive of the enemy. You are to work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God that worketh in you, both to will and to do of His own good pleasure. As God works man must cooperate in order that the result designed may be accomplished. But how long have the heavenly intelligences waited in vain for your cooperation, who ought to have been engaged most earnestly in the work of God for this time!  {PH149 55.1}
[PH149 55.2]          Many of you do not feel the need of a daily and hourly connection with Christ. You do not feel the need of prayer, that you may draw from Christ that which is essential for the maintenance of spiritual life. . . .  {PH149 55.2}
[PH149 55.3]                Need of a Practical Experience          You are greatly in need of a practical experience in the Christian life. You need to train                                                                              56  the mind for the work of God. The character of your religious experience is made manifest largely by the character of the books that you choose to read in your leisure moments. The Bible is the Book of books, and if you love the Scriptures, searching them when you have opportunity, that you may come in possession of the rich treasures of the Word of God, and be thoroughly furnished unto all good works, then you may be assured that Jesus is drawing you to Himself. But to read the Scriptures in merely a casual way, without seeking to comprehend the lessons of Christ, that you may comply with His requirements, is not enough. There are rich treasures in the Word of God that can be discovered only by sinking the shaft deep into the mine of truth.  {PH149 55.3}
[PH149 56.1]          The Scriptures are given for our benefit that we may have instruction in righteousness. Precious rays of light have been obscured by the clouds of error, but Christ is ready to sweep away the mist of error and superstition, and reveal to us the brightness of the Father's glory, so that we shall say as did the disciples, "Did not our heart burn within us, while He talked with us by the way?" The psalmist prayed, "Open Thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of Thy law," and the Lord regarded his sincere prayer, for the sacred record records his satisfaction in the truth revealed to him. He says: "How sweet are Thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" "More to be desired are                                                                              57  they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb." How rare is this experience!  {PH149 56.1}
[PH149 57.1]          The carnal mind rejects the truth; but the soul that is converted undergoes a marvelous change. The Book that was unattractive, because it reveals truths which testify against the sinner, to the converted heart becomes the food of the soul, consolation and joy of the life. The eyes anointed with spiritual discernment behold new beauties in the Word of God, and see that the inspired words of the Scriptures are especially adapted to the needs of the soul. The Sun of Righteousness shines upon the Word, and there is the flashing of divinity through humanity. The Spirit of God speaks to the soul, and the heart of the true believer becomes like a watered garden. To those who love Christ, the Bible is as the garden of God, whose promises are as grateful to the heart as the fragrance of flowers to the senses. Then take up your Bibles, and with fresh interest, begin to study the sacred records of the Old and New Testaments. Work the field of precious truth, until you have a deeper comprehension of the mercy and love of God, who gave His only-begotten Son to the world, that through Him we might have life. . . .  {PH149 57.1}
[PH149 57.2]          For Christ's sake cease to prostitute your powers to the service of self. Put your undivided interest into the work that has been committed to your hands. Jesus is looking upon you to see what spirit you manifest in the little                                                                              58  things of your earthly life. You are now determining what shall be your destiny hereafter, and heaven is worth everything to you. If you accept the grace of Christ, and the gift of His righteousness, you may show by a consistent life that Jesus is all in all to you. His service is reasonable, for He has redeemed you, and every power of your being belongs to Him. You need not make a failure of your Christian life, for Christ has made abundant provision that your faculties may be rightly directed, that your character may be pure and elevated and noble.  {PH149 57.2}
[PH149 58.1]                 Reaching a High Standard          In becoming a follower of Christ, you need not think it necessary to give up all aspirations to reach a high standard. But if your ambitions have been selfish, and you have sought for the supremacy, and aimed at the glorification of yourself, all this will be changed, and your desire will be to become a diligent, earnest, faithful soldier of the Lord Jesus Christ. The elements of character which lead you to seek for distinction in a worldly life, Jesus will refine and purify and make steadfast, that you may with unselfish purpose seek to become a true coworker with the Majesty of heaven. A holy ambition will take possession of your heart, worthy of the object for which your ability was given. You will have respect to the recompense of the reward that has been purchased for you by the self-denial, the self-sacrifice of the Lord Jesus. . . .                                                                              59   {PH149 58.1}
[PH149 59.1]          Necessity of Abiding in Christ          If you had been abiding in Christ, your fruit would have been unto purity and holiness. You would not be self-sufficient, heady, and high-minded, but would have been meek and lowly of heart. You would not be filled with envy, jealousy, evil surmising, strife for supremacy and position, esteeming yourselves more highly than the Lord esteems you. Look at the character of the fruit you have borne these years in the past, and then carefully consider the words of Christ. He says: "Ye shall know them by their fruits. . . . A good tree can not bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit." Many of you know that you are not standing in the light of the Sun of Righteousness. Your works are not the works of righteousness, and should you be cut down as an unfruitful tree, you would lose heaven, and the life that measures with the life of God. You are not ready to close up your accounts here. You need to take heed to yourselves, to watch and pray, to educate your thoughts to think of heavenly things, to educate your lips to speak on heavenly themes, to become familiar with the heavenly atmosphere, and to be able to teach others that which you have learned of Jesus. Let the mind and soul be drawn to the great center of attraction, ever realizing the truth of Christ's words, "Without Me ye can do nothing. "Then will you have more humble views of yourself than you have ever had before. . . .                                                                              60   {PH149 59.1}
[PH149 60.1]          If you had let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly, if you had searched the Bible for truth as men seek for hidden treasure, you would have had a precious experience, and as you contemplated the living oracles, daily you would have discovered new beauty in the inspired utterances, and your thoughts and words would have been purified, even as precious metal is purified and refined from dross in the fire of the furnace. . . .  {PH149 60.1}
[PH149 60.2]                 Working for Wages          With many of the workers the spirit of self-sacrifice has greatly diminished because they have lost their first love. Many are grasping for higher wages; but if they were laborers together with God, their wants would be more simple; for they spend money needlessly for things which they would not desire if their hearts were sanctified by the truth. Look at the example given to you in the life of Christ. There are those in the office who have withheld their tithes from the treasury, claiming that they could not see the requirement in the Word of God. But why could they not see it?--It was because selfishness was firmly rooted in the heart. They did not deny self, and make their offering to God. For years they have practiced robbery toward God; but does not the Lord keep a record of all their doings? Most assuredly, for it is written that every man shall be rewarded according as his works have been, judged according to the deeds done in                                                                              61  the body, whether they are good or whether they are evil. The Lord will not pass over the embezzlement of His goods. He is testing men to see who will be fit subjects for His kingdom above; for if they disregard His claims here, they will disregard them in the kingdom of heaven. Suppose that all who profess to be followers of Christ should withhold from the Lord His intrusted goods, and appropriate His talents to their own use, and for the advancement of their own glory, how would the work of God move forward in the world? How would those in other nations ever receive the message of truth? The Lord does not rain down money from heaven, but He honors man by intrusting to him His treasures, and He tells him what he must do. Read carefully and prayerfully the instruction the Lord has given to you in Malachi 3:8-12.  {PH149 60.2}
[PH149 61.1]           Faithfulness in Tithes and Offerings            The question is asked, "Will a man rob God?" And the answer might be given: "Yes, Lord. Some whom Thou hast honored, and given a place in Thy work, have been engaged in robbing Thee for years. They have indulged themselves, and have centered the good things of life upon themselves, and have refused to act their part in fulfilling the requirements of God." "Yet ye have robbed Me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed Thee?" Now listen, for God is speaking to you out of His Word. "In tithes and offerings." How does God regard the robbery of His treasury? Listen:                                                                              62  "Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed Me, even this whole nation." Hear the words of the most high God, you who have been robbing God: "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in Mine house"--not a meager portion, not one half, or one quarter, but "all the tithes, . . . that there may be meat in Mine house." The reason is so plain that it commends itself to everyone who has been cherishing the hateful plant of selfishness,--"that there may be meat in Mine house." The reason that the Lord wants all the tithes in the treasury is that there may not be a scarcity of funds when His providence opens new fields to be occupied by the messengers of truth, that souls as precious in the sight of God as your own may come into the knowledge of the true God and Jesus Christ, whom He hath sent, and in their turn become missionaries to the souls of others.  {PH149 61.1}
[PH149 62.1]                 Blessings of Self-Denial          The standard of truth must be planted in all countries, but the missionary work is not extended as it should be, because those in our offices of publication, and the members of our churches, do not cultivate the precious plant of love, and do not follow in the footsteps of Him who was meek and lowly of heart. Jesus said, "If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me."  {PH149 62.1}
[PH149 62.2]          The follower of Christ has a cross to bear, for the requirement of Christ cuts directly                                                                              63  across the inclination of the natural heart, and uproots pride, empties and cleanses the soul of selfishness and self-love, and leads men to deny self daily for Christ's sake. If you will act as Christians, there will be meat in the house of the Lord, whereby the sacred, holy work of God may be extended and advanced in the world; for those who are laborers together with God will bind about their wants, and not spend money for trifles, when souls are perishing for the bread of life. . . .  {PH149 62.2}
[PH149 63.1]          The precious Saviour did not limit His gifts; for when He gave Himself, He gave all. He died to bring life and immortality to light, to reveal truth, that men might be drawn to Him. All this was done to save fallen man, and individually we have the privilege of becoming His agents, to cooperate with the angels in communicating to the world the knowledge of this great salvation. Man will never be able to comprehend the great work that the heavenly intelligences are waiting to do through the agency of men in behalf of humanity.  {PH149 63.1}
[PH149 63.2]          Jesus wants you now to realize your deficiencies while mercy lingers, that you may turn unto Him with your whole heart, and be supplied out of His abundant fullness, so that you shall be perfect, wanting in nothing. "And prove Me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts." Mark it, this is not man that is addressing you, but the Lord of hosts. Will you hear Him? Will you obey Him? "If I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a                                                                              64  blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts. And all nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the Lord of hosts."  {PH149 63.2}
[PH149 64.1]          The religion of Christ is summed up in the words, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart; . . . thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." But through love of the world, through unsanctified ambition, through self-love, and desire for supremacy, many are being conformed to the world, although the command from the gospel of Christ is, "Be not conformed to this world ［and the preventive is given］: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind." You must have a changed mind, a renewed mind. The power of the Holy Spirit must be felt working upon the heart and character, producing a new man in Christ Jesus. You are to prove to God by unselfishly handling His intrusted goods that you can be trusted with His blessings. You are to trade with His talents, to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness--not to seek first your own selfish interests, but to lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.  {PH149 64.1}
[PH149 64.2]                   Love Not the World          Every worker should diligently search his own heart. The Lord requires that those who                                                                              65  are purchased by the blood of the Son of God should realize that they are God's property, and no longer look upon themselves as their own, and live to serve themselves. Jesus gave His life to save an apostate race, and will those who accept this heavenly gift be selfish, and withhold from the Lord His own? All selfishness, all love of supremacy, originated with Satan. He is the root, and those who partake of his spirit are the branches; but in the day of God both root and branch will be consumed. . . . Can we wonder that the sin of covetousness is so decidedly denounced in the Scripture? "For this ye know, that no . . . covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom . . . of God." Covetousness is idolatry. Shall be as Christians pay no heed to all the warnings of God? Shall we still be in conformity to the world, when it is forbidden in the Word of God? "Be not conformed to this world." "Let 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. 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." . . .  {PH149 64.2}
[PH149 65.1]          Every line of business at the office must be regulated so that the purity of the Christian character shall be preserved. . . . They are now to store up for the present and the future, supplies that will provide for the soul in times of emergency. They are to lay up in store the                                                                              66  precious gold and silver and precious gems of the Word of God, jewels that will never perish. . . .  {PH149 65.1}
[PH149 66.1]               God Requires All the Heart          The religion of the Bible must be practiced, for the world is watching you and criticizing your actions. The office at Oakland needs weeding out. Either those who have long been there and who have not realized the sacredness of the work, should be converted, or they should be discharged. It is the duty of everyone in the office who professes to be a Christian to give unmistakable evidence to those who come to the office that he is a Christian in deed and in truth, and that he is working out the principles of the Bible in all his work. All lightness, all jesting and trifling is to be regarded as unchristian. Let everyone see that you are governed by divine rule, that you are courteous and kind. If you keep the fear of the Lord ever before your eyes, He will work with your efforts, and crown you with success. Satan is continually at work that he may fill the mind with his suggestions, and cause you to follow his counsel. He advises you not to be overscrupulous in regard to honor and integrity, to look out sharply for your own interests, and demand the highest wages for your services. To some degree this is what has brought embarrassment upon the office. When the work is more attentively done, when there is a spirit of consecration, the Lord will hear your                                                                              67  prayers, and will work in your behalf. But there is much unfaithfulness, and you need to call a halt, and begin the work of reformation in earnest. Those who are half-hearted and worldly, who are given to gossiping over the imperfections of others, while giving no attention to their own defects of character, should separate from the office, for they will demoralize others by their mischievous tongues.  {PH149 66.1}
[PH149 67.1]          North Fitzroy, Victoria, Dec. 19, 1891.  {PH149 67.1}
[PH149 68.1]       Chap. 7 - Testimony To Workers in Washington and Mountain View                         Sanitarium, Cal., Nov. 30, 1909.          Our people are in constant danger of centering too many interests in one locality; but it is not in the Lord's order that this should be. Again and again messages have been given concerning the dangers of such a course.  {PH149 68.1}
[PH149 68.2]          In Washington and at Mountain View, our brethren should study diligently the warnings that have been given of the evil results of centering the publishing work and other interests too largely in one place. God is not pleased with the influence that results from such centralization. If all the men who gather thus in one place are wise, experienced men who walk humbly with God, then the world needs these men to stand as the Lord's representatives in many places. We are to seek the honor and glory of God in all things. We have been losing time in Washington and Mountain View by centering so much in these places.  {PH149 68.2}
[PH149 68.3]          At Washington, D. C., the headquarters of the work, the men of responsibility have special burdens to bear, yet all who stand in positions of trust do not realize the sacredness of the work in which they are engaged. The heads of each family having workers in the various departments of our institutions must be consecrated, or the unconsecrated influence of the workers will lead to a deviation from righteousness. Unconsecrated workers will                                                                              69  unwittingly mingle the common with the sacred, and will lose more and more their discernment of spiritual things.  {PH149 68.3}
[PH149 69.1]          Only those who receive the seal of the living God will have the passport through the gates of the holy city. But there are many who take upon themselves responsibilities in connection with the work of God, who are not wholehearted believers, and while they remain thus, can not receive the seal of the living God. They trust in their own righteousness, which the Lord accounts as foolishness and presumption.  {PH149 69.1}
[PH149 69.2]          The workers at Washington and Mountain View need a deep, earnest heart purification through the power and grace of the Holy Spirit or they will never enter the gates of the city of God. They need to realize their need of cleansing from everything like self-importance, or they will become confused in regard to the Lord's work that must go forth in truth and righteousness. Many are self-exalted, and are in danger of taking up with spiritualistic views that are misleading, and that will in the great day of God be found valueless. Great light such as Christ gave to the people is to be given to you, and by you to others.  {PH149 69.2}
[PH149 69.3]          A transforming work will be done for you as you seek the Lord most earnestly for help, and as you come before the people who have never heard the last message of mercy. Let not those who have made a profession of conversion be found following in ways that will                                                                              70  lead them to stand with unbelievers. All the publications advocating the truth for this time, will not save your owns souls while the motives that lead to action are not right in the sight of God. Do you love God supremely? Do you love your neighbor as yourself? These are the practical questions to be earnestly considered.  {PH149 69.3}
[PH149 70.1]          I quote from "Early Writings," from an article written May 14, 1851:  {PH149 70.1}
[PH149 70.2]          "I saw that many do not realize what they must be in order to live in the sight of the Lord without a High Priest in the sanctuary, through the time of trouble. Those who receive the seal of the living God, and are protected in the time of trouble, must reflect the image of Jesus fully."  {PH149 70.2}
[PH149 70.3]          In the centers that are formed in some places, there is constant temptation to carry the work after worldly methods. I have had presented before me the dangers before us in the future. This light I have tried to present with pen and voice. Let the work be carried forward intelligently by men and women of sound faith and strict religious principle.  {PH149 70.3}
[PH149 70.4]          There is need of greater faith in our ranks. Our people in Washington and Mountain View are not in the state spiritually that God requires of them, and they are not doing the work that is demanded for this time. Some realize in a measure the times in which we live, but only a few seem to be fully awake to the situation. There is a work outside of their regular daily business that should be done. The simplicity of                                                                              71  true godliness is not maintained. There needs to be an expression of greater humility.  {PH149 70.4}
[PH149 71.1]          Matthew, in the fifth chapter, presents before us the work that should be maintained in every place where our offices are established. When the truths presented by Christ in this chapter are understood and practiced, you will be partakers with Christ of His labor and of its rewards.  {PH149 71.1}
[PH149 71.2]          "Blessed are the poor in spirit," the Saviour said, "for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.  {PH149 71.2}
[PH149 71.3]          "Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for My sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.  {PH149 71.3}
[PH149 71.4]          "Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savor, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden underfoot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A                                                                              72  city that is set on an hill can not be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."  {PH149 71.4}
[PH149 72.1]          Connected with every center of influence in our work there should be that spiritual experience that is the mark of the Holy Spirit's guidance; for unless the workers consider where they are drifting, they will lose their burden for the work for which these centers are established. They are to labor under the supervision of holy angels. The sacredness of truth is to be preserved in all its holy dignity and power. The characteristics specified by Christ are to be revealed in our work as the mark of Christian service.  {PH149 72.1}
[PH149 72.2]          Let the perception be keen to see the working of the Spirit of God upon the human heart. When weighed in the balances of the heavenly sanctuary, ambition and the desire to supersede will not weigh as divine acquirements.  {PH149 72.2}
[PH149 72.3]          We need to experience daily a reconversion. If you have taken advantage in your business dealings which the Lord calls injustice, this must be adjusted before you can be honest and righteous in the sight of God. These things need to be corrected by our people everywhere, but especially in the lives of those who stand as representatives of the Lord's work in the earth. When you take up this work of readjustment,                                                                              73  and getting right with God, the angels of heaven will cooperate with you, giving you discernment to see where you have viewed matters in a wrong light.  {PH149 72.3}
[PH149 73.1]          Christ and His angels are looking upon your work. They are measuring every action. Let your life represent the meek and lowly Jesus. Strive to do as Christ would do were He in your place. Let there be no disagreement between your measurement of strict integrity and the divine measurement. True, pure principles must govern the life of every soul that shall be pronounced just and righteous in the day of God.  {PH149 73.1}
[PH149 73.2]          There are many transactions in the business world that the worldling regards as just and honest, but which God condemns. Men lay plans which they regard as right plans, but which do not accord with the true, unselfish principles that Christ has laid down in His Word. And this conformity to the world's standard is coming more and more to be accepted by professing Christians. But the approval of the world will never make an unjust action just, and wrong will stand as wrong before the heavenly universe until it is repented of and put away.  {PH149 73.2}
[PH149 73.3]          The Lord can not bless the men who corrupt themselves by unjust business dealings, either with their brethren or with worldlings. And those who do such things lose their spirituality; they grow cold and formal and selfish. They gloss over their past mistakes by theories of                                                                              74  their own invention that are opposed to the principles of the Word of God.  {PH149 73.3}
[PH149 74.1]          The principle which should characterize every business dealing is clearly laid down by Christ: "All things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."  {PH149 74.1}
[PH149 74.2]          The message to the Laodicean church is a message to the church at this time: "These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold not hot, I will spew thee out of My mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of Me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.  {PH149 74.2}
[PH149 74.3]          "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to                                                                              75  him, and will sup with him, and he with Me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches."  {PH149 74.3}
[PH149 75.1]          Just as surely as individual work is thoroughly done in the hearts of the believers, there will be individual work done in reaching unbelievers with the message of truth for this time. The folly, the evil surmising, the uplifting of self, which destroy the fervent zeal of the soul, will be put away, and the true believers will be humble of heart, and earnest in their labors for the perishing souls.  {PH149 75.1}
[PH149 76.1]       Chap. 8 - Prices on Publications         Many of our publications have been thrown into the market at so low a figure that the profits are not sufficient to sustain the office and keep good a fund for continual use. And those of our people who have no special burden of the various branches of the work at Battle Creek and Oakland, do not become informed in regard to the wants of the cause, and the capital required to keep the business moving. They do not understand the liability to losses, and the expense every day occurring to such institutions. They seem to think that everything moves off without much care or outlay of means, and therefore they will urge the necessity of the lowest figures on our publications, thus leaving scarcely any margin. And after the prices have been reduced to almost ruinous figures, they manifest but a feeble interest in increasing the sales of the very books on which they have asked such low prices. The object gained, their burden ceases, when they ought to have an earnest interest and a real care to press the sale of the publications, thereby sowing the seeds of truth, and bringing means into the offices to invest in other publications.-- "Testimonies for the Church," volume 4, page 388.  {PH149 76.1}
[PH149 76.2]          Our houses of publication are the property of all our people, and all should work to the point of raising them above embarrassment. In order to circulate our publications, they                                                                              77  have been offered at so low a figure that but little profit could come to the office to reproduce the same works. This has been done with the best of motives, but not with experienced and far-seeing judgment.  {PH149 76.2}
[PH149 77.1]          At the low prices of publications, the office could not preserve a capital upon which to work. This was not fully seen and critically investigated. These low prices led people to undervalue the works, and it was not fully discerned that when once these publications were placed at a low figure, it would be very difficult to bring them up to their proper value. . . .  {PH149 77.1}
[PH149 77.2]          As a people, we need to be guarded on every point. There is not the least safety for any, unless we seek wisdom of God daily, and dare not move in our own strength. Danger is always surrounding us, and great caution should be used that no one branch of the work be made a specialty, while other interests are left to suffer.  {PH149 77.2}
[PH149 77.3]          Mistakes have been made in putting down prices of publications to meet certain difficulties. These efforts must change. Those who made this move were sincere. They thought their liberality would provoke ministers and people to labor to greatly increase the demand for the publications.  {PH149 77.3}
[PH149 77.4]          Ministers and people should act nobly and liberally in dealing with our publishing houses. Instead of studying and contriving how they can obtain periodicals, tracts, and books at the lowest figure, they should seek to bring the                                                                              78  minds of the people to see the true value of the publications. All these pennies taken from thousands of publications have caused a loss of thousands of dollars to our offices, when a few pennies more from each individual would scarcely have been felt.  {PH149 77.4}
[PH149 78.1]          The Review and Herald and the Signs of the Times are cheap papers at the full price. The Review is a valuable paper; it contains matters of great interest to the church, and should be placed in every family of believers. If any are too poor to take it, the church should, by subscription, raise the amount of the full price of the paper, and supply the destitute families. How much better would this plan be than throwing the poor upon the mercies of the publishing house or the tract and missionary society.  {PH149 78.1}
[PH149 78.2]          The same course should be pursued toward the Signs. With slight variations, this paper has been increasing in interest and in moral worth as a pioneer sheet since its establishment. These periodicals are one in interest. They are two instrumentalities in the great field to do their specific work in disseminating light in this day of God's preparation. All should engage just as earnestly to build up the one as the other.--Id. pages 597, 598.  {PH149 78.2}
[PH150 2.1]         PH150 - Selections from the Testimonies Setting forth Important Principles Relating to Our Work in General, the Publishing Work in Particular, and the Relation of Our Institutions to Each Other. (1898)               "George's Terrace, St. Kilda Road,                   "Melbourne, Dec. 23, 1892.        "Dear Brethren of the General Conference: I testify to my brethren and sisters that the church of Christ, enfeebled and defective as it may be, is the only object on earth on which He bestows His supreme regard. While He extends to all the world His invitation to come to Him and be saved, He commissions His angels to render divine help to every soul that cometh to Him in repentance and contrition, and He comes personally by His Holy Spirit into the midst of His church. 'If Thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand? But there is forgiveness with Thee, that Thou mayest be feared. I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in His Word do I hope. My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning.' 'Let Israel hope in the Lord; for with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him is plenteous redemption. And He shall redeem Israel from all his iniquities.'  {PH150 2.1}
[PH150 2.2]          "Ministers and all the church, let this be our language, from hearts that respond to the great goodness and love of God to us as a people and to us individually, 'Let Israel hope in the Lord from henceforth and forever.' 'Ye that stand in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God, praise the Lord; for the Lord is good; sing praises unto His name; for it is pleasant. For the Lord                           -3-     hath chosen Jacob unto Himself, and Israel for His peculiar treasure. For I know that the Lord is great, and that our Lord is above all gods.' Consider, my brethren and sisters, that the Lord has a people, a chosen people, His church, to be His own, His own fortress, which He holds in a sin-stricken, revolted world; and He intended that no authority should be known in it, no laws be acknowledged by it, but His own.  {PH150 2.2}
[PH150 3.1]          "Satan has a large confederacy, his church. Christ calls them the synagogue of Satan because the members are the children of sin. The members of Satan's church have been constantly working to cast off the divine law, and confuse the distinction between good and evil. Satan is working with great power in and through the children of disobedience, to exalt treason and apostasy as truth and loyalty. And at this time the power of Satanic inspiration is moving the living agencies to carry out the great rebellion against God that commenced in heaven.  {PH150 3.1}
[PH150 3.2]          "At this time the church is to put on her beautiful garments,--'Christ our righteousness.' There are clear, decided distinctions to be restored and exemplified to the world in holding aloft the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. The beauty of holiness is to appear in its native luster in contrast with the deformity and darkness of the disloyal, those who have revolted from the law of God. Thus we acknowledge God, and recognize His law, the foundation of His government in heaven and throughout His earthly dominions. His authority should be kept distinct and                           -4-     plain before the world; and no laws are to be acknowledged that come in collision with the laws of Jehovah. If in defiance of God's arrangements the world be allowed to influence our decisions or our actions, the purpose of God is defeated. However specious the pretext, if the church waver here, there is written against her in the books of heaven a betrayal of the most sacred trusts, and treachery to the kingdom of Christ. The church is firmly and decidedly to hold her principles before the whole heavenly universe and kingdoms of the world; steadfast fidelity in maintaining the honor and sacredness of the law of God, will attract the notice and admiration of even the world, and many will, by the good works which they shall behold, be led to glorify our Father in heaven. The loyal and true bear the credentials of heaven, not of earthly potentates. All men shall know who are the disciples of Christ, chosen and faithful, and shall know them when crowned and glorified as those who honored God and whom He has honored, bringing them into possession of an eternal weight of glory. . . .  {PH150 3.2}
[PH150 4.1]          "The Lord has provided His church with capabilities and blessings, that they may present to the world an image of His own sufficiency, and that His church may be complete in Him, a continual representation of another, even the eternal world, of laws that are higher than earthly laws. His church is to be a temple built after the divine similitude, and the angelic architect has brought his golden measuring rod from heaven, that every stone may be hewed and squared by the                           -5-     divine measurement, and polished to shine as an emblem of heaven, radiating in all directions the bright, clear beams of the Sun of Righteousness. The church is to be fed with manna from heaven, and to be kept under the sole guardianship of His grace. Clad in complete armor of light and righteousness, she enters upon her final conflict. The dross, the worthless material, will be consumed, and the influence of the truth testifies to the world of its sanctifying, ennobling character. . . .  {PH150 4.1}
[PH150 5.1]          "The Lord Jesus is making experiments on human hearts through the exhibition of His mercy and abundant grace. He is effecting transformations so amazing that Satan, with all his triumphant boasting, with all his confederacy of evil united against God and the laws of His government, stands viewing them as a fortress impregnable to his sophistries and delusions. They are to him an incomprehensible mystery. The angels of God, seraphim and cherubim, the powers commissioned to cooperate with human agencies, look on with astonishment and joy, that fallen men, once children of wrath, are through the training of Christ developing characters after the divine similitude, to be sons and daughters of God, to act an important part in the occupations and pleasures of heaven.  {PH150 5.1}
[PH150 5.2]          "To His church, Christ has given ample facilities, that He may receive a large revenue of glory from His redeemed, purchased possession. The church, being endowed with the righteousness of Christ, is His depository, in which the wealth of His mercy, His love, His grace, is to appear in full and final display.                               -6-     The declaration in His intercessory prayer, that the Father's love is as great toward us as toward Himself, the only-begotten Son, and that we shall be with Him where He is, forever one with Christ and the Father, is a marvel to the heavenly host, and it is their great joy. The gift of His Holy Spirit, rich, full, and abundant, is to his church as an encompassing wall of fire, which the powers of hell shall not prevail against. In their untainted purity and spotless perfection, Christ looks upon His people as the reward of all His suffering, His humiliation, and His love, and the supplement of His glory,--Christ, the great center from which radiates all glory. 'Blessed are they which are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb.'                                     "Ellen G. White."                                                    -    {PH150 5.2}
[PH150 6.1]          Consolidation of the Publishing Work.            The subject of consolidating our publishing work, to bring it under one management, has been presented to me, and I have been shown what the outcome would be. It would result in bringing all the publishing houses under the control of a man-made power at Battle Creek, which already has far too extensive a rule. It will be urged that since the publishing interest in Battle Creek is under the supervision of the General Conference, matters are placed on a different basis, and that the objections to consolidation are removed. But the same influences that have been leading                             -7-     away from the principles upon which our publishing institutions were founded, are still working. There is a change of name, but to a great degree the management is the same. It is no time now for any institution among us to act out the principles of Rome in seeking to bring everything under its own control.  {PH150 6.1}
[PH150 7.1]          The General Conference is assuredly embracing altogether too many weighty responsibilities. It can not carry them with the present corps of workers. It is best for our brethren in Battle Creek to think more deeply and pray more earnestly before they shall make any further moves to enfold all the publishing interests. You are in need of the teachings and leadings of the Holy Spirit of God. Let your managing forces walk humbly with God, and seek wisdom from Him to manage the interests that have already accumulated at Battle Creek. You will need a much more efficient staff than you now have to do even this. When the present inefficient corps undertakes the management of the publishing work in the whole field, they are acting contrary to the will of God. I protest against it in the name of the Lord.  {PH150 7.1}
[PH150 7.2]          If the publishing house at Battle Creek had kept clear from all encroachments upon the rights of others, the responsible men would have had a decidedly different record in the books of heaven. The record of the books is soon to be opened. The time is at hand when the vision of the prophets is to be fulfilled: "And I saw a great white throne, and Him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found                          -8-     no place for them." Daniel, speaking of the destruction of earthly kingdoms, says: "In the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which shall never be destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, but it shall break in pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever. Forasmuch as thou sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold: the great God hath made known . . . what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream is certain, and the interpretation thereof sure." "And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God: and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them; and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire."  {PH150 7.2}
[PH150 8.1]          Let all take heed as to the principles that govern their dealings with one another, for all their works are to be brought into judgment. There must be no confederacy to ignore the individuality of the publishing work on the Pacific Coast. Let not our brethren attempt to submerge the identity of the Pacific Press in the publishing house at Battle                           -9-     Creek, thinking to increase the strength of both. The Pacific Press has been led to depend too largely upon Battle Creek; its managers should have discerned the talents to be found on the Pacific Coast, and would have shown true wisdom in securing all the ability possible in order to make their work a complete whole. Let the B. C. publishing house and the Pacific Press regard each other as sister institutions. In co-operation they can exert a healthful influence upon each other, but not in consolidation. These institutions are not to become merged into one. The managers in Battle Creek have indulged unchristian, unbrotherly feelings, even envy and jealousy, toward the Pacific Publishing House. They have had a feverish desire to belittle that institution, and to bring it under their own jurisdiction, but the light that I have had for years is that these institutions must stand separate, each preserving its own individuality. A nearer relation than this will tend to the injury of both.  {PH150 8.1}
[PH150 9.1]          The arrangement of the General Conference to take the supervision of the publishing work, will not remove the difficulties that have existed, unless there is a decided renunciation of the principles and methods which are not in the wisdom of God, nor for the interests of the work. Methods which God does not approve have leavened the minds of men who do not discern the outcome of these ambitious plans. They give their assent to that of which they know very little. I fear that the managers of the Pacific Press have accepted propositions without the careful and                         -10-     prayerful consideration which should have been given them. No proposition should be accepted, no matter whence it may come, unless it is definitely stated in writing, and a copy given to the managers of each institution. Then let several of the leading men together bring the matter before the Lord; spread out the writing before Him, and with earnest prayer seek for clear discernment and sharp discrimination to decide whether the plans proposed are for the glory of God and the good of both institutions. As you ask for wisdom, believe that you receive, and you shall have; for God has promised it. ----- ----- may, with the purest motives, make propositions that have no appearance of injustice toward any institution outside of Battle Creek, but the terms in which the propositions are made may mean much more than is apparent to the Pacific Press managers. Some of the men on the other side have purposes in view which they do not clearly define. From the light I have had, the Pacific Press has consented to accept propositions that will open the way for still others, and may bring results which its managers do not now foresee. I write this in order that no hurried motions shall be carried through, but that every point may be carefully and prayerfully considered, with its probable results.  {PH150 9.1}
[PH150 10.1]          I repeat, the fact that the General Conference has taken the control of the publishing work does not remove the objection to consolidation. Matters are presented to me as in no more favorable condition than before. The very foundation of the evil has not been                           -11-     removed. The same men are acting in the interests of the publishing work at Battle Creek, and their policy will be essentially the same as in the past, bearing the signature of men, but not the endorsement of God.  {PH150 10.1}
[PH150 11.1]          I am anxious to publish the Testimonies that have so long been in the hands of a few. The people are in ignorance as to the significance of the decisions of your councils, for they have not the light which you have received. As soon as other work can be completed I mean to publish the Testimonies that have been waiting so long. But if our brethren persist in their efforts to consolidate the publishing work, and bring the Pacific Press under the management of the authorities at Battle Creek, I should feel it my duty at once to gather up and publish the writings that have for the last twenty years expressed the will of God on this point. O, may God save His people in this perilous time! Wisdom seems to have departed from the prudent. The truth is hidden from wise men, and is revealed to babes. The cause of God will not be left in unconsecrated, unskilful hands.                          (Signed) E. G. White. July, 1896.                                                    -    {PH150 11.1}
[PH150 11.2]         To the Men in Responsible Positions in                     Battle Creek.                   Granville, N. S. W., September, 1895.        Dear Brethren: . . . Consolidation means that all institutions are to be merged into the                           -12-     Battle Creek institutions. For years something of this kind has been proposed by one and another. But according to the light I have had, the plan is wrong, decidedly wrong. Let every institution stand in its own individuality, doing its respective work in its own locality. There are not in Battle Creek men of sufficient clearness of discernment, sanctified by the grace of Christ, to carry the responsibilities which they now assume. If there is any action taken to merge everything into one institution under the dictation of those now presiding, it will be one of the worst pieces of business that ever was transacted in Battle Creek in connection with the cause of God.  {PH150 11.2}
[PH150 12.1]          The Pacific Press should stand in its own moral independence, carrying on its work beyond the Rocky Mountains, in a little world of its own. Its managers are responsible to God to do their work as in full view of the universe of heaven.  {PH150 12.1}
[PH150 12.2]          Men are coming to trust in men, and to make flesh their arm; and when that arm is not linked in the arm of Christ, they will find that they are leaning upon a broken reed.  {PH150 12.2}
[PH150 12.3]          The publishing houses were established in America in the counsel of God, under his direction and supervision, and they should stand in their own individuality, as sister institutions. Never should they be so related to each other that one shall have power to control the running of the other. If one institution shall adopt a policy which the other does not sanction, the other institution is not to be corrupted, but is to stand in its                              -13-     God-given responsibility, true to the principles that were expressed in its establishment, and carrying forward the work in harmony with those principles.  {PH150 12.3}
[PH150 13.1]          Our people do not know what they are about. In some of their movements they act like blind men. The managers at Battle Creek are taking altogether too much on their hands; but they do not understand the result of this confederacy. Every institution should work in harmony with the other institutions, but farther than this they should not go toward confederacy or merging into one. Already there are men who, supposing themselves wise, are trying to shape matters according to their ideas. Things may for a time appear to prosper in their hands, but the result will be that which they do not now anticipate.  {PH150 13.1}
[PH150 13.2]          For years a spirit of oppression has been coming into Battle Creek. The human agents are lifting up themselves unto selfishness and domination. Not a work can be published but they try to gain control of it, and if authors do not concede to their propositions, those who publish the work will exert an influence with canvassers and other agents that will hinder its sale, and this wholly irrespective of the value of the book. And when every institution is merged into the one that is greatest,--that is, measured by her power of control,--that one will indeed be a ruling power, and if the principles of action in the most powerful institution are corrupted, as is now the case, and as has been in the history of the past, every other institution must follow                          -14-     the same path, else a determined influence will be brought to bear against it. The difficulty is not in the institution, but in the members.  {PH150 13.2}
[PH150 14.1]          This disposition to press men into hard places if you can not bring them to your ideas, is not according to God's order. Those who do this when it suits them, are bringing souls into unbelief and temptation, and driving them on Satan's battle-field. They forget that God will deal with them as they deal with their fellow-men. God's cause is not to be molded by one man, or half a dozen men. All his responsible stewards are to bear a share in the devising, as well as in the execution, of the plans. Men must not forget that the God of heaven is a God of justice; with Him is no partiality, no hypocrisy. He will not serve with men's selfishness, nor sanction their plans to rob one soul of his right because they can press him inconsiderately, and make statements and plans that compel surrender, or leave him helpless.  {PH150 14.1}
[PH150 14.2]          Shall everything pass under the control of men who we know have not a living connection with God? He who says, "I know thy works," hears all their suggestions, listens to all their plans. The institutions of God's own creating, which he established upon principles of justice and equity, they are seeking to make a means of oppression, forcing the Lord's workers to accept terms which they themselves, were the situation reversed, would not accept.  {PH150 14.2}
[PH150 14.3]          God's instrumentalities are not chosen of men, or under their jurisdiction. They are                              -15-     to prepare a people to stand in the day of the Lord. God is a party to every transaction, and He is sinned against and misrepresented. The Lord's powerful instrumentalities are made as a cutting sword to weaken and destroy, because those who are managing these instrumentalities possess attributes that lead them to do this. When men swerve from truth and righteousness, violate justice in deal, making contracts that bind others according to their will, and violate contracts, let them remember that for all this God will bring them into judgment. By no sharp dealing or underhand advantage is the Lord to be glorified or His truth served. Money acquired in this way to supply the treasury will benefit no one; for God will not serve with the sins of oppression and selfishness.  {PH150 14.3}
[PH150 15.1]         It should be written on the conscience as with a pen of iron upon a rock, that no man can achieve true success while violating the eternal principles of right. There must be a cleansing of the institutions similar to Christ's cleansing of the temple of old. "It is written," saith the Lord. "My house shall be called a house of prayer, but ye have made it a den of thieves." There are in our institutions today, transactions similar to those that took place in the temple court in Christ's time; and all heaven is looking on. . . .  {PH150 15.1}
[PH150 15.2]         The publishing houses were brought into existence in a spirit of sacrifice, and no persons should have been permitted to hold a responsible position in the work, who desired to work according to the world's policy. The consecration and purity of the worker will                            -16-     be evidenced by the principles manifested in his attitude toward every child of God. The publishing house was established for the purpose of doing business upon the principles of justice and equity, judging every case without partiality and without hypocrisy. In our institutions the Spirit of Christ was to be a witness to the world of the character of God, a living epistle, known and read of all men. These institutions were to reveal nothing like oppression; the managers were to be those who showed decidedly that they were under the control of God. Selfishness and the love of money were not to set aside those principles of sacrifice which characterized the establishment of these instrumentalities.  {PH150 15.2}
[PH150 16.1]          No one should be allowed to engage in the sacred work who could be bought or sold for money. No one is to take advantage of any man's ignorance or necessity, in order to charge exorbitant prices for work done or for goods sold. The managers are not obeying the commandments of God when, by any selfish devising, they secure the benefits of the time or talents of the workmen. Such a course is robbery of your neighbor. God has given every one of his workers certain qualifications, for which he is responsible, not to any man or set of men, but to God. He is so to use them that they will be a blessing to himself, by having it in his power to be a blessing to others. The practises that have prevailed in the Review and Herald office, and which are now leavening the managers of the conferences, are not correct. I can not specify all the departures from righteousness;                            -17-     they are too many to be enumerated, and I am not told to do this.  {PH150 16.1}
[PH150 17.1]          Some will urge that in dealing with sharpers, those who have no conscience, one must conform in a large degree to the customs that prevail; that should he adopt a course of strict integrity, he will be compelled to give up his business, or fail to secure a livelihood. Where is your faith in God? He owns you as His sons and daughters on condition that you come out from the world, and be separate, and touch not the unclean thing. There will be violent temptations to diverge from the straight path; there will be innumerable arguments in favor of conforming to custom, and adopting practices that are really dishonest.  {PH150 17.1}
[PH150 17.2]          When one worker enters into a confederacy with another--as has been done--seeking to supply that other's lack of aptitude or knowledge, he is doing that one an injury, and assisting in a deception. That worker receives pay for qualifications which he has not, and his failures in duties which he is supposed to perform are many. Yet the largest wages are received, and the treasury is robbed. God has been greatly displeased by these things.  {PH150 17.2}
[PH150 17.3]          These may be regarded by men as little things, but was it a little thing for Adam and Eve to eat of the fruit which God had forbidden them to eat? The smallness of the act did not avert the consequences. It was disobedience to God's commandments, and the flood-gates of woe were opened upon our world. We can not be Christians and connive at any dishonest practise or breach of trust. The Christian will not be found spending                           -18-     extravagantly means that he has not earned. God requires every man to be punctual, just, and without guile in his lips or in his heart. Be righteous in all dealings with your fellowmen if you would have not only the name but the character of a Christian. Those who depart from Bible principles, and vindicate their defects as righteous, have never received the true knowledge of Christ or the experience of being in truth doers of the Word. There is nothing in the Word of God that glosses over or excuses one phase of selfishness, one approach to overreaching or dishonesty. . . .                        (Signed) Ellen G. White.                                                    -    {PH150 17.3}
[PH150 18.1]        To the General Conference Committee and          the Publishing Boards of the Review             and Herald and Pacific Press.               William St., Granville, April 8, 1894.        Dear Brethren: I would address to you words of counsel. I have received a letter from Brother C. H. Jones in reference to changes which it is proposed to make in the publication of our periodicals. Questions are asked in reference to these matters. One is, "Shall our periodicals be combined in one paper or magazine?" Brother Jones further says: "Some suggest that the Review, Home Missionary, and Sabbath School Worker, be combined in one paper, to be used as our regular church paper; have the Review enlarged to 32 pages and divide it up into different departments, covering the different lines of work. All three of the papers are designed                           -19-     especially for our own people, and I am not sure but that this combination could be effected. Some have thought that the Instructor and Little Friend could also be combined in our church paper. Another suggestion is that the Signs of the Times and the American Sentinel be combined in one pioneer missionary paper."  {PH150 18.1}
[PH150 19.1]          I can not see wisdom in the policy of having all our periodicals combined in one paper or magazine. Each of our periodicals has its own place, and is to do a specific work. Let our brethren inquire, Has the necessity of this work, and its object, changed? If you think so, then wherein? . . .  {PH150 19.1}
[PH150 19.2]          The present is a time of special peril. In 1890 and 1891 there was presented to me a view of dangers that would threaten the work because of a confederacy in the office of publication in Battle Creek. Propositions which to their authors appeared very wise would be introduced, looking to the formation of a confederacy that would make Battle Creek, like Rome, the great head of the work, and enable the office of publication there to swallow up everything in the publishing line among us. This is not God's wisdom, but human wisdom. Those matters have been coming up again and again in different aspects, but this policy of consolidation would, if adopted, result in marring the work. God would have his work move firmly and solidly, but no one branch is to interfere with or absorb other branches of the same great work. From time to time for years, in the past, God has been pleased to give me special light on                             -20-     these points. I was shown that the small periodicals, as well as the larger ones, are to come forth from the publishing houses and be scattered like the leaves of autumn to answer the wants of the cause in its growth and extension.  {PH150 19.2}
[PH150 20.1]          The printing office in Battle Creek will bear the divine credentials if the workers connected with it walk in accordance with the light that God has given them. If any of them in their devising and planning, weave selfishness into the work, the approval of God will be withdrawn. All who act any part in the work of the cause of God are to consider their own spiritual condition in the light of the Word of God. Have they considered this matter prayerfully, that not one vein of selfishness should be fed by a course of action that God has reproved? Have they learned to lean upon Him who is a sufficiency?  {PH150 20.1}
[PH150 20.2]          I have much to say, but have little time in which to write and prepare matter for this month's mail. I wish it to be distinctly understood, however, that I have no faith in consolidating the work of publication, blending in one that which should remain separate. The blending of the Signs and the Sentinel will not be in the order of God. Each has its distinctive work to do. The Signs is a pioneer paper to do a special work.  {PH150 20.2}
[PH150 20.3]          The work of publication was represented to me by the figure which Christ used, the vine. In the different branches of this great work, as in the branches of the vine, there is to be unity in diversity. This is God's plan, the principle that runs through the entire                           -21-     universe. In God's wise arrangement there is diversity, and yet He has so related each part to others that all work in harmony to carry out His great plan in extending the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ whom He hath sent. However there may appear to be dissimilarity, the work is one great whole, and bears the stamp of infinite wisdom. God and Christ are one, Christ and His disciples are one, we in Christ, and Christ in God. The Lord designs that His work shall move forward in perfect harmony without friction. Jesus said: "I am the vine, ye are the branches." The branches are many and diverse, yet all are united in the parent stalk, and every branch, although separate, draws its sustenance from the vine stalk. "I am the vine, ye are the branches." Jesus Christ is in God, the great Masterpiece of infinite wisdom, and power, and sufficiency, from whom all the diversity springs. Each branch bears its burden of fruit, and all together make a harmonious whole, a complete, beautiful unity. This is harmony according to the Lord's order.  {PH150 20.3}
[PH150 21.1]          Warnings have been given me that the publishing house upon the Pacific coast should not, in thought, word, or deed, depreciate the office at Battle Creek, neither should the publishing house at Battle Creek look with envy and jealousy upon the instrumentalities the Lord has established upon the Pacific Coast. Plans should be carefully considered in Battle Creek, that they may in no case militate against the work in Oakland. But the image of jealousy was long ago set up, and                            -22-     has provoked to jealousy, which has grieved the Spirit of God.  {PH150 21.1}
[PH150 22.1]          I understand something about these two institutions, for my husband and I had to lead out in establishing them and carrying them forward. The Lord gave special directions as to how they should be conducted. These principles I have not withheld from those who were numbered as believers in the truth.  {PH150 22.1}
[PH150 22.2]          The work has been presented to me as, at its beginning, a small, very small rivulet. The representation was given to the prophet Ezekiel of waters issuing "from under the threshold of the house eastward . . . at the south side of the altar." Please read Ezekiel 47. Mark verse 8: "Then said he unto me, These waters issue out toward the east country, and go down into the desert, and go into the sea; which being brought forth into the sea, the waters shall be healed." This work was represented to me as extending to the east and to the north, to the islands of the sea, and to all parts of the world. As the work increases, there will be a great and living interest to be managed by human instrumentalities. The work is not to be centered in any one place, not even in Battle Creek. Human wisdom argues that it is more convenient to build up the interest where it has already obtained character and influence; mistakes have been made in this line. Individuality and personal responsibility are thus repressed and weakened. The work is the Lord's, and the strength and efficiency are not all to be concentrated in any one place.              (Signed) Ellen G. White.                            -23-  {PH150 22.2}
[PH150 23.1]       Extracts from Personal Letters from Mrs.             E. G. White to C. H. Jones                Cooranbong, N. S. W., July 8, 1895.        Dear Brother Jones: There is need for the Pacific Press to stand in God, subject to no human power of control in their action. You are not to hold yourself to seek permission of the authorities of Battle Creek whether you shall or shall not pursue a line of work that seems impressed upon you to do. The Lord is the one to whom you are to be amenable. All the light heretofore given me of God is that these institutions out of Battle Creek should not be absorbed by Battle Creek. It would be an injury to both parties. Each is to stand in harmony one with the other, yet preserve their individuality of action, responsible to God and Him alone. If one pursues a course of selfish action, or of absorbing everything by just or unjust means, my voice can not be silent. I shall be heard, for God has given me His word. I look upon consolidation in unity, and helpfulness of one another, as sound principle; but I do not and can not give my influence to consolidation in blending the institutions in one great whole, and that be Battle Creek, the moving power, the voice to dictate and direct. I see the danger. I am sure from the light given me of God, the men, some of whom are the main movers in Battle Creek in councils, first need to confess to God their rejection of the messengers and the message He hath sent, then we shall see everything established after the fashion of the Holy Spirit, and not after the mind                            -24-     of imperfect men who are not under the control of God. I send you warning not to follow in their wake; for God has a controversy with them, and He will not serve with their selfish plans, neither will He accept robbery for a burnt-offering. That which they unjustly require for themselves they are very jealous to accord to others. God hates covetousness, which is idolatry. I tell you in the fear of God, stand in God to do His will, to keep the ways of the Lord, to do justice and judgment. Let there be no betrayal of sacred trusts on your part, because this is the work some in responsible positions pursue in Battle Creek. Walk humbly and softly before God. If God sees the least injustice done to one of His children, He will punish for these things. They have not done in dealing with some as they should; they have grasped greedily every dollar possible (acquired by talents God has given), saying, "It is for the cause of God." This principle of dealing, God abominates; for He is misrepresented, dishonored, and souls are imperiled if not ruined through their natural and cultivated grasping spirit, to make a showing for themselves. They need new hearts and new characters before their plans and designs can be safely adopted. The Lord God is ruler of the world, ruler of His own subjects.  {PH150 23.1}
[PH150 24.1]          God would have the Pacific Press Publishing House stand free and clear, and untrammeled by any power. God would have every one of His institutions rise above the frosty atmosphere in which the human agent will be if left to himself. Inclined to live and breathe,                              -25-     he must live and breathe in the holy, pure, life-giving atmosphere of heaven, else sentiments, and plans, and resolutions will clog and impede our heavenly advance movements. . . .         Ellen G. White.  {PH150 24.1}
[PH150 25.1]                    Cooranbong, N. S. W., Aug. 2, 1895.        . . . I beg of you and all the officials at the Pacific Press to know that every move you make is in the light of the counsel of God. The moves being made of consolidation mean placing all your powers under the jurisdiction of the powers in office at Battle Creek. I say, God forbid that you should adopt the plans and be controlled by the principles that have ruled them like the laws of the Medes and Persians.  {PH150 25.1}
[PH150 25.2]          God has presented to me, which I have presented to you, that the Pacific Press should stand on its own individuality, relying upon God, doing its work in God, as His instrumentality--the human agent working with God, contrite in spirit, meek and lowly in heart, ready to be taught of God, but not subject to any earthly power that shall propose plans and ways that are not after the light God has given. Be on guard. Be on guard, and do not sell your religious liberty to any office or to any man, or board or council of men.                                   Ellen G. White.                                                    -    {PH150 25.2}
[PH150 25.3]               Extracts from Earlier Testimonies.          In the year 1867, the following appeared in Testimony No. 13:--  {PH150 25.3}
[PH150 25.4]          "Those engaged at the office should have no                           -26-     separate interest aside from the work. If that attention and care are given to the work in which they are engaged which it demands, they should not be further taxed. They have done all they should do. If trafficking which has no connection with the work of God engages the mind and occupies time, the work will not be done thoroughly and well. At the best, those employed in the work have no physical and mental energy to spare. They are to a greater or less degree enfeebled. Such a cause, such a sacred work, in which they are employed, should engage the powers of the mind; they should not work mechanically, but be sanctified to the work, and act as though the cause was a part of them, as though they had invested something in this great and solemn work. Unless they thus take hold of this matter with interest, their efforts will not be acceptable to God.  {PH150 25.4}
[PH150 26.1]          "Satan is very artful, busy, and active. His special power is brought to bear upon those who are now engaged in the work of preaching and in the publication of present truth. All in connection with this work need to keep the whole armor on, for they are the special marks for Satan to attack.  {PH150 26.1}
[PH150 26.2]          "I saw that there was a danger of becoming unguarded, and Satan obtaining an entrance, and imperceptibly diverting the mind from the great work. I saw that there was danger of those connected with the work at the office, who fill responsible positions there, getting above the work, and losing humbleness of mind, and the simplicity of the work which has hitherto characterized it.                              -27-  {PH150 26.2}
[PH150 27.1]          "Satan designs to obtain a foothold in that office, and unless there is united effort and thorough watchfulness, he will accomplish his object. Some will get above the simplicity of the work, and will feel that they are sufficient when their strength is perfect weakness. God will be glorified in this great work. And unless there is deep and constant humility and a firm trust in God, there will be a trusting in self, a self-sufficiency, and one or more will drink the bitter cup of affliction.  {PH150 27.1}
[PH150 27.2]          "As the work increases, the greater the necessity for thorough trust and dependence on God, and a thorough interest in, and devotion to, the work. Selfish interests should be laid aside. There should be much prayer, much meditation: for this is highly necessary for the success and prosperity of the work. A spirit of traffic should not be allowed in any one who is connected with the work in the office. If it is permitted, the work will be neglected and marred. Common things will be placed too much upon a level with sacred things.  {PH150 27.2}
[PH150 27.3]          "There is great danger of some connected with the work laboring merely for wages. While they invest no special interest in the work, their heart is not in the work, and they have no special sense of its sacredness and exalted character. Another special danger would be of those at the head of the work becoming lifted up, exalted, and the work of God be marred, bearing the impress of man, of the human instead of the divine. Satan is wide awake, persevering, yet Jesus lives, and all who make Him their righteousness, their                            -28-     defense, will be specially sustained."--Pages 23-26.  {PH150 27.3}
[PH150 28.1]          The following, addressed especially to the young, was written in May, 1867:--  {PH150 28.1}
[PH150 28.2]          "Dear Young Friends: . . . A burden is resting upon me in regard to you. I have been repeatedly shown that all who are in connection with the work of God in publishing the present truth, which is to be scattered to every part of the field, should be Christians, not only in name, but in deed and truth. Their object should not be merely to work for wages, but all engaged in this great and solemn work should feel that their interest is in the work, and that it is a part of them. Their motives and influence in connecting themselves with this great and solemn work, must bear the test of the judgment. None should be allowed to become connected with the office of publication who manifest selfishness and pride.  {PH150 28.2}
[PH150 28.3]          "I was shown that lightness and folly, joking and laughing, should not be indulged by those engaged in the work in the office. Those engaged in the solemn work of preparing truth to go to every part of the field, should realize that their deportment has its influence. If they are, while reading and preparing solemn truth for publication, jesting, joking, laughing, and careless, their hearts are not in the work, or sanctified through the truth. They do not discern sacred things, but handle truth that is to test character, truth which is of heavenly origin, as a common tale, as a story, merely to come before minds and be readily effaced. . . .                             -29-  {PH150 28.3}
[PH150 29.1]          "None in that office are sufficient of themselves for the important work of discreetly managing matters connected with the publication of the truth. Angels must be near them to guide, to counsel, to restrain, or the wisdom and folly of human agencies will be apparent.  {PH150 29.1}
[PH150 29.2]          "I saw that frequently angels were in the office, in the folding-room, in the room where the type is being set. I was made to hear the laughing, the jesting, the idle, foolish talking. Again, the vanity, the pride and selfishness exhibited. Angels looked sad, and turned away grieved. The words I had heard, the vanity, the pride and selfishness exhibited, caused me to groan with anguish of spirit, as angels left the room in disgust. Said an angel, 'The heavenly messengers came to bless, that the truth carried by the voiceless preachers might have a sanctifying, holy power to attend its mission; but those engaged in its work were distant from God, possessing so little of the divine, and were so conformed to the spirit of the world, that the powers of darkness controlled them, and they could not be made susceptible of divine impressions.' At the same time these young were deceived and thought they were rich and increased in goods and had need of nothing, and knew not that they were poor and miserable, blind and naked.  {PH150 29.2}
[PH150 29.3]          "I saw that those who handle precious truth as they would sand, know not how many times their heartless indifference to eternal things, their vanity, self-love, and pride, their laughing and senseless chatting, have driven holy messengers of heaven away from the office.                            -30-  {PH150 29.3}
[PH150 30.1]          "The deportment, words, and acts of all in that office should be reserved, modest, humble, and disinterested, as was their Pattern, Jesus, the dear Saviour. They should seek God and obtain righteousness. The office is not the place for sport, for visiting, for idlers, for laughing, or useless words. All should feel that they are doing a work for their Master. These truths which they read, that they act their part to arrange to get before the people, are invitations of mercy, are reproofs, are threatenings, warnings, or encouragements. They are doing their work. They are savors of life unto life, or of death unto death. If rejected, the judgment must decide the matter. The prayer of all in the office should be, 'O God, make these truths which are of such vital importance, clear to the comprehension of the humblest minds! May angels accompany these silent preachers, and bless their influence, that souls may be saved by these humble means.'  {PH150 30.1}
[PH150 30.2]          "The heart should go out in fervent prayer while the hands are busy, and Satan will not find such ready access, and the soul, instead of being lifted up into vanity, will be constantly refreshed, will be like a watered garden. Angels will delight to be near these souls. Their presence will be continually encouraged by those engaged in the work. A power will attend the truths published. Divine rays of light from the heavenly sanctuary will attend the precious truths sent forth; those who read will be refreshed and strengthened, and souls who are opposed to truth will                            -31-     be convicted and compelled to say. 'These things are so, they can not be gainsaid.'  {PH150 30.2}
[PH150 31.1]          "All, I saw, should feel that the office is a holy place, as sacred as the house of God. But God has been dishonored by the frivolity and lightness that have been indulged in by some connected with the work. Strangers from abroad, I saw, often went away from the office disappointed. They had associated it with everything sacred; but when they saw the youth, or any one connected with the office, possessing but little gravity, and careless in words and acts, the impression they took away caused them to doubt, after all, if this is really the work of God to prepare a people for translation to heaven. May God bless this to all concerned."--Pages 28-32.  {PH150 31.1}
[PH150 31.2]          Below are given a couple of paragraphs from No. 21, first published in 1872:--        "No selfish feelings should exist among those who labor in the office. It is the work of God in which they are engaged, and they are accountable to God for the motives and manner in which this branch of His work is performed. They are required to discipline their minds, and to bring their minds to task. Forgetfulness is sin. Many feel that no blame should be attached to forgetfulness. There is a great mistake here; and this leads to many blunders, and much disorder, and many wrongs. The minds must be tasked. Things that should be done should not be forgotten. The mind must be disciplined until it will remember.  {PH150 31.2}
[PH150 31.3]          "Those who labor in the office should learn.                          -32-     They should study, and practise, and exercise their own brains. If the workmen make a failure, they should feel that it rests upon them to repair damages from their own purses, and not allow the office to suffer loss through their carelessness. They should not cease to bear responsibilities, but should try again, avoiding their former mistakes. In this way they would learn to take that care which the Word of God ever requires, and then they will do no more than their duty."--Pages 8, 9.  {PH150 31.3}
[PH150 32.1]          The following selections are from No. 22, published in 1872:--        "The workers at the office should feel when they enter it that it is a sacred place where the work of God is being done in the publication of truth which will decide the destiny of souls. This is not felt or realized as it should be. There is conversation in the type-setting department, which diverts the mind from the work. The office is no place for visiting, for a courting spirit, or for amusement, or selfishness. All should feel that they are doing work for God. He who sifts all motives and reads all hearts, is proving, and trying, and sifting His people, especially those who have light and knowledge, and who are engaged in His sacred work. God is a searcher of hearts, and a trier of the reins, and will accept nothing less than entire devotion to the work, and consecration to Himself. All should have a spirit in that office to take up their daily duties as if in the presence of God. They should not be satisfied merely with doing just                             -33-     enough to pass along, and receive their wages; but all should work in any place where they can help the most. If all in the office who profess to be followers of Christ had been faithful in the performance of duty in the office, there would be a great change for the better. Young men and young women have been too much engrossed in each other's society, talking, jesting, and joking, and angels of God have been driven from the office." --Pages 98, 99.  {PH150 32.1}
[PH150 33.1]          "From what has been shown me, there should be a careful selection of help in that office. The young, and untried, and unconsecrated should not be placed there; for they are exposed to temptations, and have not fixed characters. Those who have formed characters, and have fixed principles, and the truth of God in the heart, will not be a constant source of anxiety and care, but rather helps and blessings. And the office of publication is amply able to make arrangements to secure good helpers, who have ability and principle. And the church in their turn should not seek to advantage themselves one penny from those who come to the office to labor and learn their trade. There are positions where some can earn more wages than those at the office, but they can never find a position more important, more honorable or exalted, than the work of God in the office. Those who labor faithfully and unselfishly will be rewarded. For them there is a crown of glory prepared, compared with which all earthly honors and pleasures are as the small                            -34-     dust of the balance. Especially will those be blessed who have been faithful to God in watching over the spiritual welfare of others in the office. Pecuniary and temporal interests, in comparison with this, sink into insignificance. In one scale is gold-dust, in the other a human soul of such value that honor, riches, and glory have been sacrificed by the Son of God to ransom it from the bondage of sin and hopeless despair. The soul is of infinite value, and demands the most attention. Every man who fears God in that office, should put away childish and vain things, and stand erect, with true moral courage, in the dignity of his manhood, shunning low familiarity, yet binding heart to heart in the bond of Christian interest and love. Hearts yearn for sympathy and love, and are as much refreshed and strengthened by them as flowers are by showers and sunshine. The Bible should be read every day."--Pages 102, 103.  {PH150 33.1}
[PH150 34.1]          The three following paragraphs are from No. 27, published in 1876:--        "If there are young people connected with the office who do not respect the authority of parents, and are ungovernable at home, despising counsel and restraint, the curse of God will fall upon them, and not only upon them, but upon the office, should they retain their services, and give them further opportunity to pervert the young with whom they are brought in contact there. Those who occupy responsible positions in the office are accountable for the prevailing influence there. And if they are indifferent to the course of                           -35-     the insubordinate and impenitent in their employ, they become partakers of their sin. Those who profess the truth should guard, like sleepless sentinels, the interest of the cause at the office, and sacredly guard themselves and each other from spiritual contamination."--Pages 93, 94.  {PH150 34.1}
[PH150 35.1]          "The influence of our young people in the office is not what it should be. The young who heed not the warnings of the Word of God, and slight the testimonies of the Spirit of God, can only be a living curse to the office, and should be separated from it.  {PH150 35.1}
[PH150 35.2]          "God abhors the sins that are fostered and concealed by the church, cherished in the office, and sheltered under the paternal roof. Let parents, and those in authority, earnestly take hold of the work and purge this evil from their midst."--Pages 99, 100.  {PH150 35.2}
[PH150 35.3]          From No. 29, published in 1880:--        "The hands employed in the various departments of our offices of publication do not accomplish the amount of work which they would be required to perform in any other office of the kind. Much time is wasted in unnecessary conversation, in visiting away the precious hours, while the work is suffered to lag. In several of the departments, loss is occasioned to the office because of persons engaging in the work who have not exercised care and economy. Were these persons engaged in doing work for themselves, some would accomplish a third more work in a day than now. Others would do no more than they now perform.                             -36-  {PH150 35.3}
[PH150 36.1]          "Business hours should be faithfully employed. To be wasteful of time or of material is dishonesty before God. A few moments are squandered here and a few moments there, which amount in the course of a week to nearly or quite a day, sometimes even exceeding this. 'Time is money,' and a waste of time is a waste of money to the cause of God. When those who profess the faith are dilatory and reckless of time, showing that they have not a heart interest for the prosperity of the work, unbelievers employed will follow their example. If all would use their time to the best account, very much means would be saved to the cause of truth. When the heart is in the work, it will be done with earnestness, energy, and despatch. All should be awake to see what needs to be done, and apt and quick to execute, working as though under the direct supervision of the great Master, Jesus Christ.  {PH150 36.1}
[PH150 36.2]          "Again, losses occur from lack of thoughtful care in the use of material and machinery. There is a failure to look after all the larger and smaller matters, that nothing be wasted or damaged through neglect. A little squandered here and there amounts to a large sum in the course of a year. Some have never learned to exercise their faculties to save the remnants, notwithstanding the injunction of Christ, 'Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.' Material should not be slashed into, to obtain a small piece. A little thoughtful care would lead to the gathering up and using of the little pieces that are now                             -37-     thrown aside and wasted. Attention should be given to saving even so trifling a matter as waste paper, for it can be turned into money.  {PH150 36.2}
[PH150 37.1]          "By lack of personal interest, many things go to waste which a few moments' thoughtful attention at the right time would save. 'I forgot' causes much loss to our offices. And some feel no interest in any work or in anything which does not come under their special branch of the work. This is all wrong. Selfishness would suggest the thought, 'It does not belong to me to care for that;' but faithfulness and duty would prompt every one to care for all that comes under his observation.  {PH150 37.1}
[PH150 37.2]          "A principle should exist all through the office to economize. In order to save the dollars, dimes and pennies must be carefully treasured. Men who have been successful in business have always been economical, persevering, and energetic. Let all connected with the work of God begin now to educate themselves thoroughly as care-takers. Even though their work may not be appreciated on earth, they should never degrade themselves in their own eyes by unfaithfulness in anything they undertake. It takes time for a person to become so accustomed to a given course of life as to be happy in pursuing it. We shall be individually, for time and eternity, what our habits make us. The lives of those who form right habits, and are faithful in the performance of every duty, will be as shining lights, shedding bright beams upon the pathway of others; but if habits of unfaithfulness are indulged, if lax, indolent, neglectful habits are allowed to strengthen, a                           -38-     cloud darker than midnight will settle on the prospects in this life, and forever debar the individual from the future life."--Pages 93-95.  {PH150 37.2}
[PH150 38.1]          "All the hands in our offices should place themselves in the most favorable condition for the formation of good and correct habits. Several times each day, precious golden moments should be consecrated to prayer and the study of the Scriptures, if it is only to commit a text to memory, that spiritual life may exist in the soul. The varied interests of the cause furnish us with food for reflection and inspiration for our prayers. Communion with God is highly essential for spiritual health; and here only may be obtained that wisdom and correct judgment so necessary in the performance of every duty.  {PH150 38.1}
[PH150 38.2]          "The strength acquired in prayer to God, united with individual effort in training the mind to thoughtfulness and care-taking, prepares the person for daily duties and keeps the spirit in peace under all circumstances, however trying. The temptations to which we are daily exposed make prayer a necessity. In order that we may be kept by the power of God through faith, the desires of the mind should be continually ascending in silent prayer for help, for light, for strength, for knowledge. But thought and prayer can not take the place of earnest, faithful improvement of the time. Work and prayer are both required in perfecting Christian character.  {PH150 38.2}
[PH150 38.3]          "We must live a twofold life of thought and action, silent prayer and earnest work. All who have received the light of truth should feel it their duty to shed rays of light upon                             -39-     the pathway of the impenitent. They should be witnesses for Christ in our offices as verily as in the church. God requires us to be living epistles, known and read of all men. The soul that turns to God for its strength, its support, its power, by daily, earnest prayer, will have noble aspirations, clear perceptions of truth and of duty, lofty purposes of action, and a continual hungering and thirsting after righteousness. By maintaining a connection with God, we shall be enabled to diffuse to others, through our association with them, the light, the peace, the serenity, that rule in our hearts, and set before them an example of unwavering fidelity to the interests of the work in which we are engaged. . . .  {PH150 38.3}
[PH150 39.1]          "Religious privileges have been too much neglected by those employed in the offices. None should engage in the work of God who treat these privileges with indifference; for all such connect with evil angels, and are a cloud of darkness and a hindrance to others. In order to make the work a success, every department in these offices must have the presence of heavenly angels. When the Spirit of God shall work upon the heart, cleansing the soul temple of its defilement of worldliness and pleasure-loving, all will be seen in the prayer-meeting, faithful to do their duty, and earnest and anxious to reap all the benefit they can gain. The faithful worker for the Master will improve every opportunity to place himself directly under the rays of light from the throne of God; and this light will be reflected upon others.  {PH150 39.1}
[PH150 39.2]          "And not only should the prayer-meeting be                           -40-     faithfully attended, but as often as once each week, a praise-meeting should be held. Here the goodness and manifold mercies of God should be dwelt upon. Were we as free to give expression to our thankfulness for mercies received as we are to speak of grievances, doubts, and unbelief, we might bring joy to the hearts of others, instead of casting discouragement and gloom upon them. The complainers and murmurers, who are ever seeing the discouragements in the way, and talking of trials and hardships, should contemplate the infinite sacrifice which Christ has made in their behalf. Then can they estimate all their blessings in the light of the cross. While looking upon Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, whom our sins have pierced and our sorrows have burdened, we shall see cause for gratitude and praise, and our thoughts and desires will be brought into submission to the will of Christ."-Pages 104-108.  {PH150 39.2}
[PH151 0.1]         PH151 - Selections from the Testimonies for the Church For the Study of Those Attending the General Conference in Oakland, Ca., March 27, 1903 (1903)      Table of Contents    Counsels Often Repeated ............................................ 3  Establish the Work in Many Places .................................. 6  To the Battle Creek Church ......................................... 9  The Review and Herald Fire ........................................ 12  A Solemn Warning .................................................. 19  The Result of Reformation ......................................... 27  Warnings and Counsels Given to the Battle Creek Church ............ 30  A Neglected Warning ............................................... 41  To Our Churches Where Institutions Are Located .................... 47  Consolidation of the Publishing Work .............................. 50  Plans for Our Publishing Work ..................................... 54  The Work in the South ............................................. 59  Saved by Loving Care .............................................. 63  Work of the Southern Publishing Association ....................... 64  A Cause of Discouragement ......................................... 66  A Work Misrepresented ............................................. 70  Nashville ......................................................... 75  Use of the "Morning Star" ......................................... 79  He That Ruleth Over Men Must Be Just .............................. 81  The Ministry is Ordained of God ................................... 83  The Work at Home and Abroad ....................................... 90  {PH151 0.1}
[PH151 3.1]     Chap. 1 - Counsels Often Repeated.                              St. Helena, Cal., Dec. 7, 1902.   To My Brethren in Europe--          I have words to speak to you. The time has come for much to be accomplished in Europe. A large work, such as has been done in America, can be done in Europe. Let sanitariums be established, let hygienic restaurants be started. Let the light of present truth shine forth from the press. Let the work of translating our books go forward. I have been shown that in the European countries lights will be kindled in many places.  {PH151 3.1}
[PH151 3.2]         There are many places where the Lord's work has not a proper showing. Help is needed in Italy, in France, in Scotland, and in many other countries. A larger work should be done in these places. Laborers are needed. There is talent among God's people in Europe, and the Lord desires this talent to be employed in establishing all through Great Britain and the continent centers from which the light of His truth may shine forth.  {PH151 3.2}
[PH151 3.3]          There is a work to be done in Scandinavia. God is just as willing to work through Scandinavian believers as through American believers.  {PH151 3.3}
[PH151 3.4]          My brethren, bind up with the Lord God of hosts. Let Him be your fear, and let Him be your dread. The time has come for His work to be enlarged. Troublous times are before us, but if we stand together in Christian fellowship, none striving for supremacy, God will work mightily for us.  {PH151 3.4}
[PH151 3.5]          Let us be hopeful and courageous. Despondency in God's service is sinful and unreasonable. He knows                                                                              4  our every necessity. He has all power. He can bestow upon His servants the measure of efficiency that their need demands. His infinite love and compassion never weary. With the majesty of omnipotence He unites the gentleness and care of a tender shepherd. We need have no fear that He will not fulfill His promises. He is eternal truth. Never will He change the covenant that He has made with those that love Him. His promises to His church stand fast forever. He will make her an eternal excellence, a joy of many generations.  {PH151 3.5}
[PH151 4.1]          Study the forty-first chapter of Isaiah, and strive to understand it in all its significance. God declares: "I will open rivers in high places, and fountains in the midst of the valleys; I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water. I will plant in the wilderness the cedar, the shittah tree, and the myrtle, and the oil tree; I will set in the desert the fir tree, and the pine, and the box tree together; that they may see, and know, and consider, and understand together, that the hand of the Lord hath done this, and the Holy One of Israel hath created it." Isaiah 41:18-20.  {PH151 4.1}
[PH151 4.2]          He who has chosen Christ has joined himself to a power that no array of human wisdom or strength can overthrow. "Fear thou not; for I am with thee," He declares; "be not dismayed; for I am thy God; I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of My righteousness." "I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not: I will help thee." Isaiah 41:10, 13.  {PH151 4.2}
[PH151 4.3]          "To whom then will ye liken Me, or shall I be equal? saith the Holy One. Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these things, that bringeth out their host by number: He calleth them all by names by the greatness of His might, for that He is                                                                              5  strong in power; not one faileth. Why sayest thou, O Jacob, and speakest, O Israel, My way is hid from the Lord, and my judgment is passed over from my God? Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the end of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of His understanding. He giveth power to the faint, and to them that have no might He increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall; but they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:25-31.  {PH151 4.3}
[PH151 6.1]       Chap. 2 - Establish the Work in Many Places.           True missionary workers will not colonize. God's people are to be pilgrims and strangers on the earth. The investments of large sums of money in the building up of the work in one place is not in the order of God. Plants are to be made in many places. Schools and sanitariums are to be established in places where there is now nothing to represent the truth. These interests are not to be established for the purpose of making money, but for the purpose of spreading the truth. Land should be secured at a distance from the cities, where schools can be built up in which the youth can be given an education in agricultural and mechanical lines.  {PH151 6.1}
[PH151 6.2]          The principles of present truth are to become more widespread. There are those who are reasoning from a wrong point of view. Because it is more convenient to have the work centered in one place, they are in favor of crowding everything together in one locality. Great evil is the result. Places that should be helped are left destitute.  {PH151 6.2}
[PH151 6.3]          What can I say to our people that will lead them to follow the course that will be for their present and future good? Will not those in Battle Creek heed the light given them by God? Will they not deny self, lift the cross, and follow Jesus? Will they not obey the call of their Leader to leave Battle Creek, and build up interests in other places? Will they not go to the dark places of the earth to tell the story of the love of Christ, trusting in God to give them success?  {PH151 6.3}
[PH151 6.4]          It is not God's plan for our people to crowd into Battle Creek. God says: "Go work today in My                                                                              7  vineyard. Get away from the places where you are not needed. Plant the standard of truth in towns and cities that have not heard the message. Prepare the way for My coming. Those in the highways and hedges are to hear the call."  {PH151 6.4}
[PH151 7.1]         God will make the wilderness a sacred place as His people, filled with the missionary spirit, go forth to make centers for His work, to establish sanitariums, where the sick and afflicted can be cared for, and schools, where the youth can be educated in right lines.  {PH151 7.1}
[PH151 7.2]          If our people had the spirit of the message, they would reveal it by being laborers together with God. How many understand what it means to work together with God? We cannot see God as Christ desires us to see Him until we labor with much greater self-sacrifice.  {PH151 7.2}
[PH151 7.3]          Let us take up the work lying nearest us, and day by day labor earnestly, zealously, perseveringly, with full faith in God.  {PH151 7.3}
[PH151 7.4]          Oh, that our people in Michigan would see the work to be done, and take hold of it with earnestness and determination! Unreserved consecration always leads to humility, to kindness, to forbearance and patience, to prayer for wisdom from above. The divine resources are at the command of those who believe. Angels are sent to minister to us, that our minds and hearts may be uplifted to heaven. God gives to us that we may give to others. "Freely ye have received, freely give." Matthew 10:8.  {PH151 7.4}
[PH151 7.5]          There is a great work to be done. All around us are souls perishing in sin. Are we doing what we can to save them? The commission given to the disciples is given to us, and to us also is promised the power promised to them,--the power that they received on the day of Pentecost, when like a rushing, mighty wind, the Holy Spirit came down and filled the room in which                                                                              8  they were sitting. Under the influence of this power, they went everywhere preaching the word, and thousands were converted.  {PH151 7.5}
[PH151 8.1]          Battle Creek, Michigan, 1889.                                                    -              Let all engage in missionary effort from pure, unselfish motives, co-operating with one another and with God, working not because of personal ambition or for the praise of men, but because they long to act a part with Christ in the work of saving perishing souls. In Christ's service, everything depends upon the motives prompting believers to action. Those who labor for the love of souls will advance His work in our world.  {PH151 8.1}
[PH151 9.1]       Chap. 3 - St. Helena, Cal., Jan. 5, 1903.    To the Battle Creek Church--            One day at noon I was writing of the work that might have been done at the last General Conference, if the men in positions of trust had followed the will and way of God. Those who have had great light have not walked in the light. The meeting was closed, and the break was not made. Men did not humble themselves before the Lord as they should have done, and the Holy Spirit was not imparted.  {PH151 9.1}
[PH151 9.2]          I had written thus far when I lost consciousness, and I seemed to be witnessing a scene in Battle Creek.  {PH151 9.2}
[PH151 9.3]          We were assembled in the auditorium of the Tabernacle. Prayer was offered, a hymn was sung, and prayer was again offered. Most earnest supplication was made to God. The meeting was marked by the presence of the Holy Spirit. The work went deep, and some present were weeping aloud.  {PH151 9.3}
[PH151 9.4]          One arose from his bowed position, and said that in the past he had not been in union with certain ones, and had felt no love for them, but that now he saw himself as he was. With great solemnity he repeated the message to the Laodicean church, "Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing." "In my self-sufficiency this is just the way I felt," he said. "'And knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked.' I now see that this is my condition. My eyes are opened. My spirit has been hard and unjust. I thought myself righteous, by my heart is broken, and I see my need of the precious counsel of the One who has searched me through and through. Oh, how                                                                              10  gracious and compassionate and loving are the words: '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 3:17, 18.  {PH151 9.4}
[PH151 10.1]          The speaker turned to those who had been praying, and said: "We have something to do. We must confess our sins, and humble our hearts before God." He made heart-broken confessions, and then stepped up to several of the brethren, one after another, and extended his hand, asking forgiveness. Those to whom he spoke sprang to their feet, making confession and asking forgiveness, and they fell upon one another's necks, weeping. The spirit of confession spread through the entire congregation. It was a Pentecostal season. God's praises were sung, and far into the night, until nearly morning, the work was carried on.  {PH151 10.1}
[PH151 10.2]          The following words were often repeated, with clear distinctness: "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten; be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock; if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me." Revelation 3:19, 20.  {PH151 10.2}
[PH151 10.3]          No one seemed to be too proud to make heartfelt confession, and those who led in this work were the ones who had influence, but had not before had courage to confess their sins.  {PH151 10.3}
[PH151 10.4]          There was rejoicing such as never before had been heard in the Tabernacle.  {PH151 10.4}
[PH151 10.5]          Then I aroused from my unconsciousness, and for a while could not think where I was. My pen was still in my hand. The words were spoken to me: "This might have been. All this the Lord was waiting to do for His people. All heaven was waiting to be                                                                              11  gracious." I thought of where we might have been had thorough work been done at the last General Conference; and an agony of disappointment came over me as I realized that what I had witnessed was not a reality.                                                    -    {PH151 10.5}
[PH151 11.1]          God's way is always the right and the prudent way. It always brings honor to His name. Man's only security against rash, ambitious movements is to keep the heart in harmony with Christ Jesus. Man's wisdom is untrustworthy. Man is fickle, filled with self-esteem, pride, and selfishness. Let the workers doing God's service trust wholly in the Lord. Then the leaders will reveal that they are willing to be led, not by human wisdom, which is as useless to lean upon as is a broken reed, but by the wisdom of the Lord, who has said: "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering." James 1:5, 6.  {PH151 11.1}
[PH151 12.1]       Chap. 4 - The Review and Herald Fire.                            St. Helena, Cal., Jan. 5, 1903.   To the Brethren in Battle Creek--            Today I received a letter from Elder Daniells regarding the destruction of the Review Office by fire. I feel very sad as I consider the great loss to the cause. I know that this must be a very trying time for the brethren in charge of the work and for the employees of the office. I am afflicted with all who are afflicted. But I was not surprised by the sad news; for in the visions of the night I have seen an angel standing with a sword as of fire stretched over Battle Creek. Once, on the daytime, while my pen was in my hand, I lost consciousness, and it seemed as if this sword of flame were turning first in one direction and then in another. Disaster seemed to follow disaster, because God was dishonored by the devising of men to exalt and glorify themselves.  {PH151 12.1}
[PH151 12.2]         This morning I was drawn out in earnest prayer that the Lord would lead all who are connected with the Review and Herald Office to make diligent search, that they may see wherein they have disregarded the many messages God has given.  {PH151 12.2}
[PH151 12.3]          Sometime ago the brethren at the Review Office asked my counsel about the erection of another building. I then said that if those who were in favor of adding another building to the Review and Herald Office had the future mapped out before them, if they could see what would be in Battle Creek, they would have no question about putting up another building there. God said, "My word has been despised; and I will turn and overturn."                                                                              13   {PH151 12.3}
[PH151 13.1]          At the last General Conference, held in Battle Creek, the Lord gave His people evidence that He was calling for reformation. Minds were convicted, and hearts were touched; but thorough work was not done. If stubborn hearts had then broken in penitence before God, there would have been seen one of the greatest manifestations of the power of God that has ever been seen. But God was not honored. The testimonies of His Spirit were not heeded. Men did not separate from the practises that were in decided opposition to the principles of truth and righteousness, which should ever be maintained in the Lord's work.  {PH151 13.1}
[PH151 13.2]          The messages to the church of Ephesus and to the church in Sardis have been often repeated to me by the One who gives me instruction for His people. "Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write: These things saith He that holdeth the seven stars in His right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labor, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil; and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars; and hast borne, and hast patience, and for My name's sake hast labored, and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent." Revelation 2:1-5.  {PH151 13.2}
[PH151 13.3]          "And unto the angel of the church of Sardis write: These things saith He that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die; for I have not found thy works perfect                                                                              14  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.  {PH151 13.3}
[PH151 14.1]          We are seeing the fulfillment of these warnings. Never have scriptures been more strictly fulfilled than these have been.  {PH151 14.1}
[PH151 14.2]          Men may erect the most carefully-constructed, fire-proof buildings, but one touch of God's hand, one spark from heaven, will sweep away every refuge.  {PH151 14.2}
[PH151 14.3]          It has been asked if I have any advice to give. I have already given the advice that God has given me, hoping to prevent the falling of the fiery sword that was hanging over Battle Creek. Now that which I dreaded has come,--the news of the burning of the Review and Herald building. When this news came, I felt no surprise, and I had no words to speak. What I have had to say from time to time in warnings has had no effect, except to harden those who heard; and now I can only say, I am so sorry, so very sorry, that it was necessary for this stroke to come. Light enough has been given. If it were acted upon, farther light would not be needed.  {PH151 14.3}
[PH151 14.4]          To our people, ministers and lay-members, I am instructed to say, "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,"--for many ministers and people are walking in strange paths,--"and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon." Isaiah 55:6, 7.  {PH151 14.4}
[PH151 14.5]          Let every soul be on the alert. The adversary is on your track. Be vigilant, watching diligently lest some carefully-concealed and masterly snare shall take you                                                                              15  unawares. Let the careless and indifferent beware lest the day of the Lord come upon them as a thief in the night. Many will wander from the path of humility, and, casting aside the yoke of Christ, will walk in strange paths. Blinded and bewildered, they will leave the narrow path that leads to the city of God.  {PH151 14.5}
[PH151 15.1]          A man cannot be a happy Christian unless he is a watchful Christian. He who overcomes must watch; for with worldly entanglements, error, and superstition, Satan strives to win Christ's followers from Him. It is not enough that we avoid glaring dangers and perilous, inconsistent moves. We are to keep close to the side of Christ, walking in the path of self-denial and sacrifice. We are in an enemy's country. He who was cast out of heaven has come down with great power. With every conceivable artifice and device he is seeking to take souls captive. Unless we are constantly on guard, we shall fall an easy prey to his unnumbered deceptions.  {PH151 15.1}
[PH151 15.2]          The experience of the disciples in the garden of Gethsemane contains a lesson for the Lord's people today. Taking with Him Peter and James and John, Christ went to Gethsemane to pray. He said to them: "My soul is exceeding sorrowful unto death; tarry ye here, and watch. And He went forward a little, and fell on the ground, and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from Him. And He said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto Thee; take away this cup from Me; nevertheless not what I will, but what Thou wilt. And He cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest not thou watch one hour? Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation." Mark 14:34-38.  {PH151 15.2}
[PH151 15.3]         Read these words carefully. Many today are asleep, as were the disciples. They are not watching and praying,                                                                              16  lest they enter into temptation. Let us read and study those portions of God's word that have special reference to these last days, pointing out the dangers that will threaten God's people.  {PH151 15.3}
[PH151 16.1]         We need keen, sanctified perception. This perception is not to be used in criticizing and condemning one another, but discerning the signs of the times. We are to keep our hearts with all diligence, that we may not make shipwreck of faith. Many who were once firm believers in the truth have become careless in regard to their spiritual welfare, and are yielding, without the slightest opposition, to Satan's well-laid plots. It is time for our people to take their families from the cities into more retired localities, else many of the youth, and many also of those older in years, will be ensnared and taken by the enemy.                                                    -    {PH151 16.1}
[PH151 16.2]                                             Jan. 7, 1903.          We have all been made very sad by the news of the terrible loss that has come to the cause in the burning of the Review and Herald Office. In one year two of our largest institutions have been destroyed by fire. The news of this recent calamity has caused us to mourn deeply, but it was permitted by the Lord to come upon us, and we should make no complaint, but learn from it the lesson that the Lord would teach us.  {PH151 16.2}
[PH151 16.3]          The destruction of the Review and Herald building should not be passed over as something in which there is no meaning. Every one connected with the office should ask himself: "Wherein do I deserve this lesson? Wherein have I walked contrary to a 'Thus saith the Lord,' that He should send this lesson to me? Have I heeded the warnings and reproofs that He has sent? or have I followed my own way?"                                                                              17   {PH151 16.3}
[PH151 17.1]          Let the heart-searching God reprove the erring, and let each one bow before Him in humility and contrition, casting aside all self-righteousness and self-importance, confessing and forsaking every sin, and asking God, in the name of the Redeemer, for pardon. God declares, "Him that cometh to Me I will in nowise cast out" (John 6:37); and those who in sincerity present themselves before Him will be pardoned and justified, and will receive power to become the sons of God.  {PH151 17.1}
[PH151 17.2]          I pray that those who have resisted light and evidence, refusing to listen to God's warnings, will see in the destruction of the Review and Herald Office an appeal to them to turn to God with full purpose of heart. Will they not realize that God is in earnest with them? He is not seeking to destroy life, but to save life. In the recent destruction, the lives of the workers were graciously preserved, that all might have an opportunity to see that God was correcting them by a message coming not from a human source, but from above. God's people have departed from Him; they have not followed His instruction, and He has come near them in correction, but He has not brought extinction of life. Not one soul has been taken by death. All have been left alive to recognize the Power that no man can gainsay.  {PH151 17.2}
[PH151 17.3]          Let us praise the Lord that the lives of His children have been so precious in His sight. He might have cut off the workers in their heedlessness and self-sufficiency. But no! He says: "They shall have another chance. I will let the fire speak to them, and will see if they will counterwork the action of My providence. I will try them as by fire, to see if they will learn the lesson that I desire to teach them."  {PH151 17.3}
[PH151 17.4]          When the Battle Creek Sanitarium was destroyed, Christ gave Himself to defend the lives of men and                                                                              18  women. In this destruction God was appealing to His people to return to Him. And in the destruction of the Review and Herald Office, and the saving of life, He makes a second appeal to them. He desires them to see that the miracle-working power of the Infinite has been exercised to save life, that every worker may have opportunity to repent and be converted. God says: "If they turn to Me, I will restore to them the joy of My salvation. But if they continue to walk in their own way, I will come still closer; and affliction shall come upon the families who claim to believe the truth, but who do not practise the truth, who do not make the Lord God of Israel their fear and their dread."  {PH151 17.4}
[PH151 18.1]          Let every one examine himself, to see whether he be in the faith. Let the people of God repent and be converted, that their sins may be blotted out when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord. Let them ascertain wherein they have failed to walk in the way that God has marked out, wherein they have failed to purify their souls by taking heed to His counsels.  {PH151 18.1}
[PH151 19.1]       Chap. 5 - A Solemn Warning.    ［READ TO THE REVIEW AND HERALD BOARD, IN NOVEMBER, 1901.］    To the Managers of the Review and Herald--          Dear Brethren: God's design in the establishment of the publishing house at Battle Creek was that from it light should shine forth as a lamp that burneth. This has been kept before the managers. Again and again they have been told of the sacredness of God's office of publication and of the importance of maintaining its purity. But they have lost true understanding, and have united with the force of the enemy by consenting to print papers and books containing the most dangerous errors that can be brought into existence. They have failed to see the evil influences of such erroneous sentiments on typesetters, proof-readers, and all others engaged in the printing of such matter. They have been spiritually asleep.  {PH151 19.1}
[PH151 19.2]         By some of the outside work brought into this institution the science of Satan is being presented to the minds of the workers. The printing of this matter is a dishonor to God. It has done its part in deteriorating the minds of the workers. The managers have agreed to print it at a low figure. The gain would have been loss if the very highest figure had been asked for the work.  {PH151 19.2}
[PH151 19.3]          I have received a letter from Elder Daniells regarding the addition of another building to the Review and Herald Office. The answer I make to this is, No, no, no. Instead of making any additions to the buildings already erected, cleanse the office of the trash of Satanic origin, and you will gain room in every way.                                                                              20   {PH151 19.3}
[PH151 20.1]          God is not pleased with the congested state of things in Battle Creek. If the workers were divided, and plants made in other places, God would be better pleased, and the standard of truth would be planted in regions which have never heard the message. Before you add another building to the office in Battle Creek, make thorough restitution to the Southern field. This has not yet been done as it should be done. Every step has been forced.  {PH151 20.1}
[PH151 20.2]          The five thousand dollars which would be used in erecting the addition to the Review and Herald building should be invested in the work in other places, where the gospel of truth has not yet been preached.  {PH151 20.2}
[PH151 20.3]          I feel a terror of soul as I see to what a pass our publishing house has come. The presses in the Lord's institution have been printing the soul-destroying theories of Romanism and other mysteries of iniquity. This is taking all sacredness from the office. The managers are loading the guns of the enemy and placing them in their hands, to be used against the truth. How does God regard such work?--In the books of heaven are written the words, Unfaithful stewardship. Thus God regards the publication of matter which comes from Satan's manufactory,--his hellish, scientific delusions.  {PH151 20.3}
[PH151 20.4]          The office must be purged of this objectionable matter. I have a testimony from the Lord for those who have placed such matter in the hands of the workers. God holds you accountable for presenting to young men and young women the fruit of the forbidden tree of knowledge. Can it be possible that you have not a knowledge of the warnings given to the Pacific Press on this subject? Can it be possible that with a knowledge of these warnings you are going over the same ground, only doing much worse? It has often been repeated to you that angels of God are passing                                                                              21  through every room in the office. What impression has this made on your minds?  {PH151 20.4}
[PH151 21.1]          You have given matter containing Satan's sentiments into the hands of the workers, bringing his deceptive, polluting principles before their minds. The Lord looks upon this action on your part as helping Satan to prepare his snare to catch souls. God will not hold guiltless those who have done this thing. He has a controversy with the managers of the publishing house. I have been almost afraid to open the Review, fearing to see that God has cleansed the publishing house by fire.  {PH151 21.1}
[PH151 21.2]          The Lord has instructed me that those who cannot see the wickedness of co-operating with Satan by publishing his falsehoods might better seek some work in which they will not ruin our youth, body and soul. There is danger that the standard of truth and righteousness will be so lowered that God will bring His judgments upon the wrong-doers.  {PH151 21.2}
[PH151 21.3]          It is high time that we understood what spirit has for years been controlling matters at the Review and Herald Office. I am horrified to think that the most subtle phase of Spiritualism should be placed before the workers, and that in a way calculated to confuse and perplex the mind. Be assured that Satan will follow up the advantage thus given him.  {PH151 21.3}
[PH151 21.4]          The Review and Herald Office has been defiled as the temple was defiled, only the result has been tenfold more disastrous. Overturning the tables of the money-changers, Christ drove the sheep and cattle from the precincts of the temple, saying, "It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves." Matthew 21:13. Worse even than the defilement of the temple has been the defilement of the publishing house by the printing of matter                                                                              22  which should never have been placed in the hands of the workers in God's institution.  {PH151 21.4}
[PH151 22.1]          God's law has been transgressed, His cause betrayed, and His institution made a den of thieves. The work of printing and circulating stirring appeals for the truth, which should have been placed first, to which the time and the talent of the workers should have been devoted, has received little or no attention. The commercial work, some of it of a most objectionable character, has gradually assumed the supremacy. This work has absorbed the energies which should have been devoted to the publication of literature of the purest quality and the most elevating character. Time has been wasted, talent misapplied, and money misappropriated. The work which ought to have been done has been left undone. Satan's sentiments have been exalted. His theories have been printed by presses which should have been used to prepare the truth of God for circulation. Men have coveted promotion when their principles were under the ban of God's displeasure. Loss is infinitely better than dishonorable gain.  {PH151 22.1}
[PH151 22.2]          Oh, what will God do with the time-servers? Think you that Jesus will stand in the printing establishment, to work through human minds by His ministering angels, to make the truth coming from the press a power to warn the world that the end of all things is at hand, while Satan is allowed to pervert the minds of the workers right in the institution? The light I have is, Refuse to print another line of this pernicious matter. Those who have had to do with its introduction into the publishing house need to repent before God in contrition of soul; for His wrath is kindled against them. Let this class of work be forever excluded from our publishing houses. Give more                                                                              23  time to the publication and circulation of the books containing present truth. See that your work in this line reaches perfection. Do all in your power to diffuse throughout the world the light of heaven.  {PH151 22.2}
[PH151 23.1]          The apprentices and the other workers must not be so rushed and hurried that they have no time to pray. The youth in our publishing houses should be educated as were the youth in the schools of the prophets. They should be prepared to take hold of the work in new places.  {PH151 23.1}
[PH151 23.2]          If the men who heard the message given at the time of the Conference,--the most solemn message that could be given,--had not been so unimpressionable, if in sincerity they had asked, "Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?" the experience of the past year would have been very different from what it is. But they have not made the track clean behind them. They have not confessed their mistakes, and now they are going  over the same ground in many things, following the same wrong course of action, because they have destroyed their spiritual eyesight.  {PH151 23.2}
[PH151 23.3]          The message of the third angel is to prepare a people to stand in these days of peril. It is to be proclaimed with a loud voice, and is to accomplish a work which few realize.  {PH151 23.3}
[PH151 23.4]          John writes: "I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come; and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her                                                                              24  fornication." Revelation 14:6-8. How is this done?--By forcing men to accept a spurious Sabbath. In the thirty-first chapter of Exodus we are plainly told which day is the Sabbath of the Lord. The keeping of the Sabbath is declared to be a sign of the loyalty of God's people.  {PH151 23.4}
[PH151 24.1]          God means just what He says. Man has interposed between God and the people, and the Lord has sent forth the third angel with the message: "If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of His indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb." Revelation 14:9, 10.  {PH151 24.1}
[PH151 24.2]          God's people are to keep His commandments, discarding all worldly policy. Having adopted right principles of action, they are to reverence these principles; for they are heaven-born. Obedience to God is of more value to you than gold or silver. Yoking up with Christ, learning His meekness and lowliness, cuts short many a conflict; for when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord lifts up a standard against him.  {PH151 24.2}
[PH151 24.3]          I address those who in accepting positions of trust in the publishing house have taken upon themselves the responsibility of seeing that the workers receive the right education. Seek to realize the importance of your work. Those who show by their actions that they make no effort to distinguish between the sacred and the common, may know that, unless they repent, God's judgments will fall upon them. These judgments may be delayed, but they will come. If, because your own minds are not clear and elevated, you give the wrong                                                                              25  bias to other minds, God will call you to account. He will ask, "Why did you do the devil's work when you were supposed to be doing a good work for the Master?"  {PH151 24.3}
[PH151 25.1]          In the great day of final accounts, the unfaithful servant will meet the result of his unfaithfulness.  {PH151 25.1}
[PH151 25.2]          I send you this because I am afraid for you. Your continually increasing force of workers might better be sent into the work in other places. In the night season I have been talking earnestly to you in your meetings, presenting the truth as it is in Jesus. But by some it was rejected. They had passed beyond conviction. They had sinned against great light and knowledge, stifling conscience until it could no longer penetrate the callous heart.  {PH151 25.2}
[PH151 25.3]          Some have so long sacrificed principle that they cannot see the difference between the sacred and the common. Those who refuse to give heed to the Lord's instruction will go steadily downward in the path of ruin. The day of test and trial is just before us. Let every man put on his true colors. Do you choose loyalty, or rebellion? Show your colors to men and angels. We are safe only when we are committed to the right. Then the world knows where we shall be found in the day of trial and trouble.  {PH151 25.3}
[PH151 25.4]          If the work begun at the General Conference had been carried forward to perfection, I should not be called upon to write these words. There was opportunity to confess or deny wrong, and in many cases the denial came, to avoid the consequences of confession.  {PH151 25.4}
[PH151 25.5]          How much longer will God bear with your perversity? Unless there is a reformation, calamity will overtake the publishing house, and the world will know the reason. I have been shown that there has not been a turning to God with full purpose of heart. The Lord is dishonored in the institutions erected for His                                                                              26  honor. The marked disregard of God's commandments in the publishing house has placed its impress on the workers. God asks, "Shall I not judge for these things?" I saw heavenly angels turning away with grieved countenances. God has been mocked by your hardness of heart, which is continually increasing. According to their responsibility will be the punishment of those who know the truth and yet disregard God's commands.  {PH151 25.5}
[PH151 27.1]       Chap. 6 - The Result of Reformation.         Dear Brother Daniells: Yesterday morning I read your letter, in which you express your ardent desire to see a strong corps of workers sent to India and China and other oriental countries. Last night instruction was given me that at present our principal efforts are not to be made especially for China or other fields similar to China. We first have a work to do at home. All our institutions--our sanitariums, publishing houses, and schools--are to reach a higher standard. Then the workers sent to foreign fields will reach a higher standard. They will be more earnest, more spiritual, and their labors will be more effective.  {PH151 27.1}
[PH151 27.2]          Years ago the Lord gave me special directions that buildings should be erected in various places in America, Europe, and other lands, for the publication of literature containing the light of present truth. He gave instruction that every effort should be made to send forth to the world from the press the messages of invitation and warning. Some will be reached by our literature who would not be reached in any other way. From our books and papers bright beams of light are to shine forth to enlighten the world in regard to present truth.  {PH151 27.2}
[PH151 27.3]          Workers who are not benefited by the advantages they receive in connection with the cause of God should not be brought into our offices of publication. Neither should matter of an objectionable character be introduced into these institutions, for by so doing the sacred truth of God is placed on a level with common matters. And when outside work is brought in, a correspondingly                                                                              28  large number of workers must be employed. This brings care and perplexity.  {PH151 27.3}
[PH151 28.1]          I have been shown that mistakes are being made in our publishing houses. There is a constant increase of expensive machinery for the doing of commercial work. A large amount of work has been brought in that has no relation to the work which in faith and love is to be accomplished for the salvation of human beings. Time and talent have been used in doing a class of work that has brought no glory to God. Much effort has been put forth in lines that do nothing to spread a knowledge of the truth.  {PH151 28.1}
[PH151 28.2]          It is high time that consideration be given to this matter. This mistake must be corrected. It is not wisdom to use money to establish enterprises that consume without producing. It is said that more room is needed in the publishing houses. But there is ample room in them, and when the right thing is done, it will be seen that there is sufficient room.  {PH151 28.2}
[PH151 28.3]          Far less commercial work should be received into our offices of publication, and not a line of matter containing Satan's sentiments should be received. The introduction of such matter destroys all sense of the sacredness of the institution. The whole institution is cheapened. There is always danger, when the common is mingled with the sacred, that the common will be allowed to take the place of the sacred.  {PH151 28.3}
[PH151 28.4]          How does the Lord regard the using of the presses in His institutions to print the errors of the enemy? When objectionable matter is mingled with sacred matter coming from the presses, His blessing cannot rest upon the work done. Said the divine Teacher: "What have you gained by bringing in this outside work? It has brought you much vexation of spirit; and the workers have had to hurry and rush to get the matter finished                                                                              29  in the specified time. This has occasioned confusion and strife. Harsh words have been spoken, and an unpleasant spirit has been brought into the office. The financial gain in no way compares with the loss which has come through rushing and driving and scolding and fretting."  {PH151 28.4}
[PH151 29.1]          May the Lord help His people to see that this is not wisdom, and that far more is lost than is gained. If less machinery and fewer workers had been brought together in one place, while other portions of the vineyard were destitute of facilities; if more money had been spent in making plants in various places, God would have been better pleased. It is not sanctified ambition that has led to the investment of so much money in one place. It is a mistake for our brethren to run so many presses for the printing of merely secular matter. We are fast approaching the end. The printing and circulation of the books and papers that contain the truth for this time are to be our work.  {PH151 29.1}
[PH151 29.2]          There is a marked neglect of the cautions and warnings that have been given from time to time. When there is a seeking of the Lord and a confession of sin, when the needed reformation takes place, united zeal and earnestness will be shown in restoring what has been withheld. The Lord will manifest His pardoning love, and means will come to cancel the debts on our institutions.        St. Helena, Cal., Sept. 26, 1901.  {PH151 29.2}
[PH151 30.1]       Chap. 7 - Warnings and Counsels Given to the Battle Creek Church.                              Granville, N. S. W., July 2, 1894.        Many go to Battle Creek expecting to find an influence similar to that of heaven, but they soon find practises not at all in accordance with their ideas of truth and the separate, peculiar people who are to represent the most pure, holy principles of religion that were ever given to the world. Many have been led to walk in false paths through being brought into connection with those who were not consecrated, self-denying followers of Jesus Christ. . . .  {PH151 30.1}
[PH151 30.2]          Where are the faithful sentinels in Battle Creek to keep the fort? Where are the minute men to guard, and not to relax their vigilance for one moment,--men who watch, men who pray, men who walk humbly in meekness and lowliness, after the example of the greatest Missionary that ever visited our world, who is our Pattern? . . .  {PH151 30.2}
[PH151 30.3]          It is time that there was a different order of things in Battle Creek, else the judgments of God will surely fall upon the people. His blessing has rested upon you in large measure; has it made you laborers together with Him? Are not our people in Battle Creek demonstrating to unbelievers that they do not believe the truth which they claim to advocate? God has been calling them away from every species of self-indulgence and all manner of extravagance. When the church has had great light, then is her time of peril, if she does not walk in the light, and put on her beautiful garments, and arise and shine; darkness will becloud                                                                              31  the vision, so that light will be regarded as darkness, and darkness as light. When the believers in Battle Creek shall not only be penitent occasionally, but shall walk in humility, doers of the word, the world will take knowledge of them, that they have been with Jesus. Oh, how can the Spirit speak to impress hearts so that they will obey His voice?                                                    -    {PH151 30.3}
[PH151 31.1]                         Granville, N. S. W., July 20, 1894.        I wish to remind my brethren of the cautions and warnings that have been given me in reference to constantly investing means in Battle Creek in order to make a little more room, or to make things more convenient. New fields are to be entered; the truth is to be proclaimed as a witness to all nations. The work is hindered, so that the banner of truth cannot be uplifted, as it should be, in these new fields. While our brethren in America feel at liberty to invest means in buildings which time will reveal that they would do just as well and even better without, thousands of dollars are thus absorbed that the Lord called for, to be used in "regions beyond." I have presented the warnings and the caution, as the word of the Lord; but my heart has been made sad to see that, notwithstanding all these, means has been swallowed up to satisfy these supposed wants; building has been added to building, so the money could not be used in places where they have no conveniences, no building for the public worship of God or to give character to the work, no place where the banner of truth could be uplifted. These things I have set before you; and yet you have gone on just the same, absorbing means, God's means, in one locality, when the Lord has spoken that too                                                                              32  much was already invested in one place, which meant that there was nothing in other places, where there should be buildings and facilities, to make even a beginning.  {PH151 31.1}
[PH151 32.1]          Instead of our enlarging and erecting additional buildings in Battle Creek or other places where our institutions are already established, there should be a limiting of the wants. Let the means and the workers be scattered, to represent the truth and give the warning message in "regions beyond."                                                    -    {PH151 32.1}
[PH151 32.2]                                 Granville, N. S. W., 1894.        If the members of the Battle Creek church do not arouse now and go to work in missionary fields, they will fall back into deathlike slumber. How did the Holy Spirit work upon your hearts? . . . It was stimulating you to exercise the talents God has given you, that every man and woman and youth should employ them to set forth the truth for this time, making personal efforts, going into the cities where the truth has never been proclaimed, and lifting up the standard. . . .  {PH151 32.2}
[PH151 32.3]          Shall the selfishness and the ease of those who have earthly comforts and attractive homes allure us? Shall we cease as moral agencies to use our powers to the saving of souls? Shall our voices be indistinct? Then God will put His curse upon us who have had so great light, and inscribe upon the walls of our homes, "Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God." 2 Timothy 3:4. He will put a tongue in the stones, and they will speak; but God commands of you in Battle Creek to go forth.                                                                              33   {PH151 32.3}
[PH151 33.1]                             Granville, N. S. W., July 24, 1895.        God's field is the world. Jesus said to His disciples: "Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you; and ye shall be witnesses unto Me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." "And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." Acts 1:8; Luke 24:47. Peter said to the believers, "The promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call." Acts 2:39.  {PH151 33.1}
[PH151 33.2]          God has poured out richly of His Holy Spirit upon the believers in Battle Creek. What use have you made of these blessings? Have you done as did the men upon whom the Holy Spirit came on the day of Pentecost? Then "they that were scattered abroad went everywhere preaching the word." Acts 8:4. Has this fruit been seen in Battle Creek? Have the church been taught of God to know their duty, and to reflect the light which they have received? . . .  {PH151 33.2}
[PH151 33.3]          The Lord's heritage has been strangely neglected, and God will judge His people for this thing. Pride and the love of display are gratified by the accumulated advantages, while new fields are left untouched. The rebuke of God is upon the managers for their partiality and selfish appropriation of His goods.  {PH151 33.3}
[PH151 33.4]          Something has been done in foreign missions, and something in home missions; but altogether too much territory has been left unworked. The work is too much centralized. The interests in Battle Creek are overgrown, and this means that other portions of the field are robbed of facilities which they should have had. The larger and still larger preparations, in the                                                                              34  erection and enlargement of buildings, which have called together and held so large a number in Battle Creek, are not in accordance with God's plan, but in direct contravention of His plan.  {PH151 33.4}
[PH151 34.1]          It has been urged that there were great advantages in having so many institutions in close connection; that they would be a strength to one another, and could afford help to those seeking education and employment. This is according to human reasoning; it will be admitted that, from a human point of view, many advantages are gained by crowding so many responsibilities in Battle Creek; but the vision needs to be extended.  {PH151 34.1}
[PH151 34.2]          These interests should be broken up into many parts, in order that the work may start in cities which it will be necessary to make centers of interest. Buildings should be erected and responsibilities centered in many localities that are now robbed of vital, spiritual interest in order to swell the overplus already in Battle Creek. The Lord is not glorified by this management on the part of those who are in responsible positions. "The earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea." "And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent." Habakkuk 2:14; John 17:3.                                                    -    {PH151 34.2}
[PH151 34.3]     "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N. S. W., May 30, 1896.        Dear Brother-----: I have returned from our season of prayer. The spirit of intercession came upon me, and I was drawn out in most earnest prayer for souls at Battle Creek. I know their peril. The Holy Spirit has in a special manner moved me to send up my petitions in their behalf. . . .                                                                              35   {PH151 34.3}
[PH151 35.1]          It was not alone the sin of putting to death the Son of God that cut the Jews off from salvation, but their persistence in rejecting light and the conviction of the Holy Spirit. The spirit that works in the children of disobedience worked in them, leading them to abuse the men through whom God was giving a testimony to them. The malignity of rebellion reappeared, and was intensified in every successive act of resistance against God's servants and the message He had given them to declare. . . .  {PH151 35.1}
[PH151 35.2]          Under the demonstration of the Holy Spirit's power, the Jews saw their guilt in refusing the evidence that God has sent; but they would not yield their wicked resistance. Their obstinacy became more and more determined, and worked the ruin of their souls. It was not that they could not yield, for they could, yet would not. It was not alone that they had been guilty, and deserving of wrath, but that they armed themselves with the attributes of Satan, and determinedly continued to be opposed to God. Every day, in their refusal to repent, they took up their rebellion afresh. They were preparing to reap that which they had sown.  {PH151 35.2}
[PH151 35.3]          The wrath of God is not declared against men merely because of the sins which they have committed, but for choosing to continue in a state of resistance, and, although they have light and knowledge, repeating their sins of the past. If they would submit, they would be pardoned; but they are determined not to yield. They defy God by their obstinacy. These souls have given themselves to Satan, and he controls them according to his will.  {PH151 35.3}
[PH151 35.4]          How was it with the rebellious inhabitants of the antediluvian world? After rejecting the message of Noah, they plunged into sin with greater abandon than                                                                              36  ever before, and doubled the enormity of their corrupting practises. Those who refuse to reform by accepting Christ, find nothing reformative in sin; their minds are set to carry their spirit of revolt, and they are not, and never will be, forced to submission. The judgment which God brought upon the antediluvian world declared it incurable. The destruction of Sodom proclaimed the inhabitants of the most beautiful country in the world incorrigible in sin. The fire and brimstone from heaven consumed everything except Lot, his wife, and two daughters. The wife, looking back in disregard of God's command, became a pillar of salt.  {PH151 35.4}
[PH151 36.1]          How God bore with the Jewish nation while they were murmuring and rebellious, breaking the Sabbath and every other precept of the law! He repeatedly declared them worse than the heathen. Each generation surpassed the preceding in guilt. The Lord permitted them to go into captivity; but after their deliverance, His requirements were forgotten. Everything that He committed to that people to be kept sacred was perverted or displaced by the inventions of rebellious men. . . .  {PH151 36.1}
[PH151 36.2]          Finite men should beware of seeking to control their fellow-men, taking the place assigned to the Holy Spirit. Let not men feel that it is their prerogative to give to the world what they suppose to be truth, and refuse that anything should be given contrary to their ideas. This is not their work. Many things will appear distinctly as truth, which will not be acceptable to those who think their own interpretations of the Scripture always right. Most decided changes will have to be made in regard to ideas which some have accepted as without a flaw. These men give evidence                                                                              37  of fallibility in very many ways; they work upon principles which the word of God condemns. That which makes me feel to the very depths of my being, and makes me know that their works are not the works of God, is that they suppose they have authority to rule their fellow-men. The Lord has given them no more right to rule others than He has given others to rule them. Those who assume the control of their fellow-men take into their finite hands a work that devolves upon God alone.  {PH151 36.2}
[PH151 37.1]          That men should keep alive the spirit that ran riot at our General Conference in Minneapolis, is an offense to God. All heaven is indignant at the spirit that for years has been revealed in our publishing institution at Battle Creek. Unrighteousness is practised that God will not tolerate. He will visit for these things. A voice has been heard pointing out the errors, and, in the name of the Lord, pleading for a decided change. But who have followed the instruction given? Who have humbled their hearts, to put from them every vestige of their wicked, oppressive spirit? I have been greatly burdened to set these matters before the people as they are. I know they will see them. I know that those who read this matter will be convicted.                                                    -    {PH151 37.1}
[PH151 37.2]     "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N. S. W., Jan. 12, 1898.        I am pleased that the Lord is in mercy again visiting the church. My heart trembles as I think of the many times He has come in, and His Holy Spirit has worked in the church; but after the immediate effect was over, the merciful dealings of God were forgotten. Pride, spiritual indifference, was the record made in heaven. Those who were visited by the rich mercy                                                                              38  and grace of God dishonored their Redeemer by their unbelief. . . .  {PH151 37.2}
[PH151 38.1]          The Saviour has oft visited you in Battle Creek. Just as verily as He walked in the streets of Jerusalem, longing to breathe the breath of spiritual life into the hearts of those discouraged and ready to die, has He come to you. The cities that were so greatly blessed by His presence, His pardon, His gifts of healing, rejected Him; and just as great, yea, greater evidence of unrequited love, has been given in Battle Creek. Has Christ not loaded down His church with benefits and blessings? Has He not sent His servants with messages of pardon and righteousness, to be freely given to all who will receive them?  {PH151 38.1}
[PH151 38.2]          Jerusalem is a representation of what the church will be if it refuses to receive and walk in the light that God has given. Jerusalem was favored of God as the depositary of sacred trusts. But her people perverted the truth, and despised all entreaties and warnings. They would not respect His counsels. The temple courts were polluted with merchandise and robbery. Selfishness and love of mammon, envy, and strife, were cherished. Every one sought for gain from his quarter. Christ turned from them, saying, "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem," how can I give thee up? "How often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!" Matthew 23:37.  {PH151 38.2}
[PH151 38.3]          So Christ sorrows and weeps over our churches, over our institutions of learning, that have failed to meet the demand of God. He comes to investigate in Battle Creek, which has been moving in the same track as Jerusalem. The publishing house has been turned into desecrated shrines, into places of unholy merchandise                                                                              39  and traffic. It has become a place where injustice and fraud have been carried on, where selfishness, malice, envy, and passion have borne sway. Yet the men who have been led into this working upon wrong principles are seemingly unconscious of their wrong course of action. When warnings and entreaties come to them, they say, Doth she not speak in parables? Words of warning and reproof have been treated as idle tales.  {PH151 38.3}
[PH151 39.1]          When Christ looked down from the crest of Olivet, He saw this state of things existing in every church. The warnings come down to all that are following in the tread of the people of Jerusalem, who had such great light. This people is before us as a warning. By rejecting God's warnings in this our day, men are repeating the sin of Jerusalem. The Lord sees what the human agent does not see and will not see,--the outcome of all the human devising in Battle Creek. He has done all that a God could do. He has flashed light before the eyes of the people, that their sins might not reach the boundary where repentance cannot be felt. But by a long process of departure from just and righteous principles, men have placed themselves where light and truth, justice and mercy, are not discerned. This course has become part of their very nature.  {PH151 39.1}
[PH151 39.2]          I call upon all who have united in a course of action that is wrong in principle, to make a decided reformation, and forever after walk humbly with God. . . .  {PH151 39.2}
[PH151 39.3]          These are no idle tales, but truth. Again I ask. On which side are you standing? "If the Lord be God, follow Him; but if Baal, then follow him." 1 Kings 18:21.                                                                              40   {PH151 39.3}
[PH151 40.1]     "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N. S. W., June 8, 1898.        If the light which God has given you over and over again, that missionary centers should be established in many cities, and that the labor and the means centered in Battle Creek should be divided, and planted in many places, had been followed, the present state of confusion and dearth of means would never have been.  {PH151 40.1}
[PH151 40.2]          Men located in Battle Creek have disregarded the counsels of the Lord, because it was more convenient for them to have the work centered there. God has left these to the results of their human wisdom, and its fruit is seen in the present perplexities. . . .  {PH151 40.2}
[PH151 40.3]          Again and again the Lord has pointed out the work which the church in Battle Creek and those all through America are to do. They are to reach a much higher standard in spiritual advancement than they have yet reached. They are to awake out of sleep, and go without the camp, working for souls that are ready to perish. . . .  {PH151 40.3}
[PH151 40.4]          The many interests centering in Battle Creek should be divided and subdivided, and placed in other cities. You who think you are wise men may say: "It will cost too much. We can do the work here in Battle Creek at less expense." Well, does not the Lord know all this? Is not He a God who understands all the unbelieving reasoning that holds so many interests in Battle Creek? He has revealed to you that centers should be made in all the cities. This would call many out of Battle Creek to work in other places. ［THESE EXTRACTS ARE TAKEN FROM TESTIMONIES FIRST PUBLISHED IN LEAFLET FORM, AND DISTRIBUTED TO THE MEMBERS OF THE BATTLE CREEK CHURCH IN 1894, 1896, AND 1898.］  {PH151 40.4}
[PH151 41.1]      Chap. 8 - A Neglected Warning.         "Behold, I set before you this day a blessing and a curse: a blessing, if ye obey the commandments of the Lord your God, which I command you this day; and a curse, if ye will not obey." Deuteronomy 11:26-28.  {PH151 41.1}
[PH151 41.2]          "And it shall come to pass, if ye shall harken diligently unto My commandments which I command you this day, to love the Lord your God, and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul, that I will give you the rain of your land in his due season, the first rain and the latter rain, that thou mayest gather in thy corn, and thy wine, and thine oil. And I will send grass in thy fields for thy cattle, that thou mayest eat and be full. Take heed to yourselves, that your heart be not deceived, and ye turn aside, and serve other gods, and worship them; and then the Lord's wrath be kindled against you, and He shut up the heaven, that there be no rain, and that the land yield not her fruit; and lest ye perish quickly from off the good land which the Lord giveth you." Deuteronomy 11:13-17.  {PH151 41.2}
[PH151 41.3]          "Therefore shall ye lay up these My words in your heart in your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be as frontlets between your eyes. And ye shall teach them your children, speaking of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt write them upon the door-posts of thine house, and upon thy gates; that your days may be multiplied, and the days of your children, in the land which the Lord sware unto your fathers to give them, as the days of heaven upon the earth." Deuteronomy 11:18-21.                                                                              42   {PH151 41.3}
[PH151 42.1]          If Seventh-day Adventists had walked in the way of the Lord, refusing to allow selfish interests to control them, the Lord would greatly have blessed them. Those who have remained in Battle Creek contrary to the will of the Lord have lost the valuable experience and the spiritual knowledge they might have gained through obedience. Many of them have forfeited the favor of God. The heart of the work has become congested. For a long time the warning has been given, but it has not been heeded. The reason for this disobedience is that the hearts and minds of many in Battle Creek are not under the influence of the Holy Spirit. They do not realize how much work there is to do. They are asleep.  {PH151 42.1}
[PH151 42.2]          When Seventh-day Adventists move into cities where there is already a large church of believers, they are out of place, and their spirituality becomes weaker and weaker. Their children are exposed to many temptations. My brother, my sister, unless you are absolutely needed in carrying forward the work in such a place, it would be wise for you to go to some place where the truth has not yet been proclaimed, and there strive to give proof of your ability to work for the Master. Make earnest efforts to arouse an interest in present truth. House-to-house work is effectual when conducted in a Christlike manner. Hold meetings, and be sure to make them interesting. Remember that this requires something more than preaching.  {PH151 42.2}
[PH151 42.3]          Many who have lived so long in one place are spending their time criticizing those who are working in Christ's lines to convict and convert sinners. They criticize the motives and intentions of others, as if it were not possible for any one else to do the unselfish work they themselves refuse to do. They are stumbling-blocks.                                                                              43  If they would go to places where there are no believers, and work to win souls to Christ, they would soon be so busy proclaiming the truth, and helping the suffering, that they would have no time to dissect character, no time to surmise evil, and then report the results of their supposed keenness in seeing beneath the surface.  {PH151 42.3}
[PH151 43.1]          Let those who have lived so long in places where there are large churches of believers, go out into the harvest-field to sow and reap for the Master. They will forget self in the desire to save souls. They will see so much work to do, so many fellow-beings to help, that they will have no time to look for faults in others. They will have no time to work on the negative side.  {PH151 43.1}
[PH151 43.2]          Bringing so many believers together in one place tends to encourage evil-surmising and evil-speaking. Many become absorbed in looking and listening for evil. They forget what a great sin they are committing. They forget that the words they speak can never be unsaid, and that by their suspicions they are sowing seeds that will spring up to bear a harvest of evil. How great this harvest is no one will know until the last great day, when every thought, word, and action will be brought into judgment.  {PH151 43.2}
[PH151 43.3]          The thoughtless, unkind words that are spoken grow with every repetition. One and another adds a word, until the false report assumes large proportions. Great injustice is done. By their unrighteous suspicions and unrighteous judgments, the tale-bearers hurt their own experience and sow the seeds of discord in the church. If they could see things as God sees them, they would change their attitude. They would realize how they have neglected the work He has given them to do as they have found fault with their brethren and sisters.  {PH151 43.3}
[PH151 43.4]          The time spent in criticizing the motives and works                                                                              44  of Christ's servants might better be spent in prayer. Often if those who find fault knew the truth in regard to those with whom they find fault, they would have an altogether different opinion of them. How much better it would be if, instead of criticizing and condemning others, every one would say: "I must work out my own salvation. If I co-operate with Him who desires to save my soul, I must watch myself diligently. I must cut away every evil from my life. I must become a new creature in Christ. I must overcome every fault. Then, instead of weakening those who are striving against evil, I can strengthen them by encouraging words."  {PH151 43.4}
[PH151 44.1]          Let those who have used the talent of speech to discourage and dishearten God's servants, who are striving to advance God's cause, planning and working to master hindrance, ask God to forgive them for the injury they have done to His work by their wicked prejudices and unkind words. Let them think of the harm they have done by spreading false reports, by judging those they have no right to judge.  {PH151 44.1}
[PH151 44.2]          In the word of God we are given plain directions as to the course we are to follow when we think a brother is in the wrong. Christ says: "If thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone; if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church; but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican." And again the Saviour says, "If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar,                                                                              45  and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift." Matthew 18:15-17;  5:23, 24.  {PH151 44.2}
[PH151 45.1]          "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. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honored them that fear the Lord. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved." Psalms 15.  {PH151 45.1}
[PH151 45.2]          "Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with that judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged; and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shall thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye." Matthew 7:1-5.  {PH151 45.2}
[PH151 45.3]          Much is involved in the matter of judging. Remember that soon your life record will pass in review before God. Remember, too, that He has said: "Thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest; for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things. And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do                                                                              46  such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?" Romans 2:1-3.                                                    -    {PH151 45.3}
[PH151 46.1]          Those who came to Battle Creek when they had a work to do in the church that they left, lost their missionary spirit and their spiritual discernment in coming to Battle Creek. There they came in contact with a Pharisaism, a self-righteousness, that is always a snare. It is a form of godliness without the power thereof.  {PH151 46.1}
[PH151 46.2]          When the power of the truth is felt in the heart, when the principles of truth are brought into the daily life, there will be a great movement of reform in the Battle Creek church. Soon will be fulfilled the words, "I will turn and overturn." We know not now just when this will be accomplished; but the time will come when there will be a scattering from Battle Creek. Those who moved to Battle Creek without any call from the Lord, will move away.        St. Helena, Cal., November, 1901.                                                    -    {PH151 46.2}
[PH151 46.3]          Earnest workers have no time to dwell upon the defects of others. They behold the Saviour, and by beholding become changed into His likeness. He is the One whose example we are to follow in our character-building. In His life upon the earth He plainly revealed the divine nature. We should strive to be perfect in our sphere, as He was perfect in His sphere. No longer are the members of the church to remain unconcerned in regard to the formation of right characters. Placing themselves under the molding influence of the Holy Spirit, they are to form characters that are a reflection of the divine character.  {PH151 46.3}
[PH151 47.1]       Chap. 9 - To Our Churches Where Institutions are Located.                         St. Helena, Cal., Nov. 21, 1902.        Lately my mind has been drawn to the work that needs to be done for our people. Things have been revealed to me that make me afraid. The One of authority declared: "Seventh-day Adventists are on losing ground in every place where they have established institutions; and the reason for this is that they have lost their first love. Let them remember from whence they have fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else God will come to them quickly, and will remove their candlestick out of his place, except they repent."  {PH151 47.1}
[PH151 47.2]          There has been such strife of tongues, such neglect of work that ought to be done, that much, very much, has been lost. In the place of making centers of influence for the Lord's work, men spend their time criticizing and condemning what others are doing. Thus they have done for years, and the saddest part of it all is that they do not realize that they are among those who have lost their first love. They think that they must make others walk in straight paths, when they themselves are constantly making crooked paths for their feet, by their unchristian course strengthening the spirit of strife and dissension.  {PH151 47.2}
[PH151 47.3]          The Lord looks upon such ones with great displeasure. His counsel to us is: "It is the duty of each one to do all in his power to put down strife for the supremacy. It grieves the Lord to see the unwise, injudicious encouragement given to those who are so ready to make unfavorable reports concerning the work of others.                                                                              48  Many stand by as criticizers, ready to make a man an offender for a word. Unless they put on the robe of Christ's righteousness, they will be rejected by God. Let them study carefully the parable of the man who came to the wedding supper not having on the garment provided for the guests. Let them remember that, while they are watching and criticizing others, they are neglecting to put on the robe of Christ's righteousness."  {PH151 47.3}
[PH151 48.1]          Some have supposed that it was their right to occupy the highest place, because they could skilfully detect the mistakes of others. Thinking of the faults of their brethren, they have forgotten their own. They have neglected to look at themselves in the divine mirror. Their building is going up without symmetry or artistic skill. They are too busily engaged in watching the work of others to build symmetrical characters for themselves.  {PH151 48.1}
[PH151 48.2]          Those who give themselves to the work of spreading evil reports have no desire to put on the garment of Christ's righteousness. They may claim to have a knowledge of the truth, but the truth does not work in their lives with sanctifying power. They may seat themselves at the Lord's table, but they have not clothed themselves with the garment of righteousness provided for them, and they are dismissed from the heavenly banquet.  {PH151 48.2}
[PH151 48.3]          I have been instructed to warn our people no longer to accuse others, but to rid their hearts of all selfishness, that in their lives Christ may be revealed. They are to show an appreciation for one another, esteeming others better than themselves. Then they will be prepared to help and strengthen one another, speaking words of hope and cheer, making hearts glad instead of sorrowful.  {PH151 48.3}
[PH151 48.4]          This is the message that I am bidden to give to ministers and people. They need to feel the transforming                                                                              49  influence of the grace of Christ. They need to receive the Holy Spirit, that they may work in Christ's lines.  {PH151 48.4}
[PH151 49.1]          Let no one become so self-centered that he will fail to see that the Lord has appointed to every one a work. Let each do his best. This is all that the Lord requires of any one. Let our people read to a purpose the instruction given in the seventh chapter of John. The lessons of this chapter are not carried out in their daily practise. The Lord is not glorified in their lives, because they do not cherish love for one another. When their hearts are filled with the love of Christ, backbiting and criticizing will cease. No longer will Seventh-day Adventists weaken one another's hands; for they will love one another as Christ has loved them.                                                    -    {PH151 49.1}
[PH151 49.2]          The proof that we are not of the world will be the manifestation of Christ's glory,--His character,--in our life-practise. When He dwells in the heart, His joy will be ours.                                                    -    {PH151 49.2}
[PH151 49.3]          In their habits the people of God should be simple, honest, pure, free from all iniquity. God requires perfect obedience, perfection of character. Great injury is brought upon His cause by those who, while claiming to be His followers, deny Him in character. The religion of Jesus Christ never degrades the receiver, but makes him pure, that he may see God. It gives him an intensity of desire to be like Jesus Christ, the One altogether lovely, the Chiefest among ten thousand.  {PH151 49.3}
[PH151 50.1]       Chap. 10 - Consolidation of the Publishing Work.         The Lord has presented matters before me that cause me to tremble for the institutions at Battle Creek. He has laid these things before me, and I shall not be consistent if I do not seek to repress the spirit in Battle Creek, which reaches out for more power, when for years there have not been sufficient men who were qualified to preside, with Christian faithfulness, over the charge they already have.  {PH151 50.1}
[PH151 50.2]          The scheme for consolidation is detrimental to the cause of present truth. Battle Creek has all the power she should have. Some in that place have advanced selfish plans, and if any branch of the work promised a measure of success, they have not exercised the spirit which lets well enough alone, but have made an effort to attach these interests to the great whole. They have striven to embrace altogether too much, and yet they are eager to get more. When they can show that they have made these plans under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, confidence in them may be restored.  {PH151 50.2}
[PH151 50.3]          Twenty years ago I was surprised at the cautions and warnings given me in reference to the publishing house of the Pacific Coast; that it was ever to remain independent of all other institutions; that it was to be controlled by no other institution, but was to do the Lord's work under His guidance and protection. The Lord says, "All ye are brethren;" and the Pacific Press is not to be envied and looked upon with jealousy and suspicion by the stronger publishing house at Battle Creek. It must maintain its own individuality, and be strictly guarded from any corruption. It must not                                                                              51  be merged into any other institution. The hand of power and control at Battle Creek must not reach across the continent to manage it.  {PH151 50.3}
[PH151 51.1]          At a later date, just prior to my husband's death, the minds of some were agitated in regard to placing these institutions under one presiding power. Again the Holy Spirit brought to my mind what had been stated to me by the Lord. I told my husband to say, in answer to this proposition, that the Lord had not planned any such action. He who knows the end from the beginning understands these matters better than erring man.  {PH151 51.1}
[PH151 51.2]          At a still later date the situation of the publishing house at Oakland was again presented to me. I was shown that a work was to be done by this institution which would be to the glory of God, if the workers would keep His honor ever in view, but that an error was being committed by taking in a class of work which had a tendency to corrupt the institution. I was also shown that it must stand in its own independence, working out God's plan, under the control of none other but God.  {PH151 51.2}
[PH151 51.3]          The Lord presented before me that branches of this work would be planted in other places, and carried on under the supervision of the Pacific Press, but that, if this proved a success, jealousy, evil surmisings, and covetousness would arise. Efforts would be made to change the order of things, but the Lord forbids such a consolidation. Every branch should be allowed to live, and to do its own work.  {PH151 51.3}
[PH151 51.4]          Mistakes will occur in every institution, but if the managers will learn the lesson all must learn,--to move guardedly,--these errors will not be repeated, and God will preside over the work. Every worker in our institutions                                                                              52  needs to make the word of God his rule of action. Then the blessing of God will rest on him. He cannot with safety dispense with the truth of God as his guide and monitor. If man can take one breath without being dependent upon God, then he may lay aside God's pure, holy word as his guide-book. The truth must take control of the conscience and the understanding in all the work that is done. The Holy Spirit must preside over thought and word and deed. It is to direct in all temporal and spiritual actions.  {PH151 51.4}
[PH151 52.1]          It is well pleasing to God that we have praise and prayer and religious services, but Bible religion must be brought into all we do, and give sanctity to each daily duty. The Lord's will must become man's will in everything. The Holy One of Israel has given rules of guidance to all, and these rules of guidance are to be strictly followed; for they form the standard of character. No one can swerve from the first principles of righteousness without sinning. But our religion is misinterpreted and despised by unbelievers, because so many who profess to hold the truth do not practise its principles in dealing with their fellow-men.  {PH151 52.1}
[PH151 52.2]          To my brethren at Battle Creek I would say, You are not in any condition to consolidate. This means nothing less than placing upon the institutions at Battle Creek the management of all the work, far and near. God's work cannot be carried forward successfully by men who, by their resistance to light, have placed themselves where nothing will influence them to repent or change their course of action. There are men connected with the work in Battle Creek whose hearts are not sanctified and controlled by God.  {PH151 52.2}
[PH151 52.3]          If those connected with the work of God will not hear His voice and do His will, they should be separated                                                                              53  entirely from the work. God does not need the influence of such men. I speak plainly; for it is time that things were called by their right name. Those who love and fear God with all the heart are the only men that God can trust. But those who have separated their souls from God should themselves be separated from the work of God, which is so solemn and so important. ［EXTRACT FROM LETTER TO ELDER O. A. OLSEN, PUBLISHED IN LEAFLET CONTAINING INSTRUCTIONS TO REVIEW AND HERALD OFFICE.］        May, 1896.  {PH151 52.3}
[PH151 54.1]      Chap. 11 - Plans For Our Publishing Work.         While at Fresno I passed through a peculiar experience. In the night season I was in an assembly where a number of the brethren were in council. There seemed to be a cloud over the company. I could not distinguish faces, but I could hear voices. At first I could not understand what was said. Afterward I heard plans outlined in regard to the way in which the publishing work should be carried on. The assertion was made that this work should be placed on a surer basis; that changes should be made; that the plans which in past years were formulated for the advancement of the publishing work would have to be remodeled; that it was a wrong policy which had led to the development of the printing and publishing of books in so many places; that the Echo Office and the Nashville Office were too large; and that the work, if wisely adjusted, would be so arranged that the greater part of the printing and publishing of our larger books would be done at Battle Creek.  {PH151 54.1}
[PH151 54.2]          When I heard these propositions, I thought, What do these things mean? I have been instructed that the arbitrary rule at one time exercised in Battle Creek to control all our publishing houses, is never again to bear sway. To make such propositions as these is more like going back to Egypt than on to Canaan.  {PH151 54.2}
[PH151 54.3]          While the men proposing to bring more of our publishing work to Battle Creek cannot see what this would lead to, I know from the light given me that such changes as were proposed would bring into the publishing work a ruling power claiming jurisdiction over                                                                              55  the entire field. This is not God's plan. No man's judgment is to become such a controlling power that one man will have kingly authority in Battle Creek or in any other place. In no line of work is any one man to have power to turn the wheel. This God forbids.  {PH151 54.3}
[PH151 55.1]          Many more things were said, and I became more and more heavily burdened, because I knew that the great changes proposed would take us back to where we should have to wrestle with the same difficulties with which we wrestled in past years. I knew that those who advanced these ideas were blind as to their sure results.  {PH151 55.1}
[PH151 55.2]          Then One of authority stepped forward, and said: "The plans that have been made are not to be torn to pieces. Instead of doing this, the men who are handling sacred things are to cease looking to men for wisdom, and begin looking to the One from whom alone any man, great or small, learned or unlearned, can receive wisdom. A change must take place in the hearts of all who have any connection with God's work. At this stage in the publishing work matters are not to be so arranged that one human being shall be voice for the whole, or that any one group of men shall become a ruling power, having kingly authority. The propositions made in this meeting regarding the publishing work were originated in blindness, and throw no light on the situation. A time of great perplexity and distress is not the time to be in a hurry to cut the knot of difficulty. In such a time are needed men of God-given ingenuity, tact, and patience. They are to work in such a way that they will 'hurt not the oil and the wine.'  {PH151 55.2}
[PH151 55.3]          "Too heavy responsibilities are not to be placed on any one man. In the direction of the canvassing work, the Lord will reveal His power and grace through different men in all parts of His vineyard. He will use                                                                              56  men of Christian experience, men who are daily growing in grace and in a knowledge of the truth, men who are capable because they are yoked up with Christ.  {PH151 55.3}
[PH151 56.1]          "Let those in positions of responsibility accept the Saviour's invitation to wear His yoke. 'Come unto Me,' He pleads, '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.  {PH151 56.1}
[PH151 56.2]          "The advice that was given to Moses when he was overburdened with care and perplexity is of highest value to those who at this time are in positions of responsibility in God's cause. The counsel given him should be carefully studied by those entrusted with the management of the work in the Lord's vineyard. No one man, or set of men, is to have supreme authority to shape and control the policy of the workers in the entire field, even with respect to the canvassing work; for every section of the country, and especially the Southern field, which has been so long neglected, has its peculiar features, and must be worked accordingly. Let men be willing to understand these features, and in their work for these fields prepare themselves by putting on every piece of the Christian armor, not forgetting to wear the gospel shoes."  {PH151 56.2}
[PH151 56.3]                        The Christian Armor.          The apostle says: "Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole                                                                              57  armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. "Stand therefore, Having your loins girt about with truth, And having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel        of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, Wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts        of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, And the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the        Spirit, And watching thereunto with all perseverance and        supplication for all saints." Ephesians 6:11-18.  {PH151 56.3}
[PH151 57.1]          My brethren, these are the directions given you by God. Let no man complicate or mystify the plain directions given by the highest Authority. Preach the word: speak according to a "Thus saith the Lord," with all the earnestness of the Holy Spirit. Never remove from your feet the gospel shoes. Be sure to keep them on. Your feet are always to be "shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace."  {PH151 57.1}
[PH151 57.2]          Observing carefully every direction that the Lord has specified in regard to the Christian armor, you will walk before Him softly, and will work discreetly. You will not carry with you any yokes to bind men to your plans, nor will you attempt to make the Lord's workers amenable to any finite mind. The maxims and precepts of men are not to control His laborers. Let no man be placed in a position where he can lord it over God's heritage; for this imperils alike the soul of him who rules and the souls of those who are under his rule.  {PH151 57.2}
[PH151 57.3]          No man is so advanced in experience that Satan will                                                                              58  not assail him with temptation. The more responsible the position a man occupies, the fiercer and more determined are the assaults of the enemy. Let God's servants in every place study His word, looking constantly to Jesus, that they may be changed into His image. Let them not put human wisdom in the place of the wisdom of Him who is the Light of the world, the Sun of Righteousness, our peace and assurance forever. The efficiency and the inexhaustible fulness of Christ are at our command if we will walk before God in humility and contrition.  {PH151 57.3}
[PH151 59.1]       Chap. 12 - The Work in the South.         The Lord has laid upon me a heavy burden in behalf of the work in the Southern states of America. In the past I have received much instruction regarding this work, and for years I have followed the movements of the workers with intense interest. As it now is, this field stands as a reproach against those who claim to be fulfilling the commission that Christ gave His disciples just before His ascension.  {PH151 59.1}
[PH151 59.2]          Oh, that the presidents of our Conferences would encourage the church-members to take an active interest in the work in the South, and to do all in their power to wipe out the reproach resting upon Seventh-day Adventists because of the condition of this field! Our people are believers in the Bible, but they are pursuing a course that is bringing reproach upon themselves and upon the cause of God.  {PH151 59.2}
[PH151 59.3]          Recently the question was asked me by the Lord: "Will you do that which many of your ministering brethren would be only too pleased to see you doing? Will you keep silent? Will your voice no longer be heard presenting clearly and distinctly the needs of this long-neglected field? If so, you yourself will share the reproach that rests on the ministers and people who have not done for the Southern field the work the Lord has given them to do, who have passed by on the other side those who are their neighbors, treating them with indifference and cruel neglect."  {PH151 59.3}
[PH151 59.4]          There are ministers who have stood on Satan's side of this question, as men who do not desire to become interested in the work for the South. To those who                                                                              60  were inclined to send help to the work in Nashville, they have talked their own unbelief so discouragingly that this place, which God has said plainly should have special advantages, has not received the help that it should have received.  {PH151 59.4}
[PH151 60.1]          There are many who have engaged in the work of gathering up and spreading evil reports, many who have made mountains out of mole-hills. Christ has told them plainly how He regards work of this kind. But they do not heed His instruction. Why?--Because they do not will to do the will of God. They want to carry forward just the lines of work in which they themselves are specially interested, and they think that the means in hand should be used in these lines of work.  {PH151 60.1}
[PH151 60.2]          Of these the question was asked: "What influence are you bringing into the Lord's work by following such a course? You have used time and money to impede the work already started. Might not this time and money be better employed? Had you striven to fulfil the commission given by Christ, had you acted as Christ would have acted in your place, lines of work that would have glorified God would have been started and carried forward in many places. But you have turned from the instruction given by Christ."  {PH151 60.2}
[PH151 60.3]          As yet there are only a few places in the South that have been worked. There are many, many cities in which nothing has been done. This field, in its unsightly barrenness, stands before heaven as a witness against the unfaithfulness of those who have had great light. When I think of this long-neglected field, and of the way in which it has been treated, there comes over me an intensity of feeling that words cannot express. I can only pray that the Lord will raise up workers to enter this field.                                                                              61   {PH151 60.3}
[PH151 61.1]          It is time that every city in the South that can be entered should be worked. The people, both white and black, are to hear the testing message for this time. Our people were directed to Nashville because in many respects it was a favorable place for the publishing work and other important lines. Our workers find it easier to labor there for the uplifting of the colored race than in many other cities of the South. Prejudice against the introduction of plans for the education of the colored people is not so pronounced in Nashville as it is in other places.  {PH151 61.1}
[PH151 61.2]          In Graysville, in Huntsville, and in many other places, God has been opening the way for the establishment of interests that will be as lights in a dark place, and will prepare the way for the acceptance of saving truth.  {PH151 61.2}
[PH151 61.3]          Our churches in the South are to have a spiritual resurrection, and the Lord, through His Holy Spirit, will graciously bless the means employed by His servants to bring this about, if the brethren will not hinder the work as they have done in the past. The psalmist prayed, "That Thy way may be known upon the earth, Thy saving health among all nations." Psalms 67:2. Let this prayer be ours. Let us pray that the healing influence of divine revelation, as a heavenly current of vital air, may come upon God's people, imparting physical and spiritual health and vigor. Let us pray that the leaven of His grace shall work in church after church, till God's name is a praise among them, because of His wonderful works. We shall extend His kingdom by doing the work close by us that is waiting to be done.  {PH151 61.3}
[PH151 61.4]          Christ says to us, "Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest." John 4:35.                                                                              62   {PH151 61.4}
[PH151 62.1]          A great work is to be done, and there should be no delay in its prosecution. The work demands the union of gifts possessed by workers in different localities. The Northern element must be brought into connection with the Southern element. Had there been among Seventh-day Adventists the unity that God desires, the Southern field would have been more fully worked.  {PH151 62.1}
[PH151 62.2]          It is not the Lord's will that the work in the South shall be confined to the set, "regular lines." It has been found impossible to confine the work to these lines and gain success. Workers daily filled with zeal and wisdom from on high must work as they are guided by the Lord, waiting not to receive their commission from men.  {PH151 62.2}
[PH151 62.3]          Camp-meetings are to be held in the Southern states. One should be held in Nashville, or a few miles from the city. The people of the South must be warned. The judgments of God are about to fall upon the world. We have no time to lose.  {PH151 62.3}
[PH151 62.4]          God sees the end from the beginning. He has given us an expression of His love for the world,--an amazing manifestation, that can never be computed. He is constrained, by His love and His goodness, to delight in the well-doing and the happiness of the beings formed in His image. "God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16. He gave His Son as the propitiation for the sins of a guilty world. This is the message that is to be borne throughout the Southern states. What a work there is before us! The Lord desires the desert places of the South, where the outlook appears so forbidding, to become as the garden of God.  {PH151 62.4}
[PH151 63.1]       Chap. 13 - Saved by Loving Care.         Last night, October 19, 1902, I seemed to be in the operating-room of a large hospital, to which people were being brought. Surgical instruments were being prepared with which to amputate the limbs of these people immediately. One entered who seemed to have authority, and said to the physician, "Is it necessary to bring these people into this room?" Looking pityingly at the sufferers, He said, "Never amputate a limb until everything possible has been done to restore it." Examining the limbs which the physicians had been preparing to cut off, He said: "They may be saved. The first thing to be done is to use every available means to restore these limbs. What a fearful mistake it would be to amputate a limb that could be saved by patient care! Your conclusions have been too hastily drawn. Put these patients in the best rooms in the hospital, and give them the very best of care and treatment. Use every means in your power to save them from going through life in a crippled condition, their usefulness damaged for life."  {PH151 63.1}
[PH151 63.2]          The sufferers were removed to a pleasant room. Faithful helpers cared for them under the Speaker's direction; and every limb was saved.  {PH151 63.2}
[PH151 64.1]       Chap. 14 - Work of the Southern Publishing Association.         During the night of October 19, 1902, many scenes passed before me. I was in a room where a number were assembled in council. One of our brethren was presenting the idea that small, local presses were not needful, and were run at great expense. He said that he thought that our book-making in America should be done by one publishing house, at one place, thus saving expense.  {PH151 64.1}
[PH151 64.2]          There was present One of authority, and, after making some inquiries, He said: "These smaller printing offices can be managed in a way that will make them a help to the work of God, if sufficient attention is given to them. In the past, great lack of principle has been shown in the management of our book work, and the experience that resulted from this will be repeated unless men's hearts are thoroughly converted, thoroughly changed. Some have been converted, but the work that God desires to see done on hearts is not yet accomplished. Those who frame yokes for the necks of their fellow-beings will, unless they repent, be brought to the place where they will understand how these yokes bind and gall the neck of the wearer.  {PH151 64.2}
[PH151 64.3]          Let the Southern field have its own home-published books. Selected books from the Old and the New Testament can be published in separate volumes, with simple explanations and inexpensive illustrations. In addition to these, there can also be published some illustrated books suitable for children. These books will be a great help in the work in the South. The                                                                              65  publication of these books can be done acceptably in the Nashville Office. The work of this office is not to be limited to the publication of the Gospel Herald and a few children's books. Erelong some of our larger books will be published there. But let not the workers try to embrace too much.  {PH151 64.3}
[PH151 65.1]          The books especially designed for the Southern field are not to be pushed in the North unless there is a real demand for them.  {PH151 65.1}
[PH151 65.2]          There is need of a better understanding of the work to be done for the workers in our institutions in the North and in the South. Let those in the Northern institutions lay aside their prejudices, and let those in the South humble their hearts before God, and then there will be a sitting together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.  {PH151 65.2}
[PH151 65.3]          There is need in the Southern field of an office for the publication of the truth for this time. But the work of such an institution cannot be done with divided minds and divided interests. In order for the publishing house in Nashville to be a success, the workers must have a constant sense of the supervision of God, and they must consult together. If they are true Christians, they will be subject one to another. Let them wear the yoke of Christ, laboring together in love and unity. As they do this, the Lord will bless and strengthen them. Each worker is to be drawn to the other by the cords of Christ's love. There is no need of there being estrangement among them. All are embraced in Christ's prayer that the disciples might be one with Him as He is one with the Father.  {PH151 65.3}
[PH151 66.1]       Chap. 15 - A Cause of Discouragement.                                St. Helena, Cal., Nov. 13, 1902.          In the night season I was in a council with a few who were in perplexity. Many companies were presented to me as confused, in darkness, sad and discouraged, because so many were stirred by feelings of opposition to the work in the Southern field. While there were some who felt the burden of the work in this field, there were others who tried to counterwork any efforts made in behalf of the work.  {PH151 66.1}
[PH151 66.2]          The people of God need now to pray and humble their hearts before the Lord. Then they will see all things clearly. It is heart-humiliation that is needed by those who have in trust so great and so important a truth,--a truth which, if received and believed, will purify the life from all selfishness, all emulation. Let the Lord's people draw near to Him, and let them love one another as brethren. A guilty world is going to destruction; and if Satan can keep at variance those whose hearts should be full of tenderness and love, on whose lips there should ever be the law of kindness, how pleased he is!  {PH151 66.2}
[PH151 66.3]          Oh, that God's people had a sense of the impending destruction of thousands of cities, now almost wholly given to idolatry! But many of those who are acquainted with the truth are busy about things here and there. Their first work is to pray for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, as the disciples prayed for it after the ascension of Christ.  {PH151 66.3}
[PH151 66.4]          When the converting power of God comes upon minds, there will be a decided change. Men will have                                                                              67  no inclination to counterwork what others are doing. They will not stand in a position that hinders God's voice from coming to the people. They will no longer brace themselves against the doing of that which should be done. All criticism, all accusing, will cease.  {PH151 66.4}
[PH151 67.1]          Oh, that men would die to self and reveal the compassion and love of Christ! So long as they hold themselves in their own keeping, refusing to humble themselves before God, they cannot be sanctified.  {PH151 67.1}
[PH151 67.2]          In much of the service professedly done for God, there is emulation and self-exaltation. God hates pretense. When men and women receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit, they will confess their sins, and pardon, which means justification, will be given them; but the wisdom of the human agents who are not penitent, not humbled, is not to be depended on; for they are blinded in regard to the meaning of righteousness and sanctification through the truth. When men are stripped of self-righteousness, they will see their spiritual poverty. Then they will approach that state of brotherly kindness which will show that they are in sympathy with Christ. They will be able to appreciate the importance of Christian missions.  {PH151 67.2}
[PH151 67.3]          Many are readily satisfied with offering the Lord trifling acts of service. Their Christianity is feeble. Christ gave Himself for sinners. With what anxiety for the salvation of souls we should be filled as we see human beings perishing in sin! These souls have been bought with a price. The death of the Son of God on Calvary's cross is the measure of their value. Day by day they are deciding a question of life and death, deciding whether they will have eternal life or eternal destruction. And yet men and women professing to serve the Lord are content to give their time and strength to matters of little importance. They are                                                                              68  content to be at variance with one another. If they were consecrated to the work of the Master, they would not be striving and contending like a family of unruly children. Every hand would be engaged in service. Every one would be standing at his post of duty, working with heart and soul as a missionary of the cross of Christ. The Spirit of God would abide in the hearts of the laborers, and works of righteousness would be wrought. The workers would carry with them into their service the sympathies and prayers of an awakened church. Messages would come from lips touched with a live coal from the divine altar. Earnest, purified words would be spoken. Humble, heart-broken intercessions would ascend to heaven. With one hand the workers would take hold of Christ, while with the other they would grasp sinners and draw them to Christ.  {PH151 67.3}
[PH151 68.1]          Work is what the churches need. They need an unreserved consecration to service. Jesus wept over the guilt and obduracy of Jerusalem. Who today among those who have received such great light and such rich gifts mingle their tears with the tears of their Saviour?  {PH151 68.1}
[PH151 68.2]         I am instructed to tell the people of God that, while there is so much dissension among them, they cannot be in harmony with Christ. "Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die; for I have not found thy works perfect before God. Remember therefore how thou hast received and heard, and hold fast, and repent. If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee." Revelation 3:2, 3.  {PH151 68.2}
[PH151 68.3]          Never can the church reach the position that God desires it to reach until it is bound up in sympathy                                                                              69  with its missionary workers. Never can the unity for which Christ prayed exist until spirituality is brought into missionary service, and until the church becomes an agency for the support of missions. The efforts of the missionaries will not accomplish what they should until church-members in the home field show, not only in word, but in deed, that they realize the obligation resting on them to give these missionaries their hearty support.  {PH151 68.3}
[PH151 69.1]          God calls for workers. Personal activity is needed. But conversion comes first--seeking for the salvation of others will follow.                                                    -    {PH151 69.1}
[PH151 69.2]          Oh, that our brethren might realize the value of the gift of Christ's love! Let the love that dwells in renewed, sanctified hearts be seen among the workers. A self-renouncing heart grows more mellow as life advances. Christ in the heart, Christ in the life,--this is our safety. In no mere human being can we place our dependence. But those who, by receiving into the heart the lessons of the divine Teacher, have been made partakers of the divine nature, are not changeable. Their work is done in harmony with Bible principles. God calls for true, staunch men, men who are working together with Him. Such men share His wisdom, and in their renewed lives His power is revealed.  {PH151 69.2}
[PH151 70.1]       Chap. 16 - A Work Misrepresented.         Not the laws of the impulsive tongue or hand, but the loving pulsations of the converted heart, are from God. "God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him." He sets forth love as a rule of life in still another way: "Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful." Luke 6:36.  {PH151 70.1}
[PH151 70.2]          God displayed His power and wisdom in the work of creation. He revealed His majesty in the giving of His law. And, finally, in the person of His Son, He came to the world to show His love and sympathy. This was the hiding of His power, the unveiling of His grace. The only-begotten Son of God was nailed to the cross of Calvary, that He might bequeath to the fallen race a legacy of pardon.  {PH151 70.2}
[PH151 70.3]          Satan's work is directly opposed to the work of God. The enemy of all good, he stands as the general of the forces drawn up to hurt the souls of men. He looks on with fiendish triumph as he sees the professed followers of Christ biting and devouring one another. He stands ever ready to mar the lives of those who are trying to serve God. Heavenly angels marvel that men should aid Satanic agencies in their work, discouraging hearts, making God's people weak, strengthless, faithless.  {PH151 70.3}
[PH151 70.4]          A clear revelation has been given me in regard to the need of our people assembling together, confessing their sins, repenting before God, and continuing in prayer until the Lord manifests Himself to them with power. If ever a people needed to offer a prayer such as Daniel offered, it is our people. There is among                                                                              71  them such self-confidence, such presumption! The Lord has been sending light to them, but the testimonies of His Spirit have not been heeded. There has been a departure from His expressed commands, a working contrary to the messages that for many years He has been giving relative to the different features of our work. There has been a selfish gathering of facilities to a few favored places, and a neglect of other parts of the field. Great neglect has been shown to the needs of the people in our large cities and in the Southern field. This need not be, and it will not be when those who claim to believe the truth practise the truth.  {PH151 70.4}
[PH151 71.1]          I have been enjoined by the Lord to gather together the testimonies given for the Southern field, and put them before the people. While attending the camp-meeting at Fresno, Cal., I was, in the visions of the night, in a certain meeting. I could not call those present by name; for I could not see them. There seemed to be a cloud of darkness over the assembly. I sat in a place that seemed to be separated from the room where the people had assembled.  {PH151 71.1}
[PH151 71.2]          The brethren in this meeting were counseling in regard to the work at Nashville. One present was speaking in a very decided manner, expressing his views in regard to the publishing house in Nashville and the general management of the work there. Much was said, and it was all very discouraging. Matters were presented in a strong light. Some present had gathered up the testimonies of those who were unfavorably inclined toward the Nashville publishing house. If actions had been taken based upon these misrepresentations, great injustice would have been done to the Southern work. Decisions would have been made that would have had a most discouraging effect,                                                                              72  apparently upholding that which the Lord condemns.  {PH151 71.2}
[PH151 72.1]          If the course outlined by the brethren present, who were connected with the work at Battle Creek, had been followed, it would have worked an injustice, and would have resulted in a wrong showing for the work in Nashville. Acting upon false impressions, the brethren would have brought about something that the Lord could not endorse.  {PH151 72.1}
[PH151 72.2]          One of authority arose, and said: "These matters are not being presented in righteousness and truth. The very ones who should have taken a Christlike interest in the Southern work have passed it by. Wrong impressions have been made on minds in regard to the work at Nashville, and these impressions will work as leaven among meal, preventing the suffering Southern field from receiving the help that it needs. Your representations have been false, your criticisms cruel. Your words have been as sharp arrows. How much glory will they bring to God? You are endeavoring to bring in plans and theories that will greatly retard the work. Let no more such hindrances be brought in. All difficulties are easily settled, all wrongs easily righted, when human beings are under the control of the Spirit of God.  {PH151 72.2}
[PH151 72.3]          "'If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, fulfil ye My joy, that ye be like minded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.' Philippians 2:1-4.  {PH151 72.3}
[PH151 72.4]          "The Lord is grieved. The work cannot possibly be adjusted and conducted to His glory unless the                                                                              73  workers allow Him to be their Helper. Show a loving, generous regard for those who, to advance the work, have taxed their powers of endurance to the utmost limit, laboring almost at the sacrifice of their lives. They have been sustained by the power of God. The Saviour of humanity recognizes the almost superhuman efforts made to press the work forward, while not a few were placing blocks before the wheels.  {PH151 72.4}
[PH151 73.1]          "If those who now view matters with perverted vision had talked constantly with God, pleading with Him for grace and guidance, they would have followed a different course. They would have called to mind their own experience in a new field, and would have striven to establish more firmly that which had been established. As they learned Christ's lessons, they would have become meek and lowly and humble, and they would have been partakers of His loving-kindness and His unselfish regard for others. But without a kind, loving regard for those who have as deep an interest as themselves in the cause of God, who have at heart the needs of suffering humanity, how can men serve God acceptably? How can they adjust matters in a way that will glorify Him? Those who are striving to obey the word, 'Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect,' will not hurt the souls of Christ's purchased possession."  {PH151 73.1}
[PH151 73.2]          Humanity alone is a very poor combination of opposites. Naturally, human beings are self-centered and opinionated. But when they learn the lessons that Christ desires to teach them, they become partakers of the divine nature, and henceforth they live Christ's life. They regard all men as brethren, with similar aspirations, capacities, temptations, and trials, needing tests and difficulties, craving sympathy and help.  {PH151 73.2}
[PH151 73.3]          Never feel that it is your prerogative to humiliate                                                                              74  a fellow-worker. If mistakes have been made, learn about them, not from a desire to crush the one who has made them, but from a desire to help, that no one be separated from God's work. Help those who have erred, by telling them of your experiences, showing how, when you made grave mistakes, patience and fellowship, kindness and helpfulness, on the part of your fellow-workers, gave you courage and hope. Harsh judgment is not becoming. Be afraid to condemn where God has not condemned. Remember that your brethren love God, and that they are striving to keep His commandments as verily as you are. You have been in the battle, and you carry the scars of conflict. Will you not deal mercifully with those who are fiercely assailed?                                                    -    {PH151 73.3}
[PH151 74.1]          Mistakes have been made in the work in the South, but these are not such as to require the doing of the work that some have supposed to be necessary. There are those who, instead of strengthening and sustaining the work in Nashville, have tried to destroy it. They have given place to evil surmisings and unjust criticisms. They have placed a mote close to the eye, and it has obscured their vision. Nothing but it can they see. If they would remove this mote, as they could if they so desired, they would see the glory beyond.  {PH151 74.1}
[PH151 75.1]       Chap. 17 - Nashville.         A deep interest should be taken in the building up of our work in and around Nashville. The planting of the Southern Publishing Association's office there was providential. Nashville is an educational center. In and near it there are many large colleges. Into these colleges the truth for this time is to be carried. Efforts are to be made for all classes, the educated and the uneducated, the white people and the colored people.  {PH151 75.1}
[PH151 75.2]          I have been instructed that we are to establish memorials for God in Nashville, not right in the city, but at a little distance from it. Lines of work are to be started that will advance the truth. These lines of work are not to be carried forward by individuals or companies, as private business, but are to be Union Conference enterprises.  {PH151 75.2}
[PH151 75.3]          For lack of means, the work may at first move slowly, but by God's blessing it will advance. The medical missionary work must be firmly established in Nashville; for this work is the right hand of the gospel. The Nashville Sanitarium need not be a large building, but it should be larger than those established in smaller cities. A building already erected should be secured, if a suitable one can be found in a favorable locality. A well-equipped sanitarium, situated a few miles out of the city of Nashville, will exert great influence for good among the people. Let us ask the Lord to open the way for this work, and to lead us in its advancement. We have a God who hears and answers prayer. In His providence He will work on minds as He has                                                                              76  worked in the past, leading men to favor our people by offering them property at low prices.  {PH151 75.3}
[PH151 76.1]          As Nashville is to be a center for our work in the South, a school as well as a sanitarium should be established a few miles from the city. Land should be secured, and believers should be encouraged to settle on it.  {PH151 76.1}
[PH151 76.2]          Means must come in for the advancement of this work. The work is to be carried forward with as little outlay of means as possible. But while economy is essential, no cheapness should be allowed in the work. The perfection of God's character is to be represented by all that His people do.  {PH151 76.2}
[PH151 76.3]          In establishing schools, one important point is to secure land sufficient for the carrying forward of industries that will enable the students to be self-supporting. There should be land sufficient for the raising of the fruit and vegetables required by the school, and also some for sale. Agriculture should be made a financial benefit to the school.  {PH151 76.3}
[PH151 76.4]          Nashville, Graysville, Huntsville, and Hildebran have been presented to me as places favorable for the raising of crops for the use of the school, and for marketing.  {PH151 76.4}
[PH151 76.5]          The students in our schools are to be taught that which will prepare them to act their part in teaching others. Some are to learn one trade, some another. Some are specially adapted for the printing work. Such can be prepared to connect with the publishing work.  {PH151 76.5}
[PH151 76.6]          The young men should learn to cultivate the soil, and to raise whatever the land will produce. No one can tell what can be done with the soil until he has studied, planned, and experimented.  {PH151 76.6}
[PH151 76.7]          The young men should be taught also how to build                                                                              77  houses plainly and inexpensively, yet substantially. They are to be taught that God will not accept careless, indolent, haphazard work. And from whatever they do,--building, sowing, planting, or reaping,--they are to learn the lesson, "Ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building." 1 Corinthians 3:9.                                                    -    {PH151 76.7}
[PH151 77.1]          The difficulties and hindrances met with in the work in the South are a repetition of the difficulties and hindrances that we met with in the work in Australia, and especially in the work in Cooranbong. And in every other place where the Lord has shown me that a special work was to be done, great difficulties have been encountered. There have always been men and women who were ready to use tact and influence to fashion things after their human judgment, repressing and hindering the work.  {PH151 77.1}
[PH151 77.2]          I shall call most earnestly for means from my brethren and sisters, to be used in the unworked cities of America, and especially in the cities of the South. This field, barren and unsightly, has been shamefully neglected. Wealthy men not of our faith have given liberally for the establishment of schools for the colored people, and some effort has been made to educate the poorer class of white people living in the South; but our own people have put forth only a jot of the earnest effort that they should have put forth.                                                    -    {PH151 77.2}
[PH151 77.3]          I have read the little book "The Story of Joseph;" and I am certain that it is books of this kind that are needed in the Southern field.  {PH151 77.3}
[PH151 77.4]          It is several years since light was given me in regard to the need of publishing small books containing Bible stories, and others containing some part of the Bible                                                                              78  printed as a whole. It pains me to see so many magazines in the homes of the people. Those who cultivate an appetite for such reading do themselves great harm. Shall we not provide them with something better?                                                    -    {PH151 77.4}
[PH151 78.1]          I have an earnest desire, my dear Brother Butler, that you shall just now stand in your lot and place in Nashville. The Lord is setting things in order there, and you are needed. May God help you and strengthen you, is my prayer. I pray constantly for you. Be of good courage in the Lord. Let nothing separate you from the work at Nashville. Be as true as steel to principle. The enemy will try to discourage and annoy you, but remember that the Lord is upholding you. He will be the light of your countenance, and your God.  {PH151 78.1}
[PH151 79.1]       Chap. 18 - Use of the "Morning Star."                         St. Helena, Cal., Sept. 9, 1902.        Dear Son Edson: In answer to your question as to whether it would be well to fit up your steamer Morning Star, to be used for the conveyance of missionary workers to places that otherwise they could not reach, I will say that I have been shown how, when you first went to the Southern field, you used this boat as your home, and as a place on which to receive those interested in the truth. The novelty of the idea excited curiosity, and many came to see and hear. I know that, through the agency of this boat, places have been reached where till then the light of truth had never shone,--places represented to me as "the hedges." Morning Star has been instrumental in sowing the seeds of truth in many hearts, and there are those who have first seen the light of truth while on this boat. On it angel feet have trodden.  {PH151 79.1}
[PH151 79.2]          Yet I would have you consider the dangers as well as the advantages of this line of work. The greatest caution will need to be exercised by all who enter the Southern field. They must not trust to unchristian feelings or prejudices. The truth is to be proclaimed. Christ is to be uplifted as the Saviour of mankind. Unless men of extreme caution are chosen as leaders and burden-bearers, men who trust in the Lord, knowing that they will be kept by His power, the efforts of the workers will be in vain. The brethren are to consider these things, and then move forward in faith.  {PH151 79.2}
[PH151 79.3]          One thing I urge upon you: the necessity of counselling with your brethren. There are those who will feel                                                                              80  that anything you may have to do with boats is a snare; but, my son, if there is a class of people in out-of-way places who can be reached only by means of boats, talk the matter over with your brethren. Pray earnestly in regard to it, and the Spirit of God will point out the way. I see no reason why a boat should not be utilized as a means of bringing to those in darkness the light of Him who is "the bright and morning Star."  {PH151 79.3}
[PH151 80.1]          As a people, we have so often been reproved for doing so little, that we should not hinder with discouragement any reasonable effort to extend the influence of the truth. Be careful that the enterprise you speak of does not cripple other lines of work. Follow the convictions of the Spirit of God, in harmony with your brethren. Watch unto prayer, and then commit the keeping of your soul to God, as unto a faithful Creator. He will keep that which is committed to His trust. Look to Jesus. The enemy will seek to spoil your life, but trust in the Lord. Draw nigh to Him, and He will draw nigh to you.  {PH151 80.1}
[PH151 80.2]          The Lord God of heaven is constantly at work for us. His angels minister to all who will receive their guardianship. Human impulse will try to make us believe that it is God who is guiding us, when we are following our own way. But if we watch carefully, and counsel with our brethren, we shall understand; for the promise is, "The meek will He guide in judgment; and the meek will He teach His way." Psalms 25:9. We must never allow human ideas and natural inclinations to gain the supremacy.  {PH151 80.2}
[PH151 81.1]       Chap. 19 - He That Ruleth Over Men Must Be Just.                      Toowoomba, Queensland, Oct. 22, 1899.        "He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God. And he shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain." 2 Samuel 23:3, 4.  {PH151 81.1}
[PH151 81.2]          The work of God has no need of overbearing men, or of harsh, unkind spirits. True zeal is always tempered with the meekness and lowliness of Christ. My brethren, in your work things will arise that would naturally provoke you, but you must be patient under provocation. The spirit of Christ will be revealed in all who truly do Christ's service. They wear the yoke of Christ, and they see the need of perfect self-control. As laborers together with God, they seek to co-operate with their fellow-workers, that they may act their part in fulfilling the grand purpose for which Christ came into the world,--the saving of all who receive Him as a personal Saviour.  {PH151 81.2}
[PH151 81.3]          The Spirit of the Lord is needed, oh, so much, in our printing offices! A decided testimony will often be required; wrong should in no case be vindicated. Christ would not have us pass over wrong-doing; but He calls upon His followers to represent His character in the way in which they reprove wrong. They are to work in the light of His example. At whatever sacrifice of ease or reputation, and whatever may be the outcome, we must maintain the reformatory principles of practical godliness; for this is the gospel of Christ. Every one is to help the next one to extend                                                                              82  the triumphs of the cross of Christ, adding new territory to His kingdom. God's servants are to refuse to keep silence when ungodliness is striving for the mastery. They should be keen and vigilant, ever on the alert to destroy evil. But the way in which this battle is carried on will make every difference with the result. Our own spirit is to be subdued, self is to be hid in Christ. In all reforms Christ alone is to appear.  {PH151 81.3}
[PH151 82.1]          God calls upon His servants to reveal a spirit of unvarying kindness and love. Nothing is gained by harsh denunciations and bitterness of spirit. To be harsh in trying to correct wrong is to commit sin in reproving sin. True reformers are not destroyers. They never seek to ruin those who do not harmonize with their plans. Reformers must advance, not retreat. They must be firm, decided, resolute, unflinching. But firmness must not be allowed to degenerate into an overbearing spirit. God would have those who serve Him as firm as a rock to principle, and yet meek and lowly, like Christ. Abiding in Christ, they can do the work that He would do were He in their places.  {PH151 82.1}
[PH151 82.2]          A rude, condemnatory spirit is not essential to heroism in the reformers of this time. Those in positions of authority in our institutions are to be true and upright. And they are to be pleasant and courteous, not only to those who are accounted ladies and gentlemen, but to the patient, toiling workers. Those who are to represent Christ must be like Him in character.  {PH151 82.2}
[PH151 83.1]       Chap. 20 - The Ministry is Ordained of God.         Every watchman on the walls of Zion is under sacred obligation to watch for souls as he that must give an account. Through God's grace he can do a work that heaven shall approve, in laboring to keep the church in unity and peace. Let him remember that he is to publish peace, "endeavoring to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace." Ephesians 4:3.  {PH151 83.1}
[PH151 83.2]          The church should respect the gospel ministry; for it is God's appointed means of communicating His messages to His people. The work of His ministers is to open to men and women the living oracles of truth. Let Church-members sustain the ministers by their prayers and their co-operation. Let no one venture to make a tirade on a minister; for in so doing he would be making a tirade against Christ in the person of one of His saints.  {PH151 83.2}
[PH151 83.3]          Christ is represented by those whom He sends forth to work for Him; therefore those who oppose His ministers are opposing Him. This is just as verily the case when those who claim to have an experience in the things of God pursue a course that hinders and afflicts one of God's servants, by misstatements and false charges, setting themselves up as judges of his course of action, which they claim to understand, but which has been misrepresented to them, and which, therefore, they do not understand.  {PH151 83.3}
[PH151 83.4]          Let our people remember that the way in which they treat the Lord's workers means much to them. Let every one attend to his own work, and not regard himself as appointed by the Lord to watch for something                                                                              84  to criticize in the work that his brother does. If a worker sees that a fellow-laborer is in danger of doing wrong, let him go to him, and point out his danger, listening kindly and patiently to any explanation that may be offered. He dishonors the Saviour when, instead of doing this, he tells others of the mistakes that he thinks his fellow-worker is making.  {PH151 83.4}
[PH151 84.1]          My brother, my sister, you are forbidden to make the mistakes of a fellow-worker a subject of conversation. By speaking evil of another, you sow the seeds of criticism and denunciation. You cannot afford to do this. Go to the one who you think is in the wrong, and tell him his fault "between thee and him alone." If he will hear you, and can explain the matter to you, how glad you will be that you did not take up a reproach against him, but instead followed the Saviour's directions!  {PH151 84.1}
[PH151 84.2]          Let us refuse to bear evil reports concerning our fellow-laborers. The reputation of men and women is held in high value by Him who gave His life to save souls. He has told us how those in fault should be dealt with. No one is sufficiently wise to improve on God's plan.  {PH151 84.2}
[PH151 84.3]          Parents should teach their children to speak ill of no man. Insinuations, words that hurt the reputation of one who is doing the Lord's work, grieve and dishonor the Saviour. And God's word declares, "By thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned." Matthew 12:37. To those who have educated themselves to speak unadvisedly, I am instructed to say: "Unless you cease encouraging evil-speaking, unless you guard as Christians should the reputation of your fellow-workers, you will endanger your own soul and the souls of many others. No longer talk about the wrong that some one is doing. Never, never, repeat a scandal. Go to the one assailed, and                                                                              85  ask him in regard to the matter. God has not appointed any man to be the judge of another man's motives and work. He who feels at liberty to dissect the character of another, he who intentionally detracts from the influence of a fellow-worker, is as verily breaking God's law as if he openly disregarded the Sabbath of the fourth commandment."  {PH151 84.3}
[PH151 85.1]                     Unity of Action Essential.          The great enemy of the church is determined to introduce among God's people that which will result in disunion and variance. Schism and division are not the fruit of righteousness; they are of the evil one. The great hindrance to our advancement is the selfishness that prevents believers from having true fellowship with one another.  {PH151 85.1}
[PH151 85.2]          The last prayer that Christ offered for His disciples before His trial was that they might be one in Him. Satan is determined that this oneness shall not be; for it is the strongest witness that can be borne that God gave His Son to reconcile the world to heaven. But the union for which Christ prayed must exist among God's people before He can bestow on the church the enlargement and power that He longs to bestow on it.  {PH151 85.2}
[PH151 85.3]          Unity should be recognized as the element of preservation in the church. Those who are united in church capacity have entered into a solemn covenant with God to obey His word, and to unite in an effort to strengthen the faith of one another. They are to be one in Him, even though they are scattered the world over. This is God's purpose concerning them, and the heart of the Saviour is set upon His followers' fulfilling this purpose. But God cannot make them one with Christ unless they are willing to give up their way for His way.  {PH151 85.3}
[PH151 85.4]          "How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet                                                                              86  of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth! Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing; for they shall see eye to eye, when the Lord shall bring again Zion." Isaiah 52:7, 8. Thus is portrayed the happiness and grace that will be revealed when unity and love abide in the church.            A Lesson From Christ's Attitude Toward Judas.  {PH151 85.4}
[PH151 86.1]          Among the chosen disciples of Christ there was a representative of Satan. At heart Judas was not a disciple. Often he led the other disciples to form opinions contrary to the teachings of the Master. He criticized Christ's words, and asked questions that led the minds of the disciples away from the subjects that the Saviour brought before them. It was because of the influence that Judas exerted to deceive the disciples that Christ had to repeat so many of His lessons. Judas did not come out boldly in opposition to Christ; and therefore he was the better able to deceive the eleven.  {PH151 86.1}
[PH151 86.2]          Christ knew, when he permitted Judas to connect with Him as one of the twelve, that Judas was possessed of the demon of selfishness. He knew that this professed disciple would betray Him, and yet He did not separate him from the other disciples, and send him away. He was preparing the minds of these men for His death and ascension, and He foresaw that, should He dismiss Judas, Satan would use him to spread reports that would be difficult to meet and explain. The leaders of the Jewish nation were watching and searching for something that they could use to make of no effect the words of Christ. The Saviour knew that Judas, if dismissed, could so misconstrue and mystify His statements that the Jews would accept a                                                                              87  false version of His words, using this version to bring terrible harm to the disciples, and to leave on the minds of Christ's enemies the impression that the Jews were justified in taking the attitude they did toward Jesus and His followers.  {PH151 86.2}
[PH151 87.1]          Christ did not, therefore, send Judas from His presence, but kept him by His side, where He could counteract the influence that he might exert against His work.  {PH151 87.1}
[PH151 87.2]          All the way along in the history of the third angel's message there have been found amongst the believers men who have done much harm to God's cause. These men are spots in our feasts of charity; tares among the wheat; wolves among the sheep, ready to bite and devour. Delighting to bear false witness, they cruelly injure the reputation of others. Every such one will be rewarded "according to his works." God "hath appointed a day, in the which He will judge the world." Acts 17:31. Then will be made the separation between the wheat and the tares. In that day it will be clearly revealed that those who seek to destroy the reputation of God's servants are hypocrites. By their own lips will be borne the testimony that will clear from suspicion those against whom they have reported evil.  {PH151 87.2}
[PH151 87.3]          Had not Christ borne with Judas as He did, His followers would have been in great peril after His resurrection and ascension. But when men thought of the fate of the betrayer of innocent blood, they were afraid to lay hands on the disciples. They could not but remember the final confession of the traitor, and his terrible death. "I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood" (Matthew 27:4), he exclaimed, when he had cast at the feet of the high priest the pieces of silver that had been the price of his Lord's betrayal. Then in despair he went and hanged himself. That                                                                              88  same day, as the wicked throng who were leading Jesus to the place of crucifixion passed a retired spot, they saw at the foot of a lifeless tree the body of Judas. His weight had broken the cord by which he had hanged himself, and, in falling, his body had been horribly mangled. His remains were immediately buried out of sight; but there was less mockery among the throng; and many a pale of face revealed the thoughts within.  {PH151 87.3}
[PH151 88.1]          The death of Judas and the resurrection and ascension of Christ placed the disciples on vantage ground, and gave them courage. But if Christ had not borne with Judas until the end, the results of the betrayer's course would not have been sufficiently impressive to stay the hands of the persecutors, and after Christ's ascension the most terrible scenes would have been witnessed. But God worked by His Spirit, and five thousand were converted in a day. Let God be true, and every man a liar. Christ Jesus is at the helm. "Lo," He declares, "I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." Matthew 28:20.  {PH151 88.1}
[PH151 88.2]          St. Helena, Cal., Oct. 11, 1902.                                                    -    {PH151 88.2}
[PH151 88.3]          Let no one cherish a zeal that is not according to knowledge. Impulse is good when it is controlled by the Holy Spirit of God; but he who does not cherish sanctified principles will practise dishonesty in order to make a wonderful display, that others may see "what I can do." By I," selfishness is wrought. I" disregards greater need elsewhere, grasps too much, and selfishly builds up his own work. Such a course of action is a sad spectacle to angels and to men. None are to circumscribe their influence, their God-given talent of means, in order to make a display, which God                                                                              89  will have to destroy in order to bring them to their senses.  {PH151 88.3}
[PH151 89.1]          Who has elevated man and given him power? Who upholds and sustains him, increasing his efficiency to do good? Is this done in order that man may glorify himself? No true disciple of Christ can be self-centered.  {PH151 89.1}
[PH151 90.1]       Chap. 21 - The Work at Home and Abroad.                        St. Helena, Cal., Aug. 7, 1902.          "Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest. And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal; that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together. And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth." John 4:35-37.  {PH151 90.1}
[PH151 90.2]          After sowing the seed, the husbandman is compelled to wait for months for it to germinate and develop into grain ready to be harvested. But in sowing it he is encouraged by the expectation of fruit in the future. His labor is lightened with the hope of good returns in the time of reaping.  {PH151 90.2}
[PH151 90.3]          Not so with the seeds of truth sown by Christ in the mind of the Samaritan woman during His conversation with her at the well. The harvest of His seed-sowing was not remote, but immediate. Scarcely were His words spoken, before the seed thus sown sprang up and produced fruit, awakening her understanding, and enabling her to know that she had been conversing with the Lord Jesus Christ. She let the rays of divine light shine into her heart. Forgetting her water pitcher, she hastened away to communicate the good news to her Samaritan brethren. "Come," she said, "see a Man, which told me all things that ever I did." John 4:29. And they came out at once to see Him. It was then that He likened the souls of these Samaritans to a field of grain. "Lift up your eyes," He said to His                                                                              91  disciples, "and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest."  {PH151 90.3}
[PH151 91.1]          "So when the Samaritans were come unto Him, they besought Him that He would tarry with them; and He abode there two days." And what busy days these were! What is the record of the result?--"And many more believed because of His own word; and said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying; for we have heard Him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world." John 4:40-42.  {PH151 91.1}
[PH151 91.2]          Christ, in opening to the minds of the Samaritans the word of life, sowed many seeds of truth, and showed the people how they too could sow seeds of truth in the minds of others. How much good might be accomplished, if all who know the truth would labor for sinners,--for those who need so much to know and understand Bible truth, and who would respond to it as readily as the Samaritans responded to the words of Christ! How little do we enter into sympathy with God on the point that should be the strongest bond of union between us and Him,--compassion for depraved, guilty, suffering souls, dead in trespasses and sins! If men shared the sympathies of Christ, they would have constant sorrow of heart over the condition of many needy fields, so destitute of workers.  {PH151 91.2}
[PH151 91.3]          The work in foreign fields is to be carried forward earnestly and intelligently. And the work in the home field is in nowise to be neglected. Let not the fields lying in the shadow of our doors, such as the great cities in our land, be lightly passed over and neglected. These fields are fully as important as any foreign field.  {PH151 91.3}
[PH151 91.4]          God's encouraging message of mercy should be proclaimed in the cities of America. Men and women                                                                              92  living in these cities are rapidly becoming more and still more entangled in their business relations. They are acting wildly in the erection of buildings whose towers reach high into the heavens. Their minds are filled with schemes and ambitions devisings. God is bidding every one of His ministering servants, "Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins." Isaiah 58:1.  {PH151 91.4}
[PH151 92.1]          Let us thank the Lord that there are a few laborers doing everything possible to raise up some memorials for God in our neglected cities. Let us remember that it is our duty to give these workers encouragement. God is displeased with the lack of appreciation and support shown our faithful workers in our large cities by His people in our own land. The work in the home field is a vital problem just now. The present time is the most favorable opportunity that we shall have to work these fields. In a little while the situation will be much more difficult.  {PH151 92.1}
[PH151 92.2]          Jesus wept over Jerusalem, because of the guilt and obstinacy of His chosen people. He weeps also over the hard-heartedness of those who, professing to be co-workers with Him, are content to do nothing. Are those who should appreciate the value of souls carrying, with Christ, a burden of heaviness and constant sorrow, mingled with tears, for the wicked cities of the earth? The destruction of these cities, almost wholly given up to idolatry, is impending. In the great day of final reckoning what answer can be given for neglecting to enter these cities now?  {PH151 92.2}
[PH151 92.3]          While carrying forward the work in America, may the Lord help us to give to other countries the attention that they ought to have, so that the workers in these                                                                              93  fields will not be bound about, unable to leave memorials for God in many places. Let us not allow too many advantages to be absorbed in this country. Let us not continue to neglect our duty toward the millions living in other lands. Let us gain a better understanding of the situation, and redeem the past.  {PH151 92.3}
[PH151 93.1]          My brethren and sisters in America, it may be that in lifting up your eyes to see afar off the fields white unto the harvest, you will receive into your own hearts the abundant grace of God. You who through unbelief have been spiritually poor will, through personal labor, become rich in good works. You will no longer starve your souls in the midst of plenty, but will appropriate the good things God has in store for you. When you begin to realize how destitute of means the laborers are to carry forward the work in foreign fields, you will do what you can to help, and your souls will begin to revive, your spiritual appetite will become healthful, and your mind will be refreshed with the word of God, which is a leaf from the tree of life for the healing of the nations.  {PH151 93.1}
[PH151 93.2]          In answer to the Lord's inquiry, "Whom shall I send?" Isaiah responded, "Here am I; send me." Isaiah 6:8. You, my brother, my sister, may not be able to go into the Lord's vineyard yourself, but you may furnish the means to send others. Thus you will be putting your money out to the exchangers; and when the Master comes, you will be able to return to Him His own with usury. Your means can be used to send forth and sustain the messengers of God, who by voice and by influence will give the message, "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight." Matthew 3:3. Plans are being made for the advancement of the cause, and now is your time to work.                                                                              94   {PH151 93.2}
[PH151 94.1]          If you work with self-denial, doing what you can to further the advancement of the cause in new fields, the Lord will help and strengthen and bless you. Trust in the assurance of His presence, which sustains you, and which is light and life. Do all for love of Jesus and the precious souls for whom He has died. Work with a pure, divinely-inwrought purpose to glorify God. The Lord sees and understands, and He will use you, despite your weakness, if you offer your talent as a consecrated gift to His service; for in active, disinterested service the weak become strong and enjoy His precious commendation. The joy of the Lord is an element of strength. If you are faithful, the peace that passeth all understanding will be your reward in this life, and in the future life you will enter into the joy of your Lord.                                                    -    {PH151 94.1}
[PH151 94.2]                                                 Jan. 23, 1903.        I must write something in regard to the way in which our cities in America have been passed by and neglected,--cities in which the truth has not been proclaimed. The message must be given to the thousands of foreigners living in these cities in the home field.  {PH151 94.2}
[PH151 94.3]          I cannot understand why our people have so little burden to take up the work that the Lord has for years been keeping before me,--the work of giving the message of present truth in the Southern states. Few have felt that upon them rested the responsibility of taking hold of this work. Our people have failed to enter new territory and to work the cities in the South. Over and over again the Lord has presented the needs of this field, without any special results. I have sometimes felt as if I could no longer bear the burden of this work. I thought that, if men would continue to                                                                              95  neglect this work, I would let matters drift, and pray that the Lord would have mercy upon the ignorant and those who are out of the way.  {PH151 94.3}
[PH151 95.1]          But the Lord has a controversy with our ministers and people, and I must speak, placing upon them the burden of the Southern work, and of the cities of our land. Who feels heavily burdened to see the message proclaimed in Greater New York and in the many other cities as yet unworked? Not all the means that can be gathered up is to be sent from America to distant lands, while in the home field there exist such providential opportunities to present the truth to millions who have never heard it. Among these millions are the representatives of many nations, many of whom are prepared to receive the message. Much remains to be done within the shadow of our doors,--in the cities of California, New York, and many other states.  {PH151 95.1}
[PH151 95.2]          "This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come." Matthew 24:14.  {PH151 95.2}
[PH078 3.1]         PH078 - Sowing Beside All Waters (1912)           A few in different towns who really believe the truth, will exert an influence and excite inquiry in regard to their faith; and if their lives are exemplary, their light will shine, and they will have a gathering influence. . . . The great work now to be accomplished is to bring up the people of God to engage in the work, and exert a holy influence. They should act the part of laborers. With wisdom, caution, and love, they should labor for the salvation of neighbors and friends. There is too distant a feeling manifested. The cross is not laid right hold of, and borne                                                                              4  as it should be. All should feel that they are their brother's keeper; that they are in a great degree responsible for the souls of those around them.  {PH078 3.1}
[PH078 4.1]         The brethren err when they leave this work all to the ministers. The harvest is great, and the laborers are few. Those who are of good repute, whose lives are in accordance with their faith, can be workmen. They can converse with others, and urge upon them the importance of the truth. They must not wait for the ministers, and neglect a plain duty which God has left for them to perform. ［"TESTIMONIES FOR THE CHURCH," VOL. I, PP. 368, 369.］  {PH078 4.1}
[PH078 4.2]                    Families as Missionaries          In the vision given me June 12, 1868, I was shown that a great work might be accomplished in bringing souls to the knowledge of the truth, were proper exertions made. In every town, city, and village, there are persons who would embrace the truth if it were brought before them in a judicious manner. Missionaries are needed among us, self-sacrificing missionaries, who, like our great Exemplar, would not please themselves, but live to do others good.  {PH078 4.2}
[PH078 4.3]          I was shown that as a people we are deficient. Our works are not in accordance with our faith. Our faith testifies that we are living under the proclamation of the most solemn and important message that was ever given to mortals. Yet in full view of this fact, our efforts, our zeal, our spirit of self-sacrifice, do not compare with the character of the work. . . .                                                                              5   {PH078 4.3}
[PH078 5.1]                      A Missionary Church          Brethren who wish to change their location, who have the glory of God in view, and feel that individual responsibility rests upon them to do others good, to benefit and save souls for whom Christ withheld not His precious life, should move into towns and villages where there is but little or no light, and where they can be of real service, and bless others with their labor and experience. Missionaries are wanted to go into towns and villages and raise the standard of truth, that God may have His witnesses scattered all over the land, that the light of truth may penetrate where it has not yet reached, and the standard of truth be raised where it is not yet known. The brethren should not flock together because it is more agreeable to them, but should seek to fulfill their high calling to do others good, to be instrumental in the salvation of at least one soul. But more may be saved than one. . . .  {PH078 5.1}
[PH078 5.2]          In view of what Christ has done for us, and what He has suffered for sinners, we should, out of pure, disinterested love for souls, imitate His example by sacrificing our own pleasure and convenience for their good. The joy set before Christ, which sustained Him in all His sufferings, was the salvation of poor sinners. This should be our joy, and the spur of our ambition in the cause of our Master. In so doing we please God, and manifest our love and devotion to Him as His servants. ［"TESTIMONIES FOR THE CHURCH," VOL. II, PP. 113-115.］  {PH078 5.2}
[PH078 5.3]                    Witnesses for Christ          I have been shown that the disciples of Christ                                                                              6  are His representatives upon the earth; and God designs that they shall be lights in the moral darkness of this world, dotted all over the country, in the towns, villages, and cities, "a spectacle unto the world, to angels, and to men." If they obey the teachings of Christ in His sermon on the mount, they will be seeking continually for perfection of Christian character, and will be truly the light of the world,-- channels through which God will communicate His divine will, the truth of heavenly origin, to those who sit in darkness, and who have no knowledge of the way of life and salvation.  {PH078 5.3}
[PH078 6.1]          God cannot display the knowledge of His will and the wonders of His grace among the unbelieving world, unless He has witnesses scattered all over the earth. ［THIS WAS WRITTEN THREE YEARS BEFORE THE FIRST MISSIONARY WAS SENT BY THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST DENOMINATION TO A FOREIGN LAND.］ It is His plan that those who are partakers of this great salvation through Jesus Christ, should be His missionaries, bodies of light throughout the world, to be as signs to the people, living epistles, known and read of all men, their faith and works testifying to the near approach of the coming Saviour, and showing that they have not received the grace of God in vain. The people must be warned to prepare for the coming judgment. To those who have been listening only to fables, God will give an opportunity to hear the sure word of prophecy, whereunto they do well that they take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place. . . .  {PH078 6.1}
[PH078 6.2]         Every follower of Jesus has a work to do as a missionary for Christ, in the family, in the neighborhood,                                                                              7  in the town or city where he lives. All who are consecrated to God are channels of light. God makes them instruments of righteousness to communicate to others the light of truth, the riches of His grace. Unbelievers may appear indifferent and careless; yet God is impressing and convicting their hearts that there is a reality in the truth. . . .  {PH078 6.2}
[PH078 7.1]          God designs that His people shall be the light of the world, the salt of the earth. The plan of gathering together in large numbers, to compose a large church, has contracted their influence, and narrowed down their sphere of usefulness, and is literally putting their light under a bushel. ［AT THE TIME THIS WAS PUBLISHED, THERE WERE 185 CHURCHES IN NORTH AMERICA, WITH A MEMBERSHIP OF LESS THAN FIVE THOUSAND.］ It is God's design that the knowledge of the truth should come to all, that none may remain in darkness, ignorant of its principles; but that all should be tested upon it, and decided for or against it, that all may be warned, and left without excuse. The plan of colonizing, or moving from different localities where there is but little strength or influence, and concentrating the influence of many in one locality, is removing the light from places where God would have it shine.  {PH078 7.1}
[PH078 7.2]         The followers of Christ scattered throughout the world do not have a high sense of their responsibility, and the obligation resting upon them to let their light shine forth to others. If there are but one or two in a place, they can, although few in number, so conduct themselves before the world as to have an influence which will impress the unbeliever with the sincerity of their faith. The followers of Jesus are not meeting the mind and will of God, if they are content                                                                              8  to remain in ignorance of His word. All should become Bible students. Christ commanded His followers, "Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me." Peter exhorts us, "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts; and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear." . . .  {PH078 7.2}
[PH078 8.1]          The true followers of Christ will appreciate the great salvation which He has wrought for them; and wherever Her leads the way, they will follow. They will consider it a privilege to bear whatever burdens Christ may lay upon them. ［"TESTIMONIES FOR THE CHURCH," VOL. II, PP. 631-634 (FIRST PUBLISHED IN 1871).］  {PH078 8.1}
[PH078 8.2]                     Missionaries for God          While in Vermont, Dec. 10, 1871, I was shown some things in regard to New York. . . .  {PH078 8.2}
[PH078 8.3]         The advancement of the church in ----- in spiritual things, is not in proportion to the light which has shone upon their pathway. God has committed to each talents to be improved by putting them out to the exchangers, that when the Master comes He may receive His own with usury. . . .  {PH078 8.3}
[PH078 8.4]          There is more talent in the church, and more material to make good workmen, than can be employed to advantage in that locality. The entire church are not growing in spirituality. They are not favorably situated to develop strength by calling into exercise the talents that God has given them. There is not room for all to work. One gets in the way of another. There is a lack of spiritual strength. . . .                                                                              9   {PH078 8.4}
[PH078 9.1]          If the talent and influence of several of its members should be exercised in other churches, where they would be drawn out to help where help is really needed, they would be obtaining an experience of the highest value in spiritual things, and by thus bearing responsibilities and burdens in the work of God, would be a blessing to others. While engaged in helping others, they would be following the example of Christ. He came not to be ministered unto, but to ministers to others. He pleased not Himself. He made Himself of no reputation, but took upon Himself the form of a servant, and spent His life in doing good. He could have spent His days on earth in ease and plenty, and have appropriated to Himself the enjoyments of this life. But He lived not to enjoy, He lived to do good and to save others from suffering, and His example is for us to follow. . . .  {PH078 9.1}
[PH078 9.2]          God calls for missionaries. There are men of ability in the church at-----, who will grow in capacity and power as they exercise their talents in the work and cause of God. If these brethren will educate themselves to make the cause of God their first interest, and will sacrifice their pleasure and inclination for the truth's sake, the blessing of God will rest upon them. These brethren, who love the truth, and who have been for years rejoicing because of increasing light upon the Scriptures, should let their light shine forth to those who are in darkness. God will be to them wisdom and power, and will glorify Himself in working with and by those who wholly follow Him. "If any man serve Me, him will My Father honor." The wisdom and power of God will be given to the willing and faithful.                                                                              10   {PH078 9.2}
[PH078 10.1]          The brethren in ----- have been willing to give of their means for the various enterprises, but they have withheld themselves. They have not said, Here am I, Lord; send me. It is not the strength of human instruments, but the power and wisdom of Him who employs them and works with them, that makes men successful in doing the work that is necessary to be done. By offering our goods to the Possessor of heaven and earth while we withhold ourselves, we cannot meet His approbation nor secure His blessing. There must be in the hearts of the brethren and sisters in ----- a principle to lay all, even themselves, upon the altar of God. . . .  {PH078 10.1}
[PH078 10.2]          We wish that all the Lord's servants were laborers. The work of warning souls should not be confined to ministers alone, but brethren who have the truth in their hearts, and who have exerted a good influence at home, should feel that a responsibility rests upon them to devote a part of their time to going out among their neighbors and into adjoining towns to be missionaries for God. They should carry our publications, ［THIS WAS WRITTEN AND PUBLISHED IN THE YEAR WHEN, IN HARMONY WITH A RESOLUTION PASSED AT THE TENTH ANNUAL SESSION OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE, PLANS WERE PERFECTED FOR "THE FORMATION OF TRACT AND MISSIONARY SOCIETIES" IN THE VARIOUS STATE CONFERENCES. SEE YEAR BOOK FOR 1905, P. 171.］ and engage in conversation, and, in the spirit of Christ, pray with and for those whom they visit. This is the work that will arouse a spirit of investigation and reformation. . . .  {PH078 10.2}
[PH078 10.3]         There is work for every one in the vineyard of the Lord. None should be idle. Angels of God are all astir, ascending to heaven, and descending to earth again with messages of mercy and warning.                                                                              11  These heavenly messengers are moving upon minds and hearts. There are men and women everywhere whose hearts are susceptible of being inspired with the truth. If those who have a knowledge of the truth would now work in unison with the Spirit of God, we would see a great work accomplished.  {PH078 10.3}
[PH078 11.1]          New fields are open in which all can test their calling by experimental effort in bringing souls out from darkness and error, and establishing them upon the platform of eternal truth. . . . The work of fitting a people in these last days for the coming of Christ, is a most sacred, solemn work, and calls for devoted, unselfish laborers. Those who have humility, faith, energy, perseverance, and decision, will find plenty to do in their Master's vineyard. There are responsible duties to be performed, which require earnestness and the exertion of all their energies. It is willing service that God accepts. If the truth we profess is of such infinite importance as to decide the destiny of souls, how careful should we be in its presentation. ［"TESTIMONIES FOR THE CHURCH," VOL. III, PP. 48, 53, 54 56, 57, 51, 64 (FIRST PUBLISHED IN 1872).］                                                                              12   {PH078 11.1}
[PH078 12.1]         Dear Brethren and Sisters: I deeply feel the necessity of our making more thorough and earnest efforts to bring the truth before the world.  In the last vision given me, I was shown that we were not doing one-twentieth part of the work we should for the salvation of souls. We labor for them indifferently, as though it was not a question of every great importance whether they received or rejected the truth. General efforts are made, but we fail to work to the point by personal effort. We do not approach men and women in a manner that impresses them that we have a personal interest for them, and that we feel                                                                              13  deeply in earnest for their salvation, and do not mean to give them up. We hold too much at a distance those who do not believe the truth. We call them and wait for them to come to us to inquire for the truth. Many will not be inclined to do this, for they are in darkness and error, and cannot discern the truth and its vital importance. Satan holds them with his firm power, and if we would help them, we must show a personal interest and love for their souls, and take hold of them in earnest. We must work in prayer and love, with faith and unwearied patience, hoping all things and believing all things, having the wisdom of the serpent and the meekness of the dove, in order to win souls to Christ. . . .  {PH078 12.1}
[PH078 13.1]          As a people, we are not deficient in talent. There are men and women among us whose labors God would accept if they would offer them to Him, but there are so very few who have the spirit of sacrifice. . . . Money is good as far as it goes, but unless accompanied by personal effort, will go but a little way toward converting souls to the truth. Not only does God call for your money, brethren, but He calls for you. . . .  {PH078 13.1}
[PH078 13.2]          There are young men and women and those of middle age who have had experience in the truth, but do not advance in the divine life and increase in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and they do not know the cause. One cause of their lack of spiritual strength, and of their not being full-grown men and women in Christ is, they are not workers with Christ. If they would work for Jesus, their sympathies would be brought in close                                                                              14  union with Christ, and they would grow in Him their living head, and have a better understanding of the nature of His work and of His sacrifice for man; and would place that estimate upon souls proportionate to the value of the price Christ has paid for man. There are a large number who, if they would come near enough to God by entire consecration, would hear His voice saying, Go labor in My vineyard, and ye shall receive your wages by and by. . . .  {PH078 13.2}
[PH078 14.1]          If we would follow the opening providence of God, we should be quick to discern every opening and make the most of every advantage within our reach, to let the light extend and spread to other nations. God, in His providence, has sent men to our very doors and thrust them, as it were, into our arms, that they might learn the truth more perfectly, and be qualified to do a work we could not do in getting the light before men of other tongues. ［AT THE TIME THIS WAS WRITTEN, THERE WERE ONLY ABOUT ONE-FOURTH AS MANY FOREIGN-BORN MEN AND WOMEN IN THE UNITED STATES AS THERE WERE IN 1911.］. . .  {PH078 14.1}
[PH078 14.2]         There has been a slothful neglect and a criminal unbelief among us as a people which has kept us back from doing the work God has left us to do in letting our light shine forth to those of other nations. There is a fearfulness to venture out and to run risks in this great work, fearing that the expenditure of means would not bring returns. . . .  {PH078 14.2}
[PH078 14.3]          God will have men who will venture anything and everything to save souls. Those who will not move until they can see every step of the way clearly before them, will not be of advantage at this time to forward the truth of God. There must be workers                                                                              15  now who will push ahead in the dark as well as in the light, and who will hold up bravely under discouragements and disappointed hopes, and yet work on with faith, with tears and patient hope, sowing beside all waters, trusting the Lord to bring the increase. God calls for men of nerve, of hope, faith, and endurance, to work to the point. ［THE TRUE MISSIONARY, JANUARY, 1874.］  {PH078 14.3}
[PH078 15.1]         As we accept the truth, we virtually pledge ourselves to be workers with Christ, and to be consecrated to His service, and no longer live to do our will and serve ourselves, but to be faithful servants of the Master to whom we have yielded ourselves servants to obey. The commission of Christ to His disciples was, to go and preach the gospel to every creature. We have a world-wide message.  {PH078 15.1}
[PH078 15.2]          After men and women have received the truth, . . . they should be instructed that in order to grow spiritually strong, they must be earnest workers to lead others to the truth, as they were led. . . .  {PH078 15.2}
[PH078 15.3]          I entreat you, my brethren and sisters, to be self-reliant in the strength of Jesus. . . . When tempted to become unbelieving and discouraged, you will find the very best cure for this in talking faith to others, and in presenting the truth to those who are in darkness. Extend your efforts to your neighbors, and to those who have not the privileges of meetings. Sow the seeds of truth beside all waters, and encourage the hearts of the servants of God when they visit you by showing that you have not been idle, but through your instrumentality one or more has been brought from darkness to light. . . .  {PH078 15.3}
[PH078 15.4]          A great work is before us. We need the help of                                                                              16  every one. The cause will need not only money, but earnest workers. . . . God will require personal service at the hands of every one to whom He entrusts His truth. Not one is excused. Some may feel that if they give of their substance they are excused from personal efforts. But God forbid that they should deceive themselves in this. Gifts of means do not meet the requirement of God, for the duty is but half done. He will accept nothing short of yourselves. You must work to save souls. All will not be called to go to foreign missions, but you may be missionaries at home, in your own families and in your neighborhoods. . . .  {PH078 15.4}
[PH078 16.1]          Christ called fishermen from their nets to do His work, and they left them and followed Him. He called Matthew, a publican, from his business to follow Him, and he obeyed the invitation joyfully. He may call men from their farms, from their merchandise, and from their various trades, and send them forth to warn the world.  {PH078 16.1}
[PH078 16.2]          With the love of Christ in the heart, Christians will work. All who have made a profession of Christ have virtually pledged themselves to preach the gospel of salvation to sinners. Some may never be required to stand in the pulpit; but there are many ways to preach Christ. By deeds, by a godly, consistent life, and by letting our light shine forth to others, we may preach Christ. In acts of self-denial for others' good, and showing a love for precious souls that is paramount to love for riches or earthly enjoyment, we may preach Christ.  {PH078 16.2}
[PH078 16.3]          In doing the works of Christ, the Christian worker will become strong in spiritual strength. God is a                                                                              17  present help in every time of need. Those who work for the salvation of souls feel their inefficiency and lack of heavenly wisdom, and in their emergency they flee to their tower of strength, and God meets their necessities, and they are obtaining a valuable experience. They are gaining spiritual strength, and growing in the knowledge of the truth. They are not spiritual dwarfs, or bodies of death; but are shining lights, gathering daily strength from God, and conferring blessings upon others. ［THE TRUE MISSIONARY, FEBRUARY, 1874 (WRITTEN IN JANUARY, 1874).］  {PH078 16.3}
[PH078 17.1]                 Annexing New Territory          We are to be interested in everything which concerns the human brotherhood. By our baptismal vows we are bound in covenant relation with God to make persevering, self-denying, self-sacrificing efforts to promote, in the hardest parts of the field, the work of soul-saving. . . .  {PH078 17.1}
[PH078 17.2]          God says to those who profess to believe in Him, Go forth into all parts of the world, and diffuse the light of My truth, that men and women may be led to Christ. Let us awake to our duty, and do all that we can to help forward the Lord's work. Let superficial excuses be blown to the four winds. Let decided action commence on the part of all who can help. Let them co-operate with the angels sent from the heavenly courts to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation. Forget not the words, "We are laborers together with God." No longer grieve the Spirit of God by delaying. ［MS., 1901.］                                                                              18   {PH078 17.2}
[PH078 18.1]                      Home Mission Fields          Wherever the people of God are placed, in the crowded cities, in the villages, or among the country byways, there is a home mission field, for which a responsibility is laid upon them by their Lord's commission. They are to take up the duty which lies nearest. First of all is the work in the family; next they should seek to win their neighbors to Christ, and to bring before them the great truths for this time.  {PH078 18.1}
[PH078 18.2]          This work places upon us a responsibility to recommend by our daily life the faith which we profess. The piety of its believers is the standard by which worldlings judge of the truth. In all your associations with unbelievers, be careful to give them no occasion to misjudge your faith, or to reproach the cause of truth which you advocate. Many hedge up the way by their own course of action. There is some indiscretion on their part. They are easily provoked. Little difficulties arise in trade or in some other temporal matter, which lead them to think themselves misjudged or wronged by their neighbors. These things are allowed to create coldness or ill-feeling, and thus to close the door of access to those who might be reached by the truth. We should never allow matters of temporal interest to quench our love for souls.  {PH078 18.2}
[PH078 18.3]          Brethren, be kind and courteous on all occasions. Never be sharp, critical, or exacting in your deal.                                                                              19  If there is any advantage to be gained, give it to your neighbor, whom you are required to love as you love yourself. With the patience and love of Jesus, watch for opportunities to do him a kindness. Let him see that the religion which we profess does not close up nor freeze over the avenues of the soul, making us unsympathizing and exacting. Let a well-ordered life and a godly conversation testify to your sincerity and piety; and when you have thus gained his confidence, the way is opened for you to reach the heart by introducing the truth.  {PH078 18.3}
[PH078 19.1]          If these matters, which may appear of minor consequence, are neglected, you may present the most convincing arguments in favor of the truth, but they will have no weight. If your family government is not according to the Bible rule, if your children are not brought up with habits of order and industry, if they are selfish, proud, disobedient, unthankful, unholy, be sure that your unbelieving neighbor will see and remark upon your neglect. "They would better spend their labor at home," he will say, "teaching piety and good behavior to their children, instead of trying to convert me." Very many have been caused to stumble by the inconsistencies of professed Christians, and have been led to reject the precious truths of the Bible. . . .  {PH078 19.1}
[PH078 19.2]          It is the acts of faith and sacrifice in the so-called little things of life, the Spirit of Christ manifested at home, in the field, in the workshop, as well as in the church, that make us living epistles known and read of all. Men may combat and defy our logic, they may resist our appeals; but a life of holy purpose, of disinterested love, is an argument in favor                                                                              20  of the truth that they cannot gainsay. Far more can be accomplished by humble, devoted, virtuous lives than can be gained by preaching when a godly example is lacking. . . .  {PH078 19.2}
[PH078 20.1]          Until the judgment it will never be known how much might have been done, how many plans might have been devised, to save souls by bringing them to the knowledge of the truth. But self-indulgence, unwillingness to sacrifice, and a lack of true spiritual discernment, have led many to overlook the open doors which they might have entered to do a good work for the Master. Love of ease has caused them to shun the wearing of Christ's yoke, the lifting of His burden.  {PH078 20.1}
[PH078 20.2]          Many, many are approaching the day of God doing nothing, shunning responsibilities, and as the result they are religious dwarfs. So far as work for God is concerned, the pages of their life history present a mournful blank. They are trees in the garden of God, but only cumberers of the ground, darkening with their unproductive boughs the ground which fruit-bearing trees might have occupied.  {PH078 20.2}
[PH078 20.3]          Those who neglect their duty in the home and among their neighbors, are, by their unfaithfulness, separating themselves from God. . . .  {PH078 20.3}
[PH078 20.4]          In the day of God how many will confront us and say, "I am lost! I am lost! and you never warned me; you never entreated me to come to Jesus. Had I believed as you did, I would have followed every judgment-bound soul with prayers and tears and warnings."  {PH078 20.4}
[PH078 20.5]          In that day the Master will demand of His professed people, "What have you done to save the                                                                              21  souls of your neighbors? There were many who were connected with you in worldly business, who lived close beside you, whom you might have warned. Why are they among the unsaved?"  {PH078 20.5}
[PH078 21.1]          Brethren and sisters, what excuse can you render to God for this neglect of souls? I would present this matter to you as it has been presented to me, and in the light from the life of the Master, from the cross of Calvary, I urge you to arouse. I entreat you to take upon your own hearts the burden of your fellow-men.  {PH078 21.1}
[PH078 21.2]          No one who professes to love Jesus can long retain the favor of God if he feels no interest for sinners around him. Those who seek merely to save their own souls, and are indifferent to the condition and destiny of their fellow-men, will fail to put forth sufficient effort to secure their own salvation. In hiding their talents in the earth, they are throwing away their opportunities to obtain a star-gemmed crown.  {PH078 21.2}
[PH078 21.3]          I write plainly, that every effort may be made on the part of all to remove the frown of God from them by sincere repentance. Whatever the neglect of duty, of parents to children, or of neighbor to neighbor, let it now be understood and repented of. If we have sinned against the Lord, we shall never have peace and restoration to His favor without full confession and reformation in regard to the very things in which we have been remiss. Not until we have used every means in our power to repair the evil, can God approve and bless us. The path of confession is humiliating, but it is the only way by which we can receive strength to overcome. All                                                                              22  the dropped stitches may never be picked up so that our work shall be as perfect and God-pleasing as it should have been; but every effort should be made to do this so far as it is impossible to accomplish it.  {PH078 21.3}
[PH078 22.1]          Brethren, the Lord calls upon you to redeem the time. Draw nigh to God. Take on your neck the yoke of Christ; stretch out your hands to lift His burden. Stir up the gift that is within you. You who have had opportunities and privileges to become acquainted with the reasons of our faith, use this knowledge in giving light to others. And do not rest satisfied with the little knowledge you already have. Search the Scriptures. Let no moment be unimproved. Dig for the precious gems of truth as for hid treasures, and pray for wisdom that you may present the truth to others in a clear, connected manner.  {PH078 22.1}
[PH078 22.2]          Many who have been left to darkness and ruin, might have been helped, had their neighbors, common men and women, come to them with the love of Christ glowing in their hearts, and put forth personal efforts for them. Many are waiting to be addressed thus personally. Humble, earnest conversation with such persons, and prayer for them, heart being brought close to heart, would in most cases be wholly successful. ［REVIEW AND HERALD, MAY 22, 1888.］  {PH078 22.2}
[PH078 22.3]    Helpful Supervision by Men in Positions of Trust ［NOTE THAT IN THE PRECEDING ARTICLE, THE LAYMEN OF THE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH ARE URGED TO DO A LARGE AND IMPORTANT, THOUGH HUMBLE, WORK AS HOME MISSIONARIES. IN THE ARTICLE THAT FOLLOWS, WHICH APPEARED IN THE REVIEW ONE WEEK LATER, MEN IN POSITIONS OF TRUST ARE EXHORTED TO SUPERVISE THE VARIOUS ACTIVITIES OF LAYMEN, SO THAT ALL WORK UNDERTAKEN MAY BE DONE IN SUCH A WAY AS TO BRING HONOR AND BLESSING TO THE CAUSE OF GOD IN THE EARTH.］            The message of God for this time must go to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people. The Bible                                                                              23  is to be opened to the understanding of men, women, and children in every part of the world; but there is so great an indifference to the teaching of the holy word of God, that those who accept the responsibility of enlightening others, must themselves be enlightened, so that they may be able to present the truth with clearness, and in such a manner that it will be recommended to the best judgment of honest minds.  {PH078 22.3}
[PH078 23.1]         There are many workers in the cause who are not properly equipped for this great work, and when they are given some measure of success, they are in danger of becoming elated and self-sufficient. They work in their own strength, and do not discern their danger, and therefore do not avoid the perils that are in their pathway. Erroneous ideas will be brought into the work, and presented as a part of the truth to the people, but everything that God has not connected with the truth will only serve to weaken the message and lessen the force of its claims. . . .  {PH078 23.1}
[PH078 23.2]          The work of Christ was to free the truth from the rubbish of error and superstition, that men might behold the true character of God, and serve Him in spirit and in truth. Those who proclaim the truth for today have a similar work to do. The truth must be lifted from the obscurity of men's traditions and errors, that the world may behold the marvelous light of the gospel of the Son of God. There are those who turn away from this great and all-important work, to follow their own way. They have                                                                              24  independent ideas and will not receive counsel. They choose to follow their own course. . . . Instead of leading the people to the firm platform of truth, they lead them to place their feet on the sandy foundations of error. They induce men to wear a yoke that is not the yoke of the meek and lowly Jesus.  {PH078 23.2}
[PH078 24.1]         We cannot exercise too great care in sending laborers into the cause of God. If one is left to engage in the work without thorough discipline, he is left to shape his own course. He is left with insufficient experience, with too limited knowledge of the truth, and the old errors which have not been thoroughly uprooted, will bear a part in his teaching and influence. His trumpet will not give a certain sound. The doctrine of truth will be mingled with error. . . .  {PH078 24.1}
[PH078 24.2]          Those who would labor in word and doctrine, should be firmly established in the truth before they are authorized to go out into the field to teach others. The truth, pure and unadulterated, must be presented to the people. . . .  {PH078 24.2}
[PH078 24.3]          God has a special work for the men of experience to do. They are to guard the cause of God. ［NOTICE HOW FULLY THE GENERAL INTERESTS OF THE CAUSE ARE SAFEGUARDED IN THE PARAGRAPHS THAT FOLLOW. NOTICE, ALSO, THAT UPON THE MEN IN RESPONSIBILITY IS PLACED THE BURDEN OF LEADERSHIP AND HELPFUL GUIDANCE.］ They are to see that the work of God is not committed to men who feel it their privilege to move out on their own independent judgment, to preach whatever they please, and to be responsible to no one for their instructions or work. Let this spirit of self-sufficiency once rule in our midst, and there will be no harmony of action, no unity of spirit, no safety                                                                              25  for the work, and no healthful growth in the cause. There will be false teachers, evil workers, who will, by insinuating error, draw away souls from the truth. Christ prayed that His followers might be one as He and the Father were one. Those who desire to see this prayer answered, should seek to discourage the slightest tendency to division, and try to keep the spirit of unity and love among brethren.  {PH078 24.3}
[PH078 25.1]         God calls for laborers; but He wants those who are willing to submit their wills to His, and who will teach the truth as it is in Jesus. One worker who has been trained and educated for the work, who is controlled by the Spirit of Christ, will accomplish far more than ten laborers who go out deficient in knowledge, and weak in the faith. One who works in harmony with the counsel of God, and in unity with the brethren, will be more efficient to do good than ten will be who do not realize the necessity of depending upon God, and of acting in harmony with the general plan of the work...  {PH078 25.1}
[PH078 25.2]          Let those who contemplate giving themselves to the work, place themselves in connection with those who have had a good experience in the ways of God, and a knowledge of His cause. Let all seek a clear understanding of the Scriptures of truth. See to it that the living Saviour is your Saviour, and that you are following in His footsteps. Cultivate piety and humility of mind. Combat intellectual laziness and spiritual lethargy. Be ready for every work that you can do for the Master. Instead of catching up every new and fanciful interpretation of the Bible, cling to the message. Let not every influence affect you; but seek to develop a character that is                                                                              26  consistent, meek, teachable, and yet firm and cheerful; and with all this, be sober and watch unto prayer. Walk in a perfect way. Let the high, sacred truth you profess be constantly elevating your character, ennobling and refining you, and fitting you for the heavenly courts. The learners in Christ's school must show that they are not unappreciative scholars. Let the sanctifying grace of God strengthen, soften, and subdue your entire nature. You must yourself be what you wish others to be. Christ prayed concerning His disciples, "I sanctify Myself, that they also might be sanctified." Bring into your life the piety, the Christian courtesy, the respect for one another that you wish to see reflected in those who embrace the truth through your instrumentality." ［REVIEW AND HERALD, MAY 29, 1888.］  {PH078 25.2}
[PH078 26.1]    The Value of Wise Planning on the Part of Church Elders and Leaders          Greater and wiser efforts must be put forth to help the churches in our land. The elders and those who have leading places in the church should give more thought to their plans for conducting the work. They should arrange matters so that every member of the church shall have a part to act, that none may lead an aimless life, but that all may accomplish what they can according to their several ability. . . .  {PH078 26.1}
[PH078 26.2]         It is very essential that such an education should be given to the members of the church that they will become unselfish, devoted, efficient workers for God; and it is only through such a course that the church can be prevented from becoming fruitless and dead. . . .                                                                              27   {PH078 26.2}
[PH078 27.1]          Let every member of the church become an active worker,--a living stone, emitting light in God's temple. Those who bear responsibilities in the church should devise ways in which an opportunity will be given to every member of the church to act some part in the work. This has not been done in the past, and there are but few who realize how much has been lost on this account. Plans have not been formed whereby the talent of all could be employed in the service of the cause. The enemy is not slow in employing those who are idlers in the church, and he uses the unappreciated talent of the members of the church for his own work.  {PH078 27.1}
[PH078 27.2]          A greater work than has ever been done must be done for the young. They must be won with sympathy and love; all barriers must be broken down between them and those who would help them. The most good is not accomplished by long speeches and many words of exhortation or reproof. The greatest tact must be manifested, for human minds must be dealt with carefully, and the Lord will work with those who are fully consecrated to His service. Jesus is drawing the youth, and we must all work with Him, putting no forbidding aspects upon our holy religion. We must partake of the divine nature ourselves, and then present Christ to others as the friend of sinners in such a way as to attract souls to leave the ranks of the evil one, and no longer work as agents to destroy souls.  {PH078 27.2}
[PH078 27.3]          We must seek to press the youth, with all their fresh vigor and ability, into the ranks of Christ, enlisting them as valiant soldiers in the great fight for truth. We have sadly neglected our duty toward                                                                              28  the young, for we have not gathered them in, and induced them to put out their talents to the exchangers. A different mould should be placed upon the work. There should be less sermonizing and more personal labor. Fresh manna must be gathered from the word of God, and every man must have his portion in due season. A great work can be done by dropping a word privately to your young friends, and to those you meet in your daily walks. ［REVIEW AND HERALD, SEPT. 2, 1890.］  {PH078 27.3}
[PH078 28.1]                       "Go Work Today"          Christ is saying to . . . idlers in the market-place, "Go work today in My vineyard." Angels who minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation, are saying to every true saint, There is work for you to do. "Go, stand and speak . . . to the people all the words of this life." If those addressed would obey this injunction, the Lord would prepare the way before them, putting them in possession of means whereby they could go. If they did no more they could diffuse the knowledge which they already have, and present Jesus as the only Mediator. . . .  {PH078 28.1}
[PH078 28.2]         The tidings of every successful effort on their part to dispel the darkness, and to diffuse the light and the knowledge of God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent, is borne upward. The act is presented before all the heavenly intelligences, and thrills through all the principalities and powers, enlisting the sympathy of all heavenly beings. ［UNPUBLISHED MS., 1891.］                                                                              29   {PH078 28.2}
[PH078 29.1]                 Self-Supporting Laymen in                       Foreign Fields            There is a great work yet to be accomplished in all the fields from which we have heard reports. All through these countries there is precious talent that God will use; and we must be wide awake to secure it. . . .  {PH078 29.1}
[PH078 29.2]          The work of the minister is not simply to preach, but it is to visit families at their homes, to pray with them, and open to them the Scriptures. He who conducts the work outside the pulpit in a proper manner will accomplish tenfold more than he who confines his labor to the desk. When Christ was teaching on earth, He watched the countenances of His hearers, and the kindling eye, the animated expression, told Him in a moment when one assented to the truth. Even so should the teachers of the people now study the countenances of their hearers. . . .  {PH078 29.2}
[PH078 29.3]          It is not always pleasant for our brethren to live where the people need help most; but their labors would often be productive of far more good if they would do so. They ought to come close to the people, sit with them at their tables, and lodge in their, humble homes. The laborers may have to take their families to places not at all desirable; but they should                                                                              30  remember that Jesus did not remain in the most desirable places. He came down to earth that He might help those who needed help. ［"HISTORICAL SKETCHES OF S.D.A. FOREIGN MISSIONS," PP. 147, 148.］  {PH078 29.3}
[PH078 30.1]         There is a mighty power in the truth. It is God's plan that all who embrace it shall become missionaries. Not only men, but women and even children can engage in this work. None are excused. All have an influence, and that influence should be wholly for the Master. Jesus has bought the race with His blood. We are His; and we have no right to say, "I will not do this or that; " but we should inquire, "Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?" and do it with a cheerful, willing heart. . . .  {PH078 30.1}
[PH078 30.2]          O that every one . . . would kindle his taper from the divine altar! If Christ has given you light, let it shine to others. "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." Will you not begin from this time to work upon the Bible plan, and live to do your neighbor good, to be a blessing to those around you? . . .  {PH078 30.2}
[PH078 30.3]          If we walk in the light, our wisdom will increase day by day. We should know more of the truth tomorrow than we know today. We cannot afford to be dwarfs in Bible knowledge, or in the religious life; but we should grow up unto the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus. Heaven is full of light and strength, and we can draw from it if we will. God is waiting to pour His blessing upon us as                                                                              31  soon as we draw nigh to Him and by living faith grasp His promises. ［"HISTORICAL SKETCHES OF S. D. A. FOREIGN MISSIONS," PP. 151, 152.］  {PH078 30.3}
[PH078 31.1]         I am deeply exercised in regard to our present position, realizing how far down we are in prophetic history, so near the close of time, and so much work undone that must be accomplished to prepare a people to stand in the great day of the Lord. The end of all things is at hand. Our time to work is short, and there is a world to be warned. There is need of more thorough missionary work. The calls are urgent for more laborers, but where are the light-bearers to the world? God has sent the truth to our doors, but are we doing all in our power to send it to the dark corners of the earth?  {PH078 31.1}
[PH078 31.2]          As we look over the vast field here in Europe, we can truly say, "The harvest is great, but the laborers are few." . . .  {PH078 31.2}
[PH078 31.3]          Among our people in America, . . . there is a great lack of the missionary spirit among those who can labor in the German, the French, and other languages. How can you who have received the truth, feel so little burden for those of your own tongue in other countries? Is your interest selfishly shut up to your own family or to your own church? God pity your narrowness! You should have that undying zeal, that far-reaching love, that encircles the world. There are hundreds of millions of men, women, and children who have never heard the truth, and                                                                              32  multitudes are constantly going down to the grave without any sense of their accountability to God. How can you who repeat the Lord's prayer, "Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth as it is in heaven," sit at ease in your homes without helping to carry the torch of truth to others? How can you lift up your hands before God and ask His blessing upon yourselves and your families, when you are doing so little to help others? . . .  {PH078 31.3}
[PH078 32.1]          Our ideas are altogether too narrow. God calls for continual advancement in the work of diffusing light. We must study improved ways and means of reaching the people. We need to hear with ears of faith the mighty Captain of the Lord's host saying, "Go forward." We must act, and God will not fail us. He will do His part, when we in faith do ours. Brethren and sisters who have been long in the truth, you have not done the work God calls upon you to do. Where is your love for souls? . . .  {PH078 32.1}
[PH078 32.2]          Seventh-day Adventists are making progress, doubling their numbers, establishing missions, and unfurling the banner of truth in the dark places of the earth; and yet the work moves far more slowly than God would have it. The members of the church are not individually aroused to put forth the earnest effort they are capable of making, and every branch of the work is crippled by the lack of fervent piety, and devoted, humble, God-fearing laborers. Where are the soldiers of the cross of Christ? Let the God-fearing, the honest, the single-hearted, who look steadfastly to the glory of God, prepare themselves for the battle against error. . . .  {PH078 32.2}
[PH078 32.3]          The interest and labors of the church must be                                                                              33  extended more earnestly and decidedly to both home and foreign missions. Those who have been successful in using their talents to secure earthly treasures should now employ these capabilities to advance God's cause and build up His kingdom. Their tact and ability sanctified to God, will be accepted, and He will make it effective in the grand work of turning men from error to truth. There should be deep heart-searching with our young men and women to see if they have not a work to do for the Master. There is a work to be accomplished which money cannot do. Destitute fields must be supplied with earnest laborers, with those whose hearts are warm with the love of Christ and with love for souls.  {PH078 32.3}
[PH078 33.1]          All who enter the missionary field will have hardships and trials to endure; they will find hard work, and plenty of it; but those of the right stamp of character will persevere under difficulties, discouragements, and privations, holding firmly to the arm of the Lord. They will show a zeal that will not flag, a faith that will not yield, a resolution that will not weaken. They are doing no more than God requires, when they dedicate themselves, soul, body, and spirit, to His service, becoming partakers with Christ in His sufferings. If they share His self-denial and cross-bearing, they will be partakers also in His joy,--the joy of seeing souls saved through their instrumentality in the kingdom of glory. ［"HISTORICAL SKETCHES OF S. D. A. FOREIGN MISSIONS," PP. 287-290.］  {PH078 33.1}
[PH078 33.2]         Within six months of the time when Sister White reached Australia, she penned the following lines in her diary:                                                                              34   {PH078 33.2}
[PH078 34.1]          During the day I wrote something in regard to missionary work. I felt deeply as I wrote, and my heart went up in prayer to God to set things in order in this country, and to raise up men who have wisdom to recognize the talent that God has given to many who have accepted the truth. These can be fitted for a place in the work, but they need to be educated and disciplined, that they may know how to use their talents for the spread of the truth and the upbuilding of God's kingdom in the earth. ［MS., JUNE 18, 1892.］  {PH078 34.1}
[PH078 34.2]         I feel deeply over the little burden many carry for the missionary work in the foreign fields and in the home missions. There are thousands of places to be entered where the standard of truth has never been raised, where the proclamation of the truth has never been heard in America. And there are thousands who might enter the harvest-field who are now                                                                              35  religiously idle, and as a result, go crippling their way to heaven, expressing their doubt whether they are Christians. Their need is a vital union with Jesus Christ. Then it can be said of them, "Ye are laborers together with God." I want to say to many, You are waiting for some one to carry you to the vineyard and set you to work or to bring the vineyard to you, that you will experience no inconvenience in labor. You will wait in vain. If you will lift up your eyes you will see the harvest ripe, ready for the sickle, whichever way you may look; you will find work close by and far off. . . .  {PH078 34.2}
[PH078 35.1]          "Ye have not," said Christ, "chosen Me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in My name, He may give it you." . . .  {PH078 35.1}
[PH078 35.2]          What, then, is the duty of every enlightened soul? . . .  {PH078 35.2}
[PH078 35.3]          Let those who truly love God step out from where there are large churches of Sabbath-keepers, and the cause they knew not be searched out. There is work to be done by every branch that has a vital union with the living Vine. "Herein is My Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit." . . .  {PH078 35.3}
[PH078 35.4]          O that those whom the Lord has blessed with the treasures of truth would awake and say from the heart, "Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?" Light is increasing to enlighten every soul who will diffuse the light to others. God will have His witnesses. We want men and women to settle in Australia who have a solid, Christlike influence. The burden of this work should not rest upon the conference wholly. Many                                                                              36  can come to this missionary field and improve in health, . . . and at the same time they can be educating others, and can have a moulding influence. O that many may be uprooted from where they are, to become workers with Jesus Christ.  {PH078 35.4}
[PH078 36.1]          What can be done to make every believer feel that the heavenly intelligences are working for the consecration of the human living agents to carry the truth of God where it is not known?  {PH078 36.1}
[PH078 36.2]          Unbelief, like the pall of death, is surrounding our churches, because they do not exercise the talents God has given them, by imparting the light to those who know not the precious truth. The Lord calls for the pardoned soul, those who rejoice in the light, to make known the truth to others. The living agents are needed to communicate the light of truth, and the result will be, those who are now ignorant of the truth will, through the grace of Christ, become precious in the sight of the Lord, and will exert an influence to the glory of God. ［GENERAL CONFERENCE DAILY BULLETIN, VOL. V, NO. 4, PP. 131-133 (PUBLISHED IN FEBRUARY, 1893).］  {PH078 36.2}
[PH078 36.3]         Where are the missionaries? Has not the truth for this time power to stir the souls of those who claim to believe it? When there is a call to labor, why should there be so many voices to say, "I pray thee have me excused"? In Australia the standard of truth is to be established and exalted. There is great need of workers, and there are many ways in which they can labor. There is work for those in the higher as well as in the more humble positions. But we want none to come out to this field who have not a high sense of what it means to be a missionary. ［MSS., 1892 AND 1893.］                                                                              37   {PH078 36.3}
[PH078 37.1]                     Missionary Families          There are many families who could be a great blessing if they would take their belongings and settle in some town or country location where the standard of present truth has never been raised. Many should move into regions beyond and become just what Christ has said that those who believe in Him should be. . . .  {PH078 37.1}
[PH078 37.2]          The world needs the influence of every believer, as salt which has not lost its savor. . . .  {PH078 37.2}
[PH078 37.3]          When the church understands its position in the world, the missionary power of Christianity will be multiplied according to her light and knowledge. . . . A working church will be a living church. . . . While many are listeners, there are others who may go forth from our churches, not in their own strength, but in the strength of the Lord of Israel. Those who will not disseminate the light that God gives them, will not have increased light. God will not give idlers His rich grace to feed upon. He that will not work, neither shall he eat. . . .  {PH078 37.3}
[PH078 37.4]          I entreat our ministering brethren to "preach the word" in short discourses that can be easily understood. Carry your message with you in house-to-house labor, and roll upon men and women the responsibility, not only of hearing the word, but of practising it, and of communicating it to others. In harmony with Jesus' instruction, the early disciples went everywhere telling of Christ and His resurrection from the dead. . . .  {PH078 37.4}
[PH078 37.5]          There is not only danger that those in positions of trust will fail to encourage individuals in trading                                                                              38  upon their talents, but there is also danger that those who do little or nothing themselves for Christ, will also seek to discourage some on who is trying to work in the Lord's vineyard. Keep your hands off. Educate every one who is drawing from Christ the streams of salvation. It is not necessary that the word of God should be disseminated only by a few ordained ministers. The truth must be sown beside all waters. . . . O if the people of God would but realize how great is their accountability, they would deny self, they would lift the cross, they would go everywhere seeking to save souls that are perishing. God has given this promise for our encouragement: "He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him." ［MS., 1894.］  {PH078 37.5}
[PH078 38.1]         Whole families might be missionaries, engaging in personal labor, toiling for the Master with busy hands and active brains, devising methods for the success of His work. ［MS., 1896.］  {PH078 38.1}
[PH078 38.2]         When the hearts of the believers are warm with love for God, they will do a continual work for Jesus. They will manifest the meekness of Christ, and display a steadfast purpose that will not fail nor be discouraged. . . .  {PH078 38.2}
[PH078 38.3]          Those who will work out their own salvation with fear and trembling, will realize that it is God that worketh in them, to will and to do of his own pleasure. There should be thousands fully awake and in earnest in the work of God, who should be bright and shining lights. There should be thousands who                                                                              39  know the time in which we are living, and who wait not to be urged, but who are constrained by the power of God to diffuse light, to open to others the truth that is so distinctly revealed in the word of God. There is no time to lose. Men and women should be ministering in unenlightened communities in regions beyond. After they have awakened an interest, they should find the living preacher who is skilful in the presentation of the truth, and qualified to instruct families in the word of God.  {PH078 38.3}
[PH078 39.1]          Women who have the cause of God at heart can do a good work in the districts in which they reside. Christ speaks of women who helped Him in presenting the truth before others, and Paul also speaks of women who labored with him in the gospel. But how very limited is the work done by those who could do a large work if they would!  {PH078 39.1}
[PH078 39.2]          There are families that have means which they could use for God's glory in going to distant lands to let their light shine forth in good works to those who need help. Why do not men and women engage in the missionary work, following the example of Christ?  {PH078 39.2}
[PH078 39.3]          But we can say nothing more than to repeat what has been said. Instruction has been given, but how few have acted upon it ! How few have been sufficiently interested to go without the camp bearing the reproach of Christ! God calls for personal effort from those that know the truth. He calls for Christian families to go into communities that are in darkness and error, to go into foreign fields, to become acquainted with a new class of society, and to work wisely and perseveringly for the cause of the Master. To answer this call, self-sacrifice must be experienced,                                                                              40  While many are waiting to have every obstacle removed, souls are dying without hope and without God in the world. Many, very many, for the sake of worldly advantage, for the sake of acquiring knowledge of the sciences, will venture into pestilential regions, and will go into countries where they think they can obtain commercial advantage; but where are the men and women who will change their location, and move their families into regions that are in need of the light of the truth, in order that their example may tell upon those who shall see in them the representatives of Christ?  {PH078 39.3}
[PH078 40.1]          The Macedonian cry is coming from every quarter of the world, and men are saying, "Come over, . . . and help us," and why is there not a decided response? Thousands ought to be constrained by the Spirit of Christ to follow the example of Him who has given His life for the life of the world. Why decline to make decided, self-denying efforts, in order to instruct those who know not the truth for this time? The chief Missionary came to our world, and He has gone before us to show us the way in which we should work. No one can mark out a precise line for those who would be witnesses for Christ. Those who have means are doubly responsible; for this means has been entrusted to them of God, and they are to feel their accountability to forward the work of God in its various branches. The fact that the truth binds souls by its golden links to the throne of God, should inspire men to work all their God-given energy, to trade upon their Lord's goods in regions beyond, disseminating the knowledge of Christ far hence among the Gentiles. ［REVIEW AND HERALD, JULY 21, 1896.］                                                                              41   {PH078 40.1}
[PH078 41.1]         If families would locate in the dark places of the earth, places where the people are enshrouded in spiritual gloom, and let the light of Christ's life shine out through them, a great work might be accomplished. Let them begin their work in a quiet, unobtrusive way, not drawing on the funds of the conference until the interest becomes so extensive that they cannot manage it without ministerial help. ［"TESTIMONIES FOR THE CHURCH," VOL. VI. P. 442.］  {PH078 41.1}
[PH078 41.2]         In humble dependence upon God, families are to settle in the waste places of His vineyard. Consecrated men and women are needed to stand as fruit-bearing trees of righteousness in the desert places of the earth. As the reward of their self-sacrificing efforts to sow the seeds of truth they will reap a rich harvest. As they visit family after family, opening the Scriptures to those in spiritual darkness, many hearts will be touched.  {PH078 41.2}
[PH078 41.3]          In fields where the conditions are so objectionable and disheartening that many workers refuse to go to them, most remarkable changes for the better may be brought about by the efforts of self-sacrificing lay-members. These humble workers will accomplish much, because they put forth patient, persevering effort, not relying upon human power, but upon God, who gives them His favor. The amount of good that these workers accomplish will never be known in this world.  {PH078 41.3}
[PH078 41.4]          Self-supporting missionaries are often very successful. Beginning in a small, humble way, their work enlarges as they move forward under the guidance of the Spirit of God. Let two or more start out together in evangelistic work. They may not receive                                                                              42  any particular encouragement from those at the head of the work that they will be given financial support; nevertheless, let them go forward, praying, singing, teaching, living the truth. They may take up the work of canvassing, and in this way introduce the truth into many families. As they move forward in their work, they gain a blessed experience. They are humbled by a sense of their helplessness, but the Lord goes before them, and among the wealthy and the poor they find favor and help. Even the poverty of these devoted missionaries is a means of finding access to the people. As they pass on their way, they are helped in many ways by those to whom they bring spiritual food. They bear the message God gives them, and their efforts are crowned with success. Many will be brought to a knowledge of the truth who, but for these humble teachers, would never have been won to Christ.  {PH078 41.4}
[PH078 42.1]          God calls for workers to enter the whitening harvest-field. Shall we wait because the treasury is exhausted, because there is scarcely sufficient to sustain the workers now in the field? Go forth in faith, and God will be with you. . . .  {PH078 42.1}
[PH078 42.2]          Nothing is so successful as success. Let this be secured by persevering effort, and the work will move forward. New field will be opened. Many souls will be brought to a knowledge of the truth. What is needed is increased faith in God. ［"TESTIMONIES FOR THE CHURCH," VOL. VII, PP. 22-24.］                                                                              43   {PH078 42.2}
[PH078 43.1]               Calls for Labor Among the Negro                     Race in the South                 Our Duty to the Colored People            Those who have a religious experience that opens their hearts to Jesus, will not cherish pride, but will feel that they are under obligation to God to be missionaries as was Jesus. They will seek to save that which is lost. They will not, in Pharisaical pride and haughtiness, withdraw themselves from any class of humanity, but will feel with the apostle Paul, "I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise." . . .  {PH078 43.1}
[PH078 43.2]          God cares no less for the souls of the African race that may be won to serve Him than He cared for Israel. He requires far more of His people than they have given Him in missionary work among the people of the South of all classes, and especially the colored race. Are we not under even greater obligation to labor for the colored people than for those who have been more highly favored? . . . The truth must be carried to them. They have souls to save as well as we. . . .  {PH078 43.2}
[PH078 43.3]          Sin rests upon us as a church because we have not                                                                              44  made greater effort for the salvation of souls among the colored people. . . .  {PH078 43.3}
[PH078 44.1]          Let us do what we can to send to this class laborers who will work in Christ's name, who will not fail nor be discouraged. We should educate colored men to be missionaries among their own people. We should recognize talent where it exists among that people, and those who have ability should be placed where they may receive an education. . . .  {PH078 44.1}
[PH078 44.2]          There is a large work to be done in educating this ignorant and downtrodden class. We must do more unselfish missionary work than we have done in the Southern States, not picking out merely the most favorable fields. God has children among the colored people all over the land. They need to be enlightened. There are unpromising ones, it is true, and you will find similar degradation among the white people; but even among the lower classes there are souls who will embrace the truth. Some will not be steadfast. Feelings and habits that have been confirmed by lifelong practice will be hard to correct; it will not be easy to implant ideas of purity and holiness, refinement and elevation. But God regards the capacity of every man; He marks the surroundings, and sees how these have formed the character, and He pities these souls.  {PH078 44.2}
[PH078 44.3]          God will accept many more workers from the humble walks of life if they will fully consecrate themselves to His service. Men and women should be coming up to carry the truth into all the highways and byways of life. Not all can go through a long course of education, but if they are consecrated to God, and learn of Him, many can without this do much to bless others. Thousands would be accepted                                                                              45  if they would give themselves to God. Not all who labor in this line should depend upon the conferences for support. Let those who can do so, give their time, and what ability they have; let them be messengers of God's grace, their hearts throbbing in unison with Christ's great heart of love, their ears open to hear the Macedonian cry.  {PH078 44.3}
[PH078 45.1]          The whole church needs to be imbued with the missionary spirit; then there will be many to work unselfishly in various ways as they can, without being salaried. There is altogether too much dependence on machinery, on mechanical working. Machinery is good in its place, but do not allow it to become too complicated. I tell you that in many cases it has retarded the work, and kept out laborers who in their line could have accomplished far more than has been done by the minister who depends on sermonizing more than on ministry. Young men need to catch the missionary spirit, to be thoroughly imbued with the spirit of the message. "Put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfill the lusts thereof." Work in any capacity, work where God leads you, in the line best suited to your talents, and best adapted to reach classes that have hitherto been sadly neglected. This kind of labor will develop intellectual and moral power, and adaptability to the work. ［MS., MARCH 20, 1891. PUBLISHED IN BOOKLET, "THE SOUTHERN WORK," PP. 1-18.］                                                                              54   {PH078 45.1}
[PH078 54.1]         An Appeal for the Southern Field     Dear Brethren and Sisters in America:        I would appeal to you in behalf of the Southern field. If we consulted our own ease and pleasure, we would not desire to enter this field; but we are not to consult our own ease. . . .  {PH078 54.1}
[PH078 54.2]          The Southern field is beset with difficulties, and should I present the field to you as it has been presented to me, many of you would draw back, and say, "No, I cannot enter such a field." But the condition of the colored race is no more disheartening than was the condition of the world when Christ left Heaven to work for fallen man. . . .  {PH078 54.2}
[PH078 54.3]          Since the slaves gained their freedom at terrible loss of life both to the North and to the South, they have been greatly neglected by those who professed to know God, and as a result thousands of them have failed to gain spiritual freedom. But shall this indifference continue? Shall not decided efforts be made to save them? Sin has degraded and corrupted the human family, but Christ did not leave men to perish in their degradation. . . .  {PH078 54.3}
[PH078 54.4]          Why should not Seventh-day Adventists become true laborers together with God in seeking to save the souls of the colored race? Instead of a few, why should not many go forth to labor in this long-neglected field? Where are the families who will become missionaries, and who will engage in labor in this field? Where are the men who have means and experience so that they can go forth to these people, and work for them just where they are? There are                                                                              55  men who can educate them in agricultural lines, who can teach the colored people to sow seed and plant orchards. There are others who can teach them to read, and can give them an object-lesson from their own life and example. Show them what you yourself can do to gain a livelihood, and it will be an education to them. Are we not called upon to do this very work? Are there not many who need to learn to love God supremely and their fellow-men as themselves? In the Southern field are many thousands of people who have souls to save or to lose. Are there not many among those who claim to believe the truth who will go forth into this field to do the work for which Christ gave up His ease, His riches, and His life?  {PH078 54.4}
[PH078 55.1]          Christ gave up all in order that He might bring salvation to every people, nation, and tongue. He bridged the gulf that sin had made, in order that through His merits man might be reconciled to God. Why is there not an army of workers enlisted under the blood-stained banner of Prince Immanuel, ready to go forth to enlighten those who are ignorant and depraved? Why do we not go forth to bring souls out of darkness into light? Why do we not teach the perishing to believe in Christ as their personal Saviour, and aid them to see Christ by faith, and wash in the fountain that has been opened to cleanse away the sins of the world? ［REVIEW AND HERALD, NOV. 26, 1895.］ . . .  {PH078 55.1}
[PH078 55.2]         Are there not men, women, and youth who will go forth to establish schools, and thus become teachers to instruct the colored people so that they may be enabled to read the word of God? We must teach                                                                              56  them to read God's word, or they will become the ready dupes of false shepherds that misinterpret the Scriptures, and that manufacture doctrines and teach traditions which will lead them into the paths of perdition. There are preachers and teachers among the colored people who are addicted to licentious habits; and how can they understand the binding claims of the law of God, when the standard of righteousness is not revealed and exalted before their eyes by the precept and example of their teachers? We must go among them, and show them how to honor and obey God's law, in order that they may be prepared to have a part in the new earth. . . .  {PH078 55.2}
[PH078 56.1]          Many of the colored people are among the lowly who will receive the word of God; and shall not this long-neglected work of enlightening the colored people be entered into perseveringly, and be carried forward all the more diligently because it has been so long neglected? We must do a work for the colored race that has not yet been done. "God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." . . .  {PH078 56.1}
[PH078 56.2]          God cares for the colored people, and if we would co-operate with Him for the salvation of their souls, we must care for them, too, and become laborers together with Him. We need to repent before God, because we have neglected missionary work in the most abandoned part of God's moral vineyard. . . . We should rouse up to the interest that true Christians ought to feel for those who are depressed and morally degraded. . . .  {PH078 56.2}
[PH078 56.3]          Christ said, "They that be whole need not a                                                                              57  physician, but they that are sick." We cannot leave souls for whom Christ died, to be the prey of Satan's temptations. We cannot abandon this great flock to their ignorance, want, suffering, and corruption. This would not be doing the will of God. We cannot heap advantages upon ourselves and upon those who are not in need, and pass by those who are in utter want, and be approved of God. This neglect is charged against those who have had great light, who have had marvelous opportunities, and who yet leave so large a portion of God's moral vineyard unworked. For years Satan has been sowing his tares among the colored people, and the field cannot be worked as easily now as it could have been worked years ago. But there should be no delay now. Reproach is brought upon Jesus Christ when those who profess to be carrying the last message of mercy to the world pass this field by. Christ did not pass by the needy and suffering. He united works of mercy with the message of salvation He came to bear  to men. He engaged in a constant, untiring ministry, and worked for the perishing and sorrowful. He prefaced His message of love by deeds of ministry and beneficence, leaving us an example that we should follow in His steps. ［REVIEW AND HERALD, DEC. 3, 1895.］  {PH078 56.3}
[PH078 57.1]         We need men who will become leaders in home and foreign missionary enterprises. We need men whose sympathies are not congealed, but whose hearts go out to the perishing that are nigh and afar off. The ice that binds about souls that are frozen up with selfishness, needs to be melted away, so that every brother shall realize that he is his brother's keeper.                                                                              58  Then every one will go forth to help his neighbor to see the truth, and to serve God in an acceptable service. Then those who profess the name of Christ will aid others in the formation of a Christlike character. If every one would work in Christ's lines, much would be done to change the condition that now exists among the poor and distressed. Pure religion and undefiled would gleam forth as a bright and shining light. . . .  {PH078 57.1}
[PH078 58.1]          True religion will induce its advocates to go forth into the highways and byways of life. It will lead them to help the suffering, and enable them to be faithful shepherds, going forth into the wilderness to seek and to save the lost, to lead back the perishing sheep and lambs. ［REVIEW AND HERALD, DEC. 10, 1895.］  {PH078 58.1}
[PH078 58.2]         The neglect of the colored race by the American nation is charged against them. Those who claim to be Christians have a work to do in teaching them to read, and to follow various trades and engage in different business enterprises. Many among this race have noble traits of character and keen perception of mind. . . .  {PH078 58.2}
[PH078 58.3]          After their deliverance from captivity, . . . we should have sent missionaries into this field to teach the ignorant. We should have issued books in so simple a style that a child might have understood them, for many of them are only children in understanding. Pictures and object-lessons should have been used to present to the mind valuable ideas. Children and youth should have been educated in such a way that they could have been instructors and missionaries to their parents. ［REVIEW AND HERALD, DEC. 17, 1895.］                                                                              59   {PH078 58.3}
[PH078 59.1]         Let missionaries who are truly converted and who feel the burden of the work, seek wisdom from God, and with all the tact they can command, let them go into this field. Medical missionaries can find a field in which to relieve the distress of those who are failing under bodily ailments. They should have means so that they may clothe the naked and feed the hungry. Christian help work will do more than the preaching of sermons. There is a great need that a class of workers should go to this field who will do this kind of work. Let them meet together and relate their experiences, pray together, and hold their services, . . . in quietness, in meekness, and lowliness. . . . Let the workers be Christlike, that they may by precept and example exert an elevating influence. Let them furnish themselves with the most appropriate, simple lessons from the life of Christ to present to the people. . . . Let them present the sufferings and the sacrifice of Christ, let them hold up His righteousness and reveal His grace; let them manifest His purity and holiness of character. Workers in the Southern field will need to teach the people line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little. . . .  {PH078 59.1}
[PH078 59.2]          Deeds of sympathy will be needed as well as words that will touch the heart, and leave an uneffaceable impression upon the mind. Small schools should be established in many localities, and teachers who are tender and sympathetic, who can, like the Master, be touched by suffering, should be engaged to educate old and young. Let the word of God be taught in the simplest manner. Let the pupils be led to study the lessons of Christ; for the study of the                                                                              60  Bible will do more to enlarge the mind and strengthen the intellect, than will any other study. Nothing will so awaken the dormant energies, and give vigor to the faculties, as coming in contact with the word of God.  {PH078 59.2}
[PH078 60.1]          There is much talent among the colored people. Their minds must be aroused, their intellects quickened into activity, that they may grasp the precious truths of the plan of salvation. ［REVIEW AND HERALD, DEC. 24, 1895.］  {PH078 60.1}
[PH078 60.2]         Those who love Christ will do the works of Christ. They will go forth to seek and to save that which was lost. They will not shun those who are despised, and turn aside from the colored race. They will teach them how to read and how to perform manual labor, educating them to till the soil and to follow trades of various kinds. They will put forth painstaking efforts to develop the capabilities of the people. ［REVIEW AND HERALD, JAN. 14, 1896.］  {PH078 60.2}
[PH078 60.3]         As a people claiming to be proclaiming the last message of mercy to the world, we cannot consistently neglect the Southern field, for it is a portion of God's moral vineyard. . . .  {PH078 60.3}
[PH078 60.4]          We are not to wait for great men to undertake the work. We are to encourage those who have a burden to go to this field. . . . Let those in responsible positions give their sympathy to such workers, and furnish them with facilities whereby they may do the work required. Let not men in our institutions feel that it is their prerogative to tie the hands of workers at every step. Let those who have a mind to work do with their might whatsoever their hands find to do. Let those who take no part in the trying                                                                              61  experience of teaching the colored people, unite their petitions with those of the workers, and plead that the Holy Spirit may move upon the hearts of the workers, and aid them in doing successful work for the Master. The Lord God of Sabbath will hear earnest prayer. He will lead those who feel their dependence upon Him, and will so guide the workers that many souls shall come to a knowledge of the truth. ［REVIEW AND HERALD, JAN. 21, 1896.］  {PH078 60.4}
[PH078 61.1]         Those who work in the Southern field will need to have a sanctified judgment, in order to discriminate in applying help where it will do the greatest amount of good. They should help those who will be a help to others, as well as those who may not be able to carry on very decided missionary operations. I know that it will be impossible for workers to remain in this field in a barehanded condition, and do the work that is required to be done in the Southern States. I will be necessary that a fund shall be created, so that the workers may have means with which to help those who are in poverty and distress; and this practical ministry will open their hearts to respond to the truth. . . .  {PH078 61.1}
[PH078 61.2]          We are to lift up our eyes, and look upon the fields that are white already for the harvest. For years we have passed by the Southern field, and have looked upon the colored race, feebly deploring their condition; but our eyes have been fastened upon more promising fields. But now God's people should lift up their eyes, and look upon this destitute field that has not been worked. The missionary spirit must                                                                              62  prevail, if we form characters after the pattern, Christ Jesus. . . .  {PH078 61.2}
[PH078 62.1]          Here is a field in America that is nigh at hand. One is to sow the seed, another to reap the harvest, another to bind it up. There is a variety of work, which must be done now while the angels continue to hold the four winds. Many who desire to do missionary work may labor in this field. There is no time to be lost. As men, women, and children among the colored people receive the truth, they should be instructed by those who are imbued with the Spirit of God, and educated and directed in such a way that they may help others.  {PH078 62.1}
[PH078 62.2]          The Southern field is right in the shadow of your own doors. It is as land that has had a touch of the plow here and there, and then has been left by the plowman, who has been attracted to some easier or more promising field; but these who work the Southern field must make up their minds to practise self-denial. Those who would aid in this work must also practise self-denial, in order that facilities may be provided whereby the field may be worked. God calls for missionaries, and asks us to take up our neglected duties. Let farmers, financiers, builders, and those who are skilled in various arts and crafts, go to this field to improve lands, and to build humble cottages for themselves and their neighbors. ［REVIEW AND HERALD, JAN. 28, 1896.］  {PH078 62.2}
[PH078 62.3]         It is essential . . . that families should settle in the South, and as missionary workers they can, by precept and example, be a living power. . . .  {PH078 62.3}
[PH078 62.4]          The most successful methods are to encourage                                                                              63  families who have a missionary spirit, to settle in the Southern States, and work with the people. ［MS., NOV. 20, 1895. PUBLISHED IN BOOKLET, "THE SOUTHERN WORK," PP. 100, 101, 103, 104, UNDER HEADING, "PROPER METHODS OF WORK IN THE SOUTHERN FIELD."］  {PH078 62.4}
[PH078 63.1]         The Southern field is a hard field, a very unsightly field, because it has been so long uncultivated. All who take hold of the work in the cause of God and suffering humanity will have to be one in their designs and plans. They will have plenty of trials and discouragements to meet, but they must not allow these to hinder of dishearten or handicap them in their work. In love for Christ, who died to save this poor, downtrodden people, in love for the souls of the perishing thousands, they are to labor for this worse than heathen country.  {PH078 63.1}
[PH078 63.2]          Brethren, you have a work to do which you have left undone. A long-neglected field stands out in plain view before God to shame the people who have light and advanced truth, but who have done so little to remove the stones and the rubbish that have been accumulating for so long a time. Those who have enjoyed every privilege and blessing have passed by on the other side. As a Christian people, God has called you to prepare the way of the Lord in this unpromising field. . . .  {PH078 63.2}
[PH078 63.3]          In His providence, God is saying, as He has been saying for years past: Here is a field for you to work. Those who are wise in agricultural lines, in tilling the soil, those who can construct simple, plain buildings, may help. They can do good work, and at the same time show in their characters the high morality which it is the privilege of this people to attain to. Teach                                                                              64  them the truth in simple object-lessons. Make everything upon which they lay their hands a lesson in character-building.  {PH078 63.3}
[PH078 64.1]          The South is calling to God for temporal and spiritual food, but it has been so long neglected that hearts have become hard as stone. God's people need now to arouse and redeem their sinful neglect and indifference of the past. These obligations now rest heavily upon the churches, and God will graciously pour out His Spirit upon those who will take up their God-given work. ［MS., MARCH 2, 1897. PUBLISHED IN BOOKLET, "THE SOUTHERN WORK," PP. 109, 110, 114, 115, UNDER HEADING, "THE SOUTHERN FIELD."］                                                                              65   {PH078 64.1}
[PH078 65.1]         Let the work in the Southern field go forward. Let no one say, Money is not needed in this field. . . . Let God's people begin at once to redeem their neglect. Let the gospel message ring through our churches, summoning them to universal action. . . . A good work has been done, and it has been done in the face of the most trying circumstances. The Lord calls upon us to come up to His help in this needy field. ［GENERAL CONFERENCE BULLETIN, VOL. V, PP. 204, 205.］                                                                              66   {PH078 65.1}
[PH078 66.1]         Toward the close of 1903, Sister White wrote:          Some may say that the work in the Southern States is already receiving from the General Conference more than its share of attention, more than its proportion of men and means. But if the South were not a neglected, needy field, if there were not a pressing necessity for more work to be done there in many different lines, why should the Lord keep the question constantly before His people as He has done for so many years? We must redeem the time. Without delay this long-neglected field must be worked. . . .  {PH078 66.1}
[PH078 66.2]          The Lord has been working with and for the tried laborers in the South. Many are preparing to put their shoulders to the wheel to help advance the work. The cloud of darkness and despondency is rolling back, and the sunshine of God's favor is shining upon the workers. The Lord is gracious. He will not leave our work in the South in its present condition. The ones living in this great field will yet have the privilege of hearing the last message of mercy, warning them to prepare for the great day of God, which is right upon us. Now, just now, is our time to proclaim the third angel's message to the millions living in the Southern States, who know not that the Saviour's coming is near at hand. ［THE SOUTHERN MISSIONARY, VOL. I, NO. 1 (JANUARY, 1904).］                                                                              68   {PH078 66.2}
[PH078 68.1]                 The Southern Highlanders          A work that God approves has been done in the South. God has wrought with the workers. But there is much more to be done. Every movement made in this field must be made intelligently. There are men who can do acceptable service in the South. But it is impossible for those who have not visited this field, who have not gained an experience in working for those in the South, to understand what this work demands. The work will not be done by those who wait for all difficulties to be removed. . . .  {PH078 68.1}
[PH078 68.2]          In the fear of the Lord, go to work for this neglected, unworked field. As you strive to do something, you will receive help from on high. You are not alone. Christ declares, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." ［MS., 1902.］  {PH078 68.2}
[PH078 68.3]         If there are any people in the world who cannot help themselves, it is the people of the South, a portion of the whites as well as the colored race. The necessity for work among the poor whites is just as great as the necessity for work among the colored people. ［FROM AN ADDRESS BEFORE THE GENERAL CONFERENCE OF 1901.］  {PH078 68.3}
[PH078 68.4]         The Value of a Layman's Work in a Needy                       Community            In speaking of talented men, we usually think of those who have remarkable gifts, which enable them                                                                              69  to do large things. Too often we think that only a favored few--men of superior genius and intellectual capabilities--can be called talented. But in Christ's parable of the talents are included all responsible human agents, from the humblest and poorest in this world's goods to those who are entrusted with talents of means and of intellect. . . .  {PH078 68.4}
[PH078 69.1]          The Lord give talents proportionate to the several capabilities of His children. To every man is given his work. Those who do their duty to the best of their ability, using their talents aright, in a much needed work, show what hundreds of others could do if they only would.  {PH078 69.1}
[PH078 69.2]          God has been pleased with the work that Brother ----- has done in arousing an interest in the community in which he settled after going South. ［REFERENCE IS HERE MADE TO THE EFFORTS OF ONE OF THE FIRST OF SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST LABORERS TO UNDERTAKE MISSION WORK AMONG THE "POOR WHITES" IN THE SOUTH.］ The Lord has accepted his efforts to trade upon his talents. As he has built his plain, unpretentious buildings, heavenly angels have been his helpers. It is this kind of work that makes a good impression on the minds of unbelievers. "Let your light so shine before men," the Saviour says, "that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."  {PH078 69.2}
[PH078 69.3]         The Lord has graciously fitted Brother ----- to do a certain work. Not all men can do the work that he by his Christian experience is able to do. He can do excellent work in opening new fields, beginning in a humble way, and meeting the people where they are, coarse and rough though some of them may be. Working with Christ, he can adapt himself to the                                                                              70  situation, winning the hearts of many. He is able to reach after souls and to draw them into the fold. In many places he can find opportunity to read and comment upon the Bible to children and to older people. He can labor for the conversion of souls. The Lord desires him to present the important points of truth to the people, in object-lessons, here a little and there a little. He is to remember that the Lord Jesus is the one who moves upon the heart. If he walks humbly with God, the Lord will continue to use him, giving him health and strength to do his appointed work.  {PH078 69.3}
[PH078 70.1]          Our brother is to prepare the way in new fields for others to work. He should be given every possible encouragement to go forward and in his humble way reveal his loyalty to principle and his integrity to God. Let the truth fall from his lips in simple prayers and talks. In his unpretentious way he can reach a class that ministers generally cannot touch.  {PH078 70.1}
[PH078 70.2]          Brother ----- is not to think that he has ability to do the most difficult work, the greatest service. Let him do a small work, and see it grow under his hand. In the past, the Lord has blessed him in doing his appointed work, and He will still bless him if he continues to work in the same line. Let him keep at the work by which, through faithfulness, he has attained success.  {PH078 70.2}
[PH078 70.3]          So long as Brother ----- puts his trust in God alone, he will be given victory after victory. Angels of God will go before him. Let him encourage others to unite with him in pioneer work, planning with them to open new fields successfully and to erect humble church and school buildings. In teaching                                                                              71  others to do what he has done, he will be engaged in an educational work of the highest value.  {PH078 70.3}
[PH078 71.1]          No line of work will be of more telling advantage to the Southern field than will be the establishment of small schools. Let our people in the South wake up to the importance of this matter. True, it is not an easy work. But we should not neglect to take up this work because it is fraught with perplexity.  {PH078 71.1}
[PH078 71.2]          Through faithful performance of duty, trading on the farthings entrusted to him, every worker may secure the recognition of heaven. He who diligently uses his talent aright in doing the work that needs to be done, need never feel that in order to be appreciated, he must do a higher work, for which he is not so well fitted. . . .  {PH078 71.2}
[PH078 71.3]          Steady progress in a good work, the frequent repetition of one kind of faithful service, is of more value in God's sight than the doing of one great work, and wins for His children a good report, giving character to their efforts. Those who are true and faithful to their divinely appointed duties, are not fitful, but steadfast in purpose, pressing their way through evil as well as good reports. They are instant in season and out of season.  {PH078 71.3}
[PH078 71.4]          The church of God is made up of many vessels, both large and small. The Lord works through the men and women who are willing to be used. He will bless them in doing the work that has brought blessing to many in the past,--the work of seeking to save souls ready to perish.  {PH078 71.4}
[PH078 71.5]          In all the Lord's arrangements, there is nothing more beautiful than His plan of giving to men and women a diversity of gifts. The church is His garden,                                                                              72  adorned with a variety of trees, plants, and flowers. He does not expect the hyssop to assume the proportions of the cedar, nor the olive to reach the height of the stately palm. Many have received but a limited religious and intellectual training, but God has a work for this class to do, if they will labor in humility, trusting in Him. ［FROM LETTERS WRITTEN IN 1902 TO A WORKER AMONG THE "POOR WHITES" IN THE SOUTH.］  {PH078 71.5}
[PH078 72.1]              Humble Men Laboring in Simplicity          There are men who will spend and be spent to win souls to Christ. In obedience to the great commission, many will go forth to work for the Master. Under the ministration of angels, common men will be moved by the Spirit of God to warn people in the highways and byways. They are to be strengthened and encouraged, and as fast as possible prepared for labor, that success may crown their efforts. . . .  {PH078 72.1}
[PH078 72.2]          These workers are trees of the Lord's planting. In a peculiar sense they bear fruit equal to the fruit borne by the apostles. They receive a reward in this life, and a glorious reward awaits them in the future life.  {PH078 72.2}
[PH078 72.3]          Humble men, who do not trust in their great gifts, but who work in simplicity, trusting always in God, will share in the joy of the Saviour. Their persevering prayers will bring souls to the cross. Then go forth, brethren. Do your best humbly and sincerely, and God will work with you.  {PH078 72.3}
[PH078 72.4]          Establishing Training-Schools Near Nashville, Tenn.            We should enter at once upon the establishment, in suitable places near Nashville, of a school for white                                                                              73  people and a school for colored people. The workers in Nashville will gain influence from these working centers. The teachers in these schools can help the work in Nashville.  {PH078 72.4}
[PH078 73.1]          I have been instructed that the land on which our schools shall be established should be near enough to Nashville that there may be a connection between the schools and the workers in Nashville. ［FROM A LETTER WRITTEN IN 1904 TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE.］  {PH078 73.1}
[PH078 73.2]         The uneducated people of the South need the knowledge of the gospel just as verily as do the heathen in far-off lands. God requires us to study how we may reach the neglected classes of the white and the colored people in the South, and with all the skill we can gain, to work for the souls of these men and women.  {PH078 73.2}
[PH078 73.3]          In connection with the work in Nashville, I wish to speak of the school work that Brethren Sutherland and Magan are planning to do. ［THIS WAS WRITTEN IN 1904.］ I was surprised when, in speaking of the work they wished to do in the South, they spoke of establishing a school in some place a long way from Nashville. From the light given me, I knew that this would not be the right thing to do, and I told them so. The work that these brethren can do, because of the experience gained at Berrien Springs, is to be carried on within easy access of Nashville; for Nashville has not yet been worked as it should be. And it will be a great blessing to the workers in the school to be near enough to Nashville to be able to counsel with the workers there.                                                                              74   {PH078 73.3}
[PH078 74.1]         In searching for a place for the school, the brethren found a farm of four hundred acres for sale, about nine miles from Nashville. The size of the farm, its situation, the distance that it is from Nashville, and the moderate sum for which it could be purchased, seemed to point it out as the very place for the school work. We advised that this place be purchased. I knew that all the land would ultimately be needed. For the work of the students, and to provide homes for the teachers, such land can be used advantageously. And as our work advances, a portion of this tract may be required for a country sanitarium. . . .  {PH078 74.1}
[PH078 74.2]          The plan upon which our brethren propose to work is to select some of the best and most substantial young men and women from Berrien Springs and other places in the North, who believe that God has called them to the work in the South, and give them a brief training as teachers. Thorough instruction will be given in Bible study, physiology, and the history of our message; and special instruction in agriculture will be given. It is hoped that many of these students will eventually connect with schools in various places in the South. In connection with these schools there will be land that will be cultivated by teachers and students, and the proceeds from this work will be used for the support of the schools. . . .  {PH078 74.2}
[PH078 74.3]          As these brethren go to the South to take hold of pioneer work in a difficult field, we ask our people to make their work as effective as possible by assisting them in the establishment of the new school near Nashville. . . . Brethren and sisters, the poverty and the needs of the Southern field call urgently for                                                                              75  your assistance. There is a great work to be done in that field, and we ask you to act your part. ［REVIEW AND HERALD, AUG. 18 1904.］  {PH078 74.3}
[PH078 75.1]                        "Go Work Today"          The standard of truth is to be lifted in new territories in the South. School buildings, humble but neat, are to be erected in various places. Churches are to be established . Some of the school buildings may be erected by the students themselves, under the instruction of men who understand this line of work. If the work of instruction is faithfully done, every stroke can be made to tell in the education of the students. And the buildings will be an object-lesson to those living in the community, as well as a channel through which souls will be converted to the truth. . . .  {PH078 75.1}
[PH078 75.2]         In the restrictions that have been placed on some who desired to do a definite work, many have found an excuse why they should not engage in active missionary work. I am bidden to bear my testimony against unnecessary restrictions being laid on those who desire to act a part in the work of the Lord. . . .  {PH078 75.2}
[PH078 75.3]          My brethren, stand out of the way of your fellow-beings. Do not, by any act of yours, hinder the work that God would have done for the people of the South, in bringing to them the light of the truth. Time is passing rapidly, and the truth has yet to go to thousands in this field. Do not hinder, but pray and work, that God may use His human agencies as He designs. . . .  {PH078 75.3}
[PH078 75.4]          There are among our church-members faithful souls who feel a burden for those who know not the                                                                              76  truth for this time. But one will say to such, The conference will not support you if you go here or there. To such I would say, Pray to God for guidance as to where you shall go; follow the directions of the Holy Spirit, and go, whether the conference will pay your expenses or not. "Go work today in My vineyard," Christ commands. When you have done your work in one place, go to another. Angels of God will go with you if you follow the leadings of the Spirit.  {PH078 75.4}
[PH078 76.1]         To our brethren and sisters in America, the call must go to awake. There is missionary work to be done in this country, as verily as in any heathen land. When you have made your donation for the work in foreign fields, do not stop, thinking you have done all your duty. You are to be a light in the world. "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."  {PH078 76.1}
[PH078 76.2]          There is no time to spend in frivolity. Deny self, and dress and live simply. Remember that there is a message to be borne to those who are in darkness, a work to be done for the Master. The Lord will bless all who will take part in the work of preparing a people to meet Him in peace. We should be terribly in earnest. Lay your plans before God. Tell Him that you desire to serve Him; give up your desires to Him, and He will teach you His way. ［UNPUBLISHED LETTER, SEPT. 23, 1907.］  {PH078 76.2}
[PH078 76.3]                A Visit to Highland Schools          On my way to Washington I had some experience in going not only to the highways, but also to the                                                                              77  hedges. I saw something of the work that is being done in the mission schools near Nashville. Little companies of workers are going out into the mountains and laboring for those who have not heard the message, and here and there little companies of believers are being raised up. Who would dare to put their hand on such workers and say, You must not labor thus; it costs too much? Can it compare with the sacrifice that Christ made in order to save perishing souls? My brethren and sisters, I ask you in the name of Jesus of Nazareth to take your light from under the bushel, and let it shine forth that others may be profited. ［FROM AN ADDRESS AT THE GENERAL CONFERENCE OF 1909, PUBLISHED IN GENERAL CONFERENCE BULLETIN, VOL. VI, P. 38.］  {PH078 76.3}
[PH078 77.1]          Words of Encouragement to Self-Supporting        Workers ［PORTION OF AN ADDRESS TO THE          TEACHERS AND STUDENTS OF THE MADISON            (TENN.) SCHOOL, APRIL 26, 1909.］            Christ meant much when He said, God out into the highways and the hedges. You must not neglect the highways. You must bring the truth before those in the highways. Neither are you to neglect those that are in the hedges. In addition to the work that must be done in the great cities, there is a work to be performed for those that are scattered all through the regions round about. And how can we reach them? One important means of accomplishing this work, is found in the establishment of small schools in needy communities. Even if there are but a few persons in a place, some means of reaching them should be devised. Once let the missionary spirit take hold of men and women, young and old, and                                                                              78  we shall see many going into the highways and the hedges, and compelling the honest in heart to come in. . . .  {PH078 77.1}
[PH078 78.1]         Nearly five years ago, when we were searching for a site on which to locate a training-school near-Nashville, we visited this plantation that was afterward secured; and I remember that when we first saw the place, we planned to go over it in carriages, some in one direction, and some in another, and we looked to God to impress our minds as to whether this were the place He wished us to choose for a training-center. For a time, the prospect looked forbidding; nevertheless, the plantation was secured, and the work was begun. The Lord would have the influence of this school widely extended by means of the establishment of small mission schools in needy settlements in the hills, where consecrated teachers may open the Scriptures to hungry souls, and let the light of life shine forth to those that are in darkness.  {PH078 78.1}
[PH078 78.2]          This is the very work that Christ did. He traveled from place to place, and labored for souls. And who was He? The One equal with the Father. The Lord Jesus has set us an example. As you engage in school work in these needy communities, do not let any man come in to discourage you by saying, "Why do you spend your time in this way? Why not do a larger and more important work in a broader field?" Some, it is true, must plan to look forward to the time when they will do a large work in response to general calls. . . .  {PH078 78.2}
[PH078 78.3]          We feel an earnest interest in these schools. There is a wide field before us in the establishment of family mission schools. Let those who feel the                                                                              79  burden of souls resting upon them, go out and do house-to-house work, and teach the people precept upon precept, here a little and there a little, gradually leading them into the full light of Bible truth. This is what we had to do in the early days of the message. As earnest efforts are put forth, the Lord will let His blessing rest upon the workers, and upon those who are seeking for an understanding of the truth as it is in the word of God.  {PH078 78.3}
[PH078 79.1]          There are precious truths, glorious truths, in God's word, and it is our privilege to bring these truths before the people. In those parts of the field where many can not attend meetings far away from their homes, we can bring the truth to them personally, and can work with them in simplicity. . . .  {PH078 79.1}
[PH078 79.2]          As you go out into the highways and the hedges, let no minister of the gospel say to you, Why do ye so? We have for our example the ministry of Christ on this earth. We are to remove our lights from under the coverings that hide them from others, and let them shine forth amid the moral darkness.  {PH078 79.2}
[PH078 79.3]          "Ye are laborers together with God." Those who expect to wear at last a crown of life, must in this life be light-bearers. . . .  {PH078 79.3}
[PH078 79.4]          I am glad that our people are established here at Madison. I am glad to meet these workers here, who are offering themselves to go to different places. God's work is to advance steadily; His truth is to triumph. To every believer we would say: Let no one stand in the way. Say not, "We cannot afford to work in a sparsely settled field, and largely in a self-supporting way, when out in the world are great fields where we might reach multitudes." And let none say, "We cannot afford to sustain you in an effort to work in                                                                              80  those out-of-the-way places." What! Cannot afford it! You cannot afford not to work in these isolated places; and if you neglect such fields, the time will come when you will wish that you had afforded it. There is a world to be saved. Let some of our consecrated teachers go out into the highways and the hedges, and compel the honest in heart to come in,--not by physical force; oh, no! but with the weight of evidence as presented in God's word.  {PH078 79.4}
[PH078 80.1]          Let no living soul -- man, woman, or child -- selfishly rest satisfied with a knowledge of the truth. There are honest-hearted men and women out in the hills that must be given the message of warning. There are those who cannot have the privilege of listening to the truth as it is often presented in large assemblies; these must be reached by personal effort.  {PH078 80.1}
[PH078 80.2]          We each have a work to do for God, whatever may be our occupation. Those who are on their farms, are not to think that it would be a waste of time for them to plan to go out and visit their neighbors, and hold up before them the light of the truth for this time; for even if it does seem difficult to leave the farm work, yet we shall not lose financially because of spending time in helping others. There is a God in heaven that will bless our labors. To every man -- and to every woman -- He has given his work. We may co-operate with Christ, by showing to others what it means to seek for eternal life as for hidden treasure. God has called upon us to do this kind of work -- to look after the poor, the needy, the suffering; to be awake to the necessities of those in need of spiritual refreshment; to be ever ready to open the Scriptures to hungering souls. ［MS., 1909.］  {PH078 80.2}
[PH079 1.1]        PH079 - Special Instruction Regarding Royalties (1899)               Special Instruction Regarding Royalties.     "Sunnyside," Cooranbong,                              March 11, 1899. Dear Brethren Irwin, Sisley, Smith, and Jones.        I have read the letter which came in the last mail from Dr. Kellogg and Elder Moon and Brother Sisley. The mail came yesterday (Sabbath noon), but we do not go for it until after the Sabbath, so we could not read the letters until this morning. I rose at half past three o'clock, and perused all my mail. I had placed my diary in the hands of my copyists, that they might copy from it two articles. You can see by these what I wrote in 1890 and '91. This matter has been copied without much correction, just as I wrote it. There is much more of the same tenor, which I have talked over and over again to our people in Battle Creek.  {PH079 1.1}
[PH079 1.2]         I was sorry that we could not get the mail from America before the letters had to be sent. But the mailboat arrived in Sydney late, and my mail came one day after our mail went to Sydney. I felt very sorry about this happening so.  {PH079 1.2}
[PH079 1.3]          I received your statement in reference to the royalties on books. I have not had light that there was to be a restitution of royalties according to the ideas of the writers of books. Nothing of the kind has been presented to me. There are many books written, and the publishing house would be bankrupt should those who have                             -2-     had books published all put in their plea. There is, and ever will be, a flood of books issued if a large remuneration is given to authors. The little story books written are not a great tax on the writers, neither are books of this character of vital consequence to the world. A difference must be made in the books written. They can not be classed together. But I will say nothing more about this. Fearing something will come in to interrupt me, I write out the most important matter first. Light has not been given me embracing that which your minds are taking in,-- going back over the ground and paying additional royalties on all the books that have been published. I answer that this is not wisdom.  {PH079 1.3}
[PH079 2.1]          I have read the letter written, which contains the arguments that have been in existence for a long time, voiced by ----- -----. There may be plenty of suppositions, but when we consider these arguments in a candid manner, when we know what gave birth to these propositions, they are weighed in the balance and found wanting. The wisdom of those who have advocated these wise sayings has been found to be foolishness. There is a long train of evils, of selfish, dishonest scheming, of underhand work in dealing with authors. Dishonest methods have been practised. Hard hearts have devised injustice, unfaithfulness, untrustfulness, giving their word, and then breaking it, so that nothing could be relied on. This has created sedition and light-mindedness, causing the people to lose respect and reverence for the servants of God. If this is an evidence that men have the mind of Christ, then we shall have to learn anew what constitutes true Christianity.                            -3-  {PH079 2.1}
[PH079 3.1]          Shall we follow the judgment of men who have had the rebuke of God upon them for years. Their history is a declaration as to how much weight should be given to their sentiments. The inwardness of the actions of these--what shall I call them--false prophets, has been shown; with many words they have set things forth in a false light. The Lord has declared that their counsel should not stand. Their intriguing, their gathering together men whom they thought would voice their methods, was an offense in God's sight. They were themselves deceived, and their deception has been deepening. They were deceived by their own manufactured logic. They have been separating farther and farther from God, and soon, I was instructed, would realize that they were weighed in their own balances, by the very principles they forwarded and advocated with the greatest assurance. The Lord would give them an opportunity to come under the rules and sentiments they acted a part in creating. They would know by experience how it would feel to have their own principles brought to bear upon them. These men, from the first to the last of their experience, have done an injury to the work and cause of God by perverting justice and judgment, and making crooked paths with their own wandering feet, to their great loss and confusion.  {PH079 3.1}
[PH079 3.2]          I present this matter just as the Lord presented it to me when in Europe, and those who have taken a part in that question had not wisdom from God. Every man is accountable to God for the use he makes of his talents. We have no confidence in the principles devised by men who can betray the cause of God and work                            -4-     at cross purposes with him. Their unsanctified dispositions will work contrary to God, and their principles have nearly ruined the cause of God, and have brought in a condition of things that the General Conference is laboring hard to undo. If those men who, by their course of action, by working at cross purposes with God, have done the cause of God an injury, will lay down their supposed wise reasonings and listen to the messages of mercy sent them, they will find pardon. But if they continue to hinder the work of God as they have done, the Lord will say, He is joined to his idols, let him alone.  {PH079 3.2}
[PH079 4.1]          In the past, publishers have placed themselves as God, to dictate, to control, to manage as they pleased, and to lord it over God's heritage. They have done a deceptive work in dealing with authors. I have been taken into private councils, and have heard the plans laid down. Men have managed to make an author believe that his work is naught, and that they do not want to have anything to do with the book. The author has no means. He feels that his hands are tied. Men talk and think over the whole process, and succeed in bringing him to their terms, to take the royalty that they offer on the book.  {PH079 4.1}
[PH079 4.2]          The dealing with ----- ----- was not true and righteous in all its points. Justice was not done to him. The effort made to grind down ----- ----- at first, and to obtain possession of books, has made a most miserable showing, driving him to an opposite extreme. Men's brains have been bought and sold.  {PH079 4.2}
[PH079 4.3]          The dealing in regard to "Gospel Primer" was unjust. Another book, "His Glorious Appearing,"                            -5-     was crowded in to kill the sale of the Primer. The way in which "The Gospel Primer" was handled has left a record on the books of heaven which those concerned in the matter will not be pleased to meet in the judgment. The young men who were handling the books did not understand the diplomacy and scheming, but some knowingly took part in these wrong practises, diverting from the Southern field a book specially prepared for that field. The profits from this book should have gone into that field. Not a penny should have been charged for the publication of the book for that field. This donation would have been small enough for the Office to make to the Southern field.  {PH079 4.3}
[PH079 5.1]          The scheming and inventions of men whose wisdom had departed from them, led to crooked transaction, of which business men should be ashamed. But I will state no more. This is the principle which has controlled again and again in different ways.  {PH079 5.1}
[PH079 5.2]          God commanded that certain warnings and the presentation of events to take place should be placed without delay before the people. Had the very book God appointed to stand in its lot and place been handled as earnestly as "Bible Readings," men would have co-operated with the angels of God to make the very impression essential for that time. But men not standing in living connection with God could not discern the necessity for the present truth for that time. All my entreaty and urging were of none effect. False statement after false statement was made. And why? The President of the Conference might, if he had been moved by the Spirit of God, have helped to change the whole matter.                            -6-     But I had to press my claims, and should have pressed them still more strongly. The light given me was never to make large donations to any phase of the work, never again to place myself in an embarrassing position, as I had for years.  {PH079 5.2}
[PH079 6.1]          I have been broken off to have a talk with Brother Martin. I furnish him with papers and tracts to do missionary work. He is not a minister, but a farmer of considerable intelligence. He sells fruit, and thus becomes acquainted with the people. Many souls have been converted through his zealous influence. I have just told him he needed the Review and Herald, and that he must take it. He put his hand in the pocket and handed me the money. I am going to send in all the names I can get; for every family ought to have our church paper. Please send the Review to F. Martin, Kellyville, New South Wales, Australia, and charge the same to my account.  {PH079 6.1}
[PH079 6.2]          After the publishers refused to handle my books, I had to draw from the Review and Herald for means to live on. They humiliated me in the dust by telling me they could not honor my order, for I had overdrawn.  {PH079 6.2}
[PH079 6.3]          Then light came to me in the night season that the Lord would not have me passing out means in large sums. I had donated one thousand dollars to erect the mission building in Illinois. I would be solicited to do this from every quarter, but the Lord would not have me dependent upon any of our institutions. He had a message for me to bear which would cut like a two-edged sword, right and left. He would have me so situated that I would be free from financial embarrassment. I must not trust in man, nor make flesh                            -7-     my arm. The enemy would exercise his ingenuity through the men who should uphold and sustain me wherever I was called to go, that I might lead out in the work that God in his wisdom would have done. Then, if my brethren did not awake to the situation, I was to make no delay in taking the books into my own hands, and the Lord would prepare the way before me. He would not have the work delayed.  {PH079 6.3}
[PH079 7.1]          Calls were made for me to go here and there, and I made earnest efforts. At last the spell was broken, and the books were circulated. The light given was that "Thoughts on Daniel and the Revelation," "Great Controversy," and "Patriarchs and Prophets," would make their way. They contained the very message the people must have, the special light God had given his people. The angels of God would prepare the way for these books in the hearts of the people.  {PH079 7.1}
[PH079 7.2]          Do you think any amount of money could recompense me for the loss I and many have sustained through the devising of men who worked in such a way and on such principles? This work has been done after the manner of men who were not worked by the Holy Spirit. Money taken in such ways, brought in through such methods, would not be to the glory of God's name. It would be a blot upon the work. Men could not see that in these devisings they were closing the door to great light, which would have shone in the place of lesser light. The methods followed were all contrary to the principles of justice and honor.  {PH079 7.2}
[PH079 7.3]          To define every particular of the scheming and conniving of these men would fill a volume. When men are converted, there will be a clearing                            -8-     up that can never be done by any mere investigation you may endeavor to make. It would be useless now to try to arrive at exact justice in all past transactions. By doing this, you would place yourself in a hopeless puzzle. Some have received all the royalty they should on their books. The Lord does not require the Review and Herald Office to do the intricate work of apportioning to each author a sum on back royalties. By doing this, you would make a worse error than has been made. This proceeding would awaken in some a selfishness that would prove a great injury to them. I might name many persons, but I forbear.  {PH079 7.3}
[PH079 8.1]          Come now to your senses, and do not create a second error. Let us consider these matters. Those who handle the books should have a fair remuneration for their work. But let me tell you that should such a move be made as you propose, all authors would feel themselves at liberty to put in claims in accordance with the estimate they place upon their books. There would be a representation of selfishness that would astonish you. Now brethren, your dearth of means at the present time is the result of just such selfishness. It has been introduced into the work when it should not have obtained a breath of life, but been strangled to death at the beginning. God abhors the practices that have been followed. Do not now open a door to let Satan in where he can work with human minds. Do not give those who have made books an opportunity to destroy themselves. The most selfish, irrespective of the present dearth of means, will consider themselves of such consequence that they will draw away from the                              -9-     publishing house the last penny that they can obtain, and God would be ashamed to call them his brethren.  {PH079 8.1}
[PH079 9.1]          Let us not open a door whereby Satan shall find easy access. We want large, sound souls. The windows of the soul must always open heavenward. We must see that the danger is great in the work of reconsidering past royalties and making restitution. Some who have received all the real value of their books will think them of much greater value than they are. Their windows are opened earthward and not heavenward. Throw open the windows heavenward, and let the sunshine of Christ's righteousness in, and the windows of the soul now opened earthward will close of themselves.  {PH079 9.1}
[PH079 9.2]          No one can have been hurt financially more than I was hurt when "The Great Controversy" lay for nearly two years dead in the Office. Just work was not done in this matter. The book "Bible Readings" was crowded in before "Great Controversy," which was already printed, and which should have been placed in the canvasser's hands first, because it was first, and contained important matter which the people needed to have as soon as possible. It seemed that I was mocked because of my intense earnestness in regard to that book, and what it might have done had it not been dropped as it was, and through unsanctified influences and selfish, unprincipled methods shut away from the people. This was a dishonest transaction toward me, and it was unfaithful stewardship toward God.  {PH079 9.2}
[PH079 9.3]          But I would not now take any restitution money. I accepted the lowest royalty on my books, under a most solemn promise that they                             -10-     would be pushed forward vigorously. This promise was not kept. There was fraud in the management. But I want no restitution; I want no increase of royalty for any books of mine sold in the past. God forbid, when the pressure is strong and means limited, that I should draw one penny from the resources for the carrying forward of the work.  {PH079 9.3}
[PH079 10.1]          I have felt it my duty in a number of cases to forgive debts that have been incurred by my brethren, and I have now a heart to forgive all the debts that have been incurred against me by the publishing institution from first to last. I call upon my brethren, all who have had books, small or large, published, to stand with me in this matter. Those who put too large an estimate on their own productions can not rightly estimate souls. These are the very ones who will draw, whether or not they are entitled to anything. Let the sponge be passed over the board containing the figures, and let all say, Amen. Let each appropriate his share as an offering to sustain the work of God.  {PH079 10.1}
[PH079 10.2]          I know that Brother Smith feels as I do in this matter. We will stand together, Brother Smith. Of all the books that have come forth from the press, those mentioned are of the greatest consequence in the past and at the present time. I know that "Thoughts on Daniel and the Revelation" has done a great work in this country. I know also that the light given me by God in the books I have published has done a good work, and I praise the Lord for this. Other books have stood in their lot and place.  {PH079 10.2}
[PH079 10.3]          It is too late in the day, after so much light has been given, to have controversy over this subject                               -11-     of royalties. I have reason to thank God that he has given me strength of intellect to write out the truth and get it before the people, and that I can use the means the Lord in his providence has permitted to pass into my hands in establishing his work in new places, aiding in the building of churches and the educating of students. I could use thousands of pounds in advancing the work in these new fields, which are all ripe for the harvest.  {PH079 10.3}
[PH079 11.1]          I wish to say to authors, that I can not see that they have any liberty to either give away or sell their right to books they have written. When you do this, a door of temptation is opened before the publishers to repeat the history of the past. They will obtain for a small sum books that are not of vital importance. They will be tempted to say to the authors, "It is naught, it is naught." They will make some little changes, and then exalt these books to the highest in their notices. They will deceive the people, and while doing this will treat valuable books indifferently, as they have done Brother Smith's work.  {PH079 11.1}
[PH079 11.2]          The publishing house should receive their share of the profits from the books published. This should be proportionate to the work they do in getting out notices, etc. But let the publishers be careful not to claim that they are the ones who do the greatest amount of work in preparing these books for the market. Let the authors take a reasonable sum for their work, but they are not to sell their right to any institution. This will not be a blessing to the institution.  {PH079 11.2}
[PH079 11.3]          Unless care is taken, the market will be flooded with books of a cheap order, and the people will be deprived of the light and truth which it is                             -12-     essential they should have to prepare the way of the Lord. This has been done and will be done again, unless right principles control in the publishing work. Let those who have brain power to write books remember that they have power to manage the royalty they receive. They should lead out in some lines of benevolence in the cause and work of God. They are not to allow the means to be taken from them by making other minds of stewards of their productions. To every man and woman the Lord has given his work, and the responsibility of the use of God's gifts rests with the one who has been entrusted with means. There are ways in which each one entrusted with talents can use these talents. They should have keen perception to know where means are needed, and be able to give something to relieve the need.  {PH079 11.3}
[PH079 12.1]          I have used the royalty on the foreign books to create a fund for the education of students. In the past I have allowed all the books sold in Europe to be used in Europe under the management of some one. This fund is now being used for the translation of my books into other languages. In the future I shall use these royalties in the work of entering new fields. The work in Europe was much farther advanced than the work in Australia. But when I had been in Melbourne a few months, Brother Lewis Johnson wrote me that they had in Europe a thousand dollars belonging to me as royalty. I wrote that I needed it to invest in the establishment of a school here in Australia. He wrote back pleading for a portion of this money: for they wished to educate promising young men for the ministry. I answered, If you need it so much, I will not                           -13-     withdraw it. Since then they have had all the royalties on the sale of foreign books, until about one year ago. Then I told them to use this money in translating my books into other languages, that the truth which the Lord has signified should go to every place, might be placed before the people.  {PH079 12.1}
[PH079 13.1]          Let others judge me if they will, and yet I testify before God that I am free from the charges that they make against me. I had set my heart on using the money sent from California in the building of the hospital so very much needed in Cooranbong. But when I learned of the need of a meeting-house in Brisbane, I immediately sent them one hundred pounds. It was decided at the sanitarium in Sydney that they must have temporary bath-rooms before they could work to advantage. I put means in the hands of the Union Conference, to be held until we know whether John Wessels is coming to Australia. If he is not, I must let them have that money to keep the work moving in different lines. We know not how our hospital will be built or furnished, but the Lord knows all about our necessities. Our part of the work is to go forward. Outside interests have taken all the means, so that my workers have been paid only a part of their wages for the past year. Patiently they have waited, understanding the situation. We are praying, waiting, trusting, and believing.  {PH079 13.1}
[PH079 13.2]          We are all in possession of talents, and we are not to give to another person our entrusted capabilities. We are to trade upon them, that we may gain other talents to use in the advancement of the Lord's work. For me to give up my stewardship of means for some one else to use                          -14-     would be unfaithfulness on my part. There are some persons in Battle Creek who pay a faithful tithe, and there are others who do not. Should any one put it out of their power to do this by selling their capabilities, and letting another become steward for him? It is our duty to improve our talents. The Lord would have every person manage his own business and handle his own talents. He does not desire his people to give away the only means they have to invest in his cause for their individual selves.  {PH079 13.2}
[PH079 14.1]          Some think that only a portion of their means is the Lord's, but this is a mistake. All is the Lord's. All should feel their accountability to appropriate the means as the different necessities of the work shall demand. There are poor to be helped. If you put out of your power the talents lent you of God to do this work, you are held responsible for the work you should have done. You place man as God, and he feels fully authorized to use the purchased talents just as he pleases, when he might listen to the calls for help. You put it out of your power to do the work you fell impressed to do.  {PH079 14.1}
[PH079 14.2]          All that we have, every dollar, belongs to God. Wise trading is to be done, and every man and woman is to pray and work and study and plan, all the time acquiring a more correct knowledge of how to work. This is the plan of God. There are men acting a part in the work of God who would help in an emergency, but they have placed thousands in the hands of other men to use for them. They have given over their stewardship to another. Did the Lord plan it thus?-- No. He would have used them to lift up the standard of truth in places that should open.                           -15-  {PH079 14.2}
[PH079 15.1]          The Lord will plan for us if we will let him do this. It is his money, not ours, and he expects that every one will ask wisdom from him in regard to the use he makes of his means. Places that have so great need of workers and facilities as Europe and London are a world in themselves, and yet, while thousands upon thousands of dollars have been invested in buildings in Battle Creek. London has scarcely been touched. England has needed many more men and much more means, but the supposed wise men have managed in a remarkable manner to reveal that their wisdom was foolishness, while they were so filled with conceit that the Lord could do nothing for them. They were working at cross purposes with God, pursuing a course in the management of their business transactions that made them feel independent, and they have taken money for their supposed capabilities, which they did not earn. The Lord does not want men to pile up buildings as they have done in Battle Creek. There is a large field to be worked, and a variety of talents in money and intelligence and experience are to be transferred to England.  {PH079 15.1}
[PH079 15.2]          God marks the neglect of portions of his vineyard, and he writes against the names of many of his workers, Unfaithful stewards. God would have had the facilities that have been continually increasing in America divided and subdivided. He has invested men with power, but they have worked at cross purposes with him. They have disregarded his warnings, and walked in the sparks of their own kindling. These will be called to account for the warnings and light which they have received, but have not heeded.  {PH079 15.2}
[PH079 15.3]          We wish to lay out before you now the fields                           -16-     that are unworked. We wish you to see that men can not be trusted unless they have a living connection with God. The Southern field was presented to me, and I presented the light given me to the people. They were aroused. They set to work to raise means for that field. But where is that means now? What has become of it? It has been diverted from its rightful place. Money was raised for the special purpose, so it was stated, of helping the Southern field, and was then used for a different purpose. This reveals the great blindness and presumption on the part of responsible men. Had they been workers in the Southern field, how different would have been their treatment of this matter. But it made every difference who were the ones to be disappointed and cramped for means. I feel my heart burn with righteous indignation when men thus plan and maneuver to divert everything into lines which serve their own purposes, to make less conspicuous the gap their mismanagement has made. The principles of righteousness have been departing from the Conference. Brethren, for Christ's sake, begin to work on a right basis!  {PH079 15.3}
[PH079 16.1]          Let men be estimated as men, and not as gods. God has given men the ability to use and increase their talents, and they are to cherish a sense of their moral responsibilities. It may be asked, What shall be done in reference to the work now? Work on correct principles. Let men and women who have a burden to produce books, work to bless the cause of God by the use of their pens. Let them work, and if they have an income from their work, let them make use of that income to do their part in uplifting the standard of truth where God shall direct. Let them seek counsel                             -17-     from God. Let them believe the promise of Christ that he will send the Comforter to teach them all things and bring all things to their remembrance. Let them not allow themselves to be drawn into any snare.  {PH079 16.1}
[PH079 17.1]          God is our counselor. We have let men take the place of God. The Lord will let his light shine into the chambers of the mind and into the soul-temple, if men when they lack wisdom will go to their closets in prayer, and ask God, who giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not. The promise is, "It shall be given him, but let him ask in faith, nothing wavering; for he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed."  {PH079 17.1}
[PH079 17.2]          He who would have all from Christ must give all to Christ. Where there is a complete surrender of the being to God, there will be a far deeper meaning in the words of John, chapter one. They speak, "As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God." When these words are understood, there will be a knowledge of God and his will that will have a controlling power over the whole man. When the talent is considered as a gift from God, to be doubled by use, and returned to the Giver in consecrated service, there will be a sacred regard for every human instrumentality. Masterly overbearing and a dishonest use of the talents God has given to any of his heritage will be seen in all their cruelty. Only when every human agent realizes that he helps to compose the web of humanity, and must act his part for God; when he understands that it is not only his privilege, but his duty to trade with his talents, to improve his capabilities, to acquire means and souls, will he be                              -18-     blessed by God. Men are to regard their talents as a trust. God rewards every man according to his work. Then let all stand in a right position. Let them use every jot of ability. Let them acquire spiritual and temporal talents, that they may invest them for God. God has entrusted talents to human beings, that they may co-operate with him in the use of their powers. All their money, all their influence, is to be regarded as the Lord's, who graciously condescends to use them in carrying forward his work.  {PH079 17.2}
[PH079 18.1]          God calls upon us to awake. Every living Christian is to act his part as a faithful steward. The methods of God are sensible and right, and we are to trade on our pence and our pounds, returning our freewill offerings to him to sustain his work, to enlighten the world in darkness, to bring souls to Jesus Christ. Large and small sums should flow into the treasury of the Lord. What shall we do who have misapplied our means? Shall not those in responsible places restore all they have received unjustly? This means was the Lord's, and should have been used by the stewards upon whom it was bestowed. No man, whatever his position of trust, is to consider himself capable of being conscience for any man. If those in responsible positions deal truly with God, they will render to God his due. But when men become conscience for others, by buying their talents and appropriating them according to finite judgment, they take upon themselves a responsibility which the Lord has not placed upon them.  {PH079 18.1}
[PH079 18.2]          There is to be an understanding between every child of God and his Redeemer. Christ calls upon every human being to understand and                            -19-     know the only true God and Jesus Christ whom he has sent. Practical work is to be done by every believing child of God. Each is to answer to God for his own individuality, for the use he makes of the Lord's entrusted talents.  {PH079 18.2}
[PH079 19.1]          I would say to my fellow laborers. The Lord would have us obtain new experiences, a growth in grace and in the knowledge of God, by using for the Master the gifts we have. We are dependent upon Christ for spiritual food and vitality. It is only by feeding upon Christ that we can have sanctification and power, that we can know Christ and be a faithful co-worker with God. Let no man become your substitute. Christ is your substitute. Go to Him who has taken you under his charge. "Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price." All you have in mental, physical, and spiritual capacities comes from God, and you are to render to him perfect service in every line, holding fast the Lord Jesus Christ. This is our availing power for the purity of the soul. This will cleanse and purify us, day by day and hour by hour.  {PH079 19.1}
[PH079 19.2]          Let an abiding Christ live in the soul, and we shall show far greater wisdom than we have done. We shall know more of God and of Jesus Christ, and of the Holy Spirit which opens the door for us to advance. We need to manifest the Spirit of Christ. If we have not received all we should have had, shall we now say, "Pay me that thou owest?" It is the Lord's, and we will say, "Return to God his own. As for me, I dare not now receive that which I might have had." Say, "Take these means, which we ought to have received, and let them be used in helping in                             -20-     foreign missionary work." The great doors of necessity stand wide open. I call upon each and all to appropriate all that you feel clear to restore to the great work which is in need of being done in our world. I would not receive an additional penny on any back royalties, and I ask my brethren and sisters to stand with me, and heal this wound by transferring the extra royalties they think they might have had to work in God in the place where the need is greatest. We are to make every effort to keep our principles of management correct. Let Jesus be seen, walking on the tempestuous billows, and saying, "Peace, be still." "It is I, be not afraid."  {PH079 19.2}
[PH079 20.1]          When the sacred work of God shall be purified from all the rubbish which has been accumulating for years, the name of God will be glorified in your midst. When the Holy Spirit controls human agents, there will be none of the underhand business which has been practised. Honesty, truthfulness, and a willingness that all should understand the methods of working, will be seen. The characters of the workers will be built up with pure, solid timbers. Straightforwardness in deal will be seen in all God's commandment-keeping people. Every thread of the web will be originated by the Lord, and each worker will draw his thread into the web to help compose the pattern. The pattern will come from the great loom perfect in its design.  {PH079 20.1}
[PH079 20.2]          Three thousand years ago, David asked the question, "Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to thy word." Souls already impure need to be cleansed, purified, and sanctified. Then the testimony can be borne, "God who commanded                             -21-     the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." In this world we are to shine in good works. The Lord requires his people who handle sacred things to be alone with God, to reflect the principles of heaven in every business transaction, to reflect the light of God's character, God's love, as Christ reflected it. Looking unto Jesus, all our lives will be aglow with that wondrous light. Every part of us is to be light; then whichever way we turn, light will be reflected from us to others. Christ is the way, the truth, the life. In him is no darkness at all; therefore, if we are in Christ, there will be no darkness in us.  {PH079 20.2}
[PH079 21.1]          The fruit of the Spirit-what is it? Gloom and sadness, and mourning, and tears? No, no; the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance. These graces will be seen in every stone that helps to compose the temple of God. All the stones are not of the same dimension or shape, but every stone has its place in the temple. In the temple there is not one misshapen stone. Each is perfect, and in the diversity there is unity, making a complete whole. One thing is sure, every stone is a living stone, a stone that emits light. Now is the time for the stones taken from the quarry of the world to be brought into the workshop of God, and hewed, squared, and polished, that they may shine.  {PH079 21.1}
[PH079 21.2]          Christians, is Christ revealed in us? We must labor to have sound bodies and strong minds, that are not easily enfeebled, minds that look beyond self to the cause and result of every movement made. Then we are in a fair way to endure                             -22-     hardness as good soldiers. We need minds that can see difficulties and go through with them with the wisdom that comes from God; that can wrestle with hard problems and conquer them. The hardest problem is to crucify self, to endure hardness in spiritual experience, training the soul by severe discipline. This will not, perhaps, bring the very best satisfaction at the first, but the after-effect will be peace and happiness.  {PH079 21.2}
[PH079 22.1]          Temptations will come to every soul to pursue a course which will make him a spiritual weakling. Let those who have the cause and work of God at heart say, I will do nothing to place the publishing institution in embarrassment in order to satisfy personal demands; for such an example will open the door to increased selfishness, and lessen the means which should be used in the lifting the standard in foreign countries. Christ is our strength. He can enable us to stand uncorrupted, true, pure, holy, under temptation. In his strength alone we can endure hardness as good soldiers. With Christ enthroned in our hearts we are enabled to reach the highest standard, and in heaven our names appear as overcomers, because we are complete in him.                                E. G. White.  {PH079 22.1}
[PH080 1.1]         PH080 - Special Instruction Relating to the Review and Herald Office, and The Work in Battle Creek (1896)                  Special Instruction Relating to The Review and Herald Office,   		and The Work in Battle Creek.                       "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N.S.W.,                                       May 26, 1896.     Dear Brother Olsen:--        I received the American mail on Monday, the 25th. I have written a letter to you, and today, Tuesday, Sister ----- read me a letter of which I sent you a copy. Whether this particular case is correct or incorrect, just such scenes have been presented before me.  {PH080 1.1}
[PH080 1.2]         I have written to Brother ----- in reference to himself and his responsibilities. He has answered me in a good, humble spirit; and I pray the Lord to strengthen him to resist temptation.  {PH080 1.2}
[PH080 1.3]          Now, my brother, I want you to make it your first business to investigate, in company with some others of a different spiritual experience than that of -----, and every one of like influence, every man in that Office; and to make it your special business to inquire of the youth who are employed there, in regard to their work. Open your eyes wide to see what needs adjustment and correction.  {PH080 1.3}
[PH080 1.4]          Less long, sweeping journeys across the continent, and more close investigation of the true inward working of the heart, is essential. The                                -2-     rooms in the Office need inspection, that the things you know not, you may discern and search out. The temple of God must be cleansed, that his name shall not be dishonored by men who are not connected with him. My heart is pained as, in my dreams, I am visited, and appealed to by different ones, placing the corruptions in the Office of publication before me. I awaken to find it a dream, but know it to be the truth. My dear brother, the spirit of severity, of lording it over the ignorant and helpless, is being opened before me. In the place of the Office being an educating school to prepare the youth to give their hearts to the Lord, the teachers and overseers, by their course of action, drive them onto Satan's battleground. It is not a place where the Lord Jesus is entertained as a Heavenly Guest. Some of the overseers, and the workers under their supervision, give little time to thoughts of a high and holy order; the Lord is not glorified.  {PH080 1.4}
[PH080 2.1]                       Need of Reformation.          I wrote, some time since, in reference to the Oakland Office, and then my guide revealed to me that the same spirit, in a more decided manner leavened the Office at Battle Creek; and there were souls lost, eternally lost, through the influence of words of severity and of harshness. Things will transpire in our institutions that will need adjustment, and at once; but let the reformation be made with a spirit to restore, not to destroy. We are fearfully behind in the work of Christ for the saving of souls. We have not that sharp conception of duty required by the truth which we profess to love and honor. We allow                              -3-     a freezing atmosphere to surround our souls; we withhold words that ought to be spoken from the Scriptures. In order to fulfil our duty as God's faithful watchmen, we should give words of correction in humility of mind, "considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted." Neglect not to bind up, with your reproof, words of encouragement. Be cheerful, but not light and trifling; pray for discernment, for a wholesome Christlike spirit. Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, said, "And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God."  {PH080 2.1}
[PH080 3.1]          Sincerity means much more than many are inclined to suppose. It means being true to your brother; never allowing yourself to do him wrong, or suffer him to be unfaithful in the discharge of his duty.  {PH080 3.1}
[PH080 3.2]          Those who are set to keep the rooms in a healthful condition, that the angel of God passing through may approve, must be sincere. There must be no haphazard work; carry the Spirit of Christ in all your dealings. I would not, under any consideration, send a child of mine to learn the printer's trade under the present discipline and management in the several rooms. All are not managed in exactly the same objectionable manner; but all are much in need of the sanctifying grace of Christ Jesus. Are the men set over others, wise counselors of youth? Are they sincere Christians, or make-believes? Is their submission                              -4-     to divine authority as perfect as that which they require of the youth who are being educated under them? Overbearing, harsh words are unprofitable in professors of religion. A harsh, tyrannical spirit has come in, resulting in great and various evils. The temptations to sin come to every youth; and the overseers in every room need to be thoroughly converted men. What are the attributes most prized, and which bring greatest joy to the Saviour who died to save sinners?-- It is to have men and women co-operating with him to seek and to save the lost. Every one who is self-denying, self-sacrificing, for the sake of poor souls that need help, will have his reward. If we are children of God, we should be, and will be living channels of light.  {PH080 3.2}
[PH080 4.1]          Those who have not received Christ as their personal Saviour, should never be placed as directors of the youth. If they cannot submit themselves to the control of God, they are not qualified to manage and teach order and law to those brought under them. Those who claim to be Christ's disciples, if themselves under discipline to God, will make tender, loving, wise guides and instructors of the youth; for Christ says, "I will manifest myself unto them."  {PH080 4.1}
[PH080 4.2]                       God's Wondrous Love.          "If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us;" and that love cannot be restrained. "God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him." Only by becoming partakers of the divine nature, can the law of God be fulfilled by men. Only he who loves God with all his heart, soul, mind, and                             -5-     strength, and his neighbor as himself, can give glory to God in the highest, and peace on earth, good will to men. This was the work of Christ; and when his work is appreciated and represented by his followers, the great result will be achieved in the "joy that was set before him" in the saving of the souls for whom he gave his life.  {PH080 4.2}
[PH080 5.1]          The Lord has been laboring constantly from age to age to awaken in the souls of men a sense of their divine brotherhood, and thus to establish an order and divine harmony proportionate to the great and eternal deliverance he has wrought out for every one who will receive him. The Lord calls upon all who profess to believe in him to be coworkers with him, to use every God-given ability, opportunity, and privilege to lead perishing souls within the sphere of their influence, to Jesus Christ. Here is the only hope for transformation of character; this will give peace and joy in believing, and fit them for the society of the heavenly angels in the kingdom of God. O how earnest, persevering, and untiring should be the efforts of every sin-pardoned soul to seek to bring other souls to Jesus Christ, that their neighbors shall become joint-heirs with Jesus! Whoever is your neighbor is to be sought for, labored for. Is he ignorant? Let your communication, your association make him more intelligent. The outcast, the youth, full of defects in character, are the very ones God enjoins upon us to help. "I came not to call the righteous," said Christ, "but sinners to repentance."  {PH080 5.1}
[PH080 5.2]          See what sinners the colored people were, the down-trodden, the poor! These Christ died to save; and they can, through painstaking and                              -6-     judicious management, become trophies of his grace, heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ. Through faith in Jesus Christ they become purified, sanctified: for the religion of Jesus Christ never degrades the receiver, but works with transforming power, refining the taste, sanctifying the judgment, fitting the soul for the entrance of the Word that giveth life, that giveth understanding even to the simple. Those who will be humble enough to learn, the very nobility of the world will consider it an honor to go to heaven in their company, and angels of God will co-operate with such as are workers together with God. We need to hunger and thirst after righteousness, that we may have Christ in us as a well of water, springing up into everlasting life.  {PH080 5.2}
[PH080 6.1]                       Deeper Piety Needed.          Right at the head of the work there must be deeper piety, more faithful taking heed to the word of God, a watching for souls as they that must give an account. Each worker should be moved by a living, abiding, converting principle. It is not large establishments where much money is invested to make them more convenient, that will obtain influence and win hearts. The school and the Office should be an asylum for the sorely tempted youth. They are God's property. They have hearts to be won; they have souls to save. Instead of spending money in bicycles, in picture-making, in little and great idols to place upon your tables and on your walls, let the means be used to gather in the youth; teach them, and patiently watch over them, in wisdom dealing with their follies. Pray with them alone. Converse with                             -7-     them, with hearts filled with pity and that love which Christ has shown for you. Angels of God will give every true worker a rich experience in doing this work. We are to labor in earnest to break down every barrier that has been built up to keep Christ from entering the citadel of the heart. There is more joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth than over ninety and nine persons that think they need no repentance. Let instructors do their duty patiently, and although they may be often tried, be assured they will not fail nor be discouraged. Be not weary in well-doing; the heavenly intelligences will work with your every effort. A word of love and encouragement will do more to subdue the hasty temper and wilful disposition than all the fault-finding and severe censure that you can heap upon the erring ones.  {PH080 6.1}
[PH080 7.1]          It is those who are in positions of trust, those who have great light, large opportunities, who are not forming characters and carrying into their life-practise, principles that will stand the test of trial. These need to be rebuked sharply for their influence over the young. The impetuous temper must be eradicated. When provoked, do not pour out a torrent of words and commit sin; but talk with your Lord about it. He says to your soul, "Be still, and know that I am God."  {PH080 7.1}
[PH080 7.2]          If the God-given responsibilities of saving souls ready to perish, were understood, old habits, traditionary sentiments that clog and hinder reformatory action, would be cut away from the heart and life, and a transformation would take place in character. Advice, reproof, and counsel should be given patiently, taking out the bitterness of                               -8-     the  self-mingling spirit. The language should not be exaggerated, but should be gentle and humble. The stern, harsh spirit that humiliates and crushes the wrong-doer, will seldom work a reformation. "Thy gentleness hath made me great." It sets before the wrong-doer his sins, and helps him to recover himself from the snares of Satan.  {PH080 7.2}
[PH080 8.1]          God has not set any man on the judgment-seat. "Judge not," he said, "that ye be not judged." The grace of humility should be cherished in the heart. It will modify and mold the words that fall from our lips, into expressions of Christlike tenderness and care. The Master's work is not to be neglected: but it must be done in love, declaring the Master's message in the Master's spirit.  {PH080 8.1}
[PH080 8.2]          Wrongs are often in need of being met; and though firmness and decision may be required, we should not meet them in an arbitrary, overbearing, crushing manner. Not until the heart is cleansed and purified through obedience to the truth, can we be laborers together with God, and work with the mind of Christ.              Mrs. E. G. White.                             -9-  {PH080 8.2}
[PH080 9.1]                      "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N. S. W.,                                      May 31, 1896.     Dear Brother Olsen: --        The Lord intends that a great work shall be done by the institutions which have been established by his direction; and he is dishonored when human principles which find no sanction in the word of God, are allowed to rule, when self and pride of opinion press to the front, giving the enemy room to intrude. Thus the enemy tries to hinder the work, but God calls upon his people to co-operate with him. "Thus saith the Lord, Keep ye judgment, and do justice: for my salvation is near to come, and my righteousness to be revealed. Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil. 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. Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the Lord, to serve him; and to love the name of the Lord, to be his servants, every one that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant; even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful                             -10-     in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people. The Lord God which gathereth the outcasts of Israel saith, Yet will I gather others to him, beside those that are gathered unto him."  {PH080 9.1}
[PH080 10.1]                 Dangers in Our Institutions.          In order that the work of the Lord may go forward, our institutions need discreet, pure-minded, righteous managers. But some in positions of trust have been confirmed in a wrong course of action by being tolerated for years, by being allowed to make decisions, to advocate methods, to carry out plans, which are not of the Lord's devising. The enemy has been given an opportunity to control men, and to manage the work which God has shown should be kept pure and sacred, that it may be looked upon with reverence by all who claim to believe the truth. When men entrusted with responsibilities, neglect to cherish that which is sacred, and use common fire in God's service, God will despise their offering to him. This has been, and is still being done.  {PH080 10.1}
[PH080 10.2]          For years a degree of pharisaism has been springing up among us, which has separated some from the Bible standard. If the preconceived ideas of those actuated by this spirit are crossed, they immediately assume a controversial, combative attitude, as a man puts on armor when preparing for battle. Much pride and loftiness, and a spirit which desires to rule, has been manifested; but very little of the spirit which leads men to sit at the feet of Jesus and learn of him, has been shown. Human inventions and                           -11-     human plans are eclipsing sacred things, and excluding divine instruction. Men are taking the place of God by seeking to assume authority over their fellow men. But they rule without a vestige of the authority of God, which alone can make their ruling a healthful element; and others are becoming leavened by this wrong influence. If the principles of truth had been enthroned in the hearts of these men, human passions and human affections would have been guided and controlled by the Spirit of Christ. The atmosphere surrounding the soul would not be deleterious and poisonous; for self would be hid in Jesus.  {PH080 10.2}
[PH080 11.1]          Let those who desire to rule their fellow men, read God's declaration on this subject. He says, "Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye."  {PH080 11.1}
[PH080 11.2]          "Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. The servant therefore fell                             -12-     down, and worshiped him, saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants, which owed him an hundred pence: and he laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that thou owest. And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and besought him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not: but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. So when his fellow servants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou desiredst me: shouldest not thou also have had compassion on thy fellow servant, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tormenters, till he should pay all that was due unto him. So likewise shall my Heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses."  {PH080 11.2}
[PH080 12.1]          On one occasion the disciple John came to Jesus, saying, "Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbade him, because he followeth not us. But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me. For he that is not against us is on our part."  {PH080 12.1}
[PH080 12.2]          The spirit that has been shown to others by some in positions of trust in our institutions, does not                             -13-     harmonize with these words. The wrong spirit they have manifested has been caught by others, and if zeal and wisdom were shown in setting the heads of our institutions right, so many would not be turned out of the way. "Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees," said Christ; guard against the influence which they exert.  {PH080 12.2}
[PH080 13.1]                       Example of Christ.          Christ's life of humiliation should be a lesson to all who desire to exalt themselves above their fellow men. Though he had no taint of sin upon his character, yet he condescended to connect our fallen human nature with his divinity. By thus taking humanity, he honored humanity. Having taken our fallen nature, he showed what it might become, by accepting the ample provision he has made for it, and by becoming partaker of the divine nature.  {PH080 13.1}
[PH080 13.2]          In humility Christ began his mighty work of lifting the fallen race from the degradation of sin, recovering them by his divine power, which he had linked with humanity. Passing by the grand cities, and the renowned places of learning and supposed wisdom, he made his home in the humble and obscure village of Nazareth. The greater part of his life was passed in this place, from which it was commonly believed that no good thing could come. In the path which the poor, the neglected, the suffering, and the sorrowing must tread, he walked while on earth, taking upon him all the woes which the afflicted must bear. His home was among the poor. His family was not distinguished by learning, riches, or position. For many years he worked at his trade as a carpenter.                             -14-  {PH080 13.2}
[PH080 14.1]          The Jews had proudly boasted that Christ was to come as a king, to conquer his enemies, and tread down the heathen in his wrath. But the humble, submissive life our Saviour led, which should have enshrined him in the hearts of his people, and given them confidence in his mission, offended and disappointed the Jews, and we all know of the treatment he received from them. If the angels of God had not been round about him to protect him, the people he came to save would have killed him.  {PH080 14.1}
[PH080 14.2]          Christ did not exalt man by ministering to his pride. He humbled himself, and became obedient to death, even the death of the cross; and unless human pride is humbled and subdued, unless the stubborn heart is made tender by the Spirit of Christ, it is not possible for him to impress his divine similitude upon us. He, the humble Nazarene, might have poured contempt upon the world's pride, for he was commander in the heavenly courts; but he came to our world in humility, in order to show that it is not riches or position or authority or honorable titles, that the universe of heaven respects and honors, but those who will follow Christ, making any position or duty honorable by the virtue of their character, through the power of his grace.  {PH080 14.2}
[PH080 14.3]          No human being is warranted to lift himself up in pride. "For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones."                             -15-  {PH080 14.3}
[PH080 15.1]                     Council Meetings.          Scenes that were a shame to Christians, have been presented to me, as taking place in the council meetings held after the Minneapolis meeting. The loud voice of dispute, the hot spirit, the harsh words, resembled a political meeting more than a place where Christians were met for prayer and counsel. These meetings should have been dismissed as an insult to heaven. The Lord was not revered as an honored guest by those assembled in council, and how could they expect divine light to shine upon them; how could they feel that the presence of Jesus was molding and fashioning their plans? The place of meeting was not held as sacred, but was looked upon as a common business place. Then how could those assembled receive an inspiration which would lead them to enthrone truth in their hearts, to speak words in the tender, loving spirit of the Master?  {PH080 15.1}
[PH080 15.2]          In your council meetings and committee meetings, decisions are made, plans devised and matured which, when put into practise, leave an impression on the work at large; and no vestige of a spirit of harshness should appear. Loud, impatient words should never be heard. Remember that in all your council meetings there is a heavenly Watcher. Do not allow one word of vanity to be spoken; for you are legislating for God, and he says to you, "Be still, and know that I am God."  {PH080 15.2}
[PH080 15.3]          If your committee meetings and council meetings are not under the direct supervision of the Spirit of God, your conclusions will be earth-born, and worthy of no more consideration than are any                             -16-     man's expressions. Christ says, "Without me ye can do nothing." If he is not honored in your assemblies as chief Counselor, your planning comes from no higher source than the human mind.                                                    -    {PH080 15.3}
[PH080 16.1]          Brother Olsen, you speak of my return to America. For three years I stood in Battle Creek as a witness for the truth. Those who then refused to receive the testimony given me by God for them, and rejected the evidences attending these testimonies, would not be benefited should I return.  {PH080 16.1}
[PH080 16.2]          I shall write to you; but should I return to Battle Creek, and bear my testimony to those who love not the truth, the ever-ready words would rise from unbelieving hearts, "Somebody has told her." Even now unbelief is expressed by the words, "Who has written these things to Sister White?" But I know of no one who knows them as they are, and no one who could write that which he does not suppose has an existence. Some one has told me,--He who does not falsify, misjudge, or exaggerate any case. While in Minneapolis He bade me follow him from room to room, that I might hear what was spoken in the bedchamber. The enemy had things very much his own way. I heard no word of prayer, but I heard my name mentioned in a slurring, criticizing way.  {PH080 16.2}
[PH080 16.3]          I shall never, I think, be called to stand under the direction of the Holy Spirit as I stood at Minneapolis. The presence of Jesus was with me. All assembled in that meeting had an opportunity to place themselves on the side of truth by receiving the Holy Spirit, which was sent by God in such a rich current of love and mercy. But in                                   -17-     the rooms occupied by some of our people, were heard ridicule, criticism, jeering, laughter. The manifestations of the Holy Spirit were attributed to fanaticism. Who searched the Holy Scriptures, as did the noble Bereans, to see if the things they heard were so? Who prayed for divine guidance? The scenes which took place at this meeting made the God of heaven ashamed to call those who took part in them, his brethren. All this the Heavenly Watcher noticed, and it is written in the book of God's remembrance.  {PH080 16.3}
[PH080 17.1]          The Lord will blot out the transgression of those who, since that time, have repented with a sincere repentance; but every time the same spirit wakens in the soul, the deeds done on that occasion are endorsed, and the doers of them are made responsible to God, and must answer for them at his judgment throne. The same spirit that actuated the rejecters of Christ, rankles in their hearts, and had they lived in the days of Christ, they would have acted toward him in a manner similar to that of the godless and unbelieving Jews.  {PH080 17.1}
[PH080 17.2]          God's servants have no tame testimony to bear at this time, whether men will hear or whether they will forbear. He who rejects the light and evidence God has been liberally bestowing upon us, rejects Christ; and for him there is no other Saviour.                                                    -    {PH080 17.2}
[PH080 17.3]               The Work at Battle Creek.          The Spirit of the Lord, has outlined the condition of things at the Review and Herald Office. Speaking through Isaiah, God says, "I will not contend forever, neither will be always wroth:                           -18-     for the spirit should fail before me, and the souls which I have made. For the iniquity of his covetousness was I wroth, and smote him: I hid me, and was wroth, and he went on frowardly in the way of his heart."  {PH080 17.3}
[PH080 18.1]          This is precisely what has been done in the Office of publication at Battle Creek. Covetousness has been woven into nearly all the business transactions of the institution, and has been practised by individuals. This influence has spread like the leprosy, until it has tainted and corrupted the whole. As the publishing house has become corrupted, the General Conference Association has stepped in, and proposed to take the diseased child off its hands, and care for it. But it is a snare for the General Conference Association to take the publishing work on its shoulders. This puts no special sanctity upon the work, but upon the General Conference Association a burden which will weigh it down, cripple it, and weaken its efficiency, unless men who have firm principle, mingled with love, shall conduct the business lines.  {PH080 18.1}
[PH080 18.2]          In this step there has been a change of responsibility, but the wrong principles remain unchanged. The same work that has been done in the past, will be carried forward under the guise of the General Conference Association. The sacred character of this Association is fast disappearing. What will then be respected as pure, holy, and undefiled? Will there be any voice that God's people can regard as a voice they can respect? There certainly is nothing now that bears the divine credentials. Sacred things are mixed and mingled with earthly business that has no connection with God.                               -19-  {PH080 18.2}
[PH080 19.1]          To a large degree the General Conference Association has lost its sacred character, because some connected with it have not changed their sentiments in any particular since the Conference held at Minneapolis. Some in responsible positions go on "frowardly" in the way of their own hearts. Some who came from South Africa and from other places to receive an education which would qualify them for the work, have imbibed this spirit, carried it with them to their homes, and their work has not borne the right kind of fruit. The opinions of men, which were received by them, still cleave to them like the leprosy; and it is a very solemn question whether the souls who became imbued with the spiritual leprosy in Battle Creek, will ever be able to distinguish the principles of heaven from the methods and plans of men. The influences and impressions received in Battle Creek have done much to retard the work in South Africa.  {PH080 19.1}
[PH080 19.2]          As things now exist in Battle Creek, the work of God cannot be carried forward on a correct basis. How long will these things be? When will the perceptions of men be made clear and sharp by the ministration of the Holy Spirit? Some there do not detect the injurious effects of the plans which for years have been working in an underhand manner. Some of the managers at the present time are walking in the light that they have received, and are doing the best they can, but their fellow workers are making things so oppressive for them that they can do but little. The enslaving of the souls of men by their fellow men in deepening the darkness which already envelops them. Who can now feel sure that they                              -20-     are safe in respecting the voice of the General Conference Association? If the people in our churches understood the management of the men who walk in the light of the sparks of their own kindling, would they respect their decisions? I answer, No, not for a moment. I have been shown that the people at large do not know that the heart of the work is being diseased and corrupted at Battle Creek. Many of the people are in a lethargic, listless, apathetic condition, and assent to plans which they do not understand. Where is the voice, from whence will it come, to whom the people may listen, knowing that it comes from the True Shepherd? I am called upon by the Spirit of God to present these things before you, and they are correct to the life, according to the practice of the past few years.  {PH080 19.2}
[PH080 20.1]         "I have seen his ways, and will heal him: I will lead him also, and restore comforts unto him and to his mourners. I create the fruit of the lips; Peace, peace to him that is far off, and to him that is near, saith the Lord; and I will heal him. But the wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt. There is no peace, saith my God, to the wicked." "Hear ye this, O house of Jacob, which are called by the name of Israel, and are come forth out of the waters of Judah, which swear by the name of the Lord, and make mention of the God of Israel, but not in truth, nor in righteousness." "Yea, thou heardest not; yea, thou knewest not; yea, from that time that thine ear was not opened: for I knew that thou wouldest deal very treacherously, and wast called a transgressor from the womb." "Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed,                         -21-     and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine: and ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation."                                                    -    {PH080 20.1}
[PH080 21.1]           Consolidation Of The Publishing                       Work.            The Lord has presented matters before me that cause me to tremble for the institutions at Battle Creek. He has laid these things before me, and I shall not be consistent if I do not seek to repress the spirit in Battle Creek, which reaches out for more power, when for years there have not been sufficient men who were qualified to preside, with Christian faithfulness, over the charge they already have.  {PH080 21.1}
[PH080 21.2]          The scheme for consolidation is detrimental to the cause of present truth. Battle Creek has all the power she should have. Some in that place have advanced selfish plans, and if any branch of the work promised a measure of success, they have not exercised the spirit which lets well enough alone, but have made an effort to attach these interests to the great whole. They have striven to embrace altogether too much, and yet they are eager to get more. When they can show that they have made these plans under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, then confidence in them may be restored.  {PH080 21.2}
[PH080 21.3]          Twenty years ago, I was surprised at the cautions and warnings given me in reference to the publishing house on the Pacific Coast; that it was ever to remain independent of all other institutions; that it was to be controlled by no other institution,                             -22-     but was to do the Lord's work under his guidance and protection. The Lord says, "All ye are brethren;" and the Pacific Press is not to be envied and looked upon with jealousy and suspicion by the stronger publishing house at Battle Creek,. It must maintain its own individuality, and be strictly guarded from any corruption. It must not be merged into any other institution. The hand of power and control at Battle Creek must not reach across the continent to manage it.  {PH080 21.3}
[PH080 22.1]          At a later date, just prior to my husband's death, the minds of some were agitated in regard to placing these institutions under one presiding power. Again the Holy Spirit brought to my mind what had been stated to me by the Lord. I told my husband to say, in answer to this proposition, that the Lord had not planned any such action. He who knows the end from the beginning, understands these matters better than erring man.  {PH080 22.1}
[PH080 22.2]          At a still later date the situation of the publishing house at Oakland was again presented to me. I was shown that a work was to be done by this institution which would be to the glory of God if the workers would keep his honor ever in view; but that an error was being committed by taking in a class of work which had a tendency to corrupt the institution. I was also shown that it must stand in its own independence, working out God's plan, under the control of none other but God.  {PH080 22.2}
[PH080 22.3]          The Lord presented before me that branches of this work would be planted in other places, and carried on under the supervision of the Pacific Press; but that if this proved a success, jealousy, evil surmisings, and covetousness would arise. Efforts would be made to change the order of                         -23-     things, and embrace the work among other interests at Battle Creek. Men are very zealous to change the order of things, but the Lord forbids such a consolidation. Every branch should be allowed to live, and do its own work.  {PH080 22.3}
[PH080 23.1]          Mistakes will occur in every institution, but if the managers will learn the lesson all must learn, --to move guardedly,--these errors will not be repeated, and God will preside over the work. Every workers in our institutions needs to make the word of God his rule of action. Then the blessing of God will rest on him. He cannot with safety dispense with the truth of God as his guide and monitor. If man can take one breath without being dependent upon God, then he may lay aside God's pure, holy word as guide book. The truth must take control of the conscience and the understanding in all the work that is done. The Holy Spirit must preside over thought and word and deed. It is to direct in all temporal and spiritual actions.  {PH080 23.1}
[PH080 23.2]          It is well pleasing to God that we have praise and prayer and religious services, but Bible religion must be brought into all we do, and give sanctity to each daily duty. The Lord's will must become man's will in everything. The Holy One of Israel has given rules of guidance to all, and these rules of guidance are to be strictly followed; for they form the standard of character. No one can swerve from the first principles of righteousness without sinning. But our religion is misinterpreted and despised by unbelievers, because so many who profess to hold the truth, do not practice its principles in dealing with their fellow men.  {PH080 23.2}
[PH080 23.3]          To my brethren at Battle Creek, I would say,                      -24-     You are not in any condition to consolidate. This means nothing less than placing upon the institutions at Battle Creek, the management of all the work, far and near. God's work cannot be carried forward successfully by men, who, by their resistance to light, have placed themselves where nothing will influence them to repent or change their course of action. There are men connected with the work in Battle Creek whose hearts are not sanctified and controlled by God.  {PH080 23.3}
[PH080 24.1]          If those connected with the work of God will not hear his voice and do his will, they should be separated entirely from the work. God does not need the influence of such men. I speak plainly; for it is time that things were called by their right name. Those who love and fear God with all their hearts are the only men that God can trust. But those who have separated their souls from God, should themselves be separated from the work of God, which is so solemn and so important.                                      Mrs. E. G. White.                                          ［25］  {PH080 24.1}
[PH080 25.1]               An Earnest Admonition.                                                    -                  "Norfolk Villa," Prospect St.,                  Granville, N. S. W., Sept. 19, 1895.     Dear Brother-----:--            I do not find rest in spirit. Scene after scene is presented in symbols before me, and I find no rest until I begin to write out the matter. I think we will institute, at least once each day, a season of prayer for the Lord to set things in order at the center of the work. Matters are being shaped so that every other institution is following in the same course. The General Conference is itself becoming corrupted with wrong sentiments and principles. In the working up of plans, the same principles are manifest that have controlled at Battle Creek for a long time.  {PH080 25.1}
[PH080 25.2]          Christ said of the Jews, "In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: for this people's heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed." Thus it is with some men who are connected with the great and important interests in our institutions.  {PH080 25.2}
[PH080 25.3]          I have been shown that the Jewish nation were not brought suddenly into their condition of thought and practise. From generation to generation they were working on false theories, carrying out principles that were opposed to the truth, and combining with their religion, thoughts and                             -26-     plans that were the product of human minds: human inventions were made supreme.  {PH080 25.3}
[PH080 26.1]          So it is today. Men connected with the work of God have been dealing unjustly, and it is time to call a halt. The holy principles God has given are represented by the sacred fire: but common fire has been used in place of the sacred. False propositions have been assumed as truth and righteousness, and everything has been managed in such a way as to carry out these propositions, which are a misrepresentation of God's character. Plans contrary to truth and righteousness have been introduced in a subtle manner, on the plea that this must be done, and that must be done because it is for the advancement of the cause of God. Men have taken advantage of those whom they supposed to be under their jurisdiction. They were determined to bring the individuals to their terms; they would rule or ruin. This devising leads to oppression, injustice, and wickedness. There will be no material change for the better until a decided movement is made to bring in different state of things.  {PH080 26.1}
[PH080 26.2]         The plea some are so ready to urge, "The cause of God," or "Working in behalf of the cause of God," to justify themselves in presenting robbery for burnt offering, is an offense to God. He accepts no such transactions; prosperity will not attend these movements. The Lord of heaven does not accept the strange fire offered to him. Let men deal with men upon the principles of the ten commandments, bringing these principles into their business transactions; for the great and holy and merciful God will never be in league with dishonest practises; not a single touch of injustice                              -27-     will he vindicate. The cause of God is free from every taint of injustice. It can gain no advantage by robbing the members of the family of God of their individuality or of their rights. All such practises are abhorrent to God.  {PH080 26.2}
[PH080 27.1]          Let all bear in mind that the Lord's eye is upon all their works, and that he expects fidelity from his servants. When the four Hebrew youth were receiving an education for the court of the Babylonish king, they did not feel that the blessing of the Lord was a substitute for the taxing effort required of them. They were diligent in study; for they discerned that through the grace of God, their destiny depended on their own will and action. They knew that they were to bring all their ability to their work, and by close, severe taxation of their powers, make the most of their opportunities for study and labor.  {PH080 27.1}
[PH080 27.2]          He who has created men, and has given them talent and intellect, seeks to bring their minds into association with the divine. When this is done, goodness, love for their fellow men, will be their natural instinct. He would have men love God supremely, and their fellow men impartially. It is his purpose that we should be closely attached to God, and tenderly attached to one another.  {PH080 27.2}
[PH080 27.3]          Such was the condition that existed in heaven before the disaffection of Satan. The heavenly current flowed through the universe of God without one cloud of evil to cast a shadow upon its bright waters. Everywhere spotless purity was reflected as in a mirror; and God was over all. But Satan fell. The human race were created. Adam and Eve fell.  {PH080 27.3}
[PH080 27.4]          And cannot men who have the history of the                            -28-     fall, the workings of the wily foe since Adam's day, see how the same principles are still at work, and what will be the end thereof? We are all on trial during probationary time. Satan is playing the game of life for every soul; Christ is at work for every soul. Those who consent to receive the moral image of God, become like him in character. But if they refuse the character of Christ, heaven is lost to them. When we have so gracious an opportunity of working out our own salvation through our choice of the character we form, why will we not lay hold of the Saviour, and by faith receive his merits, and perfect a character like his?  {PH080 27.4}
[PH080 28.1]          The Lord Jesus himself has bridged the gulf that sin has made, and the whole scheme of redemption has been put in operation to restore the moral image of God in man. "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." Infinite wisdom is revealed in Christ. He suffered in our stead, that men could have another test and trial to prove whether they would be safe subjects for his kingdom. His blood was our ransom, his death brings life and immortality within our reach. He has risen from the dead, and has ascended on high to intercede for the fallen race. He is now at the right hand of the throne of God,--our Representative before the Father. Whatever was given to Christ--the "all things" to supply every need of fallen man--was given to him as the head and representative of humanity. In and through him we are complete in every grace. We share his throne. "To as many as received him, to them gave he power to become                             -29-     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."  {PH080 28.1}
[PH080 29.1]          There is a heaven of bliss, free from all dissension, free from all selfishness, free from poverty, sickness, and oppression, for those that overcome. Then I entreat you who have a heaven to gain and a hell to shun. Do not be presumptuous. Link up in the closest relationship with Christ, and depart from every species of iniquity.  {PH080 29.1}
[PH080 29.2]          All who, before the universe of heaven, are adjudged to have, in Christ, endured the penalty of the law, and in him fulfilled its righteousness, will have eternal life. They will be one in character with Christ. His prayer for his followers will be fulfilled. "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." Shall we not strive to form characters after the divine similitude? Shall we not here be conformed to the image of Christ? O that God would give us divine perception to comprehend the breadth and length, the depth and height, and to know the love of Christ that passeth knowledge, that we might be filled with all the fulness of God! Then would man look upon his fellow men as God's own purchased possession. He would keep his own soul in the love of God, and would not undertake to lord it over God's heritage.  {PH080 29.2}
[PH080 29.3]          It was a wonderful thing for God to create man, to make mind. He created him that every faculty                                 -30-     might be the faculty of the divine mind. The glory of God is to be revealed in the creation of man in God's image, and in his redemption. One soul is of more value than a world. The Lord Jesus is the Author of our being, and he is also the Author of our redemption; and every one who will enter into the kingdom of God will develop a character that is the counterpart of the character of God. None can dwell with God in the holy heaven but those who bear his likeness. Those who are redeemed will be overcomers; they will be elevated, pure, one with Christ.  {PH080 29.3}
[PH080 30.1]          The divine decrees are to be vindicated; it will be demonstrated that they are not accessory to sin. There was no withdrawal of divine influence from Lucifer. Not in the slightest particular was there a deficiency in God's government that would afford a cause for disaffection in heaven. So in the administration of affairs in connection with God's work on earth, he requires that those who bear the responsibility of the work are to give no cause for disaffection. The principles that are according to heaven's order must be maintained.  {PH080 30.1}
[PH080 30.2]          Everything in our world is in agitation. Coming events cast their shadows before. The signs of the times are ominous indeed. There is assurance in nothing human or earthly. There are but two parties in this world. Satan works with his crooked, deceiving power, and through strong delusion he catches all who do not abide in the truth, and have turned their ears away from the truth, and have turned unto fables. Satan himself abode not in the truth, and he is the mystery of iniquity. Through his subtility he gives to his soul-destroying errors the appearance of truth. Herein is                               -31-     their power to deceive. It is because they are a counterfeit of the truth that Spiritualism, theosophy, and the like deceptions gain such power over the minds of men. Herein is the masterly working of Satan. He pretends to be the Saviour of man, the benefactor of the human race, and thus he more readily lures his victims to destruction.  {PH080 30.2}
[PH080 31.1]          Rapidly men are ranging themselves under the banner they have chosen, restlessly waiting and watching the movements of their leaders. Some are watching and waiting and working for our Lord's appearing, but the greater part of the world are rapidly falling into line under the generalship of the first great apostate. They look for a god in humanity, and Satan personifies the one they seek. Multitudes will be so deluded through their rejection of truth, that they will accept the counterfeit; and humanity will be hailed as God.  {PH080 31.1}
[PH080 31.2]          Satan's skill is exercised in devising plans and methods without number to accomplish his purpose. Dissimulation has become a fine art with him, and he works in the guise of an angel of light. God's eye alone discerns his schemes to contaminate the world with false and ruinous principles, bearing on their face the appearance of genuine goodness. He works to restrict religious liberty, and to bring into the religious world a species of slavery. Organizations, institutions, unless kept by the power of God, will work under Satan's dictation to bring men under the control of men and fraud and guile will bear the semblance of zeal for truth, and for the advancement of the kingdom of God. Whatever in our practise is not as open as the day, belongs to the methods of the prince of evil.                                  -32-  {PH080 31.2}
[PH080 32.1]          We are warned in the word of God that sleepless vigilance is the price of safety. Only in the straight path of truth and righteousness can we escape the tempter's power. The winds are held by the four angels; a moment of respite has been graciously given us of God. Every power lent us of God, whether practical, mental, or moral, is to be sacredly cherished to do the work assigned us for our fellow men who are perishing in their ignorance. The warning is to go forth to all parts of the world. There must be no delay.  {PH080 32.1}
[PH080 32.2]          If men resist the warnings the Lord sends them, they become even leaders in evil practises; such men assume to exercise the prerogatives of God-- they presume to do that which God himself will not do in seeking to control the minds of men. They introduce their own methods and plans, and through their misconceptions of God, they weaken the faith of others in the truth, and bring in false principles that will work like leaven to taint and corrupt our institutions and churches. Anything that lowers men's conception of righteousness and equity and impartial judgment, any device or precept that brings God's human agents under the control of human minds, impairs their faith in God; it separates the soul from God, for it leads away from the path of strict integrity and righteousness.  {PH080 32.2}
[PH080 32.3]          God will not vindicate any device whereby man shall in the slightest degree rule or oppress his fellow man. The only hope for fallen man is to look to Jesus, and receive him as the only Saviour. As soon as man begins to make an iron rule for other men, as soon as he begins to harness up and drive men according to his own mind, he dishonors                          -33-     God, and imperils his own soul and the souls of his brethren.  {PH080 32.3}
[PH080 33.1]          God expects his workers to be tender-hearted. How merciful are the ways of God! (See Deuteronomy 10:17-20; 2 Chronicles 20:5-7, 9; 1 Peter 1:17.) But the rules God has given have been disregarded, and strange fire has been offered before the Lord. The spirit of domination is extending to the presidents of our conferences. But if a man is sanguine of his own powers, and seeks to exercise dominion over his brethren, feeling that he is invested with authority to make his will the ruling power, the best and only safe course is to remove him, lest great harm be done, and he lose his own soul, and imperil the souls of others. "All ye are brethren." Those in authority should manifest the spirit of Christ. They should deal as he would deal with every case that requires attention. They should go weighted with the Holy Spirit.  {PH080 33.1}
[PH080 33.2]          A man's position does not make him one jot or tittle greater in the sight of God; it is character alone that God values. The high-handed power that has been developed, as though position made men gods, makes me afraid, and ought to cause fear. It is a curse wherever, and by whomsoever exercised. This lording it over God's heritage will create such a disgust of man's jurisdiction that a state of insubordination will result. The people are learning that men in high positions of authority cannot be trusted to mold and fashion other men's minds and characters. The result will be a loss of confidence even in the management of faithful men. But the Lord will raise up laborers who realize their own nothingness apart from him.                           -34-  {PH080 33.2}
[PH080 34.1]          Let men be connected with God's work who will represent his character. They may have much to learn in regard to business management; but if they pray to God as did Daniel, if with true contrition of mind they seek that wisdom which comes from above, the Lord will give them an understanding heart. Read carefully and prayerfully the third chapter of James, especially verses 13-16. The whole chapter is an eye-opener, if men wish to open their eyes.  {PH080 34.1}
[PH080 34.2]         The goodness, mercy, and love of God was proclaimed by Christ to Moses. This was God's character. When men who profess to serve God, ignore his parental character, and depart from honor and righteousness in dealing with their fellow men, Satan exults; for he has inspired them with his attributes. They are following in the track of Romanism. Those who are enjoined to represent the attributes of the Lord's character, step from the Bible platform, and in their own human judgment devise rules and resolutions to force the will of others. But when men are forced to follow the prescriptions of other men, an order of things is instituted that overrides sympathy and tender compassion, blinding the eyes of men to mercy, justice, and the love of God. Moral influence and personal responsibility are trodden under foot.  {PH080 34.2}
[PH080 34.3]          The righteousness of Christ by faith has been ignored by some; for it is contrary to their spirit, and their whole life-experience. Rule, rule, has been their course of action; and Satan has had an opportunity to represent himself through them. When one who professes to be a representative of Christ, engages in sharp dealing, and presses men                            -35-     into hard places, those who are thus oppressed will either break every fetter of restraint, or will be led to regard God as a hard master. They cherish hard feelings against God, and their souls are alienated from him, just as Satan planned it should be. This hard-heartedness on the part of men who claim to believe the truth, Satan charges to the influence of truth itself, and thus men become disgusted, and turn from the truth. For this reason no man should have a responsible connection with our institutions, who thinks it no important matter whether he have a heart of flesh or a heart of steel. Such men may think they are representing the justice of God, but they do not represent his tenderness, and the great love wherewith he has loved us. Their human inventions, originating with the specious devices of Satan, appear fair enough to the blinded eyes of men, because they are inherent in their nature. A lie, believed and practised, becomes truth to them. Thus the purpose of Satan, that men should reach these conclusions through the working of their own inventive minds, is accomplished.  {PH080 34.3}
[PH080 35.1]                      A Common Source of Error.          Men fall into error by starting with false premises, and then bringing everything to bear to make the error true. In some cases the first principles have a measure of truth interwoven with the errors, but it does not lead to any just action; and this is why men are misled. In order to reign and become a power, they employ Satan's methods to justify their own principles. They exalt themselves as men of superior judgment, and profess to stand as representatives of God. These are false gods.                               -36-  {PH080 35.1}
[PH080 36.1]          Sinful men can find hope and righteousness only in God; and no human being is righteous any longer than he has faith in God, and maintains a vital connection with him. A flower of the field must have its root in the soil; it must have air, dew, showers, and sunshine. It will flourish only as it receives these advantages, and all are from God. So with men. We receive from God that which ministers to the life of the soul. We are warned not to trust in man, nor to make flesh our arm. A curse is pronounced upon all that do this.  {PH080 36.1}
[PH080 36.2]          "Thus saith the Lord; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord. For he shall be like the heath in the desert, and shall not see when good cometh; but shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land and not inhabited. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the Lord search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings. . . . O Lord, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, and they that depart from me shall be written in the earth, because they have forsaken the Lord, the fountain of living water."  {PH080 36.2}
[PH080 36.3]          Let no plans or methods be brought into any of                             -37-     our institutions that will place mind or talent under the control of human judgment; for this is not in God's order. God has given to man, talents of influence which belong to him alone, and no greater dishonor can be done to God than for one finite agent to purchase from men their God-given talent, or the product of such talent, to be absolutely under his control, even though the benefits of the same be used to the advantage of the cause. In such arrangements, one man's mind is ruled by another man's mind, and the human agent is separated from God, and exposed to temptations. Satan's methods tend to one end,--to make men the slaves of men. And when this is done, confusion and distrust, jealousies and evil surmisings, are the result. Such a course destroys man's faith in God, and in the principles which are to control his work, to purge from guilt and from every species of selfishness and hypocrisy.  {PH080 36.3}
[PH080 37.1]          The Lord of heaven, who made our world, and who created man, guards the interests of every soul. To every man he has given this work. We are laborers together with God. There are diversities of gifts, and every man should appreciate the moral and spiritual capital which God has entrusted to him. No one should treat these entrusted talents with indifference. No one is accountable for the talents he has never had; none should complain of the smallness of their gifts. Every one is to trade on that which God has entrusted to him, working where he can, doing the best possible service for the Master. Our talent, well used, will gain other talents, and these still others. The man with a few pence can serve God faithfully with his pence. If he does this, he is                             -38-     judged as faithful in the sight of God as the one who has improved pounds.  {PH080 37.1}
[PH080 38.1]          All are to realize their individual responsibility to employ their talents to the glory of God according to their ability. Let no man or council of men assume the responsibility of making as little as possible of these talents, according to their human estimate of God's entrusted qualifications. No man is to weigh in the balances of human judgment the talents God has given to other men. Let every man appreciate God's gifts to him, and faithfully trade upon them. No man is to merge his individuality into that of any other man. No man should be urged to make another man his steward. There are diversities of gifts, and a large work to be done in our world in the use of God's entrusted goods. Let us never forget that we are here to be fashioned by the hand of God, fitted to do the work he has given us to do. That work is our own, the accountability is our own; it cannot be transferred to another. Let not human agents interpose to take another's work out of the hands of God into their own finite hands.  {PH080 38.1}
[PH080 38.2]          Principles Underlying Our Stewardship.          I have borne abundant testimony, setting forth the fact that the ability to write a book, is, like every other talent, a gift from God, for which the possessor is accountable to him. This talent no man can buy or sell without incurring great and dangerous responsibility. Those who labor to bring about changes in the publication of books, to place the books wholly under the control of the publishing houses or the Conference, know not                               -39-     what they are talking about. Their eyes are blinded, and they work from a wrong standpoint. Selfishness is a root of bitterness whereby many are defiled.  {PH080 38.2}
[PH080 39.1]          The efforts that have been made to turn all the profits derived from the talents of writers, into the hands of the Conference or the publishing house, will not prove a success; for the plan is not just and equal. From the light given me by God, the efforts made in this direction by those at the heart of the work, are not heaven-inspired. It is a very narrow, conceited arrangement, devised by human minds, and it does not bear the marks of God. Every man's special work is appointed him of God, and he is individually responsible to God. When men connected with the publishing business make decisions and transact business as they have done and propose to do at Battle Creek, they give evidence that changes should be made as soon as possible; for God is not in any such plan.  {PH080 39.1}
[PH080 39.2]          Those who write books are not to be left under the control of men who have no experimental knowledge of authorship. These men have a high appreciation of their own ability, but they have shown how little they appreciate the human agent, to whom God has given a certain work to do. They belittle men to whom God has given talents to use to his glory. He never designed that any man should sell his stewardship, as if he were not capable of managing the talents given him. The ideas which prevail, that, in order to give to the cause of God, a writer must place all the profits of his work, beyond a mere pittance, where other men shall control it for him, or invest as shall suit their ideas, are an error.                              -40-  {PH080 39.2}
[PH080 40.1]          Long ago, when such ideas were first advanced, they should have been treated as they deserved. Men took into their own hands responsibilities which they were not capable of treating justly or managing successfully. They have given evidence of this in the past in the fact that they would resort to unfair means, in order to wring from men God's entrusted talents for their own appropriation. But the very persons whom God has entrusted with his goods, are held responsible to trade upon them, and thus develop talent.  {PH080 40.1}
[PH080 40.2]          Every soul who has become the servant of God through the grace of Jesus Christ, has his own peculiar sphere of labor. He is not to be bought or sold, but he is to understand that "ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, who by him do believe in God, that raised him from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God. Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently." Who have greater need to be doers of this inspired injunction than have those who are living at the very close of this earth's history?  {PH080 40.2}
[PH080 40.3]          It is not our property that is entrusted to us for investment. If it had been, we might claim discretionary power; we might shift the responsibility upon others, and leave our stewardship with                             -41-     others. But this cannot be, because the Lord is testing us individually. If we act wisely in trading upon our Lord's goods and multiplying the talents given us, we shall invest this gain for the Master, praying for wisdom that we may be divested of all selfishness, and laboring most earnestly to advance the precious truth in our world.  {PH080 40.3}
[PH080 41.1]                   Individual Responsibility.          Some men or councils may say, That is just what we wish you to do. The Conference Committee will take your capital, and will appropriate it for this very object. But the Lord has made us individually his stewards. We each hold a solemn responsibility to invest this means ourselves. A portion it is right to place in the treasury to advance the general interests of the work; but the steward of means will not be guiltless before God, unless, so far as he is able to do this, he shall use that means as circumstances shall reveal the necessity. We should be ready to help the suffering, and to set in operation plans to advance the truth in various ways. It is not in the province of the Conference or any other organization to relieve us of this stewardship. If you lack wisdom, go to God; ask him for yourself, and then work with an eye single to his glory.  {PH080 41.1}
[PH080 41.2]          By exercising your judgment, by giving where you see there is need in any line of the work, you are putting out your money to the exchangers. If you see in any locality that the truth is gaining a foothold, and there is no place of worship, then do something to meet the necessity. By your own action encourage others to act, in building a humble                             -42-     house for the worship of God. Have an interest in the work in all parts of the field.  {PH080 41.2}
[PH080 42.1]          While it is not your own property that you are handling, yet you are made responsible for its wise investment, for its use or abuse. God does not lay upon you the burden of asking the Conference or any council of men whether you shall use your means as you see fit to advance the work of God in destitute towns and cities, and impoverished localities. If the right plan had been followed, so much means would not have been used in some localities, and so little in other places where the banner of truth has not been raised. We are not to merge our individuality of judgment into any institution in our world. We are to look to God for wisdom, as did Daniel.  {PH080 42.1}
[PH080 42.2]          Age after age Jesus has been delivering his goods to his church. At the time of the first advent of Christ to our world, the men who composed the Sanhedrin exercised their authority in controlling men according to their will. If men's wills were always submerged into God's will, this would be safe; but when men are separated from God, and their own wisdom is made a controlling power, the souls for whom Christ has given his life to free from the bondage of Satan, are brought under bondage to him in another form.  {PH080 42.2}
[PH080 42.3]          Do we individually realize our true position, that as God's hired servants we are not to bargain away our stewardship; but that before the heavenly universe we are to administer the truth committed to us by God? Our own hearts are to be sanctified, our hands are to have something to impart as occasion demands, of the income that God entrusts to us. The humblest of us have been                             -43-     entrusted with talents, and made agents for God, using our gifts for his name's glory. It is the duty of every one to realize his own responsibility, and to see that his talents are turned to advantage as a gift that he must return, having done his best to improve it. He who improves his talents to the best of his ability, may present his offering to God as a consecrated gift, that will be as fragrant incense before him, a savor of life unto life.  {PH080 42.3}
[PH080 43.1]          The Saviour's Interview With Nicodemus.          The change which must come to the natural, inherited, and cultivated tendencies of the human heart, is that change of which Jesus spoke when he said to Nicodemus, "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." Nicodemus was a man in high position of trust, a man who was looked up to as one educated in Jewish customs, a man whose mind was stored with wisdom. He was indeed in possession of talents of no ordinary character. He had heard the teaching of Jesus, and his mind had been aroused by the wonderful works. He desired to hear more, but he would not go to Jesus by day; he was not prepared to meet the jealousy of the scribes and Pharisees; and it would be too humiliating for a ruler of the Jews to acknowledge himself in sympathy with the despised Nazarene. He sought him at night, thinking, I will ascertain for myself the mission and claims of this teacher, and see whether he in indeed the Light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Israel. "Rabbi," he said to Jesus, "we know that thou art a teacher come from God:                             -44-     for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him."  {PH080 43.1}
[PH080 44.1]          Jesus answered and said unto him, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." He virtually said to Nicodemus, It is not controversy that will help your case. Arguments will not bring light to your soul. You must have a new heart, or you cannot discern the kingdom of heaven. It is not greater evidence that will bring you into a right position, but new purposes, new springs of action. You must be born again. Until this change takes place, until all things are made new, the strongest evidence that could be presented would be useless. The want is in your own heart; everything must be changed or you cannot see the kingdom of God.  {PH080 44.1}
[PH080 44.2]          To Nicodemus this was a very humiliating statement, and with a feeling of irritation he took up the words of Christ, saying, "How can a man be born when he is old?" He was not spiritually minded enough to discern the meaning of the words of Christ. But the Saviour did not meet argument with argument. Raising his hand in solemn, quiet dignity, he pressed home the truth with greater assurance: "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit."                             -45-  {PH080 44.2}
[PH080 45.1]          Some gleams of truth were penetrating the ruler's mind. Christ's words filled him with awe, and led to the inquiry. "How can these things be?" With deep earnestness, Jesus answered, "Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things?" Surely one entrusted with the religious interests of the people, should not be ignorant of truth so important for them to understand as the condition of entrance into the kingdom of heaven. Christ's words conveyed the lesson, that instead of feeling irritated over the plain words of truth, and indulging in irony, Nicodemus should have a far more humble opinion of himself, because of his spiritual ignorance. Yet the words of Christ were spoken with such solemn dignity, and both look and tone expressed such earnest love, that Nicodemus was not offended as he realized his humiliating position. "Verily, verily, I say unto thee," continued Jesus, "we speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, If I tell you of heavenly things?"  {PH080 45.1}
[PH080 45.2]          I present this lesson to Nicodemus as highly applicable to those who today are in responsible positions as rulers in Israel, and whose voices are often heard in council, giving evidence of the spirit that Nicodemus possessed. The words of Christ are spoken just as verily to presidents of conferences, elders of churches, and those occupying responsible positions in our churches, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." Will the lesson given to the chief ruler have the same influence on their hearts and lives as it had on his?                             -46-  {PH080 45.2}
[PH080 46.1]         Nicodemus was converted as the result of this interview. In that night conference with Jesus, the convicted man stood before the Saviour under the softening, subduing influence of the truth which was shining into the chambers of his mind, and impressing his heart. Jesus said to him, "If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of Man which is in heaven." Jesus not only told Nicodemus that he must have a new heart in order to see the kingdom of heaven, but he told him how to obtain this new heart. He read the inquiring mind of the seeker after truth, and presented before him the representation of himself: "As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." Good news! good news! let it ring throughout the world!  {PH080 46.1}
[PH080 46.2]          Nicodemus caught the meaning of Christ's words. He received his lesson, and became a true believer. He searched the Scriptures in a different way; he could say, "Old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." He did begin to see the kingdom of heaven, because he submitted himself to the leading of the Holy Spirit. His voice was heard in the Sanhedrin council, opposing the measures for compassing the death of Christ. "Doth our law judge any man, before it hear him?" he asked. The scornful answer was                             -47-     returned, "Art thou also of Galilee? Search, and look: for out of Galilee ariseth no prophet."  {PH080 46.2}
[PH080 47.1]          The lesson given to Nicodemus is of the greatest importance to every soul that lives, for the terms of salvation are here laid out in distinct lines; if one had no other text in the Bible, this alone would be a guide to the soul. Especially to every man who accepts responsibilities as a counselor, every one who is dealing with human minds, is this grand, beautiful truth to be a bright and shining light. It is no credit to the one who has the word of God in his possession, to say, "I have no experience. I do not understand these things." He never will be wiser until he becomes of much less consequence in his own estimation, and diligently searches the Word to obtain knowledge.  {PH080 47.1}
[PH080 47.2]          The change of heart represented by the new birth, can be brought about only by the effectual working of the Holy Spirit. If it molds and fashions your heart daily, you will have divine insight to perceive the character of the kingdom of God. But pride and self-love have resisted the Spirit of God. Every natural inclination of the soul opposes the change from self-importance and pride to the meekness and lowliness of Christ. It is only through receiving divine light, only through the co-operation of heavenly intelligences that we can discern the spiritual character of the kingdom of God. Only thus can we have a lively sense of the duties due to all with whom we are brought in contact.  {PH080 47.2}
[PH080 47.3]          We are under contract to God, in his divine service, to work as Christ worked, not in accordance with natural inclinations, but in accordance with the Spirit of God. But man has woven into                             -48-     the work of God, his own defects of character, devices that are human and earthly, delusions, ensnaring to himself and to all who accept them. He must make it his first duty to understand the work of God in the regeneration of the soul. He must learn this lesson as a little child. This change should take place in every man before he accepts a position as leader or ruler in connection with the work of God. If he has not a vital connection with God, his own spirit and sentiments will prevail, and he will offer strange fire in the place of the sacred.  {PH080 47.3}
[PH080 48.1]          Consider the incident which Christ presented before Nicodemus in referring to the uplifted serpent. The Lord Jesus had protected the children of Israel from the venomous serpents in the wilderness, but this part of their history they did not know. Angels from heaven had accompanied them, and in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night, Christ had been their protection through all their journeyings. But they became selfish and discontented, and in order that they might not forget his great care over them, the Lord Jesus gave them a bitter lesson. He permitted them to be bitten by the fiery serpents, but in his great mercy he did not leave them to perish. Moses was bidden to make and lift the brazen serpent on the pole, and make the proclamation that whosoever should look upon it should live. And all who looked did live. They recovered health at once. Suppose ye that this life-giving message, the invitation to look upon the representation of Christ, was given in whispered tones? Suppose ye that there were meetings for discussion as to how the symbol of the brazen                              -49-     serpent could have any efficacy? Some hesitated, desiring a scientific explanation, but no light was given. They must accept the words given by Christ to Moses. It was proclaimed with the trumpet, and by the leading men of every tribe throughout the encampment. The word obeyed, would bring life and healing.  {PH080 48.1}
[PH080 49.1]          What a strange symbol of Christ was that likeness of the serpent which stung them! This symbol was lifted on a pole and they were to look to it, and be healed. So Jesus was made in the likeness of sinful flesh. He came as the sin-bearer. Under the symbol of the uplifted serpent, he was presented before the vast congregation of those who were entrusted with sacred truth. It was God's purpose that when Christ should appear in person, men might recognize his mission, and cooperate with him in the saving of humanity. He was crucified at one of the yearly gatherings of the Jews, when representatives from all nations were present at Jerusalem. The knowledge of the cruel work done to Jesus was to go to the remotest regions of the inhabited world. The message, Look and live, was given in the most decided manner.  {PH080 49.1}
[PH080 49.2]          The same healing, life-giving message is now sounding. It means hope, courage, faith, pardon, and life. It points to the Saviour, uplifted on the shameful tree. Those who have been bitten by the old serpent, the devil, are bidden to look and live.  {PH080 49.2}
[PH080 49.3]          Through the Saviour's lesson, Nicodemus was brought to see that the ignorant and unbelieving are not to be enlightened by controversy and discussion. They must look and live. Nicodemus                             -50-     hoped that his people would let Christ speak to them as he had spoken to him; then they would no longer remain in unbelief. O that today men would hear the voice of Jesus, "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God"! The explanation of the plan of salvation may today be presented to men who act as rulers and counselors, and yet, having eyes, they see not, and having ears, they hear not; they have no experimental knowledge of what it means to believe in Christ as their personal Saviour. Nicodemus was converted. Will these men learn what it means to have a new heart? and what it means to cease from sin? what it means to have the righteousness of Christ, to bear the divine similitude?  {PH080 49.3}
[PH080 50.1]         Look only to Jesus as your righteousness and your sacrifice. As you are justified by faith, the deadly sting of the serpent will be healed. Then there will be no more of self; you will have peace with God through Jesus Christ. Open the door of your hearts, and let Jesus in. Some of you have become hard-hearted; you have resisted evidence, and have despised the messages of warning, of light and truth, which the Lord has sent you by the Holy Spirit, because he loves you and is loath to give you up. As a look to the brazen serpent brought life to the dying, so the look of faith to the Lamb of God will bring life to the soul dead in trespasses and sins. Above all others, the men in responsible positions need the converting power of God daily. They need to sanctify themselves, that others may be sanctified. If they would co-operate with God, looking to Christ every moment, believing in him as it is their privilege to do, their                              -51-     eyes would be opened, and their hearts would be made new.  {PH080 50.1}
[PH080 51.1]          "God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." O who can measure such love as this? It is not that God loved us because Christ died for us; but while we were yet sinners, rebels against his law, he gave Jesus to bear our sins, that pardon may come to all who believe on him. The only hope of the world was for One who knew no sin, One equal with God, to come to our earth, and live the law, testifying that in his humanity, he could keep the law, and that sinners might become partakers of the divine nature, and thus be obedient children of God. This is the great work that God has done for the fallen race. He is not willing that any shall perish, but that whosoever will, may come to him through Christ, and live.                                   Mrs. E. G. White.  {PH080 51.1}
[PH166 3.1]         PH166 - Special on Tithing                  Special on Tithing.                  The Church, Its Mission.          The mission of the church of Christ is to save perishing sinners. It is to make known the love of God to men, and to win them to Christ by the efficacy of that love. The truth for this time must be carried into the dark corners of the earth, and this work may begin at home.  {PH166 3.1}
[PH166 3.2]         The followers of Christ should not live selfish lives; but, imbued with the Spirit of Christ they should work in harmony with him.  {PH166 3.2}
[PH166 3.3]                  God's Plan All Sufficient.          He has given his people a plan for raising sums sufficient to make the enterprise self sustaining. God's plan in the tithing system is beautiful in its simplicity and equality. All may take hold of it in faith and courage, for it is of divine origin. In it are combined simplicity and utility, and it does not require depth of learning to understand and execute it.  {PH166 3.3}
[PH166 3.4]                     All to Act a Part.          All may feel that they can act a part in carrying forward the precious work of salvation. Every man, woman, and youth may become a treasurer for God; and there would be no want of means with which to carry forward the great work of sounding the last message of warning to the world.                            -4-  {PH166 3.4}
[PH166 4.1]          The treasury will be full if all adopt this system, and the contributors will be left none the poorer. Through every investment made they will become more wedded to the cause of present truth. They will be "laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life".  {PH166 4.1}
[PH166 4.2]                     No Empty Treasury.          If the plan of systematic benevolence was adopted by every individual and fully carried out, there would be a constant supply in the treasury. The income would flow in like a steady stream constantly supplied by overflowing springs of benevolence. Alms giving is a part of gospel religion.  {PH166 4.2}
[PH166 4.3]              Tithing Founded on Principle.          The special system of tithing was founded upon a principle which is as enduring as the law of God. This system of tithing was a blessing to the Jews, else God would not have given it to them. So also will it be a blessing to those who carry it out to the end of time. Our heavenly Father did not originate the plan of systematic benevolence to enrich himself but to be a great blessing to man. He saw that this system of beneficence was just what man needed.  {PH166 4.3}
[PH166 4.4]                 Its Effect on the Church.          Those churches who are the most systematic and liberal in sustaining the cause of God are the most prosperous spiritually.                           -5-  {PH166 4.4}
[PH166 5.1]                Priority of God's Claims.          All should remember that God's claims upon us underlie 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.  {PH166 5.1}
[PH166 5.2]                     Eternal Results.          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.  {PH166 5.2}
[PH166 5.3]                      Reserve Fund.          In answer to the claims of God, regular reserves should be set apart as sacred to his work. Besides the tithe God demands the first-fruits of our increase as his. These he has reserved, in order that his work may be amply sustained, and that his servants may not be limited to a meager supply. The Lord's messenger's 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                             -6-     purpose. Especially in new fields, where the standard of truth has never yet been uplifted, this work must be done.  {PH166 5.3}
[PH166 6.1]                       Full Treasury.          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 first-fruits of their mercies there would be a full supply of funds for his work.  {PH166 6.1}
[PH166 6.2]                      A Want and Why.          But the law of God is not respected or obeyed, and this has brought a pressure of want. 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.  {PH166 6.2}
[PH166 6.3]                   A Lesson From Eden.          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. So it is with God's claims                            -7-     upon us. He places his treasures in the hand 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 many 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. 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 free-will offerings and thank offerings thus acknowledging His ownership of soul, body, spirit and property?  {PH166 6.3}
[PH166 7.1]                 Why Are Means Not Abundant?          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.                             -8-  {PH166 7.1}
[PH166 8.1]                        No Excuse. Why?          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 responsibility 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.  {PH166 8.1}
[PH166 8.2]          God lays his hand upon all man's possessions, saying "I am the owner of the universe, and these goods are mine.  {PH166 8.2}
[PH166 8.3]                    Terrible Responsibility.          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 reserve fund." "Ye are cursed with a curse."  {PH166 8.3}
[PH166 8.4]                        One More Chance.          The Lord is long-suffering and gracious, and he gives those who have done this wickedness                              -9-     another chance. "Return unto me", he says, "and I will return unto you". But they say, "Wherein shall we return?" 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 what great wickedness they have done in so hedging up the way that the cause of truth could not advance. Man, finite man, through using for himself the talents which God has reserved to publish salvation, to send the glad news of a Saviour's love to perishing souls, and hedging up the way by his selfishness, inquires,  {PH166 8.4}
[PH166 9.1]                      Robbing God.          "Wherein have we robbed Thee?" God answers, "In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation." The whole world is engaged in robbing God. With the money he has lent them they indulge in dissipation, in amusements, reveling, feasting, and disgraceful indulgences.  {PH166 9.1}
[PH166 9.2]                       To Judgment.          But God says, "I will come near you to judgment." The whole world will have an account to settle in that great day when every one shall receive sentence according to his deeds.  {PH166 9.2}
[PH166 9.3]                     A Blessing Pledged.          God pledges himself to bless those who will obey his commandments, "Bring ye all the                            -10-     tithes into the store-house, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of Hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of Hosts."  {PH166 9.3}
[PH166 10.1]                      Does This Mean You?          With these words of light and truth before them, how dare men neglect so plain a duty? How dare they disobey God when obedience to his requirements mean 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. "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;                            -11-     yea they that work wickedly are set up; yea, they that tempt God are even delivered."  {PH166 10.1}
[PH166 11.1]                       Who Complain.          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." 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 which should have flowed into his treasury was used for selfish purposes.  {PH166 11.1}
[PH166 11.2]                       Disloyalty Shown.          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.  {PH166 11.2}
[PH166 11.3]                      Cause of Failure.          God was not honored by the use of his entrusted goods. Therefore he let the curse fall                             -12-     upon them, permitting the spoiler to destroy their fruits and to bring calamities upon them.  {PH166 11.3}
[PH166 12.1]                      Honest Tithing.          Not only does the Lord claim the tithe as his own, but he tells us how it should be reserved for him. He says, "Honor the Lord with thy substance, and with the first fruits of thine increase." This does not teach that we are to spend our means on ourselves, and bring to the Lord the remnant, even though it should be otherwise an honest tithe. Let God's portion be first set apart. 1 Corinthians 16:2, applies also to tithing.  {PH166 12.1}
[PH166 12.2]                     Solemn Appeal.          There is a work to be done in the churches. A different testimony must go forth. I am terribly alarmed. Throughout the churches there are selfishness and sin, dishonesty, unbelief, criticism and fault-finding. It is high time to awake out of sleep. You who have long lost the spirit of prayer, pray, pray earnestly. Pity thy suffering cause; pity the church, pity the individual believers, thou Father of mercies. Take from us everything that defiles, deny us what thou wilt; but take not from us thy Holy Spirit.  {PH166 12.2}
[PH166 12.3]                     The Church's Need.          The churches need to be impressed with the fact that it is their duty to deal honestly with the cause of God, not allowing the guilt of the worst kind of robbery to rest upon them, that of robbing God in tithes and offerings. Instead of bringing the work down to a low figure it                              -13-     is your duty to bring the minds of the people to understand that "the laborer is worthy of his hire".  {PH166 12.3}
[PH166 13.1]                    Shall it be Small Pay?          When settlements are made with the laborers in his cause, they should not be forced to accept small remuneration because there is a lack of means in the treasury. Many have been defrauded of their just dues in this way, and it is just as criminal in the sight of God, as for one to keep back the wages of those who are employed in any other regular business. It is the worst kind of generalship to allow a conference to stand still or to fail to settle its honest debts. There is a great deal of this done: and whenever it is done, God is displeased.  {PH166 13.1}
[PH166 13.2]          There has not been money in the treasury to supply ministers for the service of God.  {PH166 13.2}
[PH166 13.3]          Why should ministers be half paid, and at the same time talk so begrudgingly of that which they do receive? When this work shall cease in our churches, a living testimony will go forth from human lips, under the operation of the Holy Ghost.  {PH166 13.3}
[PH166 13.4]                         Ministers' Work.          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." It is a very serious matter that men, by the word of their own                             -14-     mouth, and some in a hardened sang-froid manner, have decided what means shall go to the workers in the field. 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 has 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 judgement may be a treasure to him and a satisfaction to his employer, but he may receive only the same wages. After the week's work is done, and payment is made, the amount of work done has nothing to do with the sum received. A slow un-profitable man never thinks it his duty to make up for his want of sharp thought, but receives his pay as his right. 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.  {PH166 13.4}
[PH166 14.1]          But God's shepherds who are to watch as well as labor for souls, as they that must give an account, cannot work in this way. The chosen missionary must go forth under all circumstances, moving his family from place to place,                            -15-     and from country to country. This moving is expensive. In order to exert a good influence, the 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. The ministers of our Conferences can not say 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. This is the work the Lord's shepherds are to do. Money is consumed in traveling from place to place, in settling and unsettling every few months, in buying household goods and selling them again 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.  {PH166 14.1}
[PH166 15.1]          The question has been asked me: "Are you employed by the General Conference?" I am. "How many hours do you give?" Hours? God's servants keep no record 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.  {PH166 15.1}
[PH166 15.2]          Those who write, as well as talk the truth, have double labor. The eight hour system                           -16-     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 fiber 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."  {PH166 15.2}
[PH166 16.1]          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 minute men. 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.  {PH166 16.1}
[PH166 16.2]          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 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.  {PH166 16.2}
[PH166 16.3]                    Rights to be Respected.          When their accounts are audited, if selfish men shall, with voice or stroke of pen, limit                            -17-     the worker in his wages, they discourage and depress him. Every minister must have a salvage to work upon, that he may have something with which to lead out in good enterprises, pushing the work with zeal. He tells us, "thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn." 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.  {PH166 16.3}
[PH166 17.1]                          Duty Clear.          If the presidents and other laborers in our Conferences impress upon the minds of the people the character of the crime of robbing God, and if they have a true spirit of devotion and a burden of the work, God will make their labors a blessing to the people, and fruit will be seen as the result of their efforts.  {PH166 17.1}
[PH166 17.2]                       Terrible Failure.          Ministers have failed greatly in their duty to so labor with the churches. There is an important work to be done aside from preaching. Had this work been done as God designed it should be, there would have been many more laborers in the field than now are. And had the ministers done their duty in educating every member whether rich or poor, to give as God has prospered him, there would be a full treasury from which to pay the honest debts to the workers; and this would greatly advance missionary work in all their borders. God has shown us that many souls are in danger of eternal ruin, through selfishness and worldliness;                             -18-     and the watchmen are guilty, for they have neglected their duty. This is a state of things Satan exults to see.  {PH166 17.2}
[PH166 18.1]          The light which the Lord has given me on this subject, is that the means in the treasury for the support of the ministers in the different fields is not to be used for any other purpose. If an honest tithe were paid, and the money coming into the treasury was carefully guarded, the ministers would receive a just wage.  {PH166 18.1}
[PH166 18.2]                 Situation Not Appreciated.          The auditing committee has often been composed of men who were farmers. These could dress in coarse clothing appropriate for the work they were doing. They raised all they needed as a family to subsist upon, and they knew not what the outlay of a minister must necessarily be when he goes out into a new field to labor for perishing souls. The minister must labor and pray. He must visit the different families. Frequently he finds the people so poor that they have little to eat, and no room in which to sleep. Often means have to be given to the very needy to supply their hunger and cover their nakedness. Then what injustice to have a company of men as auditing committee who by a dash of the pen will disappoint a distressed minister who is in need of every cent that he has been led to expect. The minister who labors should be sustained. But notwithstanding this, those who are officiating in this work see that there is not money in the treasury to pay the minister. The tithe money must be kept sacred. There are ministers who receive nothing for their labors; for there was no money to pay them. This I saw would be; for the management is wrong.  {PH166 18.2}
[PH166 18.3]                          A Neglect.          Many presidents of State conferences do not attend to that which is their work,--to see that the elders and deacons of the churches do their work in the churches by seeing that a faithful tithe is brought into the treasury. This principle                            -19-     needs to be often brought before the men who are lax in their duty to God, and who are negligent and careless in bringing in their tithes, gifts, and offerings to God. "Will a man rob me?" "Wherein have we robbed thee?", is the question asked by the unfaithful stewards. The answer comes plain and positive, "In tithes and offerings. Ye are cursed with a curse, for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation." Please read this whole chapter and see if words could be spoken that would be more plain and positive than these.  {PH166 18.3}
[PH166 19.1]                          No Excuse.          They are so positive that no one who desires to understand his whole duty to God needs to make any mistake in the matter. If men offer any excuse as to why they do not perform this duty, it is because they are selfish, and have not the love and fear of God in their hearts. Those who plead that they cannot understand this plain and decisive statement--which if they are obedient, means so much to them, in blessings which will be received, when even the windows of heaven will be opened, and blessings poured out to overflowing--are not honest before God. Their excuse that they do not know the will of God, will be of no avail for them in the great day of judgment.  {PH166 19.1}
[PH166 19.2]                         A Call to Duty.          Presidents of our conferences, do your duty; Speak not your words, but a plain thus saith the Lord. Elders of churches do your duty. Labor from home to home that the flock of God shall not be remiss in this great matter, which involves such a blessing or such a curse.                               -20-  {PH166 19.2}
[PH166 20.1]          Every man who bears the message of truth to our churches must do his duty by warning, educating, rebuking. Any neglect of duty which is a robbery toward God, means a curse upon the delinquent.  {PH166 20.1}
[PH166 20.2]                            An Appeal.          Let the neglected tithes be now brought in. Let the new year (shall we not say quarter?) open upon you as men honest in their deal with God. Let those who have withheld their tithes send them in before the year 1896 shall close, that they may be right with God, and never, never again run any risk of being cursed by God.  {PH166 20.2}
[PH166 20.3]                A Word to Ministers and Elders.          The Lord will not hold guiltless those who are deficient in doing the work that he requires at their hands,--in seeing that the church is kept wholesome and healthy spiritually, and doing all their duty; in allowing no neglect which will bring the threatened curse upon his people. A curse is pronounced upon all who withhold the tithe from God.  {PH166 20.3}
[PH166 20.4]          This is not a request of man; it is one of God's ordinances, whereby his work may be sustained and carried on in the world. God help us to repent.  {PH166 20.4}
[PH166 20.5]                    Faithful Record Possible.          No one can excuse himself from paying his tithes and offerings to the Lord. Another year has nearly passed into eternity, with its burden of record. Let us look over the past year, and if we have not done our full duty willingly, heartily unto the Lord, let us come up to the new year in making a faithful record to our God.  {PH166 20.5}
[PH152 5.1]         PH152 - Special Testimonies Concerning the Work and Workers in the Pacific Press (1897)                   No. A. A General Testimony.             True Sense of the Sacredness of the Work.          1. In regard to matters at the Pacific Publishing House, there has not been that faithfulness which God requires. There should be a deeper sense of the sacredness of the work, and each and all should be faithful in their several departments of the work. But there is a great lack of stability with some. When special attentions are shown by young men to the young ladies, and they in turn encourage these attentions, and the company of young men, involving neglect of duties, becoming frivolous and unguarded in deportment, it is wrong to encourage such a course of conduct by retaining them in the office in connection with the work; and when marriages occur no display should be countenanced.  {PH152 5.1}
[PH152 5.2]         2. I was shown that there is not with a number of those at work in the office a true sense of religious things. Those who have left the east for the Pacific Coast should not in their daily and religious life pursue a course which is not worthy of imitation. They disgrace and misrepresent those who are connected with the work in the east. They should be circumspect in their conduct. Their daily religious life is very defective. Eternal interests are placed below the temporal. I saw that against the names of several now at work in the Signs Office was written in the ledger of heaven, "Wanting--weighed in the balance and found                                                                              6  wanting." As the searching eyes of the Judge rested upon these unfaithful ones, their countenances became pale, and terror seized them. Some had not been guilty of any great wrong, but they had not let their light so shine before men that others, by seeing their good works, would reflect glory to God. You who are working in the office may avail yourselves of religious privileges if you will, so that you may have spiritual strength to put forth spiritual exercise for your own benefit and that of others. Prayer-meetings are neglected, religious duties are left undone, and the conscience is at ease. What does this spiritual slothfulness say in favor of Christ? Just this, that your own business, or the mechanical work in which you are engaged, is of more consequence than the service of God.  {PH152 5.2}
[PH152 6.1]                 Importance of Religious Services.          3. You may work with earnestness in the performance of your mechanical duties, and then, without interest or earnestness, go to religious service, showing that you have no heart in such service. How can such professors grow? It is impossible. They ever remain dwarfs in religious things, and when the judgment shall sit and the books be opened, their names come under the head of slothful servants,--weighed in the balance and found wanting.  {PH152 6.1}
[PH152 6.2]          4. The preached Word will be powerless for the conviction and conversion of souls, while a sleepy, lazy, and backslidden church are all that are left to sustain the efforts of the laborers. The efforts of Christ's ambassadors will be successful only when sustained by an earnest, praying, working people. Prayer-meetings are neglected, while                                                                              7  concerts, singing schools, and various entertainments are faithfully patronized. "It's only a prayer-meeting," is often repeated by church-members; I can not call them Christians. Exciting popular lectures will interest the church-members and call them out, when the prayer-meeting has no attraction for them. This reveals the true spiritual condition of the church. God is not pleased with this state of things. Spiritual and eternal things are not appreciated, while temporal matters are exalted above things of eternal interest.  {PH152 6.2}
[PH152 7.1]          5. A prayer-meeting will always tell the true interest of the church-members in spiritual and eternal things. The prayer-meeting is as the pulse to the body; it denotes the true spiritual condition of the church. A lifeless, backslidden church has no relish for the prayer-meetings. Young men and women of no depth of religious experience; who are vain and proud and frivolous, can feel no satisfaction in engaging in religious exercises. They prefer to pass the time in flirtations or reading novels, or in other ways of pleasing and gratifying the feelings of the natural heart.  {PH152 7.1}
[PH152 7.2]                     All Should Be Workers.          6. Not one of the workers in the office is excused from being a worker in the church of God. Those who are capable of engaging in labor in the office are capable of being workers in the church. There is missionary work to be done everywhere. Every one in the office who professes the name of Christ should be put into regular, systematic labor of some kind in the church. Every man and woman is required of God to do something for the advancement of his cause. Every institution like the publishing house on the                                                                              8  Pacific Coast should have rules and discipline, requiring those who work in the office to be earnest workers in the church. If there is a neglect in attending evening meetings or the meetings on the Sabbath, it should be inquired into, and if valid reasons are not given, they should be urged or admonished to attend these meetings, so essential to their spiritual strength. Without this spiritual strength the influence of these laborers will not be good, and the religious tone in the office will not be correct. Those who profess to be engaged in the sacred work of God should not excuse the neglect of the service of God because of their own work. Such work can be laid aside much better than the service of God, for his strength and grace are every day essential for the performance of daily duties, and the opportunities and privileges for spiritual strength can not be slighted or neglected without backsliding from God. Backsliders are not wanted to engage in the sacred work of God.  {PH152 7.2}
[PH152 8.1]          7. In order to retain spiritual life the laborers should improve every means of grace to gather strength, not as spectators, but as workers in the church, doing the duties which must be done in the various departments. There must be respect shown for, and interest in, the worship of God, and faithful attendance upon it, by all those connected with the office who have a name as children of God. As the body needs temporal food, so does the soul need spiritual food, and there should be individual effort put forth by all to place themselves in connection with all the means of grace that have been provided. Every ray of light they can gather to their souls should be cherished, for moral darkness surrounds us                                                                              9  everywhere, and is clouding the pathway of all, and leaving its impress of darkness upon the mind, and its baleful influence upon the character.  {PH152 8.1}
[PH152 9.1]                  The Holy Spirit Necessary.          8. Peculiar qualities and powers are developed either for good or evil. In order to have them exercised for good, these powers must be under the controlling influence of the Spirit of God; then their influence will be sensibly felt for good, whatever their possessors may do, or wherever they may be. Each is giving by words and deportment a daily lesson to others, either for their benefit or injury while life shall last. The Lord's service is not regarded by many as sacred and essential, if we judge by their neglect of these sacred privileges. Our own work must be done, but it must not be placed above eternal interests. A faithful discharge of duties in temporal things is necessary, but it should never take the place of religious devotion, and crowd out the time that should be given to it, lest the spiritual strength languish.  {PH152 9.1}
[PH152 9.2]                  How Hearts Become Hardened.          9. There has been a sad departure from right principles. The Word of God declares that God hardened the heart of Pharaoh. This was done when, giving Pharaoh warnings and revealing God's miraculous power before him, he braced himself up to resist the light, and refused to acknowledge the Monarch of heaven and yield to his requirements. Every time that Pharaoh resisted the Spirit of God his heart grew harder and more difficult to impress, until the restraining influence of the Spirit of God was removed. Pharaoh sowed continually the seeds of obstinacy, and he reaped obstinacy, and he kept up his                                                                              10  determined spirit of obstinacy till he perished in the Red Sea.  {PH152 9.2}
[PH152 10.1]          10. God did not compel Pharaoh to be lost. Every man who is lost destroys himself. When a man turns from the light given of God, and refuses to walk in it, that light becomes darkness to him. When the light comes before him again, it is so dim that he scarcely recognizes it. When the words of reproof come from God to the wrong-doer, there is a stirring of heart, an arousing of conscience. The hearts of the hearers are convicted and Satan trembles for his power. Individuals go from the house of God determined to resist pride, mortify lust, and overcome avarice. But they do not humble their souls before God and repent, and make right the wrongs of the past. They do not make a decided change and plead with God for help, relying on his strength, and the impression soon wears away. They feel for a time the sense of their condition, but realize not the heinous character of sin. They become indifferent and the old defects of character appear, whether it is pride and vanity, worldliness and selfishness, or petty dishonesty, overreaching in trade, sensuality, or lust for gain. They go forward as eagerly as though they had lost time during the little arousing of conscience. They may, after this relapse, listen to the denunciations against sin and the works of ungodliness, the Spirit of God may rest upon the speaker with unusual fervor, and the power of God be in every word, but they are not much moved; they have been hardened by the stifling of their convictions.  {PH152 10.1}
[PH152 10.2]                 All in Subjection to Christ.          11. Business interests, social endearments, ease,                                                                              11  honor, reputation, must be held in subjection to the claims of Christ. We often think we make great sacrifices for the truth, but we do not in reality. The great apostle to the Gentiles, we think, from our standpoint, made sacrifices when he turned from wealth, social distinction, and high honorary titles, to link his name and destiny with that of a peculiar people, everywhere spoken against, but he says he counted all things but loss that he might win Christ. Was he a loser by the exchange? He says he was abundant in labors, in deaths oft, five times he received forty stripes save one, he was stoned, was a night and a day in the deep, in perils by land and by sea, in the city and in the wilderness, from robbers and from his own countrymen; that he performed his mission in weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness; and yet, sounding along the line, comes down to us from the old hero of faith the words, "For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."  {PH152 10.2}
[PH152 11.1]          12. When the crown of martyrdom was about to press his brow, he was confined in a dungeon, deprived of comfortable food and clothing, and separated from his many friends; but one, or sometimes two, were with him to receive the words that God spoke to him to be handed down to us. But when his first answer was given to the tyrant Nero, he says, "No man stood with me, but all men forsook me." A solitary prisoner, on trial for his life, persecuted and abandoned. But did Paul                                                                              12  think he was making a great sacrifice in his religious life? There come to us these words from him: "For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." He affirms that he received the highest consolations: "I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation." This hero of faith left his testimony, enduring as eternity, upon the work for his time. He moulded the character of the age in which he lived by his religious experience and his powerful intellect.  {PH152 11.1}
[PH152 12.1]          13. The life of Paul was a success. The influence and work of Paul, the grand reformer, can never perish; they are immortalized. His Christian character shines forth with the brightness of the firmament. The whole Christian life of Paul was a preparation for the future, immortal life. In the dark dungeon, a prisoner for God, he looked over his life with satisfaction, and, knowing that he had not been playing a losing game, he exclaims, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith." Then fixing his eye upon the things that are unseen, the immortal future, which had been the inspiring motive of his Christian life, in confident assurance he exclaims: "Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing."  {PH152 12.1}
[PH152 12.2]          14. In confident expectation of the crown of life, the battle-shout of this great warrior comes down along the lines to us, seeming to rob even death of its triumph. Those who will dare to be true to principle and live for God and the future immortal life, who will not submit to the forms, customs,                                                                              13  and ideas of this corrupt age, will not be understood by the world, any more than Christ was known and understood. But they are understood in heaven; their names are recorded in the Lamb's book of life.                         Ellen G. White.        Battle Creek, Mich., Nov. 7, 1879.                                                    -    {PH152 12.2}
[PH152 13.1]     No. B. Associations and Discipline.            1. Dear Young Friends at Work in the Signs Office: I have been thinking much in regard to you and your religious life since I left the office. I was shown that the office of publication at Oakland should have the most strict discipline. In this age the young are so weak in moral power that they have but little strength to withstand temptation.  {PH152 13.1}
[PH152 13.2]                 Improper and Premature Courtships.          2. The reason is, they are not truly changed in heart and therefore are unchanged in character. Young men and young women associating together, having weak principles, and but little faith and devotion, become easily infatuated with each other and fancy they are in love. Their constant attention to one another soon has its influence, and spiritual things are not appreciated. As in the days before the flood, there is an influence to continually draw the mind from God, and to fasten the affections upon the human instead of the divine. The girls in the office, some of them, are entirely unprepared to serve God; their thoughts are vain and unconsecrated; they are superficial; they have not the fruits of a Christian life. They must have                                                                              14  a deep and thorough conversion, or they will never see the kingdom of God. Now, these young persons associating together in the office, forming attachments with view to marriage, and giving themselves up to these attachments, are unfitting themselves for the work. They can not do their work with singleness of purpose, fidelity, and integrity. They are unfitted by this infatuation, and a demoralizing influence is felt all through the office. Young gentlemen and ladies leave their home and home influence and come to labor in the office; and it is a wrong done to their parents to form attachments and contract marriages without their counsel and advice in the matter. Such things grieve the Spirit of God. It is due their parents that they consult them in so important a step, and that they be aided by the experience and mature judgment of their parents. The young men or young women do not look beneath the surface; they see each other under the most favorable circumstances, and do not detect those traits of character which the mother, in her earnest interest for her son or daughter, sees, and knows will make or mar the happiness of those she loves.  {PH152 13.2}
[PH152 14.1]          3. When these youth come to the office, the parents feel that they are safe under the guardianship of those in whom they have the highest confidence. Then how cruel to have this confidence abused! These young persons pair off, associate together, the young men escort the favored one to and from meeting, walk and ride together, with no parent's eye to see or voice to warn; and these attentions ripen into stronger attachments, and marriages are contracted without the knowledge of the parents, and the fifth commandment is broken.                                                                              15   {PH152 14.1}
[PH152 15.1]                     Duty of Manager of the Office.          4. These things should not be allowed in the Signs Office. If they can not be broken up, dismiss the parties, write to their parents, and return them to their care and guardianship, making a plain statement of the case. I saw that foolish marriages would be entered into. Young girls are forward, not modest and retiring as they once were. They engage the attention of the young men, do the courting by seeking their attention, hanging around, and talking with them. And it is a fact that the associations of the young men and women can not be encouraged without marriage being thought of and soon contracted. I write this to warn the young men and women not to be betrayed into foolish attachments which will prove their ruin in the end. Young men of promise in the office will be beguiled and infatuated with thoughts of marriage that should not enter their minds for years. Just as soon as the step is taken, farewell to their usefulness; they are fettered, and as far as rising higher and filling positions of trust, are useless.  {PH152 15.1}
[PH152 15.2]          5. God will accept the services of the young men and young women, if they will consecrate themselves to him without reserve. But when they begin to form these incautious, immature attachments, devotion, consecration, and religion are made of but little account. It is death to religious fervor, death to growth in grace. It is a time when the most solemn and serious thoughts should occupy the mind, and the most thorough consecration should be cherished. We are forming characters; brick is laid upon brick, one upon another, and the structure is going up, a beautiful temple to God. These young men may rise to almost any                                                                              16  height in intellectual advancement and spiritual power. I warn these young men not to marry, and the young ladies not to be given in marriage, until they have gained knowledge, experience, and success in their efforts to reach the high standard for which they have thought to aim.  {PH152 15.2}
[PH152 16.1]               Necessity of Rules and Discipline.          6. But I will write more upon this point in the future. Now, those who occupy responsible positions should have the most strict rules, rules that will guard young men and young women from foolish attachments, which will spoil them for their work, spoil all their future prospects in this life. When this state of things commences, young men waiting upon the girls, pairing off, making everything of one and neglecting all others, the first step is to counsel them, then write to their parents to call them from the office to the home roof. This must be done. This spirit of courtship and marriage with those in the office ought not to have been permitted, for the influence on others is not wholesome, but demoralizing. I was shown that God is in no way honored or glorified in these marriages, and rules must be made to remove this influence from the office. Our youth must take a more elevated standard in the office if they would perfect Christian character. They should be present at the hour of prayer, at the prayer-meeting, ready and zealous to do service for God. They want to understand the high claims of God upon them. Great learning is not required, genius or eloquence, but a pure, humble heart, longing for righteousness. If these young men and young women were one-tenth as interested in refining the life and in elevating and ennobling the character,                                                                              17  that they may do better and holier service for God, as in pleasing and gratifying self, a great and good work would be done by their noble efforts. These youth must habituate themselves to think of something more noble and elevating than themselves. They do not pray, do not watch unto prayer; they are unacquainted with Jesus. They have much to learn and but little time to learn it in; no time to spend in frivolity and gratification of self. It they will see the need of thorough conversion, if they will pray, and watch unto prayer, God will make them wholly his, and they may do much for his cause. But God is dishonored by the thoughts and behavior of many of the young in the office. Those who come to the office with good purposes are spoiled by the unconsecrated influence of some employed there. This must not longer exist. Plain talk and plain action must be taken in these cases.                                          E. G. White. Portland, Or., Steamer S. G. Reed, May 10, 1880.                                                    -    {PH152 16.1}
[PH152 17.1]                    No. C. to the Directors.                    What Will Bring Prosperity.            1. I have been instructed by the Lord in regard to some things connected with the office of publication in Oakland, Cal. I saw that financial embarrassment was causing distress of mind, and having a tendency to weaken the courage of those who bear heavy responsibilities. Many prayers are offered that God will work in giving prosperity to the office. I was shown that the Lord will work when the workers will cooperate with him. When                                                                              18  the souls of the workers are knit with Christ, the power of God will be manifest among them. There has been a decided lack of faith.  {PH152 17.1}
[PH152 18.1]          2. The large number of hands in the office make it necessary to take in a large amount of work in order to keep them employed. Thus in printing for other parties an objectionable class of publications is introduced into the office. My guide inquired of one who was occupying a responsible position, "How much do you receive in payment for this work?" The figures were placed before him. He said: "This is too small a sum. If you do business in this way, you meet with loss. But even should you receive a much larger sum, this class of literature would be published at great cost to the office; for the influence upon the workers is demoralizing. All the messages that God shall send them presenting the sacredness of the work are neutralized by your action in consenting to print such a class of matter."  {PH152 18.1}
[PH152 18.2]                        Pernicious Books.          3. The world is deluged with books that might better be consumed than circulated. Books upon Indian warfare and similar topics, published and circulated as a money-making scheme, might better never be read by the youth. There is a Satanic fascination in such books. The heart-sickening relation of crimes and atrocities has had a bewitching power upon many youth, exciting them to see what they can do to bring themselves into notice, even by the wickedest deeds. Even the enormities, the cruelties, the licentious practises, portrayed in more strictly historical writings, have acted as leaven in many minds, leading to the commission of similar acts. Books that delineate the                                                                              19  Satanic practises of human beings are giving publicity to evil works. These wicked, horrible particulars need not be lived over, and none who believe the truth for this time should act a part in perpetuating the memory of them. We have no permission from the Lord to engage either in the printing or the sale of such publications; for they are the means of destroying many souls. I know of what I am writing; for this matter has been opened before me. Let not those who believe the truth engage in work of this kind, thinking to make money. The Lord will put a blight upon the means thus obtained; he will scatter more than is accumulated.  {PH152 18.2}
[PH152 19.1]          4. There is another class of books--love stories, frivolous tales--that are a curse to every one who reads them, and this although the author may attach a good moral. Often religious sentiments are woven all through these books; but in most cases, Satan is but clothed in angel robes to deceive and allure the unsuspicious. The mind is affected in a great degree by what it feeds upon. The readers of frivolous and exciting tales become unfitted for the duties lying before them. They live an unreal life, and have no desire to search the Scriptures, to feed upon the heavenly manna. The mind that needs strengthening is enfeebled, and loses its power to contemplate the great problems which relate to the mission and work of Christ, the plan of salvation. These subjects will fortify the mind, awaken the imagination, and kindle the strongest desire to overcome as Christ overcame.  {PH152 19.1}
[PH152 19.2]          5. The youth must take heed what they read, as well as what they hear. I have been shown that they are exposed to the greatest peril of being corrupted by improper reading. Could a large share                                                                              20  of the books published be consumed, a plague would be stayed that is doing its fearful work upon human minds and corrupting human hearts. Satan is constantly seeking to lead both the youth and those of mature age to be charmed with foolish stories. None are so confirmed in right principles, so secure from temptation, that they can feel safe, and think no one need feel anxious about them. Resolutely discard all this trashy reading, which will not increase your spirituality, but will introduce into your mind sentiments that captivate the imagination, so that you think less of Jesus, and dwell less upon his precious lessons. If you are a learner in his school, you will become like him, and will overcome the manifold temptations as he overcame. What a joy has Jesus in placing the crown upon the heads of those whom his lips can pronounce "good and faithful servants"! They have resisted the blandishments of vice; they are victors.  {PH152 19.2}
[PH152 20.1]          6. I charge you who are responsible men in the publishing office, work diligently to bring in a different order of things. Cease to publish literature which is a temptation to the workers, many of whom are weak, and easily led into forbidden paths. Never should such books be put in their way. The office should be regarded as a school for the education of the workers. There is need of personal effort for their uplifting in all that constitutes a noble character. The minds of many of the youth are already sown with the seeds of evil, that are ready to spring into life and produce an abundant harvest. Strive to implant pure principles in the soul. Encourage the youth to store the mind with valuable knowledge. Let that which is good occupy the soul and control its powers, leaving                                                                              21  no place for low, debasing indulgences. Let the standard of piety and devotion be elevated.  {PH152 20.1}
[PH152 21.1]                       The Superintendent.          7. The superintendent of the publishing house is a watchman, to guard its interests. In order that he may do this, he must not have various other responsibilities placed upon him. Brethren, you should lighten the burdens that Brother Jones is carrying outside the office. He is only a mortal man, and if he does his duty fully in the office, he had all that one man can possibly attend to. Without faithful supervision from him, some things will not receive the attention they should have, and will go sadly wrong. Be careful how you place work upon him relative to the burdens of the church. He should have one to stand by his side who is reliable, devoted, God-fearing, that nothing connected with the office may be neglected. But men have been placed in charge of the work at the office who act more as overseers than as interested, unselfish workers. It there were fewer overseers, and more faithful doers of the work, there would be a marked improvement in the managing force in the office. If Brother Jones has for his co-workers mere overseers, who shun work, choosing to tell others what to do, he might better stand alone.  {PH152 21.1}
[PH152 21.2]                     Power of a Faithful Example.          8. By a godly example, those who occupy responsible positions can maintain the elevated character of the office. Not to do this is to incur guilt, to be unfaithful stewards, blameworthy before the heavenly intelligences, who are waiting to co-operate with the human agencies in order to save souls.                                                                              22  Christians are to shine as lights amid the moral darkness of the world. They are to be representatives of Christ, patterns for all who come within the sphere of their influence. They are exhorted to fidelity, and to the highest attainments of piety. The Word of God is plain upon this point. "Do all things without murmurings and disputings; that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; holding forth the Word of life." In our own lives we should present to the world an illustration of the holy character of the truth which we profess to believe. This has not been done by many who are connected with the office. An indolent man occupying a position of trust in our institutions will make upon many minds an impression unfavorable to the truth. "By their fruits ye shall know them." The lights of the world are so to shine that men, by seeing their good works, may be led to glorify our Father who is in heaven. How terrible it is for any who bear his name, to give to the world, through a defective character, a distorted image of Christ! They are constantly stumbling-blocks.  {PH152 21.2}
[PH152 22.1]          9. The way of every one is dark or light, and it is easy to settle the question. Who are letting their light shine by good works? Our profession of faith proclaims the theory of the truth, but it is our practical piety that holds forth the Word of life. The Word of God presents a system of practical truths that are to have a decided bearing upon life and character. If men are not transformed, ennobled, sanctified, if they do not make it manifest that they love purity and holiness, they are not representing Christ.                                                                              23   {PH152 22.1}
[PH152 23.1]          10. There are those engaged in the work in the office who have no living connection with Christ. Arguments, exhortations, reproofs, correction in righteousness, every consideration urging them to reach a higher standard, is treated with cool indifference or with silent contempt and persistent resistance. They know nothing of heart consecration. They are satisfied; their minds have become so debased by their own course that they have no disposition to change. They have no love for any one but themselves. Shall this state of things continue?  {PH152 23.1}
[PH152 23.2]                    Economy and Indebtedness.          11. In order to relieve the office from financial embarrassment, there must be in some respects a different course pursued. In the effort to secure outside patronage, prices have been set so low that the work brings no profit to the office. Those who flatter themselves that there is a gain, have failed to keep a strict account of every outgo. This has been the way things have been going for too many years. If work is brought in, let it be understood that there is to be cutting down prices for the sake of securing the job. Maintain the dignity of the office. Take only such work as will give a margin of profit. If necessary, dismiss some of the workers that you can better spare, and save the wages you pay them. The office needs weeding. There are more overseers than it can afford to sustain.  {PH152 23.2}
[PH152 23.3]          12. It would have been far better if the enlargement of the publishing house had been delayed, and the work had been conducted on a more limited scale, until the providence of God, which discerns the work in all its bearings, should open the                                                                              24  way to make these improvements without contracting heavy debts, and paying interest. These things must be considered. The warnings that the Lord sends must be heeded.  {PH152 23.3}
[PH152 24.1]          13. It is true that the publishing house has furnished means to support branches of the work in distant fields, and has aided in carrying other enterprises. This is well. None too much has been done. The Lord sees it all. But from the light he has given me, every effort should be made to stand free from debt. This heavy indebtedness is eating into the vitals of the publishing house.             Results of Unselfishness and Sacrifice.  {PH152 24.1}
[PH152 24.2]          14. Now, if all will go to work unselfishly, with an eye single to the glory of God, humbling their hearts and repenting of their sins, God will work in their behalf. Souls will be converted, and the piety and devotion of the workers will be felt by unbelievers. The only security against failure is to be found in entire surrender to God, daily seeking his counsel in all things, keeping the light burning, and daily reflecting its bright rays to others.  {PH152 24.2}
[PH152 24.3]          15. Let a work of reformation, deep and thorough, take place in the office. Let there be seen a spirit of self-sacrifice. Expend your means carefully. Cultivate economy. Do not act toward Christ as though you believed the wicked accusations of the unfaithful servant: "I knew thee, that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed." As you look to the cross of Calvary, inquire, "How can I work for the Master?" Do not calculate how little you can do to reach the very lowest standard, but arouse to grasp the fulness                                                                              25  that there is in Christ, that you may do much for him.  {PH152 24.3}
[PH152 25.1]          16. Workers who are not diligent and faithful do incalculable harm; they are setting an example for others. There are those in the office who are rendering whole-hearted, cheerful service; but will the leaven not affect them? Shall the office be left without some sincere examples of Christian fidelity? When men claiming to be representatives of Christ reveal that they are unconverted, their characters degraded, gross, selfish, impure, they should be separated from the office, for their moral powers are so perverted and weakened that they can not be trusted. I know not what I can say to arouse them. Will these sentinels that are sleeping at their post arouse from their death-like slumber, and come under the vitalizing influence of the Spirit of God? Will they continue to betray sacred trusts, or will they become missionaries for the Master?  {PH152 25.1}
[PH152 25.2]                      Words to the Faithful.          17. There are those connected with the office whose hearts are bound up with the work. They see many things that are not as they should be, but know not what course to pursue to correct the evils. They are pained to see many who profess the truth go astray. To all these the Lord sends reproofs and warnings; the straight and narrow way that leads to life, and the glorious reward, are pointed out, and the perfect standard of Christian character is held up before them. Although some are so estranged from God that they do not recognize his voice, though a strange infatuation leads them in their perversity of heart to strive against the manifestations of the Spirit of God, let not those who are striving earnestly to do the work and will of                                                                              26  God become discouraged. Let each work earnestly, prayerfully, holding his torch in his hand, shedding light upon willing and unwilling eyes. Having their orders from heaven, they are to be true and faithful, in all things representing the compassion of Christ.  {PH152 25.2}
[PH152 26.1]         18. The consistent religious life, the holy conversation, the unswerving integrity in all business deal, the active, benevolent spirit, the godly example, are the medium through which light is conveyed to the world, and conviction takes hold upon the hearts and consciences of unbelievers. The Lord will work through his human agents if they will cooperate with him.  {PH152 26.1}
[PH152 26.2]          I must close this matter here if it goes on the next steamer. May the Lord bless you all with wisdom and grace and his peace, is my prayer.                     (Signed) Ellen G. White.        North Fitzroy, Victoria, December, 1891.                                                    -    {PH152 26.2}
[PH152 26.3]                  No. D. to the Workers.          1. I have a message for you who are engaged in the work at the office, especially for those who are engaged in handling sacred things.  {PH152 26.3}
[PH152 26.4]          2. "Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you; for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth. While ye have the light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light."  {PH152 26.4}
[PH152 26.5]                      Turning from the Light.          3. Those who turn away from the precious light that God has permitted to shine upon them in                                                                              27  messages of warning, of caution and reproof, would not believe if greater light were shed upon their pathway. They would not be inspired with faith, when they have failed to believe in and act upon the light which has already been given them. "Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed? . . . He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart." How does the Lord harden the hearts of men?--In the same way in which the heart of Pharaoh was hardened. God sent this king a message of mercy and warning; but he refused to acknowledge the God of heaven, and would not render obedience to his commands. He asked, "Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice?" The Lord gave him evidence of his power by working signs and miracles before him. The great I am acquainted Pharaoh with his mighty works, showing him that he was the ruler of heaven and earth; but the king chose to defy the God of heaven. He would not consent to break his proud, stubborn heart, even before the King of kings, that he might receive the light; for he was determined to have his own way, and work out his rebellion. He chose to do his own will, and set aside the command of God; and the very evidence given him that Jehovah was above all the gods of the nations, above all the wise men and magicians, only served to blind his mind and harden his heart. Had Pharaoh accepted of the evidence of God's power given in the first plague, he would have been spared all the judgments that followed; but his determined stubbornness called for still great manifestations of the power of God, and plague followed plague, until at last he was called to look upon the dead face of his own                                                                              28  first-born, and of those of his kindred, while the children of Israel, whom he had regarded as slaves, were unharmed by the plagues, untouched by the destroying angel. God made it evident upon whom rested his favor, and who were his people. Although they had erred, and had become tainted with idolatry, and had almost forgotten him, still he remembered his people, and his covenant with their fathers.  {PH152 26.5}
[PH152 28.1]                 Result of Rejecting Light.          4. The more Pharaoh resisted and rejected the light, the greater was his stubbornness; for as he sowed unbelief and stubbornness, he reaped again that which he sowed. The Lord has given great light to those in the office of publication at Oakland; and some who for a time walked in the light, afterward failed to do so, by not continually keeping the heart surrendered to God; and the result was that darkness came upon them. They lost their sense of sin, and did those things which the Lord had plainly shown them they ought not to do. God forces no man's will. All are left free to choose whom they will serve. They may listen to the suggestions of Satan, and come to look upon matters as he does, reasoning after the same manner, and the result will be that they will follow the same course of stubborn resistance to the light that Satan pursued in the courts of heaven. Those who reject the light which God sends them, will walk in sparks of their own kindling, and will lie down in sorrow at last.  {PH152 28.1}
[PH152 28.2]                      Serious Danger.          5. Among the workers in the office there are those whose hearts are not pure, whose hands are defiled with iniquity, and whose ways are perverted,                                                                              29  so that they in no way represent Christ. Satan is beside them to influence them in a course of evil; and as they yield to him, they influence others to take the same course. They do not realize the sacredness of the things of God, but in spirit they conform to the world and fail to live the divine life, which is opposed to the world and its customs. They have a knowledge of the truth, but fail to bring it into the inner sanctuary of the soul, that they may be sanctified through the truth.  {PH152 28.2}
[PH152 29.1]          6. I have been aroused by the Spirit of the Lord to sound an alarm, that these world-bound souls may be awakened to the peril in which they are placed through their course of backsliding. For Christ's sake, let all those who profess to be Christians, depart from all iniquity, all dishonesty. For Christ's sake, for your own soul's sake, I urge you to reform. Let there be a solemn consideration of your privileges and responsibilities. Let there not be found among you a selfish, earthly ambition for place and position or money-getting. This spirit prevails to a large extent, and the religion of Christ is brought down to a low, common level. There is great need that the converting power of God may be felt throughout the office, that all may realize that the words of Christ are to be fulfilled in life and character. Every day Jesus is in that office taking note of every worker in every department and line of work. The voice of God speaks to all who are there employed, warning and reproving them in his Word, and through the testimonies of his Spirit. But these warnings are first neglected, then despised, then stubbornly resisted and assailed.  {PH152 29.1}
[PH152 29.2]                 Separation from the World.          7. While probation is graciously granted to you,                                                                              30  come out from the world, separate yourselves from its customs, its maxims, and its influences, and put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh to fulfil the lusts thereof. At whatever cost or humiliation to yourselves, you must do this if you would inherit eternal life. "This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. Unto the pure all things are pure; but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. They profess to know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate."  {PH152 29.2}
[PH152 30.1]          8. Let every soul carefully consider his condition, and inquire, What is my state before God? Let him examine closely what kind of material he is bringing into his character-building. Is it that which can be compared to solid timbers, or that which can only be likened to that which is rotten and worm-eaten? We are charged in the word of God to "keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life." The unconverted heart is the habitation of the evil one, and it is filled with unholy thoughts, with evil surmisings, envy, jealousy, falsehood, and uncontrolled passions, with strife and confusion and every evil work. Let each one search diligently, and inquire, Is my heart free from all these? Let each one closely examine himself to see whether he is in the faith, whether the truth which he professes to believe has been kept in the outer court, or brought into the inner sanctuary of the soul, that he may be sanctified thereby. The whole heart must be                                                                              31  entered and purified by the searching Spirit of God. Jesus will not abide in the soul where pride exists; and if we desire his presence, the soul temple must be cleansed of all evil occupants. If the door of the heart is open to Jesus, he will come in, and his presence will expel every unholy thought, and by faith we may hold sweet communion with God. If Jesus abides in the heart, we shall glorify him in our lives; for the Christian is to let his light shine forth to the world in good works.  {PH152 30.1}
[PH152 31.1]                   Losing the First Love.          9. Many of you have lost your first love, and you are not preparing yourselves by gaining an experience in true devotion and service to God, to stand in the great day of God. It is essential that you become so rooted and grounded in the faith that you will be able to stand when deception and error as a thick cloud will cover the inhabitants of the earth. While good works will not buy your salvation, yet good works are essential for salvation; for they are an evidence of genuine faith which works by love and purifies the soul.  {PH152 31.1}
[PH152 31.2]          10. Unless your heart is stayed upon God, and you are a coworker with Christ Jesus, you will be filled with self-confidence, pride, self-sufficiency, and you will be given to the indulgence of self and the sin of unbelief, which so easily besets the soul, and thus you will become the captive of the enemy. You are to work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God that worketh in you, both to will and to do of his own good-pleasure. As God works man must cooperate in order that the result designed may be accomplished. But how long have the heavenly intelligences waited in vain for your cooperation, who ought to have been                                                                              32  engaged most earnestly in the work of God for this time!  {PH152 31.2}
[PH152 32.1]          11. Many of you do not feel the need of a daily and hourly connection with Christ. You do not feel the need of prayer, that you may draw from Christ that which is essential for the maintenance of spiritual life. You have failed to appreciate the privilege of associating together in the capacity of believers. You are not to come together simply as a matter of form and ceremony, but for the interchange of thought, for the relation of your daily experiences, for the expression of thanksgiving, for the utterance of your sincere desire for divine enlightenment, that you may know God and Jesus Christ, whom he hath sent. Communing together in regard to Christ will strengthen the soul for the conflicts and trials that will come upon you. Never entertain the idea that you can be Christians and still withdraw yourselves within yourselves. Each one is a part of the great web of humanity, and the nature and quality of your experience will be largely determined by the character of the experience of those with whom you associate. Jesus says, "Where two or three are met together in my name, there am I in the midst." Then do not forsake the assembling of yourselves "together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another; and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching."  {PH152 32.1}
[PH152 32.2]               Need of a Practical Experience.          12. You are greatly in need of a practical experience in the Christian life. You need to train the mind for the work of God. The character of your religious experience is made manifest largely by the character of the books that you choose to read                                                                              33  in your leisure moments. The Bible is the Book of books, and if you love the Scriptures, searching them when you have opportunity, that you may come in possession of the rich treasures of the Word of God, and be thoroughly furnished unto all good works, then you may be assured that Jesus is drawing you to himself. But to read the Scriptures in merely a casual way, without seeking to comprehend the lessons of Christ, that you may comply with his requirements, is not enough. There are rich treasures in the Word of God that can be discovered only by sinking the shaft deep into the mine of truth. The Scriptures are given for our benefit that we may have instruction in righteousness. Precious rays of light have been obscured by the clouds of error, but Christ is ready to sweep away the mists of error and superstition, and reveal to us the brightness of the Father's glory, so that we shall say as did the disciples, "Did not our hearts burn within us, while he talked with us by the way?" The psalmist prayed, "Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law," and the Lord regarded his sincere prayer, for the Sacred Record records his satisfaction in the truth revealed to him. He says: "How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!" "More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb." How rare is this experience!  {PH152 32.2}
[PH152 33.1]          13. The carnal mind rejects the truth; but the soul that is converted undergoes a marvelous change. The Book that was unattractive, because it reveals truths which testify against the sinner, to the converted heart becomes the food of the soul, consolation and joy of the life. The eyes                                                                              34  anointed with spiritual discernment behold new beauties in the Word of God, and see that the inspired words of the Scriptures are especially adapted to the needs of the soul. The Sun of Righteousness shines upon the Word, and there is the flashing of divinity through humanity. The Spirit of God speaks to the soul, and the heart of the true believer becomes like a watered garden. To those who love Christ, the Bible is as the garden of God, whose promises are as grateful to the heart as the fragrance of flowers to the senses. Then take up your Bibles, and, with fresh interest, begin to study the sacred records of the Old and New Testaments. Work the field of precious truth, until you have a deeper comprehension of the mercy and love of God, who gave his only-begotten Son to the world, that through him we might have life.  {PH152 33.1}
[PH152 34.1]                 Danger from Worldly Books.          14. I have a word from the Lord for you who are handling sacred things, and yet who do not appreciate the value of eternal things, and have not spiritual discernment to understand the work that you are doing. The Spirit of God is grieved because works of a worldly character, which are calculated to charm the senses, to fill the mind with that which can be compared only to wood, hay, and stubble, are multiplied in the office of publication. These books are read with eagerness, and they contain no spiritual nutriment, whereby the soul can acquire moral strength, give no true idea of Christian life, or instruction in regard to the common duties of life. The atmosphere they breathe is one that is detrimental to solid Christian experience. Were Christ upon the earth today, he                                                                              35  would cleanse the office of many things that are not in accordance with our high profession, as he cleansed the temple of its unholy traffic. "It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves." Let every soul begin to cleanse his own soul temple, and thus cooperate with Christ in the work of purifying the office.  {PH152 34.1}
[PH152 35.1]         15. Let not books be placed before the workers which, if they do not mislead and corrupt the mind, will still give to the mind a disrelish for the study of the Word of God, which brings to view matters of eternal interest. Let the truth of God be the subject for contemplation and meditation. The Bible is God's letter to man, in which is instruction as to how to become rich in heavenly graces, to secure for the believer the life that shall measure with the life of God. Read the Bible and regard it as the voice of God speaking directly to your soul. Then will you find inspiration, and that wisdom which is divine. There is no time for engaging in trifling, for amusement, for the gratification of selfish propensities. It is time that you were occupied with serious thoughts. And you can not dwell upon the self-denying, self-sacrificing life of the world's Redeemer, and at the same time be joking and jesting, and whiling away your time by indulging in foolishness. And yet those who have professed to be followers of Christ have been guilty of these very things. Sins of no light character have been committed by those who have been in the truth for years, who have had great light, great privileges and responsibilities. "But turn ye, turn ye, why will ye die?" Make a complete surrender of yourselves to Him who has given Himself for you, that you should not perish but have everlasting life.                                                                              36   {PH152 35.1}
[PH152 36.1]          16. For Christ's sake cease to prostitute your powers to the service of self. Put your undivided interest into the work that has been committed to your hands. Jesus is looking upon you to see what spirit you manifest in the little things of your earthly life. You are now determining what shall be your destiny hereafter, and heaven is worth everything to you. If you accept the grace of Christ, and the gift of his righteousness, you may show by a consistent life that Jesus is all in all to you. His service is reasonable, for he has redeemed you, and every power of your being belongs to him. You need not make a failure of your Christian life, for Christ has made abundant provision that your faculties may be rightly directed, that your character may be pure and elevated and noble.  {PH152 36.1}
[PH152 36.2]                   Reaching a High Standard.          17. In becoming a follower of Christ, you need not think it necessary to give up all aspirations to reach a high standard. But if your ambitions have been selfish, and you have sought for the supremacy, and aimed at the glorification of yourself, all this will be changed, and your desire will be to become a diligent, earnest, faithful soldier of the Lord Jesus Christ. The elements of character which lead you to seek for distinction in a worldly life, Jesus will refine and purify and make steadfast, that you may with unselfish purpose seek to become a true coworker with the Majesty of heaven. A holy ambition will take possession of your heart, worthy of the object for which your ability was given. You will have respect to the recompense of the reward that has been purchased for you by the self-denial, the self-sacrifice of the                                                                              37  Lord Jesus. He will reward every man according to his works; although the reward is given not because of man's merit, yet it will be bestowed in proportion to the work that has been done; for their works testify to the character which has been developed. Your ambition is to be directed toward the advancement of your Redeemer's glory, of which he gives you a foretaste. He points you to the crown of immortal life, and bids you to so run that you may obtain. He bids you to fight the good fight of faith, to lay hold on eternal life, to wrestle that you may receive power for the highest attainments in the spiritual life.  {PH152 36.2}
[PH152 37.1]                  Contemplation of the Word.          18. But in order to reach the highest attainments in the divine life, the mind must be occupied with contemplation of the Word of God, that you may know what is the will of God, and become a doer of the words of Christ. This is represented by Christ as eating his flesh and drinking his blood. He says: "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." And when the disciples did not discern the spiritual character of his words, Jesus said unto them, "It is the Spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing; the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life." The eating of Christ is represented by the engrafting of the branches on the vine. Jesus said: "I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away; and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. . . . Abide                                                                              38  in me; and I in you. As the branch can not 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."  {PH152 37.1}
[PH152 38.1]                 Necessity of Abiding in Christ.          19. If you had been abiding in Christ, your fruit would have been unto purity and holiness. You would not be self-sufficient, heady, and high-minded, but would have been meek and lowly of heart. You would not be filled with envy, jealousy, evil surmising, strife for supremacy and position, esteeming yourselves more highly than the Lord esteems you. Look at the character of the fruit you have borne these years in the past, and then carefully consider the words of Christ. He says: Ye shall know them "by their fruits. . . . A good tree can not bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit." Many of you know that you are not standing in the light of the Sun of Righteousness. Your works are not the works of righteousness, and should you be cut down as an unfruitful tree, you would lose heaven, and the life that measures with the life of God. You are not ready to close up your accounts here. You need to take heed to yourselves, to watch and pray, to educate your thoughts to think of heavenly things, to educate your lips to speak on heavenly themes, to become familiar with the heavenly atmosphere, and be able to teach others that which you have learned of Jesus. Let the mind and soul be drawn to the great center of attraction, ever realizing the truth of Christ's words, "Without me ye can do nothing." Then will you have more humble views of yourself than you have ever had before.                                                                              39   {PH152 38.1}
[PH152 39.1]          20. "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." Compare your words and works with these words of inspiration, and see if you can be pleased with the comparison. If you had let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly, if you had searched the Bible for truth as men seek for hidden treasure, you would have had a precious experience, and as you contemplated the living oracles, daily you would have discovered new beauty in the inspired utterances, and your thoughts and words would have been purified, even as precious metal is purified and refined from dross in the fire of the furnace.  {PH152 39.1}
[PH152 39.2]          21. "Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me; and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in; behold, he shall come, saith the Lord of hosts. But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner's fire, and like fuller's soap; and he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; and he shall purify the sons of Levi ［those to whom are intrusted sacred responsibilities］, and purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the Lord an offering in righteousness." "Then shall the offering of Judah and Jerusalem be pleasant unto the Lord, as in the days of old, and as in former years."  {PH152 39.2}
[PH152 39.3]                        Working for Wages.          22. With many of the workers the spirit of                                                                              40  self-sacrifice has greatly diminished because they have lost their first love. Many are grasping for higher wages; but if they were laborers together with God, their wants would be more simple; for they spend money needlessly for things which they would not desire if their hearts were sanctified by the truth. Look at the example given to you in the life of Christ. There are those in the office who have withheld their tithes from the treasury, claiming that they could not see the requirement in the Word of God. But why could they not see it?--It was because selfishness was firmly rooted in the heart. They did not deny self, and make their offering to God. For years they have practised robbery toward God; but does not the Lord keep a record of all their doings? Most assuredly, for it is written that every man shall be rewarded according as his works have been, judged according to the deeds done in the body, whether they are good or whether they are evil. The Lord will not pass over the embezzlement of his goods. He is testing men to see who will be fit subjects for his kingdom above; for if they disregard his claims here, they will disregard them in the kingdom of heaven. Suppose that all who profess to be followers of Christ should withhold from the Lord his intrusted goods, and appropriate his talents to their own use and for the advancement of their own glory, how would the work of God move forward in the world? How would those in other nations ever receive the message of truth? The Lord does not rain down money from heaven, but he honors man by intrusting to him his treasures, and he tells him what he must do. Read carefully and prayerfully the instruction the Lord has given to you in Malachi 3:8-12.                                                                              41   {PH152 39.3}
[PH152 41.1]           Faithfulness in Tithes and Offerings.            23. The question is asked, "Will a man rob God?" And the answer might be given: "Yes, Lord. Some whom thou hast honored, and given a place in thy work, have been engaged in robbing thee for years. They have indulged themselves, and have centered the good things of life upon themselves, and have refused to act their part in fulfilling the requirements of God." "Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee?" Now listen, for God is speaking to you out of his Word. "In tithes and offerings." How does God regard the robbery of his treasury? Listen: "Ye are cursed with a curse; for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation." Hear the words of the Most High God, you who have been robbing God: "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house" --not a meager portion, not one-half, or one-quarter, but "all the tithes, that there may be meat in mine house." The reason is so plain that it commends itself to every one who has been cherishing the hateful plant of selfishness,--"that there may be meat in mine house." The reason that the Lord wants all the tithes in the treasury is that there may not be a scarcity of funds when his providence opens new fields to be occupied by the messengers of truth, that souls as precious in the sight of God as your own may come into the knowledge of the true God and Jesus Christ, whom he hath sent, and in their turn become missionaries to the souls of others.  {PH152 41.1}
[PH152 41.2]                  Blessings of Self-denial.          24. The standard of truth must be planted in all countries, but the missionary work is not extended as it should be, because those in our offices of                                                                              42  publication, and the members of our churches, do not cultivate the precious plant of love, and do not follow in the footsteps of Him who was meek and lowly of heart. Jesus said, "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me."  {PH152 41.2}
[PH152 42.1]          25. The follower of Christ has a cross to bear, for the requirement of Christ cuts directly across the inclination of the natural heart, and uproots pride, empties and cleanses the soul of selfishness and self-love, and leads men to deny self daily for Christ's sake. If you will act as Christians, there will be meat in the house of the Lord, whereby the sacred, holy work of God may be extended and advanced in the world; for those who are laborers together with God will bind about their wants, and not spend money for trifles, when souls are perishing for the bread of life.  {PH152 42.1}
[PH152 42.2]          26. Lift up Jesus to the world. Present his life and character before men. Dwell upon his humiliation and self-denial. Meditate upon the incarnation of the Son of God, who, though equal with the Father, for our sakes became poor, that we through his poverty might be made rich. Jesus calls for volunteers for his service, but he states the condition upon which they will be accepted as his followers. He says, "If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me." This is required of every one who has united himself with Jesus. The Lord Jesus descended lower and lower till he touched the depths of humiliation, in order that his grace might be multiplied unto us, and the streams of salvation might be poured out to those who were perishing, who know not God and Jesus Christ, whom he hath sent.                                                                              43   {PH152 42.2}
[PH152 43.1]          27. The precious Saviour did not limit his gifts; for when he gave himself, he gave all. He died to bring life and immortality to light, to reveal truth, that men might be drawn to him. All this was done to save fallen man, and individually we have the privilege of becoming his agents, to cooperate with the angels in communicating to the world the knowledge of this great salvation. Man will never be able to comprehend the great work that the heavenly intelligences are waiting to do through the agency of men in behalf of humanity.  {PH152 43.1}
[PH152 43.2]          28. Jesus wants you now to realize your deficiencies while mercy lingers, that you may turn unto him with your whole heart, and be supplied out of his abundant fulness, so that you shall be perfect, wanting in nothing. "And prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts." Mark it, this is not man that is addressing you, but the Lord of hosts. Will you hear him? Will you obey him? "If I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts. And all nations shall call you blessed; for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the Lord of hosts."  {PH152 43.2}
[PH152 43.3]          29. The religion of Christ is summed up in the words, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart; . . . thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself." But through love of the world, through unsanctified ambition, through self-love, and desire for supremacy, many are being conformed to the world, although the command from the Gospel of                                                                              44  Christ is, "Be not conformed to this world ［and the preventative is given］; but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind." You must have a changed mind, a renewed mind. The power of the Holy Spirit must be felt working upon the heart and character, producing a new man in Christ Jesus. You are to prove to God by unselfishly handling his intrusted goods that you can be trusted with his blessings. You are to trade with his talents, to seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness--not to seek first your own selfish interests, but to lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.  {PH152 43.3}
[PH152 44.1]                  Love Not The World.          30. Every worker should diligently search his own heart. The Lord requires that those who are purchased by the blood of the Son of God should realize that they are God's property, and no longer look upon themselves as their own, and live to serve themselves. Jesus gave his life to save an apostate race, and will those who accept this heavenly gift be selfish, and withhold from the Lord his own? All selfishness, all love of supremacy, originated with Satan. He is the root, and those who partake of his spirit are the branches; but in the day of God both root and branch will be consumed. No one can live a selfish life and enjoy the love of Jesus. Those who are determined to grasp the world's treasures will "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." Can we wonder that                                                                              45  the sin of covetousness is so decidedly denounced in the Scripture? "For this ye know, that no . . . covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of God." Covetousness is idolatry. Shall we as Christians pay no heed to all the warnings of God? Shall we still be in conformity to the world, when it is forbidden in the Word of God? "Be not conformed to this world." "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. 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."  {PH152 44.1}
[PH152 45.1]                 Mingling of Sacred and Common.          31. There is such a mingling of the sacred and the common in the work at the office that much of the sacredness of the work of God has been lost from the minds of the workers. The subject matter that some are handling is of such a character that their attention is arrested, and their mind engaged, and the cheap, objectionable sentences are fastening upon the memory; and before they know it, they are influenced by the spirit of the writer, and their mind and character are fashioned in some objectionable mould. There are souls who have connected with the office who are weak in faith, weak in the power of self-control; and through the influence of such publications, a train of thought is started that will be difficult to repress and expel from the mind. Before they embraced the truth, they had formed the habit of reading light and trifling literature; and after uniting with the church, they made efforts to overcome this taste for novels and story-books. To introduce to                                                                              46  this class, books that are not in harmony with the sacred work of God, is like putting the glass to the lips of the inebriate. With the temptation continually before them, they yield, and become interested in that which they discarded, and lose their relish for solid reading, and for Bible study, which is positively essential to the health of the soul. Through the influence of this kind of reading, moral power is enfeebled, dishonesty and crime do not appear so repulsive, discernment and sanctified perception are lost, and unfaithfulness in little things is increased. When the appetite of the mind is perverted, these poor souls will grasp any kind of reading that has a stimulating influence.  {PH152 45.1}
[PH152 46.1]          32. All these things have been placed before me, and every line of business at the office must be regulated so that the purity of the Christian character shall be preserved. Every temporal, earthly interest must be so subjected to the interests of the higher life that at any sacrifice, Christian integrity shall be untarnished. The question of what shall be published at the office must be viewed in the light of the teachings of the Holy Scriptures. The Lord's voice must be honored and obeyed. "The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life." The truth must not be placed in the background as it now is; for subjects of vast importance to the soul receive only a passing notice, while these objectionable things have the foreground. The workers overlook the great truths that would make them wise unto salvation. They do not see that daily they are to receive manna from the heavenly table, that they are to feed upon the Word of life, and so gain spiritual strength. They are now to store up for the present and the future, supplies that will provide for the soul in                                                                              47  times of emergency. They are to lay up in store the precious gold and silver and precious gems of the Word of God, jewels that will never perish.  {PH152 46.1}
[PH152 47.1]                 God Requires All the Heart.          33. The Lord will accept only the supreme affection of the soul, and this is his righteous requirement, for he has redeemed you with his blood. You are to seek to do the will of God, not your way and your will. I ask you now the question that the Lord is asking you: Who of you are resolved to eat the bread of life, that you may become stalwart Christians, maintaining spirituality, and able to "show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light"? Who of you in any capacity in the work of the office, will seek wisdom from God that you may represent the character of Christ in all your walks in life? Remember, your words, your actions, are either a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. Never forget that you are making a favorable or an unfavorable impression upon others in regard to the truth you profess to believe.  {PH152 47.1}
[PH152 47.2]          34. The religion of the Bible must be practised, for the world is watching you and criticising your actions. The office at Oakland needs weeding out. Either those who have long been there and who have not realized the sacredness of the work, should be converted, or they should be discharged. It is the duty of every one in the office who professes to be a Christian to give unmistakable evidence to those who come to the office that he is a Christian in deed and in truth, and that he is working out the principles of the Bible in all his work. All lightness, all jesting and trifling                                                                              48  is to be regarded as unchristian. Let every one see that you are governed by divine rule, that you are courteous and kind. If you keep the fear of the Lord ever before your eyes, he will work with your efforts, and crown you with success. Satan is continually at work that he may fill the mind with his suggestions, and cause you to follow his counsel. He advises you not to be overscrupulous in regard to honor and integrity, to look out sharply for your own interests, and demand the highest wages for your services. To some degree this is what has brought embarrassment upon the office. When the work is more attentively done, when there is a spirit of consecration, the Lord will hear your prayers, and will work in your behalf. But there is much unfaithfulness, and you need to call a halt, and begin the work of reformation in earnest. Those who are half-hearted and worldly, who are given to gossiping over the imperfections of others, while giving no attention to their own defects of character, should separate from the office, for they will demoralize others by their mischievous tongues.                                  Ellen G. White.            North Fitzroy, Victoria, Dec. 19, 1891.                                                    -    {PH152 47.2}
[PH152 48.1]         No. E. Consolidation of the Publishing Work.            1. The Lord has presented matters before me that cause me to tremble for the institutions at Battle Creek. He has laid these things before me, and I shall not be consistent if I do not seek to repress the spirit in Battle Creek, which reaches out                                                                              49  for more power, when for years there have not been sufficient men who were qualified to preside, with Christian faithfulness, over the charge they already have.  {PH152 48.1}
[PH152 49.1]          2. The scheme for consolidation is detrimental to the cause of present truth. Battle Creek has all the power she should have. Some in that place have advanced selfish plans, and if any branch of the work promised a measure of success, they have not exercised the spirit which lets well enough alone, but have made an effort to attach these interests to the great whole. They have striven to embrace altogether too much, and yet they are eager to get more. When they can show that they have made these plans under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, then confidence in them may be restored.  {PH152 49.1}
[PH152 49.2]          3. Twenty years ago, I was surprised at the cautions and warnings given me in reference to the publishing house on the Pacific Coast; that it was ever to remain independent of all other institutions; that it was to be controlled by no other institutions, but was to do the Lord's work under his guidance and protection. The Lord says, "All ye are brethren;" and the Pacific Press is not to be envied and looked upon with jealousy and suspicion by the stronger publishing house at Battle Creek. It must maintain its own individuality, and be strictly guarded from any corruption. It must not be merged into any other institution. The hand of power and control at Battle Creek must not reach across the continent to manage it.  {PH152 49.2}
[PH152 49.3]          4. At a later date, just prior to my husband's death, the minds of some were agitated in regard to placing these institutions under one presiding power. Again the Holy Spirit brought to my mind                                                                              50  what had been stated to me by the Lord. I told my husband to say, in answer to this proposition, that the Lord had not planned any such action. He who knows the end from the beginning, understands these matters better than erring man.  {PH152 49.3}
[PH152 50.1]          5. At a still later date the situation of the publishing house at Oakland was again presented to me. I was shown that a work was to be done by this institution which would be to the glory of God if the workers would keep his honor ever in view; but that an error was being committed by taking in a class of work which had a tendency to corrupt the institution. I was also shown that it must stand in its own independence, working out God's plan, under the control of none other but God.  {PH152 50.1}
[PH152 50.2]          6. The Lord presented before me that branches of this work would be planted in other places, and carried on under the supervision of the Pacific Press; but that if this proved a success, jealousy, evil surmisings, and covetousness would arise. Efforts would be made to change the order of things, and embrace the work among other interests at Battle Creek. Men are very zealous to change the order of things, but the Lord forbids such a consolidation. Every branch should be allowed to live, and do its own work.  {PH152 50.2}
[PH152 50.3]          7. Mistakes will occur in every institution, but if the managers will learn the lesson all must learn, --to move guardedly,--these errors will not be repeated, and God will preside over the work. Every worker in our institutions needs to make the Word of God his rule of action. Then the blessing of God will rest on him. He can not with safety dispense with the truth of God as his guide and monitor. If man can take one breath without being dependent upon God, then he may lay aside                                                                              51  God's pure, holy Word as guide-book. The truth must take control of the conscience and the understanding in all the work that is done. The Holy Spirit must preside over thought and word and deed. It is to direct in all temporal and spiritual actions.  {PH152 50.3}
[PH152 51.1]          8. It is well pleasing to God that we have praise and prayer and religious services, but Bible religion must be brought into all we do, and give sanctity to each daily duty. The Lord's will must become man's will in everything. The Holy One of Israel has given rules of guidance to all, and these rules of guidance are to be strictly followed; for they form the standard of character. No one can swerve from the first principles of righteousness without sinning. But our religion is misinterpreted and despised by unbelievers, because so many who profess to hold the truth, do not practice its principles in dealing with their fellow-men.  {PH152 51.1}
[PH152 51.2]          9. To my brethren at Battle Creek, I would say, You are not in any condition to consolidate. This means nothing less than placing upon the institutions at Battle Creek, the management of all the work, far and near, God's work can not be carried forward successfully by men who, by their resistance to light, have placed themselves where nothing will influence them to repent or change their course of action. There are men connected with the work in Battle Creek whose hearts are not sanctified and controlled by God.  {PH152 51.2}
[PH152 51.3]          10. If those connected with the work of God will not hear his voice and do his will, they should be separated entirely from the work. God does not need the influence of such men. I speak plainly; for it is time that things were called by their right name. Those who love and fear God with all their hearts are the only men that God can trust. But those who have separated their souls from God, should themselves be separated from the work of God, which is so solemn and so important.                                Mrs. E. G. White.        May ［31］, 1896.  {PH152 51.3}
[PH081 3.1]         PH081 - Special Testimonies on Church Schools (1898)                   "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N.S.W.,                                  Dec. 15, 1897.          Dear Brother: In your letter you ask me serious questions, and lay out propositions which are sensible and right. There should be schools established wherever there is a church or company of believers. Teachers should be employed to educate the children of Sabbath-keepers. This would close the door to a large number who are drifting into Battle Creek,--the very place where the Lord has warned them not to go. In the light that has been given me, I have been pointed to the churches that are scattered in different localities, and have been shown that the strength of these churches depends upon their growth in usefulness and efficiency.  {PH081 3.1}
[PH081 3.2]         Building in Battle Creek.--A large amount of the responsibility piled up in Battle Creek is not in accordance with the principles that the Lord has set before us. There should be fewer buildings erected in Battle Creek to call the crowds of people there. All those large buildings should not be crowded together as they are. They should have been placed in different localities, and not in the very midst of one city. The various cities should have representatives of the truth in their midst. I cannot go contrary to the will of God, and say, Erect more buildings in Battle Creek; but I would say, Build in other                             -4-     localities. There should be fewer interests centered at Battle Creek, and far more in other places where there is nothing to give character to the work of God.  {PH081 3.2}
[PH081 4.1]          Missionary Teachers.--In all our churches there should be schools, and teachers in those schools who are missionaries. It is essential that teachers be educated to act their important part in educating the children of Sabbath-keepers, not only in the sciences, but in the Scriptures. These schools, established in different localities, and conducted by God-fearing men and women, as the case demands, should be built upon the same principles as were the schools of the prophets.  {PH081 4.1}
[PH081 4.2]          Special talent should be given to the education of the youth. The children are to be trained to become missionaries, and but few understand distinctly what they must do to be saved. Few have the instruction in religious lines that is essential. If the instructors have a religious experience themselves, they will be able to communicate to their students the knowledge of the love of God they have received. These lessons can only be given from those who are themselves truly converted; and this is the noblest missionary work that any man or woman can undertake.  {PH081 4.2}
[PH081 4.3]          Essential Studies.--Children should be educated to read, to write, to understand figures, to keep their own accounts, when very young. They may go forward, advancing step by step in this knowledge. But before everything else they should be taught that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. They may be educated line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; but the one aim ever before                                 -5-     the teacher should be to educate the children to know God, and Jesus Christ whom he has sent.  {PH081 4.3}
[PH081 5.1]          Obedience.--Teach the youth that sin in any line is defined in the Scriptures as "transgression of the law." Sin originated with the first great apostate. He was a disobedient subject. He led the family of heaven into disobedience, and he and all who were united with him were cast out of the paradise of God. Teach the children in simple language that they must be obedient to their parents, and give their hearts to God. Jesus Christ is waiting to accept and bless them, if they will only come to him and ask him to pardon all their transgressions, and take away their sins. And when they ask him to pardon all their transgressions, they must believe that he will do it.  {PH081 5.1}
[PH081 5.2]          Children as Missionaries.--God wants every child of tender age to be his child, to be adopted into his family. Young though they may be, the youth may be members of the household of faith, and have a most precious experience. They may have hearts that are tender, and ready to receive impressions that will be lasting. They may have their hearts drawn out in confidence and love for Jesus, and live for the Saviour. Christ will make them little missionaries. The whole current of their thoughts may be changed, so that sin will not appear a thing to be enjoyed, but to be hated and shunned.  {PH081 5.2}
[PH081 5.3]          Small as well as older children will be benefited by this instruction; and in thus simplifying the plan of salvation, the teachers will receive as great blessings as those who are taught. The Holy Spirit of God will impress the lessons upon the receptive minds of the children, that they                             -6-     may grasp the ideas of Bible truth in their simplicity. And the Lord will give an experience to these children in missionary lines; he will suggest to them lines of thought which the teachers themselves did not have.  {PH081 5.3}
[PH081 6.1]          The children who are properly instructed will be witnesses for the truth. Teachers who are nervous and easily irritated should not be placed over the youth. They must love the children because they are the younger members of the Lord's family. The Lord will inquire of them as of the parents, "What have you done with my flock, my beautiful flock?"  {PH081 6.1}
[PH081 6.2]          Home Should Be a Church.--It is surprising to see how little is done by many parents to save their own children. Every family in the home life should be a church, a beautiful symbol of the church of God in heaven. If parents realize their responsibilities to their children, they would not under any circumstances scold and fret at them. This is not the kind of education any child should have. Many, many children have learned to be faultfinding, fretful, scolding, passionate children, because they were allowed to be passionate at home. Parents are to consider that they are in the place of God to their children, to encourage every right principle and repress every wrong thought.  {PH081 6.2}
[PH081 6.3]          Home Training.--If in their own homes children are allowed to be disrespectful, disobedient, unthankful, and peevish, their sins lie at the door of the parents. It is the special work of fathers and mothers to teach their children with kindness and affection. They are to show that as parents they are the ones to hold the lines, to govern, and not to be governed by their children.                              -7-     They are to teach that obedience is required of them, and thus they educate them to submit to the authority of God.  {PH081 6.3}
[PH081 7.1]          Qualification of Teachers.--In educating the children and youth, teachers should never allow one passionate word or gesture to mar their work, for in so doing, they imbue the students with the same spirit which they themselves possess. The Lord would have our primary schools as well as those for older persons, of that character that angels of God can walk through the room, and behold in the order and principles of government, the order and government of heaven. This is thought by many to be impossible; but every school should begin with this, and should work most earnestly to preserve the spirit of Christ in temper, in communications, in instruction, the teachers placing themselves in the channel of light where the Lord can use them as his agents, to reflect his own likeness of character upon the students. They may know that as God-fearing instructors they have helpers every hour to impress upon the hearts of the children the valuable lessons given.  {PH081 7.1}
[PH081 7.2]          Defective Teachers.--The Lord works with every consecrated teacher; and it is for his own interest to realize this. Instructors who are under the discipline of God do not manufacture anything themselves. They receive grace and truth and light through the Holy Spirit to communicate to the children. They are under the greatest Teacher the world has ever known, and how unbecoming it would be for them to have an unkind spirit, a sharp, harsh voice, full of irritation. In this they would perpetuate their own defects in the children.                              -8-  {PH081 7.2}
[PH081 8.1]          Bible as a Text-Book.--O for a clear perception of what we might accomplish if we would learn of Jesus! The springs of heavenly peace and joy, unsealed in the soul of the teacher by the magic words of inspiration, will become a mighty river of influence, to bless all who connect with him. Do not think that the Bible will become a tiresome book to the children. Under a wise instructor the word will become more and more desirable. It will be to them as the bread of life, and will never grow old. There is in it a freshness and beauty that attract and charm the children and youth. It is like the sun shining upon the earth, giving its brightness and warmth, yet never exhausted. By lessons from the Bible history and doctrine, the children and youth can learn that all other books are inferior to this. They can find here a fountain of mercy and of love.  {PH081 8.1}
[PH081 8.2]          Spirit of God as an Educator.--God's holy, educating Spirit is in his word. A light, a new and precious light, shines forth upon every page. Truth is there revealed, and words and sentences are made bright and appropriate for the occasion as the voice of God speaking to them.  {PH081 8.2}
[PH081 8.3]          We need to recognize the Holy Spirit as our enlightener. That Spirit loves to address the children, and discover to them the treasures and beauties of the word of God. The promises spoken by the Great Teacher will captivate the senses and animate the soul of the child with a spiritual power that is divine. There will grow in the fruitful a familiarity with divine things which will be as a barricade against the temptations of the enemy.                                -9-  {PH081 8.3}
[PH081 9.1]          Results of Christian Education.--The work of teachers is an important one. They should make the word of God their meditation. God will communicate by his own Spirit to the soul. Pray as you study, "Lord, open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law." When the teacher will rely upon God in prayer, the spirit of Christ will come upon him, and God will work through him by the Holy Spirit upon the minds of the students. The Holy Spirit fills the mind and heart with sweet hope, and courage, and Bible imagery, and this will be communicated to the students, the words of truth will grow in importance, and assume a breadth and fulness of meaning of which you have never dreamed. The beauty and riches of the word of God have a transforming influence upon mind and character; the sparks of heavenly love will fall upon the hearts of the children as an inspiration. We may bring hundreds and thousands of children to Christ if we will work for them.  {PH081 9.1}
[PH081 9.2]          Enlargement of Educational Work.--Let all to whom these words may come be melted and subdued. Let us in our educational work embrace far more than we have done of the children and youth, and there will be a whole army of missionaries raised up to work for God. I say again, Establish schools for the children where there are churches,--those who assemble to worship God. Where there are churches, let there be schools. Work as if you were working for your life to save children from being drowned in the polluting, corrupting influences of this life.  {PH081 9.2}
[PH081 9.3]          New Schools.--Too much is centered in Battle Creek. I need not advise that the sound of                                -10-     the ax and hammer be heard in Battle Creek in erecting new buildings. There are places where our schools should have been in operation years ago. Let these now be started under wise directors. The youth should be educated in their own churches. In America you can build three schoolhouses cheaper than we can build one in this country. It is a grievous offense to God that there has been so great neglect to make provision for the improvement of the children and youth when Providence has so abundantly supplied us with facilities with which to work.  {PH081 9.3}
[PH081 10.1]          Associations of Children at School.--Can we wonder that children and youth drift into temptation, and become educated in wrong lines by their association with other neglected children? These children are not wisely educated to use their active minds and limbs to do helpful work. Our schools should teach the children all kinds of simple labor. Can we wonder, neglected as they have been, that their energies become devoted to amusements that do them no good, that their religious aspirations are chilled, and their spiritual life darkened? Thousands in their own homes are left almost uneducated. "It is so much trouble," says the mother. "I would rather do these things myself; it is such a trouble; you bother me."  {PH081 10.1}
[PH081 10.2]          The Mother a Teacher.--Does not mother remember that she herself had to learn in jots and tittles before she could be helpful? It is a wrong to children to refuse to teach them little by little. Keep these children with you. Let them ask questions, and in patience answer them. Give your little children something to do; and let them have the happiness                             -11-     of supposing they help you. There must be no repulsing of your children when trying to do proper things. If they make mistakes, if accidents happen, and things break, do not blame. Their whole future life depends upon the education you give them in their childhood years. Teach them that all their faculties of body and mind were given them to use, and that all are the Lord's, pledged to his service. To some of these children the Lord gives an early intimation of his will. Parents and teachers, begin to teach the children to cultivate their God-given qualities.  {PH081 10.2}
[PH081 11.1]          Churches Should Have Responsibility for Their Children.--My brother, I feel deeply over the mistake of locating so many important interests at Battle Creek. There is a world to receive the light of truth. Had interests been located in cities where nothing is being done, the warning message would be given to other cities. You have asked me in regard to the schools being opened in our churches. I have tried to answer you. That light which has centered in Battle Creek should have been shining in other localities. Schools should have been opened in places where they are so much needed. This will provide for the children and youth who are drifting into Battle Creek. Let the church carry a burden for the lambs of the flock in its locality, and see how many can be educated and trained to do service for God.                             Mrs. E. G. White.                                -12-  {PH081 11.1}
[PH081 12.1]                           Schools.          Christian Schools.--One reason why it was necessary to establish institutions of our own was the fact that parents were not able to counteract the influence of the teaching their children were receiving in the public schools, and the error there taught was leading the youth into false paths. No stronger influence could be brought to bear upon the minds of the youth and children than that of those who were educating them in principles of science. For this reason it was evident that schools must be established in which our children should be instructed in the way of truth. In our schools it was specified that the youth were to be taught in the principles of Bible temperance, and every influence was to be brought to bear upon them that would tend to help them to shun the follies of this degenerate age, which were fast making the world as a second Sodom.  {PH081 12.1}
[PH081 12.2]          Evils of the Secular School.--In our institutions of learning there was to be exerted an influence that would counteract the influence of the world, and give no encouragement to indulgence in appetite, in selfish gratification of the senses, in pride, ambition, love of dress and display, love of praise and flattery, and strife for high rewards and honors as a recompense for good scholarship. All this was to be discouraged in our schools. It would be impossible to avoid these things, and yet send them to the public schools, where they would daily be brought in contact with that which would contaminate their morals. All through the world there was so great a neglect of home training that the children found at the                                -13-     public schools, for the most part, were profligate, and steeped in vice.--Review and Herald, Jan. 9, 1894.  {PH081 12.2}
[PH081 13.1]          In the system of education used in the common schools the most essential part of the education is neglected; it is as follows; viz., religion of the Bible.--Test. No. 31, p. 24.  {PH081 13.1}
[PH081 13.2]          For the Children.--My subject principally was that the smaller children should not be neglected. This work is fully as essential as the work for the older pupils. For many years my attention has been called to this phase of work. Schools should be established where children should receive proper education. From the teachers in the public schools, they receive ideas that are opposed to the truth. But further than this, they receive a wrong education by associating with children that have no training, that are left to obtain a street education. Satan uses these children to educate children that are more carefully brought up. Before Sabbath-keeping parents know what evil is being done, the lessons of depravity are learned. The souls of their children are corrupted.  {PH081 13.2}
[PH081 13.3]          This subject has long been neglected. The first seven or ten years of a child's life is the time when lasting impressions for good or for evil are made. What is education? The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. The child should be educated to receive the truth in the heart. It should be given instruction which will lead it to see what constitutes sin. It should be taught that all sin is an offense toward God. The heart should be carefully guarded; for by giving the life of His dear Son, God has purchased the soul of every child. He would have the                                -14-     precious life that has been redeemed by Jesus Christ, molded and fashioned after the similitude of a palace, that Christ may be enshrined as the king of the soul.  {PH081 13.3}
[PH081 14.1]          Church Schools.--Is obedience to all the commandments of God taught the children in their very first lesson? Is sin represented as an offense toward God? I would rather that children grow up in a degree of ignorance of school education as it is today, and employ some other means to teach them. But in this country many parents are compelled to send their children to school. Therefore, in localities where there is a church, a school should be established, if there are no more than six children to attend. A teacher should be employed who will educate the children in the truths of the word of God, which are so essential for these last days, and which it is so important for them to understand. A great test is coming; it will be upon obedience or disobedience to the commandments of God. Intemperance is seen everywhere, disregard for the law of God, rioting, and drunkenness prevail.--Private Test., May 6, 1897.  {PH081 14.1}
[PH081 14.2]         Conference Schools.--Wherever there are a few Sabbath-schools, let the parents unite together in providing a place for a day school where the children of the various Sabbath-schools can come together. Let them employ a Christian teacher, who, as a consecrated missionary, shall educate the children in such a way as to lead them to become missionaries themselves. Work while it is day, for the night cometh in which no man can work. Parents must gird on the armor, and by their own example, they must teach their children to be missionaries. Let the parents put                                -15-     forth unselfish efforts, and the Lord will work with their efforts as they perseveringly teach their children to bear responsibilities. As the children practise the Bible lessons, they will receive an education of the highest value. Wherever there are Sabbath-keepers, there is a missionary field.  {PH081 14.2}
[PH081 15.1]          Home Schools.--If parents are not able to send their children to school, let them hire an exemplary, religious teacher who will feel it a pleasure to work for the Master in any capacity, who will be willing to cultivate any part of the Lord's vineyard. Let mothers and fathers co-operate with the teachers, and devote an hour daily to study, becoming learners with the children. Make the educating hour one of pleasure and importance, and your confidence will increase in the method of seeking for the salvation of your children. Your own spiritual growth will be more rapid as you learn to work for them. As you work in a humble way, unbelief will disappear. Faith and activity will impart to your experience ardor, assurance, and satisfaction that will increase day by day as you follow on to know the Lord, and to make him known. Your prayers will become earnest. You will have some real object for which to pray.  {PH081 15.1}
[PH081 15.2]          If people would encourage the church in which they are members to establish small, humble school buildings, in which to do service for God, they would accommodate their own children within their borders.--P. C., Feb. 2, 1895.  {PH081 15.2}
[PH081 15.3]          We should have primary schools in different localities to prepare our youth for our higher schools.--Sp. Test. for Ministers and Workers, No. 6, p. 58.                                -16-  {PH081 15.3}
[PH081 16.1]          Church and Home Schools.--The mother should be the teacher, and home the school where every child receives his first lessons; and these lessons should include habits of industry. Mothers, let the little ones play in the open air; let them listen to the songs of the birds, and learn the love of God as expressed in his beautiful works. Teach them simple lessons from the book of nature and the things about them; and as their minds expand, lessons from books may be added, and firmly fixed in the memory. But let them also learn, even in their earliest years, to be useful. Train them to think that, as members of the household, they are to act an interested, helpful part in sharing the domestic burdens, and to seek ［healthful］ exercise in the performance of necessary home duties.  {PH081 16.1}
[PH081 16.2]          It is essential for parents to find useful employment for their children, which will involve the bearing of responsibilities as their age and strength will permit. The children should be given something to do that will not only keep them busy, but interests them. The active hands and brains must be employed from the earliest years. If parents neglect to turn their children's energies into useful channels they do them great injury; for Satan is ready to find them something to do. Shall not the doing be chosen for them, the parents being the instructors?  {PH081 16.2}
[PH081 16.3]          Co-operation of Parents and Teacher.--When the child is old enough to be sent to school, the teacher should co-operate with the parents, and manual training should be continued as a part of his school duties. There are many students who object to this kind of work in the school. They think useful employment, like learning a trade,                            -17-     degrading; but such persons have an incorrect idea of what constitutes true dignity. Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, who is One with the Father, the Commander in the heavenly courts, was the personal instructor and guide of the children of Israel; and among them it was required that every youth should learn how to work. All were to be educated in some business line, that they might possess a knowledge of practical life and be not only self-sustaining, but useful. This was the instruction which God gave to his people.--Sp. Test., pp. 37, 38.  {PH081 16.3}
[PH081 17.1]          The approval of God rests with loving assurance upon the children who cheerfully take their part in the duties of domestic life, sharing the burdens of father and mother. They will be rewarded with health of body and peace of mind; and they will enjoy the pleasure of seeing their parents take their share of social enjoyment and healthful recreation, thus prolonging their lives. Children trained to the practical duties of life, will go out from the home to be useful members of society. Their education is far superior to that gained by close confinement in the school-room at an early age, when neither the mind nor the body is strong enough to endure the strain.  {PH081 17.1}
[PH081 17.2]          The children and youth should have the lesson continually before them, at home and in the school, by precept and example, to be truthful, unselfish, and industrious. They should not be allowed to spend their time in idleness; their hands should not be folded in inaction. Parents and teachers should work for the accomplishment of this object--the development of all the powers and a formation of a right character; but when parents realize their responsibilities, there                           -18-     will be far less left for teachers to do in the training of their children.--Sp. Test., pp. 41, 42.                                                    -    {PH081 17.2}
[PH081 18.1]                Our Youth and Children.          God Addresses Parents.--The work that lies next to our church-members is to become interested in our youth; for they need kindness, patience, tenderness, line upon line, precept upon precept. O, where are the fathers and mothers in Israel? We ought to have a large number of them who would be stewards of the grace of Christ, who would feel not merely a casual interest, but a special interest in the young. We ought to have those whose hearts are touched by the pitiable situation in which our youth are placed, who realize that Satan is working by every conceivable device to draw them into his net. God requires that the church arouse from its lethargy and see what is the manner of service demanded of them at this time of peril. The lambs of the flock must be fed. The eyes of our brethren and sisters should be anointed with heavenly eyesalve, that they may discern the necessities of the time. We must be aroused to see what needs to be done in Christ's spiritual vineyard, and go to work. The Lord of Heaven is looking on to see who is doing the work He would have done for the youth and children.  {PH081 18.1}
[PH081 18.2]          Church Should Awake.--The church is asleep and does not realize the magnitude of this matter of educating the children and youth. "Why," one says, "what is the need of being so particular thoroughly to educate our youth? It seems to me that if you take a few who have decided to follow some literary calling, or some other                          -19-     calling that requires a certain discipline, and give due attention to them, that is all that is necessary. It is not required that the whole mass of our youth should be so well trained. Will not this answer every essential requirement?"--No, I answer, most decidedly not. What selection would we be able to make out of the numbers of our youth? How could we tell who would be the most promising, who would render the best service to God? In our human judgment we might do as did Samuel when he was sent to find the anointed of the Lord, and look upon the outward appearance.  {PH081 18.2}
[PH081 19.1]          The Lord Slights None.--Who can determine which one of a family will prove to be efficient in the work of God? There should be general education of all the members, and all our youth should be permitted to have the blessings and privileges of an education at our schools, that they may be inspired to become laborers together with God. They all need an education that they may be fitted for usefulness in this life, qualified for places of responsibility both in private and public life. There is a great necessity of making plans that there may be a large number of competent workers, and many should fit themselves up as teachers, that others may be trained and disciplined for the great work of the future. The church should take in the situation, and by their influence and means seek to bring about the much-desired end. Let a fund be created by generous contributions for the establishment of schools for the advancement of educational work. We need men well trained, well educated to work in the interest of the churches. They should present the fact that we cannot                        -20-     trust our youth to go to seminaries and colleges established by other denominations, but must gather them in where their religious training will not be neglected. God would not have us in any sense behind in educational work; our college should be far in advance in the highest kind of education.  {PH081 19.1}
[PH081 20.1]          Influence of Worldly Schools.--"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." "The entrance of thy word giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple." If we do not have schools for our youth, they will attend other seminaries and colleges, and will be exposed to infidel sentiments, to cavilings and questionings concerning the inspiration of the Bible. There is a great deal of talk concerning higher education, and many suppose that this higher education consists wholly in an education in science and literature; but this is not all. The highest education includes the knowledge of the word of God, and is comprehended in the words of Christ, "That they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent."  {PH081 20.1}
[PH081 20.2]          Encouragement.--Though we have come short of doing what we might have done for our youth and children in the past, let us now repent and redeem the time. The Lord says. "If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: but if ye refuse and rebel ye shall be devoured with the sword."--Sp. Test., pp. 197, 202.                            -21-  {PH081 20.2}
[PH081 21.1]              Lines of Study for Church Schools.                     I. The Bible.            The lips of children will be opened to proclaim the mysteries that have been hidden from the minds of men. The Lord has chosen the foolish things of this world to confound the wise, and the weak things of the world to confound the mighty.  {PH081 21.1}
[PH081 21.2]          The Foundation.--The Bible should not be brought into our schools to be sandwiched in between infidelity. The Bible must be made the groundwork and subject-matter of education. It is true that we know much more of the word of the living God than we knew in the past, but there is still much more to be learned. It should be used as the word of the living God and esteemed as first, and last, and best in everything. Then will be seen true spiritual growth. The students will develop healthy, religious characters; because they eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God. But, unless watched and nurtured, the health of the soul decays. Keep in the channel of light. Study the Bible. Those who serve God faithfully will be blessed. He who permits no faithful work to go unrewarded will crown every act of loyalty and integrity with special tokens of his love and approbation--Test., "The Bible in Our Schools."  {PH081 21.2}
[PH081 21.3]          The word of God is to stand as the highest educating book in our world, and is to be treated with reverential awe. It is our GUIDE BOOK; we shall receive from it the truth. We need to present the Bible as the great lesson book, to place it in the hands of our children and youth,                            -22-     that they may know Christ, whom to know aright is life eternal. It is the book to be studied by those of middle age and those who are aged.-- Sp. Test., p. 233.  {PH081 21.3}
[PH081 22.1]          If used as a text-book in our schools, it will be found far more effective than any other book in the world.--"Christian Education," p. 108.  {PH081 22.1}
[PH081 22.2]          The word of God is the most perfect educational book in our world.--Sp. Test., p. 19.  {PH081 22.2}
[PH081 22.3]          In searching its pages, we move through scenes majestic and eternal.--"Christian Education," p. 108.  {PH081 22.3}
[PH081 22.4]          In the Bible every vital principle is declared, every duty made plain, every obligation made evident.--"Christian Education." p. 84.  {PH081 22.4}
[PH081 22.5]          The Bible is a Directory by which you may know the way to eternal life.--Sp. Test., p. 194.  {PH081 22.5}
[PH081 22.6]          It unfolds a simple and complete system of Theology and Philosophy.--"Christian Education." p. 106.  {PH081 22.6}
[PH081 22.7]          What other book presents to students more ennobling Science, more wonderful History?--Sp. Test., p. 19.  {PH081 22.7}
[PH081 22.8]          The searching of all books of Philosophy and Science cannot do for the mind and morals what the Bible can do if studied and practised.-- "Christian Education," p. 107.  {PH081 22.8}
[PH081 22.9]          Of all the books that have flooded the world, be they ever so valuable, the Bible is the book of books, and is most deserving of the closest study and attention.--"Christian Education," p. 105.  {PH081 22.9}
[PH081 22.10]          If there was not another book in the wide world, the word of God lived out through Christ, would make man perfect in this world.--Sp. Test., p. 149.  {PH081 22.10}
[PH081 22.11]          The Bible has not been made a standard matter                        -23-     in their education, but books mixed with infidelity and propagating unsound theories have been placed before them.--Sp. Test., p. 105.  {PH081 22.11}
[PH081 23.1]                    II. Nature Study.          While the Bible should hold the first place in the education of children and youth, the book of nature is next in importance.--Sp. Test., p. 58.  {PH081 23.1}
[PH081 23.2]          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 work of their own hands, and the true God, the Maker of heaven and earth.--Sp. Test., p. 60.  {PH081 23.2}
[PH081 23.3]          A return to simpler methods will be appreciated by the children and youth. Work in the garden and field will be an agreeable change from the wearisome routine of abstract lessons, to which their young minds should never be confined. God has, in the natural world, placed in the hands of the children of men the key to unlock the treasure-house of His word. 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.-- Sp. Test., p. 61.  {PH081 23.3}
[PH081 23.4]          The little children should come especially close to nature.--Sp. Test., p. 62.  {PH081 23.4}
[PH081 23.5]                   III. Physiology.          The youth should be taught to look upon physiology as one of the essential studies, and they should not be satisfied with the mere theory; they should practise the knowledge obtained from books on this subject. This matter has not yet                         -24-     been patiently and perseveringly worked out. Those who neglect this branch of study, which comprehends so much, will make haphazard work in attempting to teach the youth. They are not qualified to direct in our schools, because the way of the Lord must be learned in order to be practised.--Test., "Our School Work."  {PH081 23.5}
[PH081 24.1]          A practical knowledge of the science of human life is necessary in order to glorify God in our bodies. It is therefore of the highest importance that among studies selected for childhood, physiology should occupy the first place.  {PH081 24.1}
[PH081 24.2]          It is well that physiology is introduced into the common schools as a branch of education. All children should study it. It should be regarded as the basis of all educational effort. And then parents should see to it that practical hygiene be added. This will make their knowledge of physiology of practical benefit.--"Healthful Living," p. 13.  {PH081 24.2}
[PH081 24.3]                     IV. Common Branches.          If teachers were receiving light and wisdom from the divine Teacher--the common, essential branches of education would be more thoroughly taught, and the word of God would be honored and esteemed as the Bread sent down from heaven, which sustains all spiritual life, binding the human agent with Christ in God.--Sp. Test., pp. 164, 165.  {PH081 24.3}
[PH081 24.4]          The common branches of education should be fully and prayerfully taught.--Dec. 20, 1896.  {PH081 24.4}
[PH081 24.5]          Children should be educated to read, write, to understand figures, to keep their own accounts, when very young. They may go forward, advancing step by step in this knowledge.--P. C., Dec. 15, 1897.                            -25-  {PH081 24.5}
[PH081 25.1]          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.--Dec. 20, 1896.  {PH081 25.1}
[PH081 25.2]                    V. Other Branches.          Manual Training.--This education, in felling trees, tilling the soil, erecting buildings, as well as in literature, is the education our youth should each seek to obtain. Further on, a printing-press should be connected with our school, in order to educate in this line. Tent-making also should be learned. There are also many things which the lady students may be engaged in. There is cooking, dressmaking, 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. 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. The greatest curse of our world in this, our day, 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: they are now to have a different education, that they may be prepared to go forth from the school with an all-round education.                             -26-  {PH081 25.2}
[PH081 26.1]          Missionary Qualifications.--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 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. They will be much more influential if they show that they can educate the ignorant how to labor by 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 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. If the light God has given were cherished, students would leave our schools free from the burden of debt.  {PH081 26.1}
[PH081 26.2]          Treating the Sick.--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.                              -27-  {PH081 26.2}
[PH081 27.1]                           Books.          The earth is corrupt and dark and idolatrous; and amid the darkness and corruption a pure, divine light, the word of God, is shining. But although we have known the truth for many years, little advancement has been made by those who have been given light. Whose plan was it to produce that class of books that has been patronized in our schools? It was the plan largely of men who had not the experience of Moses and Joshua and Daniel, and the other prophets and apostles, who endured the seeing of Him who is invisible. Seeing God by faith gives a conception of the divine character, the perfection of heaven. But to place in our schools the books that have been placed there as standard books, is an offense to God. In this age, as never before, when the two great forces of the Prince of Heaven and the prince of hell have met in decided conflict, our youth need instruction in Bible principles. Like the branches of the True Vine, the word of God presents unity in diversity. There is in it a perfect, superhuman, mysterious unity. It contains divine wisdom, that is the foundation of all true education; but this book has been treated indifferently. --July 8, 1897.  {PH081 27.1}
[PH081 27.2]          No teacher in our schools should suggest the idea that, in order to have the right discipline, it is essential to study text-books expressing pagan and infidel sentiments.--"Christian Education," p. 99.  {PH081 27.2}
[PH081 27.3]          The study of works that in any way express infidel sentiments is like handling black coals; for a man cannot be undefiled in mind who thinks                            -28-     along the line of skepticism.--"Christian Education," p. 100.  {PH081 27.3}
[PH081 28.1]          Books Must Be Used.--The study of the sciences is not to be neglected. Books must be used for this purpose; but they should be in harmony with the Bible, for that is the standard. Books of this character should take the place of many of those now in the hands of the students. God is the author of science. Scientific research opens the mind to vast fields of thought and information, enabling us to see God through his created works. Ignorance may try to support skepticism by appeals to science; but instead of doing this, science contributes fresh evidences of the wisdom and power of God. Rightly understood, science and the written word agree, and each sheds light on the other. Together they lead us to God, by teaching us something of the wise and beneficent laws through which he works.--Sp. Test., pp. 56, 57.  {PH081 28.1}
[PH081 28.2]          Christian Text-Books Needed.--These popular authors have not pointed out to the students the way that leads to eternal life. "And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent." John 17:3. The authors of the books current in our schools are recommended and exalted as learned men; their education is in every way deficient, unless they themselves have been educated in the school of Christ, and by practical knowledge bear witness to the word of God as the most essential study for children and youth; "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Books should have been prepared to place in the hands of students that would educate them to have a sincere, reverent love for truth                              -29-     and steadfast integrity. The class of studies which are positively essential in the formation of character to give them a preparation for the future life, should be kept ever before them.--Sp. Test., p. 230.  {PH081 28.2}
[PH081 29.1]          Uninspired authors are placed in the hands of children and youth in our schools as lesson books --books from which they are to be educated. They are kept before the youth, taking up their precious time in studying those things which they can never use. Many books have been introduced into the schools which should never have been placed there. These books do not in any sense voice the words of John, "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." The whole line of study in our schools should be to prepare a people for the future, immortal life.--Sp. Test., p. 232.  {PH081 29.1}
[PH081 29.2]          All unnecessary matters need to be weeded from the course of study, and only such studies be placed before the student as will be of real value to him.--Sp. Test., p. 151.  {PH081 29.2}
[PH081 29.3]          But the study of many different authors confuses and wearies the mind, and has a detrimental influence upon the religious life.--Sp. Test., p. 149.                                                    -    {PH081 29.3}
[PH081 29.4]                        Teachers.          Qualifications.--Students should be encouraged to combine mental and physical labor. The physical powers should be developed in proportion to the mental faculties. This is essential for an all-round education, and they will then be at home in any place. They should be able to teach others how to build, how to cultivate the soil. A man may have a brilliant mind, quick to                           -30-     catch ideas; but this is of little value to him if he has no knowledge of practical work, if he does not know how to put his ideas into execution. Such a one is only half educated. The teacher who has an intelligent knowledge of the best methods, and who can not only teach the theory, but can show by example how things should be done, will never be a drug in the market.-- Test., "Our School Work."  {PH081 29.4}
[PH081 30.1]          God wants the teachers in our schools to be efficient. Let none feel that having an earnestness in religious matters is all that is essential in order to become educators. While they need no less of piety, they also need a thorough knowledge of the sciences. This will make them not only good, practical Christians, but will enable them to educate the youth, and, at the same time, they will have heavenly wisdom to lead them to the fountain of living water.--"Christian Education," p. 51.  {PH081 30.1}
[PH081 30.2]          Many teachers are leading their students over the same track that they themselves have trod. They think this is the only right way. They give students food which would not sustain spiritual life, but which will cause those who partake of it to die. They are fascinated by that which God does not require them to know.-- Test., "The Bible in Our Schools."  {PH081 30.2}
[PH081 30.3]          Selection of Teachers.--Those whom the Lord has presented to me as not being properly trained in the home life, who have not thought it necessary to use the powers of their mind and their physical strength and ingenuity as members of the home firm, will always look upon order and discipline as needless restraint and severity. Again and again the Lord has presented this                           -31-     matter before me in clear lines. The teachers must be carefully picked. No haphazard work must be done in the appointment of teachers. Those who have devoted years to study and yet have not gained the education essential to fit them to teach others, in the lines the Lord has marked out, should not be connected with our schools as educators. They need to be taught the first principles of true, all-round education.  {PH081 30.3}
[PH081 31.1]          Blind Teachers.--We are living in solemn times, and the reason why there are so many failures in our schools is because teachers neglect to keep the way of the Lord. Some teachers feel the burden and carry the load of responsibility. Others do surface work. They fail to see that the woeful influence of this deficiency is seen in the words and deportment of their students. This influence counterworks the influence that God-fearing teachers, who aim to meet the high standard of Christian education, seek.  {PH081 31.1}
[PH081 31.2]          Converted Teachers.--I would that the teachers in our schools could be of God's selection and appointment. Souls will be lost because of the careless work of professedly Christian teachers, who need to be taught of God day by day, else they are unfit for the position of trust. Teachers are needed who will strive to weed out their inherited and cultivated tendencies to wrong, who will come into line, wearing themselves the yoke of obedience, and thus giving an example to the students. The sense of duty to their God and to their fellow beings, with whom they associate, will lead such teachers to become doers of the word, and to heed counsel as to how they should conduct themselves.--Sept. 17, 1887.  {PH081 31.2}
[PH081 31.3]          It is not safe for us to employ as instructors in                           -32-     our institutions those who are not believers in the present truth; they advance ideas and theories that take hold of the mind with a bewitching power, that absorb the thoughts, making the world of an atom and an atom of the world.-- P. C., p. 121, April 15, 1892.  {PH081 31.3}
[PH081 32.1]          Teachers themselves should be what they wish the students to become. They should possess well-balanced, symmetrical characters. They should be refined in manner, neat in dress, careful in all their habits, and should have that true Christian courtesy that wins confidence and respect. --Sp. Test. on Ed., p. 48.  {PH081 32.1}
[PH081 32.2]          Every teacher should be under the full control of the Holy Spirit. If the teachers will open their own hearts to receive the Spirit, they will be prepared to co-operate with it in working for their students. Every teacher should know and welcome this Heavenly Guest.--Sp. Test. on Ed., pp. 50, 51.  {PH081 32.2}
[PH081 32.3]          None who deal with the youth should be iron-hearted, but affectionate, tender, pitiful, courteous, winning, and compassionate; yet they should know that reproof should be given, and that even rebuke must be spoken to cut off some evil doing. --P. C., p. 549, June 21, 1897.  {PH081 32.3}
[PH081 32.4]          Those teachers who have not a progressive religious experience, who are not learning daily lessons in the school of Christ, that they may be examples to the flock, but who accept their wages as the main thing, are not fit for the solemn, awfully solemn, position they occupy.--Sp. Test. on Ed., p. 184.                               -33-  {PH081 32.4}
[PH081 33.1]                  Location of Our Schools.          No pains should be spared to select places for our schools where the moral atmosphere will be ［as］ healthful as possible; for the influences that prevail will leave a deep impress on young and forming characters. For this reason a retired locality is best. The great cities, the centers of business and learning, may seem to present some advantages; but these advantages are outweighed by other considerations.--Sp. Test. on Ed., p. 43.  {PH081 33.1}
[PH081 33.2]          In connection with our schools, there should be, as far as possible, large flower gardens, and extensive lands for cultivation.--Sp. Test., p. 60.                                                    -    {PH081 33.2}
[PH081 33.3]                        Discipline.          It is the duty of principal and teachers to demand perfect order and perfect discipline. Those teachers who do not see the necessity of maintaining the rules that it is deemed essential to make, have simply made a mistake in thinking that they were prepared to teach, and accepting the situation. No disorder should be allowed without decided rebuke and a command to cease. It would not be allowed even in the common schools. If the principal and teachers of the school have not authority and government sufficient to set things in order, some one should take the management who will require obedience.-- P. Test.                                                    -    {PH081 33.3}
[PH081 34.1]          Abraham's School.--"Abraham's household comprised more than a thousand souls. Those who were led by his teachings to worship the one God, found a home in his encampment; and here, as in a school, they received such instruction as would prepare them to be representatives of the true faith. Thus a great responsibility rested upon him. He was training heads of families, and his methods of government would be carried, out in the households over which they should preside."--"Patriarchs and Prophets," p. 141.  {PH081 34.1}
[PH081 34.2]          Did Not Attend the Schools of the World.-- "It was a wise arrangement, which God himself had made, to cut off his people, so far as possible, from all connection with the heathen, making them a people dwelling alone, and not reckoned among the nations. He had separated Abraham from his idolatrous kindred, that the patriarch might train and educate his family apart from the seductive influences which would have surrounded them in Mesopotamia, and that the true faith might be preserved in its purity by his descendants, from generation to generation."-- "Patriarchs and Prophets," pp. 141, 142.  {PH081 34.2}
[PH081 41.1]                       Commercial.                                                    -          The principles of true education, that will fit students to be practical business men, have been very poorly carried out. This class of education is needed in all our missionary enterprises; and, if the teachers in our schools did their duty, according to the "it is written," they would send forth from the schools men of moral worth, men who would know how to take hold of the work in a new field, and use brain, bone, and muscle in making a harmonious whole.--Test., "Our School Work."  {PH081 41.1}
[PH081 41.2]          Results of Poor Bookkeeping.--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 are not dishonest. Many a youth, because 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.--Dec. 20, 1896.  {PH081 41.2}
[PH081 41.3]         Everything that bears any relation to the work of God should be as nearly perfect as human brains and hands can make it.--"Gospel Workers," p. 358.  {PH081 41.3}
[PH081 41.4]          Efficiency Needed.--I saw that there was great inefficiency in the bookkeeping in many departments of the cause. Bookkeeping is, and ever will be, an important part of the work; and those who have become expert in it are greatly needed                             -42-     in our institutions, and in all branches of the missionary work. It is a work that requires study that it may be done with correctness and despatch, and without worry or overtaxation; but the training of competent persons for this work has been shamefully neglected. It is a disgrace to allow a work of such magnitude as ours, to be done in a defective, inaccurate way. God wants as perfect work as it is possible for human beings to do. It is a dishonor to sacred truth and its Author to do his work in any other way. I saw that unless the workers in our institutions were subject to the authority of God there would be a lack of harmony and unity of action among them. If all will obey his directions, the Lord will stand as the ［invisible］ Commander; but there must also be a visible head who fears God. The Lord will never accept a careless, disorderly company of workers; neither will he undertake to lead forward and upward to noble heights and certain victory, those who are self-willed and disobedient. --Test., No. 33, p. 81.  {PH081 41.4}
[PH081 42.1]          Far Behind.--Years ago I saw that our people were far behind in obtaining that knowledge which would qualify them for positions of trust in the cause. Every member of the church should put forth efforts to qualify himself to do work for the Master. To each has been appointed a work, according to his ability. Even now, at the eleventh hour, we should arouse to educate men of ability for the work, that they may, while occupying positions of trust themselves, be educating by precept and example all who are associated with them.  {PH081 42.1}
[PH081 42.2]          Through a selfish ambition, some have kept from others the knowledge they could have                            -43-     imparted. Others have not cared to tax themselves by educating any one else.  {PH081 42.2}
[PH081 43.1]          Let each go to work now with a firm determination to rise. The present need of the cause is not so much for more men, as for greater skill and consecration in the laborers.--Test., No. 33, p. 82.  {PH081 43.1}
[PH081 43.2]          Division of Labor.--You may load on one man the care and burden which should be divided among several, but you will gain nothing by this. Men should be educated as business men. Experience is of value. You work at great disadvantage when you suppose that because one man can fill a certain position he is qualified to fill several positions.  {PH081 43.2}
[PH081 43.3]          Call for Business Men.--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 the 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 or ability for the position.  {PH081 43.3}
[PH081 43.4]          Business and Religion.--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. 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 need to be a novice. If men in any line of work need to improve their opportunities to                              -44-     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.  {PH081 43.4}
[PH081 44.1]          Correct Principles.--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.--Sp. Test., pp. 64-66.  {PH081 44.1}
[PH082 1.1]         PH082 - Special Testimonies Relating to Medical Missionary Work (1893)        Special Testimonies Relating to Medical Missionary Work.          I am deeply interested in the subject of medical missionary work and the education of men and women for that work. I could wish that there were one hundred nurses in training where there is one. It ought to be thus. Both men and women can be so much more useful as medical missionaries than as missionaries without the medical education. I am more and more impressed with the fact that a more decided testimony must be borne upon this subject, that more direct efforts must be made to interest the proper persons, setting before them the advantages that every missionary will have in understanding how to treat those who are diseased in body, as well as to minister to sin-sick souls. This double ministration will give the laborer together with God, access to homes, and will enable him to reach all classes of society. An intelligent knowledge of how to treat disease upon hygienic principles will gain the confidence of many who otherwise would not be reached with the truth. In affliction, many are humbled in spirit, and words in favor of the truth spoken to them in tenderness by one who is seeking to alleviate physical suffering, may touch the heart. Prayer, short, weighted with tenderest sympathy, presenting                            -2-     the suffering ones in faith to the great Physician, will inspire in them a confidence, a rest and trust, that will tend to the health of both soul and body.  {PH082 1.1}
[PH082 2.1]         I have been surprised at being asked by physicians if I did not think it would be more pleasing to God for them to give up their medical practice and enter the ministry. I am prepared to answer such an inquirer: If you are a Christian and a competent physician, you are qualified to do tenfold more good as a missionary for God than if you were to go forth merely as a preacher of the word. I would advise young men and women to give heed to this matter. Perilous times are before us. The whole world will be involved in perplexity and distress, disease of every kind will be upon the human family, and such ignorance as now prevails concerning the laws of health would result in great suffering and the loss of many lives that might be saved.  {PH082 2.1}
[PH082 2.2]          While Satan is doing his utmost to take advantage of men's ignorance, and to lay the foundation of disease by improper treatment of the body, it is best for those who claim to be the sons and daughters of God to avail themselves, while they can, of the opportunities now presented to gain a knowledge of the human system, and how it may be preserved in health. We are to use every faculty of mind which God has given us. The Lord will not work a miracle to preserve any one in health who will not make an effort to obtain knowledge                            -3-     within his reach concerning this wonderful habitation that God has given. By study of the human organism, we are to learn to correct what may be wrong in our habits, and which, if left uncorrected, would bring the sure result, disease and suffering, that make life a burden. The sincerity of our prayers can be proved only by the vigor of our endeavor to obey God's commandments.  {PH082 2.2}
[PH082 3.1]          Evil habits and practices are bringing upon men disease of every kind. Let the understanding be convinced by education as to the sinfulness of abusing and degrading the powers that God has given. Let the mind become intelligent, and the will be placed on the Lord's side, and there will be a wonderful improvement in the physical health. But this can never be accomplished in mere human strength. With strenuous efforts through the grace of Christ to renounce all evil practices and associations, and to observe temperance in all things, there must be an abiding persuasion that repentance for the past, as well as forgiveness, is to be sought to God through the atoning sacrifice of Christ. These things must be brought into the daily experience; there must be strict watchfulness and unwearied entreaty that Christ will bring every thought into captivity to himself; his renovating power must be given to the soul, that as accountable beings we may present to God our bodies a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto him, which is our reasonable service.                             -4-  {PH082 3.1}
[PH082 4.1]          Will those who claim to believe the solemn, sacred truth for this time, arouse their sluggish energies and place themselves in the channel where they can gather to themselves every ray of light that shines upon their pathway? God calls upon all who claim to believe advanced truth, to exert every power to the utmost in gaining knowledge. If we would elevate the moral standard in any country where we may be called to go , we must begin by correcting their physical habits. Virtue of character depends upon the right action of the powers of the mind and body.  {PH082 4.1}
[PH082 4.2]          Guilt rests upon us as a people who have had much light, because we have not appreciated or improved the light given upon health reform. Through misunderstanding and perverted ideas many souls are deceived. Those who teach the truth to others and who should be shepherds to the flock, will be held accountable for their willing ignorance and disregard of nature's laws. This is not a matter to be trifled with, to be passed off with a jest. As we approach the close of this earth's history, selfishness and violence and crime prevail as in the days of Noah, when the Old World perished in the waters of the flood. As Bible believers, we need to take our position for righteousness and truth.  {PH082 4.2}
[PH082 4.3]          As religious aggression subverts the liberties of our nation, those who would stand for freedom of conscience will be placed in unfavorable positions. For their own sake, they                            -5-     should, while they have opportunity, become intelligent in regard to disease, its causes, prevention, and cure. And those who do this will find a field of labor anywhere. There will be suffering ones, plenty of them, who will need help, not only among those of our own faith, but largely among those who know not the truth.  {PH082 4.3}
[PH082 5.1]          The shortness of time demands an energy that has not been aroused among those who claim to believe the present truth. There is need of personal religion, of repentance, of faith and love. I plead that there be a general awakening among us as a people. In the strength that Christ imparts, we should be able to teach others also how to wrestle with those passions which the light of heaven shows them must be mortified. Let there be constant watchfulness and unwearied prayer for the assistance of the Holy Spirit, and let us avail ourselves of all the help and light that God has given.  {PH082 5.1}
[PH082 5.2]          In almost every church there are young men and women who might receive education either as nurses or physicians. They will never have a more favorable opportunity than now. I would urge that this subject be considered prayerfully, that special effort be made to select those youth who give promise of usefulness and moral strength. Let these receive an education at our Sanitarium at Battle Creek, to go out as missionaries wherever the Lord may call them to labor. It should ever be kept before                             -6-     them that their work is not only to relieve physical suffering, but to minister to souls that are ready to perish. It is important that every one who is to act as a medical missionary be skilled in ministering to the soul as well as to the body. He is to be an imitator of Christ, presenting to the sick and suffering the preciousness of pure and undefiled religion. While doing all in his power to relieve physical distress and to preserve this mortal life, he should point to the mercy and love of Jesus, the great Physician, who came that "whosoever believeth in him might not perish, but have everlasting life."  {PH082 5.2}
[PH082 6.1]          Workers are needed now. As a people, we are not doing one fiftieth of what we might do as active missionaries. If we were only vitalized by the Holy Spirit, there would be a hundred missionaries where there is now one.  {PH082 6.1}
[PH082 6.2]          But where are the missionaries? Has not the truth for this time power to stir the souls of those who claim to believe it? When there is a call to labor, why should there be so many voices to say, "I pray thee have me excused"? In this country ［Australia］ the standard of truth is to be established and exalted. There is great need of workers, and there are many ways in which they can labor. There is work for those in the higher, as well as in the more humble positions. But we want none to come out to this field who have not a high sense of what it means to be a missionary. Individually, all need a heart work. A good work                            -7-     cannot be done by the human agent alone. For the full development and efficiency of the intellectual as well as the spiritual powers, there is, there must be, a vital connection with God, a communion with the highest source of activity. Then, with the soul all aglow with zeal for the Master, we can be a blessing to others. Jesus said, "Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst, for the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." Those who become partakers of the grace of Christ will guide others also to the living stream.  {PH082 6.2}
[PH082 7.1]          Is it not a privilege to be thus co-partners with Jesus? Is it not an honor to be connected with the grand work of saving souls, acting the part assigned us by our Saviour? And none can impart a blessing to others without receiving benefit himself. "He that watereth shall be watered also himself."                                    Ellen G. White.     Melbourne, Australia, Sept. 16, 1892.                                                    -    {PH082 7.1}
[PH082 7.2]          Hard battles have had to be fought to keep the principles of health reform upon a high and elevated platform, where they should have stood before our people who have had great light. . . . A great work is to be done in the Sanitarium. . . . The Lord move upon the churches! May the voice from the living oracles of God, the startling movements of Providence,                            -8-     speak in clear language to the church, "Separate unto me Paul and Barnabas."  {PH082 7.2}
[PH082 8.1]          Holy and devout persons, both men and women, are wanted now to go forth as medical missionaries. Let them cultivate their physical and mental powers and their piety to the uttermost. Every effort should be made to send forth intelligent workers. The same grace that came from Jesus Christ to Paul and Apollos, which caused them to be distinguished for their spiritual excellencies, can be received now, and will bring into working order many devoted missionaries. Let not a large number fold their hands, saying, "O yes, let such and such ones go into untried fields," while they themselves put forth no interested, devoted, self-denying labor, and expect the work the Lord has committed to them, to be done by proxy. There are those who, if they will deny self and lift the cross, will find that God will communicate with them as verily as he did with Paul and Barnabas. These are representatives of what very many should be. "The Scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call on him."                                   Ellen G. White.            Auckland, New Zealand, Feb. 19, 1893.  {PH082 8.1}
[PH084 1.1]         PH084 - Special Testimonies - Relating to Various Matters in Battle Creek (1894)                         (Hitherto unpublished.)          In the night season I was in a dream or vision, which revealed some things in Battle Creek. My guide said, "Follow me." I was directly in Battle Creek; the streets were alive with bicycles ridden by our own people. There was a witness from heaven beholding our people indulging their desire for selfish gratification, and using the money in this way that should be invested in foreign missions, to unfurl the banner of truth in the cities, and in the by-ways of the land. There was an infatuation, a craze upon the subject. The course of those who invest money in these things when starvation is at the very door of thousands, does not bear as telling testimony to the truth that the end of all things is at hand. These things are counterworking against the messages that God has given his messengers to proclaim in order to arouse the world to the great event which is just before us.  {PH084 1.1}
[PH084 1.2]         The Witness from heaven said, "I will turn my face from you for your pleasant picture and your selfish practices which are misrepresenting the religion of Jesus Christ, and preparing a people, through denying him in practice, to be ensnared by the deceptions of these last days." Every device that Satan can invent to make our people disloyal to Jesus Christ, the Captain of our salvation, will be ready at hand. The notices given in our papers extolling bicycles might better be cut out and in their place the destitute foreign fields be represented.                                -2-     "My people," saith the Lord, "do err and separate from the Source of their strength. In their works they deny me, and I will turn my face from them, unless they repent and do their first works."  {PH084 1.2}
[PH084 2.1]          America, and especially Battle Creek, where the greatest light from heaven has been shining upon the people, can become the place of greatest peril and darkness because the people do not continue to practice the truth and walk in the light. What was the meaning of the movement last winter ［1893-94］ in giving up jewelry and ornaments? Was it to teach our people a lesson? Were they prompted by the Holy Spirit to do those things, and to use the avail in the advancement of the work of God in foreign countries? And has Satan been counteracting the movement of the Holy Spirit upon human hearts, that reaction shall be allowed to take place, and another evil exist? The present manifestation is strikingly inconsistent with that movement of stripping off the ornaments and giving up selfish indulgences which absorb the means, the mind, and the affections, diverting them into false channels.  {PH084 2.1}
[PH084 2.2]          The light given me of God is that there is a work to be wrought in the heart which will not permit the mind and means to be thus perverted from the great subject that should absorb every mind,--the kingdom of God and his righteousness. Prepare, prepare for the great day of God. How can the people of Battle Creek interpret such movements, so difficult to harmonize one with the other? May the Lord help his representative men to turn their influence into channels which he can approve.  {PH084 2.2}
[PH084 2.3]          It is the work of the Holy Spirit to act as a reprover. This I am bidden to say to you, is the work that has been and must continue to be carried on in every church in our land. The more nearly we approach the closing scenes of this earth's history, the more pronounced will be the work of Satan; every species of                                 -3-     deception will take the lead to divert the mind from God through Satan's devices. The imagination will be intensely awakened in human minds to absorb money in buildings for convenience or to expend it unnecessarily through some excuse or invention of Satan; so that there will be less money to support laborers in the field and less money for the opening of new fields, and money will be unwisely appropriated to do things that are really good works, but by doing which the larger and more essential work is cramped, and many things cannot be undertaken at all, in the lifting of the banner of truth in new fields, with the proper dignity that should characterized the proclamation of warning that should be given to our world. If at the great heart of the work the pulse beats are violent and erratic, the peril to spiritual life affects the whole body.  {PH084 2.3}
[PH084 3.1]          Brethren and sisters in Battle Creek, I inquire, Who hath bewitched you, that you should not obey the truth, not only by profession, but by practice? Shall the idols be expelled from the heart, and Jesus be enthroned there? He is standing knocking at the door of every heart; do you hear his voice saying, Open unto me, I have heavenly treasures, goods of imperishable value; buy of me gold tried in the fire that you may be rich; buy white raiment and eye-salve? These are the goods you need, which, if you possess, will open to you the pearly gates of the city of God. He has been calling, calling, in the rich gospel feast he has presented to you, that you may be fed with the Bread of Life, and Christ is still knocking at the door of your hearts.  {PH084 3.1}
[PH084 3.2]          Many go to Battle Creek expecting to find an influence similar to that of heaven, but they soon find practices not at all in accordance with their ideas of truth, and the separate, peculiar people who are to represent the most pure, holy principles of religion that were ever given to the world. Many have been led to walk in false paths through being brought in connection with those                                 -4-     who are not consecrated, self-denying followers of Jesus Christ. These false professors have served as decoys to divert souls from the principles of truth and righteousness.  {PH084 3.2}
[PH084 4.1]          Where are the faithful sentinels in Battle Creek to keep the fort? Where are the minute men to be on guard and not relax their vigilance for one moment,-- men who watch, men who pray, men who walk humbly in meekness and lowliness, after the example of the greatest Missionary that ever visited our world, who is our Pattern?  {PH084 4.1}
[PH084 4.2]          My soul is weighed down continually as a cart beneath sheaves. O why do men become so spiritually blind? Poor triflers prefer their idols to Jesus Christ, admitting them into the heart, while Jesus is left standing without. Will you compel God to work, and dash one after another of your idols to the ground, that those who claim to be Christians may be driven from the perishable to the eternal?  {PH084 4.2}
[PH084 4.3]          You have been made the depositaries of sacred, solemn messages of warning to an idolatrous and impenitent world, and the Lord is not pleased with your ways; he cannot prosper you in thus misrepresenting the truth, denying the message by your own course of action. Will our people awake? Will they continue to strain every nerve to purchase things they do not positively need, which are making them a by-word before the world? The Lord has money in the hands of his stewards, which they are misappropriating, binding it up in idols of some description.  {PH084 4.3}
[PH084 4.4]          We have set before you our wants in this foreign field, but you have not had ears to hear and hearts to feel, and instead of considering our position in this new region beyond, instead of denying yourselves that we may have facilities, you bind up the things of God in the things which he names idols. It is time that there was a different order of things in Battle Creek, else the                                -5-     judgments of God will surely fall upon the people. His blessing has rested upon you in large measure; has it made you laborers together with him? Are not our people in Battle Creek demonstrating to unbelievers that they do not believe the truth which they claim to advocate? God has been calling them away from every species of self-indulgence, and all manner of extravagance. When the church has had great light, then is her peril if she does not walk in the light, and put on her beautiful garments, and arise and shine; darkness will becloud the vision, so that light will be regarded as darkness, and darkness as light. When the believers in Battle Creek shall not only be penitent occasionally, but shall walk in humility, doers of the word, the world will take knowledge of them that they have been with Jesus. O how can the Spirit speak to impress hearts so that they will obey his voice.                                           Ellen G. White.        Norfolk Villa, Prospect St.,             Granville, N. S. W., July, 1894.                                                    -    {PH084 4.4}
[PH084 5.1]                       Second Letter.          I wish to remind my brethren of the cautions and warnings that have been given me in reference to constantly investing means in Battle Creek in order to make a little more room, or to make things more convenient. New fields are to be entered, the truth is to be proclaimed as a witness to all nations. The work is hindered, so that the banner of truth cannot be uplifted, as it should be, in these new fields. While our brethren in America feel at liberty to invest means in buildings which time will reveal that they would do just as well and even better without, thousands of dollars are thus absorbed that the Lord called for, to be used in "regions beyond." I have presented the warnings and the caution, as the word of the Lord; but my                                 -6-     heart has been made sad to see that, notwithstanding all these, means has been swallowed up to satisfy these supposed wants, building has been added to building, so that the money could not be used in places where they have no conveniences, no building for the public worship of God or to give character to the work, no place where the banner of truth could be uplifted. These things I have set before you, and yet you have gone on just the same, absorbing means, God's means, in one locality, when the Lord has spoken that too much was already invested in one place, which meant that there was nothing in other places where there should be buildings and facilities to make even a beginning. What call had you to invest thousands of dollars in additional school buildings? You supposed you needed all this outlay, but did not entreaties come for you not to do this?  {PH084 5.1}
[PH084 6.1]          I was shown that a terrible condition of things is seen to exist in our world. The angel of mercy is folding her wings, ready to depart. Already the Lord's restraining power is being withdrawn from the earth, and the power of Satan is working in the world to stir up the religious elements, under the training of the great deceiver, to work with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in the children of disobedience. Already the inhabitants of the earth are marshalling under the leadings of the prince of darkness, and this is only the beginning of the end. The law of God is made void. We see and hear of confusion, perplexities, want and famine, earthquakes and floods; terrible outrages will be committed by men; passion not reason bears sway. The wrath of God is upon the inhabitants of a world that is fast becoming as corrupt as were the inhabitants of Sodom and Gomorrah. Already fires and floods are destroying thousands of human beings and the property that has been selfishly boarded by the oppression of the poor. The Lord is soon to cut short his work, and put                                -7-     an end to sin. O that the scenes which have come before me, of the iniquities practiced in these last days, might make a suitable impression on the minds of God's professed people.  {PH084 6.1}
[PH084 7.1]          As it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be when the Son of man shall be revealed. The Lord is removing his restrictions from the earth, and there will be death and destruction, and increasing crime, and evil, cruel workings against the rich who have exalted themselves above the poor. Those who have not God's protection will find no safety in any place or position. Human agents are being trained, and are using their inventive power to put in operation all the most powerful machinery to wound and kill. Instead of our enlarging and erecting additional buildings in Battle Creek or other places where our institutions are already established, there should be a limiting of the wants. Let the means and workers be scattered to represent the truth and give the warning message in "regions beyond."  {PH084 7.1}
[PH084 7.2]          When the children of Israel were on their journey through the wilderness, the Lord protected them from 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 uplifted, 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.  {PH084 7.2}
[PH084 7.3]          But in view of the terrible crisis before us, what are those doing who claim to believe the truth? I was called by my Guide, who said, "Follow me," and I was shown things among our people that were not in accordance with their faith. There seemed to be a bicycle                               -8-     craze; money was spent to gratify an enthusiasm in this direction that might better, far better, have been invested in building houses of worship where they are greatly needed. There were presented before me some very strange things in Battle Creek. There seemed to be a bewitching influence which was passing as a wave over our people there, and which will be followed by other temptations. Anything that can absorb means in meeting supposed wants in any direction, Satan will use with intensity of purpose to induce our people to invest their time and money. It is all a species of idolatry. The example will be followed, and while hundreds are starving for bread, while famine and pestilence are being seen and felt, because God cannot, according to his own name's glory, protect those who are determinedly working contrary to his will, shall our people who profess to love and serve God, be acting as did the people in the days of Noah, following the imagination of their own hearts?  {PH084 7.3}
[PH084 8.1]          While you have been gratifying your inclination in the appropriation of money--God's money--for which you must give an account, missionary work has been hindered, and bound about for want of money and workers to lift the banner of truth in localities where they have never even heard the message of warning. Will God say to those who are selfishly pleasing their own imagination and gratifying their own desires, "Well done, good and faithful servant, enter thou into the joy of thy Lord? Thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things." What kind of witness for the truth are you in Battle Creek bearing to the unbelieving world? I have been shown that the Lord does not look upon your course with favor, for your practice contradicts your profession of faith. You are not doers of the words of Christ.  {PH084 8.1}
[PH084 8.2]          I was told by my Guide, "Look ye, and behold the                             -9-     idolatry of my people, to whom I have been speaking, rising up early, and presenting to them their dangers. I looked that they should bring forth fruit." There were some who were striving for the mastery, each striving to excel others in the swift running of their bicycles. There was a spirit of strife and contention among them as to which should be the greatest. The spirit was similar to that manifested in the base ball games on the College ground. Said my guide, "These things are an offense to God. Both near and afar off, souls are perishing for the bread of life and the waters of salvation. When Satan is defeated in one line, he will be all ready with other schemes and plans which will appear attractive and needful and which will absorb money and thought and encourage selfishness, so that he can overcome those who are so easily led into a false and selfish indulgence.  {PH084 8.2}
[PH084 9.1]          The question will arise, What burden do these persons carry for the advancement of the work of God? Wherein do they realize the importance of the work for this time? Christ said to his disciples, "Ye are the light of the world. Let your light so shine before men that they by seeing your good works may glorify your Father which is in heaven." Is this investment of money, and this spinning of bicycles through the streets of Battle Creek, giving evidence of the genuineness of your faith in the proclamation of the last most solemn warning to be given to human beings on the very verge of the eternal world?  {PH084 9.1}
[PH084 9.2]          Brethren and sisters in America, I make my appeal to you. God is not mocked; whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. The lives of many are too delicate and dainty; they know nothing of bearing hardness as good soldiers of Jesus Christ. They themselves are obstructions in the way of soul-saving. They have many wants, everything must be convenient, and easy, and nice, to suit their taste; they themselves will                               -10-     not move, and those who would move they hinder by their suppositions and imaginary wants and their love of idols. They think themselves Christians, but do not know what the practical Christian life signifies. What is the definition of Christian? It is to be Christ-like. "He who will come after me," said Jesus, "let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me." When the Lord sees 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. Let nothing, however dear, however loved, absorb your mind and affections, diverting you from the searching of the Scriptures, or from most earnest prayer. Watch unto prayer, live your own requests, co-operate with God by working in harmony with him, expel everything from the soul temple which assumes the form of an idol. Now is God's time, and his time is your time. Fight the good fight of faith, refuse to think unbelief or to talk unbelief. There is a world to hear the last warning of mercy.                    Ellen G. White.        Norfolk Villa, Prospect St.,             Granville, N. S. W., July 20, 1894.                                                    -    {PH084 9.2}
[PH084 10.1]                  Extracts from Other Letters.          I am reminded of a family of children. One is more prepossessing than the others, and that one is favored. Gifts and considerations are made without stint and partiality, and the others are left to get along as best they can. I think this is a good symbol of the present things in America and this country. God knows that we have done what we could, but have been crippled in every way,--our hands tied,--without workers or money. The places that have nothing done in them,                                 -11-     need money and devising and planning to create an interest. I rejoiced when I heard that the Holy Ghost had been poured out upon our people in America, and I have been anxiously waiting new developments there, as was seen after the Holy Ghost descended on the day of Pentecost. I thought similar fruits would be seen, that the missionary spirit of God would burn in the hearts of all upon whom the Spirit of God was manifestly moving.  {PH084 10.1}
[PH084 11.1]          There should be a decided change in the spirit and character of the work, where men and women have received increased light. What are they doing to warn men and women who do not understand that the Lord is soon coming? He goeth out of his place to punish the inhabitants of the world for their iniquity. "The earth shall disclose her blood and no more cover her slain." Where, I asked, is the burden for souls that are perishing out of Christ? Who will go forth without the camp, bearing the reproach? Who will leave pleasant homes and dear ties of relationship, and carry the precious light of truth to far-off lands, but not beyond the domain of God? Every day and every moment comes to those who have entrusted to them the light of truth with the terrible significance that men and women in every clime and land are fitting themselves for weal or woe, fixing their own destinies for eternity.  {PH084 11.1}
[PH084 11.2]          God has expended amazing sacrifices upon men, and mighty energies for the reclaiming of man from transgression and sin to loyalty and obedience, but I have been shown that he does nothing without the co-operation of human agencies. Every endowment of grace and power and efficiency has been liberally provided, and the strongest motives presented to arouse and keep living in the human heart the missionary spirit, that divine and human agency may be combined. What more has been done in self-denial in moving out of Battle Creek, in carrying the light, the influence of God's Spirit testifying to the truth in regions where the standard                                 -12-     has never yet been lifted? Did the Lord of heaven open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing at the last Conference? What use have you made of the gift of God? He has supplied the motive forces of which he has made a lodgment in your hearts, that with patience and hope and untiring vigilance you might set forth Jesus Christ and him, crucified, that you send the note of warning that Christ is coming the second time with power and great glory, and calling men to repent of their sins.  {PH084 11.2}
[PH084 12.1]          If Battle Creek does not arouse now and go to work in missionary fields, they will fall back into death-like slumber. How did the Holy Spirit work upon your hearts? By the energies of the Holy Spirit it was stimulating you to exercise the talents God has given you, that every man and woman and youth should employ them to set forth the truth for this time, making personal efforts, going into the cities where truth has never been and lifting the standard. Have not your energies been quickened in the blessing God has bestowed upon you, and the truth been more deeply impressed upon your soul, and its relative importance to perishing souls out of Christ? Are ye witnesses for Christ in a more distinct and decided manner, after the manifest revealing of God's blessing upon you? The Holy Spirit's office is to bring decidedly to your minds the important, vital truths. Is this to be bound up in a napkin and hidden in the earth?--No, no, it is to be put out to the exchangers; and as man uses his talents, however small, the Holy Spirit takes the things of God, and presents them anew to the mind. He makes the neglected word to be a vivifying agency through the Spirit; it is quick and powerful upon human minds, not because of the smartness, the educational power of the human agency, but because the divine power works with the human; and it is the divine that deserves all the credit.                             -13-  {PH084 12.1}
[PH084 13.1]          Shall selfishness and case of those who have earthly comforts and attractive homes allure us? Shall we cease as moral agencies to use our powers to the saving of souls? Shall our voices be indistinct? Then God will put his curse upon us that have had so great light, and inscribe upon the walls of our homes, "Lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God." He will put a tongue in the stones, and they will speak: but God commands of you in Battle Creek to go forth. Resolve not in your own strength, but in the strength and grace given of God that you will consecrate to God, now, just now, every power, every ability. You will follow Jesus because he bids you, and you will not ask where, nor what reward shall be given? It is well with you, if you obey, "Follow me." Your work is to lead every one to the light by judicious, well-put-forth effort; under the guardianship of the divine Leader, will to do, resolve to act, without a moment's delay, to make terms with God.  {PH084 13.1}
[PH084 13.2]          When you die to self, when you surrender to God to do your work, to let every ray of light which God has been giving you, shine forth in good works, you are not alone. God's grace stands forth to work with every effort to enlighten the ignorant and those who do not know that the end of all things is at hand: But he will not be your substitute to do your God-given work. Light may shine in abundance, but the grace given will not convert your soul only as it arouses you to cooperate with divine agencies. You are called upon to be active soldiers, to put on the divine armor, and put forth energies, divine power working with the human, to break the spell of the worldly enchantments.  {PH084 13.2}
[PH084 13.3]          Again I call for the help that we ought to have had, the means we must have if anything is accomplished in this country. Let your minds be drawn out for perishing souls. Obey the impulse given by high Heaven. Grieve not the Holy Spirit by delay. Resist not God's                             -14-     methods of recovering poor souls from the thralldom of sin. To every man is given his work. Then do the very best with the powers God has given you, and he will accept your efforts put forth with an eye single to his glory. To every man he has given his work according to his several ability.           Ellen G. White.                                                    -    {PH084 13.3}
[PH084 14.1]                      Admonition and Caution.          Your letter tells me, my brother, that there are many who are stirred deeply to move out of Battle Creek. There is need, great need, of this work being done; and now, those who have felt at last to make a move should not go in a rush, in an excitement, or in a rash manner, or in a way that hereafter they will deeply regret that they did move out at all. Let all calmly consider what were their motives in coming to Battle Creek, and leaving the little churches that they might have helped and blessed if they themselves were enjoying a personal Saviour. Then let them consider the influence upon their own souls in making the move which they did. Have its results been deeper spirituality? Has it been an influence over them to make them feel their responsibility to be laborers together with God? Did it improve them in keenness of discernment, to make them wise in counsel, and give them experience in culture and training of their untrained abilities? Have they seen things in a clearer light as they listened to the words of truth? Have they practiced the truth which has been brought home to their souls with power? Have they shown corresponding zeal to be witnesses for Christ nigh and afar off? Have they felt that now was their opportunity to state the truth more correctly because they understood it better, that they could adorn the doctrine of Christ our Saviour with modest simplicity of language, and with a sincere, honest, earnest purpose to so follow the Pattern that they may represent                                  -15-     through the grace of Christ, a perfect manhood, because they live an actual Christian life?  {PH084 14.1}
[PH084 15.1]          Each has his work, his own individual work, to do. Has he done it in Battle Creek? Is he likely to do it if he has not? Can he recognize that he has been, through practice, learning to pray more earnestly, and, through education in the school of Christ, learning through the influence of the Holy Spirit to use better language to address our Heavenly Father in a manner that corresponds to the great principles of truth, that his supplications to God will bear the marks of an intelligent progressive Christian?  {PH084 15.1}
[PH084 15.2]          What is truth? have you bought the field which contains the precious jewels hidden in that field? Has the human agent come into possession of the truth, precious truth, revealed in God's word? That word gives no uncertain sound. In obeying it, you follow no cunningly devised fables. It speaks with definiteness and with authority, never speaking hesitatingly, never doubtingly. It is a sure word of prophecy.  {PH084 15.2}
[PH084 15.3]          Now will you take heed that there shall be no rash movements made in heeding counsel in moving from Battle Creek? Do nothing without seeking wisdom of God, who hath promised to give liberally to all who ask, and who upbraideth not. All that any one can do is to advise and counsel, and then leave those who are convicted in regard to duty to move under divine guidance, and with their whole hearts open, to learn and obey God.  {PH084 15.3}
[PH084 15.4]          Let every one take time to consider carefully; not be like the man in the parable, who began to build, and was not able to finish. Not a move should be made until that movement and all it portends are carefully considered, everything weighed, and he feels that the Lord has something for him to do in educating and training himself to do a more spiritual work in imparting to others that which God has imparted to him.                                    -16-     To every man was given his work according to his several ability. Then let him not move hesitatingly, but firmly, and yet humbly trusting in God.  {PH084 15.4}
[PH084 16.1]          There may be individuals who will make a rush to do something, and enter into some business they know nothing about. This God does not require. Think candidly, prayerfully, studying the word with all carefulness and prayerfulness, with mind and heart awake to hear the voice of God. He does not follow his own imagination, but weighs the words of God, and counsels, and seeks wisdom from God. When, in the providence of God, he has a work to be done by the human agent co-operating with the divine, he has a man to do that work, if he will heed the moving of the Holy Spirit upon his heart and mind. To understand the will of God is a great thing. Divine Wisdom has his hand hold of the living machinery in human agencies; men are selected as fitting instruments to do a given work; and O what a precious ability is given of God to man to know his fellow-man, so that he can use, through the grace of God, the human agencies, and organize a working company to do the best work, according to their recognized ability! This is a sanctified gift--genius; it is wise generalship that can make use of men according to their ability.  {PH084 16.1}
[PH084 16.2]          When God has a work for men to do in connection with Jesus Christ and the heavenly intelligences, and a revelation to give to men in regard to the eternal salvation of their fellow-men, he does not select men who have not a knowledge of God and truth and his righteousness; he does not choose weak and unsuitable men for this work, for this would misrepresent the work, and cast reflection upon God's wisdom. God makes no mistakes; and he is not glorified when those who profess to follow him are heedless, and make mistakes. The God of heaven has not left us to follow impulses, or our own impulses, or any man's guesses and weaknesses                                 -17-     and perpetual mistakes, when vital, eternal interests are involved. There are things we need to know, and which we never can know, unless the Lord tells us about these things. Therefore we must call upon God to give us his wisdom. We need to have wisdom,-- something reliable and sure; we need truth without any admixture of error.  {PH084 16.2}
[PH084 17.1]          I address these words to the church at Battle Creek, to move in the counsels of God. There is need of your moving--many from Battle Creek--and there is also need of your having well-defined plans as to what you will do when you go out from Battle Creek. Do not go in a rush, without knowing what you are about. You may be enthused with the Spirit of God, saying, Now it is time we awake out of sleep; and, Arise, and shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord has arisen upon us. Let not one go to enlighten others unless his own soul has been touched with the divine love of Jesus Christ. "Thus saith the Lord;" "It is written," let it be oft spoken, and bring from the treasure-house things new and old. A great work is to be done, and an important work for this time; work for the Master may be done anywhere in this great moral vineyard. O for generals, wise and considerate, well-balanced men, who will be safe advisers, who have some insight into human nature, who know how to direct and counsel in the fear of God!  {PH084 17.1}
[PH084 17.2]          I have seen that danger attends every new phase of experience in the church, because some hear things with such a wrong spirit. While some teachers may be strong and efficient in teaching in the lines of Bible doctrines, they will not all be men who have a knowledge of practical life, and can advise perplexed minds with surety and safety. They do not discern the perplexing situation that must necessarily come to every family who shall make a change. Therefore let all be careful what they say; if they know not the mind of God in                                 -18-     some matters, let them never speak from a guess or suppose so. If they know nothing definite, let them say so, and let the individual rely wholly upon God. Let there be much praying done, and even with fasting, that not one shall move in darkness, but move in the light as God is in the light. We may look for anything now to break forth outside and within our ranks; and there are minds undisciplined by the grace of the Holy Spirit, that have not practiced the words of Christ, and who do not understand the movings of the Spirit of God, who will follow a wrong course of action because they do not follow Jesus fully. They follow impulse and their own imagination. Let there be nothing done in a disorderly manner, that there shall be a great loss or sacrifice made upon property because of ardent, impulsive speeches which stir up an enthusiasm which is not after the order of God, that a victory that was essential to be gained, shall, for lack of level-headed moderation and proper contemplation, and sound principles and purposes, be turned into a defeat. Let there be wise generalship in this matter, and all move under the guidance of a wise, unseen Counsellor, which is God. Elements that are human will struggle for the mastery, and there may be a work done that does not bear the signature of God.  {PH084 17.2}
[PH084 18.1]          Now I plead with every soul to look not too strongly and confidently to human counselors, but look most earnestly to God, the One wise in counsel. Submit all your ways and your will to God's ways and to God's will. If you did not sufficiently consider the glory of God, the good of your own spiritual interest, and the work you might do for the saving of the souls of the neighbors and those with whom you were associated, when you left to make your home in the large church in Battle Creek, duly consider before making another move whether that is sensible and sound, in the right time and order, and under the supervision and direction                                -19-     not of man, but God, who never commits an error. Should some move hastily, and fly out of Battle Creek, and be brought into discouragement, they will not reflect upon themselves for moving unadvisedly, but upon others, who, they will say brought a pressure to bear upon them, all their discomfiture and defeat are charged back upon those who should not be reflected upon; for the Lord has given to them reason; he has given his holy word, full of counsel and cautions, and warnings and entreaties, and more, he has invited them, "Come unto me all ye that labor and are heaven laden, and I will give you rest."  {PH084 18.1}
[PH084 19.1]          Now, just now, is the time when the perils of the last days are thickening around us, that we need wise men for counsellors, not men who will feel it duty to stir up and create disorder, and who cannot possibly give wise counsel, but who can organize and arrange that every stirring up shall bring order out of confusion, and rest and peace in obeying the word of the Lord. Let every man be found in his true place, ready to do some work for the Master, according to his several ability. None should be left to drift, to make a vast amount of trouble and confusion that is difficult to arrange and keep in order. How shall this great work be done? "Take my yoke upon you," saith Jesus Christ, who hath bought you with his own precious blood, whose servants and property you are, "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." If every one will come to Jesus in a teachable spirit, with contrition of heart, then he is in a condition of mind to be instructed and to learn of Jesus, and obey his orders.  {PH084 19.1}
[PH084 19.2]          He sees the past movements you have made, he knows every error and mistake of your life, which has been a hindrance to your spiritual advancement. He seeth not as man seeth; he knoweth the outcome of every                                 -20-     movement, and if you have had little faith mingled with your prayers and movements, cultivate faith and hope and trust in God now, for if there was ever a period that has tried the souls of men in the past, there will be a greater necessity for faith in the times before us. We cannot have a weak faith now; we cannot be safe in a listless, indolent, slothful attitude. Every jot of ability is to be used, and sharp, calm, deep  thinking is to be done. The wisdom of any human agent is not sufficient for the planning and devising in this time. Spread every plan before God, with fasting, with the humbling of the soul before the Lord Jesus, and commit thy ways unto the Lord, and the sure promise is, "He will direct thy paths." He is infinite in resources. The Holy One of Israel, who calls the host of heaven by name, and holds the stars of heaven in position, has you individually in his keeping.  {PH084 19.2}
[PH084 20.1]          There is a work to be done by living human agencies, which they are slow to comprehend. They need to study the Scriptures, to search the Bible, with humble, teachable minds, that they may know their place in the work, and not move haphazard, but fall into line, keeping step with Jesus. "Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make straight in the desert a highway for our God." Every talent with which God has endowed the human agent is now to be awakened, to be employed, not solely in worldly transactions, to buy and sell and get gain, not to use your God-given powers selfishly, greedily to make a place for yourself in the earth; no, you want now to consecrate every entrusted talent of means and ability, having yourself under the influence and guidance of the Holy Spirit. Not a word is to be spoken unadvisedly, to stir up the elements of opposition; not an action entered into to create any deeper enmity than exists in the hearts of the enemies of truth; and, moving with well-balanced minds, holding aloft the banner of truth, grace from God will be given, wisdom                                 -21-     will be imparted, and angels of God will be commissioned to minister unto all who walk in humility of mind, trustingly accepting the truth as it is revealed, standing by their colors, but not creating persecution by unwise actions, but moving in the footsteps of Jesus. "Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his."  {PH084 20.1}
[PH084 21.1]          Let each now consider the strong and determined traits of his character, and not be misled by them, and misrepresent the precious truth, and thus misrepresent Jesus Christ by unguarded statements in public by voice, or in publications; for every such thing will he meet again. Those who have the truth, let the truth appear, while self is dropped out of sight. Give no occasion for any one to be harsh, denunciatory, or severe; for there are inexperienced men and women who will catch the manners and indiscreet words that fall from the lips of any one bearing aloft the banner of truth, and in an improper manner will repeat their very works, and in a spirit which will do much harm. Therefore, every man, however gifted, however prominent in the ranks of believers, let him know that caution in expression is his positive duty to practice, lest his words shall lead astray some souls, who will think he is imitating and following the example of the man, the messenger acknowledged to be sent forth by God to proclaim a message for this time. Let all consider that we are as sheep among wolves, and heed the caution of Christ by being "wise as serpents, and harmless as doves."  {PH084 21.1}
[PH084 21.2]          The Spirit of Jesus Christ dwelling within the heart of the true teacher of truth, will lead him to express in words and character the gentleness of Christ. The Lord Jesus is our Example, our Pattern, our sufficiency, in all things. He has identified his interest with suffering humanity. He knows just what his children need, how much divine power they will appropriate for the blessing of humanity; and he bestows no more than                                 -22-     he sees the human agent will employ in blessing others, and elevating, and ennobling his own soul, and he may be uplifting and refreshing and ennobling those for whom Christ has died. I would that all could realize what possibilities and probabilities there are for all who make Christ their sufficiency and their trust. The life hid with Christ in God ever has a refuge. He who trusts in him can say, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."  {PH084 21.2}
[PH084 22.1]          I leave this matter with you; for I have been troubled in regard to the dangers that assail the church in Battle Creek, lest they shall move indiscreetly, and give the enemy advantage. This need not be, for if we walk humbly with God, we shall walk safely, and bear in mind the words of Jesus Christ, "Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you." "This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you." "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 ［mark these words］ that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me." Blessed, blessed utterance! Will we believe the words of Jesus? Will we practice his words? If we do, we shall see far greater results than we have hitherto seen. O, we shall be filled with all the fullness of God! We shall possess a power that shall resist every device of the enemy.  {PH084 22.1}
[PH084 22.2]          Let us, then, bring the lessons of Christ into our practical life, and we shall realize as the fulfillment of the prayer of Christ in all its specifications, "And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it; that the love wherewith thou hast loved me, may be in them, and I in them." Let the mind embrace the largeness of the promise, and contemplate the richness that is expressed. There is no excuse for unbelief.                                           Ellen G. White.                                 -23-  {PH084 22.2}
[PH084 23.1]                           An Extract.          Giving for the necessity of the saints and for the advancement of the kingdom of God, is preaching practical sermons, which testify that those who give have not received the grace of God in vain. A living example of an unselfish character, which is after the example of Christ, has great power upon men. Those who do not live for self, will not use every dollar meeting their supposed wants, and supplying their conveniences, but will bear in mind that they are Christ's followers, and that there are others who are in need of food and clothing. Those who live to gratify appetite and selfish desire, will lose the favor of God, and will lose the heavenly reward. They testify to the world that they have not genuine faith, and when they seek to impart to others a knowledge of present truth, the world will regard their words as sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal. Let every one show his faith by his works. "Faith without works is dead," "being alone." "Wherefore show ye to them and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting in your behalf."  {PH084 23.1}
[PH084 23.2]          How is it with my brethren and sisters in America? How much do you practice self-denial in order that you may show liberality to the needy cause of God at this time? We are doing our work here under great pressure for the want of the very money that many of the members of our churches are expending upon their own fancies, in pleasing and gratifying themselves. If they had accepted the testimonies I have borne to them concerning the great want in these regions beyond, they would not be found expending one dollar in following the example of those who are multiplying pictures of themselves and their families. You would not be purchasing bicycles, which you could do without, but would be receiving the blessing of God in exercising your physical powers in a less expensive way. Instead                                 -24-     of investing one hundred dollars in a bicycle, you would consider the matter well, lest it might be at the price of souls for whom Christ died, and for whom he has made you responsible. Please read Isaiah 58, and see what is a sure remedy for poor health. Satan will contrive to bring about many devices to absorb the means which should be devoted to the cause of God at this time. We cannot open new fields in regions beyond, for want of the very means that are used up in various ways, which might be given to destitute missions. God would have you invest in a fund to erect humble houses of worship for those who have newly come to the faith, who cannot possibly command means to do this, on account of their great poverty. Their souls are just as precious as your soul; and could you pass through the experience through which we have passed since coming to this country, you would bind about your supposed wants, and would be ready to help to build humble houses of worship in regions beyond. You would have the satisfaction of denying inclination in thus investing means in the cause of God. Night after night, we have studied the perplexing problem of how we should obtain the means to advance the cause of God. It rests with you in America to solve this puzzling question. "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh (for the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds); casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ."--From the Review of Aug. 21, 1894.  {PH084 23.2}
[PH085 1.1]         PH085 - Special Testimony for the Battle Creek Church (1869)      Special Testimony for the Battle Creek Church          Dear Bro. and Sr. Tabor: It has been, some length of time since I have taken my pen to write, with the exception of penning urgent letters which could not be delayed. I have had a discouraging weight upon my spirits for months, which has nearly crushed me. That which discourages me the most, is, the fear that all I may write will do no more good than our earnest, anxious, wearing labor, the past winter and spring, in Battle Creek. The hopeless view I have taken of matters and things at Battle Creek, has kept my pen, nearly still, and my voice nearly silent. My hands have been weakened, and my heart depressed, to see nothing gained by the protracted effort there. I am nearly hopeless in regard to our efforts' being successful to awaken the sensibilities of our Sabbath-keeping people to see the elevated position God requires them to occupy. They do not view religious things from an elevated standpoint. This is just your condition.  {PH085 1.1}
[PH085 1.2]         The Lord has given me a view of some of the corruptions existing everywhere. Wickedness, crime, and sensuality, exist even in high places. Even in the churches professing to keep God's commandments, there are sinners and hypocrites. It is sin, not trial and sufferings, which separates God from his                                                                              2  people, and renders the soul incapable of enjoying and glorifying him. It is sin that is destroying souls. Sin and vice exist in Sabbath-keeping families. Moral pollution has done more to degenerate the race than every other evil. It is practiced to an alarming extent, and brings on disease of almost every description. Even very small children, infants, being born with natural irritability of the sexual organs, find relief momentarily in handling them, which only increases the irritation, and leads to a repetition of the act, until a habit is established which increases with their growth. These children are generally puny and dwarfed, and are prescribed for by physicians, and they are drugged.  {PH085 1.2}
[PH085 2.1]          But the evil is not removed. The cause still exists. Parents do not generally suspect that their children understand anything about this vice. Parents are the real sinners in very many cases. They have abused their marriage privileges, and indulged their animal passions, which have strengthened with indulgence. And as the baser passions have strengthened, the moral and intellectual have become weak. The spiritual has been over-borne by the brutish. Children are born with the animal largely developed. The parents have given to their children their own stamp of character. The unnatural action of the sensitive organs produces irritation. They                                                                              3  are easily excited and momentary relief is experienced in exercising them. But the evil is constantly increasing. The drain upon the system is sensibly felt. The brain force is weakened. The memory becomes deficient. And children born to these parents will almost invariably take naturally to the disgusting habits of secret vice. The marriage covenant is sacred. But what an amount of crime and lust it covers. Those who feel at liberty because married, to degrade their bodies by beastly indulgence or the animal passions will have their degraded course perpetuated in their children. The sins of the parents will be visited upon their children, because the parents have given them the stamp of their own lustful propensities.  {PH085 2.1}
[PH085 3.1]          Those who have become fully established in this soul-and-body-destroying vice, can seldom rest until their burden or secret evil is imparted to those with whom they associate. Curiosity is at once aroused, and the knowledge of vice is passed from youth to youth, from child to child, until there is scarcely one to be found ignorant of the practice of this degrading sin.  {PH085 3.1}
[PH085 3.2]          Your children have learned and practiced self-abuse until the draught upon the brain has been so great, especially in the case of your eldest son, that their minds have been seriously injured. The brilliancy of youthful intellect is dimmed. The moral and                                                                              4  intellectual powers have become weakened, while the baser parts of their nature have been gaining the ascendency.  {PH085 3.2}
[PH085 4.1]          As this is the case with your son, he turns with loathing from religious and devotional things. He has been losing his power of self-restraint. He has less and less reverence for sacred things, and less respect for any thing of a spiritual character. You have charged this to your surroundings. You have not known the real cause. Your son can be said to bear the impress of the satanic, instead of the divine. He loves sin and evil, rather than true goodness, purity, and righteousness. It is a deplorable picture.  {PH085 4.1}
[PH085 4.2]          The effect of such debasing habits upon the minds of all is not the same. There are some children, who have the moral powers largely developed, who, by associating with children that practice self-abuse, become initiated into this vice. The effects upon such will be too frequently to make them melancholy, irritable, and jealous, yet such may not lose their respect for religious worship, and may not show special infidelity in regard to spiritual things. They suffer keenly at times, with feelings of remorse. They feel degraded in their own eyes, and lose their self-respect.  {PH085 4.2}
[PH085 4.3]          Brother and sister, you are not clear before God. You have failed to do your duty at home, in your own family. You have not                                                                              5  controlled your children. You have greatly failed to know and do the will of God, and the blessing of God has not rested upon your family. Bro. Tabor, you have been selfish. You have had large self-esteem. You have thought you possessed a good degree of humility, but you have not understood yourself. Your ways are not right before God. Your influence and example have not been in accordance with your profession. You have much fault to find with others. You see the deviations in them, but are blind to the same in yourself.  {PH085 4.3}
[PH085 5.1]          Sr. Tabor has been far from God. Her heart has not been subdued by grace. Her love of the world, and of the things that are in the world, has closed her heart to the love of God. The love of dress, of appearance, has kept her from good, and led her to place her mind and affections upon these frivolous things. Unbelief has been gaining strength in her heart, and she has had less and less love for the truth, and could see but little attraction in the simplicity of true godliness.  {PH085 5.1}
[PH085 5.2]          She has not encouraged a growth of the Christian graces. She has not had love for humility or devotion. She has taken the errors of those who professed to be devoted to the truth, and made their lack of spirituality, their errors, and their sins, an excuse for her world-loving disposition. She has watched the course of those who were                                                                              6  connected with the Office, and who were forward to take upon them the burdens of the church; and would offset her failures to their wrongs, saying that she was no worse than they. Such an individual in good standing did this or that, and she had as good a right as they. Bro. W., S., or some other one, did not live the health reform any better than she. They purchased and ate meat, and they were in high standing in the church, and she was excusable, of course, with such an example, if she did the same. This is not the only case of shielding neglect to follow the light the Lord has given, behind some others. This is to the shame of men and women of intelligent minds, that they have no standard higher than the low standard of imperfect human beings. The course of those around them, however imperfect, is considered by them a sufficient excuse for them to follow in the same course. Many will be swayed by the influence of Bro. A., or Bro. W., or Bro. S., or others. If these depart from the counsel of God, their example is at once gladly seized by the unconsecrated. They now are free from restraint. They now have an excuse. And their unconsecrated hearts glory in the opportunity of indulging their desires, and taking a step nearer the fellowship with the spirit of the world, to enjoy its pleasures, or to gratify the appetite. They place upon their tables those things which are not the                                                                              7  most healthful, and which they have been taught to abstain from, that they may preserve to themselves a better condition of health.  {PH085 5.2}
[PH085 7.1]          There has been a war in the hearts of some, from the commencement of the introduction of health reform. They have felt the same rebellion as did the children of Israel when their appetites were restricted in their journeying from Egypt to Canaan. Professed followers of Christ, who have consulted their own pleasure, and their own interest, their own ease, their own appetites, all through their lives, are not prepared to change their course of action, and live for the glory of God, imitating the self-sacrificing life of their unerring Pattern. A holy and perfect example is given for Christians to follow and imitate. The words and works of Christ's followers are the channel through which the pure principles of truth and holiness are conveyed to the world. They are the salt of the earth, the light of the world.  {PH085 7.1}
[PH085 7.2]          Sister Taber, you cannot realize the many blessings you have lost by making the failings of others a balm to soothe your conscience for a neglect of your duty. You have been measuring yourself by others. Their crooked paths, their failings, have been your text-book. But their errors and follies and sins, do not make your disobedience to God less sinful.                                                                              8   {PH085 7.2}
[PH085 8.1]          We regret that those who should be a strength to you in your efforts to overcome your love of self, your pride of heart, your vanity, and love of the approbation of worldlings, have only been a hindrance, by their own lack of spirituality and true godliness. We cannot tell you how much we regret that those who should be self-denying Christians are so far from coming up to the standard. Those who should be steadfast, abounding in the work of God, are weakened by Satan, because they remain at such a distance from God. They obtain not the power of his grace, through which they might overcome the infirmities of their nature, and, by obtaining signal victories in God, show those of weaker faith the way, and the truth, and the life. It has been that which has caused us the greatest discouragement, to see those in B. C. who have had years of experience in the cause and work of God, shorn of their strength, by their own unfaithfulness. They are outgeneraled by the enemy in nearly every attack. God would have made these persons strong, like faithful sentinels at their post, to guard the fort, had they walked in the light he had given them, and remained steadfast to duty, seeking to know and do the whole will of God. Satan will, I have no doubt, through his delusions, deceive these delinquent souls, and make them believe they are, after all, about right. They have                                                                              9  committed no grievous, outbreaking sins, and they must, after all, be on the true foundation, and God will accept their works. They do not see that they have especial sins to repent of. And they see no sins which call for especial humiliation, humble confession, and rending of heart.  {PH085 8.1}
[PH085 9.1]          The delusion upon such is strong, indeed, when they are so deceived, and mistake the form of godliness for the power thereof, and flatter themselves that they are rich and have need of nothing. The curse of Meroz rests upon them: "Curse ye Meroz, curse ye bitterly the inhabitants thereof, because they came not up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty."  {PH085 9.1}
[PH085 9.2]          My sister, excuse not your defects because others are wrong. You will not dare plead in the day of God as an excuse for your lack of forming a character for Heaven, that others did not manifest devotion and spirituality. The same lack which you discovered in others was in yourself. And the fact that others were sinners makes your sins none the less grievous. Both they, and you, if you continue in your present state of unfitness, will be separated from Christ, and be punished, with Satan and his angels, with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his power.  {PH085 9.2}
[PH085 9.3]          The Lord made ample provisions for you, that if you would seek him, and follow the                                                                              10  light he would give you, you should not fall by the way. The word of God was given to you as a lamp to your feet, a light to your path. If you stumble it is because you have not consulted your guide, the word of God, and made that precious word the rule of your life. God has not given you, as a pattern, the life of any human being, however good, and apparently blameless his life may be. To do as others do, and act as others act, if followed, will leave you with a vast multitude at last outside the holy city, who have done just as you have done, followed a pattern the Lord did not leave them, and are lost, just as you will be lost.  {PH085 9.3}
[PH085 10.1]          That which others have done, or may do in the future, will not lessen your responsibility or guilt. A pattern has been given you; a faultless life, characterized by self-denial and disinterested benevolence. If you disregard this correct, this perfect, pattern, and take an incorrect one, which has been clearly represented in the word of God, that you should shun, the failure of your life, the imperfection of your course of action, will receive their merited reward.  {PH085 10.1}
[PH085 10.2]          One of the greatest reasons of the declension on the part of the church at B. C., is their measuring themselves by themselves and comparing themselves among themselves. There are but few who have the living principle in the soul, and who serve God with an                                                                              11  eye single to his glory. Many at B. C. will not consent to be saved in God's appointed way. They will not take the trouble to work out their own salvation with fear and trembling. The latter they do not experience; and, rather than to be at the trouble of obtaining an individual experience through individual effort, they will run the risk of leaning upon others, and trusting in their experience. They cannot consent to watch and pray, to live for God, and him only. It is more pleasant to live in obedience to self. The church at B. C. are filled with their own backslidings, and they need not dream of prosperity until those who name the name of Christ are careful to depart from all iniquity; until they learn to refuse the evil and choose the good. We are required to watch and pray without ceasing; for the snare is set in our path, and we find some device of Satan in that time and manner we least expect. If at that particular time we are not watching unto prayer, we are taken by the enemy, and meet with decided loss. What a responsibility has rested upon you, as parents! How little have you felt the weight of this burden! Your pride of heart, love of show, and the indulgence of your appetite, have occupied your minds. These things have been first with you. The incoming of the foe has not been perceived. He has planted his standard in your house, and stamped his detestable image                                                                              12  upon the characters of your children. You were so blinded by the god of this world that you could not discern the advantage Satan, had gained, nor his workings right in your family. You have been so deadened to spiritual and divine things, that you could not discern the workings of Satan.  {PH085 10.2}
[PH085 12.1]          You have brought children into the world who have had no voice in regard to their existence. You have made yourselves responsible in a great measure for their future happiness, their eternal well-being. You have a burden upon you, whether you are sensible of it or not, to train these children for God. To watch with jealous care the first approach of the wily foe, and be prepared to raise a standard against him. Build a fortification of prayer and faith about your children, and exercise diligent watching thereunto. You are not secure a moment against the attacks of Satan. You have no time to rest from watchful, earnest labor. You should not sleep a moment at your post. This is a most important warfare. Eternal consequences are involved. It is life or death with you and your family. Your only safety is to break your hearts before God, and seek the kingdom of Heaven as little children. You cannot be overcomers in this warfare if you continue to pursue the course you have done. You are not very near the kingdom of Heaven.  {PH085 12.1}
[PH085 12.2]          There are some who have not professed                                                                              13  Christ, who are nearer the kingdom of God than very many professed Sabbath-keepers in Battle Creek. You have not kept yourselves in the love of God, and taught your children the fear of the Lord. You have not taught them the truth diligently, when you rise up, and when you sit down, when you go out, and when you come in. You have not restrained them. You look to other children, and solace yourselves by saying, "My children are no worse than they." This may be true; but does the neglect of others to do their duty, lessen the force of the requirements God has especially enjoined upon you as parents? God has made you responsible to bring these children up for him, and their salvation depends in a large degree upon the education they receive in their childhood. This responsibility others cannot take. It is yours, solely yours, as parents. You may bring to your aid all the helps you can to assist you in the work; but after you have done this, and brought to your aid all the help you can employ to aid you in this solemn and important work, there is a power above every human agency, to work with you, in, through, and by, means it is your privilege to use. God will come to your aid, and upon his power you can rely. This power is infinite. Human agencies may not prove successful; but God can make the human                                                                              14  agencies fruitful by working in them, and by them.  {PH085 12.2}
[PH085 14.1]          You have a work to do to set your house in order. Pure and sinless angels cannot delight to come into your dwelling, where there is so much sin and iniquity practiced. You are asleep at your post. Things of minor importance have occupied your minds, and the things of weightier importance have not engaged your attention. It should be the first business of your life to seek the kingdom of Heaven and the righteousness of God; then you have the promise that all things shall be added. Here is where you have failed in your family. Had you been agonizing that you and yours might enter in at the strait gate, you would have earnestly gathered every ray of light that the Lord has permitted to shine upon your pathway, and would have cherished and walked in it. You have not regarded the light that has been graciously given you. You have had a spirit of rising up against the light the Lord has given upon health reform. You have seen no importance in it, why you should receive it. You have not felt willing to restrict your appetite. You could not see the wisdom of God in giving light in regard to the restriction of appetite. All that you could discern was the inconvenience attending the denial of the taste. The Lord has let his light shine upon us in these last days, that the gloom and                                                                              15  darkness which have been gathering in past generations, because of sinful indulgences, might be dispelled in some degree, and the train of evils which have been the result of intemperate eating and drinking to gratify appetite, might be lessened.  {PH085 14.1}
[PH085 15.1]          The Lord, in his wisdom, designed to bring his people into a position where they would separate from the world in spirit and practice, then their children would not so readily be led away into idolatry, and become tainted with the prevailing corruptions of this age. It is God's purpose that believing parents and their children should stand forth as living representatives of Christ, candidates for everlasting life. All who are partakers of the divine nature will escape the corruption that is in the world through lust. It is impossible for those who indulge the gratification of appetite to attain to Christian perfection. You cannot arouse the moral sensibilities of your children while you are not careful in the selection of their food. The tables that parents usually prepare for their children are a snare to them. The diet is not simple, and it is not prepared in a healthful manner. The food is frequently rich and fever-producing having a tendency to irritate and excite the tender organs of the stomach. The animal passions are strengthened, while the moral and intellectual are weakened. The lower order of passions bears sway, while the moral                                                                              16  and intellectual are servants to the baser passions. You should study to prepare a simple yet nutritious diet. Rich cakes, rich pies, prepared with spices, of any kind, and flesh-meats, are not the most healthful and nourishing diet. Eggs should not be placed upon your table. They are an injury to your children. Fruits and grains, prepared in the most simple form, are the most healthful, and will impart the greatest amount of nourishment, and, at the same time, the intellect will be unimpaired.  {PH085 15.1}
[PH085 16.1]          Regularity in eating is very important for health of body and serenity of mind. Your children should be allowed to eat only at regular meal time. They should not be allowed to digress from this established rule. When you, Sr. Tabor, absent yourself from home, you cannot control these important matters. Already has your eldest son enervated his entire system, and laid the foundation for permanent disease. Your second child is fast following in his tracks, and not one of your children is safe from this evil.  {PH085 16.1}
[PH085 16.2]          You may be unable to obtain the truth, in regard to the habits of your children, from them. Those who practice secret vice will lie and deceive. Your children may deceive you, for you are not in a condition where you can know if they attempt to lead you astray. You have been blinded by the enemy so long that you have scarcely a ray of                                                                              17  light to discern darkness. There is a great, a solemn, and important work for you to do at once, to set your own hearts and house in order. Your only safe course is, to take right hold of this work. Do not deceive yourselves into the belief that, after all, this matter is placed before you in an exaggerated light. I have not colored the picture. I have stated facts which will bear the test of the Judgment. Awake!. awake! I beseech you, before it shall be too late for wrongs to be righted, and you and your children perish in the general ruin. Take hold of the solemn work, and bring to your aid every ray of light you can gather that has shone upon your pathway, and that you have not cherished, and, together with the aid of the light now shining, commence an investigation of your life and character as if before the tribunal of God. "Abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul," is the exhortation of the apostle. Vice and corruption are abounding on every hand, and unless there is more than human strength to rely upon to stand against so powerful a current of evil, you will be overcome, and borne down with the current to perdition. Without holiness no man shall see God.  {PH085 16.2}
[PH085 17.1]          The Lord is proving and testing his people. Angels of God are watching the development of character, and weighing moral worth. Probation is almost ended, and you                                                                              18  are unready. Oh! that the word of warning might burn into your soul. Get ready! get ready! Work while the day lasts, for the night cometh when no man can work. The mandate will go forth, He that is holy, let him be holy still, and he that is filthy, let him be filthy still. The destiny of all will be decided. A few, yes, only a few, of the vast number who people the earth, will be saved unto life eternal, while the masses who have not perfected their souls in obeying the truth, will be appointed for the second death. O Saviour, save the purchase of thy blood, is the cry of my anguished heart. I am in terrible fear for you, and for many who profess to believe the truth in Battle Creek. Oh! search, search diligently your own hearts, and make thorough work for the Judgment.  {PH085 17.1}
[PH085 18.1]          I am pained at heart, when I call to mind how many children of Sabbath-keeping parents are ruining soul and body with this vice. There is a family near you who reveal their evil habits in their bodies as well as their minds. S. B. Warrens' children are on the direct road to perdition. They are debased. They have instructed very many in this vice. The eldest boy is dwarfed, physically and mentally, through indulging in the practice of this degrading vice. What little intellect he has left is of a low order. If he continues in this vicious practice he will eventually                                                                              19  become idiotic. Every indulgence of children who have attained their growth, is a terrible evil, and will produce its terrible results, enervating the system, and weakening the intellect. But in those who indulge this corrupting vice before attaining their growth, the evil effects are more plainly marked, and recovery from the effects of such sinful indulgence more nearly hopeless. The frame is weak and stunted; the muscles are flabby; the eyes become small, and appear at times swollen; the memory is treacherous, the inability to concentrate the thoughts upon study increases; the memory becomes sieve-like. To the parents of these children, I would say, you have brought children into the world which are only a curse to society. Your children are unruly, passionate, quarrelsome, and vicious. Their influence upon others is corrupting. These children bear the stamp of the baser passions of the father. The stamp of his character is placed upon his children. His hasty, violent temper is reflected in his children. These parents should have long ago removed to the country, separating themselves and children from the society of those they could not benefit, but only harm.  {PH085 18.1}
[PH085 19.1]          Steady industry upon a farm would have proved a blessing to these children, and constant employment, as their strength could bear, would have given them less opportunity                                                                              20  to corrupt their own bodies by self-abuse, and would have prevented them from instructing a large number in this hellish practice. Labor is a great blessing to all children, especially to that class whose minds are naturally inclined to vice and depravity. These children have communicated more knowledge of vice in B. C. than all the united efforts of ministers and people professing godliness can counteract. Many, who have learned of your children will go to perdition rather than control their passions and cease the indulgence of this sin. One corrupt mind can sow more corrupt seed in a short period of time than many in a whole life time can root out. Your children are a by-word in the mouths of blasphemers of the truth. These are the children of Sabbath-keepers. They are worse than the children of worldlings in general. They possess less refinement and self-respect. Bro. Warren has been no honor to the cause of God. His impetuous temper, and general influence, have not had a tendency to elevate, but to bring down to a low level. He has brought the cause of God into disrepute by his lack of judgment and refinement. It would have been far better for the cause of truth had this family removed long ago to a less important post, where their influence would have been less felt, because they would be more secluded. These children have lived in the light of truth, and have had privileges                                                                              21  that but few children have had, yet all this time they have not been benefited. They have been growing more and more hardened in depravity. A removal would be better for the family, for steady employment upon land would be a blessing to father and children if they would profit by the advantages of farming life. Their removal would be a blessing to the church and to society.  {PH085 19.1}
[PH085 21.1]          I saw that the family of Bro. Daigneau need a great work done for them. Samuel and Charlie have gone to great lengths in this crime of self-abuse; especially is this true of Charlie, who has gone so far in the practice of this sin that his intellect is affected, his eye sight is weakened, and disease is fastening itself upon him. Satan has almost full control of this poor boy's mind. His parents are not awake to see the evil and its results. His mind is debased, his conscience is hardened, his moral sensibilities are benumbed, and he will be a ready victim to be led into sin and crime by evil associates. Bro. and Sr. D., arouse yourselves, I beg of you. You have not received the light of health reform, and acted upon it. If you had restricted your appetites you would have been saved much extra labor and expense; and what is of vastly more consequence, you would have preserved to yourselves a better condition of health, and a greater degree of physical and intellectual strength to appreciate                                                                              22  eternal truths; you would have a clearer brain to weigh the evidences of truth, and be better prepared to give to others a reason of the hope that is in you. Your food is not of that simple, healthful quality to make the best kind of blood. Foul blood will surely becloud the moral and intellectual, and arouse and strengthen the baser passions of your nature. Neither of you can afford a feverish diet, for it is at the expense of the health of the body, and the prosperity of your own souls, and the souls of your children.  {PH085 21.1}
[PH085 22.1]          You place upon your table food which taxes the digestive organs, and excites the animal passions, and weakens the moral and intellectual. Rich food and flesh-meats are no benefit to you. Could you view just the nature of the meat you eat, the animals, when living, from which the flesh is taken when dead, you would turn with loathing from your flesh-meats. The animals whose flesh you eat, are frequently so diseased, that, if left alone, they would die of themselves; but, while the breath of life is in them, they are killed and brought to market. You take directly into your system humors and poison of the worst kind, and yet you realize it not. You love the indulgence of appetite. You have a lesson to learn: Whatsoever you eat or drink, or whatsoever you do, to do all to the glory of God.  {PH085 22.1}
[PH085 22.2]          I entreat of you, for Christ's sake, to set                                                                              23  your house and hearts in order. Let the truth of heavenly origin elevate and sanctify you, soul, body, and spirit. Abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul. Bro. D., your eating has an influence to strengthen the baser passions. You do not control your body, as it is your duty to do in order to perfect holiness in the fear of God. Temperance in eating must be practiced by you before you can be a patient man. Remember you have given to your children, in a great degree, the stamp of your own character. You should guard yourself, and not be harsh, or severe, or impatient. Deal with them decidedly, yet patiently, lovingly, pityingly, as Jesus has dealt with you. Be careful how you censure. Bear with your children, yet restrain them. This has been too much neglected by you. You have not corrected them in the right manner, not having perfect control of your own spirit. A great work must be done for you, my dear brother and sister.  {PH085 22.2}
[PH085 23.1]          Bro. D., if you had gone on from strength to strength, following in the light the Lord has given, he would now have chosen you as an instrument of righteousness. You have talents; you have ability; you can work for God's glory; but you have not, Bro. D., made an entire surrender of yourself to God. Oh! that, even now, you would seek the righteousness of Christ, seek meekness, that you may be hid in the day of the Lord's fierce                                                                              24  anger! Bro. and Sr. Daigneau, you should take hold unitedly and perseveringly to right the wrong of your mismanagement of your children. Sr. D. has been too indulgent; yet unitedly and in love, you can do much, even now, to bind your children to your hearts, and instruct them in the good and right way.  {PH085 23.1}
[PH085 24.1]          Bro. and Sr. Barker have a work to do in setting their own hearts and house in order. They should cultivate harmonious action. The transforming influence of the Spirit of God can do a great work for you both, and will unite your hearts and efforts in the work of reform in your own family. All repining, murmuring, and a hasty irritability, should be done with. Its effects are to weaken you both, and to destroy the influence you must have if you succeed in training your children for Heaven. Satan now has the field. He has the control of the minds of your children. These poor children are his captives. They practice self-abuse. Their minds take a low turn. Their moral sensibilities seem paralyzed. They have practiced this vice, and gloried in their iniquities. Such boys are capable of poisoning an entire neighborhood or community, and their pernicious influence will endanger all who are brought in contact with them in school capacity. Your children are corrupt, body and mind.  {PH085 24.1}
[PH085 24.2]          Vice has placed its marks upon your eldest                                                                              25  children. They are tainted, deeply tainted, with sin. The animal propensities predominate, while the moral and intellectual are very weak. The lower, baser passions have gained strength by exercise, while conscience has become hardened and seared. This is the influence which vice will have upon the mental powers. Those who give themselves up to work the ruin of their own bodies and minds; do not stop here. Eventually they will be found ready for crime in almost any form, for their consciences are seared. Parents have not been half aroused to realize their responsibility in becoming parents. They are remiss in their duty. They do not teach their children the sinfulness of these dangerous, virtue-destroying habits. Until parents arouse, there is no hope for their children.  {PH085 24.2}
[PH085 25.1]          I might mention the cases of many others, but will forbear, except in a few instances.  {PH085 25.1}
[PH085 25.2]          George Warren is a dangerous associate. He is a subject of this vice. His influence is bad. The grace of God has no influence upon his heart. He has a good intellect, and his father has trusted much to this to balance him. But mental power alone is not a guaranty of virtuous superiority. The absence of religious principles makes George Warren base and corrupt at heart, and sly in his doings of wrong. His influence is pernicious everywhere. He is infidel in his principles,                                                                              26  and glories in his skepticism. When with those of his own age, or those younger than himself, he talks knowingly of religious things, and jests at sacred things. He sneers at truth, and the Bible; pretends knowledge, which has its influence to corrupt minds and lead young men to feel ashamed of the truth.  {PH085 25.2}
[PH085 26.1]          The company of such companions should be wholly avoided; for this is the only sure course of safety. Young girls are enamored with the society of George Warren; even some who profess to be Christians prefer such society.  {PH085 26.1}
[PH085 26.2]          The young Hayward is a boy who can be moulded if surrounded by correct influences. This boy needs right example. If the young who profess Christ would honor him in their lives they could exert an influence to counteract the pernicious influence of such youth as George Warren. But the youth generally have no more religion than those who have never named the name of Christ. They do not depart from iniquity. A smart, intelligent boy, like George Warren, can have a powerful influence for evil. If this intelligence were controlled by rectitude and virtue, it would be powerful for good; but if it is swayed by depravity, its evil cannot be estimated upon his associates, and it will assuredly sink him in perdition.  {PH085 26.2}
[PH085 26.3]          A good intellect corrupted makes a very bad heart. A brilliant intellect sanctified                                                                              27  by the Spirit of God exerts a hidden power, diffuses light and purity upon all with whom the happy possessor associates.  {PH085 26.3}
[PH085 27.1]          If a boy of mental abilities, as George Warren; would surrender his heart to Christ, this would be his salvation. His intellect would, by the means of pure religion, be brought into a healthy channel. His mental and moral powers would grow vigorously and harmoniously. The conscience illuminated with divine grace, would be quick and pure, controlling the will and desires, leading to frankness and uprightness in every act of life. Without the principles of religion this boy will be cunning, artful, sly, in an evil course, and will poison all he associates with. I warn all the youth to beware of this young man, if he continues to slight religion and the Bible. You cannot be too guarded in his society.  {PH085 27.1}
[PH085 27.2]          Byron Sperry is being corrupted by associating with those boys who have not the right influence. The Hayward boy and George Warren are not profitable associates for Byron. Byron is easily influenced in the wrong direction. Battle Creek is not the best place for him. Byron's habits are not pure; self-abuse is practiced by him, and this crime, indulged by him, and loving the company of evil associates, will weaken his desires which help to form a correct and virtuous character, and secure Heaven at last. The youth, who desire immortality, must stop                                                                              28  where they are, and not allow an impure thought or an impure act. Impure thoughts lead to impure actions. If Christ is the theme of contemplation the thoughts will be widely separated from every subject which will lead to impure acts. The mind will strengthen by exercise in dwelling upon elevating subjects. It will become healthy and vigorous if trained to run in the channel of purity and holiness. The mind, if trained to dwell upon spiritual themes, will, by cultivation, naturally take that turn. But this attraction of the thoughts to heavenly things cannot be without the exercise of faith in God, and an earnest, humble reliance upon him for strength, and that grace which is sufficient for every emergency.  {PH085 27.2}
[PH085 28.1]          Purity of life and a character moulded after the divine Pattern are not obtained without earnest effort and fixed principles. A wavering, vacillating mind will not succeed in attaining Christian perfection. Such will be weighed in the balances and found wanting. Satan is seeking for his prey like a roaring lion. He will try his wiles upon every unsuspecting youth, and there is no safety any where only in Christ. It is through his grace alone that Satan can be successfully repulsed. Satan tells the youth there is time enough yet; that they may indulge in sin and vice this once, and never again; but                                                                              29  that one indulgence will poison your whole life.  {PH085 28.1}
[PH085 29.1]          Do not venture on forbidden ground once. Let the earnest, heart-felt cry of the youth be raised to Heaven in this perilous day of evil, when the allurements to vice and corruption are on every hand. "Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way?" May his ears be opened and his heart inclined to obey the instruction given in the answer, "By taking heed thereto, according to Thy word." The only safety for the youth in this age of pollution is to make God their trust. Without divine help they will he unable to resist human passions and appetites. In Christ is the very help needed; but how few will come to him for that help. Said Jesus, when upon the earth, "Ye will not come to me, that ye might have life." In Christ all can conquer. You can say with the apostle, "Nay in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that hath loved us." Again, "But I keep under my body, and bring it unto subjection."  {PH085 29.1}
[PH085 29.2]          I have written out quite fully the case of Bro. Tabor and family, because this one, illustrates the true state of very many families, and God would have these families take this as though written especially for their benefit. There are many more cases I might designate, but I have named enough already. The young girls are not as a general thing                                                                              30  clear of the crime of self-abuse. They practice it, and as the result their constitutions are being ruined. Some, just entering womanhood, are in danger of paralysis upon the brain. Already the moral and intellectual powers are weakened and benumbed, while the animal passions are gaining the ascendency and corrupting body and soul. The youth, whether male or female, cannot be Christians unless they cease this hellish, soul-and-body-destroying, vice entirely.  {PH085 29.2}
[PH085 30.1]          Many of the young are eager after books. They read everything they can obtain. Exciting love stories, and impure pictures, have a corrupting influence. Novels are eagerly perused by the youth, and their imagination becomes defiled. Photographs are circulated in the cars for sale with females in a state of nudity. These disgusting pictures are found in the daguerrean saloons, and hung in pictures upon the walls of those who deal in engravings. This is an age when corruption is teeming. The lust of the eye and corrupt passions are aroused by beholding and by reading. The heart is corrupted through the imagination. The mind takes pleasure in contemplating scenes which awaken the lower and baser passions. These evil images, seen through defiled imagination, corrupt the morals, and prepare the deluded, infatuated beings, to give loose rein to lustful passions, and then follow sins and crimes, dragging                                                                              31  beings formed in the image of God down to a level with the beasts, and sinking them at last in perdition. Avoid reading and seeing things which will suggest to your imagination impure thoughts. Cultivate the moral and intellectual powers. Let not these noble powers become enfeebled and perverted by much reading of even story books. I know of strong minds that have been unbalanced, and partially benumbed, or paralyzed, by intemperance in reading.  {PH085 30.1}
[PH085 31.1]         I appeal to parents to control the reading matter for their children. Much reading does them only harm. Especially do not permit upon your table the magazines and newspapers wherein are found love stories. It is impossible for the youth to possess a healthy tone of mind, and correct religious principles, unless they enjoy the perusal of the word of God. This book contains the most interesting history, points out the way of salvation through Christ, and is their guide to a higher and better life. They would all pronounce it the most interesting book they ever perused, if their imagination had not become perverted by exciting stories of a fictitious character. You who are looking for your Lord to come the second time to change your mortal bodies, and fashion them like unto his most glorious body, must come up upon a higher plane of action. You must work from a higher standpoint than                                                                              32  you have hitherto done, or you will not be of that number that shall receive the finishing touch of immortality.                        Ellen G. White.  {PH085 31.1}
[PH153 1.1]         PH153 - Special Testimony on Canvassing for Christ's Object Lessons           There are in the divine providence, particular periods when we must rise in response to the call of God and make use of our means, our time, our intellect, our whole being, body, soul, and spirit, in fulfilling his requirements to the utmost of our ability. The present is such a time as this. The cause of God is at stake. His institutions are in peril, and because of the terrible burden of debt under which they are struggling, the work is hindered on every side. Just now, in our great necessity, God has made a way through difficulty, and invites us to co-operate with him in accomplishing this purpose. It is his plan that the book, "Christ's Object Lessons," be given for the relief of our schools, and he calls upon all who love the truth, to do their part in placing this book before the world. In this he is testing his people and his institutions, to see if they will work together and be of one mind in self-denial and self-sacrifice.  {PH153 1.1}
[PH153 1.2]         We must become men and women of God's opportunity, for great responsibilities and possibilities are within the reach of all who have enlisted under Christ's banner for life service. It is the design of God that we should all glorify him by using every capability as his, regarding his service as the chief end of our existence. He desires us to work to the utmost of our knowledge and power to carry out the purpose for which he has                               -2-     given us life. A decided work is to be done just now to accomplish God's plan. Just now every stroke should tell for the Master in the work of selling "Christ's Object Lessons." God desires his people to be vitalized for work as they have never been before, both for their own good and for the upbuilding of his cause. The work that he calls them to do he will make a blessing to them. Their hearts will be more tender, their thoughts more spiritual, their service more Christlike; for ministering angels will be round about them. Those who do not feel the necessity of doing this work promptly, thoroughly, and earnestly, but who express unbelief and criticism, will lose the peace and joy that come from carrying out the purposes of God.  {PH153 1.2}
[PH153 2.1]          Let all think soberly; for it is a solemn thing to live. Our lives are not our own; we are kept by the power of God, and Jesus desires to live his life in us, perfecting our characters. The present is an opportunity which God's people can not afford to lose. God calls us to action, that our educational institutions may be freed from debt. Let God's plan be worked out after his own order. Let the very most be made of this, the Lord's opportunity. Let the ministers of our churches, and the presidents of our conferences awaken. Let every church arouse and do to the very utmost of its power. Let every family and every individual consecrate themselves to God, putting the leaven of evil out of their hearts, out of their homes, and out of the church. Let the children act a part. Let all work together; let not the opportunity be lost. Let us do our best at this time to render to God our offering, to carry out his specified will, and thus make this an occasion for witnessing for                               -3-     him and his truth, in a world of darkness. Let all make this an opportunity to place themselves where they will be sure to receive the answer to their prayers; for Christ says, "If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you."  {PH153 2.1}
[PH153 3.1]          Much painstaking effort will be required of those who have the burden of this work; instruction must be given, that a sense of the importance of the work may be kept before the workers, and that all may cherish the spirit of self-denial and self-sacrifice at every step, sacrifices that none of his followers can ever make, because they have never occupied the position that he occupied. He was the most exalted being in the heavenly courts; but he laid aside all his glory, and came to this earth to suffer for sinners.  {PH153 3.1}
[PH153 3.2]          In all the self-denial and self-sacrifice required of us in this work, amid all the unpleasant things that occur we are ever to consider that we are yoked up with Christ, partakers with him if his spirit of kindness forbearance, self-denial, and self-sacrifice. This spirit will open the way before us, and give us success in the work, because Christ is our recommendation to the people. If we meet with hardships in our work, let us look to him who is the Author and Finisher of our faith. Then we shall not fail nor be discouraged; we shall endure hardness as good soldiers of Jesus Christ.  {PH153 3.2}
[PH153 3.3]          When there is constant reliance upon God, a continual practice of self-denial, workers will not be easily repulsed; for they will remember that in every place there are souls for whom the Lord has need, and for whom the devil is seeking, that he may bind them up in                               -4-     his slavery of sin, of disregard for the law of God. The Lord Jesus standing by the side of the canvassers is the chief worker; the Holy Spirit, working with them, makes impressions just where they are needed.  {PH153 3.3}
[PH153 4.1]          In the Scriptures we read, "Not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord." Every branch of God's work is worthy of diligence, but nothing could be more deserving than this work at this time. None should labor with the expectation of receiving his reward in this life, but with his eyes fixed steadfastly upon the prize at the end of the race. Men and women are wanted now who are as true to duty as the needle to the pole,--men and women who will work without having their way smoothed, and every obstacle removed. If we seek the Lord and become converted; if of our own choice we become free and joyous in God; if with gladsome consent of the heart we respond to his gracious call, wearing the yoke of Christ, which is one of obedience and service, our difficulties will be removed, our murmurings will be stilled, and many of the questions that may arise will be answered.  {PH153 4.1}
[PH153 4.2]          I am very glad that so much harmonious action has been shown in striving to carry out this purpose of God, and to make the most of his providence. But let none become weary in well-doing, for in due season we shall leap if we faint not. My brethren let us have faith in God, and after we have, by sanctified energy and much prayer, done all that we can in this work for our schools, we shall see the glory of God. When the trial has been fully made, there will be a blessed result.  {PH153 4.2}
[PH153 4.3]          In doing this work a fourfold blessing will be realized,--a blessing to our schools, to the world, to the                               -5-     church, and to ourselves. While means will be gathered for the relief of the schools, we shall sow the seeds of truth in many souls who will receive it, and be saved by it. The self-sacrificing efforts put forth by the members of our churches, will prove a means of uniting them, that they may be sanctified, body, soul, and spirit, as vessels unto honor, prepared to receive the Holy Spirit which God will impart. Those who will seek to do God's will, laying out every talent to the best advantage, will become wise in working for the kingdom of God. They will learn lessons of the greatest consequence to them, and they will feel the highest happiness of a rational mind. Peace, grace, and power of intellect will be given unto them.  {PH153 4.3}
[PH153 5.1]          These are the results that will surely come if we fulfill the purpose of God. Then let us all be faithful in this work. Let us do our best in placing this book before the people. Let us carry forward this work without flinching, in the name of the Lord. Let his plan be vindicated, and when this work has been accomplished, God will indicate to us what to do next.                                    Mrs. E. G. White.  {PH153 5.1}
[PH083 1.1]         PH083 - Special Testimony Relative to Tract and Missionary Societies and Our Preachers (1881)           In my last vision I was pointed back to the rise and progress of the cause of present truth. When our publishing house at Battle Creek was first established, the friends of the cause were few, and our people generally were poor. But when calls for help were made, many came nobly forward, and aided the cause by taking stock in the publishing work. The Lord was well pleased with the spirit of sacrifice manifested.  {PH083 1.1}
[PH083 1.2]         Twenty-six years have passed since then, and in the providence of God the light of truth has been shining everywhere. The beginning was small, and it was necessary that great sacrifices should be made by the early friends of the cause. At every step, great obstacles had to be met and overcome. Our brethren who invested their means in our house of publication were doing the very work which the Lord would have them do. He had given them means to be used for the very purpose of advancing his cause.                                                                              2   {PH083 1.2}
[PH083 2.1]          The lapse of time has brought great changes. Light has increased, and has become widespread. While the people who are anxious for truth have been calling, "Watchman, what of the night?" the answer has been given intelligently, "The morning cometh, and also the night." By a thorough investigation of the prophecies we understand where we are in this world's history; and we know for a certainty that the second coming of Christ is near. The result of these investigations must be brought before the world through the press. And as the work has enlarged and increased, greater facilities have been demanded from year to year. Improvements have gone steadily forward. It has been a cause of wonder to the world that with this unpopular truth, such prosperity should attend the work. But with increased light and confirmed truth and greater advantages in every way for the advancement of the cause, our works do not comprehend with our faith.  {PH083 2.1}
[PH083 2.2]          If it was right for brethren to take stock in our publishing house when our work was small and our influence narrow, is it not of more consequence today, when a much larger work is going forward, and a corresponding increase of means is needed? The evidences of our position have been increasing with every year. We have been receiving fresh assurance that we have the truth as revealed in the word of God,--that in accepting the third angel's message we have not given heed to fables, but to the "sure word of prophecy." We are now                                                                              3  living in the full blaze of the light of Bible truth.  {PH083 2.2}
[PH083 3.1]         The Lord calls upon his people to arouse, and to show their faith by their works. In times past, when our numbers were few, when those who were able felt it their duty to take stock in our publishing house, their prayers and their alms, the fruit of persevering, self-denying efforts, came before God as a sweet savor. Our brethren and sisters who have received the precious bread of life, brought to them in our publications, should be even more willing to give of their means to support the cause than were those who loved the truth in former years.  {PH083 3.1}
[PH083 3.2]          Brethren, God would bless you in showing your interest in our houses of publication by making them your property. Those who own no stock in these institutions have the privilege of investing their means in this good work. We need your sympathy, your prayers, and your means. We need your hearty co-operation. We hope that all whose hearts the Lord shall make willing, will come forward with their means to invest in these institutions. Is it indeed true that we have the last message of mercy to be given to the world? Is it true that our work will soon close? Thus saith the word of God. The end of all things is at hand. Then the warning should be sent to all parts of the earth.  {PH083 3.2}
[PH083 3.3]          Our houses of publication have become a power in the world. A great change has taken place. With our increased facilities to                                                                              4  make the clear light shine forth to those who are in darkness, it is not now as hard as it once was to see and accept the truth. Those who first led out in the work were objects of the combined assaults of evil men and evil angels. The enmity of Satan, working through men as his instruments, was strikingly developed. On the other hand, the believers, though few in number, were earnest and zealous to vindicate the honor of God in exalting his law, which had been made void, and to press back the workings of Satan revealed in every form of destructive error.  {PH083 3.3}
[PH083 4.1]          From the first, Satan has set himself against this work. He was determined to bring all his power to bear to silence and sweep from the earth those who were laboring for the advancement of light and truth. He has ever had a measure of success. Calumny and the fiercest opposition have been brought to bear to crush out the precious truth by discouraging its advocates. The great adversary has employed his hellish deceptions in various ways, and every effort made has brought to his side one or more of the professed followers of Christ. Those whose hearts are carnal, who are more in harmony with the arch deceiver than with Jesus Christ, have after a time developed their true character, and have gone to their own company.  {PH083 4.1}
[PH083 4.2]          Satan holds under his control not a few who pass as friends of the truth, and through them he works against its advancement. He employs them to sow tares among                                                                              5  the people of God. Thus when danger was not suspected, great evils have existed among us. But while Satan was working with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish, staunch advocates of truth have stemmed the tide of opposition, and held the word uncorrupted amid a deluge of heresies. Although the church has at times been weakened through manifold discouragements and the rebellious element they have had to meet, still the truth has shone brighter with every conflict. The energies of God's people have not been exhausted. The power of his grace has quickened, revived, and ennobled the steadfast and the true.  {PH083 4.2}
[PH083 5.1]          Again and again was ancient Israel afflicted with rebellious murmurers. These were not always persons of feeble influence. In many cases, men of renown, rulers in Israel, turned against the providential leadings of God, and fiercely set to work to tear down that which they had once zealously built up. We have seen something of this repeated many times in our experience. It is unsafe for any church to lean upon some favorite minister, to trust in any arm of flesh. God's arm alone is able to uphold all who lean upon it.  {PH083 5.1}
[PH083 5.2]          Until Christ shall appear in the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory, men will become perverse in spirit, and turn from the truth to fables. The church will yet see troublous times. She will prophesy in sackcloth. But although she must meet heresies and persecutions, although she must battle                                                                              6  with the infidel and the apostate, yet by the help of God she is bruising the head of Satan. The Lord will have a people as true as steel, and with faith as firm as the granite rock. They are to be his witnesses in the world, his instrumentalities to do a special, a glorious work in the day of his preparation.  {PH083 5.2}
[PH083 6.1]          The gospel message does not win a single soul to Christ, or make its way to a single heart, without wounding the head of Satan. Whenever a captive has been wrenched from his grasp, delivered from his oppression, the tyrant is defeated. The publishing houses, the presses, are instrumentalities in God's hand to send out to every tongue and nation the precious light of truth. This light is reaching even to heathen lands, and is constantly making inroads upon superstition and every conceivable error.  {PH083 6.1}
[PH083 6.2]          Ministers who have preached the truth with all zeal and earnestness may apostatize, and join the ranks of our enemies; but does this turn the truth of God into a lie? "Nevertheless," says the apostle, "the foundation of God standeth sure." The faith and feelings of men may change; but the truth of God, never. The third angel's message is sounding; it is infallible.  {PH083 6.2}
[PH083 6.3]          No man can serve God without uniting against himself, evil men and evil angels. Evil spirits will be put upon the track of every soul that seeks to join the ranks of Christ; for Satan wishes to recover the prey taken from his grasp. Evil men will give themselves over                                                                              7  to believe strong delusions, that they may be damned. These men will put on the garments of sincerity, and deceive, if possible, the very elect.  {PH083 6.3}
[PH083 7.1]          It is as certain that we have the truth, as that God lives; and Satan, with all his arts and hellish power, cannot change the truth of God into a lie. While the great adversary will try his utmost to make of none effect the word of God, truth must go forth as a lamp that burneth.  {PH083 7.1}
[PH083 7.2]          The Lord has singled us out, and made us subjects of his marvelous mercy. Shall we be charmed with the pratings of the apostate? Shall we choose to take our stand with Satan and his host? Shall we join with the transgressors of God's law? Rather let it be our prayer, Lord, put enmity between me and the serpent. If we are not at enmity with his works of darkness, his powerful folds encircle us, and his sting is ready at any moment to be driven to our hearts. We should count him a deadly foe. We should oppose him in the name of Jesus Christ. Our work is still onward. We must battle every inch of ground. Let all who name the name of Christ clothe themselves with the armor of righteousness.  {PH083 7.2}
[PH083 7.3]          Brethren and sisters, in behalf of our houses of publications we call upon you to take stock in these institutions. You have nothing to fear; invest your means where it will be doing good, scatter rays of light to the darkest parts of the world. There is no such thing                                                                              8  as failure in this work. It is your privilege and duty to do now as your brethren have done when there were but few friends of the cause of truth. Take stock in our houses of publications, that you may feel that you have an interest in them. Many invest their money in worldly speculations, and in doing this, are robbed of every dollar. We ask you to show your liberality in making investments in our publishing work. It will do you good. Your money will not be lost, but will be placed at interest, to increase your capital stock in Heaven. Christ has given all for you; what will you give for him? He asks your heart; give it to him; it is his own. He asks your intellect; give it to him; it is his own. He asks your money; give it to him; it is his own. "Ye are not your own; ye are bought with a price." God wants you and yours. Let the words of the royal psalmist express the sentiment of your hearts: "All things come of Thee, and of thine own have we given thee."  {PH083 7.3}
[PH083 8.1]          The time has come when we must know for ourselves why we believe as we do. We must stand for God and for the truth, against a reckless, unbelieving generation. The man who has once known the way of life, and has turned from the convictions of his own heart to the sophistry of Satan, will be more inaccessible and more unimpressible than he who has never tasted the love of Christ. He will be wise to do evil. He has bound himself to Satan, even against light and knowledge. I say to my brethren, Your only hope is in God.                                                                              9  We must be clothed with Christ's righteousness, if we would withstand the prevailing impiety. We must show our faith by our works. Let us lay up for ourselves a good foundation against the time to come, that we may lay hold on eternal life. We must labor, not in our own strength, but in the strength of our risen Lord. What will we do and dare for Jesus?  {PH083 8.1}
[PH083 9.1]          Our houses of publication are the property of all our people, and all should work to the point of raising them above embarrassment. In order to circulate our publications, they have been offered at so low a figure that but little profit could come to the Office to reproduce the same works. This has been done with the best of motives, but not with experienced and far-seeing judgment.  {PH083 9.1}
[PH083 9.2]          At the low prices of publications, the Office could not preserve a capital upon which to work. This was not fully seen and critically investigated. These low prices led people to undervalue the works, and it was not fully discerned that when once these publications were placed at a low figure it would be very difficult to bring them up to their proper value.  {PH083 9.2}
[PH083 9.3]          Our ministers have not had suitable encouragement. They must have means, in order to live. There has been a sad lack of foresight in making the low prices upon our publications, and still another in turning the profits largely into the tract and missionary societies. These matters have been carried to extremes, and there will be a reaction. In order for the tract and missionary societies to flourish, the instrumentalities                                                                              10  to make and print books must flourish. Cripple these instrumentalities, burden the publishing houses with embarrassment and debt, and the tract and missionary societies will not prove a success.  {PH083 9.3}
[PH083 10.1]          There has been wrong management, not designedly, but in zeal and ardor to carry forward the missionary work. In the distribution and wide circulation of papers, tracts, and pamphlets, the instrumentalities to produce these publications have been crippled and embarrassed. There is ever danger of carrying any good work to extremes. Responsible men are in danger of becoming one-idea men, of concentrating their thoughts upon one branch of the work, to the neglect of other parts of the great field.  {PH083 10.1}
[PH083 10.2]          As a people we need to be guarded on every point. There is not the least safety for any, unless we seek wisdom of God daily, and dare not move in our own strength. Danger is always surrounding us, and great caution should be used that no one branch of the work be made a specialty, while other interests are left to suffer.  {PH083 10.2}
[PH083 10.3]          Mistakes have been made in putting down prices of publications to meet certain difficulties. These efforts must change. Those who made this move were sincere. They thought their liberality would provoke ministers and people to labor to greatly increase the demand for the publications.  {PH083 10.3}
[PH083 10.4]          Ministers and people should act nobly and liberally in dealing with our publishing houses. Instead of studying and contriving                                                                              11  how they can obtain periodicals, tracts, and books at the lowest figure, they should seek to bring the minds of the people to see the true value of the publications. All these pennies taken from thousands of publications have caused a loss of thousands of dollars to the Office, when to each individual a few pennies more would scarcely have been felt.  {PH083 10.4}
[PH083 11.1]          The Review and Herald and the Signs of the Times are cheap papers, at the full price. The Review is a valuable paper; it contains matters of great interest to the church, and should be placed in every family of believers. If any are too poor to take it, the church should, by subscription, raise the amount of the full price of the paper, and supply the destitute families. How much better would be this plan than throwing the poor upon the mercies of the publishing house or the tract and missionary society.  {PH083 11.1}
[PH083 11.2]          The same course should be pursued toward the Signs. With slight variations, this paper has been increasing in interest and in moral worth as a pioneer sheet since its first establishment. These periodicals are one in interest. They are two instrumentalities in the great field to do their specific work in disseminating light in this day of God's preparation. All should engage just as earnestly to build up the one as the other.  {PH083 11.2}
[PH083 11.3]          "The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and his ears are open unto their cry." Christ will succor those who flee to him for wisdom and strength. If they meet duty                                                                              12  and trial with humility of soul, depending upon Jesus, his mighty angel will be round about them, and He whom they have trusted will prove an all-sufficient helper to them in every emergency. Those who occupy responsible positions should daily become more intimately acquainted with the excellency, the faithfulness, and the love of Christ. They should be able to exclaim with assurance, "I know whom I have believed." These men should work as brethren, without one feeling of strife. Each should do his duty, knowing that the eye of God is searching motives and purposes, and reading the inmost feelings of the soul. The work is one. And if leading men do not let their own mind and their own feelings and ideas come in to rule and change the Lord's design, there will be the most perfect harmony between these two branches of the same work.  {PH083 11.3}
[PH083 12.1]          Our people should make greater efforts to extend the circulation of the Review. If our brethren and sisters would only manifest greater earnestness and put forth more persevering efforts to accomplish this, it would be done. Every family should have this paper. And if they would deny themselves their darling luxuries, tea and coffee, many who do not now have its weekly visits might take the money spent for these hurtful stimulants and pay for the messenger of light to come into their household. Almost every family takes one or more secular papers, and these frequently contain love stories and exciting tales                                                                              13  of villainy and murder which injure the mind of all who read them. Those who consent to do without this precious weekly visitor, lose much. Through its pages, Christ may speak to them in warnings, in reproofs and counsel, which would change the current of their thoughts, and be to them as the bread of life.  {PH083 12.1}
[PH083 13.1]          Our papers should not be filled with long discussions or long doctrinal arguments, which would weary the reader; but they should contain short and interesting doctrinal and practical articles. The price of our papers should not be made so low that no margin is left to work upon. The same interest which has been manifested to circulate the Signs of the Times should be shown in extending the circulation of the Review. If this is done, success will attend the effort.  {PH083 13.1}
[PH083 13.2]          We are upon the enchanted ground, and Satan is continually at work to rock our people to sleep in the cradle of carnal security. There is an indifference, a lack of zeal, that paralyzes all our efforts. Jesus was a zealous worker, and when his followers shall lean on him, and work as he worked, they will see and realize corresponding results. An effort must be made to place a proper value on our publications, and bring them back gradually to a proper basis. We should not be affected by the cry of speculation, money-making! We should press steadily forward, unmoved by censure, uncorrupted by applause. It will be a greater task to work back upon a proper basis than many                                                                              14  suppose; but it must be done, in order to save our institutions from embarrassment.  {PH083 13.2}
[PH083 14.1]          Our brethren should be guarded, lest they become stereotyped in their plans and labors. They may spend time and money in preparing an exact channel, that the work must be done in just such a way or it is not done right. There is danger of being too particular. There should be greater care to avoid expenses in transporting books and persons. The influence is bad upon the cause of God. Brethren, you should move cautiously, economically, and judiciously. A great work is to be done, and our Offices are embarrassed. There are men who work faithfully in the Office at Battle Creek, who do not receive an equivalent for their labor. Justice is not done these men. In other work they could earn double the amount received here; but they conscientiously keep to their business, because they feel that God's cause needs their help.  {PH083 14.1}
[PH083 14.2]          There is a great work to be done in the day of God's preparation, in planning and executing for the advancement of the cause of God. Our publications should have a wide circulation; for they are doing a great work. There is much missionary work to be done. But I have been shown that there is danger of having this work too mechanical, so intricate and complicated that less will be accomplished than if it were more simple, direct, plain, and decided. We have neither time nor means to keep all parts of this machinery in harmonious action.                                                                              15   {PH083 14.2}
[PH083 15.1]          Our brethren who bear responsibilities in devising plans for carrying forward this part of the work, must keep in mind that while a certain amount of education and training is essential in order to work intelligently, there is danger of making this too great a matter. By obtaining a most thorough education in all the minutiae, and leaving vital principles out of the question, we become dry and formal workers. The hearts that God has made willing by the operations of his grace, are fitted for the work.  {PH083 15.1}
[PH083 15.2]          God wants heart-work. The unselfish purpose, the pure, elevated principle, the high and holy motive, God will accept. His grace and power will work with these efforts. All who realize that it is the work of God to prepare a people for his coming, will find in their disinterested efforts opportunities where they can do tract and missionary labor. But there may be too much means expended and too much time occupied in making matters so fine and so minute that the heart-work is neglected, and a dry form preserved.  {PH083 15.2}
[PH083 15.3]          I tell you frankly that Jesus and the power of his grace are being left out of the question. Results will show that the mechanical working has taken the place of piety, humility, and holiness of heart and life. The more spiritual, devoted, and humble workers find no place where they can take hold, and therefore they stand back. The young and inexperienced learn the form, and do their work mechanically; but true love and the burden for souls is not felt. Less dwelling upon set forms, less                                                                              16  of the mechanical, and more of the power of godliness, is essential in this solemn, fearful day of responsibilities.  {PH083 15.3}
[PH083 16.1]          There is order in Heaven; and there should be system and order upon the earth, that the work may move forward without confusion and fanaticism. Our brethren have been working to this end; but while some of our ministers continually bear the burden of souls, and ever seek to bring the people up in spiritual attainments, those who are not so conscientious, and who have not carried the cross of Christ nor felt the value of souls as reflected from Calvary, will, in teaching and educating others in the mechanical working, become formal and powerless themselves, and bring no Saviour to the people.  {PH083 16.1}
[PH083 16.2]          Satan is ever working to have the service of God degenerate into dry form, and become powerless in saving souls. While the energy, earnestness, and efficiency to the workers become deadened by the efforts of have everything so systematic, the taxing labor that must be done by our ministers to keep this complicated machinery in motion, engrosses so much time that the spiritual work is neglected. With so many things to run, this work takes much time, and requires so large an amount of means that other branches of the work will wither and die for want of due attention.  {PH083 16.2}
[PH083 16.3]          While the silent messengers of truth should be scattered like the leaves of autumn, our ministers should not make this work a form, and leave devotion and true piety out of the question.                                                                              17  Ten truly converted, willing-minded, unselfish workers can do more in the missionary field than one hundred who confine their efforts to set forms, and preserve mechanical rules, working without deep love for souls.  {PH083 16.3}
[PH083 17.1]          Vigilant missionary work must in no case be neglected. It has done much for the salvation of souls. The success of God's work depends very much upon this; but those who do this work are to be those who are spiritual, whose letters will breathe the light and love of Jesus, and who feel the burden of the work. They should be men and women who can pray, who have a close connection with God. The ready mind, the sanctified will and sound judgment, are needed. These will have learned of the heavenly Teacher the most successful manner of appealing to souls. These will have learned their lessons in the school of Christ. They will do their work with an eye single to the glory of God.  {PH083 17.1}
[PH083 17.2]          Without this education, all the teachings received from your instructors in regard to forms and rules, however thorough the lessons may be, will leave you still novices in the work. You must learn of Christ. You should deny self for Christ. You must carry the burden of Christ. You should put your neck under the yoke of Christ. You must feel that you are not your own, but servants of Christ, doing a work that he has enjoined upon you, not for any praise or honor or glory that you shall receive, but for his own sake. Into all your work you should weave his grace, his love, his                                                                              18  devotion, his zeal, his untiring perseverance, his indomitable energy, that will tell for time and for eternity.  {PH083 17.2}
[PH083 18.1]          The tract and missionary work is a good work. It is God's work. It should be in no way belittled; but there is continual danger of perverting it from its true object. Canvassers are wanted to labor in the missionary field. Persons of uncouth manners, would not be fitted for this work. Men and women who possess tact, good address, keen foresight, discriminating minds, and who feel the value of souls, are the ones who can be successful.  {PH083 18.1}
[PH083 18.2]          The work of the colporter is elevated, and will prove a success, if he is honest, earnest, and patient, steadily pursuing the work he has undertaken. His heart must be in the work. He must rise early, and work industriously, putting to proper use the faculties God has given him. Difficulties must be met. If confronted with unceasing perseverance, they will be overcome. Much is gained by courtesy. The worker may continually be forming a symmetrical character. Great characters are made by little acts and efforts.  {PH083 18.2}
[PH083 18.3]          There is danger of not giving sufficient encouragement to our ministers. I was shown some men whom God was calling to the work of the ministry, entering the field as canvassers. This is an excellent preparation, if their object is to disseminate light, to bring the truth revealed in God's word directly to the home circle. In conversation, the way will frequently be opened to speak of the religion of the                                                                              19  Bible. If the work is taken hold of as it should be, families will be visited, the workers will carry with them tender hearts and love for souls, and will bear, in words and deportment, the sweet fragrance of the grace of Christ, and great good will be the result. This would be an excellent experience for any who have the ministry in view.  {PH083 18.3}
[PH083 19.1]          Many are attracted into the canvassing field to sell pictures and books that do not express our faith, and do not give light to the purchaser. They are induced to do this because the financial prospects are more flattering than can be offered them as licentiates. These persons are obtaining no special fitness for the gospel ministry. They are not gaining that experience which would fit them for the work. They are losing time and opportunity by this kind of labor. They are not learning to bear the burden of souls, and daily obtaining a knowledge of the most successful way of winning people to the truth. These men are frequently turned aside from the convictions of the Spirit of God, and receive a worldly stamp of character, forgetting how much they owe to the Lord, who gave his life for them. They use their powers for their own selfish interests, and refuse to labor in the vineyard of the Lord.  {PH083 19.1}
[PH083 19.2]          I was alarmed as I saw the various nets of Satan woven about men whom God would use, diverting them from the work of the ministry. There will surely be a dearth of laborers, unless there is more encouragement given men to improve their ability with the purpose of                                                                              20  becoming ministers of Christ. Satan is constantly and perseveringly presenting financial gain and worldly advantages to engage the minds and powers of men, and keep them from doing the duties essential to give them an experience in the things of God. And when he sees that men will move forward, giving themselves to the work of teaching the truth to those who are in darkness, he will do his utmost to push them to extremes in something that will weaken their influence and cause them to lose the advantage they would gain, were they balanced by the Spirit of God.  {PH083 19.2}
[PH083 20.1]          I was shown that our ministers were doing themselves great injury by carelessness in the use of their vocal organs. Their attention was called to this important matter, and cautions and instructions were given them, by the Spirit of God. It was their duty to learn the wisest manner of using these organs. The voice, this gift of Heaven, is a powerful faculty for good, and if not perverted, would glorify God. All that was essential was to study and conscientiously follow a few simple rules. But instead of educating themselves under the discipline of self-control, and doing what they might have done by exercising a little common sense and practicing according to their best knowledge of the art of speaking, they employed a professor of elocution.  {PH083 20.1}
[PH083 20.2]          As a result, many who were feeling that God had a work for them to do in teaching the truth to others, have become infatuated and crazed with elocutions. All that certain ones                                                                              21  needed was this temptation opened before them. Their interest was attracted by the novelty, and young men and some ministers were carried away with this excitement. They left their fields of labor--everything in the vineyard of the Lord was neglected--and paid their money and gave their precious time to attend a school of elocution. When they came from this drill, devotion and religion had parted company with them, and the burden of souls was laid off, as they would lay aside a garment. They had accepted Satan's suggestion, and he had led them where he chose.  {PH083 20.2}
[PH083 21.1]          Some set themselves up as teachers of elocution, who had neither discretion nor ability, and made themselves disgusting to the public, for they did not properly use what knowledge they had gained. Their performances were void of dignity or good sense; and these exploits on their part closed the door, as far as they are known, to any influence they may have in future as men to carry the message of truth to the world.  {PH083 21.1}
[PH083 21.2]          This was Satan's device. It was well to have knowledge of how to speak, but to give time and money to this one branch, and absorb the mind with it, was rushing into extremes and showing great weakness.  {PH083 21.2}
[PH083 21.3]          Young men professing to be Sabbath-keepers attach professors to their name, and abuse the community with that which they do not understand. Many men will thus abuse the light God has seen fit to give them. They have not well-balanced minds. Elocution has become a                                                                              22  by-word. It has caught up men to engage in a work that they cannot do wisely, and spoiled them for doing a work which, if they had been humbly and modestly seeking to accomplish in the fear of God, they would have made a glorious success. These youth might have been fitting for usefulness in the missionary field as canvassers and colporteurs, or as licentiates proving themselves for ministerial labor, doing work for time and for eternity. But they have been crazed with the thought of becoming teachers of elocution, and Satan stands and laughs that he has caught them in the net which he had laid for them.  {PH083 21.3}
[PH083 22.1]          God's servants should ever be united. They should repress and control strong traits of character, and day by day they should carefully reflect upon the nature of the life structure they are building. Are they Christian gentlemen in their daily lives? Are there seen in their lives noble, upright deeds, which will make their building of character stand forth as a fair temple of God? As one poor timber will sink a ship, and one flaw make a chain worthless, so one demoralizing trait of character revealed in words or actions will leave its influence for evil; and if not overcome, will subvert every virtue.  {PH083 22.1}
[PH083 22.2]          Every faculty in man is a workman, that is building for time and for eternity. Day by day the structure is going up, although the possessor is not aware of it. It is a building which must stand either as a beacon of warning because of its deformity, or as a structure                                                                              23  which God and angels will admire for its harmony with the divine Model. The mental and moral powers which God has given us do not consider character. They are talents, which we are to improve, and which if properly improved will form a right character. A man may have precious seed in his hand, but that seed is not an orchard. The seed must be planted, before it can become a tree. The mind is the garden; the character is the fruit. God has given us our faculties to cultivate and develop. Our own course determines our character. In training these powers so that they shall harmonize and form a valuable character, we have a work which no one but ourselves can do.  {PH083 22.2}
[PH083 23.1]          Those who have sharp, rough traits of character are guilty before God if they do not, by training, repress and root out all the bitterness of their nature. The man who yields to impatience is serving Satan. "To whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey." A good character is more precious in God's sight than the gold of Ophir. The Lord would have men act for time and for eternity. We have received good and bad as a legacy, and by cultivation we may make the bad worse, or the good better. Shall the bad gain the ascendancy, as with Judas, or shall the evils be purged from our souls, and the good predominate?  {PH083 23.1}
[PH083 23.2]          Principle, right, honesty, should ever be cherished. Honesty will not tarry where policy is harbored. They will never agree; one is of Baal, the other of God. The Master requires                                                                              24  his servants to be honorable in motive and action. All greed, all avarice, must be overcome. Those who choose honesty as their companion will embody it in all their acts. To a large class, these men are not pleasing, but to God they are beautiful.  {PH083 23.2}
[PH083 24.1]          Satan is working to crowd himself in everywhere. He would put asunder very friends. There are men who are ever talking and gossiping and bearing false witness, who sow the seeds of discord, and engender strife. Heaven looks upon this class as Satan's most efficient servants. But the man who is injured is in a far less dangerous position than when fawned upon and extolled for a few of his efforts which appear successful. The commendation of apparent friends is more dangerous than reproach.  {PH083 24.1}
[PH083 24.2]          Every man who praises himself, brushes the lustre from his best efforts. A truly noble character will not stop to resent the false accusations of enemies; every word spoken falls harmless; for it strengthens that which it cannot overthrow. The Lord would have his people closely united with himself, the God of patience and love. All should manifest in their lives the love of Christ. Let none venture to belittle the reputation or the position of another; this is egotism. It is saying, "I am so much better and more capable than you, that God gives me the preference. You are not of much account."  {PH083 24.2}
[PH083 24.3]          Our ministers in responsible places are men whom God has accepted. No matter what their origin, no matter what their format position,                                                                              25  whether they followed the plow, worked at the carpenter's trade, or enjoyed the discipline of a college; if God has accepted them, let every man beware of casting the slightest reflection upon them. Never speak disparagingly of any man; for he may be great in the sight of the Lord; while those who feel great may be lightly esteemed of God because of the perversity of their hearts. Our only safety is to lie low at the foot of the cross, be little in our own eyes, and trust in God; for he alone has power to make us great.  {PH083 24.3}
[PH083 25.1]          Our ministers are in danger of taking credit to themselves in the work which they do. They think God is favoring them, and they become independent and self-sufficient; then the Lord gives them up to the buffetings of Satan. In order to do God's work with acceptance, we must have the spirit of meekness, of lowliness of mind, each esteeming other better than himself. There is much at stake. The judgment and ability of all are needed now. Every man's work is of sufficient importance to demand that it be performed with care and fidelity. One man cannot do the work of all. Each has his respective place and his special work, and each should realize that the manner in which his work is done must stand the test of the Judgment.  {PH083 25.1}
[PH083 25.2]          The work before us is important and extensive. The day of God is hastening on, and all the workers in the Lord's great field should be men who are striving to become perfect, wanting in nothing, coming behind in no gift, waiting for the appearing of the Son of man in                                                                              26  the clouds of heaven. Not one moment of our precious time should be devoted to bringing others to conform to our personal ideas and opinions. God would educate men engaged as co-laborers in this great work to the highest exercise of faith, and the development of a harmonious character.  {PH083 25.2}
[PH083 26.1]          Men have varied gifts, and some are better adapted to one branch of the work than another. What one man would fail to do, his brother minister may be strong to accomplish. The work of each in his position is important. One man's mind is not to control another. If one man stands up, feeling that no one shall influence him, that he has judgment and ability to comprehend every branch of the work, that man will fail of the grace of God.  {PH083 26.1}
[PH083 26.2]          My husband has experience and qualities that are valuable, if these can be sanctified by the grace of Christ. God will make his labors wholly acceptable if he will imitate the Pattern. But if he does not bring his will and his mind under the control of the spirit of Christ, God cannot use him. His efforts and work will be wrought in self, and his experience, so valuable to the cause, will be so mingled with his own ways, and his own words, that God will not accept it.  {PH083 26.2}
[PH083 26.3]          God would have Elders Haskell, Butler, Whitney, and White come close to his side, and see and develop the attractive loveliness of Jesus Christ. These men may have precious qualities, understanding, and aptness; but unless Christ is pervading the                                                                              27  soul, and revealed in the character, all these advantages will be no more acceptable than the offering of Cain. They will lack the savor. Cain's offering was good in itself, but there was no Saviour in it.  {PH083 26.3}
[PH154 3.1]         PH154 - Special Testimony to Battle Creek Church (1896)                  Danger of Rejecting Truth.                          "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N.S.W.,                                           May 30, 1896.     Dear Brother-----:--          I have returned from our season of prayer. The spirit of intercession came upon me, and I was drawn out in most earnest prayer for souls at Battle Creek. I know their peril. The Holy Spirit has in a special manner moved me to send up my petitions in their behalf.  {PH154 3.1}
[PH154 3.2]         God is not the author of anything sinful. None should fear to be singular if the fulfilment of duty requires it. If it makes us singular to avoid sin, then our singularity is merely the distinction between purity and impurity, righteousness and unrighteousness. Because the multitude prefer the path of transgression, shall we choose the same? We are plainly told by inspiration, "Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil." Our position should be clearly stated, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."                               -4-  {PH154 3.2}
[PH154 4.1]                  Power of the Holy Spirit.          "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. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. . . 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." Would that every one whose name is written in the church books could from the heart utter these words. The church-members need to know from experience what the Holy Spirit will do for them. It will bless the receiver, and make him a blessing. It is sad that every soul is not praying for the vital breathe of the Spirit; for we are ready to die if it breath not on us.  {PH154 4.1}
[PH154 4.2]          We are to pray for the impartation of the Spirit as the remedy for sin-sick souls. The church needs to be converted, and why should we not prostrate ourselves at the throne of grace, as representatives of the church, and from a broken heart and contrite spirit make earnest supplication that the Holy Spirit shall be poured out upon us from on high? Let us pray that when it shall be graciously bestowed, our cold hearts may be revived, and we may have discernment to understand that it is from God, and receive it with joy. Some have treated the Spirit as an unwelcome guest, refusing to receive the rich gift, refusing to acknowledge it, turning from it, and condemning it as fanaticism. When the Holy Spirit works the                                 -5-     human agent, it does not ask us in what way it shall operate. Often it moves in unexpected ways. Christ did not come as the Jews expected. He did not come in a manner to glorify them as a nation. His forerunner came to prepare the way for him, by calling upon the people to repent of their sins, and be converted, and be baptized. Christ's message was, "The kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel." The Jews refused to receive Christ, because he did not come in accordance with their expectations. The ideas of finite men were held as infallible, because hoary with age. This is the danger to which the church is now exposed,--that the inventions of finite men shall mark out the precise way for the Holy Spirit to come. Though they would not care to acknowledge it, some have already done this. And because the Spirit is to come, not to praise men or to build up their erroneous theories, but to reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment, many turn away from it. They are not willing to be deprived of the garments of their own self-righteousness. They are not willing to exchange their own righteousness, which is unrighteousness, for the righteousness of Christ, which is pure, unadulterated truth. The Holy Spirit flatters no man, neither does it work according to the devising of any man. Finite, sinful men are not to work the Holy Spirit. When it shall come as a reprover, through any human agent whom God shall choose, it is man's place to hear and obey its voice.                                 -6-  {PH154 4.2}
[PH154 6.1]              Manifest Working of the Holy Spirit with                       the Disciples.            Just before he left them, Christ gave his disciples the promise, "Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world." While these words were upon his lips, he ascended, a cloud of angels received him, and escorted him to the city of God. The disciples returned to Jerusalem, knowing now for a certainty that Jesus was the Son of God. Their faith was unclouded, and they waited, preparing themselves by prayer and by humbling their hearts before God, until the baptism of the Holy Spirit came.  {PH154 6.1}
[PH154 6.2]          "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." In that assembly there were mockers, who did not recognize the work of the Holy Spirit, and they said, "These men are full of new wine.                                 -7-     But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: for these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel." Read the history. The Lord was at work in his own way; but had there been such a manifestation among us, upon whom the ends of the world are come, would not some have mocked, as on that occasion? Those who did not come under the influence of the Holy Spirit, knew it not. To this class the disciples seemed like drunken men.  {PH154 6.2}
[PH154 7.1]          After the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, the disciples, clothed with the divine panoply, went forth as witnesses, to tell the wonderful story of the manger and the cross. They were humble men, but they went forth with the truth. After the death of their Lord, they were a helpless, disappointed, discouraged company,--as sheep without a shepherd; but now they go forth as witnesses for the truth, with no weapons but the word and Spirit of God, to triumph over all opposition.  {PH154 7.1}
[PH154 7.2]          Their Saviour had been rejected and condemned, and nailed to the ignominious cross. The Jewish priests and rulers had declared, in scorn, "He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be the king of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him." But that cross, that instrument of shame and torture, brought hope and salvation to the world. The believers rallied; their hopelessness and conscious helplessness had left them. They were transformed in character, and united in the bonds of                                 -8-     Christian love. Although without wealth, though counted by the world as mere ignorant fishermen, they were made, by the Holy Spirit, witnesses for Christ. Without earthly honor or recognition, they were the heroes of faith. From their lips came words of divine eloquence and power that shook the world.  {PH154 7.2}
[PH154 8.1]          The third, fourth and fifth chapters of Acts give an account of their witnessing. Those who had rejected and crucified the Saviour, expected to find his disciples discouraged, crestfallen, and ready to disown their Lord. With amazement they heard the clear, bold testimony given under the power of the Holy Spirit. The words and works of the disciples represented the words and works of their Teacher; and all who heard them, said, They have learned of Jesus, they talk as he talked. "And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all."  {PH154 8.1}
[PH154 8.2]              Arrest and Imprisonment of the Apostles.          The chief priests and rulers thought themselves competent to decide what the apostles should do and teach. As they went forth preaching Jesus everywhere, the men who were worked by the Holy Spirit did many things that the Jews did not approve. There was danger that the ideas and doctrines of the rabbis would be brought into disrepute. The apostles were creating a wonderful excitement. The people were bringing their sick folk, and those that were vexed with unclean spirits, into the streets; crowds were collecting around them, and those that had been healed were shouting the praises of God, and glorifying the                                 -9-     name of Jesus, the very one whom the Jews had condemned, scorned, spit upon, crowned with thorns, and caused to be scourged and crucified. This Jesus was extolled above the priests and rulers. The apostles were even declaring that he had risen from the dead. The Jewish rulers decided that this work must and should be stopped; for it was proving them guilty of the blood of Jesus. They saw that converts to the faith were multiplying. "Believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women."  {PH154 8.2}
[PH154 9.1]          "Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him (which is the sect of the Sadducees)." who held that there would be no resurrection of the dead. The assertions made by the apostles that they had seen Jesus after his resurrection, and that he had ascended to heaven, were overthrowing the fundamental principles of the Sadducean doctrine. This was not to be allowed. The priests and rulers were filled with indignation, and laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison. The disciples were not intimidated or cast down. The words of Christ in his last lessons to them were brought to mind: "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." But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: and ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning. These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended. They shall put you out of the                               -10-     synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service. And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me. But these things have I told you, that when the time shall come, ye may remember that I told you of them."  {PH154 9.1}
[PH154 10.1]                Preaching Contrary to Established                       Doctrines.            "The angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said, Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life." We see here that the men in authority are not always to be obeyed, even though they may profess to be teachers of Bible doctrine. There are many today who feel indignant and aggrieved that any voice should be raised presenting ideas that differ from their own in regard to points of religious belief. Have they not long advocated their ideas as truth? So the priests and rabbis reasoned in apostolic days: What mean these men who are unlearned, some of them mere fishermen, who are presenting ideas contrary to the doctrines which the learned priests and rulers are teaching the people? They have no right to meddle with the fundamental principles of our faith. But we see that the God of heaven  sometimes commissions men to teach that which is regarded as contrary to the established doctrines. Because those who were once the depositaries of truth became unfaithful to their sacred trust, the Lord chose others who would receive the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness, and would advocate truths that were not in accordance with the ideas of the religious leaders.                             -11-     And then these leaders, in the blindness of their minds, give full sway to what is supposed to be righteous indignation against the ones who have set aside cherished fables. They act like men who have lost their reason. They do not consider the possibility that they themselves have not rightly understood the word. They will not open their eyes to discern the fact that they have misinterpreted and misapplied the Scriptures, and have built up false theories, calling them fundamental doctrines of the faith.  {PH154 10.1}
[PH154 11.1]         But the Holy Spirit will, from time to time, reveal the truth through its own chosen agencies; and no man, not even a priest or ruler, has a right to say, You shall not give publicity to your opinions, because I do not believe them. That wonderful "I" may attempt to put down the Holy Spirit's teaching. Men may for a time attempt to smother it and kill it; but that will not make error truth, or truth error. The inventive minds of men have advanced speculative opinions in various lines, and when the Holy Spirit lets light shine into human minds, it does not respect every point of man's application of the word. God impressed his servants to speak the truth, irrespective of what men had taken for granted as truth.  {PH154 11.1}
[PH154 11.2]                         Present Dangers.          Even Seventh-day Adventists are in danger of closing their eyes to truth as it is in Jesus, because if contradicts something which they have taken for granted as truth, but which the Holy Spirit teaches is not truth. Let all be very modest, and seek most earnestly to put self out of the question, and to exalt Jesus. In most of the                               -12-     religious controversies, the foundation of the trouble is, that self is striving for the supremacy. About what?--About matters which are not vital points at all, and which are regarded as such only because men have given importance to them. (See Matthew 12:31-37; Mark 14:56; Luke 5:21; Matthew 9:3.)  {PH154 11.2}
[PH154 12.1]          Condemnation of the Work of the Apostles.          But let us follow the history of the men whom the Jewish priests and rulers thought so dangerous, because they were bringing in new and strange teaching on almost every theological subject. The command given by the Holy Spirit, "Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life," was obeyed by the apostles; "they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they returned, and told, saying. The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man within. Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow. Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people. Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned."                                 -13-     If the priests and rulers had dared act out their own feelings toward the apostles, there would have been a different record; for the angel of God was a watcher on that occasion, to magnify his name if any violence had been offered to his servants.  {PH154 12.1}
[PH154 13.1]                       Answer of the Apostles.          "And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and 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." (See Matthew 23:34, 35.) "Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him. When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them."  {PH154 13.1}
[PH154 13.2]          Then the Holy Spirit moved upon Gamaliel, a Pharisee, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people. His advice was, "Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this work be of men, it will come to nought: but if it be of God, ye cannot overthrow it; lest haply ye be found even to fight against God. And to him they agreed."  {PH154 13.2}
[PH154 13.3]                  Prejudice of those in Authority.          Yet the attributes of Satan so controlled their minds, that notwithstanding the wonderful miracles                                 -14-     that had been wrought in healing the sick and in releasing God's servants from prison, the priests and rulers were so filled with prejudice and hatred that they could hardly be restrained. "When they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ."  {PH154 13.3}
[PH154 14.1]                    Mercy of God Exemplified.          We can see what evidence was given the priests and rulers, and how firmly they resisted the Spirit of God. Those who claim superior wisdom and piety may make most terrible and (to themselves) fatal mistakes if they allow their minds to be molded by another power, and pursue a course in resistance to the Holy Spirit. The Lord Jesus, represented by the Holy Spirit, was in the presence of that assembly, but they did not discern him. For a moment they had felt the conviction of the Spirit, that Jesus was the Son of God, but they stifled conviction, and became more blind and hardened than before. Even after they had crucified the Saviour, God in his mercy had sent them additional evidence in the works wrought through the apostles. He was giving them another call to repentance, even in the terrible charge brought against them by the apostles, that they had killed the Prince of Life.  {PH154 14.1}
[PH154 14.2]          It was not alone the sin of putting to death the Son of God that cut them off from salvation, but their persistence in rejecting light and the conviction                                -15-     of the Holy Spirit. The spirit that works in the children of disobedience worked in them, leading them to abuse the men through whom God was giving a testimony to them. The malignity of rebellion reappeared, and was intensified in every successive act of resistance against God's servants and the message he had given them to declare.  {PH154 14.2}
[PH154 15.1]                         Resistance of Truth.          Every act of resistance makes it harder to yield. Being the leaders of the people, the priests and rulers felt it incumbent on them to defend the course they had taken. They must prove that they had been in the right. Having committed themselves in opposition to Christ, every act of resistance became an additional incentive to persist in the same path. The events of their past career of opposition are as precious treasures to be jealously guarded. And the hatred and malignity that inspired those acts are concentrated against the apostles.  {PH154 15.1}
[PH154 15.2]          The Spirit of God revealed its presence unto those who, irrespective of the fear or favor of men, declared the truth which had been committed to them. Under the demonstration of the Holy Spirit's power, the Jews saw their guilt in refusing the evidence that God had sent; but they would not yield their wicked resistance. Their obstinacy became more and more determined, and worked the ruin of their souls. It was not that they could not yield, for they could, yet would not. It was not alone that they had been guilty, and deserving of wrath, but that they armed themselves with the attributes of Satan, and determinedly continued to be opposed to God. Every day, in                                 -16-     their refusal to repent, they took up their rebellion afresh. They were preparing to reap that which they had sown. The wrath of God is not declared against men merely because of the sins which they have committed, but for choosing to continue in a state of resistance, and, although they have light and knowledge, repeating their sins of the past. If they would submit, they would be pardoned; but they are determined not to yield. They defy God by their obstinacy. These souls have given themselves to Satan, and he controls them according to his will.  {PH154 15.2}
[PH154 16.1]          How was it with the rebellious inhabitants of the antediluvian world? After rejecting the message of Noah, they plunged into sin with greater abandon than ever before, and doubled the enormity of their corrupting practises. Those who refuse to reform by accepting Christ, find nothing reformative in sin; their minds are set to carry their spirit of revolt, and they are not, and never will be, forced to submission. The judgment which God brought upon the antediluvian world, declared it incurable. The destruction of Sodom proclaimed the inhabitants of the most beautiful country in the world, incorrigible in sin. The fire and brimstone from heaven consumed everything except Lot, his wife, and two daughters. The wife, looking back in disregard of God's command, became a pillar of salt.  {PH154 16.1}
[PH154 16.2]          How God bore with the Jewish nation while they were murmuring and rebellious, breaking the Sabbath and every other precept of the law! He repeatedly declared them worse than the heathen. Each generation surpassed the preceding in guilt. The Lord permitted them to go into captivity;                                -17-     but after their deliverance, his requirements were forgotten. Everything that he committed to that people to be kept sacred, was perverted or displaced by the inventions of rebellious men. Christ said to them in his day, "Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keepeth the law?" And these were the men who set themselves up as judges and censors over those whom the Holy Spirit was moving to declare the word of God to the people. (See John 7:19-23, 27, 28; Luke 11:37-52.)  {PH154 16.2}
[PH154 17.1]                 Holy Spirit to be Left Untrammeled.          Read these scriptures to the people. Read carefully, solemnly, and the Holy Spirit will be by your side, to impress minds as you read them. But do not fail to read with the true sense of the word in your own heart. If God has ever spoken by me, these scriptures mean very much to those who shall hear them.  {PH154 17.1}
[PH154 17.2]          Finite men should beware of seeking to control their fellow men, taking the place assigned to the Holy Spirit. Let not men feel that it is their prerogative to give to the world what they suppose to be truth, and refuse that anything should be given contrary to their ideas. This is not their work. Many things will appear distinctly as truth, which will not be acceptable to those who think their own interpretations of the Scripture always right. Most decided changes will have to be made in regard to ideas which some have accepted as without a flaw. These men give evidence of fallibility in very many ways; they work upon principles which the word of God condemns. That which makes me feel to the very depths of                              -18-     my being, and makes me know that their works are not the works of God, is that they suppose they have authority to rule their fellow men. The Lord has given them no more right to rule others than he has given others to rule them. Those who assume the control of their fellow men, take into their finite hands a work that devolves upon God alone.  {PH154 17.2}
[PH154 18.1]          That men should keep alive the spirit which ran riot at Minneapolis, is an offense to God. All heaven is indignant at the spirit that for years has been revealed in our publishing institution at Battle Creek. Unrighteousness is practised that God will not tolerate. He will visit for these things. A voice has been heard pointing out the errors, and in the name of the Lord, pleading for a decided change. But who have followed the instruction given? Who have humbled their hearts, to put from them every vestige of their wicked, oppressive spirit? I have been greatly burdened to set these matters before the people as they are. I know they will see them. I know that those who read this matter will be convicted.  {PH154 18.1}
[PH154 18.2]                 Christ's Love for the Church.          The church of Christ, enfeebled, defective as she may appear, is the one object on earth upon which he bestows, in a special sense, his love and his regard. The church is the theater of his grace, in which he delights in making experiments of mercy on human hearts. The Holy Spirit is his representative, and it works to effect transformations so wonderful that angels look upon them with astonishment and joy. Heaven is full of rejoicing when the members of the human family                               -19-     are seen to be full of compassion for one another, loving one another as Christ has loved them. The church is God's fortress, his city of refuge, which he holds in a revolted world. Any betrayal of her sacred trust is treachery to him who has bought her with the precious blood of his only begotten Son.  {PH154 18.2}
[PH154 19.1]          Christ speaks of the church over which Satan presides, as the synagogue of Satan. Its members are the children of disobedience. They are those who love to sin, and choose to sin, always laboring to make void the law of God, which is holy, just, and good. It is Satan's work to mingle evil with good, and to confuse the distinction between good and evil. Christ would have a church that labors to separate the evil from good, whose members will not knowingly tolerate wrong-doing, but will expel it from their own hearts and lives. How careful should we be in passing judgment on the work of others, how careful lest we become guilty of ascribing to evil agencies the manifestation of the Holy Spirit.                                     Mrs. E. G. White.                              ［20］  {PH154 19.1}
[PH154 20.1]                  A Faithful Message.                                                    -                            Hobart, Tasmania, May 1, 1895.                Many Outgrown their Advent Faith.            Because iniquity abounds, the love of many waxes cold. There are many who have outgrown their advent faith. They are living for the world, and while saying in their hearts, as they desire it shall be, "My Lord delayeth his coming," they are beating their fellow servants. They do this for the same reason that Cain killed Abel. Abel was determined to worship God according to the directions God had given. This displeased Cain. He thought that his own plans were best, and that the Lord would come to his terms. Cain in his offering did not acknowledge his dependence upon Christ. He thought that his father Adam had been treated harshly in being expelled from Eden. The idea of keeping that sin ever before the mind, and offering the blood of the slain lamb as a confession of entire dependence upon a power outside of himself, was torture to the high spirit of Cain. Being the eldest, he thought that Abel should follow his example. When Abel's offering was accepted of God, the holy fire consuming the sacrifice, Cain's anger was exceedingly great. The Lord condescended to explain matters to him; but he would not be reconciled to God, and he hated Abel because God showed him favor. He became so angry that he slew his brother.                               -21-  {PH154 20.1}
[PH154 21.1]          The Lord has a controversy with all men who by their unbelief and doubt have been saying that he delays his coming, and who have been smiting their fellow servants, and eating and drinking with (working from the very same principle as) the drunken; they are drunken, but not with wine; they stagger, but not with strong drink. Satan has controlled their reason, and they know not at what they stumble.  {PH154 21.1}
[PH154 21.2]                  Result of Separation from God.          Just as soon as a man separates from God so that his heart is not under the subduing power of the Holy Spirit, the attributes of Satan will be revealed, and he will begin to oppress his fellow men. An influence goes forth from him that is contrary to truth and justice and righteousness. This disposition is manifested in our institutions, not only in the relation of the workers to one another, but in the desire shown by one institution to control all others. Men who are entrusted with weighty responsibilities, but who have no living connection with God, have been and are doing despite to his Holy Spirit. They are indulging the very same spirit as did Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, and as did the Jews in the days of Christ. (See Matthew 12:22-29, 31-37.) Warnings have come from God again and again for these men, but they have cast them aside, and ventured on in the same course.  {PH154 21.2}
[PH154 21.3]          Read the words of Christ in Matthew 23:23: "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these                               -22-     ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone." These denunciations are given as a warning to all who "outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within" "are full of hypocrisy and iniquity," They say, "We are delivered to do all these things." They also say, "If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets. Wherefore," said Jesus, "ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets." What lessons are here; how fearful and decisive! Jesus said, "Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and crucify; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute them from city to city." This prophecy was literally fulfilled by the Jews in their treatment of Christ and of the messengers whom God sent to them. Will men in these last days follow the example of those whom Christ condemned?  {PH154 21.3}
[PH154 22.1]          These terrible predictions they have not as yet carried out to the full; but if God spares their lives, and they nourish the same spirit that marked their course of action both before and after the Minneapolis meeting, they will fill up to the full the deeds of those whom Christ condemned when he was upon the earth.  {PH154 22.1}
[PH154 22.2]          The perils of the last days are upon us. Read Matthew 25:14. Satan takes the control of every mind that is not decidedly under the control of the Spirit of God. Some have been cultivating hatred against the men whom God has commissioned to bear a special message to the world. They began this Satanic work at Minneapolis. Afterward, when                               -23-     they saw and felt the demonstration of the Holy Spirit, testifying that the message was of God, they hated it the more, because it was a testimony against them. They would not humble their hearts to repent, to give God the glory, and vindicate the right. They went on in their own spirit, filled with envy, jealousy, and evil surmisings, as did the Jews. They opened their hearts to the enemy of God and man. Yet these men have been holding positions of trust, and have been molding the work after their own similitude, as far as they possibly could. . . .  {PH154 22.2}
[PH154 23.1]                     Exhortation to Repentance.          Those who are now first, who have been untrue to the cause of God, will soon be last, unless they repent. Unless they speedily fall upon the Rock and be broken, and be born again, the spirit that has been cherished will continue to be cherished. Mercy's sweet voice will not be recognized by them. Bible religion, in private and in public, is with them a thing of the past. They have been zealously declaiming against enthusiasm and fanaticism. Faith that calls upon God to relieve human suffering, faith that God has enjoined upon his people to exercise, is called fanaticism. But if there is anything upon the earth that should inspire men with sanctified zeal, it is the truth as it is in Jesus. It is the grand, great work of redemption. It is Christ, made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption.  {PH154 23.1}
[PH154 23.2]          The Lord has often made manifest in his providence that nothing less than revealed truth, the word of God, can reclaim man from sin or keep                               -24-     him from transgression. That word which reveals the guilt of sin, has a power upon the human heart to make man right and keep him so. The Lord has said that his work is to be studied and obeyed; it is to be brought into the practical life; that word is as inflexible as the character of God, --the same yesterday, today, and forever.  {PH154 23.2}
[PH154 24.1]            The True Inspiration to Enthusiasm.          If there is anything in our world that should inspire enthusiasm, it is the cross of Calvary. "Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not." "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." Christ is to be accepted, believed on, and exalted. This is to be the theme of conversation,--the preciousness of Christ.  {PH154 24.1}
[PH154 24.2]              Truth to be Enthroned in the Heart.          There is in Battle Creek a class that have the truth planted in the heart. It is to them the power of God unto salvation. But unless the truth is enthroned in the heart, and a thorough transition takes place from darkness to light, those who handle sacred responsibilities are ministers of darkness, blind leaders of the blind. "Clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots." God requires that every soul that names his name shall have the truth enthroned in the heart. The                               -25-     time in which we live demands it. Eternity demands it. Pure religion demands it.                                                    -    {PH154 24.2}
[PH154 25.1]                  Worldly Amusements.                   Parties of Pleasure.            While there has been so much fear of excitement and enthusiasm in the service of God, there has been manifest an enthusiasm in another line which to many seems wholly congenial. I refer to the parties of pleasure that have been held among our people. These occasions have taken much of the time and attention of people who profess to be servants of Christ; but have these assemblies tended to the glory of his name? Was Jesus invited to preside over them? Gatherings for social intercourse may be made in the highest degree profitable and instructive when those who meet together have the love of God glowing in their hearts, when they meet to exchange thoughts in regard to the word of God, or to consider methods for advancing his work, and doing good to their fellow men. When nothing is said or done to grieve the Holy Spirit of God, but it is regarded as a welcome guest, then God is honored, and those who meet together will be refreshed and strengthened. "Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another: and the Lord hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon his name. And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of Hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels."                               -26-  {PH154 25.1}
[PH154 26.1]          But there has been a class of social gatherings in Battle Creek of an entirely different character, parties of pleasure that have been a disgrace to our institutions and to the church. They encourage pride of dress, pride of appearance, self-gratification, hilarity, and trifling. Satan is entertained as an honored guest, and he takes possession of those who patronize these gatherings. A view of one such company was presented to me, where were assembled those who profess to believe the truth. One was seated at the instrument of music, and such songs were poured forth as made the watching angels weep. There was mirth, there was coarse laughter, there was abundance of enthusiasm, and a kind of inspiration; but the joy was such as Satan only is able to create. This is an enthusiasm and infatuation of which all who love God will be ashamed. It prepares the participants for unholy thought and action. I have reason to think that some who were engaged in that scene, heartily repented of the shameful performance.  {PH154 26.1}
[PH154 26.2]                   Effect of Such Gatherings.          Many such gatherings have been presented to me. I have seen the gaiety, the display in dress, the personal adornment. All want to be thought brilliant, and give themselves up to hilarity, foolish jesting, cheap, coarse flattery, and uproarious laughter. The eyes sparkle, the cheek is flushed, conscience sleeps. With eating and drinking and merry-making, they do their best to forget God. The scene of pleasure is their paradise. And Heaven is looking on, seeing and hearing all.                               -27-  {PH154 26.2}
[PH154 27.1]                         Bicycle Sport.          Turn to another scene. In the streets of the city is a party gathered for a bicycle race.  In this company also are those who profess to know God and Jesus Christ whom he has sent. But who that looks upon the exciting race would think that those who were thus exhibiting themselves were the followers of Christ? Who would suppose that any of that party felt their need of Christ? Who would think they realized the value of their time and their physical powers as gifts from God, to be preserved for his service? Who thinks of the danger of accident, or that death may be the result of their wild chase? Who have prayed for the presence of Jesus, and the protection of the ministering angels? Is God glorified by these performances? Satan is playing the game of life for these souls, and he is well pleased with that which he sees and hears.  {PH154 27.1}
[PH154 27.2]                    A Profanation of Religion.          The once earnest Christian who enters into these sports is on the down-grade. He has left the region pervaded by the vital atmosphere of heaven, and has plunged into an atmosphere of mist and fog. It may be some humble believer is induced to join the these sports. But if he maintains his connection with Christ, he cannot in heart participate in the exciting scene. The words he hears are not congenial, for they are not the language of Canaan. The speakers do not give evidence that they are making melody in their hearts to God. But there is unmistakable evidence that God is forgotten. He is not in all                             -28-     their thoughts. These parties of pleasure and gatherings for exciting sport, made up of those who profess to be Christians, are a profanation of religion and the name of God.  {PH154 27.2}
[PH154 28.1]                   Deceptive Working of Satan.          The tenor of the conversation reveals the treasure of the heart. The cheap, common talk, the words of flattery, the foolish witticism, spoken to create a laugh, are the merchandise of Satan, and all who indulge in this talk are trading in his goods. Impressions are made upon those who hear these things, similar to that made upon Herod when the daughter of Herodias danced before him. All these transactions are recorded in the books of heaven; and at the last great day they will appear in their true light before the guilty ones. Then all will discern in them the alluring, deceptive workings of the devil, to lead them into the broad road and the wide gate that opens to their ruin.  {PH154 28.1}
[PH154 28.2]              Professed Christians as Decoys of Satan.          Satan has been multiplying his snares in Battle Creek; and professed Christians who are superficial in character and religious experience are used by the tempter as his decoys. This class are always ready for the gatherings for pleasure or sport, and their influence attracts others. Young men and young women who have tried to be Bible Christians are persuaded to join the party, and they are drawn into the ring. They did not prayerfully consult the divine standard. to learn what Christ had said in regard to the fruit to be borne on the Christian tree. They do                             -29-     not discern that these entertainments are really Satan's banquet, prepared to keep souls from accepting the call to the marriage supper of the Lamb: they prevent them from receiving the white robe of character, which is the righteousness of Christ. They become confused as to what it is right for them as Christians to do. They do not want to be thought singular, and naturally incline to follow the example of others. Thus they come under the influence of those who have never had the divine touch on heart or mind.  {PH154 28.2}
[PH154 29.1]          In these exciting gatherings, carried away by the glamour and passion of human influence, youth that have been carefully instructed to obey the law of God, are led to form attachments for those whose education has been a mistake, and whose religious experience has been a fraud. They sell themselves to a lifelong bondage. As long as they live, they must be hampered by their union with a cheap, superficial character, one who lives for display, but who has not the precious, inward adorning, the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which in the sight of God is of great price. When sickness and death shall come to those who have lived to please themselves merely, they find that they have provided no oil in their vessels with their lamps, and they are utterly unfitted to close their life's history. This has been, this will continue to be.  {PH154 29.1}
[PH154 29.2]          We ask of those who have had great light in Battle Creek, Has the truth of God lost its hold upon the soul? Has the fine gold become dim? What has been the cause of this fanaticism and enthusiasm? A fearful accountability rests upon world-loving, selfish parents, for sin lies at their                              -30-     door. How much more favorable it would be if the school buildings that are now in Battle Creek were far off from the city, and separated from so large a colony of professed Sabbathkeepers!  {PH154 29.2}
[PH154 30.1]                  Deplorable Conviction Gaining Ground                         in the World.            The conviction is gaining ground in the world that Seventh-day Adventists are giving the trumpet an uncertain sound, that they are following in the path of worldlings. Families in Battle Creek are departing from God, in planning contracts of marriage with those who have no love for God; with those who have lived a frivolous life, who have never practised self-denial, and know not from experience what it means to be laborers together with God. Strange things are being transacted. False phases of Christianity are being received and taught, which bind souls in deception and delusion. Men are walking in the light of the sparks of their own kindling. Those who love and fear God will not descend to the world's level, in choosing the society of the vain and trifling They will not become charmed with men or women who are not converted. They are to stand up for Jesus, and then Jesus will stand up for them.  {PH154 30.1}
[PH154 30.2]                 Dishonest Dealings in Business.          Some of those who know the truth, but do not practise it, are trampling upon the law of God in their business transactions. We should have no intimate association with them, lest we catch their spirit, and share their doom. The patriarch Jacob, when speaking of certain deeds of his sons,                              -31-     which he contemplated with horror, exclaimed, "O my soul, come not thou into their secret; unto their assembly, mine honor, be not thou united." He felt that his own honor would be compromised if he associated with sinners in their doings. He lifts the danger-signal, to warn us away from such associations, lest we become partakers of their evil deeds. The Holy Spirit, through the apostle Paul, utters a similar warning, "Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them."  {PH154 30.2}
[PH154 31.1]                 True Attitude of the Christian.          The eternal God has drawn the line of distinction between the saints and the sinners, the converted and the unconverted. The two classes do not blend into each other imperceptibly, like the colors of the rainbow. They are as distinct as midday and midnight.  {PH154 31.1}
[PH154 31.2]          Those who are seeking the righteousness of Christ, will be dwelling upon the themes of the great salvation. The Bible is the storehouse that supplies their souls with nourishing food. They meditate upon the incarnation of Christ, they contemplate the great sacrifice made to save them from perdition, to bring in pardon, peace, and everlasting righteousness. The soul is aglow with these grand and elevating themes. Holiness and truth, grace and righteousness, occupy the thoughts. Self dies, and Christ lives in his servants. In contemplation of the word, their hearts burn within them, as did the hearts of the two disciples while they went to Emmaus, and Christ walked with them by the way, and opened to them the scriptures concerning himself.                               -32-  {PH154 31.2}
[PH154 32.1]          How few realize that Jesus, unseen, is walking by their side! How ashamed many would be to hear his voice speaking to them, and to know that he heard all their foolish, common talk! And how many hearts would burn with holy joy if they only knew that the Saviour was by their side, that the holy atmosphere of his presence was surrounding them, and they were feeding on the bread of life! How pleased the Saviour would be to hear his followers talking of his precious lessons of instruction, and to know that they had a relish for holy things! When the truth abides in the heart, there is no place for criticism of God's servants, or for picking flaws with the message he sends. That which is in the heart will flow from the lips. It cannot be repressed. The things that God has prepared for those that love him, will be the theme of conversation. The love of Christ is in the soul as a well of water, springing up into everlasting life, sending forth living streams, that bring life and gladness wherever they flow.                                                                   -    {PH154 32.1}
[PH154 32.2]                   Rejecting the Light.          God says to his servants, "Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins." But when the plain, straight testimony comes from lips under the moving of the Spirit of God, there are many who treat it with disdain. There are among us those who, in actions if not in words, "say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits: get                              -33-     you out of the way, turn aside out of the path, cause the Holy One of Israel to cease from before us. Wherefore thus saith the Holy One of Israel, Because ye despise this word, and trust in oppression and perverseness, and stay thereon: therefore this iniquity shall be to you as a breach ready to fall, swelling out in a high wall, whose breaking cometh suddenly, at an instant. . . . For thus saith the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: and ye would not."  {PH154 32.2}
[PH154 33.1]                   Cleansing of the Heart Needed.          I inquire of those in responsible positions in Battle Creek, What are you doing? You have turned your back, and not your face, to the Lord. There needs to be a cleansing of the heart, the feelings, the sympathies, the words, in reference to the most momentous subjects,--the Lord God, eternity, truth. What is the message to be given at this time?--It is the third angel's message. But that light which is to fill the whole earth with its glory, has been despised by some who claim to believe the present truth. But careful how you treat it. Take off the shoes from off your feet; for your are on holy ground. Beware how you indulge the attributes of Satan, and pour contempt upon the manifestation of the Holy Spirit. I know not but some have even now gone too far to return and to repent.  {PH154 33.1}
[PH154 33.2]                      Communication of Light.          I state truth. The souls who love God, who believe in Christ, and who eagerly grasp every ray of light, will see light, and rejoice in the truth.                              -34-     They will communicate the light. They will grow in holiness. Those who receive the Holy Spirit will feel the chilling atmosphere that surrounds the souls of others by whom these great and solemn realities are unappreciated and spoken against. They feel that they are in the council of the ungodly, of men who stand in the way of sinners, and sit in the seat of the scornful.  {PH154 33.2}
[PH154 34.1]          The word of God speaketh truth, not a lie. In it is nothing strained, nothing extreme, nothing overdone. We are to accept it as the word of the living God. In obedience to that word, the church have duties to perform which they have not done. They are not to flee from the post of duty; but in trial and temptation they should lean more heavily upon God. There are difficulties to be met, but God's people as one must rise to the emergencies. There are duties to be discharged to the church and to our God.  {PH154 34.1}
[PH154 34.2]                  Danger of Accepting Darkness.          The Spirit of God is departing from many among his people. Many have entered into dark, secret paths, and some will never return. They will continue to stumble to their ruin. They have tempted God, they have rejected light. All the evidence that will ever be given them they have received, and have not heeded. They have chosen darkness rather than light, and have defiled their souls. No man or church can associate with a pleasure-loving class, and reveal that they appreciate the rich current which the Lord has sent to those who have simple faith in his word. The world is polluted, corrupted, as was the world in the days of Noah. The only remedy is belief in                            -35-     the truth, acceptance of the light. Yet many have listened to the truth spoken in demonstration of the Spirit, and they have not only refused to accept the message, but they have hated the light. These men are parties to the ruin of souls. They have interposed themselves between the heaven-sent light and the people. They have trampled upon the word of God, and are doing despite to his Holy Spirit.  {PH154 34.2}
[PH154 35.1]          I call upon God's people to open their eyes. When you sanction or carry out the decisions of men who, as you know, are not in harmony with truth and righteousness, you weaken your own faith, and lose your relish for communion with God. You seem to hear the voice which was addressed to Joshua: "Wherefore liest thou thus upon thy face? Israel hath sinned, and they have also transgressed my covenant which I commanded them. . . . There is an accursed thing in the midst of thee, O Israel." "Neither will I be with you any more, except ye destroy the accursed from among you." Christ declares, "He that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad."  {PH154 35.1}
[PH154 35.2]              The Message of Justification by Faith.          The Lord in his great mercy sent a most precious message to his people through Elders Waggoner and Jones. This message was to bring more prominently before the world the uplifted Saviour, the sacrifice for the sins of the whole world. It presented justification through faith in the Surety; it invited the people to receive the righteousness of Christ, which is made manifest in obedience to all the commandments of God. Many had lost sight of Jesus. They needed to have their eyes                              -36-     directed to his divine person, his merits, and his changeless love for the human family. All power is given into his hands, that he may dispense rich gifts unto men, imparting the priceless gift of his own righteousness to the helpless human agent. This is the message that God commanded to be given to the world. It is the third angel's message, which is to be proclaimed with a loud voice, and attended with the outpouring of his Spirit in a large measure.  {PH154 35.2}
[PH154 36.1]          The uplifted Saviour is to appear in his efficacious work as the Lamb slain, sitting upon the throne, to dispense the priceless covenant blessings, the benefits he died to purchase for every soul who should believe on him. John could not express that love in words; it was too deep, too broad; he calls upon the human family to behold it. Christ is pleading for the church in the heavenly courts above, pleading for those for whom he paid the redemption price of his own life-blood. Centuries, ages, can never diminish the efficacy of this atoning sacrifice. This message of the gospel of his grace was to be given to the church in clear and distinct lines, that the world should no longer say that Seventh-day Adventists talk the law, the law, but do not teach or believe Christ.  {PH154 36.1}
[PH154 36.2]          Faith in Christ's Atoning Blood the Life                   of the Church.            The efficacy of the blood of Christ was to be presented to the people with freshness and power, that their faith might lay hold upon its merits. As the high priest sprinkled the warm blood upon the mercy-seat, while the fragrant cloud of incense ascended before God, so while we confess our                             -37-     sins, and plead the efficacy of Christ's atoning blood, our prayers are to ascend to heaven, fragrant with the merits of our Saviour's character. Notwithstanding our unworthiness, we are ever to bear in mind that there is One that can take away sin, and save the sinner. Every sin acknowledged before God with a contrite heart, he will remove. This faith is the life of the church. As the serpent was lifted up in the wilderness by Moses, and all that had been bitten by the fiery serpents were bidden to look and live, so also the Son of Man must be lifted up, that "whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life."  {PH154 36.2}
[PH154 37.1]          Unless he makes it his life business to behold the uplifted Saviour, and by faith to accept the merits which it is his privilege to claim, the sinner can no more be saved than Peter could walk upon the water unless he kept his eyes fixed steadily upon Jesus. Now it has been Satan's determined purpose to eclipse the view of Jesus, and lead men to look to man, and trust to man, and be educated to expect help from man. For years the church has been looking to man, and expecting much from man, but not looking to Jesus, in whom our hopes of eternal life are centered. Therefore God gave to his servants a testimony that presented the truth as it is in Jesus, which is the third angel's message, in clear, distinct lines. John's words are to be sounded by God's people, that all may discern the light and walk in the light: "He that cometh from above is above all; he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all. And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony. He that hath                             -38-     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."  {PH154 37.1}
[PH154 38.1]                  The Richest Gifts of God.          This is the testimony that must go throughout the length and breadth of the world. It presents the law and the gospel, binding up the two in a perfect whole. (See Romans 5, and 1 John 3:9 to the close of the chapter.) These precious scriptures will be impressed upon every heart that is opened to receive them. "The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple,"--those who are contrite in heart. "As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name." These have not a mere nominal faith, a theory of truth, a legal religion, but they believe to a purpose, appropriating to themselves the richest gifts of God. They plead for the gift, that they may give to others. They can say, "Of his fullness have all we received, and grace for grace."  {PH154 38.1}
[PH154 38.2]          "He that loveth not, knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved                             -39-     us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit."  {PH154 38.2}
[PH154 39.1]              The Message Designed of God for the                      Present Time.            This is the very work which the Lord designs that the message he has given his servants, shall perform in the heart and mind of every human agent. It is the perpetual life of the church to love God supremely, and to love others as they love themselves. There was but little love for God or man, and God gave to his messengers just what the people needed. Those who received the message were greatly blessed, for they saw the bright rays of the Sun of Righteousness, and life and hope sprang up in their hearts. They were beholding Christ. "Fear not," is his everlasting assurance; "I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore." "Because I live, ye shall live also." The blood of the spotless Lamb of God the believers apply to their own hearts. Looking upon the great Antitype, we can say, "It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us." The Sun of Righteousness shines into our hearts to give the knowledge of the glory of Jesus Christ. Of the Holy Spirit's office he says, "He shall glorify me; for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you." The psalmist prays. "Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and                               -40-     I shall be whiter than snow. . . . Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy Holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free Spirit. Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee."  {PH154 39.1}
[PH154 40.1]          The Lord would have these grand themes studied in our churches, and if every church-member shall give entrance to the word of God, it will give light and understanding to the simple. "Who is among you that feareth the Lord, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? let him trust in the name of the Lord, and stay upon his God. Behold, all ye that kindle a fire, that compass yourselves about with sparks: walk in the light of your fire, and in the sparks that ye have kindled. This shall ye have of mine hand; ye shall lie down in sorrow." (See Isaiah 29:13-16, 18-21.) "Thus saith the Lord, 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, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the Lord."  {PH154 40.1}
[PH154 40.2]          Never was there a time when the Lord would manifest his great grace unto his chosen ones more fully than in these last days when his law is made void. "The Lord is well pleased for his righteousness' sake; he will magnify the law, and make it honorable." What does God say in regard to his                                -41-     people?--"But this is a people robbed and spoiled; they are all of them snared in holes, and they are hid in prison houses: they are for a prey, and none delivereth; for a spoil, and none saith, Restore." (See also Isaiah 43.) These are prophecies that will be fulfilled.  {PH154 40.2}
[PH154 41.1]          Solemn Warning Against Despising God's                Message and Messengers.            I would speak in warning to those who have stood for years resisting light and cherishing the spirit of opposition. How long will you hate and despise the messengers of God's righteousness? God has given them his message. They bear the word of the Lord. There is salvation for you, but only through the merits of Jesus Christ. The grace of the Holy Spirit has been offered you again and again. Light and power from on high have been shed abundantly in the midst of you. Here was evidence, that all might discern whom the Lord recognized as his servants. But there are those who despised the men and the message they bore. They have taunted them with being fanatics, extremists, and enthusiasts. Let me prophesy unto you: Unless you speedily humble your hearts before God, and confess your sins, which are many, you will, when it is too late, see that you have been fighting against God. Through the conviction of the Holy Spirit, no longer unto reformation and pardon, you will see that these men whom you have spoken against have been as signs in the world, as witnesses for God. Then you would give the whole world if you could redeem the past, and be just such zealous men, moved by the Spirit of God to lift your voice in solemn warning                                -42-     to the world; and like them, to be in principle firm as a rock. Your turning things upside down is known of the Lord. Go on a little longer as you have gone, in rejection of the light from heaven, and you are lost. "The man that shall be unclean, and shall not purify himself, that soul shall be cut off from among the congregation."  {PH154 41.1}
[PH154 42.1]          I have no smooth message to bear to those who have been for so long as false guide-posts, pointing the wrong way. If you reject Christ's delegated messengers, you reject Christ. Neglect this great salvation, kept before you for years, despise this glorious offer of justification through the blood of Christ, and sanctification through the cleansing power of the Holy Spirit, and there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation. I entreat you now to humble yourselves, and cease your stubborn resistance of light and evidence. Say unto the Lord, "Mine iniquities have separated between me and my God. O Lord, pardon my transgressions. Blot out my sins from the book of thy remembrance." Praise his holy name, there is forgiveness with him, and you can be converted, transformed.  {PH154 42.1}
[PH154 42.2]          "For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh; how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?"                                        Mrs. E. G. White.                                                    ［43］  {PH154 42.2}
[PH154 43.1]                    "Let Him That Thinketh He                     Standeth Take Heed                     Lest He Fall."                                                    -                 Idolatry of the Children of Israel.            "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." 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.  {PH154 43.1}
[PH154 43.2]          "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."  {PH154 43.2}
[PH154 43.3]          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                                -44-     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." 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.  {PH154 43.3}
[PH154 44.1]          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 they 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." When Aaron saw that the image he had graven pleased the people, 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                                -45-     peace-offerings; and the people sat down to eat and to drink, rose up to play." They drank and feasted, and gave themselves up to mirth and dancing, which ended in the shameful orgies that marked the heathen worship of false gods.  {PH154 44.1}
[PH154 45.1]         God in heaven beheld it all, and 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, and Israel, 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 had thought to do unto his people."  {PH154 45.1}
[PH154 45.2]         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                              -46-     them beneath the mount. Though his love for Israel was so 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 scripture, "Be ye angry and sin not." Such was the anger of Moses.  {PH154 45.2}
[PH154 46.1]         "And he took the calf which they had made, and burnt it in the fire, and ground it to powder, and strewed it upon the water, and made the children of Israel drink of it. And Moses said unto Aaron, What did this people do 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)."  {PH154 46.1}
[PH154 46.2]              Special Influence of Satan's Work.          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." Mark the influence of                             -47-     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. The same spirit was manifested as at the sacrilegious feast of Belshazzar. There was glee and dancing, hilarity and 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.  {PH154 46.2}
[PH154 47.1]          "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." 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. And the children of Levi did according to the word of Moses: and there fell of the people that day about three thousand men." There was no partiality, no hypocrisy, no confederating to shield the guilty.                            -48-     For the terror of the Lord was upon the people.  {PH154 47.1}
[PH154 48.1]          Those who had shown so little sense of the presence and the greatness of God, and who, after the exhibition 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.  {PH154 48.1}
[PH154 48.2]                  Danger of Self-Pleasing.          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." 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. 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."                              -49-  {PH154 48.2}
[PH154 49.1]                Appeal to Teachers in our Schools.          I ask you who are living in the very heart of the work to review the experience of years, and see if the "well done" can truthfully be spoken to you. 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?  {PH154 49.1}
[PH154 49.2]          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 at 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 away 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 God 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 some one 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 was to be given to study, and that there was a time for everything, as if the hours devoted to common                            -50-     study were too precious to be given up for the working of the heavenly messenger?  {PH154 49.2}
[PH154 50.1]          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 them to unlock the door, and pray with earnestness. "Abide with me." When the Holy Spirit reveals his presence in your schoolrooms, 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.  {PH154 50.1}
[PH154 50.2]         Let me tell you what I know of this heavenly guest. The Holy Spirit was brooding over the youth in 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 have been 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 should possess the "higher education " before they are qualified to be instructors and guides of youth.  {PH154 50.2}
[PH154 50.3]                      The True Education.          The teacher may understand many things in regard to the physical universe; he may know all                              -51-     about the structure 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.  {PH154 50.3}
[PH154 51.1]          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.  {PH154 51.1}
[PH154 51.2]          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.  {PH154 51.2}
[PH154 51.3]          The word of God is to be the foundation of                          -52-     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.  {PH154 51.3}
[PH154 52.1]              Daniel's Temperate Course a Lesson.          The case of Daniel is an instructive one.  Daniel was taught by God, and he co-operated with God. He exercised 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."  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.  To them the will of God was the supreme law of life. They practised 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                            -53-     might do highest service for him.  God required these youth to keep themselves from idols.  {PH154 52.1}
[PH154 53.1]              Ideal of Christian Character.          The Religion of Jesus Christ never degrades the receiver, it never makes him course 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. 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."  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.)  {PH154 53.1}
[PH154 53.2]          This is the will of God concerning every human being, "even your sanctification."  In urging your 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                            -54-     with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself." 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."  {PH154 53.2}
[PH154 54.1]          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 step toward Jesus. The Savior is continually drawing men to repentance; they need only to submit to be drawn, and their hearts will be melted in penitence.  {PH154 54.1}
[PH154 54.2]               Man's Co-operation Necessary.          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." "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,                            -55-     and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."  {PH154 54.2}
[PH154 55.1]                 Exhortation to the Young          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 thought to be cheap and low. A character formed in accordance with the precepts of God's word will reveal steadfast principles, pure, noble aspirations. The Holy Spirit co-operates with the powers of the human mind, and high and holy impulses are the sure result.  {PH154 55.1}
[PH154 55.2]              Example of Daniel and His Associates.          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 of 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.  To meet the appeals of the king and his counselors that they should comply with the royal edict, they had a store of arguments set forth most eloquently. The demand                            -56     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 he 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.  {PH154 55.2}
[PH154 56.1]          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 hands?" These 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." These 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                            -57-     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."  {PH154 56.1}
[PH154 57.1]          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.  {PH154 57.1}
[PH154 57.2]          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 presented to me. I feel 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.  {PH154 57.2}
[PH154 57.3]               Dangers of Self-Gratification.          God sees that which the blind eyes of the educators cannot discern, that immorality of every kind                              -58-     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.  {PH154 57.3}
[PH154 58.1]          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.  {PH154 58.1}
[PH154 58.2]          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 evil-doer 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,                               -59-     while they turn against the demonstrations of the Holy Spirit.  {PH154 58.2}
[PH154 59.1]                        Solemn Admonition.          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.  {PH154 59.1}
[PH154 59.2]          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 on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth."                                      Mrs. E. G. White.            ［60］  {PH154 59.2}
[PH154 60.1]                   Extracts From a Communication                        Entitled                Missionary Work at Home and                        Abroad.                                                    -                "Norfolk Villa,"Granville, N. S. W.,                               July 24, 1895.                 (Recopied Sept. 10, 1896.)            God's field is the world. Jesus said to his disciples,"Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." "And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." Peter said to the believers, "The promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call." And the Lord said, "I will sow her unto me in the earth; and I will have mercy upon her that had not obtained mercy; and I will say to them which were not may people, Thou art my people; and they shall say, Thou art my God." "And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth."                             -61-  {PH154 60.1}
[PH154 61.1]          God has poured out richly of his Holy Spirit upon the believers in Battle Creek. What use have you made of these blessings? Have you done as did the men upon whom the Holy Spirit came on the day of Pentecost? Then "they that were scattered abroad went everywhere preaching the word." Has this fruit been seen in Battle Creek? Have the church been taught of God to know their duty, and to reflect the light which they have received?  {PH154 61.1}
[PH154 61.2]          "When the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John." The Spirit of God was waiting to enlighten souls, and convert them to the truth. Notice how much effort was put forth even for one man, an Ethiopian. "The angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert. And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship, was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet. Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot. And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him. . . . Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus." (See Acts 8.)  {PH154 61.2}
[PH154 61.3]          In this account of Philip and the Ethiopian is                           -62-     presented the work which the Lord calls his people to do. This one man represents a large class of human beings that need missionaries like Philip, who will hear the voice of God, and go where he shall send them. There is a class who are reading the Scriptures, and cannot understand their import. Those who have a knowledge of God are needed to explain his word to these souls.  {PH154 61.3}
[PH154 62.1]          In the parable of the Good Samaritan, the priest and the Levite looked on the wretched man who had been robbed and wounded, but it did not seem to them desirable to help the one who most needed help because he was helpless and forsaken. The priest and Levite represent many, many in Battle Creek. The Lord has represented to me the fact that thousands of souls are longing for something better than they have. Many can be saved if the Southern field can have simply a small part of the means expended so lavishly in Battle Creek, to make things more convenient. The Lord's heritage has been strangely neglected, and God will judge his people for this thing. Pride and the love of display are gratified by the accumulated advantages, while new fields are left untouched. The rebuke of God is upon the managers for their partiality and selfish appropriation of his good.  {PH154 62.1}
[PH154 62.2]          Something has been done in foreign missions, and something in home missions; but altogether too much territory has been left unworked. The work is too much centralized. The interests in Battle Creek are overgrown, and this means that other portions of the field are robbed of facilities which they should have had. The larger and still larger preparations, in the erection and enlargement of buildings, which have called together and                          -63-     held so large a number in Battle Creek, are not in accordance with God's plan, but in direct contravention of his plan. It has been urged that there were great advantages in having so many institutions in close connection; that they would be a strength to one another, and could afford help to those seeking education and employment. This is according to human reasoning; it will be admitted that from a human point of view, many advantages are gained by crowding so many responsibilities in Battle Creek; but the vision needs to be extended. These interests should be broken up into many parts, in order that the work may start in cities which it will be necessary to make centers of interest. Buildings should be erected and responsibilities centered in many localities that are now robbed of vital, spiritual interest, in order to swell the overplus already in Battle Creek. The Lord is not glorified by this management on the part of those who are in responsible positions. "The earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea." "And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent."  {PH154 62.2}
[PH154 63.1]          The salvation of the heathen has long been deemed a matter that should engage the interest of Christians; and it is not more than justice to bring light to their dark borders. But home missionary work is just as much needed. The heathen are brought to our very doors. Idolatrous ignorance is in the very shadow of our homes. Something is being done for the colored people, but next to nothing compared with what others receive who have a knowledge of the truth, who have had opportunities                             -64-     innumerable, but who have not half appreciated their advantages. To those who know not the truth, let the love of Jesus be presented, and it will work like leaven for the transformation of the character.  {PH154 63.1}
[PH154 64.1]          What are we doing for the Southern field? I have looked most anxiously to see if some plan would not be set in operation to redeem the sinful neglect of that field, but I see not a proposition or a resolution to do anything. Perhaps something has been planned that I have not seen. I hope so, and praise the Lord if it is so. But though for years our duty has been laid out in a most decided manner, yet the Southern field has been only touched with the tip ends of our fingers. I now feel deeply in earnest in again bringing before you this neglected portion of the Lord's vineyard. The matter is brought before me again and again. I have been awakened in the night season, and the command has come, Write the things I have opened before you, whether men will hear, or whether they will forbear.                                 Mrs. E. G. White.  {PH154 64.1}
[PH087 1.1]         PH087 - Special Testimony to Battle Creek Church (1897)                   Will a Man Rob God?                                       August, 1896.        "Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." 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. Let not your thoughts be diverted from the point; but saying, "I will follow thee, my Saviour," make your words true.  {PH087 1.1}
[PH087 1.2]         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 need to misunderstand it. The Lord has given me talents to use to his name's glory; but he makes one reserve.                             -2-     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." 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 flood-gates of woe were opened to our world.  {PH087 1.2}
[PH087 2.1]          God has given to man abundantly. He says, "I will lend you those goods of mine to trade upon; but I will 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 what God has forbidden with the talents he has entrusted to them, he counts them as "disobedient, unthankful, unholy."  {PH087 2.1}
[PH087 2.2]          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 satisfieth the desire of every living thing."                             -3-  {PH087 2.2}
[PH087 3.1]          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. 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 ye through his poverty might be rich." 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 Christian,--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.  {PH087 3.1}
[PH087 3.2]          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."  {PH087 3.2}
[PH087 3.3]          Conformity to the world can be prevented by the truth, by feeding on the word of God, by its                             -4-     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." "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 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 covet after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows." How true this is! It can be traced in the experience of every church.  {PH087 3.3}
[PH087 4.1]         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. Verse 5 it 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                             -5-     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?"  {PH087 4.1}
[PH087 5.1]         How many are asking this question at this point in their experience, as if they were altogether innocent of any wrong-doing? 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." 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 practising a system of robbery toward God, robbing me of treasure that I had reserved to carry forward my work in the world,                             -6-     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.  {PH087 5.1}
[PH087 6.1]          In Battle Creek much money has been expended which would have brought honor and glory to God had it been invested in foreign missions. O, 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. O 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."  {PH087 6.1}
[PH087 6.2]          "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." 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.  {PH087 6.2}
[PH087 6.3]          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                             -7-     methods. It would be far better to dress less expensively, cut down your indulgences, practise self-denial, and meet these outgoings. 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.  {PH087 6.3}
[PH087 7.1]          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.  {PH087 7.1}
[PH087 7.2]          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 sakes 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 counseled 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.  {PH087 7.2}
[PH087 7.3]          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                             -8-     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?  {PH087 7.3}
[PH087 8.1]          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." 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.  {PH087 8.1}
[PH087 8.2]          From the light which God has given me it would be for our advantage to study the directions given to Israel. (Read Malachi 4.) Verse 4 especially has a meaning which all have not comprehended. Let it be carefully considered.  {PH087 8.2}
[PH087 8.3]         The Lord has of late given me special testimonies                           -9-     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." I asked, "How do you regard our obligations to God, who gives 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.' 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?"  {PH087 8.3}
[PH087 9.1]          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 doing so 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                             -10-     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.                                   Mrs. E. G. White.  {PH087 9.1}
[PH086 1.1]         PH086 - Special Testimony to Battle Creek Church (1898)                  Forgetfulness.          Why did ancient Israel so easily forget God's dealings? The people did not retain in their memory his works of greatness and power or his words of warning. Had they remembered his wondrous dealings with them, they would not have received the reproof, "And forgettest the Lord thy Maker, that hath stretched forth the heavens and laid the foundations of the earth; and hast feared continually every day because of the fury of the oppressor, as if he were ready to destroy? and where is the fury of the oppressor?" But the children of Israel forgot God, whose they were by creation and by redemption. After seeing all his wonderful works, they tempted him.  {PH086 1.1}
[PH086 1.2]         I would call the attention of all who claim to be children of God, to the one hundred and fifth, one hundred and sixth, and one hundred and seventh psalms. Please read these psalms carefully. From them we may gather the necessity of appreciating the goodness, mercy, and love of our God.  {PH086 1.2}
[PH086 1.3]          The warning comes sounding down along the line to our time:"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                                -2-     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." To the ancient people of God were committed the sacred oracles. But God's revealed word was misinterpreted and misapplied. The people despised the word of the Holy One of Israel.  {PH086 1.3}
[PH086 2.1]         "Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight! Woe unto them that are mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mingle strong drink; which justify the wicked for reward, and take away the righteousness of the righteous from him! Therefore as the fire devoureth the stubble, and the flame consumeth the chaff, so their root shall be as rottenness, and their blossom shall go up as dust; because they have cast away the law of the Lord of Hosts, and despised the word of the Holy One of Israel." Please read psalms 91, 92, 95, and 96.  {PH086 2.1}
[PH086 2.2]          "Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust. As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field so he flourisheth. For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more. But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children's children." This testifies of the                           -3-     influence a father and mother may have over their children. "To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them. The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all."  {PH086 2.2}
[PH086 3.1]          "Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. They also do no iniquity; they walk in his ways. Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently. O that my ways were directed to keep they statutes. Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments. I will keep thy statutes: O forsake me not utterly."  {PH086 3.1}
[PH086 3.2]          "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. They word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." "Deal bountifully with they servant, that I may live, and keep thy word. Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law. I am a stranger in the earth: hide not thy commandments from me. My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments at all times. Thou hast rebuked the proud that are cursed, which do err from thy commandments. Remove from me reproach and contempt; for I have kept thy testimonies. Princes did also sit and speak against me; but thy servant did meditate in thy statutes. Thy testimonies also are my delight, and my counselors. My soul cleaveth unto the                                -4-     dust, quicken thou me according to thy word. I have declared my ways, and thou heardest me: teach me thy statutes."  {PH086 3.2}
[PH086 4.1]          "Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight. Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness. Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity, and quicken thou me in thy way. Stablish thy word unto thy servant, who is devoted to thy fear. Turn away my reproach which I fear: for thy judgments are good. Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: quicken me in thy righteousness."  {PH086 4.1}
[PH086 4.2]          "O how love I 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, that I might 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 longed for thy salvation, O Lord; and thy law is my delight. Let my soul live, and it shall praise thee; and let thy judgments help me."  {PH086 4.2}
[PH086 4.3]          Christ prayed for his disciples, "Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee; as thou hast given him power over all fresh, that he should give eternal life to                               -5-     as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent."  {PH086 4.3}
[PH086 5.1]          Can we not see the necessity of the apostle's words, "Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God"?  {PH086 5.1}
[PH086 5.2]          I have a message for our people in America. We are a people whom the Lord has made the repository of sacred truth. To us he has opened the living oracles, that we may arise and shine; because our light has come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon us.  {PH086 5.2}
[PH086 5.3]          Christ came to our world, but the world could not endure his purity. He has gone to his Father, but he has sent his Holy Spirit to represent him in the world till he shall come again. This is the message we are to bear, "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."  {PH086 5.3}
[PH086 5.4]          What are we doing? Are we voicing the message of the third angel? "The third angel followed them ［the first and second angels,］ saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels and in the presence of the Lamb: 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 whosoever receiveth the mark of his name. Here is the patience of the saints:                                -6-     here are they that keep the commandments of God, and have the faith of Jesus."  {PH086 5.4}
[PH086 6.1]          This is the message given by God to be sounded forth in the loud cry of the third angel. The sign or seal of God is the observance of the seventh-day Sabbath, and the Lord's memorial of his work of creation. "The Lord spake unto Moses saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my Sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am Lord that doth sanctify you." Here the Sabbath is clearly defined as a sign between God and his people.  {PH086 6.1}
[PH086 6.2]          The mark of the beast is the opposite of this, the observance of the first day of the week. This mark distinguishes those who acknowledge the supremacy of the papal authority, seen in the man of sin thinking to change times and laws, and those who acknowledge the authority of God: The worshipers of the beast are those that receive his mark in their foreheads and in their hands.  {PH086 6.2}
[PH086 6.3]          The faith of Jesus and the testimony of Jesus are blended. They are to be clearly presented to the world. But in God's word we are shown the consequences of proclaiming this message. "The dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." A refusal to obey the commandments of God, and a determination to cherish hatred against those who proclaim these commandments, leads to the most determined war on the part of the dragon, whose whole energies are brought to bear against the commandment-keeping people of God. "He causeth all,                                -7-     both small and great . . . to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads." Not only are men not to work with their hands on Sunday, but with their minds are they to acknowledge Sunday as the Sabbath. "And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name."  {PH086 6.3}
[PH086 7.1]         "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 the 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. 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."  {PH086 7.1}
[PH086 7.2]          The Lord has been greatly dishonored by his people catching up the issues that arise in this time of test and trial. His people are to keep free from politics. They are to stand as a separate and peculiar people; the name of God our Ruler is to be in their foreheads, showing to all that he is their Sovereign.  {PH086 7.2}
[PH086 7.3]          If those who know the truth will have faith and zeal corresponding to their knowledge, if                              -8-     they desire to manifest their piety, and reveal what the truth has done for them, showing that the salt has not lost its savor, they will communicate the saving and sanctifying power of the truth to all with whom they associate. There will then be less controversy and a deeper interest in the things of God.  {PH086 7.3}
[PH086 8.1]          The man in whose heart the truth is cherished will bring from his treasure-house things new and old. In his words and deportment he will reveal the likeness of Christ. Lift him up, the Man of Calvary, higher and still higher. Christ is uplifted by the right use of the faculty of speech. Thus the Holy Spirit makes an impression upon minds. The righteousness of Christ is the salvation of all who accept him as their personal Saviour. Why did Christ die?--To bring life and immortality to light. Through the merits of Christ men are invited to repent, believe and obey the commandments of God. Christ died on the cross that he might pardon all transgression and sin, and bring man back to his loyalty to the commandments of God. By his death he showed the immutability of the law of God. He illustrated this truth by laying the foundation in his own death, erecting a cross as its center and glory. In his redemptive plan he embraces man, placing him once more on vantage ground with God, that his moral capacity might be recognized as amenable to God, who is the Supreme Ruler.  {PH086 8.1}
[PH086 8.2]          Men are to become the subjects of Christ's kingdom. Through the divine power imputed to them, they are to return to their allegiance. By laws and resources God has ordained a heavenly communication with man's spiritual life, that in                           -9-     its action is as mysterious as the science and operation of the wind. (John 3:7, 8.) Christ declared, "My kingdom is not of this world." While it imprints its influence upon earthly governments, it cannot take the slightest imprint from them without marring the divine similitude. So spiritual is the character of God's work upon the human heart that receives it, that it makes every one a new creature, without destroying or weakening any capability God has given to man. It purifies every attribute fit for connection with the divine nature. That which is born of the Spirit is spirit, and when man is born from above, a heavenly peace pervades the soul.  {PH086 8.2}
[PH086 9.1]          Christ's subjects are those who keep his commandments. These only are counted as his subjects. If after the light has come, the disobedient continue in transgression, they are subjects of the kingdom of the prince of this world. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  {PH086 9.1}
[PH086 9.2]          But the heavenly principles that distinguish those who are one with Christ from those who are one with the world have become almost indistinguishable. The professed people of Christ are no longer a separate and peculiar people. The line of demarcation is indistinct. People are subordinating themselves to the world, to its practises, its customs, its selfishness. The church has gone over to the world in transgression of the law, when the world should have come over to the church in obedience to the law. Daily the church is becoming converted to the world. Professing Christians are slaves of mammon. Their indulgence of appetite, and extravagant expenditure of money for selfish gratification, greatly dishonors God.                                 -10-  {PH086 9.2}
[PH086 10.1]          Contrary to worldly kingdoms, Christ does not find his subjects,--he makes them. Those who stand under the blood-stained banner of Prince Immanuel are the subjects of a kingdom not recognized by worldly kingdoms, whose subjects have wandered from their allegiance to God, from their obedience to the law of his kingdom. These are accounted as dead in trespasses and sins. They are destitute of the Spirit of God, which worketh in the children of obedience.  {PH086 10.1}
[PH086 10.2]          I am come, Christ said, to set up a new kingdom. Except a man be born of the Spirit, he cannot be enrolled as a subject of my kingdom. "If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; 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. . . . He that hath ［the light on］ my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words; and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him."  {PH086 10.2}
[PH086 10.3]          God's commandment-keeping people stand under the broad shield of Omnipotence; the commandment-breakers, under the ensign of the man of sin, who thought to change times and laws. But he could not do this; he only claimed to do                               -11-     it, opening his mouth "in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven."  {PH086 10.3}
[PH086 11.1]          On which side are we ranging ourselves? On the side of the dragon, who was wroth with the woman, and who went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ? "I saw three unclean spirits like frogs," John writes, "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."  {PH086 11.1}
[PH086 11.2]          On which side are you standing? On the side of those that worship the beast and his image? Are you connected with those who have lost the spiritual principles that distinguish them as men, and allied them to God, and who have become secondary subordinates, united with the great apostate? Christ died to make it possible for you to be allied with angels, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ. If you are obedient to all his commandments, you will reign as kings and priests unto God. Will you choose the degrading captivity of disobedience and transgression? Will you link yourselves with those who make void God's law?  {PH086 11.2}
[PH086 11.3]          The law that controls God's kingdom gives no encouragement to those who continue in transgression and sin. "Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law; for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that He was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin.                                -12-     Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not; whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning."  {PH086 11.3}
[PH086 12.1]          "Behold all souls are mine; as the soul of the father, so also the soul of the son is mine: the soul that sinneth it shall die. But if a man be just, and do that which is lawful and right. . . . and hath not oppressed any, but hath restored to the debtor his pledge, hath spoiled none by violence, hath given his bread to the hungry, and hath covered the naked with a garment; he that hath not given forth upon usury, neither hath taken any increase, that hath withdrawn his hand from iniquity, hath executed true judgment between man and man, hath walked in my statutes, and hath kept my judgments, to deal truly; he is just, he shall surely live, saith the Lord God."  {PH086 12.1}
[PH086 12.2]          Old Testament history agrees perfectly with the New. After light has come to us through the Scripture, we are inexcusable if we do not walk in the light; for an unseen influence is drawing the soul to obedience, that it may bear witness to the truth. "He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. . . . And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those                          -13-     things that are pleasing in his sight. And this is his commandment, that we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another as he gave us commandment. And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us."                      E. G. White. Jan. 11, 1897.                                                    -    {PH086 12.2}
[PH086 13.1]          True Education in Our Churches.          "The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul." "Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways. Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently. O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes! Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments."  {PH086 13.1}
[PH086 13.2]          Let us take this for our lesson. Study every word attentively. Upright principles and pure sentiments, cultivated and practised, form a character after the divine similitude. A conscience void of offense toward God and man; a heart that feels the tenderest sympathy for human beings, especially that they may be won for Christ, will have the attributes that Christ had. All such will be imbued with his Spirit. They will have a reservoir of persuasion, and a storehouse of simple eloquence.  {PH086 13.2}
[PH086 13.3]          As Christians, we are now to labor most earnestly to bring souls to Jesus Christ. There must be no cheap chapters of experience woven into                             -14-     our Christian life. All true experience costs every soul that obtains it an effort, because of Satan's temptations. God sees how the soul hungers for the knowledge of God, for salvation through Christ, and the promise is, "Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness; for they shall be filled."  {PH086 13.3}
[PH086 14.1]          God has commanded all men to obey his law. He sees not as man sees. His standard is elevated, pure, and holy: yet all may reach that standard. The Lord sees the soul-want, the conscious soul-hunger. He regards the disposition of the mind, from whence our actions proceed. He sees whether above everything else, respect and faith are evidenced toward God. The true seeker, who is striving to be like Jesus in word, life, and character, will contemplate his Redeemer, and by beholding, become changed into his image, because he longs and prays for the same disposition and mind that was in Christ Jesus. He is not restrained from evil through fear of shame, or through fear of loss; for he knows that all he enjoys comes from God, and he would improve his blessings, that he may represent Christ in Christ. He is not hungry to stand the highest, to obtain praise from human beings. This is not his eager interest. By making a wise improvement of what he now has, he seeks to obtain more and still more ability that he may give to God greater service. He longs after God. The history of his Redeemer, the immeasurable sacrifice that he made, becomes full of meaning to him. Christ, the Majesty of heaven, became poor, that we through his poverty might become rich; not rich merely in endowments, but rich in attainments.                              -15-  {PH086 14.1}
[PH086 15.1]          These are the riches that Christ earnestly longs that his followers shall possess. As the true seeker after the truth reads the word, and opens his mind to receive the word, he longs after truth with his whole heart. The love, the pity, the tenderness, the courtesy, the Christian politeness, which will be the elements in the heavenly mansions that Christ has gone to prepare for those that love him, take possession of his soul. His purpose is steadfast. He is determined to stand on the side of righteousness. Truth has found its way into the heart, and is planted there by the Holy Spirit, who is the truth. When truth takes hold of the heart, the man gives sure evidence of this by becoming a steward of the grace of Christ.  {PH086 15.1}
[PH086 15.2]          The heart of the true Christian is imbued with true love, with a most earnest hunger for souls. He is not at rest until he is doing all that is in his power to seek and to save that which is lost. Time and strength are spent; toilsome work is not shunned. Others must be given the truth which has brought to his own soul such gladness and peace and joy in the Holy Ghost.  {PH086 15.2}
[PH086 15.3]          When the truly converted soul enjoys the love of God, he will feel his obligation to yoke up with Christ and work in harmony with him. The Spirit of Christ rests upon him. He reveals the Saviour's love, pity, and compassion, because he is one with Christ. He yearns to bring others to Jesus. His heart is melted with tenderness as he sees the peril of the souls that are out of Christ He watches for souls as one that must give an account. With invitations and pleadings mingled with assurances of the promises of God, he seeks to win souls to Christ; and it is registered in the                            -16-     books of record. He is a laborer together with God.  {PH086 15.3}
[PH086 16.1]          Is not God the proper object of invitation? It should be the work of the Christian's life to put on Christ, and to bring himself to a more perfect likeness of Christ. The sons and daughters of God are to advance in their resemblance to Christ, our pattern. Daily they are to behold his glory, and contemplate his incomparable excellence. Tender, true, and full of compassion, they are to pull souls out of the fire, hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.  {PH086 16.1}
[PH086 16.2]          There is a work to be done by God's people. What is true eloquence in the human life? It is a heart full of pure sentiments, a veneration for all God's commandments. But earnest work has not been done. A certain round of duties has been performed, but this is not enough. Step out of the common channel. If you cannot reach the members of the churches, do not become discouraged. Take the work into the highways, and if the self-righteousness of those for whom you labor will not be penetrated by the leaven of truth, go out of the usual round into the byways, and there do your missionary work.  {PH086 16.2}
[PH086 16.3]         God will not leave you to work alone. Ever since the proclamation of the third angel's message, angels of God have been waiting to co-operate with the human agent who is in earnest, and determined to work. We must go deeper into the mines of truth than we have done.  {PH086 16.3}
[PH086 16.4]          "God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." Oh, what love God hath shown for fallen man. Why do those who know the truth pass by on                               -17-     the other side so many who are in suffering need?  {PH086 16.4}
[PH086 17.1]          The whole worship of ancient Israel was a promise, in figures and symbols, of Christ; and it was not merely a promise, but an actual provision, designed by God to aid millions of people by lifting their thoughts to him who was to manifest himself to our world.  {PH086 17.1}
[PH086 17.2]          In Christ the world beheld the invisible God. "I am in the Father," he said, "and the Father in me." "He that hath seen me, hath seen the Father." "If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also; and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him." In all our acts of true devotion, we fix our eye of faith upon our Advocate, who is standing between man and the eternal throne, waiting to meet our every effort, and by his Spirit assist us to a more perfect knowledge of God.  {PH086 17.2}
[PH086 17.3]          The Lamb of God is represented before us as "in the midst of the throne" of God. He is the great ordinance by which man and God are united and commune together. Thus men are represented as sitting in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. This is the appointed place of meeting between God and humanity.  {PH086 17.3}
[PH086 17.4]          "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                               -18-     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." Christ brought human nature into a personal relation with his own divinity. Thus he has given a center for the faith of the universe to fasten upon.  {PH086 17.4}
[PH086 18.1]          God designs that his law shall be obeyed by all who believe on Jesus Christ. Satan knew that if the human family could be induced to believe that God abolished his moral standard of character, man would not have a moral looking-glass, into which he could look and see what manner of person he was.  {PH086 18.1}
[PH086 18.2]          "If any be a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: for he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain. Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world."  {PH086 18.2}
[PH086 18.3]          This is the word of the living God. The law is God's great moral looking-glass. He is to compare his words, his spirit, his actions with the word of God. If we decide that in these last days we have no work assigned to us that is out of the common course of the nominal churches, we shall meet with great disappointment. The great question to be investigated, weighed, and                               -19-     decided is, What can I do to reach souls that are lost? God calls for a work to be done by Seventh-day Adventists that I need not define. Unless the work is first done in their own hearts, all the specific directions that might be given to point out their course of action, will be labor in vain.  {PH086 18.3}
[PH086 19.1]          Read the second chapter of James. Practise the truth in your daily life, and you will know the work that the Lord has given you to do. Read also the fourth chapter, especially verses 5-12; and chapter five, especially verses 13-20. These chapters are a dead letter to the larger number of those who claim to be Seventh-day Adventists. I am directed to point you to these scriptures, and to the seventh chapter of Matthew. You need to study every word as for your life.  {PH086 19.1}
[PH086 19.2]          What the church in Battle Creek needs is to be doers of the word. This will lead a large number out of Battle Creek into other places, towns, and cities, where people have not had the light and opportunities that you have had. Many souls are now hanging in the balance. They are not with Christ. They are not gathering with Christ. Their influence is divided. They scatter abroad.  {PH086 19.2}
[PH086 19.3]          Especially give heed to these words: "Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock. And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house, and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand. And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it                               -20-     fell, and great was the fall of it." Many houses now supposed to stand secure will fall. The Lord declares that he will not accept divided service.  {PH086 19.3}
[PH086 20.1]          If you will take heed to the words of warning found in the chapters that I am directed to present before you, you will change your attitude, and become children of God. Thus you may save your souls through faith in Jesus Christ. You will receive the counsel given in the fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah. If you will follow the directions marked out, the promise will be fulfilled, "Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rearward. Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger, and speaking vanity; and if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday. And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones; and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not."  {PH086 20.1}
[PH086 20.2]          Take up your appointed work. The Lord will fulfil the promise on his part. These inspired scriptures would never have been given to you if the Lord had not had confidence that you could do all that he has required. You can heed the invitation, "Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."                               -21-  {PH086 20.2}
[PH086 21.1]          You may rise to the heights to which the Holy Spirit calls you. True religion means living the word in your practical life. Your profession is not of any value without the practical doing of the word. "He that will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me." This is the condition of discipleship. "Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my Spirit upon him, and he shall show judgment unto the Gentiles. He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets. A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory. And in his name shall the Gentiles trust."  {PH086 21.1}
[PH086 21.2]          Thank God that a work is being done outside of the church. The church has not been properly educated to work outside of their own people. Many souls out of the church might have been enlightened, and a great deal more light brought into the church, if every church-member in every country, who claims to have the advanced light of truth, had worked with heart and soul and voice to win souls to the truth. Altogether too little work is being done by church-members for those who need the light, those who are outside of the church of Seventh-day Adventists. The Lord declares, "A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory. And in his name shall the Gentiles trust." Those who co-operate with Jesus Christ will realize that all these promises are fulfilled in their own experience. The Lord has pointed out the duty of every soul. In the judgment no one                               -22-     will have any excuse to present for not doing his duty.  {PH086 21.2}
[PH086 22.1]          The test of discipleship is not brought to bear as closely as it should be upon those who present themselves for baptism. It should be understood whether those who profess to be converted are simply taking the name of Seventh-day Adventists, or whether they are taking their stand on the Lord's side, to come out from the world, and be separate and touch not the unclean thing. When they give evidence that they fully understand their position, they are to be accepted. But when they show that they are following the customs and fashions and sentiments of the world, they are to be faithfully dealt with. If they feel no burden to change their course of action, they should not be retained as members of the church. The Lord wants those who compose his church to be true, faithful stewards of the grace of Christ.  {PH086 22.1}
[PH086 22.2]          The sin of these last days is upon the professed people of God. Through selfishness, love of pleasure, and love of dress, they deny the Christ that their church-membership says that they are following. I thank God that Jesus Christ knows every impulse in the heart of the believer. Many profess to be children of God, who do not follow Christ. Their frivolity, their cheap conversation, their want of high-toned piety, their low aims, mislead others, who would pursue a different course were it not for the example of these deceptive characters; those who do not love Christ or do his will, but simply follow their own imaginations.  {PH086 22.2}
[PH086 22.3]          Jesus is acquainted with every heart that is humble, meek, and lowly. These have trials and                               -23-     make mistakes, but they are broken-hearted because they grieve the Saviour, who loved them and died for them. They come humbly to his feet; they fight his battles. In meekness and lowliness of heart they seek to do good to others. They seek to advance the cause of truth, in good and earnest endeavor.  {PH086 22.3}
[PH086 23.1]          The Lord Jesus loves those for whom he has given his life, and when worldly influences are allowed to come in between them and their Helper, when idols are chosen before Christ, when his appeals to the human soul are regarded with indifference, and there is no response, Jesus is grieved. He knows that they are meeting with great losses; for they are stumbling-blocks to sinners. They are not gathering with Christ, but scattering from him. But when through great affliction the Spirit of God touches their hearts, and they turn to him, he will hear their prayers. Christ knows the capabilities he has given to every soul to serve him for his present and eternal good. He desires that these souls shall not disappoint him. He wants them to shine in his kingdom. Those who will be the most highly honored are those who take up their cross daily, and follow Christ.  {PH086 23.1}
[PH086 23.2]          The Lord Jesus demands that every soul make a reality of truth. Show that you believe that you are not half with Christ and half with the world. Of all such Christ says, "I would thou wert cold or hot. So then, because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth." He who appreciates the love of Christ, will be an earnest worker with Christ to bring other souls as sheaves to the Master. Thorough work is always done by all who                               -24-     are connected with Christ. They bear fruit to his glory. But indolence and carelessness and frivolity separate the soul from Christ, and Satan comes in to work his will with the poor worldly subject, We have a great truth, but through careless indifference the truth has lost its force upon us. Satan has come in with his specious temptations, and has led the professed followers of Christ away from their Leader, classing them with the foolish virgins.  {PH086 23.2}
[PH086 24.1]          The Lord is coming, and we now need the oil of grace in our vessels with our lamps. I ask, Who will now be on the Lord's side? Before Jesus went away he promised that he would return again, and receive us unto himself, "That where I am," he said, "ye may be also." We are strangers and pilgrims in this world. We are to wait, watch, pray, and work. The whole mind, the whole soul, the whole heart, and the whole strength are purchased by the blood of the Son of God. We are not to feel it our duty to wear a pilgrim's dress of just such a color, just such a shape, but neat, modest apparel, that the word of inspiration teaches us we should wear. If our hearts are united with Christ's heart, we shall have a most intense desire to be clothed with his righteousness. Nothing will be put upon the person to attract attention, or to create controversy.  {PH086 24.1}
[PH086 24.2]          Christianity. How many there are who do not know what it is. It is not something put on the outside. It is a life inwrought with the life of Jesus. It means that we are wearing the robe of Christ's righteousness. In regard to the world, Christians will say, We will not dabble in politics. They will say decidedly, We are pilgrims                            -25-     and strangers; our citizenship is above. They will not be seen choosing company for amusement. They will say, We have ceased to be infatuated by childish things. We are strangers and pilgrims, looking for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.                                                    -    {PH086 24.2}
[PH086 25.1]                 "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, Jan. 12, 1898.          I am pleased that the Lord is in mercy again visiting the church. My heart trembles as I think of the many times he has come in, and his Holy Spirit has worked in the church; but after the immediate effect was over, the merciful dealings of God were forgotten. Pride, spiritual indifference, was the record made in heaven. Those who were visited by the rich mercy and grace of God dishonored their Redeemer by their unbelief.  {PH086 25.1}
[PH086 25.2]          When Christ was upon the earth, he used every means possible to gain admission to the hearts of those whose doors should have been thrown open to receive him. He came to his vineyard seeking fruit. He dug about the vine he had planted. He pruned it and dressed it. But when he looked for grapes, behold, only wild grapes rewarded his care. The people disappointed their Saviour.  {PH086 25.2}
[PH086 25.3]          How earnestly and untiringly Christ labored to reach the most lowly, as well as those who occupied higher positions. Hear him saying to his disciples, "Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder." What an example he gave them of his prayers in their behalf, that their faith should not fail, but increase.  {PH086 25.3}
[PH086 25.4]          Christ's heart was ever touched by human woe. He walked and worked in the streets of the cities, teaching the weary, inviting them to come to                            -26-     him, crying. "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." Christ employed every means to arrest the attention of the impenitent. How tender and considerate were his dealings with all. He longed to break the spell of infatuation upon those who were deceived and deluded by satanic agencies. He longed to give the sin-polluted soul pardon and peace.  {PH086 25.4}
[PH086 26.1]          Christ was the mighty Healer of all spiritual and physical maladies. Look, O look upon the sympathetic Redeemer. With the eye of faith behold him walking in the streets of the cities, gathering the weak and weary to himself. Helpless, sinful human beings crowd about him. See the mothers with their sick and dying little ones in their arms pressing through the crowd, that they may get within reach of his notice and touch. Let the eye of faith take in the scene. Watch these mothers pressing their way to him, pale, weary, almost despairing, yet determined and persevering, bearing their burden of suffering in their arms.  {PH086 26.1}
[PH086 26.2]          As these anxious ones are being crowded back, Christ makes his way to them step by step, until he is close by their side. Tears of gladness and hope fall freely as they catch his attention, and look into the eyes expressing such tender pity and love for the weary mother as well as the suffering child. He invites her confidence, saying, "What shall I do for you?" She sobs out her great want, "Master, that thou shouldest heal my child." She has shown her faith in urging                             -27-     her way to him, though she did not know that he was making his way to her; and Christ takes the child from her arms. He speaks the word, and disease flees at his touch. The pallor of death is gone; the life-giving current flows through the veins; the muscles receive strength.  {PH086 26.2}
[PH086 27.1]          Words of comfort and peace are spoken to the mother, and then another case just as urgent is presented. The mother asks help for herself and children; for they are all sufferers. With willingness and joy Christ exercises his life-giving power, and they give praise and honor and glory to his name who doeth wonderful things.  {PH086 27.1}
[PH086 27.2]          No frown on Christ's countenance spurned the humble suppliant from his presence. The priests and rulers sought to discourage the suffering and needy ones, saying that he healed the sick by the power of the devil. But his way could not be hedged up. He was determined not to fail or become discouraged. Suffering privation himself, he traversed the country that was his scene of labor, scattering his blessings, and seeking to reach obdurate hearts.  {PH086 27.2}
[PH086 27.3]          That Saviour has oft visited you in Battle Creek. Just as verily as he walked in the streets of Jerusalem, longing to breathe the breath of spiritual life into the hearts of those discouraged and ready to die, has he come to you. The cities that were so greatly blessed by his presence, his pardon, his gifts of healing, rejected him; and just as great, yea, greater evidence of unrequited love, has been given in Battle Creek. Has Christ not loaded down his church with benefits and blessings? Has he not sent his servants with messages of pardon and righteousness, to be given freely to all who will receive them?                            -28-  {PH086 27.3}
[PH086 28.1]          Jerusalem is a representation of what the church will be if it refuses to receive and walk in the light that God has given. Jerusalem was favored of God as the depositary of sacred trusts. But her people perverted the truth, and despised all-entreaties and warnings. They would not respect the counsels. The temple courts were perverted with merchandise and robbery. Selfishness and love of mammon, envy, and strife, were cherished. Every one sought for gain from his quarter. Christ turned from them, saying, "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem," how can I give thee up? "How often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not."  {PH086 28.1}
[PH086 28.2]          So Christ sorrows and weeps over our churches, over our institutions of learning, that have failed to meet the demand of God. He comes to investigate in Battle Creek, which has been moving in the same track as Jerusalem. The publishing house has been turned into desecrated shrines, into places of unholy merchandise and traffic. It has become a place where injustice and fraud have been turned carried on, where selfishness, malice, envy, and passion have borne sway. Yet the men who have been led into this working upon wrong principles, are seemingly unconscious of their wrong course of action. When warnings and entreaties come to them, they say, Doth she not speak in parables? Words of warning and reproof have been treated as idle tales.  {PH086 28.2}
[PH086 28.3]          When Christ looked down from the crest of Olivet, he saw this state of things existing in every church. The warnings come down to all that are following in the tread of the people of Jerusalem, who had such great light. This people                            -29-     is before us as a warning. By rejecting God's warnings in this our day men are repeating the sin of Jerusalem. The Lord sees what the human agent does not see and will not see,--the outcome of all the human devising in Battle Creek. He has done all that a God could do. He has flashed light before the eyes of the people, that their sins might not reach the boundary where repentance cannot be felt. But by a long process of departure from just and righteous principles, men have placed themselves where light and truth, justice and mercy are not discerned. This course has become part of their very nature.  {PH086 28.3}
[PH086 29.1]          I call upon all who have united in a course of action that is wrong in principle to make a decided reformation, and forever after walk humbly with God. The world is soon to be judged. A righteous God must avenge the death of his Son. Today men are choosing Barabbas, and saying, Crucify Christ. They will do this in the person of his saints. They will go over the same ground as the Jewish priests and rulers did in their treatment of Christ. He, the Son of God, and an innocent man, was murdered because he told men truths that it did not please them to hear. Yet he was the Son of the infinite God.  {PH086 29.1}
[PH086 29.2]         Those who today despise the law of Jehovah, showing no respect for his commandments, are taking sides with the great apostate. They proclaim to a sin-corrupted world that the law of God is null and void. Those who declare this as truth deceive the people, and have virtually nailed the law of Jehovah to the cross between two thieves. What a thought!  {PH086 29.2}
[PH086 29.3]         Before the worlds unfallen, and the heavenly                         -30-     universe, the world will have to give an account to the Judge of the whole earth, the very one they condemned and crucified. What a reckoning day that will be! It is the great day of God's vengeance. Christ does not then stand at Pilate's bar. Pilate and Herod, and all that mocked, scourged, rejected, and crucified him will then understand what it means to feel the wrath of the Lamb. Their deeds will appear before them in their true character.  {PH086 29.3}
[PH086 30.1]          What a terrible deception is upon the minds of those who think that the world is growing better. Christ declares, "As it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man." "For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be." To just such a pass will the world come in rejecting the law of God.  {PH086 30.1}
[PH086 30.2]          "And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: and the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name."  {PH086 30.2}
[PH086 30.3]          John was called to behold a people distinct from those who worship the beast or his image                             -31-     by keeping the first day of the week. The observance of this day is the mark of the beast. John declares, "Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus."  {PH086 30.3}
[PH086 31.1]          And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ." We are plainly shown that two parties will exist at the appearing of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. In which party do we wish to be found? "Behold I come quickly," Christ says, "and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city." This is the destination of commandment-keepers. Should we not all wish to be among that number who have right to the tree of life, and who enter through the gates into the city?  {PH086 31.1}
[PH086 31.2]          Adam and Eve and their posterity lost their right to the tree of life because of their disobedience. "And the Lord God said, Behold the man has become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live forever." Adam and Eve transgressed the law of God. This made it necessary for them to be driven from Eden and be separated from the tree of life, to eat of which after their transgression would perpetuate sin. "Therefore the Lord God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from whence he was taken. So he                              -32-     drove out the man: and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life." Man was dependent upon the tree of life for immortality, and the Lord took these precautions lest men should eat of that tree and "live forever."--become immortal sinners.  {PH086 31.2}
[PH086 32.1]         Death entered the world because of transgression. But Christ gave his life that man should have another trial. He did not die on the cross to abolish the law of God, but to secure for man a second probation. He did not die to make sin an immortal attribute: he died to secure the right to destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil. He suffered the full penalty of a broken law for the whole world. This he did, not that men might continue in transgression, but that they might return to their loyalty and keep God's commandments, and his law as the apple of their eye.  {PH086 32.1}
[PH086 32.2]          The sign of obedience is the observance of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. If men keep the fourth commandment, they will keep all the rest. It was no human voice that spoke to Moses, giving him the Sabbath as a sign. "The Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my Sabbaths, ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you. Ye shall keep the Sabbath therefore; for it is holy unto you; every one that defileth it shall surely be put to death: for whosoever doeth any work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his people."  {PH086 32.2}
[PH086 32.3]          The Lord does not leave so important a precept                            -33-     as this without definite specification. "Six days may work be done: but in the seventh is the Sabbath of rest, holy to the Lord; whosoever doeth any work in the Sabbath day, he shall surely be put to death. Wherefore the children of Israel shall keep the Sabbath to observe the Sabbath throughout their generations for a perpetual covenant."  {PH086 32.3}
[PH086 33.1]          Human philosophy declares that an indefinite period of time was taken in the creation of the world. Does God state the matter thus? No; he says, "It is a sign between me and the children of Israel forever; for in six days ［not six indefinite periods of time; for then there would be no possible way for man to observe the day specified in the fourth commandment］ the Lord made heaven and earth, and on the seventh he rested, and was refreshed." Please read carefully the fifth chapter of Deuteronomy. God says again, "Remember ［do not forget］ the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. . . for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it."  {PH086 33.1}
[PH086 33.2]          Yet with the living oracles before them, those who claim to preach the word present the suppositions of human minds, the maxims and commandments of men. They make void the law of God by their traditions. The sophistry in regard to the world being created in an indefinite period of time is one of Satan's falsehoods. God speaks to the human family in language they can comprehend. He does not leave the matter so indefinite that human beings can handle it according to their theories. When the Lord declares that he made the work in six days and rested on the                             -34-     seventh day, he means the day of twenty-four hours, which he has marked off by the rising and setting of the sun.  {PH086 33.2}
[PH086 34.1]          God would not present the death sentence for a disregard of the Sabbath unless he had presented before men a clear understanding of the Sabbath. After he had created our world and man, he looked upon the work that he had done, and pronounced it very good. And when the foundation of the earth was laid, the foundation of the Sabbath was laid also. When the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy, God saw that a Sabbath was essential for man, even in Paradise. In giving the Sabbath, God considered man's spiritual and physical health.  {PH086 34.1}
[PH086 34.2]          God made the world in six literal days, and on the seventh literal day he rested from all his work which he had done, and was refreshed. So he has given man six days in which to labor. But he sanctified the day of his rest, and gave it to man to be kept, free from all secular labor. By thus setting apart the Sabbath, God gave the world a memorial. He did not set apart one day and any day in seven, but one particular day, the seventh day. And by observing the Sabbath, we show that we recognize God as the living God, the creator of heaven and earth.  {PH086 34.2}
[PH086 34.3]          There is nothing in the Sabbath that restricts it to any particular class of people. It was given for all mankind. It is to be employed, not in indolence, but in the contemplation of the works of God. This men are to do that they may know "that I am the Lord that doth sanctify them."  {PH086 34.3}
[PH086 34.4]          The Lord draws very nigh to his people on the day that he has blessed and sanctified. "The                              -35-     heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament showeth his handiwork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge." The Sabbath is God's memorial, pointing men to their Creator, who made the world and all things that are therein. In the everlasting hills, in the lofty trees, in every opening bud and blooming flower we may behold the work of the great Master-artist. All speak to us of God and his glory.  {PH086 34.4}
[PH086 35.1]          Every loyal child of God will seek to know the truth. John stated the truth so plainly that a child may understand it. "If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him." Do we choose to be numbered with those who cannot discern the truth, who are so blinded by the deceptive power of the enemy that they see not Him who is the express image of the Father's person?  {PH086 35.1}
[PH086 35.2]          The followers of Christ are of another class altogether. "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. Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me; because I live, ye shall live also." "He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him." "If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me                           -36-     not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me." The word of a human being is not to be received and believed without question. We must first ask, Do they speak in harmony with the word? Do they refuse a plain "Thus saith the Lord" because they see that it involves a cross?  {PH086 35.2}
[PH086 36.1]          Are we on the side of those who refuse to be loyal to God? They have no interest in knowing God. They reject the divine Son of God, the personification of all human goodness. They place themselves with those who although no fault could be preferred against Christ, chose instead a thief and a murderer. This testifies to the moral taste of the world. Shall we be on the side of the world, or on the side of Christ, who declared, "I have kept my father's commandments"?  {PH086 36.1}
[PH086 36.2]          The word of Jehovah will stand forever. "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. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. . . . He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld                            -37-     his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth."  {PH086 36.2}
[PH086 37.1]          Those who receive Christ by faith as their personal Saviour cannot be in harmony with the world. There are two distinct classes: One is loyal to God, keeping his commandments, while the other talks and acts like the world, casting away the word of God, which is truth, and accepting the words of the apostate, who rejected Jesus.  {PH086 37.1}
[PH086 37.2]          On whose side are we? The world cast Christ out; the heavens received him. Man, finite man, rejected the Prince of life; God, our Sovereign Ruler, received him into the heavens. God has exalted him. Man crowned him with a crown of thorns, God has crowned him with a crown of royal majesty. We must all think candidly. Will you have this man Christ Jesus to rule over you, or will you have Barabbas? The death of Christ brings to the rejecter of his mercy the wrath and judgments of God, unmixed with mercy. This is the wrath of the Lamb. But the death of Christ is hope and eternal life to all who receive him and believe in him.  {PH086 37.2}
[PH086 37.3]          God will most assuredly call the world to judgment to avenge the death of his only begotten Son, the One who stood at the bar of Pilate and Herod; that One is now in the heavenly courts making intercession for the people who refused him. Shall we choose the stamp of the world, or shall we choose to be God's separate, peculiar people? Shall we receive a "Thus saith the Lord," for the "Thus saith" of man? The papal power, the man of sin, decides that the Roman Catholic Church has changed the law of God. In the place of the seventh day, they have baptized                              -38-     and presented to the world a child of the papacy, the first day of the week, to be observed as a holy day of rest. The Protestant world has received this child of the papacy, has cradled it, and given to it the honor that God has placed on the seventh day.  {PH086 37.3}
[PH086 38.1]          "Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the Lord my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it. Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people. For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the Lord our God is in all things that we call upon him for? And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day? Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy son's sons; specially the day that thou stoodest before the Lord thy God in Horeb, when the Lord said unto me, Gather me the people together, and I will make them hear my words, that they may learn to fear me all the days that they shall live upon the earth, and that they may teach their children. . . . And he declared unto you his covenant, which he commanded you to perform, even ten commandments; and he wrote them upon two tables of stone."  {PH086 38.1}
[PH086 38.2]          "Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God is one Lord: and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all                             -39-     thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates."  {PH086 38.2}
[PH086 39.1]          "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 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. . . . Thou shalt therefore keep the commandments, and the statutes, and the judgments, which I command thee this day, to do them." Please read carefully the whole of the seventh chapter of Deuteronomy, and think upon the word of the Lord.  {PH086 39.1}
[PH086 39.2]          Will you turn from a plain "Thus saith the Lord" after reading the history of Adam's sin and fall? He fell because he discarded the words of the Lord, and heeded the words of Satan. Will it pay to transgress? By transgression Adam lost Eden. By the transgression of God's commandments man will lose heaven, and an eternity of bliss. These are no idle tales, but truth. Again I ask, On which side are you standing?                           -40-     "If the Lord be God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him."         Mrs. E. G. White.                                                    -    {PH086 39.2}
[PH086 40.1]                    Church Schools.          "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N. S. W.                               Dec. 15, 1897.     Dear Brother: In your letter you asked me serious questions, and lay out propositions which are sensible and right. There should be schools established wherever there is a church or company of believers. Teachers should be employed to educate the children of Sabbath-keepers. This would close the door to a large number who are drifting into Battle Creek,--the very place where the Lord has warned them not to go. In the light that has been given me, I have been pointed to the churches that are scattered in different localities, and have been shown that the strength of these churches depends upon their growth in usefulness and efficiency.  {PH086 40.1}
[PH086 40.2]          A large amount of the responsibility piled up in Battle Creek is not in accordance with the principles that the Lord has set before us. There should be fewer buildings erected in Battle Creek to call the crowds of people there. All those large buildings should not be crowded together as they are. They should have been placed in different localities, and not in the very midst of one city. The various cities should have representatives of the truth in their midst. I cannot go contrary to the will of God, and say, Erect more buildings in Battle Creek: but I would say, There should be fewer interests centered at Battle Creek and far more in other places where there is nothing to give character to the work of God.                            -41-  {PH086 40.2}
[PH086 41.1]          In all our churches there should be schools, and teachers in those schools who are missionaries. It is essential that teachers be educated to act their important part in educating the children of Sabbath-keepers, not only in the sciences, but in the Scriptures. These schools, established in different localities, and conducted by God-fearing men and women, as the case demands, should be built on the same principles as were the schools of the prophets.  {PH086 41.1}
[PH086 41.2]          Special talent should be given to the education of the youth. The children are to be trained to become missionaries, and but few understand distinctly what they must do to be saved. Few have the instruction in religious lines that is essential. If the instructors have a religious experience themselves, they will be able to communicate to their students the knowledge of the love of God they have received. These lessons can be only given from those who are themselves truly converted; and this is the noblest missionary work that any man or woman can undertake.  {PH086 41.2}
[PH086 41.3]          Children should be educated to read, to write, to understand figures, to keep their own accounts, when very young. They may go forward, advancing step by step in this knowledge. But before everything else they should be taught that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. They may be educated line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little; but the one aim ever before the teacher should be to educate the children to know God, and Jesus Christ whom he has sent.  {PH086 41.3}
[PH086 41.4]          Teach the youth that sin in any line is defined in the Scriptures as "transgression of the law." Sin originated with the first great apostate. He                            -42-     was a disobedient subject. He led the family of heaven into disobedience, and he and all who were united with him were cast out of the paradise of God. Teach the children in simple language that they must be obedient to their parents, and give their hearts to God. Jesus Christ is waiting to accept and bless them, if they will only come to him and ask him to pardon all their transgressions, and take away their sins. And when they ask him to pardon all their transgressions, they must believe that he will do it.  {PH086 41.4}
[PH086 42.1]          God wants every child of tender age to be his child, to be adopted into his family. Young though they may be, the youth may be members of the household of faith, and have a most precious experience. They may have hearts that are tender, and ready to receive impressions that will be lasting. They may have their hearts drawn out in confidence and love for Jesus, and live for the Saviour. Christ will make them little missionaries. The whole current of their thought may be changed, so that sin will not appear a thing to be enjoyed, but to be shunned and hated.  {PH086 42.1}
[PH086 42.2]          Small as well as older children will be benefited by this instruction; and in thus simplifying the plan of salvation, the teachers will receive as great blessings as those who are taught. The Holy Spirit of God will impress the lessons upon the receptive minds of the children, that they may grasp the ideas of Bible truth in their simplicity. And the Lord will give an experience to these children in missionary lines; he will suggest to them lines of thought which the teachers themselves did not have.  {PH086 42.2}
[PH086 42.3]          The children who are properly instructed will be witnesses for the truth. Teachers who are                            -43-     nervous and easily irritated should not be placed over the youth. They must love the children because they are the younger members of the Lord's family. The Lord will inquire of them as of the parents, "What have you done with my flock, my beautiful flock?"  {PH086 42.3}
[PH086 43.1]          It is surprising to see how little is done by many parents to save their own children. Every family in the home life should be a church, a beautiful symbol of the church of God in heaven. If parents realize their responsibilities to their children, they would not under any circumstances scold and fret them. This is not the kind of education any child should have. Many children have learned to be faultfinding, fretful, scolding, passionate children, because they were allowed to be passionate at home. Parents are to consider that they are in the place of God to their children, to encourage every right principle and repress every wrong thought.  {PH086 43.1}
[PH086 43.2]          If in their own homes children are allowed to be disrespectful, disobedient, unthankful, and peevish, their sins lie at the door of the parents. It is the special work of fathers and mothers to teach their children with kindness and affection. They are to show that as parents they are the ones to hold the lines, to govern, and not to be governed by their children. They are to teach that obedience is required of them, and thus they educate them to submit to the authority of God.  {PH086 43.2}
[PH086 43.3]          In educating the children and youth, teachers should never allow one passionate word or gesture to mar their work, for in so doing, they imbue the students with the same spirit which they themselves possess. The Lord would have our primary schools as well as those for older persons,                          -44-     of that character that angels of God can walk through the room, and behold in the order and principle of government, the order and government of heaven. This is thought by many to be impossible; but every school should begin with this, and work most earnestly to preserve the spirit of Christ in temper, in communications, in instruction, the teachers placing themselves in the channel of light where the Lord can use them as his agents, to reflect his own likeness of character upon the students. They may know that as God-fearing instructors they have helpers every hour to impress upon the hearts of the children the valuable lessons given.  {PH086 43.3}
[PH086 44.1]          The Lord works with every consecrated teacher; and it is for his own interest to realize this. Instructors who are under the discipline of God do not manufacture anything themselves. They receive grace and truth and light through the Holy Spirit to communicate to the children. They are under the greatest Teacher the world has ever known, and how unbecoming it would be for them to have an unkind spirit, a sharp voice, full of irritation. In this they would perpetuate their own defects in the children.  {PH086 44.1}
[PH086 44.2]          O for a clear perception of what we might accomplish if we would learn of Jesus! The springs of heavenly peace and joy, unsealed in the soul of the teacher by the magic words of inspiration, will become a mighty river of influence, to bless all who connect with him. Do not think that the Bible will become a tiresome book to the children. Under a wise instructor the work will become more and more desirable. It will be to them as the bread of life, and will never grow old. There is in it a freshness and beauty that attract                            -45-     and charm the children and youth. It is like the sun shining upon the earth, giving its brightness and warmth, yet never exhausted. By lessons from the Bible history and doctrine, the children and youth can learn that all other books are inferior to this. They can find here a fountain of mercy and of love.  {PH086 44.2}
[PH086 45.1]          God's holy, educating spirit is in his word. A light, a new and precious light, shines forth upon every page. Truth is there revealed, and words and sentences are made bright and appropriate for the occasion, as the voice of God speaking to them.  {PH086 45.1}
[PH086 45.2]          We need to recognize the Holy Spirit as our enlightener. That Spirit loves to address the children, and discover to them the treasures and beauties of the word of God. The promises spoken by the Great Teacher will captivate the senses and animate the soul of the child with a spiritual power that is divine. There will grow in the fruitful a familiarity with divine things which will be as a barricade against the temptations of the enemy.  {PH086 45.2}
[PH086 45.3]          The work of teachers is an important one. They should make the word of God their meditation. God will communicate by his own Spirit to the soul. Pray as you study, "Lord, open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law." When the teacher will rely upon God in prayer, the Spirit of Christ will come upon him, and God will work through him by the Holy Spirit upon the minds of the student. The Holy Spirit fills the mind and heart with sweet hope, and courage, and Bible imagery, and this will be communicated to the student, the words of truth will grow in importance, and                           -46-     assume a breadth and fulness of meaning of which you have never dreamed. The beauty and virtue of the word of God has a transforming influence upon mind and character; the sparks of heavenly love will fall upon the hearts of the children as an inspiration. We may bring hundreds and thousands of children to Christ if we will work for them.  {PH086 45.3}
[PH086 46.1]          Let all to whom these words may come be melted and subdued. Let us in our educational work embrace far more than we have done of the children and youth, and there will be a whole army of missionaries raised up to work for God. I say again, Establish schools for the children where there are churches,--those who assemble to worship God. Where there are churches, let there be schools. Work as if you were working for your life to save children from being drowned in the polluting, corrupting influences of this life.  {PH086 46.1}
[PH086 46.2]          Too much is centered in Battle Creek. I need not advise that the sound of the ax and hammer be heard in Battle Creek in erecting new buildings. There are places where our schools should have been in operation years ago. Let these now be started under wise directors. The youth should be educated in their own churches. In America you can build three schoolhouses cheaper than we can build one in this country. It is a grievous offense to God that there has been so great neglect to make provision for the improvement of the children and youth when Providence has so abundantly supplied us with facilities with which to work.  {PH086 46.2}
[PH086 46.3]          Can we wonder that children and youth drift into temptation, and become educated in wrong lines by their association with other neglected                          -47-     children? These children are not wisely educated to use their active minds and limbs to do helpful work. Our schools should teach the children all kinds of simple labor. Can we wonder, neglected as they have been, that their energies become devoted to amusements that do them no good, that their religious aspirations are chilled, and their spiritual life darkened? Thousands in their own homes are left almost uneducated. "It is so much trouble," says the mother. "I would rather do these things myself; it is such a trouble; you bother me."  {PH086 46.3}
[PH086 47.1]          Does not mother remember that she herself had to learn in jots and tittles before she could be helpful? It is a wrong to children to refuse to teach them little by little. Keep these children with you. Let them ask questions, and in patience answer them. Give your little children something to do; let them have the happiness of supposing they help you. There must be no repulsing of your children when trying to do proper things. If they make mistakes, if accidents happen, and things break, do not blame. Their whole future life depends upon the education you give them in their childhood years. Teach them that all their faculties of body and mind were given them to use, and that all are the Lord's, pledged to his service. To some of these children the Lord gives an early intimation of his will. Parents and teachers, begin to teach the children to cultivate their God-given qualities.  {PH086 47.1}
[PH086 47.2]          My brother, I feel deeply over the mistake of locating so many important interests at Battle Creek. There is a world to receive the light of truth. Had interests been located in cities where                           -48-     nothing is being done, the warning message would be given to other cities. You have asked me in regard to the schools being opened in our churches. I have tried to answer you. That light which has centered in Battle Creek should have been shining in other localities. Schools should have been opened in places where they are so much needed. This will provide for the children and youth who are drifting into Battle Creek. Let the church carry a burden for the lambs of the flock, in its locality, and see how many can be educated and trained to do service for God.                      Mrs. E. G. White.  {PH086 47.2}
[PH155 1.1]         PH155 - Special Testimony to the Battle Creek Church (1882)             Read in the Tabernacle, Nov. 30, 1882.                                   Oakland, Cal., Aug. 3, 1882.        Dear Brethren and Sisters in Battle Creek: My soul has been sadly burdened tonight. I have been unable to sleep, as I have been many nights, because of great distress for the cause of God and the church at Battle Creek. I thought when my work was done in writing out Testimony No. 31, I should then be free; but last night I was, in my dreams, in your meetings. I heard your testimonies; I felt your spirit. Some were humbling their souls before God. With confession and humiliation, they made their way out of the darkness, while Eld. Smith, Bro. McLearn, and Wm. Gage seemed to feel no spirit of confession; and these very men who had brought the church into difficulty, were not by their own course of action leading them out. I heard testimonies borne to have a soothing influence upon the people.  {PH155 1.1}
[PH155 1.2]         Bro. McLearn and Wm. Gage in their testimonies worked directly against the Spirit of God. They did not seem to understand that Heaven's light was shining in upon them to call them as a people to repentance. They treated the warnings of the Spirit of God as a matter of indifference,--as though that voice were human in place of divine. What there was to make any demonstration of on their part they                                                                              2  could not see. If they had done wrong, why dwell upon it so much? Just go on; let it all drop, and say as little about it as possible. This is the very thing the enemy of souls wants them to do; and Bro. McLearn, here in this peril of the church, while God is seeking to arouse them, has revealed his true spirit, and that he was not a safe man to counsel and advise the church in a crisis. God is calling them to repentance, and do Bro. McLearn and Wm. Gage work in harmony with the Spirit of God? Are these men confessing their own sins, acknowledging their departure from God, which has brought calamity upon the church and the frown of God? Smooth words and fair speeches are uttered to mislead those who would come to the light. Instead of these men falling upon the Rock and being broken, they are using their inventive powers to make it appear that they were not deserving of reproof, that their course had been altogether different than the Spirit of the Lord had represented. Will they take the Testimonies home and act upon them? No; they have not done it, and do not intend to do it. A spirit of vindication is aroused in them rather than of humiliation and confession.  {PH155 1.2}
[PH155 2.1]          I now state plainly, Bro. McLearn has been exalted, praised, deified. Why? Because of his unselfish labors to bring the work and cause of God up where it is? Is it because of his sacrifice of self, his untiring efforts for the cause of God? No; but because he pleased a certain class who were blinded as to the spirit of the work and what God requires of his people, both parents and children, for this time. These teachers apprehend no special cause of alarm in the present condition of the professed people of God, in their assimilating to the world, and in their lack of love and lack of exercising forbearance toward their brethren. These consider the character of the church generally in a flourishing condition. Therefore they prophesy smooth things, and cry, Peace, peace; and those who want to have it so take up the cry, Peace,                                                                              3  peace. They believe their report, and in the place of being alarmed, are at ease in Zion. They have not sought after idols or graven images to worship and bow down before them, but they have idolized one another. Poor, frail, erring man has been petted, praised, exalted, and, saith God, "Where is my honor?" These men are seeking to bring in a different order of things. They would, by their precept and example, lead the people in a path that God has not bid them to travel. They advocate principles and customs directly contrary to the teaching of the Spirit of God, which has been appealing to the people for the last thirty-six years. God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. His children are children of the light. In all ages the obligations and works of the children of God have been at variance with the world. Their calling, their character, their prospects, are peculiar; and it is these peculiarities that distinguish them from the world, and separate them in spirit and practice from the people of the world. The contrast is most decided. The words of inspiration specify the difference between the children of the light and the children of darkness. And as we near the close of time, the demarkation between the children of light and the children of darkness will be more and more decided, they will be more and more at variance. This difference is expressed in the words of Christ, "Born again," "created anew in Christ," "dead to the world and alive unto God." These are the walls of separation that divide the heavenly from the earthly, and describe the difference between those who belong to the world and those who are chosen out of it, who are elect, precious in the sight of God. The members of this body are builded together for a habitation of God through the Spirit. Jesus abides in them, and they abide in Jesus. There is no room for idols, no place for concord with Belial, no place for friendship with the world.  {PH155 2.1}
[PH155 3.1]          It is not a form of godliness that will constitute a                                                                              4  living stone in the spiritual building. It is being renewed in knowledge and true holiness, being crucified to the world and made alive in Christ. These walk in love and follow Christ as dear children. The labor of love engages the affections and inspires the prayers. When they trust alone in God, they are divinely assisted by the Spirit of Truth. They are not permitted to seek the friendship of the world, or to co-operate with wicked men. When we comply with the conditions specified in the word of God,--come out from among them and be separate, and touch not the unclean,--then we are acknowledged as sons and daughters of God. The principles of his righteous, moral government never change; therefore the same measure of guilt will receive the same measure of punishment.  {PH155 3.1}
[PH155 4.1]          If his people have not obeyed his requirements, they stand condemned according to their delinquencies. What, then, is required of the church at Battle Creek? Humiliation, confession, and true, genuine repentance before God. The spirit manifested by many at Battle Creek is, Let us not make earnest, thorough work; such a great ado is uncalled for. I tell you, God calls for repentance and confessions from his people; and those who have taken an active part in bringing the church into her present position, will never come to the light only by humble confessions and a sincere repentance before God, and working to bring them to the light. The wall of separation which the Lord himself has established between the things of the world and the things he has chosen out of the world and sanctified unto himself, has been broken down by those who profess godliness and occupy the position of teachers of the people. They have not, in precept and practice, acknowledged this position, but rather by their practice annihilated the difference between the holy and the profane. But the separation exists, notwithstanding so many have in practice made it void, and seem determined to maintain                                                                              5  concord between Christ and Belial. "The Lord hath set apart him that is godly for himself;" and this consecration to God and separation from the world, the Lord always loves, and will always require of his people; for it is plainly declared and positively enjoined in the Old and New Testaments. Many who think they can impress the world by agreeing with it make a terrible mistake as far as their own salvation is concerned and the salvation of unbelievers. It is not conformity to the customs and practices of the world that will enlighten them and make them feel their great need of saving grace; but it is to come out from the world and be separate, stand apart and above it, and in character represent Christ and give the impression to the world of a holy, separate life. This will give a true Christian a power of influence over them. They will see there is a better life than that which they are living.  {PH155 4.1}
[PH155 5.1]          God calls upon these men to repent and humble their hearts, to rend their hearts and not their garments. Many are rending their garments while their hearts are unbroken. This I know is the state of many in Battle Creek. Wm. Gage is wholly unfitted to engage in the work of God. He does not see or sense his true condition. He has not an experimental knowledge of heart holiness, of communion with God. He talks glibly, poll-parrot like, but the genuine work of grace upon the heart he knows but little about. Oh, how often he catches at Satan's bait, which is presented in various forms. He has not been balanced by the Spirit of God. He has not guarded the first risings of desire to hold every emotion and passion in calm subjection to reason and conscience. He has not been careful to suppress all unsanctified imaginings, and bring into captivity every thought to obedience to Christ. Wm. Gage will prove a snare to the people of God wherever he shall take an active part; for he will lead away from right principles to carelessness and indifference in religious                                                                              6  things. He has not the weight and burden of the work. He is superficial. He has ever been a curse to the church in Battle Creek, and ever will be unless he is a thoroughly converted man. He will mingle in the company of worldlings, full of wit and mirth, and then rise in the desk and preach a straight-forward discourse. "Walk in the light." Such men will do tenfold more harm than good; because their daily life contradicts their teachings. They are destitute of the spirit of truth, unsanctified, unholy. I warn the people of God not to take this man as their pattern. I present such as beacons to warn, and not examples to imitate.  {PH155 5.1}
[PH155 6.1]          I hope all such ones may see and confess and forsake their sins and be converted. Great blindness has come upon minds through the neglect to believe, and follow the light God has given in the Testimonies. Bro. Mc Learn has come, and has called forth attention and admiration which should be given only to God. This is idolatry. He has spoken smooth words. His fair speeches have flattered those who love praise; but God is not in this.  {PH155 6.1}
[PH155 6.2]          In the testimonies given in the church by those who have been most at fault, there was not a realizing sense that they had done any special wrong to God or to man; and should the same circumstances occur again, they would, with their present feelings of darkness, do the same over again. There is no safety for the flock of God who are influenced by this class of minds. God saw your dangers, and pointed them out to you in Testimony No. 30, also in private testimony; but you failed to heed the warnings of the Spirit of God. You went on as confidently as though you were following the leadings of the Spirit of God. I entreat you to make your wrongs right, confess your sins before God and to the church, and make thorough work for eternity. Do not compromise the matter with yourself by excusing your wrongs because somebody else committed errors. The work is                                                                              7  between God and your own souls. Do not let those who have influenced you to commit wrongs, now daub you with untempered mortar. God calls upon you to repent, to acknowledge your wrongs which have brought his frown upon the church, and to forsake them forever. He will accept no half-hearted work. I beg of you to learn a lesson from the Jewish nation. Their pride, self-righteousness, and stubborn resistance of light and truth brought them into their deplorable condition. Their history is given you, not for you to imitate, but as a beacon of warning, that you should not follow their example in sin, and impenitence, and rejection of light. Gather up the rays of light you have neglected and despised. Follow not the promptings of your own unsanctified hearts, but follow the light; heed the warnings of the Spirit of God; be admonished by the reproofs he has given; be wise for yourselves lest you be left of God as were the Jews, which you surely will be, unless you repent with earnestness and die to your self-love and self-indulgence.  {PH155 6.2}
[PH155 7.1]          The church has backslidden from God. It is of no avail for them to say, "I accept of the Testimonies," as they have said the last years of their experience, and pay no heed to their teachings. Some even despise them in their hearts. The leading men in Battle Creek have not walked in the light God has given. The teachers of the people have erred. The Lord has witnessed their backsliding. They have not kept their garments white, nor retained the purity and simplicity of their first faith and first love in the truth. This people who profess to keep all the commandments of God, have inclined downward, bending under the influence of the world's attractions. As soon as they began to receive favor and friendship of the world, their connection with God was weakened; their strength began to diminish, faith and zeal began to expire, and dead formality to take their place. The branches have extended far and wide, yet they                                                                              8  bear but little fruit. Where much is given, much will be required.  {PH155 7.1}
[PH155 8.1]          Men may be well acquainted with the doctrines of the Bible, and be able to defend them by apt arguments. Their minds and memories may be stored with texts, and they may give the impression that they are prepared to do a good and great work; but year after year their deficiencies of Christian character will be more apparent. They do not advance. They go over the same ground, making no growth in the divine life, like wood carved in the form of a tree, but having no living production of natural growth. There are no fresh shoots, no new foliage to be seen. There is the same superficial work, the same limited ideas and sentiments upon most points. They have not advanced in Christian knowledge. Will you at Battle Creek, by your flippant remarks, your superficial applications, and your explanations, seek to do away with the effect God designs the Testimonies should have in thoroughly reforming the church? Will you show that you regard them by humbling your hearts before God? "Drop the matter," some say. "Say no more about it. Why call for repentance when we did the best we knew how?" So might the sinner reason in regard to his transgressing God's law. But Paul says, "When the commandment came, sin revived and I died." Light has come, telling you your dangers, making clear your errors, and defining your wrongs. Will self die? will you fall on the Rock and be broken? or will you bind yourselves together more firmly, refusing to be humbled, refusing to repent, refusing to clear the King's highway? Will you justify yourselves in your past course of wrong, and bring upon yourselves the wrath of God? The Lord calls for most earnest action on your part. He will not accept your plausible excuses. He despises the flippant, chaffy spirit of Bro. Wm. Gage; for he makes God's people to err, he removes the sacredness of divine things, and brings them on a level                                                                              9  with common things. Smart, sharp, and apt he is regarded by many; but I forbear to tell how the Lord regards all such ones.  {PH155 8.1}
[PH155 9.1]          "Rend the heart and not the garment," saith God. Commence the work with your own individual selves, and then, when imbued with the Spirit of God, go to work for your poor children. Work for time; work for eternity. Leave nothing at loose ends to ravel out. In my dream, which seemed a reality, I was listening to these men, and that which the Lord had shown me they would do was enacted in the meeting. Wm. Gage would, with his cunning speeches, take off the edge of the Testimonies; and then, with a smile of satisfaction, look around as though he had done a smart thing for which he should be congratulated.  {PH155 9.1}
[PH155 9.2]          It was the spirit of Satan expressed in looks and words to make of none effect the Testimonies of the Spirit of God. "This," said the guide with me, "is the way any message of Heaven will be treated." God and angels are at work to open before the people their wrongs which have brought the frown of God upon the people. Men professing to be teachers, step in between them and the light God has given, that it shall have no weight or effect upon the hearts of the people. God calls them to repentance, while unconsecrated, unconverted men, as bodies of darkness, call their attention from the necessity of repentance to self-justification. These cunning speeches serve the purpose of Satan. Self-inflated, self-deceived souls are deceiving others. Eld. Smith has had poor companions and supporters. He sat in silence. God pity these men who are blinded and deceived. Meetings that should have been meetings of confession and humiliation, have been meetings of self-justification. A spirit of coldness, of irreverence, of lightness was with many. And while it is called today, if you hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation in the wilderness.  {PH155 9.2}
[PH155 9.3]         God does not make a decree that men's hearts shall                                                                              10  become hard and unimpressible. It is the resistance of light, a refusal to hear the voice of warning and reproof which strengthens the soul in a position of resistance. He is sowing the seed of resistance, which he must reap in a harvest of hardness of heart. Men burden their own hearts in their impenitence. They have sown the seed; they reap what they have sown. The precious opportunity that might have aroused the church and brought them to a sense of their true state, is lost by the unconsecrated influence of men who will not humble their hearts before God. The ministers whom God ordains and accepts as his chosen laborers will be men of integrity. They may, some of them, be unlearned and ignorant men; but grace will reign in their hearts, inspiring them with faith and purifying the motives that govern the outward conduct. They will be living examples of the mind and spirit of Christ, known and read of all men.  {PH155 9.3}
[PH155 10.1]          Men not connected with God, not sanctified in heart and life, have a theory of the truth, as had the Jewish chief priests and elders in Christ's day. On one occasion Christ said of the men who made the study of the Old Testament their business, "Ye know not the Scriptures nor the power of God." The world generally will receive the ministry of the word, and admit the truth if it is not proclaimed in the demonstration of the Spirit and of the power of God. The natural heart finds no opposition to such teaching. It is only the spirit and savor of Christ that is hateful to the unrenewed heart. The form of godliness is not opposed by the world. The popular ministry they will not reject. There is nothing in it that calls the sinner to a sense of his guilt, calls him to repentance. It is nothing less than the quick and powerful word of God, working in the hearts of his messengers to give the knowledge of the glory of God, that can give the victory. The truth brought before the people, which can save the soul, must not only come from God, but his Spirit must be the active agent in                                                                              11  communication; else it will be only as the sayings and doings of men. These may have the form of Christianity as far as the letter is concerned, and when the crisis shall come that is now very near, these men will be unable to stand. When persecution and reproach come because of the truth, these men will find another platform. The opposition and persecution will not be slow to take their stand when God's people have the living testimony among them, and speak the words of truth, being imbued with power from on high.  {PH155 10.1}
[PH155 11.1]          When the truth is preached in its simplicity and power, as it is in Jesus, it will condemn the world, and then it will be evidenced that between Christ and Belial there is no concord. Then will Christ's followers realize his words: "Because ye are not of the world, therefore the world hateth you;" "If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you;" "If they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also." Those who live godly in Christ Jesus, shine as lights in the world. The prince and powers of darkness have not become converted. They will never suffer an assault from the faithful servants of Prince Immanuel without raising a defense. As his followers contend earnestly for the faith once delivered to the saints (not merely in doctrine, but in the spirit and power of godliness), the spirit and power of resistance quickly arise, as in the days of the martyrs. Truth and holiness Satan hates. Profession and pretense he is in perfect harmony with. The form of godliness he assumes to deceive the children of men. This is his most successful armor. Truth and holiness were never more odious to the unregenerated heart than today. It was practical purity, it was the earnest life of holiness manifested in the life and conduct of Christ, that awakened the enmity of the Jews against him. Christ prayed, "O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee." Even so it is now. The world refuses to receive the                                                                              12  truth in the love of it. The carnal mind is at enmity with God. I entreat the church at Battle Creek to heed the Testimonies of the Spirit of God. Do not say, "I believe them," and then contradict them in your daily life, refusing to walk in accordance with them.                             Ellen G. White.                                                                   -    {PH155 11.1}
[PH155 12.1]         ［The following has been written since my recovery to health.］  {PH155 12.1}
[PH155 12.2]          I feel deeply concerning the church at Battle Creek, where are located our important institutions. This great heart of the work sends forth to every branch of the work either a healthy or a sickly and diseased influence. The true condition of the cause of God in Michigan is deplorable. But few realize the spiritual lethargy that prevails. The church at Battle Creek have not made thorough work in repenting and confessing their past sins. Many today hate the light which discovers their wrongs and errors. False repentance is deceiving souls to their ruin. Persons will make spasmodic efforts and appear to feel remorse for their course of action, but do not become converted and soon evidence that the heart is untouched. All the good impressions are soon effaced, and they will return to their same course of fault-finding, whisperings, backbiting, and reporting evil which they have felt troubled over. They declare to others by their own course of action that their repentance is not genuine, that their sorrow was not godly sorrow.  {PH155 12.2}
[PH155 12.3]         The Lord has sent you Testimonies of instruction, of rebuke, and warning. Some have come to the light that they may see and know their errors, and put them away. Others are deceived and deluded in regard to their spiritual standing before God. They do not bring their character and works to the test by comparing them with the word of God and the declaration of Scripture that plainly condemns their course and marks out the only true path                                                                              13  for them to walk in. These have not had true Bible repentance. The word of God has not been their rule of action. It has not been received with deference and reverence as it should have been. This word requires of them true sorrow for sins and thorough confession if they would have from their Redeemer peace and pardon. But there are men standing in responsible positions who teach one thing and practice another. While they have been forward to condemn their brethren, their own character is more faulty in the sight of God than the ones they would criticise and condemn. These men are blind leaders of the blind, and both leaders and those led by them will be ruined unless there is true repentance and heart-felt confession before God. These who bind souls in deception are themselves deceived. They form their judgment of duty from the general practice of professed Christians who have a form of godliness, but who deny the power thereof. They have a superficial, hasty, erroneous conception of the nature of virtue and of piety. It is their opinion, if not guilty of out-breaking sins that human eyes can discern, they are not called upon to show the fruits of true repentance and sorrow for sin. This is in direct contradiction to the words of inspiration.  {PH155 12.3}
[PH155 13.1]          These souls are ignorant of the natural depravity of the heart, and of the constant danger of apostasy, like ancient Israel, from the requirements of God. These men look upon themselves as needing no godly sorrow. They will not trouble their minds, and repent before God of their errors and failures, which have been the means of leading souls away from Christ. They have not connected with God, and employed their talents to his glory. They really think they will degrade their character by manifesting genuine repentance, and confessing their faults one to another. They are so far separated from God that they estimate the favor of the world as the favor of God. They flatter themselves in their self-sufficiency that with                                                                              14  such good characters as they have, as estimated of men, they would be degrading themselves to manifest shame and sorrow for sin. A broken heart and a contrite spirit the Lord will not despise. Bible repentance is to them associated with degradation.  {PH155 13.1}
[PH155 14.1]          The word of God presents the only true standard of what is innocent and what is virtuous, true, and excellent; and unless these respectable sinners shall meet the Bible standard, they will be weighed in the balances of the sanctuary and found wanting. We may be pleasantly satisfied with the measurement of ourselves, but be wholly wanting when weighed in the balances of God. Your work last winter was a shame, a disgrace, to any professing the name of Christians. God was in your midst, a silent witness to all your transactions. The mob spirit prevailed. The mob spirit was encouraged, although there was some remonstrance made. The ones who indited it, the ones who were leaders in this, stand condemned before God as verily as did Belshazzar when engaged in his sacrilegious feast. The same God was in your midst who revealed himself to the king as the bloodless hand that traced the characters on the wall, "Weighed in the balances and found wanting." Men may say you are all right, or men may condemn, but it is of very little consequence. The balances in which the world weighs men may pronounce the imperfect not wanting of right weight and full measure, while God's measurement and weight says, Wanting. When God weighs motives and character, it means something that should fill the soul with terror as it did the guilty king. It is no light matter to be found wanting when judged by one who never makes a mistake, one who has shown mortals compassion, sympathy, and love; to be wanting in sincerity, in true love to Christ, who died that he might give life and peace and hope to those lost and undone by sin; to be wanting in brotherly kindness and love to Christian brethren, whom he has redeemed with the price of his                                                                              15  own blood. Can we afford this? "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." It is Christ you have abused and maligned in the person of his saints.  {PH155 14.1}
[PH155 15.1]          Neither is it a light thing to be wanting when the Judge shall sit upon his throne, when the book of life is opened and he turns each page to see the names written in the book, when your names are pronounced as wanting, when the accounts of your life are balanced. No respectable sinners will be passed by in that grand and awful reckoning. The Lord calls upon these self-flatterers to see themselves as they are, and to let his Spirit and his grace work effectually on their heart to bring it unto repentance and contrition. If they do not do this, they fail to fall upon the Rock and be broken; and as the only alternative, the Rock must fall upon them and grind them to powder. The proud heart will do almost anything rather than break. A charge of great guilt stands against you in Battle Creek. This charge from the Spirit of God makes repentance and sorrow and humble confession necessary, whatever your profession or position of responsibility. This work God requires of you before your sins and iniquities can be pardoned. Because your brethren and nominal professors may look upon you as correct and faultless, it is no reason that you are so.  {PH155 15.1}
[PH155 15.2]          You do not fear and love God; you do not tremble at his word; your consciences are becoming hardened and unimpressible; you have not been jealous of yourselves lest you dishonor your Redeemer; you have not been fearful of conformity to the world in your manners, your tempers, and your actions. You have lost reverence for the servants whom God has sent to you with words of counsel, reproof, and warnings. Did you not fear to treat God's messengers with disrespect? What means has God instituted to correct his people and instruct them but by men chosen of God to do his work?                                                                              16   {PH155 15.2}
[PH155 16.1]          Every time you have fallen under temptation in disregarding the words of his chosen servants, you have become weaker to resist wrong, and have less clearness of discernment to distinguish right and truth from error and darkness. All through Michigan are testimonies borne of your work to condemn you. You have strengthened evils which God condemns. You have encouraged by your practice conformity to the world, which God condemns, and pronounces enmity against God. However admired you may be of the unconsecrated and of worldly men, it is nothing in your favor. Even those who profess to love the truth may flatter you and exalt you; this is still nothing in your favor. You may deceive men, but God reads the heart. You have provoked the displeasure of a just and holy God because of your unchristian spirit toward those of like faith. You have shown no respect for the men whom God is using in his cause, because they could not but condemn your course of harshness and want of brotherly love. The Testimonies of the Spirit of God were unheeded; you knew not the voice that was calling you to repentance. You have shown you were not in harmony with the Spirit of God. You were so far carried away with your assumptions and imaginings that God's words to you have found no response in your hearts. God's holy will, his honor, and his fear have been of slight consideration with you. The Lord has been treated with dissimulation and disrespect. You will urge you have an unblemished character, but God's eye discerns impurities and condemns you as transgressors of his law.  {PH155 16.1}
[PH155 16.2]          While you claim to have been keeping his commandments, you have been envious, jealous, fault-finding, uncourteous, unkind, cruel, and unforgiving. The six commandments showing the duty of man to his fellow-man have been transgressed. You have loved self and hated your brethren, when the Lord says, "Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself,"                                                                              17  "Love one another as I have loved you." Do you love the Lord enough to suffer insult, reproach, contempt, abuse, and death if need be, for his sake? This is the love that Christ has given to men to practice.  {PH155 16.2}
[PH155 17.1]          You have a work to do to meet the mind of the Spirit of God, to repent and confess your sins before God, and right your ways as far as possible for you to do. You have no time to lose. Some will go into their graves with their sins unconfessed because Wm. Gage, Bro. McLearn, and several others have thrown themselves as bodies of darkness between God and the people, that the light he has sent them should be of no account. Does not God call for thorough repentance and humiliation, lest his form be removed from the church.  {PH155 17.1}
[PH155 17.2]          Those who have by their irreverence and flippant speeches, removed the solemn impressions of the Spirit of God from the minds and hearts of the people, and those who have sat by in silence consenting to this wrong, have a work to do for their own souls, and to make diligent effort in seeking to work in harmony with the Spirit of God in calling the people to repentance and humiliation before God. I was shown that unless this was done there would be a falling into a similar error. Character will be attacked. Those who are ready to censure, and talk, and hint, and misstate, will do this work. Another subject will be presented for them to feed upon. They have been headed off on one point, and they will seize another person and work diligently to mangle character.  {PH155 17.2}
[PH155 17.3]          The trouble is, religion is professed but not practiced. The Spirit of God will dwell in the hearts of his followers. The condition of the cause of God will cause the deepest suffering of mind and anguish of soul. Oh that the history of the past would influence the present! Oh that all would feel to the depths of their souls that they have it as a privilege and duty individually to be earnest believers in the truth and                                                                              18  co-laborers with their self-denying Saviour who has loved them and given his life for them. Our course of action must elevate our faith and lead us to glorify God. The present apathy, the fearful want of genuine piety, so plainly seen among us as a people, is due to our neglect to reverence and obey God's plainly expressed will. Can this sin be wiped out by any other means than by true repentance and heart-felt confessions? The very fact that this has not been done is sufficient reason why the Lord's rebuke is still upon you.  {PH155 17.3}
[PH155 18.1]          You are not a converted people. The love of Jesus does not dwell in your hearts, and you are just as ready to fasten upon some other one to dissect his character, to become like Jehu in zeal to ferret out everything you can of a nature to condemn him, as you have been in the case of Bro. Bell. The spirit is there. The root of bitterness has not been dug out, but will spring into life and flourish wonderfully if it has a chance. The same suspicion, the same jealousies, the same spirit of insubordination, the same disrespect for men whom God has acknowledged as his servants, the same riding over authority that caused your present trouble, is not dead,--it is only quelled to arouse again in greater force, if a favorable occasion should offer. This spirit has never been expelled. The suspicions, the dark hints, the venom, the bitterness that has existed against Dr. Kellogg will be put in more active operation. Thus I have seen. He has been faulty, he has erred. He has confessed it like a man and a Christian, and I hold nothing against him. But if you can find some excuse to neglect your own heart-work by dwelling upon what you term the wrongs of another, you will do it with the greatest satisfaction.  {PH155 18.1}
[PH155 18.2]         Build over against your own house; repent of your own sins; let the grace of Christ control these tongues that are set on fire of hell, that would fan a spark into an uncontrollable flame. Repent and be                                                                              19  converted before it shall be forever too late. You have trifled with the Spirit of God altogether too long. You have insulted the Spirit of God, and you do not know where you are. Do not find fault with any one but your own selves. Unless you overcome your disposition to accuse, to tattle, to magnify the wrongs of others, while you neglect the culture of your own soul, you will be more and more self-deceived, more blinded to the true state of your own heart, and your day of opportunity and privilege to be wise for yourselves will pass, and you will be fastened in Satan's snare for time and eternity.  {PH155 18.2}
[PH155 19.1]          Oh, what zeal you manifest to condemn another, and justify and laud yourselves! God has had no share in molding your affections toward one, and inspiring you with bitterness and reproach for another. Self-love, self-esteem, has been gratified to your harm. Your reverence for sacred and holy things has not been increased. Your sense of duty, and the obligations you owe to God have not been clearly discerned. You have brought down sacred things on a level with common things. Now you have no sense of your wrongs. You see no need of repentance, and unless you do see and realize something of the evil of your past wrongs, you will surely be given over to blindness of mind and hardness of heart. You will walk farther away from the light into confusion and every evil work. Should your probation end today, the portion of many would be with the unbelievers. I speak to every member of the church in Christ's name, guard your thoughts, control your feelings. Let your speech be such that Heaven can approve. No longer be so sadly deceived as to think you are doing God's work and God's will in persecuting with your tongue, with your strong prejudices and jealousies, your brethren. Why do you delight in making your wicked speeches and indulging your wicked feelings against Dr. Kellogg? Has he not sufficient burdens to carry? Dr. Fairfield is unworthy of your confidence.                                                                              20  He has apostatized from the faith, but you patronize him,--not because he honors God, not because he believes the truth, but because the man pleases you. God has written against his name, "Weighed in the balance and found wanting." Has not Dr. Kellogg all the burdens he can carry? Would you crush him to the earth with your suspicions prompted to Satan? Would you feel great pleasure in seeing the Sanitarium go down? Is this what you desire? Can you explain your course of action to make it harmonize with the word of God? What account will you render to God for your wicked surmising, your taking the judgment seat and judging your brother? O Christianity, precious Christianity, how much needed, and how little practiced! One victim after another is made to suffer because tortured and persecuted by those who profess to love Jesus and to be learning of him.  {PH155 19.1}
[PH155 20.1]         How far you will be left to work as Satan's agents to oppress, to accuse, to wound, and bruise the soul, we cannot determine. But the Lord's eye is over all. He knows every thought, every deed, every action, and he will judge you as your works have been. I never so longed for Jesus to come as at this time, that the wickedness of the wicked might come to an end. If every member of the church would try to find what good there is in one another, what a Heaven we should have on earth! Cherishing bitterness and suspicion toward one person makes us feel hard and cold and distrustful of everybody. The peace of Christ has no place in the heart that thinketh evil. The mischievous talk about Prof. Bell, Dr. Kellogg, and different ones, is purely the work that Satan instigates. Division, distrust, jealousy, evil-surmising, are sown as thistle seeds are cast to the winds. Satan puts his magnifying glass before your eyes, and everything is viewed as he wills it. Peace flees away. The false tongue should be treated with hot coals of juniper. Dr. Kellogg has made mistakes,--he has erred. His                                                                              21  errors have injured my husband. Dr. Kellogg sees his mistakes and feels them, and has confessed them; while those who were more guilty than he is abusing his mind in placing things before him in an exaggerated light, and relating as facts things which had no foundation in truth, led him to feel an assurance that his feelings were correct. His mind was kept stirred up by reporters, tattlers, mischief-makers, and false reporters. My husband was hunted to death, and those who have acted their part faithfully for Satan saw him in his coffin removed from the strife of tongues. He died of a broken heart, and the Lord let him rest. I hold no grudge against any one. I felt to the very depths of my soul over the treatment my husband received, and I have forgiven those who have done this work. I pray the Lord to forgive them. I warn you not to do to another as you have done to him. And when you begin your attacks upon one and then another that do not agree with your ways and please your fancies, I am determined to resist your influence and stand up for the oppressed. Will you send others to their death by your persecuting tongues, your suspicions, your envies, your jealousies? Will you cultivate the worst traits of character in indulging in censuring, backbiting, and falsehood? Is this the element that you love, and will you choose this atmosphere which is the poison of hell? What think you of Jesus? You may talk of his love, you may praise and bless his name, you may adore him all you please; but cease your praise and your flatteries of finite men, and also cease your wicked fault-finding, cease to murder character.  {PH155 20.1}
[PH155 21.1]          When you see a man loaded down with responsibilities in a position, where, if you let reason bear sway, you must know he has very much to perplex him and try his patience and test his wisdom; when you see a man fighting the battle with almost everything against him,--then will you show the Satan side of your character and add your influence to the                                                                              22  popular cry, Crucify him, crucify him? Why not practice the law of kindness? Why not dwell upon the good traits of character? Why keep before you and in your lips words that savor of distrust, that show the very worst imagining of the heart? Why will you not practice the law of love? why not cultivate a tender, pitiful, kind spirit? why be so cold, unfeeling, heartless, satanic? why rejoice in iniquity rather than in the truth?  {PH155 21.1}
[PH155 22.1]          Oh, let us be Christians; let us be true, pure, and holy; let sympathy and love come into our hearts. This is a work we may all have a part in; this is a work which will tell for time and for eternity. God help us to be true to one another. Satan is always an accuser,-- one who tears down but never builds up. What if you should now change your course of action, and begin to think well and speak well of your brethren and sisters? Would it not be Christlike to manifest this fruit of the Spirit, "Thinketh no evil, is not puffed up, hopeth all things, believeth all things," (not of evil, not of false reports,) but all that is "pure, lovely, and of good report"? "Little children," says the beloved disciple, "love one another."  {PH155 22.1}
[PH155 22.2]          The Lord is coming. We have a work to do for ourselves, a work to do for one another. Christ has bound up our souls with the infinite God. We have a higher, nobler calling than to devise and report evil one of another. You have driven one to the grave, another from your midst, for the want of brotherly love and compassion; and is not this record in the books of Heaven enough? Will you double your guilt; will you blacken your already darkened record? I call upon these men and women, whatever your profession may be, to be swift to hear counsel of God, entreaties of his Spirit,--and slow to speak. Think not evil one of another, lest ye be condemned. Whatever we do, whatever we say, wherever we are, we can never cease our responsibility to God. He has appointed our work. It is not to bite and                                                                              23  devour one another, but it is to labor earnestly, kindly, tenderly, in all love to help one another to resist our common foe. God has given us the means, the faculties, and the opportunities, and he holds us accountable for using them well. When we work with a single eye to God's glory, we shall love the purchase of his blood, and work for them and seek to bless them in every way possible; and then shall we have praise of God, and may consider ourselves as co-laborers with him, as building for eternity. Every one, whether ministers or lay members, are God's embassadors, executing his work. The flippant speech, the jesting and joking, are all out of place now. The Judge standeth before the door. Our accountability to God, fully accepted and faithfully met, will balance our characters. We shall outgrow the tendencies to be superficial. We shall be, through the grace given unto us, raised above everything that is mean and selfish and impure. It will make us have an interest for our brethren, for they are the purchase of the blood of Christ. It will make us realize that we have something great and good to live for. This close connection with God will make our lives earnest, cheerful, and strong under difficulties, hopeful amid discouragements that will be the lot of all.  {PH155 22.2}
[PH155 23.1]          The lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God will not enjoy our company; for our conversation, our deportment, the Spirit of Christ we cherish, will rebuke their spirit and give no encouragement in their vain propensities. The church now most want men whose minds can comprehend and bear the thought of their responsibility to God,--men who are made strong by the consciousness that they are doing God's work, and that they will do it with fidelity. Satan's work is to make us contented with superficially doing our work and meeting our responsibilities, and he has been wonderfully successful here.  {PH155 23.1}
[PH155 23.2]          Those who believe in Jesus will love to do his will.                                                                              24  Those who acknowledge that Jesus is the Redeemer of the world and yet live for themselves in all their words and actions, contradict their faith, and testify to the world that they do not believe in Jesus Christ. Sacrifice and self-denial will be met at every step in the Christian path. If we walk with Christ, we shall see his triumph and share his glory. Like our divine Master, we shall be made perfect by suffering. Those whose lives are one with Christ will not be full of mirth and worldliness and pleasure loving now. There is a work to do, earnest work to warn the world, earnest labor to wash our robes of character and make them white in the blood of the Lamb. There will be a wholesome fear which will lead to sobriety and balance the character,--a fear lest a promise being made us on certain conditions, we should seem to come short of meeting those conditions.  {PH155 23.2}
[PH155 24.1]          This distrust of self will lead us to be circumspect in actions. Christ had travail of soul. All who are co-laborers with him will have travail of soul, will be burden-bearers. Their anxiety will not be to tear one another to pieces and exalt themselves; but their work will be to help one another, to strengthen one another in the most holy faith, while they will be diligent to make their own calling and election sure. They will also be earnest and faithful to do their work for God, that others shall not fail of everlasting life. Pride and ambition will be humbled in the dust. We are to meet those we associate with when the Judgment shall sit and the books shall be opened, and when all shall be judged according to their works. How can we meet those we have treated with neglect, those we have envied, those we have tried to tear down, the souls we have wounded and bruised, destroyed their influence and awakened a spirit of hatred against them, that caused them to be crippled and hedged up in doing the work God would have them do? God is in earnest with us. God help us to be wise unto salvation.                                          E. G. White.  {PH155 24.1}
[PH156 1.1]         PH156 - Special Testimony to the Brethren in Battle Creek (1898)           "Sunnyside," Cooranbong, N. S. W.,           Australia, June 8, 1898.     Dear Brethren in Battle Creek:--        There are times when the truth must be spoken, whether men will hear, or whether they will forbear. The Lord is greatly dishonored when those who claim to believe the truth fail to harmonize among themselves, and make their appeals to lawyers. Will you study the word of God, and heed its instruction on this point? The interests of the cause of God are not to be committed to men who have no connection with heaven.  {PH156 1.1}
[PH156 1.2]         Matters have been presented before me that have filled my soul with keen anguish. I saw men linking up arm in arm with layers; but God was not in their company. Having many ideas regarding the work, they go to the lawyers for help to carry out their plans. I am commissioned to say to such that you are not moving under the inspiration of the Spirit of God.  {PH156 1.2}
[PH156 1.3]          "Is it not because there is not a God in Israel, that ye go to inquire of Baal-zebub the god of Ekron?" Men in responsible positions are uniting with those in the church and out of the church, whose counsel is misleading. Is it necessary for the Lord to come to you with a rod to show you that you need a higher experience before you can be fitted for connection with the family above? Will you link up with men who have a faculty for accusing and thinking and speaking evil of the things that God                            -2-     approves? In the name of the Lord, I tell you that you need clearer discernment and spiritual eyesight.  {PH156 1.3}
[PH156 2.1]          If the light which God has given you over and over again, that missionary centers should be established in many cities, and that the labor and the means centered in Battle Creek should be divided, and planted in many places, had been followed, the present state of confusion and dearth of means would never have been.  {PH156 2.1}
[PH156 2.2]          Men located in Battle Creek have disregarded the counsels of the Lord, because it was more convenient for them to have the work centered there. God has left these to the results of their human wisdom, and its fruit is seen in the present perplexities. "Who is among you that feareth the Lord, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness, and hath no light? let him trust in the name of the Lord, and stay upon his God. Behold, all ye that kindle a fire, that compass yourselves about with sparks: walk in the light of your fire, and in the sparks that ye have kindled. This shall ye have of mine hand; ye shall lie down in sorrow." "Now therefore go to, speak to the men of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, saying, Thus saith the Lord; Behold, I frame evil against you, and devise a device against you: return ye now every one from his evil way, and make your ways and your doings good. And they said, There is no hope:  but we will walk after our own devices, and we will every one do the imagination of his evil heart. Therefore thus saith the Lord; Ask ye now among the heathen, who hath heard such things: the virgin of Israel hath done a very horrible thing. Will a man leave the snow of Lebanon which cometh                            -3-     from the rock of the field? or shall the cold flowing waters that come from another place be forsaken? Because my people have forgotten me, they have burned incense to vanity, and they have caused them to stumble in their ways from the ancient paths, to walk in paths, in a way not cast up."  {PH156 2.2}
[PH156 3.1]          Again and again the Lord has pointed out the work which the church in Battle Creek and those all through America are to do. They are to reach a much higher standard in spiritual advancement. They are to awake out of sleep, and go without the camp, working for souls that are ready to perish. The medical missionaries are doing the long-neglected work which God gave to the church in Battle Creek,--they are giving the last call to the supper which he has prepared.  {PH156 3.1}
[PH156 3.2]          My brethren, why do you keep so many things bound up in Battle Creek? Why do you not take the tract and missionary work into other cities, where there is much missionary work to be done? The many interests centering in Battle Creek should be divided and subdivided, and placed in other cities. You who think you are wise men may say, "It will cost too much. We can do the work here in Battle Creek at less expense." Well, does not the Lord know all this? Is not he a God who understands all the unbelieving reasoning that holds so many interests in Battle Creek? He has revealed to you that centers should be made in all the cities. This would call many out of Battle Creek to work in other places.  {PH156 3.2}
[PH156 3.3]          In order to be carried forward aright, the medical missionary work needs talent. It requires strong and willing hands, and wise,                            -4-     discriminating management. But can this be while those in responsible places--presidents of conferences and ministers--bar the way? The Lord says to the presidents of conferences and to influential brethren, Remove the stumbling-blocks that have been placed before the people.  {PH156 3.3}
[PH156 4.1]          The people in Battle Creek have not exercised their talents in planning and devising how they may plant the standard of truth in regions where the message has not been proclaimed, and where decided efforts should be made; and the Lord has moved upon Dr. Kellogg and his associates to do the work which belongs to the church, and which was offered to them, but which they did not choose to accept. Some in Battle Creek, instead of taking up the work given them of God, have, by following their own selfish way, blinded their spiritual eyesight and the eyesight of others; and God has placed his precious work in the hands of those who will take it up and carry it forward.  {PH156 4.1}
[PH156 4.2]          God is in his holy place, and he dwells also with him who is of a humble and contrite spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones. Those who are doing medical missionary work should have the full sanction and cooperation of the church. If they do not have this, they are hindered. Nevertheless, they will advance. It is not God's plan that there be two churches in Battle Creek, because of the want of cooperation in this line. How much better it is to seek for unity of action. If the medical missionary workers will carry this line of effort into the churches everywhere, if they will work in the fear of God, they will find many doors opened before them, and angels will work with them.                            -5-  {PH156 4.2}
[PH156 5.1]          Please read the invitation to the supper, and the last call made. Study to see what is being done to meet the command of Jesus. I can not understand why this indifference is manifested, why you should stand off, and criticize, and draw away. The gospel-net is to be cast into the sea; and it draws both good and bad. But because this is so, shall men and women ignore the efforts made to save those who will believe, and who will unite in the work of reaching that class of which Christ spoke in his rebuke to the Pharisees? Sinners and harlots, he said, go into the kingdom before you. Will you not see that even in the church there are those who have no connection with God? But Christ says, Let the tares and the wheat grow together until the harvest; then I will send my angel to gather out the tares and burn them, but the wheat will I gather into my barn.  {PH156 5.1}
[PH156 5.2]          When the Lord moves upon the churches, bidding them to do a certain work, and they refuse to do that work; and when some with their human efforts united with the divine endeavor to reach to the very depths of human woe and misery. God's blessing will rest richly upon them. Even though but few souls accept the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, their work will not be in vain; for one soul is precious, very precious, in the eyes of God. Christ died for that soul, in order that he might live through eternal ages.  {PH156 5.2}
[PH156 5.3]          Let us study the eighteenth chapter of Matthew. This chapter should enlighten our eyes. "Take heed," says Christ, "that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always                           -6-     behold the face of my Father which is in heaven. For the Son of Man is come to save that which was lost. How think ye? If a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray? And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish."  {PH156 5.3}
[PH156 6.1]          There are many souls being rescued, wrenched from Satan's hand, by faithful workers. Some one must have a burden of soul to find those who have been lost to Christ; and one soul redeemed over whom Satan has triumphed, causes joy among the heavenly angels. There are those who have destroyed the moral image of God in themselves. The gospel-net must gather in these poor outcasts. Angels of God will cooperate with those who are engaged in this work, who make every effort to save perishing souls, to give them opportunities which many never have had. There is no other way to reach them but in Christ's way. He ever worked to relieve suffering and to teach righteousness. Only thus can they be taken from the depths of hell.  {PH156 6.1}
[PH156 6.2]          The workers must labor in love,--feeding, cleansing, and clothing those who need their help. In this way these outcasts are prepared to know that some one cares for their souls. The Lord has shown me that many of these poor outcasts from society will, through the ministration of human agencies, cooperate with the divine, and seek to restore the moral image of God in                             -7-     others for whom Christ has paid the price of his own blood. They will be called the elect of God, precious, and will stand next to the throne of God.  {PH156 6.2}
[PH156 7.1]          "And then shall appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of Man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. . . . 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 a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that 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. But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to smite his fellow servants, 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."  {PH156 7.1}
[PH156 7.2]          Brethren, be careful, very careful. There is a work being done to the medical missionaries                             -8-     which answers to the description given in Matthew 24:48-51. The Lord is working to reach the most depraved. Many will know what it means to be drawn to Jesus Christ, but will not have moral courage to war against appetite and passion. But the workers must not be discouraged at this; for it is written, "In the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils." Is it only those rescued from the lowest depths that backslide? There are those in the ministry who have had light and a knowledge of the truth, who will not be overcomers. They will not restrict their appetite and passions, or deny themselves for Christ's sake; and many of the poor outcasts, even publicans and sinners, will grasp the hope set before them in the gospel, and will go into the kingdom of heaven before the ones who have had great opportunities and great light, but who have walked in darkness. In the last great day, many will say, Lord, Lord, open unto us. But the door will be shut, and their knock will be in vain.  {PH156 7.2}
[PH156 8.1]         We should feel deeply over these things; for they are truth. We should have a high estimate of truth and of the value of souls. Time is short, and there is a great work to be done. If you feel no interest in the work that is going forward, if you will not encourage medical missionary work in the churches, it will be done without your consent; for it is the work of God, and it must be done. Brethren and sisters, take your position on the Lord's side, and be earnest, active, courageous coworkers with Christ, laboring with him to seek and to save that which is lost.                                    Mrs. E. G. White.                                                                              9   {PH156 8.1}
[PH156 9.1]              An Appeal to our Brethren in                   Battle Creek.                                                    -              Why is it, brethren, that you continue to to keep so many things bound up in Battle Creek? Why do you not listen to the counsels and the warnings that have been given to you regarding this matter? Why do you not take decisive steps to establish centers of influence in many of the large cities? Why do you not encourage the Michigan Tract Society and the International Tract Society to establish their offices in cities where there is a great missionary work to be done, and where their secretaries and workers may engage personally in missionary labor, and act as leaders in important missionary enterprises. Move out, brethren, move out, and educate your workers to labor for those outside the camp. Why do you hide your light by continuing to remain in Battle Creek? Go out, brethren, go out into the regions beyond.  {PH156 9.1}
[PH156 9.2]          There is much work to be done, and our experienced workers should strive to place themselves where they may come in direct contact with those needing help. It is comparatively little that they can do in Battle Creek. Is it right, brethren, for you to keep your light hid under a bed or under a bushel? Is it not better that you should do that which the Lord has plainly indicated that you ought to do? Resolve now that you will give up your preference, your way, and that you will obey his voice. Seek the Lord most earnestly, with humble, fervent prayer for wisdom and for success in this endeavor. Then take your light from under the                          -10-     bushel, the place which seems most favorable for your financial interests, and from under the bed, the place most convenient for your comfort, and put it on a candlestick, that it may give light to all that are in the house.  {PH156 9.2}
[PH156 10.1]          A crisis in missionary effort is upon us. There is a great work to be done, and if this work is earnestly done in Battle Creek, if it is faithfully done throughout the churches in Michigan, if it is vigorously prosecuted in all our older churches and strongholds of influence, we may hope that its influence will leaven the churches throughout all the conferences, many of whom are now standing as though paralyzed.  {PH156 10.1}
[PH156 10.2]          The institutions which God has established as centers of influence and for the dissemination of light are not blending their interests, and working together as God would have them. The managers of these institutions should know that their very first work is to harmonize with their fellow workers. Our ministers must awake to understand the situation. The gospel is the sanctifying influence in our world. Its influence upon hearts will bring harmony. The standard of truth is to be uplifted, and the atonement of Christ presented as the grand, central theme for consideration.  {PH156 10.2}
[PH156 10.3]          The medical missionary work is to the work of the church as the right arm to the body. The third angel's message goes forth proclaiming the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. The medical missionary work is the gospel in practise. All the lines of work are to be harmoniously blended in giving the invitation, "Come, for all things are now ready."                           -11-  {PH156 10.3}
[PH156 11.1]          The message has been given to those in Battle Creek, that many should move into places where they may engage in this very work, in connection with their temporal business. Had they moved out by faith, willing to endure wearing labor and privation for the work's sake, they would have obtained rich experiences in the things of God. But they thought that they would find things a little more comfortable in Battle Creek, that the work there would be less taxing than elsewhere, and thus they remain. Many who crowd into Battle Creek get no good there, because they do not make use of the knowledge they receive. They do no good in Battle Creek, but are swelling the number who need conversion. They have not the spirit of sacrifice. They have much of self, and a little of Christ, a little faith, and a few good works. They think that they have religion, but it all amounts to nothing.  {PH156 11.1}
[PH156 11.2]          God speaks to you in his word: "Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honor me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men: therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvelous work among this people, even a marvelous work and a wonder: for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid. . . . And in that day 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 also shall increase their joy in the Lord, and the poor among men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel."                            -12-  {PH156 11.2}
[PH156 12.1]          My brethren, the Lord has called upon you to do a certain work, but you have not done it; and now in the place where you are, there is discord and contention and strife. But this need not be. God does not design that his workmen shall stand apart as independent atoms. All have a great and solemn work to do, and it is to be done under God's supervision.  {PH156 12.1}
[PH156 12.2]          God will do great things for his people if they will cooperate with him. He will work upon the minds of men so that their lives and the influence of their work will correspond with the following promises:--  {PH156 12.2}
[PH156 12.3]          "The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel, and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the Lord, and the excellency of our God. Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees. Say to them that are of a fearful heart. Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompense; he will come and save you. Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert. And the parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water: in the habitation of dragons, where each lay, shall be grass with reeds and rushes. And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it;                             -13-     but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein. No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast shall go up thereon, it shall not be found there; but the redeemed shall walk there: and the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away."  {PH156 12.3}
[PH156 13.1]          The wilderness itself has neither glory nor excellence, and to the Lord is to be ascribed all the honor for the transformation wrought. This great work is of God. Therefore magnify not the men who are under the special working of his power. Glorify God, and he will continue to work.  {PH156 13.1}
[PH156 13.2]          The Lord has a special work for his people to do at this time. He says,"Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees." This is the very work that the Apostle Paul charges the churches to do. "Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; and make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled."  {PH156 13.2}
[PH156 13.3]          I pray that you may now, as never before, both ministers and church-members, come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty powers of darkness. Study prayerfully the 17th chapter of John. This chapter is not only to be read again and again. but its truths are to be eaten and digested. "For                            -14-     their sakes," Christ prayed, "I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. . . . 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."  {PH156 13.3}
[PH156 14.1]          Are these words, of such import to us, to be always neglected? God calls upon those who claim to be his children to study these words, to eat them, to live them. Seek for unity and love, else the candlestick will be removed out of its place.                                  Mrs. E. G. White.  {PH156 14.1}
[PH088 3.1]         PH088 - Special Testimony to the Managers and Workers in our Institutions (1898)           In the providence of God we have institutions established among us to advance the promulgation of truth, but they do not reach the efficiency they might if the workers were wholly consecrated to God. The Lord has made every provision that these institutions may reach a high standard, that they may attain to a larger growth and wider usefulness, and that those employed in them may possess Christian virtues and graces. But those connected with these instrumentalities are not all devout and spiritual. They do not represent the Spirit and character of Christ. They are not ensamples to those connected with them, because they do not live in communion with God, earnestly seeking by faith and fervent prayer to know His will that they may do it.  {PH088 3.1}
[PH088 3.2]         These instrumentalities are missionary institutions. The Lord designed that they should be a power for good; and if all who are connected with them are consecrated, if they are meek and lowly in heart, Christ will give them most precious lessons in His school. In our health institutions, our publishing houses, our schools, all should work harmoniously to carry out the purpose of God, and everything connected with the institutions should tend toward reform. The managers and helpers should have the true missionary spirit as a daily, abiding principle; for they                            -4-     are in a field that requires the highest kind of missionary work. Our institutions, properly conducted, will exert a far-reaching influence, and if the managers and workers are Christians, they will be as shining lights. They will educate those connected with them in the principles of truth.  {PH088 3.2}
[PH088 4.1]          A responsibility to spread the knowledge of right principles rests upon all who have received the light. This responsibility should be felt by every man and woman who claims to be a Seventh-day Adventist, and much more by those who are connected with our institutions. All should realize that these institutions are an important part of the Lord's great work for the salvation of souls. Let it be the aim of all to be laborers together with God for the uplifting of humanity. All should be educators by precept and example. They should feel a personal responsibility to send forth men and women as fully instructed as possible, prepared to exert a direct and saving influence in the homes, the communities, and the churches to which they go. This would be the very best recommendation that any of our institutions could have.  {PH088 4.1}
[PH088 4.2]          Wisdom is needed in the selection of managers in the various departments. It is impossible for one to control others until he learns to control himself. The superintendent should be a man who loves and fears God. He should sacredly guard his reputation, giving no occasion for any one to reproach the cause of God. He should not be narrow-minded, a man of one idea. One who is changeable, now indulgent, then cold and                            -5-     unapproachable, or critical, exacting, and domineering, is not fitted for this position, nor is he who will cherish suspicion, jealousy, passion, or stubbornness. These traits are not pleasing to God, and will not be manifested by any who take Jesus for their pattern and counselor. The superintendent must manifest the Spirit of Christ; yet he should be firm to restrain evil. A neglect of this duty shows him to be unfit for his position. God requires of a steward that he be found faithful. A manager must be a growing man in order to meet the difficulties as well as the opportunities that are constantly arising. He should be quick to discern what needs to be done, and take active measures to accomplish the work at the right time. There are many rules made, many regulations passed, that fall dead because they are not carried into effect. Time is spent in Board meetings, councils, and business meetings, matters are discussed, and resolutions made; and then if these resolutions die a natural death, things are left in a worse state than if no action had been taken.  {PH088 4.2}
[PH088 5.1]          If those who hold positions of trust are persons who love and fear God, they will realize that a sacred responsibility is theirs, because of the measure of authority and the consequent influence which their position gives them. They are dealing with varied minds and they should move discreetly, for they are representatives of the institution. They should be kind and courteous, manifesting Christian politeness towards all with whom they are brought in contact, both believers and unbelievers. Brethren, you are to represent                        -6-     the family of the heavenly King. You are to watch for souls as they that must give an account. We should never forget that Jesus, in the infinite sacrifice that He has made, has proved His love for every man, woman and child: He has shown what value He places upon every soul. All have been purchased by the price of His own blood.  {PH088 5.1}
[PH088 6.1]          Let your influence be persuasive, binding people to your hearts, because you love Jesus, and these souls are His purchased possession. This is a great work. If, by your Christ-like words and actions, you make impressions that will create in their hearts a hungering and thirsting after righteousness and truth, you are a co-laborer with Christ. Those who have a leading influence in the institutions should be men and women who possess devotion and piety, who are not narrow and selfish in any matter; but conscientious, self-denying, and self-sacrificing, ever dealing with the workers as they would wish to be dealt with, having an eye single to the glory of God. Men of such a character will keep the way of the Lord. The workers should seek to make it as easy as possible for those who bear the burden of responsibility, and have many cares and perplexities to engage their attention.  {PH088 6.1}
[PH088 6.2]          All need to have right principles placed before them in a judicious manner. Men of investigating minds will thus receive the key of knowledge, and will bring out treasures of thought for the enriching of other minds-- thought that will result in the saving of souls. Circumstances will call forth words and decisions in favor of the right, and many                           -7-     will thus be swayed in the right direction. Words and works flowing from the heart imbued with the love and fear of God become a widespread blessing--a blessing that is carried into the highways and byways of life.  {PH088 6.2}
[PH088 7.1]          There are words spoken that are not Christlike,--bitter, harsh, wicked words. This should not be. Men who like Enoch are walking in the light of Christ, will exercise self-control, even under temptation and provocation. Although sorely tried by the perversity and obstinacy of others who are associated with them, they dare not let impulse bear sway. All who are walking in the light will give evidence of divine power combined with human effort; they will make it manifest that they are taught and led of God. They will feel that the Holy Watcher is by their side, taking knowledge of their words.  {PH088 7.1}
[PH088 7.2]          Leaders in our institutions have many and weighty responsibilities. Their only safety is in keeping their thoughts and impulses under the control of the great Teacher. They have golden opportunities for doing good; they can speak words in season that will guide and mould the many and varied minds with which they are brought in contact. Daily they should take their stand for God as though it were the last day they should serve in this capacity. Show men and women connected with the institution how pure and noble they may become. Let them see that you have firm confidence in God, and that He is your source of strength, that you are resting wholly upon His promises. Fulfil your duty with promptness, while claiming your                          -8-     heavenly Father's help in overcoming all weakness of character. With the hand of faith grasp the arm of Infinite Power, put your whole being into your work.  {PH088 7.2}
[PH088 8.1]          Ever keep a winning, courteous, kind spirit, and every room may be transformed into a Bethel. Angels of God will work with your efforts. If our publishing houses, our health institutions, our colleges and missions are conducted on right principles, the unbelievers who visit them will be favorably impressed, and will be more inclined to accept the truth.  {PH088 8.1}
[PH088 8.2]          O, for faithful Calebs in this age of the world! We want men and women who have self-control, who have moral worth, who love and fear God; men and women who possess personal piety and firm religious principle. God is dishonored by the lack of moral stamina in many who profess to be Christians. They seem to be only half converted.  {PH088 8.2}
[PH088 8.3]          God demands more of us than we are willing to give Him. None are to be forward or obtrusive, but we are quietly to live out our religion, with an eye single to the glory of God. "Learn of Me," says Christ; "for I am meek and lowly in heart." Then we shall shine as lights in the world, without noise or friction. None need fail; for One is with them who is wise in counsel, excellent in working, and mighty to accomplish His designs. He works through His agents, seen and unseen, human and divine. This work is a grand work, and will be carried forward to the glory of God if all who are connected with it will make their works correspond to their profession of faith. Purity of thought must                            -9-     be cherished as indispensable to the work of influencing others. The soul must be surrounded by a pure, holy atmosphere--an atmosphere that will tend to quicken the spiritual life of all who inhale it.  {PH088 8.3}
[PH088 9.1]          Jesus is honored or dishonored by the words and deportment of His professed followers. The heart must be kept pure and holy, for out of it are the issues of life. If the heart is purified through obedience to the truth, there will be no selfish preferences, no corrupt motives. There will be no partiality, no hypocrisy; love-sick sentimentalism will not be developed. Strict guard must be kept that this curse shall not poison or corrupt our institutions.  {PH088 9.1}
[PH088 9.2]         In the present state of society, with the lax morals of not only youth but those of age and experience, there is great danger of becoming careless, and giving especial attention to favorites, and thus creating envy, jealousy, and evil surmising. But few realize that they drive away the Spirit of God with their selfish thoughts and feelings, their foolish, trifling talk. When admonished, they say, "I meant no harm." What do these frivolous ones mean? Do they forget that that which they sow they shall also reap? This silly, nonsensical conversation reveals a weak character and is an offense to God. If the grace of Christ were planted in their hearts, and striking its roots down deep into good soil, they would bear fruit of an altogether different character. They would be acquiring moral stamina, that strength of purpose and solidity of character which are essential for the great and good                           -10-     work that ought to be done. Others would feel their influence, and would take knowledge of them that they were led and taught by Jesus.  {PH088 9.2}
[PH088 10.1]          Many of these trifling, frivolous ones make a profession of religion, and this hollow form of godliness has been so long tolerated that it has pervaded our institutions, and extends to our churches. The standard of piety is lowered into the dust.  {PH088 10.1}
[PH088 10.2]          Careful attention should be given to the moral standing and influence of every one employed in our institutions. If the workers are in any way impure in heart or life, it will be revealed in their words and actions, notwithstanding their efforts to conceal the truth. If they are not strictly moral, there is danger in employing them, for they will be in a position where they can mislead those who desire to reform, and can confirm them in unholy, defiling practises. Such men and women, unless converted, will be not only a curse to themselves, but a curse wherever they go. The converting power of God is alone sufficient to establish pure principles in the heart, so that the wicked one may find nothing to assail.  {PH088 10.2}
[PH088 10.3]          Our probation is short at best; we have no time to spend in erratic movements. The familiarity of married men with married women and with young girls, is disgusting in the sight of God and holy angels. The forwardness of young girls in placing themselves in the company of young men, hanging around where they are at work, entering into conversation with them, talking common, idle talk, is belittling to womanhood. It lowers                           -11-     them, even in the estimation of those who indulge in such things. There is a positive necessity for reform. All frivolity, all undue attention of men to women, or women to men, must be condemned and discontinued. These things have produced great evil in the world.  {PH088 10.3}
[PH088 11.1]          The first appearance of irregularity in conduct should receive attention; the young should be taught to be frank yet modest in all their associations. They should be taught to respect just rules and authority. If they refuse to do this, after the right kind of labor has been bestowed upon them, let them be dismissed, whatever position they occupy; for they will demoralize others.  {PH088 11.1}
[PH088 11.2]          Those who labor in our institutions are there for the purpose of promoting the intellectual and spiritual welfare of those under their care. They must make their work a matter of earnest prayer and study, that they may know how to deal with human minds and accomplish the object before them. Their first work is to carefully scrutinize their own habits, for there are those who have not put away childish things. They are in need of transforming grace, or they will not meet the Bible standard of Christianity. Then when they are compelled to deal with those who are meeting a low standard, they will know that words to speak to them, and will not be harsh, domineering, or arbitrary toward them. They must be chaste, and so free from the taint of defilement that they can correct these evils, and bring these poor souls up to the Bible standard of purity.  {PH088 11.2}
[PH088 11.3]          Those who believe unpopular truth have                         -12-     much prejudice to meet everywhere in the world, and if Bible truth is to control our institutions, those employed in them must exemplify it in their own life. If they wish that the physical, intellectual, and moral standing of the institution shall be of the highest order, their own deportment must give evidence of this fact. They must plan and work constantly, and in the strength of Jesus seek so to elevate the character of the institution that it may receive the approval of Heaven.  {PH088 11.3}
[PH088 12.1]          Every Christian home should have rules; and parents should, in their words and in their deportment toward each other, give to the children a precious, living example of what they desire them to be. Purity in speech, and true Christian courtesy, should be constantly practised. Let there be no encouragement of sin; no evil surmising or evil speaking. Teach the children and youth to respect themselves, to be true to God, true to principle; teach them to respect and to obey the law of God. Then these principles will control their lives, and will be carried out in their association with others. They will love their neighbors as themselves. They will create a pure atmosphere, one that will have an influence to encourage weak souls in the path that leads to holiness and heaven. Let every lesson be of an elevating, ennobling character, and the record made in the books of heaven will be such as you will not be ashamed to meet in the judgment.  {PH088 12.1}
[PH088 12.2]          Children who receive this kind of instruction will not be a burden, a cause of anxiety,                           -13-     in our institutions; but they will be a strength, a support, to those who bear responsibility. They will be prepared to fill places of trust, and by precept and example, will be constantly aiding others to do right. Those whose moral sensibilities have not been blunted will appreciate right principles, and will practise them. They will put a right estimate upon their endowments, and will make the best use of their physical, mental, and moral powers. Such souls are constantly fortified against temptations; they are surrounded by a wall not easily broken down. All such characters are, with the blessing of God, light-bearers; their influence tends to educate others for a practical Christian life.  {PH088 12.2}
[PH088 13.1]          The mind may be so elevated that divine thoughts and contemplations come to be as natural as the breath. All the faculties of the soul are to be trained. We must do God's work intelligently. We must know the truth; and to know this is to know God.  {PH088 13.1}
[PH088 13.2]          The evils of fashionable society have a tendency to corrupt, but every true follower of Christ, every one who has "this hope in him, purifieth himself, even as He is pure," so that not a taint of defilement will be found in his thoughts, or upon his lips, in his heart, or in his character. There must be a coming up to a higher, holier standard. A decided warfare should be waged against the evils, not only in the world, but also among those who claim to believe the truth for this time. These evils, if not put away, will result in spiritual death. The Lord bids us, "Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good                          -14-     works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." There must be a waking up; concentrated effort must be put forth, that will tell powerfully against every form of evil.  {PH088 13.2}
[PH088 14.1]          Let the leaders in our institutions labor to show that their work is wrought in God; that they are workmen who need not to be ashamed; that their words and works are untainted with earthliness and sensualism. They should feel their solemn responsibility to give the youth a worthy example, one corresponding to their position of trust and their holy profession of faith. They are sowing seed which will blossom and bear fruit. All coarseness and trifling should be put away; it is the fruit borne upon a corrupt tree. Brethren and sisters, you are educators. The lessons you give to believers and unbelievers by your words and example, will be a savor of life unto life, or of death unto death.  {PH088 14.1}
[PH088 14.2]          Men should be chosen to stand at the head of our institutions who have not only good, sound judgment, but a high moral tone, who will be circumspect in their deportment, pure in speech, remembering their high and holy calling, and that there is a Watcher, a true Witness to every word and act. Those who give evidence that their thoughts run in a low channel, whose conversation tends to corrupt rather than to elevate, should be removed at once from any connection with the institution; for they will surely demoralize others. Ever bear in mind that our institutions are missionary fields. God's eye is upon them day and night. No one should feel at liberty to allow even the appearance of evil. Let all be                          -15-     circumspect, for the Lord will certainly judge you for any wrong influence exerted in any one of His instrumentalities.  {PH088 14.2}
[PH088 15.1]          Managers and workers, are your souls united to Christ as the branch is united to the living vine? If you have not been renewed in the spirit of your mind, for your soul's sake make no delay to have your life hid with Christ in God.  {PH088 15.1}
[PH088 15.2]          This is the first business of your life. When Christ is abiding in the heart, you will not be light, trifling, and immodest, but circumspect and reliable in every place, sending forth pure words, like streams from a pure fountain, refreshing all with whom you come in contact. If you decide to continue your idle talk and frivolous conduct, go to some other place, where your influence and example will not be so widely felt in contaminating other souls. What you all need is such a sense of the purity and holiness of Christ as will lead you to despise this pretense of religion, which blesses no one, gives no peace of conscience, no repose of faith.  {PH088 15.2}
[PH088 15.3]          Let all connected with these instrumentalities that God has ordained for the saving of souls, seek divine wisdom, heavenly grace, that they may have an elevating influence upon others. Unless they are constantly receiving strength from Jesus, looking to Him, trusting in Him, by faith drawing from Him divine grace, they will become an easy prey to temptation.  {PH088 15.3}
[PH088 15.4]          It is time that we as Christians reach a much higher standard. God forbid that any institution that He has planted shall become                           -16-     a means of decoying souls, a place where iniquity is taught. Let all learn in the school of Christ, meekness, purity, and lowliness of heart. Let them hang their helpless souls on Jesus. Live in the light shining from the oracles of God. Educate mind and heart to pure, elevated, holy thoughts. "Be ye holy in all manner of conversation." Whatever influence you have, direct it to exalting Jesus, and not self. Unless you do this, you are a false guide, leading souls away from the Truth, the Life, the Light of the world; and the more pleasing and attractive your manners, the greater the harm you do.  {PH088 15.4}
[PH088 16.1]          I tell you every soul needs a genuine conversion. All your faculties need to be consecrated to God, that you may not encourage the evils prevailing in society, but may counteract them. Many have been cultivating habits that lead directly to earthly and sensual actions; and unless the power of God shall break the snare, souls will be lost in consequence. God has claims upon you that you do not realize; for you have not brought Christ into your lives. Great decision of character will now be necessary on your part, to change this order of things. No weak efforts will accomplish the work. You can not do it for yourselves; you must have the grace of Christ, or you can never overcome. All your plans will prove a failure unless you are actuated by higher motives, and upheld by greater strength, than you can have in and of yourselves. "Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you." There will                          -17-     be no relish for trifling conversation on the part of those who are looking to Jesus for strength, depending upon His righteousness for salvation. By faith they accept Christ as their personal Saviour, and become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.  {PH088 16.1}
[PH088 17.1]          There should be no giving of special favors, or attentions to a few, no preferring of one above another. This is displeasing to God. Let all bear in mind the words of inspiration: "The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy." When you pass by one who is in need of your sympathy and kindly acts, and bestow your favors upon others simply because they are more pleasing to you, remember that Jesus is insulted in the person of His afflicted ones. He says, "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." To the surprised inquiry, "Lord, when saw we Thee thus?" the answer is given, "Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these (who were afflicted and needed your sympathy), ye did it not to Me." "They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick." The bruised and wounded, the lame of the flock, are among us, and these test the character of those who claim to be children of God. The Lord will not excuse the wrongdoer. He will never                           -18-     sanction partiality to the wealthy or oppression to the weak. He requires exact and impartial justice; more than this, He requires that His followers shall always have compassion for the suffering, pity and love for the erring.  {PH088 17.1}
[PH088 18.1]          Angels of God are watching the development of character, and are weighing moral worth. If you bestow your attention upon those who have no need, you are doing harm to the recipients, and you will yourself receive condemnation rather than reward. Remember that when, by your trifling conversation, you descend to the level of frivolous characters, you are encouraging them in the path that leads to perdition. Your unwise attentions may prove the ruin of their souls. You degrade their conceptions of what constitutes Christian life and character; you confuse their ideas, and make impressions that may never be effaced. They can not harmonize your course with the position you occupy, and they come to look upon even the officers of the church, and the ministers, as no better than themselves. Then where is their example? The harm thus done to souls that need to be strengthened, refined, and ennobled, is often a sin unto death.  {PH088 18.1}
[PH088 18.2]          God calls upon all who claim to be Christians, to elevate the standard of righteousness, and to purify themselves even as Christ is pure. "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is                         -19-     our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with Him in glory. Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth: fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry; for which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience." "Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; as obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance;" for you are to walk in the light while you have the light; "but as He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy."  {PH088 18.2}
[PH088 19.1]          The question is, Shall we be Bible Christians? Will we disregard the plainest instruction given us in the Word of life, and erect a false standard whereby to measure our characters? Is this a safe thing for us to do?  {PH088 19.1}
[PH088 19.2]          Christ has given us the signs by which we may distinguish the genuine Christian; no one need to be deceived by the pretentious claims of the hypocrite. "Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree can not bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their (profession?--No, by their) fruits ye shall know them."  {PH088 19.2}
[PH088 19.3]          Let those who claim to be Bible believers                          -20-     act out their faith by obedience to all the requirements of God. Christ has invited you, "Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart; and ye shall find rest unto your souls."  {PH088 19.3}
[PH088 20.1]          Let all who profess godliness heed the apostle's admonition: "Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; having 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."  {PH088 20.1}
[PH088 20.2]          The apostle Paul, under the influence of inspiration, has spoken to us: "Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day; we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. For they that sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation." "But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: that the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women likewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; that they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the Word of God be not blasphemed. Young men likewise exhort to be sober-minded. In all things                           -21-     showing thyself a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech, that can not be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you."  {PH088 20.2}
[PH088 21.1]          There will be seasons of severe trial for those connected with our institutions; but if you know the Source of your strength, you need not be overcome. Whatever influence God has given you, He requires you to throw on the side of truth, of godliness. In making men, women, and children better by pointing them to the cross of Calvary, you are doing the work He has given you to do. True Bible Christians will have an influence that will lead other minds. You, as Christians, have a weight of responsibility which no one can take from you. Said Christ, "Unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required."  {PH088 21.1}
[PH088 21.2]          The converting power of God is needed every day. We must abide in Christ. "As the branch can not bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in Me." None of us can afford to sin; it is expensive business. Sin so blinds the eyes that men do not discern evil, and by their indiscreet practises they become instruments of unrighteousness, to scatter from Christ. The exhortation to Christians is, "Walk in wisdom toward them that are without;" for wise, discreet words and actions will be a power to draw others to Christ, where they will have fellowship with the saints. Are professed Christians walking in wisdom when they are vain and frivolous, and live so at variance with their profession of faith that those                          -22-     without can not see in them the evidences of purity, of heavenly nobility?  {PH088 21.2}
[PH088 22.1]          We have the history of the antediluvians, and of the cities of the plain, whose course of conduct degenerated from lightness and frivolity to debasing sins that called down the wrath of God in a most dreadful destruction, in order to rid the earth of the curse of their contaminating influence. Inclination and passion bore sway over reason. Self was their god, and the knowledge of the Most High was nearly obliterated through the selfish indulgence of corrupt passions.  {PH088 22.1}
[PH088 22.2]          The words of Christ should ever be borne in mind: "As it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank." Appetite bears sway over mind and conscience in this age. Gluttony, winebibbing, liquor drinking, tobacco using prevail; but Christ's followers will be temperate in eating and drinking. They will not indulge appetite at the expense of health and spiritual growth. "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." We see the same manifestation now in regard to marriage. Youth, and even men and women who ought to be wise and discerning, act as if bewitched upon this question. A Satanic power seems to take possession of them. The most indiscreet marriages are formed. God is not consulted. Human feelings, desires, and passions bear down everything before them, until the die is cast. Untold misery is the result of this state of things; and God is dishonored. The marriage                           -23-     vow covers every kind of lustful abomination. Shall there not be a decided change in reference to this matter?  {PH088 22.2}
[PH088 23.1]          "Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot: they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; but the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all." There is need that we eat and drink; but when men allow the gratification of appetite to occupy their thoughts and time to the neglect of their eternal interests, it is a sin for which God will punish them; for they abuse their bodies, destroy health, unbalance the mind, and strengthen the animal propensities. Then they are led by Satan to do the very things that awaken the sword of justice against them. Christians are to seek those things that are above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God. All the warnings given, all the appeals made, do not seem to alarm those who indulge perverted appetite. They go on in sinful indulgence, and their conscience is seared as with a hot iron. They will put their own interpretation on their sinful course, saying, "I have done no moral wrong." Clear discernment is needed--the spiritual eyesalve, which we can obtain only by becoming partakers of the divine nature.  {PH088 23.1}
[PH088 23.2]          Do those who claim to believe the Testimonies read and practise their teachings? All the light given in the living oracles and in the Testimonies, which all may read and apply, can condemn them in the day of God if they do not heed the instruction given.  {PH088 23.2}
[PH088 23.3]          The new life from Christ must be implanted                         -24-     in the heart. God calls for the highest development of the principles of godliness. Righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, will be the rich clusters of fruit borne by the branches that are grafted into Christ, the parent stem. Wherever this fruit is manifest, the truth will possess power; its progress and growth will be extended.  {PH088 23.3}
[PH088 24.1]          Brethren, the days of our probation are nearly ended. It is time to awake out of sleep. You are in a position of great responsibility. You need to watch unto prayer. Watch against habits of sin. Keep a watch over the tongue. Watch for opportunities to do good and bless others, ever looking to Jesus, growing in grace and a knowledge of the truth. If you want the higher life, you must live the higher life in the lower life of this world. We are working for time and for eternity. A well-built life is formed by living upon the plan of addition, laying up one grace after another, in good works, in faith, patience, temperance, benevolence, courage, self-denial. "Ye are God's husbandry. Ye are God's building." Learning of Christ you will not be a jumble of opposites and inconsistencies, today sober and devout, tomorrow careless and frivolous.  {PH088 24.1}
[PH088 24.2]         Christ has made every provision that your character may be harmonious through the grace given you. Then build it harmoniously. Let the structure rise stone on stone. Catch the rays of divine light from Jesus, and let them shine upon the pathway of others who are in darkness. All the universe of God is looking upon us with intense interest.                                 Ellen G. White  {PH088 24.2}
[PH157 1.1]         PH157 - Special Testimony to the Oakland and Battle Creek Churches (1897)                        Sunnyside, Cooranbong, N. S. W.,                                   March 14, 1897.                     Proper Use of the Tithe.          Letters have come to me from Oakland and Battle Creek making inquiries as to the disposition made of the tithe. The writers supposed that they were authorized to use the tithe money in meeting the expenses of the church, as these expenses were quite heavy. From that which has been shown me, the tithe is not to be withdrawn from the treasury. Every penny of this money is the Lord's own sacred treasure, to be appropriated for a special use.  {PH157 1.1}
[PH157 1.2]         There was a time when there was very little missionary work done, and the tithe was accumulating. In some instances the tithe was used for similar purposes as is now proposed. When the Lord's people felt aroused to do missionary work in home and foreign missions, and sending missionaries to all parts of the world, those handling sacred                                ［2］     interests should have had clear, sanctified discernment to understand how the means should be appropriated. When they see ministers laboring without money to support them, and the treasury is empty, then that treasury is to be strictly guarded. Not one penny is to be removed from it. Ministers have just as much right to their wages as have the workers employed in the Review and Herald Office, and the laborers in the Pacific Publishing House. A great robbery has been practised in the meager wages paid to some of the workers. If they give their time, and thought, and labor to the service of the Master, they should have wages enough to supply their family with food and clothing.  {PH157 1.2}
[PH157 2.1]                      Support of the Ministers.          The tithe is required of the minister. He does his share according to his ability, and should receive his due. The ministers are often placed where they have to lead out in donations in the places where they labor, and in defraying the expenses of tents, besides providing food for themselves. Many have families at home to support. If they were not traveling from place to place, less expensive clothing could be worn; the extra money paid for tents at camp-meetings and in donations, so frequently leave them no surplus that they feel restrained from acting a part in various enterprises which they would be pleased to participate in. This is expected of them, and in order to do this they pledge. This pledge they are often a long time in paying; it hangs upon them as a debt which they are frequently unable to lift. It is a great self-denial on the part of these men to thus                                ［3］     separate from their families. They are forced to take up with all kinds of fare, and to eat all kinds of food, especially in countries where the standard of truth is first lifted.  {PH157 2.1}
[PH157 3.1]          The light which the Lord has given me on this subject is that the means in the treasury for the support of the ministers in the different fields is not to be used for any other purpose. If an honest tithe were paid, and the money coming into the treasury were carefully guarded, the ministers would receive a just wage. The auditing committee has often been composed of men who were farmers. These could dress in coarse clothing appropriate for the work they were doing. They raised all they needed as a family to subsist upon, and they knew not what the outlay of a minister must necessarily be when he goes into a new field to labor for perishing souls. The outlook is often hard and discouraging. Some fields when the work is first opened up, are encouraging; but there are other fields that are not so. Both must receive the truth. The minister must labor and pray. He must visit the different families. Frequently he finds the people so poor that they have little to eat and no room in which to sleep. Often means have to be given to the very needy to supply their hunger and cover their nakedness. Then what injustice to have a company of men as auditing committee who by their decisions or a dash of the pen will disappoint a distressed minister who is in need of every cent that he has been led to expect. There would be just as much fairness in having a committee decide whether the men employed in our institutions should have their stipulated wages, or                                ［4］     should have them curtailed, as the human agent, who will himself be in nowise affected by the strait places they may pass through, shall decide.  {PH157 3.1}
[PH157 4.1]                      House-to-House Labor.          The minister who labors should be sustained. But, notwithstanding this, those who are officiating in this work see that there is not money in the treasury to pay the minister. They are withdrawing the tithe for other expenses,--to keep up the meeting-house necessities or some charity. God is not glorified in any such work. We have to raise our voice against this kind of management. Let those who have comfortable homes and are not called upon to leave their families consider this matter. Gifts and offerings should be brought in by the people as they are privileged in having houses of worship, as in Battle Creek and Oakland, two of our largest churches. Let house-to-house labor be done in setting before the families in Battle Creek and Oakland their duty in acting a part in meeting these expenses, which may be called common or secular, and let not the treasury be robbed. There has not been money in the treasury to supply ministers for the service of God.  {PH157 4.1}
[PH157 4.2]                      Extravagance in Dress.          Let those who take such delight in devoting so largely of their means to clothing their bodies, consider that they are using God's money, that might be invested in bearing the truth to those that are perishing in their sins. They need the gospel presented to them; they need to be taught that they must be clothed with the garments of the righteousness of Christ, else they can not have a                                ［5］     place with the saints in light. Those who have had great light, and yet continue to follow the fashions of the world in dress, are using the Lord's money to gratify their pride. They are robbing the cause of God of the means which might far better, for their present and eternal good, be invested in missionary work. When those whose names are on the church books shall be converted, they will no longer delight in their display of dress in the house of God. This is looked upon by the Lord's holy Watcher from heaven, who traces the whole history from cause to effect. He sees what might have been done with the means, had it been used to glorify God, rather than to minister to their pride, and separate their souls from God. The Lord will not serve with the selfish indulgence of these men and women. Had they clothed themselves with modest apparel, as the Holy Spirit has specified they should do, they would have the blessing of God. The atmosphere surrounding their souls would not be as spiritual malaria to others who newly come into the faith. Such examples of show and of the love of dress, of following the fashions of this degenerate age, this leaven of pride and extravagance, is gathering to itself, until the whole lump will be leavened. Let the money expended in bicycles be invested in the cause of God.  {PH157 4.2}
[PH157 5.1]                        Impending Judgments.          The church without living godliness is like the fig tree to which Christ, hungering for food, came and searched for fruit, and found nothing but leaves. This is as it is with many who profess                               ［6］     religion; and our position, having as we have great light, great opportunities, great privileges, will bring the curse that came upon the fig tree upon all who have a name to live and are fruitless. When Christ uttered the words, "Let no fruit grow on thee henceforth forever," presently the fig tree withered away.  {PH157 5.1}
[PH157 6.1]          The Lord is coming speedily, yet, notwithstanding his professed people read the signs of the times,--of famines, of thousands being swept away by earthquakes and floods, by fire, by calamities by sea and land, by plague, by war and bloodshed, --the love of self so deadens the spiritual sense that the day of the Lord will come upon them as a thief in the night, and he declares, "They shall not escape." The Lord is to judge both quick and dead at his appearing and his kingdom. Will these stand in their pride and self-glorification before that tribunal, when the judgment will sit, and the books will be opened, and every man shall be judged according as his works have been?  {PH157 6.1}
[PH157 6.2]          Christ declares, "I know thy works." Does the Lord seem to be too far away, too indistinct, to produce any appreciable effect on the conduct of the human agent? Shall the hellish shadow of Satan ever be penetrated by living faith? Christ is a personal, present Saviour, one who is ordering all things for his own glory. He is accessible at all times if we will come to him in contrition of soul. I would urge upon all in Battle Creek to wake from your spiritual death-like slumber. Unless you do, it will pass into the slumber of eternal death.                               ［7］  {PH157 6.2}
[PH157 7.1]                  The Tithe to be Kept Sacred.          Those who have used the tithe money to supply the common necessities of the house of God, have taken the money that should go to sustain ministers in doing his work, in preparing the way for Christ's second appearing. Just as surely as you do this work, you misapply the resources which God has told you to retain in his treasure-house, that it may be full, to be used in his service. This work is something of which all who have taken a part in should be ashamed. They have used their influence to withdraw from God's treasury a fund that is consecrated to a sacred purpose. From those who do this, the blessing of the Lord will be removed.  {PH157 7.1}
[PH157 7.2]          The tithe money must be kept sacred. There are ministers who receive nothing for their labor; for there is no money to pay them. This I saw would be; for the management is wrong. Let every member of the church deny himself in dress, at the table, in house furniture, in carpets, in many things that are enjoyable, but not a necessity. There are souls to be saved. Can you be called workers together with Christ, can you be wearing his yoke, and yet your indulgence be cutting off the supplies of God's house? I was permitted to hear your faithless bemoaning of "the hard times." You should deny yourselves in many ways, and be thankful for that which you have.  {PH157 7.2}
[PH157 7.3]                      Talk No More Your Unbelief.          If the brethren in responsible positions would talk faith and courage to all the workers in the office, if you would talk self-denial in the church,                                 ［8］     if you would practise it in your own families, if you would bear a clean-cut testimony, which you have not yet borne, if you would all be mouthpieces for God, and present to the church the necessity for self-denial, the humiliation of the soul, praying for the Lord to forgive your pride, your foolish, senseless vanity, the Lord may pass by and leave you a blessing.  {PH157 7.3}
[PH157 8.1]          I call upon editors, I call upon every responsible man in the office of the Pacific Press, to believe in Jesus Christ and the truth for this time. Let your works show that you do believe your words of murmuring in the past to be wrong, that it is time now for you to cast your net on the right side of the ship, the side of faith. For the rest of your days, while probation lasts, show what can be done by a self-denying, self-sacrificing, consecrated, living church.  {PH157 8.1}
[PH157 8.2]                         A Work To Be Done.          There is a work to be done in the office and in the Sanitarium. There is a work to be done in the churches of California. A different testimony must go forth from lips touched with the live coal from off the altar. When you are in Christ, you can bear a living testimony. But throughout the churches there is selfishness and sin, dishonesty, unbelief, criticism, and faultfinding. It is high time now for you have to awake out of sleep. Believe with all your heart that Christ died for the world, that he died for you, and that you must have an abiding Christ, and carry a message inspired by the Holy Ghost. We read that in olden times holy men spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. This is what we need. This is what we must have.                               ［9］     It is not a divided heart, a monotonous message that we have to bear; it is a living message to dying men. Then talk not of appropriating the tithe, that is to send forth ministers to preach the Word. Go to work, and see if you can not speak words that will melt and subdue hearts. I am terribly alarmed. I say again, put away your unbelief. You make the people selfish and unbelieving, because you talk and act selfishness and unbelief. You are to work now in an opposite direction, after seeking the Lord with all your heart.  {PH157 8.2}
[PH157 9.1]                     The Needs of the Cause.          We need money here to carry forward the work. But we have no such resources to draw upon as you have in Oakland and Battle Creek. We can not sustain ministers in the field; for there is no money in the treasury. I know from the light given me of God that there should be many workers in California. There should be workers in Michigan, and yet men are questioning in regard to using the tithe for other purposes than that which the Lord has specified. In California, in all our cities in America, in the highways and byways, men and women should go forth as consecrated workers, who will proclaim the message of warning. In Michigan, and Battle Creek especially, it has been thought that Dr. Kellogg was working disproportionately for the poor and wretched ones in medical missionary lines. Then why does not the General Conference go to work? Why does it allow the treasury which should be kept for the purpose of sustaining the ministry, to be drawn upon, and diverted to common things? Why                            ［10］     should it permit its ministers to be half paid, and at the same time talk so begrudgingly of that which they do receive? When this work shall cease in our churches, a living testimony will go forth from human lips, under the operation of the Holy Ghost.  {PH157 9.1}
[PH157 10.1]                     A Change Demanded.          Burdens have been borne, projects have been entered into, and time has been given to matters that God never intended any of you to study upon, or to undertake. Now, for Christ's sake, change the order of things. In the place of having ministers drawn from their fields of labor to learn more, encourage them to communicate what they do know. You have robbed a world that is perishing in its sins, of labor it should have had. If those men will work, if they will study, and consecrate themselves to God, if they will do the work with earnestness, with zeal, with faith and prayer, we shall see something done. Satan has stolen a march on us. God desires that we shall put on the whole armor of righteousness. He says: "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil." Read carefully the injunctions here given by the inspired apostle, and "be ye doers of the Word."  {PH157 10.1}
[PH157 10.2]                   Boxes for the Church Fund.          There are exceptional cases, where poverty is so deep that, in order to secure the humblest place of worship, it may be necessary to appropriate the tithes. But that place is not Battle Creek or                              ［11］     Oakland. Let those who assemble to worship God consider the self-denial and self-sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Let those brethren who profess to be children of God study how they can deny themselves, how they can part with some of their idols, and carefully economize in every line. In each house there should be a box for the church fund, to be used for the needs of the church. When such churches as those in Battle Creek and Oakland shall practise greater self-denial than they have hitherto done, there will be an overflow of money in the treasury to deal with equity with the men who labor in word and doctrine.  {PH157 10.2}
[PH157 11.1]                   The Treasury to be Guarded.          I have been shown case after case where men are working in the ministry, who are just as deserving of their wages as those who are employed in the publishing houses, are left without sufficient means to support their families. If they work at all for the Master, they have to depend on charity. The censure and frown of God is upon the church that will permit these things to exist. Let not those to whom are intrusted responsibilities, allow the treasury that God has appointed to sustain the ministers in the field, to be robbed to supply the expenses incurred in keeping in order and making comfortable the house of God. Thousands upon thousands of dollars have been taken from the tithes and used for these purposes.  {PH157 11.1}
[PH157 11.2]                       What We Should Do.          This is not as it should be. The gifts and offerings that have cost some self-denial are to be brought in. A separate fund for the purpose of                              ［12］     defraying the expenses, which every church member should share according to his ability, should be instituted in every place where there is a church. Let the pennies, the sixpences, and the shillings be saved that may be looked upon as altogether too meager for charitable purposes. But these, if brought into the treasure-house, will be received and blessed of God, and what God blesses, is blessed indeed. Self can be denied of many needless things.  {PH157 11.2}
[PH157 12.1]          In the Battle Creek church the sisters will have an account to render to God for the Lord's money which they have worse than wasted in order to make an appearance, which appearance hangs out the sign that they are one in spirit with the worldling. Their chief desire is to gratify vanity and pride.  {PH157 12.1}
[PH157 12.2]          Every talent is to be used as the Lord's intrusted gift. No outlay of means is a sin that is employed to defray the church expenses, or for any religious work. But that expense is not to come out of the tithe. The treasury of God must not be robbed; that means must be used to supply the wages and fully to sustain those who give themselves to the work of the ministry.  {PH157 12.2}
[PH157 12.3]          There may be cases where human judgment may decide that a certain one does not accomplish much in advancing the work, and that the cause of God would be just as well without him. But who will dare to venture on the work of weeding out the ones supposed to be of little value? The Lord must judge in this matter. This measurement is not left to finite, human agencies. The one whom they question may produce results                            ［13］     more directly in spiritual lines and interests for eternity than the persons who would set them aside. I know this has been the case in many instances. Judas was officious in this direction. And Christ said of him that he had a devil, because his mind was open to the devil's work.  {PH157 12.3}
[PH157 13.1]                            Heaven Ashamed.          If all could see themselves as they file into the house of God in Battle Creek, the great heart of the work, and know the record which the Lord's watcher bears to heaven of the means squandered on themselves, if they could see the array of figures standing against their names, they would not feel very much satisfaction or real enjoyment in the exhibition of themselves before the heavenly universe. It is written off against their names, "Thou art weighed in the balances, and found wanting." These can not but be the ones included in the number who had the gay apparel, or those who occupied the highest seats. The very principle that leads them to dress as they do, that makes Heaven ashamed of them, will reveal in them a love of dress, a love of outside appearance, at the expense of the soul.  {PH157 13.1}
[PH157 13.2]          These persons may have constant opportunities for serving God, but they are not in vital connection with him. If they only would do the words and works of Christ, they would realize a blessing which they could never enjoy in the service of self. There is a reward offered for the right use of our talents in devising methods for doing highest service for God, irrespective and forgetful of poor, vain self. Dress and love of the world may take                                ［14］     the first place in their thoughts, but Jesus appoints them the lowest place. They gather to themselves, they drink in vanity. They live to please self; self is the center of their thoughts, and they are never fully useful. Although they may have a connection with the work of God, they grow earthward, not heavenward. The human agent must use his God-given talents of mind, of strength, of thought, in the service of the Master. But they are often misapplied, and occupied with poor, weak, unworthy self.  {PH157 13.2}
[PH157 14.1]          Unsanctified self will never see the kingdom of God. It must die, and Christ must live in the thoughts, and be enshrined in the heart. His glory is to be kept ever in view, else they will occupy the lowest seat,--not in his service, for they will have no part in God's work. God will not accept the selfish, divided soul. "He that will come after me," he says, "let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." The love of display, the love of adornment, is an effectual barrier to the obtaining of the inward adorning. God exhorts his people, "Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price." Then shall we not seek to secure to ourselves that which the Lord pronounces a great price?  {PH157 14.1}
[PH157 14.2]                      A Reformation in Dress.          When the church is converted, there will be a                              ［15］     very great reformation in dress. Church members, under the Holy Spirit's striving, will feel a solemn responsibility resting upon them in the use of the means that comes into their hands. Will you, my sisters, forget the account you must give to God for every talent, whether it is spent to please and gratify your vain desires for appearance, or whether the cause of Christ and the salvation of souls is ever a constraining power upon you, as it will be upon every one who makes Christ his personal Saviour. Many of you who profess the name of Christ, both old and young, have walked away from Jesus into much appearance and display. And the result of this is great spiritual feebleness. There is no soundness, no healthfulness in your spiritual pulse, no fervor or zeal for the perishing souls around you. The love of Christ is a sentiment strange to your hearts. You have long since forgotten that you are not your own, that you are bought with a price.  {PH157 14.2}
[PH157 15.1]                 A Strict Account to be Rendered.          Your mind, your soul, your strength are all the Lord's. None of these talents will be left out by the Master in the reckoning that is soon to be made. We may leave them out of our reckoning, but the Lord measures with exactitude every possibility for service. He has a right to expect us to acquire other talents. The unused capabilities are just as much brought into account as those which we improve. Our talents can only increase by faithful improvement of them. And those who faithfully employ their capabilities in trading upon the Lord's goods will, through their influence, bring many souls to Jesus Christ.                           ［16］  {PH157 15.1}
[PH157 16.1]          A strict account must be rendered at that great day when Christ shall come. Day by day and hour by hour we are making our own record. The amount we received and the amount we return will all be closely scrutinized by the Lord. Our whole life work is bound up with the great reckoning of that solemn scene when the second advent shall take place.  {PH157 16.1}
[PH157 16.2]                       Real-Estate Speculation.          We are trading with our Lord's goods. Phariseeism will appear in abundance. But a formal church will have far less to account for in the sight of God than those who have had so great light, so many opportunities, and yet are found among transgressors. Vice and dishonesty in trade have prevailed in Battle Creek and have been carried to other cities. Their speculation in lands, their attempts to secure money by making glowing representations, have in nearly every case proved a fraud. Their broker's business is an acted lie. The church bears the sin and disgrace of all such business done by its members.  {PH157 16.2}
[PH157 16.3]          Those who are foolish enough to invest their money in these speculative schemes, supposing the ones engaged in this business to be honest, are under a delusion which will work disaster to themselves. Many will keep up their dishonest speculation, although their names are on the church books, until they are bankrupt in this world and for eternity. These things are a disgrace to the truth. And church-members have permitted these things to exist in their midst because they have not had their eyes anointed                               ［17］     with the heavenly eye-salve, that they may discern the wily workings of Satanic agencies, to rob the widows and the fatherless in their speculation.  {PH157 16.3}
[PH157 17.1]          The men who engage in the real-estate agency business are on perilous ground. They are engaged in a work that will bring dire results to their own souls. Satan is inventing every scheme possible to divert the means which should be invested in the cause of God, into his own channels.  {PH157 17.1}
[PH157 17.2]                             A Sad Picture.          I have no heart to write out many things that might be given for the example and practise of those who have been often reproved. Those at the center of the work have manifested an avaricious spirit; they have, as it were, clothed fraud and double-dealing, conniving,--principles which God condemns in his work,--with a garment of righteousness. They have so perverted their imagination that they have supposed gain to be godliness. In the sin of Achan, theft, and dissembling, and covetousness, were considered by God to be of such a grievous character that God said, "Neither will I be with you any more, except ye destroy the accursed from among you." How will he regard the sins that are practised among his professed people?  {PH157 17.2}
[PH157 17.3]          During the week of prayer God would have wrought in a manner you have not yet realized were it not for the corrupting principles existing in the church at the very heart of the work, where it was supposed and where it has been taught that the counsel coming therefrom was of God. But the neglect of the measures that should have been                                       ［18］     taken to cleanse from our institutions and from our church their moral defilement, has brought the wrath of God upon his people. There should not be any who act as brokers among the members of the church. This influence in many ways has caused misapprehension and confusion of principles that has left a terrible curse upon the practical workings of the cause in the various conferences.  {PH157 17.3}
[PH157 18.1]                         The Work Hindered.          God in his own good time will give the message to men whom you least expect to come from men's policy to the policy of God. These will find there is something more they should have contended for in purity and honesty and straightforward working which is of an hundred-fold more value than their criticisms of words lest the great fundamental doctrines be departed from. The doctrine of justification by faith and the righteousness by faith was opposed, and masterly efforts made through opposition and denunciation by a formal church, whose attitude was of a character to discourage integrity and faithfulness and good works. And the result is just as it was in Christ's day. Those who were blinded by the enemy would, from their standpoint, pronounce judgment against the living principles of truth as heresy, and if they dared would make the press voice their sentiments with warnings and anathemas because their own preconceived opinions were not considered supreme and without a flaw.  {PH157 18.1}
[PH157 18.2]          God has given his Word power, but at what a cost! What labor and pain, and anguish of soul have                                     ［19］     been endured! What time and money have been bestowed! And how much of God's talents has been wasted under misconception in counterworking the work of God, at the very time the message was to go with a loud voice and ripen off the harvest of the earth! Men in high places of trust have gone from place to place as agents, working on the enemy's side. While the workers of God, sent forth with a special message, have prosecuted their work as men who must give an account, they have not been appreciated. Their way has been hedged up, and their labor counterworked as far as possible.  {PH157 18.2}
[PH157 19.1]          The work offered to the church at Battle Creek was not accepted. But the Lord increased the faith of some, and stirred Dr. Kellogg up to work for the souls and bodies of men through the medical missionary work, in ministering to the apparently lower orders, in striving to work a reformation through correct principles. And blessed results have been seen. Among those who have been rescued, there are some, not all, who shall embrace the truth. It is the loudest proclamation of the gospel that reaches men where they are, and accomplishes a grand work for time and for eternity.  {PH157 19.1}
[PH157 19.2]          If the schools in Battle Creek, if the publishing office, if the Sanitarium workers, in the place of looking on to criticise and denounce, had humbled their souls before God, and had allowed the Holy Spirit to work them, to soften their hard, icy hearts, had they worked on Bible principles in the place of studying up new methods and wonderful inventions and schemes, they would have                              ［20］     discerned the work to be done and brought all their powers into the work. There would have been less ministerial institutes, and every minister would have devoted his time and talents, and worked to save souls by communicating to them the light from heaven. This would have had a purifying effect upon the church, and the duties God has plainly revealed in his Word would have been performed. But many are too blind spiritually to discern these duties, and they are left undone, in order to take up a work which the Lord has not so much as intimated to them to do.  {PH157 19.2}
[PH157 20.1]                       What is Needed.          There are lines of work that have become almost entirely extinct. The power of Heaven has been wanting to give new perceptions in reading the truth out of the Word. But blind minds and hardened hearts have condemned the truth of God as presented because they rebel against the fundamental doctrines received. They are not half enlightened as to what the fundamental doctrines really are. If they had known for themselves they would not have possessed the spirit and attributes they have revealed. They would have known that spirit of truth which is comprised in advocating the principles of righteousness and truth. It is only by doing God's will that we can know of the doctrine.  {PH157 20.1}
[PH157 20.2]          What is wanted is experimental, individual piety and integrity on thoroughly Bible principles. The attainment of a living faith in Christ is essential. The pardon of sins, the contrite heart, the reception of the blessed atonement through sanctification                               ［21］     of the spirit and belief of the truth, must be wrought through personal, individual agencies. This can not be obtained or wrought out by a substitute. Each individual must arm himself with the high purpose of doing the will of God. When he does this to the full, his decision of fundamental doctrines and principles will be considered worthy of attention.  {PH157 20.2}
[PH157 21.1]          Faithful Calebs Needed. ［EXTRACTS FROM                 TESTIMONY NO. 32.］          While the doubting ones talk of impossibilities, while they tremble at the thought of high walls and strong giants, let the faithful Calebs, who have "another spirit," come to the front. The truth of God, which bringeth salvation, will go forth to the people, if ministers and professed believers will not hedge up its way, as did the unfaithful spies.  {PH157 21.1}
[PH157 21.2]         All should feel that they are not proprietors, but stewards, and that the time is coming when they must give an account for the use they have made of their Lord's money. Means will be needed in the cause of God. With David they should say, "All things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee." Schools are to be established in various places, publications are to be multiplied, churches are to be built in the large cities, and laborers are to be sent forth, not only into the cities, but into the highways and hedges. And now, my brethren who believe the truth, is your opportunity. We are standing, as it were, on the borders of the eternal world. We are looking for the glorious appearing of our Lord; the night is far spent; the day is at hand. When we realize the                              ［22］     greatness of the plan of redemption, we shall be far more courageous, self-sacrificing, and devotional than we now are.  {PH157 21.2}
[PH157 22.1]          There is a great work for us to do before success will crown our efforts. There must be decided reforms in our homes and in our churches. Parents must labor for the salvation of their children. God will work with our efforts, when we do on our part all that he has enjoined upon us and qualified us to do; but because of our unbelief, worldliness, and indolence, blood-bought souls in the very shadow of our homes are dying in their sins, and dying unwarned. Is Satan always thus to triumph? Oh, no! The light reflected from the cross of Calvary indicates that a greater work is to be done than our eyes have yet witnessed.  {PH157 22.1}
[PH157 22.2]          The third angel, flying in the midst of heaven, and heralding the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus, represents our work. The message loses none of its force in the angel's onward flight; for John sees it increasing in strength and power until the whole earth is lightened with its glory. The course of God's commandment-keeping people is onward, ever onward. The message of truth that we bear must go to nations, tongues, and peoples. Soon it will go with a loud voice, and the earth will be lightened with its glory. We are preparing for this great outpouring of the Spirit of God?  {PH157 22.2}
[PH157 22.3]          Human agencies are to be employed in this work. Zeal and energy must be intensified; talents that are rusting from inaction must be pressed into service. The voice that would say, "Wait; do not allow yourself to have burdens imposed                             ［23］     upon you," is the voice of the cowardly spies. We want Calebs now, who will press to the front,-- chieftains in Israel who with courageous words will make a strong report in favor of immediate action. When the selfish, ease-loving, panic-stricken people, fearing tall giants and inaccessible walls, clamor for retreat, let the voice of the Calebs be heard, even though the cowardly ones stand with stones in their hands, ready to beat them down for their faithful testimony.  {PH157 22.3}
[PH157 23.1]         Practical Godliness. ［SELECTIONS FROM           A TESTIMONY TO THE OAKLAND CHURCH,             FOUND IN TESTIMONY NO. 33.］          Dear Brethren and Sisters at Oakland: My mind is drawn out to write to you. Again and again I find myself talking to you in my dreams, and in every case you are in trouble. But whatever comes, let it not enfeeble your moral courage, and cause your religion to degenerate into a heartless form. The loving Jesus is ready to bless abundantly; but we need to obtain an experience in faith, in earnest prayer, and in rejoicing in the love of God. Shall any of us be weighed in the balances and be found wanting? We must watch ourselves, watch the least unholy promptings of our nature, lest we become traitors to the high responsibilities God has bestowed upon us as his human agencies.  {PH157 23.1}
[PH157 23.2]         We must study the warnings and corrections he has given his people in past ages. We do not lack light. We know what works we should avoid, and what requirements he has given us to observe; so if we do not seek to know and do that which is                                ［24］     right, it is because wrong-doing suits the carnal heart better than right-doing.  {PH157 23.2}
[PH157 24.1]          There will always be faithless ones, who wait to be carried forward by the faith of others. They have not an experimental knowledge of the truth, and consequently have not felt its sanctifying power on their own souls. It should be the work of every member of the church, quietly and diligently to search his own heart, and see if his life and character are in harmony with God's great standard of righteousness.  {PH157 24.1}
[PH157 24.2]                    Greater Blessings for Us.          The Lord has done great things for you in California, particularly in Oakland; but there is much more that he would be well pleased to do if you would make your works correspond with your faith. God never honors unbelief with rich blessings. Review what God has done, and then know that it is only the beginning of what he is willing to do.  {PH157 24.2}
[PH157 24.3]          We must place a higher value than we have upon the Scriptures, for therein is the revealed will of God to men. It is not enough merely to assent to the truthfulness of God's Word, but we must search the Scriptures, to learn what they contain. Do we receive the Bible as the "oracle of God"? It is as really a divine communication as though its words came to us in an audible voice. We do not know its preciousness, because we do not obey its instructions.  {PH157 24.3}
[PH157 24.4]                        Past Experiences.          When the truth we now cherish was first seen to be Bible truth, how very strange it appeared,                              ［25］     and how strong was the opposition we had to meet in presenting it to the people for the first time; but how earnest and sincere were the obedient, truth-loving laborers! We were indeed a peculiar people. We were few in numbers, without wealth, without worldly wisdom or worldly honors; and yet we believed God, and were strong and successful, a terror to evil-doers. Our love for one another was steadfast; it was not easily shaken. Then the power of God was manifested among us, the sick were healed, and there was much calm, sweet, holy joy. But while the light has continued to increase, the church has not advanced proportionately. The fine gold has gradually become dim, and deadness and formality have come in to cripple the energies of the church. Their abundant privileges and opportunities have not led God's people onward and upward to purity and holiness. A faithful improvement of the talents God has intrusted to them would greatly increase those talents. Where much is given, much will be required. Those only who faithfully accept and appreciate the light God has given us, and who take a high, noble stand in self-denial and self-sacrifice, will be channels of light to the world. Those who do not advance will retrograde, even on the very borders of the heavenly Canaan. It has been revealed to me that our faith and our works in no way correspond to the light of truth bestowed. We must not have a half-hearted faith, but that perfect faith which works by love and purifies the soul. God calls upon you in California to come into close relationship with him.                             ［26］  {PH157 24.4}
[PH157 26.1]                        Our Great Need.          We should know what we must do to be saved. We should not, my brethren and sisters, float along with the popular current. Our present work is to come out from the world and be separate. This is the only way we can walk with God, as did Enoch. Divine influences were constantly working with his human efforts. Like him, we are called upon to have a strong, living, working faith, and this is the only way we can be laborers together with God. We must meet the conditions laid down in the Word of God, or die in our sins. We must know what moral changes are essential to be made in our characters, through the grace of Christ, in order to be fitted for the mansions above. I tell you in the fear of God, we are in danger of living like the Jews,--destitute of the love of God, and ignorant of his power, while the blazing light of truth is shining all around us.  {PH157 26.1}
[PH157 26.2]          The present activity of Satan in working upon hearts, and upon churches and nations, should startle every student of prophecy. The end is near. Let our churches arise. Let the converting power of God be experienced in the hearts of the individual members, and then we shall see the deep movings of the Spirit of God. The forgiveness of sins is not the sole result of the death of Jesus. He made the infinite sacrifice, not only that sin might be removed, but that human nature might be restored, rebeautified, reconstructed from its ruins, and made fit for the presence of God.  {PH157 26.2}
[PH157 26.3]          We should show our faith by our works. A greater anxiety should be manifested to have a large measure of the Spirit of Christ; for in this                             ［27］     will be the strength of the church. It is Satan who is striving to have God's children draw apart. Love, O, how little love we have--love for God and for one another! The Word and Spirit of truth, dwelling in our hearts, will separate us from the world. The immutable principles of truth and love will bind heart to heart, and the strength of the union will be according to the measure of grace and truth enjoyed. Well would it be for us each to hold up the mirror, God's royal law, and see in it the reflection of his own character. Let us be careful not to neglect the danger signals, and the warnings given in his Word. Unless heed is given to these warnings, and defects of character are overcome, these defects will overcome those who possess them, and they will fall into error, apostasy, and open sin. The mind that is not elevated to the highest standard, will in time lose its power to retain that which it had once gained. "Let him that thinketh he standeth, take heed lest he fall." "Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ."  {PH157 26.3}
[PH157 27.1]                       Danger of Falling.          God has selected a people in these last days, whom he has made the depositaries of his law; and this people will ever have disagreeable tasks to perform. "I know thy works, and thy labor, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil; and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast                               ［28］     found them liars; and hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast labored, and hast not fainted." It will require much diligence and a continual struggle to keep evil out of our churches. There must be rigid, impartial discipline exercised; for some who have a semblance of religion, will seek to undermine the faith of others, and will privily work to exalt themselves.  {PH157 27.1}
[PH157 28.1]          The Lord Jesus, on the Mount of Olives, plainly stated that "because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold." He speaks of a class who have fallen from a high state of spirituality. Let such utterances as these come home with solemn, searching power to our hearts. Where is the fervor, the devotion to God, that corresponds to the greatness of the truth which we claim to believe? The love of the world, the love of some darling sin, has weaned the heart from the love of prayer, and of meditation on sacred things. A formal round of religious services is kept up; but where is the love of Jesus? Spirituality is dying. Is this torpor, this mournful deterioration, to be perpetuated? Is the lamp of truth to flicker and go out in darkness, because it is not replenished by the oil of grace?  {PH157 28.1}
[PH157 28.2]          There will be some terrible falls by those who think they stand firm, because they have the truth; but they have it not as it is in Jesus. A moment's carelessness may plunge a soul into irretrievable ruin. One sin leads to the second, and the second prepares the way for the third, and so on. We must, as faithful messengers of God, plead with him constantly to be kept by his power. If we swerve a single inch from duty, we are in danger                              ［29］     of following on in a course of sin that will end in perdition. There is hope for every one of us, but only in one way, and that is by binding ourselves to Christ, and exerting every energy to attain to the perfection of his character.  {PH157 28.2}
[PH157 29.1]                         Solemn Warnings.          That religion which makes of sin a light matter, dwelling upon the love of God to the sinner regardless of his actions, only encourages the sinner to believe that God will receive him while he continues in that which he knows to be sin. This is what some are doing who profess to believe present truth. The truth is kept apart from the life, and that is the reason it has no power to convict and convert the soul.  {PH157 29.1}
[PH157 29.2]          God has shown me that the truth as it is in Jesus has never been brought into the lives of some in California. They do not have the religion of the Bible. They have never been converted; and unless their hearts are sanctified through the truth which they have accepted, they will be bound up with the tares; for they bear no clusters of precious fruit to show that they are branches of the Living Vine.  {PH157 29.2}
[PH157 29.3]          "Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon." The lives of many show that they have no living connection with God. They are drifting into the channel of the world. They have, in reality, no part or lot with                              ［30］     Christ. They love amusement, and are filled with selfish ideas, plans, hopes, and ambitions. They serve the enemy under the pretense of serving God. They are in bondage to a task-master, and this bondage they choose, making themselves willing slaves of Satan.  {PH157 29.3}
[PH157 30.1]          The false idea entertained by many, that the restraining of children is an injury, is ruining thousands upon thousands. Satan will surely take possession of the children if you are not on your guard. Do not encourage their association with the ungodly. Draw them away. Come  out from among such yourselves, and show them that you are on the Lord's side.  {PH157 30.1}
[PH157 30.2]          Will those who claim to be the children of the Most High, elevate the standard,--not simply while assembled in your meeting, but as long as time shall last? Will you not be on the Lord's side, and serve him with full purpose of heart? If you do as did the children of Israel in forsaking God's express requirements, you will surely receive of his judgments; but if you put away sin, and exercise living faith, the richest of heaven's blessings will be yours.                  Mrs. E. G. White.  {PH157 30.2}
[PH089 3.1]         PH089 - Spiritual Advancement the Object of Camp-Meetings (1897)           Our camp-meetings are not conducted in a way that will result in the greatest benefit to the largest number of those who attend, and the reason for this is that spiritual interests do not have the prominence which they should have in meetings of this character. Many and varied business meetings divide the attention, and meetings for the education of workers in different departments of missionary work, claim the services of those who should devote themselves to feeding the flock of God.  {PH089 3.1}
[PH089 3.2]         All these different interests are of great importance; but when they have been attended to at camp-meeting, only a small margin of time and effort remains in which to treat of the practical relation of truth to the soul. Those who come for enlightenment and strength, return to their homes little better fitted to work in their families and churches than they were before they came to the meeting.  {PH089 3.2}
[PH089 3.3]          Many meetings are conducted in which the larger number of the people have little interest, and if they could attend all the meetings, they would go away wearied instead of refreshed and benefited. The special branches of the work should receive attention; but they should not be allowed to monopolize the time and talent of those who are called of God to look after the spiritual interests of the people; and if they are                             -4-     diverted from this work of building up the children of God in the most holy faith, the camp-meeting does not meet the end for which it has been appointed.  {PH089 3.3}
[PH089 4.1]                   The Specific Object   of the camp-meeting is to lead the people to discern what they must do to inherit eternal life. If the time is given up largely to the education of canvassers and workers, the spiritual standard is not elevated before the people. Many are disappointed over the failure of their expectations in gaining help from the camp-meetings, but think that the order of things cannot be changed, and that they must submit to the existing state of affairs; but decided reforms are possible and essential. Methods must be discovered, plans must be carried out, whereby the standard shall be uplifted, the people taught how they may be purified from all iniquity, and may be elevated by adherence to pure and exalted principles.                      How to Speak.           Those who labor at camp-meeting should have an appreciation of the importance and solemnity of their work. They should not imagine that a display of oratory, a discourse made up of flashy rhetoric, spoken in a loud voice, is something essential to the salvation of souls. The minister should learn to speak in a clear, low voice, using the vocal organs in such a way that the throat and lungs will not be taxed or injured. He should cultivate a pleasing manner, and give discourses short and to the point. In this way neither minister nor people will be wearied.  {PH089 4.1}
[PH089 4.2]          Some of our ministers have worn themselves out by loud speaking and long sermons, and they                             -5-     have been looked upon as martyrs to the cause, when they were victims of unwise habits. Brethren, your voice is a talent given you of God, by which you are to glorify your Creator. It can be put to the highest use, or perverted and abused. You can use it in such a way that the vital organs will be enfeebled and injured. Every power God has given should be used with discretion, that physical vigor may be preserved. The minister must have strength for work in the pulpit, and in the homes of those who are interested or in need of personal effort.  {PH089 4.2}
[PH089 5.1]          The conversion of souls does not depend on the loud tone or the long discourse, but on the conviction which attends the word spoken, on the inculcation of ideas that are of vital importance in obtaining eternal life. How much better truth is appreciated when spoken in a calm, unexcited way. Ministers should feel the importance of the theme of redemption: and realizing that they are speaking to judgment-bound souls, their voices should be filled with pathos and melody, and the words of eternal life should be spoken with distinctness and impressiveness, that the people may realize the value of the truth.  {PH089 5.1}
[PH089 5.2]          To preach in a hard, strained voice, pitched on a high key, is suicidal, and those who have practised this way of speaking should cease to do it, and learn of the divine Teacher. Several of our ministers might have been alive today if they had observed the simple rules that apply to the use of the voice. Let loud speaking and long discourses cease from among us.  {PH089 5.2}
[PH089 5.3]             Intervals Between Discourses.          Do not immediately follow one discourse with another, but let a period of rest intervene, that                             -6-     the truth may be fastened in the mind, and that opportunity for meditation and prayer may be given for both minister and people. In this way there will be growth in religious knowledge and experience.  {PH089 5.3}
[PH089 6.1]          Bible readings should be given, and believers and unbelievers should have an opportunity to ask questions on points not fully understood. Those who profess to be advocates of truth should ask questions that will bring forth answers that will shed light upon the present truth.  {PH089 6.1}
[PH089 6.2]          If any ask questions that serve to confuse the mind, and to sow doubt and questioning, they should be advised to abstain from such questioning, that others may be brought to Christ. We must learn when to speak and when to keep silent, and learn to sow seeds of faith, to reflect light and not darkness. Special meetings should be appointed for those who are interested in the truth, and who need instruction.  {PH089 6.2}
[PH089 6.3]                   Study the Model.          Christ is the minister's model. How directly to the point, how well adapted to the purpose and circumstances, are Christ's words! How clear and forcible are his illustrations! His style is characterized by simplicity and solemnity. Throughout the teachings of Christ, there is nothing to justify the minister in the relation of humorous anecdotes in the pulpit. The lessons of Christ should be carefully studied, and the subjects, manner, and form of discourses should be modeled after the divine Pattern. Oratorical display, flashy rhetoric, and fine gestures do not constitute a fine discourse. Many are deceived by these things, and call a man a good minister who does not deserve the name.                             -7-  {PH089 6.3}
[PH089 7.1]          If the simplicity of the gospel of Christ is lacking in a discourse, there is great need that the minister learn lessons of the divine Teacher, that he may become truly wise. The minister must have his heart melted by the love of Christ, and his words must be full of divine power. He must lift up Jesus, making him the center of attraction, the source of all power. The truth as it is in Jesus will be efficacious in converting souls to God. The holy truth is always to be presented in its true simplicity; for in this time, when the end of all things is at hand, the way of the Lord is to be prepared, the third angel's message is to lighten the earth with its glory.  {PH089 7.1}
[PH089 7.2]          The greatest Teacher the world ever knew, educated those who came to him, in the simplest way. Sometimes he taught them, sitting among them on the mountainside; sometimes walking with them by the sea or way, he revealed to them the mysteries of the kingdom of God. He did not sermonize as men do today. In intensely earnest tones he assured them of the truths of the life to come, of the way of salvation.  {PH089 7.2}
[PH089 7.3]         The Jews did not expect the Messiah to come as a teacher, but as a temporal king, to sit upon the throne of David; and if they had spoken the unbelief of their hearts, they would have scoffed at the idea of his Messiahship. And yet some believed on him, even among the chiefs and rulers. Nicodemus voiced the sentiments of many when he said, "Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God; for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him."                             -8-  {PH089 7.3}
[PH089 8.1]             The Need in Our Camp-Meetings.          If the man who feels himself called of God to be a minister, will abase himself and learn of Christ, he will become a true teacher. This is what we need in our camp-meetings--a ministry vivified with the Holy Ghost. There must be less sermonizing, and more tact to educate the people in practical religion. The people must be impressed with the fact that Jesus is salvation to all who believe in him. "God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." There are grand themes on which the gospel minister may dwell. Jesus has said, "He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life."  {PH089 8.1}
[PH089 8.2]          If the minister's lips are touched with a coal from off the altar, he will lift up Jesus as the sinner's only hope. When the heart of the speaker is sanctified through the truth, his words will be living realities to himself and to others; for those who hear him will know that he has been with God, and drawn near to him in fervent, effectual prayer. The Holy Spirit has fallen upon him, and his soul has felt the vital, heavenly fire, and he will be able to compare spiritual things with spiritual, and to tear down the strongholds of the enemy. Hearts will be broken by his presentation of the love of God, and many will inquire, "What must I do to be saved?"  {PH089 8.2}
[PH089 8.3]                      No Frivolity.          The minister who is ready to engage in frivolous conversation, ready to jest and laugh, does not realize the sacred obligations resting upon him, and if he goes from such an exercise to the                            -9-     pulpit, the Lord cannot stand by his side to bless him. The Lord cannot be a hammer to break the flinty rock in pieces; the man stands alone. If the people are in any way affected, it is not due to the efforts of the minister, but in answer to their own prayers. If they have felt their need, if they have besought God for a blessing, by drawing nigh to him, then God has fulfilled his word and drawn nigh to them. If the people have friends for whom they have carried a burden, and these friends turn to God in true contrition of heart, the credit does not belong to the Christless discourse; for God has set other influences at work to change the heart and convert the soul. O that all our ministers might be indeed the ambassadors of Christ!  {PH089 8.3}
[PH089 9.1]          Flowery discourses will not be sufficient to feed the soul of the famishing child of God. The following desire will give a voice to the longing of many a heart that is fed on what are called "smart sermons." An intelligent man remarked, "O that my pastor would give me something besides pretty flowers, and brilliant periods, and intellectual treats! My soul is famishing for the bread of life. I long for something simple and nourishing and Scriptural."  {PH089 9.1}
[PH089 9.2]          Daniel Webster gave utterance to these forcible words: "If clergymen in our day would return to the simplicity of gospel truth, and preach more to individuals and less to the crowd, there would not be so much complaint of the decline of true religion. Many of the ministers of the present day take their text from St. Paul, and preach from the newspapers. When they do so, I prefer to enjoy my own thoughts, rather than listen. I want my pastor to come to me in the spirit of the gospel, saying, 'You are mortal. Your                            -10-     probation is brief, your work must be done speedily. . . . You are hastening to the bar of God. The Judge standeth before the door.'"  {PH089 9.2}
[PH089 10.1]                 Instruction to Timothy Applicable.          In giving Timothy instruction, Paul exhorted him to "preach the word." He said, "Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ."  {PH089 10.1}
[PH089 10.2]          The apostle presented before Timothy certain principles which he was to observe and teach, and then he declared, "Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers. Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."  {PH089 10.2}
[PH089 10.3]                     Study Appropriateness.          The various points of truth are not all equally appropriate to be presented to a congregation at any one time. Even Jesus said to his disciples, who had been with him for three years, "I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now." We must endeavor to present the truth as the people are prepared to hear it and to appreciate its value. The Spirit of God is working upon the minds and hearts of men, and we are to work in harmony with it.  {PH089 10.3}
[PH089 10.4]          Of some truths they already have a knowledge; there are some in which they are interested, of which they are ready to learn more. Show them                               -11-     the deep significance of these truths, and their relation to others which they do not understand. Thus you will arouse a desire for greater light. This was Paul's manner of labor. It is "rightly dividing the word of truth."  {PH089 10.4}
[PH089 11.1]                         Preach the Word.          "Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; and that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will."  {PH089 11.1}
[PH089 11.2]          The words addressed to Timothy are addressed to all ministers; and would it not be well if they would become doers of these words? Paul says, "The things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also." The instruction given to Timothy was deemed of great importance, and not to be lost, but was to be communicated to faithful men who would disseminate the light and spread abroad a knowledge of the principles of truth.  {PH089 11.2}
[PH089 11.3]          My ministering brethren, you are to learn the same lessons, for these are the words of Christ through Paul, given for your instruction and admonition: "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                               -12-     furnished unto all good works. I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine."  {PH089 11.3}
[PH089 12.1]          No part of the minister's duty is to be neglected. He is to preach the word, not the opinions of men. He is to labor with individuals, to visit families, not simply to talk of the common-place happenings, but of things of eternal interest, praying with them, and teaching in all simplicity the truth of God.  {PH089 12.1}
[PH089 12.2]                     Business to be Reserved.          The State camp-meetings are not as efficient as they should be in bringing about spiritual advancement, because many matters pertaining to temporal, earthly things are brought in to occupy the mind. That which relates to business should be reserved to be attended to by those who are appointed to give attention to these matters. And as far as possible these business matters should be brought before the churches at some other time.  {PH089 12.2}
[PH089 12.3]          Instruction in regard to conducting the Sabbath-school should to large degree be given in the home churches; for the labor can be made more direct and the results will be more permanent if instruction is given at home. This work does not require the services of the ministers; they should be free to attend to the spiritual interests of the people. They are to teach others what to do. They must instruct the people as to how to come to the Lord and how to lead others to him.  {PH089 12.3}
[PH089 12.4]          There must be time for heart-searching, for soul-culture. When the mind is occupied with                            -13-     all these matters of business, there must necessarily be a dearth of spiritual power. Personal piety, true faith, and heart-holiness are not kept before the mind until the people realize their importance.  {PH089 12.4}
[PH089 13.1]          We must have the power of God with us in our camp-meetings, or we shall not be able to prevail against the enemy of souls. Christ says, "Without me ye can do nothing."  {PH089 13.1}
[PH089 13.2]          Those who gather at camp-meetings must be impressed with the fact that the object of our meetings is to attain to a higher Christian experience, to advance in the knowledge of God, to become strengthened with spiritual vigor; and unless we realize this, the meetings will be fruitless to us.  {PH089 13.2}
[PH089 13.3]                      The Minister's Need.          The ministers need to humble their souls before God, and cleanse the soul-temple of every moral and spiritual defilement, that they may attain unto the likeness of Christ in spirit and character, and know how to watch for souls. This they can never do without the impartation of the divine nature and Spirit. Love must be the abiding principle of the soul that would win others to Christ. But how little love is there for God, or for man formed in his image.  {PH089 13.3}
[PH089 13.4]          When man is a partaker of the divine nature, the love of Jesus will be an abiding principle in the soul, and self and its peculiarities will not be exhibited. But it is sad to see those who should be vessels unto honor, indulging in the gratification of the lower nature, and walking in paths that conscience condemns. The corruption within unites with the corruption without, and men professing to be followers of Christ, fall to a low                               -14-     level, always mourning over their shortcomings, but never overcoming, and bruising Satan under their feet. Guilt and condemnation constantly enshroud the soul, and the cry of such might well be, "O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?" Through indulgence in sin, self-respect is destroyed; and when that is gone, respect for others is lessened, because we are under the impression that others are as unrighteous as we are ourselves.  {PH089 13.4}
[PH089 14.1]          At our yearly convocations these things should be set before the people, and they should be encouraged to hope in the Lord, for he says, "When ye shall search for me with all your heart," "I will be found of you." The standard should be elevated, and the preaching should be of a more spiritual character, that the people may see the reason of their weakness and unhappiness. Many are unhappy because they are unholy. Purity of heart, innocence of mind, only can be truly blessed of God. When sin is cherished in the heart, there can be nothing but unhappiness in the end; and the sin which leads to the most unhappy results is pride of heart, the lack of Christlike sympathy and love.  {PH089 14.1}
[PH089 14.2]                Those in Responsible Positions.          Many are satisfied with business activity in the cause of God, while their hearts are destitute of love and compassion one for another. They know nothing of the tender sympathy that dwelt in the bosom of Jesus; and unless their characters are transformed, unless the heart is made tender, and they become partakers of the divine nature, they will make grave blunders, and fail to become inhabitants of heaven.                             -15-  {PH089 14.2}
[PH089 15.1]          Those who are holding responsible positions need to drink deep at the fountain of Christ's love, that their hearts may be made kind and their actions considerate. By his word, by the testimonies of his Spirit. God is appealing to his people both early and late, urging them to the attainment of the divine ideal.  {PH089 15.1}
[PH089 15.2]          It was for this end that Christ took human nature upon himself. The elevation of man is the object of the plan of salvation. This elevation of character is to be reached through the merit and grace of Christ. We are continually to behold him, to meditate on the grace of his character, to contemplate his love: and by beholding, we shall become changed.  {PH089 15.2}
[PH089 15.3]                    The Father's Mercy.          When Moses besought God to show him his glory, the Lord passed by before him, and proclaimed, "The Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty." It grieves the heart of God, as our Father, to let justice smite. He "suffereth long and is kind." While men are hard-hearted, condemnatory, and willing to abandon the one who needs help that his soul may be saved from death, the Father, with heart filled with love for the sinner, opens his arms, and says, "Child, come back to me." If the Lord were not full of mercy and abundant in goodness, we should not be the subjects of his grace and love today. He pardons abundantly, He entreats the sinner to confess his sin, to come to him and accept forgiveness.                            -16-  {PH089 15.3}
[PH089 16.1]         And yet, with the lessons of Christ's life before them, how many who claim to be his followers, fail to be tender-hearted, forgiving, and full of love and compassion. In the hardness of their own hearts, in the iron-like stubbornness of their own will, they wound and bruise the souls for whom Christ has died. If they think a brother has erred, they are severe toward him, not remembering that they themselves are in constant need of God's mercy. They pass lightly over things in themselves that are grievous in the sight of God, but censure without mercy those whom they think blamable. How differently does God deal with the sinner! he forgives transgression and sin. He loved us and gave himself for us. What does it mean that such hardness of heart is manifested among the professed children of God? It is an offense to God; for it misrepresents his character.  {PH089 16.1}
[PH089 16.2]                     Be Ye Therefore Merciful.          "God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." It was the love of God that gave Christ to the world, that he might draw all men unto himself. It is for this end that the Spirit is striving with human hearts, that their hardness may be melted away, that they may be purified, ennobled, refined. God would have us of the same mind as was Christ, that we may be fitted for eternal life, and be the sons and daughters of God.  {PH089 16.2}
[PH089 16.3]          When men in connection with the work of God manifest severity, hardness of heart, showing a lack of sympathy and love, they make it evident that Satan is molding them after his own order. The leaven of unrighteousness is working in                              -17-     them, and the loss of souls will result from their unchristian course. My brethren, all this coldness, this hardness of heart, must be put away.  {PH089 16.3}
[PH089 17.1]          When the gold of love is sought for, when the divine nature is imparted to you, men will see a love which is impartial, pure, elevated, and fervent, and the fruits of pure and undefiled religion will appear. To manifest affection in kindly words, in acts of tender consideration, will not then be looked upon as weak and unmanly, but brethren will press together, and bear testimony to the world that the religion of Christ is of divine origin.  {PH089 17.1}
[PH089 17.2]                Essential Work at Camp-Meetings.          The things most essential to be taught at our camp-meetings are those that will most tend to the spiritual advancement of the people. The order that has come in, and has almost imperceptibly molded the character of the meetings, giving them more of a business influence than a spiritual influence, must be changed.  {PH089 17.2}
[PH089 17.3]          The important truths of practical godliness must be presented. The people must be made to realize that faith and love must be brought into the soul; for it is the exercise of these graces that will give the proper training to the soul. Christ must be formed within, the hope of glory. These things must be taught, line upon line, and precept upon precept, here a little, and there a little. The holiness and consecration which Christ requires of his followers, must ever be kept before the mind.  {PH089 17.3}
[PH089 17.4]          The greater the simplicity of our faith and the more earnest and loving our trust, the more constant will be our peace in Christ. We shall have to fight the good fight of faith again and again;                              -18-     for we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, "against wicked spirits in high places."  {PH089 17.4}
[PH089 18.1]          We must put away all slothfulness in the work, and strive to run the Christian race, that we may win the prize--the immortal crown of glory. We must come to the Lord in faith, that he may fulfil his promises to us; for the clean heart, the unselfish spirit, are the gracious gifts of God: it is his Spirit that makes us new creatures in Christ Jesus. The word of God leaves the responsibility of our ruin at our own door; everything depends upon our obedience or disobedience.  {PH089 18.1}
[PH089 18.2]                   All of Christ--None of Self.          We must have all of Christ and none of self; then the promises will be fully ours, and the heavenly inspiration will enter and take possession of the soul. The soul-temple will then be fully cleansed from its defilement. Pure and undefiled religion will then be found in the heart: this is the life of God in the soul, and it will be made manifest by good works.  {PH089 18.2}
[PH089 18.3]          The condition upon which we shall receive an increase of grace is that we improve upon that already bestowed; for faith and works go together. There must be no resisting of the Spirit of God, as there has been in the past, but we must lay hold of eternal realities. The forgiveness of sins is promised to him who repents; but if those who have resisted the Spirit of God, who have given wrong impressions of the character of God, do not repent, their names will be blotted out of the book of life.  {PH089 18.3}
[PH089 18.4]          The hand of God is stretched out to save his people from sinking into the formal. Christless                             -19-     state into which the Jewish nation sank; to slight the means which God has ordained for this purpose, is to slight Jesus. The soul that would be saved must co-operate with God in the work of salvation: the human and the divine must unite in faith and practise. If we would have pardon, we must confess our sins, and believe in the mercy of God.  {PH089 18.4}
[PH089 19.1]          What should our Christian life and character be, since God has given us such wonderful light, illuminating the way to heaven! What constant zeal, what prayerful watchfulness, should mark our Christian course! Jesus says, "Strive to enter in at the strait gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able." But though the way is so strait, there is no need of despair if we listen to the voice of God, and obey him instead of our own unsanctified impulses. Christ has said, "My grace is sufficient for thee." His strength is made perfect in weakness.  {PH089 19.1}
[PH089 19.2]                    Lift the Standard Higher.          There has been marked presumption manifested by those who claim to be the children of God. O, how much better to pass the time of our sojourning here in fear,--not in fear that the power of God is not sufficient for us, not that one of his good promises may fail; but in fear of our own sinful hearts. "Fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it." We must lift the standard higher, and still higher, and in and through the grace of Christ we must attain unto it.  {PH089 19.2}
[PH089 19.3]          We must regard the Bible as addressed to us personally; and as we take heed to the words                             -20-     of God, they will be a safeguard to us against the enemy.  {PH089 19.3}
[PH089 20.1]          The religion of many is altogether too comfortable, too easy. They seem to think that if they copy the life of their neighbors, they will be safe. I tell you, we are not safe in copying any one but Jesus. Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. Thank God, probation is not ended, and we are prisoners of hope.  {PH089 20.1}
[PH089 20.2]          There is need of a daily self-examination, daily humiliation, daily learning at the foot of the cross. It is essential that we feel our need, our shortcomings, our failures, and trust fully in Christ. Then we shall be able to show forth the praises of him who has called us out of darkness into his marvelous light.  {PH089 20.2}
[PH089 20.3]                     Advertise and Publish.          We must take every justifiable means of bringing the light of truth before the people. The press must be utilized, and every advertising medium employed that will call attention to our work. Let not this be regarded as unessential. On every corner you may see placards and notices calling the minds of the people to various things that are going on, some of them of the most objectionable nature; and shall those who have the light of life fail to place it where men can have access to it? Shall we hide the light under a bushel? To as great an extent as possible let the important discourses given at our camp-meetings be published in the papers; for in this way precious light may be shed on the pathway of many who sit in darkness.  {PH089 20.3}
[PH089 20.4]          Many regard us as the unbelieving Jews regarded Paul,--as trying to press our views upon the attention of others. But can we be too                              -21-     urgent in bringing the light of life before perishing men? If we have the most solemn truth ever given to the world, why should we not be in earnest? Why should we not use every endeavor to persuade men to lift the cross, to bear the reproach for Christ's sake, that they may have eternal life?  {PH089 20.4}
[PH089 21.1]                 Put Your Light on a Candlestick          That it may give light to all that are in the house. Many are praying, and asking the Lord to show them what is truth. If the truth has been revealed to us, we are to make it so plain to others that the honest in heart may recognize it and rejoice in its bright rays.  {PH089 21.1}
[PH089 21.2]          Nathanael prayed that he might know whether or not the man announced by John the Baptist as the Messiah was indeed the Lamb of God that taketh away the sin of the world. While he was laying his perplexities before God, and asking for light, Philip called him, and in earnest, joyful tones exclaimed, "We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph."  {PH089 21.2}
[PH089 21.3]          But Nathanael was prejudiced against the Nazarenes: through the influence of false teaching, unbelief arose in his heart, and he asked, "Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth?" Philip did not try to combat his prejudice and unbelief. He said, "Come and see." Philip was wise, for as soon as Nathanael saw Jesus, he was convinced that Philip was right. His unbelief was swept away, and faith, firm, strong, and abiding, took possession of his soul. Jesus commended the trusting faith of Nathanael.  {PH089 21.3}
[PH089 21.4]          There are many in the same position as was Nathanael. They are prejudiced and unbelieving                            -22-     because they have never come in contact with the truth or the people who hold it, and it will need but an attendance on a meeting full of the Spirit of Christ to sweep away their unbelief. No matter what we have to meet, what opposition, what efforts to turn souls away from the truth of heavenly origin, we must give publicity to our faith, that honest souls may see and hear and be convinced for themselves. Our work is to say as did Philip, "Come and see." We must not put our light under a bushel but on a candlestick, that it may give light to all that are in the house.  {PH089 21.4}
[PH089 22.1]          We hold no doctrine that we wish to hide. To those who have been educated to keep the first day of the week as a sacred day, the most objectionable feature of our faith is the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. But does not God's word declare that the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God? And although it is not an easy matter to make the required change from the first to the seventh day, this change must be made. It involves a cross; it clashes with the precepts and practises of men. Learned men have taught the people till they are full of unbelief and prejudice; and yet we must say to these people, "Come and see." God requires us to proclaim the truth, and let it discover error.  {PH089 22.1}
[PH089 22.2]                   The Third Angel's Message.          The third angel is represented as following the first and second angels, and crying with a loud voice, "If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation . . . .                            -23-     Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus."  {PH089 22.2}
[PH089 23.1]          Shall not we who read these threatenings, and who believe the word of God, give the warning to a world lying in darkness? The angels are represented as flying in the midst of heaven, uttering a solemn proclamation. Their voices are not heard by the inhabitants of earth, save through the people who carry forward the work as the messengers of God. Those who search the Scriptures understand the messages given by the angels and take up the cry proclaiming the warning to the world. The three messages for this time are of most solemn import, and it is of the greatest consequence to those who hear whether or not they act upon the light given.  {PH089 23.1}
[PH089 23.2]          God calls upon his faithful watchmen who see the danger, to lift up the cry, "The morning cometh, and also the night." It is the work of every soul who understands Bible truth for this time, to unite his voice with the messengers in proclaiming the message, in pushing the triumphs of the cross. The truth must be presented in its simplicity, and laid out in clear lines. We are in no case to hide our light under a bushel, as if ashamed of it. We have nothing of which to be ashamed; the commandments of God are to be honored above the traditions and commandments of men.  {PH089 23.2}
[PH089 23.3]          Then, brethren, use wisely the precious light that God has given, presenting it to the people in the meekness and gentleness of Christ. Meet the prejudice of the people with an invitation such as Philip gave Nathanael,--"Come and see." Say, "If Seventh-day Adventists have the truth, and can prove it so from the oracles of                            -24-     God, you do not wish to be found fighting against God." We are to be bodies of light, proclaiming Christ and his love to the people, and presenting all our doctrines in their true relation to this important theme.  {PH089 23.3}
[PH089 24.1]                        Lift Up Christ.          We must expect to meet opposition and unbelief. The truth has always had to meet these elements. In the days of Christ, the scribes and Pharisees were filled with opposition to his work. When it was declared that "God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life," they were as full of criticism and prejudice at this statement as are the people today when they hear the doctrines held by the Seventh-day Adventists. We shall have to meet people as full of hatred to our work as were the priests and rulers in the days of Christ to his work.  {PH089 24.1}
[PH089 24.2]         It is our duty, however, to diffuse light in every direction, and lay out in clear lines what the sinner must do in order to obtain eternal life. The words of Christ jarred upon the prejudices of Nicodemus. He had been educated to believe that the Jews were the people to whom, as the descendants of Abraham, came the exclusive privileges of the gospel. All outside the Jewish nation were the subjects of wrath and condemnation. He had acknowledged that Christ was a teacher from God, but to be told that God's love was toward all men, that the mercy of God was for all who believed in Christ, was to him a new revelation.  {PH089 24.2}
[PH089 24.3]          O that men could understand that long years of custom and tradition do not convert error                          -25-     into truth! Salvation is for all who believe, and there is no respect of persons or nations with God. The truth must be made to appear before men, whether they will hear or whether they will forbear. We must preach Christ and him crucified, and return to the old paths, and lead others in the good way. We must lift up Jesus and let self sink out of sight, that Christ may draw to himself the souls for whom he has died.  {PH089 24.3}
[PH089 25.1]                 Proper Location of Camp-Meetings.          In the sermon on the mount, Christ said to his disciples. "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."  {PH089 25.1}
[PH089 25.2]          If our camp-meetings are conducted as they should be, they will indeed be a light in the world. It is not wisdom to locate them in some far-away place, difficult of access. As I have come upon camp-grounds located several miles from a city. I have been pained at heart, and have said to myself, "A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house."  {PH089 25.2}
[PH089 25.3]                          From Place To Place.          The camp-meetings should be moved from place to place, and not located at the same city or town more than twice or three times. They should be conducted in such a way that much good may be accomplish, and the truth properly presented and represented by those who believe it. Whatever                             -26-     manifests the Lord Jesus Christ to the world is light.  {PH089 25.3}
[PH089 26.1]          There are many honest souls who are in darkness; they have confused ideas as to what the Scriptures teach; and if the lessons of Christ the truths of the Bible, in their simplicity, are placed before them, they will recognize the light and rejoice in it. Their perplexities will vanish before the light of the truth as dew before the morning sun. Their conceptions of Bible truth will be expanded, and the revelation of God in Christ will come to them, showing them the depth, breadth, and height of divine and spiritual mystery that they did not discern before, that cannot be explained, but only exemplified in Christlike character.  {PH089 26.1}
[PH089 26.2]          The world in its wisdom knows not God; for the wisdom among men is not drawn from the great Source of all light and wisdom. The world cannot see the beauty, the loveliness, goodness, and holiness, of divine truth. And in order that men may understand it, there must be a channel through which it shall come to the world. The Saviour has constituted the church that channel; for he has said, "Ye are the light of the world." The professed follower of Christ is under the most solemn obligation to let his light shine that Jesus may be made manifest to the world. Christ has revealed himself to us that we may reveal him to others.  {PH089 26.2}
[PH089 26.3]                Minister In Spiritual Things.          The presidents of conferences, the ministers of the churches, should give themselves to the spiritual interests of the people, and should be excused from the mechanical labor attendant on the camp-meeting. The ministers should not be                            -27-     wearied out, but should feel refreshed and be in a cheerful frame of mind; for this is essential to the best good of the meetings. They should be able to speak words of cheer and courage and drop seeds of spiritual truth into the soil of honest hearts, to spring up and bear precious fruit.  {PH089 26.3}
[PH089 27.1]          The Lord has left his light shine upon us that we may impart it to others. Ye are laborers together with God. There are men and women who are following the Saviour according to the best light they have, and the light of advanced truth will be brought before these honest souls. Some will take their feet from off the Sabbath, and maintain their loyalty to God.  {PH089 27.1}
[PH089 27.2]                   Frequent Prayer And Counsel.          Those who labor at camp-meetings should frequently engage in prayer, and counsel together, that they may labor intelligently. The practical lessons of Christ are to be often repeated. Christ and his righteousness are to be so blended with the third angel's message that the whole world may be lightened with his glory.  {PH089 27.2}
[PH089 27.3]          All should have a personal, experimental knowledge of what Jesus may be to them, or they cannot proclaim the truth as it is in Jesus. Personal faith in the efficacy of the blood of Christ in our own behalf, gives "peace and assurance forever." In the time of trouble and test, we shall fear no evil; for who can lay anything to the charge of God's elect? The Lord justifies them for the sake of Christ, who gave his precious blood for their redemption.  {PH089 27.3}
[PH089 27.4]          We must walk and act in obedience to God in harmony with his plan for the salvation of the world. No soul can be saved in disobedience.                                -28-     There is great danger of losing our interest in one another, losing our love for those for whom Christ died, because we do not live in the light of the Sun of Righteousness.  {PH089 27.4}
[PH089 28.1]          Brethren, shall we manifest cold indifference toward these whom we know to be in ignorance of the truth that is to make them wise unto salvation? If our own hearts were touched with his divine love, hearts would be melted with the love of Christ, but it is impossible to communicate to others that of which we have no experimental knowledge.  {PH089 28.1}
[PH089 28.2]          This hard-heartedness is of Satan. There are many ways in which he works. He seeks to make men who claim to believe the truth, faithless, loveless, proud, selfish, haughty, tyrannical. He well knows that those who possess such characteristics can never be a savor of life unto life. They exert no fragrant influence, but rather wound and bruise the souls of those whom they might relieve and comfort.  {PH089 28.2}
[PH089 28.3]                     Copy The Pattern.          God would have every soul copy the Pattern; as he was in the world, so are his followers to be. It is not in the order of God that men should be harsh, unsympathetic, without the grace of love and patience, without true affection for others. Paul says, "Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ." Said Job, "Did not I weep for him that was in trouble? Was not my soul grieved for the poor?" We only can let our light shine to the glory of God when we manifest the goodness and mercy of Christ, not only toward those who please us, but toward those who are faulty and erring and sinful. Let all our works be wrought in God, and                               -29-     if we have unamiable traits of character, let us overcome these unsavory representatives, and cease to dishonor God and bring the truth into disrepute.  {PH089 28.3}
[PH089 29.1]              Represent The Love of Christ.          Our ministers and teachers should seek to represent the love of Christ to a fallen word. The discourses at our camp-meetings should not be of an oratorical character altogether, for they will be then as the offering of Cain, without the blood of Christ to make them acceptable to Heaven. They should show how God has manifested his hatred of sin and his love for the sinner. Is there any love in the whole world that bears comparison with the love that God has manifested to a lost world? God has commended his love toward us in that he has given all heaven in one gift, even in the gift of his only begotten and well-beloved Son.  {PH089 29.1}
[PH089 29.2]          The love of God is to be brought before the people. With hearts melted into tenderness, let the words of God be spoken to the people. Let the messages of truth go to all the highways and byways of the earth, and let those who are in error be treated with the gentleness of Christ.  {PH089 29.2}
[PH089 29.3]          If those with whom you are laboring do not immediately and readily grasp the truth, do not censure, do not criticise and condemn, but ever remember that you are to represent Christ in his meekness and gentleness and love. Then you will be indeed a laborer together with God, teaching the truth as it is in Jesus; and every soul won to Christ will be a star in the crown of your rejoicing. Through you should meet with the bitterest opposition.--                              -30-               Do Not Denounce Your Opponents.     They may think as did Paul, that they are doing God service, and to such we must manifest patience, meekness, long-suffering. This is the only way in which we can be a savor of life unto life.  {PH089 29.3}
[PH089 30.1]          Let us not feel that we have heavy trials to bear, severe conflicts to endure, in representing unpopular truth. Think of Jesus and what he has suffered for you, and be silent. Make no complaint, speak no word of murmuring, let no thought of reproach or discontent enter your mind, even when abused and falsely accused.  {PH089 30.1}
[PH089 30.2]          Take a straightforward course, "having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evil-doers, they may be your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation." "Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are called, that ye should inherit a blessing. 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? But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye, and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled; but sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear."                           -31-  {PH089 30.2}
[PH089 31.1]          You should conduct yourself with meekness to those who are in error, for were you not recently in blindness in your sins? and because of the patience of Christ should you not be tender and patient to others? The apostle exhorts us to "be pitiful, be courteous." God has given us many admonitions to manifest great kindness toward those who oppose us lest we balance a soul in the wrong direction.  {PH089 31.1}
[PH089 31.2]          Our life must be hid with Christ in God, we must know Christ personally: for this is eternal life to know God and Jesus Christ: then only can we rightly represent him to the world. Let the prayer constantly ascend, "Lord, teach me how to do as Jesus would do, were he in my place." Wherever we are, we must let our light shine forth to the glory of God in good works. This is the great, important interest of our life.  {PH089 31.2}
[PH089 31.3]                        A Word in Season.          Those who keep in a prayerful frame of mind, will be able to speak a word in season to those who are brought within the sphere of their influence; for God will give wisdom whereby they may serve the Lord Jesus. "When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee." You will open your mouth with wisdom, and in your tongue will be the law of kindness.  {PH089 31.3}
[PH089 31.4]          If those who claim to be Christians will heed the words of Christ, all who come in contact with them will acknowledge that they have been with Jesus and have learned of him. They will represent Christ, and eternal things will be the theme of thought and conversation. The realities of eternity will be brought near. They will                            -32-     watch for souls as they that must give an account. To watch for souls means more than many seem to think; it means to go out and search for the lost sheep of the house of Israel.  {PH089 31.4}
[PH089 32.1]                        Simple Faith.          Simple faith in the atoning blood can save my soul: and with John. I must call the attention of all to the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. Jesus has saved me, though I had nothing to present to him, and could only say:--                  "In my hand no price I bring,               Simply to thy cross I cling."  {PH089 32.1}
[PH089 32.2]          Never did a sinner seek the Saviour with the whole heart, but that the Saviour was found of him. Every soul who trusts in Jesus can say:--                  "Just as I am, thou wilt receive,               Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;               Because thy promise I believe;               O Lamb of God, I come, I come."  {PH089 32.2}
[PH089 32.3]          We may claim the blessed assurance, "I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions." Thy "sins, which are many, are forgiven." O how precious, how refreshing, is the sunlight of God's love! The sinner may look upon his sin-stained life, and say, "Who is he that condescended? It is Christ that died." "Where sin abounded, grace did much more abound." Christ, the Restorer, plants a new principle of life in the soul, and that plant grows and produces fruit. The grace of Christ purifies while it pardons, and fits men for a holy heaven. We are to grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, until we reach the full stature of men and women in Christ.                            -33-  {PH089 32.3}
[PH089 33.1]                 Reach the Standard.          O that we might all reach the high standard which God has set before us, and no longer remain dwarfs in the religious life! What beams of light would be reflected to the world in good works, if we should become light-bearers such as God would have us! How many would respond to the light, and in their turn become channels of light to others! In place of standing still, go forward. Instead of complaining, rejoice that Christ has made ample provision for your salvation. It is always hard to do the work of God when you leave Christ out of your experience. Jesus says, "Without me ye can do nothing;" but through Christ who strengtheneth us, we can do all things.  {PH089 33.1}
[PH089 33.2]          I appeal to the presidents of Conferences and to ministers and workers in the cause, to arise by faith and be diligent, valiant workers with God. Every believer must be energized by the Spirit of Christ, and reach the people through the power of God. The Saviour is not in Joseph's new tomb; he has risen from the sepulcher, and has ascended into heaven to be our surety, to plead the merits of his blood in our behalf. We have a living Saviour to carry forward his own work upon the earth. We are not to work alone. The ministers of God must not only preach in the pulpit, but must come in personal contact with the people. Personal labor must be put forth, that souls may be rescued from the snare of the enemy. Then let us work in all earnestness and faith, and we shall reap a blessed harvest.                            Mrs. E. G. White.                           -34-  {PH089 33.2}
[PH089 34.1]           Frequent Change of Location of           Camp-Meetings Important.            Why are the camp-meetings kept year after year in the same locality? Why are they not taken to cities that know nothing of our faith? The plea is. There will be a saving of money and labor. Let the saving be done in other lines. But when souls are to be labored for, and the truth is to come before those who know it not, let us not talk of limiting on this line.  {PH089 34.1}
[PH089 34.2]          A world is to be warned. Watch, wait, pray, work, and let nothing be done through strife and vainglory. Let nothing be done to increase prejudice, but everything possible to make prejudice less, by letting in light--the bright rays of the Sun of Righteousness--amid the moral darkness.  {PH089 34.2}
[PH089 34.3]          There is a great work to be done yet, and every effort possible must be made to reveal Christ as the sin-pardoning Saviour, Christ as the sin-bearer, Christ as the bright and morning star, and the Lord will give us favor before the world until our work is done.--MS.                                               ［35］  {PH089 34.3}
[PH089 35.1]          Manner of Conducting Camp-Meetings.                                                    -       REMARKS OF MRS. E. G. WHITE TO THE GENERAL CONFERENCE       COMMITTEE, WITH QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS AT THE SUMMER       MEETING, LAKE GOGUAC NEAR BATTLE CREEK MICH.. JULY       14, 1890.            Our camp-meetings are a power when they are held in a place where the community is stirred: and they have a great deal more power there than they have among our own people. Advantage should be taken of the impression that is made by our camp-meetings. If something is done that will keep up the interest, many souls might be secured. It is as much our duty to look to the after-interest of a camp-meeting as it is to look after the present interests: because the next time you go, if people were impressed and convicted, and did not yield to that conviction, it is harder to make an impression on their minds than it was before, and you cannot reach them again.  {PH089 35.1}
[PH089 35.2]              Effect of Too Much Preaching.          There is another point I want to speak about: it is about the preaching at our camp-meetings. There is twice the amount of preaching at our camp-meetings that there ought to be. Many smaller matters that lead to things of greater importance, are utterly neglected. The idea seems to be only to preach. And the ministers                           -36-     are so tired that when it comes to looking after the little points that need to be guarded.--which points would close the door to larger evils.--they have no vitality, no time to meditate and pray, and keep themselves in the love of God during the meetings.  {PH089 35.2}
[PH089 36.1]          The sermon should come, not from a mechanical heart, but from a heart that is filled with the love of God, and is subdued and softened by his grace; so that when you speak, the angels of God are enlisted on your side, and Christ is on your side, and it is Christ that makes the impression. Now these things have been neglected at our camp-meetings. We have lost two thirds of all that the camp-meetings were designed to accomplish. The idea seems to be woven into the minds of some that all they have to do is to sermonize, sermonize. While sermons are good in their place, there is sermon after sermon given to the people that they cannot retain in their minds; it is an impossibility for them to do it: and they are just wearied out with sermons.  {PH089 36.1}
[PH089 36.2]                 Improper Manner of Speaking.          And there is another point I want you to see: it is wearing out the ministers, wearing out their vital organs. It is not an easy matter to go to a camp-meeting and speak to the congregations in such a high pitch of voice as many do. There is a certain strain on the vital organs, and you do not realize it, because you feel enthused with the spirit of the subject and the congregation; but afterward you feel as though you were sapped of your strength, and then the very next thing is, "Well, there, I do not feel the Spirit of God; something is the matter with me." The strain has been so terrible on the brain that there is                             -37-     a letting-down. It cannot be otherwise. It is the natural course of things; the next thing is backsliding. You feel too tired to carry the matter out, so that when you do pray, you do not believe that God hears you. You think something is the matter with you. You are separated from God, and you do not know what the matter is; and therefore you will pass over season after season of prayer, and there is a terrible loss in this respect.  {PH089 36.2}
[PH089 37.1]          From the light God has given me, our brethren must get together and consider these things. The camp-meetings lose two thirds of their efficiency and success because the people, after so many discourses have been given, do not have anything clear in their minds; it is a commingling of ideas. There should be more time devoted to the spiritual seeking of God. And there should be a personal effort with each one on the ground. After the meetings are through, there should be a personal investigation with each one on the ground. Each one should be asked how he is going to take these things; if he is going to make a personal application of them. And then you should watch to see if there is an interest in this one and that. Five words spoken to them privately will do more good than the whole discourse has done. But you can do more than that; you can show love and kindness and courtesy; and in doing that you remove prejudice.  {PH089 37.1}
[PH089 37.2]          "Why," they say, "we heard you were the people that did not believe in conversion, and here you are talking to me about conversion, you are appealing to me on conversion." And all that prejudice is swept away then you talk to individuals in that way. But there is strength exhausted at our camp-meetings that need not be;                            -38-     because we can have constant help from God, and be strengthened all the time.  {PH089 37.2}
[PH089 38.1]                  Personal Seeking of God.          These things that God has shown me were brought to my mind as I lay there, as it were, under the enemy Death, and I said to those around me. "I am learning my lesson, and I hope I will not have to learn it again." The lesson was that in the education of young men we should not lead them to think that it is sermonizing that is to do the work. We say it; but let them see the results carried out. After the discourse is through, we should have time to seek God by ourselves. That used to be the way. The ministers would go away and pray together, and they would not let loose until the Spirit of God responded to their prayers. And they would come away with their faces fairly lighted up; and when they spoke to the congregation, their words meant something. They reached the hearts of the people, because the Spirit that gave the blessing to them, prepared the hearts to receive the message. There is far more being done by the universe of heaven than we have any idea of, in preparing the way so that souls will be converted. We want to work in harmony with the messengers of heaven. We want more of God; we do not want to feel that it is our talking and our sermonizing that is to do the work: we want to feel that unless the people are reached through God, they never will be reached.  {PH089 38.1}
[PH089 38.2]               Assist Worthy Young Persons.          When we see a young man of promise, we should use our influence to get him into the College. If young men have not any money,--                          -39-     young men seldom if ever lay up money,--do not say, "Go and work a year, and then go into the College." No; but try to help them; present them before the churches; bear a decided testimony, and say, "Brethren, we want you to help these individuals through College." And all the time you keep your eye on them, just as though you were their guardian.  {PH089 38.2}
[PH089 39.1]          There are men that lie in their graves today that ought to be alive; and there are those that are going there; and what is the reason that God does not raise them up to health?--The Lord wants us to learn our lesson; that is, that we cannot use up the vital energies unreasonably, and exhaust them just as though we had to do the work, and there was not any God in heaven, and we are determined to make a success even at the cost of our lives. But I tell you we must believe that God does work, and that we should enlist him in our work. Say to him, "Your word has said it, that you will be with us always. I do not feel that animation I would like to feel, but God has said it; and it will be done;" and then in a straightforward manner give the practical lessons of Christ, for which the people are starving to death.  {PH089 39.1}
[PH089 39.3]          Sister White.--O, yes, indeed; I have seen it over and over. My husband got in the way of sometimes raising his voice very loud, and it seemed as though he could not get out of that                              -40-     way. And there is a brother in ----- that is dying just as surely as if he were putting a knife to his throat. Now since I have come here, I have thought of that, and I must write to him.  {PH089 39.3}
[PH089 40.3]          Sister White.--In my younger days, I used to talk too loud. The Lord has shown me that I could not make the proper impression upon the people by getting the voice to an unnatural pitch. Then Christ was presented before me, and his manner of talking; and there was a sweet melody in his voice. His voice, in slow, calm manner, reached those who listened, his words penetrated their hearts, and they were able to comprehend what he said before the next sentence was spoken. Some seem to think they must race right straight along, or else they will lose the inspiration, and the people will lose the inspiration. If that is inspiration, let them lose it, and the sooner the better.  {PH089 40.3}
[PH089 40.4]          I wrote an article on that point, when I was at St. Helena, because I felt as though our ministers were going down, and there was some cause for it. They were violating the laws of their being, and their vital organs were suffering.  {PH089 40.4}
[PH089 41.1]          Sister White.--When the congregation is not large, mostly of our people, the way would be to take less time in speaking, and let the people have a chance to testify to what they have heard. When the crowd is there, that could not interest them.  {PH089 41.1}
[PH089 41.3]          Sister White.--That was the way in Christ's day; he would speak to the people, and they would call out a question as to what it meant. He was a teacher of the people.  {PH089 41.3}
[PH089 41.5]          Sister White.--That is the work that has been shown me; that our camp-meetings would increase in success and interest. There are those that want more definite light. There are some that take longer time to get hold of things, and get what you really mean. If they could have the privilege of having it made a little plainer, they would see that, and catch hold of that, and it would be like a nail fastened in a sure place, and it would be written on the tablets of their hearts.  {PH089 41.5}
[PH089 41.6]          When the great throngs would gather about                             -42-     Christ, he would give his lessons of instruction. Then the disciples in different places and different positions, after the discourse, would repeat what Christ had said. The people had misapplied Christ's words. And the disciples would tell the people what the Scriptures said, and what Christ said the Scriptures said. They were learning to be educators. They were next to Christ, getting lessons from him and giving them to the people.  {PH089 41.6}
[PH089 42.2]          Sister White.--There are so many things that come in at our camp-meetings. But the ministers should get together every day and find out what their true feelings are, and what their spiritual feelings are. You should know that everything is drawing in even lines--"that you are standing," as the words were spoken to me, "shoulder to shoulder, marching right ahead, and not drawing off." There is unity of heart when the work is carried on in this way, and there will be harmony among all, and this will be a wonderful means of the blessing of God resting upon the people. There should be hours when the ministers could get together and pray to God.  {PH089 42.2}
[PH089 42.3]         Drilling in Details of Canvassing, Tract             and Missionary Work, Etc.            I have held back from saying it, because I thought there were some that would not receive it; but I want to tell you, from the light God has given me, the time that is taken in our camp-meetings in the drilling of our canvassers should be at another time. It should be done in the                               -43-     several churches and in meetings especially appointed. It should not be done at our camp-meetings. There are some other points that should not be brought in. There is the tract and missionary work,--the drilling in the details of how to do the work. The camp-meetings are for the spiritual enlightenment of the people; and the spiritual part of our experience is to be attended to at our camp-meetings. . . .  {PH089 42.3}
[PH089 43.2]          Sister White.--The whole of it.  {PH089 43.2}
[PH089 43.4]          Sister White.--Exactly; it is not the place for it. That is to be done; but it has its time and place.  {PH089 43.4}
[PH089 43.6]          Sister White.--That is all right; and have those engaged to carry the burden of that work, and not hold the people there to hear those particular things. They have no special work in that branch to do. The time is too precious to be spent in that way.  {PH089 43.6}
[PH089 43.8]          Sister White.--That is just the way it was in Christ's teaching. There would not be anything like a controversy; and after you have answered their questions, be sure that they acknowledge                               -44-     that they are answered. Do not let the question drop; do not tell them to ask it again. But feel your way, and find out how much you have gained. When any come in with a spirit of controversy, tell them that the meeting is not appointed for that purpose; but that it is to educate those that have been listening and could not understand some things in the discourses. It is not to get in their doctrinal and controverted points. What are our camp-meetings put in different places for?--It is that the people may be educated; and special effort may be made for the unbelievers. They should be sought out, and you should tell them, Now we would like to have you (the unbelievers) come in to our special meetings.  {PH089 43.8}
[PH089 44.1]          We are to do missionary work. "Ye are the light of the world." Why is it that Christ went out by the seaside and into the mountains?--He was to give the word of life to the people. They did not see it just that minute. A good many do not see it now, to take their positions, but these things are influencing their lives; and when the message goes with a loud voice, they will be ready for it. They will not hesitate long; they will come out and take their positions. There is a work that we have not done at our camp-meetings that ought to be done.                                                    -    {PH089 44.1}
[PH089 44.2]                     Prayer for the Sick.                                                    -              In this matter of praying for the sick, I could not move in exactly the same lines as my brethren. I have been considering many things that have been presented to me in the past in reference to this subject.                               -45-  {PH089 44.2}
[PH089 45.1]          Suppose that twenty men and women should present themselves as subjects for prayer at some of our camp-meetings. This would not be unlikely; for those who are suffering will do anything in their power to obtain relief, and to regain strength and health. Of these twenty, few have regarded the light on the subject of purity and health reform. They have neglected to practise right principles in eating and drinking, and in taking care of their bodies, and some of these who are married have formed gross habits and indulged in unholy practises, while of those who are unmarried some have been reckless of life and health, since in clear rays the light has shone upon them; but they have not had respect unto the light, nor have they walked circumspectly; yet they solicit the prayers of God's people, and call for the elders of the church. Should they regain the blessing of health many of them would pursue the same course of heedless transgression of nature's laws, unless enlightened and thoroughly transformed. They solicit the prayers of God's people and call for the elders of the church. But little is known of their home or private life. Sin has brought many of them where they are,--to a state of feebleness of mind and debility of body. Shall prayer be offered to the God of heaven for his healing to come upon them then and there, without specifying any condition?--I say, No, decidedly no. What, then, shall be done?--Present their cases before Him who knows every individual by name.  {PH089 45.1}
[PH089 45.2]          Present these thoughts to the persons who come asking for your prayers: We are human; we cannot read the heart, or know the secrets of your life. These are known only to yourself and                               -46-     God. If you now repent of your sin, if any of you can see that in any instance you have walked contrary to the light given you of God, and have neglected to give honor to the body, the temple of God, but by wrong habits have degraded the body which is Christ's property, make confession of these things to God. Unless you are wrought upon by the Spirit of God in a special manner to confess your sins of a private nature, to man, do not breathe them to any soul. Christ is your Redeemer; he will take no advantage of your humiliating confessions. If you have sin of a private character, confess it to Christ, who is the only mediator between God and man. "If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous." If you have sinned by withholding from God his own in tithes and offerings, confess your guilt to God and to the Church, and heed the injunction that he has given you: "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."  {PH089 45.2}
[PH089 46.1]          Praying for the sick is a most solemn things, and we should not enter upon this work in any careless, hasty way. Examination should be made as to whether those who would be blessed with health have indulged in evil speaking, alienation, and dissension. Have they sowed discord among the brethren and sisters in the church? If these things have been committed, they should be confessed before God and the church. When wrongs have been confessed, the subjects for prayer may be presented before God in earnestness and faith, as the Spirit of God may move upon you.                               -47-  {PH089 46.1}
[PH089 47.1]          But it is not always safe to ask for unconditional healing. Let your prayer include this thought; Lord, thou knowest every secret of the soul. Thou art acquainted with these persons: for Jesus, their Advocate, gave his life for them. He loves them better than we possibly can. If, therefore, it is for thy glory, and the good of these afflicted ones to raise them up to health, we ask in the name of Jesus, that health may be given them at this time. In a petition of this kind no lack of faith is manifested. . . .  {PH089 47.1}
[PH089 47.2]          The Lord "doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men." "Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him. For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust." He knows our heart, for he reads every secret of the soul. He knows whether or not those for whom petitions are offered would be able to endure the trial and test that would come upon them if they lived. He knows the end from the beginning. Many will be laid away to sleep in Jesus before the fiery ordeal of the time of trouble shall come upon our world. This is another reason why we should say after our earnest petition: "Nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done." Such a petition will never be registered in heaven as a faithless prayer.  {PH089 47.2}
[PH089 47.3]          The apostle was bidden to 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." From this we can see that every one is not to be raised up, and if they are not raised to health, they should not be judged as unworthy of eternal life. If Jesus, the world's Redeemer, prayed, "O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me," and added, "nevertheless not as I                               -48-     will, but as thou wilt," how very appropriate it is for finite mortals to make the same surrender to the wisdom and will of God.  {PH089 47.3}
[PH089 48.1]          In praying for the sick, we are to pray that, if it is God's will, they may be raised to health: but if not, that he will give them his grace to comfort, his presence to sustain them in their suffering. Many who should set their house in order, neglect to do it when they have hope that they will be raised to health in answer to prayer. Buoyed up by a false hope, they do not feel the need of giving words of exhortation and counsel to their children, parents, or friends, and it is a great misfortune. Accepting the assurance that they would be healed when prayed for, they dare not make a reference as to how their property shall be disposed of, how their family is to be cared for, or express any wish concerning matters of which they would speak if they thought they would be removed by death. In this way disasters are brought upon the family and friends; for many things that should be understood, are left unmentioned, because they fear expression on these points would be a denial of their faith. Believing they will be raised to health by prayer, they fail to use hygienic measures which are within their power to use, fearing it would be a denial of their faith.  {PH089 48.1}
[PH089 48.2]          I thank the Lord that it is our privilege to co-operate with him in the work of restoration, availing ourselves of all the possible advantages in the recovery of health. It is no denial of our faith to place ourselves in the condition most favorable for recovery.  {PH089 48.2}
[PH090 1.1]         PH090 - Statement and Appeal (1904)                  Light.            Received and Followed.          "The headquarters of the Review and Herald should be near Washington. If there is on our books and papers the imprint of Washington, D.C., it will be seen that we are not afraid to let our light shine," and in a letter written later:  {PH090 1.1}
[PH090 1.2]         "The publishing work that has been carried on in Battle Creek should, for the present, be carried on near Washington." * * * "Above all places, this place should now be worked. Satan is working there against Jehovah with all his might. I present this to you as a matter that is stirring me mightily. One thing is certain: we shall not be clear unless we at once do something in Washington to represent our work. I shall not be able to rest until I see the truth going forth as a lamp that burneth."                                                                              12   {PH090 1.2}
[PH090 12.1]          Above All Other Places.          "If there is any place in the world that should have the full rays of present truth, it is Washington, the city that is the very heart of the nation. . . . God has looked with displeasure on the neglect that has been shown to this city."  {PH090 12.1}
[PH090 12.2]          "Since medical missionary work, when carried on as God has appointed, is indeed the helping hand of the third angel's message, we should without delay take                                                                              13  advantage of the favorable openings for beginning this work in the vicinity of Washington. If there is one place above another where a sanitarium should be established, and where gospel work should be done, it is in this city. We cannot estimate how great an influence would have gone forth from Washington in favor of the truth had a sanitarium been established there twenty years ago. . . . Above all other places the Capital of our nation should now have an opportunity to hear the message for this time."--Mrs. E. G. White, in Testimony, "Our Work at the Nation's Capital," dated July 17, 1903.  {PH090 12.2}
[PH090 13.1]              No Time to Be Lost.          "May God help us to develop plans so that our youth can become genuine medical missionaries. . . . We have before us the work of establishing a medical institution near Washington                  At Once.     No time is to be lost. Call for the best talent, and make arrangements for conducting a nurses' training school. All that can be done, should be-done, to make a deep impression in favor of the truth for this time. Place at the head of this institution one who can be trusted. Obtain facilities for giving treatment, and secure God-fearing youth as your                                                                              14  helpers."--Letter of Instruction, dated Aug. 27, 1903.  {PH090 13.1}
[PH090 14.1]         Upon a Solid Foundation.          "The plans laid for the carrying forward of this work should be such as will bear the indorsement of heaven. In no case is this line of work to be made secondary. It is to be prominent in bringing the truth to the minds of the people. With great wisdom, establish a sanitarium in Washington. Establish the work upon a solid foundation. Let the building be neat and tasty, but not expensive. We cannot afford to erect an expensive building. The Lord desires this building to be a representation of what he designs all his sanitariums to be. The Lord will work with his people, if they will work humbly with him."--Testimony, "To the Leaders in Our Work," dated Oct. 15, 1903.  {PH090 14.1}
[PH090 14.2]          Character of Buildings.          "The instruction that has been given me in regard to the buildings to be erected in Washington is that it is not the Lord's will for an imposing display to be made. The buildings are to show, to believers, and to those not of our faith, that not one dollar has been invested in needless display. Every part of the buildings is to bear witness that we realize                                                                              15  that there is before us a great, unworked missionary field, and that the truth is to be established in many places.  {PH090 14.2}
[PH090 15.1]          When I was last in (one of the great cities) I was in the night season called upon to behold buildings rising story after story toward heaven. These buildings were warranted to be fire-proof, and they were erected to glorify the owners. Higher and still higher these buildings rose, and in them the most costly material was used. Those to whom the buildings belonged were not asking themselves, "How can we best glorify God, that we may enjoy him forever?" God was not in their thoughts. I thought: O that those who are thus investing their means could see that this display does not give them one iota of advantage with God. They are piling up magnificent buildings, but how foolish in the sight of the Ruler of the universe is their planning and devising. They are not studying with all the powers of heart and mind what they may do to glorify God, that they may enjoy him forever. They have lost sight of this, the first duty of man. . . . The scene that next passed before me was an  {PH090 15.1}
[PH090 15.2]                  Alarm of Fire.          Men looked at lofty and supposedly fire-proof buildings, and said, "they are                                                                              16  perfectly safe." But these buildings were consumed as if made of pitch. The fire engines could do nothing to stay the destruction. The firemen were unable to operate the engines.  {PH090 15.2}
[PH090 16.1]          "I am instructed that when the Lord's time comes, should no change have taken place in the hearts of proud, ambitious human beings, men will find that the hand that has been strong to save will be strong to destroy. No earthly power can stay the hand of God.  {PH090 16.1}
[PH090 16.2]          "The buildings that you erect must be  {PH090 16.2}
[PH090 16.3]          Solid and Well Constructed.          No haphazard work is to be done. The buildings are to be thoroughly presentable, but no extravagance is to be seen. We are not to make it possible for worldlings to say that we do not believe what we preach--that the end of all things is at hand.  {PH090 16.3}
[PH090 16.4]          "The buildings should be put up at as little cost as possible. No money is to be spent on them merely for show. We are living in a time of fearful depravity. The whole world has thrown off the restraints of religion. Worldlings and church members are making void the law of God. We are to bend every energy to the proclamation of the message of warning."--Mrs. E. G. White, in a Letter of Instruction dated Feb. 15, 1904.                                                                              27   {PH090 16.4}
[PH090 27.1]          "I saw that when the message shall increase greatly in power, then the providence of God will open and prepare the way in the east for much more to be accomplished than can be at the present time. God will then send some of his servants in power to visit places where little or nothing can now be done."  {PH090 27.1}
[PH090 27.2]          "In the days of the apostles, Jerusalem was a great                Center of Influence,     and in this place, light from heaven was to shine in its most powerful rays upon the Lord's witnesses who were to bear the gospel message.  {PH090 27.2}
[PH090 27.3]          "Read the whole of the second chapter of Acts, and see if you are not convinced that there has been a decided failure to understand that one of our first duties is to make at the nation's Capital a special presentation of the truth for this time."                                                                              32   {PH090 27.3}
[PH090 32.1]                   The Door Still Open.          What a work might have been accomplished if we had done our duty years ago! Can we stand clear in the sight of God, if we now fail of understanding our duty?  {PH090 32.1}
[PH090 32.2]          The Lord calls on us to awake to a realization of the opportunities presented before us to let our light shine in the city of Washington by establishing there memorials that will hasten forward the proclamation of the third angel's message to every nation, kindred, tongue and people.  {PH090 32.2}
[PH090 32.3]          Let us take hold of the arm of infinite power. Let us walk humbly before God, but let us                       Be Giants     in meeting discouragement and difficulty. We must have increased faith. Let us praise God. He is our strength, our shield, and our defense, our front guard and our rearward.                  Ellen G. White.  {PH090 32.3}
[PH092 3.1]        PH092 - Suggestions to Those Holding Missionary Conventions (1903)                                                                        A Call to Service                                                                   By Mrs. E. G. White.         Christ labored untiringly to accomplish the great work that He came to this world to perform. His desire to save the lost race was manifest on all occasions. During His ministry He went about doing good. It was His mission to help those in need of help, to seek the lost, to lift up the bowed down, to heal the sick, to speak words of sympathy and consolation to the sorrowing and the distressed. His heart was ever touched with human woe. How earnestly He worked for sinners! How constant were His efforts to prepare His disciples to carry the Gospel message to the ends of the earth! He placed Himself on the altar of service, a living sacrifice.  {PH092 3.1}
[PH092 3.2]         If Christ, the Majesty of heaven, worked thus, should we, His followers, spare ourselves? In these last days there is a great work to be done. Unceasing activity is called for. "Darkness hath covered the earth, and gross darkness the people." Many are far from Christ, wandering in the wilderness of sin. They are strangers from the covenant of promise. The Lord is coming soon. Already the judgments of God are in the land. Shall we let the unwarned multitudes go down into darkness and death without a preparation for the future life?  {PH092 3.2}
[PH092 3.3]         If we only realized how earnestly Jesus worked to sow the world with the gospel seed, we, living at the very close of probation, would labor untiringly to give the bread of life to perishing souls. Why are we so cold and indifferent? Why are our hearts so unimpressible? Why are we so unwilling to give ourselves to the work to which Christ consecrated His life? Something must be done to cure the terrible indifference that has taken hold upon us. Let us bow our heads in humiliation, as we see how much less we have done than we might have done to sow the seeds of truth.  {PH092 3.3}
[PH092 4.1]         My dear brethren and sisters. I speak to you in words of love and tenderness. Arouse, and consecrate yourselves unreservedly to the work of giving the light of the truth for this time to those in darkness. Catch the spirit of the great Master-worker. Learn from the Friend of sinners how to minister to sin-sick souls. Remember that in the lives of His followers must be seen the same devotion, the same subjection to God's work of every social claim and every earthly affection, that was seen in His life. God's claims must always be made paramount. Christ's example is to inspire us to put forth unceasing, self-sacrificing effort for the good of others.  {PH092 4.1}
[PH092 4.2]         God calls upon every church-member to enter His service. Truth that is not lived, that is not imparted to others, loses its life-giving power, its healing virtue. Every one must learn to work, and to stand in his lot and place as a burden-bearer. Every addition to the church should be one more agency for the carrying on of the great plan of redemption. The entire church, acting as one, blending in perfect union, is to be a living, active missionary agency, moved and controlled by the Holy Spirit.  {PH092 4.2}
[PH092 5.1]                                  The Needed Preparation.          As surely as we seek the Lord earnestly, He will make the way plain before us. All around us are doors open for service. Let us prayerfully study the work to be done, and then enter upon it with full assurance of faith. We are to labor in quietness and humility, in the meekness and lowliness of Christ, realizing that there is a trying time before us, and that we shall always need heavenly grace in order to understand how to deal with minds. It is the patient, humble, Godlike worker who will have something to show for his labors.  {PH092 5.1}
[PH092 5.2]         As a people, and as individuals, our success depends not on numbers, on standing, nor on intellectual attainments, but on walking and working with Christ. The more fully we are imbued with His spirit, the greater will be our love for the work, and the greater our delight in following in the footsteps of the Master. Our hearts will be filled with the love of God; and with earnestness and power we shall speak of the crucified Saviour. As He is uplifted before the people, as they behold His self-sacrifice, His goodness, His tender compassion, His humiliation, His suffering, their hearts will be melted and subdued.  {PH092 5.2}
[PH092 5.3]                               The Cities to be Enlightened.          The ministry of the word in our cities rests not merely upon those who preach the word, but upon all who read and hear the word. God calls upon His people to break the bands of their precise, indoor service. He would have hundreds in our cities doing the work that Christ did while on this earth,--cheering the sorrowful, strengthening the weak, comforting the mourners, preaching the gospel to the poor. In many of the cities of America scarcely anything has been done to proclaim the message of warning. Our brethren and sisters living in these crowded centers should let their light shine amidst the moral darkness. More than one may think that his light is too small to do any good, but he should remember that it is what God has given him, and that he is held responsible for letting it shine forth. Some one else may light his taper from it, and his light may be the means of leading others out from the darkness.  {PH092 5.3}
[PH092 6.1]                              Our Duty Toward Our Neighbors.          Oh, that thousands more of God's people had a realization of the times in which we are living, and of the work to be done in field service, in house-to house labor! There are many, many of our neighbors who know not the truth. Let us become acquainted with them and seek to draw them to Christ. Entering the homes of our neighbors to sell or to give away our literature, and in humility to teach them the truth, we shall be accompanied by the light of heaven, which will abide in these houses. Our feet "shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace," we shall be prepared to go from house to house, carrying the truth to the people. Sometimes we shall find it trying to do this kind of work; but if we go forth in faith, the Lord will go before us, and will send His angels to co-operate with us in our efforts to bring our neighbors to a knowledge of the truth.  {PH092 6.1}
[PH092 7.1]                               The Distribution of Literature.          In the miracle of feeding the multitude with a few loaves and fishes, the food was increased as it passed from Christ to those who accepted it. Thus it will be in the distribution of our publications. God's truth, as it is passed out, will multiply greatly. And as the disciples by Christ's direction gathered up the fragments which remained, that nothing should be lost, so we should treasure every fragment of literature containing the truth for this time. None can estimate the influence that even a torn page, containing the truths of the third angel's message, may have upon the heart of some seeker after truth.  {PH092 7.1}
[PH092 7.2]         There are many places in which the voice of the minister can not be heard, places which can be reached only by our publications,--the books, papers, and tracts, filled with the Bible truths that the people need. Our literature is to be distributed everywhere. The truth is to be sown beside all waters; for we know not which will prosper, this or that. In our erring judgment we may think it unwise to give literature to the very ones who would accept the truth the most readily. We know not what may be the results of giving away a leaflet containing present truth.  {PH092 7.2}
[PH092 7.3]         I have been instructed that the canvassing work is to be revived, and that it is to be carried forward with increasing success. I feel very thankful to our heavenly Father for the interest that my brethren and sisters have taken in the sale of "Christ's Object Lessons." By the sale of this book great good has been accomplished; and the work should be continued. The effort to circulate "Object Lessons" has demonstrated what can be done in the canvassing field. This effort is a never-to-be-forgotten lesson of how to canvass in the prayerful, trustful way that brings success. Many of our larger books could be sold if our canvassers should take up this work earnestly and energetically, filled with the realization that these books contain instruction that God desires to go to the world. Accompanied by the power of persuasion, the power of prayer, the power of the love of God, the canvasser-evangelist's work will not, can not be without fruit.  {PH092 7.3}
[PH092 8.1]                                A Word to the Discouraged.          Many are so sad and discouraged, so weak in faith and trust, that they can not appropriate to themselves the rich promises of God. Let them, then, do something to help some one more needy than themselves, and they will grow strong in God's strength. Let them engage in the good work of selling our books and distributing our papers and tracts. Thus they will help others, and they will gain an experience that will give them the assurance that they are God's helping hand. As they plead with the Lord to help them, He will guide them to those who are seeking for the light.  {PH092 8.1}
[PH092 9.1]                                The Result of Earnest Effort.          When our church-members during the week act their part in the service of the Lord, they will be roused from the despondency that is ruining many, body and soul. As they work for others, they will have much that is helpful to speak of when they assemble to worship God. The Sabbath meeting will be like meat in due season; for all will bring precious offerings to the Lord. When God's people see the great need of sinners being converted, turned from the service of Satan to serve the living God, the testimonies they bear in the Sabbath service will not be dark and gloomy, but full of joy and courage, life and power. Instead of thinking and talking about the faults of their brethren and sisters, and about their own trials, they will think and talk of the love of Christ, and will strive earnestly to become more efficient workers for Him.  {PH092 9.1}
[PH169 1.1]        PH169 - The Sufferings of Christ (1869)           "God is love." His love manifested toward fallen man, in the gift of his beloved Son, amazed the holy angels. "God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." The Son was the brightness of the Father's glory, and the express image of his person. He possessed divine excellence and greatness. He was equal with God. It pleased the Father that in him all fullness should dwell. He "thought it not robbery to be equal with God." Yet he "made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men. And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." {PH169 1.1}
[PH169 1.2]          In order to more fully realize the value of salvation, it is necessary to understand what it cost. In consequence of limited views of the sufferings of the divine Son of God, many place a low estimate upon the great work of the atonement. {PH169 1.2}
[PH169 1.3]         Christ consented to die in man's stead, that he, by a life of obedience, might escape the penalty of the law of God. His death did not slay the law, lessen it holy claims, nor detract from its sacred dignity. The death of Christ proclaimed the justice of his Father's law in punishing the transgressor, in that he consented to suffer the penalty of the law himself, in order to save fallen man from its curse. The death of God's beloved Son on the cross shows the immutability of the law. His death magnified the law and made it honorable, and gave evidence to man of its changeless character. From his own divine lips is heard, "Think not that I am come to destroy the law." {PH169 1.3}
[PH169 2.1]          In Christ was united the human and the divine. His mission was to reconcile God to man, and man to God. His work was to unite the finite with the Infinite. This was the only way in which fallen men could be exalted through the merits of the blood of Christ, to be partakers of the divine nature. Taking human nature, fitted Christ to understand the nature of man's trials, and all the temptations wherewith he is beset. Angels, who were unacquainted with sin, could not sympathize with man in his peculiar trials. Christ condescended to take man's nature, that he might know how to succor all who should be tempted. {PH169 2.1}
[PH169 2.2]         As the human was upon him, he felt his need of strength from his Father. He had select places of prayer. He loved the solitude of the mountain in which to hold communion with his Father in Heaven. In this exercise he was strengthened for the duties and trials of the day. Our Saviour identifies himself with our needs and weaknesses, in that he became a suppliant, a nightly petitioner, seeking from his Father fresh supplies of strength, to come forth invigorated and refreshed, braced for duty and trial. He is our example in all things. He is a brother in our infirmities, but not possessing like passions. As the sinless One his nature recoiled from evil. He endured struggles, and torture of soul, in a world of sin. His humanity made prayer a necessity, and privilege. He required all the divine support and comfort which his Father was ready to impart to his Son. Christ found comfort and joy in communion with his Father. Here he could unburden his sorrows that were crushing him. He was a Man of Sorrows, and acquainted with grief. {PH169 2.2}
[PH169 3.1]         Through the day he labored earnestly to save men from destruction. He healed the sick, he comforted the mourning, and brought cheerfulness and hope to the despairing. He brought the dead to life. After his work was finished for the day, he went forth, evening after evening, away from the confusion of the city, and his form was bowed in some retired place, in supplication to his Father. At times the bright beams of the moon shone upon his bowed form. And then again the clouds and darkness shut away all light. The dew and frost of night rested upon his head and beard while in the attitude of a suppliant. He frequently continued his petitions through the entire night. If the Saviour of men, with his divine strength, felt the need of prayer, how much more should feeble, sinful mortals feel the necessity of prayer,—fervent, constant prayer? As the Son of God in the garden of Gethsemane bowed in the attitude of prayer, the agony of his spirit forced from his pores sweat like great drops of blood. It was here that the horror of great darkness surrounded him. The sins of the world were upon him. He was suffering in man's stead as a transgressor of his Father's law. Here was the scene of temptation. The divine light of God was receding from his vision, and he was passing into the hands of the powers of darkness. In the agony of his soul-anguish, he lay prostrate on the cold earth. He was realizing his Father's frown. Christ had taken the cup of suffering from the lips of guilty man, and proposed to drink it himself, and in its place give to man a cup of blessing. The wrath that would have fallen upon man, was now falling upon Christ. It was here that the mysterious cup trembled in his hand. {PH169 3.1}
[PH169 4.1]         Jesus had often resorted to Gethsemane with his disciples for meditation and prayer. They were all well acquainted with his sacred retreat. Even Judas knew where to lead the murderous throng, that he might betray Jesus into their hands. Never before had the Saviour visited the spot with a heart so full of sorrow. It was not bodily suffering from which the Son of God shrank, and which wrung from his lips, in the presence of his disciples these mournful words: "My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death." "Tarry ye here," said he, "and watch with me." {PH169 4.1}
[PH169 4.2]          He went a little distance from his disciples, leaving them within hearing, and fell on his face, and prayed. "O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou wilt." The sins of the lost world were upon him, overwhelmed him. It was a sense of his Father's frown, in consequence of sin, which rent the heart of the Son of God with such piercing agony, and forced the great blood-drops from his brow down his pale cheeks. {PH169 4.2}
[PH169 4.3]         He rose from his prostrate position, and came to his disciples, and found them asleep.  He said unto Peter, "What! could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak." At the most important time, the disciples were found sleeping—at the time when Jesus had made a special request for them to watch with him. He knew that severe conflicts and terrible temptations were before his disciples. He took them with him, that they might be a strength to him, and that the events they should witness that night, and the lessons of instruction they should receive, might be indelibly printed upon their memories. This was necessary, that their faith might not fail, but be strengthened for the test just before them. {PH169 4.3}
[PH169 5.1]         But instead of watching with Christ, they were burdened with sorrow, and fell asleep. Even the ardent Peter was asleep, who, only a few hours before, had declared that he would suffer, and, if need be, die for his Lord. At the most critical moment, when the Son of God was in need of their sympathy and heartfelt prayers, they were found asleep. They lost much by thus sleeping. Our Saviour designed to fortify them for the severe test of their faith to which they would soon be subjected. If they had spent the mournful period in watching with the dear Saviour, and in prayer to God, Peter would not have been left to his own feeble strength to deny his Lord. {PH169 5.1}
[PH169 5.2]         The Son of God went away the second time, and prayed, saying, "O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me except I drink it, thy will be done." And again he came to his disciples, and found them sleeping. Their eyes were heavy. {PH169 5.2}
[PH169 5.3]         The Saviour turned sadly the second time from his sleeping disciples, and prayed the third time saying the same words. Then he came to them, and said, "Sleep on now, and take your rest. Behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners." How cruel for the disciples to permit sleep to close their eyes and slumber to chain their senses, while their divine Lord was enduring such inexpressible mental anguish. If they had remained watching, they would not have lost their faith as they beheld the Son of God dying upon the cross. This important night-watch should have been signalized by noble mental struggles and prayers, which would have brought them strength to witness the unspeakable agony of the Son of God. It would have prepared them, as they should behold his sufferings upon the cross, to understand something of the nature of the overpowering anguish which He endured in the garden of Gethsemane. And they would have been better able to recall the words he had spoken to them in reference to his sufferings, death, and resurrection, and amid the doom of that terrible, trying hour, some rays of hope would have lit up the darkness, and sustained their faith. He had told them before that these things would take place; but they did not understand him. The scene of Christ's sufferings was to be a fiery ordeal to his disciples, hence the necessity of watchfulness and prayer. Their faith needed to be sustained by an unseen strength, as they should experience the triumph of the powers of darkness. {PH169 5.3}
[PH169 6.1]         We can have but faint conceptions of the inexpressible anguish of God's dear Son in Gesthsemane as he realized the separation from his Father in consequence of bearing man's sin. He became sin for the fallen race. The sense of the withdrawal of his Father's love pressed from his anguished soul these words: "My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death." "If it be possible, let this cup pass from me." Then with entire submission to his Father's will he adds, "Nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou wilt." {PH169 6.1}
[PH169 6.2]          The divine Son of God was fainting, dying. The Father sent a messenger from his presence to strengthen the divine Sufferer, and brace him to tread his blood-stained path. Could mortals view the amazement and sorrow of the angels as they watched in silent grief the Father separating his beams of light, love and glory, from his Son, they would better understand how offensive is sin in his sight. The sword of Justice was now to awake against this dear Son. He was betrayed by a kiss into the hands of his enemies, and hurried to the judgment hall of an earthly court, there to be derided, and condemned to death, by sinful mortals. There the glorious Son of God was "wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities." He bore insult, mockery, and shameful abuse, until his "visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men." {PH169 6.2}
[PH169 7.1]         Who can comprehend the love here displayed? The angelic host beheld with wonder and with grief Him who had been the majesty of Heaven, and who had worn the crown of glory, now wearing the crown of thorns, a bleeding victim in the rage of an infuriated mob, fired to insane madness by the wrath of Satan.  Behold the patient sufferer! Upon his head is the thorny crown. His life-blood flows from every lacerated vein. All this in consequence of sin! Nothing could have induced Christ to leave his honor and majesty in Heaven, and come to a sinful world, to be neglected, despised, and rejected, by those he came to save, and finally to suffer upon the cross, but eternal, redeeming love, which will ever remain a mystery. {PH169 7.1}
[PH169 7.2]         Wonder, O Heavens! and be astonished, O earth! Behold the oppressor and the oppressed. A vast multitude enclose the Saviour of the world. Mocking and jeering are mingled with the coarse oaths of blasphemy. His lowly birth and his humble life are commented upon by unfeeling wretches. His claim to be the Son of God is ridiculed by the chief priests and elders, and the vulgar jest and insulting derision are passed from lip to lip. Satan was having full control of the minds of his servants. In order to do this effectually, he commences with the chief priests and the elders, and imbues them with a religious frenzy. They are actuated by the same Satanic spirit which moves the most vile and hardened wretches. There is a corrupt harmony in the feelings of all, from the hypocritical priests and elders down to the most debased. Christ, the precious Son of God, was led forth, and the cross was laid upon his shoulders. At every step was left blood which flowed from his wounds. Thronged by an immense crowd of bitter enemies and unfeeling spectators, he is led away to the crucifixion. "He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth. He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he opened not his mouth." {PH169 7.2}
[PH169 8.1]         His sorrowing disciples follow him at a distance, behind the murderous throng. He is nailed to the cross, and hangs suspended between the heavens and the earth. Their hearts are bursting with anguish as their beloved Teacher is suffering as a criminal. Close to the cross are the blind, bigoted, faithless priests and elders, taunting, mocking, and jeering: "Thou that destroyest the temple, and buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of God, come down from the cross." "He saved others, himself he cannot save. If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him. He trusted in God, let him deliver him now, if he will have him; for he said, I am the Son of God." {PH169 8.1}
[PH169 8.2]          Not one word did Jesus answer to all this. While the nails were being driven through his hands, and the sweat-drops of agony were forced from his pores, from the pale, quivering lips of the innocent sufferer a prayer of pardoning love was breathed for his murders: "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do." All Heaven was gazing with profound interest upon the scene. The glorious Redeemer of a lost world was suffering the penalty of man's transgressions of the Father's law. He was about to ransom his people with his own blood. He was paying the claims of God's holy law. This was the means through which an end was to be finally made of sin and Satan, and his host to be vanquished. {PH169 8.2}
[PH169 9.1]         Oh! was there ever suffering and sorrow like that endured by the dying Saviour? It was the sense of his Fathers's displeasure which made his cup so bitter. It was not bodily suffering which so quickly ended the life of Christ upon the cross. It was the crushing weight of the sins of the world, and a sense of his Father's wrath. The Father's glory and sustaining presence had been withdrawn from him, and despair pressed its crushing weight of darkness upon him, and forced from his pale and quivering lips the anguished cry. "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" {PH169 9.1}
[PH169 9.2]          Jesus united with the Father in making the world. Amid the agonizing sufferings of the Son of God, blind and deluded men alone remain unfeeling. The chief priests and elders revile God's dear Son while in his expiring agonies. Yet inanimate nature groans in sympathy with her bleeding, dying Author. The earth trembles. The sun refuses to behold the scene. The heavens gather blackness. Angels have witnessed the sufferings of God's dear Son, until they can look no longer, and hide their faces from the horrid sight. Christ is dying! He is in despair! His Father's approving smile is removed, and angels are not permitted to lighten the gloom of the terrible hour. {PH169 9.2}
[PH169 10.1]         Even doubts assailed the dying Son of God. He could not see through the portals of the tomb. Bright hope did not present to him his coming forth from the tomb a conqueror and his Father's acceptance of his sacrifice. The sin of the world, with all its terribleness, was felt to the utmost by the Son of God. The displeasure of the Father for sin, and its penalty which was death, were all that he could realize through this amazing darkness. He was tempted to fear that sin was so offensive in the sight of his Father, that he could not be reconciled to his Son. The fierce temptation that his own Father had forever left him caused that piercing cry from the cross. "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" {PH169 10.1}
[PH169 10.2]         Christ felt much as sinners will feel when the vials of God's wrath shall be poured out upon them. Black despair, like the pall of death, will gather about their guilty souls, and then they will realize to the fullest extent, the sinfulness of sin. Salvation has been purchased for them by the suffering and death of the Son of God. It might be theirs if they would accept it willingly, gladly, but none are compelled to yield obedience to the law of God. If they refuse the heavenly benefit, if they choose the pleasures and deceitfulness of sin, they can have their choice, and at the end receive their wages, which is the wrath of God and eternal death. {PH169 10.2}
[PH169 10.3]         Faith and hope tremble in the expiring agonies of Christ, because God has removed the assurance he had heretofore given his beloved Son of his approbation and acceptance. The Redeemer of the world now relies upon the evidences which had hitherto strengthened him, that his Father accepted his labors, and was pleased with his work. In his dying agony, as he yields up his precious life, he has by faith alone to trust in Him whom it has ever been his joy to obey. He is not cheered with clear, bright rays of hope on the right hand nor on the left. All is enshrouded in oppressive gloom. Amid the awful darkness which is felt by sympathizing nature, the Redeemer drains the mysterious cup even to its dregs. Denied even bright hope and confidence in the triumph which will be his in the future, he cries with a loud voice, "Lord, into thy hands I commit my spirit." He is acquainted with the character of his Father, his justice, his mercy, and great love. In submission he drops into the hands of his Father. Amid the convulsions of nature are heard by the amazed spectators the dying words of the Man of Calvary. {PH169 10.3}
[PH169 11.1]         Nature sympathized with the suffering of its Author. The heaving earth, the rent rocks, and the terrific darkness, proclaimed that it was the Son of God that died. There was a mighty earthquake. The vail of the temple was rent in twain. Terror seized the executioners and spectators as they beheld the sun vailed in darkness, and felt the earth shake beneath them, and saw and heard the rending of the rocks. The mocking and jeering of the chief priests and elders were hushed as Christ commended his spirit into the hands of his Father. The astonished throng began to withdraw, and grope their way in the darkness, to the city. They smote upon their breasts as they went, and in terror, speaking scarcely above a whisper, said among themselves, "It is an innocent person that has been murdered. What if, indeed, he is, as he asserted, the Son of God?" {PH169 11.1}
[PH169 12.1]          Jesus did not yield up his life till he had accomplished the work which he came to do, and exclaimed with his departing breath, "It is finished." Satan then was defeated. He knew that his kingdom was lost. Angels rejoiced as the words were uttered, "It is finished." The great plan of redemption, which was dependent on the death of Christ, had been thus far carried out. And there was joy in Heaven that the sons of Adam could, through a life of obedience, be finally exalted to the throne of God. Oh, what love! What amazing love! that brought the Son of God to earth to be made sin for us, that we might be reconciled to God, and elevated to a life with him in his mansions in glory. Oh! What is man, that such a price should be paid for his redemption! {PH169 12.1}
[PH169 12.2]         When men and women can more fully comprehend the magnitude of the great sacrifice, which was made by the Majesty of Heaven in dying in man's stead, then will the plan of salvation be magnified, and reflections of Calvary will awaken tender, sacred, and lively emotions in the Christian's heart. Praises to God and the Lamb will be in their hearts, and upon their lips. Pride and self-esteem cannot flourish in the heart that keeps fresh in memory the scenes of Calvary. This world will appear of but little value to those who appreciate the cost of man's redemption. All the riches of the world are not of sufficient value to redeem one perishing soul. Who can measure the love Christ felt for a lost world, as he hung upon the cross, suffering for the sins of guilty men? This love was immeasurable. It was infinite. {PH169 12.2}
[PH169 12.3]         His love, he has shown, was stronger than death. He was accomplishing man's salvation; and although he had the most fearful conflict with the powers of darkness, yet amid it all, his love decreased not, but grew stronger and stronger. He endured the hidings of his Father's countenance, until he was led to exclaim, in the bitterness of his soul, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" His arm brought salvation. The price was paid to purchase the redemption of man, when, in the last soul-struggle, the blessed words were uttered, which seemed to resound through creation, "It is finished." {PH169 12.3}
[PH169 13.1]          How many who profess to be Christians, will become excited over some worldly enterprise. Their interest is awakened for new and exciting amusements, while they are cold-hearted, and appear as if frozen in the cause of God. But here is a theme, poor formalist, which is of sufficient importance to excite you. Eternal interests are here involved. To be calm and unimpassioned on this theme is even sinful. The scenes of Calvary call for the deepest emotions. Upon this subject you will be excusable if you manifest enthusiasm. That Christ, so excellent, so innocent, should suffer such a painful death, bearing the weight of the sins of the world, our most extended thoughts and imaginations can never be able to fully reach, and enable us to comprehend the length, the breadth, the light, the depth, of such amazing love. The contemplation of the matchless depths of a Saviour's love, viewed by faith, fills and absorbs the mind, touches and melts the soul, refines and elevates the affections, and completely transforms the whole character. The language of the apostle is, "I determine not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ and him crucified." We may look toward Calvary, and also exclaim, "God forbid that I should glory save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world." {PH169 13.1}
[PH169 14.1]          Considering at what an immense cost, our salvation has been purchased, what will be the fate of those who neglect so great salvation? What will be the punishment of those who profess to be followers of Christ, yet fail to bow in humble obedience to the claims of their Redeemer, and who do not take the cross, as humble disciples of Christ, and follow him from the manger to Calvary? He that gathereth not with me saith Christ scattereth abroad. {PH169 14.1}
[PH169 14.2]         Some have limited views of the atonement. They think that Christ suffered only a small portion of the penalty of the law of God, and that while the wrath of God was felt by his dear Son, they suppose that he had, through all his painful sufferings, an evidence of his Father's love and acceptance, and that the portals of the tomb before him were illuminated with bright hope that he had the abiding evidence of his future glory. Here is a great mistake. Christ's keenest anguish was a sense of his Father's displeasure. His mental agony, because of this, was of such intensity that man can have but faint conception of it. {PH169 14.2}
[PH169 14.3]         The history of the condescension, humiliation and sacrifice of our divine Lord does not with many stir the soul, and affect the life any more, nor awaken deeper interest, than to read of the death of the martyrs of Jesus.  Many have suffered death by slow tortures. Others have suffered death by crucifixion. In what does the death of God's dear Son differ from these? It is true he died upon the cross a most cruel death; yet others, for his dear sake, have suffered equally, as far as bodily torture is concerned. Why was the suffering of Christ more dreadful than that of other persons who have yielded their lives for his sake? If the sufferings of Christ consisted in physical pain alone, then his death was no more painful than that of some of the martyrs. Bodily pain was but an item in the agony of God's dear Son. The sins of the world were upon him, also the sense of his Father's wrath as he suffered the penalty of the law. It was these that crushed his divine soul. It was the hiding of his Father's face, a sense that his own dear Father had forsaken him, which brought despair. The separation that sin makes between God and man was fully realized and keenly felt by the innocent, suffering Man of Calvary. He was oppressed by the powers of darkness. He had not one ray of light to brighten the future. And he was struggling with the power of Satan, who was declaring that Christ was in his hands, that he was superior in strength to the Son of God, that God had disowned his Son, and that he was no longer in the favor of God any more than himself. If he was indeed still in favor with God, why need he die? God could save him from death. Christ yielded not in the least degree to the tormenting foe, even in his bitterest anguish. Legions of evil angels were all about the Son of God. Yet the holy angels were bidden not to break their ranks and engage in conflict with the taunting reviling foe. Heavenly angels were not permitted to minister unto the anguished spirit of the Son of God. It was in this terrible hour of darkness, the face of his Father hidden, legions of evil angels enshrouding him, the sins of the world upon him, that the words were wrenched from his lips, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me." {PH169 14.3}
[PH169 15.1]          The death of the martyrs can bear no comparison with the agony endured by the Son of God. And we should take larger, broader, and deeper views of the life, sufferings, and death, of God's dear Son. When the atoning sacrifice shall be viewed correctly, the salvation of souls will be felt to be of infinite value. In comparison with the enterprise of everlasting life, every other sinks into insignificance. But how have the counsels of this loving Saviour been despised. The heart's devotion has been to the world, and selfish interests have closed the door against the Son of God. Hollow hypocrisy and pride, selfishness and gain, envy, malice and passion, have so filed the hearts of many that Christ can have no room. {PH169 15.1}
[PH169 16.1]         He was eternally rich "yet for our sakes became poor, that we through his poverty might be made rich." He was clothed with light and glory, surrounded with hosts of heavenly angels, waiting to execute his commands. Yet he put on our nature, and came to sojourn among sinful mortals. Here is love that no language can express. It passes knowledge. Great is the mystery of godliness. Our souls should be enlivened, elevated, enraptured with the theme of the love of the Father and the Son to man. And the followers of Christ should learn here to reflect back in some degree that mysterious love, preparatory to joining all the redeemed in ascribing "Blessing and honor and glory and power unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb forever and ever."    Ellen G. White  {PH169 16.1}
[PH093 2.1]       PH093 - The Temperance Work (1908)                                        May 24, 1908.                  The Temperance Watchman          God bids his people blend harmoniously in their service for him, that they may work in Christ's lines. This last message of warning must be brought to the world; and there are continual calls for those who will go forth and carry the message to the missionary fields that are calling for help. There are some who cannot themselves go to these fields, but they can help with their means in the support of the work.  {PH093 2.1}
[PH093 2.2]         Many can engage in the work of selling our periodicals. Thus they can earn means for the work in foreign fields while sowing seeds of truth in the byways and hedges in the home field. Such labor will be blessed of God, and it will not be done in vain.  {PH093 2.2}
[PH093 2.3]          Wherever you go, let your light shine forth. Hand our papers and pamphlets to those with whom you associate, when you are riding on the cars, visiting, conversing with your neighbors; and improve every opportunity to speak a word in season. The Holy Spirit will make the seed productive in some hearts.  {PH093 2.3}
[PH093 2.4]          As a people we should cultivate kindliness and courtesy in our association with those whom we meet. Let us avoid any abruptness of manner, and strive always to present the truth in an easy way. This truth means life, eternal life to the receiver. Study therefore                              -3-     to pass easily and courteously from subjects of a temporal nature to the spiritual and eternal. A most courteous manner characterized the work of the Saviour. Seek in the most gentle way to introduce your mission. While walking by the way, or seated by the wayside, you may drop into some heart the seed of truth.  {PH093 2.4}
[PH093 3.1]          I have words of encouragement to speak in regard to the special number of the Watchman, which the Southern Publishing House is soon to bring out. I shall rejoice to see our conferences help in this work by taking a large number of this issue for circulation. Let there be no forbiddings placed upon the effort, but let all take hold to give this temperance number a wide circulation.  {PH093 3.1}
[PH093 3.2]          There could not be a better time than now for a movement of this kind, when the temperance question is creating such widespread interest. Let our people everywhere take hold decidedly to let it be seen where we stand on the temperance question. Let everything possible be done to circulate strong, stirring appeals for the closing of the saloon. Let this paper be made a power for good. Our work for temperance is to be more spirited, more decided.  {PH093 3.2}
[PH093 3.3]          Precious light will be given in the publications you scatter through the towns and cities. Your humble prayers, your unselfish activity, will be blessed by God, and the truth as it is in Jesus will come to those who need it. The words that Christ spoke to men while he was in the world, he will speak again                              -4-     through his humble, faithful followers. Through them he will give to men the bread of life and the waters of salvation. Brethren, take up this work in humility of heart. The simplicity of true godliness will cause you to be respected, and will lead men and women to seek the source of your power. Believe, and you will receive the things you ask for.  {PH093 3.3}
[PH093 4.1]          The Woman's Christian Temperance Union is an organization with whose efforts for the spread of temperance principles we can heartily unite. The light has been given me that we are not to stand aloof from them, but, while there is to be no sacrifice of principle on our part, as far as possible we are to unite with them in laboring for temperance reforms. My husband and I in our labors united with these temperance workers, and we had the joy of seeing several unite with us in the observance of the true Sabbath. Among them there is a strong prejudice against us, but we will not remove this prejudice by standing aloof. God is testing us. We are to work with them when we can; and we can assuredly do this on the question of utterly closing the saloon.  {PH093 4.1}
[PH093 4.2]          As the human agent submits his will to the will of God, the Holy Spirit will make the impression upon the hearts of those to whom he ministers. I have been shown that we are not to shun the W. C. T. U. workers. By uniting with them in behalf of total abstinence, we do not change our position regarding the observance of the seventh day, and we can show our appreciation of their position regarding the subject of temperance. By opening                              -5-     the door and inviting them to unite with us on the temperance question, we secure their help along temperance lines; and they, by uniting with us, will hear new truths which the Holy Spirit is waiting to impress upon hearts.  {PH093 4.2}
[PH093 5.1]          My brethren, be workers together with Christ. Make every possible effort in season and out of season to spread the light of present truth. The Lord has taught us how safe is the cable that anchors us to the living Rock. Here is an opportunity to labor for those who have truth on some points, but who on other points are not safely anchored. Keep in touch with the people wherever you can. "Let you light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."  {PH093 5.1}
[PH093 5.2]          "Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you." "Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, and waiting at the posts of my doors." "He giveth power to the faint, and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall; but they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary, and they shall walk, and not faint." "In the day that I called he answered me, and strengthened me with strength in my soul."  {PH093 5.2}
[PH093 5.3]          I entreat every soul to seek for true conversion of heart, and then labor for the salvation of precious souls.                                        Ellen G. White                              -6-  {PH093 5.3}
[PH093 6.1]                 Extracts from the Writings of                   Mrs. E. G. White            "We need to have the temperance question revived among our own people. It would be a good thing if at our camp-meetings we would invite the members of the W. C. T. U. to take part in our exercises. This will help them to become acquainted with the reasons of our faith, and will open the way for us to unite with them in temperance work.  {PH093 6.1}
[PH093 6.2]          "I have had some opportunity to see the great advantage to be gained by connecting with the W. C. T. U. workers, and I have been much surprised as I have seen the indifference of many of our leaders to this organization. I call on my brethren to awake. We cannot do better work than to unite, so far as we can do so without compromise, with W. C. T. U. workers.  {PH093 6.2}
[PH093 6.3]          "By holding ourselves aloof from the workers in the W. C. T. U., our people have lost much; and the members of the W. C. T. U. also have been on losing ground. . . . In some matters they are far in advance of our leaders on the important question of temperance." -Unpublished Testimony, dated Sept. 2, 1907.  {PH093 6.3}
[PH093 6.4]          "Let us strive to reach their hearts-not through the learned arguments of ministers, but through the wise efforts of women of influence and tact who can devote time and thought to this line of work."-Special Testimony, dated April 18, 1900.  {PH093 6.4}
[PH093 6.5]          "Let the voices of the nation demand of its lawmakers that a stop be put to this                              -7-     infamous traffic."-Tract on Drunkenness and Crime, issued November, 1907.  {PH093 6.5}
[PH093 7.1]          "In our work more attention should be given to the temperance reform. Every duty that calls for reform, involves repentance, faith, and obedience. It means the uplifting of the soul to a new and nobler life. Thus every true reform has its place in the third angel's message. Especially does the Temperance Reform Demand Our Attention and Support. At our camp-meetings we should call attention to this work, and make it a living issue. We should present to the people the principles of true temperance, and call for signers to the temperance pledge. Careful attention should be given to those who are enslaved by evil habits. We must lead them to the cross of Christ. . . . This evil must be more boldly met in the future than it has been in the past. Ministers and doctors should set forth the evils of intemperance. . . .  {PH093 7.1}
[PH093 7.2]          "In other churches there are Christians who are standing in defense of the principles of temperance. We should seek to come near to these workers, and make a way for them to stand shoulder to shoulder with us. . . . If the work of temperance were carried forward by us as it was begun thirty years ago; if at our camp-meetings we presented before the people the evils of intemperance in eating and drinking, and especially the evil of liquor drinking; if these things were presented in connection with the evidences of Christ's soon coming, there would be a shaking among the people." - Review and Herald. Aug. 29, 1907.                              -8-  {PH093 7.2}
[PH093 8.1]                    Christians Should Vote for                  Prohibition and Total                       Abstinence            The following appeared in the Review and Herald of October 11, 1906 and is of importance in our consideration of the temperance question, because some have refrained from voting, even for prohibition of the liquor traffic.  {PH093 8.1}
[PH093 8.2]          There is a cause for the moral paralysis upon society. Our laws sustain an evil which is sapping their very foundations. Many deplore the wrongs which they know exist, but consider themselves free from all responsibility in the matter. This cannot be. Every individual exerts an influence in society. In our favored land every voter has some voice in determining what laws shall control the nation. Should not that influence and vote be on the side of temperance and virtue?"  {PH093 8.2}
[PH093 8.3]          Again, on page 290, same paper, we have a little more on the same point, as follows:-  {PH093 8.3}
[PH093 8.4]          "The advocates of temperance fail to do their whole duty unless they exert their influence, by precept and example, by voice and pen and vote, in behalf of prohibition and total abstinence. We need not expect that God will work a miracle to bring about this reform, and thus remove the necessity for our exertion. We ourselves must grapple this giant foe, our motto, 'No compromise,' and no cessation of our efforts till victory is gained."  {PH093 8.4}
[PH094 4.1]         PH094 - Testimonies and Experiences Connected with the Loma Linda Sanitarium and College of Medical Evangelists (1905)           "The God of heaven has been dishonored. You have found a place to invest means in various enterprises as though it were a virtue to leave my work in other lands to struggle with poverty and nakedness. You have not shared your abundant facilities as you might have done, even though the sacrifice required might appear large to you.  {PH094 4.1}
[PH094 4.2]          Nothing that earth has given is of sufficient value to recompense the travail and burden of                                                     5     soul, the agony of mind that has been felt in seeing the people working at cross-purposes with God, hindering the work, and making it necessary for God to withdraw His prospering hand from the publishing association and from the conference."     6  {PH094 4.2}
[PH094 6.1]         "Then the test came upon the sanitarium. God has given it prosperity, not to be a means of self-exaltation, but that they might impart of their substance. When His servants were sent to Australia, you should have understood that God would work through them, and you should have exercised liberality in appropriating means to advance the work. The medical missionary work should ere this have been established upon a solid foundation. There should be no withholding of means. The Lord has let His chastening hand fall upon the Review and Herald office because they would not heed His voice. Self-sufficient managers hedged up the way that His work should not advance. The Lord calls  upon the Battle Creek Sanitarium to extend her work and to place the health institution here upon a proper basis. This should have been done two years ago. The withholding tends to  poverty."                                                    7  {PH094 6.1}
[PH094 7.1]          "We have come to a time when every member of the church should take hold of medical missionary work." "Christ is no longer in this world in person, to go through our cities and towns and villages, healing the sick. He has commissioned us to carry forward the medical missionary work that He began."  {PH094 7.1}
[PH094 7.2]          "If ever the Lord has spoken by me, He speaks when I say that the workers engaged in educational lines, in ministerial lines, and in medical missionary lines must stand as a unit." "Medical missionary work is yet in its infancy. The meaning of genuine medical missionary work is known by but few. Why? Because the Saviour's plan of work has not been followed."  {PH094 7.2}
[PH094 7.3]          "Christ, the great medical missionary, is our example. He healed the sick and preached the gospel. In His service, healing and teaching were linked closely together. Today they are not to be separated. The nurses who are trained in our institutions are to be fitted to go out as medical missionary evangelists uniting the ministry of the Word with that of physical healing."  {PH094 7.3}
[PH094 7.4]          "There should be companies organized and educated most thoroughly to work as nurses, as ministers, as canvassers, as gospel students."     8  {PH094 7.4}
[PH094 8.1]          "From the instruction that the Lord has given me from time to time. I know there should be workers who make medical evangelistic tours among the towns and villages. Those who do this work will gather a rich harvest of souls, both from the higher and lower classes."  {PH094 8.1}
[PH094 8.2]          "Let our ministers who have gained an experience in preaching the Word, learn how to give simple treatments, and then labor intelligently as medical missionary evangelists. Christ stands before us as a pattern man, the great medical missionary, an example to all who should come after."  {PH094 8.2}
[PH094 8.3]          "The Lord calls upon our young people to enter our schools and quickly fit themselves for service. In various places, outside of cities, schools are to be established, where our youth can receive an education that would prepare them to go forth to do evangelical work and medical missionary work."     9  {PH094 8.3}
[PH094 9.1]                        Pioneer Work                  In Southern California                       Financial Help Needed            "For years the work in Southern California has needed help, and we now call upon our brethren and sisters who have means to spare to put it into circulation, that we may secure the places so well suited for our work.  {PH094 9.1}
[PH094 9.2]          "God has not been pleased with the way in which this field has been neglected. From many places in Southern California the light is to shine forth to the multitudes. Present truth is to be as a city set on a hill, which can not be hid.  {PH094 9.2}
[PH094 9.3]          "In Southern California there are many properties for sale on which buildings suitable for sanitarium work are already erected. Some of these properties should be purchased, and medical missionary work carried forward on sensible,     10     rational lines. Several small sanitariums are to be established in Southern California for the benefit of the multitudes drawn there in the hope of finding health. Instruction has been given me that now is our opportunity to reach the individuals flocking to the health resorts of Southern California, and that a work may be done also in behalf of their attendants.  {PH094 9.3}
[PH094 10.1]          "For months I carried on my soul the burden of the medical missionary work in Southern California. Recently much light has been given me in regard to the manner in which God desires us to conduct sanitarium work. We are to encourage patients to spend much of their time out-of-doors. I have been instructed to tell our brethren to keep on the lookout for cheap, desirable properties in healthful places, suitable for sanitarium purposes.  {PH094 10.1}
[PH094 10.2]          "Instead of investing in one medical institution all means obtainable, we ought to establish smaller sanitariums in many places. Soon the reputation of the health resorts in Southern California will stand even higher than it stands at present. Now is our time to enter that field for the purpose of carrying forward medical missionary work."  {PH094 10.2}
[PH094 10.3]                    Out of the Cities                      "St. Helena, Cal., October 13, 1902.            "During my stay in Southern California, I was enabled to visit places that in the past have been presented to me by the Lord as suitable for the establishment of sanitariums and schools. For years I have been given special light that we are not to establish large centers for our work in the cities. The turmoil and confusion that fills these                                                      11     cities, the conditions brought about by the labor unions and the strikes, would prove a great hindrance to our work.  {PH094 10.3}
[PH094 11.1]         "Men are seeking to bring those engaged in the different trades under certain unions. This is not God's plan, but the planning of a power that we should in no case acknowledge. God's word is fulfilling: the wicked are binding themselves in bundles ready to be burned.  {PH094 11.1}
[PH094 11.2]          "I have been instructed that the work in Southern California should have advantages that it has not yet enjoyed. I have been shown that in Southern California there are properties for sale on which buildings are already erected that could be utilized for our work, and that such properties will be offered to us at much less than their original cost. In these places, away from the din and confusion of the congested cities, we can establish sanitariums in which the sick can be cared for in the way God designs them to be. In our efforts to help the sick, we are to take them away from the cities, where they are continually annoyed by the noise of trains and street cars, and where there is little besides houses to see, to places where they can be surrounded by the scenes of nature, and where they can have the blessing of fresh air and sunshine.  {PH094 11.2}
[PH094 11.3]          "This subject was laid out before me in Australia. Light was given me that the cities would be filled with confusion, violence and crime, and that these things would increase till the close of this earth's history. There is much to be said on this point. Instruction is to be given line upon line, precept upon precept, here a little and there a little. And our physicians and teachers should be quick to see the advantage of retired locations for our sanitariums and schools.     12  {PH094 11.3}
[PH094 12.1]          "Properties such as those to which I have referred are being offered to us, and some of them we should purchase when it is plain that they are what we need, and when provision can be made for their acquisition without a burdensome debt. Where there are orchards on these places, so much the better: but on other properties where the buildings are just what we need, trees can be set out.  {PH094 12.1}
[PH094 12.2]          "The fact that in many cases the owners of these properties are anxious to dispose of them, and are therefore willing to sell them at a low price, is greatly in our favor. We must study economy in the outlay of means. At this stage of our work, we are not to erect large buildings in any of the cities. And we are not to follow extravagant and unduly large plans in our work in any place. We are to remember the cities which have been neglected and which must now be worked. The people in these cities must have the light of truth, In our establishment of sanitariums, we are not to spend large sums of money in the erection of costly buildings; for there are many places to be worked. We are to be wise in securing advantages already provided that the Lord desires us to have. We are to be wise as serpents and as harmless as doves in our efforts to secure country properties at a low figure, and from these outpost centers we are to work the cities.  {PH094 12.2}
[PH094 12.3]          "The work in Southern California is to advance more rapidly than it has advanced in the past. The means lying in banks or hidden in the earth is now called for to strengthen the work in Southern California. Every year many thousands of tourists visit Southern California, and by various                                                       13     methods we should seek to reach them with the truth."     14  {PH094 12.3}
[PH094 14.1]                   Another Place Described                       "Sanitarium, Cal., August 8, 1904.            "Again and again during the past five years symbolic representations have been presented to me in visions of the night, showing what we ought to be doing in sanitarium work to help the sick to recover soundness of body and mind. On the night of October 10, 1901, I was unable to sleep after half past eleven at night. Many things regarding the sanitarium work were presented to me in figures and symbols. I was shown sanitariums near Los Angeles in running order. At one place I saw sanitarium work being carried on in a beautiful building. On the grounds surrounding the building there were many fruit trees. This institution, which was away from the city, was filled with life and activity.  {PH094 14.1}
[PH094 14.2]          "On the grounds of this beautiful place that I saw in the visions of the night, there were many shade trees, the boughs of which hung down in such a way as to form leafy canopies somewhat in the shape of tents. Underneath these canopies patients were resting. The sick were delighted with their surroundings. While some worked, others were singing. There was no sign of dissatisfaction.  {PH094 14.2}
[PH094 14.3]          "I awoke and for some time could not sleep. Many vivid scenes had passed before me, and I                                                15     could not forget the words I had spoken to the patients and helpers. Brethren and sisters, Christ has instructed me to say to you, the Holy Spirit will make your hearts tender and soft by His grace. The Lord will guide you and teach you His way."  {PH094 14.3}
[PH094 15.1]              Near Redlands and Riverside          "I hope Brother -----, that when you see a suitable place in Redlands, which could be used as a sanitarium, offered for sale at a suitable price, you will let us know about it. We shall need a sanitarium in Redlands. Unless we start an enterprise of this kind, others will. I understand that the property owners are afraid that consumptives will come in, and thus the reputation of the place be spoiled. But, of course, we should make it clear that we are not going to establish a consumptive's home.  {PH094 15.1}
[PH094 15.2]          "I merely mention this so that you and Brother Burden may keep it in view. We shall not take any steps to establish a sanitarium in Redlands until we can be assured that we are doing the right thing. Brother Burden and you can visit     16     the place from time to time, and see what openings there are. And in all that you do be as wise as serpents and as harmless as doves."  {PH094 15.2}
[PH094 16.1]          "You can not think how thankful I am that there are two sanitariums in running order in Southern California. I hope that great good will be accomplished by these institutions. I was glad to read what you wrote about some belonging to the higher classes being at the San Diego Sanitarium. This is a class that we need to reach. Time is short, and the Lord would have the truth proclaimed in the highways and the byways. Angels of God will go before those who lift up the standard and wisely proclaim the truth.  {PH094 16.1}
[PH094 16.2]          "In closing, I would ask you not to forget that sometime a sanitarium will be needed in Redlands. When you have opportunity, examine the field cautiously, and tell us what you find there. We must not allow others to get in ahead of us, and shut us off. Now is the time to make discreet inquiries."  {PH094 16.2}
[PH094 16.3]          "I hear that plans are being laid for Elder Simpson to leave Southern California. I had hoped to see him extend his work from Los Angeles to Redlands and Riverside. Redlands and Riverside have been presented to me as places that should be worked. These two places should not be longer neglected. Please consider the                                                   17     advisability of establishing a sanitarium in the vicinity of these cities with treatment rooms in each place to act as feeders to the sanitarium."  {PH094 16.3}
[PH094 17.1]          "Our people in Southern California need to awake to the magnitude of the work to be done within their own borders. Let them awake to prayer and labor. Let them manifest more spiritual vitality. They need a new conversion that they may labor untiringly for souls. Wherever there is spiritual life there will be an imparting as well as a receiving of light and blessing. The nourishment from God's Word will be received, and earnest work will be done. The act of imparting keeps open the channel for receiving. This truth our Saviour ever sought to keep before the people.  {PH094 17.1}
[PH094 17.2]               The Mission of Our Sanitariums          "I have a message to bear to the church members in Southern California. Arouse, and avail yourselves of the opportunities open to you. While Christ pleads in your behalf, plead for yourselves that you may be purified from every unrighteous thought, every unholy action. Make an entire surrender to God, of body, soul, and spirit. Be determined to do all in your power to learn the true science of soul-saving. While the light of God's day of mercy still shines, gather up every divine ray.  {PH094 17.2}
[PH094 17.3]          "If rightly conducted, our sanitariums may exert a refining, ennobling influence, and lead many souls to Christ. The religious principles maintained in these institutions will demonstrate that there is relief for the soul, weary and sick with sin. Many are weak and sick because of disease of the soul. Let Christ be held up before     18     them as the great Healer, Who invites them to come to Him and find rest. Tell them that the heart of Christ is drawn out in compassion and love for His blood-bought heritage. He will heal the troubled heart that looks to Him in faith."  {PH094 17.3}
[PH094 18.1]          "To the poor sin-sick soul repeat the Saviour's 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.' There is true joy in learning of Christ.  {PH094 18.1}
[PH094 18.2]          "Tell the suffering ones of a compassionate Saviour. He is the only Physician who can heal both body and soul. He has given His life for the world, that men should not perish, but have everlasting life. He looks with compassion upon those who regard their case as hopeless.  {PH094 18.2}
[PH094 18.3]          "While the soul is filled with fear and terror, the mind can not see the tender compassion of Christ. Our sanitariums are to be an agency for bringing peace and rest to the troubled mind. If you can inspire the despondent with hopeful, saving faith, contentment and cheerfulness will take the place of discouragement and unrest. Wonderful changes will then be wrought in their physical condition. Christ will restore both body and soul; and, realizing His compassion and love, they will rest in Him. He is the bright and morning star, shining amid the moral darkness of this sinful, corrupt world. He is the light of the world, and all who give their hearts to Him will find peace and rest and joy."     20  {PH094 18.3}
[PH094 20.1]          "Your letter has just been read. I had no sooner finished reading it than I said, I will counsel with no one; for I have no question at all about the matter. . . . Secure the property by all means, so that it can be held, and then obtain all the money you can and make sufficient payments to hold the place. Do not delay, for it is just what is needed.  {PH094 20.1}
[PH094 20.2]          "I think that sufficient help can be secured to carry the matter through. I want you to be sure to lose no time in securing the right to purchase the property. We will do our utmost to help you raise the money. I know that Redlands and Riverside are to be worked; and I pray that the Lord may be gracious, and not allow any one else to get this property instead of us.  {PH094 20.2}
[PH094 20.3]          "Here is the word of the Lord. Open up every place possible. We are to labor in faith, taking hold of a power that is pledged to do large things for us. We are to reach out in faith in Los Angeles and in Redlands and Riverside.  {PH094 20.3}
[PH094 20.4]          "If we do not succeed in getting this place, we shall have to search for another; for a sanitarium should be started at once, but I believe the Lord means that we shall have this place and that money can be obtained to purchase it. Let not this opportunity slip; for just such a place has been presented before me that it would be greatly to our advantage to obtain. May the Lord impress His people with the work long neglected in Southern California. I sent a telegram yesterday afternoon with a decided affirmation to purchase the place."                                                         21  {PH094 20.4}
[PH094 21.1]          "I have been waiting to hear from you again regarding the place near Redlands about which you wrote me not long ago. I hope that this place can be secured, because I think that the Lord has made it possible for us to obtain it.  {PH094 21.1}
[PH094 21.2]                      To Be a Blessing          "If you have anything further to tell us, please do so. We do not want this place to be a snare to us; for I feel impressed that it will be a great blessing. I hope that you will send me a line when you have come to a decision regarding the place.  {PH094 21.2}
[PH094 21.3]          "Redlands and Riverside must be worked, and they could be worked from the place about which you have written us."  {PH094 21.3}
[PH094 21.4]          "We received your letter today. I wish to say that I can not ask the Conference to invest in a sanitarium at Redlands. They have enough responsibilities to carry without taking upon them other responsibilities. If you in Los Angeles will do your best, we will do our best. But if you will do nothing, say so, and we will do nothing. If     22     you will work intelligently, as we know you can, then we will do what we can. But if you do nothing, waiting for the Conference, you will lose your chance. If you are going to depend on the Conference purchasing it, I have no hope of your obtaining it.  {PH094 21.4}
[PH094 22.1]          "Brother Burden, if you wait for ----- to work out the plans, there will be no hope at all in the matter. I will not write more till I hear something further from you. Telegraph us at once the price of the property, and the best terms of payment you can obtain."                  The First Money Obtained                                                    23  {PH094 22.1}
[PH094 23.1]          "When you wrote to me about the advisability of purchasing the property known as 'Loma Linda,' I did not consult with any one, because I thought this would hinder us, and I believed that we could carry the matter forward without putting the burden on the Conference. We do not desire to bring perplexity upon the Conference regarding this matter. Be assured, my brother, that I never advise anything unless I have a decided impression that it should be carried out, and unless I am firmly resolved to assist.  {PH094 23.1}
[PH094 23.2]          "I am glad that means are in sight to make the first payment on the place; for we ought to have it.  {PH094 23.2}
[PH094 23.3]          "By all means secure the property if you can; for I believe it to be the very place the Lord desires us to have."  {PH094 23.3}
[PH094 23.4]                      "Go Ahead"          Another letter dated May 31, 1905, reads as follows:  {PH094 23.4}
[PH094 23.5]          "We hope to see you soon now, but in regard to the purchase of 'Loma Linda," I will say, go ahead. I hope to be able to help by giving the proceeds from a certain number of copies of 'Ministry of Healing.' I can do no more except to borrow. I wish the place purchased. Do not neglect to tell me all I ought to know. I have been looking over your descriptive letter, and I am well satisfied that the place is one that we ought to have. It is cheap at forty thousand dollars.     24     We will not leave you, but will stand back of you and help you to raise the means.  {PH094 23.5}
[PH094 24.1]          "In regard to the right man to manage the institution. I am confident that we shall find some one when the right time comes.  {PH094 24.1}
[PH094 24.2]          "If we do not succeed in getting this place, then we shall have to search for another; but I believe the Lord means that we shall have this place and that money can be obtained to purchase it. Let not this opportunity slip, for just such a place has been presented before me, that would be greatly to our advantage to obtain.  {PH094 24.2}
[PH094 24.3]          "W. C. White sent the telegram yesterday with a decided affirmation to purchase the place."                                                    25            "I am much encouraged by the letters that I have received from you regarding Loma Linda.     26     From your descriptions of this place, I believe it meets the representation which I have seen of what we should seek for as sanitarium locations. Such a place was presented to me a few miles from an important city. The city had recently been built up.  {PH094 24.3}
[PH094 26.1]          "I have tried to place before our people the representations given me regarding sanitariums in the country, and I have urged upon them the necessity of establishing our sanitariums outside of the cities. I have had repeatedly presented to me the advantage of securing locations some miles out of the cities. Those who follow the counsel of God in providing places where the sick and suffering can receive proper treatment, will be guided to the right places for the establishment of their work.  {PH094 26.1}
[PH094 26.2]          "Let our sanitariums be located where there is an abundance of land. I can see the advantage of such a place as Loma Linda. The Lord worked to help us to secure this property. The work of this institution is to be carried forward on pure, elevated lines. It can be conducted in such a way that truth will be presented as the rock upon which to build.  {PH094 26.2}
[PH094 26.3]          "In order that our institutions shall teach right lessons, there must be connected with them men of such simplicity that they are willing to learn of the great Teacher.  {PH094 26.3}
[PH094 26.4]          "We need workers who will gain breadth of mind by studying the book God has opened before us of His created works. Angels cooperate with those who proclaim the truths represented by the things of nature. These things are not God, but they are specimens of God's handiwork.  {PH094 26.4}
[PH094 26.5]          "Our medical workers are to do all in their                                                   27     power to cure disease of the body and also disease of the mind. They are to watch and pray and work, bringing spiritual as well as physical advantages to those for whom they labor. The physician in one of our sanitariums who is a true servant of God has an intensely interesting work to do for every suffering human being with whom he is brought in contact. He is to lose no opportunity to point souls to Christ, the great Healer of body and mind. Every physician should be a skillful worker in Christ's lines. There is to be no lessening of the interest in spiritual things, else the power to fix the mind upon the great Physician will be diverted. While the needs of the body are to be strictly attended to, while all possible efforts are to be made to break the power of disease, the physician is never to forget that there is a soul to be labored for.  {PH094 26.5}
[PH094 27.1]          "God would draw minds from the conviction of logic to a conviction deeper, higher, purer, and more glorious, a conviction unperverted by human logic. Human logic has often nearly quenched the light which God would have shine forth in clear rays to convince minds that the God of nature is worthy of all praise and all glory, because He is the Creator of all things."  {PH094 27.1}
[PH094 27.2]          "This is the very place that has been shown me and we must have it."     32  {PH094 27.2}
[PH094 32.1]          "This proposed school at Loma Linda," said she, "must be molded by the early spirit of the message. We must try to get such men as Eld. S. N. Haskell to connect with it, in order that our students in training for service as medical missionary evangelists may get a new view of the work." "We are now," said she, "farther from the pattern than when our medical work first started."  {PH094 32.1}
[PH094 32.2]          On June 26, 1905, Sister White wrote as follows:  {PH094 32.2}
[PH094 32.3]          "It is just daylight, and I am seated on my couch beginning a letter to you. There are many matters to be considered; and we all need the guidance of the Holy Spirit.  {PH094 32.3}
[PH094 32.4]          "I shall be pleased to hear from you at any time. I sincerely hope the brethren in Southern California will unite in pressing forward the school work and the sanitarium work. I hope that ----- will move understandingly in reference to the sanitariums already in operation, and also in regard to the new sanitarium. I pray that the Lord may provide suitable help to connect with this institution.                                                   33  {PH094 32.4}
[PH094 33.1]          "Do not be discouraged if in any wise there is some cutting across your plans, and if you are somewhat hindered. I hope that we shall never again have to meet the hindrances that we have had to meet in the past because of the way in which some things have been conducted in some lines in Southern California. I have seen the 'hold-back' principles followed, and I have seen the displeasure of the Lord because of this. If the same spirit is manifested. I shall not consent to keep silence as I have done."  {PH094 33.1}
[PH094 33.2]                Land Not to be Sold          And again in a letter of July 5, 1905:  {PH094 33.2}
[PH094 33.3]          "I write you a few lines. One thing I wish you to do. I wish you to not be very anxious to get this property in the hands or power of the Conference to manage, but let parties manage the holding of this property. I learn that----- has proposed to sell some of the land to help pay the standing debt. Tell me how the matter is now. Can you obtain the loan of money for to raise the rest of the five thousand dollars? If not, we must stir about to see if we can not obtain the means. I have sent you the letter that I have written; please tell me what is necessary for me to do. We must be sure and have every payment made in time, and not let it go out of our hands."  {PH094 33.3}
[PH094 33.4]          "I just thought to write you a few lines to assure you that not one foot of that land is to be sold to raise money. We will hire money at the bank rather than this shall be done."     38  {PH094 33.4}
[PH094 38.1]          "I wish to present before our people the blessing that the Lord has placed within our reach by enabling us to obtain possession of the beautiful sanitarium property known as Loma Linda. . . . Until our recent visit, I had never before seen such a place as this with my natural eyes, but four years ago just such a place was presented before me as one of those that would come into our possession if we moved wisely. It is a wonderful place in which to work for the sick, and in which to begin our work for Redlands and Riverside. We must make decided efforts to secure helpers who will do most faithful medical missionary work. . . . Oh, how I long to see the sick and suffering coming to this institution! It is one of the most perfect places for a sanitarium that I have ever seen, and I thank our Heavenly Father for giving us such a place. It is provided with almost everything necessary for sanitarium work, and is the very place in which sanitarium work can be carried forward on right lines by faithful physicians and managers. . . . When I saw Loma Linda, I said, 'Thank the Lord. This is the very place we have been hoping to find." . . .                                                    39  {PH094 38.1}
[PH094 39.1]          "The patients could live out of doors a large part of the time. The land will serve as a school for the education of patients. By outdoor exercise and working in the soil, men and women will regain their health. Rational methods for the cure of diseases will be used in a variety of ways. Drugs will be discarded. . . .  {PH094 39.1}
[PH094 39.2]          "It is one of the best locations for sanitarium work that I have ever seen. At this place the sick can be given every natural advantage for retaining health and strength.  {PH094 39.2}
[PH094 39.3]           The Chosen Way for Proclaiming the                Third Angel's Message            "Forty years ago the Lord began to give us instruction in regard to the establishment of sanitariums as one of His chosen ways for proclaiming the third angel's message. . . . Our sanitariums are to be schools in which people of all classes shall be taught the way of salvation. In them the sick are to be taught to overcome the appetite for tea, coffee, flesh-meat, tobacco and intoxicating liquor of all kinds. In every one of our medical institutions the sick and suffering are to be pointed to the Saviour as their only hope. . . .  {PH094 39.3}
[PH094 39.4]          "For the past twenty years the Lord has been giving the message that plants are to be made in many places. He will greatly bless us as we endeavor to carry out His will. Out of the city into the country, is the word that has been given, and this word is to be obeyed. Our sanitariums are to be established in the most healthful surroundings." . . .     40  {PH094 39.4}
[PH094 40.1]              The Testimonies Prove True          "God declared that we should find buildings suitable for our work, and that these buildings would be offered to us at a very low price. Has not our recent experience in Southern California proved this true? I could not but weep for joy as I saw how plainly the Providence of God had been revealed in our selection of places for sanitarium work in San Diego, Los Angeles and the Redlands and Riverside district.  {PH094 40.1}
[PH094 40.2]          "Money is needed with which to establish the work in places outside of the cities, from which the cities can be worked. We must have means with which to meet the payments on Loma Linda. I ask our brethren who have means to awake to the responsibilities resting upon them, and to do what they can to help us. Those who have the Lord's money in trust should regard it as a privilege to give of their means to help to pay for a place so well adapted to sanitarium work."  {PH094 40.2}
[PH095 1.1]         PH095 - Testimonies and Experiences Connected With The Loma Linda Sanitarium and College of Medical Evangelists (1906)      Chap. 1 - At the Sanitarium and School at Loma Linda         "I write to invite you to connect with our sanitarium work in Southern California.  {PH095 1.1}
[PH095 1.2]         "We now have three sanitariums in the Southern part of the State. Loma Linda, the one most recently purchased, is the most desirable place I have ever seen for a sanitarium. We realize that the Lord has been very gracious to us in opening the way for us to secure this plant. Until I saw Loma Linda, I could not feel that I had seen the place that seemed in every respect to correspond with the representation that I had seen of what a sanitarium should be. I had been instructed to say to our brethren that we should have a sanitarium near Redlands and Riverside. This institution is about five miles from Redlands, and ten from Riverside. But I had no idea that we would be able to purchase Loma Linda, though we had heard that the owners were very anxious to sell     2     the property. While I was at Takoma Park, attending the General Conference, I received a letter from Brother Burden, describing the property at Loma Linda, and informing me that the place was offered for sale for forty thousand dollars. The description given answered in every respect to that of places that I had been instructed would be offered far below their original cost.  {PH095 1.2}
[PH095 2.1]          "The letter from Brother Burden I received on Friday afternoon. I asked W. C. White to telegraph immediately to Brother Burden that we should by all means secure the property. Some of our brethren connected with the Conference advised otherwise, fearing that the Conference would be more deeply involved in debt. But I followed my telegram with a letter, saying distinctly that the place should be purchased without delay. I consider that the advantages of this location authorized me to speak positively regarding this matter. I said: 'There is sufficient money in the hands of God's people, and if we seek the Lord, He will make their hearts willing to help in this time of need.'  {PH095 2.1}
[PH095 2.2]          "After writing to Brother Burden, the uncertainty so affected me that for several nights I was unable to sleep. I lifted my heart to God in prayer. With great anxiety I waited till at last word came that a deposit of one thousand dollars had been made and the way was open for us to secure the place."  {PH095 2.2}
[PH095 2.3]          In a letter to Eld. and Mrs. S. N. Haskell, September 15, 1905, she wrote,--  {PH095 2.3}
[PH095 2.4]          "We invite Elder Haskell to come to Southern California. There is need here of the work which he can do. The Lord has opened the way before us in this field, but there have been few                                                   3     worker who are able to carry forward the work as it should be conducted.  We need some of our old men of war to give us special help just now. We need the services of Elder Haskell in connection with the work to be carried forward at Loma Linda. An important work is opened before us for the neighboring cities--Redlands, Riverside and San Bernardino and other smaller places.  {PH095 2.4}
[PH095 3.1]          "I think I have kept before you my expectations that you would spend a part of the winter in Southern California. By unmistakable representations, the Lord has given evidence that a great work is to be done in Southern California." . . .  {PH095 3.1}
[PH095 3.2]          "We thank the Lord that we have a good sanitarium at Paradise Valley, seven miles from San Diego; a sanitarium at Glendale, eight miles from Los Angeles; and a large and beautiful place at Loma Linda, sixty-two miles east of Los Angeles and close to Redlands, Riverside and San Bernardino. . . . Loma Linda is about five miles from Redlands, five miles from San Bernardino, four miles from Colton, and nine miles from Riverside.  {PH095 3.2}
[PH095 3.3]          "Redlands and Riverside are places which the Lord has shown me should be thoroughly worked. . . . In each of them a company of believers has been raised up, and a meeting-house built. But more work must be done there, and a work must be done in San Bernardino.  {PH095 3.3}
[PH095 3.4]          "I have wished that you and your wife could come to Loma Linda, and carry on a work similar to that which you have done in other places. . . . By the securing of Loma Linda the Lord has opened the way for a work to be done in the     4     neighboring cities and towns. The securing of this property at such a price as we paid for it is a miracle that should open the eyes of our understanding. If such manifest workings of God do not give us a new experience, what will? If we can not read the evidence that the time has come to work in the surrounding cities, what could be done to arouse us to action.!" . . .  {PH095 3.4}
[PH095 41]          "There should be connected with our sanitariums in various places ample facilities for the training of workers. And great care should be taken in the selection of young people to connect with our sanitariums." . . . {PH095 41}
[PH095 4.2]      Chap. 2 - An Educational Center          "We must soon start a nurses' training school at Loma Linda. This place will become an important educational center, and we need the efforts of yourself and your wife to give the right mold to the work in this new educational center." . . .  {PH095 4.2}
[PH095 4.3]          "If you see your way clear to labor a portion of this winter in Southern California, I think I can be with you, and I will help you all I can to open up the work. If you will gather about you a group of workers, and do for a time in Southern California a work similar to that which you have done in New York and Nashville, praying and working and doing the will of the Lord, God will not fail to show Himself your Helper; for you will be following where He has marked out the way.  {PH095 4.3}
[PH095 4.4]          "I do not propose that you divorce yourself permanently from the work in the cities of the Southern States, but I ask you to come and help us start the work of training true medical                                                   5     missionaries in this very fruitful field--Southern California.  {PH095 4.4}
[PH095 5.1]          "It is a wonderful place in which to work for the sick, and in which to begin our work for Redlands and Riverside. We must make decided efforts to secure helpers who will do most faithful medical missionary work. If Christ will bless the treatment given and let His healing power be felt, a great work will be accomplished. We shall need to secure competent physicians and nurses,--men and women who are true and faithful, and who can be relied on; men and women who live in constant dependence upon the great Healer; men and women who humble their hearts before God and believe His Word, keeping their eyes fixed on their Leader and Counselor--the Lord Jesus Christ. {PH095 5.1}
[PH095 5.2]      Chap. 3 - A Great Work          "I feel an intense interest in the future work and prosperity of the Loma Linda Sanitarium. God has not given us these buildings for naught. He has not given them for us simply to take pride and comfort in. We know that this beautiful property has been given us as an indication of a great work that is to be done in Southern California for the Lord." . . .  {PH095 5.2}
[PH095 5.3]         In a letter dated September 27, 1905, we read:  {PH095 5.3}
[PH095 5.4]         "I very much wish that Brother and Sister Haskell might be with the family at Loma Linda, and inaugurate in Redlands, Riverside and San Bernardino a work similar to the work they conducted in Avondale and Nashville. . . .  {PH095 5.4}
[PH095 5.5]          "Our young men and young women should be encouraged to attend schools away from the cities, that under intelligent teachers, they may     6     receive a training that will fit them to stand on vantage ground."  {PH095 5.5}
[PH095 6.1]          November 1, 1905, she wrote the following:  {PH095 6.1}
[PH095 6.2]          "We were deeply interested in your letter in regard to the prospects of having patients as soon as you are ready for them. I am so thankful to our heavenly Father that for a long time He has kept before me that there were buildings that we could obtain at a greatly reduced price. This instruction kept me from trying to purchase land on which to erect building at a large cost. The Lord has certainly prepared the way for us, and He wants us to work interestedly in securing sanitariums.  {PH095 6.2}
[PH095 6.3]          "I feel thankful for the school property at Fernando, and I do thank the Lord for the property at Paradise Valley. And now you can see that the Lord designs that these places should be worked. It may be that there will have to be another building secured at a distance from Los Angeles, for thus it has been presented to me. But we can not yet reach for more, unless the Lord should make it known that the time has come. If we consecrate our individual selves to the Lord, we shall have that wisdom which would enable us to move intelligently.  {PH095 6.3}
[PH095 6.4]          "I thank the Lord with heart and soul and voice that He has brought Loma Linda to our notice, and that we might obtain it. I thank the Lord that He has sent you to help me carry out in a determined effort that which He designed should be a great blessing to us. Redlands will be a center, and so also will Loma Linda. A school will be established as soon as possible, and the Lord will open the way. {PH095 6.4}
[PH095 7.1]      Chap. 4 - Not to Pay High Wages          "As regards the proposition made by Brother -----. I look at the matter as you do. We can not afford to start on the high-wage plan. This was the misfortune of the people in Battle Creek, and I have something to say on this point. We have before us a large field of missionary work. We are to be sure to heed the requirements of Christ, who made Himself a donation to our world. There is to be neatness and order, and everything possible is to be done to show thoroughness in every line. But when it comes to paying twenty-five dollars a week, and giving a large percentage on surgical work done, light was given me in Australia that this should never be, because our record is at stake. The matter was presented to me that many sanitariums would have to be established in Southern California, for there would be a great inflowing of people there. Many would seek that climate.  {PH095 7.1}
[PH095 7.2]         "We must stand in the counsel of God, every one of us prepared to follow the example of Jesus Christ. We can not consent to pay extravagant wages." {PH095 7.2}
[PH095 7.3]      Chap. 5 - A School for Nurses and Physicians          Again, in December 10, 1905, she writes:  {PH095 7.3}
[PH095 7.4]         "I am continually thankful to our heavenly Father that in His providence we have been favored to secure this beautiful location as a health resort. It answers perfectly to the representation that was given me. Praise the Lord for His goodness and mercy expressed to us amidst the many difficulties we have to meet.     8     The Lord is our helper, and constant guide. I say to you, my brother, Jesus will be to us a present helper in every time of need. In regard to the school, I would say, Make it all you possibly can in the education of nurses and physicians." {PH095 7.4}
[PH095 8.1]      Chap. 6 - The Bakery Enterprise         In a letter dated December 10, 1905, I read:  {PH095 8.1}
[PH095 8.2]         "In regard to the investment of means in a food factory, if you can obtain the money, it is the very thing needful, and I have had this in mind. I was afraid you would let Brother Hanson go, and we would be left in the lurch at Loma Linda. I know he is a man of good sense, and he has a faculty of experimenting on health foods which will be a blessing to the food factory and to the table fare. I would say, improve your present opportunity and select a man to go in with him who can be educated in uniting with him to perfect the work. I would not delay this essential development, for it will be a great blessing to the sanitarium, and not only to it, but to other sanitariums."  {PH095 8.2}
[PH095 8.3]          On December 11, 1905, she wrote again:  {PH095 8.3}
[PH095 8.4]          "I have been conversing with you in the night season in regard to some matters that I will write you about. We were conversing with reference to Brother Hanson and his manufacturing health foods. We were conversing with regard to erecting a store, and One of authority                                                      9     who was in our midst, speaking to several present, suggested the propriety of erecting such a building at a distance from the main building and all other buildings that are now standing there, so that there will be no danger to them from fire. He suggested that changes would have to be made after thorough study, and that the buildings should be placed where the wind would not carry the smoke or sparks to the main building." . . .  {PH095 8.4}
[PH095 9.1]          "Before closing my letter, I will finish what I intended to say about the building of the food factory. This work requires much wisdom and genuine good sense. If you can bring it about, do so. Make the best possible use of 'Ministry of Healing' to aid you in your work. I believe that you can accomplish that which seems to be a necessity."  {PH095 9.1}
[PH095 9.3]          "I have an apology to make in not sending you sooner this letter regarding a bakery at Loma Linda. I must write you words of counsel. {PH095 9.3}
[PH095 10.1]      Chap. 7 - Free from Commercialism         "The Lord has instructed me that it would be a mistake for us to plan for the production of large quantities of health foods at Loma Linda, to be distributed through commercial channels. Everything connected with the institution at Loma Linda should, so far as possible, be unmingled with commercialism. In the visions of the night, these principles were presented to me in connection with the proposal for the establishment of a bakery at Loma Linda. I was shown a large building where many foods were made. There were also some small buildings near the bakery. A most unfavorable impression was being made. {PH095 10.1}
[PH095 10.2]      Chap. 8 - As an Object Lesson          "Then One appeared on the scene and said: 'All this has been caused to pass before you as an object-lesson that you might see the result of carrying out certain plans. Commercialism must not take the place of the vital work to be done.'  {PH095 10.2}
[PH095 10.3]         "And then, lo, the whole scene changed. The bakery was not where we had planned it, but at a distance from the sanitarium buildings, on the road toward the railroad. It was a humble building, and a small work was being carried on there. The commercial idea was lost sight of, and, in its stead, a strong spiritual influence pervaded the place. The patients were favorably impressed with what they saw. Nothing of a commercial nature, as a means of lessening the debt on the Sanitarium, should be brought in to burden the mind."  {PH095 10.3}
[PH095 10.4]          Again, in a letter dated May 19, 1907, I read: {PH095 10.4}
[PH095 11.1]      Chap. 9 - God Our Efficiency          "It has been found necessary at Loma Linda to provide additional bathroom facilities. An elevator is greatly needed, and a small bakery should be added. Therefore we are in need of means to accomplish that which must be done."  {PH095 11.1}
[PH095 11.2]         "I received your letter yesterday, and was very glad to hear from you. I have been very busy of late. The Lord has sustained me in preparing matter to meet the unbelief and infidelity expressed regarding the Testimonies He has given me to bear to His people. . . .  {PH095 11.2}
[PH095 11.3]          "I think with great pleasure of the Loma Linda Sanitarium, and the advantages that it possesses. I sometimes wish that I could be with you in Southern California. But here everything for my work is ready to my hand, and to go away anywhere just now seems inconsistent;     12     for I am getting out much matter that is very important.  {PH095 11.3}
[PH095 12.1]          "We must understand the present feebleness and smallness of the work. We have had an experience. In doing the work God has given us, we may go trustingly forward, assured that He will be our efficiency. He will be with us in 1906, as He was with us in 1841, 1842, 1843, and 1844 Oh, what wonderful evidences we had then of the presence of God with us. In the earlier stages of our work, we had many difficulties to meet, and we gained many victories.  {PH095 12.1}
[PH095 12.2]          "If the Lord is leading us, we may go forward courageously, assured that He will be with us as He was with us in past years, as we labored in feebleness, but under the miracle working power of the Holy Spirit. He will be with us as He was with us when we had to meet the opposing influences of erroneous theories.  {PH095 12.2}
[PH095 12.3]          "Many of the most successful undertakings made in behalf of the truth have at the beginning been small, and have cost many tears and prayers. At the beginning of our work, some brought in grave errors, and meeting these placed upon as much hard labor, and such difficulties as God's help alone could enable us to overcome. We prayed a great deal; often we wrestled whole nights in prayer. Then the light, precious light on Bible truth, would come upon the whole company assembled. All could understand the difficulties, and the truth of the Bible was comprehended an substantiated." . . .  {PH095 12.3}
[PH095 12.4]          "Thus we worked and thus we prayed. Errors were continually being brought in, but we went to God in prayer, and searched the Scriptures diligently." . . .                                                   13  {PH095 12.4}
[PH095 13.1]          "Had the work been done that God designed should be done, the condition of things in our world would now be very different. But the professed followers of Christ are asleep, the churches have not fulfilled the solemn charge laid upon them. Men placed as watchmen have been asleep at their post, and many refuse to wake up. They are not fulfilling the gospel commission." {PH095 13.1}
[PH095 13.2]      Chap. 10 - Character of Sanitarium Work          Sister White's continued interest in the sanitarium and school is shown by the following, dated February 23, 1906:  {PH095 13.2}
[PH095 13.3]         "In all our sanitariums the work done should be of such a character as to win souls to Jesus Christ. We have a wide missionary field in our health institutions, for here people of all countries come to regain their health. The best helpers to have connected with our sanitariums are those men who desire to make the Bible their guide, those who will put forth their mental and moral powers to advance the work in correct ways.  {PH095 13.3}
[PH095 13.4]          "Let the workers in the sanitariums remember     14     that the object of the establishment of these institutions is not alone the relief of suffering and the healing of disease, but also the salvation of souls. Let the spiritual atmosphere of these institutions be such that men and women who are brought to the sanitariums to receive treatment for their bodily ills, shall learn the lesson that their diseased souls need healing.  {PH095 13.4}
[PH095 14.1]          "To preach the gospel means much more than many realize. It is a broad, far-reaching work. Our sanitariums have been presented to me as most efficient means for the promotion of the gospel message.  {PH095 14.1}
[PH095 14.2]          "The work of the true medical missionary is largely a spiritual work. It includes prayer and the laying on of hands; he therefore should be as sacredly set apart for his work as is the minister of the gospel. Those who are selected to act the part of missionary physicians, are to be set apart as such. This will strengthen them against the temptations to withdraw from the sanitarium work to engage in private practice. No selfish motive should be allowed to draw the worker from his post of duty.  {PH095 14.2}
[PH095 14.3]          "The medical work done, in connection with the giving of the third angel's message, is to accomplish wonderful results. It is to be a sanctifying, unifying work, corresponding to the work which the great Head of the church sent forth the first disciples to do.  {PH095 14.3}
[PH095 14.4]          "Calling these disciples together, Christ gave them their commission: . . . 'And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of God is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast our devils: freely ye have received, freely give.' . . . 'Behold I send you forth as sheep                                                    15     in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents and harmless as doves.'  {PH095 14.4}
[PH095 15.1]          "It is well for us to read this chapter and let its instruction prepare us for our labors. The early disciples were going forth upon Christ's errands, under His commission. His Spirit was to prepare the way before them. They were to feel that with such a message to give, such blessings to impart, they should receive a welcome in the homes of the people. . . .{PH095 15.1}
[PH095 15.2]      Chap. 11 - Conferences to Employ Medical Missionaries          "Through the first disciples a divine gift was proffered to Israel; the faithful evangelist today will do a similar work in every city where our missionaries enter. It is a work which to some extent we have tried to do in connection with some of our sanitariums, but a much wider experience in these lines is to be gained. Can not our conference presidents open the way for the students in our schools to engage in this line of labor? Again and again it has been presented to me that 'there should be companies organized, and educated most thoroughly to work as nurses, as evangelists, as ministers, as canvassers, as gospel students, to perfect a character after the divine similitude.' There is a grand work to be done in relieving suffering humanity, and through the labors of students who are receiving an education and training to become efficient medical missionaries, the people living in many cities may become acquainted with the truths of the third angel's message. Consecrated leaders and teachers of experience should go out with these young workers, at first, giving them instruction how to     16     labor. When favors of food are offered by those who fear and honor God, these favors may be accepted. Thus opportunity will be found for conversation, for explaining the Scriptures, for singing Bible songs and praying with the family. There are many to whom such labor as this would prove a blessing.  {PH095 15.2}
[PH095 16.1]         "And each worker, as he goes forth to this labor, should realize that he is as surely sent of God as were the first disciples. God's eye follows them; His Spirit goes with them. . . .  {PH095 16.1}
[PH095 16.2]          "I am thankful when I think of the advantages enjoyed by the schools that are established near our sanitariums, so that the work of the two educational institutions can blend. The students in these schools, while gaining an education in the knowledge of present truth, can also learn how to be ministers of healing to those whom they go forth to serve.  {PH095 16.2}
[PH095 16.3]          "If ever there was a time when our work should be done under the special direction of the Spirit of God, it is now. Let those who are living at their ease, arouse. Let our sanitariums become what they should be,--homes where healing is ministered to sin-sick souls. And this will be done when the workers have a living connection with the great Healer." {PH095 16.3}
[PH095 17.1]      Chap. 12 - Council Meeting at Loma Linda    17        "Yesterday I had a long visit as I rode out with Brother and Sister Howell. Brother Howell is very desirous of knowing how to plan for the educational work with which he is connected, so that no mistakes may be made. I tell him that the Lord will lead all who are willing to be led. The Bible is our safe guide book. Said Christ, 'He that will come after Me, let him take up his cross, and follow Me.'  {PH095 17.1}
[PH095 17.2]          "We can not mark out a precise line to be followed unconditionally. Circumstances and emergencies will arise for which the Lord must give special instruction. But if we begin to work, depending wholly upon the Lord, watching, praying, and walking in harmony with the light He sends us, we shall not be left to walk in darkness.  {PH095 17.2}
[PH095 17.3]          "I am glad that you are carrying forward the work you have undertaken in San Bernardino. I believe that you are working in harmony with the light that has been given to me. In your work you come in contact with people who need to feel a hunger and thirst after righteousness. The Lord's blessing will be with all who work in harmony with His plans." . . .  {PH095 17.3}
[PH095 17.4]          "We should seek to follow more closely the example of Christ, the great Shepherd, as He worked with His little company of disciples, studying with them and with the people the Old Testament scriptures. His active ministry consisted not merely in sermonizing, but in educating the people. As He passed through villages, He came in personal contact with the people in their homes, teaching, and ministering to their necessities. As the crowds that followed Him increased, when     18     He came to a favorable place, He would speak to them, simplifying His discourses by the use of parables and symbols."  {PH095 17.4}
[PH095 18.1]          Concerning the fitting up of the treatment rooms, on June 17, 1906, Sister White wrote as follows: {PH095 18.1}
[PH095 18.2]      Chap. 13 - Treatment Room Equipment           "For several days I have thought of writing to you, but could not because so many things demanding immediate attention have come in. I may have written to you regarding the equipment of your treatment rooms, but fearing that I have not, I will come right to the point.  {PH095 18.2}
[PH095 18.3]         "When we were at the Paradise Valley Sanitarium, we were conducted through the new treatment rooms. One room was elaborately fitted up with electrical appliances for giving the patients treatment. That night I was instructed that some connected with the institution were introducing things for the treatment of the sick that were not safe. The application of these electrical treatments would involve the patient in serious difficulties, imperiling life.  {PH095 18.3}
[PH095 18.4]          "One was conversing with the doctors, and with great earnestness was saying, 'Never, never carry out your wonderful plans. There have been various mechanical devices brought into the treatment rooms that are expensive, and the men who make a specialty of treating certain cases are liable to make grave mistakes.'"  {PH095 18.4}
[PH095 18.5]          "There are men who make a specialty of treating the rectum, and some feel that they have been                                                  19     greatly benefited. But I have been instructed that this treatment, as well as many surgical operations, leaves with many a serious weakness.  {PH095 18.5}
[PH095 19.1]          "Several things were mentioned that have been brought into the Sanitarium which were not necessary, and which should not have been purchased without consultation with other physicians. The amount of money which some of these machines cost, and the salary which must be paid to the one who operates them should be taken into consideration. {PH095 19.1}
[PH095 19.2]      Chap. 14 - Electricity           "Now I am certain that great care should be taken in purchasing electrical instruments and costly mechanical fixtures. Move slowly, Brother Burden, and do not trust to men who suppose that they understand what is essential, and who launch out in spending money for many things that require experts to handle them.  {PH095 19.2}
[PH095 19.3]         "Several times I have been instructed that much of the elaborate, costly machinery used in giving treatments, did not help in the work as much as is supposed. With it we do not get so good results as with the simple appliances we used in our earlier experiences. The application of water in various simple ways is a great blessing.  {PH095 19.3}
[PH095 19.4]          "I have been instructed that the X-ray is not the great blessing that some suppose it to be. If used unwisely it may do much harm. The results of some of the electrical treatments are similar to the results of using stimulants. There is a weakness that follows.  {PH095 19.4}
[PH095 19.5]          "I shall have more to say about these matters later, but I wish now to say that all patients should keep out of doors as much as possible, and     20     many will be benefited by sleeping in the open air. {PH095 19.5}
[PH095 20.1]      Chap. 15 - Simple Methods          "Keep the patients out of doors as much as possible, and give them cheering, happy talks in the parlor, with simple reading and Bible lessons easy to be understood, which will be an encouragement to the soul. Talk on health reform, and do not you, my brother, become burden bearer in so many lines that you can not teach the simple lessons of health reform. Those who go from the Sanitarium should go so well instructed that they can teach others the methods of treating their families.  {PH095 20.1}
[PH095 20.2]         "There is danger of spending far too much money on machinery and appliances which the patients can never use in their home lessons. They should rather be taught how to regulate the diet, so that the living machinery of the whole being will work in harmony. Let them become intelligent in regard to the importance of laying aside corsets and shortening their skirts. Such lessons will be to the women more valuable than they can estimate."  {PH095 20.2}
[PH095 21.1]      Chap. 16 - Special Work at Loma Linda          "I am very anxious that Brethren ----- and their associates shall see all things clearly. God has given to every man a certain work to do, and He will give to each wisdom necessary to perform His own appointed work." . . .  {PH095 21.1}
[PH095 21.2]         "Be very careful not to do anything that would restrict the work at Loma Linda. It is in the order of God that this property has been secured, and He has given instructions that a school should be connected with the Sanitarium. A special work is to be done there in qualifying young men and young women to be efficient medical missionary workers. They are to be taught how to treat the sick without the use of drugs. Such an education requires an experience in practical work.  {PH095 21.2}
[PH095 21.3]          "The work at Loma Linda demands immediate consideration. Preparations must be made for the school to be opened as soon as possible. Our young men and young women are to find in Loma Linda a school where they can receive a medical     22     missionary training, and where they will not be brought under the influence of some who are seeking to undermine the truth. The students are to unite faithfully in the medical work, keeping their physical powers in the most perfect condition possible, and laboring under the instruction of the great medical Missionary. The healing of the sick and the ministry of the Word are to go hand in hand.  {PH095 21.3}
[PH095 22.1]          "There is to be a thorough education in Bible truth. The Word of God is spirit and life. We need constantly to look to Jesus. The efficiency of every worker is largely determined by the education and training he receives. In your educational institutions there is to be a higher class of education than can be found elsewhere. The students are to be treated kindly, tenderly and interestedly. {PH095 22.1}
[PH095 22.2]      Chap. 17 - Means Must be Provided         "In order properly to fit the Sanitarium and the school at Loma Linda to carry on the work that the Lord has plainly directed should be carried on, means must be raised. And let no one act a part in influencing our brethren and sisters in Southern California not to do that which needs to be done.  {PH095 22.2}
[PH095 22.3]         "The Lord has blessed -----, and He will continue to bless him, as he continues to move in the fear of God, and plans wisely and economically with his associates for the fitting up and management of the institution. If any of his brethren act arbitrarily in an effort to restrain him in this, they would be found hindering the very work that the Lord has signified should be done. He is not to be forced to turn aside.                                                  23     from his convictions as to the way in which the work under his charge shall be carried on.  {PH095 22.3}
[PH095 23.1]          "In the carrying forward of the educational work at Loma Linda, our brethren must constantly guard against the effort of the enemy to bring in a spirit of criticism and of alienation between brethren.  {PH095 23.1}
[PH095 23.2]          "There are times when certain sanitariums will have to pass through a close, severe struggle for means in order to do a special work which the Lord has particularly designated should be done. In such emergencies they are to be free to receive gifts and donations from our churches. Some who receive the truth have means, and they will aid in sustaining the good work which should be done in our sanitariums.  {PH095 23.2}
[PH095 23.3]          "My brethren, I am praying that the Lord will guide you in the very best methods of reaching hearts." . . .  {PH095 23.3}
[PH095 23.4]          "For years we have wrestled to see the work of God advanced in Southern California. At one time we found such narrow, prescribed plans that the work could not move forward. Then when an effort was made to advance, it resulted in large outlay, and in extravagant plans that were altogether out of order. Then followed a pressure for money, and the work was held back.  {PH095 23.4}
[PH095 23.5]          "Still the light kept coming to me that the work should be conducted after a different order, that many plans and devisings of men needed to be changed. Of late some moves have been made. The Lord has wrought in the securing of properties at San Fernando, at Paradise Valley and at Glendale.  {PH095 23.5}
[PH095 23.6]          "A sanitarium has been established at Loma Linda, and this is in the providence of God.     24     Some know how difficult it has been to accomplish the work that has been done. But the work at Loma Linda is not yet perfected. More money must be raised in order to make this place a center for the training of medical missionary evangelists. {PH095 23.6}
[PH095 24.1]      Chap. 18 - Southern California Conference to Help         "As the President and Executive Committee of the Southern California Conference unite with Brother ----- and his associates in planning for the thorough accomplishment of the Sanitarium and school work at Loma Linda, they will find strength and blessing. Brother ----- is not to be bound about in his work.  {PH095 24.1}
[PH095 24.2]         "Pray to the Lord, my brethren, council together, and then labor unitedly to help in establishing the work which we all so greatly desire shall not be hindered.  {PH095 24.2}
[PH095 24.3]          "The work of higher education has been greatly hindered because men and women have not discerned spiritual things as they should. We should know the facts that are of weight in making decisions.  {PH095 24.3}
[PH095 24.4]          "All our brethren are to be sober minded and cautious. Those who hold office need the ability to view every matter wisely. We are all to be workers together with God." {PH095 24.4}
[PH095 24.5]      Chap. 19 - College Opened           "Brethren Burden and Howell, the work of the school and the Sanitarium will be a blessing, the one to the other. Each must act its individual                                                25     part, but both must blend together; then the interest of both will be advanced. If there is co-operation between the educational work and the work of the sanitarium, we can heartily recommend that the higher education be carried on on the sanitarium grounds; for this is the Lord's plan. If the men at the head of this enterprise plan for the usefulness of these institutions, each helping the other, there is nothing to hinder the operations of the school. As the work grows, buildings may have to be prepared." {PH095 24.5}
[PH095 25.1]      Chap. 20 - On the Training of Medical Students          "'We greatly need godly physicians. We need men who have high and holy principles. . . .                                                                              26  I have been shown that young men will accept the responsibility of obtaining a medical education, and enter upon their course of study designing to be right and maintain their Christian principles; but do they do this? No; they fall into temptation, and evil influences affect their morals. Among our own people who profess to believe the most solemn truths ever committed to mortals, there is a tarnishing of virtue, a sacrificing of principle. They do not, like Joseph and Daniel, preserve their integrity of morals, much less their Christian principles. The habits and customs of associates who claim to be respectable men and women have a molding influence upon them. Not only the youth, but those of mature age, are inclined to conform to the worldlings' standard in order not to be considered singular.' {PH095 25.1}
[PH095 26.1]      Chap. 21 - Danger at Medical Colleges          "'We are in need of physicians; but the plan of sending young men to a medical college to learn to treat the sick is questionable; for many of them have no root in themselves, and, as in sending our children to the other colleges in our land, they are brought in contact with every class of minds, and are thrown into a sink of iniquity, the companionship of skeptics, infidels and the profligate, where not one out of one hundred escapes from being contaminated. They do not come forth like Joseph and Daniel uncorrupted, firm as a rock to principle.'                                                   27  {PH095 26.1}
[PH095 27.1]         "'These students, who intend to deal with suffering humanity, will find no graduating place this side of heaven. Every bit of knowledge that is termed science should be acquired, while the seeker daily acknowledges that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. Every item of experience and everything that can strengthen the mind should be cultivated to the utmost of their power, while at the same time they should seek God for His wisdom, their consciences illuminated, quick and pure; for unless they are guided by the wisdom from above, they become an easy prey to the deceptive power of Satan.' {PH095 27.1}
[PH095 27.2]      Chap. 22 - The First Lesson          "'I wish I could set before the medical student the true responsibility which rests upon him in his work. There is not one in one hundred who has a just sense of his position, his work, his accountability to God, and how much God will do for him if he will make Him his trust. The very first lesson that he should learn is dependence upon God. Make God your counselor at every step. The worldly and the nominal Christian may insinuate that in order for you to be successful you must be a policy man, you must at times depart from the strictest rectitude; but be not deceived, be not deluded. . . . Throw not open a door for the enemy to take possession of the citadel of the soul.  {PH095 27.2}
[PH095 27.3]         "'Like Enoch, the physician should be a man that walks with God. This will be to him an     28     antidote to all the delusive, pernicious sentiments which make so many infidel physicians, or skeptics. The true antidote is truth, the truth of God revealed in His Word, practiced in the life, and constantly guiding in all that concerns the interests of others. Having the soul thus barricaded with heavenly principles you may humbly yet confidently say, I will not fear the face of man. God is not unmindful of your struggles, of your conflicts to maintain the truth and obtain a personal daily experience in walking in the ways of truth. When you appreciate every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God, as revealed in His Word, higher than worldly policy, you will be guided into every good and holy way.' . . . {PH095 27.3}
[PH095 28.1]      Chap. 23 - Be Not Deceived          "'Let not medical students be deceived by the wiles of the devil, or by any of his cunning pretexts which so many adopt to beguile and ensnare by the practices of the ungodly. Cling closely to your Bibles. Enquire, What saith the Lord? He has spoken and told me how to ennoble and purify my life. This light I will follow. The Majesty of truth I will respect and honor.' . . .  {PH095 28.1}
[PH095 28.2]         "'It is the privilege of every student to enter college with the same fixed, determined principle that Daniel had when he entered the courts of Babylon, and to preserve his integrity untarnished. You all need a living religion, that you may stand as God's witnesses.' {PH095 28.2}
[PH095 29.1]      Chap. 24 - Entering Higher Colleges          "'We would that there were strong young men, rooted and grounded in the faith, who had such a living connection with God that they could, if so counseled by our leading brethren, enter the higher colleges in our land, where they would have a wider field for study and observation. Association with different classes of minds, and acquaintance with the workings and results of popular methods of education, and a knowledge of theology as taught in the leading institutions of learning, would be of great value to such workers, preparing them to labor for the educated classes, and to meet the prevailing errors of our time. Such was the method pursued by the ancient Waldenses; and, if true to God, our youth, like theirs, might do a good work, even while gaining their education, in sowing the seeds of truth in other minds.'  {PH095 29.1}
[PH095 29.2]         "'Painstaking effort should be made to induce suitable men to qualify themselves for this work-- the work of a physician. They should be men     30     whose characters are based upon the broad principles of the Word of God,--men who possess a natural energy, force and perseverance that will enable them to reach a high standard of excellence.' . . . {PH095 29.2}
[PH095 30.1]      Chap. 25 - Danger in Medical Schools          "'In this age there is danger for every one who shall enter upon the study of medicine. Often his instructors are worldly-wise men and his fellow students infidels, who have no thought of God, and he is in danger of being influenced by these irreligious associations. Nevertheless, some have gone through the medical course, and have remained true to principle. They would not continue their studies on the Sabbath; and they have proved that men may become qualified for the duties of a physician and not disappoint the expectations of those who furnish them means to obtain an education. Like Daniel, they have honored God, and He has kept them.' . . .  {PH095 30.1}
[PH095 30.2]         "The young physician has access to the God of Daniel. Through divine grace and power he may become as efficient in his calling as Daniel was in his exalted position. But it is a mistake to make a scientific preparation the all important thing, while religious principles, that lie at the very foundation of a successful practice, are neglected. . . . The man who is closely connected with the great Physician of soul and body, has the resources of heaven at his command, and he can work with a wisdom and unerring precision that the godless man can not possess. {PH095 30.2}
[PH095 31.1]      Chap. 26 - Men and Women Wanted           "'Devoted persons, both men and women, are wanted now to go forth as medical missionaries. Let them cultivate their physical and mental powers and their piety to the utmost. Every effort should be made to send forth intelligent workers. The same grace that came from Jesus Christ to Paul and Apollos, which caused them to be distinguished for their spiritual excellencies, can be received now, and will bring into working order many devoted missionaries.'  {PH095 31.1}
[PH095 31.2]         "'God will surely advance the humble, trustful, praying, whole-souled medical missionary as he advanced Daniel and his fellows.' {PH095 31.2}
[PH095 32.1]      Chap. 27 - Study of the Bible          "'If the medical students will study the Word of God diligently, they will be far better prepared to understand their other studies; for enlightenment always come with an earnest study of the Word of God. Let our medical missionary workers understand that the more they become acquainted with God and with Christ, and the more they become acquainted with Bible history, the better prepared they will be to do their work.  {PH095 32.1}
[PH095 32.2]         "'The students in our schools should aspire to higher knowledge. Nothing will so help to give them a retentive memory as a study of the Scriptures. Nothing will so help them in gaining a knowledge of their other studies.' . . .  {PH095 32.2}
[PH095 32.3]          "'Faithful teachers should be placed in charge of the Bible classes, teachers who will strive to make the students understand their lessons, not by explaining everything to them, but by requiring them to explain clearly every passage they read. Let these teachers remember that little good will be accomplished by skimming over the surface of the Word. Thoughtful investigation and earnest, taxing study are required in order for this Word to be understood.' . . .  {PH095 32.3}
[PH095 32.4]          "'The Bible is the great lesson book for the students in our schools. . . . Those who consult the divine Oracle will have light. In the Bible every duty is made plain. Every lesson given is comprehensible. Every lesson reveals to us the Father and the Son. The Word is able to make all wise unto salvation. In the Word the science of Salvation is plainly revealed                                                33     Search the Scriptures, for they are the voice of God speaking to the soul."  {PH095 32.4}
[PH095 33.1]          "'Remember, my brother, that medical missionary work is not to take men from the ministry, but is to place men in the field, better qualified to minister because of their knowledge of medical missionary work. Young men should receive an education in medical missionary lines, and then should go forth to connect with the ministers.' . . . {PH095 33.1}
[PH095 33.2]      Chap. 28 - Danger at the A.M.M. College          "'Those who are receiving an education in medical lines (referring to the students in the American Medical Missionary College) hear insinuations from time to time that disparage the church and the ministry. These insinuations are seeds that will spring up and bear fruit. The students might better be educated to realize that the church of Christ on earth is to be respected. They need a clear knowledge of the reasons of our faith. This knowledge they must have in order to serve God acceptably. Line upon line, precept upon precept, they must receive the Bible evidence of the truth as it is in Jesus.  {PH095 33.2}
[PH095 33.3]         "'Do not, I beg of you, instill into the minds of the students ideas that will cause them to lose confidence in God's appointed ministers. But     34     this you are most certainly doing, whether you are aware of it or not.' {PH095 33.3}
[PH095 34.1]      Chap. 29 - Unnecessary Medical Studies           "'There is a burden upon my soul. There are young people who are encouraged to take up a course of study in medical lines who ought to be preparing themselves most decidedly to proclaim the third angel's message. It is not necessary for our medical students to spend all the time                                                 35     that they are spending in medical studies. Their work should be more decidedly combined with a study of God's Word. Ideas are inculcated that are not at all necessary, and the necessary things do not receive sufficient attention.  {PH095 34.1}
[PH095 35.1]         "'While students are being educated in this way, they are being made less able to do acceptable work for the Master. The taxation that they undergo to obtain an extended knowledge in medical lines unfits them to work as they should in ministerial lines. Physical and mental weariness come because of the overstrain of study, and because the students are encouraged to labor unduly for the outcasts and the degraded. Thus some are disqualified for the work they might have done, had they begun missionary work where it was needed, and let the medical line come in as an essential part, connected with the work of the gospel ministry as a whole, as the hand is connected with the body. Life is not to be imperiled in an effort to obtain a medical education. There is danger in some cases that students will ruin their health and unfit themselves to do the service they might have done had they not been unwisely encouraged to take a medical course.  {PH095 35.1}
[PH095 35.2]          "'Often erroneous opinions are transcribed on the mind, and these lead to an unwise course of action. Students should have time to talk with God, time to live in hourly, conscious communion with the principles of truth and righteousness and mercy. At this time straightforward investigation of the heart is essential. The student must place himself where he can draw from the Source of spiritual and intellectual power. He must require that every cause which asks his     36     sympathy and cooperation has the approval of the reason which God has given him, and the conscience, which the Holy Spirit is controlling. He is not to perform an action that does not harmonized with the deep, holy principles which minister light to his soul and vigor to his will. Only thus can he do God the highest service.' . . . {PH095 35.2}
[PH095 36.1]      Chap. 30 - No Separation in the Work          "'The Lord's people are to be one. There is to be no separation in his work. Christ sent out the twelve apostles, and afterward the seventy disciples, to preach the gospel and to heal the sick. "As ye go," He said, "preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give." Matthew 10:7, 8. As they went forth preaching the kingdom of God, power was given them to heal the sick and cast out evil spirits. In God's work teaching and healing are never to be separated. His commandment-keeping people are to be one. Satan will invent every device to separate those whom God is seeking to make one. But the Lord will reveal Himself as a God of judgment. We are working under the eyes of the heavenly host. There is a divine Watcher among us, inspecting all that is planned and carried on.' {PH095 36.1}
[PH095 37.1]      Chap. 31 - Right Foundation          "'We are thankful that an interest is being shown in the work of establishing schools on a right foundation, as they should have been established years ago. If the proper education is given to students, it is a positive necessity to establish our schools at a distance from cities, where the students can do manual work.' . . .  {PH095 37.1}
[PH095 37.2]         "'Although there may be few students at first, do not be discouraged. The school will win its way. Introduce the medical missionary work. Some of the students are to be educated as nurses, some as physicians. It is not necessary for our students to go to Ann Arbor for a medical education. They may obtain at our schools all the education that is essential to perform the work for this time.  {PH095 37.2}
[PH095 37.3]          "'It will take some time to get a right understanding of the matter, but just as soon as we begin to work in the lines of true reform, the Holy Spirit will lead us and guide us if we are willing to be guided. It is a delicate matter to deal with human minds, and no one should engage in this work without the aid of the Holy Spirit. All must place themselves under the influence of this Spirit. When they place themselves under the influence of the Spirit, they will accommodate themselves to Bible lines. When the Word of God takes possession of the minds of teachers, then they are fitted to deal with the education of others.  {PH095 37.3}
[PH095 37.4]          "'The Word of God is to stand at the foundation of all education. It is to be made the basis of all the schools that we shall establish.     38     Following "Thus saith the Lord," brings the schools into close connection with heavenly intelligencies. The Lord has been greatly dishonored because His holy Word, which will accomplish so much, has been placed on the background, while books which do not contain the highest instruction in regard to practical life and true science of eternal things have been brought to the front.' . . .  {PH095 37.4}
[PH095 38.1]          "'God's dealings with His people are to be our guide in all educational advancement. His glory is to be the object of all study. Those who are being trained as medical missionaries are to realize that their work is to restore the moral image of God in man by healing the wounds which sin has made.' {PH095 38.1}
[PH095 38.2]      Chap. 32 - Dangers at Battle Creek          "'There is a burden upon my mind in regard to the temptations and perils that surround medical students and those in training for medical missionary work at our sanitariums, and especially for those who are studying at Battle Creek.  {PH095 38.2}
[PH095 38.3]         "'There are teachers who do not daily bring the Word of God into their life work. They                                                    39     have not a saving knowledge of God or of Christ. It is those who do not live the truth who are most inclined to invent sophistries, to occupy the time and absorb the attention that ought to be given to the study of God's Word.  {PH095 38.3}
[PH095 39.1]          "'Christ, the great medical Missionary, came to this world at infinite sacrifice, to teach men and women the lessons that would enable them to know God aright. He lived in this world a perfect life, setting an example that all may safely follow. Let our medical students and other young people study the lessons that Christ has given. It is essential that they should have a clear understanding of these lessons. It would be a fearful mistake for them to neglect the study of God's Word for a study of theories that are misleading, diverting minds from the words of Christ to fallacies of human production.  {PH095 39.1}
[PH095 39.2]          "'When our physicians and ministers are diligent students of the Scriptures, when they live in accordance with the teaching of the Word of God, making this Word their text-book, God will be able to bestow on them rich blessings.  {PH095 39.2}
[PH095 39.3]          "'The teaching regarding God that is presented in 'Living Temple' is not such as our students need. Those who seek to define God are on forbidden ground. We are to enter into no controversy regarding God,--what He is and what He is not. He, the Omniscient One, is above discussion. Those who express such sentiments regarding Him show that they are departing from the faith.' . . .  {PH095 39.3}
[PH095 39.4]          "'I call upon our ministers, physicians, and all church members to study the lessons that Christ gave His disciples just before His ascension. These lessons contain instruction that the people     40     of God need. When our physicians understand this instruction, they will realize that the Holy Spirit will never lead them to speak or write that which is at variance with the teachings of the Word of God. Take the Bible as your study-book. It contains the Alpha and Omega of knowledge. All can understand the instruction that it contains.' . . .  {PH095 39.4}
[PH095 40.1]          "'Human talent and human conjecture have tried by searching to find out God. Many have trodden this pathway. The highest intellect may tax itself until it is wearied out, in conjectures regarding God, but the effort will be fruitless, and the fact will remain that man by searching can not find out God. This problem has not been given us to solve. All that man needs to know and can know of God has been revealed in the life and character of His Son, the great Teacher. As we learn more and more of what man is, of what we ourselves are, in God's sight, we shall fear and tremble before Him.  {PH095 40.1}
[PH095 40.2]          "'To those who would represent every man as born a king; to those who would make no distinction between the converted and the unconverted; to those who are losing their appreciation of their need of Christ as their Saviour, I would say, Think of yourselves as you have been during the period of your existence! Would it be pleasant or agreeable for you to contemplate feature after feature of your life work, in the sight of Him who knows every thought of man, and before Whose eyes all man's doings are as an open book?  {PH095 40.2}
[PH095 40.3]          "'I call upon all who are engaged in the service of God to place themselves fully on Christ's side. There are dangers on the right hand and                                                   41     on the left. Our greatest danger will come from men who have lifted up their souls unto vanity, who have not heeded the words of warning and reproof sent them by God. As such men choose their own will and way, the tempter, clothed in angel robes, is close beside them, ready to unite his influence with theirs. He opens to them delusions of a most attractive character, which they present to the people of God. Some of those who listen to them will be deceived, and will work in dangerous lines.  {PH095 40.3}
[PH095 41.1]          "'The Lord calls. Will men and women hear His voice? He gives the warning. Will they heed it? Will they listen to the last message of mercy to a fallen world? Will they accept Christ's yoke, and learn from Him His meekness and lowliness?"  {PH095 41.1}
[PH095 41.2]          "'God would have all who profess to be gospel medical missionaries learn diligently the lessons of the great Teacher. This they must do if they would find peace and rest. Learning of Christ, their hearts will be filled with the peace that He alone can give. {PH095 41.2}
[PH095 41.3]      Chap. 33 - The Essential Study          "'The one book that is essential for all to study is the Bible. Studied with reverence and Godly fear, it is the greatest of all educators. In it there is no sophistry. Its pages are filled with truth. Would you gain a knowledge of God     42     and Christ. Whom He sent into the world to live and die for sinners? An earnest, diligent study of the Bible is necessary in order to gain this knowledge.  {PH095 41.3}
[PH095 42.1]         "'Many of the books piled up in the great libraries of earth, confuse the mind more than they aid the understanding. Yet men spend large sums of money in the purchase of such books, and years in their study, when they have within their reach a book containing the Words of Him who is the Alpha and Omega of wisdom. The time spent in a study of these books might better be spent in gaining a knowledge of Him Whom to know aright is life eternal. Those only who gain this knowledge will at last hear the words, "Ye are complete in Him." {PH095 42.1}
[PH095 42.2]      Chap. 34 - Study the Bible More          "'Study the Bible more, and the theories of medical fraternity less, and you will have greater spiritual health. Your mind will be clearer and more vigorous. Much that is embraced in a medical course is positively unnecessary. Those who take a medical training spend a great deal of time in learning that which is merely rubbish. Many of the theories that they learn may be compared in value to the traditions and maxims taught by the Scribes and Pharisees. Many of the intricacies with which they have to become familiar are an injury to their minds.  {PH095 42.2}
[PH095 42.3]         "'These things God has been opening before me for many years. In our medical schools and institutions we need men who have a deeper knowledge of the Scriptures, men who have learned the lessons taught in the Word of God, and who can teach these lessons to others clearly                                                   43     and simply, just as Christ taught His disciples the knowledge that He deemed most essential.  {PH095 42.3}
[PH095 43.1]          "'If, during the remainder of this year, our medical missionary workers would follow the great Physician's prescription for obtaining rest, a healing current of peace would flow through their souls. Here is the prescription,--  {PH095 43.1}
[PH095 43.2]          "'"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." {PH095 43.2}
[PH095 43.3]      Chap. 35 - Result of Neglecting Bible Study          "'When our medical missionary workers follow this prescription, gaining from the Saviour power to reveal His characteristics, their scientific work will have greater soundness. Because the Word of God has been neglected, strange things have been done in the medical missionary work of late. The Lord can not accept the present showing.  {PH095 43.3}
[PH095 43.4]         "'Study the Word which God in His wisdom and love and goodness has made so plain and simple. . . . The Holy Spirit teaches the student of the Scriptures to judge all things by the standard of righteousness and truth and justice. The divine revelation supplies him with the knowledge that he needs.  {PH095 43.4}
[PH095 43.5]          "'And the needed knowledge will be given to all who come to Christ, receiving and practicing His teachings, making His Words a part of their lives. Those who place themselves under the instruction of the great medical Missionary, to be workers together with Him, will have a     44     knowledge that the world, with all its traditionary lore, can not supply.  {PH095 43.5}
[PH095 44.1]          "'Make the Bible the man of your counsel. Your acquaintance with it will grow rapidly if you keep your mind free from the rubbish of the world. The more the Bible is studied, the deeper will be your knowledge of God. The truths of His Word will be written in your soul, making an ineffaceable impression.  {PH095 44.1}
[PH095 44.2]          "'Not only will the student himself be benefited by a study of the Word of God, but his study is life and salvation to all with whom he associates. He will feel a sacred responsibility to impart the knowledge that he receives. His life will reveal the help and strength that he receives from communion with the Word. The sanctification of the Spirit will be seen in thought, word and deed. All that he says and does will proclaim that God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all. Of such ones the Lord Jesus can indeed say, "Ye are laborers together with God."'                                                    45  {PH095 44.2}
[PH095 45.1]              Work for the Women's Christian                   Temperance Union            "I am thankful that the Lord is leading you. I believe that the Lord has appointed you to do His work in His way. Let us in our work have faith in God, and trust Him. While we may take pleasure in counseling with our brethren, an individual work is to be done which is beyond the power of any mind to comprehend." . . .  {PH095 45.1}
[PH095 45.2]          "I thank the Lord with heart, and soul, and voice that you have been a prominent and influential member of the Women's Christian Temperance Union. In the providence of God you have been led to the light, to obtain a knowledge of the truth. . . . This light and knowledge you need to bring into your work, as you associate with women whose hearts are softened by the Spirit of God, and who are searching for the truth as for hidden treasure. For twenty years I have seen that light would come to the women workers in temperance lines. But with sadness     46     I have discerned that many of them are becoming politicians, and that against God. They enter into questions and debates and theories that they have no need to touch. Christ said, "I am the light of the world: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.'". . .  {PH095 45.2}
[PH095 46.1]          "The Lord, I fully believe, is leading you that you may keep the principles of temperance clear and distinct, in all their purity, in connection with the truth for these last days. They that do His will shall know of the doctrine. The Lord designs that women shall learn of Him meekness and lowliness of heart, and cooperate with the greatest Teacher the world has ever known. When this is done, there will be no strife for the supremacy, no pride of opinion; for it will be realized that mind, and voice, and every jot of ability, are only lent talents, given by God to be used in His work, to accumulate for Him, and to be returned to the Giver with all the increase. We are expected to grow in capability, in influence, and in power, ever looking unto Jesus. And by beholding, we shall be changed into His likeness.  {PH095 46.1}
[PH095 46.2]          'The woman's work is a power in our world, but it is lost when, with the Word of God before her, she sees a 'Thus saith the Lord,' and refuses to obey. The great and difficult thing for the soul to do is to part with its own supposed works of merit. It is not an easy matter to understand what it means to refuse self the least place of honor in the service of God. All unconsciously we act out the attributes of our own character and the bias of our own mind in the very presence of God, in our prayer and worship,                                                          47     in our service, and fail to see that we are absolutely dependent upon the leading of the Holy Spirit. Self is expected to do a work that is simply out of its power to do. This is the great peril of woman's work in Christian temperance lines.  {PH095 46.2}
[PH095 47.1]          "The Lord does not bid you separate from the Woman's Christian Temperance Union. They need all the light you can give them. You are not to learn of them, but of Jesus Christ. Flash all the light possible into their pathway. You can agree with them on the ground of the pure, elevating principles that first brought into existence the Women's Christian Temperance Union. 'Behold,' said Christ, 'I send you forth as lambs among wolves.' If He sends His disciples on such a mission, will He not work through you to open the Scriptures to those who are in error? Cherish the fragrance of that love that Christ has revealed for fallen humanity, and by precept and example teach the truth as it is in Jesus.  {PH095 47.1}
[PH095 47.2]          "The Holy Spirit alone is able to develop in the human agent that which is acceptable in the sight of God. The Lord has given you capabilities and talents to be preserved uncorrupted in their simplicity. Through Jesus Christ you may do a good work. As souls shall be converted to the truth, have them unite with you in teaching those women who are willing to be taught, to live and labor intelligently and unitedly.  {PH095 47.2}
[PH095 47.3]          And again, March 24, 1899,--  {PH095 47.3}
[PH095 47.4]          ". . . I am glad, my sister, that you did not sever your connection with the Women's Christian Temperance Union. You may have to sever this connection, but not yet, not yet. Hold     48     your place. Speak the words given you by God, and the Lord will certainly work with you. You may see many things you do not approve of, but do not fail nor be discouraged. I hope and pray that you may be clothed daily with the righteousness of Christ."  {PH095 47.4}
[PH095 48.1]          And still later, June 21, 1899,--  {PH095 48.1}
[PH095 48.2]          "My sister, let your heart ever repose in confidence in God. The Lord will be to you a present help in every time of need. He does not need to work through other minds in order to lead His chosen ones. He is desirous of communicating through those who seek Him with all the heart. While we put our entire trust in our Redeemer, we are perfectly safe. We have a large work to do, and we are to have respect unto the recompense of reward. And more than this, we are to use every God-given faculty, that others, through our influence and Christ-like example, may have the same respect that we have.  {PH095 48.2}
[PH095 48.3]          "I hope, my sister, that you will have an influence in the Women's Christian Temperance Association to draw many precious souls to the standard of truth. The Lord is drawing many to an examination of the truth, and you need not fail nor be discouraged. Sow beside all waters. These are good waters in which you can sow the seeds of truth, even if you do not dwell publicly upon the prominent features of our faith. It would not be wise to be too definite. The oil of grace revealed in your conscious and unconscious influence will make known that you have the light of life. This will shine forth to others in your direct, positive testimony upon subjects on which you can all agree, and this will have a telling influence."  {PH095 48.3}
[PH102 2.2]         The policy which worldly business men adopt is not the policy to be chosen and carried out by the men who are connected with our institutions. Selfish policy is not heaven-born, it is earthly. In this world, the leading maxim is, "The end justifies the means;" and this may be traced in every department of business. It has a controlling influence in every class of society, in the grand councils of nations, and wherever the Spirit of Christ is not the ruling principle. Prudence and caution, tact and skill, should be cultivated by every one who is connected with the office of publication, and by those who serve in our college and sanitarium. But the laws of justice and righteousness must not be set aside, and the principle must not prevail that each one is to make his particular branch of the work a success, regardless of other branches. The interests of all should be closely guarded, to see that no one's rights are invaded. In the world, the god of traffic is too often the god of fraud; but it                                                                              3  must not be thus with those who are dealing with the Lord's work. The worldly standard is not to be the standard of those who are connected with sacred things.  {PH102 2.2}
[PH102 3.1]          When the scenes of the Judgment were brought before me, the books in which are registered the deeds of men, revealed the fact that the dealings of some of those professing godliness in our institutions were after the worldling's standard, not in strict accordance with God's great standard of righteousness. The relation of men in their deal with one another, especially those connected with the work of God, was opened to me quite fully. I saw that there should be no close, sharp deal between brethren who represent important institutions, different, perhaps, in character, but branches of the same work. A noble, generous, Christlike spirit should ever be maintained by them. The spirit of avarice should have no place in their transactions. God's cause could not be advanced by any action on their part contrary to the spirit and character of Christ. A selfish manner of dealing in one will provoke the same disposition in others; but the manifestation of liberality and true courtesy will awaken the same spirit in return, and would please our heavenly Father.  {PH102 3.1}
[PH102 3.2]          Worldly policy is not to be classed with sound discretion, although it is too often mistaken for it. It is a species of selfishness, in whatever cause it is exercised. Discretion and sound judgment are never narrow in their                                                                              4  workings. The mind that is guided by them has comprehensive ideas, and does not become narrowed down to one object. It looks at things from every point of view. But worldly policy has a short range of vision. It can see the object nearest at hand, but fails to discover those at a distance. It is ever watching for opportunities to gain advantage. Those who follow a course of worldly policy, are building themselves up by pulling out the foundation from another man's building. Every structure must be built upon a right foundation, in order to stand.  {PH102 3.2}
[PH102 4.1]                   Royalties on Books          Brain workers have a God-given capital. The result of their study belongs to God, not to man. If the worker faithfully gives to his employer the time for which he receives his pay, then his employer has no further claim upon him. And if by diligent and close economy of moments, he prepares other matter valuable for publication, it is his to use as he thinks will best serve the cause of God. If he gives up all but a small royalty, he has done a good work for those who handle the book, and he should not be asked to do more. God has not placed upon the publishing board the responsibility of being conscience for others. They should not persistently seek to force men to their terms.  {PH102 4.1}
[PH102 4.2]          The authors are responsible to God for the use which they make of their means. There                                                                              5  will be many calls for money. Mission fields will have to be entered, and this requires much outlay. Those to whom God has entrusted talents, are to trade upon these talents according to their ability; for they are to act their part in carrying forward these interests. When the members of the board take it upon themselves to urge that all the profits from our denominational books shall go to the Publishing Association and the agents, and that the authors, after being paid for the time and expense of writing a book, should relinquish their claim to a share in the profits, they are undertaking a work which they can not carry out. These book-writers have as much interest in the cause of God as do those who compose the board of trustees. Some of them have had a connection with the work almost from its infancy.  {PH102 4.2}
[PH102 5.1]          It was presented before me that there were poor men whose only means of obtaining a livelihood was their brain-work; also, that there are business men connected with our institutions, who have not grown up with them, and have not had the benefit of all the instruction that God has given from time to time relative to their management. They have not incorporated true religion, the spirit of Christ, into their business. The Publishing Association should not, therefore, be made an all-controlling power. Individual talent and individual rights must be respected. Should arrangements be made to                                                                              6  invest all the results of personal talent in the Publishing Association, other important interests would be crippled.  {PH102 5.1}
[PH102 6.1]          To every man God has given his work. To some He has given talents of means and influence; and those who have the interests of God's cause at heart will understand His voice telling them what to do. They will have a burden to push the work where it needs pushing.  {PH102 6.1}
[PH102 6.2]          Several times it has been pointed out to me that there has been a close, ungenerous spirit exercised toward Brother H from the very first of his labors in Battle Creek. It makes me sad to state the reason. It was because he went there a stranger and in poverty. Because he was a poor man, he has been placed in unpleasant positions, and made to feel his poverty. Men connected with our institutions have thought that they could bring him to their terms, and he has had a very unpleasant time. There are sad chapters in his experience, which would not have passed into history if his brethren had been kind, and had dealt with him in a Christlike manner. The Lord's cause should always be free from the slightest injustice; and no act connected with it should savor in the smallest degree of penuriousness or oppression.  {PH102 6.2}
[PH102 6.3]          The Lord guards every man's interest. He was always the poor man's friend. There is a most wonderful dearth of Christlike love in the hearts of nearly all who are handling                                                                              7  sacred things. I would say to my brethren everywhere, Cultivate the love of Christ! It should well up from the soul of the Christian like streams in the desert, refreshing and beautifying, bringing gladness, peace, and joy into his own life, and into the lives of others. "None of us liveth to himself." If there is shown the least oppression of the poor, or unjust dealing with them in either small or great things, God will hold the oppressor accountable.  {PH102 6.3}
[PH102 7.1]          Do not seek to make terms which are not just and fair with either Elder J or Professor H, or with any other brain-worker. Do not urge or force them to accept the terms of those who do not know what it is to make books. These men have a conscience, and are accountable to God for their entrusted capital and the use they make of it; you are not to be conscience for them. They want the privilege of investing the means which they may acquire by hard labor, when and where the Spirit of God shall indicate.  {PH102 7.1}
[PH102 7.2]          My brethren must remember that the cause of God covers more than the publishing house at Battle Creek and the other institutions there established. No one knows better than Brother J how that office came into existence. He has been connected with the publishing work from its very commencement,-- when it was oppressed by poverty; when the food upon our tables was hardly sufficient to meet the wants of nature, because self-denial had to be practised in eating                                                                              8  and in dressing and in our wages, in order that the paper might live. This was positively necessary then, and those who passed through that experience would be ready, under similar circumstances, to do the same again.  {PH102 7.2}
[PH102 8.1]          It is not becoming for those who have had no experience in these trials, but have become connected with the work in its present prosperity, to urge the early workers to submit to terms in which they can see no justice. Brother J loves the cause of God, and will invest his means to advance it wherever he sees it is necessary. Then leave this burden of receiving and dispensing this means where it belongs,-- on the men to whom God has entrusted talents of influence and of ability. They are responsible to God for these. Neither the Publishing Association nor its chief workers should assume the stewardship of these authors.  {PH102 8.1}
[PH102 8.2]          If the board should be able to bring Brethren H and J to their terms, would not these writers feel that they had been dealt with unjustly? Would not a door of temptation be opened before them, which would interfere with sympathy and harmony of action? Should the managers grasp all the profits, it would not be well for the cause, but would produce a train of evils, disastrous to the Publishing Association. It would encourage the spirit of intolerance which is already manifest to some degree in their councils. Satan longs to have a                                                                              9  narrow, conceited spirit, which God can not approve, take possession of the men who are connected with the sacred message of truth.  {PH102 8.2}
[PH102 9.2]          God desires to bring men into direct relation with Himself. In all His dealings with human beings He recognizes the principle of personal responsibility. He seeks to encourage a sense of personal dependence, and to impress the need of personal guidance. His gifts are committed to men as individuals. Every man has been made a steward of sacred trusts; each is to discharge his trust according to the direction of the Giver; and by each an account of his stewardship must be rendered to God.  {PH102 9.2}
[PH102 9.3]          In all this, God is seeking to bring the human into association with the divine, that through this connection man may become transformed into the divine likeness. Then the principle of love and goodness will be a part of his nature. Satan, seeking to thwart this purpose, constantly works to encourage dependence upon man, to make men the slaves of men. When he thus succeeds in turning minds away from God, he insinuates his own principles of selfishness, hatred, and strife.  {PH102 9.3}
[PH102 9.4]          In all our dealing with one another, God desires us carefully to guard the principle of personal responsibility to and dependence                                                                              10  upon Him. It is a principle that should be especially kept in view by our publishing houses in their dealing with authors.  {PH102 9.4}
[PH102 10.1]          It has been urged by some that authors have no right to hold the stewardship of their own works; that they should give their works over to the control of the publishing house or of the conference; and that, beyond the expense involved in the production of the manuscript, they should claim no share of the profit; that this should be left with the conference or the publishing house, to be appropriated, as their judgment shall direct, to the various needs of the work. Thus the author's stewardship of his work would be wholly transferred from himself to others.  {PH102 10.1}
[PH102 10.2]          But not so does God regard the matter. The ability to write a book is, like every other talent, a gift from Him, for the improvement of which the possessor is accountable to God; and he is to invest the returns under His direction. Let it be borne in mind that it is not our own property which is entrusted to us for investment. If it were, we might claim discretionary power; we might shift our responsibility upon others, and leave our stewardship with them. But this can not be, because the Lord has made us individually His stewards. We are responsible to invest this means ourselves. Our own hearts are to be sanctified; our hands are to have something to impart, as occasion demands, of the income that God entrusts to us.                                                                              11   {PH102 10.2}
[PH102 11.1]          It would be just as reasonable for the conference or the publishing house to assume control of the income which a brother receives from his houses or lands as to appropriate that which comes from the working of his brain.  {PH102 11.1}
[PH102 11.2]          Nor is there justice in the claim that, because a worker in the publishing house receives wages for his labor, his powers of body, mind, and soul belong wholly to the institution, and it has a right to all the productions of his pen. Outside the period of labor in the institution, the worker's time is under his own control, to use as he sees fit, so long as this use does not conflict with his duty to the institution. For that which he may produce in these hours, he is responsible to his own conscience and to God.  {PH102 11.2}
[PH102 11.3]          No greater dishonor can be shown to God than for one man to bring another man's talents under his absolute control. The evil is not obviated by the fact that the profits of the transaction are to be devoted to the cause of God. In such arrangements the man who allows his mind to be ruled by the mind of another is thus separated from God and exposed to temptation. In shifting the responsibility of his stewardship upon other men, and depending on their wisdom, he is placing man where God should be. Those who are seeking to bring about this shifting of responsibility are blinded as to the result of their action; but God has plainly set it before us. He says, "Cursed be the man                                                                              12  that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm." Jeremiah 17:5.  {PH102 11.3}
[PH102 12.1]          Let not authors be urged either to give away or to sell their right to the books they have written. Let them receive a just share of the profits of their work; then let them regard their means as a trust from God, to be administered according to the wisdom that He shall impart.  {PH102 12.1}
[PH102 12.2]          Those who possess the ability to write books should realize that they possess ability to invest the profits they receive. While it is right for them to place a portion in the treasury, to supply the general needs of the cause, they should feel it their duty to acquaint themselves with the necessities of the work, and with prayer to God for wisdom they should personally dispense their means where the need is greatest. Let them lead out in some line of benevolence. If their minds are under the direction of the Holy Spirit, they will have wisdom to perceive where means are needed, and in relieving this need they will be greatly blessed.  {PH102 12.2}
[PH102 12.3]          If the Lord's plan had been followed, a different state of things would now exist. So much means would not have been expended in a few localities, leaving so little for investment in the many, many places where the banner of truth has not yet been lifted.  {PH102 12.3}
[PH102 12.4]          Let our publishing houses beware lest in their dealing with God's workers, wrong principles be allowed to control. If connected                                                                              13  with the institution there are men whose hearts are not under the direction of the Holy Spirit, they will be sure to sway the work into wrong lines. Some who profess to be Christians regard the business connected with the Lord's work as something wholly apart from religious service. They say: "Religion is religion, business is business. We are determined to make that which we handle a success, and we will grasp every possible advantage to promote this special line of work." Thus plans contrary to truth and righteousness are introduced, with the plea that this or that must be done, because it is a good work, and for the advancement of the cause of God.  {PH102 12.4}
[PH102 13.1]          Men who through selfishness have become narrow and short-sighted, feel it their privilege to crowd down the very ones whom God is using to diffuse the light He has given them. Through oppressive plans, workers who should stand free in God have been trammeled with restrictions by those who were only their fellow-laborers. All this bears the stamp of the human, and not of the divine. It is the devising of men that leads to injustice and oppression. The cause of God is free from every taint of injustice. It seeks to gain no advantage by depriving the members of His family of their individuality or of their rights. The Lord does not sanction arbitrary authority, nor will He serve with the least selfishness or overreaching. To Him all such practises are abhorrent.                                                                              14   {PH102 13.1}
[PH102 14.1]          He declares: "I hate robbery for burnt-offering." "Thou shalt not have in thine house divers measures, a great and a small. But thou shalt have a perfect and just weight, a perfect and just measure shalt thou have: . . . for all that do such things, and all that do unrighteously, are an abomination unto the Lord thy God." Isaiah 61:8; Deuteronomy 25:14-16.  {PH102 14.1}
[PH102 14.2]          "He hath showed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God!" Micah 6:8.  {PH102 14.2}
[PH102 14.3]          One of the very highest applications of these principles is found in the recognition of man's right to himself, to the control of his own mind, to the stewardship of his talents, the right to receive and to impart the fruit of his own labor. Strength and power will be in our institutions only as in all their connection with their fellow-men they recognize these principles,--only as in their dealing they give heed to the instruction of the word of God.                                                    -    {PH102 14.3}
[PH102 14.4]          Satan's skill is exercised in devising plans and methods without number to accomplish his purposes. He works to restrict religious liberty, and to bring into the religious world a species of slavery. Organizations, institutions, unless kept by the power of God, will work under Satan's dictation to bring men under the control of men; and fraud and                                                                              15  guile will bear the semblance of zeal for truth and for the advancement of the kingdom of God. Whatever in our practise is not as open as the day belongs to the methods of the prince of evil.  {PH102 14.4}
[PH102 15.1]          Men fall into error by starting with false premises, and then bringing everything to bear to prove the error true. In some cases the first principles have a measure of truth interwoven with error; but it leads to no just action; and this is why men are misled. They desire to reign and become a power, and, in the effort to justify their principles, they adopt the methods of Satan.                                                    -    {PH102 15.1}
[PH102 15.3]          There is a subject that I wish to mention to you. It is the matter of royalties on books. Since W. C. White returned from America, he has received from A. R. Henry letters of a very decided character on this point. W. C. White has stated the positions taken by your board in Battle Creek. I am sorry that they are not far-seeing in judgment. They give evidence that they are narrowing their views and comprehensions. They will arouse much unpleasantness of feeling in the bookmakers, and will not accomplish that which they have undertaken. This movement will create a want of harmony. God will not                                                                              16  sanction such things as they have in view, because they are not just. . . .  {PH102 15.3}
[PH102 16.1]          The policy plan is a snare. While the members of the council may pride themselves on the thought that they are doing a very nice thing, they show a short-sighted wisdom that will cripple their own efforts for success. In order to stand, the structure must be built upon a right foundation. When the board of the Publishing Association takes it upon them to urge that all the profits of books shall go to the Publishing Association, they are seeking to control matters which do not come under their jurisdiction. They are taking upon themselves a work which they can not carry out. . . .  {PH102 16.1}
[PH102 16.2]          Some years ago the matter of the publication of books came up, and plans were laid which I can not now call to mind. It was something like this,--that no one individual was to be benefited by the publication of his books. . . . A proposition was then made to us which my husband, without ability to consider fully, assented to, that the Publishing Association should have the benefit of the books. I was considering the matter, and thought like this: I wish the testimonies to go to as many as possible. They contain messages from God to His people, and I wish no benefits personally for this work. Thus we stated the matter.  {PH102 16.2}
[PH102 16.3]          But shortly afterward, I was shown that it was not wisdom to relinquish our right to manage and control our own writings;                                                                              17  that we would know better how to handle the profits from these books than those who had far less experience; that publications were to be multiplied, and the profits that we would receive would enable us to lead out in the advancing work, to build up the interests of the cause, and to carry others with us in the work; that there was a principle to be maintained in guarding the interests of true workers. We ourselves were not the only ones that this decision would affect. I was instructed that justice must be maintained; that the cause of God would be continually widening; it would embrace the whole world as its field; that the wants of the cause of God should not be determined by one man's mind and one man's obscured vision; that there would be important work done in God's moral vineyard, and that no man should feel that the part of the work over which he presides is to be all-absorbing.  {PH102 16.3}
[PH102 17.1]          This settled our minds upon this point, and we have no reason to change them.                                                    -    {PH102 17.1}
[PH102 17.3]          My much respected brother, I wish to say that I have no selfish motives in claiming the royalty on my books, but I consider that there is a principle involved which affects not only my own rights, but the individual rights of others, which the Lord would have                                                                              18  me guard. I have a duty to do in this matter, which my brethren do not comprehend or take in, because of a lack of far-seeing judgment.  {PH102 17.3}
[PH102 18.1]          All that I receive in royalty on foreign books is dedicated to foreign missions. When I see how difficult it is for my good brethren to outgrow narrow plans and narrow ideas in some things connected with our work, I feel that I can understand, through the light God has given me, where means is really needed; and I do not mean to pass my stewardship on to my brethren, even if it is their judgment that I should do this. I dare not leave it to their judgment to apply this means.  {PH102 18.1}
[PH102 18.2]          I do not mean that the means that should justly come to me shall be under control of any board of directors. I might see necessities, and often do, that some minds composing your board would not see. . . . I know perfectly well what I am about, and I know that I should control the means God has made me steward of. All is the Lord's.                                                    -    {PH102 18.2}
[PH102 18.4]          I have received your letter in regard to royalty on books. You seem to be perplexed over this question. Will you counsel with Elder Olsen? I have written to him fully, I think, in regard to the matter. And in                                                                              19  Testimony 33, you will find the subject plainly presented. What more can you have? The great burden which some of our brethren have in regard to the matter of royalty is not inspired of God. The Holy Spirit does not move upon men in this way. If those who are so zealous in regard to their selfish acceptance of means which they no more earned than did many others, who were receiving limited wages--had they, in all its bearings, heeded the light which the Lord has given in regard to the practise of self-denial and the maintaining of the principles that characterized the work and the workmen in the establishment of the Review office, their attitude would appear more consistent.  {PH102 18.4}
[PH102 19.1]          The policy that dictated the payment of large wages is not inspired of God, and has not His sanction or favor. It was born in selfishness, and lives in selfishness. The great burden over royalties proceeds largely from the selfishness of the human heart, from the spirit of avarice, which should have no place in your business transactions. The representations made in regard to the matter of royalty may confuse minds. This has been done already; but the Lord, who deals justly, who loves mercy, whose ways are equal, will not sanction the devising of men whose discernment is not clear, whose ways are not equal, who would selfishly grasp for themselves all that it is possible in the line of wages, while they would oppress others.                                                                              20  These things will one day be seen in their true bearings. . . .  {PH102 19.1}
[PH102 20.1]          I think I need not again present the subject of royalty before your councils. I shall ever stand where I now stand, because it is in the counsel of God. Men may haggle over this business, and bring it to the front, but their man-made laws will be of little use. They may oppress; those who have authority may continue the work of seeking to bring men to their terms or cut off every resource; by their representations and the power of their will they may make it hard and hopeless for others to stand in their God-given sense of right; but bear in mind that God will judge for these things, and that day is not far distant. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. I shall bear my testimony as long as God shall spare my life; and should I fall by death, I shall leave my testimony clear and decided against every approach to oppression. . . .  {PH102 20.1}
[PH102 20.2]          Before my husband died I was warned that I must not put confidence in a friend or trust in a brother. Men with whom I would have to deal would not, because of their business education, have power to resist the temptation to overreach and to take advantage. They make God altogether such an one as themselves, and think that their sharp conniving and dealing is after God's order. They make every effort possible to take advantage where they can, for they do not daily experience conversion to God. They enter                                                                              21  into plans and go according to methods that they suppose will succeed, but they are far from fair or just or righteous. They spare themselves, but how hard they press others! They work to destroy the power of their fellow-men. . . .  {PH102 20.2}
[PH102 21.1]          God gave me counsel that I must be guarded about accepting the propositions of men who proposed that I should do certain things, alleging that in so doing, I would be helping the cause of God. But should I make the contract that they designed to have me, I would be bound, and could not move, independent of men or councils, to do things that were necessary to be done to advance the cause and work of God. If I should do as they desired me to, then I would be unable to speak to correct evil principles when they should be brought to bear against others.  {PH102 21.1}
[PH102 21.2]          It was needful that there should be those who would speak out against that which was wrong; for God would cleanse the publishing house from plans of injustice and fraudulent dealings, even as the Saviour cleansed the temple from its moral pollution. I was shown that schemes would be made to deprive men of their rights; but such plans were not after Christ's order, but after the order of Satan. My Guide said: "I have warned you. Speak My word fearlessly, whether men will hear, or whether they will forbear."                                                                              22   {PH102 21.2}
[PH102 22.2]          I have had this matter presented before me: If one is moved by the Spirit of God to publish a book which is adapted to supply a need, to advance the truth, and the selfish spirit which has been manifested for years by responsible men in the publishing house shall work until the book is brought under their control, and they manage to absorb all the profits themselves, the one who prepares the book is deprived of the very thing the Lord designed he should have in order to do a certain work in His vineyard. This will not be the last of such devising. The beginning is not the end.  {PH102 22.2}
[PH102 22.3]          That God who gave His life for the world, has instrumentalities which He will use, that you and your colaborers little suspect. When the Lord puts His hand to the work, let men keep their hands off from the ark. I have been made to suffer keenly in more ways than one from the spirit that prevailed during my stay in Battle Creek. Night after night the Lord presented to me what would be. The council meetings were not of a character to inspire confidence in some of the leading men; they seemed to be so determined and so zealous. The Lord Jesus was looking upon some of these meetings with grieved disapproval.  {PH102 22.3}
[PH102 22.4]          The same spirit that led to the course of                                                                              23  action which was pursued toward me, has lived, and has been revealed toward others. We know that God is not pleased with your taking so great liberties to bring individuals to the terms you have decided upon in your councils. God is not working with the men who are laying their plans to gain control of everything. The Lord would have His institutions in different parts of the world stand in union with other institutions. But one is not to swallow up the others. Each is to maintain its own individuality, and the weakest are to receive help from the institutions that have the largest revenue. The men who conduct matters in Battle Creek have much to learn on this point. God says, "I will have mercy, and not sacrifice."  {PH102 22.4}
[PH102 23.1]          There is a disposition to grasp everything, and to destroy individuality and ignore individual accountability; yet no compunction has thus far been aroused. A state of things is coming in after the mould of men, and not after the Lord's order. When the truth becomes an abiding principle in the soul, then we shall see the words of the prophet fulfilled: instead of the thorn the fir-tree will spring up, instead of the briar the myrtle, and life's desert will blossom as the rose.  {PH102 23.1}
[PH102 23.2]          We have had an experience in the work of God. There were times when the enemy came in great power to destroy; from hour to hour the men of faith had to depend on the blessings that came from God. The great topic of interest was how to save the souls                                                                              24  of those that were ready to perish. The great plan of salvation drew men close together in unity and love. The social intercourse was profitable. The love of the Redeemer, and the ways and means of saving perishing souls, was the burden of our hearts. Holiness, and the Author and Finisher of our faith, were the interesting subjects.                                                    -    {PH102 23.2}
[PH102 24.2]          Let no plans or methods be brought into any of our institutions that will place mind or talent under the control of human judgment; for this is not in God's order. God has given to man talents of influence which belong to him alone, and no greater dishonor can be done to God than for one finite agent to purchase from men their God-given talents, or the product of such talent, to be absolutely under his control, even though the benefits of the same be used to the advantage of the cause. In such arrangements one man's mind is ruled by another man's mind, and the human agent is separated from God, and exposed to temptations. Satan's methods tend to one end -- to make men the slaves of men. And when this is done, confusion and distrust, jealousies and evil surmisings, are the result. . . .                                                                              25   {PH102 24.2}
[PH102 25.1]     Principles Underlying Our Stewardship            I have borne abundant testimony, setting forth the fact that the ability to write a book is, like every other talent, a gift from God for which the possessor is accountable to Him. This talent no man can buy or sell without incurring great and dangerous responsibility. Those who labor to bring about changes in the publication of books, to place the books wholly under the control of the publishing houses or the conference, know not what they are talking about. Their eyes are blinded, and they work from a wrong standpoint. Selfishness is a root of bitterness whereby many are defiled.  {PH102 25.1}
[PH102 25.2]          The efforts that have been made to turn all the profits derived from the talents of writers, into the hands of the conference or the publishing house, will not prove a success; for the plan is not just and equal. From the light given me by God, the efforts made in this direction by those at the heart of the work are not Heaven-inspired. It is a very narrow, conceited arrangement, devised by human minds, and it does not bear the marks of God. Every man's special work is appointed him of God, and he is individually responsible to God. When men connected with the publishing business make decisions and transact business as they have done and propose to do at Battle Creek, they give evidence that changes should be made                                                                              26  as soon as possible; for God is not in any such plan.  {PH102 25.2}
[PH102 26.1]          Those who write books are not to be left under the control of men who have no experimental knowledge of authorship. These men have a high appreciation of their own ability, but they have shown how little they appreciate the human agent, to whom God has given a certain work to do. They belittle men to whom God has given talents to use to His glory. He never designed that any man should sell his stewardship as if he were not capable of managing the talents given him. The ideas which prevail, that, in order to give to the cause of God, a writer must place all the profits of his work, beyond a mere pittance, where other men shall control them for him, or invest as shall suit their ideas, are an error.  {PH102 26.1}
[PH102 26.2]          Long ago, when such ideas were first advanced, they should have been treated as they deserved. Men took into their own hands responsibilities which they were not capable of treating justly or managing successfully. They have given evidence of this in the past in the fact that they would resort to unfair means in order to wring from men God's entrusted talents for their own appropriation. But the very persons whom God has entrusted with His goods, are held responsible to trade upon them, and thus develop talent.  {PH102 26.2}
[PH102 26.3]          Every soul who has become the servant of God through the grace of Jesus Christ, has his own peculiar sphere of labor. He is not                                                                              27  to be bought or sold, but he is to understand that "ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, who by Him do believe in God, that raised Him up from the dead, and gave Him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God. Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently." Who have greater need to be doers of this inspired injunction than have those who are living at the very close of this earth's history? . . .  {PH102 26.3}
[PH102 27.1]               Individual Responsibility          Some men or councils may say, . . .  The conference committee will take your capital, and will appropriate it. . . . But the Lord has made us individually His stewards. We each hold a solemn responsibility to invest this means ourselves. A portion it is right to place in the treasury to advance the general interests of the work; but the steward of means will not be guiltless before God, unless, so far as he is able to do this, he shall use that means as circumstances shall reveal the necessity. We should be ready to help the suffering, and to set in operation plans                                                                              28  to advance the truth in various ways. It is not in the province of the conference or any other organization to relieve us of this stewardship. If you lack wisdom, go to God; ask Him for yourself, and then work with an eye single to His glory.  {PH102 27.1}
[PH102 28.1]          By exercising your judgment, by giving where you see there is need in any line of the work, you are putting out your money to the exchangers. If you see in any locality that the truth is gaining a foothold, and there is no place of worship, then do something to meet the necessity. By your own action encourage others to act in building a humble house for the worship of God. Have an interest in the work in all parts of the field.  {PH102 28.1}
[PH102 28.2]          While it is not your own property that you are handling, yet you are made responsible for its wise investment, for its use or abuse. God does not lay upon you the burden of asking the conference or any council of men whether you shall use you means as you see fit to advance the work of God in destitute towns and cities and impoverished localities. If the right plan had been followed, so much means would not have been used in some localities and so little in other places where the banner of truth had not been raised. We are not to merge our individuality of judgment into any institution in our world. We are to look to God for wisdom, as did Daniel. . . .  {PH102 28.2}
[PH102 28.3]          Do we individually realize our true position?                                                                              29  that as God's hired servants we are not to bargain away our stewardship, but that before the heavenly universe we are to administer the truth committed to us by God? Our own hearts are to be sanctified, our hands are to have something to impart, as occasion demands, of the income that God entrusts to us. The humblest of us have been entrusted with talents, and made agents for God, using our gifts for His name's glory. It is the duty of every one to realize his own responsibility, and to see that his talents are turned to advantage as a gift that he must return, having done his best to improve it. He who improves his talents to the best of his ability, may present his offering to God as a consecrated gift, that will be as fragrant incense before Him, a savor of life unto life.  {PH102 28.3}
[PH102 29.2]          The president of the conference should learn whether the business transactions are carried on with the strictest integrity; he should know whether they are presided over by men who have pure, clean hands. His indignation should be aroused against the slightest approach of a mean, selfish action. Let one wrong deed be practised and approved, and the second and third will follow in the same line of fraudulent deception.  {PH102 29.2}
[PH102 29.3]          "Hear ye now what the Lord saith; arise,                                                                              30  contend thou before the mountains, and let the hills hear thy voice." "Wherewith shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before the high God? shall I come before Him with burnt-offerings, with calves of a year old? Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give may first-born for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? He hath showed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God? The Lord's voice crieth unto the city, and the man of wisdom shall see thy name: hear ye the rod, and who hath appointed it. Are there yet the treasures of wickedness in the house of the wicked, and the scant measure that is abominable? Shall I count them pure with the wicked balances, and with the bag of deceitful weights? For the rich men thereof are full of violence, and the inhabitants thereof have spoken lies, and their tongue is deceitful in their mouth."  {PH102 29.3}
[PH102 30.1]          This scripture (Micah 6:6-12) is applicable to those who, unwilling that any besides themselves shall have a chance, have been devising and planning to make merchandise of their fellow-men.  {PH102 30.1}
[PH102 30.2]          I have been shown that some men worked with Elder Smith in an underhanded manner, in order to lead him to place the lowest possible royalties on his book. Elder Smith was deceived in the object of these men; he                                                                              31  thought that they were really trying to advance the cause of God; and they obtained their desire. Then they came to me and to others, telling us that Brother Smith only received so much for his books, and urging that the canvassers would rather handle books that would sell rapidly.  {PH102 30.2}
[PH102 31.1]          But the night after this plea was made, the matter was opened before me. I saw that they had visited Brother Smith, and obtained his consent to a low royalty, in order that they might present this as that which I and others should do. This was obtaining terms of royalty by fraud. I was shown the spirit that prompted these men to action.  {PH102 31.1}
[PH102 31.2]         A Caution to Institutional Leaders            The men who are placed in charge of our institutions occupy important and responsible positions. . . . These men should endeavor to work in harmony. If he fills his position honorably, each must guard the financial interests of the institution committed to his care. But these men should be exceedingly cautious that they look not alone on their own branch of the work, and labor for their own department, to the injury of other branches of equal importance.  {PH102 31.2}
[PH102 31.3]          Brethren, you are in danger of making grave mistakes in your business transactions. God warns you to be on your guard, lest you indulge a spirit of crowding one another. Be                                                                              32  careful not to cultivate the sharper's tact; for this will not stand the test in the day of God. Shrewdness and close calculation are needed, for you have all classes to deal with; you must guard the interests of our institutions, or thousands of dollars will go into the hands of dishonest men. But let not these traits become a ruling power. Under proper control, they are essential elements in the character; and if you keep the fear of God before you, and His love in the heart, you will be safe.--"Testimonies to the Church," Vol. IV, p. 540.  {PH102 31.3}
[PH096 2.1]         PH096 - Testimonies on the Case of Elder E. P. Daniels (1890)                              Basel, Switzerland, August 6, 1886.          Dear Brother and Sister Daniels: Again my mind is much exercised in regard to you. I dreamed that I was in your home sitting at your table, but I could not see that the teachings that you have given others on self-denial and health reform were carried out. I groaned in spirit, and said, "Brother Daniels, you are going into darkness." The Lord has shown me that you have such traits of character that, should you be prospered financially, you would be in danger of losing your soul. You would not be economical; you would use your means too freely; your wants would increase, and you would not practice self-denial. I was shown that the Lord in mercy has kept you in the school of poverty that he might save your soul.  {PH096 2.1}
[PH096 2.2]         Sister Daniels has lessons to learn in economy. I saw that you, Brother Daniels, had been tested by poverty, and that the Lord would test you with prosperity. If your use of his blessings and the advantages he gives you should not be in accordance with your faith and your instructions to others; if you should not appropriate the means God brings in your hands, in accordance to your faith, then he would come closer to you by affliction, disappointment, and privations; for I saw that you do not know yourself. You would be led on by your natural inclinations, building high hopes on future prospects, but God would put his hand against you. He can in a moment remove your wisdom. He can in                           ［3］     a moment take from you the power he has intrusted to you, by which you should glorify him. If left to yourself, to follow your own will and judgment, you will surely ruin your soul. Both you and your wife need to learn in the school of Christ.  {PH096 2.2}
[PH096 3.1]         Nebuchadnezzar was warned by God not to pursue a certain course; but his prosperity elevated and deceived him, and in an unguarded moment he exclaimed, "Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom by the might of my power, and for the honor of my majesty?" The instant he uttered these words, the sentence was issued that felled the tree. The blessings God had bestowed upon him were removed, his reason was taken away, and the mighty ruler was driven from men to find his place among the beasts of the field.  {PH096 3.1}
[PH096 3.2]          There are many ways in which God can punish, and punishment will surely follow wherever pride is indulged. "Pride goeth before destruction." Let a man be lifted up by a sense of his own ability, and trust in his human strength, and he will surely be overcome by temptation. God will bring him down. He will teach him his utter weakness, that he may feel his need of divine aid. Let anyone glory in his wisdom or his talents, or in anything but Christ and him crucified, and he will learn that the Lord alone is to be exalted.  {PH096 3.2}
[PH096 3.3]          Now, Elder Daniels, stop just where you are and consider; bring forth fruits unto righteousness such as you have not brought forth. A great deal was said about the injustice that was manifested when you did not receive credentials, and desired to labor in the cause and work of God, and could do so much good. Your credentials have been restored, and now God is waiting to                               ［4］     see what you will do, whether you will give yourself unreservedly to his work or will please yourself. Will you connect in your work with those who will lead you to meet the world's standard rather than the standard of Christ? My heart is very sad and when I think of the state of things in Healdsburg. I know the church is not in a right condition. I know that your plans and ideas have fashioned some of its members not to their spiritual advantage, but to their injury; and the end is not yet. I was in my dream led into the church, into the college, and into your house. I sat at your table and visited your rooms, fitted up for your students, and I was led to see beneath the outward appearance, and I was very sad. I saw the working of things at present and what they would be in the future, which was far from being in God's order or according to his arrangements. I was shown some things in your family; the dangers that threatened your children of receiving a wrong stamp of character, a mould that will not be easily effaced, vanity, pride, love of dress, self-will, and anything but the meek and quiet spirit which is in the sight of God of great price. May the Lord open your eyes to see and your heart to feel the necessity of an entire change.  {PH096 3.3}
[PH096 4.1]          You do not know how to use means, but God is proving you, and will you stand the test? But as I have written to you so fully in my former letter, I will now forbear.  {PH096 4.1}
[PH096 4.2]          The Lord would have all who act a part in his work, bear testimony in their lives to the holy character of the truth. The end is near, and now is the time when Satan will make special efforts to distract the interest                               ［5］     and separate it from the all-important subjects that should arrest every mind to concentrated action. An army could do nothing successfully if its different parts did not work in concert. Should each soldier act without reference to the others, the army would soon become disorganized. Instead of gathering strength from concentrated action, it would be wasted in desultory meaningless efforts. Christ prayed that his disciple might be one with him as he was one with the Father. A limited number united under one head, all obeying orders, will accomplish more than ten times the number who are drawing apart, who expend their strength on many things at the same time. Whatever good qualities a man may have, he cannot be a good soldier if he acts independently. Good may occasionally be done, but often the result is of little value, and often the end shows more mischief than good. Those who act independently make a show of doing something, attract attention, and flash out brightly, and then are gone. All must pull in one direction in order to render efficient service to the cause. In Healdsburg some have acted from self-will. They have a high appreciation of their own ability. They put a great estimate on their own plans, and are all ready to take offense at the doings of others, and they refuse to act in concert. Now these, I saw in my dream, were attracted to you, and God's blessing cannot attend them, because his spirit does not rule in their hearts, or control their actions.  {PH096 4.2}
[PH096 5.1]          God requires concerted action of his soldiers, and in order to have this in the church self-restraint is essential; self-restraint must be exercised. But some in Healdsburg, as well as in other churches, will have to                                ［6］     learn this lesson; they will have to learn to forego their own wishes and preferences for the good of others. We have determined adversaries; we know not their number or their position. Satan works through agencies which we do not always see; through some whom we do not suspect. When we think Satan is routed, he is only preparing to make an attack to discomfit and repulse. When we fancy ourselves secure, we are in the very greatest danger. Watchfulness and prayer combined with persevering effort to keep the rank and file unbroken, is more necessary than ever before. The work of the cause of truth in Healdsburg is a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men. Satan has brought elements into the Healdsburg church that will ever be a source of trial, unless these unconverted members shall see their defects of character as they have never yet seen them, and will repent of their evil surmisings, their envy, their fault-finding, their accusing of the brethren, their walking after their own independent judgment. These have made independent assertions, and are bold and forward, not knowing their place, and not realizing the order that must be observed in the church of God.  {PH096 5.1}
[PH096 6.1]          Such are a greater affliction to the church than any of the influences we meet with from unbelievers. The very worst elements will become instruments in the hands of Satan to obtain sympathizers. For this reason we see the need of using great caution in selecting persons to take responsibility in the school and in the church; for Satan will set these unsanctified ones to work to clog the wheels, to question, to find fault, to create suspicion, disunion, and a disordered state of things;                              ［7］     and all the time they will think they are doing God's service. These elements are already to work in the church, but their work is not yet fully developed. Much is kept in the dark. An under-current is working. Satan lays hold of those who are self-willed, and who move from impulse, and skillfully diverts them into channels where they will be an element of weakness in the church.  {PH096 6.1}
[PH096 7.1]          Our conflict with Satan and his host must be earnest and determined. The enemy will use these rebellious ones to worry, confuse, and perplex those who would stand as bold, faithful soldiers for Jesus. We wish you to understand your danger, to know what gins and snares Satan has set for you. The warfare is waging now, and will continue to the end. The church must be a unit. I wish, my brother, that you had spiritual discernment, but in this you are deficient. I entreat you in the name of Jesus to seek wisdom from God; for Satan is surely coming to you as an angel of light. It is not easy to meet and withstand foes who wear the same dress as do the soldiers of Christ. But let the Lord come in and work with your efforts. God would have you and your wife consecrated to his service, but you both need divine enlightenment, you need to be careful with whom you connect, to take heed whom you admit into your confidence. The Lord will help you if you feel the need of his help. But he is found only of those who seek him with faith, in earnest, humble prayer. May the Lord guide and control you is my prayer.             Yours with love,       Ellen G. White.                             ［8］  {PH096 7.1}
[PH096 8.1]                           Healdsburg, Cal., April, 1888.        Dear Brother and Sister Daniels: When I think of your worn and nervous condition when we were united in our labors in Lemoore, Selma, and Fresno, I am troubled on your account. The April meeting is before us, and I am perplexed over many matters that I know will call for much taxing labor on my part. My brother, I know that you want to be right with God, but you do not keep yourself firmly in the right way. If you kept a steady hold from above, you would be an efficient laborer in the cause of God, but there are many influences within and without that are striving for the mastery, and you are lacking in fixedness of purpose to go forward and upward, to gain the heavenly prize. There are dangerous avenues before you, leading off from the right path, and none are more exposed to peril than yourself, although you do not imagine yourself in any danger.  {PH096 8.1}
[PH096 8.2]          You frequently grow impatient at the words of counsel and caution that God addresses to you through his servants. You will not think that there can be danger in your pathway until you are entangled, and can see afterward that you have made a mistake; then you become discouraged. Your case was opened before me in Switzerland, as you well know. I saw you were in danger from your hereditary tendencies, and your habits of life. You are of that nature that you should fear to follow your strong and sometimes fierce impulses. The more experience you gain in spiritual things, the more deeply you will realize your own weakness, and feel your need of clinging close to the Lord as your counselor. One of the deplorable defects                             ［9］     of the original apostasy was the loss of man's power to govern his own heart, and when there is a separation from the Source of your strength, when you are lifted up in pride, you cannot but transgress the law of your moral constitution. It is then that you break away from the control of conscience, and perverted habit and practices gain the ascendency over reason; impulse bears sway, and carries you away from the control of principle. You indulge in disloyal feelings, and you need to be restored to yourself almost as much as you need to be restored to your God. You do not heed warnings as you should, because you do not think them applicable to your case. I tremble for your safety.  {PH096 8.2}
[PH096 9.1]          The church in Fresno has re-enacted that which has taken place in other churches. Some have been taken up with your preaching and have been charmed with your manners as a man. The Lord has seemed to be very near at times, and has spoken through you, and then, had you lived out that which you preached to others, you would have been a savor of life unto life but you have not kept humble and lowly in spirit. You knew that your influence and labors were appreciated, and it hurt you when others referred to your mistakes in financial management. You have conversed in a way to draw upon the sympathy of your brethren, and they thought they were doing God's service in placing means in your hands. In this they were deceived. They did not know your weakness, for it was the worst thing that they could have done for you. It was like the unwise indulgence of parents to unreasonable children. You needed to learn many lessons of                              ［10］     the Great Teacher to bring into your daily practical life. If you would make a success as a representative man in the truth, you will have to practice economy. You should not allow yourself to be tossed to and fro by the exercises of your mind, or to be affected by circumstances. Your surroundings color your religious experience, and are woven into all your discourses, and the weakness of your character is made apparent under temptation and trial. You do not think but that your mountain standeth sure. You do not realize that you are in an enemy's land, where foes are lurking behind every bush and jutting rock, to surprise you when off your guard. If you would only sense your danger, realize your weakness, and overcome your defects of character, you could do much good; you can and must do this, if you would have eternal life. Then you would watch unto prayer, sending your earnest, longing desires to the mercy-seat with a perseverance and determination that could not be denied, and when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord would lift up a standard against him.  {PH096 9.1}
[PH096 10.1]          You are in danger of losing the confidence of your brethren, because you do not practice that which you preach. At one time you urge one thing, and at another time another, because some idea strikes you in a different light. Feeling sways you. You are not rooted and grounded and settled in the truth, and therefore you are easily moved. There must be deep heart work in your case, for I have been shown that unless you have power to resist inclination and impulse, you will be overcome by the enemy of God and man. You need to cultivate genuine faith; for it is inseparable                             ［11］     from repentance, transformation of character, and the bringing forth the fruits of the Spirit. The reason you have not overcome many of the weaknesses of your character is not because you are satisfied with yourself as you are, but you have not the moral courage to war against your inclination. You should be determined to accept the light which God has given you, which has called your attention to his precepts and injunctions, and follow the expressed will of God.  {PH096 10.1}
[PH096 11.1]          For years, testimonies have followed you upon the subject of economy and the wise expenditure of means but neither yourself nor wife have made decided changes in your practices, if you could obtain money to use. You love display, you love indulgence of appetite, you love to gratify your taste; and the same traits of character shown in yourself are reproduced in your children, and you will reap that which you have sown. There never can be sufficient means granted you for your labors to sustain your indulgence of extravagant, spendthrift habits. Why do you not learn of those brethren who comfortably support themselves and their families on less money than you receive for your labors? The reason that you are in embarrassed circumstances is not because your wages are not enough to support you as a Christian, but you do not manage your means in such a way as to keep you from embarrassment. If you had twenty dollars a week you  would still complain of financial pressures, because your habits of expenditure would keep pace with your means.  {PH096 11.1}
[PH096 11.2]          In Healdsburg, the Lord wrought through you, not because you were perfect, but notwithstanding your                             ［12］     imperfections. Self soon was mingled with your work. When you realized that the Spirit and power of God were working with the people, if you had humbled yourself, if you had walked carefully and softly before God, feeling your unworthiness and his goodness, the influence you left in Healdsburg would have been far better than it now is. You charge all your financial embarrassment to circumstances.  {PH096 11.2}
[PH096 12.1]          You can talk well in regard to parents training their children. Your wife, whom I love and respect in the Lord, would make an excellent lecturer upon this subject. But your own practices contradict the excellent principles that you have presented. She does not live out her own teachings. When your customs are seen and your home life practices revealed, the people become confused and disgusted. You do not train your children for usefulness, and to practice self-denial, and to keep the way of the Lord. Why are you so irresolute in purpose, so feeble in action, so vacillating in principle, so weak in faith? These things are a mystery to those who have an opportunity to become acquainted with you in the pulpit and at home. Elder Daniels, they see you one day strong and self-assured, next day they see in you a complete change. You affirm strongly things exactly opposite to what you affirmed as strongly the day before. If you were indulging in the use of wine, beer, or brandy, I could see a reason for this changeableness. But I sincerely hope that you will not form the habit of indulging in intoxicating drinks; for then Satan will be able to do with you what he will. The wine you recommended to be that which could be used freely and without evil effects,                                ［13］     I used one tablespoonful for a time, but I was afraid of it.  {PH096 12.1}
[PH096 13.1]          When I was shown the great need of reform in the education and training of your children, I was filled with pain that I cannot express, because I saw that you did not act your part in bringing about the best good of your children. You need the work of the Spirit of God in your own heart; for right principles are not governing your life action. If you were right with God you would not be doing as you have been doing in reference to your children; you would not present such an example as you have in their management. You should depend far less upon self and far more upon Jesus. If you were closely connected with God you would rule your children wisely. Zua is impulsive; she lacks experience in the right direction; she needs to be guided and restrained instead of being indulged and flattered. If you were discerning, if your souls were imbued with the sanctifying power of the truth, you would need no advice in regard to her attending Snell's Seminary. If you were asked concerning the daughter of another, you would know just what course parents should pursue in relation to the education of their child. Your advice would be sensible. You have placed barriers in the way of Zua's salvation, for you have yourselves chosen as her associates the vain, the proud, the unbelieving.  {PH096 13.1}
[PH096 13.2]          Sister Daniels loves dress. She is weak on this point. She desires to see her children arrayed according to the customs of a fashionable world. The word of God has specified how Christians should dress, and parents are to see that his directions are carried out rather than                                ［14］     the wishes of their children. God will hold parents accountable for sowing seeds of vanity in the hearts of their little ones. Paul writes concerning the dress of women, saying: "In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broidered hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array, but (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works." "Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price."  {PH096 13.2}
[PH096 14.1]          My brother, how can your wife in the fear of God rebuke the sins, fashionable follies, and love of dress as she does when seeking to meet the world's standard? Can you present an example in the dress of your children to the world? Have you not encouraged your daughter, Sister Daniels, to dress as other school-girls dress who have not the fear of God before them, whose whole aim is to make a display? Can the Master sanction your course in placing your  daughter where she is constantly in the society of those whose conversation, whose manners, whose characters, bear only the worldly mould? Your daughter may receive a certain polish, a gloss, which may please her parents, and give her ideas as to what constitutes a lady, but it may be entirely contrary to the expressed will of God. Is the refinement of the world that which will elevate her in the scale of moral value with God? Will she have as great a care to possess a meek and quiet spirit, that she will meet the approval of the self-sacrificing                                ［15］     Redeemer, as she has to meet the approval of her worldly associates? You know that the tendencies of your child would lead her to imitate the fashions she sees, so as not to appear odd and singular. You may say that there are many Sabbath-keepers who dress just like the world. This has always been so and always will be so. Christ said, "It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." Are you not set as a shepherd to watch for souls as they that must give an account? Sister Daniels, you have not met your solemn responsibilities as a mother in aiding your daughter to deceive her father in regard to her dress and expenditures. Both of you have been deceived. You have been carried away with false ideas in regard to the training of your children. You must be thoroughly transformed by the grace of Christ, so that you can teach your children by precept and example the good and right way. Zua is full of affectation and deception. She is superficial in nearly all her attainments. Her school life has given her an outside polish, but her heart is unrenewed; for she has no love for God, no love for the society of Christians. She is in the ranks of the enemy, and should she die today, she would not enter the kingdom of heaven. Paul is in no better condition, and your youngest girl is far from having a lovely character. Your own training is in every way defective. May the Lord have mercy upon you, that you may not lose your soul and the souls of your children.  {PH096 14.1}
[PH096 15.1]         We are urged by the Spirit of the Lord to bear a pointed testimony against the idolatry of dress in this                                ［16］     age. If we are right with God, we will discard everything of a deforming character, such as paniers, bustles, unnecessary plaiting, and fashionable arrangement of the dress upon the body. Ministers and ministers' wives should be an example in reproving the fashionable display in our sisters who claim to believe the truth. They should have their children dressed in a way that God would approve, presenting them to the church in simplicity, and modesty of apparel. Far greater pains should be taken to instruct them so that they shall have beautiful characters and keep the way of the Lord than to have them make a stylish appearance, taking the way of the Sodomites. The Scripture says, "As for my people, children are their oppressors, and women rule over them." Moreover the Lord saith, "Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fullness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. And they were haughty, and committed abominations before me; therefore I took them away as I saw good." I appeal to you in the name of the Lord to study your Bibles, to be doers of the word, and to educate your children that they may know the way of the Lord, so that the curse of Eli may not come upon you.  {PH096 15.1}
[PH096 16.1]          Children should be kept free as possible from the demoralizing influences of the fashions of this age. Fathers who minister in word and doctrine should have their children examples of what they teach to others in the pulpit. When you realize the responsibility that rests upon you, your life and character will be elevated and ennobled, and you will seek to reach the                                  ［17］     high standard God has erected. Ministers should be far more earnest and anxious to train their children so that they shall meet the Lord's standard than that they may meet the approval of the world. I do not wish you to be blindfolded by the enemy, to feel flattered because your daughter is praised and petted by those who do not keep the commandments of God. What if sickness or death should come upon your children? What if their reason should be taken away, and their souls unsaved, where would the blame lay? Has your work been done according to the light and knowledge you have had? Have you followed the directions of Holy Writ? Have you not educated and trained your child to fall in love with fashionable dress because you have not firmness of principle to deny her desires? Have you taught your children that they must have moral courage in order to be God's peculiar treasures, separate from the spirit and habits of those who love not God and keep not his commandments?  {PH096 16.1}
[PH096 17.1]          If Zua should take a course according to the Bible directions, she would have no inclination to remain at the Seminary in Oakland. Have you not given permission for your daughter to go out from among those of like faith into the society of those which her natural inclination chooses as companions? The Lord said to the people of Israel, to gather their children into their houses with them and strike their door-posts with blood, that the destroying angel might not cut down their children. If they were found in the homes of the Egyptians, they would perish with unconsecrated idolaters. Now you are utterly at fault; you are letting the enemy take your children out of your hands                                 ［18］     in separating them from those who are connected with God, and allowing them to drift into the society of worldlings. "Consistency, thou art a jewel." Unless you change, you will constantly erect barriers around your children to hold them away from Christ; you will bind them with the world, because it pleases their carnal minds. When the angel with the writer's inkhorn shall place a mark upon those who love Jesus and keep his commandments, another angel will follow with destroying weapons in his hand, and the commandment will go forth, "Slay utterly old and young, both maids and little children and women; but come not near any man upon whom is the mark; and begin at my sanctuary. Then they began at the ancient men which were before the house." Will you not carefully look at these things, and think upon them? Will you not, for the sake of your children, do the work for which God has made you responsible? I feel greatly burdened over these things. The children of Sabbath-keepers who have had their own way, and have been gratified in all their wishes, will, in consequence of their selfishness, idolatry, and unrighteousness, be unfit for heaven, but they will be fit for the last plagues. Unless parents arouse from their present condition, and do their appointed work, they will perish with their children.  {PH096 17.1}
[PH096 18.1]          Paul is a boy who has good qualities as well as objectionable traits of character. His evil traits have been cultivated and indulged rather than restrained. You have not taught him the sinfulness of a sullen, stubborn disposition, and firmly restrained this growing evil, and even in the expression of his countenance your indulgence is leaving its mould. The impressions                                 ［19］     made in youth are most abiding, and early life is the best time to cultivate correct habits. Paul has been encouraged to be exacting and particular in his diet at the table, but you should set the food before him, and never allow him to turn from it in disdain, calling for something that you have not provided. He may cherish his exacting habits in regard to his diet, until he shall be disagreeable to himself and all connected with him. If he were obliged to labor according to his strength, hunger would give him a relish for his food and remove his murmuring. Decided measures should be taken in this matter. I love this son of yours; he can be moulded in the right way, for if properly trained he will respond after a time. You should never allow your children to find fault with their food, to murmur because spice, pepper, pickles, and condiments are not placed before them. You should not allow them to indulge largely in meat eating, unless you want them to become nervous, irritable, and discontented. Give your boy something to do. Teach him to be industrious. He has naturally no love for work; he loves indolence and seeks to shirk responsibility. If you want your children to bless you, teach them to be useful and self-denying. Restrict their reading. They should not be allowed to pour over the pages of novels or story books, filled with the tales of lust and knavery, for it will not leave a heavenly influence on their minds. They are young and inexperienced, and will be just what you make them. All such habits of reading will cut up by the roots the principles of virtue which enter into the formation of a good, firm character. Novel reading is like taking poison, and will sooner or later reveal its                                ［20］     bitter results. The mark for good or evil made upon the characters of your children is not written in the sand, but is traced as on enduring rock. Their associations will have to be guarded; for what is learned from the words and habits of their companions, will mould the whole after life. The company your children keep, the principles they now adopt, the habits they now form, are settling the destiny of their future with an almost infallible certainty.  {PH096 18.1}
[PH096 20.1]          Heretofore what I have said to you has left no lasting impression, but will you not now become a different man? If you do not, I greatly fear that you will depart from the faith. I pray you to keep the path of honor and truth. Do not accept money as a gift from your brethren. Bring your wants within your means. Make no extravagant purchases for yourself or for your children. May your wife be the help and strength to you that she should be in aiding you to correct your deficiencies, which mar your work and which ought not to exist. There are personal weaknesses which will make you feel that you should leave the ministry, so that your lot would be easier. You may feel that some other employment would be better for you financially, but you would find that it would be a mistake. You are not qualified to become a financier. Your hopes are large, you have glowing anticipations that have never yet been realized, and never will be. You make large outlays on the preparation for future promises of real success, but you will be disappointed. But if you endure unto the end as a humble, faithful, godly shepherd of the flock, your reward will be a crown of glory that fadeth not away.                               ［21］     The good hand of the Lord is over you in that you are permitted to bear the glorious message of truth to others. May the Lord give you such clear views of Jesus that your soul will be enraptured. I commit these plain words to you both, to tell you that one-half your usefulness is counteracted by defects that you can and must overcome. Make thorough work for eternity, as in the sight of God.  {PH096 20.1}
[PH096 21.1]          Elder Daniels, I am your friend because I tell you the truth. You are engaged in a solemn work, and as an ambassador of Christ, I desire that you should make no failure, but give full proofs of your ministry. Pray much, my brother, talk less. Pray that you may be endowed with wisdom and courage necessary to accomplish the work, whatever it may be. Say before God, "I will do my duty with an eye single to thy glory."  {PH096 21.1}
[PH096 21.2]          Difficulties will arise in your path, and you may feel the deficiency of your character, the littleness of your ability, as a minister of the gospel, in comparison with the greatness of the work. But if you had the greatest intellect that was ever given to man, it would not be sufficient for your work. "Without me ye can do nothing," says our Lord and Saviour. The result of all we do rests in the hands of God. You should look upon Christ, his self-denial, the reproach he endured, the abuse he bore for man, that you may be well balanced. When the blessing of God attends your labors you should become neither vain nor ambitious. When disaster comes you should not be depressed, and success should not elate you. The prosperity of the cause of God should always be kept in view. May the Lord                                    ［22］     help you not to have a fluctuating faith, but a faith that will lay hold upon God, with steady, persevering confidence, whatever may betide.            Ellen G. White.                                                    -    {PH096 21.2}
[PH096 22.1]                    Oakland, Cal., April 24, 1888          Dear Brother and Sister: At times I feel much burdened on your account. I am fearful that you will not keep self under control, that you will not move discreetly in all things, and so lose the confidence of your brethren. I do not wish them to feel at one time that you are a man of great value, because you are led and taught of God, and at another time to be disappointed in you, because of your unconsecrated life, and your great want of spiritual wisdom. I want you to preserve your influence with the people, and I know that you can do it if you put the power of your will on the right side; if you will ever feel your weakness, and the necessity of constant help from God.  {PH096 22.1}
[PH096 22.2]          I was very much surprised at the remark you made to Brother and Sister Maxson, referring to your mistakes in Healdsburg. You told them that Sister White said, "Stop just where you are, or you will meet with disappointment and failure." And when you presented the interest that you had in real estate and in the mine, you said Sister White did not advise you to have nothing to do with them, but said, "Yes, it will prove a success." And it has proved just as she said. Have you forgotten, my brother, that I urged many reasons why you should not connect yourself with these financial speculations? But you presented the matter with so many words, and said so much about its being no tax                                 ［23］     so you, as you claimed to be only a figure-head in the real-estate business; you had nothing special to do, your brethren did the work, and it was through the interest they had to help you that you were induced to engage in it, hoping to make money, that I concluded to say no more just then; but I thought that when I was rested, I would lay it open before you, just as I viewed it from a Bible standpoint.  {PH096 22.2}
[PH096 23.1]          I have tried to study over this matter to find out where or when I sanctioned your engaging in real-estate business or in the mining; but I cannot remember even an assent of my mind, and hence could not have given you any encouragement. You had no authority for making that statement. I shall need to be very careful of my words, not to say anything in conversation that can be taken by any of my brethren as an assent to their plans in entering into financial enterprises. From the light the Lord has been pleased to give me from time to time in regard to your case, I know your dangers, and the peculiarity of your temperament too well to give you any encouragement to interest yourself in business of this kind; for you are not successful as a financier. You had already entered into this business when you asked counsel of me, and I knew that anything I might say in direct opposition to your plans would only create unpleasant feelings. I had a large amount of work on hand just then, for I had to make many personal efforts for individuals whose feet had wandered away from the right way. I knew it would be difficult for me to obtain from you the real bearings of the case, because you would see great success where I would only see peril to your soul. It is perilous for you                                     ［24］     to engage in, or even to taste of, these enterprises. And as I understand matters more fully, I am more and more convinced that these business enterprises will bind about your testimony, and greatly injure your influence.  {PH096 23.1}
[PH096 24.1]          Have you not been set apart by the Lord to do a special work, to be a representative of Christ upon the earth? Then it is your duty to give yourself wholly to his work. Your heart, your mind, and your body, belong to the Lord, and should be entirely subject to him. You cannot engage in any of these business transactions and keep your heart and mind unaffected and uninjured. The Lord wants all there is of you. I believe this to be a scheme of the enemy to weaken your influence as a minister of Christ, and to imperil your soul.  {PH096 24.1}
[PH096 24.2]          Your business entanglement in Michigan injured your influence there as a representative of Jesus. Had you attended to the preaching of the word in Healdsburg, had you wisely brought your own habits in domestic life in harmony with the holy law of God, you would today stand in a position before the people where you could do them great good. You should feel the necessity of working perseveringly day by day to overcome the natural defects in your character. If you would do this, you would not be so strongly tempted to branch out and devise plans to make more money to meet your increasing expenses. With your present remuneration for your labors, and the consideration which will be made in regard to your wife's wages, you should be supplied abundantly with means, if you will only study to live within your means. But you seldom do this. You use money altogether too lavishly. Jesus is your example                                ［25］     in all things. You ought to have learned before this to be careful that your expenses do not exceed your income. Bind about your wants.  {PH096 24.2}
[PH096 25.1]         It is a great pity that your wife is so much like you in this matter of expending means, so that she cannot be a help to you in this direction, to watch the little outgoes, in order to avoid the larger leaks. Needless expenses are constantly brought about in your family management. Your wife loves to see her children dress in a manner beyond their means, and, because of this, tastes and habits are cultivated in your children which will make them vain and proud. If you would learn the lesson of economy, and see the peril to yourselves and to your children, and to the cause of God, in this free use of means, you would obtain an experience essential to the perfection of your Christian character. Unless you do obtain such an experience, your children will bear the mould of a defective education as long as they live.  {PH096 25.1}
[PH096 25.2]          Your expectations in a business line have always been large and flattering. You are a man who talks things out just as they appear to you; and when you are engaged in financial enterprises, you present them in such glowing colors that you injure those with whom you associate. Your conversation has savored of covetousness. It is not your business to lead men and women to invest means in worldly enterprises. Your eager hopes and pursuits in worldly matters have proved a curse to you spiritually; and you really mar the work of God that is in your hands. You have not only been reproved, but faithfully warned in the word of God and by direct testimony, in regard to your individual errors.                                 ［26］     "If the Lord be God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him." "Ye cannot serve God and mammon."  {PH096 25.2}
[PH096 26.1]          My brother, you know but little about voluntary self-denial. God has held a firm, restraining hand upon you all your life, because he loves you and wants to save you. But with morbid news and impulses, you have sought to break away from these barriers that were holding you, you thought cruelly away from good. It is your salvation to be saved from yourself. You must be sanctified to God, soul, body, and spirit. This is your only hope.  {PH096 26.1}
[PH096 26.2]          God has given to everyone his measure of power. He has intrusted his children with light which is to shine forth to the world. No one lives to himself. We each compose a part of the great web of humanity. We are to draw nigh to God daily and hourly; to contemplate the life and work of Christ, and then deny self, take up the cross, and follow Jesus, our pattern. We must practice the truth that we preach.  {PH096 26.2}
[PH096 26.3]          You do some good; but if you were a Christian in every sense of the word, what a power you would take with you in your ministerial labors! You profess to love the truth; I believe you do love it, but you do not reach the Bible standard. God wants all there is of you and yours. Your children are the Lord's property, the younger members of the Lord's family, to be brought up, not in the ways and customs of the world, but in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. It is your place to learn what the Lord approves and what he disapproves, and not to follow the wishes and pleasures of your children. You should ask, "What is God's will concerning me and my children? Has he not                                  ［27］     admonished my children in the course they are now taking?"  {PH096 26.3}
[PH096 27.1]          A voice spoke to me in the night season, while I was in Europe, "Write the things which I shall show you." Your children and yourself were presented before me, in connection with things that had transpired in Healdsburg. A portion of this I wrote to you, but not all. Now these things are before me, when I see the very same condition actually existing which I saw would meet the disapproval of God, and counteract your influence. God said: "His children are my children, purchased by an infinite cost. The eldest daughter is an offense to me, and her parents are deceived and being deceived, and know not that Satan is seeking to obtain full control of her. She is corrupting her ways before God, doing discredit to her parents. These parents are not wise stewards of the souls of their children." The Lord holds the parents responsible for the souls of their children. You have neglected your duty, been unfaithful in your home work. Truth is one of the loveliest virtues, but it has not been cherished. Her course is not upright and truthful. God reads every species of dishonesty. I cannot even now say some things to you that were open before me, for you cannot bear them yet. When you made some statements to me in regard to the foolishness of your daughter's course in Healdsburg, and admitted that she was wrong, I thought to myself. "He does not know, he does not understand the heart of his child." Evil is carried forward right in your presence, and you do not seem to see or realize it. You are not a faithful watchman to discern wrong. You have taken altogether too                                ［28］     worldly and commonplace a view of the characters that your children should have. I had not seen the face of your oldest daughter, and did not know her by sight (until since coming to California), for her face was covered, or where I could not look into it, but the words spoken of her I shall never forget. Her heart is not right; her lips art not truthful; her habits are not correct. A child of truth is one who is open in all his dealings. There will be no betraying of sacred trust, no double dealing, no insinuations. The words of the lips and the conduct of the life will agree with each other. The child of truth will not have one appearance in your presence, and when out of your sight do and say things she would not have you know. When before you she will utter smooth things as though her heart was filled with truth, when she has no love for the truth. You are and have been asleep. You are just as much deluded as Eli was, and this is why I write to you so plainly, for unless I do, you will go on as indifferent, as blindfolded and deceived, as you have been in the past. Should your daughter lose her life as she now is, she would surely come up with the wicked in the second resurrection; for every sinner will find his true place then. Can you not discern the peril she is in? I do not write these things to sting and burn into your heart; I write them that you may recover your daughter from the snare of the enemy, in place of fastening her forever in his power beyond remedy. God says, "I know thy works." Should anyone else mention these subjects to you as I have done, you would, perhaps, deal with them without mercy. But I must speak, I must tell you these things. The                                ［29］     Scriptures declare, "Be sure your sin will find you out." There is nothing covered that shall not be revealed, neither hid that shall not be made open as the day. Attend earnestly to the welfare of the souls of your children. The presentations and representations made to you by your daughter are fair, but if you knew all you would not feel as easy as you do. I am surprised at your blindness, and at the course you both pursue.  {PH096 27.1}
[PH096 29.1]          The Lord declares, "Whoso covereth his sins shall not prosper." The all-seeing eye is upon each of us. Every secret thought and action are known to God. Darkness and night cannot hide them. If this thought does not lead you to arouse, and be watchful and faithful stewards, to guard the younger members of the family of God intrusted to you, then I may have to press the matter more decidedly upon you, whether you will hear or whether you will forbear. Whatever position you may take, I must be faithful. Not one of your children is in Christ; not one of them is in the truth; not one of them is in a position to represent our faith. The relation you sustain to your children places you under the most solemn obligation, an obligation which is plainly enjoined in the word of God. Parents may indulge their natural affection at the expense of God's holy commandment; you may allow what God has forbidden, you may neglect what he has enjoined; but you must meet your work in the judgment. You are not only to remonstrate with your children, but you are to command them to keep the way of the Lord. You must wake up, for duty imperfectly understood will be imperfectly performed; and unless you heed the true Counselor, and teach your                                   ［30］     children to walk in the ways of the Lord, when it is too late you will see reason for great sorrow, and realize your fatal mistake.  {PH096 29.1}
[PH096 30.1]          It is not enough to have a knowledge of Bible doctrines; the truth must be brought into your home life, and have a sanctifying influence upon the character. I cannot justify your inclinations to mix up with business matters, or say it is well for you to place the hand of your children in that of the world. You have your work to do, and if you do your duty as parents, and teach your children obedience and economy, you can support yourselves comfortably, without receiving presents from your brethren. This practice is a snare to you. Your conversation is too often prompted by selfishness; you seek to draw upon your brethren for sympathy and gifts. You should stand in the sight of God as a true, unselfish Christian, ready to practice as well as preach self-denial. I would not influence you to horde up means--it would be difficult for you to do this--but I would counsel you both to expend your money carefully, and let your daily example teach lessons of frugality, self-denial, and economy to your children. They need to be educated by precept and example.  {PH096 30.1}
[PH096 30.2]          You should learn to be just before you are generous with yourself. Principle must be observed in making donations for the cause of God. Your brethren's stewardship belongs to them, and you have a stewardship of your own. God does not make a steward of their means. May God help you to look upon all these matters in the right light. Wherever you go to labor, and the Lord gives you success, many become attached                                 ［31］     to you. When God works with your effort, you can accomplish much good; but when your weakness is developed, and the brethren see that your practice is contrary to your teaching, it throws them into confusion, and begets doubt and suspicion in their minds in regard to your whole ministry, and the arguments you have presented. Those who have genuine belief in the truth say, "I cannot see how Elder Daniels can preach as he does and retain his influence with the people, when he does not practice what he teaches." Although you may have the sound, ennobling doctrines of the Bible, although you may preach the word, presenting line upon line, and precept upon precept, yet if your discourses are not backed up out of the pulpit by personal piety and devotion, if you do not practice your own teachings, you become a stumbling-block to those who are weak in the faith.  {PH096 30.2}
[PH096 31.1]          I have been shown that you could do a greater and more substantial work if your life practice was in close harmony with the principles of truth. The power of the Spirit shown in heart and conscience in your home life, and in association with your brethren, will have a decided influence upon others. "Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh." You cannot be mixed up in financial matters without giving the burden of your thoughts to worldly plans and calculations. As soon as you are out of the desk, you become enthusiastic over business matters, and show that you are intoxicated over the matter of obtaining means. An important work has been given you of the Master, to preach the gospel of the Old and New Testament. You are to feed the flock of God. Do no flatter                               ［32］     one's imagination with high hopes of earthly treasure; point men to the heavenly inheritance; call their attention to the mansions Christ has gone to prepare for those who love him and keep his commandments. As a faithful watchman, you are to warn the souls that are in peril through worldliness, of their danger. Supposing it is no sin for those whom God has not called to minister in word and doctrine, to engage in real-estate business and mining stocks, would it not be altogether another matter for you, a watchman upon the walls of Zion, to do so? Your mind should be on altogether different themes. Eternal interests demand your whole soul, your whole might, mind, and strength. You need to be constantly digging in the precious mine of the Scriptures, that you may bring forth from the treasure-house of God's word things new and old. Great light is opening to all God's people whose hearts are open to receive it, but those who are satisfied with their present knowledge will not desire the rich blessings God has for his people.  {PH096 31.1}
[PH096 32.1]          Now, my brother and sister, will you not come into a different position in your family, that you may give the right lessons in religious life to your dear children, and become living epistles at home? By your circumspect conduct teach them to have solidity of character; for we are forming characters here for the future immortal life. Teach them to deny appetite, to be grateful for the plain, simple diet God gives them. It is not for you to allow them to dictate to you what they shall eat, but you should dictate to them what is best for them. It is a sin for you to allow your children to murmur and complain about good, wholesome food, just                               ［33］     because it does not suit their depraved appetites. Practice self-denial yourself. It is sin to use the Lord's money in selfish indulgence. I have been shown that the Lord has had pity upon you, and used you, not because you were defective in character, but in spite of these defects. He has connected you with himself, that through his grace you might perfect a Christian character. How much better service you could have done for the Master, whose servant you are, if you were well balanced and sound where now you are weak! Will you not remember that it is the Lord's money you are handling, and that he requires you to use it wisely? You must render an account to God for your expenses.  {PH096 32.1}
[PH096 33.1]          You have been self-indulgent in your travels; for you do not generally study to save expense to the cause of God. In many ways you needlessly expend intrusted means. You are very deficient in keeping track of your outgoes. You trust too much to memory in keeping your accounts. If you can command money, you will use it for your own gratification and to please the desires of your children. You do not remember that you are handling another's means. I cannot see how you have any valid excuse in the sight of God for letting Zua attend Snells's Seminary. Either you or someone else must bear that expense. Your children have both their father's and mother's traits of character transmitted to them as their legacy, and how carefully should you educate and train them that these defects may be overcome. I cannot let this matter stand before the people in the light in which they now view it, as though I sanctioned and approved of your management. You have the blessed Bible, you have the                               ［34］     testimonies, which have appealed to you to correct your deficiencies, but if you walk in the light of your own understandings, what excuse can you offer when the books of heaven shall reveal your great loss as God's hired servant? While you should appear free from everything like stinginess, you must remember that justice in dealing with your brethren comes before liberality. Conference officers are not favorably impressed with the way matters have developed in regard to you. Wages have been paid to you by the Conference, and other means has flowed from its true channel in gifts to you. You keep yourself embarrassed by your own management, you talk discouragingly, and groan over your situation, and your brethren, who are grateful to see that you have success in the pulpit, and that souls are brought into the truth, give you not only their sympathy but their money. Although they have thought that they were doing God's service in so doing, they have done you a great wrong. You may say, "I put a portion of it into the cause." Would it not be well to say, "Brethren, will you not place this means which you propose to give to me in the treasury of God yourselves, that you may not lose your reward, but lay up for yourselves a treasure in the heavens?"  {PH096 33.1}
[PH096 34.1]         All the heart is to be given to God; all the mind, all the soul, and all the strength. Until this is done, we come far short of loving God supremely and our neighbor as ourselves. Unless the law of God is written in the heart, we do not obey it in truth. The truth of God can only profit and illuminate the soul when it is taken into the heart. There is much guile and selfishness in human nature, but the truth must expel these; then it                               ［35］     will become woven into the character, and the possessor will become a partaker of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.  {PH096 34.1}
[PH096 35.1]          I felt sad as I was shown how little you resemble Christ. Instead of being self-denying, you indulge and gratify self on every hand. My brother, you must reach a higher standard, that the truth you preach may be sustained by your influence and example. You cannot remain in your present condition and reach the hearts of the people; for many will stumble into perdition over your defects. Men who profess to be watchmen on the walls of Zion may preach the gospel as well as the law, they may bring to bear on the minds of sinners the love, pity, the self-sacrificing compassion of Jesus, they may make the most touching appeals and urgent entreaties, and mingle them with the most cheering promises, and yet souls may not be reached, hearts may be proof against them all. The Bible truth will not be received, the love of Jesus may not exercise a constraining power, and these souls may perish in their sins. This will sometimes be the case when the Lord's co-workers do all they can do in the fear and love of God. But if such is the case, they will be blameless. But if God's ambassador brings the precious, saving truth to bear upon the heart, and yet in his deportment errors are made prominent, then he lays a stumbling-block before the feet of his fellow-men, over which they may stumble into perdition. If souls do accept the truth, the defects in the messenger are in many instances reproduced in their conduct, and the Heart Searcher knows that his professed ambassador is perpetuating sin. The reason of this is that the word of                               ［36］     God has not been received into the heart, has not done its office work upon the soul. The word of God and the testimonies that have been given for the enlightenment of God's people, are as a dead letter. A nominal assent may be given when the truth is presented, but the heart's undivided affection is not given to the Lord. His word is perverted, the affections are not set on things above. The heart is the citadel of the man; and unless it is wholly given to the Lord, the enemy will come in and establish himself therein and make it his stronghold, from which no power on earth can dislodge him.  {PH096 35.1}
[PH096 36.1]          There must be a trimming up with you. You are not guilty of outbreaking sins, but it is the little foxes, the little neglects, the little deficiencies, the little dishonesties, the little departures from the principles Christ has given us, that blind the soul and separate it from God. These little things become larger, and others see the man who is guilty of these things professedly a messenger of God, a watchman on the walls of Zion, a co-laborer with Christ, and they think that they can follow his example in saying and doing things not at all in harmony with the will of God. The practice of evil is positively ruinous to your influence. Christ is dishonored, his name is brought into disrepute, the standard for the ministry is not elevated or sanctified by such a course.  {PH096 36.1}
[PH096 36.2]          My brother, I must urge these things home upon your soul. You should disconnect with everything that would have the least influence for evil upon your mind and character as a minister of the gospel of Christ. You should drink deeper and still deeper every day of                               ［37］     the water of life. You should be imbued with the Spirit of Jesus Christ. You are greatly lacking in devotion and faith. I cannot lend my influence in any way to prompt you or any of my brethren to gain wealth by speculation and extortion; you are not to be united with those who certainly do this. The men of solid worth are most apt to be found with those who possess little of this world's goods, and what they do possess they have gained by diligence, honesty, and economy, and not by speculation. Those who are suitably remunerated for their labors ought not, if they practice economy, to be in rags, or on the verge of pauperism, or overwhelmed in debt.  {PH096 36.2}
[PH096 37.1]          Paul charged Timothy to be "strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also." "Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please Him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. . . . Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."  {PH096 37.1}
[PH096 37.2]          My brother and sister, much beloved in the Lord, I do not want you to lose your reward. Please read and put into practice the following words: "Know ye not that those who run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run that ye may obtain." "And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as                                   ［38］     uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air; but I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection; lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway." It is the privilege of every minister to consider these words. They are full of warning, counsel, and reproof for those who go contrary to the principles here laid down. "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." "But godliness with contentment is great gain." There is danger that ambition will lead to presumption. "But 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 have 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, and hath professed a good profession before many witnesses."  {PH096 37.2}
[PH096 38.1]          My brother, I wrote this while at the April meetings in Healdsburg and Oakland, and then so many and severe burdens came upon me I could not venture to gather more upon my soul. I am sorry, very sorry, that I did not give it to you then and there, without further delay. I again caution you in reference to your children. Do not indulge them. How does it agree with our profession of faith and your teaching to                                ［39］     others to do as you are doing? Zua has qualities that with proper education and training, would make her a useful woman. But her parents' false ideas of life and their vanity in regard to their children are in danger of spoiling her. You now have light on this point, and should work together in harmony. Will you heed this light? I encouraged Sister Daniels to go with her  husband in his work, for I thought, yes, I knew, that another influence must be brought to bear upon the children if they were to be saved for the future immortal life. When you take your children with you, and encourage them in self-indulgence, and give to others an example of lax government, then I know your influence will not be as God would have it, and you would all do better to remain at home. You are not able to get your daughter a saddle pony and necessary equipments, neither are you able to get Paul a pony. You should encourage your oldest son to work with his hands. You should encourage your daughter to take up domestic duties. As a poor man's daughter, she should be useful and bear her own weight. Work will not be unhandy or disagreeable to her unless your own instructions, and the society you place her in, shall give her an education that will mar her prospects for both worlds.                                   E.G. White.                                                    -    {PH096 38.1}
[PH096 39.1]                                   Burrough Valley, July 3, 1888.        Dear Brother: I have read your letter, and it has made me sad at heart. I asked, Can a fountain send forth from the same place sweet water and bitter? Cleanse the fountain and the stream will be made pure. If the stream coming from the fountain in the letter                                   ［40］     sent to me, when tested by the royal law, is pure, then I have altogether a wrong idea of what it means to be a Christian. As a Christian you have no right to write as you do, and manifest so little self-control. I have been shown repeatedly that you must be transformed before you can do the work of God acceptably. You are of an ardent temperament; you view things in an intense light, but the softening, sanctifying influence of the grace of Christ must be made manifest in your life, in your words, in your tastes, in your habits, in your character; and I shall not let the matter rest until I see that you have undertaken the work that must be done in order that you may labor acceptably for souls, that are ready to perish.  {PH096 39.1}
[PH096 40.1]          Stop and think what spirit controlled you when you wrote that letter. I cannot for a moment admit that it was the Spirit of Christ, that you had meekness and lowliness of heart. If you read the Bible carefully, you will see what reformation is needed in yourself in order for you to be a faithful shepherd of the flock of Christ. Compare scripture with scripture, and then open your own heart. Gain light yourself, and then from an experimental knowledge you can set before the people of God what constitutes Christian character. The power of the Holy Spirit will accompany your words if your own life is a representation of the truth which sanctifies the character; for you will then be a living epistle, known and read of all men. You will not appeal to your own sympathies, and seek to excuse yourself for using strong, hard, unbecoming, unchristian language toward your brethren. You have done this many times, and your brethren in the faith commit sin                             ［41］     against God when they listen to you and do not reprove you. Your language reveals the fact that the fountain is not cleansed. When you are under the controlling influence of the Spirit of God, you will be a new man in Christ Jesus. Hereditary and cultivated tendencies will be overcome, and Jesus will be formed within, the hope of glory. Oh, that you would fall upon the rock and be broken!  {PH096 40.1}
[PH096 41.1]          I cannot encourage you in laboring as a minister until you are converted. You must first be a Bible Christian yourself, before you can lead others to Christ. Take heed to thyself, and then to the doctrine. I long to see you what you ought to be, and what I know you must be, if you are to receive the benediction, "Well done, good and faithful servant." You must not only be faithful, but you must be good, self-denying, like Jesus. Now is your sowing-time. By precept and example you may scatter the seeds of truth with an unsparing hand. Make no frantic bounds, but in self-abasement go forward intelligently, steadily, calmly, step by step in the grand work of learning self-control. The talents God has given you are not to be abused, perverted or misapplied. He has given them to you for wise improvement. You are not to cease advancing; you are not to become self-confident, careless, and irreligious, while you are professedly a shepherd of the flock. All heaven has looked with sorrow upon your light and trifling ways. I speak to you plainly, for it is my duty to do so.  {PH096 41.1}
[PH096 41.2]          While the unwise may flatter and praise you, and strengthen in you your large love of approbation, I shall deal plainly and faithfully with you according to the                                ［42］     light God has given me for you, because I have a love for your soul. I shall not try to pacify or pet you, but I will urge upon you the necessity of having a pure heart and clean hands. From a pure fountain will proceed pure and holy streams to refresh others. Oh, will you go on as you have in the past, or will you have steadiness of purpose to put away everything unbecoming to a gospel minister? I cannot allow you to misrepresent the great and solemn truth which we have to present to the world, which has been committed to us by the Lord. Serving tables, the absorbing cares of temporal life, must not be mixed with your work of ministering; for Satan will make this a means of loss in your influence and to your own soul. Christ said, "Without me ye can do nothing." You must have far less of self and far more of Jesus. You must meditate, you must pray, you must examine yourself in the light of God's word. If you lose eternal life, you lose everything. I cannot endure the thought of one soul being lost, but when I think of one who has preached the truth to others becoming a castaway, my soul is stirred with anguish.  {PH096 41.2}
[PH096 42.1]          My brother, you should not bear down upon others, for you need far more grace yourself; you have much to correct in your own life and character. The work of reformation must not on any account be neglected. When you would cut others, remember this testimony that I have given you from God. There are only two courses which it is possible for you, your wife, or me, to pursue. We must yield ourselves wholly to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, or follow our own natural impulses, and these impulses are not as harmless as we                                ［43］     think they are. Things which are offensive to God are often construed by us into virtues. The eyes of the Lord are too pure to behold iniquity; he registers evil as fruit borne by an unsanctified heart. When the heart is fully surrendered to God, and our will is in harmony with God's will, then the fruit will be good, for the wisdom which cometh down from above is first pure, then peaceable, easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruit. The grace brought to us through Christ will enable us to be pure, uncorrupted, holy.  {PH096 42.1}
[PH096 43.1]          The natural man always remains the same; he is what hereditary tendencies, nationality, education, and circumstances have made him. But when the natural man is changed by the grace of Christ, then the transformation is seen in the new man, the new heart, new purposes, new impulses. The word of Christ is received which is spirit and life; then we eat the flesh and drink the blood of the Son of God. Then there is fruit in the heart, fruit in the lips, fruit in the character, some bearing thirty, some sixty, and some one hundred fold.  {PH096 43.1}
[PH096 43.2]          It is dangerous to be simply hearers of the word and not doers. He that hears and obeys every word that proceeds from the lips of God, is building upon the rock. He that hears but does not bring the words of God into his life practice, builds on the sand, and will surely fall. Everything is to be shaken that can be shaken. We shall realize this in our experience.  {PH096 43.2}
[PH096 43.3]          Brother and Sister Daniels, you must have a firm hold from above; you must hear, receive, and practice the truth daily, applying its sternest requirements to your life, lopping off every offensive branch that makes the tree unseemly and unfruitful, else these branches                                ［44］     will sap the life and nourishment from the tree, and it will wither and perish. The world creeps in stealthily and picks away one precious grace after another, and the heart will be filled largely with worldly schemes, and the truth will not sanctify the character. You need to be changed; in your family you should put away childish things. You need to improve in your manner of preaching. You need greater solemnity in attitude, in voice; in short, you need to practice that which you teach to others. Nothing but true conversion of the whole man will make you a wise shepherd of the flock. Will you fight inch by inch the warfare against your own defects of character? Will you be a man that God shall choose?  {PH096 43.3}
[PH096 44.1]          There must be more candid thought, more sanctified power in your preaching. You are not what you might be, and what God has made every provision that you should be. Diligent, earnest labor put forth on yourself will not be lost. Your labor will produce good fruit. You can afford to take time, put up your supplications to heaven for that grace which is needful for you, that you may be a successful warrior over your own lusts, and then you will be a winner of souls, and your example will not contradict your teachings. The self-denial and self-sacrifice that others have practiced should be imitated by you. Prayer, sacrifices, and sanctified labors are the conditions of our success, for we shall not be able to give full proof of our ministry unless we are connected with God. We too often regard ourselves as completely our own, the owners of our time, property, speech and other faculties. We are only stewards in trust of faculties and goods that                                 ［45］     have been given to us of the Master. He is the source of our power. Not only does God own us, but he alone has the right and is competent to determine what is the proper use of all his intrusted gifts, and he can guide and control them to the very best purpose, worthy of such endowments. The power of social influence is intrusted to us of God, but, oh, how sadly this power is perverted. I appeal to you to dig deep, to lay your foundations sure; draw water daily from the wells of salvation, and the Lord will make you as a spring of water to refresh others.  {PH096 44.1}
[PH096 45.1]          Now, Brother Daniels, I shall not attempt to answer your letter, for that is impossible. It is the production of your impulsive, erratic nature. But one matter I must set before you as it is. You have surmised evil, but your imaginings are without foundation. Not one in Healdsburg has passed any words with me in regard to Zua. Your own lips told me the only story I know anything about in the matter, aside from the light God has been pleased to give me. No one has talked to me in reference to you, to censure or condemn you, and if you possess no more of a spirit of wisdom, and of self-control, no more of a sanctified mind, than is displayed in this letter, my advice is, Tarry in Jerusalem until God shall give you a better mind, clearer and more sanctified judgment, for it is evident that you have not a living connection with God. It will not answer, my brother, for you to feel at liberty to give loose rein to your tongue, or your pen. If your children have been misjudged, the Lord knows all about it. The Lord understands it; he can work for your good if you rest the case with him; but your feelings are wrought up to a                                ［46］     high pitch, and the letter indicates that your mind is unbalanced. And now I beg in prayer to God that you may have a sound mind. Your feelings are changeable. You want more of Jesus and less of self. Then you will be a happy man, where now you are often miserable.  {PH096 45.1}
[PH096 46.1]          You may think I am your enemy. You feel desperate, but I will not feel free unless I do my duty to you in the fear of God. I want you to win the crown of life. I have not written to you to make you fling yourself into the snare of Satan, but to help you to help yourself and to help your children. If in Healdsburg they have given you occasion to say all you do say, God knows all about that. That you have been a source of trial and perplexity to them, as well as a means of some good, I know to be the case, and now be careful how you condemn and charge upon them things that your own course has given occasion for. Let us be Christians in heart and in tongue. Do learn in Christ's school to be meek and lowly of heart, for this will save you from great trials.    Ellen G. White.                                                    -    {PH096 46.1}
[PH096 46.2]                                Fresno, Cal., July 6, 1888.        Dear Brother Daniels: I had no strength to talk with you while at Burrough Valley, the action of my heart was so feeble that I dare not communicate that which I enclose in this envelope. You will see I had written before you came. Your letter to me made me very sad, and was an evidence to me that you have not discernment.  {PH096 46.2}
[PH096 46.3]          Zua mentioned in conversation that she had been staying with a sister who had recently confessed the                                ［47］     truth. This again made me feel your want of discernment and judgment. Cannot you see that Zua's heart is filled with vanity and self-importance, and that she has no love for the truth? Cannot you see she has her thoughts centered almost entirely upon herself? Your own plans for, and indulgence of, your child and children, are leading them directly away from the great example of Jesus Christ, away from the principles of truth, away from lifting the burdens of Christ. I see this, I feel this, and I am burdened over it, because, as an ambassador of Christ, you are to be an example to the flock in teaching others how to educate their children.  {PH096 46.3}
[PH096 47.1]          The education of your daughter that you look upon as so advantageous is not so in reality. The very education that she needs now, and has needed in the past, is that which is to be gained in useful home labor, in helping her mother in household duties; for this would be of lasting advantage to the child. I wanted to be pleased with the little present she made me, but I could not. The money spent for the material was spent simply for the making of an ornament. Pretty? Yes, it was pretty, but I had no use for it in my practical life, and I fear that many of the busy activities in which your daughter is engaged is simply to make ornaments. It is your duty and the duty of her mother to direct her energies in another direction. It is the duty of parents to educate, restrain, discipline their children.  {PH096 47.1}
[PH096 47.2]          Zua thinks she has learned a great deal at Snell's Seminary; but have you tested the kind of advancement that she has made? You are required to see whether your child's mind is filled with chaff or with pure grain. She is full of vanity and pride, and studies                               ［48］     how to indulge her wishes to dress like the young ladies of the world. She has not the right stamp of character, and in the day of judgment you will be called to account because you have fostered pride and selfishness in your children.  {PH096 47.2}
[PH096 48.1]          None of your children are incorrigible children; with diligent training they might develop character which God would approve, but you cannot relax your efforts, for they need to be firmly restrained. With your present ideas, and your present method of training, combined with your spendthrift habits, you will eventually have to leave the ministerial field, as did Brother Morton, because he could not support his family in the style in which they lived. You are not financially able to support your daughter in Snell's Seminary. Do you expect to subject her to irreligious influences, to pride, vanity, and display, and yet have her come out with good, firm principles and sound morals? It is not possible. She does not see herself as she is or realize how silly she looks to sensible people with her affected ways. The great burden of her life is how to act the lady, and do you think it is all smart and nice? And will you place her where her vanity will have abundant room to grow, and where everything will work against your teaching?  {PH096 48.1}
[PH096 48.2]          While in Fresno, Zua made the remark that she wanted to go down the street and purchase a silk duster and a new dress. She also said, "If I had a daughter I would send her to Snell's Seminary, for it is a superior place to learn good manners." What does such talk indicate? Does it not show that labor should be put forth to save the soul of your own child? Do                               ［49］     you think that in thus educating her you have placed her where she will love God and the truth? She has only attained a superficial education; real knowledge, which is of more value than everything else besides, she has yet to gain; she has yet to learn her poor self and to obtain a knowledge of her God. As her father and mother, you need to take heed to yourselves that you may set a right example before her. You should be constantly guarded that you do not encourage in her a love of dress. You should learn to know when to spare and when to spend. We cannot be Christ's followers unless we deny self and lift the cross. You should pay up squarely as you go; gather up the drop stitches; bind off your raveling edges, and know just what you can call your own. You should reckon up all the littles spent in self-gratification. You should notice what is used simply to gratify taste and in cultivating a perverted, epicurean appetite. The money expended for useless delicacies might be used to add to your substantial home comforts and conveniences. You are not to be penurious, you are to be honest with yourself and your brethren. Penuriousness is an abuse of God's bounties. Lavishness is also an abuse. The little outgoes that you think of as not worth mentioning, amount to considerable in the end.  {PH096 48.2}
[PH096 49.1]          Children get too much money to spend which they never earn, and of which they never know the value. While at Sister Bowen's I stepped into the bedroom to lie down and I picked up a sash of highly-colored satin. I said to Fannie Ingles, "Does this Babylonish rag belong to you?" "No, it does not," she replied. I was made sad to soon see it about the waist of your daughter.                               ［50］     Such articles of finery and extravagance may be in keeping with Snell's Seminary, but they are not in keeping with our faith as God's peculiar people, and not in accordance with your own teachings to others, even while in Fresno. When you are tempted to spend money for nicknacks, you should remember the self-denial and self-sacrifice that Christ endured to save fallen man. Our children should be taught to exercise self-denial and self-control. The reason so many ministers feel that they have a hard time in financial matters, is that they do not bind about their tastes, their appetites, and inclinations. The reason so many men become bankrupt and dishonestly appropriate means is because they seek to gratify the extravagant tastes of their wives and children. How careful should fathers and mothers be to teach economy by precept and example to their children! It is not out of your power to do this, unless your habit of loosely spending money is ingrained into your very character.  {PH096 49.1}
[PH096 50.1]          I beseech you to place your children under the guardianship of those who will not neglect to train and educate them, for they are God's property. The Lord has shown me again and again that parents must fashion the character of their children in their very earliest youth. Do you wish your children to regard outward appearance as of greater value than the culture of the soul?  {PH096 50.1}
[PH096 50.2]          Children are what their training has made them. Boys who lavishly spend money from their father's pocket, who learn to smoke, to drink wine, to play cards, who do not apply themselves to any useful occupation, have no foundation to build upon, and cannot become self-reliant and independent. Money which                               ［51］     comes to the young with but little effort on their part will not be valued. Some have to obtain money by hand work and privation, but how much safer are those youth who know just where there spending-money comes from, who know what their clothing and food cost, and what it takes to purchase a home. There are many ways in which children can earn money themselves, and can act their part in bringing thank-offerings to Jesus, who gave his own life for them. Children should be educated to make the very best use of their time, to be helpful to father and mother, to be self-reliant. They should not be allowed to consider themselves above doing any kind of labor that is necessary. They should be taught that the money which they earn is not theirs to spend as their inexperienced minds may choose, but to use judiciously, and to give to missionary purposes. They should not be satisfied to take money from their father or mother, and put it into the treasury as an offering, when it is not theirs. They should say to themselves, "Shall I give of that which costs me nothing?"  {PH096 50.2}
[PH096 51.1]          Let children be taught to keep accounts. This will enable them to be accurate. The spendthrift boy will be the spendthrift man. The vain, selfish, self-caring girl will be the same kind of a woman. We are to remember there are other youth for whom we are accountable. If we train our children to correct habits, through them we shall be able to influence others. Every cent expended in candy, in little luxuries to please self, and to administer to our vanity, is money we shall have to render an account for before God. The Lord does not design that his children shall be self-caring, that they shall spend means for sashes,                               ［52］     ribbons, bustles, and other worldly adornments. There are youth who are poor but possessed of ability, who, if they only had one-half the chance that others have, they would become men and women of moral worth, who would do and dare for Jesus' sake. There are plenty of homeless, friendless children and helpless individuals who need the means expended for selfish gratification. Let the money spent for unnecessary articles of dress be employed in doing good for others, and youth who thus deny themselves for others' sake will be accounted faithful stewards of the grace of God. We must not abuse our means by centering it on ourselves. Our children must not be a means of absorbing money from God's treasury, to make an appearance, or to indulge appetite or inclination. We may have genuine pleasure in a right use of all our powers. We must be like Jesus, pure, simple, holy, and undefiled. The grandest use of money is not to have a selfish want for every dollar. The skill, health, and talents in physical, mental, and moral powers that God has given us should make us feel that we are the Lord's almoners, to gather in means through the wise improvement of his intrusted gifts, to communicate blessings to others, not to make up tasteful nothings which cost time and money and which are of no real benefit to anyone. Let the taste be cultivated, and strength of body be given to make those things that are useful, not merely ornamental.  {PH096 51.1}
[PH096 52.1]          We want parents and children to be as springs of water, whose waters fail not. With eyes and senses we are to see where the desert places are, where the fields are that need to be watered, what wastes there are that need culture, to become gardens of the Lord.                               ［53］  {PH096 52.1}
[PH096 53.1]          May the Lord let you see and feel that you have a work before you that needs binding off carefully and thoroughly.        I commit this to you as light given me from heaven.                                    Ellen G. White.                                                    -    {PH096 53.1}
[PH096 53.2]                         Burrough Valley, Cal., Aug. 1, 1888.        Dear Brother: Several have said to me that Brother and Sister Daniels were in the habit of using tea, and when they were spoken to in regard to it they had stated that Sister White kept tea in her house, drank it herself, and advised you to drink it. It is difficult for me to believe that you have said this, although the same testimony has come from several.  {PH096 53.2}
[PH096 53.3]          You are not always as particular about your words as you should be; you make rash statements. The above declarations are not true. I learn that, to excuse your practice of using wine, you have stated, so I have been informed, that Brother and Sister White kept wine in their house, and to your certain knowledge used it. This, like the statement in regard to drinking tea, is not true. Will you please tell me why you make such rash statements? You claim to be my friend; do you imagine these statements will help my influence among the people? I do not use tea, either green or black. Not a spoonful has passed my lips for many years, except when crossing the ocean, and once since on this side I took it as a medicine when I was sick and vomiting. In such circumstances it may prove a present relief.  {PH096 53.3}
[PH096 53.4]          I did not use tea when you were with us. I have                             ［54］     always used red clover top, as I stated to you. I offered you this and told you it was a good, simple, and wholesome drink. I remember that Sister Ings made tea for you several times by special request. You said you had a headache and must have something to help it, and you said tea always had helped you. I told her I did not like to have her do this, for it was contrary to my principles. I asked her where she got the tea, and she said that a family who were on a camping-trip had stopped here and a Mr. Wallace who was not a believer was with them, and the party had tea and made it for him, and when they had gone the tea was found here, and she supposed they must have left it. I have not bought a penny's worth of tea for years. Knowing its influence, I would not dare to use it, except in cases of severe vomiting, when I take it as a medicine, but not as a beverage.  {PH096 53.4}
[PH096 54.1]          I have felt alarmed for you for some time because of your use of tea and wines. Of all others, you should touch not, taste not, handle not, anything like tea, coffee, wine, beer, brandy, or any stimulus. You are of a nature that you cannot safely use anything of that order. Your preaching to others is not in harmony with your practice. This is against you, and leaves a doubtful impression upon minds in regard to the ministry. Your case is presented before them, and the supposition in their minds is that other ministers indulge in these things, as you do yourself. To cover and excuse yourself, you have misled others by misstating me. I do not preach one thing and practice another. I do not present to my hearers rules of life for them to follow, while I make an exception in my own case. You are a man                               ［55］     who should never use tea, coffee, brandy, or wine. Your nervous temperament will become unduly excited, and be followed by corresponding depression. It is perilous for you to educate your tastes and stimulate your nerves, for you are in serious danger of depending on these stimulants and working upon them. The habit of taking stimulants may become second nature and pave the way for you to become a drunkard. You may start back, and feel bitter towards me because I say these things to you, but let me tell you, you have accustomed yourself to these indulgences because you felt that you must have them for their immediate stimulating properties.  {PH096 54.1}
[PH096 55.1]          I have not tested the wine that you claim is not intoxicating. I have perhaps used half a pint in all, taking a spoonful with a raw egg, much as I hate the taste of wine. I would not care, even if I had not solemnly pledged myself not to use wine as a beverage, to make a daily practice of taking even one teaspoonful with a raw egg, for Satan is at work to encourage the use of tea, coffee, wine, and beer, that he may make us dependent upon these things, and encourage our resorting to them frequently, so that our appetite and taste will crave these stimulants. I tell you frankly that you would be much better in nerve and muscle if you made a decided change in your practice, not only in drinking stimulating drinks, but in eating so largely of meat. The animal powers are strengthened by indulgence in these things, and the moral and spiritual powers are overborne. I am not guilty of drinking any tea except red clover top tea, and if I loved wine, tea, and coffee, I would not use these health-destroying                                ［56］     narcotics, for I prize health, and I prize a healthful example in all these things. I want to be a pattern of temperance and of good works to others. Will my brother practice as well as preach temperance in all things? If you do this, I do not believe you will be so changeable in your character. Your words will be more select and well chosen. You will not be careless in regard to your conversation. You will not be so depressed at one time and so hilarious at another, acting like a boy in place of an ambassador of Jesus Christ. I am seriously troubled for your soul. I know people are unwise in praising you and extolling you; should they read you as God sees you, they could not do this. I know that when you have apparent success you are elated, and you crave praise; and you get it from many, who, if their hearts were right with God, would not speak one word to flatter you. They would understand that it is not safe to pet and praise you, or any other poor, sinful mortal. The Lord is to be exalted by all his creatures. Finite man is not to attract admiration or praise, but do his work in humility.                                           Ellen G. White.                                                    -    {PH096 55.1}
[PH096 56.1]                           Healdsburg, Cal., Aug. 3, 1888.        Since having the conversation with you in Fresno, I have thought much over the matter. While at Burrough Valley I had written you several letters, but after the letter you wrote to me I thought you were in no condition to rightly receive anything which would seem of a reproving nature, however much you needed it. I did not wish to expend my strength in                              ［57］     vain. The letters written I will give to you when you are in a condition to appreciate them. I now send you these letters that were written according to their date. I am sure that in your present state spiritual things are not spiritually discerned, and I greatly fear for your soul. Under temptation in your present state you will not stand the proving any better than have some who have apostatized. You love praise, and you are in danger, great danger, of losing your soul. What can I say to arouse you to your true condition? Your brethren have treated you unwisely in letting you have money time and again to get you out of a pressure of difficulties. This has been the worst thing they could do for you; it has hedged up the way so that you could not have a right understanding of yourself. It has closed your lips when they should be open to correct evils. It has influenced your decisions of men and their doings. It has bound your hands, and bound about your testimony, so that your labor and burden has been of a  worldly character and God has not been glorified. Unless you are balanced by the Spirit of God, you will make some very unwise moves, which will injure, if not destroy your influence among the people. Then, not seeing yourself, not studying wisely from cause to effect, you will denounce your brethren as misusing you, when yourself is the one to be denounced, and not your brethren.                                           Ellen G. White.                                                    -    {PH096 56.1}
[PH096 57.1]                              Healdsburg, Cal. Aug. 10, 1888.        Dear Brother and Sister Daniels: I have not yet received the letter which I sent you from Burrough                             ［58］     Valley. I requested that it should be sent to me. Will you please send it, for I am anxious to see the character of the letter I wrote to you, which brought the answer you sent me in return. I asked you to return it to me, or a copy of it, but probably you have forgotten all about it. I would be pleased to have you send me a copy of the letter which I sent you from Basel, Switzerland, for the Healdsburg church. Sister Daniels said that she had the letter, or a copy of it. I am anxious to hear from you. How is Sister Daniels? Was she very sick.  {PH096 57.1}
[PH096 58.1]          Up to this date, Brother Grainger has not returned from his tour. All are anxiously waiting for his coming, for the time to open the school is drawing near.  {PH096 58.1}
[PH096 58.2]          I have many things to say to you, but my writing presses me, so I suppose I must wait until the camp-meeting to speak to you of them. If I could find time, I would love to be at Fresno over Sabbath, and also I would like to spend some weeks in Burrough Valley, but it is not possible.  {PH096 58.2}
[PH096 58.3]          I hope you can be with us when W. C. White is here, which will be in about two weeks. Then you can see just how matters stand, and do your part to make everything right. This is your first duty, and may the Lord help you that you shall not have run in vain, neither labored in vain. You need to be strong in God, and in the power of his might, not strong in your own strength. It is time that you gave your brethren and sisters, and the world, an example of what a Christian minister should be, both in the pulpit and out of the pulpit. You are not safe unless you are daily learning meekness and lowliness of heart in the school of Christ. Every day we need the                                   ［59］     converting, transforming grace of Christ upon our souls. Every day we need the Comforter that Christ promised to send after he should ascend to his Father. He said, "And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you . . . But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever things I have said unto you."  {PH096 58.3}
[PH096 59.1]          I plead with God in your behalf, that the Spirit of truth may abide with you, that the work of the comforter may be seen and realized by you. You said in your letter to me that you would not labor again until you were a converted man, for this you thought from what I had written was your duty. I can tell better what I said when I have seen that letter, but, my brother, whom I love in the Lord, this is the very point I urge upon you--and Christ promised the Comforter to "bring all things to your remembrance"--I want you to remember aright, and to represent all things in a right light to your own soul as well as to others.  {PH096 59.1}
[PH096 59.2]          I dare not take back anything I said in that letter, for I am sure it is truth, and if you only act upon it and not begin a tirade upon others, weakening your own soul; if you will indeed sit at the feet of Jesus and learn of him who is meek and lowly of heart you will be a converted man you will exemplify Christ in your life work, you will not preach one thing and practice something altogether different. All the graces you urge                                  ［60］     upon others will be presented in your own character. You will be Christ-like, having his divine mould upon you.  {PH096 59.2}
[PH096 60.1]          I do most sincerely hope and pray that you will see the necessity of bringing your living expenses within the limit of your means, so that you may not give to others a wrong example in your home life. The brethren who have placed their money in your hands, believing you to be in great need, should not long be kept waiting for its return. If anyone among us needs to practice economy and self-denial, it is yourself, for the money you have received from others should be returned as soon as possible. Brother Leininger's family live in accordance with the principles of strictest economy. They did not have a carriage until I told them it was their duty to provide one for Sister Leininger. Brother Leininger had conscientiously decided not to build a convenient wood-shed and kitchen for his large family, because he did not feel free to invest means in personal conveniences when the cause of God needed money to carry it forward. I tried to show him that it was necessary for the health as well as for the morals of his children that he should make home pleasant, and provide conveniences to lighten the labor of his wife. Now, my brother, you would not think you could live as that family lives. You would not economize as that family have economized in order to save money in every way possible. You would think it your privilege to invest means in twenty ways for your own convenience where he would not feel that he could indulge in the gratification of self in one way. He binds about his inclinations and wants, while you use means freely, and                                 ［61］     although you have had repeated cautions and reproofs on this point, you will continue to pursue the same course, unless yourself and wife are converted.  {PH096 60.1}
[PH096 61.1]          When the transforming grace of Christ shall take hold upon your heart, the fruit of that grace will be seen. You will not receive means from your brethren which you do not really need, you will not keep it in your possession, and live in a style in which I would not dare to live, and which others would feel condemned in following. It is as much your duty to bind about your desires and to deny your inclinations as it is my duty and the duty of others to abstain from the gratification of self. While you selfishly gratify appetite you talk of poverty, of being perplexed for means you borrow or receive gifts from your brethren, although it works against you and destroys your influence. As a minister of Christ, you cannot follow this course consistently; and as a lay member, if you give up preaching, you cannot do as you have done and be approved of God. You cannot afford to give to your children such an example, for it is not after the example of Christ.  {PH096 61.1}
[PH096 61.2]          Brother and Sister Daniels. I wish you could see the necessity of bringing yourselves to the habits of economy Brother Leininger has practiced. With all his little children, he thinks they must get along without a hired girl. I think they are straining the point here. You would not think for a moment you could do as they have done in order to save expenses. A practical knowledge of domestic duties would be the very best instruction your children could receive. Not one or two, or three, but everyone who knows you ,even                               ［62］     your best friends, have spoken in regard to your great expenses, and I have said nothing. They have said, "I do not, I could not expend money as they do, and for the things they do." I could not say to these friends that what they said was not true, for I knew it was. I have had the matter presented to me again and again. I have told you of these things in the fear of God, not to hurt you, but for your own good, and for the good of your children. I know that neither you nor your children will be among the overcomers around the throne of God unless you make a decided reform. You have attempted to reform. After I wrote you from Basel, Switzerland, you made statements of what you would do,--that you would never eat butter or meat. I knew enough of you and your appetite to consider this an unwise statement; for I felt sure you would break the strongest pledge on this point. You have indulged appetite to such an extent that after making such a decided change you would only go back stronger than ever to your old habits. This is why I wrote you, remonstrating against your radical resolutions in this matter. You moved impulsively, and not from principle, and all your family are in need of reformation. If you do not make decided changes in all of these things, you will enter into temptations of which you do not now dream. You will not be a savor of life unto life, but of death unto death. I write this in the fear of God, because I have a love for your soul.  {PH096 61.2}
[PH096 62.1]          In your letter to me you said that you thought it was your duty to take charge of your own children as well as to work to save the souls of other people's children. Would that this might be done; but I am obliged                               ［63］     to tell you that your training would not be the best training your children could have. Before you can bring up your children in the fear and admonition of the Lord, you need to have an element brought into your character which you do not now possess. You talk against our institutions, against our brethren, in the presence of your children; you advance ideas without a thought on your part, which leave an unfavorable impression on their minds, and which shape their destiny for this life and the future life. This work coming forth from your hands you must meet again in the judgment. Your unwise tenderness toward your children is cruelty of the worst kind. Could you see your words as they are in the books of heaven, you would be ashamed, for you speak without thought. This is why I said you must be converted, and I say it still from the light God has given me. How long do you mean to remain in this condition? How long will it be before you will humbly seek God? How long will it be before you will feel it your duty to act upon the light that God has given you? How long will you stand where you are, with every avenue of the soul open to Satan's suggestions and temptations? Is it not time that you were in earnest? Is it not time for you to begin to heed the light that God has given you, in place of following your own mind and judgment? Is it not time for you to begin to practice the teachings you have given to others? May the Lord help you to work as you have never worked before. I feel alarmed for you, for I know that you will not long stand where you are. Seek the Lord, I beseech of you, while He is to be found. Yours with solicitude.                                          Ellen G. White.                               ［64］  {PH096 62.1}
[PH096 64.1]                       Battle Creek, Mich., July 28, 1889.        Dear Brother Daniels: Since writing you, as you will see in the letter of earlier date, I have carried a burden on my mind for you. Again last night your case was forced to my notice, and I was talking with you as a mother talks with her son. I said: "Brother Daniels, you should not feel it to be your duty to converse with young ladies upon certain subjects, even if your wife is present. You are encouraging in them the idea that it is all right to communicate to ministers the family secrets and difficulties that should be brought before God, who understands the heart, who never makes a mistake, and who judges righteously. Refuse to listen to any communications of private matters, concerning either families or individuals. If persons are encouraged to come to one man with their troubles, they will think it all right to keep up this practice, and it will become a snare, not only to the soul who communicates, but to the one to whom these things are confided." I said: "God has not laid this kind of work upon you. Do not invite the confidence of either married or unmarried women. Take the young men and give them your special attention, pray with them and for them. Do not talk with them, or with young ladies either, upon the subject of marriage. This subject needs to be repressed rather than encouraged."  {PH096 64.1}
[PH096 64.2]          Again I entreat you to carry all solemnity with you into the pulpit. Do not talk at random, or act indiscreetly, but labor for souls as for those who must give an account. I know that our people are liable to be drawn to you, instead of depending entirely on Christ, and thus they will endanger their souls.                               ［65］  {PH096 64.2}
[PH096 65.1]          One thing alarms me: When you are cautioned or reproved, you act exactly as Elder Canright has acted for years. He rose up just as you do. He justified himself, and thought himself misjudged and abused. Because he pleased the tastes of the people, he regarded himself as all right. Why do you act so pettish when your course is questioned? Do you think there is no danger at all in your case? Are your eyes blinded that you fail to discern any danger? Because so many are foolish enough to flatter, praise, and extol you, does it bring you evidence that you are sinless? Because the Lord watches your footsteps, and, seeing that they may go in wrong paths, sends you counsel and reproof, or consolation, as the case requires, will you rise up against it? Who can know his own faults? You may make assertions, and they may be honestly made, but, after all, they may be made because you do not see your danger. Real, living, Christian principles that rule the heart at all times, and under all circumstances, will make you an overcomer and a living channel of light. It will be nothing short of a delusion to entertain the idea that you are in no danger. I tell you that you are in danger. You need to walk carefully and prayerfully before God.                          Ellen G. White.                                                    -    {PH096 65.1}
[PH096 65.2]                            Battle Creek, Mich., Nov. 5, 1889.        Brother Daniels: Your case has again been presented before me so clearly that I understand your danger, and I cannot hold my peace, for I have a care for your soul. I am not at liberty to tell you all that has been shown me concerning you; sufficient now is the fact that you have not an eye single to the glory                               ［66］     of God; your course of action is not in harmony with the Spirit of Christ. If the Lord Jesus were working upon you at all times and in all places, the fruits of righteousness would appear; but the fruits you bear are frequently of such a character as to declare distinctly that your works are not wrought in God, that the Spirit of God does not have a controlling power to subdue and sanctify your nature, and place Christ's mould upon you. Your powers have at times been unselfishly used to glorify God; but when your own spirit prevails, the very blessings God has given you are perverted to serve your selfish purposes.  {PH096 65.2}
[PH096 66.1]          How stands the record in the book of God in regard to your dealing in financial matters? "He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much; and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much." Christ declares that a selfish use of our possessions in this world proves us unfaithful to God, and therefore disqualified for the higher, heavenly trusts. We are not to live an inactive life in heaven. The faithful steward will there be intrusted with much. "If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who shall commit to your trust the true riches? And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?" Christ has purchased us by the price of his own blood; he has paid the purchase money for our redemption; and if we will lay hold upon the treasure, it is ours by the free gift of the Son of God. In this probationary time we may show ourselves unworthy to have the heavenly gift intrusted to our keeping. Money is not ours; houses and grounds,                               ［67］     pictures and furniture, garments and luxuries, do not belong to us. We are pilgrims, we are strangers. We have only a grant of those things that are necessary for health and life. But Satan places the temptation before us to desire many things with which the children of light should have nothing to do. Our temporal blessings are given us in trust, to prove whether we can be trusted with eternal riches. If we stand the proving of God, then we shall receive that purchased possession which is to be our own,--glory, honor, and immortality.  {PH096 66.1}
[PH096 67.1]          Money is not necessarily a curse; it is of high value, because, if rightly appropriated, it can do good in the salvation of souls, in blessing others who are poorer than ourselves. By an improvident or unwise use, as is evident in your case, money will become a snare to the user. He who employs it to gratify pride and ambition makes it a curse rather than a blessing. Money is a constant test of the affections. Whoever acquires more than sufficient for his real needs should seek wisdom and grace to know his own heart and to keep his heart diligently, lest he have imaginary wants and become an unfaithful steward, using with prodigality his Lord's intrusted capital. When we love God supremely, temporal things will occupy their right place in our affections. If we humbly and earnestly seek for knowledge and ability in order to make a right use of our Lord's goods, we shall receive wisdom from above. When the heart leans to its own preferences and inclinations, when the thought is cherished that money can confer happiness without the favor of God, then the money becomes a tyrant, ruling the man,                               ［68］     it receives confidence and esteem, and is worshiped as a god. Honor, truth, righteousness, and justice are sacrificed upon its altar. The commands of God's word are set aside, and the world's customs and usages, which King Mammon has ordained, become a controlling power.  {PH096 67.1}
[PH096 68.1]          In our use of money we can make it an agent of spiritual improvement by regarding it as a sacred trust, not to be employed to administer to pride, vanity, appetite, or passion. We should ever remember that in the judgment we must meet the record of the way we use God's money. Much is spent in self-pleasing, self-gratification, that does us no real good, but positive injury. If we realize that God is the giver of all good things, that the money is his, then we shall exercise wisdom in its expenditure, conforming to his holy will. The world, its customs, its fashions, will not be our standard. We shall not have a desire to conform to its practices; we shall not permit our inclinations to control us.  {PH096 68.1}
[PH096 68.2]          It is not best to pretend to be rich, or anything above what we are,--humble followers of the meek and lowly Saviour. We are not to feel disturbed if our neighbors build and furnish their houses in a manner that we are not authorized to follow. How must Jesus look upon our selfish provision for the indulgence of appetite, to please our guests, or to gratify our own inclination?  It is a snare to us to aim at making a display or to allow our children under our control to do so. Notwithstanding two testimonies given you in regard to the management of your children, you have not corrected the errors that have been thus pointed                               ［69］     out. You have placed your own stamp of character upon these children as a birthright, a sad legacy; then with all the light before you, you have indulged them until they reproduce your defects; they have the same desire for self-gratification, the same spirit of self-indulgence. In the training and education of children, a firm, kind, restraining influence is to be day by day exercised over them. Teach them, as did Abraham, to keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment, that the fear of the Lord may be ever before them. Patiently instruct them to walk humbly with God. They should be trained to habits of industry, and not allowed to be indolent. Seek to strengthen everything that will make their character solid, well-balanced, and noble. Let every God-given faculty be developed for usefulness, not perverted by pleasure-loving, by indolence, or by wild liberty. Self-love, self-admiration, is a terrible curse. Teach your children to make the cause of Christ their first and highest consideration, and to deny their selfish desires, that they may do good to others. You as parents are standing under a weighty responsibility. Restrain your own inclinations in the expenditure of means, and give your children the precious lesson that outward display will not make the lady or the gentleman. It is the inward adorning, that meek and quiet spirit which is in the sight of God of great price, that demands our earnest attention.  {PH096 68.2}
[PH096 69.1]          Elder Daniels, my heart is sad for you, for your wife, and your children, for I say to you in the fear of God, You are making a record that will be lasting as eternity; "and if ye have not been faithful in that which                               ［70］     is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?" We are placed here as probationers, to prove whether we will, through the grace of Christ, develop all that the Lord exacts of us. We have been intrusted with great light in regard to the truths of his holy word, and with mental faculties susceptible of the highest cultivation. You are to love God supremely, and your neighbors as yourself. You are to prove yourself faithful even in the least temporal matters. If you disregard the plainest directions given by our Lord in his holy word, and by the testimony of his Spirit, and choose to walk in your own way, to follow the impulse of your own heart, you will be pronounced an unfaithful steward. If you prove yourself unfit to hold the smallest interests which your Master has placed in your hands here, how can God trust you with eternal interests? You may give your money quite freely to our institutions or to individuals, but does God honor you for this? If the money has been obtained unjustly, will he accept this offering at your hands? You may ease your conscience by saying, "I give to the cause what others have given me." Tell these persons they should be stewards of their own means.  {PH096 69.1}
[PH096 70.1]          You do not know how to use money economically, and do not learn to bring your wants within your income. Your spend thrift habits are a snare to you. The Lord has warned you, but your habits of prodigality have taken such a hold upon you that his cautions and warnings have been alike unheeded. Your wife, while she may be a help to you in many things, does not help you as she should in this respect. In order to live the life                                  ［71］     of a true disciple of Christ, you must day by day deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow your self-denying, self-sacrificing Redeemer. You have not yet learned the lesson of meekness and lowliness in the school of Christ. You have an eager desire to get money, that you may freely use it as your inclination shall dictate; and your teaching and example have proved a curse to your children. How little they care for principle! They are more and more forgetful of God, less fearful of his displeasure, more impatient of restraint. The more easily money is obtained the less thankfulness is felt.  {PH096 70.1}
[PH096 71.1]          I have been shown of God the sinfulness of the course you have been pursuing. You have engaged in mining and real-estate business, and while an acknowledged minister of the gospel, you have worked upon the minds of your brethren, and have influenced them to invest their means in real estate and in mining shares. You told them the investment would bring large returns; that they would more than treble their money, and could help the cause so much more. You represented that this was a golden opportunity which you did not want them to lose, and urged them to avail themselves of the advantages that God had placed right within their reach. With your powers of exaggeration you represented the matter in such a light that many were deceived, and some lost their money, which should have gone into the cause of God.  {PH096 71.1}
[PH096 71.2]          Now you have urged upon others the duty to confession, have you made confession of the wrong that you have done to the brethren? Have you told them of your errors? Have you told them of your schemes to                                ［72］     obtain means because your extravagant expenditures brought you into embarrassing positions? Have you fulfilled your promise, that if they did not realize the glowing expectations you had kindled, you would repay the money they had invested? Have you felt that you must confess your sin in diverting to city lands and mining stocks the means which should have been invested in the cause of God? You and your brethren who were engaged with you have a work of restitution to do. When you, Elder Daniels, can say, with Zacchaeus, that if you have received aught of any man unjustly you will restore to him fourfold, then there will be evidence of a genuine work of the Spirit of God in your heart.  {PH096 71.2}
[PH096 72.1]          At the late camp-meeting at Oakland many came to me and inquired if there was nothing to be done in your case. The strong influence you had been exerting in behalf of these speculative enterprises, to the injury of the work of God, brought great trial and perplexity to our brethren. But notwithstanding the wrongs on your part that called for confession, you came to that meeting and held yourself aloof, neither seeking to right your wrongs, nor showing an interest in the work of God. You necessarily had some care of your wife, but this was no sufficient excuse. You needed all the help and blessing which the Lord was waiting to bestow upon you if you would seek him with humility of heart. If you were envious, dissatisfied,  feeling that due honor had not been shown you,  the Lord could do nothing for you. What conclusion could the people draw from your attitude at that meeting?  Had you, as a humble learner in the school of                             ［73］     Christ, tried to obtain all the help possible from your brethren and sisters, you would not at the close of the meeting have been barren and unblessed; you would not, when you left, have been under temptation, dissatisfied, and unhappy.  {PH096 72.1}
[PH096 73.1]          I am pained that you have entered upon another money-making scheme. You are teaching voice culture, and by your exaggerated statements, made with such a professed knowledge of the benefits of this exercise, many are deceived, and are led to give you their patronage.  {PH096 73.1}
[PH096 73.2]          The secret of all these movements is this: When you get into difficult places financially, on account of the extravagant expenses of your family, you set about extricating yourself by some of your inventions. You extort money from those who believe you to be so good a man that everything you say is truth and righteousness. Your method of dealing savors of dishonesty and perversion of facts; it is more like fraud than like honorable, straightforward integrity.  {PH096 73.2}
[PH096 73.3]          Now the fact that you hold credentials from the Conference, and are receiving pay from the money brought in by the tithing, makes the Conference responsible for your influence among the flock of God. The Lord will not hold them guiltless of your wrong course of action, and the misrepresentations to which you have resorted to draw money from your brethren. Unless you change your course, I advise the brethren to withdraw your credentials and not let you carry their influence to sanction your proceedings.  {PH096 73.3}
[PH096 73.4]          Your course is causing great perplexity among those best acquainted with you. You seem to have a power                              ［74］     which many would think it is a sin to term anything but the power of God; but your influence does not tend to strengthen, establish, settle them as to the operations of the Spirit of God. They see you acting in direct opposition to your own work and your own teaching, and that which they suppose to be a divine influence seems to be so blended with the perversity of your nature that they know not how to distinguish between the two. The Lord has shown me that you employ human influence to move upon minds. In your labors it is often the case that that which is attributed to divine power is from a human source; you yourself have at times been amazed that your brethren and sisters should regard you as moved by the power of God. You are deceiving and being deceived.  {PH096 73.4}
[PH096 74.1]          Your mind is not well-balanced. You are moved by impulse. You make statements in the pulpit, and then go away and contradict them in your conversation. You preach, but do not practice; you have good qualities, but you abuse them, because you do not train your powers to serve God only. You serve yourself, and attract the people to yourself. Your brethren and sisters are certainly deceived in you.  {PH096 74.1}
[PH096 74.2]          The worst of the matter is that you become impatient  if any effort is made to correct these evils. Your pride is touched, and when your brethren seek to counsel and help you, you regard them as personal enemies, and count their reproofs and corrections as designed to work evil against you. You are not right with God. It is only when one unduly esteems himself that he imagines evil of those who would help and save him. God has borne long with your perversity. For years                              ［75］     he has sent you messages of warning; he has called to you, and held to you as a mother to her erring son; and yet his goodness and mercy have been abused. In the place of heeding the testimonies of the Spirit of God, you have treated them according to the frame of mind you were in when you received them; and your heart is hardened by the very goodness and mercy of God.  {PH096 74.2}
[PH096 75.1]          You make statements wholly untrue in regard to the testimonies. You belittle them. You represent things in a distorted light. You do this in order to break down everything that would prevent you from carrying out your own plans for self-advantage. Well-balanced, judicious minds cannot long be abused in this manner; but after one class has been thus deceived, you take another class; you begin your operations where your mistakes are less known. Your brethren have borne long with you, until forbearance has ceased to be a virtue. I would not write to you as I do if it was not enjoined upon me to do this.  {PH096 75.1}
[PH096 75.2]          One day you will stand in the pulpit and strongly advocate the testimonies which God has sent to his people; in a few days, if you feel like it, you do your best to unsettle faith in them, among those with whom you associate; and then in a day or two you are advocating the testimonies again. Now, my brother, are you anchored anywhere, or are you not more like the waves of the sea, tossed to and fro, unstable, unreliable, moved not by principle, but by emotion? Will not your work be of the same character? Will it not ravel out? Both you and your wife are under the reproof of God. What are you going to do about it? Will you draw nigh to God? Will you set your own                           ［76］     house in order? Will you unitedly make earnest work for eternity? Or will you throw down the yoke of Jesus, refuse to lift his burdens, and choose to be independent, perverse, willful, uncontrollable? God is faithful to his word. A watcher is beside you in the house of God. A watcher is beside you when you sit in converse with your brethren, and say things that have no foundation in truth. A watcher will write the record of every word and action and that motive that prompted it. There can be no denial of the record, as here you often deny what you have said or done. The watcher will write it all, and he will do the bidding of God in regard to your case.  {PH096 75.2}
[PH096 76.1]          Brother and Sister Daniels, must I conclude that the word of the living God has no special weight with you? Must I decide by your course of action that the testimonies of warning, reproof, and entreaty, calling you to God's word, to listen to his voice, are set aside by you as unworthy your notice, as an idle tale? I have not spoken to you my own words, but the words given me of God. You speak your own words, and with such intensity and assurance that you make those whom you address believe error to be truth, and that the testimonies which God has set in the church are of but little weight. Tell me, if you can, what will have weight with you? Tell me what reserve force the Lord has to meet your case? You ride over all counsel, you pay not the least heed to advice unless it pleases you and accords with your mind. When you happen to be so disposed, you will make of none effect the testimonies of the Spirit of God, if they reprove and correct your course.                            ［77］  {PH096 76.1}
[PH096 77.1]          One thing is certain, I have held my peace as long as I shall do so. Now the only thing I can do is to put before our people, in some form, the light which God has seen fit to give me in your case. If the testimonies have no influence upon you, they may at least guard the flock of God from deception. You may say you will give up your credentials and step out of the work; better, far better, to do this than to cast such an influence as you are now exerting upon the work of God. But what would gladden my heart, and please the dear Saviour, who gave his life for you, is for you to humble yourself under the hand of God. You are a very weak man, but God can give you strength, that you may finish your course with joy. I warn you, my brother, to prepare for the judgment. Let not the blood of the souls of the flock and the blood of your children be upon your garments. Never boast of your endowments, or position, or achievements. All our talents are from God, to be rendered back with interest. From him come all the gifts you have misapplied. May the Lord help you to see and repent of your abuse of his blessings before it is forever too late.  {PH096 77.1}
[PH096 77.2]          "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, and righteousness, in the earth; for in those things I delight, saith the Lord." I am pained beyond measure to see the little discernment existing among our people who have had so great light. They listen to a sermon that stirs their emotions, and the language of their                                ［78］     hearts is, "Evermore give us the ministry of this man; he moves our hearts, he makes us feel." They forget God, and praise and exalt the man, to his injury, and the injury of their own souls. When will those who claim to believe the truth cease from man, whose breath is in his nostrils? When will they trust in God? make him just what he is,--all and in all?  {PH096 77.2}
[PH096 78.1]          You have earnest work to do if through Christ's righteousness you win the crown of life. Oh, you must have a transformation of character before you can be a safe teacher of the truth! A profession of faith avails little without a personal, living experience in the truth. A casual or nominal faith is of no value. We must have a faith that works by love, and purifies the soul. That faith has strength; it requires on your part supreme preference, holiest love for God, reliance upon him, entire consecration, not one day in seven, but day by day. It identifies you in your feelings, your interests, your service, with Christ. Having this faith, you will be constantly receiving strength that is out of and above yourself. You will partake of the grace of God, which is without limit. When you have this communion with the divine, there is an identification of Christ's interest with yours before all the universe. Your sins are reckoned to Jesus, his righteousness is imputed to you. For God "hath made him to be sin for us who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him." Thus your prayers are accepted, becoming unto God a sweet-smelling savor in the beloved. Thus you enter into his rights, and become an heir with God and joint heir with Jesus Christ. You will enter into His victories, and the reward of eternal life will be given you.                                  ［79］  {PH096 78.1}
[PH096 79.1]          Again I inquire, What are you going to do? Will you be wholly on the Lord's side? Will you be a converted man? Remember, I do not say you never have been converted; but will you now have a new consecration? Will you die to self? Will you put away every wrong, and watch, watch for the stealthy approach of the enemy; watch the old habits of sin that will steal back upon you and that need to be shaken off again and again; watch over a careless, unruly tongue; watch your spirit, lest, because you cannot have your own way, you become desperate reckless, profane; watch for opportunities to do good; be ever learning humility and meekness at the feet of Jesus? Oh, when will every child of God learn to unite with Jesus, and not depend upon frail, erring men, and expect to be towed along to heaven by their faith and zeal? Genuine conversion unites the soul in clinging faith to the one helper, Jesus Christ. Make no more half-way efforts, to fall back worse than before; but, oh, make thorough work; begin in your neglected family! Your neglect has not been a lack in your indulgence, but a neglect of their souls. May the Lord make you a priest in your own household.  {PH096 79.1}
[PH096 79.2]          Do not, I entreat you, continue the same course of extorting money from your brethren, and robbing the Lord's treasury. You have done this work altogether too long. You have now a work to do to right up your wrongs. When you read this, pray earnestly to God. Do not throw it aside, do not become impatient, do not become desperate, but consider thoughtfully and candidly what is your real state. Utter no threats, make no false statements, for many of these now stand registered in the book of heaven, unrepented of, even                                 ［80］     during the year now almost ended. Let not this year close and you be found at variance with God. I must now leave you, but with only a small part written of that which is upon my mind. If this does not lead you to pursue a different course, I have more to write. God help you to be wise unto salvation!                                       Ellen G. White.  {PH096 79.2}
[PH158 2.1]         PH158 - Testimonies Relating to Emmanuel Missionary College and Its Work      	Extracts from Testimonies Relative to Emmanuel Missionary College     		On the Moving of the Battle Creek College          "The light that has been given me is that Battle Creek has not the best influence over the students in our school. There is altogether too congested a state of things. The school, although it will mean a fewer number of students, ought to be moved out of Battle Creek. Get an extensive tract of land, and there begin the work which I entreated should be commenced before our school was established here,--to get out of the city to a place where the students would not see things to remark upon and criticise; where they would not see the wayward course of this one and that one, but would settle down to diligent study. God wants the school to be taken out of Battle Creek. Some may be stirred about the transfer of the school from Battle Creek, but they need not be."  {PH158 2.1}
[PH158 2.2]         "This move is in accord with God's design for the school before the institution was established, but man could not see how this could be done. There were so many said that the school must be in Battle Creek. Now we say that it must be somewhere else. The best thing that can be done is to dispose of the school's buildings here as soon as possible. Begin at once to look for a place where the school can be conducted                                                                              3  on right lines. I am glad to say that Brother ----- and Brother ----- have made advancement in reform. The question has arisen in regard to Brother ----- connecting with Brother ----- in his work. I asked Brother ----- if he felt called by God to take this position, and he said, No. He said he was satisfied that God wanted him to remain in the school where he had been working. I told him that this was  in accordance with the light and evidence given me on the subject. I would say to Brother ----- and Brother -----, you are not to think that you have made a failure in the school. Circumstances have been of a character to cause some misunderstanding. There has been much prejudice indulged in regard to those who stand at the head of the school. Our brethren are to go right along in the work, and let all see that God is working with them, giving them, as his agencies, varied experiences. Those now in charge of the school work here have their hearts blended in unity of purpose, to accomplish the thing which God has designated as the right thing to do. They have undertaken this work irrespective of the opposition that has come up, and the strife of tongues. These men have a grip on the work. They have been learning, and have planned to establish industrial schools out of the city, where a large space of ground can be secured. They mean to be heroic reformers, to adopt solid, intellectual methods. Their thoughts and plans have been maturing, and now they are prepared for decided action."                                                                              4   {PH158 2.2}
[PH158 4.1]          "It would be a mistake to take Brother ----- from the school work to engage in another line. It would be a mistake to separate Brother ----- from the school, because he has a spiritual hold upon educational lines of work. With the help of God he can act his part in making the school a success."  {PH158 4.1}
[PH158 4.2]          "Do not hinder those who have been trying to reach the place where the Lord desires them to stand. Do not tear them to pieces. Let them stand in the strength they have obtained, and let them press the battle to the gates."  {PH158 4.2}
[PH158 4.3]          The Great Work to be Accomplished            "The great work to be accomplished now is to establish schools that will prepare the youth for the mansions Christ is preparing for all who do their best in this life to perfect themselves in the knowledge of the work of God. We are thankful that an interest is being shown in the work of establishing schools of a right foundation, as they should have been established years ago. Although there may be few students at first, do not be discouraged. The school will win its way. Introduce the medical missionary work. I would say to Brother ----- and Brother -----, go forward in the name of the Lord God of Israel, and the righteousness of God will go before you, and the glory of God will be your reward. God can make the feeble strong. He can give power to the weak."  {PH158 4.3}
[PH158 4.4]          "I am glad to know that even though I                                                                              5  may not live long, God will carry on his work. God will hold up our hands. He will work with those who are carrying forward the school work. He will be with the teachers and students."--Extracts from talks of Mrs. E. G. White at General Conference, 1901.  {PH158 4.4}
[PH158 5.1]     The Proceeds from "Christ's Object Lessons" to be         Used for Emmanuel Missionary College            "I have something to write in regard to the school interest. 'Christ's Object Lessons,' in accordance with the Lord's instructions, was donated to our schools for the special purpose of releasing them from debt. And this gave the Review & Herald Publishing Co. opportunity to do a generous work in behalf of the Battle Creek school. If the work of selling 'Christ's Object Lessons' had not been taken up, there would scarcely have been a hope that the debt of the Battle Creek College to the Review office would ever have been paid. From the light given me by the Lord, I know that he will be displeased if the Review & Herald Publishing Co. is in any way exacting with those trying to release our schools from debt. As those in the Review & Herald Publishing Co., see our brethren struggling to free the schools from debt, they are to co-operate with them. Those who have charge of this work have carried a heavy burden."  {PH158 5.1}
[PH158 5.2]          "The Review & Herald Pub. Co., have profited by the work which has been done                                                                              6  to raise the debt on the Battle Creek school. Let those in the Review & Herald remember that their brethren, who have labored so earnestly in behalf of the school, deserve the favors God designs them to have as they seek to establish the school in a more favorable locality. Let not those in the Review & Herald office think that they will do God service by binding about the school interests. God saw that his servants were sacrificing and trying to raise money to free the school from debt."  {PH158 5.2}
[PH158 6.1]          "The Lord has devised a plan whereby the Battle Creek school may be released from debt, and established in a more favorable location. I hear that there is some thought of locating the school at Berrien Springs, in the southwest of Michigan. I am much pleased with the description of this place. The one hundred and twelve acres of unimproved land will be a great blessing to the school in many ways; also the forty acres of woodland. It will be a great blessing to have cheap water transportation. And the offer of buildings is of great value. The good hand of the Lord appears to be in this opening, and I hope and pray that if this is the place for the school, no hand will be stretched out to prevent the matter from reaching a successful issue. In such a place as Berrien Springs the school can be made an object lesson, and I hope that no one will interpose to prevent the carrying forward of this work."--Unpublished Testimonies relative to the school at Berrien Springs.                                                                              7   {PH158 6.1}
[PH158 7.1]     Emmanuel Missionary College to Pattern after the              Schools of the Prophets            "Go forward, Brother ----- and Brother -----, saying, I will not fail nor be discouraged. Talk faith, pray in faith, and go forward. Those who have ever been walking in unbelief will throw their past experiences and knowledge as stumbling-blocks in your way. But in the work, it is written, you have the staff that you should take. There is much to be done. You now need to educate, educate, educate. Let no one take away your needed facilities. Have you a printing outfit? This you must have, if you do not have it; for you will want to do much of your own printing, issuing the books and other publications which you need in your work. You need the very best educator to teach type-setting and presswork to the students, giving them the education essential for this class of work."  {PH158 7.1}
[PH158 7.2]          "You should endeavor to train the very best class of workers, who as teachers and ministers of the gospel will be able to educate others. All who are now connected with the work of education must not follow the same, same old methods. Our schools should be more after the order of the schools of the prophets. Be of good courage in the Lord. Do not talk unbelief. Brethren, look not on the dark side. The Lord has a work for you to do. You need more faith, more hope. Commit the soul to God, as unto a faithful creator."  {PH158 7.2}
[PH158 7.3]          "Let your faith be strong in God. Look not upon appearances at this time. Brethren,                                                                              8  God is testing your faith, but let not your faith fail. Cling to promises, with full faith in the One back of the promise. My brethren, have faith in a living all pitiful, and loving Saviour. I have words given me for you and Brother-----, 'Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will keep thee; yea I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Behold, all they that were incensed against thee shall be ashamed and confounded, as a thing of naught. For I, the Lord will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, fear not; I will help thee. Fear not thou worm Jacob, ye men of Israel, saith the Lord and thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.' Your business now is simply to trust in the Lord."  {PH158 7.3}
[PH158 8.1]              Words of Encouragement          "There are those who, with the Bible as their standard, have been working in the fear of God to carry out the principles of true education. They are not old men, but they are, nevertheless, men whom the Lord desires to place on vantage ground. They have thought to bring into their teachings the principles that would lead the students to become Bible workers. They have walked humbly with God. They have wrestled with difficulties in different places. In their work there have been hard places to pass through, and many obstacles to surmount. There have been stern conflicts                                                                              9  and fierce battles. These men are to have opportunity to prove themselves thoroughly trustworthy men."  {PH158 8.1}
[PH158 9.1]          "But as they have tried to carry forward the work their efforts have been criticised, and the question has been raised, Should not older teachers be brought in to take the burden of this  work? It is thought by some that older teachers would do more complete work. But would they? The Lord encouraged these brethren, giving them victories that taught them valuable lessons and strengthened their confidence. The great Teacher wants these men who have been gaining an experience in their work, to continue to carry it forward under his guidance. They possess traits of character that will enable them, if they trust in God, to go forward with success. Their forces must not be weakened; their strength must be added to rather than diminished. They must stand together in unity, showing that nothing is so successful as success."  {PH158 9.1}
[PH158 9.2]                A Tremendous Struggle          "In the most trying times they took their stand firmly determined to breast every difficulty, and to free Battle Creek College from debt; also, if it were possible to move the school from Battle Creek. During the General Conference, the way opened for the school to be moved from Battle Creek, with the full approval of our people. Those who have charge of the school at Berrien Springs have been learners in the school of                                                                              10  Christ, and he has been working with them preparing them to be acceptable teachers. It has been a tremendous struggle for them to advance in the face of great financial embarrassment. They have planned, contrived, and devised in every way, with self-denial and self-sacrifice, to bring the school through, and to free it from its burden of debt. Now they begin to see that the way pointed out was the way of the Lord's leading. This is the lesson that the Lord desires many more to learn.  {PH158 9.2}
[PH158 10.1]          "As young men go out into this work and, in spite of many difficulties, make a success, let not propositions be made that they take up another work, and that the work they have started be given into the charge of men who are older and more experienced. This is not the way to encourage young men. My fellow-workers, persevere in the work which you have begun. Keep at it until you gain victory after victory, remembering that only by succeeding can you demonstrate the genuineness of your success. --Extracts from Unpublished Testimony July 10, 1902.  {PH158 10.1}
[PH158 10.2]          Need of Maintaining Simplicity            "My brethren and sisters at Berrien Springs, you are doing a good work. The Lord is leading you. Just so long as you follow Christ, you will be guided. Maintain your simplicity, and your love for souls, and the Lord will lead you in safe paths. The rich experience you will gain will be of more value to you than gold and silver and                                                                              11  precious stones."--Extracts from Unpublished Testimony July 17, 1902.  {PH158 10.2}
[PH158 11.1]          "The Lord will work in behalf of all who will walk humbly with him. He has placed you in a position of trust. Walk carefully before him. He is leading you. God's hand is on the wheel. He will guide the ship through the rocks into the haven. He will take the weak things of this world to confound the things which are mighty. You are not amenable to any man, but are under God's direction. Keep close to him. Do not take worldly ideas as your criterion. Be of good courage in your work."  {PH158 11.1}
[PH158 11.2]               To The Younger Workers          "For many years I have kept before our people the need, in the education of the youth, of an equal taxation of the physical and mental powers. The Lord God of Israel is hungry for fruit. We are nearing the close of this earth's history. We have before us a great work,--the closing work of giving the last warning message to a sinful world. The world is out of joint. Christ sees all the misery and despair of the world,--the sight of which would bow down some of our ministers of large capabilities, with a weight of discouragement so great that they would not know how to begin the work of leading men and women to the first round of the ladder. Their precise methods are of little value. They would stand above the lower round of the ladder saying, 'Come up where we are.' But the                                                                              12  poor souls do not know where to put their feet.  {PH158 11.2}
[PH158 12.1]          "Christ's heart is cheered by the sight of those who are poor in every sense of the term; cheered by his view of the ill-used ones who are meek; cheered by the seemingly unsatisfied hungering after righteousness; by the inability of many to begin. Christ welcomes, as it were, the very condition of things that would discourage many ministers.  {PH158 12.1}
[PH158 12.2]          "The Lord Jesus corrects our erring piety, giving the burden of this work for the poor and needy in the rough places of the earth, to men and women who have hearts that can feel for the ignorant, and for those who are out of the way. The Lord teaches them how to meet these cases. These workers will be encouraged as they see doors opened for them to enter places where they can do medical missionary work. Having little self-confidence, they give God all the glory, taking none of it to themselves. The Saviour is present to help make a beginning through those whose hands are rough and unskilled, but whose hearts are susceptible to pity, and awakened to do something to relieve the woe so abundant. He works through those who can discern mercy in misery, gain in the loss of all things. When the Light of the world passes by, privileges appear in all hardships, right order in confusion, the success and wisdom of God in that which seems to be failure."  {PH158 12.2}
[PH158 12.3]          "My brethren, in your ministry come close to the people. Uplift those who are cast                                                                              13  down. Teach the first principles of the message. Treat calamities as disguised blessings. Treat woes as mercies. Work in a way that will cause hope to spring up in place of despair. We must have workers. We must arouse the people. The common people are to take their places as workers. Sharing the sorrows of their fellow-men as the Saviour shared the sorrows of humanity, they will by faith see him working with them."  {PH158 12.3}
[PH158 13.1]             How to Deal with Criticism          May the Lord greatly bless you in your work, my dear brethren. I want you to guard one point. Do not be easily disturbed by what others may say. Know that you are right, and then go ahead. God will certainly lead all who will be led. The great trouble is, that we are unwilling to walk with God. Maintain the simplicity of Christ. Ask God to separate from you everything that would separate you from him, and then walk before him in all humility. Let earnestness, and sincerity, and faith characterize your prayers. The Lord is willing to do for us exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think. Talk it, pray it. Do not talk unbelief. We cannot afford to let Satan see that he has power to darken our countenances and sadden our souls. Pray in faith. Let not your faith weaken; for the blessings received are proportionate to the faith exercised. Pray, believe, rejoice! Sing praises to God because he has answered your prayers. Take him                                                                              14  at his word. Not one sincere supplication is lost. I long at times to be with you, but I dare not leave my work. I commit you to a covenant-keeping God. May he give you peace, and grace, and health. Do not cease to claim the fullness of his promise. Do not be troubled by the opinions of those who talk for the sake of talking. Let us pray that their tongues may become active and eloquent in the praise of God."--Extract from Unpublished Testimony, July 31, 1902.  {PH158 13.1}
[PH158 14.1]     An Appeal to the Ministers and Other Friends of the                 Berrien Springs School            "There are times when things do not look as bright and cheerful as we could wish, because difficulties stand in the way of rapid advancement; but we hope, my brethren and sisters, that you all will be encouraged to take a thorough interest in the establishment of the school at Berrien Springs, and aid it by the sale of "Christ's Object Lessons,' and in other ways. Let the sale of 'Christ's Object Lessons' be taken hold of interestedly in our large cities, and in the smaller settlements. Brethren, wake up. The good hand of the Lord has been with our people in the selection of a good place to locate the school. This place corresponds to the representations given me as to where the school should be located. It is away from the cities, and there is an abundance of land for agricultural purposes, and room so that houses will not need to build one close to another. There is plenty of ground                                                                              15  where students shall be educated to educate the land. 'Ye are God's husbandry; ye are God's building.'"  {PH158 14.1}
[PH158 15.1]          "We would have all to understand when canvassing for 'Christ's Object Lessons' that they are doing a work that is essential to be  done for the school which should now be going up. The Lord will help each one who will pray and work, and work and pray. The light which I have tried to present before our people is that we must arouse ourselves from sleep, and feel an interest in the school that is to be built up at Berrien Springs. Do not let this matter of erecting suitable buildings fade away from your interest. It is for this purpose that the sale of 'Christ's Object Lessons' should now be vigorously carried forward. Let our prompt action enable the interested ones to make successful the work of moving our school out of Battle Creek."  {PH158 15.1}
[PH158 15.2]          "The land has been secured, and now the work of preparing suitable buildings is to be entered into without delay. Let all plans be laid, and the fitting place be now selected. Let those who have been faithful workers take right hold and do their best. Let not this work fail. Let the students take right hold of this matter in earnest. Let not managers, teachers, or helpers swing back in their old customary ways of letting their influence negative the very plans the Lord has presented as the best plan for the physical, mental, and moral education of our youth."  {PH158 15.2}
[PH158 15.3]          "The Lord calls for steps in advance. Because the teachers may never have been                                                                              16  trained to physical, manual labor they are not easily persuaded in regard to the very methods to secure for the youth an all-round education, and even the very ones who have been most reluctant to come into line in this matter, had they been given in their youth the physical, mental and moral education combined, might have saved themselves several attacks of illness, and their brain, bone and muscle would at this time be in a more healthful condition because of all the Lord's machinery being proportionately taxed. Precious lessons from the best instructors should be secured in spiritual lines, in agricultural employments, and also in carpentry, and in the printing business. The Lord would have these mechanical industries brought in and taught by competent men."  {PH158 15.3}
[PH158 16.1]          "Whoever shall take up the work of selling 'Christ's Object Lessons' should have the help and encouragement of their brethren."  {PH158 16.1}
[PH158 16.2]          Here is a precious sentence or two from another testimony: "You know that I have a deep interest in the school at Berrien Springs. It is the Lord's school, and I will send you his ideas to consider. May he help, and strengthen and bless you. Look and live. He will prepare the way before you, only have faith. I believe that the Lord intends to accomplish through this school a great work. It is the beginning of educational reform."           (Signed)         Ellen G. White.  {PH158 16.2}
[PH097 1.1]         PH097 - Testimony for the Church at Battle Creek (1868)      	Testimony for the Church at Battle Creek         When in your midst, June 12, 1868, I was shown that you are not what God would have you to be. Sad effects have been growing out of the unbelief and worldly prosperity of the church. God designed that the light of the church should increase, and grow brighter and brighter, unto the perfect day.  {PH097 1.1}
[PH097 1.2]         Precious promises are made to God's people, upon condition of obedience. If, like Caleb and Joshua, you had wholly followed the Lord, he would have magnified his power in your midst. Sinners would have been converted, and backsliders reclaimed, by your influence; and even the enemies of our faith, although they might oppose and speak against the truth, could but admit that God was with you.  {PH097 1.2}
[PH097 1.3]          Many of the professed, peculiar people of God are so conformed to the world that the peculiar character is not discerned, and it is difficult to distinguish "between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not." God would do great things for his people if they would "come out from among them and be separate." He would make them a praise in all the earth, if they would submit to be led by him. Says the True Witness, "I know thy works." Angels of God, who minister unto those who shall be heirs of salvation, are acquainted with the condition of all, and understand just the                                                                              2  measure of faith possessed by each individual. The unbelief, pride, covetousness, and love of the world, which have existed in the hearts of God's professed people, have grieved the sinless angels. The grievous and presumptuous sins, which exist in the hearts of many, have caused angels to weep, as they have seen that God has been dishonored because of the inconsistent, crooked course of professed followers of Christ. And yet those the most at fault, those who cause the greatest feebleness in the church, and bring upon their holy profession a stain, do not seem to be alarmed, or convicted, but seem to feel that they are flourishing in the Lord.  {PH097 1.3}
[PH097 2.1]          Many believe themselves to be on the right foundation, that they have the truth, and rejoice in the clearness of truth, and boast of the powerful arguments in proof of the correctness of our position, and reckon themselves among the chosen, peculiar people of God, yet they experience not the presence and power of God to save them from yielding to temptation and folly. These profess to know God, yet in works deny him. How great is their darkness! The love of the world with many, the deceitfulness of riches with a few, has choked the word, and they have become unfruitful.  {PH097 2.1}
[PH097 2.2]          I was shown that the church at Battle Creek have partaken of the spirit of the world, and become lukewarm to an alarming extent. When efforts are there made to set things in order, and bring the people up to the position God would have them occupy, a class will be affected by the labor, and will make earnest efforts to press through the darkness to the light. But many do not persevere in their efforts long enough to realize the                                                                              3  sanctifying influence of the truth upon their hearts and lives. The cares of the world engross the mind to that degree that self-examination and secret prayer are neglected. The armor is laid off, and Satan has free access to them, benumbing their sensibilities, and causing them to be unsuspicious of his wiles.  {PH097 2.2}
[PH097 3.1]          Some do not manifest a desire to know their true state, and escape from Satan's snares. They are sickly, and dying. They are occasionally warmed by the fire of others, yet are so nearly chilled by formality, pride, and the influence of the world, that they have no sense of their need of help.  {PH097 3.1}
[PH097 3.2]          I was shown that those who occupy responsible positions at the head of the work should feel that a great burden rests upon them. They have an influence which tells for good or evil. It is impossible for them to occupy a neutral position. If their influence is not decidedly such as to increase spirituality, it is of a character to decrease it.  {PH097 3.2}
[PH097 3.3]          I was shown the cases of Brn. Aldrich and Walker. They occupy responsible positions which give them influence; and yet these brethren do not live in the light of God's countenance. They are deficient in spirituality and the Christian graces. A weight of solemn responsibility should daily rest upon them as they view the perilous times in which we live, and the corrupting influences which are teeming around us. Their only hope of being partakers of the divine nature, is to escape the corruption that is in the world. These brethren lack a deep and thorough experience in the things of God. This experience cannot be obtained without effort on their part. Their                                                                              4  position requires them to possess earnestness and unabated diligence, so as not to be found sleeping at their post. Satan and his angels sleep not; and while Brn. A. and W. sleep, these adversaries gain special advantages, which can never be fully regained. Satan transforms himself so as to appear like a friend, and works side by side with them quite a length of time before they know that it is he. They are finally aroused to the painful fact by the enemy's being recognized by one who better knows his manner of working.  {PH097 3.3}
[PH097 4.1]          Is this as God would have it? Oh, no! He holds these men responsible for all the mischief the enemy wrought while their understanding was so blinded that they knew not that it was he. The cause and work of God are endangered every day while these brethren neglect the warnings which have been given them, to be on their guard lest the foe find entrance and work to the disadvantage of God's people. Dear brethren, you both need a fresh conversion.  {PH097 4.1}
[PH097 4.2]          Bro. Aldrich, you are decidedly a worldly, business man. The life of Christ's followers is a warfare upon earth, and their daily business is to watch and pray always, lest they enter into temptation. God united you to his work, and designed that you should walk in the light as he is in the light. Satan is constantly watching those who are especially connected with the cause and work of God. He knows that he will gain a decided victory if he secures the least advantage over such. Your love of approbation is great. You love office, love promotion, love to be engaged in a large enterprise, which makes considerable show. You love to be considered a man of business, a                                                                              5  manager; and you have not maintained humility, but have got above the simplicity of the work. It is heart work that is needed. God designed you to become a spiritual worker. It should be your anxiety to possess true godliness, to be a pattern of good works. You fail in many respects. You shun the burden of reproving wrong and seeking to have these wrongs corrected and make right. Some have received the impression that you were a man of such fine feelings, possessing so sensitive an organism, that it would be exceedingly painful for you to do this. They do not rightly estimate you, but give you credit for excelling in those qualities in which you are deficient. Did you really possess these traits of character, you would manifest an interest for the very ones who need your sympathy. Your feelings would be enlisted for the widows, the orphans, and fatherless. Your heart would be drawn out in this direction. You would not need your sympathy called out in behalf of this class; for you could not be hindered from making their case your own.  {PH097 4.2}
[PH097 5.1]          Bro. Aldrich, unless there is a reformation in you, you are not the man for the place you now occupy. You do not obey the commandments enforced by Christ, "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 "thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets." You decidedly fail in obeying these express commands. No choice is left you to do these things if you choose to; to obey if convenient for you to obey. The injunction is positive: Thou shalt do it; and the whole duty of man is                                                                              6  comprised in doing these positive commands. You possess pride, with a large share of selfishness. This shuts you away from doing your duty. A man that occupies your position in connection with the work and cause of God, should rid himself of every vestige of selfishness, and should imitate the unerring Pattern, whose life was devoted to doing others good, sacrificing his own ease, and pleasure, and convenience, for others good. His pure, devoted, unselfish life, is given us as a pattern for us to imitate. Did you possess that fineness of feeling which has been accredited to you, it would be exercised in this direction. You are seeking to benefit yourself, advantage yourself. Wherein do you manifest that love for your neighbors which you possess for yourself? You do not see yourself. You have a work to do, but cannot perform it until there is a transformation of the mind, until all the powers of your body and mind are brought into subjection to God, and sanctified to him. You have a set, stubborn will, that must be subdued by grace. The Lord seeth not as man seeth. His thoughts and ways are not what blind, selfish mortals believe they are, or wish them to be. The Lord looks on the heart. The Lord selected you to fill an appointed place in his cause. He designed that your course should be onward and upward, you growing in grace and in the knowledge of the truth. Light has shone upon you and all around you; but you have not walked in it. Angels of God have their pure eyes bent upon you. They follow you. They mark your spiritual advancement, and your deficiencies. They have marked where in any instance you have favored yourself and yours in                                                                              7  your business with that Office, and at the same time have not seen that justice was done to others who were needy. God has marked every deviation from a strict, impartial dealing with every one connected with that Office. To appear all right in the sight and opinion of others is not enough. Our acts, our works, are to bear the inspection of Him whose eyes are too pure to behold any iniquity, any deviation from a correct course. Christ is the example, the standard. If you fail to imitate Christ, your influence leads others to do the same.  {PH097 5.1}
[PH097 7.1]          God requires you to bear fruit to his glory, to come out from the world and be separate. If your talents are buried, if your fruit is not perfect, you fail to meet the measurement of God. Do not mistake the form of godliness for the spirit and power thereof.  {PH097 7.1}
[PH097 7.2]          I was pointed to the time when you came to Battle Creek. You designed to do your duty, but had not clear conceptions of duty. You felt an earnest desire as you entered upon your work to be faithful, but when your heart arose against health and dress reforms you were opposing that which God had shown was according to his will. You were blinded. You failed to discern any sacredness in the matter, and took a course unbecoming your position. You opposed the change of diet, and the reform dress; you ridiculed and made light of them. Because it was J. M. Aldrich who ventured to do this, others followed your example, which brought an issue upon the subject of dress reform prematurely. Your set, stubborn will would not yield to the convictions of your conscience. Your pride would be wounded.                                                                              8  Your influence was on the wrong side. I wish you could see it just as it was shown me.  {PH097 7.2}
[PH097 8.1]          Bro. Aldrich, your bracing up against light led others to lightly esteem that which Heaven sanctioned. The diet and dress question was a matter of importance. Had you stood in the counsel of God you would not have been left to oppose that which God had signified was in accordance with his will. Your position gave you influence which you would not otherwise have had. Some concluded that you were in so responsible a position you would not venture to oppose the things which came from God. They thought there must be some mistake in the matter, that too much importance was attached to the diet and dress question. If God had called you to fill that position should not they have confidence in your judgment? Thus you stood directly in the way, making my work very taxing. God was working through his servants to bring the people up to the point to yield their pride, and with the spirit of humility manifest their separation from the fashions of the world, and you were working on the other hand to keep them united with the world. The speech of people had greater weight with you than any other consideration. God was seeking to unite his people on these subjects, while your influence was to keep them from the point, in a state of disunion; and great spiritual weakness was the result. Many rejected the light given, some acknowledged it but had not moral courage to manifest obedience by walking in the light. You had trifled with that light, and esteemed it as foolishness. In your house, and in the Office, before the young, it was a subject for you to jest over,                                                                              9  and for you to ridicule, the light of God's countenance was removed from you, and you, with others, were left to take the course of your own choosing. Then followed darkness, yet at the same time some of those in darkness thought their light was never clearer. We have had but a faint sense of the length and breadth of the difficulty existing in B. C.--the prejudice, the jealousy of us, the evil surmisings, the disregard of the visions; Satan had been invited into the church, and had a powerful hold of minds. He was exulting as he saw souls walking right into his net.  {PH097 8.1}
[PH097 9.1]          I was shown the wonderful impressions, the zeal, the earnestness, the fervor, of some. The special light that some thought they received from God, was from another source.  There has not been clean work made of this matter; and all who have failed to come out fully, and humbly acknowledge their deception and error, will be yet exposed to the deceptive power of Satan. God will prove them by bringing them over the ground again. All that counterfeit trash should be swept forever by the board. The experience of the church in this matter was sound or unsound, either from the Lord or the Devil. Christ and Satan do not work in copartnership. All that busy talking, that burden of news which was Bro. and Sr. Whites' supposed inconsistencies, was spread all through the church, and has done its work. One soul died under this delusion of the Devil. She was imbued with the spirit of hatred against us, and died in this condition. The blood of her soul is upon the church. And the probation of a number more will not be greatly lengthened; yet they are not ready. They are at ease in Zion,                                                                              10  and are not agonizing that they may enter into the strait gate. Like many, they are seeking merely, but are not striving. Could they see their life-record, they would make most earnest efforts to discern their wrongs, in order, by humble confession to remove the stains from their characters. The little leaven leaveneth the whole lump. A thorough heart-work is necessary with many who acted their part in this work, who are so deceived by Satan. Those who felt that they were not so much out of the way after all, will yet, I saw, have to learn by bitter experience that which they were unwilling to take to heart before. Such an unfeeling, heartless, satanic spirit as was possessed by some who are naturally tender-hearted, conscientious, and pitiful, was enough to have aroused all their senses, that they had another spirit.  {PH097 9.1}
[PH097 10.1]          I was shown that God's Spirit did not lead to that enthusiasm in reference to the Health Institute. There was a zeal, but not according to knowledge. A triumphant spirit seized the men who should have been in humility seeking the Lord. They became self-sufficient, and walked in the light of the sparks of their own kindling. A new order of things had come. The visions were no longer reliable. The reprover had become silent. Now all was peace, peace. Things were moving prosperously. Means flowed in, and the zeal of the collectors was eulogized. Responsibilities of importance were laid upon men unfitted to bear them. In a short period of time, in which Bro. Loughborough was invested with authority, and apparently prospered, he became exalted, lost sight of the simplicity of the work, and to a great                                                                              11  extent finished his usefulness and influence where he was known.  {PH097 10.1}
[PH097 11.1]          Bro. Aldrich trusted to his own wisdom and judgment. He lost sight of the simplicity of the work as well as its exalted, holy character. He spread himself like a green bay-tree, but God withered his branches, and brought to naught his plans. God made the wisdom of Bro. Aldrich foolishness. He has not managed with economy and prudence. His management has increased the embarrassment of the Institute without relieving it. If Bro. Aldrich would possess a humble heart, ready to admit his errors, and confess his wrongs, he could then see clearer light. If he does not do this, darkness will envelop him, and he will be left to his own imperfect judgment. No error is a trifle, unworthy of notice or comment, be it found to exist in Bro. Aldrich, Bro. Gage, Bro. Amadon, or any of the working hands. The smallest entrance should not be allowed to the foe; for when once he is in the fort, his work of deception and injury commences.  {PH097 11.1}
[PH097 11.2]          It is unfortunate that men so closely connected with the work as Brn. Aldrich and Walker, should possess just the turn of mind they do. They have with them a tendency to spiritual sloth, and a love to engage in worldly commerce. They are not helps to one another in the right way. Their interest is not kept awake by their association together, and strengthened by mutual zeal and devotion to the work. A mist and cloud is gathering over the Office. Things are not as God would have them. There is not a consecration to the work. Self and self-interest are too prominent. There is not that sanctified judgment                                                                              12  exercised that should be in the management of all pertaining to the Office. There is not a nice discrimination with regard to the workers. Some have received too liberal wages, while others who have been just as faithful, have had less, though they have been more needy.  {PH097 11.2}
[PH097 12.1]          Some have had a selfish spirit, and worked merely for wages. They had no special interest in, nor devotion to, the work, further than the wages were concerned. These have been favored, while some who possessed more moral worth, and whose influence was more healthful and saving, received but a small sum. Bro. and Sr. C. Smith have foolishly indulged their children, labored to gratify their every desire, and remove from them all cause of discontent. It is right that this should be done to a degree; but Bro. and Sr. Smith have carried their fondness to extremes, to the injury of their children. Bro. Smith was wrong in pleading with Bro. Aldrich to increase the wages of his daughters. They received all their labor was worth. Bro. Aldrich was wrong in being influenced in this direction. It only hurt them. Some, at the same time, were performing more taxing labor, and were struggling with difficulties, who deserved an increase of wages. But these were not thought of. Brn. Aldrich and Amadon have duties to perform in making themselves acquainted with the situation of all connected with that Office. The circumstances of some may be such as to warrant decisions made in their favor. Let none in that Office say, like Cain, "Am I my brother's keeper?" You are your brother's keeper; and if there is one place above another on earth, where examples of justice, equality,                                                                              13  compassion, and love, should be exercised, it is in the Office.  {PH097 12.1}
[PH097 13.1]         The wages of those who act an important part in the Office should be such that in an economical use of means they need not be embarrassed. Their wages should be sufficient to enable them to set right examples in the different benevolent enterprises that arise, to entertain freely and cheerfully their share of those brethren who visit Battle Creek, and to remove the necessity of engaging in worldly commerce and speculations.  {PH097 13.1}
[PH097 13.2]          I saw that if Brn. Aldrich and Walker continue occupying the post they do, they should devote their entire interest and energies to the work of the Office. One of them can do the work at the Office which both now do in connection with their other matters. And the work would be better done by one fully devoted to the work, than by both with their interest and time divided as it now is. God would have those who labor in the Office receive a good support. But these brethren, with their interest and time divided as it has been, have not earned all the wages they have received from the Office. I was shown that those brethren have not the just claims on the Association for favors, as Brn. Amadon and Smith, who have been connected with the work for fifteen years, and who, at its commencement, labored several years for only the most economical food and clothing. These have invested time, labor and interest, in the cause, with very small wages. Within a few years, their wages have been gradually raised. The cause is a part of their very being. It would be like parting with life, to separate their interest from the work. If Brn. Aldrich and Walker                                                                              14  should be favored, these should be favored much more.  {PH097 13.2}
[PH097 14.1]          No one connected with the work should hold any worldly office, unless it be one necessary to the transaction of business among our people. The peculiar, holy character of our work is such as to separate us from the world. The acceptance of worldly offices leads to the world, which is displeasing to God. The worldly business carried on by Brn. Aldrich and Walker brings into the Office many to consult with them, and talk over business matters, which consumes their time, divides the interest in the work, and brings an influence into the Office which is worldly and corrupting, and which grieves the angels of God away from the place. As I viewed the scene, the Office, especially the counting room, it was more like a public place of worldly business, than that retirement and quiet necessary to encourage the presence of holy angels, and to properly conduct the work of God.  {PH097 14.1}
[PH097 14.2]          When it comes to this, that the brethren will not restrain themselves in these things, if their minds are in some other business, they should be released from the Office, to engage in vocations where their minds and hearts are, and let their places be filled by those whose whole souls shall be devoted to the work. It requires the whole man for the place, and God will not accept the services of those at the Office who divide their interest and efforts between his work and their own speculations and worldly interests. The time has fully come for either a separation from these things, or a separation from the work of the Office.  {PH097 14.2}
[PH097 14.3]          There must be greater devotion to the work,                                                                              15  and an unselfish interest in it, if the Office be kept in a prospering condition, so that the blessing of God may attend the labor of each. The Lord needs not the services of those who have not the missionary spirit, a devotion to, and a special interest in, the work. This he has shown frequently, and again it was presented in a more clear and positive manner. God designs that all the workers in that Office shall be instruments of righteousness, workmen, living stones, that emit light, that they may encourage the presence of heavenly angels. They are required, as it were, to be channels through which the spirit of truth and righteousness shall flow. There should not be a spirit of messing together to the exclusion of some; a few attached to each other, conversing with one another, walking and associating together, and neglecting and slighting others. We are all one in Christ Jesus. Yet some who have labored in that Office have partaken so largely of the spirit and influence of the world, that they act like the world. They have their likes and dislikes, and discern not excellence of character. Their conduct is not governed by the pure principles of Christianity, therefore they think only of themselves, their pleasure, and enjoyment, to the disregard of others. They are not sanctified through the truth, therefore realize not the oneness of Christ's followers the world over. Those who are most loved of God are those who possess the least self-confidence, and are adorned with a meek and quiet spirit; whose lives are pure and unselfish, and whose hearts are inclined, through the abundant measure of the spirit of Christ, to obedience, justice, purity and true holiness.                                                                              16   {PH097 14.3}
[PH097 16.1]          If all were devoted to God in that Office, a precious light would shine forth from it, which would have a direct influence upon all who are brought in contact with it. But all need a work done for them. Some are far from God, variable, changeable, and unstable as water. Some, I saw, have no idea of sacrifice. When they desire any pleasure, or any article of dress, or any special indulgence, they do not sit down and consider whether they can do without the article, or deny themselves of the pleasure, and make a freewill offering to God. How many have considered that they were required to make some sacrifice? Although it may be of less value than that of the wealthy man in possession of his thousands, yet that which really costs self-denial would be a precious sacrifice, and an offering to God. It would be a sweet smelling savor, and come up from his altar like sweet incense.  {PH097 16.1}
[PH097 16.2]          The youth are not authorized to do just as they please with their means, regardless of the requirements of God. With David, they should say, "Neither will I offer burnt offerings unto the Lord my God of that which doth cost me nothing." Quite an amount of means have been expended to multiply copies of their pictures. Could all enumerate the amount given to the artist for this purpose, it would swell to quite a large sum. This is merely one way in which means are squandered. In this direction much means are invested for self-gratification, from which no profit is received. They are not clothed nor fed by this outlay. The widow and the fatherless are not relieved, the hungry are not fed, the naked are not clothed. Your stinted offerings are brought to God almost                                                                              17  unwillingly, while, in self-gratification, means are spent lavishly. How much of the wages earned finds its way into the treasury of God to aid in the advancement of his work in saving souls? They give a mite each week, and feel that they do much. But they have no sense that they are each of them stewards of God over the little, as the wealthy over his larger possession. God has been robbed, and yourselves indulged, your pleasures consulted, your tastes gratified, without a thought that God would make close investigation of how you have used your Lord's goods. While you unhesitatingly gratify your supposed wants (which are not wants in reality), and withhold from God the offering you ought to make, he will no more accept the little pittance you hand in to the treasury, than he accepted the offering of Ananias and his wife Sapphira, who purposed to rob God in their offerings.  {PH097 16.2}
[PH097 17.1]          The youth in Battle Creek are, as a general thing, allied to the world. But few maintain a special warfare against the internal foe. But few have an earnest, anxious desire to know and do the will of God. But few hunger and thirst after righteousness. But few know anything of the Spirit of God as a reprover or comforter. Where are the missionaries? Where are the self-denying, self-sacrificing ones? Where are the cross-bearers? Self and self-interest have swallowed up high and noble principles. Things of eternal moment bear with no special weight upon the mind. God requires you individually to come up to the point, to make an entire surrender. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Ye cannot serve self and at the same time be servants of                                                                              18  Christ. You must die to self, die to your love of pleasure, and learn to inquire, Will God be pleased with the objects for which I purpose to spend this means? Shall I glorify him? We are commanded, Whether we eat or drink, or whatsoever we do, to do all to the glory of God. How many have conscientiously moved from principle rather than from impulse, and obeyed this command to the letter? How many of the youthful disciples of Battle Creek have made God their trust and portion, and have earnestly sought to know and do his will? There are many who profess to be servants of Christ in name, but they are not so in obedience. Where religious principle governs, the danger of committing important errors is small; for selfishness, which always blinds and deceives, is subordinate. The sincere desire to do others good so predominates that self is forgotten. To have firm religious principles is an inestimable treasure. It is the purest, highest, and most elevated influence mortals can possess. Such have an anchor. Every act is well considered, lest its effect be injurious to another, and lead away from Christ. The constant inquiry of the mind is, Lord, how shall I best serve and glorify thy name in the earth? how shall I conduct my life to make thy name a praise in the earth, and lead others to love, serve, and honor thee? Let me only desire and choose thy will. Let the words and example of my Redeemer be the light and strength of my heart. While I follow and trust in him, he will not leave me to perish. He shall be my crown of rejoicing.  {PH097 17.1}
[PH097 18.1]          Bro. Aldrich, you are in an important position. If you fail to come up to the standard, others follow                                                                              19  your example; especially the youth. Your position in regard to health and dress reforms was such as to cause the unsanctified to take shelter under your influence. Had you possessed that conscientious, fine sensibility which ought to be found in you, you would not have ventured upon the course you pursued. It would have been enough for such a mind to know that God had deigned to notice the diet and dress of his people; and how careful and circumspect would have been your words, lest you should be found fighting against God. Any thing that is of sufficient importance for God to notice, however small it may appear to those whose hearts are lifted up in pride, should at least call for respectful silence. Your regarding these things as insignificant did not make them so. God noticed them. This should have been enough for poor, proud mortals. Their will and wisdom should not be maintained against the will and wisdom of Him who is too wise to err, and too good to do us wrong. Here is the danger of exalting man in our hearts. If we get the wisdom of man before us as the wisdom of God, we are led astray by the foolishness of man's wisdom. Here is the great danger of many in Battle Creek. They have not an experience for themselves. They have not been in the habit of prayerfully considering for themselves, with unprejudiced, unbiased judgment, questions and subjects that are new, which are liable to arise. They wait to see what Bro. Aldrich thinks. If he dissents, that is all that is needed. The evidence in their minds then is positive that it is all of no account whatever. This class is not small; yet for all their numbers are large, it does                                                                              20  not change the fact that they are weak-minded through long yielding to the enemy, inexperienced, and will always be sickly as babes, walking by others' light, living on others' experience, feeling as others feel, acting as others act. They act as though they had not an individuality. Their identity is submerged in others. They are merely shadows of others whom they think about right. These will all fail of everlasting life unless they become sensible of their wavering character, and correct it. They will be unable to cope with the perils of the last days. They will possess no stamina to resist the Devil; for they do not know that it is he. Some one must be at their side to inform them whether it is a foe approaching, or a friend. They are not spiritual, therefore spiritual things are not discerned. They are not wise in those things which relate to the kingdom of God. None, young or old, are excusable in trusting to another to have an experience for them. Said the angel, "Cursed is man who trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm." A noble self-reliance is needed in the Christian experience and warfare.  {PH097 18.1}
[PH097 20.1]          Men, women, and youth, God requires you to possess moral courage, steadiness of purpose, fortitude and perseverance, minds which will investigate, and prove, and try, for themselves before receiving or rejecting, minds that cannot take the assertions of another, but will study and weigh evidence, take it to the Lord in prayer, and flee to Him who has invited them to come. "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him." Now the condition: "But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering; for he                                                                              21  that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed; for let not that man think that he shall receive anything of the Lord." This petition for wisdom is not to be a meaningless prayer, out of mind as soon as finished. It is a prayer that expresses the strong, earnest desire of the heart, arising from a conscious lack of wisdom and knowledge to determine the will of God. If, after the prayer is made to God, the answer is not immediately realized, do not become unstable and weary of waiting. Waver not. Cling to the promise, "Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it." Like the importunate widow, urge your case, being firm in your purpose. Is the object important and of great consequence to you? It certainly is. Well, waver not; for your faith may be tried. If the thing you desire is valuable, it is worthy of a strong, earnest effort. You have the promise, watch and pray. Be steadfast, and the prayer will be answered; for is it not God who hath promised? If it cost you something to obtain it, the more will you prize it when obtained. You are plainly told that if you waver you need not think that you shall receive any thing of the Lord. A caution is here given not to become weary, but to rest firmly upon the promise. If you ask, he will give you liberally and upbraid not.  {PH097 20.1}
[PH097 21.1]          Here is where many make a mistake. They waver from their purpose, and their faith fails. This is the reason they receive nothing of the Lord. God is our source of strength. None need go in darkness, stumbling along like a blind man. God hath provided light if they will accept it in his appointed way, and not choose their own way. God requires of all a diligent performance of                                                                              22  every-day duties, and especially from those in the Office, who are engaged in a solemn, important work, and upon whom rests the more weighty responsibilities of the work, down to the least hand there employed. This can only done in looking to God for ability to enable them faithfully to perform what is right in the sight of Heaven, doing all things as though governed by unselfish motives, as if the eye of God was visible to all, looking upon all, and investigating the acts of all.  {PH097 21.1}
[PH097 22.1]          The sin which is indulged to the greatest extent, which separates us from God and produces so many spiritual disorders, and which are contagious, is selfishness. There can be no returning to God except by self-denial. Of ourselves we can do nothing. Through God strengthening us, we can live to do good to others, and in this way shun the evil of selfishness. We need not go to heathen lands to manifest our desire to devote all to God in a useful, unselfish life. We should do this in the home circle, in the church, among those with whom we associate, and also those with whom we do business. Right in the common walks of life is where self is to be denied, and kept in subordination. Paul could say, "I die daily." It is the daily dying to self in the little transactions of life that makes us overcomers. Forget self, in the desire to do good to others. Many, instead of faithfully performing their duty, seek rather their own pleasure, from selfish motives. There is a decided lack of love for others. God positively enjoins upon all his followers a duty to bless others with their influence and means, to seek that wisdom of him which will enable them to do all in their power to elevate the thoughts                                                                              23  and affections of those who come within their influence. In doing for them, a sweet satisfaction will be experienced, an inward peace, which will be a sufficient reward. In a faithful discharge of life's manifold duties, actuated by high and noble motives to do others good, there is true happiness. This will bring more than an earthly reward; for every faithful, unselfish performance of duty is noticed by the angels, and shines in the life record. In Heaven none will think of self, nor seek their own pleasure; but all, from pure, genuine love, will seek the happiness of the heavenly beings around them. If we wish to enjoy heavenly society in the earth made new, we must be governed by heavenly principles here. Every act of our lives affects others for good or evil. Our influence is tending upward or downward. Our influence is felt, acted upon, and reproduced by others to a greater or less degree. If we aid others by our example in the development of good principles, we give them power from our own acts to do good. In their turn they exert the same beneficial influence upon others, and thus hundreds and thousands are affected by our unconscious influence. If we by acts strengthen or force into activity the evil powers possessed by those around us, we share their sin, and will have to render an account for the good we might have done them and did not do, because we made not God our strength, our guide, and counselor.  {PH097 22.1}
[PH097 23.1]          I was shown that Bro. Gage has been sorely tempted. He came to the Review Office with the purpose in his heart to glorify God, and he expected to be advantaged spiritually. He thought that in thus connecting himself with the Office he                                                                              24  could obtain a more perfect experience. This was what he needed. But the condition of the church was such that they could be of but little advantage in strengthening this dear brother. He did not see those in the Office, professing godliness, living the life of Christ. He has a reasoning mind, and could but contrast his expectations with what he realized from the sight of his eyes, and the hearing of his ears--so much vanity, so much light, cheap talk, jesting and laughing. And those who stood in responsible positions seemed to have so little burden of the work, and so little sobriety! These things troubled and perplexed his mind. Then the coldness, the distant feelings manifested among professed Christians! He expected to find things all different. The enemy began to tempt him. When Bro. Gage saw that which appeared like selfishness in those in connection with the Office, he felt still worse. It was evident to him that there was respect of persons; that there was not fairness and equality, but partiality. He could not keep his feelings in subordination and pass along in silence. He could not feel that Bro. Aldrich was governed by pure, unselfish principles. Bro. A. allowed his own son liberal wages, while Bro. G.'s brother-in-law, who was poor, yet a good workman, trying to support his mother and sisters, received small wages. His brother's post of labor was important, and his services valuable, Bro. and Sr. Gage talked the matter over, and were sorely tempted. Bro. Gage thought, Why should it be my duty to make so much of a sacrifice as I am making, and work for so small an amount, when I could command a much larger sum? Did he see a greater depth of piety                                                                              25  in the professed Christians at Battle Creek, which would be a help to him? Oh, no! They were, many of them, so united to the world as to be scarcely discerned from them. Did he see in the laborers in the Office and Institute a missionary spirit? a disposition to sacrifice, and deny self to advance the work and cause of God? No; but the opposite. All seemed to be on a strife to grasp all they could get. He was painfully awakened to the fact that if he did not look out for himself, no one would take the burden of his case, and look out for him. He has felt grieved with Bro. Aldrich; for he could not see justice, fairness, and equality, in his course. God is no respecter of persons; but Bro. Gage thought he could see a respecting of persons with Bro. Aldrich. At times he has been upon the point of starting immediately for the East; then he feared to take this step, and would pass along again. Bro. Gage is of an impulsive turn of mind, and he has had occasion to be sorely tried. His confidence that God was in the work, and that the cause was the Lord's, and that He stood at the helm, has been his anchor.  {PH097 23.1}
[PH097 25.1]          I was shown that Bro. Aldrich did not possess that fineness of feeling, that sympathy for others who need his sympathy, that God would be pleased to have him possess, and that he must cultivate, if he occupies the post he does. He has moved very blindly, and with a great lack of wisdom, and justice. Bro. C. Smith awakened the interest of Bro. Aldrich for his daughters, whose lives had been devoted principally to serving themselves. They had a good home, and none were dependent upon them for support, yet their wages                                                                              26  were increased with no just reason for doing this. Their work was not taxing, and required no special, wearing care. Very many who are in difficult positions to obtain work because of their keeping the Sabbath, would gladly accept the place they have had, with much less wages, and fill the position better, with gratitude to God in their hearts for the privilege. In the same Office is a young disciple of Christ, whose deportment is becoming, who is attentive to his business, fills an important position, which requires much painstaking, and is very wearisome, does his business with a nicety that but few can equal, yet he has received only about the same amount of wages that Bro. Smith's daughters have averaged. This young man is trying to do his part in the support of his mother and two sisters; yet Bro. Aldrich has not been aroused to see the difference in these cases. He has not possessed that nice perception which would enable him to discern the necessities of the case of one, and the need of especial favor to aid him in his worthy object. He has not felt called out to encourage in every way possible the one who stood in need of encouragement. He has failed to place himself in his situation, and think how he would feel under similar circumstances. He wished to encourage his own boy, and allowed him large wages, when there was no special need of this in his case; for he had a good home, a father abundantly able to support him, and no special burdens were resting upon his shoulders; none were depending upon him for support.  {PH097 25.1}
[PH097 26.1]          Again I saw that some in the type-setting department were in straitened circumstances, bearing their own weight, and loving to do good to                                                                              27  others; to sacrifice for the cause of God. Their labor was more difficult than that of those in the folding room; but Bro. Aldrich had no special interest in these cases. He did not take the trouble to investigate, and feel as a father toward those who needed a fatherly care. He has been bound about with selfishness as with iron bands. He has received credit for fineness of feeling which he does not possess, and has deceived himself. He lacks tender compassion. He lacks love. He lacks that fine sensibility which he should possess, and which if he did possess, he could discriminate and know how to deal justly, impartially, and in such a manner that God could approbate. I saw that God was not pleased with this management, and will not suffer such acts to pass unnoticed without reproof, in that Office. God will not let his free Spirit abide upon Bro. Aldrich while such things exist. A cloud is shutting down about the Office, not of light and mercy, but of darkness and judgment.  {PH097 26.1}
[PH097 27.1]          I was shown that when Bro. Aldrich came to Battle Creek, a mistake was made in regard to him by those connected with the Office. Because it was known that it had been shown that he had a work to do in connection with the cause of God, great confidence was placed in him. After my husband's sickness, it seemed to come natural for those in the Office to feel that Bro. Aldrich should take the place made vacant by Bro. White's removal because of his sickness. God saw fit to connect Bro. Aldrich with his work, and, because of this, those of long experience in the work, who had been for years connected with the Office, stepped back, and left the responsibility of managing                                                                              28  and deciding matters upon him, as they had left it with Bro. White. They ought not to have done this. They should have shared the responsibility, and Bro. Aldrich should have deferred to their judgment rather than they to his. They thought that in every particular they must give the same confidence to Bro. Aldrich they had given to Bro. White. The cases are very different. Bro. Aldrich had no experience in the printing department, and did not know the wants of the cause. Bro. White had years of experience in this work, and his experience commenced from the first rise of the message. God had brought him through privations, trials, and perils, to perfect that experience, and qualify him for the position he occupied. His connection with the humble instrument through whom God revealed his will as the necessity of the case required for the benefit of his people, gave him continual strength and clearness of judgment in regard to the management of the work. In supposing that Bro. Aldrich could be placed in the position, and fill it, as Bro. White did, was expecting too much. To rely upon his judgment, and abide by his decisions, as was the case when Bro. White stood in the Office, is trusting too much to one man of but little experience. Bro. Aldrich has not learned the ways and works of God. He does not understand his paths. He has not been schooled in adversity and suffering, privation and trial, and realized the manifest wonderful works of God, in the blessed deliverances of God has wrought under various circumstances, which has taught him what course of action God approves, and by bitter experience in witnessing hundreds of cases who have                                                                              29  erred, what he disproves, condemns and despises.  {PH097 27.1}
[PH097 29.1]          Those who have long borne the burden in the Office, those who have suffered when everything waded hard, are the ones to be especially considered and favored. Those who have listened to the admonitions in special cases where selfishness was exhibited, those who have seen the management Heaven has approved, have a better knowledge, and more correct judgment, of how things should be conducted in that Office, than Bro. Aldrich can have without greater experience. They have stood back and invested Bro. A. with too much authority. They should take responsibility upon themselves more than they have, and Bro. A. should consult with them, and defer his judgment to theirs. Instead of this, Bro. Aldrich has had his own way in almost everything, although his experience has been so short. He has been set and unyielding to pursue a course which he thought best, irrespective of the judgment of those he should regard. His office invests him with no such authority.  {PH097 29.1}
[PH097 29.2]          I was shown that those who have been united with the Office for years, have received correct ideas in regard to how God would have things managed; it should not be according to a worldly policy. There should be no selfishness exhibited there. All engaged in the work should have a special care for the widow and fatherless, and labor unselfishly for their good, even disadvantaging themselves to advantage the needy and oppressed. Bro. White set the example the Lord had shown that all his people should imitate, in being interested in the cases of others, helping those who need help, without any profit to self, to love his                                                                              30  neighbor as himself. Brn. Smith and Amadon have seen the course he has pursued. They have the same experience and views with himself. They have heard the commendation God has given of those who pursued this course, and the curse which God has pronounced upon those who are too much swallowed up in their own interests to have a care for their neighbors as themselves. Brn. Smith and Amadon have had a long experience in connection with the Office. The Lord has given much light in regard to the course his people should pursue in order to glorify him. They have witnessed the special work of God, and have received his teachings, showing our duty to those around us. They have been so long united with the cause of God that it has become, as it were, a part of them. They know no other interest, and to separate them from the work, would be like parting with their life. The voice of these brethren should be heard. Their judgment is nearer in accordance with the will of God than that of Bro. Aldrich. He has much to learn before God can entrust him with all that responsibility that his brethren have given him in the things mentioned.  {PH097 29.2}
[PH097 30.1]          Bro. Aldrich is self-caring. God has mercifully laid some affliction upon him, which has been very sore for him to bear, but in which he has not discerned the mercy of God. The affliction of his wife has had a tendency to humble the aspiring, proud spirit of Bro. Aldrich, yet he has not submitted to this with all that meekness he should have possessed to be benefited thereby. I was shown that Sr. A. possessed a fine organism, a sensitive, trusting, loving, confiding/temperament,                                                                              31  and clings to her husband, entwining her affections about him, as the tendrils of a vine about its support. True love is not a strong, fiery, impetuous passion. It is, on the contrary, an element calm and deep. It looks beyond mere externals, and is attracted by qualities alone. It is wise and discriminating, and its devotion is real and abiding.  {PH097 30.1}
[PH097 31.1]          God tests and proves us by the common occurrences of life. It is the little things which reveal the chapters of the heart. It is the little attentions, the numerous small incidents and simple courtesies of life that make up the sum of life's happiness; and it is the neglect of kindly, encouraging, affectionate words, and the little courtesies of life, which helps compose the sum of life's wretchedness. The self-denials for the good and happiness of those around us, will be found to constitute a large share of the life record in Heaven. And the care of self irrespective of others' good and happiness, will reveal the fact that none of these things are beneath the notice of our Heavenly Father.  {PH097 31.1}
[PH097 31.2]          In regard to the case of Bro. Gage, I was shown that he was in need of a more thorough experience. He commenced to take the responsibilities of life too early, before he could realize the importance attached to these responsibilities. Had he waited a few years, until his mind had become more matured, how would now be far in advance of what he is. His past experience has lessened the confidence of his brethren in his judgment. Bro. Gage was young, needing parental care and instruction when he commenced life for himself. He earned his money readily, and realized not its worth, but spent it just as readily as he earned it.                                                                              32  He did not educate himself to habits of economy. He spent means for things unnecessary. His character was not really formed. He has a quick mind, can discern readily the bearing of things, and comes to conclusions at once, hence he is in danger of not making allowance for those who cannot see and understand as readily as himself. He was not settled, with a firm religious experience when he came to Battle Creek. His mind was too boyish; yet I saw that he had, considering the errors and difficulties existing in the church in Battle Creek, pursued a praiseworthy course. The young could have been greatly injured by his influence had he not conscientiously restrained himself from engaging with them in their various enterprises for amusement. He could have helped forward many things which would have gratified the youth in their unconsecrated state, and injured his own influence. He did not do this. He sought to stand with those who were seeking to preserve their peculiar character distinct from the world.  {PH097 31.2}
[PH097 32.1]          I was shown that Bro. Gage does not value time as he should. He spends much time with individuals, foreign from his work. If, at the close of the week, he could see the minutes and half hours spent in needless conversation with individuals who have no right to his time, he would be astonished at the time he frittered away, which was worse than lost. The example is injurious in this direction upon others in the Office. At the close of the year sum up the time idled away in needless conversation, and many minutes spent by Bro. Gage and some of the other workmen in the Office, and it would astonish all, and they would feel                                                                              33  fearful of coming under the head of unfaithful servants. The hours are composed of minutes, the days of hours, the weeks of days. The minutes should be faithfully employed, then the hours will tell, for they have been usefully employed; the days will bear their full weight of burden, being well filled with faithful, earnest, interested effort. There are those who apply themselves closely enough to the work, and who are compelled to bear extra burdens, and work beyond their hours, to bring up the work which has been neglected by others in consequence of the numerous calls, and the time which has not been filled with interested, faithful effort on the part of all. Patients at the Institute should not be encouraged to while away their time, or to amuse themselves in frequent visits, at the Office. It is not the place for them.  {PH097 32.1}
[PH097 33.1]          Again, confusion is caused by children being allowed to run through the Office. Children belonging to those who are employed in the Office, should not be allowed to visit in the Office when they please. Especially should no plays be entered into, and little children's voices heard through the Office. All these things lower the dignity of the Office, and lessen the sacredness of the work. The church should have especial care not to permit their children to visit the Office, and the children of those who are engaged in the Office should not be allowed to remain in the building, and by their presence encourage other children. The confusion caused by this is all displeasing to God. There should be an entire change in almost every thing in regard to the order of matters at the Office. Sacred and                                                                              34  common things have been placed upon the same level.  {PH097 33.1}
[PH097 34.1]          The church in Battle Creek should not feel at liberty to visit the Office and engage in common topics of conversation. Matters are freely introduced by members of the church, who visit the Office, which have no right to be brought into the Office. In doing this they are robbing the cause of God of the time of the workmen, diverting their interest from the work, and bringing in a worldly spirit which should have no place in the Office. Members of the church should time their visits, and call upon those who labor in the Office when they are at their own homes. I saw that God had been displeased with the lax way these things have been managed.  {PH097 34.1}
[PH097 34.2]          The Office is located in the center of a large church, and if even a portion of the church make free to call at the Office as they have done, when it suits their convenience, and chat upon subjects as they choose, they steal minutes and hours of precious time, which belong to the cause and work of God. In thus doing, they rob God. And this is not all, but they do their part in lessening the sacredness of the work in the Office, and make that which they should seek to preserve as sacred, common.  {PH097 34.2}
[PH097 34.3]          One will come in and interrupt a workman just a few minutes. Frequently their few minutes lengthen to half an hour. That one passes out, another comes in and spends a longer or shorter period, and thus five to twenty-five calls are heedlessly made in a day, and every one passes out of the Office, nothing bettered themselves, and yet the laborers have been hindered, their interest diverted from the work, and the precious                                                                               35  minutes are used up, which are all needed to be devoted to the work. Sum up these minutes and it will be found hours of time are consumed, to no benefit to any one, but a decided injury to the Office. There are many business calls made which cannot be avoided. Those who have no special business, have no right to amuse themselves by diverting the attention of Brn. Aldrich, Walker, Amadon, Gage, Bacheller, Lane, or any one who is laboring in the Office. Let all remember that the Office is not a reception-room to entertain visitors. It is a place where most important business is being transacted in connection with the work and cause of God. The interest of the workmen should not be called off, for if it is, the work will be marred, and time will be stolen, which belongs to the Lord. All should labor to preserve order and quiet in the Office, and maintain the dignity and sacredness of the work. The Office is wading heavily. The world which has come in has shut the Lord out, and his prospering hand is not with the Office as it once was. Something must be done to redeem the past.  {PH097 34.3}
[PH097 35.1]          I saw that Bro. Gage should shun the errors of the past. He should guard against imaginary wants. He has not always been willing to receive instruction from those of mature experience. He thought they did not understand him. Bro. Gage, the Lord is working for you, and will bless you, and strengthen you, in the course of right. You understand the theory of truth, and should be obtaining all the knowledge you can of God's will and work, prepared to fill a more responsible position if God requires it of you, and if he sees you can glorify his name best in so doing. But                                                                              36  you have yet an experience to gain. You are too easily affected by circumstances, are too impulsive. God is willing to strengthen, establish, settle you, if you will earnestly and humbly seek wisdom of him who is unerring, and who has promised you shall not seek in vain. In teaching the truth to others you are in danger of talking too strong, in a manner that your short experience will not sustain you in. You take in things at a glance, and can see the bearings of subjects readily. All are not organized as yourself, and cannot do this. You will not be prepared to patiently, calmly wait for others to weigh evidence who can not see as readily as yourself. You will be in danger of urging others too much, to see at once as you see, and feel all that zeal and necessity of action you feel. If your expectations are not realized you will be in danger of becoming discouraged and restless, and wishing a change. You must shun a disposition to censure, to bear down. Keep clear of every thing that savors of a denunciatory spirit. It is not pleasing to God for this spirit to be found in any of his servants of longer experience; but for a youth to manifest ardor and zeal is all proper if graced with humility and the inward adorning; but when a rash zeal and a denunciatory spirit are manifested by a youth who has but a few years of experience, it is most unbecoming, and positively disgusting. Nothing can destroy his influence as soon as this. Mildness, gentleness, forbearance, long-suffering, being not easily provoked, forbearing all things, hoping all things, enduring all things, is the fruit growing upon the precious plant which is of heavenly birth--Love. This plant, if it is nourished, will prove to be an evergreen. Its branches will                                                                              37  not decay, its leaves will not wither. It is immortal, eternal, watered continually by the dews of Heaven.  {PH097 35.1}
[PH097 37.1]          Love is power. Intellectual and moral strength are involved in this principle, and cannot be separated from it. The power of wealth has a tendency to corrupt and destroy; the power of force is strong to do hurt; but the excellence and value of pure love consists in its efficiency to do good, and to do nothing else but good. Whatsoever is done out of pure love, be it ever so little or contemptible in the sight of men, is wholly fruitful; for God measures more with how much love one worketh, than the amount he doeth. Love is of God. The unconverted heart cannot originate nor produce this plant of heavenly growth, which lives alone, and flourishes only where Christ reigns. Love cannot live without action, and every act increases, strengthens, and extends it. Love will prevail and gain the victory when argument and authority are powerless. Love works not for profit nor reward; yet God has ordained that great gain shall be the certain result of every labor of love. It is diffusive in its nature, and quiet in its operation, yet strong and mighty in its purpose to overcome great evils. It is melting and transforming in its influence, and will take hold of the lives of the sinful and affect their hearts when every other means has proved unsuccessful. Wherever the power of intellect, of authority, or of force, is employed, and love is not manifestly present, the affections and will of those whom we seek to reach assume a defensive, repelling position, and increase their strength of resistance as they are met by another power than love. Jesus was the Prince                                                                              38  of Peace. He came into the world to bring resistance and authority into subjection to himself. Wisdom and strength he could command, but the means he employed to overcome evil were the wisdom and strength of love. Suffer nothing to divide your interest from your present work until God shall see fit to give you another piece of work in the same field. Seek not for happiness, for that never is to be found by seeking for it. Go about your duty. Let faithfulness mark all your doings, and be clothed with humility.  {PH097 37.1}
[PH097 38.1]          I was shown in regard to the Institute that Dr. Lay came there fully determined to act his part unselfishly. In the commencement of his engaging in the work at the Institute, there were many things of a discouraging nature to Dr. Lay. The position taken by Bro. Aldrich in regard to diet and dress reform, created such feelings of contempt in the minds of many for the short dress that its influence was seriously felt by Dr. Lay, and the patients whom he was trying to benefit at the Institute. Dr. Lay was seeking to bring his patients to bear the cross, which was important for their physical improvement. Bro. Aldrich took responsibilities upon him in regard to the Institute that he was not warranted to take. He pursued a course very much as though all at the Institute were in his employ, to obey his dictation. He was domineering over Dr. Lay. Bro. Aldrich thought Dr. Lay should consult him before making any move; and he did not exercise that courtesy which was due Dr. Lay. Dr. Lay struggled through discouragements at first. He did not at that time receive the respect that he should have received. This inability to discriminate, and to                                                                              39  respect the position of Dr. Lay, made it necessary for me to relate what had been previously shown me in his favor. This had better not have been told Dr. Lay. He is an erring mortal, like others, and he received impressions in regard to the responsibility resting upon him that were incorrect. He took upon himself more than he was capable of carrying. He could not possibly fill the positions he thought he must. He thought there was a spirit to crowd him, and felt the necessity of placing himself upon the defensive. If there had been right management in his case, much trouble might have been saved. Evils grow out of misunderstandings. Dr. Lay thought that he must stand his ground, take his position, and maintain it, or he might as well give up his office altogether. This state of things would not have been had Bro. Aldrich pursued a different course. He was not courteous as he should have been, and dealt with Dr. Lay with a hard, firm spirit, about in the same manner one cold-hearted worldling would deal with another. Dr. Lay was sensitive, and such treatment cut him to the heart. This same manner of dealing is practiced by Bro. Aldrich to quite an extent. He is unaccommodating, unyielding. If he had worked upon this principle, "Whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them," far different results would appear as the fruit of such a course. "With what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again." Here are strong motives which should operate on minds to constrain them to love one another with a pure heart, fervently. Christ is our example. He went about doing good. He lived to bless others. Love beautified and                                                                              40  ennobled all his actions. We are not commanded to do to ourselves what we wish others to do unto us, we are to do unto others what we wish them to do to us under like circumstances. The measure we mete is always measured to us again. Pure love is simple in its operations, and is distinct from any other principle of action. The love of influence, and the desire for the esteem of others, may produce a well-ordered life, and, frequently, a blameless conversation. Self-respect may lead us to avoid the appearance of vice. A selfish heart may perform generous actions, acknowledge the present truth, and express humility and affection in the outward manner, yet the motives be deceptive and impure; and the efforts and actions that flow from them may be destitute of the savor of life, and the fruits of true holiness, being destitute of the principles of pure love. Love, love, should be cultivated. It needs cherishing, for its influence is divine.  {PH097 38.1}
[PH097 40.1]          Dr. Lay brought many things from Dansville which were incorrect, in regard to amusements and exercise. He heard this amusement question made so much of that he actually thought a health institution could not be conducted without these amusements. He heard so much against exercising that he was not sound in this direction. When the amusements were introduced into the Institute, some in Battle Creek manifested their superficial character. They were pleased and gratified. It just suited their frivolous turn of mind. The things which were recommended for invalids they thought were good for them; and Dr. Lay is not accountable for all the results accruing from the counsel given to his patients.                                                                              41  Those in different churches abroad, who were unconsecrated, seized upon the first semblance of an excuse to engage in pleasure, hilarity, and folly. As soon as it was known that at the Institute established for invalids the physicians had recommended the patients to get their minds off from themselves into a more cheerful train of thought, and had arranged plays and amusements to have this effect, it went like fire in the stubble; and the young in Battle Creek and other churches thought that they had need of just such things, and the armor of righteousness was laid off by many. As they were no longer held in by bit and bridle, they engaged in these things with as much earnestness and perseverance as though everlasting life depended upon their zeal in this direction. Here was an opportunity to discern the conscientious followers of Christ from those who were self deceived. Some had not the cause of God at heart. They had not the work of true holiness wrought in the soul. They had not made God their trust, and were unstable, and only needed a wave to raise them from their feet and toss them to and fro. Such showed that they possessed but little stability and moral independence. They had not experience for themselves, and therefore walked in the sparks of others' kindling. They had not Christ in their heart, to confess to the world. They professed to be his followers, but things earthly and temporal held in subjection their frivolous, selfish hearts.  {PH097 40.1}
[PH097 41.1]          There were others who did not seem to possess anxiety in regard to the amusement question. They felt that confidence in God, that he would make all right. Their peace of mind was not                                                                              42  disturbed. They decided that a prescription for invalids did not mean them, therefore would not be troubled. They decided that whatever others might do, or whatever was being done in the world, it was nothing to them; for, said they, whom have we to follow but Christ. He has left us a command to walk even as he walked. We must live as seeing him who is invisible, and do what we do heartily unto the Lord, and not unto men.  {PH097 41.1}
[PH097 42.1]          When such things arise, character is developed. Moral worth can then be truly established. It would be no difficult thing to ascertain where those are to be found who profess godliness, yet have their pleasure and happiness in this world. Their affections are not upon things above, but upon things on the earth, where Satan reigns. They walk in darkness, and cannot love and enjoy heavenly and divine things, because they cannot discern or know them. They are alienated from the life of Christ, having their understandings darkened. The things of the Spirit are foolishness unto them. Their pursuits are according to the course of their world, and their interests and prospects are joined with the world, and with earthly things. If such can pass along with the name of Christians, yet serve both God and mammon, they are satisfied. Things will occur to reveal the hearts of these souls, who are only a weight, a burden, and curse, to the church.  {PH097 42.1}
[PH097 42.2]          I was shown that Dr. Lay did not move with wisdom. The spirit existing in the church was such as to be no help to him, but a hindrance, and led away from God and the path of holiness. Many of the church have ascribed their state of spiritual blindness to the influence growing out of                                                                              43  the principles taught at the Institute. This is not all correct. Had the church stood in the counsel of God, the Institute would have been controlled. The light of the church would have been diffused to that branch of the work, and the errors would not have existed there that did. Dr. Lay was not alone in error, and the censure should not be suffered to rest alone upon him. It was the moral darkness of the church that had the greatest influence to create the moral darkness and spiritual death in the Institute. Had the church been in a healthy condition, she could have sent a vitalizing, healthful current to this arm of the body. But the church was sickly, had not the favor of God, and enjoyed not the light of his countenance. A sickly, deathly influence was circulated all through the living body, until the disease was apparent everywhere. Dr. Lay became exalted. He thought that he must occupy a position in the Institute similar to that occupied by Dr. Jackson at Dansville. God did not connect him with the work to be thus regarded. He took burdens upon himself that he ought not to have taken, and that were unnecessary for him to bear. He feared to yield and give up the oversight of matters lest he should lose his influence. The chief cause which led to this error on the part of Dr. Lay, was the course pursued toward him when he first engaged in his efforts for the Institute. He knew there was jealousy and prejudice existing toward him. This made him jealous and suspecting in return. His continual fear was of prejudicial influences working to injure his standing in the Institute. This was, much of it, the fruit of a diseased imagination. He was constantly                                                                              44  wrestling with enemies which existed only in his imagination.  {PH097 42.2}
[PH097 44.1]          He did not judge Dr. Byington aright. Bro. B. sought to do the best he could for the interest of the Health Institution, yet manifested too much interest for himself. Dr. Lay failed to give him credit for the burdens he did bear. He thought Bro. B. was working against him. He gathered information from different sources which became magnified in his mind, and made him very unhappy, and caused suspicion and jealousy of Bro. B. This would not have been if there had been the correct understanding, and an effort to look at everything occurring in the most favorable light. His feelings and prejudice became strong. The Spirit of God had nothing to do with these feelings, and imaginary evils.  {PH097 44.1}
[PH097 44.2]          Bro. Byington was not in the best position for one of his ardent, active temperament. He did not possess quiet and gentleness, so important for one that is around nervous, easily-excited invalids.  {PH097 44.2}
[PH097 44.3]          The course pursued toward Bro. B. was not correct nor just. There was a spirit possessed by Dr. Lay to exalt himself to have all think he was the man, and a fear lest others should estimate Bro. B. too highly. There was an undercurrent at work which would injure Bro. B., which was not pleasing to God.  {PH097 44.3}
[PH097 44.4]          In the case of Bro. Rogers, there were thoughts that he did not do all that he might; that he was more willing to inspect and have an oversight than to take hold and do, and earn the means he received. This was too much the case. Bro. Rogers had partaken much of the spirit of ease and freedom from care and responsibility which                                                                              45  prevailed with nearly all, yet an unjust course was pursued toward Bro. Rogers. He was watched from the first with jealousy and distrust. This spirit was fast growing in that Institution. There was not love and harmony. Many forgot that with what measure they should mete, it should be measured to them again. Bro. Rogers did not manifest that interest and diligence in business which he should. He was not alone. There were others employed to labor who did not take special burdens, and feel a special interest. Care and responsibility sat very lightly upon Bro. Graham. For want of proper oversight there had been a great loss. To be faithful in the littles is one of the most important works for mortals. He that is faithful in that which is least, is faithful also in much, says the Saviour. The leaven has run through the Institute. Helpers indoors and out were grasping for wages. A most astonishing spirit of selfishness seized them. Suspicion and jealousy of one another caused disunion. There was a great lack of noble frankness with one another. Hands were discharged, and false reasons given instead of the correct one. Many knew well the reason, except the very one who ought to have known. Suspicious whisperings went from one to another, and yet the subjects of them were kept in ignorance of the true reason of dissatisfaction. All this was cruel and unchristian, and brought the displeasure of God upon all who participated in this secret whispering by the wall, this deceptive, undercurrent work. Where there is union there is strength. With this lack of union, this distrust and jealousy existing, neither physicians nor helpers could work unitedly and                                                                              46  happily. God's blessing could not rest upon that Institute with such a state of things. Dr. Lay has not been in a condition to bring his burdens and cares to Jesus, the burdenbearer. He has been so fearful of losing his influence, that he has tried too hard to maintain his dignity. If he could have been in a great measure indifferent to these things, pursued a humble, Christian course, divested of selfishness, God would have done more to establish him in the hearts of his patients, helpers, and the church, than he could do by laboring with all his energies his lifetime. All this fear, and trouble, and anxiety, lest he should not maintain his position, and be appreciated, has had a tendency to bring about the very result he was in his own strength seeking to hinder.  {PH097 44.4}
[PH097 46.1]          Dr. Lay is nervous, too hurried and excitable. He must encourage calmness, slow, unhurried speech, and calm movements. All this is very important, for him to be successful as a physician. He should trust his case in the hands of God, and guard against being over-sensitive. The worriment of mind Dr. Lay has suffered to come upon him, and his care in regard to things where he should have no care, have worn him more than all the labor he has done. God lives. He should trust his case wholly in his hands. In seeking so hard to save himself in the estimation of others, he has sunk himself every time. He has felt jealous lest the minds of his patients should be turned to some other one besides himself. This feeling is all needless. The more it is indulged, the more sure will the much-to-be-feared result take place. He should be indifferent to the matter just as much as possible.                                                                              47   {PH097 46.1}
[PH097 47.1]          Sister Lay has increased this feeling by her own fears and jealousies. She has made herself unhappy because she has not made it her motive to make others happy. She has looked for others to administer unto her happiness, and been exacting, while she has not been willing to administer unto others. You remained in the Institute to the injury of your entire family, as well as of the Institute.  {PH097 47.1}
[PH097 47.2]          Sister Chamberlain's influence was needed there, but when she came she was not appreciated. Had Dr. Lay regarded her as he should, and showed her that respect which was her due, there would have been no trouble. But he felt jealous that she would assume more authority than he was willing she should. This erroneous feeling was enough to make Dr. Lay miserable, and place Sr. Chamberlain in an unenviable position. When it was decided to remove the care and burden of having the sole management of matters at the Institute from Dr. Lay, and place the burden on others, to release him, he did not feel pleased nor reconciled to the matter. He heard disrespectful speeches in regard to Sr. Chamberlain, which he could have nipped in the bud, but he assumed a stoical indifference, feeling like this: They have taken the responsibility from me; and it does not concern me. Here Dr. Lay was at fault. He knew that the matters did concern him. Any thing which he knew would, if permitted to go on, mar the unity of the Institution, did concern him, and he knew it; but it was a wrong, jealous spirit which led him to hold his peace. This spirit has prevailed to a greater or less degree all through the Institution. Just such a woman as                                                                              48  Sr. Chamberlain is needed there, and she should make advance steps until she can take her place by the side of any of the physicians; for she is eminently qualified for the station. She has the experience, she has the right organization, she has the vital powers, to make her an excellent physician.  {PH097 47.2}
[PH097 48.1]          Dr. Lay, you have not conducted with prudence. I was shown that there was a spirit in that Institution to get all the means they could. An avaricious spirit was manifested by Dr. Byington, also by Dr. Lay and the helpers; a selfish spirit, that brought the frown and curse of God upon those who possessed it. It was wages, wages. There was not an unselfish devotion to the work, and laboring with an unselfish interest. There was not a burden and care taken by all there engaged to labor for the prosperity and benefit of the Institute. There was a spending of time, and but little accomplished. There was a great lack of a thorough oversight of all things pertaining to the Institute. Helpers and all seemed to have a spirit of indifference, and there were many expenses out, which need not have been had there been one to take the care who possessed energy, ambition, and forethought. The prospect of large dividends, and abundance of means coming in, led to a spirit of prodigality, which would soon have run the Institute into the ground. God wants this branch of the work to live and flourish, and all who act a part in it to possess a spirit of self-denial, a spirit entirely different from that heretofore exhibited, which has been to get just all that it was possible to get, and to advantage self, out of the Institute  {PH097 48.1}
[PH097 48.2]          When Dr. Lay and his wife left the Institute,                                                                              49  a spirit of selfishness was manifested, which injured their influence in that Institute. They showed, to many minds too plainly, that they were seeking to advantage themselves, without considering the interest of the Institute. You all, father, mother, and children, exhibited a spirit of selfishness displeasing to God. All this has not worked for your good, but for your injury. All that you invest in thus seeking your own interest, will result in loss in the end. Had you been an observer and seen another pursue the same course you pursued, you would have exclaimed against it loudly. Such things merit the displeasure of God. With such a selfish spirit as has existed in those who were in the Institute, is it surprising that God has not especially blessed the efforts there made? Will he sanction error? No, never! Selfishness in the Office, selfishness in the Institute, and yet expecting the token of God's presence, as though all things were prepared for him. Dr. Lay was distrustful, and took his case in his own hands instead of calmly waiting for, and trusting in, God to establish him in the hearts of those with whom he associated. He was constantly seeking to establish himself. He took the case in his own hands, and left the Lord no chance to do a work for him, which he was anxiously seeking to do for himself. All the Lord required of Dr. Lay was to abide in him, seek wisdom of him, to cease his forecasting and foresettling, as it were, matters with which he had nothing to do, which left him no enjoyment of the present. God required of him a child-like leaning upon his tender care, and abiding in his love. His unsettled, uneasy state of mind disqualified him to act as a                                                                              50  physician, and was exhausting his vitality more than all his labor. Dear Bro. Lay has not understood his own heart. Selfishness has found a lodgment there, and peace, healthful, calm peace has departed. What you all lack is the element love--love to God, and love to your neighbor. The life that you now live, you do not live by faith on the Son of God. There is a lack of firm trust, a withholding, a fearfulness to resign all into the hands of God, as though he could not keep that which is committed to his trust. You are afraid some evil is designed, which will do you harm unless you assume the defensive, and commence a warfare in your own favor. The children of God are wise and powerful according to their reliance upon his wisdom and power. They are strong and happy according to their separation from the wisdom and help of man. Daniel and his companions were captives in a strange land, but God suffered not the envy and hatred of their enemies to prevail against them. The righteous have ever obtained help from God. How often have the enemies of God united their strength and wisdom to destroy the character and influence of a few simple persons who trusted in God. Because the Lord was for them none could prevail against them. Only let the followers of Christ be united in one and they will prevail. Let them be disjoined from their idols, and be separate from the world, and the world shall not separate them from God. Christ is our present, all-sufficient Saviour. In him all fullness dwells. It is the privilege of Christians to know indeed that Christ is in them of a truth. This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. All things are                                                                              51  possible to him that believeth; and whatsoever things we desire when we pray, if we believe that we receive them we shall have them. This faith will penetrate the darkest cloud and bring rays of light and hope to the drooping, desponding soul. It is the absence of this faith and trust which brings perplexity, distressing fears, and surmisings of evil. God will do great things for his people when they put their entire trust in him. Godliness with contentment is great gain. Pure and undefiled religion will be exemplified in the life. Christ will prove a never-failing source of strength, a present help in every time of trouble.  {PH097 48.2}
[PH097 51.1]          I was shown in the case of sister Hannah More that the neglect of her was the neglect of Jesus in her person. Had the Son of God come in the humble, unpretending manner in which he journeyed from place to place when he was upon earth, he would have met with no better reception. It is the deep principle of love that dwelt in the bosom of the humble man of Calvary, that is needed. Had the church lived in the light, they would have appreciated this humble missionary whose whole being was aglow to be engaged in her Master's service. Her very earnest interest was misconstrued. Her externals were not just such as would meet the approval of the eye of taste and fashion; for familiarity with strict economy and poverty had left its impress upon her apparel. But the hard-earned means had been exhausted as fast as earned to benefit others; to get light to those whom she hoped to lead to the cross of truth. Even the professed church of Christ, with their exalted privileges and high professions, discerned not the image of Christ in this self-denying child                                                                              52  of God, because they were so far removed from Christ themselves that they reflected not his image. They judged by the external appearance, and took not special pains to discern the inward adorning. Here was a woman whose resources of knowledge and genuine experience in the mysteries of godliness exceeded those of any one residing at Battle Creek, and whose manner of address to the youth and children was pleasing, instructive, and salutary. She was not harsh, but correct and sympathetic, and would have proved one of the most useful laborers in the field, to fill positions as an instructor of the youth, and an intelligent useful companion and counselor to mothers. She could reach hearts by her earnest matter-of-fact presentation of incidents in her religious life which she had devoted to the service of her Redeemer. Had the church emerged from darkness and deception into the clear light, their hearts would have been drawn out after the lonely stranger. Her prayers, her tears, her distress to see no way of usefulness open to her, have gone up to Heaven. God has heard. Talents and help the Lord offered to his people, but they were rich and increased with goods, and had need of nothing. They turned from, and rejected a most precious blessing of which they will yet feel the need. Had Elder Loughborough stood in the clear light of God, imbued with his Spirit, when this servant of Jesus, lonely, homeless, and thirsting for a work to do for her Master, was brought to his notice, spirit would have answered to spirit, as face answereth to face in a mirror, and his heart would have been drawn out after this disciple of Christ, and he would have understood her. Thus also with the                                                                              53  church. They had been in such spiritual blindness they had lost the sound of the voice of the true Shepherd, and were following the voice of a stranger, who was leading them from the fold of Christ.  {PH097 51.1}
[PH097 53.1]          Many look upon the great work to be accomplished for God's people, and their prayers go up to God for help in the great harvest. But like the Jewish nation, if help does not come in just the manner they have arranged, they will not receive it, but turn from that help as the Jewish nation turned from Christ, because disappointed in the manner of his appearing. Too much poverty and humility marked his advent, and in their pride they refused him who came to give them life. In this God would have the church humble their hearts, and see the great need of correcting their ways before him, lest he visit them with judgment. Pride of dress and the external adorning is made of far more importance with many who profess godliness, than the inward adorning. Had the church all humbled themselves before God, and corrected their past errors so fully as to meet the mind of God, they would not be so deficient in estimating moral excellence of character. The light of Sr. Hannah More has gone out, which now might be burning brightly to illuminate the pathway of many who are walking in the dark paths of error and rebellion. God calls upon the church to arouse from their slumber, and with deep earnestness inquire into the grounds and causes of this self-deception among professors whose names are on the church book. Satan is deluding and cheating them in the great concern of salvation. Nothing is more treacherous than                                                                              54  the deceitfulness of sin. It is the god of this world that deludes, and blinds, and leads to destruction. Satan does not enter with his array of temptations at once. He disguises these temptations with a semblance of good. He will mingle with amusements and folly, some little improvements, and deceived souls make it an excuse that great good is to be derived by engaging in them. This is only the deceptive part. It is Satan's hellish arts masked. Beguiled souls take one step, then are prepared for the next. It is so much more pleasant to follow the inclinations of their own hearts than to stand as on the defensive, and resist the first insinuation of the wily foe, and thus shut out his in-comings. Oh! how Satan watches to see his bait taken so readily, and to see souls walking in the very path he has prepared. He does not want them to give up praying, and maintaining a form of religious duties, for he can thus make them more useful in his service. He unites his sophistry and deceptive snares with their experiences and professions, and thus advances his cause wonderfully. The hypocritical Pharisees prayed and fasted, observed the forms of godliness, while corrupt at heart. Satan stands by, taunting Christ and his angels with insults, "I have them! I have them! I have prepared my deception for them. Your blood is worthless here. Your intercessions and power and wonderful works may as well cease; I have them! They are mine! for all their high profession as subjects of Christ, for all they once enjoyed the illuminations of his presence, I will secure them to myself in the very face of Heaven, which they are talking about. It is such subjects as                                                                              55  those that I can use to decoy others." Solomon saith, "He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool;" and there are hundreds such to be found among professors of godliness. Says the apostle, "We are not ignorant of his devices." Oh! what art, what skill, what cunning, to lead to a union with the world, to seek for happiness in the amusements of the world, under the delusive idea that some good is to be gained. And thus they walk right into the net, flattering themselves that there is no evil in the way. The affections and sympathies of such are wrought upon, which lays a foundation for their illy-built confidence that they are the children of God. They compare themselves with others, and settle down satisfied that they are even better than many true Christians. But where is the deep love of Christ shining forth in their lives, its bright rays blessing others? where is their Bible? and how much is it studied? And where are their thoughts? upon Heaven and heavenly things? It is not natural for their minds to go forth in that direction. The study of God's word is uninteresting to them. It does not possess that which excites and fevers the mind, and the natural, unrenewed heart will prefer some other book, to the study of God's word. His attention is engrossed in self. They have no deep, earnest longings for the influence of the Spirit of God upon the mind and heart. God is not in all their thoughts. How can I have it that most of the youth in this age will come short of everlasting life? Oh! that their sound of instrumental music may cease, and they no more while away so much precious time in pleasing their own fancy. Oh! that they would devote less time to                                                                              56  dress and vain conversation, and send forth their earnest, agonizing prayers to God, for a sound experience. There is a necessity for close self-examination, and to closely investigate in the light of God's word, Am I sound, or am I rotten at heart? Am I renewed in Christ, or am I still carnal at heart, with an outside, new dress put on? Reign yourself up to the tribunal of God, and see as in the light of God, if there be any secret sin, any iniquity, any idol you have not sacrificed. Pray, yes, pray as you have never prayed before, that you may not be deluded by Satan's devices, that you may not be given up to a heedless, careless, and vain spirit, and attend religious duties to quiet your own conscience. It is inappropriate for Christians in every age of the world to be lovers of pleasure, but how much more so now, when the scenes of this earth's history are so soon to close. Surely the foundation of your hopes of everlasting life cannot be laid too sure. The welfare of your soul, and your eternal happiness, depend upon whether your foundation is built upon Christ. While others are panting after earthly enjoyments, be ye panting after the unmistakable assurance of the love of God, earnestly, fervently crying, Who will show me how to make my calling and election sure? One of the sins that constitute one of the signs of the last days, is, that professed Christians are lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God. Deal truly with your own souls. Search carefully. How few, after a faithful examination, can look up to Heaven and say, I am not one of those thus described. I am not a lover of pleasure more than a lover of God. How few can say, "I am dead to the world; the life I now live, is by faith on                                                                              57  the Son of God. My life is hid with Christ in God, and when He who is my life shall appear, then shall I appear with him in glory." The love and grace of God! Oh! precious grace! more valuable than fine gold. It elevates and ennobles the spirit beyond all other principles. It sets the heart and affections upon Heaven. While those around us may be engaged in worldly vanity, pleasure-seeking, and folly, the conversation is in Heaven, from whence we look for the Savior; the soul is reaching out after God for pardon and peace, for righteousness and true holiness. His converse with God, and contemplation of things above, transforms the soul into the likeness of Christ.  {PH097 53.1}
[PH097 57.1]         In the case of Sr. Davis, there needed to be a great work accomplished. Those who united in praying for her, needed a work done for them. Had God answered their prayers, it would have proved their ruin. In these cases of affliction, where Satan has control of the mind, before engaging in prayer there should be the most close self-examination to discover if there are not sins which need to be repented of, confessed, and forsaken. Deep humility of soul before God is necessary, and firm, humble reliance upon the merits of the blood of Christ alone. Fasting and prayer will accomplish nothing, while the heart is estranged from God by a wrong course of action. "Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out, to thy house? when thou seest the                                                                              58  naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I am. If thou take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the finger and speaking vanity, and if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday: and the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water whose waters fail not."  {PH097 57.1}
[PH097 58.1]          It is heart work God requires, good works springing from a heart filled with love. Carefully and prayerfully should the above scriptures be considered, and the motives and actions investigated. The promise of God to us, is on condition of obedience; compliance with all his requirements. "Cry aloud ［saith the prophet Isaiah,］ spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgressions, and the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God; they ask of me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God. Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and thou seest not? Wherefore have we afflicted our souls, and thou takest no knowledge?"  {PH097 58.1}
[PH097 58.2]          A people are here addressed who make high professions, and who are in the habit of praying, and delight in religious exercises; yet there is a lack. They realize that their prayers are not answered, and their zealous, earnest efforts are not                                                                              59  observed in Heaven, and they earnestly inquire why God makes them no returns? It is not because there is any neglect on the part of God. The difficulty is with the people professing godliness. They do not bear fruit to the glory of God. Their works are not what they should be. They are living in neglect of positive duties. Unless these are performed, God cannot answer their prayers according to his glory. In the case of offering prayers for Sr. Davis, there was a confusion of sentiment. Some were fanatical, and moved from impulse. They possessed a zeal, but not according to knowledge. Some looked at the great thing to be accomplished in this case, and began to triumph before the victory was gained. There was much of the Jehu spirit manifested: Come and see my zeal for the Lord. In the place of this self-confident assurance there should have been a spirit of humbleness, distrustful of self, and with a broken heart and contrite spirit, presenting the case to God.  {PH097 58.2}
[PH097 59.1]          I was shown that in case of sickness, where the way is clear for the offering up of prayer for the sick, the case should be committed to God in calm faith; not with a storm of excitement. He alone is acquainted with the past life of the person, and what his future will be. He who is acquainted with the hearts of all men, knows whether the person, if raised up, would glorify his name, or dishonor him by backsliding and apostasy. All that we are required to do is to ask God to raise them up if in accordance with his will, believing that God hears our reasons which we present, and the earnest, fervent prayers offered. If the Lord sees it will best honor him, he will answer the                                                                              60  prayer. But to urge recovery, without submission to the will of God, is not right.  {PH097 59.1}
[PH097 60.1]          What God promises he is able at any time to perform, and the work he gives his people to do, he is able to accomplish by them. If this people will live according to every word he has spoken, in so much every good word and promise is fulfilled toward them. If they come short of perfect obedience, the great and precious promises are afar off, and they cannot reach the fulfillment.  {PH097 60.1}
[PH097 60.2]          All that can be done in praying for the sick is to earnestly importune God in their behalf, and rest their case in his hands, in perfect confidence. If we regard iniquity in our hearts the Lord will not hear us. The Lord can do what he will with his own. He will glorify himself in working in them and by them that wholly follow him, so that it shall be known that it is the Lord, and that their works are wrought in God. "If any man serve me, him will my Father honor." When we come to him we should pray that we might enter into, and accomplish, his purpose, and that our desires and interests might be lost in his. We should acknowledge our acceptance of his will, not praying him to concede to ours. It is better for us that God does not always answer our prayers just when we desire, and in just the manner we wish. He will do more and better for us than to accomplish all our wishes; for our wisdom is folly. We have united in earnest prayer around the sick bed of men, women and children, and have felt in regard to our earnest prayers, they were given us back from the dead. In these prayers we thought we must be positive, and if we exercised faith, we must ask for nothing                                                                              61  less than life. We dared not say, If it would glorify God, fearing it would admit a semblance of doubt. We have interestedly and anxiously watched these cases which have been given back, as it were, from the dead. We have seen some of these, especially youth, raised to health, and forget God, become dissolute in life, causing sorrow and anguish to parents and friends. They lived not to honor and glorify God, but to curse him with their life of vice, and a shame to those who feared to pray. If their life can glorify Thee, let them live, nevertheless not as we will, but as thou wilt. We no longer mark out a way, nor seek to bring the Lord to our wishes. Our faith can be just as firm, and more reliable, by committing the desire to the all-wise God, and trusting, with unfeverish anxiety, all in perfect confidence with him. We have the promise. We know that he hears us if we ask according to his will. Our petitions must not take the form of a command, but of intercession for God to do the things we desire of him. When the church are united they will have strength and power, but when part of them are united to the world, and many are given to covetousness, which God abhors, he cannot do much for them. Unbelief and sin shut them away from God. We are so weak that we cannot bear much spiritual prosperity, lest we should take the glory, and accredit goodness and righteousness to ourselves as the reason of the signal blessing of God, when it was all because of the great mercy and loving kindness of our compassionate Heavenly Father, and not because any good was found in us.  {PH097 60.2}
[PH097 61.1]          There should be an influence which will be                                                                              62  sanctifying on those around us. This saving, ennobling influence has been very feeble at Battle Creek. Friendship for the world has separated many from God, while some have mingled with, and partaken of the spirit and influence of, the world. Jesus has passed a day's journey in advance of them. They can no longer hear his voice counsel, advise, and warn them, and they follow their own wisdom and judgment. Many follow a course which appears right in their own eyes, but afterward proves to be folly. God will not allow his work to be mixed with worldly policy. Shrewd, calculating men of the world are not the men to bear leading positions in this most solemn, sacred, holy work. They must either be converted, or engage in that calling appropriate to their world-loving inclinations, which does not involve such eternal consequences. God will never enter co-partnership with worldlings. Christ gives every one his choice: Will ye have me or the world? Will you suffer reproach and shame, be peculiar, and zealous of good works, even if hated of the world, and take my name, or will you choose the esteem, the honor, the applause and profits the world has to give, and have no part in me? "Ye cannot serve God and mammon."  {PH097 61.1}
[PH117 3.1]         PH117 - Testimony for the Battle Creek Church (1882)                   Special Testimony            Our College. ［READ IN COLLEGE HALL, DECEMBER, 1881, BEFORE CONFERENCE DELEGATES AND LEADING WORKERS IN REVIEW AND HERALD OFFICE, SANITARIUM AND COLLEGE.］          There is danger that our College will be turned away from its original design. God's purpose has been made known, that our people should have an opportunity to study the sciences, and at the same time to learn the requirements of his word. Biblical lectures should be given; the study of the Scriptures should have the first place in our system of education.  {PH117 3.1}
[PH117 3.2]         Students are sent from a great distance to attend the College at Battle Creek for the very purpose of receiving instructions from the lectures on Bible subjects. But for one or two years past there has been an effort to mold our school after other colleges. When this is done, we can give no encouragement to parents to send their children to Battle Creek College. The moral and religious influences should not be put in the background. In times past, God has worked with the efforts of the teachers, and many souls have seen the truth and embraced it, and have gone to their homes to live henceforth for God, as the result of their connection with the College. As they saw that Bible study was made a part of their education, they were led to regard it as a matter of greater interest and importance.  {PH117 3.2}
[PH117 3.3]          Too little attention has been given to the education of young men for the ministry. This was the primary object to be secured in the establishment of                                                                              4  the College. In no case should this be ignored or regarded as a matter of secondary importance. For several years, however, but few have gone forth from that institution prepared to teach the truth to others. Some who came at great expense, with the ministry in view, have been encouraged by the teachers to take a thorough course of study which would occupy a number of years, and in order to obtain means to carry out these plans, have entered the canvassing field, and given up all thought of preaching. This is entirely wrong. We have not many years to work, and teachers and principal should be imbued with the Spirit of God, and work in harmony with his revealed will, instead of carrying out their own plans. We are losing much every year because we do not heed what God has said upon these points.  {PH117 3.3}
[PH117 4.1]          Our College is designed of God to meet the advancing wants for this time of peril and demoralization. The study of books only, cannot give students the discipline they need. A broader foundation must be laid. The College was not brought into existence to bear the stamp of any one man's mind. Teachers and principal should work together as brethren. They should consult together, and also counsel with ministers and responsible men, and above all else, seek wisdom from above, that all their decisions in reference to the school may be such as will be approved of God.  {PH117 4.1}
[PH117 4.2]          To give students a knowledge of books merely, is not the purpose of the institution. Such education can be obtained at any college in the land. I was shown that it is Satan's purpose to prevent the attainment of the very object for which the College was established. Hindered by his devices, its managers reason after the manner of the world, and copy its plans, and imitate its customs. But in thus doing, they will not meet the mind of the Spirit of God.  {PH117 4.2}
[PH117 4.3]          A more comprehensive education is needed,--an education which will demand from teachers and principal,                                                                              5  such thought and effort as mere instruction in the sciences does not require. The character must receive proper discipline for its fullest and noblest development. The students should receive at College, such training as will enable them to maintain a respectable, honest, virtuous standing in society, against the demoralizing influences which are corrupting the youth.  {PH117 4.3}
[PH117 5.1]          It would be well could there be connected with our College, land for cultivation, and also work-shops, under the charge of men competent to instruct the students in the various departments of physical labor. Much is lost by a neglect to unite physical with mental taxation. The leisure hours of the students are often occupied with frivolous pleasures, which weaken physical, mental, and moral powers. Under the debasing power of sensual indulgence, or the untimely excitement of courtship and marriage, many students fail to reach that height of mental development which they might otherwise have attained.  {PH117 5.1}
[PH117 5.2]          The young should every day be impressed with a sense of their obligation to God. His law is continually violated, even by the children of religious parents. Some of these very youth frequent haunts of dissipation, and the powers of mind and body suffer in consequence. This class lead others to follow their pernicious ways. Thus, while principal and teachers are giving instruction in the sciences, Satan, with hellish cunning, is exerting every energy to gain control of the minds of the pupils, and lead them down to ruin.  {PH117 5.2}
[PH117 5.3]          Generally speaking, the youth have but little moral strength. This is the result of neglected education in childhood. A knowledge of the character of God, and our obligations to him, should not be regarded as a matter of minor consequence. The religion of the Bible is the only safeguard for the young. Morality and religion should receive special attention in our educational institutions.                                                                              6   {PH117 5.3}
[PH117 6.1]                   The Bible as a Text Book.          No other study will so ennoble every thought, feeling, and aspiration, as the study of the Scriptures. This sacred word is the will of God revealed to men. Here we may learn what God expects of the beings formed in his image. Here we learn how to improve the present life, and how to secure the future life. No other book can satisfy the questionings of the mind, and the craving of the heart. By obtaining a knowledge of God's word, and giving heed thereto, men may rise from the lowest depths of ignorance and degradation, to become the sons of God, the associates of sinless angels.  {PH117 6.1}
[PH117 6.2]          A clear conception of what God is, and what he requires us to be, will give us humble views of self. He who studies aright the sacred word, will learn that human intellect is not omnipotent; that, without the help which none but God can give, human strength and wisdom are but weakness and ignorance.  {PH117 6.2}
[PH117 6.3]          As an educating power, the Bible is without a rival. Nothing will so impart vigor to all the faculties as requiring students to grasp the stupendous truths of revelation. The mind gradually adapts itself to the subjects upon which it is allowed to dwell. If occupied with common-place matters only, to the exclusion of grand and lofty themes, it will become dwarfed and enfeebled. If never required to grapple with difficult problems, or put to the stretch to comprehend important truths, it will, after a time, almost lose the power of growth.  {PH117 6.3}
[PH117 6.4]          The Bible is the most comprehensive and the most instructive history which men possess. It came fresh from the fountain of eternal truth, and a Divine hand has preserved its purity through all the ages. Its bright rays shine into the far distant, past, where human research seeks vainly to penetrate. In God's word alone we find an authentic account of creation. Here we behold the power that laid the foundation of the earth, and that stretched out the                                                                              7  heavens. Here only, can we find a history of our race, unsullied by human prejudice or human pride.  {PH117 6.4}
[PH117 7.1]          In the word of God, the mind finds subject for the deepest thought, the loftiest aspiration. Here we may hold communion with patriarchs and prophets, and listen to the voice of the Eternal as he speaks with men. Here we behold the Majesty of Heaven, as he humbled himself to become our substitute and surety, to cope single-handed with the powers of darkness, and to gain the victory in our behalf. A reverent contemplation of such themes as these, cannot fail to soften, purify, and ennoble the heart, and, at the same time, to inspire the mind with new strength and vigor.  {PH117 7.1}
[PH117 7.2]          If morality and religion are to live in a school, it must be through a knowledge of God's word. Some may urge that if religious teaching is to be made prominent, our school will become unpopular; that those who are not of our faith will not patronize the College. Very well, then, let them go to other colleges, where they will find a system of education that suits their taste. Our school was established, not merely to teach the sciences, but for the purpose of giving instruction in the great principles of God's word, and in the practical duties of every-day life.  {PH117 7.2}
[PH117 7.3]          This is the education so much needed at the present time. If a worldly influence is to bear sway in our school, then sell it out to worldlings, and let them take the entire control; and those who have invested their means in that institution will establish another school, to be conducted, not upon the plan of popular schools, nor according to the desires of principal and teachers, but upon the plan which God has specified.  {PH117 7.3}
[PH117 7.4]          In the name of my Master, I entreat all who stand in responsible positions in that school, to be men of God. When the Lord requires us to be distinct and peculiar, how can we crave popularity, or seek to imitate the customs and practices of the world? God has declared his purpose to have one                                                                              8  college in the land where the Bible shall have its proper place in the education of the youth. Will we do our part to carry out that purpose?  {PH117 7.4}
[PH117 8.1]          It may seem that the teaching of God's word has but little effect on the minds and hearts of many students; but, if the teacher's work has been wrought in God, some lessons of divine truth will linger in the memory of the most careless. The Holy Spirit will water the seed sown, and often it will spring up after many days, and bear fruit to the glory of God.  {PH117 8.1}
[PH117 8.2]          Satan is constantly seeking to divert the attention of the people from the Bible. The words of God to men, which should receive our first attention, are neglected for the utterances of human wisdom. How can He, who is infinite in power and wisdom, bear thus with the presumption and effrontery of men!  {PH117 8.2}
[PH117 8.3]          Through the medium of the press, knowledge of every kind is placed within the reach of all; and yet, how large a share of every community are depraved in morals, and superficial in mental attainments. If the people would but become Bible readers, Bible students, we would see a different state of things.  {PH117 8.3}
[PH117 8.4]          In an age like ours, in which iniquity abounds, and God's character and his law are alike regarded with contempt, special care must be taken to teach the youth to study, to reverence and obey the divine will as revealed to man. The fear of the Lord is fading from the minds of our youth, because of their neglect of Bible study.  {PH117 8.4}
[PH117 8.5]          Principal and teachers should have a living connection with God, and should stand, firmly and fearlessly, as witnesses for him. Never from cowardice or worldly policy, let the word of God be placed in the background. Students will be profited intellectually, as well as morally and spiritually, by its study.                                                                              9   {PH117 8.5}
[PH117 9.1]                    Object of the College.          Our College stands today in a position that God does not approve. I have been shown the dangers that threaten this important institution. If its responsible men seek to reach the world's standard, if they copy the plans and methods of other colleges, the frown of God will be upon our school.  {PH117 9.1}
[PH117 9.2]         The time has come for me to speak decidedly. The purpose of God in the establishment of our College has been plainly stated. There is an urgent demand for laborers in the gospel field. Young men who design to enter the ministry cannot spend a number of years in obtaining an education. Teachers should have been able to comprehend the situation and adapt their instruction to the wants of this class. Special advantages should have been given them for a brief yet comprehensive study of the branches most needed to fit them for their work. But I have been shown that this has not been accomplished.  {PH117 9.2}
[PH117 9.3]          Bro. Bell could have done a much better work than he has done for those who were to be ministers. God is not pleased with his course in this matter. He has not adapted himself to the situation. Men who have left their fields of labor at a considerable sacrifice to learn what they could in a short time, have not always received that help and encouragement which they should have had. Men who have reached mature years, even the meridian of life, and who have families of their own, have been subjected to unnecessary embarrassment. Bro. Bell is himself extremely sensitive, but he does not realize that others can feel the sting of ridicule, sarcasm, or censure, as keenly as he. In this he has wounded his brethren and displeased God. Bro. Bell is naturally severe, critical, and exacting; and he should continually guard himself upon these points, with all his students both old and young.  {PH117 9.3}
[PH117 9.4]          Bro. Bell has in time past given undue prominence to the study of Grammar, making it the all-important                                                                              10  subject, and not giving students proper encouragement and opportunity to pursue other studies equally important. For this he has been reproved; but, notwithstanding his efforts to correct this error, his usefulness has been greatly injured. While thoroughness is commendable, he has carried the matter to great extremes, and thereby given occasion for dissatisfaction.  {PH117 9.4}
[PH117 10.1]          The same error has been committed in the tract and missionary work. The time and means given to perfecting and teaching so exact and complicated a system has been an injury to the cause of God. The tract and missionary work is a good work, and it was needful that the right way of working should be set before the people; but time, study, and taxing effort should not be given to this one branch to the neglect of other branches equally important. Matters have been carried to extremes. There has been too much mechanical working, and too little vital godliness; too much dependence upon human wisdom, and too little earnest seeking for divine aid.  {PH117 10.1}
[PH117 10.2]          The Sabbath-school at Battle Creek runs like a well-regulated machine, but there is too little of the real heartwork which alone can make the school a success. More of God's presence and less of merely human effort would be a great improvement. If a portion of the thought and time given to the mechanical workings, were devoted to the spiritual interests of teachers and pupils, a better effect would be produced. More piety and devotion, and more of the simplicity of godliness are essential. The same change is needful in the College--less of self, and more of the Spirit of God.  {PH117 10.2}
[PH117 10.3]          Bro. Ramsey thinks he sees where Bro. Bell fails, but he himself makes more serious mistakes. He does not carry the burdens which Bro. Bell has carried. He does not labor as Bro. Bell has labored. He does not watch unto prayer. He is overbearing, dictatorial, self-important. Nothing but the grace of God can give him a correct view of himself, and                                                                              11  enable him to labor in humility. He has made some improvement; but, unless the spirit of Christ is continually abiding in him, he will fall into serious errors. His self-importance will repulse and disgust his students. In a young man this spirit is exceedingly unbecoming, as well as highly displeasing to God. Christ invites the self-important to learn of him meekness and lowliness of heart.  {PH117 10.3}
[PH117 11.1]                  Teachers in the College.          There is a work to be done for every teacher in our College. Not one is free from selfishness. If the moral and religious character of the teachers were what it should be, a better influence would be exerted upon the students. The teachers do not seek individually to perform their own work, with an eye single to the glory of God. Instead of looking to Jesus, and copying his life and character, they look to self, and aim too much to meet a human standard. I wish I could impress upon every teacher a full sense of his responsibility for the influence which he exerts upon the young. Satan is untiring in his efforts to secure the service of our youth. With great care he is laying his snare for the inexperienced feet. The people of God should jealously guard against his devices.  {PH117 11.1}
[PH117 11.2]          God is the embodiment of benevolence, mercy, and love. Those who are truly connected with him, cannot be at variance with one another. His Spirit ruling in the heart will create harmony, love, and unity. The opposite of this is seen among the children of Satan. It is his work to stir up envy, strife, and jealousy. In the name of my Master, I ask the professed followers of Christ, What fruit do you bear?  {PH117 11.2}
[PH117 11.3]          In the system of instruction used in the common schools, the most essential part of education is neglected, viz., the religion of the Bible. Education not only affects to a great degree the life of the student in this world, but its influence extends to                                                                              12  eternity. How important, then, that the teachers be persons capable of exerting a right influence. They should be men and women of religious experience, daily receiving divine light to impart to their pupils.  {PH117 11.3}
[PH117 12.1]          But the teacher should not be expected to do the parent's work. There has been, with many parents, a fearful neglect of duty. Like Eli, they fail to exercise proper restraint; and then they send their undisciplined children to College, to receive the training which the parents should have given them at home. The teachers have a task which but few appreciate. If they succeed in reforming these wayward youth, they receive but little credit. If the youth choose the society of the evil-disposed, and go on from bad to worse, then the teachers are censured, and the school denounced.  {PH117 12.1}
[PH117 12.2]          In many cases, the censure justly belongs to the parents. They had the first and most favorable opportunity to control and train their children, when the spirit was teachable, and the mind and heart easily impressed. But through the slothfulness of the parents, the children are permitted to follow their own will, until they become hardened in an evil course.  {PH117 12.2}
[PH117 12.3]          Let parents study less of the world, and more of Christ; let them put forth less effort to imitate the customs and fashions of the world, and devote more time and effort to molding the minds and character of their children according to the Divine Model. Then they could send forth their sons and daughters, fortified by pure morals and a noble purpose, to receive an education for positions of usefulness and trust. Teachers who are controlled by the love and fear of God, could lead such youth still onward and upward, training them to be a blessing to the world, and an honor to their Creator.  {PH117 12.3}
[PH117 12.4]          Connected with God, every instructor will exert an influence to lead his pupils to study God's word, and to obey his law. He will direct their minds to                                                                              13  the contemplation of eternal interests, opening before them vast fields for thought, grand and ennobling themes, which the most vigorous intellect may put forth all its powers to grasp, and yet feel that there is an infinity beyond.  {PH117 12.4}
[PH117 13.1]          The evils of self-esteem, and an unsanctified independence, which most impair our usefulness, and which will prove our ruin, if not overcome, spring from selfishness. "Counsel together," is the message which has been, again and again, repeated to me by the angel of God. By influencing one man's judgment, Satan may endeavor to control matters to suit himself. He may succeed in misleading the minds of two persons; but, when several consult together, there is more safety. Every plan will be more closely criticised; every advance move more carefully studied. Hence, there will be less danger of precipitate, ill-advised moves, which would bring confusion, perplexity, and defeat. In union there is strength. In division, there is weakness and defeat.  {PH117 13.1}
[PH117 13.2]          God is leading out a people, and preparing them for translation. Are we, who are acting a part in this work, standing as sentinels for God? Are we seeking to work unitedly? Are we willing to become servants of all? Are we following our great Exemplar?  {PH117 13.2}
[PH117 13.3]          Fellow-laborers, we are each sowing seed in the fields of life. As is the seed, so will be the harvest. If we sow distrust, envy, jealousy, self-love, bitterness of thought and feeling, we shall reap bitterness to our own souls. If we manifest kindness, love, tender thought for the feelings of others, we shall receive the same in return.  {PH117 13.3}
[PH117 13.4]          The teacher who is severe, critical, over-bearing, heedless of others' feelings, must expect the same spirit to be manifested toward himself. He who wishes to preserve his own dignity and self-respect, must be careful not to wound needlessly the self-respect of others. This rule should be sacredly observed toward the dullest, the youngest, the most                                                                              14  blundering scholars. What God intends to do with those apparently uninteresting youth, you do not know. He has, in the past, accepted persons no more promising or attractive, to do a great work for him. His Spirit, moving upon the heart, has aroused every faculty to vigorous action. The Lord saw in those rough, unhewn stones, precious material, that would stand the test of storm and heat and pressure. God seeth not as man sees. He judges not from appearance, but he searches the heart, and judges righteously.  {PH117 13.4}
[PH117 14.1]          The teacher should ever conduct himself as a Christian gentleman. He should ever stand in the attitude of a friend and counselor to his pupils. If all our people--teachers, ministers, and lay members--would cultivate the spirit of Christian courtesy, they would far more readily find access to the hearts of the people; many more would be led to examine and receive the truth. When every teacher shall forget self, and feel a deep interest in the success and prosperity of his pupils, realizing that they are God's property, and that he must render an account for his influence upon their minds and character, then we shall have a school in which angels will love to linger. Jesus will look approvingly upon the work of the teachers, and will send his grace into the hearts of the students.  {PH117 14.1}
[PH117 14.2]          Our College at Battle Creek, is a place where the younger members of the Lord's family are to be trained according to God's plan of growth and development. They should be impressed with the idea that they are created in the image of their Maker, and that Christ is the pattern which they are to follow. Our brethren permit their minds to take too narrow and too low a range. They do not keep the divine plan ever in view, but are fixing their eyes upon worldly models. Look up, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God, and then labor that your pupils may be conformed to that perfect character.  {PH117 14.2}
[PH117 14.3]          If you lower the standard in order to secure                                                                              15  popularity and an increase of numbers, and then make this increase a cause of rejoicing, you show great blindness. If numbers were evidence of success, Satan might claim the pre-eminence; for, in this world, his followers are largely in the majority. It is the degree of moral power pervading the College, that is a test of its prosperity. It is the virtue, intelligence, and piety of the people composing our churches, not their numbers, that should be a source of joy and thankfulness.  {PH117 14.3}
[PH117 15.1]          Without the influence of divine grace, education will prove no real advantage; the learner becomes proud, vain, and bigoted. But that education which is received under the ennobling, refining influence of the Great Teacher, will elevate man in the scale of moral value with God. It will enable him to subdue pride and passion, and to walk humbly before God, as dependent upon him for every capability, every opportunity, and every privilege.  {PH117 15.1}
[PH117 15.2]          I speak to the workers in our College: You must not only profess to be Christians, but you must exemplify the character of Christ. Let the wisdom from above pervade all your instruction. In a world of moral darkness and corruption, let it be seen that the spirit by which you are moved to action is from above, not from beneath. While you rely wholly upon your own strength and wisdom, your best efforts will accomplish little. If you are prompted by love to God, his law being your foundation, your work will be enduring. While the hay, wood, and stubble are consumed, your work will stand the test. The youth placed under your care, you must meet again, around the great white throne. If you permit your uncultivated manners, or uncontrolled tempers, to bear sway, and thus fail to influence these youth for their eternal good, you must, at that day, meet the grave consequences of your work. By a knowledge of the divine law, and obedience to its precepts, men may become the sons of God. By violation of that law, they become servants of Satan.                                                                              16  On the one hand, they may rise to any height of moral excellence, or, on the other hand, they may descend to any depth of iniquity and degradation. The workers in our College should manifest a zeal and earnestness proportionate to the value of the prize at stake--the souls of their students, the approval of God, eternal life, and the joys of the redeemed.  {PH117 15.2}
[PH117 16.1]          As co-laborers with Christ, with so favorable opportunities to impart the knowledge of God, our teachers should labor as if inspired from above. The hearts of the youth are not hardened, nor their ideas and opinions stereotyped, as are those of older persons. They may be won to Christ by your holy demeanor, your devotion, your Christ-like walk. It would be much better to crowd them less in the study of the sciences, and give them more time for religious privileges. Here a grave mistake has been made.  {PH117 16.1}
[PH117 16.2]          The object of God in bringing the College into existence, has been lost sight of. Ministers of the gospel have so far shown their want of wisdom from above, as to unite a worldly element with the College; they have joined with the enemies of God and the truth, in providing entertainments for the students. In thus misleading the youth, they have done a work for Satan. That work, with all its results, they must meet again at the bar of God. Those who pursue such a course, show that they cannot be trusted. After the evil work has been done, they may confess their error; but can they as easily gather up the influence they have exerted? Will the well-done be spoken to those who have been false to their trust? These unfaithful men have not built upon the Eternal Rock. Their foundation will prove to be sliding sand. "Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whoso will be a friend of the world, is the enemy of God."  {PH117 16.2}
[PH117 16.3]          No limit can be set to our influence. One thoughtless act may prove the ruin of many souls. The                                                                              17  course of every worker in our College is making impressions upon the minds of the young, and these are borne away to be reproduced in others. It should be the teacher's aim to prepare every youth under his care to be a blessing to the world. This object should never be lost sight of. There are some who profess to be working for Christ, yet occasionally go over to the side of Satan and do his work. Can the Saviour pronounce these good and faithful servants? Are they as watchmen giving the trumpet a certain sound?  {PH117 16.3}
[PH117 17.1]          Every man will at the Judgment receive according to the deeds done in the body, whether they be good or evil. Our Saviour bids us, "Watch and pray, lest ye enter into temptation." If we encounter difficulties, and in Christ's strength overcome them; if we meet enemies, and in Christ's strength put them to flight; if we accept responsibilities, and in Christ's strength discharge them faithfully, we are gaining a precious experience. We learn, as we could not otherwise have learned, that our Saviour is a present help in every time of need.  {PH117 17.1}
[PH117 17.2]          There is a great work to be done in our College, a work which demands the co-operation of every teacher; and it is displeasing to God for one to discourage another. But nearly all seem to forget that Satan is an accuser of the brethren, and they unite with the enemy in his work. While professed Christians are contending, Satan is laying his snares for the inexperienced feet of children and youth. Those who have had a religious experience should seek to shield the young from his devices. They should never forget that they themselves were once enchanted with the pleasures of sin. We need the mercy and forbearance of God every hour, and how unbecoming for us to be impatient with the errors of the inexperienced youth. So long as God bears with them, dare we, fellow-sinners, cast them off?  {PH117 17.2}
[PH117 17.3]          We should ever look upon the youth as the purchase of the blood of Christ. As such they have                                                                              18  demands upon our love, our patience, and our sympathy. If we would follow Jesus, we cannot restrict our interest and affection to ourselves and our own families; we cannot give our time and attention to temporal matters, and forget the eternal interests of those around us. I have been shown that it is the result of our own selfishness that there are not one hundred young men where now there is one engaged in earnest labor for the salvation of their fellow-men. "Love one another as I have loved you," is the command of Jesus. Look at his self-denial; behold the manner of love he has bestowed upon us; and then seek to imitate the Pattern.  {PH117 17.3}
[PH117 18.1]          There have been many things displeasing to God in the young men and young women who have acted as teachers at our College. You have been so absorbed in yourselves, and so devoid of spirituality, that you could not lead the youth to holiness and Heaven. Many have returned to their home more decided in their impenitence because of your lack of love for God and Christ. Walking without the spirit of Jesus, you have encouraged irreligion, lightness, and unkindness, in that you have indulged these evils yourselves. The result of this course you do not realize--souls are lost, that might have been saved.  {PH117 18.1}
[PH117 18.2]          Many have strong feelings against Bro. Bell. They accuse him of unkindness, harshness, and severity. But some of the very ones who would condemn him, are no less guilty themselves. "Let him that is without sin, cast the first stone." Bro. Bell has not always moved wisely, and he has been hard to convince where he has not taken the best course. He has not been as willing to receive counsel, and to modify his methods of instruction, and his manner of dealing with his students, as he should have been. But those who would condemn him because of his defects, could in their turn be justly condemned. Every man has his peculiar defects of character. One may be free from the weakness which he sees in his brother, yet he may at the same                                                                              19  time have faults which are far more grievous in the sight of God.  {PH117 18.2}
[PH117 19.1]          This unfeeling criticism of one another is wholly Satanic. I was shown Bro. Bell deserves respect for the good which he has done. Let him be dealt with tenderly. He has performed the labor which three men should have shared. Let those who are so eagerly searching for his faults, recount what they have done in comparison with him. He toiled when others were seeking rest and pleasure. He is worn; God would have him lay off some of these extra burdens for a while. He has so many things to divide his time and attention, he can do justice to none.  {PH117 19.1}
[PH117 19.2]          Bro. Bell should not permit his combative spirit to be aroused and lead him to self-justification. He has given occasion for dissatisfaction. The Lord has presented this before him in testimony.  {PH117 19.2}
[PH117 19.3]          Students should not be encouraged in their faultfinding. This complaining spirit will increase as it is encouraged, and students will feel at liberty to criticise the teachers who do not meet their liking, and a spirit of dissatisfaction and strife will rapidly increase. This must be frowned down, until it shall become extinct. Shall this evil be corrected? Will teachers put away their desire for the supremacy? Will they labor in humility, in love, and harmony? Time will tell.                                                    -    {PH117 19.3}
[PH117 19.4]                   Important Testimony.                      Healdsburg, Cal., March 28, 1862.        Dear Bro. Smith: Your letter was received in due time. While I was glad to hear from you, I was made sad, as I read its contents. I had received similar letters from Sr. Amadon, and from Bro. Lockwood. But I have had no communications from Prof. Bell or any one who sustains him.                                                                              20   {PH117 19.4}
[PH117 20.1]          From your own letters I learn the course which you have pursued, in the proceedings against Bro. B. To spare my feelings, Willie has withheld from me disagreeable particulars concerning matters at Battle Creek. For the same reason, others have kept silent. Bro. Brownsberger has answered some plain, direct questions.  {PH117 20.1}
[PH117 20.2]          I am not surprised that such a state of things should exist in Battle Creek, but I am pained to find you, my much-esteemed brother, involved in this matter, on the wrong side, with those whom I know God is not leading. Some of these persons are honest, but they are deceived. They have received their impressions from another source than the Spirit of God.  {PH117 20.2}
[PH117 20.3]          I have been careful not to express my opinion to individuals concerning important matters; for unjust advantage is often taken of what I say, even in the most confidential manner. Persons set themselves to work to draw out remarks from me on various points, and then they distort and misrepresent, and make my words express ideas and opinions altogether different from what I hold. But this they must meet at the bar of God.  {PH117 20.3}
[PH117 20.4]          On the occurrence of your present difficulties, I determined to keep silent, I thought it might be best to let matters develop, that those who had been so ready to censure my husband might see that the spirit of murmuring existed in their own hearts, and was still active, now that the man of whom they had complained was silently sleeping in the grave.  {PH117 20.4}
[PH117 20.5]          I knew that a crisis must come. God has given this people plain and pointed testimonies to prevent this state of things. Had they obeyed the voice of the Holy Spirit in warning, counsel, and entreaty, they would now enjoy unity and peace. But these testimonies have not been heeded by those who professed to believe them, and as a result there has been a wide departure from God, and the withdrawal of his blessing.                                                                              21   {PH117 20.5}
[PH117 21.1]          To effect the salvation of men, God employs various agencies. He speaks to them by his word, and by his ministers, and he sends by the Holy Spirit messages of warning, reproof, and instruction. These means are designed to enlighten the understanding of the people, to reveal to them their duty and their sins, and blessings which they may receive; to awaken in them a sense of spiritual want, that they may go to Christ and find in him the grace they need. But many choose to follow their own way, instead of God's way. They are not reconciled to God, neither can be, until self is crucified, and Christ lives in the heart by faith.  {PH117 21.1}
[PH117 21.2]          Every individual, by his own act, either puts Christ from him by refusing to cherish his spirit and follow his example, or he enters into a personal union with Christ by self-renunciation, faith, and obedience. We must, each for himself, choose Christ, because he has first chosen us. This union with Christ is to be formed by those who are naturally at enmity with him. It is a relation of utter dependence, to be entered into by a proud heart. This is close work, and many who profess to be followers of Christ know nothing of it. They nominally accept the Saviour, but not as the sole ruler of their hearts.  {PH117 21.2}
[PH117 21.3]          Some feel their need of the atonement, and with the recognition of this need, and the desire for a change of heart, a struggle begins. To renounce their own will, perhaps their chosen objects of affection or pursuit, requires an effort, at which many hesitate, and falter and turn back. Yet this battle must be fought by every heart that is truly converted. We must war against temptations without and within. We must gain the victory over self, crucify the affections and lusts; and then begins the union of the soul with Christ. As the dry and apparently lifeless branch is grafted into the living tree, so may we become living branches of the True Vine. And the fruit which was borne by Christ, will be borne by all his followers. After this union is formed, it can be                                                                              22  preserved only by continual, earnest painstaking effort. Christ exercises his power to preserve and guard this sacred tie, and the dependent, helpless sinner must act his part with untiring energy, or Satan by his cruel, cunning power will separate him from Christ.  {PH117 21.3}
[PH117 22.1]          Every Christian must stand on guard continually, watching every avenue of the soul where Satan might find access. He must pray for divine help, and at the same time resolutely resist every inclination to sin. By courage, by faith, by persevering toil, he can conquer. But let him remember that to gain the victory Christ must abide in him, and he in Christ.  {PH117 22.1}
[PH117 22.2]          A union of believers with Christ, will as a natural result lead to a union with one another, which bond of union is the most enduring upon earth. We are one in Christ, as Christ is one with the Father. Christians are branches, and only branches, in the Living Vine. One branch is not to borrow its sustenance from another. Our life must come from the parent vine. It is only by personal union with Christ, by communion with him daily, hourly, that we can bear the fruits of the Holy Spirit.  {PH117 22.2}
[PH117 22.3]          There has come into the church at Battle Creek a spirit that has no part in Christ. It is not a zeal for the truth, not a love for the will of God as revealed in his word. It is a self-righteous spirit. It leads you to exalt self above Jesus, and to regard your own opinions and ideas as more important than union with Christ and union with one another. You are sadly lacking in brotherly love. You are a backslidden church. To know the truth, to claim union with Christ, and yet not to bring forth fruit, not to live in the exercise of constant faith--this hardens the heart in disobedience and self-confidence. Our growth in grace, our joy, our usefulness, all depend on our union with Christ, and the degree of faith we exercise in him. Here is the source of our power in the world.  {PH117 22.3}
[PH117 22.4]          Many of you are seeking honor of one another.                                                                              23  But what is the honor or the approval of man, to one who regards himself as a son of God, a joint-heir with Christ? What are the pleasures of this world, to him who is daily a sharer in the love of Christ which passes knowledge? What are the contempt and opposition of man, to him whom God accepts through Jesus Christ? Selfishness can no more live in the heart that is exercising faith in Christ, than light and darkness can exist together. Spiritual coldness, sloth, pride and cowardice, alike shrink from the presence of faith. Can those who are as closely united with Christ as the branch to the vine, talk of and to every one but Jesus?  {PH117 22.4}
[PH117 23.1]          Are you in Christ? Not if you do not acknowledge yourselves erring, helpless, condemned sinners. Not if you are exalting and glorifying self. If there is any good in you, it is wholly attributable to the mercy of a compassionate Saviour. Your birth, your reputation, your wealth, your talents, your virtues, your piety, your philanthropy, or anything else in you or connected with you, will not form a bond of union between your soul and Christ. Your connection with the church, the manner in which your brethren regard you, will be of no avail, unless you believe in Christ. It is not enough to believe about him; you must believe in him. You must rely wholly upon his saving grace.  {PH117 23.1}
[PH117 23.2]          Many of you at Battle Creek are living without prayer, without thoughts of Christ, and without exalting him before those around you. You have no words to exalt Christ; you do no deeds that honor him. Many of you are as truly strangers to Christ as though you had never heard his name. You have not the peace of Christ; for you have no true ground for peace. You have no communion with God, because you are not united to Christ. Said our Saviour, "No man cometh to the Father but by me. You are not useful in the cause of Christ. "Except ye abide in me," says Jesus, "Ye can do nothing"--nothing in God's sight, nothing that Christ will accept at your hands.                                                                              24  Without Christ, you can have nothing but a delusive hope; for he himself declares, "If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and men gather them and cast them into the fire and they are burned."  {PH117 23.2}
[PH117 24.1]          Advancement in Christian experience is characterized by increasing humility, as the result of increasing knowledge. Every one who is united to Christ, will depart from all iniquity. I tell you, in the fear of God, I have been shown that many of you will fail of everlasting life, because you are building your hopes of Heaven on a false foundation. God is leaving you to yourselves, "to humble thee, to prove thee, and to know what is in thine heart." You have neglected the Scriptures. You despise and reject the testimonies, because they reprove your darling sins, and disturb your self-complacency. When Christ is cherished in the heart, his likeness will be revealed in the life. Humility will reign where pride was once predominant: Submission, meekness, patience, will soften down the rugged features of a naturally perverse, impetuous disposition. Love to Jesus will be manifested in love to his people. It is not fitful, not spasmodic, but calm, and deep, and strong. The life of the Christian will be divested of all pretense, free from all affectation, artifice and falsehood. It is earnest, true, sublime. Christ speaks in every word. He is seen in every deed. The life is radiant with the light of an indwelling Saviour. In converse with God, and in happy contemplation of heavenly things, the soul is preparing for Heaven, and laboring to gather other souls into the fold of Christ. Our Saviour is able and willing to do for us more than we can ask or even think.  {PH117 24.1}
[PH117 24.2]          The church at Battle Creek need a self-abasing, unpretending spirit. I have been shown that many are cherishing an unholy desire for the supremacy. Many love to be flattered, and are jealously watching for slights or neglect. There is a hard, unforgiving spirit. There is envy, strife, emulation.                                                                              25   {PH117 24.2}
[PH117 25.1]          Nothing is more essential to communion with God than the most profound humility. "I dwell," says the High and Holy One, "with him that is contrite and of a humble spirit." While you are so eagerly striving to be first, remember that you will be last in the favor of God, if you fail to cherish a meek and lowly spirit. Pride of heart will cause many to fail where they might have made a success. "Before honor is humility, and the humble in spirit is greater than the proud in spirit." "When Ephraim spake tremblingly, he exalted himself in Israel; but when he offended in Baal, he died." "Many are called, but few chosen." Many hear the invitation of mercy, are tested and proved; but few are sealed with the seal of the living God. Few will humble themselves as a little child, that they may enter the kingdom of Heaven.  {PH117 25.1}
[PH117 25.2]          Few receive the grace of Christ with self-abasement, with a deep and permanent sense of their unworthiness. They cannot bear the manifestations of the power of God, for this would encourage in them self-esteem, pride, and envy. This is why the Lord can do so little for us now. God would have you individually seek for the perfection of love and humility in your own hearts. Bestow your chief care upon yourselves, cultivate those excellencies of character which will fit you for the society of the pure and the holy.  {PH117 25.2}
[PH117 25.3]          You all need the converting power of God. You need to seek him for yourselves. For your soul's sake, neglect this work no longer. All your trouble grows out of your separation from God. Your disunion and dissension are the fruit of an unchristian character.  {PH117 25.3}
[PH117 25.4]          I had thought to remain silent, and let you go on until you should see and abhor the sinfulness of your course; but backsliding from God produces hardness of heart and blindness of mind, and there is less and less perception of their true condition, until the grace of God is finally withdrawn, as from the Jewish nation.                                                                              26   {PH117 25.4}
[PH117 26.1]          I wish my position to be clearly understood. I have no sympathy with the course that has been pursued toward Bro. Bell. Some members of the church had a wrong spirit when Bro. Bell first came to Battle Creek. He did not take favorably with them. He was, they said, too thorough, too exacting, too critical. The feeling of opposition to him, rose to such a height that the Lord vindicated his servant, and reproved the spirit that was manifested against him. Since then, Bro. Bell's course has from time to time been shown me in vision. For some things he has been reproved, in other things I have been shown that he was unjustly censured, and I have reproved those whose lax ideas of discipline led to their complaints. In the last vision given me, I was shown that in some respects Bro. Bell's course in the school-room was not right. The influence was not such as God could approve. This matter was plainly presented before him and before the teachers and others connected with the school. I have not refrained from reproving wrongs in him when the Spirit of God has bidden me to speak. I have been shown that every deviation from the right, every act of hardness, or severity, has been a great injury to himself. It has alienated the affections of his students, and given his accusers occasion to justify their course.  {PH117 26.1}
[PH117 26.2]          The enemy has encouraged feelings of hatred in the hearts of many. The errors committed by Bro. Bell have been reported from one person to another, constantly growing in magnitude, as busy, gossiping tongues added fuel to the fire. Parents who have never felt the care which they should feel for the souls of their children, and who have never given them proper restraint and instruction, are the very ones who manifest the most bitter opposition when their children are restrained, reproved, or corrected at school. Some of these children are a disgrace to the church, and a disgrace to the name of Adventists.  {PH117 26.2}
[PH117 26.3]          The parents despised reproof themselves, and                                                                              27  despised the reproof given to their children, and were not careful to conceal this from them. The sin of the parents began with their mismanagement at home. The souls of some of these children will be lost, because they did not receive instruction from God's word, and did not become Christians at home. Instead of sympathizing with their children in a perverse course, the parents should have reproved them, and sustained the faithful teacher. These parents were not united to Christ themselves, and this is the reason of their terrible neglect of duty. That which they have sown, they will also reap. They are sure of a harvest.  {PH117 26.3}
[PH117 27.1]          In the School, Bro. Bell has not only been burdened by the wrong course of the children, but by the injudicious management of the parents, which produced and nurtured hatred of restraint. Overwork, unceasing care, with no help at home, but rather a constant irritation, have caused him at times to lose self-control, and to act injudiciously. Some have taken advantage of this, and faults of minor consequence have been made to appear like grave sins.  {PH117 27.1}
[PH117 27.2]          The class of professed Sabbath-keepers who try to form a union between Christ and Belial, who take hold of the truth with one hand and of the world with the other, have surrounded their children and clouded the church with an atmosphere entirely foreign to religion and the Spirit of Christ. They dared not openly oppose the claims of truth. They dared not take a bold stand, and say they did not believe the testimonies; but, while nominally believing both, they have obeyed neither. By their course of action they have denied both. They desire the Lord to fulfill to them his promises; but they refuse to comply with the conditions on which these promises are based. They will not relinquish every rival for Christ. Under the preaching of the word, there is a partial suppression of worldliness, but no radical change of the affections. Worldly desires, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of                                                                              28  life, ultimately gain the victory. This class are all professed Christians. Their names are on the church books. They live for a time a seemingly religious life, and then yield their hearts, too often finally, to the predominating influence of the world.  {PH117 27.2}
[PH117 28.1]          Whatever may be Bro. Bell's faults, your course is unjustifiable and unchristian. You have gone back over his history for years, and have searched out everything that was unfavorable, every shadow of evil, and have made him an offender for a word. You have brought all the powers you could command to sustain yourselves in your course as accusers. Remember, God will deal in the same manner with every one of you. "With what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged; and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again." Those who have taken part in this disgraceful proceeding will meet their work again. What influence do you think your course will have upon the students, who have ever been impatient of restraint? How will these things affect their character and their life history?  {PH117 28.1}
[PH117 28.2]          What say the testimonies concerning these things? Even one wrong trait of character, one sinful desire cherished, will eventually neutralize all the power of the gospel. The prevalence of a sinful desire shows the delusion of the soul. Every indulgence of that desire strengthens the soul's aversion to God. The pains of duty and the pleasures of sin are the cords with which Satan binds men in his snares. Those who would rather die than perform a wrong act are the only ones who will be found faithful.  {PH117 28.2}
[PH117 28.3]          A child may receive sound religious instruction; but if parents, teachers, or guardians permit his character to be biased by a wrong habit, that habit, if not overcome, will become a predominant power, and the child is lost.  {PH117 28.3}
[PH117 28.4]          The testimony borne to you by the Spirit of God is, Parley not with the enemy. Kill the thorns, or they will kill you. Break up the fallow ground of the heart. Let the work go deep and thorough. Let the plowshare of truth tear out the weeds and briers.                                                                              29   {PH117 28.4}
[PH117 29.1]          Said Christ to the angry, accusing Pharisees, "He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone." Were those sinless who were so ready to accuse and condemn Bro. Bell? Were their characters and lives to be searched as closely and publicly as they have searched Bro. Bell's, some of them would appear far worse than they have tried to represent him. I hope I may not be compelled to make public the past course of students, teachers, ministers and church members, to publish the mistakes and sins of the past and present life of those who sat in judgment upon his case. I wish you all to understand, I here wash my hands of your cruel work.  {PH117 29.1}
[PH117 29.2]          I am sorry that Eld. Smith, who has been considered so mild, so kind, and so tender that he shrank from reproving wrongs in the office, or performing his duty in the church and in his own family, is for some unexplainable reason found on the side of the accuser. I can but think that this is due to some influence which has blinded his eyes and confused his senses. I cannot say to Bro. Smith, God speed you in this work, for it is wrong. He must meet its results hereafter. His position of trust and his long experience, render him more accountable for this state of things than any other one in the church. Had he been right, he could have prevented the disgrace and the sin.  {PH117 29.2}
[PH117 29.3]          Bro. Smith, the stand which you have taken in this case proves you responsible for all your past neglect of duty in the church and in the office. You have shown that you can be firm, decided, and severe, even when it is uncalled for.  {PH117 29.3}
[PH117 29.4]          I dare not longer remain silent. I speak to you and to the church at Battle Creek. You have made a great mistake. You have treated with injustice one to whom you and your children owe a debt of gratitude, which you do not realize. You are responsible for the influence you have exerted upon the College. Peace has come, because the students have had their own way. In another crisis, they will be                                                                              30  as determined and persevering as they have been on this occasion; and, if they find as able an advocate as they have found in Bro. Smith, they may again accomplish their purpose. God has been speaking to teachers and students and church members, but you have cast his words behind you. You have thought best to take your own course, irrespective of consequences.  {PH117 29.4}
[PH117 30.1]          God has given us, as a people, warnings, reproofs, and cautions, on the right hand and on the left, to lead us away from worldly customs and worldly policy. He requires us to be peculiar in faith and in character, to meet a standard far in advance of worldlings. Prof. McLearn came among you, unacquainted with the Lord's dealings with us. Having newly come to the faith, he had almost everything to learn. Yet you have unhesitatingly placed your children under his guardianship, to be molded by his views and opinions. You have coincided with his judgment. You have sanctioned in him a spirit and course of action that have naught of Christ.  {PH117 30.1}
[PH117 30.2]          You have encouraged in the students a spirit of criticism, which God's Spirit has sought to repress. You have led them to betray confidence. There are not a few young persons among us who are indebted for most valuable traits of character to the knowledge and principles received from Bro. Bell. To his training, many owe much of their usefulness, not only in the Sabbath-school, but in various other branches of our work. Yet your influence encouraged ingratitude, and has led students to despise the things that they should cherish.  {PH117 30.2}
[PH117 30.3]          Those who have sought to cast a stain upon Bro. Bell's character, and to make him contemptible, must answer for this in the day of God. You have done a work which is registered in the books of Heaven.  {PH117 30.3}
[PH117 30.4]          Bro. Bell has had trials, of which many know little. A man's energy and success, as well as his happiness, depends, to a great degree, upon the character of his home. If a right influence is found                                                                              31  there, he can bravely encounter trials and discouragements without. His home is his haven of rest. But if there is discord at home, the tired nerves find no relief. The mind is subject to a constant tension, to preserve calmness and self-control. A man without the blessings of a happy home, is deprived of an influence that would stimulate and strengthen him.  {PH117 30.4}
[PH117 31.1]          Those who have not the peculiar trials to which another is subjected, may flatter themselves that they are better than he. But place them in the furnace of trial, and they might not endure it nearly as well as the one they censure and misjudge. How little we can know of the heart-anguish of another. How few understand another's circumstances. Hence the difficulty of giving wise counsel. What may appear to us to be appropriate, may, in reality, be quite the reverse.  {PH117 31.1}
[PH117 31.2]          The Lord has shown me the value of Bro. Bell's labors. The Lord has commended his thoroughness as a teacher, both in the College and in the Sabbath-school. When it was suggested that Bro. Bell travel and labor in the Sabbath-school interest in different States, I said at once that I did not see how he could be spared from the College.  {PH117 31.2}
[PH117 31.3]          I was acquainted with the character of the teachers. I knew that the religious standard of some was far too low. The right influence would not be maintained, if Bro. Bell were released.  {PH117 31.3}
[PH117 31.4]          Bro. Bell's labors in the College and the Sabbath-school, have exerted an influence upon our people from the Atlantic to the Pacific. He has tried to train his pupils to a habit of thoroughness. He has taught them that an education cannot be acquired without close application. He has taught self-reliance, and inculcated sound principles. He was represented to me as a candle, from which many others have been lighted.  {PH117 31.4}
[PH117 31.5]          Bro. Bell has been an earnest seeker after knowledge. He has sought to impress upon the students that they are responsible for their time, their talents,                                                                              32  their opportunities. You will not be able to supply the place of Bro. Bell to the school. True, he was not faultless. It is impossible for a man to have so much care, and carry so heavy responsibilities, without becoming hurried, weary, and nervous. Those who refuse to accept burdens which will tax their strength to the utmost, know nothing of the pressure brought to bear upon those who must bear these burdens.  {PH117 31.5}
[PH117 32.1]          There are some in the College who have looked only for what has been unfortunate and disagreeable in their acquaintance with Bro. Bell. These persons have not that noble, Christ-like spirit, that thinketh no evil. They have made the most of every inconsiderate word or act, and have recalled these at a time when envy, prejudice, and jealousy, were active in unchristian hearts.  {PH117 32.1}
[PH117 32.2]          A writer has said that "envy's memory is nothing but a row of hooks to hang up grudges on." There are many in the world who consider it an evidence of superiority to recount the things and persons that they "cannot bear," rather than the things and persons that they are attracted to. Not so did the great apostle. He exhorts his brethren, "Whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are good report, if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."  {PH117 32.2}
[PH117 32.3]          Envy is not merely a perverseness of temper, but a distemper, which disorders all the faculties. It began with Satan. He desired to be first in Heaven, and, because he could not have all the power and glory he sought, he rebelled against the government of God. He envied our first parents, and tempted them to sin, and thus ruined them and all the human race.  {PH117 32.3}
[PH117 32.4]          The envious man shuts his eyes to the good qualities and noble deeds of others. He is always ready to disparage and misrepresent that which is excellent.                                                                              33  Men often confess and forsake other faults; but there is little to be hoped for from the envious man. Since to envy a person is to admit that he is a superior, pride will not permit any concession. If an attempt be made to convince the envious person of his sin, he becomes even more bitter against the object of his passion, and too often he remains incurable.  {PH117 32.4}
[PH117 33.1]          The envious man diffuses poison wherever he goes, alienating friends, and stirring up hatred and rebellion against God and man. He seeks to be thought best and greatest, not by putting forth heroic, self-denying efforts to reach the goal of excellence himself, but by standing where he is, and diminishing the merit due to the efforts of others.  {PH117 33.1}
[PH117 33.2]          Envy has been cherished in the hearts of some in the church as well as in the College. God is displeased at your course. I entreat you, for Christ's sake, never treat another as you have treated Bro. Bell. A noble nature does not exult in causing others pain, or delight in discovering their deficiencies. A disciple of Christ will turn away with loathing from the feast of scandal. Some who have been active on this occasion, are repeating the course pursued toward one of the Lord's servants in affliction, one who had sacrificed health and strength in their service. The Lord vindicated the cause of the oppressed, and turned the light of his countenance upon his suffering servant. I then saw that God would prove these persons again, as he has now done, to reveal what was in their hearts.  {PH117 33.2}
[PH117 33.3]          When David had sinned, God granted him his choice, to receive his punishment from God, or at the hand of man. The repentant king chose to fall into the hand of God. The tender mercies of the wicked are cruel. Erring, sinful man, who can himself be kept in the right path only by the power of God, is yet hard-hearted, unforgiving toward his erring brother. My brethren at Battle Creek, what account will you render at the bar of God? Great                                                                              34  light has come to you, in reproofs, warnings, and entreaties. How have you spurned its Heaven-sent rays!  {PH117 33.3}
[PH117 34.1]          The tongue that delights in mischief, the babbling tongue that says, Report, and I will report it, is declared by the apostle James to be set on fire of hell. It scatters fire-brands on every side. What cares the vender of gossip that he defames the innocent? He will not stay his evil work, though he destroy hope and courage in those who are already sinking under their burdens. He cares only to indulge his scandal-loving propensity. Even professed Christians close their eyes to all that is pure, honest, noble, and lovely, and treasure up whatever is objectionable and disagreeable, and publish it to the world.  {PH117 34.1}
[PH117 34.2]          You have yourselves thrown open the doors for Satan to come in. You have given him an honored place at you investigation, or inquisition meetings. But you have shown no respect for the excellencies of a character established by years of faithfulness. Jealous, revengeful tongues have colored acts and motives, to suit their own ideas. They have made black appear white, and white black. When remonstrated with for their statements, some have said, "It is true." Admitting that the fact stated is true, does that justify your course? No, no. If God should take all the accusations that might in truth be brought against you, and should braid them into a scourge to punish you, your wounds would be more and deeper than those which you have inflicted on Bro. Bell. Even facts may be so stated as to convey a false impression. You have no right to gather up every report against him, and use them to ruin his reputation and destroy his usefulness. Should the Lord manifest toward you the same spirit which you have manifested toward your brother, you would be destroyed without mercy. Have you no compunctions of conscience? I fear not. The time has not yet come for this Satanic spell to lose its power.                                                                              35   {PH117 34.2}
[PH117 35.1]          Your course has caused Bro. Bell the keenest suffering; and many are exulting in their cruel work. In this they are in harmony with the great adversary of souls. Satan triumphs whenever he can, by a malicious, cruel act, wound a servant of God. If you would have patience with your neighbor's faults, cast your eyes upon your own. Do you desire others to treat your errors and mistakes as you have treated those of Bro. Bell? Oh, that you would judge yourselves as severely and critically as you judge him!  {PH117 35.1}
[PH117 35.2]          In the letter that I wrote to Bro. Bell at Battle Creek, I would say nothing to vindicate him; but I learn that he has left you, and I now speak freely to the church. Those who would pass judgment upon another's motives, or make public what has been spoken to them in confidence, show the evil that exists in their own hearts. In drawing out testimonies from students, and leading them to betray Bro. Bell's confidence, you have shown what you would do to Christ. You have wronged and insulted your Saviour in the person of his servant.  {PH117 35.2}
[PH117 35.3]          When we listen to a reproach against our brother, we take up that reproach. To the question, "Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?" the psalmist answered, "He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor."  {PH117 35.3}
[PH117 35.4]          What a world of gossip would be prevented, if every man would remember that those who tell him the faults of others, will as freely publish his faults at a favorable opportunity. We should endeavor to think well of all men, especially our brethren, until compelled to think otherwise. We should not hastily credit evil reports. These are often the result of envy or misunderstanding, or they may proceed from exaggeration or a partial disclosure of facts. Jealousy and suspicion, once allowed a place, will sow themselves broadcast, like thistle-down. Should a                                                                              36  brother go astray, then is the time to show your real interest in him. Go to him kindly, pray with and for him, remembering the infinite price which Christ has paid for his redemption. In this way you may save a soul from death, and hide a multitude of sins.  {PH117 35.4}
[PH117 36.1]          A glance, a word, even an intonation of the voice, may be vital with falsehood, sinking like a barbed arrow into some heart, inflicting an incurable wound. Thus a doubt, a reproach, may be cast upon one by whom God would accomplish a good work, and his influence is blighted, his usefulness destroyed. Among some species of animals, if one of their number is wounded, and falls, he is at once set upon and torn in pieces by his fellows. The same cruel spirit is indulged by men and women who bear the name of Christians. They manifest a Pharisaical zeal to stone others less guilty than themselves. There are some who point to other's faults and failures to divert attention from their own, or to gain credit for great zeal for God and the church.  {PH117 36.1}
[PH117 36.2]          I would admonish Bro. Wales to be less earnest and forward in searching out the faults of others. "Let him that is without sin, cast the first stone." I counsel you and your son Willie, to take a more humble position. Examine your own hearts and lives, and then ask yourselves if you would be willing to have others set upon your track as you have hunted the steps of Bro. Bell. Look well to your own path. "Let him that thinketh he standeth, take heed lest he fall." You have earnest work to do for your own souls. If this remains undone, you will be left outside the gates of the city of God.  {PH117 36.2}
[PH117 36.3]          Prof. Miller has cherished bitter envy and hatred against Bro. Bell. My brother, if there is any one laboring in that College who is deficient in spiritual attainments, it is yourself. Christ has nothing to do with the course you have pursued. Others have united with you, and have been influenced by you. May the Lord pity them and you. If Prof. Bell were all that you represent him to be--which I know he is not--your course would still be unjustifiable.                                                                              37   {PH117 36.3}
[PH117 37.1]          A few weeks since, I was in a dream brought into one of your meetings for investigation. I heard the testimonies borne by students against Prof. Bell. Those very students had received great benefit from his thorough, faithful instruction. Once they could hardly say enough in his praise. Then it was popular to esteem him. But now the current was setting the other way. These persons have developed their true character. I saw an angel with a ponderous book open, in which he wrote every testimony given. Opposite each testimony were traced the sins, defects, and errors of the one who bore it. Then there was recorded the great benefit which these individuals had received from Bro. Bell's labors.  {PH117 37.1}
[PH117 37.2]          I do not wish these statements ever to come before Bro. Bell. I would not utter a word of praise to come to any man. I fear that poor human nature could not bear it.  {PH117 37.2}
[PH117 37.3]          I entreat Bro. Miller to find no fault with others until he is himself thoroughly converted; and then he will have no disposition to find fault. He will then feel his own weakness; but he is now so filled with self-confidence that he has no sense of his true state before God. He is not a Christian; for to be a Christian is to be Christlike.  {PH117 37.3}
[PH117 37.4]          Prof. Ramsey has been self-sufficient, severe, dictatorial, critical. For these errors he has been reproved. He has not been in union with Christ.  {PH117 37.4}
[PH117 37.5]          What have these two men done in comparison with Bro. Bell? I have known his cares, his constant labors, his deep interest. When he has left the school-room, he has carried the burden with him. In some branches of the work, he has done more than any other man among us, to disseminate light and knowledge. He has received but a small remuneration; for, in the present state of society and of our people, such labor is not appreciated. I promised my husband, before his death, that I would write out what I had seen concerning the value of Bro. Bell's labors, and the inadequate compensation he                                                                              38  received. But feebleness, and constant, pressing calls to labor, have hindered me.  {PH117 37.5}
[PH117 38.1]          We, as a people, are reaping the fruit of Bro. Bell's hard labor. There is not a man among us who has devoted more time and thought to his work than has Prof. Bell. He has felt that he had no one to sustain him, and has felt grateful for any encouragement.  {PH117 38.1}
[PH117 38.2]          You have pushed aside this known and tried laborer, and have readily accepted a stranger. You have hunted down the man to whom you were so greatly indebted, and have given your confidence to one whose plans and principles are new and untried. Then there appears in the Review a notice of the celebration of Longfellow's birthday. You deify a man of whose heart you know nothing, of whose relation to God you know nothing. This is similar to the course pursued by Aaron, when he made the golden calf in the absence of Moses, and offered sacrifice before it, while the people proclaimed, "These be thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt." Have the church at Battle Creek put out their eyes, that they cannot see the tendency of these things? If I did not know how God regards your course, I would not write thus. The time spent in paying honor to a mere man, might better have been employed in fasting and praying before God.  {PH117 38.2}
[PH117 38.3]          One of the great objects to be secured in the establishment of the College was the separation of our youth from the spirit and influence of the world, from its customs, its follies, and its idolatry. The College was to build a barrier against the immorality of the present age, which makes the world as corrupt as in the days of Noah. The young are bewitched with the mania for courtship and marriage. Love-sick sentimentalism prevails. Great vigilance and tact are needed to guard the youth from these wrong influences. Many parents are blind to the tendencies of their children. Some parents have                                                                              39  stated to me, with great satisfaction, that their sons or daughters had no desire for the attentions of the opposite sex, when in fact these children were at the same time secretly giving or receiving such attentions, and the parents were so much absorbed in worldliness and gossip that they knew nothing about the matter.  {PH117 38.3}
[PH117 39.1]          The primary object of our College was to afford young men an opportunity to study for the ministry, and to prepare young persons of both sexes to become workers in the various branches of the cause. These students needed a knowledge of the common branches of education, and above all else, of the word of God. Here our school has been deficient. There has not been a man devoted to God, to give himself to this branch of the work. Young men moved upon by the Spirit of God to give themselves to the ministry, have come to the College for this purpose, and have been disappointed. Adequate preparation for this class has not been made, and some of the teachers, knowing this, have advised the youth to take other studies, and fit themselves for other pursuits. If these youth were not firm in their purpose, they were induced to give up all idea of studying for the ministry.  {PH117 39.1}
[PH117 39.2]          Such is the result of the influence exerted by unsanctified teachers, who labor merely for wages, who are not imbued with the Spirit of God, and have no union with Christ. No one has been more active in this work than Bro. Miller. The Bible should be one of the principal subjects of study. This book, which tells us how to spend the present life, that we may secure the future, immortal life, is of more value to students than any other. We have but a brief period in which to become acquainted with its truths. But the one who had made God's word a study, and who could more than any other teacher have helped the young to gain a knowledge of the Scriptures, has been pushed out of the school.  {PH117 39.2}
[PH117 39.3]          Professors and teachers have not understood the                                                                              40  design of the College. We have put in means and thought and labor to make it what God would have it. The will and judgment of a man who is almost wholly ignorant of the way in which God has led us as a people, should not have a controlling influence in that College. The Lord has repeatedly shown that we should not pattern after the popular schools. Ministers of other denominations spend years in obtaining an education. Our young men must obtain theirs in a short time. Where there is now one minister, there should be twenty, whom our College had prepared with God's help, to enter the gospel field.  {PH117 39.3}
[PH117 40.1]          Many of our younger ministers, and some of more mature experience, are neglecting the word of God, and also despising the testimonies of his Spirit. They do not know what the testimonies contain, and do not wish to know. They do not wish to discover and correct their defects of character. Many parents do not themselves seek instruction from the testimonies, and of course they cannot impart it to their children. They show their contempt for the light which God has given, by going directly contrary to his instructions. Those at the heart of the work have set the example.  {PH117 40.1}
[PH117 40.2]          I feel it my duty to warn Bro. Gage to be careful how he condemns another. He is a man in years, but in many respects he is a boy. In stability of character, in devotion, in sound judgment, in spiritual understanding, he has not grown up to the stature of a man in Christ Jesus. Bro. Gage has great self-confidence, he feels competent for any position. But he has grave defects of character. Should Bro. Gage's life and character be taken up, point by point, as you have examined Bro. Bell's, how would he appear? Have you thought of this, Bro. Gage? "He that is without sin among you, let him cast the first stone."  {PH117 40.2}
[PH117 40.3]          I might call the names of many others, but I forbear. Of one thing be assured, you have done a                                                                              41  work that has made angels weep,--a work of which you will one day be ashamed. In writing as I have done, I do not desire to call out letters from any. I have fulfilled a solemn duty.  {PH117 40.3}
[PH117 41.1]          You have published your contentions to the world. Do you think you stand, as a people, in a more favorable light in Battle Creek? Christ prayed that his disciples might be one, as he was one with the Father, that the world might know that God had sent him. What testimony have you borne, during the past few months? The Lord is looking into every heart. He weighs our motives. He will try every soul. Who will bear the test?                                                    -    {PH117 41.1}
[PH117 41.2]                The Testimonies Rejected.                         Healdsburg, Cal., June 20, 1882.            Dear Brethren and Sisters in Battle Creek: I understand that the testimony ［REFERENCE IS HERE MADE TO THE PRECEDING ARTICLE.］ which I sent to Eld. Smith, with the request that it be read to the church, was withheld from you for several weeks after it was received by him. Before sending that testimony my mind was so impressed by the Spirit of God that I had no rest day or night until I wrote to you. It was not a work that I would have chosen for myself. Before my husband's death I decided that it was not my duty to bear testimony to any one in reproof of wrong, or in vindication of right, because advantage was taken of my words to deal harshly with the erring, and to unwisely exalt others whose course I had not in any degree sustained. Many explained the testimonies to suit themselves. The truth of God is not in harmony with the traditions of men, nor does it conform to their opinions. Like its divine Author it is unchangeable, the same yesterday, today, and forever. Those who separate from God will call darkness light, and error truth.                                                                              42  But darkness will never prove itself to be light, nor will error become truth.  {PH117 41.2}
[PH117 42.1]         The minds of many have been so darkened and confused by worldly customs, worldly practices, and worldly influences, that all power to discriminate between light and darkness, truth and error, seems destroyed. I had little hope that my words would be understood, but when the Lord moved upon me so decidedly I could not resist his Spirit. Knowing that you were involving yourselves in the snares of Satan, I felt that the danger was too great for me to keep silent. Hence I wrote to you as I did; but Eld. Smith felt at liberty to withhold the testimony from the church for weeks. If God was leading him and those who united with him and counseled him in this act, he was not leading me; the burden which moved me to write was a false burden, imposed by another spirit.  {PH117 42.1}
[PH117 42.2]          Further than this, Eld. Smith questioned the propriety of bringing the testimony before the church at all. Thus he takes the responsibility of standing between God's word of reproof and the people. I committed the matter to Eld. Smith as an officer of the church. But in consideration of my past position in this work, in consideration of the connection God has been pleased to give me with his cause from its very rise, was it the prerogative of Eld. Smith, or of those whom he took into his counsel, to even question this matter? Shall he sit in judgment upon my work, or on my letters of warning to the church? This man, who has so long avoided disagreeable responsibilities; who has let matters drift whichever way they were disposed to go, rather than brace himself for duty, and with moral courage reprove and rebuke wrong; who has shunned so many duties belonging to him in his position of trust,--has now ventured to act in a new character, and to assume responsibilities which God hath not given him. He has placed himself and his influence in direct opposition to my work, so that I cannot reach the people to                                                                              43  impress upon them the testimonies which God has given me. And there are others equally blinded, who will follow in this path.  {PH117 42.2}
[PH117 43.1]          For years the Lord has been presenting the situation of the church before you. Again and again reproofs and warnings have been given. Oct. 23, 1879, the Lord gave me a most impressive testimony in regard to the church in Battle Creek, especially in reference to Eld. Smith. Now he is found firm, persistent, stubborn, on the wrong side. He is not led by the Spirit of God in his decisions. The Lord has laid no such burden upon him. Human influences have molded his judgment. No greater evidence of this can be given than the course he has taken in regard to my testimony to the church. During the last month I was with you in Battle Creek, I carried a heavy burden for the church, while those who should have felt to the very depths of their soul, were comparatively easy and unconcerned. I knew not what to do, or what to say. I had no confidence in the course which many were pursuing; for they were doing the very things which the Lord had warned them not to do.  {PH117 43.1}
[PH117 43.2]          That God who knows their spiritual condition declares, They have cherished evil, and separated from me. They have gone astray every one of them. Not one is guiltless. They have forsaken me, the Fountain of living waters; and have hewed out to them broken cisterns, that can hold no water. Many have corrupted their ways before me. Envy, hatred of one another, jealousy, evil surmising, emulation, strife, bitterness, is the fruit that they bear. And they will not heed the testimony that I send them. They will not see their perverse ways, and be converted that I should heal them.  {PH117 43.2}
[PH117 43.3]          Many are looking with self-complacency upon the long years during which they have advocated the truth. They now feel that they are entitled to a reward for their past trials and obedience. But this genuine experience in the things of God in the past,                                                                              44  makes them more guilty before him for not preserving their integrity and going forward to perfection. The faithfulness for the past year will never atone for the neglect of the present year. A man's truthfulness yesterday will not atone for his falsehood today.  {PH117 43.3}
[PH117 44.1]         Many excused their disregard of the testimonies by saying, "Sr. White is influenced by her husband; the testimonies are molded by his spirit and judgment." Others were seeking to gain something from me which they could construe to justify their course, or to give them influence. It was then I decided that nothing more should go from my pen until the converting power of God was seen in the church. But the Lord placed the burden upon my soul. I labored for you earnestly. How much this cost both my husband and myself, eternity will tell. Have I not a knowledge of the state of the church, when the Lord has presented their case before me again and again for years? Repeated warnings have been given, yet there has been no decided change. Why did I lie upon my face night after night, pleading with God in your behalf, if I did not know that you were going, step by step, away from the light.  {PH117 44.1}
[PH117 44.2]          I saw that the frown of God was upon his people for their assimilation to the world. I saw that the children of Bro. Smith have been a snare to him. Their ideas and opinions, their feelings and statements, had an influence upon his mind, and blinded his judgment. These youth are strongly inclined to infidelity. The mother's want of faith and trust in God has been given as an inheritance to her children. Her devotion to them is greater than her devotion to God. The father has neglected his duty. The result of their wrong course is revealed in their children.  {PH117 44.2}
[PH117 44.3]          As I spoke to the church, I tried to impress upon parents their solemn obligation to their children, because I knew the state of these youth, and what tendencies had made them what they are. But the word was not received. I know what burdens I bore                                                                              45  in the last of my labors among you. I would never have thus tasked my strength to the utmost, had I not seen your peril. I longed to arouse you to humble your hearts before God, to return to him with penitence and faith.  {PH117 44.3}
[PH117 45.1]          Yet now when I send you a testimony of warning and reproof, many of you declare it to be merely the opinion of Sr. White. You have insulted the Spirit of God. You know, Eld. Smith, how the Lord has manifested himself through the spirit of prophecy. Past, present, and future have passed before me. I have been shown faces that I had never seen, and years afterward I knew them when I saw them. I have been aroused from my sleep with a vivid sense of subjects previously presented to my mind; and I have written at midnight, letters that have gone across the continent, and, arriving at a crisis, have saved great disaster to the cause of God. This has been my work for many years. A power has impelled me to reprove and rebuke wrongs that I had not thought of. Is this work of the last thirty-six years from above, or from beneath?  {PH117 45.1}
[PH117 45.2]          Suppose--as some would make it appear, incorrectly however--that I was influenced to write as I did by letters received from persons in Battle Creek. How was it with the apostle Paul? The news he received through the household of Chloe concerning the condition of the church at Corinth was what caused him to write his first epistle to that church. Private letters had come to him stating the facts as they existed, and in his answer he laid down general principles which if heeded would correct the existing evils. With great tenderness and wisdom he exhorts them to all speak the same things, that there be no divisions among them.  {PH117 45.2}
[PH117 45.3]          Paul was an inspired apostle, yet the Lord did not reveal to him at all times just the condition of his people. Those who were interested in the prosperity of the church, and saw evils creeping in, presented the matter before him, and from the light which                                                                              46  he had previously received he was prepared to judge of the true character of these developments. Because the Lord had not given him a new revelation for that special time, those who were really seeking light, did not cast his message aside as only a common letter. No, indeed. The Lord had shown him the difficulties and dangers which would arise in the churches, that when they should develop, he might know just how to treat them.  {PH117 45.3}
[PH117 46.1]          He was set for the defense of the church. He was to watch for souls as one that must render account to God, and should he not take notice of the reports concerning their state of anarchy and division? Most assuredly; and the reproof he sent them was written just as much under the inspiration of the Spirit of God as were any of his epistles. But when these reproofs came, some would not be corrected. They took the position that God had not spoken to them through Paul, that he had merely given them his opinion as a man, and they regarded their own judgment as good as that of Paul.  {PH117 46.1}
[PH117 46.2]          So it is with many among our people who have drifted away from the old landmarks, and who have followed their own understanding. What a great relief it would be to such could they quiet their conscience with the belief that my work is not of God. But your unbelief will not change the facts in the case. You are defective in character, in moral and religious experience. Close your eyes to the fact if you will; but this does not make you one particle more perfect. The only remedy is to wash in the blood of the Lamb.  {PH117 46.2}
[PH117 46.3]          In rejecting this testimony, Eld. Smith, you have virtually rejected all the testimonies. You must know this is the case. This testimony bears the same evidence of its character that all others have borne for the last thirty-six years. But it condemns certain wrongs which you have committed, and which God condemns. The reason why you cannot see it, is because you have been cherishing feelings                                                                              47  wholly opposed to the Spirit of God. Your actions stand registered in the books of Heaven.  {PH117 46.3}
[PH117 47.1]          Eld. Smith, I was more grieved than I can express to find you again working on the side of the enemy. You will find quite a number who will strengthen you in your position; the leaven is working. You pronounce my work human, not actuated by the Spirit of God. On this point you have had great light; for this you are responsible. If God has ever wrought by me--unworthy and weak as I am at all times--he has wrought by me and through me for the last few months. In this long letter I spoke of many facts which I distinctly stated that I had been shown. I wrote to you, saying that I had seen what course you would pursue, to what lengths you would go, unless you heeded the light which God sent you in reproofs, in counsel, and warnings. Will you do despite to the Spirit of grace?  {PH117 47.1}
[PH117 47.2]          I was most astonished to read a letter from Sr. Amadon--a collection of partial disclosures, and dark hints of terrible things that could not be revealed. Then she remarks: "Sr. White, be careful how you slay." As though God's messenger was doing a work independent of the Spirit of God! Thus Ahab thought when he met Elijah, and said, "Art thou he that troubleth Israel?" Elijah throws back the imputation firmly and decidedly: "I have not troubled Israel; but thou and thy father's house, in that ye have forsaken the commandments of God, and thou hast followed Baalim." Those who bear the warnings of God, are often regarded as the offending party, whereas, the whole blame rests with those who have alienated themselves from the Lord by transgression. Elijah does not offer one excuse for his work. He does not prophesy smooth things, neither does he try to conceal the real cause of the judgments of God.  {PH117 47.2}
[PH117 47.3]          If you seek to turn aside the counsel of God to suit yourselves; if you lessen the confidence of God's people in the testimonies he has sent them, you are                                                                              48  rebelling against God as certainly as were Korah, Dathan, and Abiram. You have their history. You know how stubborn they were in their own opinions. They decided that their judgment was better than that of Moses, and that Moses was doing great injury to Israel. Those who united with them were so set in their opinions, that, notwithstanding the judgments of God in a marked manner destroyed the leaders and the princes, the next morning the survivors came to Moses and said, "Ye have killed the people of the Lord." We see what fearful deception will come upon the human mind. How hard it is to convince souls that have become imbued with a spirit which is not of God. As Christ's embassador, I would say to you, Be careful what positions you take. This is God's work, and you must render to him an account for the manner in which you treat his message.  {PH117 47.3}
[PH117 48.1]          While standing over the dying bed of my husband, I knew that had the church heeded the testimony given them, he would have been spared. Had others borne their part of the burdens, he might have lived. I then pleaded, with agony of soul, that those present might no longer grieve the Spirit of God by their hardness of heart. A few days later, I myself stood face to face with death. Then I had most clear revealings from God in regard to myself, and in regard to the church. In great weakness I bore to you my testimony, not knowing but it would be my last opportunity. Have you forgotten that solemn occasion? I can never forget it, for I seemed to be brought before the judgment seat of Christ. Your state of backsliding, your hardness of heart, your lack of harmony of love and spirituality, your departure from the simplicity and purity which God would have you preserve--I knew it all; I felt it all. Fault-finding, censuring, envy, strife for the highest place, was among you. I had seen it, and to what it would lead. I feared that effort would cost me my life, but the interest I felt for you led me to                                                                              49  speak. God spoke to you that day. Did it make any lasting impression?  {PH117 48.1}
[PH117 49.1]          When I went to Colorado, I was so burdened for you, that, in my weakness. I wrote many pages to be read at your camp-meeting. Weak and trembling, I arose at three o'clock in the morning, to write to you. God was speaking through clay. But the document was entirely forgotten; the camp-meeting passed, and it was not read until the General Conference. You might say that it was only a letter. Yes, it was a letter, but prompted by the Spirit of God, to bring before your minds things that had been shown me. In these letters which I write, in the testimonies I bear, I am presenting to you that which the Lord has presented to me. I do not write one article in the paper expressing merely my own ideas. They are what God has opened before me in vision--the precious rays of light shining from the throne.  {PH117 49.1}
[PH117 49.2]          After I came to Oakland, I was weighed down with a sense of the condition of things at Battle Creek, and I, weak, powerless to help you. I knew that the leaven of unbelief was at work. Those who disregarded the plain injunctions of God's word, were disregarding the testimonies which urged them to give heed to that word. While visiting Healdsburg, last winter, I was much in prayer, and burdened with anxiety and grief. But the Lord swept back the darkness at one time while I was in prayer, and a great light filled the room. An angel of God was by my side, and I seemed to be in Battle Creek. I was in your councils; I heard words uttered, I saw and heard things that, if God willed, I wish could be forever blotted from my memory. My soul was so wounded, I knew not what to do or what to say. Some things I cannot mention. I was bidden to let no one know in regard to this, for much was yet to be developed.  {PH117 49.2}
[PH117 49.3]          I was told to gather up the light that had been given me, and let its rays shine forth to God's people.                                                                              50  I have been doing this in articles in the papers. I arose at three o'clock nearly every morning, for months, and gathered the different items written after the last two testimonies were given me in Battle Creek. I wrote out these matters, and hurried them on to you; but I had neglected to take proper care of myself, and the result was that I sank under the burden; my writings were not all finished to reach you at the General Conference.  {PH117 49.3}
[PH117 50.1]          Again, while in prayer, the Lord revealed himself. I was once more in Battle Creek. I was in many houses. I heard your words around your tables, and was sick at heart, burdened, and disgusted. The particulars, I have no liberty now to relate. I hope never to be called to mention them. I had also several most striking dreams.  {PH117 50.1}
[PH117 50.2]          After I wrote you the long letter which has been belittled by Eld. Smith as merely an expression of my own opinion, while at the southern California camp-meeting, the Lord partially removed the restriction, and I write what I do. I dare not say more now, lest I go beyond what the Spirit of the Lord has permitted me.  {PH117 50.2}
[PH117 50.3]          When Prof. Brownsberger came, I put to him a few pointed questions, more to learn how he regarded the condition of things, than to obtain information. I felt that the crisis had come. Had Eld. Smith, and those united with him, been standing in the light, they would have recognized the voice of warning and reproof; but he calls it a human work, and casts it aside. The work he is doing he will wish undone ere long. He is weaving a net around himself that he cannot easily break. This is not my opinion. What voice will you acknowledge as the voice of God? What power has the Lord in reserve to correct your errors, and show you your course as it is? What power to work in the church? You have, by your own course, closed every avenue whereby the Lord would reach you. Will he raise one from the dead to speak to you?                                                                              51   {PH117 50.3}
[PH117 51.1]          If you refuse to believe until every shadow of uncertainty, and every possibility of doubt is removed, you will never believe. The doubt that demands perfect knowledge, will never yield to faith. Faith rests upon evidence, not demonstration. The Lord requires us to obey the voice of duty, when there are other voices all around us urging us to pursue an opposite course. It requires earnest attention from us to distinguish the voice which speaks for God. We must resist and conquer inclination, and obey the voice of conscience, without parleying or compromise, lest its promptings cease, and will and impulse control. The word of the Lord comes to us all who have not resisted his Spirit by determining not to hear and obey. This voice is heard in warnings, in counsels, in reproof. It is the Lord's message of light to his people. If we wait for louder calls, or better opportunities, the light may be withdrawn, and we left in darkness.  {PH117 51.1}
[PH117 51.2]          By once neglecting to comply with the call of God's Spirit and his word, when obedience involves a cross, many have lost much--how much, they will never know till the books are opened at the final day. The pleadings of the Spirit, neglected today because pleasure or inclination leads in an opposite direction, may be powerless to convince, or even impress, tomorrow. To improve the opportunities of the present, with prompt and willing hearts, is the only way to grow in grace and the knowledge of the truth. We should ever cherish a sense that, individually, we are standing before the Lord of hosts; no word, no act, no thought, even, should be indulged, to offend the eye of the Eternal One. We shall then have no fear of man or of earthly power, because a Monarch, whose empire is the universe, who holds in his hands our individual destinies for time and eternity, is taking cognizance of all our works. If we would feel that in every place we are the servants of the Most High, we must be more circumspect; our whole life would possess to us a                                                                              52  meaning and a sacredness which earthly honors can never give.  {PH117 51.2}
[PH117 52.1]         The thoughts of the heart, the words of the lips, and every act of the life, will make our character more worthy, if the presence of God is continually felt. Let the language of the heart be, "Lo, God is here." Then the life will be pure, the character unspotted, the soul continually uplifted to the Lord. You have not pursued this course at Battle Creek. I have been shown that painful and contagious disease is upon you, which will produce spiritual death unless it is arrested. This is terrible, right at the heart of the work, where health and vitality are so essential for the health of the body.  {PH117 52.1}
[PH117 52.2]          Many are ruined by their desire for a life of ease and pleasure. Self-denial is disagreeable to them, They are constantly seeking to escape trials, that are inseparable from a course of fidelity to God. They set their hearts upon having the good things of this life. This is human success, but is it not won at the expense of future, eternal interests? The great business of life is to show ourselves to be true servants of God, loving righteousness, and hating iniquity. We should accept gratefully such measures of present happiness and present success as are found in the path of duty. Our greatest strength is realized when we feel and acknowledge our weakness. The greatest loss which any one of you in Battle Creek can suffer, is the loss of earnestness and persevering zeal to do right, the loss of strength to resist temptation, the loss of faith in the principles of truth and duty.  {PH117 52.2}
[PH117 52.3]          Let no man flatter himself that he is a successful man unless he preserves the integrity of his conscience, giving himself wholly to the truth and to God. We should move steadily forward, never losing heart or hope in the good work, whatever trials beset our path, whatever moral darkness may encompass us. Patience, faith, and love for duty, are the lessons we must learn. Subduing self, and looking                                                                              53  to Jesus, is an every-day work. The Lord will never forsake the soul that trusts in him, and seeks his aid. The crown of life is placed only upon the brow of the overcomer. There is, for every one, earnest, solemn work for God, while life lasts. As Satan's power increases, and his devices are multiplied, skill, aptness, and sharp generalship, should be exercised by those in charge of the flock of God. Not only have we each a work to do for our own souls, but we have also a duty to arouse others to gain eternal life.  {PH117 52.3}
[PH117 53.1]          It pains me to say to you in Battle Creek, your sinful neglect to walk in the light, has enshrouded you in darkness. You may now be honest in not recognizing and obeying the light; the doubts you have entertained, your neglect to heed the requirements of God, have blinded your perceptions so that darkness is now to you light, and light is darkness. God has bidden you to go forward to perfection. Christianity is a religion of progress. Light from God is full and ample, waiting our demand upon it. Whatever blessings the Lord may give, he has an infinite supply beyond, an inexhaustible store from which we may draw. Skepticism may treat the sacred claims of the gospel with jests, scoffing, and denial. The spirit of worldliness may contaminate the many and control the few; the cause of God may hold its ground only by great exertion and continual sacrifice, yet it will triumph finally.  {PH117 53.1}
[PH117 53.2]          The word is, Go forward; discharge your individual duty, and leave all consequences in the hands of God. If we move forward where Jesus leads the way, we shall see his triumph, we shall share his joy. We must share the conflicts, if we wear the crown of victory. Like Jesus, we must be made perfect through suffering. Had Christ's life been one of ease, then might we safely yield to sloth. Since his life was marked with continual self-denial, suffering, and self-sacrifice, we will make no complaint if we are partakers with him. We can walk                                                                              54  safely in the darkest path, if we have the Light of the world for our guide.  {PH117 53.2}
[PH117 54.1]          As I read the testimonies sent to you at Battle Creek in reference to Bro. Bell, and then compare them with the course which you have steadily pursued, I can but exclaim, How could you do just what the voice of God forbade your doing? The Lord is testing and proving you. He has warned and counseled, admonished and entreated. All these solemn admonitions will either make the church better, or decidedly worse. The oftener the Lord speaks, to correct or counsel, and you disregard his voice, the more disposed will you be to reject it again and again, till God says, "Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded; but ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof; I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh; when your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you. Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not find me; for that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the Lord, they would none of my counsel; they despised all my reproof. Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices."  {PH117 54.1}
[PH117 54.2]          Are you not halting between two opinions? Are you not neglecting to heed the light which God has given you? Take heed lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God. You know not the time of your visitation. The great sin of the Jews was that of neglecting and rejecting present opportunities. As Jesus views the state of his professed followers today, he sees base ingratitude, hollow formalism, hypocritical insincerity, Pharisaical pride and apostasy.  {PH117 54.2}
[PH117 54.3]         The tears which Christ shed on the crest of Olivet were for the impenitence and ingratitude of every                                                                              55  individual to the close of time. He sees his love despised. The soul's temple courts have been converted into places of unholy traffic. Selfishness, mammon, malice, envy, pride, passion, are all cherished in the human heart. His warnings are rejected and ridiculed, his ambassadors are treated with indifference, their words seem as idle tales. Jesus has spoken by mercies, but these mercies have been unacknowledged; he has spoken by solemn warnings, but these warnings have been rejected.  {PH117 54.3}
[PH117 55.1]          I entreat you who have long professed the faith and who still pay outward homage to Christ, do not deceive your own souls. It is the whole heart that Jesus prizes. The loyalty of the soul is alone of value in the sight of God. "If thou, even thou, hadst known in this thy day, the things which belong to thy peace." "Thou, even thou"--Christ is at this moment addressing you personally, stooping from his throne, yearning with pitying tenderness over those who feel not their danger, who have no pity for themselves.  {PH117 55.1}
[PH117 55.2]          Many have a name to live, while they have become spiritually dead. These will one day say, "Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you, depart from me, ye that work iniquity." Woe will be pronounced against thee, if thou loiter and linger until the Sun of Righteousness shall set; the blackness of eternal night will be thy portion. Oh that the cold, formal, worldly heart may be melted! Christ shed not only tears for us, but his own blood. Will not these manifestations of his love arouse us to deep humiliation before God? It is humility and self-abasement that we need, to be approved of God.  {PH117 55.2}
[PH117 55.3]          The man whom God is leading will be dissatisfied with himself because the light from the perfect Man shines upon him. But those who lose sight of the Pattern, and place an undue estimate upon themselves,                                                                              56  will see faults to criticise in others, they will be sharp, suspicious, condemnatory, they will be tearing others down to build themselves up.  {PH117 55.3}
[PH117 56.1]          When the Lord last presented your case before me, and made known to me that you had not regarded the light which had been given you, I was bidden to speak to you plainly in his name, for his anger was kindled against you. These words were spoken to me, "Your work is appointed you of God. Many will not hear you, for they refused to hear the Great Teacher; many will not be corrected, for their ways are right in their own eyes. Yet bear to them the reproofs and warnings I shall give you, whether they will hear, or forbear."  {PH117 56.1}
[PH117 56.2]          I bear to you the testimony of the Lord. All will hear his voice who are willing to be corrected; but those who have been deceived by the enemy are not willing now to come to the light, lest their deeds shall be reproved. Many of you cannot discern the work and presence of God. You know not that it is he. The Lord is still gracious, willing to pardon all who turn to him with penitence and faith. Said the Lord,--Many know not at what they stumble. They heed not the voice of God, but follow the sight of their own eyes, and the understanding of their own hearts. Unbelief and skepticism have taken the place of faith. They have forsaken me.  {PH117 56.2}
[PH117 56.3]          I was shown that fathers and mothers have departed from their simplicity, and neglected the holy calling of the gospel. The Lord has admonished them not to corrupt themselves by adopting the customs and maxims of the world. Christ would have given them the unsearchable riches of his grace freely and abundantly, but they prove themselves unworthy.  {PH117 56.3}
[PH117 56.4]          Many are lifting up the soul unto vanity. No sooner does a person imagine that he possesses any talent which might be of use in the cause of God than he overestimates the gift, and is inclined to think too highly of himself, as though he were a pillar of the church. The work which he might do with                                                                              57  acceptance, he leaves for some one else with less ability than he considers himself to possess. He thinks and talks of a higher station. He must let his light shine before men; but instead of grace, meekness, lowliness of mind, kindness, gentleness, and love shining in his life, self, important self, appears everywhere.  {PH117 56.4}
[PH117 57.1]          The spirit of Christ should so control our character and conduct, that our influence may ever bless, encourage, and edify. Our thoughts, our words, our acts, should testify that we are born of God, and that the peace of Christ rules in our hearts. In this way we throw around us the gracious radiance of which the Saviour speaks when he enjoins upon us to let our light shine forth to men. Thus we are leaving a bright track heavenward. In this way, all who are connected with Christ may become more effectual preachers of righteousness than by the most able pulpit effort without this heavenly unction. Those light-bearers shed forth the purest radiance that are the least conscious of their own brightness, as those flowers diffuse the sweetest fragrance that make the least display.  {PH117 57.1}
[PH117 57.2]          Our people are making very dangerous mistakes. We cannot praise and flatter any man without doing him a great wrong; those who do this will meet with serious disappointment. They trust too fully to finite man, and not enough to God who never errs. The eager desire to urge men into public notice is an evidence of backsliding from God, and friendship with the world. It is the spirit which characterizes the present day. It shows that men have not the mind of Jesus; spiritual blindness and poverty of soul have come upon them. Often persons of inferior minds look away from Jesus to a merely human standard, by which they are not made conscious of their own littleness, and hence have an undue estimate of their own capabilities and endowments. There is among us as a people an idolatry of human instrumentalities and mere human talent, and these                                                                              58  even of a superficial character. We must die to self, and cherish humble, childlike faith. God's people have departed from their simplicity. They have not made God their strength, and they are weak and faint, spiritually.  {PH117 57.2}
[PH117 58.1]          I have been shown that the spirit of the world is fast leavening the church. You are following the same path as did ancient Israel. There is the same falling away from your holy calling as God's peculiar people. You are having fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness. Your concord with unbelievers has provoked the Lord's displeasure. You know not the things that belong to your peace, and they are fast being hid from your eyes. Your neglect to follow the light will place you in a more unfavorable position than the Jews upon whom Christ pronounced a woe.  {PH117 58.1}
[PH117 58.2]          In the testimonies sent to Battle Creek, I have given you the light God has given to me. In no case have I given my own judgment or opinion. I have enough to write of what has been shown me, without falling back on my own opinions. You are doing as the children of Israel did again and again. Instead of repenting before God, you reject his words, and attribute all the warnings and reproof to the messenger whom the Lord sends.  {PH117 58.2}
[PH117 58.3]          I have been shown that unbelief in the testimonies has been steadily increasing as the people backslide from God. It is all through our ranks, all over the field. But few know what our churches are to experience. I saw that at present we are under divine forbearance; but no one can say how long this will continue. No one knows how great the mercy that has been exercised toward us. But few are heartily devoted to God. There are only a few who, like the stars in a tempestuous night, shine here and there among the clouds.  {PH117 58.3}
[PH117 58.4]          Many who complacently listen to the truths from God's word are dead spiritually, while they profess to live. For years they have come and gone in our                                                                              59  congregations, but they seem only less and less sensible of the value of revealed truth. They do not hunger and thirst after righteousness. They have no relish for spiritual or divine things. They assent to the truth, but are not sanctified through it. Neither the word of God nor the testimonies of his Spirit have any lasting impression upon them. Just according to the light, the privileges, and opportunities which they have slighted, will be their condemnation. Many who preach the truth to others, are themselves cherishing iniquity. The entreaties of the Spirit of God, like divine melody, the promises of his word so rich and abundant, its threatenings against idolatry and disobedience,--all are powerless to melt the world-hardened heart.  {PH117 58.4}
[PH117 59.1]          Many of our people are lukewarm. They occupy the position of Meroz, neither for nor against, neither cold nor hot. They hear the words of Christ, but do them not. If they remain in this state, he will reject them with abhorrence. Many in Battle Creek who have had great light, great opportunities, and every spiritual advantage, praise Christ and the world with the same breath. They bow themselves before God and mammon. They make merry with the children of the world, and yet claim to be blessed with the children of God. They wish to have Christ as their Saviour, but will not bear the cross and wear his yoke. May the Lord have mercy upon you; for if you go on in this way, nothing but evil can be prophesied concerning you.  {PH117 59.1}
[PH117 59.2]          The patience of God has an object, but you are defeating it. He is allowing a state of things to come that you would fain see counteracted by and by, but it will be too late. God commanded Elijah to anoint the cruel and deceitful Hazael king over Syria, that he might be a scourge to idolatrous Israel. Who knows whether God will not give you up to the deceptions you love? Who knows but that the preachers who are faithful, firm, and true may be the last who shall offer the gospel of peace to                                                                              60  our unthankful churches? It may be that the destroyers are already training under the hand of Satan and only wait the departure of a few more standard-bearers to take their places, and with the voice of the false prophet cry, Peace, peace, when the Lord hath not spoken peace. I seldom weep, but now I find my eyes blinded with tears; they are falling upon my paper as I write. It may be that ere long all prophesyings among us will be at an end, and the voice which has stirred the people may no longer disturb their carnal slumbers.  {PH117 59.2}
[PH117 60.1]          When God shall work his strange work on the earth, when holy hands bear the ark no longer, woe will be upon the people. Oh, that thou hadst known, even thou, in this thy day, the things that belong unto the peace. Oh, that our people may, as did Nineveh, repent with all their might and believe with all their heart, that God may turn away his fierce anger from them.  {PH117 60.1}
[PH117 60.2]          I am filled with pain and anguish as I see parents conforming to the world, and allowing their children to meet the worldly standard at such a time as this. I am filled with horror as the condition of families professing present truth is opened before me. The profligacy of youth and even children is almost incredible. Parents do not know that secret vice is destroying and defacing the image of God in their children. The sins which characterized the Sodomites exist among them. The parents are responsible for they have not educated their children to love and obey God. They have not restrained them, nor diligently taught them the way of the Lord. They have allowed them to go out and to come in when they chose, and to associate with worldlings. These worldly influences which counteract parental teaching and authority are to be found largely in so-called good society. By their dress, looks, amusements, they surround themselves with an atmosphere which is opposed to Christ.  {PH117 60.2}
[PH117 60.3]          Our only safety is to stand as God's peculiar                                                                              61  people. We must not yield one inch to the customs and fashions of this degenerate age; but stand in moral independence, making no compromise with its corrupt and idolatrous practices.  {PH117 60.3}
[PH117 61.1]          It will require courage and independence to rise above the religious standard of the Christian world. They do not follow the Saviour's example of self-denial; they make no sacrifice; they are constantly seeking to evade the cross which Christ declares to be the token of discipleship.  {PH117 61.1}
[PH117 61.2]          What can I say to arouse our people? I tell you not a few ministers who stand before the people to explain the Scriptures are defiled. Their hearts are corrupt, their hands unclean. Yet many are crying, Peace, peace; and the workers of iniquity are not alarmed. The Lord's hand is not shortened that he cannot save, nor his ear heavy that he cannot hear; but it is our sins that have separated us from God. The church is corrupt because of her members who defile their bodies, and pollute their souls.  {PH117 61.2}
[PH117 61.3]          If all of those who come together for meetings of edification and prayer, could be regarded as true worshipers, then might we hope, though much would still remain to be done for us. But it is in vain to deceive ourselves. Things are far from being what the appearance would indicate. From a distant view much may appear beautiful, which, upon close examination, will be found full of deformities. The prevailing spirit of our time is that of infidelity and apostasy--a spirit of pretended illumination because of a knowledge of the truth, but in reality of the blindest presumption. There is a spirit of opposition to the plain word of God, and to the testimony of his Spirit. There is a spirit of idolatrous exaltation of mere human reason above the revealed wisdom of God.  {PH117 61.3}
[PH117 61.4]          There are men among us in responsible positions who hold that the opinions of a few conceited philosophers, so-called, are more to be trusted than the truth of the Bible, or the testimonies of the Holy                                                                              62  Spirit. Such a faith as that of Paul, Peter, or John, is considered old-fashioned, and insufferable at the present day. It is pronounced absurd, mystical, and unworthy of an intelligent mind.  {PH117 61.4}
[PH117 62.1]          God has shown me that these men are Hazaels to prove a scourge to our people. They are wise above what is written. This unbelief of the very truths of God's word because human judgment cannot comprehend the mysteries of his work, is found in every district, in all ranks of society. It is taught in most of our schools, and comes into the lessons of the nurseries. Thousands who profess to be Christians, give heed to lying spirits. Everywhere the spirit of darkness in the garb of religion will confront you.  {PH117 62.1}
[PH117 62.2]          If all that appears to be divine life were such in reality; if all who profess to present the truth to the world were preaching for the truth, and not against it, and if they were men of God, guided by his Spirit, --then might we see something cheering amid the prevailing moral darkness. But the spirit of anti-christ is prevailing to such an extent as never before. Well may we exclaim, "Help, Lord, for the godly man ceaseth, for the faithful fail from among the children of men." I know that many think far too favorably of the present time. These ease-loving souls will be engulfed in the general ruin. Yet we do not despair. We have been inclined to think that where there are no faithful ministers, there can be no true Christians; but this is not the case. God has promised that where the shepherds are not true he will take charge of the flock himself. God has never made the flock wholly dependent upon human instrumentalities. But the days of purification of the church are hastening on apace. God will have a people pure and true. In the mighty sifting soon to take place, we shall be better able to measure the strength of Israel. The signs reveal that the time is near when the Lord will manifest that his fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor.                                                                              63   {PH117 62.2}
[PH117 63.1]          The days are fast approaching when there will be great perplexity and confusion. Satan, clothed in angel robes, will deceive, if possible, the very elect. There will be gods many and lords many. Every wind of doctrine will be blowing. Those who have rendered supreme homage to "science falsely so-called," will not be the leaders then. Those who have trusted to intellect, genius, or talent, will not then stand at the head of rank and file. They did not keep pace with the light. Those who have proved themselves unfaithful will not then be entrusted with the flock. In the last solemn work few great men will be engaged. They are self-sufficient, independent of God, and he cannot use them. The Lord has faithful servants, who in the shaking, testing time will be disclosed to view. There are precious ones now hidden who have not bowed the knee to Baal. They have not had the light which you have had shining in a concentrated blaze in Battle Creek. But, it may be under a rough and uninviting exterior the pure brightness of a genuine Christian character will be revealed. In the day-time we look toward heaven, but do not see the stars. They are there, fixed in the firmament, but the eye cannot distinguish them. In the night we behold their genuine lustre.  {PH117 63.1}
[PH117 63.2]          The time is not far distant when the test will come to every soul. The mark of the beast will be urged upon us. Those who have step by step yielded to worldly demands, and conformed to worldly customs, will not find it a hard matter to yield to the powers that be, rather than subject themselves to derision, insult, threatened imprisonment, and death. The contest is between the commandments of God and the commandments of men. In this time, the gold will be separated from the dross in the church. True godliness will be clearly distinguished from the appearance and tinsel of it. Many a star that we have admired for its brilliancy, will then go out in darkness. Chaff like a cloud will be borne away on                                                                              64  the wind, even from places where we see only floors of rich wheat. All who assume the ornaments of the sanctuary, but are not clothed with Christ's righteousness, will appear in the shame of their own nakedness.  {PH117 63.2}
[PH117 64.1]          When trees without fruit are cut down as cumberers of the ground, when multitudes of false brethren are distinguished from the true, then the hidden ones will be revealed to view, and with hosannas range under the banner of Christ. Those who have been timid and self-distrustful, will declare themselves openly for Christ and his truth. The most weak and hesitating in the church, will be as David--willing to do and dare. The deeper the night for God's people, the more brilliant the stars. Satan will sorely harass the faithful, but, in the name of Jesus, they will come off more than conquerors. Then will the church of Christ appear "fair as the moon, clear as the sun, and terrible as an army with banners."  {PH117 64.1}
[PH117 64.2]          The seeds of truth that are being sown by missionary efforts, will then spring up, and blossom, and bear fruit. Souls will receive the truth who will endure tribulation, and praise God that they may suffer for Jesus. "In the world ye shall have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world." When the overflowing scourge shall pass through the earth, when the fan is purging Jehovah's floor, God will be the help of his people. The trophies of Satan may be exalted on high, but the faith of the pure and holy will not be daunted.  {PH117 64.2}
[PH117 64.3]          Elijah took Elisha from the plough, and threw upon him his mantle of consecration. The call to this great and solemn work was presented to men of learning and position; had these been little in their own eyes, and trusted fully in the Lord, he would have honored them with bearing his standard in triumph to the victory. But they separated from God, yielded to the influence of the world, and the Lord rejected them.                                                                              65   {PH117 64.3}
[PH117 65.1]          Many have exalted science, and lost sight of the God of science. This was not the case with the church in the purest times.  {PH117 65.1}
[PH117 65.2]          God will work a work in our day that but few anticipate. He will raise up and exalt among us those who are taught rather by the unction of his Spirit, than by the outward training of scientific institutions. These facilities are not to be despised or condemned; they are ordained of God, but they can furnish only the exterior qualifications. God will manifest that he is not dependent on learned, self-important mortals.  {PH117 65.2}
[PH117 65.3]          There are few really consecrated men among us; few who have fought and conquered in the battle with self. Real conversion is a decided change of feelings and motives; it is a virtual taking leave of worldly connections, a hastening from their spiritual atmosphere, a withdrawing from the controlling power of their thoughts, opinions, and influences. The separation causes pain and bitterness to both parties. It is the variance which Christ declares that he came to bring. But the converted will feel a continual longing desire that their friends shall forsake all for Christ, knowing that unless they do, there will be a final and eternal separation. The true Christian cannot while with unbelieving friends, be light, and trifling. The value of the souls for whom Christ died, is too great.  {PH117 65.3}
[PH117 65.4]          "He that forsaketh not all that he hath," says Jesus, "cannot be my disciple." Whatever shall divert the affections from God, must be given up. Mammon is the idol of many. Its golden chain binds them to Satan. Reputation and worldly honor are worshiped by another class. The life of selfish ease and freedom from responsibility, is the idol of others. These are Satan's snares, set for unwary feet. But these slavish bands must be broken; the flesh must be crucified with the affections and lusts. We cannot be half the Lord's and half the world's. We are not God's people unless we are such entirely.                                                                              66  Every weight, every besetting sin, must be laid aside. God's watchmen will not cry, "Peace, peace," when God has not spoken peace. The voice of the faithful watchmen will be heard: "Go ye out from hence, touch not the unclean. Go ye out of the midst of her. Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord."  {PH117 65.4}
[PH117 66.1]          The church cannot measure herself by the world, nor by the opinion of men, nor by what she once was. Her faith and her position in the world as they now are, must be compared with what they would have been if her course had been continually onward and upward. The church will be weighed in the balances of the sanctuary. If her moral character and spiritual state do not correspond with the benefits and blessings God has conferred upon her, she will be found wanting. The light has been shining clear and definite upon her pathway, and the light of 1882 calls her to an account. If her talents are unimproved, if her fruit is not perfect before God, if her light has become darkness, she is indeed found wanting. The knowledge of our state as God views it, seems to be hidden from us. We see, but perceive not; we hear, but do not understand; and we rest as unconcerned as if the pillar of cloud by day, and the pillar of fire by night, rested upon our sanctuary. We profess to know God, and to believe the truth; but in works deny him. Our deeds are directly adverse to the principles of truth and righteousness, by which we profess to be governed.                                                    -    {PH117 66.1}
[PH117 66.2]                  Workers in our College.          The very foundation of all true prosperity for our College, is a close union with God, on the part of teachers and students. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. His precepts should be acknowledged as the rule of life. In the Bible, the                                                                              67  will of God, is revealed to his children. Wherever it is read, in the family circle, the school, or the church, all should give quiet and devout attention, as if God were really present, and speaking to them.  {PH117 66.2}
[PH117 67.1]          A high religious standard has not always been maintained in our school. A majority of both teachers and students, are constantly seeking to keep their religion out of sight. Especially has this been the case since worldlings have patronized the College. Christ requires from all his followers, open, manly confessions of their faith. Each must take his position, and be what God designed he should be, a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men. Every Christian is to be a light, not hid under a bushel or under a bed, but put on a candlestick, that it may give light to all that are in the house.  {PH117 67.1}
[PH117 67.2]          The teachers in our College should not conform to worldly customs, or adopt worldly principles. The attributes which God prizes most, are charity and purity. These attributes should be cherished by every Christian. "Every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God." "If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us." "We shall see him as he is; and every man that hath this hope in him, purifieth himself, even as He is pure."  {PH117 67.2}
[PH117 67.3]          God has been moving upon the hearts of young men to devote themselves to the ministry. They have come to our College in the hope of finding advantages there which they could obtain nowhere else. But the solemn convictions of the Spirit of God have been lightly regarded by teachers who know but little of the worth of souls, and feel but little burden for their salvation, and they have endeavored to turn the youth from the path into which God had been seeking to lead them.  {PH117 67.3}
[PH117 67.4]          The compensation of well-qualified teachers, is much higher than that of our ministers; and the teacher does not labor nearly so hard, or subject                                                                              68  himself to so great inconvenience, as the minister who gives himself wholly to the work. These things have been presented before the youth, and they have been encouraged to distrust God, and disbelieve his promises. Many have chosen the easier course, and have prepared themselves to teach the sciences, or to engage in some other employment, instead of preaching the truth.  {PH117 67.4}
[PH117 68.1]          Thus God's work has been hindered by unconsecrated teachers, who profess to believe the truth, but who have not the love of it in their hearts. The educated young man is taught to look upon his abilities as too precious to be devoted to the service of Christ. But has God no claims upon him? Who gave the power to obtain this mental discipline, and these accomplishments? Are they held on terms altogether independent of Jehovah?  {PH117 68.1}
[PH117 68.2]          Many a youth who is ignorant of the world, ignorant of his own weakness, ignorant of the future, feels no need of a Divine hand to point out his course. He considers himself fully competent to guide his own bark amid the breakers. Let such youth remember that wherever they may go, they are not beyond the domain of God. They are not free to choose what they will without consulting the will of their Creator.  {PH117 68.2}
[PH117 68.3]          Talent is ever best developed and best appreciated where it is most needed. But this truth is overlooked by many eager aspirants for distinction. Though superficial in religious experience and mental attainments, their short-sighted ambition covets a higher sphere of action than that in which Providence has placed them. The Lord does not call them as he did Joseph and Daniel, to withstand the temptations of worldly honor and high station. But they force themselves into positions of danger, and desert the only post of duty for which they are fitted.  {PH117 68.3}
[PH117 68.4]          The Macedonian cry is coming to us from all directions. Send us laborers, is the urgent appeal from East and West. All around us are fields, "white                                                                              69  already to harvest." "And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal," Is it not folly to turn from these fields, to engage in a business that can yield only pecuniary gain? Christ wants not selfish workers, who are seeking only for the highest wages. He calls for those who are willing to become poor for his sake, as he became poor for them. What were the inducements presented before Christ in this world? Insults, mockery, poverty, shame, rejection, betrayal, and crucifixion. Shall the under-shepherds seek for an easier lot than that of their Master?  {PH117 68.4}
[PH117 69.1]          The word of God is a great simplifier of life's complicated pursuits. To every earnest seeker, it imparts a divine wisdom. We should never forget that we have been redeemed by suffering. It is the precious blood of Christ that makes atonement for us. By toil and sacrifice and peril, by losses of worldly goods, and in agony of soul, the gospel has been borne to the world. God calls young men in the vigor and strength of their youth, to share with him self-denial, sacrifice, and suffering. If they accept the call, he will make them his instruments to save souls for whom he died. But he would have them count the cost, and enter upon their work with a full knowledge of the conditions upon which they serve a crucified Redeemer.  {PH117 69.1}
[PH117 69.2]          I can hardly restrain my indignation when I think how God's purpose in the establishment of our College, has been disregarded. Those who have a form of godliness, are denying, by their unconsecrated lives, the power of the truth to make men wise unto salvation. Look at the history of the apostles, who suffered poverty, disgrace, abuse, and even death, for the truth's sake. They rejoiced that they were accounted worthy to suffer for Christ.  {PH117 69.2}
[PH117 69.3]          If great results can be attained by great efforts and great suffering, who of us that are subjects of divine grace can refuse the sacrifice? The gospel of Christ includes in its requirements every soul that                                                                              70  has heard the message of glad tidings. What shall we render unto God for all his benefits to us? His matchless mercy can never be repaid. We can, only by willing obedience and grateful service, testify our loyalty, and crown with honor our Redeemer.  {PH117 69.3}
[PH117 70.1]          I have no higher wish than to see our youth imbued with that spirit of pure religion which will lead them to take up the cross and follow Jesus. Go forth, young disciples of Christ, controlled by principle, clad in the robes of purity and righteousness. Your Saviour will guide you into the position best suited to your talents, and where you can be most useful. In the path of duty you may be sure of receiving grace sufficient for your day.  {PH117 70.1}
[PH117 70.2]          The preaching of the gospel is God's chosen agency for the salvation of souls. But our first work should be to bring our own hearts into harmony with God, and then we are prepared to labor for others. In former days there was great searching of heart among our earnest workers. They counseled together, and united in humble, fervent prayer for divine guidance. There has been a decline in the true missionary spirit among ministers and teachers. Yet Christ's coming is nearer than when we believed. Every passing day leaves us one less to proclaim the message of warning to the world. Would that there were today more earnest intercession with God, greater humility, greater purity, and greater faith!  {PH117 70.2}
[PH117 70.3]         The curse which fell upon the fig-tree because it bore no fruit, now threatens to fall upon the church at Battle Creek. God has planted important institutions among you, yet you have not been the more circumspect, lest your influence shall be on the wrong side. W. C. Gage, C. W. Stone, J. H. Kellogg, and others who occupy responsible positions, have not stood up in their integrity to resist the spirit and influence of the world. They have been cautioned and reproved, but they have at times been far more ready to yield to a worldly influence than to the Spirit of God.                                                                              71   {PH117 70.3}
[PH117 71.1]          All are in constant danger. I warn the church to beware of those who preach to others the word of life, but do not themselves cherish the spirit of humility and self-denial which it inculcates. Such men cannot be depended on in a crisis. They disregard the voice of God as readily as did Saul, and like him many stand ready to justify their course. When rebuked by the Lord through his prophet, Saul stoutly asserted that he had obeyed the voice of God; but the bleating sheep and lowing oxen testified that he had not. In the same manner do many today assert their loyalty to God, but their concerts and other pleasure gatherings, their worldly associations, their glorifying of self, and eager desire for popularity, all testify that they have not obeyed his voice. "As for my people, children are their oppressors, and women rule over them."  {PH117 71.1}
[PH117 71.2]         That is a high standard which the gospel sets before us. The consistent Christian is not only a new but a noble creature in Christ Jesus. He is an unfailing light to show others the way to Heaven and to God. He who is drawing his life from Christ, will have no desire for the frivolous, unsatisfying enjoyments of the world.  {PH117 71.2}
[PH117 71.3]          Among the youth will be found great diversity of character and education. Some have lived in an element of arbitrary restraint and harshness, which has developed in them a spirit of obstinacy and defiance. Other have been household pets, allowed by over-fond parents to follow their own inclinations. Every defect has been excused, until their character is deformed. To deal successfully with these different minds, the teacher needs to exercise great tact and delicacy in management, as well as firmness in government.  {PH117 71.3}
[PH117 71.4]          Dislike and even contempt for proper regulations will often be manifested. Some will exercise all their ingenuity in evading penalties, while others will display a reckless indifference to the consequences of transgression. All this will call for more                                                                              72  patience and greater exertion on the part of those who are entrusted with their education.  {PH117 71.4}
[PH117 72.1]          One of the greatest difficulties with which teachers have had to contend, is the failure on the part of parents to co-operate in administering the discipline of the College. If the parents would stand pledged to sustain the authority of the teacher, much insubordination, vice, and profligacy would be prevented. Parents should require their children to respect and obey rightful authority. They should labor with unremitting care and diligence to instruct, guide, and restrain their children, until right habits are firmly established. With such training the youth would be in subjection to the institutions of society, and the general restraints of moral obligation.  {PH117 72.1}
[PH117 72.2]          Both by precept and example, the youth should be taught simplicity of dress and manners, industry, sobriety, and economy. Many students are extravagant in expending the means furnished them by their parents. They try to show themselves superior to their associates by a lavish use of money for display and self-indulgence. In some institutions of learning, this matter has been regarded of so great consequence that the dress of the student is prescribed and his use of money limited by law. But indulgent parents and indulged students will find some way to evade the law. We would resort to no such means. We ask Christian parents to take all these matters under careful, prayerful consideration, to seek counsel from the word of God, and then endeavor to act in accordance with its teachings.  {PH117 72.2}
[PH117 72.3]          If facilities for manual labor were provided in connection with our school, and students were required to devote a portion of their time to some active employment, it would prove a safeguard against many of the evil influences that prevail in institutions of learning. Manly, useful occupations, substituted for frivolous and corrupting diversions, would give legitimate scope for the exuberance of youthful life, and would promote sobriety and                                                                              73  stability of character. All possible effort should be made to encourage a desire for moral and physical, as well as mental improvement. If girls were taught how to cook, especially how to bake good bread, their education would be of far greater value. A knowledge of useful labor would prevent, to a great extent, that sickly sentimentalism which has been and is still ruining thousands. The exercise of the muscles as well as the brain will encourage taste for the homely duties of practical life.  {PH117 72.3}
[PH117 73.1]          The present age is one of show and surface work in education. Bro. Bell possesses naturally a love for system and thoroughness, and these have become habit by lifelong training and discipline. He has been approved of God for this. His labors are of real worth because he will not allow students to be superficial. But in his very first efforts to establish a school in Battle Creek he encountered many obstacles. Had he been less resolute and persevering, he would have given up the struggle. Some of the parents neglected to sustain the school, and their children did not respect the teacher because he wore poor clothing. They allowed his appearance to prejudice them against him. This spirit of disrespect was rebuked of the Lord, and Bro. Bell was encouraged in his work. But the complaints and unwise reports carried home by the children, strengthened the prejudice of the parents. While Bro. Bell was seeking to inculcate true principles and establish right habits, over-indulged children were complaining of their taxing studies. These very ones, I was shown, were suffering because the mind was not sufficiently occupied with proper subjects. Their thoughts were upon demoralizing matters, and both mind and body were enfeebled through the habit of self-abuse. It was this vile practice, not over-study, that caused the frequent illness of these children, and prevented them from making the advancement which the parents desired.  {PH117 73.1}
[PH117 73.2]          The Lord approved of the general course of Bro.                                                                              74  Bell, as he was laying the foundation for the school which is now in operation. But the man has labored too hard, without a firm, blessed, strengthening home influence to lighten his burdens. Under the strain of over-work, he has made some mistakes, not half so grievous, however, as those of persons who have cherished bitterness against him. In his connection with the youth, he has had to meet that spirit of rebellion and defiance which the apostle declares to be one of the signs of the last days.  {PH117 73.2}
[PH117 74.1]          Some of the teachers in the College have failed to realize the responsibility of their position. They have not themselves been learners in the school of Christ, and hence they have not been prepared to instruct others. Some things have occurred that have strengthened the irreligious element in the school. Strong feelings of disunion have existed among the teachers. There has been considerable dissatisfaction with Bro. Bell's manner of dealing with students. He has not always pursued such a course as would exert the best influence. To some, he has seemed harsh and unsympathetic. He could not tolerate the listless indifference which students at times manifested. That which interested him, he thought should interest his class. The stinging remarks which he would make at times, left most disagreeable impressions upon sensitive minds that did not know him well.  {PH117 74.1}
[PH117 74.2]          Among the students will be found some of idle, vicious habits. These will need reproof and discipline; but if they cannot be reformed, let them not be driven farther toward the pit by impatience and harshness. Teachers should ever remember that the youth under their charge are the purchase of the blood of Christ, and younger members of the Lord's family. Christ made an infinite sacrifice to redeem them. And teachers should feel that they are to stand as missionaries, to win these students to Jesus. If they are naturally combative, let them carefully guard against the indulgence of this trait.                                                                              75  Those who have passed the critical period of youth, should never forget the temptations and trials of early life, and how much they wanted sympathy, kindness, and love.  {PH117 74.2}
[PH117 75.1]          He who devotes himself to arduous public labor in the cause of humanity, often finds little time to devote to his own family, and, in one sense, is left almost without a family and without fireside, social influences. It has been thus with Bro. Bell. His mind has been constantly taxed. He had little opportunity to win the affections of his children, or to give them needed restraint and guidance. They were nervous and willful. A firm, discreet, loving mother, could have controlled these unsubmissive children, and Bro. Bell might have had a far happier home.  {PH117 75.1}
[PH117 75.2]          Few can know how heavy the burdens Bro. Bell has borne in consequence of these things, which I have merely touched upon. He has frequently gone to the school-room so weighed down with perplexing, unhappy thoughts, that it has seemed almost impossible for him to give attention to present duties.  {PH117 75.2}
[PH117 75.3]          Those in the College who have found so much fault with Bro. Bell, have been more faulty than he, when they had nothing to make them so. Bro. Ramsey has many complaints to make in regard to Bro. Bell's management, but that which would be tolerated in Bro. Bell because of his former labors of love will be unbearable in a youth. Bro. Ramsey manifests a severity and sharpness in school entirely inappropriate for one of his age and position. When he shall have learned patience, humility, and self-control at home, at school, and wherever he may be, then it will appear at least less criminal in him to make charges against Bro. Bell. Bro. Ramsey has good abilities, and will make a successful teacher if he does not think more highly of himself than he ought to think. But when he feels sufficient in himself, he is a very weak man. When he relies wholly upon God, then he can employ all his powers to the                                                                              76  best account. Bro. Miller is not a man of deep piety. He is firm, decided, persevering, but self-conceited.  {PH117 75.3}
[PH117 76.1]          The worst thing that ever happened to Battle Creek College was the visit of Mr. Hamill, the teacher of elocution. Fascinated with this branch of knowledge, many forgot our position as a peculiar and holy people. They permitted themselves to be led away from God, and some souls will be lost in consequence. The fault was not with Mr. Hamill. He worked in accordance with his faith. But those who forgot all higher interests in their zeal to pursue this new study, have done no credit to themselves or to the cause they represented. Some made themselves ridiculous. Though God has reproved their error in mingling with the world, others have done the same thing, and with their spiritual blindness and want of consecration, they continue to repeat the same error.  {PH117 76.1}
[PH117 76.2]          Bro. Stone has not at all times acted in accordance with his faith. He has not heeded the testimonies of the Spirit of God, but has opened to the school a door whereby they could connect with the world. He might be a useful man if he would overcome his self-indulgent disposition. He has some excellent qualities. His talent for music might be a power for good, if held as God's gift and consecrated to his service. But it has been the means of leading him and others into friendship with the world, and has done more harm than good. The Lord has spoken to Bro. Stone in reproof and encouragement. Will he obey this voice from Heaven, or will his associates and habits prove too strong for him. He must give an account for his talents, whether they have been used to glorify God or to please himself and others who had not the fear of God before them.  {PH117 76.2}
[PH117 76.3]          There are others in the College who need a thorough conversion. Let none seek to discern the mote that is in their brother's eye, when they have a beam in their own eye. Each should cleanse his own soul                                                                              77  temple from its defilement. Let envy and jealousy go with the accumulated rubbish. Exalted privileges and heavenly attainments, purchased for us at an immense cost, are freely presented for our acceptance. God holds us individually accountable for the measure of light and privileges he has given us. And if we refuse to render unto God the improvement of the talents committed to our trust, we forfeit his favor.  {PH117 76.3}
[PH117 77.1]          Many in Battle Creek have yielded to Satan's temptations until their hearts have become exceedingly hard. They are unsympathetic and critical, judging and condemning others, as though God had placed them, poor erring mortals, upon the judgment seat. There has not been in the cause of God a more hearty, earnest, thorough workman than Bro. Bell. Had his accusers felt as deep an interest in the prosperity of the cause of God, and applied their powers as has he, they would not have had time or disposition to condemn his work. They would better by far have sympathized with him.  {PH117 77.1}
[PH117 77.2]          Let his brethren consider, without prejudice or envy, the work he has been doing for years, to promote the educational interest in Battle Creek; let them consider the other branches of labor that have fallen upon him, and then compare their own work and its results with his industry and achievements; their wages with his remuneration, and see how these will stand in review before themselves and before God.  {PH117 77.2}
[PH117 77.3]          Prof. McLearn would have served you well had he not been flattered by some and condemned by others. He became confused. He had traits of character that needed to be suppressed. In their enthusiasm, some have given him undue confidence and praise. You have placed the man where it will be difficult for him to recover himself, and find his true position. He has been sacrificed by both parties in the church, because they failed to heed the admonitions of the Spirit of God. This is injustice to him. He had newly come to the faith, and was not prepared for the developments which have been                                                                              78  made. Had the church heeded the counsels of God's Spirit; had they individually set about the work of reform, instead of vindicating themselves; had they humbled their own hearts, Brn. Bell and McLearn with the rest, these two teachers might have harmonized. But they have been rent asunder by a church which was blinded by the adversary of souls, and upon which the rebuke of God is resting.  {PH117 77.3}
[PH117 78.1]          Unless the church become united in sentiment, the work of future teachers in the College will be anything but easy or desirable. While upheld by one party, they will be criticised by the other. This of itself is sufficient to make the work of any teacher extremely difficult. Both teachers and students will be subject to party preferences and feelings, which are certain death to spirituality.  {PH117 78.1}
[PH117 78.2]          How little we know of the bearing our acts will have upon the future history of ourselves and others. Many think it is of little importance what they do. It will do no harm for them to attend this concert, or unite with the world in that amusement, if they wish to do so. Thus Satan leads and controls their desires, and they do not consider that the results may be most momentous. It may be the link in the chain of events which binds a soul in the snare of Satan, and determines his eternal ruin.  {PH117 78.2}
[PH117 78.3]          Every act, however small, has its place in the great drama of life. Consider that the desire for a single gratification of appetite introduced sin into our world, with its terrible consequences. Unhallowed marriages of the sons of God with the daughters of men, resulted in apostasy which ended in the destruction of the world by a flood. The most trifling act of self-indulgence has resulted in great revolutions. This is the case now. Leading men are not circumspect. Like the children of Israel, they will not take heed to words of counsel, but follow their own inclination. They unite with a worldly element in attending gatherings where they will be brought into notice, and thus lead the way, and the people follow. What has been done once                                                                              79  will be done again by themselves and many others. Every step these take makes a lasting impression, not only on their own consciences and habits but upon those of others. This consideration gives awful dignity to human life.  {PH117 78.3}
[PH117 79.1]          My heart aches day after day and night after night for the church in Battle Creek. They are progressing, but in the back track. "The path of the just shineth more and more unto the perfect day." Their march is onward and upward. They progress from strength to strength, from grace to grace, and from glory to glory. This is the privilege of the church in Battle Creek. But oh, how different has it been! You need divine illumination. You must face square about. I know what I say. Unless you shall become Christians indeed, you will go from weakness to weakness, divisions will increase, and many souls will be led to perdition.  {PH117 79.1}
[PH117 79.2]          All I can say to you is, Take up the light which God has given you, and follow it at any cost to yourselves. This is your only safety. You have a work to do to come into harmony, and may the Lord help you to do it even if self is crucified. Gather up the rays of light that have been slighted and rejected. Gather them up with meekness, with trembling, and with fear. The sin of ancient Israel was in disregarding the expressed will of God and following their own way according to the leadings of unsanctified hearts. Modern Israel are fast following in their footsteps, and the displeasure of the Lord is as surely resting upon them.  {PH117 79.2}
[PH117 79.3]          It is never difficult to do what we love to do; but to take a course directly against our inclinations, is lifting a cross. Christ prayed that his disciples might be one, as he was one with the Father. This unity is the credentials of Christ to the world, that God sent him. When self-will is renounced in reference to matters, there will be a union of believers with Christ. This you should pray for, and work for determinedly, thus answering as far as possible the prayer of Christ for unity in his church.                                                                              80   {PH117 79.3}
[PH117 80.1]         Extracts from Previous Testimonies. ［THE        TESTIMONY, OF WHICH THE ABOVE PARAGRAPHS        ARE A PART, WAS READ IN JULY, 1881, BEFORE        THE LEADING MEMBERS OF THE BATTLE CREEK        CHURCH. IN THAT TESTIMONY THE SPIRIT OF        BITTERNESS MANIFESTED TOWARD MY HUSBAND BY        CERTAIN MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH WAS REPROVED,        AND THE RESULTS TO WHICH IT WOULD LEAD WERE        POINTED OUT. IT WAS A NEGLECT TO HEED THE        REPROOF THEN GIVEN THAT LED TO A REPETITION        OF THE SAME SIN.］            It pains me to say I have been shown that there are unruly tongues among the church members at Battle Creek. There are false tongues, that feed on mischief. There are sly, whispering tongues. There is tattling, impertinent meddling, adroit quizzing. Among the lovers of gossip, some are actuated by curiosity, others by jealousy, many by hatred against those through whom God has spoken to reprove them. All these discordant elements are at work. Some conceal their real sentiments, while others are eager to publish all they know, or even suspect, of evil against another.  {PH117 80.1}
[PH117 80.2]         I saw that the very spirit of perjury, that would turn truth into falsehood, good into evil, and innocence into crime, is now active, doing a work which savors of hell rather than of Heaven. Satan exults over the condition of God's professed people. While they are neglecting their own souls, many eagerly watch for an opportunity to criticise and condemn one to whom God has entrusted responsibilities in his work. All have defects of character, and it is not hard to find something that jealousy can interpret to his injury. "Now," say these self-constituted judges, "we have facts. We will fasten upon him an accusation from which he cannot clear himself." They wait for a fitting opportunity, and then produce their bundle of gossip, and bring forth their tit bits, against whom? against one who has served them as no other man will ever serve them, one whose hair has grown white with premature age, whose powers are enfeebled in the battle for God and the right!  {PH117 80.2}
[PH117 80.3]          In their efforts to carry a point, persons who have                                                                              81  naturally a strong imagination, are in danger of deceiving themselves and deceiving others. They gather up unguarded expressions from another, not considering that words may be uttered hastily, and hence may not reflect the real sentiments of the speaker. But those unpremeditated remarks, often so trifling as to be unworthy of notice, are viewed through Satan's magnifying glass, pondered, and repeated, until mole hills become mountains. Separated from God, the surmisers of evil become the sport of temptation. They scarcely know the strength of their feelings or the effect of their words. While condemning the errors of others, they indulge far greater errors themselves. "Consistency is a jewel."  {PH117 80.3}
[PH117 81.1]          Is there no law of kindness to be observed? Have Christians been authorized of God to criticise and condemn one another? Is it honorable, or even honest, to win from the lips of another, under the guise of friendship, secrets which have been entrusted to him, and then turn the knowledge thus gained to his injury? Is it Christian charity to gather up every floating report, to unearth everything that will cast suspicion on the character of another, and then take delight in using it to injure him? Satan exults when he can defame or wound a follower of Christ. He is the "accuser of the brethren." Shall Christians aid him in his work?  {PH117 81.1}
[PH117 81.2]          God's all-seeing eye notes the defects of all, and the ruling passion of each; yet he bears with our mistakes, and pities our weakness. He bids his people cherish the same spirit of tenderness and forbearance. True Christians will not exult in exposing the faults and deficiencies of others. They will turn away from vileness and deformity, to fix the mind upon that which is attractive and lovely. To the Christian every act of fault-finding, every word of censure or condemnation, is painful.  {PH117 81.2}
[PH117 81.3]          In the last view given the Lord sent light to his people in Battle Creek, to prevent the very state of                                                                              82  things which now exists. But when anything arises to cast the least shade of doubt on the testimonies, the whole work is cast aside as questionable. There have always been men and women who profess the truth, who have not conformed their lives to its sanctifying influence; men who are unfaithful, yet deceiving themselves, and encouraging themselves in sin. Unbelief is seen in their life, their deportment, and character, and this terrible evil acts as does a canker.  {PH117 81.3}
[PH117 82.1]          There is a large church in Battle Creek, and not a man to act as pastor. There are elders; but these men lack the essential qualities to stand at their post of duty and hold the fort. Unless there is a different influence from what these men have exerted in the church, it will never be in a prosperous condition. These men lead the church into the world rather than from it. Men are needed who will be steadfast to principle, who will not only lift, but carry the burden, through Christ strengthening them,-- men whom ambition will not mislead, or peril intimidate.  {PH117 82.1}
[PH117 82.2]          Had all in Battle Creek used their investigative powers to see what evils needed to be corrected in themselves, instead of talking of others' wrongs, there would be a more healthy condition in the church today. Some will be honest when it costs nothing, but when policy will pay best, honesty is forgotten. Honesty and policy will not work together in the same mind. In time, either policy will be expelled, and truth and honesty reign supreme, or, if policy is cherished, honesty will be forgotten. They are never in agreement; they have nothing in common. One is the prophet of Baal, the other is the true prophet of God. When the Lord makes up his jewels, the true, the frank, the honest, will be looked upon with pleasure. Angels are employed in making crowns for such ones, and upon these star-gemmed crowns will be reflected, with splendor, the light which radiates from the throne of God.                                                                              83   {PH117 82.2}
[PH117 83.1]         Our ministering brethren are too often imposed upon by the relation of trials in the church, and they too frequently refer to them in their discourses. They should not encourage the members of the church to complain of one another, but should set them as spies upon their own actions. None should allow their feelings of prejudice and resentment to be aroused by the relation of the wrongs of others; all should wait patiently until they hear both sides of the question, and then believe only what stern facts compel them to believe. At all times, the safe course is not to listen to an evil report, until the Bible rule has been strictly carried out. This will apply to some who have worked artfully to draw out from the unsuspecting, matters which they had no business with, and which would do them no good to know.  {PH117 83.1}
[PH117 83.2]          For your soul's sake, my brethren, have an eye single to the glory of God. Leave self out of your thoughts as much as possible. We are nearing the close of time. Examine your motives in the light of eternity. I know you need to be alarmed; you are departing from the old landmarks. Your science, so-called, is undermining the foundation of Christian principle. I have been shown the course you would surely pursue, should you disconnect from God. I have no evidence that you have changed for the better since the last testimony was given. Do not trust to your own wisdom. I tell you, your souls are in imminent peril. For Christ's sake, search and see why you have so little love for religious exercises.  {PH117 83.2}
[PH117 83.3]          The Lord is testing and proving his people. You may be just as severe and critical with your own defective character as you please, but be kind, pitiful, and courteous toward others. Inquire every day, Am I sound to the core, or am I false-hearted? Entreat the Lord to save you from all deception on this point. Eternal interests are involved. While so many are panting after honor, and greedy of gain, do you, my beloved brethren, be eagerly seeking the                                                                              84  assurance of the love of God, and crying, Who will show me how to make my calling and elections sure?  {PH117 83.3}
[PH117 84.1]          Satan carefully studies the constitutional sins of men, and then he begins his work of alluring and ensnaring them. We are in the thickest of temptations, but there is victory for us if we fight manfully the battles of the Lord. All are in danger. But if you walk humbly and prayerfully, you will come forth from the proving process more precious than fine gold, even than the golden wedge of Ophir. If careless and prayerless, you will be as sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal.  {PH117 84.1}
[PH117 84.2]          Some have become almost lost in the mazes of skepticism. To such I would say, Lift your mind out of that channel. Fasten it upon God. The more closely faith and holiness bind you to the Eternal One, the clearer and brighter will the justice of his dealings appear to you. Make life, eternal life, the object of your pursuit.  {PH117 84.2}
[PH117 84.3]          I know your danger. If you lose confidence in the testimonies, you will drift away from Bible truth. I was fearful that many would take the very position of questioning doubt they are now taking, and, in my distress for your souls; I warned you. How many will heed the warning? As you now hold the testimonies, should one be given crossing your track, correcting your errors, you would feel at perfect liberty to accept or reject any part, or the whole. And that which you will be least inclined to receive, is the very part most needed. God and Satan never work in co-partnership. The testimonies either bear the signet of God or that of Satan. A good tree cannot bring forth corrupt fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. By their fruit ye shall know them. God has spoken. Who has trembled at his word?  {PH117 84.3}
[PH098 1.1]         PH098 - Testimony for the Church at Olcott, N. Y. (1868)           Dear Brethren and Sisters in Olcott: I was shown, June 12, that the love of the world, was to a great extent taking the place of love to God. You are situated in a pleasant country, favorable to worldly prosperity. This places you where you are exposed to continual temptations of having your interest swallowed up in the world, and you engaged in laying up treasure upon the earth. Your hearts will be where your treasure is. You are situated where there are temptations to be plunging deeper and deeper into the world, and continuing to accumulate, and while thus engaged the mind has become engrossed in the cares of this life to such an extent as to shut out true godliness. But few realize the deceitfulness of riches. Those who are anxious to acquire means are so bent upon this one object as to make the religion of Christ a secondary matter. Spiritual things are not valued, and are not sought after; for the love of gain has eclipsed the heavenly treasure, and the prize of eternal life, if judged by the effort, zeal, perseverance and earnestness exhibited by these who profess to be Christians, is not half as valuable as earthly possessions. Compare the earnest effort after the things of this earth with the languid, weak, inefficient, sickly effort for spirituality and a heavenly treasure. No wonder that we experience so little of the illuminating influence from the heavenly sanctuary.                                                                              2  Our desires are not in that direction, but mostly confined to earthly pursuits, seeking for worldly things, and neglecting the eternal, immortal. Prosperity is blinding the eyes, and deceiving the soul. God may speak, but the rubbish of earth prevents his voice from being heard.  {PH098 1.1}
[PH098 2.1]         Our aged father Lamson has his affections upon the things of this earth when they should be removed, and he ripening up for Heaven. The life that he now lives should he live by faith on the Son of God. His affections should be on the better land. He should have less and less interest in the perishable treasures of earth, while eternal things, which are of the greatest consequence, should engage the whole man. The days of his probation are nearly ended. Oh, how little time remains to devote to God. His energies are worn, his mind broken, and at best his services must be weak, yet if given heartily and fully, are wholly acceptable to him. With your age, Bro. Lamson, has come an increase of selfishness, and a more firm, earnest love for the treasures of this poor world.  {PH098 2.1}
[PH098 2.2]          Sr. Lamson loves this world. She is naturally selfish. She has suffered much with bodily infirmities. God has permitted this affliction to come upon Sr. Lamson, and yet would not permit Satan to take her life. God designed through the furnace of affliction to loosen her grasp upon earthly treasures. Through suffering alone could this be done. Sr. Lamson is one of that class whose system has been poisoned by drugs. She ignorantly, has made herself what she is, by taking drugs; yet God did not suffer her life to be taken. He has lengthened her years of probation and                                                                              3  suffering that she might become sanctified through the truth, be purified, made white and tried, and through the furnace of affliction, lose her dross, and become more precious than fine gold, even than the golden wedge of Ophir. Love of the world has become so deeply rooted in the hearts of this brother and sister that it will require a severe trial to remove it.  {PH098 2.2}
[PH098 3.1]          Dear Bro. and Sr. Lamson, you lack devotion to God. You are insane in regard to worldly things. The world has power to conform your mind to it, while the spiritual and heavenly do not bear with sufficient weight to transform the mind.  {PH098 3.1}
[PH098 3.2]          Men and women in Olcott, who profess to be Christ's followers, why do you not follow him? Why do you exhibit such insanity to acquire a treasure of earthly gain, which misfortune can so easily remove, and neglect the riches of Heaven, the immortal, imperishable treasure?  {PH098 3.2}
[PH098 3.3]          I was shown the cases of Bro. George Gaskill and his wife. Bro. George has good desires, but follows impulse too much. He does not move from principle, but from feeling. He needs a more thorough experience in the things of God, then will he be established, strengthened, settled. His character has been too changeable, his faith, wavering. His desires are strong enough, but he does not educate his mind to firmness of purpose. Disease has been upon him, which has been a great drawback to him, and has had an influence to becloud his intellect, that he has not clear perceptions of the exalted character of the work and truth of God. He should avoid being much in the society of unbelievers. He should come out                                                                              4  from among them, and be separate, and the promise is, God will receive him, and will be a Father unto him. He should seek to be in the society of those who are the most spiritual, and should seek to be benefited with their light, and strengthened by their influence. Before he is aware of it, when in the society of unbelievers, he is partaking of their spirit, thinking as they think, and acting as they act. This is all wrong. He should plant his feet firmly on the platform of eternal truth, and be strong in the strength of God. Then will he have strength to exert a good influence over others. Then, instead of being borne down by the unbelief and darkness of others, when the enemy comes in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him. He too frequently goes upon the enemy's battle field unarmed. He should not be there at all, but he realizes not his weakness, and walks right into danger without the armor on. He is kept in a state of continual weakness, when he might be growing in grace, and in the knowledge of the truth.  {PH098 3.3}
[PH098 4.1]          It is sad that he has no help at home, that his wife, who ought to be a help to him in spiritual things, is only a hindrance. She has not been converted. She has no experience in the things of God. She is in friendship with the world. "If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him." She is not alarmed at her perilous condition. She does not wish to reflect upon her true state before God. She is out of Christ. Her probation may close any time, yet she has no prospect of a better life. Love of the world, and love of self-enjoyment, occupy the                                                                              5  precious minutes and hours of probation, and she is not becoming rich toward God. She dwells upon the failings of those who profess present truth. In doing this she is feeding upon husks. And when the reckoning day shall come, she will be found wanting. Living for the world, and with them she must have her portion. Now God has given her a little moment of probation. Will she improve it? Will she get ready? Or will she slight the voice of warning, reject the gracious invitation, and choose her own course of friendship with the world, and forever forfeit the approval of God? It is Christ, or the world. She cannot have Christ and the world. Which will she choose? Her will must be subdued, and she make strong efforts for salvation, or she must fail. Her influence is injurious upon others. She forms a link between some who profess the truth, and the world. Some look upon her as being a Sabbath-keepers when she is not a Christian. Her heart has no union with God's holy precepts. The position she occupies is a great hindrance to her husband. He could be greatly helped by her, if she would yield her heart to the sanctifying influence of the truth. Life or death is hers to choose. She can live a life of obedience, and have the approbation of God, or choose a course of transgression, and have the transgressor's reward at last.  {PH098 4.1}
[PH098 5.1]          I was shown the case of Bro. Harmon Lindsay's wife. She has a desire to do right, but has failings which cause herself and her friends much trouble. She talks too much. She lacks experience in the things of God, and will be unable to stand amid the perils of the last days, unless she                                                                              6  is converted, and transformed by the renewing of the mind. Heart work is needed. Then the tongue will be sanctified. There is much talking which is sinful, and should be avoided. She should set a strict watch before the door of her lips, and keep her tongue as with a bridle, that her words may not work wickedness. She should cease talking of others faults, dwelling upon others' peculiarities, and discovering others' infirmities. Such conversation is censurable in any person. It is unprofitable and positively sinful. It tends only to evil. The enemy knows that if this course is pursued by Christ's professed followers, it is opening a door for him to work.  {PH098 5.1}
[PH098 6.1]          I saw that when sisters who are given to talk get together, Satan is generally present, for he finds employment. He stands by to excite the mind, and make the most of the advantage he has gained. He knows that all this gossip, and tale-bearing, and revealing of secrets, and dissecting character, separates the soul from God. It is death to spirituality and a calm religious influence. Sr. Lindsay sins in her words greatly. She ought in her words to have an influence for good. But this sad failing has been indulged in until she does not know what she is stating herself. She talks frequently at random, and does not always state things correctly. Sometimes her words put a different construction upon things than they will bear. Sometimes there is exaggeration. Then there is misstatement. There is not an intention to misstate, but the habit has been so long cherished of much talking, and upon things that are unprofitable, that she has become careless, and reckless in her words, destroys any influence                                                                              7  she might have for good. It is time there was an entire reform in this respect. Her society has not been prized as it would have been had this sinful talking been indulged in.  {PH098 6.1}
[PH098 7.1]          Christians should be careful in regard to their words. They should never carry unfavorable reports from one of their friends to another, especially if they are aware that there is a lack of union between their mutual friends. It is cruel to hint and insinuate, as though you knew a great deal in regard to this friend or that acquaintance, that others are ignorant of. Such hints go farther, and create more unfavorable impressions, than to frankly relate the facts in an unexaggerated manner. What harm has not the church of Christ suffered from these things? The inconsistent, unguarded course of her members has made her weak as water. Confidence has been betrayed by members of the same church, and yet the guilty did not design to do mischief. The lack of wisdom in the selection of subjects of conversation has done much harm. The conversation should be upon spiritual and divine things; but it has been otherwise. If the association with Christian friends is chiefly devoted to the improvement of the mind and heart, there will be no after regrets, and they can look back on the interviews with a pleased satisfaction. But if the hours are spent in levity and vanity, and the precious time has passed off with those who unite with you in dissecting the lives and characters of others, the friendly intercourse will prove a channel of evil, and your influence will be a savor of death unto death.  {PH098 7.1}
[PH098 7.2]          I was shown that the two cases last mentioned                                                                              8  were in fearful danger, especially the wife of Bro. George Gaskill. She knows not, by experimental knowledge, the ways of truth. Probation is passing and she is not ready. She is acquainted with the theory of the truth, but does not conform her life unto it. Love of friendship with the world is endangering her eternal welfare. Self is yet to be subdued. The will is to be brought in subjection. God calls upon her to be zealous and repent; to leave her unbelief, to cease dwelling upon the failures of others, and perfect her own ways before God or she will fail of everlasting life. She has a Christian character to form, a soul to save or lose, and she has no time to delay the work. Now, now, now, the Spirit invites. Resist not its voice. Self-righteousness will not save her in the reckoning day. She must possess the righteousness of Christ.  {PH098 7.2}
[PH098 8.1]          I cannot call to mind distinctly all the persons in your church shown me; but I saw that many had a great work to perform. There is too much talking by nearly all, and too little meditation and prayer. With many there is too much selfishness. The mind is devoted to self, and not to the good of others. Satan has his power upon you in a great degree. Yet there are precious lights among you, and those who are seeking to walk according to the will of God. The love of the world and pride are the great snares which are so great a hindrance to spirituality and a growth in grace.  {PH098 8.1}
[PH098 8.2]          This world is not the Christian's heaven, but merely the workshop of God, where we are to be fitted up, to unite with sinless angels, in a holy Heaven. We should be constantly training the mind to noble, unselfish thoughts. This education                                                                              9  is necessary to bring into exercise the powers which God has given us in such a manner as shall best glorify his name upon the earth. We are accountable for all the noble qualities which God has given us, and to put these faculties to a use he never designed we should, is showing base ingratitude to God. The service of God demands the powers of our being, and we fail of meeting the design of God unless we bring to a high state of cultivation the powers of our minds, and educate the mind to love a contemplation of heavenly things, and bring out the energies of the soul, that in exercise it should strengthen, and be enabled by right actions, operating to the glory of God.  {PH098 8.2}
[PH098 9.1]          The females who profess godliness generally fail in the direction of training the mind. They leave the mind uncontrolled, to go where it will. This is a great mistake. Many seem to have no power to think. They have not educated the mind to think; and because they have not done this, they suppose they cannot. Meditation and prayer is necessary to a growth in grace. Why there is no more stability is because of so little mental culture, so little reflection. They leave the mind in a state of inaction, and lean upon others to do the brain work, to plan, and think, and remember for you, and you will grow more and more inefficient. Some need to discipline their minds by exercise. They should force it to think. While they depend upon some one to think for them, and to solve their difficulties, and they refuse to tax the mind with thought, the inability to remember, to look ahead and discriminate, will continue. Efforts                                                                              10  must be made by every individual to educate the mind.  {PH098 9.1}
[PH098 10.1]          I was shown that Bro. Charles Lindsay should seek for more spirituality. You do not possess that calm trust in God which he requires you to have. You do not train your mind to run in the channel of spirituality. You talk too much vain unnecessary talk, which injures your own soul and injures your influence. You must encourage calmness, and fortitude of mind. You are easily excited, and feel strong, and express in strong terms your likes and dislikes. You need more sweet, good religion, to have a soothing influence upon you. You have been invited to learn of Christ, who was meek and lowly of heart. Precious lesson! If well learned, it will transform the whole life. Lightness and cheap talk, is all injurious to your spiritual advancement. Perfection of character you should seek after, and let your influence tell for God in your words and acts. You need to earnestly seek the Lord, and to take a deeper draught at the fountain of truth, that its influence may sanctify your life. Your mind is on the world too much. You should have your interest in the better life than this. You have no time to lose. Make haste and improve the few hours of probation. Your wife has had too much pride and selfishness. God has been bringing her through the furnace of affliction, to remove these spots from her character. She must be very careful that the fire of affliction does not kindle upon her in vain. It should remove the dross, and bring her nearer to God, making her more spiritual. Her love of the world must die. Love of                                                                              11  self must be overcome; and her will swallowed up in the will of God.  {PH098 10.1}
[PH098 11.1]          I was pointed back, back in the past, and saw a blot upon the life of Horatio which he has never removed. He did not love his neighbor as himself, but disguised facts and acted a deceptive part which was very displeasing to God. He injured another, which injury has led to reckless moves on his part, and may finally result in his eternal ruin. Selfishness did this. It was a course pursued which Heaven frowns upon. Horatio, you have humble acknowledgements to make in this matter, and your soul cannot be free from guilt till you remove this wrong thoroughly. There have not been right feelings with members of the family in regard to this wrong. It has not been viewed in its heinous character as God views it. It is not too late for wrongs to be righted. And there is no time to lose in redeeming the past, as far as it can be redeemed, lest this sin shall stand against you in the Judgment.  {PH098 11.1}
[PH098 11.2]          I was shown that love of the world has to a great extent shut Jesus from the church. God calls for a change--a surrender of all to him. Unless the mind is educated to dwell upon religious themes, and is trained to be exercised in these things, it will be weak and feeble in this direction. It will be strong while engaged in worldly enterprises, for in this direction it has been cultivated, and has strengthened with exercise. Why it is so difficult for men and women to live religious lives is, because they do not exercise the mind unto godliness. It is trained to run in an opposite direction. Unless the mind is constantly exercised in obtaining spiritual knowledge                                                                              12  and in seeking to understand the mystery of godliness, it is incapable of appreciating eternal things, because it has no experience in that direction. This is the reason why religion, by nearly all is considered up-hill business.  {PH098 11.2}
[PH098 12.1]          When the heart is divided, dwelling principally upon the things of the world, but in a small degree upon the things of God, there can be no special advancement or increase of strength. That which claims the largest share of the mind, calling into exercise its powers, is worldly enterprises, therefore in this direction there is strength and power to claim more and more of the interest and affections and there is less and less reserved to devote to God. It is impossible for the soul to flourish while prayer is not a special exercise of the mind. Family or public prayer alone is not sufficient. Secret prayer is very important, when in solitude the soul is laid bare to the inspecting eye of God, and every motive is scrutinized. Secret prayer! How precious! The soul communing with God. Secret prayer is to be heard only by the prayer-hearing God. No curious ear is to receive the burden of such petition. In secret prayer, the soul is free from surrounding influence, free from excitement. Calmly, and yet fervently, will it reach out after God. Secret prayer is frequently perverted, and its sweet designs lost by loud vocal prayer. Instead of the calm, quiet trust and faith in God, the soul drawn out in low, humble tones, the voice is raised to a loud pitch, an excitement is encouraged, and secret prayer loses its softening, sacred influence. There is a storm of feeling, a storm of words, making it impossible to discern the still, small voice that                                                                              13  speaks to the soul while engaged in its secret true, heart-felt devotion. Secret prayer, properly carried out, is productive of great good. But prayer thought to be secret, which is made public to the entire family and neighborhood, is not secret prayer from which divine strength is received. Sweet and abiding will be the influence emanating from Him who seeth in secret, whose ear is open to answer the prayer arising from the heart. The soul holds communion with God, and gathers to itself, by calm, simple faith, divine rays of light to strengthen and sustain it to endure the conflicts of Satan. God is our tower of strength.  {PH098 12.1}
[PH098 13.1]          Jesus has left us word, "Watch ye therefore; for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cock-crowing, or in the morning; lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping. And what I say unto you. I say unto all, Watch." We are waiting and watching for the Master's return, who is to bring the morning, lest coming suddenly he find us sleeping. What time is here referred to? Not the revelation of Christ in the clouds of heaven to find a people asleep. No; but his return from his ministration in the most holy, laying off his priestly attire, and clothing himself with garments of vengeance, when the mandate goes forth, "He that is unjust, let him be unjust still; and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still; and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still; and he that is holy, let him be holy still."  {PH098 13.1}
[PH098 13.2]          When Jesus ceases to plead for man, the cases of all are decided forever. This is the time of reckoning with his servants. Those who have neglected the preparation of purity and holiness,                                                                              14  fitting them to be waiting ones to welcome their Lord, their sun sets in gloom and darkness, and rises not again. Probation closes. Christ's intercessions cease in Heaven, and it is finally sudden upon all, and those who have neglected the purifying of their souls by obeying the truth, are found sleeping. They became weary of waiting and watching. They became indifferent in regard to the coming of their Master. They longed not for his appearing and thought there was no need of such continued, persevering watching. They had been disappointed in their expectations, and might be again. They concluded there was time enough yet to arouse. They would be sure and not lose the opportunity of securing an earthly treasure. It would be safe to get all of this world they could. And in securing this object, they lost all anxiety and interest in the appearing of the Master. They became indifferent and careless, as though his coming was yet in the distance. While their interest was buried up in their worldly gains, the work closed in the heavenly sanctuary, and they were unprepared. If they had only known that the work of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary would close so soon, how differently would they have conducted! How earnestly would they have watched! The Master anticipated all this, and gave them timely warning in the command to watch. He distinctly states the suddenness of his coming. He does not measure the time, lest we shall neglect a momentary preparation, and in our indolence look ahead to the time when we think he will come, and defer the preparation. "Watch ye therefore; for ye know not." Yet this uncertainty, and the suddenness at last,                                                                              15  foretold, fails to quicken our watchfulness, and arouse us from stupidity to earnest wakefulness, for our expected Master. Those not found waiting and watching, are finally surprised in their unfaithfulness. The Master has come, and instead of their being ready to open unto him immediately, they are locked in a worldly slumber, and are lost at last.  {PH098 13.2}
[PH098 15.1]          A company was presented before me in contrast to the one described. They were waiting and watching. Their eyes were directed heavenward, and the words of their Master were upon their lips. "What I say unto you. I say unto all, Watch." "Watch ye therefore, for ye know not when the master of the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cockcrowing, or in the morning; lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping." The Lord intimates a delay before the morning finally dawns. He would not have them give way to weariness, nor relax their earnest watchfulness, because the morning does not open upon them as soon as they expected. The waiting ones were represented to me as looking upward. They were encouraging one another repeating these words.  {PH098 15.1}
[PH098 15.2]          The first and second watches are past. We are in the third watch, waiting and watching for the Master's return. These remains but a little period of watching now. I saw some becoming weary; their eyes were directed downward, and they were engrossed with earthly things, and were unfaithful in watching. They were saying, In the first watch we expected our Master, but were disappointed. We thought surely he would come in the second watch, but that passed, and he came not. We may be again disappointed. We need not be so                                                                              16  particular. He may not come in the following watch. We are in the third watch, and now we think it best to lay up our treasure on the earth. that we may be secure against want. Many were sleeping, stupefied with the cares of this life, allured, by the deceitfulness of riches, from their waiting, watching position.  {PH098 15.2}
[PH098 16.1]          Angels were represented to me as looking on with intense interest to mark the appearance of the yet faithful, wearied watchers, lest they be tried too surely, and sink under the toil and hardships, made doubly severe by their brethren being diverted from their watch, and drunken with worldly cares, and beguiled by worldly prosperity. The heavenly angels grieve that those who were once watching should, by their indolence and unfaithfulness, increase the trial and burdens of those who were trying, with earnestness and perseverance, to maintain their waiting, watching positions.  {PH098 16.1}
[PH098 16.2]          I saw that it was impossible to have the affections and interests engrossed in worldly cares, increasing their possessions, laying up treasures upon the earth, and yet be in a waiting, watching position, as our Saviour has commanded. Said the angel, "They can secure but one world. In order to acquire the heavenly treasure, they must sacrifice the earthly. They cannot have both worlds." I saw how necessary was a continuance of faithfulness in watching to escape the delusive snares of Satan. He leads those who should be waiting and watching, to take one step of advance toward the world, and they have no intention of going further, but that one step has removed them that much further from Jesus, which makes it easier to take the next, and thus step after step                                                                              17  of advance has been made toward the world, until a profession, a name only, makes the difference between them and the world. They have lost their peculiar, holy character, and there is nothing to distinguish them from the lovers of the world around them except their profession. Watch after watch, I saw, was in the past. Because of this should there be a lack of vigilance? Oh! no. There is the greater necessity of unceasing watchfulness for now the moments are fewer than before the passing of the first watch. Now the period of time for the waiting is necessarily shorter than at first. If we watched with unabated vigilance then, how much more need of double watchfulness in the second watch. The passing of the second watch has brought us to the third, and now it is inexcusable to relax our watching. The third watch calls for threefold earnestness. To become impatient now, would be a loss of all our earnest, persevering watching heretofore. The long night of gloom is trying, but the morning is deferred in mercy, because if the Master should come, so many would be found unready. God's unwillingness to have his people perish, has been the reason of so long delay. But the time of the coming of the morning to the faithful, and the night to the unfaithful, is right upon us. By thus waiting  and watching, God's people are to manifest their peculiar, separate character from worldlings. By our watching positions, we are to show how truly we are strangers and pilgrims upon the earth. The difference between the lovers of the world and those who love Christ, is so plain as to be unmistakable. The world, all earnestness, interest, and ambition, to secure earthly                                                                              18  treasure, while God's people are not conformed to the world, but transformed, showing by their earnest watching, waiting position, that their home is not in this world. They are seeking a better country, even an heavenly.  {PH098 16.2}
[PH098 18.1]          I hope, my dear brethren and sisters, you will not pass your eye over these words without thoroughly considering their import. The men of Galilee stood looking steadfastly toward heaven, to catch, if possible a glimpse of their Saviour as he ascended. Two men in white apparel stood by them, who were heavenly angels, commissioned to comfort them for the loss of the presence of their Saviour. They inquired, "Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into Heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.  {PH098 18.1}
[PH098 18.2]          God designs his people shall fix their eyes heavenward looking for the glorious appearing of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. While the attention of worldlings is turned to the various enterprises, ours should be to the Heavens, our faith reaching farther and farther into the glorious mysteries of heavenly treasures, drawing the precious, divine rays of light from the heavenly sanctuary, to shine in our hearts, as it shineth in the face of Jesus Christ. The scoffers mock the waiting, watching ones, and inquire, "Where is the promise of his coming? You have been disappointed. Engage now with us, and you will prosper in worldly things. Get gain, get money, and be honored of the world." The waiting ones are looking upward and answer, "We are watching." They turn from earthly pleasure, and from worldly                                                                              19  fame, and from the deceitfulness of riches, and show themselves to be watching. In watching they become strong. They overcome sloth and selfishness, and love of ease. Affliction's fire kindles upon them, and the waiting time seems long. They grieve sometimes, and faith falters; but they rally again, overcome their fears and doubts, and while their eyes are directed heavenward, say to their adversaries, "I am watching, I am waiting the return of my Lord." I will glory in tribulation, in affliction, in necessities.  {PH098 18.2}
[PH098 19.1]          The desire of our lord is that we should be so watching that when he cometh and knocketh, we may open to him immediately. A blessing is pronounced upon those servants that he finds watching. "He will gird himself, and make them sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them." Who among us in these last days will be thus especially honored by the Master of assemblies? Are we prepared without delay to open to him immediately and welcome the Master? Watch, watch, watch. This watching and waiting, ready, all ready to welcome our Lord, has ceased with nearly all. We are not ready to open to him immediately. The love of the world has occupied our thoughts, and so filled our minds that our eyes are turned downward to the earth, but not upward. We are hurrying about, engaged in different enterprises, with zeal and earnestness, and God is forgotten, and the heavenly treasure is now valued. We are not in a waiting, watching position. The love of the world and the deceitfulness of riches eclipses our faith, and we do not long for, and love, the appearing of our Saviour. We do too much ourselves, to take care of self.                                                                              20  We are uneasy, distrustful, and greatly lack a firm trust in God. Many worry and work, and contrive and plan, fearing they suffer need. They cannot afford time to pray, or to attend religious meetings, and in their care for themselves, leave no chance for God to care for them. The Lord does not to do much for them, for they give him no opportunity. The do too much for themselves, and believe and trust too little in God.  {PH098 19.1}
[PH098 20.1]          The love of the world is terrible upon the Lord's people, whom he has commanded to watch and pray always, lest coming suddenly he find them sleeping. '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; 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. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof, but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever."  {PH098 20.1}
[PH098 20.2]          I have been shown that God's people who profess to believe present truth, are not in a waiting, watching position. They are increasing in riches, and laying up their treasures upon the earth. They are becoming rich in worldly things, but not rich toward God. They do not believe in the shortness of time. They do not believe that the end of all things is at hand. They do not believe that Christ is at the door. They will act out all the faith that they really possess. They may profess much faith but deceive their own souls. Their works show the character of their faith. Many testify to those around them, by their works that the coming of Christ is not to be in this generation. According to their faith will be their                                                                              21  works. Their preparations are being made to remain in this world. They are adding house to house, and land to land, and are citizens of this world. The condition of poor Lazarus feeding upon the crumbs from the rich man's table is preferable to these. If they possessed genuine faith, instead of increasing their treasures upon the earth they would be selling off, freeing themselves from the cumbersome things of earth, and transferring their treasure before them to Heaven. Then their interest and hearts will be where their treasure is. The heart of man is where is his greatest treasure. The most of those who profess to believe the truth testify that that which they value the most is in this world. For this they have care, wearing anxiety and labor. To preserve and add to their treasure is the study of their lives. They have transferred so little to Heaven that their interest is not especially exercised in that better country. They have taken so little stock in the heavenly treasure that their minds are not attracted in that direction. Their investments have been made in the things of this world. They have taken large stock in the enterprises of this earth, and these matters involve the interest, and like the magnet draw down their souls from the heavenly and imperishable to the earthly and corruptible. Where your treasure is there will your heart be also. Selfishness girds them about as with iron bands. It is my farm, my goods, my trade, my merchandise. Even the claims of common humanity by many are disregarded. Men and women professing to be waiting and loving the appearing of their Lord, are shut up to self. The noble, the godlike, they have parted with. The                                                                              22  love of the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, the pride of life, have so fastened upon men and women that they are blinded. They are corrupted by the world, and discern it not. They talk of love to God, but their fruits show not the love they express. They rob him in tithes and offerings, and the withering curse of God is upon them. The truth has been illuminating their pathway on every side. God has wrought wonderfully in the salvation of souls in their own households, but where are their offerings, presented to God in grateful thanks for all his tokens of mercy to them? Many of them are as unthankful as the brute creation. The sacrifice for man was infinite, beyond the comprehension of the strongest intellect. Yet, men who claim to be partakers of these heavenly benefits, which were brought to them with so much cost, are too thoroughly selfish to make any real sacrifice for God. The world, the world, the world, their minds are upon. In the forty-ninth psalm, we read, "They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches; none of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him (for the redemption of their soul is precious, and it ceaseth forever.)" If all would bear in mind, and in a small degree appreciate, the immense sacrifice made by Christ, they would feel rebuked for their fearfulness and their supreme selfishness. "Our God shall come and shall not keep silence; a fire shall devour before him, and it shall be very tempestuous round about him. He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that he may judge his people. Gather my saints together unto me; those that have made a covenant with me by                                                                              23  sacrifice." Because of selfishness, and love of the world, God is forgotten, and many have barrenness of soul, and cry, My leanness, my leanness. God has lent means to his people to prove them, to test the depth of their professed love for him. Some would let go of God, and give up their heavenly treasure, rather than to decrease their earthly possessions and make a covenant with God by sacrifice. God calls for them to sacrifice; but the love of the world closes their ears, and they will not hear.  {PH098 20.2}
[PH098 23.1]          I looked to see who of those who professed to be looking for Christ's coming, possessed the spirit of sacrificing offerings to God of their abundance. I could see a few humble, poor ones, who were stinting themselves, and casting in their mite, like the poor widow. Every such offering is accounted of God as precious treasure. But those who are acquiring means, and adding to their possessions, are far behind. They do comparatively nothing to what they might. They are withholding, and robbing God. They are fearful they shall come to want. They dare not trust God. This is one of the reasons, that as a people, we are so sickly, and so many are falling into their graves. The covetous are among us. The lovers of the world, also those who have stinted the laborer in his hire, are among us. Men who had none of this world, who were poor and dependent on their labor, have been dealt with closely and unjustly. The lover of the world has, with a hard face, and harder heart, paid over the small sum earned by hard toil, grudgingly. Just so they are dealing with their Master, whose servants they profess to be. Just in this grudging manner do they put into the                                                                              24  treasury of God. Like the man in the parable, who had not where to bestow his goods, and the Lord cut short his unprofitable life, so will he deal with many. How difficult, in this corrupt age, to keep from growing worldly and selfish. How easy to become ungrateful to the Giver of all our mercies. Great watchfulness is needed, with much prayer, to keep the soul with all diligence. "Take ye heed, watch and pray; for ye know not when the time is."  {PH098 23.1}
[PH099 1.1]         PH099 - Testimony for the Churches at Allegan & Monterey (1869)           Dear Brethren:--I have been shown that you are not in the light, as God would have you. In vision I was pointed back to the ingathering of souls at Monterey last spring, and was shown that your minds were not prepared for that work. You were not expecting or believing for the work which was then accomplished among you. This work was carried on, notwithstanding your unbelief, aside from the participation of many among you.  {PH099 1.1}
[PH099 1.2]         When you had such evidences that God was waiting to be gracious to his people, that Mercy's voice was inviting sinners and backsliders to the cross of Christ, why did you not unite with us, who had the burden of the work upon us? Why did you not come up to the help of the Lord? Some of you seemed benumbed and stupefied, and seemed to be amazed, and were unprepared to participate fully in work. You assented to it, but the hearts of many were not in it. It                                                                              2  was a great evidence of the lukewarm condition of the church.  {PH099 1.2}
[PH099 2.1]          The worldliness you possess does not incline your hard hearts to throw wide open the door, at the knock you hear from Jesus who is seeking an entrance. The Lord of glory who has redeemed you by his own blood, waited at your doors for admittance, and you did not throw open the door wide and welcome him in. Some opened the door slightly and permitted a little light from his presence to enter, but did not welcome the heavenly Visitor. There was not room for Jesus. The place which should have been reserved for him was occupied with other things. Jesus entreated you: "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." There was a work for you to do to open the door. For a time you felt inclined to hear, and open the door, but even this inclination departed, and you failed to secure the communion with the heavenly guest which it was your privilege to have. By some, the door was opened, and Jesus heartily welcomed.  {PH099 2.1}
[PH099 2.2]          Jesus will not force open the door. The act you have to perform to show your desire for the heavenly Visitor is to open the door wide and give him a sincere welcome. If all had made thorough work in clearing away the world's rubbish, and preparing a place for Jesus, he would have entered and abode with                                                                              3  you, and would have done a great work through you for the salvation of others. You were unprepared for the work. It commenced, notwithstanding, in mighty power among you. Backsliders were reclaimed, sinners were converted, and the sound went out into the region round about. The community was stirred. Had the church come up to the help of the Lord, and had the way been fully opened for further labor, there would have been in Monterey and Allegan, and the region round about, a work accomplished such as you have never witnessed. But the ideas of the brethren were not raised, and they were indifferent, in a great degree, to the matter. Some who had ever been seeking their own interest, could not think of having their minds drawn away from themselves on this occasion, even though the salvation of souls might be at stake.  {PH099 2.2}
[PH099 3.1]          The Lord had laid upon us the burden. We were willing to give you all there was of us for a time, if you would come up with us to the help of the Lord. There was a decided failure. There was great ingratitude shown for the manifestations of the power of God among you. Had you received the tokens of God's mercy and loving kindness as you should, with thankful hearts, and united your interest to work with the Spirit of God, you would not now be in the condition that you are. But you have been going down,                                                                              4  and withering spiritually since that precious work was done among you.  {PH099 3.1}
[PH099 4.1]          The parable of the lost sheep you do not yet understand. You have not learned the lesson the divine Teacher designed you should. You have been dull scholars. Read the parable in Luke xv. "What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends, and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost."  {PH099 4.1}
[PH099 4.2]          Here were the cases of several who had backslidden; who had been in darkness; who had strayed away from the fold. But especially, as a prominent one, was the case of Bro. George Lay. He strayed from the fold. All the efforts were not made in wisdom, which should have been made to have prevented his straying from the fold, and then after he had strayed, there were not diligent efforts put forth to bring him back. There was much more gossiping over his case than sincere sorrow for him. All these things kept him from the fold, and caused his heart to be separated farther and farther from his brethren, making his rescue more and still more difficult. How different was this                                                                              5  course from that pursued by the shepherd in the parable, in pursuit of the lost sheep. The whole ninety and nine were left in the wilderness, to care for themselves, exposed to dangers; yet the lone sheep, separated from the flock, was in greater danger, and to secure the one, the ninety and nine were left.  {PH099 4.2}
[PH099 5.1]          Some of the church had no special anxiety to have Bro. Lay return. They cared not enough to unbend from their dignity and pride to make special efforts to help him to the light. They stood back on their dignity, and said, "We will not go after him; let him come to us." It was impossible for him to do this, as he viewed the feelings of his brethren toward him. Had they regarded the lesson taught by Christ, they would have been willing to yield their dignity and pride, and go after the wandering ones. They would have wept over them, prayed for them, implored them to be faithful to God, and the truth, and abide with the church. But the feeling of many was: If he wants to go, let him go.  {PH099 5.1}
[PH099 5.2]          When the Lord sent his servants to do the work for these wanderers, which you ought to have done, you were even then unprepared to give up your ideas, when you had evidence that the Lord was giving a message of mercy to these poor stray sheep. You did not feel like leaving the ninety and nine, and searching                                                                              6  after the lost sheep till you found it. You did not do this. And when the sheep was found, and brought back to the fold with rejoicing, did you rejoice? We tried to arouse you. We tried to call you together as the shepherd called his neighbors and friends, to have you rejoice with us. But you seemed unwilling. You felt that the sheep had done a great wrong in leaving the fold, and instead of rejoicing that he had returned, you were anxious to make him feel that he should be very sorry for leaving, and should come back just according to your ideas. And since the return of the lost sheep, you have had a feeling of jealousy in regard to his return. You have kept your eye out, watching to see if all was right. Some have not felt just satisfied, but have felt an unwillingness in their hearts to have things just as they are.  {PH099 5.2}
[PH099 6.1]          You are unacquainted with yourselves. Some possess selfishness, which leads to the narrowing up of their influence and efforts. There is more joy in Heaven over one sinner that repenteth, than over ninety and nine just persons who need no repentance.  {PH099 6.1}
[PH099 6.2]          Had the church been prepared to appreciate the work the Lord was doing among them, they would since that ingathering have been growing stronger and stronger. But instead of all throwing their whole soul into the work, and feeling a special, sincere interest                                                                              7  to do all in their power to bring up the work where we left it, they acted very much as if the work did not concern them especially, but as though they were only spectators--ready to distrust, and find fault if there was a chance.  {PH099 6.2}
[PH099 7.1]          I was shown the case of Bro. Buck. He feels unhappy. He is dissatisfied with his brethren. His mind has been exercised for some time that it was his duty to carry the message. He is capable, as far as his knowledge of the truth is concerned. He has the ability, but he lacks culture. He has not controlled himself. It requires great wisdom to deal with minds. Bro. Buck is not qualified for this work. He understands the theory, but has not educated himself in forbearance, patience, gentleness, kindness, and true courteousness. If things arise which do not meet his mind, he does not stop and consider whether it is not wisdom to take no notice of it, and let it pass for the present until it shall be fully considered. He braces himself at once for battle. He is harsh, severe, denunciatory. He raises disturbance at once, if things do not meet his mind.  {PH099 7.1}
[PH099 7.2]          He possesses in his organization the elements of war rather than of sweet peace and harmony. He has not wisdom to give to all their portion of meat in due season. "And of some have compassion, making a difference; and others save with fear, pulling them out of                                                                              8  the fire, hating even the garment spotted by the flesh." This making a difference, Bro. Buck has but little knowledge of. He is rough in his manners, and indiscreet in his dealing with souls. This disqualifies him for making a good, wise, careful shepherd. A shepherd must have courage, fortitude, noble generosity, love, and tenderness, combined.  {PH099 7.2}
[PH099 8.1]          He will be in danger of tearing down more than he can build up. He has not had all his powers in subjection to the will of God. He has not been transformed by the renewing of his mind. He is self-sufficient, and does not rely wholly upon the grace of God. His works are not wrought in God.  {PH099 8.1}
[PH099 8.2]          To be a shepherd is to occupy a very important, responsible position. It is a high and sacred work to feed the flock of God. Bro. Buck, the Lord does not regard you fit to be an overseer of his flock. Had you been learning the lesson of self-government in your religious experience, and had you felt the necessity of elevating your mind, and purifying your heart by sanctification of the Spirit, and bringing all your powers into subjection to the Spirit of God, seeking humility and meekness, you might now be in a position to do good, and to exert an influence which would be elevating and saving.  {PH099 8.2}
[PH099 8.3]          Bro. and Sr. Buck, you have a work to do                                                                              9  for yourselves, which no one can do for you. You are inclined to murmur and complain. You have something to do to subdue your natural feelings. Live for God yourselves, knowing that you have not to answer for the wrongs of others. I saw, Bro. Buck, that you would certainly be overcome by Satan, and make utter shipwreck of faith unless you stop your fault-finding, and seek pure and undefiled religion before God. You need to be elevated in your thoughts and conversation. You need a thorough conversion.  {PH099 8.3}
[PH099 9.1]          Life or death is before you. You should solemnly consider that you are dealing with the great God. Remember, God is not a child that can be trifled with. You cannot serve God at will, and let it alone at pleasure. Your inmost soul needs to be converted.  {PH099 9.1}
[PH099 9.2]          All who, like you, my brother, have failed to grow in the grace of God, and perfect holiness in his name, will, in these days of peril and trial, meet with great loss. Their foundation will be in danger of proving sliding sand instead of the Rock, Christ Jesus.  {PH099 9.2}
[PH099 9.3]          You move by impulse. You feel unreconciled with your brethren because you are not sent out to preach the truth. You are not fit for this trust. It would take the care of more than one efficient preacher to follow in your wake, to bind up the wounds and bruises your harsh dealing would make. God is not                                                                              10  pleased with you, and I fear that you will fail of everlasting life.  {PH099 9.3}
[PH099 10.1]          You have no time to lose in making mighty efforts to rescue yourself from Satan's snare. You need to learn of Jesus, who is meek and lowly of heart, and then you will obtain rest. Oh! what a work you have to do to perfect holiness in the fear of God, and be prepared for the society of the pure and holy angels. You need to humble your heart before God, and seek meekness and righteousness, that you may be hid in the day of the Lord's fierce anger.  {PH099 10.1}
[PH099 10.2]          Bro. Day: The Lord let his blessing rest upon you last spring; but you did not see the relation which watchfulness and prayer sustain to a progress in the divine life. You have neglected these duties, and the result has been that darkness has enshrouded you. You have been in a state of uncertainty and distrust. You have frequently chosen for your society those who are in darkness, those whom Satan uses to scatter from Christ. You could live among the most corrupt, and remain unstained, unsullied, if God in his providence thus directed you. But it is dangerous for those who wish to honor God to choose for their companions those who fear not God, and be pleased and entertained with their society. Satan is ever surrounding such, and great darkness is around about them; and if those who profess Christ go unbidden                                                                              11  into this darkness, they tempt the Devil to tempt them. If God requires us to go amid infernal spirits, where is the blackest darkness, in order to do good and glorify his name, he will encircle us with his angels and keep us unsullied. But if we seek the company of sinners, and are pleased with their coarse jests, and are entertained and amused with their stories, sports, and ribaldry, the pure and holy angels remove their protection, and leave us to the darkness we have chosen.  {PH099 10.2}
[PH099 11.1]          Bro. Day, I wish to alarm you. I wish to arouse you to action. I wish to entreat of you to seek God while he invites you to come to him that you may have life.  {PH099 11.1}
[PH099 11.2]          Watch, Pray, Work, are the Christian's watchwords. Satan is vigilant in his efforts. His perseverance is untiring, his zeal earnest and unabated. He does not wait for his prey to come to him, he seeks for it. To wrench souls from the hand of Christ, is his determined purpose; yet souls are asleep in their blindness --insane in their pursuits. God is not in their thoughts. A vigilant foe is upon the track of the Christian; yet he is in no danger while he makes God his trust. But unless he puts his trust in God, his strength will be weakness, and he will be overcome by Satan.  {PH099 11.2}
[PH099 11.3]          Bro. Day, it is dangerous for you to yield to doubts. You must not permit yourself to go any farther in the direction in which you                                                                              12  have been going. You are in constant danger. Satan is on your track, suggesting doubts and causing unbelief. Had you stood clear in the counsel of God, you could have had an influence for good over those who love your society now.  {PH099 11.3}
[PH099 12.1]          Poor Bro. Gregory; he felt the influence of the Spirit of God, but was deficient in experience. He did not turn fully from his old habits and customs. There is no concord between Christ and Belial. Bro. Gregory failed to make God his strength continually, and his feet have slipped. You might have helped him if you had had hold from above, as you should have had. But your course of inactivity, your manner of conversation, your influence, has strengthened him in his backsliding, and quieted the voice of conscience within him. Your course has not been a reproof to him in his downward track. You could do good, were you living for God.  {PH099 12.1}
[PH099 12.2]          Your strength is utter weakness; your wisdom is foolishness; yet you do not realize this. You have been too well satisfied with a theory--a correct form of doctrine, but have not felt the necessity of the power of God. You have neglected the spiritual part of religion. Your whole being should cry out for the Spirit of God--the life and power of religion in the soul, which would lead to the crucifixion of self, and firm trust in your Redeemer.                                                                              13   {PH099 12.2}
[PH099 13.1]          You are in terrible darkness, and unless you arise in the name of God, and break the fetters of Satan asunder, and assert your freedom, you will make shipwreck of the faith.  {PH099 13.1}
[PH099 13.2]          Notwithstanding your life has not been in accordance with the will of God, your works and ways have been offensive to him, yet such is his great unwillingness to leave you-- such is his love toward you, that the Majesty of Heaven condescends to beg the privilege of making you a visit, and leaving you his blessing. "Behold I stand at the door and knock." The mansions in glory are his. His the joy of the heavenly abode; yet he humbles himself to seek an entrance at the door of your heart, that he may bless you with his light, and make you to rejoice in his glory. His work is to seek and save that which is lost, and ready to perish. He wishes to redeem from sin, and death, as many as he can, that he may elevate them to his throne and give them everlasting life.  {PH099 13.2}
[PH099 13.3]          Bro. Day, be entreated to arise and cast aside your doubts. What makes you inclined to doubts? It is your life of departure from God. Your life of unconsecration, Your jesting and joking. Your lack of sobriety is endangering your eternal interests. Christ is inviting you to turn from these follies to him. You are not growing in grace and in the knowledge of the truth. You are not an                                                                              14  honor to the cause. You are not becoming elevated, but are sinking lower and lower in the scale. You are not forming a character for Heaven, and everlasting life.  {PH099 13.3}
[PH099 14.1]          You are pleasing yourself, passing away time in frivolity which should be spent with your family, teaching your children the ways and works of God. The hours that you spend in company that is doing you only harm, should be devoted to prayer and the study of God's word. You should feel that a responsibility is upon you, as head of your family, to bring up your children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. What account will you render to God for misspent time? What influence are you having over those who have not the fear of God before them? "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven." May God anoint your eyes that you may see your peril. I feel deeply for you. My heart yearns over you. I long to see you coming up to the high standard that it is your privilege to attain. You can do good. Your influence, if exerted on the right side, will tell. Bro. Day, your footsteps are in the downward path. "Turn ye, turn ye, for why will ye die."  {PH099 14.1}
[PH099 14.2]          Pursue the course you are now traveling, much longer, and you will become infidel in regard to the truth--infidel in regard to the                                                                              15  word of God. Watch, and pray always. Dedicate yourself unreservedly to God, and it will not be difficult then to serve God. You have a divided heart. This is the reason that darkness, instead of light, encircles you.  {PH099 14.2}
[PH099 15.1]          The last message of mercy is now going forth. It is a token of the longsuffering and compassion of God. Come, is the invitation now given. Come, for all things are now ready. This is mercy's last call. Next will come the vengeance of an offended God.  {PH099 15.1}
[PH099 15.2]          Bro. Day, encourage simplicity, love, forbearance, and sweet union with your brethren. But do not, oh do not, sell everlasting life so cheaply. You will never know real happiness if you go from the truth. You will be miserable indeed. Heaven is worth making any and every sacrifice for. Break the bands of Satan. Jesus is now inviting you. Will you listen to his voice? You must take a higher stand than you have hitherto done. Make the kingdom of Heaven, and the righteousness of Christ, your first business. Live for God and Heaven, and the eternal reward will be yours at the end of the race.  {PH099 15.2}
[PH099 15.3]          I was shown Bro. Harvey Kenyon. I was pointed back to last spring, in May, when the Lord visited Monterey. Bro. Kenyon was not prepared to take stock in that work His mind and heart were elsewhere. He was contemplating marriage. He could not                                                                              16  listen to the invitation of Jesus, "Come for all things are now ready." His contemplated marriage engrossed his attention. He had no time or inclination to open the door of his heart to the gracious Visitor. Had he done this, Christ would have given him good counsel, which, if heeded, would have been of priceless value to him. He would have presented before him in its true light his danger of yielding to the dictates of a wayward inclination, and setting aside the decisions of sober reason, and the glory of God. He would have charged him to beware how he tread in the footsteps of those who have fallen and been ruined. He did not consider that God had claims upon him; that he should make no move without consulting him who had bought him. We are instructed that whatever we do, we should do all to his glory.  {PH099 15.3}
[PH099 16.1]          Did you, Bro. Kenyon, as a disciple, a learner of Christ, go to him in humble, sincere, prayer, and commit your ways to him? You failed to do this. You did not investigate all your motives, and move with carefulness lest you should bring a reproach upon the cause of Christ, your Redeemer. You did not consider whether this move would have the best effect to increase your spiritual sensibility, quicken your zeal, and strengthen your efforts in self-denial and steadfastness in the truth. You were ignorant of your                                                                              17  own heart. The work of God was seen in the church, but you had no longings for the divine Spirit. The things of Heaven were insipid to you. You were infatuated by your new hopes of uniting your interest with another. You did not consider that a marriage alliance was to affect vitally your interest for life, short though that life must be.  {PH099 16.1}
[PH099 17.1]          You should have felt that with your own evil heart to subdue, you could not be brought in connection with an influence which would make it more difficult for you to overcome self, and make your path upward to Heaven more rugged. You have now made your religious progress tenfold more difficult than when you stood alone. It is true you were lonely; for you had lost a precious jewel. But if you had counseled with your brethren, and committed your ways to the Lord, he would have opened ways for you, that you could have connected yourself with one who could have helped you instead of being a hindrance.  {PH099 17.1}
[PH099 17.2]          If you will now turn to the Lord with humility with all your heart, he will pity and help you. But you are just where you are shorn of your strength, and are prepared to compromise your faith and your allegiance to God, to please your new wife. God pity you; for ruin is before you unless you arouse like a true soldier of Christ, and engage                                                                              18  anew in the warfare for everlasting life. Your only safety is in keeping with your brethren, obtaining all the strength you can from them to stand in the truth.  {PH099 17.2}
[PH099 18.1]          You are about to sacrifice the truth for the sake of peace and happiness here. You are selling your soul at a cheap market. It is now your duty to do all you can to make your wife happy, and not sacrifice the principles of truth. You should exercise forbearance, patience, and true courteousness. By thus doing, you can show the power of true grace, and the influence of the truth.  {PH099 18.1}
[PH099 18.2]          I was shown that the love of money is a snare to you. Money, independent of the opportunity it furnishes for doing good, blessing the needy, and advancing the cause of God, is really of but little value. The little you possess is a snare to you. Unless you use your talents of means as a wise and faithful steward in the service of your Master it will yield you little else but misery.  {PH099 18.2}
[PH099 18.3]          You are a close, penurious man. You need to cultivate a noble and liberal spirit. Unless you separate your affections from the world, you will be overcome. The deceitfulness of riches will so corrupt your soul, that the good will be overborne by evil. Selfishness and love of gain will triumph.  {PH099 18.3}
[PH099 18.4]          If you, my dear brother, are saved, it will be indeed a miracle of mercy. Your love of the world is increasing upon you. Carefully                                                                              19  consider the words of Christ: "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."  {PH099 18.4}
[PH099 19.1]          My brother, you have not obeyed either the first or second commandments. You would reach out and advantage yourself although you knew it would greatly disadvantage your neighbor. You look to your own selfish interest, and would say, Am I my brother's keeper?  {PH099 19.1}
[PH099 19.2]          You are not laying up your treasure in Heaven, and becoming rich toward God. Self and selfish interest are eating out true godliness from your soul. You are bowing to the God of this world. Your heart is alienated from God. An inspired writer says, "The path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day."  {PH099 19.2}
[PH099 19.3]          The steps of a Christian may appear at times feeble and faltering, yet in his conscious weakness he leans upon the mighty One for support. He is sustained, and is surely making progress onward and upward towards perfection. He is gaining new victories daily, and coming nearer and nearer to the standard of perfect holiness. His eye                                                                              20  is not downward to the earth, but upward, keeping in view the heavenly pattern.  {PH099 19.3}
[PH099 20.1]          Bro. Kenyon, the glitter and tinsel of the corruptible things of the earth, have eclipsed the charms of Heaven, and have made eternal life of but little value to you. I beg and entreat you, as a servant of Christ, to awaken and see yourself as you are.  {PH099 20.1}
[PH099 20.2]          The profits you will obtain in the course you are now pursuing, will be eternal loss. You will find you have made a terrible mistake which can never be remedied.  {PH099 20.2}
[PH099 20.3]          You can now face right about, heed the call of mercy, and live. Rejoice that your probation has not ended--that you may now, by patient continuance in well doing, seek for glory, honor, immortality, and eternal life. Rejoice that she who has been your faithful companion for years shall rise again --that mortality will be swallowed up of life. Look forward to the morning of the resurrection, when she who shared your joys and sorrows for more than a score of years, will come forth from her prison-house. Will you have her look for you, her companion, in vain? Will you be missing then, as her voice is raised in triumph and victory--"O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?" Oh! that day will bring honor to the saints. No shame, no reproach, no suffering; but peace, joy and immortal praise, upon every redeemed tongue. Oh! that God                                                                              21  would speak to your heart, and impress upon your soul the value of eternal life. And may you be held, my brother, to ever possess a spirit of noble generosity, that you may discharge the duties of your stewardship with faithfulness, having your eye single to the glory of God, that the Master may say to you, "Well done, good and faithful servant: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord."  {PH099 20.3}
[PH099 21.1]          I was shown that some are deceived in regard to themselves. They look to those who have much property, and feel that they are the only ones who are in special danger of covetousness, and who have a love of the world. This is not the case. Those who have means are constantly in danger, and are accountable for all the talents of means which the Master has entrusted to their care. But those who have little of this world are frequently self-caring, and do not do that which is in their power to do, and which God requires them to do. They have opportunities, frequently, of doing good if they were less self-caring; but they have so long cared for self, and studied self-interest, they think there is no other way for them to do.  {PH099 21.1}
[PH099 21.2]          I was shown that Bro. and Sr. Burnham are in danger of having their thoughts centered too much upon themselves, especially is Sr. Burnham at fault here. She has almost supreme love for herself. Sr. Burnham, you are poorly prepared to stand amid the perils                                                                              22  of the day of God. You do not imitate the true pattern, Jesus. There was not one selfish act in his whole life. You have a work to do for yourself which no one can do for you. Divest yourself of selfishness, and learn the mind and will of God. Study to show yourself approved unto God. You are impulsive. You are naturally irritable and peevish. You work far beyond your strength. There is no virtue in this. God does not require it. A selfish disposition is at the bottom of this. Your motives are not praise-worthy. You shun responsibility and care-taking, and have felt that you should be considered, you should be favored. It is to be regretted that you have been favored from your childhood. You have been petted, and your will left unsubdued. Now you have the work to do at a more advanced age which should have been done in your childhood. Your husband has yielded to your wishes, and indulged your whims, to your injury.  {PH099 21.2}
[PH099 22.1]          Selfishness must die. It manifests itself in a variety of ways, according to circumstances, and the peculiar organization of individuals. If you had children, and your mind was compelled to be called away from yourself to care for them, to instruct them, and be an example to them, it would be more to your advantage. You have called forth in your home the attention and forbearance which is required to be exercised toward                                                                              23  children. To care for others, to seek to advantage them, you have not thought was any part of your duty. But you require it, and will have it. You are wilful, and very set to carry out your own plans. When everything is smooth in your pathway, you manifest the fruits we expect to see in a Christian; but when your path is crossed, you manifest fruits that are not to be found upon a good tree. You have a regular perverse, wilful time, like a spoiled child which deserved chastisement. When two compose a family, as in your case, and there are no children to call into exercise forbearance and patience, and true love, there is necessity for constant watchfulness lest selfishness obtain the supremacy, lest yourselves become a center, and you require attention, care and interest, which you feel under no obligation to bestow. The care of children in a family makes it necessary for the culture of mind and heart in connection with the ordinary cares of domestic life, that a large portion of the time be spent at home.  {PH099 22.1}
[PH099 23.1]          You neglect to keep your heart, and neglect to use the means God has given you with which to do good. Your influence could benefit, did you feel that anything was required of you toward those who need help, who need encouragement and strength. You have so long studied your pleasure, that you are disqualified to benefit those around you. You                                                                              24  need to discipline yourself. Take time for self-examination to bring all your powers in subjection to the mind and will of God. You need secret discipline of your affections which is so important in order that even the thoughts may be brought into subjection. You are shut up to self. It is the privilege of every true Christian to exert an influence for good upon the character of every one with whom they associate.  {PH099 23.1}
[PH099 24.1]          You, my sister, will be rewarded according as your works have been. Closely investigate your motives, and candidly decide whether you are rich in good works. I was pointed back to last spring, when the Lord was doing a good work in Monterey and vicinity. The angels of mercy were hovering over his people, and hearts which knew not God and the truth were deeply stirred. God would have carried forward the work he so graciously commenced, had the brethren been in working order. You had so long consulted your wishes, and had everything bend to your convenience that the possibility that you might be inconvenienced, led you to close the door which you might have opened to advance the cause.  {PH099 24.1}
[PH099 24.2]          You acted your part, and some others felt a drawback, fearing the expense and calculating that they would lose time in attending meetings if the effort should be made. Christian zeal was lacking. A world was before                                                                              25  us lying in wickedness, exposed to the wrath of God, and poor souls were held by the prince of darkness, and yet those who ought to be awake and engaged in the most noble object in the universe, the salvation of perishing souls, had not interest enough to call into action every means they could employ, to hedge up the path to destruction, and to turn their footsteps into the path of life. The enterprise of eternal life should engage the deepest interest of every Christian. To be a co-worker with Christ and the heavenly angels in the great plan of salvation! What work can bear any comparison with this? From every soul saved, there comes to God a revenue of glory, to be reflected back upon the one saved, and also upon the one instrumental in his salvation. There is a noisy zeal without aim or purpose, which is not according to knowledge, which is blind in its operations and destructive in its results. This is not Christian zeal. Christian zeal which is controlled by principle is not spasmodic. It is earnest, deep, and strong, engaging the whole soul, awakening to exercise the moral sensibilities. The salvation of souls and the interests of the kingdom of God are matters of the highest importance. What earthly object is there that would make it more reasonable to be in earnest than the salvation of souls and the glory of God? There are considerations here which cannot                                                                              26  be lightly regarded. They are as weighty as eternity. Eternal destinies are at stake. Men and women are deciding for weal or woe. Christian zeal will not exhaust itself in talk, but will feel and act with vigor and efficiency. Yet Christian zeal will not act for the sake of being seen. Humility will characterize every effort, and humbleness will be seen in every work. Christian zeal will lead to earnest prayer and humiliation, and to faithfulness in home duties. In the family circle will be seen the gentleness and love, benevolence and compassion, which are ever the fruits of Christian zeal.  {PH099 24.2}
[PH099 26.1]          I was shown that you must make an advance move. Your treasure in Heaven, Sr. Burnham, is not large. You are not rich toward God. May the Lord open your eyes to see, and make your heart feel, and you manifest, Christian zeal. Oh, how few feel the worth of souls! How few would sacrifice, to bring souls to the knowledge of Christ! There is much talking, much professed love for perishing souls. Talk is cheap stuff. It is earnest Christian zeal to act that is wanted. It is zeal to be manifested by doing something, by engaging in the work. Every one must now work for him and herself, and when they have Jesus in their hearts, they will confess him to others. You could no more hinder a soul from confessing Christ, who had him to confess, than you could stop the                                                                              27  waters of Niagara from flowing over the falls.  {PH099 26.1}
[PH099 27.1]          I was shown that Bro. C. Russell is buried up in the rubbish of the world. He cannot afford time to serve God. He cannot afford time to earnestly study and pray to know what the Lord would have him do. His talent is buried in the earth. The cares of this life have swallowed up eternal considerations with him. The kingdom of God and the righteousness of Christ are secondary with him. He loves business, but I saw, that unless he changed his course, the hand of God would be against him. He may gather, but God will scatter. He could do good.  {PH099 27.1}
[PH099 27.2]          But many have the idea that if their life is a working, business life, that they can do nothing for the salvation of souls, and to advance the cause of their Redeemer. They say they cannot do things by halves, and therefore turn from religious duties, and religious exercises, and bury up in the world. They make their business primary, and forget God. And God is displeased with them. Any who are engaged in business where they cannot advance in the divine life, and perfect holiness in the fear of God, should change to a business in which they can have Jesus with them every hour. Bro. Russel, you are not honoring your profession. Your zeal is a worldly zeal, and your interest is a worldly interest.                                                                              28   {PH099 27.2}
[PH099 28.1]          You are dying spiritually. You understand not your perilous condition. The love of the world is swallowing up your religion. You must awake. You must seek God. You must repent of your backslidings. In contrition take words and return to the Lord. Your religious duties have become merely a form. You have not religious enjoyment; for this enjoyment is dependent upon willing obedience. The willing and obedient shall eat the good of the land. You do not possess a bright evidence that you will dwell with God in his kingdom. You occasionally engage in the outward performance of religious duties, but your heart does not engage in the exercise. You occasionally drop a word of warning to sinners, and in favor of the truth; but it is a reluctant service, as though rendered to a task-master, instead of the cheerful service of filial affection. If your heart is aglow with Christian zeal, the most arduous duties will be pleasant and easy.  {PH099 28.1}
[PH099 28.2]          Why the Christian life is so difficult to many is because they have a divided heart. They are double-minded, which makes them unstable in all their ways. Were they richly imbued with Christian zeal, which is ever the result of consecration to God, instead of the mournful cry, "My leanness! my leanness!" the language of the soul would be, "Hear what the Lord has done for me."  {PH099 28.2}
[PH099 28.3]          In the course you have been pursuing,                                                                              29  how limited will be the good you have accomplished, even if you are saved, which is very doubtful. Not a soul will be saved by your instrumentality. Will the Master say to you, "Well done, good and faithful servant"? What have you been doing faithfully? Hard work in the business and cares of this life. Will this bring from the lips of Christ, the gracious words, "Well done, good and faithful servant"?  {PH099 28.3}
[PH099 29.1]          My brother, Jesus loves you, and invites you to face right about, and take your eyes from the earth, and fix them upon the mark of the prize of your high calling, which is Christ Jesus. Cease lightness and trifling. Let a solemn weight of the time in which we live be borne by you till the war is over.  {PH099 29.1}
[PH099 29.2]          You should go to work. Your influence, if consecrated to God, will tell.  {PH099 29.2}
[PH099 29.3]          The family of Bro. Rumery are, most of them, in the downward road. Maria lives an aimless life. She is full of folly, vanity, and pride. Her influence does not tend to ennoble, does not lead to goodness and holiness. She does not like the restraint religion imposes; therefore she will not yield her heart to its sacred sway. She loves self, she loves pleasure, and is seeking for her own enjoyment. Sad, sad indeed will be the result unless she now turns square about, and seeks for true genuine godliness. She might exert an influence over her brothers                                                                              30  which would be softening, ennobling and elevating in its tendency. God loves these children; but they are not Christians. They can become children of the light, and be missionaries in their own family, and among their associates. They could be workers for God, if they would try to live humble Christians.  {PH099 29.3}
[PH099 30.1]          If the youth could only see how much good it is their power to accomplish, if they would make God their strength and wisdom, they would no longer pursue a course of careless indifference toward God; they would be no longer swayed by the influence of those who are unconsecrated. Instead of feeling that an individual responsibility rests upon them, to put forth efforts to do others good, and lead them to righteousness and holiness, they give themselves up to their own amusement. They are useless members of society, and their lives are aimless as the butterfly's.  {PH099 30.1}
[PH099 30.2]          The youth may have knowledge of the truth, and believe it, but not live it. They possess a dead faith. Their hearts are not reached so as to affect the conduct and character in the sight of God, and they are no nearer to doing his will than the unbeliever. Their hearts do not conform to the will of God. They are at enmity with God.  {PH099 30.2}
[PH099 30.3]          Those who are devoted to amusements; who love the society of those who love pleasure, have an aversion to religious exercises.                                                                              31  Will the Master say to these youth who profess his name, "Well done good and faithful servant," unless they are good and faithful?  {PH099 30.3}
[PH099 31.1]          The young are in great danger. Much evil results from their light and trifling reading. Much time is lost which should be spent in useful employment. Some would even deprive themselves of sleep that they might finish some ridiculous love story. The world is flooded with novels of every description. Some are not of as dangerous a character as others. Some are immoral, low, and vulgar; others are clothed with more refinement; but all are pernicious in their influence. Oh! that the young would reflect upon the influence the exciting story-reading has upon the mind.  {PH099 31.1}
[PH099 31.2]          Can you, after such reading, open the word of God and read the words of life with interest? Do you not find the book of God uninteresting? The charm of that love story is upon the mind, destroying its healthy tone, and making it impossible for you to fix your mind upon the important, solemn truths which concern your eternal interest. You have sinned against your parents in devoting to such a poor purpose the time which belonged to them. You sin against God in using the time thus, which should be spent in devotion to him. It is the duty of the youth to encourage sobriety. Lightness, jesting,                                                                              32  and joking, can only be indulged at the expense of barrenness of soul, and the loss of the favor of God.  {PH099 31.2}
[PH099 32.1]          Many of you think you do not exert a bad influence upon others, and thus feel in a measure satisfied; but do you exert an influence for good? Do you seek in your conversation and acts to lead others to Christ? or, if they profess Christ, lead them to a closer walk with him?  {PH099 32.1}
[PH099 32.2]          The young should cultivate a spirit of devotion, and piety. They cannot glorify God unless they aim constantly to the fullness of the stature of Christ--a perfect person in Christ Jesus. Let the Christian graces be and abound in you. Give to your Saviour the best and holiest affection. Render entire obedience to his will. He will accept of nothing short of this. Be not moved from your steadfastness by the jeers and scoffs of those whose minds are given to vanity. Follow your Saviour through good report and evil report. And count it all joy, and a sacred honor, to bear the cross of Christ. Jesus loves you. He died for you. Unless you seek to serve him with your undivided affections, you will fail to perfect holiness in his fear, and you will be compelled to hear at last the fearful word, Depart.  {PH099 32.2}
[PH099 32.3]          The case of Bro. Rumery is fearful. This world is his god. He worships money. He has not heeded the warning given him                                                                              33  years ago, and overcome his love of the world while in the exercise of all his faculties. The dollars he has accumulated since, have been like so many cords entangling his soul, and binding him to the world. As he has gained in property, the more greedy he has been for gain.  {PH099 32.3}
[PH099 33.1]          All the powers of his being are devoted to the one object, securing money. This has been the burden of his thoughts, the anxiety of his life. He has turned all the powers of his being in this one direction until he is a worshiper of mammon to all intents and purposes. Upon this subject he is insane. His example before his family is leading them to think the possession of property is to be valued before Heaven and immortality. He is sacrificing his eternal interest for treasures upon the earth. He has for years been educating his mind to acquire property. He believes the truth--he loves the principles of truth, and loves to see others prospering in the truth, but he has made himself so thoroughly a slave to mammon, that he feels bound to serve this master as long as he shall live. The longer he lives, the more devoted will he become to his love of getting gain, unless he tears his soul away from this terrible God, money. It will be like tearing out his vitals, but it must be done if he values Heaven.                                                                              34   {PH099 33.1}
[PH099 34.1]          He needs the censure of none, but the pity of all. His life has been a terrible mistake. He has suffered imaginary pecuniary want, while surrounded with plenty. Satan has taken possession of his mind, and excited his organ of acquisitiveness, and made him insane upon this subject. The higher, noble powers of his being have been brought very much into subjection to the close, selfish propensity of acquisitiveness. His only hope is in overcoming this propensity, and breaking the bands of Satan. He has tried to do this, by doing something after his conscience had been wrought upon; but this is not sufficient. This merely making a mighty effort and parting with a little of his mammon, and feeling all the time that he is parting with his soul, is not the fruit of true religion. He must train his mind to good works. He must brace against his propensity to acquire. He must weave into all his life good works. He must cultivate a love of doing good, and get above the little, penurious spirit which he has fostered.  {PH099 34.1}
[PH099 34.2]          In trading with the merchants at Allegan, Bro. and St. Rumery do not take a course which is pleasing to God. They will dicker to get things as cheap as they possibly can, and linger over a few pennies difference, and talk in regard to it as though money was their all--their God. If they could only be brought back, unobserved, to hear the remarks that are made after they leave, they                                                                              35  would get a clearer idea of the influence of penuriousness. Our faith is brought into disrepute, and God is blasphemed, by some, on account of this close, selfish dealing. Angels turn from this close, penny deal, in disgust. Everything in Heaven is noble and elevated. All are seeking the interest and happiness of others. No mind is devoted to looking out and caring for self. It is the chief joy of all holy beings to witness the joy and happiness of those around them.  {PH099 34.2}
[PH099 35.1]          When these angels come to minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation and witness, the exhibition of selfishness, of covetousness, of overreaching, and benefiting self at others disadvantage, they turn away in grief. When they see those who claim to be heirs to an immortal inheritance so penurious in dealing with those who do not profess any higher ambition than to be laying up treasures on earth, they turn away in shame, for holy truth is reproached.  {PH099 35.1}
[PH099 35.2]          There could be no way in which the Lord would be better glorified, and the truth honored, than for unbelievers to see that truth had wrought a great and good work upon the lives of naturally covetous and penurious men.  {PH099 35.2}
[PH099 35.3]          If they could see that the faith was having an influence to mould their characters, changing them from close, selfish, overreaching, money-loving men, to men who love to do good, who are seeking opportunities to bless those who need to be blessed with their means,                                                                              36  they would have evidence that their religion was genuine by visiting the widow and fatherless in their affliction, and by keeping themselves unspotted from the world. Such would let their light so shine that others seeing their good works would be led to glorify our Father which is in Heaven. This fruit would be unto holiness, and they would be living representatives of Christ upon the earth. Sinners would be convicted that there is a power in the truth to which they are strangers. Those who profess to be waiting and watching for the appearing of their Lord should not disgrace this profession by battering in deal, and standing for the last penny. Such fruit does not grow upon the Christian tree.  {PH099 35.3}
[PH099 36.1]          Bro. Rumery, the Lord is not willing you should perish, but rather that you should take hold of his strength, and make peace with him by a conformity of your will to the will of the Divine. If a faithful picture of your course in money-getting could be presented before you, you would be terrified. You would be disgusted with your closeness, your penuriousness, your love of money. You would make it the effort of your life to obtain the transforming grace of God which would make you a new man. The means which came to you from relatives was a curse to you. It only increased your money-loving propensity, and was an additional weight to sink you to perdition with your god.  {PH099 36.1}
[PH099 36.2]         "The love of money is the root of all evil." When men employ the powers that God has given them to obtain riches, and can be                                                                              37  content with the pleasures of adding to wealth which they can never use, and which will prove a damage to their children, they abuse the powers which God has given them. They show that their character has been made sordid by the absorbing pursuit of gain. Instead of realizing happiness, they are miserable. They have shut up their souls to the wants of the needy, and have given evidence that they had no bowels of mercy and compassion for the suffering.  {PH099 36.2}
[PH099 37.1]          Bro. Rumery, your heart is not callous to the wants and necessities of others. You have generous impulses, and you love to accommodate. You will frequently do a kind act for a brother or a neighbor readily, but you make money your god, and are in danger of valuing Heaven less than you value your money. In money-getting there is always danger, unless the grace of God is the ruling principle of the soul. When Christian are controlled by the principles of Heaven, they will dispense with one hand, while the other gains. This is the only rational and healthy position a Christian can occupy while having, and still making, money. We would ask Bro. Rumery, What are you going to do with your money? You are God's steward. You possess talents of means, and can with them do much good. You can deposit in the bank of Heaven by being rich in good works. Bless others with your life.                                                                              38  "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in Heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through, nor steal: for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."  {PH099 37.1}
[PH099 38.1]          In laying up treasures in Heaven, remember it is not lost. It is for yourselves. It is securing these treasures to yourselves by a judicious use of the means of which Heaven has made you a steward. Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not high-minded, 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.  {PH099 38.1}
[PH099 38.2]         There is danger, Bro. Rumery, of your life being lost, your gifts, bestowed by God, being surrendered to the Devil and you led captive by him at his will. Can you bear the thought? Can you for this short life choose to serve self, and love your money, and then part with it all, and have no title to Heaven, no right to the life which is eternal? You have a great work, a mighty struggle before you, to separate your affections from this                                                                              39  earth's treasure. Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Watch, pray, and work, are the Christian's watchwords. Arouse yourself, I implore you. Seek for those things which are enduring. The things of this earth must soon pass away. Are you ready to exchange worlds? Are you  forming a character for everlasting life? If lost at last, you will know what proved your ruin, --the love of money. You will cry in bitter anguish: Oh! the deceitfulness of riches! I have lost my soul. I sold it for money. My soul and body I bartered for gain. I sacrificed Heaven, fearing that I should have to sacrifice my money to obtain it. From the Master will be heard, Take ye the unprofitable servant, bind him hand and foot, and cast him into outer darkness.  {PH099 38.2}
[PH099 39.1]          We hope this will not be your fate. We hope you will transfer your affections, and remove your treasure to Heaven and fasten your affections upon God and the immortal treasure.  {PH099 39.1}
[PH099 39.2]          I have seen that the entire family were in danger of partaking, in a degree, of the father's spirit. Sr. Rumery, you have already partaken of this spirit. God help you to see it, and make an entire change. Cultivate a love of doing good. Seek to be rich in good works. You can do, in many things, more than you do. You have  an individual responsibility before God. You have a duty to do, from                                                                              40  which you cannot be excused. Maintain a close walk with God. Pray without ceasing. You will have close work if you save your soul.  {PH099 39.2}
[PH099 40.1]          Seek to have a counteracting influence in your family. Take your stand nobly for God. Your organization is unlike your husband's, and you will be condemned of God unless you act for yourself. Make diligent work in saving your own soul, and in exerting an influence to save your family. Let your example show that your treasure is in Heaven--that you have invested all in a better home and a better life, which are eternal. Train your mind to value heavenly things, to be elevated, to love God, and to manifest a willing obedience to his will.  {PH099 40.1}
[PH099 40.2]          You may be tested; you may be proved to see how deep and strong is your affection for the things of this world. You may be made to understand, my sister, a page of your heart with which you are now unacquainted.  {PH099 40.2}
[PH099 40.3]          God knows your trials, as you view the state of your husband and children, who so greatly lack saving faith. Much more depends upon you than you realize. You should put the armor on. Spend not your precious strength in exhausting labor which another can do. Encourage your daughter to engage in useful employment, and to aid you in bearing the burdens of life. She needs discipline. Her mind is vain. She needs to render all to                                                                              41  to God, then she can be useful and please her Redeemer.  {PH099 40.3}
[PH099 41.1]          Sr. Rummery, work less, and pray and meditate more. Eternal interests should be primary with you. God forbid that your children should be moulded into money-lovers.  {PH099 41.1}
[PH099 41.2]          True refinement, and gentleness of manners, can never be found in a home where selfishness reigns. The truly refined always have brains and hearts, always have consideration for others. True refinement does not find satisfaction in the adornment and display of the body. True refinement and nobility of soul, will be seen in efforts to bless others, being useful to others, seeking to elevate others.  {PH099 41.2}
[PH099 41.3]          The weight of eternal things rests very lightly upon your children. May God arouse them before it shall be too late, and they exclaim in anguish, "The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved."  {PH099 41.3}
[PH099 41.4]          Bro. George Lay: I was shown your case. You occupy a responsible position. You are entrusted with talents of money, and talents of influence. To every man there is given a work. Something to do, not merely to engage his brain, bone and muscle in common labor; it means more than this. You are acquainted with this work from a worldly point of view, and have some experience in the work in a religious capacity. But for a few years past you have been losing time,                                                                              42  and now you will have to work fast to redeem the past. To possess talents is not enough; you must turn these talents to advantage; not merely for yourself, but for Him who bestowed them. All that you have is a loan from your Lord. He will require it again at your hand with interest.  {PH099 41.4}
[PH099 42.1]          Christ has a right to your services. You are not your own servant, to serve your own interest, but the interest of him who has employed you. As a professed Christian, your relation to God brings you under obligations as his servant. You have become his servant by grace. It is not your own property entrusted to you for investment. Had it been so, you might have consulted your own pleasure in regard to its use. The capital is the Lord's, and you are responsible for its use or abuse. There are ways and means in which this capital can be invested--put out to the exchangers, where it shall be earning the Lord something. If it is allowed to be buried in the earth, the Lord is not benefited, and you will not be benefited; but will lose all that you had entrusted to you.  {PH099 42.1}
[PH099 42.2]          May God help you, my brother, to realize your true position as God's hired servant. He has paid the wages of his own blood and suffering to secure your willing servitude and engage your ready obedience.  {PH099 42.2}
[PH099 42.3]          During the trials of the few past years, you have suffered in mind, and have felt it a                                                                              43  relief to turn your attention more fully to the things of the world, to the work of acquiring. God, in his great love and mercy to you, has gathered you again to his fold. Now, new duties and responsibilities are laid upon you. You have a strong love for this world. You have been laying up treasures upon the earth. Now, Jesus invites you to transfer your treasure to Heaven; for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. In all your deal with your brethren, and with unbelievers, guard yourself. Be true to your profession, and maintain true nobleness of soul, which shall be a credit to the truth which you profess.  {PH099 42.3}
[PH099 43.1]          You occupy a position where others are looking to you. You possess more than ordinary intellect. Your perception is quick, and you are a man that feels deeply. Some of your brethren have not moved in wisdom. They have watched you, and have felt over your case, and have wished to see you more liberal with your means. They have made themselves unhappy over your case. This is all needless in them. These very ones lack in many things. And if they are faithful in the humble service the Master has required of them, they will have all that they can do. They cannot afford to waste their time in anxiously fearing their neighbor, who has a larger work entrusted to him, will not do his work well. While so interested in the                                                                              44  case of another, their own work is neglected, and they are really slothful servants. They were anxious to do their neighbor's work, instead of that committed to themselves to do.  {PH099 43.1}
[PH099 44.1]          They think that if they only had the five talents to handle, they could do so much better than the one to whom these talents were entrusted. But the Master knew better than they. None need mourn that they cannot glorify God by talents he never gave them, and for which they are not responsible. They need not say, If I were in another's position in life, I would have done a great amount of good with my capital. God requires no more of them than to improve upon what they have, as stewards of his grace.  {PH099 44.1}
[PH099 44.2]          The one talent, the humblest service, if wholly consecrated, and exercised to promote the glory of God, will be as acceptable as the improvements of the weightiest talents. The varied trusts are proportioned to our varied capabilities. To every man is given according to his ability. None should overlook their work, considering it as so small that they need not be particular to do it well. If they do this, they trifle with their moral responsibilities, and despise the day of small things. Heaven apportioned them their work, and it should be their ambition to do this work well, according to their capabilities. God requires that all, the lowliest, as well as                                                                              45  the strongest, fulfill their appointed work. The interest expected will be in proportion to the amount entrusted.  {PH099 44.2}
[PH099 45.1]          Each should diligently and interestedly attend to his own work, and leave others to their own Master, to stand or fall. There are too many busybodies in Monterey-- too many interested in watching their brethren, and for this reason they are constantly weak. They will bear testimony in meeting, and because they have not Jesus in their hearts to confess, they will try to impress upon their brethren their duty. These poor souls do not know their own duty, and yet they take the responsibility to enlighten others in regard to their duty. If such would attend to their own work, and obtain the grace of God in their hearts, there would be a power in the church which is now lacking.  {PH099 45.1}
[PH099 45.2]          Bro. Lay, you can do good. You possess good judgment, and God is leading you out of darkness into the light. Use your talents to the glory of God. Put them out to the exchangers, that when the Master cometh he may receive his own with usury. Break your tendrils from the valueless things of earth, and elevate them to entwine about God. The salvation of souls is of greater consideration than the whole world. One soul saved, to live through the endless ages of eternity, to praise God and the Lamb, is of more value than millions of money. Wealth                                                                              46  sinks into insignificance when compared with the worth of souls for whom Christ died. You are a cautious man, and will not move rashly. Sacrifice for the truth of God, and become rich toward God. God help you to move as fast as you should, and place the right estimate upon eternal things.  {PH099 45.2}
[PH099 46.1]          Your children need a deeper work. They need to encourage sobriety and solidity of character. They can, if they are consecrated to God, do good, and exert an influence which will be saving upon their companions.  {PH099 46.1}
[PH099 46.2]          And let not the poor feel that there is nothing that they can do, because they have not the wealth of their brethren. They can sacrifice in many ways. They can deny self. They can live devotedly. And in their words and acts they can honor their Redeemer. The sisters, especially, can exert a strong influence, if they will cease their gossiping, and devote their time to watchfulness and prayer. They can honor God. They can let their light so shine, that others by seeing their good works will be led to glorify our Father which is in Heaven.  {PH099 46.2}
[PH099 46.3]          As an illustration of the failure on your part to come up to the work of God, as was your privilege, I was referred to these words: "Curse ye Meroz, said the angel of the Lord, curse ye bitterly the inhabitants thereof; because they came not to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty." What had Meroz done? Nothing. And this was their sin. They came not up to the help of the Lord against the mighty.  {PH099 46.3}
[PH100 1.1]         PH100 - Testimony for the Physicians and Helpers of the Sanitarium (1879)      	Moral and Intellectual Culture.          Oct. 9, 1878, I was shown that the Sanitarium at Battle Creek has been established by the providence of God, and that his blessing is indispensable to its success. The physicians are not quacks nor infidels, but men who are thoroughly educated, and who understand how to take care of the sick; men who fear God, and have an earnest interest for the moral and spiritual welfare of their patients. This interest for spiritual as well as physical good, the managers of the institution should make no effort to conceal. By a life of true Christian integrity they can give to the world an example worthy of imitation; and they should not hesitate to let it be seen that in addition to their skill in treating disease, they are continually gaining wisdom and knowledge from Christ, the greatest teacher the world has ever known. They must have this connection with the Source of all wisdom, to make their labor successful.  {PH100 1.1}
[PH100 1.2]         Truth has a power to elevate the receiver.                                                                              2  If Bible truths exerts its sanctifying influence upon the heart and character, it will make believers more intelligent. A Christian will understand his responsibilities to God and to his fellow-men, if he is truly connected with the Lamb of God who gave his life for the world. Only by a continual improvement of the intellectual as well as the moral powers can we hope to answer the purpose of our Creator.  {PH100 1.2}
[PH100 2.1]          God is displeased with those who are too careless or indolent to become efficient, well-informed workers. The Christian should possess more intelligence and keener discernment than the worldling. The study of God's word is continually expanding the mind and strengthening the intellect. There is nothing that will so refine and elevate the character and give vigor to every faculty, as the continual exercise of the mind to grasp and comprehend weighty and important truths.  {PH100 2.1}
[PH100 2.2]          The human mind becomes dwarfed and enfeebled when dealing with common-place matters only, never rising above the level of time and sense to grasp the mysteries of the unseen. The understanding is gradually brought to the level of the things with which it is constantly familiar. The mind will contract its powers and lose its ability, if it is not exercised to acquire additional knowledge, and put to the stretch to comprehend the revelations of divine power in nature and in the Sacred Word.  {PH100 2.2}
[PH100 2.3]          But an acquaintance with facts and theories, however important they may be in themselves, is of little real value, unless put to a practical use. There is danger that those who have obtained                                                                              3  their education principally from books will fail to realize that they are novices so far as experimental knowledge is concerned. This is especially true of those connected with the Sanitarium. This institution needs men of thought and ability. The physicians, superintendent, matron, and helpers should be persons of culture and experience. But some fail to comprehend what is needed at such an establishment, and they plod on year after year, making no marked improvement. They seem to be stereotyped; each succeeding day is but a repetition of the past one.  {PH100 2.3}
[PH100 3.1]          The minds and hearts of these mechanical workers are impoverished. Opportunities are before them; if studious, they might obtain an education of the highest value; but they do not appreciate their privileges. None should rest satisfied with their present education. All may be daily qualifying themselves to fill some office of trust.  {PH100 3.1}
[PH100 3.2]          It is of great importance that the one who is chosen to care for the spiritual interests of patients and helpers, be a man of sound judgment and undeviating principle,--a man who will have moral influence, who knows how to deal with minds. He should be a person of wisdom and culture, of affection as well as intelligence. He may not be thoroughly efficient in all respects at first, but he should, by earnest thought and the exercise of his abilities, qualify himself for this important work. The greatest wisdom and gentleness are needed, to                                                                              4  serve in this position acceptably, yet with unbending integrity; for prejudice, bigotry, and error of every form and description must be met.  {PH100 3.2}
[PH100 4.1]          This place should not be filled by a man who has an irritable temper,--a sharp combativeness. Care must be taken that the religion of Christ be not made repulsive by harshness or impatience. The servant of God should seek, by meekness, gentleness, and love, rightly to represent our holy faith. While the cross must never be concealed, he should present also the Saviour's matchless love. The worker must be imbued with the spirit of Jesus, and then the treasures of the soul will be presented in words that will find their way to the hearts of those who hear. The religion of Christ, exemplified in the daily life of his followers, will exert a tenfold greater influence than the most eloquent sermons.  {PH100 4.1}
[PH100 4.2]          Intelligent, God-fearing workers can do a vast amount of good in the way of reforming those who come as invalids to be treated at the Sanitarium. Not only are these persons diseased physically, but mentally and morally. The education, the habits, and the entire life of many have been erroneous. They cannot make the great changes necessary for the adoption of correct habits, in a few days. They must have time to consider the matter, and to learn the right way. If all connected with the Sanitarium are correct representatives of the truths of health reform and of our holy faith, they are exerting an influence to mold the minds of their patients.                                                                              5  The contrast of erroneous habits with those which are in harmony with the truth of God, has a convicting power.  {PH100 4.2}
[PH100 5.1]          Man is not what he might be, and what it is God's will that he should be. The strong power of Satan upon the human race keeps them upon a low level; but this need not be so, else Enoch could not have become so elevated and ennobled as to walk with God. Man need not cease to grow intellectually and spiritually during his lifetime. But the minds of many are so occupied with themselves and their own selfish interests as to leave no room for higher and nobler thoughts. And the standard of intellectual as well as spiritual attainments is far too low. With many, the more responsible the position they occupy, the better pleased are they with themselves; and they cherish the idea that the position makes and gives character to the man. Few realize that they have a constant work before them to develop forbearance, sympathy, charity, conscientiousness, and fidelity,--traits of character indispensable to those who occupy positions of responsibility. All connected with the Sanitarium should have a sacred regard for the rights of others, which is but obeying the principles of the law of God.  {PH100 5.1}
[PH100 5.2]          Some at this institution are sadly deficient in the qualities so essential to the happiness of all connected with them. The physicians, and the helpers in the various branches of the work, should carefully guard against a selfish coldness, a distant, unsocial disposition; for this will alienate the affection and confidence                                                                              6  of the patients. Many who come to the Sanitarium are refined, sensitive people, of ready tact and keen discernment. These persons discover such defects at once, and comment upon them. Men cannot love God supremely and their neighbor as themselves, and be as cold as icebergs. They not only rob God of the love due him, but they are robbing their neighbor as well. Love is a plant of heavenly birth, and it must be fostered and nourished. Affectionate hearts, truthful, loving words, will make happy families, and exert an elevating influence upon all who shall come within the sphere of their influence.  {PH100 5.2}
[PH100 6.1]          Those who make the most of their privileges and opportunities will be, in the Bible sense, talented and educated men; not learned merely, but educated, in mind, in manners, in deportment. They will be refined, tender, pitiful, affectionate. This, I was shown, is what the God of Heaven requires in the institutions at Battle Creek. God has given us powers to be used, to be developed and strengthened by education. We should reason and reflect, carefully marking the relation between cause and effect. When this is practiced, there will be, on the part of many, greater thoughtfulness and care in regard to their words and actions, that they may fully answer the purpose of God in their creation.  {PH100 6.1}
[PH100 6.2]          We should ever bear in mind that we are not only learners, but teachers in this world, fitting ourselves and others for a higher sphere of action in the future life. The measure of                                                                              7  man's usefulness is in knowing the will of God, and in doing it. It is within our power to so improve in mind and manners that God will not be ashamed to own us. There must be a high standard at the Sanitarium. If there are men of culture, of intellectual and moral power, to be found in our ranks, they must be called to the front, to fill places in our institutions.  {PH100 6.2}
[PH100 7.1]          Dr. Kellogg has not been satisfied with a superficial education, but has made the most of his opportunities to obtain a thorough knowledge of the human system, and the best methods of treating disease. This has given him an influence. He has earned the respect of the community as a man of sound judgment and nice discrimination,--one who reasons carefully from cause to effect; and he is highly esteemed for his courtesy of deportment and his Christian integrity. But there are others also who can become men of influence, trust, and power in that institution.  {PH100 7.1}
[PH100 7.2]          The physicians should not be deficient in any respect. A wide field of usefulness is open before them, and if they do not become skillful in their profession, they have only themselves to blame. They must be diligent students; and, by close application and faithful attention to details, they should become care-takers. It should be necessary for no one to follow them to see that their work is done without mistakes.  {PH100 7.2}
[PH100 7.3]          Sister Drusilla Lamson has had an experience in the things of God. She has been favored with great light, and has borne the test of affliction; and she should, in her position, be a light, a                                                                              8  blessing, to that institution. While she shall serve in her present position, she should do her utmost to direct the minds of the patients to God. In him there is comfort and hope for the suffering ones.  {PH100 7.3}
[PH100 8.1]          Those who occupy responsible positions should so educate and discipline themselves that all within the sphere of their influence may see what man can be, and what he can do, when connected with the God of wisdom and power. And why should not a man thus privileged become intellectually strong? Again and again have worldlings sneeringly asserted that those who believe present truth are weak-minded, deficient in education, without position or influence. This we know to be untrue; but is there not some reason for these assertions? Many have considered it a mark of humility to be ignorant and uncultivated. Such persons are deceived as to what constitutes true humility and Christian meekness.                                                    -    {PH100 8.1}
[PH100 8.2]                 Duty to the Poor.          The managers of the Sanitarium should not be governed by the principles which control other institutions of this kind, in which the leaders, acting from policy, too often pay deference to the wealthy, while the poor are neglected. The latter are frequently in great need of sympathy and counsel, which they do not always receive, although for moral worth they may stand far higher in the estimation of God than the more wealthy. The apostle James                                                                              9  has given definite counsel with regard to the manner in which we should treat the rich and the poor:--  {PH100 8.2}
[PH100 9.1]          "For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; and ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou here, or sit here under my footstool, are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts? Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world, rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?"  {PH100 9.1}
[PH100 9.2]          Although Christ was rich in the heavenly courts, yet he became poor, that we through his poverty might be made rich. Jesus honored the poor by sharing their humble condition. From the history of his life we are to learn how to treat the poor. Some carry the duty of beneficence to extremes, and really hurt the needy by doing too much for them. The poor do not always exert themselves as they should. While they are not to be neglected and left to suffer, they must be taught to help themselves.  {PH100 9.2}
[PH100 9.3]          The cause of God should not be overlooked, that the poor may receive our first attention. Christ once gave his disciples a very important lesson on this point. When Mary poured the ointment on the head of Jesus, covetous Judas made a plea in behalf of the poor, murmuring at what he considered a waste of money. But Jesus vindicated the act, saying, "Why trouble                                                                              10  ye her? She hath wrought a good work on me. Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached, in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her." By this we are taught that Christ is to be honored in the consecration of the best of our substance. Should our whole attention be directed to relieving the wants of the poor, God's cause would be neglected. Neither will suffer, if his stewards do their duty; but the cause of Christ should come first.  {PH100 9.3}
[PH100 10.1]          The poor should be treated with as much interest and attention as the rich. The practice of honoring the rich, and slighting and neglecting the poor, is a crime in the sight of God. Those who are surrounded with all the comforts of life, or who are petted and pampered by the world because they are rich, do not feel the need of sympathy and tender consideration as do persons whose lives have been one long struggle with poverty. The latter have but little in this life to make them happy or cheerful, and they will appreciate sympathy and love. Physicians and helpers should in no case neglect this class; for by thus doing, they may neglect Christ in the person of his saints.  {PH100 10.1}
[PH100 10.2]          Our Sanitarium was erected to benefit suffering humanity, rich and poor, the world over. Many of our churches have but little interest in this institution, notwithstanding they have sufficient evidence that it is one of the instrumentalities designed of God to bring men and women under the influence of truth, and to                                                                              11  save many souls. The churches that have the poor among them should not neglect their stewardship, and throw the burden of the poor and sick upon the Sanitarium. All the members of the several churches are responsible before God for their afflicted ones. They should bear their own burdens. If they have sick persons among them, whom they wish to be benefited by treatment, they should, if able, send them to the Sanitarium. In doing this, they will not only be patronizing the institution which God has established, but will be helping those who need help,-caring for the poor as God requires us to do.  {PH100 10.2}
[PH100 11.1]          It was not the purpose of God that poverty should ever leave the world. The ranks of society were never to be equalized; for the diversity of condition which characterizes our race is one of the means by which God has designed to prove and develop character. Many have urged with great enthusiasm that all men should have an equal share in the temporal blessings of God; but this was not the purpose of the Creator. Christ has said that we shall have the poor always with us. The poor, as well as the rich, are the purchase of his blood; and among his professed followers, in nine cases out of ten, the former serve him with singleness of purpose, while the latter are constantly fastening their affections on their earthly treasures, and Christ is forgotten. The cares of this life and the greed for riches eclipse the glory of the eternal world. It would be the greatest misfortune that has ever befallen mankind, if all were to be placed upon an equality in worldly possessions.                                                                              12   {PH100 11.1}
[PH100 12.1]          Religion Conducive to Health.          The fear of the Lord will do more for the patrons of the Sanitarium than any other means that can be employed for the restoration of health. Religion should in no case be kept in the background, as though detrimental to those who come to be treated. On the contrary, the fact should ever be made prominent, that the laws of God, both in nature and revelation, are "life unto those that fear them, and health to all their flesh."  {PH100 12.1}
[PH100 12.2]          Pride and fashion hold men and women in the veriest slavery to customs which are fatal to health, and even to life itself. The appetites and passions, clamoring for indulgence, trample reason and conscience under foot. This is the cruel work of Satan, and he is constantly putting forth the most determined efforts to strengthen the chains by which he has bound his victims. Those who have been all their lives indulging wrong habits do not always realize the necessity of a change. And many will persist in gratifying their desire for sinful pleasure at any cost. Let the conscience be aroused, and much is gained. Nothing but the grace of God can convict and convert the heart; here alone can the slaves of custom obtain power to break the shackles which bind them. The self-indulgent must be led to see and feel that a great moral renovation is necessary, if they would meet the claims of the divine law; the soul-temple has been defiled, and God calls upon them to arouse, and strive with all their might to win back the God-given                                                                              13  manhood which has been sacrificed through sinful indulgence.  {PH100 12.2}
[PH100 13.1]          Divine truth can make little impression upon the intellect while the customs and habits are opposed to its principles. Those who are willing to inform themselves concerning the effect of sinful indulgence upon the health, and who commence the work of reform, even if it be from selfish motives, place themselves, in so doing, where the truth of God may find access to their hearts. And, on the other hand, those who are reached by the presentation of Scripture truth, are then in a position where their consciences will be aroused upon the subject of health. They see and feel the necessity of breaking away from the tyrannizing habits and appetites which have ruled them so long. There are many who would receive the truths of God's word, their judgment having been convinced by the clearest evidence; but the carnal desires, clamoring for gratification, control the intellect, and they reject truth as falsehood, because it comes in collision with their lustful affections.  {PH100 13.1}
[PH100 13.2]          "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." When men of wrong habits and sinful practices yield to the power of divine truth, the entrance of God's word gives light and understanding to the simple. There is an application of truth to the heart; and moral power, which seemed to have been paralyzed, revives. The receiver is possessed of stronger, clearer understanding than before. He has riveted his soul upon the Eternal Rock. Health improves, in the very sense of his                                                                              14  security in Jesus Christ. Thus religion and the laws of health go hand in hand.                                                    -    {PH100 13.2}
[PH100 14.1]             Admonitions and Warnings.          Nov. 23, 1879, some things were shown me in reference to the institutions among us, and the duties and dangers of those who occupy a leading position in connection with them. I saw that Dr. Kellogg had been raised up to do a special work as God's instrument, to be led, guided, and controlled by his Spirit. He is to answer the claims of God, and never to feel that he is his own property, and that he can employ his powers as he shall deem most profitable to himself. Although it is his purpose to be and to do right, yet he will most surely err, unless he is a constant learner in the school of Christ. His only safety is in humbly walking with God.  {PH100 14.1}
[PH100 14.2]          Dangers beset his path, and if he comes off conqueror, he will indeed have a triumphant song to sing in the city of God. He has strong traits of character that will need to be constantly repressed. If kept under the control of the Spirit of God, these traits will be a blessing; but if not, they will prove a curse. If Dr. Kellogg, who is now riding upon the wave of popularity, does not become giddy, it will be a miracle of mercy. If he leans to his own wisdom, as so many thus situated have done, his wisdom will prove to be foolishness. While he shall give himself unselfishly to the work of God, never swerving in the least from principle, the Lord will throw about him the                                                                              15  everlasting arms, and will prove to him a mighty helper. "Them that honor me, I will honor."  {PH100 14.2}
[PH100 15.1]          It is a dangerous age for any man who has talents which can be of value in the work of God; for Satan is constantly plying his temptations upon such a person, ever trying to fill him with pride and ambition; and when God would use him, in nine cases out of ten he becomes independent, self-sufficient, and feels capable of standing alone. This will be your danger, Dr. Kellogg, unless you live a life of constant faith and prayer. You may have a deep and abiding sense of eternal things, and that love for humanity which Christ has shown in his life. A close connection with Heaven will give the right tone to your fidelity, and will be the ground of your success. Your feeling of dependence will drive you to prayer, and your sense of duty summon you to effort. Prayer and effort, effort and prayer, will be the business of your life. You must pray as though the efficiency and praise were all due to God, and labor as though duty were all your own. If you want power, you may have it; as it is awaiting your draft upon it. Only believe in God, take him at his word, act by faith, and blessings will come.  {PH100 15.1}
[PH100 15.2]          In this matter, genius, logic, and eloquence will not avail. Those who have a humble, trusting, contrite heart, God accepts, and hears their prayer; and when God helps, all obstacles will be overcome. How many men of great natural abilities and high scholarship have failed when placed in positions of responsibility;                                                                              16  while those of feebler intellect, with less favorable surroundings, have been wonderfully successful. The secret was, the former trusted to themselves, while the latter united with Him who is wonderful in counsel, and mighty in working to accomplish what he will.  {PH100 15.2}
[PH100 16.1]          Your work being always urgent, it is difficult for you to secure time for meditation and prayer; but this you must not fail to do. The blessing of Heaven, obtained by daily supplication, will be as the bread of life to your soul, and will cause you to increase in spiritual and moral strength, like a tree planted by the river of waters, whose leaf will be always green, and whose fruit will appear in due time.  {PH100 16.1}
[PH100 16.2]          Your neglect to attend the public worship of God is a serious error. The privileges of divine service will be as beneficial to you as to others, and are fully as essential. You may be unable to avail yourself of these privileges as often as do many others. You will frequently be called, upon the Sabbath, to visit the sick, and may be obliged to make it a day of exhausting labor. Such labor to relieve the suffering, was pronounced by our Saviour a work of mercy, and no violation of the Sabbath. But when you regularly devote your Sabbaths to writing or labor, making no special change, you harm your own soul, give to others an example that is not worthy of imitation, and do not honor God.  {PH100 16.2}
[PH100 16.3]          You have failed to see the real importance, not only of attending religious meetings, but also of bearing testimony for Christ and the truth. If you do not obtain spiritual strength                                                                              17  by the faithful performance of every Christian duty, thus coming into a closer and more sacred relation to your Redeemer, you will become weak in moral power. You will surely wither spiritually, unless you change your course in this respect.  {PH100 16.3}
[PH100 17.1]          Some in Battle Creek have indulged feelings toward Dr. Kellogg that are not justifiable. This is offensive to God. Dr. Kellogg has the frailties of humanity, and is as liable as themselves to err. He does not claim perfection, neither do his friends claim it for him. He is subject to the fierce temptations of Satan; for any deviation from the right in him will affect many others. The unwarrantable jealousy and prejudice against him are contrary to the spirit of Christ. Jealousy and evil surmisings place a wrong construction upon motive, plans, and actions. And the very fact that we are always suspecting evil, goes far to create the evil which we suspect.  {PH100 17.1}
[PH100 17.2]          Facts and evidences in favor of the Doctor and his work are gaining him many true friends, even among those who once regarded him with suspicion. He has, by his own exertion, and the blessing of God, availed himself of the opportunities and privileges within his reach to become, mentally, a strong man; and has been wonderfully successful in reaching a high standard as a reliable physician,--just such a man as our people need,--who will, if humble and devoted to God, be a man for this time. While accumulating means, he has not hoarded it. He has manifested a noble spirit of liberality to aid the cause whenever he could do                                                                              18  so. But notwithstanding all this, there have been families who have worked against him, and against the Sanitarium because he acted so prominent a part there. Between these individuals and the Kellogg family there has long existed a feeling of enmity,--a root of bitterness, whereby many have been defiled. Some have even stooped to circulate unfavorable reports, and to indulge in contemptible gossiping, all of which has borne its burden of poisonous fruit.  {PH100 17.2}
[PH100 18.1]          Dr. Kellogg has at times taken strong measures, and has been firm and determined in the accomplishment of his purposes. He has an indomitable will to carry through whatever he undertakes; otherwise he would not now be standing on the high platform he has honorably reached. While he makes God his strength, and loves and fears him, he will be rightly balanced; but as surely as he loses his connection with God, and attempts to go in his own strength, this same will that has proved a blessing, will prove an injury to himself and to others. He will become overbearing, tyrannical, exacting, and dictatorial. These traits must not be allowed to gain the ascendency under any circumstances; for they will strengthen by indulgence, and will soon become a controlling power. His character will thus become ill-balanced, and this will disqualify him for the work of God. But although Dr. Kellogg has not been faultless, the Lord has been his helper thus far; and those who have cherished envious and jealous feelings toward him have been working against God.                                                                              19   {PH100 18.1}
[PH100 19.1]          There are individuals who are watching with eagle eyes for his haltings, and all the more intently because of the efforts that have been made by my husband and myself to counteract the influence which was working against him, and to place him in the confidence of our people everywhere. Some have not given up their feelings of suspicion, but have been watching to see Dr. Kellogg make mistakes which shall prove our confidence in him to have been misplaced. When any reproof is given to the Sanitarium, there is in some hearts a throb of joyful triumph; and those who have cherished prejudice, feel a new assurance that they are in the right. God is in no way pleased with this spirit. These feelings are more satanic than divine. If those who complain of the Doctor were one-half as self-sacrificing as he has been, if they would accomplish one-half as much good as he has accomplished, their course would be more pleasing to God than it now is.  {PH100 19.1}
[PH100 19.2]          The Lord put it into the heart of my husband to help Dr. Kellogg at a time when he needed help. Eld. White has felt for Dr. Kellogg all the tenderness of a father, and the Doctor has, in turn, responded. This was in the order of God. My husband can have the satisfaction of knowing that the results of his interest for Dr. Kellogg--which has been far deeper than that manifested for his own children--fully answer his expectations. The Doctor should now manifest the same interest for others who need help and encouragement as he needed it. In this work he may meet with disappointments, but should not be discouraged.                                                                              20   {PH100 19.2}
[PH100 20.1]          Unless he continually seeks help from God Dr. Kellogg will be too exacting toward those who are fighting their way up, as he once was and will fail to cherish all that sympathy and love which he should manifest, because he does not see in them the same resolute determination to study diligently, to deny self, and to practice rigid economy, that enabled him to gain his position.  {PH100 20.1}
[PH100 20.2]          Dr. Kellogg and Bro. Henry Kellogg represent two very important institutions. Neither of these men can well be spared from his position of trust, yet neither of them should feel that he is indispensable. God could do without them, but they cannot do without God. I was shown that these brethren were not working in harmony. If Bro. Henry Kellogg fills his position honorably, he must guard the financial interests of the institution committed to his care. Dr. Kellogg feels the same responsibility in his position of trust. But these men should be exceedingly cautious that they look not alone on their own branch of the work, and labor for their own department, to the injury of other branches, of equal importance.  {PH100 20.2}
[PH100 20.3]          Brethren, you are in danger of making a grave mistake in your business transactions. You are both sharp, critical men. God warns you to be on your guard, lest you indulge a spirit of crowding each other. Be careful not to cultivate the sharper's tact; for this will not stand the test of the day of God. Bro. Henry Kellogg's shrewdness and discrimination are needed; for he has all classes to deal with. He must guard the interests of the publishing                                                                              21  house, or thousands of dollars will go into the hands of dishonest men. But let not these traits become a ruling power. Under proper control, they are essential elements in the character; and if Bro. Henry Kellogg keeps the fear of God before him, and his love in the heart, he will be safe.  {PH100 20.3}
[PH100 21.1]          Dr. Kellogg has obtained an experience in economy. This was the battle of life with him. But he should not let the habit of close figuring, which was a necessity in his youth, degenerate into avarice and sharp practice. While he is liberal with the money he gains, he is in danger of scheming, and the fine gold of his character will thus be tarnished. While he sees the advantages to be gained by a certain course of action, he does not always look to see how it will affect others. But he can afford to be fair and square in deal. Better, far better, to yield some advantages that might be gained, than to cultivate an avaricious spirit, and thus make it a law of nature.  {PH100 21.1}
[PH100 21.2]          Petty sharpness is unworthy of a Christian. We have been separated from the world by the great cleaver of truth. Our wrong traits of character are not always visible to ourselves, although they may be very apparent to others. But time and circumstances will surely prove us, and bring to light the gold of character, or discover the baser metal. Not one of us is known or read of all men, till the crucible of God tests us. Every base thought, every wrong action, reveals some defect in the character. These rugged traits must be brought under the chisel and hammer in God's great                                                                              22  workshop, and the grace of God must smooth and polish, before we can be fitted for a place in the glorious temple.  {PH100 21.2}
[PH100 22.1]          God can make these brethren more precious than fine gold, even the golden wedge of Ophir, if they will yield themselves to his transforming hand. They should be determined to make the noblest use of every faculty and every opportunity. The word of God should be their study and their guide in deciding what is the highest and best in all cases. The one faultless character, the perfect pattern set before them in the gospel, should be studied with deepest interest. The one lesson most essential for them to learn is that goodness alone gives true greatness. May God deliver us from the philosophy of worldly-wise men. Their only hope is in becoming fools, that they may be wise indeed.  {PH100 22.1}