Quotes By Ellen White

“I am asked concerning the law in Galatians. What law is the schoolmaster to bring us to Christ? I answer: Both the ceremonial and the moral code of ten commandments“. – Selected Messages, Vol. 1, p. 233.

“The law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith (Galatians 3:24). In this scripture, the Holy Spirit through the apostle is speaking especially of the moral law.” – Selected Messages, Vol. 1, p. 234.

“The Lord in His great mercy sent a most precious message to His people through Elders Jones and Waggoner. This message was to bring more
prominently before the world the uplifted Saviour, the sacrifice for the sins of the whole world…. God gave His messengers just what the people needed”. (1895; TM 91, 95).

“The loud cry of the third angel has already begun in the revelation of the righteousness of Christ, the sin-pardoning Redeemer. This is the beginning of the light of the angel whose glory shall fill the whole earth.” – Review and Herald, 11/22/1892

“Several have written to me, inquiring if the message of justification by faith is the third angel’s message, and I have answered, ‘It is the third angel’s message in verity’.” – Review and Herald, 4/1/1890

“You will meet with those who will say, ‘You are too much excited over this matter. You are too much in earnest. You should not be reaching for the righteousness of Christ, and making so much of that. You should preach the law.’ As a people, we have preached the law until we are as dry as the hills of Gilboa that had neither dew nor rain. We must preach Christ in the law, and there will be sap and nourishment in the preaching that will be as food to the famishing flock of God.” – Review and Herald, 3/11/1890.

“No true doctrine will lose anything by close investigation. We are living in perilous times, and it does not become us to accept everything claimed to be truth without examining it thoroughly, neither can we afford to reject anything that bears the fruits of the Spirit of God; but we should be teachable, meek and lowly of heart…. The Lord designs that our opinions be put to the test”. RH December 20, 1892.

“The sin committed in what took place at Minneapolis remains on the record books of heaven, registered against the names of those who resisted
light, and it will remain upon the record until full confession is made, and the transgressors stand in full humility before God”. – Letter, September 1, 1892, O19, 1892.

“I have had the question asked, what do you think of this light which these men are presenting? Why, I have been presenting it to you for the last forty-five years,–the matchless charms of Christ. This is what I have been trying to present before your minds. When Brother Waggoner brought out these ideas at Minneapolis, it was the first clear teaching on this subject from any human lips I had heard, excepting the conversations between myself and my husband. I have said to myself, it is because God has presented it to me in vision that I see it so clearly, and they cannot see it because they have not had it presented to them as I have, and when another presented it, every fiber of my heart said amen”. – Ms. 5, 1889.

“I can never forget the experience which we had in Minneapolis, or the things which were then revealed to me in regard to the spirit that controlled
men, the words spoken, the actions done in obedience to the powers of evil… They were moved at the meeting by another spirit, and they knew not that God had sent these young men to bear a special message to them which they treated with ridicule and contempt, not realizing that the heavenly
intelligences were looking upon them. I know that at that time the Spirit of God was insulted”. – MS. 24, 1892.

Angels of God

“The angels of God, thousands upon thousands, … guard us against evil and press back the powers of darkness that are seeking our destruction. Have we not reason to be thankful every moment, thankful even when there are apparent difficulties in our pathway?” My Life Today, 171

“We need to understand better than we do the mission of the angels. It would be well to remember that every true child of God has the cooperation of heavenly beings. Invisible armies of light and power attend the meek and lowly ones who believe and claim the promises of God. Cherubim and seraphim, and angels that excel in strength, stand at God’s right hand, ‘All ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation’.” The Acts of the Apostles, 154

“Nothing is apparently more helpless, yet really more invincible, than the soul that feels its nothingness and relies wholly on the merits of the Saviour. God would send every angel in heaven to the aid of such a one, rather than allow him to be overcome.” Testimonies For The Church 7:17

“Heavenly angels watch those who are seeking for enlightenment. They cooperate with those who try to win souls to Christ.” The Bible Echo, December 10, 1900

“In all your experiences, remember that angels of God are beside you. They know what you do; they are present to guard you. Do not do anything to displease them. All heaven is interested in the moves you are making.” Southern Field Echo, June 1, 1909

“Angels are ever present where they are most needed, with those who have the hardest battle with self to fight, and whose surroundings are the most discouraging.” The Desire of Ages, 440

“In all ages, angels have been near to Christ’s faithful followers. The vast confederacy of evil is arrayed against all who would overcome; but Christ would have us look to the things which are not seen, to the armies of heaven encamped about all who love God, to deliver them. From what dangers, seen and unseen, we have been preserved through the interposition of the angels, we shall never know, until in the light of eternity we see the providences of God. Then we shall know that the whole family of heaven was interested in the family here below, and that messengers from the throne of God attended our steps from day to day.” The Desire of Ages, 240

“A guardian angel is appointed to every follower of Christ. These heavenly watchers shield the righteous from the power of the wicked one. This Satan himself recognized when he said: ‘Does Job fear God for nothing? Hast not Thou made an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on every side?’ Job 1:9-10. The agency by which God protects His people is presented in the words of the psalmist: ‘The angel of the LORD encamps all around those who fear Him, And delivers them.’ Psalm 34:7. Said the Saviour, speaking of those that believe in Him: ‘Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of My Father.’ Matthew 18:10. The angels appointed to minister to the children of God have at all times access to His presence.” Great Controversy, 512, 513

“We know not what results a day, an hour, or a moment may determine, and never should we begin the day without committing our ways to our heavenly Father. His angels are appointed to watch over us, and if we put ourselves under their guardianship, then in every time of danger they will be at our right hand. When unconsciously we are in danger of exerting a wrong influence, the angels will be by our side, prompting us to a better course, choosing our words for us, and influencing our actions.” Christ’s Object Lessons, 341, 342

“Angels of God are all around us…. Oh, we want to know these things, and fear and tremble, and to think much more of the power of the angels of God that are watching over and guarding us …. Angels of God are commissioned from heaven to guard the children of men, and yet they draw away from their restraining influences and go where they can have communication with the evil angels …. Oh, that we might all obey the injunction of the apostle, “Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you.” (2 Corinthians 6:17).” 5MR 125

“Angels are sent to minister to the children of God who are physically blind. Angels guard their steps and save them from a thousand dangers, which, unknown to them, beset their path.” Welfare Ministry, 240

“Before leaving the house, all the family should be called together; and the father, or the mother in the father’s absence, should plead fervently with God to keep them through the day. Come in humility, with a heart full of tenderness, and with a sense of the temptations and dangers before yourselves and your children; by faith bind them upon the altar, entreating for them the care of the Lord. Ministering angels will guard children who are thus dedicated to God.” Child Guidance, 519

“If you could see the many perils through which you are conducted safely every day by these messengers of Heaven, gratitude would spring up in your hearts and find expression from your lips. If you make God your strength, you may, under the most discouraging circumstances, attain a height and breadth of Christian perfection which you hardly think it possible to reach. Your thoughts may be elevated, you may have noble aspirations, clear perceptions of truth, and purposes of action which shall raise you above all sordid motives.” Counsels on Health, 384

“If you will try to suppress every evil thought through the day, then the angels of God will come and dwell with you. These angels are beings that excel in strength. You remember how the angel came to the sepulcher, and the Roman soldiers fell like dead men before the glory of his countenance; and if one angel could work with such power, how would it have been if all the angels that are with us here, had been present? The angels are with us every day, to guard and protect us from the assaults of the enemy.” The Review and Herald, August 14, 1888

“Those who labor for the good of others are working in union with the heavenly angels. They have their constant companionship, their unceasing ministry. Angels of light and power are ever near, to protect, to comfort, to heal, to instruct, to inspire. The highest education, the truest culture, the most exalted service possible to human beings in this world, are theirs.” The Review and Herald, July 11, 1912

“The angels of heaven are moving upon human minds to arouse investigation in the themes of the Bible. A far greater work will be done than has yet been done and none of the glory of it will flow to men, for angels that minister to those who shall be heirs of salvation are working night and day.” Counsels to Writers and Editors, 140

“God might have committed the message of the gospel, and all the work of loving ministry, to the heavenly angels. He might have employed other means for accomplishing His purpose. But in His infinite love He chose to make us co-workers with Himself, with Christ and the angels, that we might share the blessing, the joy, the spiritual uplifting, which results from this unselfish ministry.” Steps to Christ, 79

Atheism & Unbelief

“We might cite many instances where learned men have gloried in their unbelief, and in parading their atheism. But when death claimed them, they have looked with horror into the starless future, and their dying words have been, ‘I have tried to believe that there is no God, no reward for the faithful, no punishment for the wicked. But how vain has been the attempt. I know now that I must meet the doom of the lost’.” ST, August 3, 1904, par. 3

“Sir Thomas Scott in his last moments cried: ‘Until this moment I believed there was neither a God nor a hell. Now I know and feel that there are both, and that I am doomed to perdition by the just judgment of God’.” ST, August 3, 1904, par. 5

“Voltaire lived in a splendid mansion, and was surrounded by every luxury that heart could wish. Kings honored him. The great men of the world sought his society… Was this sufficient to make men who deny Christ happy? Go with me to his death-bed, and listen to his words of mournful despair: ‘In man there is more wretchedness than in all other animals put together. He loves life, and yet knows that he must die. If he enjoys a transient good, he suffers various ills, and is at last devoured by worms… I tremble at this awful picture, and wish I had never been born’.” ST, August 3, 1904, par. 6

“Go now to the death-bed of a Christian,—Halyburton of Scotland. He was in poverty, and was suffering great pain. He had none of the comforts that Voltaire possessed, but he was infinitely richer. He said: ‘I shall shortly die. In the resurrection, I shall come forth to see my God and to live forevermore. I bless His name that I have found Him, and I die rejoicing in Him. I bless God that I was ever born.” ST, August 3, 1904, par. 7

“Giving an account of the last days of Sir Davis Brewster, his daughter writes: ‘He thanked God that the way of salvation was so simple. No labored argument, no hard attainment, was required. To believe in the Lord Jesus Christ was to live. He trusted in Him, and enjoyed His peace’. The last words of this great man of science were: ‘Life has been very bright to me, and now there is the brightness beyond. I shall see Jesus, who created all things, who made the worlds. I shall see Him as He is. Yes, I have had the Light for many years. O, how bright it is! I feel so safe, so satisfied’.” ST, August 3, 1904, par. 8

Atonement of Christ (see also Cross & Sufferings of Christ)

“The atonement of Christ is the great central truth around which cluster all the truths that pertain to the great work of redemption.” — Lift Him Up, p. 229

“The sacrifice of Christ as an atonement for sin is the great truth around which all other truths cluster. In order to be rightly understood and appreciated, every truth in the Word of God must be studied in the light that streams from the cross of Calvary.” — Gospel Workers, p. 315.

QUOTES SUGGESTING THAT THE ATONEMENT WAS COMPLETED AT THE CROSS

“[Christ] planted the cross between heaven and earth, and when the Father beheld the sacrifice of His Son, He bowed before it in recognition of its perfection. ‘It is enough,’ He said. ‘The atonement is complete’” RH September 24, 1901, par. 11.

“Our great High Priest completed the sacrificial offering of Himself when He suffered without the gate. Then a perfect atonement was made for the sins of the people” 7BC 913.3.

“Christ’s sacrifice in behalf of man was full and complete. The condition of the atonement had been fulfilled. The work for which He had come to this world had been accomplished” AA 29.2.

“When Christ on the cross cried out, ‘It is finished,’ He addressed the Father. The agreement had been fully carried out. Now He declared, ‘Father, I have completed the work of redemption.’ ‘I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am’.” (John 17:24). Desire of Ages (498)

“The Lord would have His people sound in the faith—not ignorant of the great salvation so abundantly provided for them. They are not to look forward, thinking that at some future time, a great work is to be done for them; for the work is now complete” 1SM 394.3.

QUOTES SUGGESTING THAT THE ATONEMENT WAS NOT COMPLETE AT THE CROSS

“Instead of … Daniel 8:14 referring to the purifying of the earth, it was now plain that it pointed to the closing work of our High Priest in heaven, the finishing of the atonement, and the preparing of the people to abide the day of His coming” (Testimonies, vol. 1, p. 58).

“Jesus entered the most holy of the heavenly (sanctuary), at the end of the 2300 days of Daniel 8, in 1844, to make a final atonement for all who could be benefited by His mediation” (Early Writings, p. 253).

“Our Saviour is in the Sanctuary pleading in our behalf. He is our interceding High Priest, making an atoning sacrifice for us, pleading in our behalf the efficacy of His blood.” Fundamentals of Christian Education, 370.

“Today He [Christ] is making an atonement for us before the Father. ‘If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.’” Manuscript 21, 1895.

“As in the typical service, there was a work of atonement at the close of the year, so before Christ’s work for the redemption of man is completed there is a work of atonement for the removal of sin from the Sanctuary. This is the service which began when the 2300 days ended.” Great Controversy, 421.

IS THERE A CONTRADICTION BETWEEN THESE TWO GROUPS OF STATEMENTS?

Well, the answer to the question lies in the fact that those two groups of statements appear as if they contradict each other only because they deal with different aspects of Christ’s atoning ministry. The word “atonement” (or reconciliation) in those two groups of statements refers to different aspects of salvation from sin.

In a similar way, the Word of God uses three different tenses (past, present and future) with regard to our salvation. It states that believers are already saved or were saved in the past tense, it says they are being now saved in the present continuous tense, and it also states they will be saved in the future. Does it prove the Bible contradicts itself? No, it only points to the fact that it refers to different aspects of salvation from sin.

We have been already saved (past tense) from punishment and condemnation of sin (justification) because we are in Christ and not under the law but under grace; We are being delivered from the power of sin (from sinning) now in the present continuous tense (which is our continuous process sanctification); And finally, in the future, we will be saved, delivered from the presence of sin (from our sinful nature and the indwelling law of sin and selfishness) at the second coming of Christ (glorification).

And it is exactly the same when we deal with the subject of atonement, which is synonymous with salvation from sin, and involves different aspects of the sin problem.

Baptism of Christ

“The word that was spoken to Jesus at the Jordan, This is My beloved Son, embraces humanity. God spoke to Jesus as our representative… The Saviour’s glance seems to penetrate heaven as He pours out His soul in prayer. He asks for the witness that God accepts humanity in the person of His Son. With all our sins and weaknesses, we are not cast aside as worthless. ‘He hath made us accepted in the Beloved‘ (Ephesians 1:6). Notwithstanding that the sins of a guilty world were laid upon Christ, notwithstanding the humiliation of taking upon Himself our fallen nature, the voice from heaven declared Him to be the Son of the Eternal.” Desire of Ages, pages 110-113

Christ In Us

“It is through the Spirit that Christ dwells in us; and the Spirit of God, received into the heart by faith, is the beginning of the life eternal” The Desire of Ages, 388.

Communion Service

“The Bible nowhere teaches the use of intoxicating wine, either as a beverage or as a symbol of the blood of Christ. We appeal to the natural reason whether the blood of Christ is better represented by the pure juice of the grape in its natural state, or after it has been converted into a fermented and intoxicating wine. We maintain that the former is the only symbol properly representing the sacred blood of Christ, and a symbol established by himself; and we urge that the latter should never be placed upon the Lord’s table.” Signs of the Times, August 29, 1878 par. 10

Cross (death) & Sufferings of Christ (see also Atonement)

“It was not bodily suffering which so quickly ended the life of Christ upon the cross… 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?’” — God’s Amazing Grace, p. 170.

“To Paul the cross was the one object of supreme interest. Ever since he had been arrested in his career of persecution against the followers of the crucified Nazarene he had never ceased to glory in the cross.” — Lift Him Up, p. 246.

“Satan with his fierce temptations wrung the heart of Jesus. The Saviour could not see through the portals of the tomb. Hope did not present to Him His coming forth from the grave a conqueror, or tell Him of the Father’s acceptance of the sacrifice. He feared that sin was so offensive to God that their separation was to be eternal. Christ felt the anguish which the sinner will feel when mercy shall no longer plead for the guilty race.” Desire of Ages, Golgotha

“It was not the spear thrust, it was not the pain of the cross, that caused the death of Jesus. That cry, uttered ‘with a loud voice’ (Matthew 27:50; Luke 23:46), at the moment of death, the stream of blood and water that flowed from His side, declared that He died of a broken heart. His heart was broken by mental anguish. He was slain by the sin of the world.” Desire of Ages, Golgotha

“The withdrawal of the divine countenance from the Saviour in this hour of supreme anguish pierced His heart with a sorrow that can never be fully understood by man.” Desire of Ages, Golgotha

“Never was criminal treated in so inhuman a manner as was the Son of God.” Desire of Ages, Golgotha

“The death of Christ on the cross of Calvary is our only hope in this world, and it will be our theme in the world to come…It is the greatest subject that can engage the human mind.”

“Pride and self-esteem cannot flourish in the hearts that keep fresh in memory the scenes of Calvary. This world will appear of but little value to those who appreciate the great price of man’s redemption, the precious blood of God’s dear Son.” — Lift Him Up, p. 43.

“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, infinite.” — Lift Him Up, p. 43.

Death of Sinners Who Rejected God’s Gift of Salvation

“Only in eternity can we rightly estimate the loss of a single soul.”

“It is no arbitrary decree of God that excludes the wicked from heaven; they are shut out by their own unfitness. The glory of God would be to them a consuming fire. They would welcome destruction, that they might be hidden from the face of Him who died to redeem them.”

“A few, yes, only a few, of the vast number … will be saved unto life eternal, while the masses who have not perfected their souls in obeying the truth will be appointed to the second death.” —Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, pp. 401, 402

Divinity of Christ

“In Christ is life, original, unborrowed, underived… The divinity of Christ is the believer’s assurance of eternal life“. DA 530.3

“He was equal with God, infinite and omnipotent…. He is the eternal, self-existent Son” (Manuscript 101, 1897).

“Christ was God essentially, and in the highest sense. He was with God from all eternity, God over all, blessed forevermore.” Lift Him Up 16.3

“Christ is the pre-existent, self-existent Son of God…. In speaking of His pre-existence, Christ carries the mind back through dateless ages. He assures us that There never was a time when He was not in close fellowship with the eternal God….The existence of Christ before His incarnation is not measured by figures.” Evangelism 615, 616

“He humbled Himself, and took mortality upon Him. As a member of the human family, He was mortal; but as a God, He was the fountain of life to the world. He could, in His divine person, ever have withstood the advances of death, and refused to come under its dominion; but He voluntarily laid down His life, that in so doing He might give life and bring immortality to light. He bore the sins of the world, and endured the penalty, which rolled like a mountain upon His divine soul. He yielded up His life a sacrifice, that man should not eternally die. He died, not through being compelled to die, but by His own free will” SDA Bible Commentary 5:1127

Eternal Life (Heaven)

“Human language is inadequate to describe the reward of the righteous. There will be no more tears, no funeral trains. The inhabitant shall not say, I am sick.”

“There every power will be developed, the highest ambitions realized. And still there will arise new heights to surmount, new wonders to admire. All the treasures of the universe will be open to the study of God’s children. With unutterable delight we shall enter into the joy and the wisdom of unfallen beings.”

“All the treasures of the universe will be open to the study of God’s redeemed. Unfettered by mortality, they wing their tireless flight to worlds afar—worlds that thrilled with sorrow at the spectacle of human woe and rang with songs of gladness at the tidings of a ransomed soul.”

“The Lord has given me a view of other worlds. Wings were given me, and an angel attended me from the city to a place that was bright and glorious…. I begged of my attending angel to let me remain in that place. I could not bear the thought of coming back to this dark world again. Then the angel said, ‘You must go back, and if you are faithful, you … shall have the privilege of visiting all the worlds and viewing the handiwork of God.”

“On the mount was a glorious temple, and about it were seven other mountains, on which grew roses and lilies. And I saw the little ones climb, or, if they chose, use their little wings and fly to the top of the mountains, and pluck the never-fading flowers.”

Faith & Trust

“Those persons who refuse to move forward until they see every step plainly marked out before them, will never accomplish much; but every man who shows his faith and trust in God by willingly submitting himself to Him, enduring the divine discipline imposed, will become a successful workman for the Master of the vineyard. By submitting to God’s discipline, Moses became a sanctified channel through which the Lord could work. He did not hesitate to change his way for the Lord’s way, even though it did lead in strange paths, in untried ways. No; he placed a very low estimate upon his own qualifications to complete successfully the great work which the Lord had given him. When he started on his commission to deliver the people of God from their bondage, to all human appearances it was a most hopeless undertaking; but he confided in Him with whom all things are possible.” —Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 344

Final Global Deception

“In different parts of the earth, Satan will manifest himself as a majestic being of dazzling brightness, resembling the Son of God. The glory that surrounds him is unsurpassed by anything that mortal eyes have beheld. His voice is soft yet full of melody. In gentle, compassionate tones he presents truths which the Saviour uttered; he heals the sick and claims to have changed the Sabbath to Sunday, and commands all to hallow the day which he has blessed. He declares that those who persist in keeping holy the seventh day are blaspheming his name. This is the strong delusion…However, Satan is not permitted to counterfeit the manner of Christ’s second coming…When Christ shall make His appearance, it will be with power and great glory, accompanied by millions of glorious angels.”

Freedom From Condemnation

“If you give yourself to Christ, and accept Him as your Saviour, then, sinful as your life may have been, for His sake you are accounted righteous. Christ’s character stands in place of your character, and you are accepted before God just as if you had not sinned.” (Steps to Christ, p. 62).

“If you accept Christ as your Saviour, then, sinful as your life have been, for His sake you are accounted righteous. Christ’s character stands in place of your character, and you are accepted before God just as if you had not sinned.”

God’s Providence & Trust

“Many are unable to make definite plans for the future, and this often fills them with anxiety and unrest. Christ in His life on earth made no plans for Himself. He accepted God’s plans for Him, and day by day the Father unfolded His plans. So should we depend upon God, that our lives may be the simple outworking of His will. As we commit our ways to Him, He will direct our steps.” — The Ministry of Healing, pp. 478, 479.

“Too many, in planning for a brilliant future, make an utter failure. Let God plan for you. God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning and discern the glory of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him.” — The Ministry of Healing, pp. 478, 479.

“When in faith we take hold of His strength, He will change, wonderfully change, the most hopeless, discouraging outlook.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 609.

“Often our plans fail that God’s plans for us may succeed.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 609.

“Know and believe the love that God has to us, and you are secure; Our heavenly Father has a thousand ways to provide for us of which we know nothing.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 609.

“Those who accept the one principle of making the service of God supreme will find perplexities vanish and a plain path before their feet.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 609.

Health & Healing

„Many are suffering from ailments of the soul far more than from diseases of the body, and will find no relief until they shall come to Christ.”

“In many cases of prayer for the healing of the sick, that which is called faith is nothing less than presumption. Many bring disease upon themselves by disregarding the laws of health. If God worked a miracle in restoring their health, He would be encouraging sin. It is labor lost to teach people to look to God as a healer unless they are taught also to lay aside unhealthy practices.”

“Men under the influence of evil spirits will work miracles. They will make people sick by casting their spell, and will then remove the spell, leading others to say that those who were sick have been miraculously healed”.

„The consciousness of rightdoing is the best medicine for diseased bodies and minds. To have a consciousness that the eyes of the Lord are upon us and His ears open to our prayers is a satisfaction indeed. To know that we have a never-failing Friend is a privilege which words can never express.” “The mind needs to be controlled, for the imagination often brings severe forms of disease”.

“I was thinking that it was my last speech. All at once, I felt a power come upon me, like a shock of electricity. It passed through my body and up to my head. The people said that they plainly saw the blood mounting to my lips, ears, cheeks, and forehead. Before that large number of people, I was healed, and the praise of God was in my heart and came from my lips in clear tones. A miracle was wrought before that large congregation. I then took my place among the speakers, and bore a testimony such as they had never heard. It was as if one had been raised from the dead.”

” A person whose mind is quiet and satisfied in God is in the pathway to health.”

Heavenly Records of Deeds

“Every act of love, every word of kindness, every prayer in behalf of the suffering and oppressed, is reported before the eternal throne, and placed on heaven’s imperishable record.” Lift Him Up – Page 327

“Opposite each name in the books of heaven is entered with terrible exactness every selfish act, every unfulfilled duty, and every secret sin.” Lift Him Up – Page 327

Holy Spirit (Personality, Divinity)

“The Holy Spirit has a personality, else He could not bear witness to our spirits and with our spirits that we are the children of God. He must also be a divine person, else He could not search out the secrets which lie hidden in the mind of God.” (Manuscript 20, 1906; Ev 617.1)

“The Father is all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, and is invisible to mortal sight. The Son is all the fullness of the Godhead manifested… The Comforter that Christ promised, is the Spirit in all the fulness of the Godhead, making manifest the power of divine grace to all who receive and believe in Christ as a personal Saviour. There are three living persons of the heavenly Trio”. (SpTB07 63.2)

“Sin could be resisted and overcome only through the mighty agency of the Third Person of the Godhead, who would come with no modified energy, but in the fullness of divine power”. (Desire of Ages, 671).

“In the great closing work we shall meet with perplexities that we know not how to deal with; but let us not forget that the three great powers of heaven are working, that a divine hand is on the wheel.” (8T, 254).

“They are baptized in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Thus they are united with the three great powers of heaven.” (Letter 129, 1903; Ev 307.3).

“The inworking ministry of the Holy Spirit is our great need. The Spirit is all divine in its agency and demonstration. God wants you to have the gracious spiritual endowment; then you will work with a power that you were never conscious of before. Love and faith and hope will be an abiding presence. You can go forth in faith, believing that the Holy Spirit accompanies you” (Letter 77, 1895; Ev 299.1).

“The eternal heavenly dignitaries – God, and Christ, and the Holy Spirit – arming them [the disciples] with more than mortal energy, . . . would advance with them to the work and convince the world of sin” (Manuscript 145, 1901; Ev 616.4)

“We need to realize that the Holy Spirit, who is as much a person as God is a person, is walking through these grounds” (Manuscript 66, 1899)

“The Holy Spirit is a person, for He bears witness with our spirits that we are the children of God.” (Manuscript 20, 1906; Ev 616.6)

“We are to cooperate with the three highest powers in heaven, — the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, — and these powers will work through us, making us workers together with God.” (SpTB07 51.1; Ev 617)

Holy Spirit (Sanctification)

“It is through the Spirit that Christ dwells in us; and the Spirit of God, received into the heart by faith, is the beginning of the life eternal” The Desire of Ages, 388.

“I shall have strength of brain and the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, because I ask in the name of Jesus. Precious Saviour! He gave His life for me. — This Day With God, p. 220.

“It is the work of the Holy Spirit to elevate the taste, to sanctify the heart, to ennoble the whole man.” — Ye Shall Receive Power, p. 60.

“The Spirit of God works in the believer’s soul, enabling him to advance from one line of obedience to another, reaching on from strength to greater strength, from grace to grace in Christ Jesus.” — Ye Shall Receive Power, p. 60.

“The door of the heart must be opened to the Holy Spirit, for this is the sanctifier, and the truth is the medium. There must be an acceptance of the truth as it is in Jesus. This is the only genuine sanctification.” — Reflecting Christ, p. 199.

“It is through the Holy Spirit that every good work is accomplished, and the Spirit is given to glorify, not the receiver, but the Giver.” — Conflict and Courage, p. 365.

“In order to serve Him aright, we must be born of the divine Spirit. This will purify the heart and renew the mind, giving us a new capacity for knowing and loving God. It will give us a willing obedience to all His requirements. This is true worship. It is the fruit of the working of the Holy Spirit. By the Spirit every sincere prayer is indited, and such prayer is acceptable to God.” — The Desire of Ages, p. 189.

“The Lord permits trials in order that we may be cleansed from earthliness, from selfishness, from harsh, unchristlike traits of character. He suffers the deep waters of affliction to go over our souls in order that we may know Him and Jesus Christ whom He has sent.” — Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 174, 175.

“The same divine mind that is working upon the things of nature is speaking to the hearts of men and creating an inexpressible craving for something they have not. The things of the world cannot satisfy their longing. The Spirit of God is pleading with them to seek those things that alone can give peace and rest. Through influences seen and unseen, our Saviour is constantly at work to attract the minds of men from the unsatisfying pleasures of sin to the infinite blessings that may be theirs in Him. To all these souls, who are vainly seeking to drink from the broken cisterns of this world, the divine message is addressed, ‘Let him that is thirsty come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely’ (Revelation 22:17). You who in heart long for something better than this world can give, recognize this longing as the voice of God to your soul. The more you struggle to escape, the more you realize your helplessness. Your motives are impure; your heart is unclean. You see that your life has been filled with selfishness and sin. You long to be forgiven, to be cleansed, to be set free. Harmony with God, likeness to Him – what can you do to obtain it? It is peace that you need – Heaven’s forgiveness and love in the soul. Money cannot buy it, intellect cannot procure it, wisdom cannot attain to it; you can never hope, by your own efforts, to secure it. But God offers it to you as a gift, ‘without money and without price’ (Isaiah 55:1). It is yours if you will but reach out your hand and grasp it. The Lord says, ‘Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool’ (Isaiah 1:18); ‘A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you’ (Ezekiel 36:26). You have confessed your sins, and in heart put them away. You have resolved to give yourself to God. Now go to Him, and ask that He will wash away your sins and give you a new heart. Then believe that He does this because He has promised. A life in Christ is a life of restfulness. There may be no ecstasy of feeling, but there should be an abiding, peaceful trust. Your hope is not in yourself; it is in Christ. Your weakness is united to His strength, your ignorance to His wisdom, your frailty to His enduring might. So you are not to look to yourself, not to let the mind dwell upon self, but look to Christ! Let the mind dwell upon His love, upon the beauty, the perfection, of His character… Looking to Christ you are safe“. Steps to Christ.

Humanity (Incarnation) of Christ

“He left the glories of heaven, and clothed His divinity with humanity, and subjected Himself to sorrow, and shame, and reproach, abuse, denial, and crucifixion. Though He had all the strength of the passions of humanity, never did He yield to temptation to do that which was not pure and elevating and ennobling.” Signs of the Times, November 21, 1892

“Coming as He did, as a man, to meet and be subjected with all the evil tendencies to which man is heir, working in every conceivable manner to destroy His faith, He made it possible for Himself to be buffeted by human agencies inspired by Satan.” Letter K-303, 1903

“This love was manifested, but it cannot be comprehended by mortal man. It is a mystery too deep for the human mind to fathom. Christ did in reality unite the offending nature of man with His own sinless nature, because by this act of condescension, He would be enabled to pour out His blood in behalf of the fallen race.” Ms 166, 1898, pp. 9, 10. {17MR 26.3}

“He knows by experience what are the weaknesses of humanity, what are our wants, and where lies the strength of our temptations, for He was ‘in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin‘ (Hebrews 4:15).” (MH 71)

“It would have been an almost infinite humiliation for the Son of God to take man’s nature, even when Adam stood in his innocence in Eden. But Jesus accepted humanity when the race had been weakened by four thousand years of sin. Like every child of Adam, He accepted the results of the working of the great law of heredity. What these results were is shown in the history of His earthly ancestors. He came with such a heredity to share our sorrows and temptations, and to give us the example of a sinless life” (DA 49)

“By experiencing in Himself the strength of Satan’s temptations, and of human sufferings and infirmities, He would know how to succor those who should put forth efforts to help themselves” (Conf. 78).

“Some realize their great weakness and sin, and become discouraged. Satan casts his dark shadow between them and the Lord Jesus, their atoning sacrifice. They say, It is useless for me to pray. My prayers are so mingled with evil thoughts that the Lord will not hear them. These suggestions are from Satan. In His humanity, Christ met and resisted this temptation, and He knows how to succor those who are thus tempted” (IHP 78).

“We must not think that the liability of Christ to Satan’s temptations degraded His humanity and that He possessed the same sinful, corrupt propensities as man. Christ took our nature, fallen but not corrupted, and would not be corrupted unless He received the words of Satan in place of the words of God” (16MR 182).

“He took upon Himself fallen, suffering human nature, degraded and defiled by sin” (4BC 1147).

“For four thousand years the race had been decreasing in physical strength, in mental power, and in moral worth; and Christ took upon Him the infirmities of degenerate humanity” (DA 117).

“In assuming humanity, Christ took the part of every human being. He was the Head of humanity. A Being divine and human, with His long arm He could encircle humanity, while with His divine arm, He could lay hold of the throne of the Infinite.” Selected Messages, 1:252

Humility of Believers

“Nothing is apparently more helpless, yet really more invincible, than the soul that feels its nothingness and relies wholly on the merits of the Saviour. God would send every angel in heaven to the aid of such a one, rather than allow him to be overcome.” Testimonies For The Church 7:17

“Moses received the highest civil and military training. He felt that he was fully prepared for the work of delivering Israel from bondage. But God judged otherwise. His providence appointed Moses forty years of training in the wilderness as a keeper of sheep.” — The Ministry of Healing, pp. 474, 475.

“The education that Moses had received in Egypt was a help to him in many respects; but the most valuable preparation for his lifework was that which he received while employed as a shepherd. Moses was naturally of an impetuous spirit. In Egypt a successful military leader and a favorite with the king and the nation, he had been accustomed to receiving praise and flattery. He had attracted the people to himself. He hoped to accomplish by his own powers the work of delivering Israel. Far different were the lessons he had to learn as God’s representative.” — The Ministry of Healing, pp. 474, 475.

“In this work Moses was drawn nearer to the Chief Shepherd. He became closely united to the Holy One of Israel. No longer did he plan to do a great work. He sought to do faithfully as unto God the work committed to his charge.” — The Ministry of Healing, pp. 474, 475.

“The Bible has little to say in praise of men. All the good qualities that men possess are the gift of God; their good deeds are performed by the grace of God through Christ. It is a perilous thing to praise or exalt men; for if one comes to lose sight of his entire dependence on God, and to trust to his own strength, he is sure to fall.” — Conflict and Courage, p. 365.

“It is impossible for us in our own strength to maintain the conflict; and whatever diverts the mind from God, whatever leads to self-exaltation or to self-dependence, is surely preparing the way for our overthrow. The tenor of the Bible is to inculcate distrust of human power and to encourage trust in divine power.” — Conflict and Courage, p. 365.

“God desired to take His people apart from the world and prepare them to receive His word. From Egypt He led them to Mount Sinai, where He revealed to them His glory. Here was nothing to attract their senses or divert their minds from God; and as the vast multitude looked at the lofty mountains towering above them, they could realize their own nothingness in the sight of God.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 9.

“He who beholds Christ in His self-denial, His lowliness of heart, will be constrained to say, as did Daniel, when he beheld One like the sons of men, ‘I had no strength left, my face turned deathly pale and I was helpless.’ The independence and self-supremacy in which we glory are seen in their true vileness as tokens of servitude to Satan.” — Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 15.

Immortality of Human Soul & State of the Dead

“Through the two great errors, the immortality of the soul and Sunday sacredness, Satan will bring the people under his deceptions. While the former lays the foundation of spiritualism, the latter creates a bond of sympathy with Rome. The Protestants of the United States will be foremost in stretching their hands across the gulf to grasp the hand of spiritualism; they will reach over the abyss to clasp hands with the Roman power; and under the influence of this threefold union, this country will follow in the steps of Rome in trampling on the rights of conscience.” GC 588,1

In Christ Motif

“By His obedience to all the commandments of God, Christ wrought out a redemption for man. This was not done by going out of Himself to another, but by taking humanity into Himself. Thus Christ gave to humanity an existence out of Himself. To bring humanity into Christ, to bring the fallen race into oneness with divinity, is the work of redemption. Christ took human nature that men might be one with Him as He is one with the Father, that God may love man as He loves His only-begotten Son, that men may be partakers of the divine nature, and be complete in Him.” (The Review and Herald, April 5, 1906)

Law of God (Commandments) – Changed

“Papal Rome has attempted to change the law of God. The second commandment, forbidding image worship, has been removed from the law, and the fourth commandment was changed to the observance of Sunday – the first instead of the seventh day Sabbath. This was foretold by the prophet: ‘He shall persecute the saints of the Most High, and shall intend to change times and law’ (Dan 7:25). Here the papal power openly sets itself above God.”

“Roman Catholics acknowledge that the change of the Sabbath was made by their church and declare that Protestants by observing the Sunday are recognizing her power. In the Catholic Catechism, this statement is made: ‘The church has substituted Sunday for Saturday; so now we sanctify the first, not the seventh day’.”

“The claim that Christ changed the Sabbath Commandment (from Sabbath to Sunday) is disproved by His own words: ‘Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish but to fulfill. For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished’ (Mat 5:17-18).”

Law of God (see also Perfection, Obedience, Sanctification & Character Development)

“On the way from Midian, Moses received a startling and terrible warning of the Lord’s displeasure. An angel appeared to him in a threatening manner, as if he would immediately destroy him. No explanation was given; but Moses remembered that he had disregarded one of God’s requirements . . . he had neglected to perform the rite of circumcision upon their youngest son. He had failed to comply with the condition by which his child could be entitled to the blessings of God’s covenant with Israel; and such a neglect on the part of their chosen leader could not but lessen the force of the divine precepts upon the people. Zipporah, fearing that her husband would be slain, performed the rite herself, and the angel then permitted Moses to pursue his journey. In his mission to Pharaoh, Moses was to be placed in a position of great peril; his life could be preserved only through the protection of holy angels. But while living in neglect of a known duty, he would not be secure; for he could not be shielded by the angels of God.” —Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 255, 256

“I saw that it was impossible for God to alter or change his law, to save lost, perishing man; therefore he suffered his darling Son to die for man’s transgression.”
—Supplement to the Christian Experience and Views of Ellen G. White, page 48

“All who love Jesus … keep the commandments … not because they are constrained thus to do, but because they feel averse to everything contrary to the law written in their hearts. They will not feel self-sufficient, but their trust will be in God, who alone is able to keep them from sin and impurity.” — This Day With God, p. 146.

“The Sabbath is a sign of Christ’s power to make us holy. To all who receive the Sabbath as a sign of Christ’s creative and redeeming power, it will be a delight. And every object in nature repeats His invitation, ‘Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.’” — The Desire of Ages, pp. 288, 289.

“Many who bear the name of Christians are serving other gods besides the Lord. Anything which tends to abate our love for God, or to interfere with the service due Him, becomes thereby an idol. Family worship is neglected, secret prayer is forgotten. Many claim to deal justly with their fellow men, and seem to feel that in so doing they discharge their whole duty. But it is not enough to keep the last six commandments of the decalogue. We are to love the Lord our God with all the heart. Nothing short of obedience to every precept—nothing less than supreme love to God as well as equal love to our fellow man—can satisfy the claims of the divine law.” — The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 2, p. 1011.

“He who loves God supremely and his neighbor as himself will work with the constant realization that he is a spectacle to the world, to angels, and to men. Making God’s will his will, he will reveal in his life the transforming power of the grace of Christ. In all the circumstances of life, he will take Christ’s example as his guide.” — Selected Messages, book 1, p. 86.

“All who love Jesus … keep the commandments … not because they are constrained thus to do, but because they … feel averse to everything contrary to the law written in their hearts. They will not feel self-sufficient, but their trust will be in God, who alone is able to keep them from sin and impurity.” —This Day With God, p. 146

“In order to meet the requirement of the law, our faith must grasp the righteousness of Christ, accepting it as our righteousness. Through union with Christ, through acceptance of His righteousness by faith, we may be qualified to work the works of God, to be colaborers with Christ. We can be fitted for heaven only through the work of the Holy Spirit upon the heart; for we must have Christ’s righteousness as our credentials if we would find access to the Father. In order that we may have the righteousness of Christ, we need daily to be transformed by the influence of the Spirit, to be a ‘partaker of the divine nature.’ It is the work of the Holy Spirit to elevate the taste, to sanctify the heart, to ennoble the whole man.” —Ye Shall Receive Power, p. 60

Law of God (Role in the Plan of Salvation)

“Sin did not kill the law, but it did kill the carnal mind in Paul. . . . As the sinner looks into the great moral looking glass, he sees his defects of character. He sees himself just as he is, spotted, defiled, and condemned. But he knows that the law cannot in any way remove the guilt or pardon the transgressor. He must go farther than this. The law is but the schoolmaster to bring him to Christ. He must look to his sin-bearing Saviour.” —Selected Messages, book 1, p. 213

Legalism

“There is not a point that needs to be repeated more frequently, or established more firmly in the minds of all than the impossibility of fallen man meriting anything by his own best good works. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ alone.” Faith and Works, 18,19

Looking at Jesus (Not at Ourselves)

“By dwelling upon the love of God and the perfection of Christ‘s character and claiming His righteousness as ours by faith, we are to be transformed into the same image (2 Cor 3:18). Then let us not gather all the unpleasant pictures - the iniquities, corruptions and disappointments, the evidences of Satan’s power to hang in the halls of memory.” Lift Him Up – Page 251

Love of God

“Such is the character of Christ as revealed in His life. This is the character of God. It is from the Father’s heart that the streams of divine compassion, manifest in Christ, flow out to the children of men.” —Steps to Christ, page 12

“But the great sacrifice was not made to create in the Father’s heart a love for man, not to make Him willing to save. No, no! ‘God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son.’ The Father loves us, not because of the great propitiation, but He provided the propitiation because He loves us.” —Steps to Christ, page 13

“God suffered with His Son. In the agony of Gethsemane, the death of Calvary, the heart of Infinite Love paid the price of our redemption.” —Steps to Christ, page 14

“None but the Son of God could accomplish our redemption; for only He who was in the bosom of the Father could declare Him. Only He who knew the height and depth of the love of God could make it manifest. Nothing less than the infinite sacrifice made by Christ in behalf of fallen man could express the Father’s love to lost humanity.” —Steps to Christ, page 14

“God is love. His nature, His law, is love. It always has been, and it always will be. The history of the great conflict between good and evil from the time it first began in heaven also reveals God’s unchanging love.”

“The great controversy is ended. Sin and sinners are no more. The entire universe is clean. From the minutest atom to the greatest world, all things, animate and inanimate, in their unshadowed beauty and perfect joy, declare that God is love.”

“It was not the spear thrust, it was not the pain of the cross, that caused the death of Jesus. That cry, uttered ‘with a loud voice’ (Matt. 27:50; Luke 23:46), at the moment of death, and the stream of blood and water that flowed from His side, declared that He died of a broken heart. His heart was broken by mental anguish. He was slain by the sin of the world.” (Desire of Ages, 772)

“Satan in heaven had hated Christ for His position in the courts of God… Yet into the world where Satan claimed dominion God permitted His Son to come, a helpless babe, subject to the weakness of humanity. He permitted Him to meet life’s peril in common with every human soul, to fight the battle as every child of humanity must fight it, at the risk of failure and eternal loss. The heart of the human father yearns over his son. He looks into the face of his little child, and trembles at the thought of life’s peril. He longs to shield his dear one from Satan’s power, to hold him back from temptation and conflict. To meet a bitterer conflict and a more fearful risk, God gave His only Son, that the path of life might be made sure for our little ones. Herein is love. Wonder, O heavens! and be astonished, O earth!… Never can the cost of our redemption be realized until the redeemed shall stand with the Redeemer before the throne of God. Then as the glories of the eternal home burst upon our enraptured senses we shall remember that Jesus left all this for us, that He not only became an exile from the heavenly courts, but for us took the risk of failure and eternal loss. Then we shall cast our crowns at His feet, and raise the song, ‘Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing (Revelation 5:12)’.” (Desire of Ages, 49, 131)

“Do you feel that it is too great a sacrifice to yield all to Christ? Ask yourself the question, What has Christ given for me? The Son of God gave all – life and love and suffering – for our redemption. And can it be that we, the unworthy objects of so great love, will withhold our hearts from Him? He became sin for the race! But what do we give up, when we give all? A sin-polluted heart, for Jesus, to purify, to cleanse by His own blood, and to save by His matchless love! And yet men think it hard to give up all! I am ashamed to hear it spoken of, ashamed to write it.” (Steps to Christ)

Miscellaneous Quotes

“The Christian life is so difficult to many because they have a divided heart. They are double-minded, which makes them unstable in all their ways.” — Ellen G. White Comments, in The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 3, p. 1138.

“The masses will reject any theory, however reasonable it may be, if it lays a restriction upon the appetite.” — Ellen G. White Comments, in The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 3, p. 1138.

“The worthy poor, who are made poor by misfortune and sickness, deserve your special care and help.” — Ellen G. White Comments, in The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 3, p. 1138.

“The words of the Bible, and the Bible alone, should be heard from the pulpit.” — Ellen G. White Comments, in The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 3, p. 1138.

“Let those who occupy positions of trust rid themselves of the unmerciful spirit which so greatly offends God. Let no one suppose that God has given to men the power of ruling their fellow-men. He will accept the service of no man who hurts and discourages Christ’s heritage.” — Manuscript 42, 1901.

“It is not the opposition of the world that will most endanger us; it is the evil cherished right in our midst that works our most grievous disaster. It is the unconsecrated lives of half-hearted professors that retard the work of the truth, and bring darkness upon the church of God.” — This Day With God, p. 165.

“The servants of Christ are not to act out the dictates of the natural heart. They need to have close communion with God, lest, under provocation, self rise up, and they pour forth a torrent of words that are unbefitting. This is what Satan wants them to do; for these are his methods. It is the spirit of Satan that is revealed in anger and accusing. But God’s servants are to be representatives of Him. The power by which they are to overcome evil is the power of Christ. They are to fix their eyes upon His loveliness.” — The Desire of Ages, p. 353.

“We are in constant danger of becoming self-sufficient, relying upon our own wisdom, and not making God our strength. We are to watch as well as pray.” — Ellen G. White Comments, in The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, vol. 3, p. 1138.

“The people of God should be wide awake, not trusting in their own wisdom, but wholly in the wisdom of their Leader. They should set aside days for fasting and prayer.” — Selected Messages, book 3, p. 414.

“But first he must accept the conditions of discipleship. He must give himself unreservedly to God. At the Saviour’s call, John, Peter, Matthew, and their companions ‘left all, rose up, and followed Him.’ The same consecration was required of the young ruler. And in this Christ did not ask a greater sacrifice than He Himself had made. ‘He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.’ The young man had only to follow where Christ led the way.” — Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 392, 393.

“We have before us in the Word of God instances of heavenly agencies working on the minds of kings and rulers, while at the same time satanic agencies were also at work on their minds. Each angel has his particular post of duty, which he is not permitted to leave for any other place. If he should leave, the powers of darkness would gain an advantage.” — Lift Him Up, p. 370.

“There are three ways in which the Lord reveals His will to us, to guide us, and to fit us to guide others. How may we know His voice from that of a false shepherd? God reveals His will to us in His word, the Holy Scriptures. His voice is also revealed in His providential workings; and it will be recognized if we do not separate our souls from Him by walking in our own ways. Another way in which God’s voice is heard is through the appeals of His Holy Spirit, making impressions upon the heart, which will be wrought out in the character.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 512.

“God permits the wicked to reveal their true character, that none who desire to do His will may be deceived concerning them. The righteous are placed in the furnace of affliction, that they themselves may be purified; that their example may convince others of the reality of faith and godliness; and also that their consistent course may condemn the ungodly and unbelieving.” — The Great Controversy, p. 48.

“Had he been immediately blotted out of existence, some would have served God from fear rather than from love. The influence of the deceiver would not have been fully destroyed, nor would the spirit of rebellion have been utterly eradicated. For the good of the entire universe through ceaseless ages, he must more fully develop his principles, that his charges against the divine government might be seen in their true light by all created beings, and that the justice and mercy of God and the immutability of His law might be forever placed beyond all question.” — Patriarchs and Prophets, pp. 42, 43.

“Talk unbelief, and you will have unbelief; but talk faith, and you will have faith.” — Signs of the Times, October 10, 1887.

“Some need to discipline the mind by exercise. They should force it to think. They depend upon someone else to think for them, to solve their difficulties. They refuse to tax the mind with thought, therefore, their inability to remember, to look ahead, will continue. Efforts must be made by every individual to educate the mind.” — Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 344.

“God does not want us to be content with lazy, undisciplined minds, dull thoughts, and loose memories.” — Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 344.

“Men of God must be diligent in study, earnest in the gaining knowledge, never wasting an hour. Through persevering effort they may rise to almost any degree of eminence as Christians, as men of power and influence.” — Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 344.

“Only let the moments be treasured, the time spent in travelling, the moments of waiting for meals, waiting for those who are slow in keeping an appointment, if a book were kept at hand, what might not be accomplished! Careful economy of time, will enable men to acquire knowledge and mental discipline which will qualify them for almost any position of usefulness.” — Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 344.

“Those who would be workers together with God must strive for perfection of every organ of the body and quality of the mind.” — Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 344.

“In order to lead souls to Jesus there must be a knowledge of human nature and a study of the human mind. Much careful thought and fervent prayer are required to know how to approach men and women upon the great subject of truth.” — Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 344.

“Never be afraid of raising the standard too high. Men may have excellent gifts, good ability, splendid qualifications; but one defect, one secret sin indulged, will prove to the character what the worm-eaten plank does to the ship, utter disaster and ruin!” — Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 344.

“Paul carried with him the atmosphere of heaven. All who associated with him felt the influence of his union with Christ. The fact that his own life exemplified the truth he proclaimed, gave convincing power to his preaching. Here lies the power of the truth. The unconscious influence of a holy life is the most convincing sermon that can be given in favour of Christianity. Argument, even when unanswerable, may provoke only opposition; but a godly example has a power that it is impossible wholly to resist.” — The Acts of the Apostles, p. 531.

Mind & Thoughts

“The beginning of yielding to temptation is in the sin of permitting the mind to waver, to be inconsistent in your trust in God. The wicked one is ever watching for a chance to misrepresent God, and to attract the mind to that which is forbidden. If he can, he will fasten the mind upon the things of the world. He will endeavor to excite the emotions, to arouse the passions, to fasten the affections on that which is not for your good; but it is for you to hold every emotion and passion under control, in calm subjection to reason and conscience. Then Satan loses his power to control the mind. The work to which Christ calls us is to the work of progressive conquest over spiritual evil in our characters. Natural tendencies are to be overcome. . . . Appetite and passion must be conquered, and the will must be placed wholly on the side of Christ.” —Our High Calling, p. 87

Nature of Man

“Man was originally endowed with noble powers and a well-balanced mind. He was perfect in his being, and in harmony with God. His thoughts were pure, his aims holy. But through disobedience, his powers were perverted, and selfishness took the place of love. His nature became so weakened through transgression that it was impossible for him, in his own strength, to resist the power of evil. He was made captive by Satan, and would have remained so forever had not God especially interposed.” Steps to Christ, 17

Perfectionism Based on Confidence in the Flesh

“No one who claims holiness is really holy. Those who are registered as holy in the books of heaven are not aware of the fact, and are the last ones to boast of their own goodness. It is not a conclusive evidence that a man is a Christian because he manifests spiritual ecstasy under extraordinary circumstances. Holiness is not rapture: it is an entire surrender of the will to God; it is living by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God; it is doing the will of our heavenly Father; it is trusting God in trial, in darkness as well as in the light; it is walking by faith and not by sight; it is relying on God with unquestioning confidence, and resting in His love.” —The Faith I Live By, p. 140

Perfection, Obedience, Sanctification & Character Development (see also: Work of Holy Spirit; Law of God)

“God requires moral perfection in all. Those who have been given light and opportunities should, as God’s stewards, aim for perfection, and never, never lower the standard of righteousness to accommodate inherited and cultivated tendencies to wrong. Christ took upon Him our human nature, and lived our life, to show us that we may be like Him.… We ought to be holy even as God is holy.” —The Faith I Live By, p. 140

“Holiness is not rapture: it is an entire surrender of the will to God; it is living by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God; it is doing the will of our heavenly Father; it is trusting God in trial, in darkness as well as in the light; it is walking by faith and not by sight; it is relying on God with unquestioning confidence, and resting in His love.” —The Faith I Live By, p. 140

“In this life and in eternity, complete perfection—spiritual, intellectual, physical, and social—will never be fully attained, for that would mean the end of the possibility of growth. However, perfection in the sense of victory over sin is available to all through Christ. Above all, God requires of us moral perfection.” — Sabbath School Lessons for the third quarter of 1994, p. 50.

“Even the thoughts must be brought into subjection to the will of God. Our imagination was not given us to be allowed to run riot and have its own way, without any effort at restraint and discipline. If the thoughts are wrong, the feelings will be wrong; and the thoughts and feelings combined make up the moral character… We need to place a high value upon the right control of our thoughts, for such control prepares the mind and soul to labor harmoniously for the Master. It is necessary for our peace and happiness in this life that our thoughts center in Christ. ‘As a man thinketh, so is he’ (Prov 23:7). Evil thoughts destroy the soul. Unless a determined effort is made to keep the thoughts centered on Christ, grace cannot reveal itself in the life. Every thought must be brought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. All the habits must be brought under God’s control. We are to bring our minds into harmony with His mind. His truth will sanctify us, body and soul and spirit, and we shall be enabled to rise above temptation. The control of the thoughts, in cooperation with the Holy Spirit, will give control of the words.” —In Heavenly Places, p. 164

“The control of the thoughts, in cooperation with the Holy Spirit, will give control of the words.” — In Heavenly Places, p. 164.

“We need to place a high value upon the right control of our thoughts, for such control prepares the mind and soul to labor harmoniously for the Master.” — In Heavenly Places, p. 164.

“It is necessary for our peace and happiness in this life that our thoughts center in Christ. ‘As a man thinketh, so is he.’ Evil thoughts destroy the soul.” — In Heavenly Places, p. 164.

“All selfishness must be overcome… Yes, God will reward every man according to his works.” — This Day With God, p. 220.

“The work to which Christ calls us is to the work of progressive conquest over spiritual evil in our characters. Natural tendencies are to be overcome.” — Our High Calling, p. 87.

“If to save the body from death, the foot or the hand should be cut off, or even the eye plucked out, how much more earnest should the Christian be to put away sin, which brings death to the soul!” — The Acts of the Apostles, p. 312.

“God can make the humblest followers of Christ more precious than fine gold, if they yield themselves to His transforming hand.” — Christ Triumphant, p. 94.

“No victory you can gain will be so precious as that gained over self. Selfish ambition, desire for supremacy, will die when Christ takes possession of the affections.” — Christ Triumphant, p. 94.

“We have hereditary tendencies to wrong. This is a part of self that no one need carry about. It is a weakness of humanity to pet selfishness, because it is a natural trait of character. But unless all selfishness is put away, unless self is crucified, we can never be holy as God is holy.” — The Faith I Live By, p. 140.

“Even one wrong trait of character, one sinful desire cherished, will eventually neutralize all the power of the gospel. Every indulgence of that desire strengthens the soul’s aversion to God.” — Steps to Christ, pp. 30, 31.

“There will be no stopping place, no point which we can reach and say, I have fully attained. Sanctification is the result of lifelong obedience.” — The Acts of the Apostles, p. 561.

“When Christ abides in the soul, the thought of reward is not uppermost. This is not the motive that actuates our service. Love to God and to our fellow men should be our motive.” — Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 398.

“As a representative of Christ, you must have the all-pervading power of godliness. You must be hid in Jesus. You are not safe unless you hold the hand of Christ. You must guard against everything like presumption and cherish that spirit that would rather suffer than sin.” — Christ Triumphant, p. 94.

“He who seeks to serve others by self-denial and self-sacrifice will be given the attributes of character that commend themselves to God, and develop wisdom, true patience, forbearance, kindness, compassion. This gives him the chiefest place in the kingdom of God.” — Reflecting Christ, p. 200.

“You cannot change your heart, but God promises to do it for you through Christ. You believe that promise, confess your sins and give yourself to God. Do not wait to feel that you are made whole, but say, ‘I believe it is so, not because I feel it, but because God has promised’. Each morning you must surrender all your plans to Him. Day by day, give your life into God’s hands, and your life will be moulded more and more after the life of Christ. You are not let your mind dwell upon self, but let it dwell upon Christ’s love and upon the beauty and the perfection of His character”. – Steps to Christ

Prayer, Watching & Communion With God

“We should be often in prayer. The outpouring of the Spirit of God came in answer to earnest prayer.” — Ye Shall Receive Power, p. 289.

“Perseverance in prayer has been made a condition of receiving. We must pray always if we would grow in faith and experience. Unceasing prayer is the unbroken union of the soul with God, so that life from God flows into our life; and from our life, purity and holiness flow back to God.” — Steps to Christ, pp. 97, 98.

“There is necessity for diligence in prayer; let nothing hinder you. Make every effort to keep open the communion between Jesus and your own soul. Seek every opportunity to go where prayer is wont to be made.” — Steps to Christ, pp. 97, 98.

“Satan watches eagerly to find Christians off their guard. O that the followers of Christ would remember that eternal vigilance is the price of eternal life. Self must die, and Christ must be enthroned in the heart as all and in all. The thoughts must be stayed on Him… Have Seventh-day Adventists forgotten the warning given in the sixth chapter of Ephesians? We are engaged in a war against the hosts of darkness. Unless we follow our Leader closely, Satan will obtain the victory over us.” —The Upward Look, p. 200

“We should pray in the family circle, and above all we must not neglect secret prayer, for this is the life of the soul. It is impossible for the soul to flourish while prayer is neglected.” — Steps to Christ, pp. 97, 98.

“Prayer is the answer to every problem in life. It puts us in tune with divine wisdom which knows how to adjust everything perfectly. So often we do not pray in certain situations, because from our stand point the outlook is hopeless. But nothing is impossible with God.” — Review and Herald, October 7, 1865.

“Everyone needs to have a personal experience in obtaining a knowledge of the will of God. We must individually hear Him speaking to the heart. When every other voice is hushed, and in quietness we wait before Him, the silence of the soul makes more distinct the voice of God. He bids us, ‘Be still, and know that I am God.’” — The Desire of Ages, p. 363.

“If we have some spare time, we will not go to a magazine to read some foolish, trifling, lying story, but we will find something in the Word to commit to memory.” — The Watchman, September 15, 1909, par. 6.

“Pray in your closet, and as you go about your daily labor let your heart be often uplifted to God. It was thus that Enoch walked with God. These silent prayers rise like precious incense before the throne of grace. Satan cannot overcome him whose heart is thus stayed upon God.” — Steps to Christ, pp. 97, 98.

„Satan knows that all whom he can lead to neglect prayer and the searching of the Word of God, will be overcome by his attacks. Therefore, he invents every possible device to engross the mind.”

“Prayer is the answer to every problem in life. So often we do not pray, because from our standpoint the outlook is hopeless. But nothing is impossible with God. Nothing is so entangled that it cannot be remedied.”

“Our heavenly Father has thousand ways to provide for us of which we know nothing.”

“No habit is so deep rooted that it cannot be overcome; no one is so weak that he cannot be strong; no one is so ill that he cannot be healed. No mind is so dull that it cannot be made brilliant. If we trust God, He will supply. Let us stop rehearsing the difficulty but trust God for healing, love and power”.

“Those who decide to do nothing that will displease God, will know, after presenting their case before Him, what course to pursue.”

“Those who make the service of God supreme will find perplexities vanish and a plain path before their feet.” “We must be much in prayer if we would make progress in the divine life.”

“Few pray all night, as did our Saviour, or devote hours in the day to prayer.”

“Tell them that when they feel that they have sinned, and cannot pray, it is then the time to pray.”

“If we keep the Lord ever before us, allowing our hearts to go out in thanksgiving and praise to Him, we shall have a continual freshness in our religious life. Our prayers will take the form of a conversation with God as we would talk with a friend. He will speak His mysteries to us personally. Often there will come to us a sweet joyful sense of the presence of Jesus”.

“To every sincere prayer, an answer will come. It may not come just as you desire, or at the time you look for it; but it will come in the way and at the time that will best meet your need”.

“Prayer is the breath of the soul. It is the secret of spiritual power. No other means of grace can be substituted, and the health of the soul be preserved… Neglect the exercise of prayer, or engage in prayer sporadically, as seems convenient, and you lose your hold on God.”

“Satan watches eagerly to find Christians off their guard (unprotected). O that the followers of Christ would remember that eternal vigilance (constant alertness, watchfulness) is the price of eternal life.”

“How many men of great natural abilities and high scholarships have failed when placed in positions of responsibility, 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.”

“I saw that every prayer which is sent up in faith from an honest heart will be heard of God and answered, and the one that sent up the petition will have the blessing when he needs it most, and it will often exceed his expectations. Not a prayer of a true saint is lost if sent up in faith from an honest heart.”

Prophetic Warnings & Last-Day Events

“As the storm approaches, a large class who have professed faith in the third message, but have not been sanctified through it, abandon their position, and take refuge under the banner of the powers of darkness. By uniting with the world and partaking of its spirit, and when the test is brought, they are prepared to choose the easy, popular side.” — The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4, ch. 33.

“Men of talent and pleasing address, who once rejoiced in the truth, employ their powers to deceive and mislead souls. They become the most bitter enemies of their former brethren. When Sabbath-keepers are brought before the courts to answer for their faith, these apostates are the most efficient agents of Satan to misrepresent and accuse them, and by false reports and insinuations to stir up the rulers against them.” — The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4, ch. 33.

“We who know the truth should be preparing for what is soon to break upon the world as an overwhelming surprise.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8, p. 28.

“When secular rulers unite with ministers of religion to dictate in matters of conscience, then it will be seen who really fear and serve God. When the darkness is deepest, the light of a godlike character will shine the brightest. When every other trust fails, then it will be seen who have an abiding trust in Jehovah. And while the enemies of truth are on every side, watching the Lord’s servants for evil, God will watch over them for good. He will be to them as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land.” — The Acts of the Apostles, p. 431.

Righteousness By Faith In Christ Alone

“We can be fitted for heaven only through the work of the Holy Spirit upon the heart; for we must have Christ’s righteousness as our credentials if we would find access to the Father.” — Ye Shall Receive Power, p. 60.

“In order that we may have the righteousness of Christ, we need daily to be transformed by the influence of the Spirit, to be a ‘partaker of the divine nature’.” — Ye Shall Receive Power, p. 60.

“There is not a point that needs to be dwelt upon more earnestly, repeated more frequently, or established more firmly in the minds of all than the impossibility of fallen man meriting anything by his own best good works. Salvation is through faith in Jesus Christ alone.” — Faith and Works, p. 18.

“We do not earn salvation through our obedience; for salvation is the free gift of God, to be received by faith. But obedience is the fruit of faith.”

“Christ gave Himself to a shameful, agonizing death to save the perishing. Oh, Christ is able, willing, and longing to save all who will come to Him!”

“He who is trying to become holy by his own works in keeping the law, is attempting an impossibility. All that man can do without Christ is polluted with selfishness and sin. It is the grace of Christ alone, through faith, that can make us holy.” — Steps to Christ, pp. 59, 60.

“The message of Christ’s righteousness is to sound from one end of the earth to the other. … This is the glory of God which closes the work of the third angel.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, p. 19.

“What is justification by faith? It is the work of God in laying the glory of man in the dust, and doing for man that which it is not in his power to do for himself.” — Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 456.

“No one can be omnipotent, but all can cleanse themselves from filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord. God requires every soul to be pure and holy.” — The Faith I Live By, p. 140.

“By accepting Christ as your Saviour, then, sinful as your life may have been, you are accounted righteous. Christ’s character stands in place of your character, and you are accepted before God just as if you had not sinned!” — Steps to Christ, p. 62.

Sabbath

“The Sabbath is a sign of Christ’s power to make us holy (Ezekiel 20:12) . . . To all who receive the Sabbath as a sign of Christ’s creative and redeeming power, it will be a delight… And every object in nature repeats His invitation, ‘Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest’ (Matthew 11:28.)”—The Desire of Ages, pp. 288, 289.
“To all who receive the Sabbath as a sign of Christ’s creative and redeeming power, it will be a delight. Seeing Christ in it, they delight themselves in Him. The Sabbath points them to the works of creation as an evidence of His mighty power in redemption.” —Desire of Ages, 289.
“The Sabbath is a sign of Christ’s power to make us holy. And it is given to all whom Christ makes holy. As a sign of His sanctifying power, the Sabbath is given to all who through Christ become a part of the Israel of God.” — Desire of Ages, 288–289.
“Now Jesus rested from the work of redemption. . . . With this scene the day upon which Jesus rested is forever linked.” —Desire of Ages, 769.
“The Lord says: ‘Moreover also I gave them My Sabbaths, to be a sign between Me and them, that they might know that I am the Lord that sanctify them.'”
— Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6, 350. (Quoting Ezekiel 20:12)

Satan (Lucifer)

“God was not responsible for the entrance of sin. Sin is an intruder, for whose presence no reason can be given. It is mysterious, unaccountable; to excuse it is to defend it. Could a cause or excuse for it be found, it would cease to be sin”.

“So long as all created beings acknowledged the allegiance of love, there was perfect harmony throughout the universe… And while love to God was supreme, love for one another was confiding and unselfish. There was no note of discord to mar the celestial harmonies… But a change came over this happy state. There was one who perverted the freedom that God had granted to His creatures. Sin originated with him who had been most honored of God and was highest in power and glory among the inhabitants of heaven. Lucifer, ‘son of the morning,’ was holy and undefiled. ‘You were the seal of perfection, full of wisdom and beauty… You were perfect in your ways from the day you were created, till iniquity was found in you” (Ezekiel 28:12-15)… Little by little, Lucifer came to indulge the desire for self-exaltation.”

God had the ability to create Lucifer without free will and the ability to rebel against Him, yet He could not do this because without free will and choice it is impossible to love. The only type of service God can accept is the service of true and uncompelled love based on the freedom of choice. Unfortunately, both Lucifer and our first parents abused the freedom of choice given by God.

Second Coming of Christ

“Soon our eyes were drawn to the east, for a small black cloud had appeared, about half as large as a man’s hand, which we all knew was the sign of the Son of man. We all in solemn silence gazed on the cloud as it drew nearer and became lighter, glorious, and still more glorious, till it was a great white cloud. The bottom appeared like fire; a rainbow was over the cloud; while around it were ten thousand angels, singing a most lovely song; and upon it sat the Son of man. His hair was white and curly and lay on His shoulders; and upon His head were many crowns. His feet had the appearance of fire; in His right hand was a sharp sickle; in His left, a silver trumpet. His eyes were as a flame of fire, which searched His children through and through. Then all faces gathered paleness, and those that God had rejected gathered blackness. Then we all cried out, ‘Who shall be able to stand? Is my robe spotless?’ Then the angels ceased to sing, and there was some time of awful silence, when Jesus spoke: ‘Those who have clean hands and pure hearts shall be able to stand; My grace is sufficient for you.’ At this our faces lighted up, and joy filled every heart. And the angels struck a note higher and sang again, while the cloud drew still nearer the earth.” —Early Writings, p. 15

“When the protection of human laws shall be withdrawn from those who honor the law of God, there will be a simultaneous movement for their destruction. It will be determined to strike in one night a decisive blow…It is at midnight that God manifests His power for the deliverance of His people. Signs and wonders follow in quick succession. The wicked look with terror and amazement upon the scene. In the midst of the angry heavens is one clear space of indescribable glory, whence comes the voice of God like the sound of many waters, saying: ‘It is done’.”

“At Christ’s second coming all the precious dead, from righteous Abel to the last saint that dies, shall awake to glorious, immortal life.”

“Christ, in the wilderness of temptation (27 AD) overcame on the sinner’s behalf, four thousand years after Adam turned his back upon the light of his home.”

“For six thousand years Satan has struggled to maintain possession of the earth. Now God’s original purpose in its creation is accomplished. The saints shall take the kingdom, and possess it forever.”

“Confusion fills the world, and a great terror is soon to come upon human beings. The end is very near. God’s people should be preparing for what is to break upon the world as an overwhelming surprise.”

“Oh, how many I saw in the time of trouble without a shelter! They had neglected the needful preparation.”

Sin (Sinfulness, Human Nature, Selfishness)

“The sin which is indulged to the greatest extent, and which separates us from God and produces so many contagious spiritual disorders, is selfishness. There can be no returning to the Lord except by self-denial. Of ourselves we can do nothing; but, through God strengthening us, we can live to do good to others, and in this way shun the evil of selfishness.” —Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2, p. 132

Sin (Origin)

Sin (Why Was Sin Permitted)

“Had Lucifer been immediately blotted out of existence, others would have served God from fear rather than love. The influence of the deceiver would not have been fully destroyed. For the good of the entire universe through eternity, he was allowed to fully develop his principles to be seen in their true light. The history of rebellion with its horrible results will be an eternal safeguard to all holy beings to prevent them from following Lucifer’s example”.

Surrender, Consecration, Submission, Complete Dependence On God, Self-Denial

“The Son of God gave all – life and love and suffering – for our redemption. And can it be that we, the unworthy objects of so great love, will withhold our hearts from Him? He became sin for the race! But what do we give up, when we give all? A sin-polluted heart, for Jesus to cleanse by His own blood! And yet men think it hard to give up all! I am ashamed to hear it, ashamed to write it.”

“If you trust in your own strength and wisdom, you will surely fail. God calls for complete and entire consecration, and anything short of this He will not accept.” — Christ Triumphant, p. 94.

“God can make the humblest followers of Christ more precious than fine gold, if they yield themselves to His transforming hand… In many cases God can do little with men and women of learning, because they feel no need of leaning upon Him who is the source of all wisdom. . . . If you trust in your own strength and wisdom, you will surely fail. God calls for complete and entire consecration, and anything short of this He will not accept. There are many people whom God could have used in poverty—He could have made them useful there, and crowned them with glory hereafter—but prosperity ruined them. They were dragged down to the pit, because they forgot to be humble—forgot that God was their strength—and became independent and self-sufficient… As a representative of Christ, you must have the all-pervading power of godliness. You must be hid in Jesus. You are not safe unless you hold the hand of Christ. You must guard against everything like presumption and cherish that spirit that would rather suffer than sin. No victory you can gain will be so precious as that gained over self. Selfish ambition, desire for supremacy, will die when Christ takes possession of the affections.” —Christ Triumphant, p. 94

“The history of Joseph and Daniel is an illustration of what God will do for those who yield themselves to Him and with the whole heart seek to accomplish His purpose. But such a noble character is the result of self-discipline, of the subjection of the lower to the higher nature—the surrender of self for the service of love to God and man.” —Education, p. 57

“God can make the humblest followers of Christ more precious than fine gold, if they yield themselves to His transforming hand.” — Christ Triumphant, p. 94.

“Those who desire to be transformed in mind and character are not to look to men, but to the divine Example. God gives the invitation, ‘Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.’ By conversion and transformation men are to receive the mind of Christ.” — That I May Know Him, p. 134.

“Self must die, and Christ must be enthroned in the heart as all and in all. The thoughts must be stayed on Him…” — The Upward Look, p. 200.

“The surrender of the will is represented as plucking out the eye or cutting off the hand. Often it seems to us that the surrender of the will to God is to consent to go through life maimed or crippled. But it is better, says Christ, for self to be maimed, wounded, crippled, if thus you may enter into life.” — Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, p. 61.

“No one who claims holiness is really holy. Those who are registered as holy in the books of heaven are not aware of the fact, and are the last ones to boast of their own goodness. Holiness is not rapture: it is an entire surrender of the will to God; it is living by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God; it is doing the will of our heavenly Father; it is trusting God in trial, in darkness as well as in the light; it is walking by faith and not by sight; it is relying on God with unquestioning confidence, and resting in His love.” — The Signs of the Times, May 26, 1890.

“Unless a determined effort is made to keep the thoughts centered on Christ, grace cannot reveal itself in the life. Every thought must be brought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. All the habits must be brought under God’s control.” — In Heavenly Places, p. 164.

“Appetite and passion must be conquered, and the will must be placed wholly on the side of Christ.” — Our High Calling, p. 87.

Sunday Law

“The prophecy of Revelation 13 declares that the power represented by the beast with lamblike horns shall cause the world to worship the papacy—symbolized by the beast…This prophecy will be fulfilled when the United States shall enforce Sunday observance, which papal Rome claims as the acknowledgment of her supremacy. Then we may know that the time has come for the marvellous working of Satan and that the end is near.”

“Protestantism shall give the hand of fellowship to the Roman power. Then there will be a law against the Sabbath of God’s creation, and then God will do His ‘strange work’ on the earth.”

“The union (between Catholicism and Protestantism) will not, however, be effected by a change in Catholicism, for Rome never changes. She claims infallibility. It is Protestantism that will change.”

Unity & Love Among Believers

“I urge our people to cease their criticism and evil-speaking, and go to God in earnest prayer, asking Him to help them to help the erring. Let them link up with one another and with Christ.” — Reflecting Christ, p. 200.

“Let us make Christ’s prayer (John 17) the rule of our life. We are to pray for union, and then live in such a way that God can answer our prayers.” — Reflecting Christ, p. 200.

“Perfect oneness—a union as close as the union existing between the Father and the Son—this is what will give success to the efforts of God’s workers.” — Reflecting Christ, p. 200.

“Complete union with Christ and with one another is absolutely necessary to the perfection of believers. Christ’s presence by faith in the hearts of believers is their power, their life. It brings union with God. ‘Thou in me.’ Union with God through Christ makes the church perfect.” — Reflecting Christ, p. 200.

“Christ has said, ‘By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.’” — Reflecting Christ, p. 200.

“If we love God with all the heart, we must love His children also. No matter how many good qualities we may have, if the soul is not baptized with the heavenly grace of love to God and one another, we are deficient in true goodness and unfit for heaven, where all is love and unity.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 223.

“Those who love God cannot harbor hatred or envy. When the heavenly principle of eternal love fills the heart, it will flow out to others, not merely because favors are received of them, but because love is the principle of action and modifies the character, governs the impulses, controls the passions, subdues enmity, and elevates and ennobles the affections.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 223.

“True, heaven-born love is not selfish and changeable. It is not dependent on human praise. The heart of him who receives the grace of God overflows with love for God and for those for whom Christ died. Self is not struggling for recognition. He does not love others because they love and please him, because they appreciate his merits, but because they are Christ’s purchased possession.” — Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 101, 102.

“If his motives, words, or actions are misunderstood or misrepresented, he takes no offense, but pursues the even tenor of his way. He is kind and thoughtful, humble in his opinion of himself, yet full of hope, always trusting in the mercy and love of God.” — Christ’s Object Lessons, pp. 101, 102.

Use of Time

“Every moment of our time is precious. The precious talents lent us of God are to be employed in His service.” — This Day With God, p. 220.

“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 occupy their time and attention with matters of little importance. If they were consecrated to the work of the Master, every hand would be engaged in service.” —This Day With God, p. 326

Watchfulness & Spiritual Warfare

“Satan is devising many plans to occupy minds and to divert attention from the truths essential to salvation. In every city his agencies are busily organizing into parties those who are opposed to the law of God. But God’s faithful messengers are to advance fearlessly and victoriously, never ceasing their warfare until every soul within their reach shall have received the message of truth for this time.” — The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 218–220.

“Satan watches eagerly to find Christians off their guard. O that the followers of Christ would remember that eternal vigilance is the price of eternal life.” — The Upward Look, p. 200.

“Have Seventh-day Adventists forgotten the warning given in the sixth chapter of Ephesians? We are engaged in a war against the hosts of darkness. Unless we follow our Leader closely, Satan will obtain the victory over us.” — The Upward Look, p. 200.

“Evil angels in the form of men will talk with those who know the truth.” — Selected Messages, book 3, p. 411.

“Evil angels in the form of believers will work in our ranks to bring in a strong spirit of unbelief… These powers of evil will assemble in our meetings, not to receive a blessing, but to counterwork the influences of the Spirit of God.” — Mind, Character, and Personality, vol. 2, pp. 504, 505.

“The only safeguard against evil is the indwelling of Christ in the heart through faith in His righteousness. It is because selfishness exists in our hearts that temptation has power over us.” — Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, pp. 118, 119.

“Christ will never abandon the soul for whom He has died. The soul may leave Him and be overwhelmed with temptation, but Christ can never turn from one for whom He has paid the ransom of His own life.” — Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, pp. 118, 119.

“To us, as to Peter, the word is spoken, ‘Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: but I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not.’ Live in contact with the living Christ, and He will hold you firmly by a hand that will never let go.” — Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, pp. 118, 119.

“Know and believe the love that God has to us, and you are secure; that love is a fortress impregnable to all the delusions and assaults of Satan.” — Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, pp. 118, 119.

“When Christ took human nature upon Him, He bound humanity to Himself by a tie of love that can never be broken by any power save the choice of man himself. Satan will constantly present allurements to induce us to break this tie—to choose to separate ourselves from Christ. Here is where we need to watch, to strive, to pray, that nothing may entice us to choose another master; for we are always free to do this.” — Steps to Christ, p. 72.

“Satan’s plan of temptation is always the same. While everything moves prosperously, men think that they have faith. But when suffering, disaster, or disappointment comes, they lose heart. A faith that is dependent on circumstances and surroundings, that lives only when everything goes smoothly, is not a genuine faith.” — Letters and Manuscripts, vol. 11, Letter 49a, 1896, par. 3, 4.

Witnessing (Evangelism) & Service

“We are Christ’s witnesses, and we are not to allow worldly interests and plans to absorb our time and attention.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 609.

“If Christ left the ninety and nine that He might seek and save one lost sheep, can we be justified in doing less? Is not a neglect to work as Christ worked, to sacrifice as He sacrificed, a betrayal of sacred trusts, an insult to God?” — The Acts of the Apostles, pp. 370, 371.

“Heavenly angels watch those who are seeking for enlightenment. They cooperate with those who try to win souls to Christ.” The Bible Echo, December 10, 1900

“Let your light shine, and other lights will be kindled. It is the privilege of every soul to be a living channel through which God can communicate to the world the unsearchable riches of Christ.” — God’s Amazing Grace, p. 187.

“There is nothing that Christ desires so much as agents who will represent to the world His Spirit and character. There is nothing that the world needs so much as the manifestation through humanity of the Saviour’s love.” — God’s Amazing Grace, p. 187.

“In presenting the gospel before the court of the Areopagus, Paul met logic with logic, science with science, philosophy with philosophy. Few were led to accept the gospel. Henceforth Paul adopted a different manner of labor. He avoided elaborate arguments and discussion of theories, and in simplicity pointed men and women to Christ as the Saviour of sinners.” — The Ministry of Healing, pp. 214–216.

“The Saviour was an untiring worker. He did not measure His work by hours. His time, His heart, His strength, were given to labor for the benefit of humanity.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 609.

“The man who loves God does not measure his work by the eight-hour system. He works at all hours, and is never off duty. As he has opportunity, he does good. Everywhere, at all times and in all places, he finds opportunity to work for God. He carries fragrance with him wherever he goes.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 609.

“Those who make no decided effort, but simply wait for the Holy Spirit to compel them to action, will perish in darkness. You are not to sit still and do nothing in the work of God.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 609.

“We must live for Christ minute by minute; then Christ will dwell in us, and when we meet together, His love will be in our hearts, making those who are ready to perish, eager to drink of the waters of life.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 609.

“Our meetings should be made intensely interesting. Let there be no long, dry speeches and formal prayers merely for the sake of occupying the time. All should be ready to act their part with promptness, and when their duty is done, the meeting should be closed. Thus the interest will be kept up to the last. His service should be made interesting and attractive and not be allowed to degenerate into a dry form.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 607.

Word of God & Study

“The time will come when many will be deprived of the written Word. But if this Word is printed in the memory, no one can take it from us.” — Manuscript Releases, vol. 20, p. 64.

“Study the Word of God. Commit its precious promises to memory so that, when we shall be deprived of our Bibles, we may still be in possession of the Word of God.” — Manuscript Releases, vol. 10, p. 298.

“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.” — Testimonies for the Church, vol. 4, p. 459.

“None but those who have fortified the mind with the truths of the Bible will stand through the last great conflict.” — The Great Controversy, p. 593.

“Let the more important passages of Scripture be committed to memory. Though at first the memory be defective, it will gain strength by exercise, so that after a time you will delight thus to treasure up the words of truth. And the habit will prove a most valuable aid to spiritual growth.” — Child Guidance, p. 511.

“To read a certain number of chapters daily without careful thought as to the meaning of the sacred text, is a work of little profit. We cannot obtain wisdom without earnest attention and prayerful study.” — Review and Herald, October 9, 1883, par. 2.

“The creative energy that called the worlds into existence is in the word of God. This word imparts power; it begets life. Every command is a promise; accepted by the will, received into the soul, it brings with it the life of the Infinite One. It transforms the nature and re-creates the soul in the image of God.” — Education, p. 126.

“The Bible must be made the foundation for all study” (FE 451).

“A familiarity with the Word of God is our only hope. Those who diligently search the Scriptures will not accept Satan’s delusions as the truth of God” (GC 625).

“The Bible should be read every day. It is the correct standard of right and wrong and of moral principle” (SI, March 20, 1884, 177).

“This book is the voice of God speaking to us” (FE 433).

“The true principles of psychology are found in the Holy Scriptures” (ML 176).

“Apart from Christ, science is misleading and philosophy is foolishness” (IMM 97).

“All the philosophies of human nature have led to confusion and shame when God has not been recognized as all in all” (8T 322).

“Men consider themselves wiser than the Word of God, wiser even than God; and instead of planting their feet on the immovable foundation, and bringing everything to the test of God’s word, they test that word by their own ideas of science and nature, and if it seems not to agree with their scientific ideas, it is discarded as unworthy of credence” (ST, March 27, 1844, 1).

Victory Over Sin

“Through divine strength, the weakest saint is more than a match for Satan and all his angels. Therefore Satan’s step is noiseless … and his batteries (weapon) masked. Man has in himself no power to oppose effectual resistance to evil. It is only as Christ abides in him by living faith that man may face the terrible foe. Every other means of defence is utterly vain.”

“Subduing self and looking to Jesus is an everyday work. The Lord will never forsake the soul that trusts in Him and seeks His aid. The crown of eternal life is placed only upon the brow of the overcomer.
If you would be a saint in heaven you must first be a saint on earth. The traits of character you cherish in life will not be changed by death or by the resurrection. You will come up from the grave with the same disposition you manifested in your home and in society. Jesus does not change the character at His coming. The work of transformation must be done now. Our daily lives are determining our destiny.”

“The same divine mind that is working upon the things of nature is speaking to the hearts of men and creating an inexpressible craving for something they have not. The things of the world cannot satisfy their longing. The Spirit of God is pleading with them to seek those things that alone can give peace and rest. Through influences seen and unseen, our Saviour is constantly at work to attract the minds of men from the unsatisfying pleasures of sin to the infinite blessings that may be theirs in Him. To all these souls, who are vainly seeking to drink from the broken cisterns of this world, the divine message is addressed, ‘Let him that is thirsty come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely’ (Revelation 22:17). You who in heart long for something better than this world can give, recognize this longing as the voice of God to your soul. The more you struggle to escape, the more you realize your helplessness. Your motives are impure; your heart is unclean. You see that your life has been filled with selfishness and sin. You long to be forgiven, to be cleansed, to be set free. Harmony with God, likeness to Him – what can you do to obtain it? It is peace that you need – Heaven’s forgiveness and love in the soul. Money cannot buy it, intellect cannot procure it, wisdom cannot attain to it; you can never hope, by your own efforts, to secure it. But God offers it to you as a gift, ‘without money and without price’ (Isaiah 55:1). It is yours if you will but reach out your hand and grasp it. The Lord says, ‘Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool’ (Isaiah 1:18); ‘A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you’ (Ezekiel 36:26). You have confessed your sins, and in heart put them away. You have resolved to give yourself to God. Now go to Him, and ask that He will wash away your sins and give you a new heart. Then believe that He does this because He has promised. A life in Christ is a life of restfulness. There may be no ecstasy of feeling, but there should be an abiding, peaceful trust. Your hope is not in yourself; it is in Christ. Your weakness is united to His strength, your ignorance to His wisdom, your frailty to His enduring might. So you are not to look to yourself, not to let the mind dwell upon self, but look to Christ! Let the mind dwell upon His love, upon the beauty, the perfection, of His character… Looking to Christ you are safe“. – Steps to Christ.