Ellen G White Download-Many Great Titles on this; & Other Linked Pages

Ellen G White Download

Ellen G White Download

Ellen G White Download

A Sketch of the Christian Experience

Thoughts from the Mount of Blessings

Supplement to the Christian Experience

The Adventist Home Ellen G White Download

Ellen G White Download The adventist home The Adventist home is a home where Seventh-day Adventist standards and practices are lived and taught, a place to which Seventh-day Adventist fathers and mothers are commissioned by Christ to go and make Christians of the members of their own households. And in order to perform that task well, Seventh-day Adventist parents are looking for all the help they can possibly find. {AH 5.1} Ellen G White Download

Ellen G. White has written much and very valuable counsel for parents. She has touched upon every phase of the home, and offers specific instruction on many of the problems which give so much concern to thoughtful and often anxious parents today. Some years before her death, she indicated her desire to get out “a book for Christian parents” that would define “the mother’s duty and influence over her children.” In the present work an endeavor has been made to fulfill this expectation. {AH 5.2} Ellen G White Download

This book, The Adventist Home, is at once a sort of handbook or manual for busy parents, and a pattern or ideal of what the home can and should become. Here are the answers to your many questions, the words of wisdom from the heavenly Father. {AH 5.3} Ellen G White Download

In compiling this work, excerpts have been drawn from the Ellen G. White writings penned through seven decades, but especially from the thousands of E. G. White articles which were prepared for the journals of the denomination. The current published works, special testimonies issued in pamphlet form, and the E. G. White manuscript files have also enriched the Volume. Appropriate source credits are given in connection with each chapter. As the excerpts drawn from different sources written at different times are linked together in their logical sequence, there may be occasionally a slight unavoidable break in thought or manner of address, for the compilers are limited in their work to selecting and arranging the subject matter and supplying the headings. {AH 5.4} Ellen G White Download

This document has been prepared in the office of the Ellen G. White Publications. The work has been done in harmony with Mrs. White’s instruction to her trustees in providing “for the printing of compilations” from her manuscripts, for they contain, she said, “instruction that the Lord has given me for his people.” {AH 6.1} Ellen G White Download

Never in the history of the world has a book like this been needed more urgently than it is right now. Never have parents and children been more anxious for the right answer to the things which trouble them. Never have homes been in such jeopardy as they are today. {AH 6.2} Ellen G White Download

Every one of us knows that conditions in society are but a reflection of conditions in the homes of the nation. We likewise know that a change in the home will be mirrored in a changed society. To this end this Volume—The Adventist Home—has been prepared and, as a part of the Christian home library, is now sent forth on its important mission by the publishers and {AH 6.3}

The Trustees of the

Ellen G. White Publications

Washington, D.C.,

May 8, 1952.

top

An Appeal to Mothers Ellen G White Download

Ellen G White Download An Appeal to Mothers The matter contained in the following pages having been left at our disposal, we feel impelled by a strong sense of Christian duty and love of humanity, to bring it before the public in its present form. We believe that too much importance cannot be attached to this subject, and that no false delicacy should prevent thorough inquiry and investigation upon a question in which the present and future welfare of multitudes is involved. As a people, who profess to be looking for the coming of the Lord, and preparing for translation into his holy presence, perhaps we have too long kept silent on this great source of physical, mental and moral pollution, and a high duty and responsibility remains to be discharged in this matter. {ApM iii.1} Ellen G White Download

We would therefore earnestly appeal to parents and guardians to give this work a thorough and judicious circulation. The flood-gates of corruption are being opened upon the world; and in no way, perhaps, is Satan more speedily accomplishing the utter ruin of a fallen and fast degenerating race than through the channel of unchastity and licentiousness. In the following pages the evil is fully pointed out: and to many, we doubt not, they will also appear as a friendly hand pointing out the remedy and the way of escape. Again we say, therefore, let the work be faithfully circulated. It would perhaps be well for every member of the family to possess a copy for his and her own personal possession. Ellen G White Download

And remember that it will not be enough to merely place this work in the hands of the young. Cease not till you have good evidence that the moral sense of the individuals is so aroused, that they will study and faithfully heed the instruction herein contained. {ApM iii.2} Ellen G White Download

And to the young we would say, as you value health, happiness and life, a sound mind, an approving conscience, and a high moral sensibility, pass not over this subject lightly, nor forget the warning herein given you. To you there may seem to be no danger, but the danger is all the greater because so insidious; and being instructed yourselves, you may be able to raise the warning voice to others who are ignorantly sacrificing themselves upon the altar of this moloch of passion. {ApM iv.1}

But if considerations which connect themselves with this present life are not sufficient to move you, look beyond this state of being, cast your eye over into eternity, ponder its effects upon your eternal destiny, and as you value eternal life, shun a vice which will forever debar you from the presence of him who has said, “Be ye holy for I am holy.” {ApM iv.2} Ellen G White Download

Trustees of the S.D.A. Publishing Association.

top

An Appeal to Youth Ellen G White Download

Ellen G White Download An Appeal to the Youth My Dear Children,

Here we are, twelve miles from Waukon. We have had a tedious time in getting thus far. Yesterday our horses for miles had to plow through snow very deep, but on we came, feeling confident that our mission was of God. Last Monday we could get no food that was fit to eat, and therefore rode in the coldest weather I ever saw, from morning until night, with nothing to eat but one apple. Oh, how thankful I shall be to see home, sweet home, again, and my three dear boys, Henry, Edson, and Willie. {AY 40.1}

Children, strive to do right, and love the Lord for his merciful kindness to you all. Obey those who have the care of you as you would your parents. Be kind to each other, and yield to each other’s wishes. Don’t become unsteady. Read the precious word of God. {AY 40.2}

You should be thankful for your comfortable home. We often suffer with cold on account of unfinished and open houses. Last night we slept in a chamber where there was an opening through the top for the stove-pipe. If it had stormed it would have come direct in our faces. Pray for us. Unless the Lord opens the way for us to return, we may be blocked in with snow, and have to remain all winter. {AY 40.3} Ellen G White Download

I hope, dear Henry, that you are a good boy, and are happy in doing right. Continue to strive to be faithful in all things. We received your letter, and were much pleased to hear from you. We think you have made improvements in setting type. Be faithful, children, in all things. The Lord will soon come and take the good and holy to himself. We want you to live among the pure and holy angels in heaven, and wear a crown of gold, and eat of the tree of life. Trust in the Lord at all times. Listen to the voice of conscience. Love God and you will have his approving smile. What a thought, to have the great God, the maker of the heavens and the earth, to smile upon and love you. Dear children, seek for this, pray for it, live for it. {AY 41.1} Ellen G White Download

Your affectionate Mother.

top

A Call to Stand Apart

A Call to Stand Apart is a first. It is the first Ellen White book prepared by the White Estate especially for twenty-first century young adults. It also is the first book in which a variety of inspired counsels have been drawn exclusively from previously published Ellen White books. {CSA 2.1} Ellen G White Download

A Call to Stand Apart makes available from selected Ellen White writings the core ideas that deal with important issues faced by youth and young adults today. The 17 chapters of the book have been chosen to address issues faced by contemporary young adults in a twenty-first-century context.{CSA 2.2} Ellen G White Download

This original source material is provided for those who would like to make a comparative study and analysis of the paraphrase A Call to Stand Apartundertaken from these selected writings of Ellen G. White. Every effort has been made to be faithful to the original content, ideas, and principles set forth by Ellen White. We believe a comparison will reveal that in no case has the thought in the original been changed. {CSA 2.3} Ellen G White Download

We believe that the principles penned more than 100 years ago under divine inspiration are more relevant than ever. It is our hope that thousands of readers will find A Call to Stand Apart so compelling, interesting, and inspiring that they will go on to further explore the deep spiritual riches in other Ellen White writings. May each reader “catch the vision.” {CSA 3.1}

The Trustees of the Ellen G. White Publications

top

Child Guidance Ellen G White Download

Child Guidance As marriage unites two hearts and lives in love, and a new home is created, an early concern of its founders is that the children which grace this new home shall be properly reared. The question of Manoah of old, “How shall we order the child?” is thoughtfully pondered by parents today as they look into the face of the precious and helpless gift entrusted to their care. {CG 5.1} Ellen G White Download

The significance of instruction on child guidance is best understood as we note the important place it takes in the word of God and the frequent and detailed references to the subject in the spirit of prophecy writings. In her several books, but more particularly in the articles on practical Christian living which appeared from week to week in the various journals of the denomination, Mrs. White set forth a wealth of counsel to parents. In addition to this, she addressed to various families hundreds of personal testimonies in which she dealt specifically with the problems they faced. In these articles and personal testimonies she described the principles which should guide parents, and the procedures they should follow as they were kept before her in vision. {CG 5.2}

In her later years Mrs. White expressed a desire to bring out a book for Christian parents that would make clear “The Mother’s Duty And Influence Over Her Children.” In the recently issued The Adventist Home and this companion work, that desire is now fulfilled. Only the thoughtful and prayerful perusal of the significant counsels of this volume can reveal the tremendous and far-reaching influence of training the child properly as God has placed the responsibility with parents. {CG 5.3} Ellen G White Download

The fact that Ellen White was the mother of four boys enabled her to set forth in an understanding and sympathetic manner the instruction imparted to her. Her experience in the practical application of the principles she has set before others begets confidence in the heart of the reader. {CG 5.4} Ellen G White Download

All the E. G. White sources, published and unpublished, have been drawn upon in preparing Child Guidance. Full source credits appear at the close of each chapter. Because the content of this Volume has been brought together from a number of sources written over a period of seventy years, there occasionally occurs an unavoidable break in thought and manner of address as the several statements are linked together in their natural subject sequence. The compilers were limited in their work to the selecting and arranging of the various statements and to the supplying of headings. {CG 6.1}

Child Guidance was prepared under the direction of the board of Trustees of the Ellen G. White publications in their offices in Washington, D.C. The work was done in harmony with Mrs. White’s instruction to her trustees that they should provide for the printing of compilations from her manuscript and published sources. {CG 6.2} Ellen G White Download

The need for this volume is great. Eternal interests are at stake. The detailed counsels on discipline, character building, and physical and spiritual education will be treasured by every thoughtful parent. That this volume, standing by the side of The Adventist Home, Messages to Young People, and other of the E. G. White books of counsel to parents and youth, may serve to guide fathers and mothers in their most important work is the sincere wish of the publishers and {CG 6.3}

The Trustees of the

Ellen G. White Publications.

top

Christ in His Sanctuary Ellen G White Download

Christ in His Sanctuary “The subject of the sanctuary and the investigative judgment should be clearly understood by the people of God.”—The Great Controversy, 488.{CIHS 1.1}

“I know that the sanctuary question stands in righteousness and truth, just as we have held it for so many years. It is the enemy that leads minds off on sidetracks. He is pleased when those who know the truth become engrossed in collecting scriptures to pile around erroneous theories, which have no foundation in truth. The scriptures thus used are misapplied; they were not given to substantiate error, but to strengthen truth.”—Gospel Workers, 303. {CIHS 1.2} Ellen G White Download

top

Christ’s Object Lessons

Christs Object Lessons Christ the Great Teacher gave much of His instruction as He walked with His disciples through the hills and valleys of Palestine or rested by the lake or river. In His parable teaching He linked divine truth with common things and incidents, as may be found in the experiences of the shepherd, the builder, the tiller of the soil, the traveler, and the homemaker. Familiar objects were associated with thoughts true and beautiful—thoughts of God’s loving interest in us, of the grateful homage that is his due, and of the care we should have one for another. Thus lessons of divine wisdom and practical truth were made forcible and impressive. {COL 7.1} Ellen G White Download

In this volume the parables are grouped according to their subjects, and their lessons are developed and illustrated. The book is full of gems of truth, and to many readers it will give a richer meaning to the common surroundings of everyday life. {COL 7.2} Ellen G White Download

The many printings of several editions of Christ’s Object Lessons in the English and other leading languages have proved the popularity of the book. While preparing the manuscript the author was led to dedicate the proceeds of its sale to the aid of educational work. Through the co-operative effort of author, publishers, and church members a sizable sum has been turned to the interests of Christian education. {COL 7.3}

For a time after the reset and reillustrated edition was published, in 1923, it was impossible to secure the book in its original form, which was used by those who prepared the Index to the writings of Mrs. Ellen G. White. The printing of the volume in this form will, therefore, be heartily received by those who make frequent use of the Index, for its paging corresponds to that of the original edition. {COL 7.4} Ellen G White Download

Not only in its harmonizing of the pages with the Index will this new edition prove its worth, but also in its compact form, for convenience in handling. In reducing the book to a minimum in weight and thickness, full-page illustrations and section title pages have been omitted. The absence of these deleted pages will account for an occasional skipping of page numbers. The text, however, remains intact. It will be observed that modern spelling and current forms of punctuation have been employed in this printing. {COL 8.1} Ellen G White Download

That this volume may continue on its mission, drawing the reader to the Saviour through a better understanding of His teachings, is the sincere wish of the Publishers and {COL 8.2}

The Trustees of the Ellen G. White Publications.

top

Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G White

Christian Experience In this little volume there is gathered for busy readers a choice selection of short articles from the writings of Mrs. E. G. White. {CET 7.1}

Mrs. White was engaged in evangelical work for more than seventy years. Her public ministry began in Maine, and closed in California. She addressed congregations, large and small, on religious and temperance themes, in nearly every state in the union. She also spent two years of very active service in England, France, Switzerland, Germany, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden; and eight years in Australia, New Zealand, and Tasmania. {CET 7.2} Ellen G White Download

The story of her early life and her experiences from very childhood in winning souls to Christ, as told in this volume in her own simple language presents to the reader a most interesting narrative of Christian ministry. {CET 7.3} Ellen G White Download

Whether traveling by horse and carriage in the New England states of America, by canal boat in central New York, with a train of emigrant teams in Texas and Oklahoma, by tourist railroad trains to California, or by the great ocean steamers crossing the Atlantic or the Pacific Ocean, or wherever she might be, she sought to improve every opportunity to speak to the people “all the words of this life.” {CET 7.4} Ellen G White Download

In addition to her labors as an evangelist, Mrs. White contributed regularly to several religious journals. She also wrote many books. Foremost among these are five volumes describing the conflict carried on throughout the ages, between Christ and Satan. The first volume of this series, “The Story of Patriarchs and Prophets,” and the last of the series, “The Great Controversy,” have been translated and published in many languages. Her little book “Steps to Christ” has been printed in more than forty languages. All her writings breathe the purest devotion, and teach the highest morality. They reveal the devices of Satan, and warn us against his snares. They lead to Christ, and exalt the teachings of the Bible.{CET 7.5} Ellen G White Download

It was the cherished plan of Mrs. White to prepare for publication several small volumes, containing in the fewest pages, the mighty, soul-saving truth she loved to repeat to the people by voice and pen. And the initial steps in the compilation of these volumes were taken a short time before her death. The beginning of the compilation of this volume was a great joy to her. But she did not live to see its completion. {CET 8.1} Ellen G White Download

This little book is not the reproduction of any one of the author’s works. It is a selection from her writings as found in many books and periodicals. Its presentation of the privileges and duties of the faithful Christian is clear and inspiring. Its pictures of the Christian’s reward are beautiful and thrilling. {CET 8.2}

That it may be an encouragement to many readers, and become to them a help in the Christian life, is the hope and prayer of the Publishers.{CET 8.3}

top

Christian Leadership

Christian Leadership In His love and mercy, God provided through Ellen G. White a rich treasure of inspired counsel on a wide variety of subjects that are important to the remnant church in its task of carrying the three angels’ messages to the world. Among the subjects dealt with in this counsel are education, diet, home and family, evangelism, healthful living, practical Christianity, publishing, and medical work. {ChL 1.1}

Seventh-day Adventist school teachers and church leaders have discovered that materials for their classes almost always can be enriched by choice quotations and gems of thought gathered from the published and unpublished writings of Ellen White. Thus, in 1973 and 1974, when preparations were being made to conduct a series of Christian Leadership Seminars, the secretary of the White Estate and the director of the seminars collaborated in preparing a booklet of Ellen White counsels on Christian Leadership. {ChL 1.2}

The booklet was widely used and much appreciated. However, after a number of years, when the Leadership Seminars were no longer being conducted on a regular basis, the booklet was allowed to go out of print. It was assumed that it had served its purpose and would not be reissued. However, demand for it has continued. To meet the demand, we now offer this new edition. We send it forth with a prayer that its counsels may bless and strengthen the men and women whom God has placed in positions of responsibility in His church. {ChL 1.3} Ellen G White Download

The Board of Trustees of the

Ellen G. White Estate

Washington, D. C.,

March 1, 1985. Reprinted September, 1995.

top

Christian Service

The desire to place in the hands of all Christian workers, instruction bearing specifically upon the need, importance, methods, and reward of earnest, consecrated missionary endeavor, has led to a comprehensive survey of the field of inspired literature, and resulted in bringing together, in convenient form, the quotations comprising this volume, which may appropriately be termed an Encyclopedia of Christian Service. {ChS 3.1}

It is by no means claimed that the following pages furnish an exhaustive compilation from the writings of the Spirit of prophecy on the broad subject of Christian service, but merely that they afford a safe path into the rich and extensive mines of research, wherein the Christian worker may go deeper into the vein of truth regarding the science of soul winning. {ChS 3.2} Ellen G White Download

In culling from the various sources of information, conscientious care has been exercised to preserve the proper setting of the thought expressed by the author. It is hoped that the selections will be found invaluable to ministers and leaders in all lines of church work, and will be appreciated by all men and women whose hearts have been touched by the spirit of the Great Missionary, and who have “understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do.” {ChS 3.3} Ellen G White Download

Grateful acknowledgment is hereby made to the secretarial force of the General Conference Home Missionary Department, general and local, and to other Christian workers, who have rendered valuable assistance in reading and marking various books for this compilation, and whose suggestions and hearty approval have meant much in the thoroughness and completeness of the task. {ChS 3.4}

General Conference Home Missionary Department

top

Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene

Christian Temperance The desire to place in the hands of all Christian workers, instruction bearing specifically upon the need, importance, methods, and reward of earnest, consecrated missionary endeavor, has led to a comprehensive survey of the field of inspired literature, and resulted in bringing together, in convenient form, the quotations comprising this volume, which may appropriately be termed an Encyclopedia of Christian Service. {ChS 3.1} Ellen G White Download

General Conference Home Missionary Department

top

Counsels for the Church

Counsels for the Church As the Seventh-day Adventist movement has grown in all parts of the world, members who speak and read the various languages have yearned for the Testimonies for the Church, which, in full or in part, have edified and blessed the church throughout the world. It is not possible to publish in each language the full content of the nine Testimony volumes and the many other spirit of prophecy books. There is presented in this volume, however, a selection of general counsels drawn from these sources which will prove of great service and practical help to the church. {CCh 5.1}

The selection of materials, which have been conveniently grouped in the sixty-six chapters of this volume, is the work of the trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate, who are responsible for the care of Mrs. White’s writings at the world headquarters of the Seventh-day Adventist church in Silver Spring, Maryland, in the United States of America. It has been a painstaking task to gather, arrange, translate, and publish in this book a comprehensive selection of materials from the many E. G. White books. Because of the limitation of space, only the more essential counsels on vital themes could be included. Even this presents a wide range of subjects. In some cases the selection is confined to a few paragraphs at a time taken from scattered sources. Reference to the books from which the selections have been drawn are found in abbreviated form at the close of each chapter. By reference to the Key to Abbreviations you can easily find the books to which the letters refer. No attempt has been made to indicate by ellipsis marks that paragraphs or sentences have been deleted. {CCh 5.2} Ellen G White Download

Do not confuse the introduction, written by the Trustees, with the writings of Mrs. White herself, which commence with chapter 1. {CCh 5.3}

It is with satisfaction and joy that this book is now made available to those who have waited so long for its appearance. That the precious counsel and instructions that fills these pages may deepen the conviction of each reader in the truths of the advent message, broaden his Christian experience, and heighten his expectation of victory in the final day when our Lord shall return, is the sincere prayer of {CCh 5.4}

The Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate.

top

Counsels on the Sabbath School Work Ellen G White Download

Cousels on Sabbath School Work As the Seventh-day Adventist movement has grown in all parts of the world, members who speak and read the various languages have yearned for the Testimonies for the Church, which, in full or in part, have edified and blessed the church throughout the world. It is not possible to publish in each language the full content of the nine Testimony volumes and the many other spirit of prophecy books. There is presented in this volume, however, a selection of general counsels drawn from these sources which will prove of great service and practical help to the church. {CCh 5.1}

Do not confuse the introduction, written by the Trustees, with the writings of Mrs. White herself, which commence with chapter 1. {CCh 5.3}

The Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate.

top

Counsels on Stewardship

This volume, “Counsels on Stewardship,” has been compiled and is now sent forth in response to a widespread request for such a work. A vast array of very practical and helpful instruction from the Spirit of prophecy on stewardship has appeared during the years. This has been printed in both periodical and book form, but this work is composed largely of matter not now readily available to our workers and members. In the current volumes there is available much additional instruction on the same subject, very little of which has been used in this book. We are thankful indeed that all may now have access to this choice instruction given to the church in this convenient form. This volume has been compiled in the office of the Ellen G. White Publications under the direction of the Board of Trustees. {CS 5.1}

In the realm of Christian life and service the question of stewardship occupies a large and vital place. Every Christian believer is deeply and continuously concerned. Our recognition of the sovereignty of God, of his ownership of all things, and of the bestowal of his grace upon us, is included in a proper understanding of the principles of stewardship. As our comprehension of these principles grows and expands, we are led into a fuller understanding of the way God’s love and grace operate in our lives. {CS 5.2}

While the principles of a stewardship concern material things, they are, above all, of a spiritual character. The service of Christ is a reality. The Lord requires certain things of us in order that he may do certain things for us. The doing of those required things in harmony with the divine will lifts the whole matter of stewardship to a high spiritual plane. The Lord is not exacting. He does not arbitrarily demand either that we serve him or that we recognize him by returning to him of those things which he gives to us. But he has so arranged the divine economy that as a result of our working in harmony with him in these things, there flow back to us great spiritual blessings. We shall be destitute of these blessings if we fail to cooperate with him in carrying out his plans, and thereby deprive ourselves of those things which we need most.{CS 5.3}

We are very confident that a careful study of the principles of stewardship as set forth in this volume will help all who study and practice them to a richer and fuller experience in the things of God. This is clearly indicated in the following statement: {CS 6.1}

“The idea of stewardship should have a practical bearing upon all the people of God…. Practical benevolence will give spiritual life to thousands of nominal professors of the truth who now mourn over their darkness. It will transform them from selfish, covetous worshipers of mammon, to earnest, faithful coworkers with Christ in the salvation of sinners.”—Testimonies for the Church 3:387. {CS 6.2}

With the prospect before us of such a transformation, all should earnestly study this volume, praying that we may be led into a fuller, richer experience with the Lord. {CS 6.3}

J. L. McElhany.

top

Counsels to Parents, Teachers and Students

Counsels to Parents Teachers and Students As early as 1872, counsel and instruction regarding Christian education began to come from the pen of Ellen G. White to Seventh-day Adventists. The first comprehensive article on this subject, entitled “Proper Education,” is found in Testimonies for the Church 3:131-160. In the thirty pages of this article may be found, in embryo or in well-developed form, every fundamental principle which should govern the training and instruction of children and youth. Revolutionary as some of the views expressed may have seemed to be at the time of writing, they are today recognized and advocated by progressive educational thinkers. Seventh-day Adventists may justly regard themselves as highly favored in that such a fundamental outline of educational principles appeared so early in their literature. {CT 5.1}

That brief yet comprehensive outline, given to lead us into right educational paths, has been followed through the years by further, more detailed counsels, reiterating the principles first set forth, expanding their application, and urging their adoption. Christian Education andSpecial Testimonies on Education, two small works published in the nineties, carried these messages to the people. {CT 5.2}

Finally, in 1903, Education, a masterpiece in the field of character education, was presented to the general reading public by Ellen G. White, and through many printings and translations it has conveyed its helpful messages to thousands in this and in other lands. But the special detailed instruction, specifically addressed to Seventh-day Adventists, could not well be included in this popular volume intended for more general distribution; and the earlier works having passed out of print, much of the wealth of specific counsel of great value to us was no longer available. To provide this, together with later and fuller writings on certain phases of the topic, this work, Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, was published in 1913. {CT 5.3}

Brought to view in this volume are the principles and methods of presenting an education which “includes not only mental discipline, but that training which will secure sound morals and correct deportment”—that education which will “fit men and women for service by developing and bringing into active exercise all their faculties.” {CT 6.1}

As the subject is developed, there are clearly set forth the responsibilities and duties of parents, heartening counsel to guide the teachers in their work, and practical instruction to those who devote the years of their youth in preparing for a life of service. {CT 6.2}

At the close of each section, a page under the title “For Further Study” presents references to other E.G. White books containing related instruction. With the publication of the four volumes, Fundamentals of Christian Education (1923), Messages to Young People (1930), The Adventist Home (1952), and Child Guidance (1954), the sources of available related E.G. White materials is greatly expanded. In this printing the reference on the “For Further Study” pages have been broadened to include these helpful sources. {CT 6.3}

That this volume may serve yet more fully as a guide to parents and teachers in advancing “the most delicate work ever entrusted to mortals,” that of bringing “man back into harmony with God,” is the earnest desire of the Publishers and {CT 6.4}

The Trustees of the

Ellen G. White Publications

top

Counsels to Writers and Editors

Counsels to Writers and Editors Seventh-day Adventist editors from all parts of the world met in Washington, D. C., in August, 1939, to participate in a General Editorial Council, the first to be held. As a source of inspiration and guidance to this group, the leaders of the denomination arranged to have placed in their hands the E. G. White instruction which had been directed to our writers and editors through the years, drawn from both published sources and manuscripts. This counsel and instruction was distributed to the editors in the form of a little paper-bound work entitled Counsels to Editors. Additional copies were furnished to the members of the Boards of Directors of our publishing houses and to others concerned with our publishing interests throughout the world field. {CW 5.1}

Five hundred copies of this little work were printed, and the stock was soon exhausted. There has been an increasing call for the book by Seventh-day Adventist workers generally. Inasmuch as the writing for our journals and the production of denominational books is done largely by our worker group throughout the world, and inasmuch as our evangelists with their radio ministry are entering more and more the field of writing in the preparation of their scripts, it seems appropriate to make this volume of counsels generally available through a new edition, which is now issued as a permanent publication. {CW 5.2}

The reader will observe that certain of these messages speak plainly of detrimental policies and of dangers which have threatened the work. Specific publications are referred to and publishing houses named. These counsels have been a source of guidance in the work of the past, and their inclusion here should not be construed to constitute a condemnation or criticism of these publications and publishing houses today, but, rather, as cautions against a repetition of former mistakes. Some journals are mentioned which are not now issued. As an aid to the reader in identifying these, footnotes have been appended. The fields which they served are now cared for by other publications. The principles set forth are, however, unchanging, and they serve as a guide today. {CW 6.1}

In this second edition there has been added a few articles broadening the scope to better fit the needs of the larger group to which the volume is now being released, and there has been some rearrangement of the articles. {CW 6.2}

To give the reader a better understanding of the setting of the messages presented, the date of writing or first publication is noted. In the case of material drawn from the E. G. White manuscript files, the year of writing forms a part of the source credit. The publication date appears as a part of the reference to excerpts from periodical articles. In the case of selections drawn from the standard books, the date of publication is given immediately following the credit. {CW 6.3}

As this little volume is now sent forth on its larger mission, it is with the expectation that its counsels will make a material contribution toward a more effective ministry of the written word. {CW 7.1}

The Trustees of
the Ellen G. White
Publications.

top

Country Living

Country Living was first published in 1946. Its counsels and warnings have challenged many Seventh-day Adventists to examine carefully the effects of urban living on their lives and to reevaluate where they choose to live. It has highlighted the dangers of involvement with labor unions and other sources of party strife in the cities. At the same time, it has helped those with a burden for city evangelism to consider how best to be in the world but not of the world. {CL 3.1}

With the end of time approaching, this instruction is more relevant than ever. A new generation of believers will find these counsels opening horizons to them that they had not envisioned. {CL 3.2}

The writings of Ellen G. White repeatedly urge the advantages of country living. As conditions in our world build toward the final events, Seventh-day Adventists recall the Lord’s instruction about leaving the cities, with their congestion, corruption, and conflicts. The cities do not provide a wholesome environment for Christian families. {CL 3.3}

Yet the counsels in this booklet also warn against acting rashly. Each person or family should study the instruction, think and pray about it, identify and evaluate the options, and ask God to make His leading clear. {CL 3.4}

God’s people “Desire a better country, that is, an heavenly” (Hebrews 11:16). No place on earth can equal that home that God is preparing for us. Yet we may bring something of the heavenly country’s atmosphere into our homes here, especially in rural settings. Thus, we believe that the inspired counsels set forth in this small volume will be appreciated by every Seventh-day Adventist. {CL 3.5}

The Trustees of the

Ellen G. White Publications

top

Darkness before Dawn

Darkness Before Dawn Even a casual glance at society today tells us that things are not right. To many, the world seems to be spinning out of control. Growing numbers of men and women face the future with anxiety and confusion. The world seems locked in a downward spiral that is fast reaching a climax. {DD 1.1}

How will it all end? How will the political terrorism, and violence, the greed and materialism, the steady erosion of moral values, the drug use, the aids virus, the starvation and filling-how will all these critical problems be resolved? Where can we find answers to these serious questions? Not in the tabloid newspapers or on the TV talk shows. Political leaders-even spiritual leaders-seem to have no answers to these vital issues. But God’s word, the Bible, pulls aside the curtain and reveals that our world is involved in a cosmic struggle between good and evil. {DD 1.2}

This little book goes to the Bible to answer the important questions about how this conflict began, what the issues are, how we all became involved, and how it will end. The chapters making up this book are taken from the author’s major work The Great Controversy Between Christ and Satan. Though some have been abridged to meet the length requirements of this small book, they still provide valuable insights into current social, political, and religious developments. We believe that through them you will obtain not only a better understanding of the world today, but a well-founded hope for a brighter tomorrow. {DD 1.3}

The Publishers

top

Daughters of God

Daughters of God During the last half of the nineteenth century women were given greater leadership roles in some Protestant churches. This was true of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. {DG 11.1}

Three of the first eleven treasurers of the General Conference (1871-1883) were women. Of the nineteen editors of The Youth’s Instructorwho served between 1852 and 1899, eleven were women. L. Flora Plummer headed the Sabbath school department of the General Conference for 23 years. The Adventist Church during 1878-1910 licensed 31 women to preach. {DG 11.2}

Ellen White often pointed out that “The Lord has a work for women, as well as for men…. They can come close to the hearts of those whom men cannot reach.” (The Review and Herald, August 26, 1902.) {DG 11.3}

Significant portions of Ellen White’s counsel to women in the work of God have been brought together in this volume. Included also are chapters on self-respect and on balance in all aspects of life. Most of the counsel in these chapters, though originally directed to men, is equally applicable to women. In today’s high-pressure society many women are wage earners, often single mothers trying to provide for their families.

The content of these chapters will go far toward restoring and sustaining a sense of self-respect, helping women to know that they are important and valued in God’s sight. {DG 11.4}

A few of the statements in this book must be understood in the light of their cultural, social, and time context. “Regarding the testimonies, nothing is ignored; nothing is cast aside; but time and place must be considered” (1SM, 57). To assist the reader, we have endeavored to provide enough context for a complete understanding. We also have given the date and source of publication, or the original date of writing when publication was after Ellen White’s death. In a few cases, when the original publication is not readily available, we have given a more recent source, along with the date of writing. Side headings throughout the book have been supplied by the compilers. {DG 11.5}

Daughters of God is designed to be an encouragement, inspiration, and affirmation to women around the world. It includes counsels that lead women to strive for the highest ideals in whatever walk of life they find themselves, be it personal or professional. Every woman is of inestimable value in the sight of our heavenly father. He created woman to stand by the side of man, equal in value before God, and associated with him in the work he was given to do. The Father gave his only begotten Son to die for the entire human race, individually and collectively, male and female. {DG 11.6}

It is our hope that church members around the world will gain new insights and blessings from reading this volume. God needs the talents of all his people to help finish his work on earth. {DG 11.7}

The Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate

All who work for God should have the Martha and the Mary attributes blended—a willingness to minister and a sincere love of the truth. Self and selfishness must be put out of sight. God calls for earnest women workers, workers who are prudent, warmhearted, tender, and true to principle. He calls for persevering women who will take their minds from self and their personal convenience, and will center them on Christ, speaking words of truth, praying with the persons to whom they can obtain access, laboring for the conversion of souls.—Testimonies for the Church 6:118.

top

Early Writings

Rare indeed it is in these changing times that a book lives on through a century in ever-increasing demand and takes its place in current reading by the side of books dealing with present issues. Yet such is the enviable record of Early Writings of Ellen G. White. Through the years there have been many printings of the several editions. It now appears in a fifth American edition. {EW iii.1}

This popular little volume is rightly named, being a republication of the first three Ellen G. White books—Christian Experience and Views of Mrs. E. G. White, First printed in 1851; A Supplement to Experience and Views, Issued in 1854; and Spiritual Gifts, Volume I, which appeared in 1858. {EW iii.2}

The wide and lasting popularity of Early Writings may be attributed to the unwaning desire to possess and study the messages of information and encouragement which came early to the Church through the prophetic gift. {EW iii.3}

The second printing of this matter was made in 1882 in two small volumes—Experience and Views and the Supplement comprising the first, and Spiritual Gifts the second. As to certain additions to the first of these original works and some slight editorial changes made at that time, the publisher’s preface states: {EW iii.4}

“Footnotes giving dates and explanations, and an appendix giving two very interesting dreams, which were mentioned but not related in the original work, will add to the value of this edition. Aside from these, no changes from the original work have been made in the present edition, except the occasional employment of a new word, or a change in the construction of a sentence, to better express the idea, and no portion of the work has been omitted. No shadow of change has been made in any idea or sentiment of the original work, and the verbal changes have been made under the author’s own eye, and with her full approval.” {EW iii.5}

The two companion books were also reissued as a single volume in 1882 under the title Early Writings. In 1906 the type was reset to make the third American edition, which has had wide distribution, meeting the ever-increasing demand. The paging of this edition became the standard for all reference work and the subsequently published indexes to the writings of Mrs. White. {EW iv.1}

The fourth edition of Early Writings was published in 1945. Forty years of printing and reprinting made necessary new printing plates. As the type was reset the content was held page for page with the edition it succeeded. Modern spelling and current forms of punctuation were employed and a new preface reviewed briefly the history of the book. {EW iv.2}

This fifth edition is characterized by a historical prologue, added to furnish the reader with a knowledge of the times and circumstances of the various portions of the book and by several appendix notes provided to explain expressions and situations not so well understood now as at the time of writing. There has been no change of the E. G. White text nor change in the paging from the fourth edition which this succeeds, consequently it harmonizes with the Comprehensive Index to the Writings of Ellen G. White. {EW iv.3}

In Experience and Views is presented Mrs. White’s first biographical sketch, briefly tracing her experience through the Advent movement of 1840-44. Then follow a number of the earlier visions, many of which had first appeared in print in broadside or periodical article form. {EW iv.4}

The Supplement Explains certain expressions of the earlier work which had been misunderstood or misconstrued, and gives additional counsel to the Church. Its publication preceded by one year the first pamphlet bearing the title of Testimony for the Church. {EW v.1}

Spiritual Gifts, Volume I, being the first published account of the long-extended conflict between Christ and His angels and Satan and his angels, is cherished for its vivid descriptions and its compactness, touching as it does only the more salient points. In succeeding years this brief story of the conflict was greatly amplified in the four volumes of The Spirit of Prophecy, Published 1870-84. After wide distribution, this four-book set was replaced by the well-known and widely read Conflict of the Ages series, presenting the account in still more detailed form, as it had been presented to Mrs. White in many revelations. Even though the fuller volumes—Patriarchs and Prophets, Prophets and Kings, The Desire of Ages, The Acts of the Apostles, and The Great Controversy—Present the conflict story in its more complete form, the initial writing of the account as here presented in its brief, clear-cut, simple form, will, with Experience and Views, always be in large demand. {EW v.2}

The Trustees of the Ellen G. White Publications.

Washington, D.C.

March, 1963

top

From Eternity Past

From Eternity Past Where did we come from? Why do international tensions threaten to wipe out civilization? Why is crime increasing? Why are moral standards sagging? Is God indifferent to all this? Is He doing anything to help us solve our problems?

This book—the first of a five-book series—answers these questions. It tells how our world began and how the human race originated. It describes the tragic rebellion that took place in heaven many thousands of years ago and makes plain how the great controversy between God and Satan affects every inhabitant of Planet Earth.

With unusual skill the author describes the role of our world in the conflict between right and wrong, between truth and error. Best of all, the book reveals the wiles of Satan and points to the Power by which we may defeat him in our personal lives.

The author‘s straightforward style and plain, direct language help hold one‘s interest from beginning to end. However, besides these qualities, most readers find something else in this book. As they read, they become convinced that the author was divinely inspired.

We commend this volume to all who seek authoritative information about how our world began, all who are interested in sacred history, all who are perplexed by the strange mixture of good and evil in the natural world and in human hearts, all who desire a better understanding of the Holy Scriptures.

The Publishers

top

Evangelism

Evangelism, the very heart of Christianity, is the theme of primary importance to those called to herald God’s last warning to a doomed world. We are in time’s closing hours, and the Advent message, proclaimed to make ready a people prepared for our Lord’s return, must swell to a loud cry reaching the uttermost parts of the earth. {Ev 5.1}

Since the early days of the work of Seventh-day Adventists, the Spirit of prophecy instruction placing special emphasis upon the principles and practice of soul winning has been given to guide in an expanding work. Some phases of evangelism have been delineated in nearly all the Ellen G. White books. Through the years, in the Review and Herald, Signs of the Times, and other journals, articles from the Lord’s messenger have given impetus to a growing evangelistic ministry. Individual evangelists were also, from time to time, favored in receiving instruction and warning regarding methods that should characterize their labor. Occasionally groups of evangelists and denominational administrators were addressed by Mrs. White, and these addresses often embodied much helpful counsel. {Ev 5.2}

But these periodical articles, special testimonies, personal counsels, and addresses are not generally available today. It is to make this full body of timely instruction accessible to our present greatly enlarged Seventh-day Adventist evangelistic force that there is now issued this comprehensive, topically arranged compilation. Devoted exclusively to the all-important subject of evangelism. {Ev 5.3}

This volume not only sets forth the well-established guiding principles which should mold the work of the evangelist and Bible instructor but also presents a wealth of minute counsel regarding the application of those principles. As a compilation of the precious instruction which the Lord has given all through the years, it is a veritable handbook of evangelism for the Advent movement. {Ev 6.1}

In bringing together and arranging in logical order many statements from various sources, it was found that certain general lines of instruction were repeatedly set forth. In the effort to place before the reader all that contributed to the subject, without presenting undue repetition, only paragraphs or groups of paragraphs were selected. In some cases repetitious sentences were dropped from even the brief excerpts used, and in each case the deletion is indicated. Great care has been exercised, however, to present statements of sufficient length to give the correct setting for the counsel. {Ev 6.2}

An endeavor has been made to make each section a complete treatment of the subject presented. In so doing there accrues a certain degree of unavoidable repetition of thought which emphasizes the instruction. As an aid in making ready reference to the key statements in this volume, side headings appearing in bold type have been supplied by the compilers. A source credit appears at the close of each excerpt, and as a further aid to the reader, there is given the date of writing, in case of the manuscript quotations, or the date of first publication in the case of other reference. {Ev 6.3}

A knowledge of the time of the utterance sometimes serves as a helpful guide to the application of the counsel, for our work must be conducted under changing conditions. And although in some instances it may not be possible to employ in minute detail methods advocated in earlier years, yet the basic principles enunciated or illustrated in these earlier counsels will today be a guide to safe and fruitful methods. Principle is changeless, though its application may call for an adjustment and adaptation to meet present conditions. We present a concrete illustration of this point. {Ev 6.4}

The reader will find frequent mention of the camp meeting, and counsel as to its conduct. In the seventies Seventh-day Adventist camp meetings attracted very large non-Adventist week-end attendance, with congregations ranging from half church members and half non-Adventists to the unusual ratio of fifteen non-Adventists to one church member. In the nineties very successful evangelistic camp meetings held in the suburbs of large cities lasted from two weeks to a month. Such meetings were of large soul-winning potentiality. Many statements commending such meetings and giving instruction regarding their successful conduct were penned through those years. {Ev 7.1}

But times have changed; the camp meeting has become a gathering almost exclusively for an enlarging church group. The non-Adventist throngs attracted in earlier years by the camp meeting are now reached more effectively through the tent or hall meeting. Nevertheless, the principles guiding to successful methods in the evangelistic camp meetings serve safely and well in leading to fruitful methods in present-day evangelism. {Ev 7.2}

The instruction in this book is restricted almost entirely to the evangelistic work of the minister and the Bible instructor. The voluminous counsel inregard to lay evangelism, set forth so fully in other E. G. White productions, also guidance on literature evangelism which fills such an important place in our work, are not repeated here because of space limitations. Likewise, medical evangelism, treated so fully and well in Ministry of Healing, Medical Ministry, and Counsels on Health, is not dwelt upon except as it relates to the public presentation of the message. Much more might be included on the qualifications of the evangelist, but the quotations on this topic are here limited to such points as have a direct bearing on his special work. {Ev 7.3}

This volume is now sent into the field with the conviction that its appearance will mark a definite advance in methods of evangelism. Its constructive, up-to-date counsel, its timely cautions, its views of the triumph of the message, will, we believe, constitute a “blueprint,” guiding an evangelism that will reach its glorious climax under the loud cry of the third angel. {Ev 8.1}

The Trustees of the

Ellen G. White Publications.

top

Faith and Works

Faith and Works With the continuing interest in the great vital truths of righteousness by faith, justification, and sanctification, it may be well to listen further to the messenger of the Lord as down through the years she expounded them. {FW 11.1}

To offer this picture of her teachings, eighteen readings, beginning with 1881 and extending to 1902, are here drawn together by the staff of the Ellen G. White Estate in unstructured chronological sequence. Her sermons and articles consistently outline the basic truths of salvation as embodied in the law and the gospel—those in the Review and Herald for the church and those in the Signs of the Times appropriate, as well, for the world. The several selected items are introduced by a definitive statement on file as Manuscript 36, 1890, penned in the critical period following the General Conference of 1888, when, as she elsewhere described it, people were in “great danger of taking false positions” on “faith and works” (MS 23, 1891). In her 1890 untitled manuscript, she in no uncertain terms drove in the stakes clarifying the issues. {FW 11.2}

Even though Ellen White often goes down much the same paths in dealing at different times with vital truths, valuable insights are gained by reading sermons, articles, and manuscripts in their natural sequence. Each is a balanced presentation of the subject, but often with a distinctive emphasis. Many of the readings appear in their entirety, while others, for the sake of conserving space, have been shortened to include only the portion—usually the major portion—relating to faith and works. Subheadings, and in a number of instances chapter titles, have been supplied by the compilers. No attempt has been made to be exhaustive. Her books and many other sermons and articles deal with these vital truths. Anyone perusing these readings will see clearly the importance of the subject to every Christian. He also will observe the consistent position of the one especially led by the Lord in enunciating the truths in the articles that follow. {FW 11.3}

The plan for the salvation of lost mankind is based on man’s acceptance by faith alone of Christ’s substitutionary death. This lesson was taught at the gate of Eden as Adam and his descendants slew the sacrificial lamb. It was taught in the wilderness as the brazen serpent was elevated by Moses, and the people with the venom of the poisonous serpents in their veins were restored by looking in faith at the saving symbol. It was taught by the sacrificial system given to Israel. It was taught by prophets and apostles. Again and again we are taught that salvation is by grace through faith, and at the same time we are made to understand: {FW 12.1}

While true faith trusts wholly in Christ for salvation, it will lead to perfect conformity to the law of God. Faith is manifested by works (The Review and Herald, October 5, 1886). {FW 12.2}

This balanced thrust will be seen in the materials in this little book, selected somewhat at random. {FW 12.3}

Down through the ages, beginning with Cain, the great adversary has countered God’s benevolent provision by leading the inhabitants of earth to accept the proposition that man, who has become a sinner through violation of God’s law, must by his own acts gain merit and salvation, whether by afflicting his own body, sacrificing his children to some god created by his own hands, making pilgrimages to places thought to be holy, doing penance, paying money into the coffers of the church, or just of himself by his own strenuous efforts trying to live a good and virtuous life. {FW 12.4}

The simple experience of accepting salvation by faith seems to many too easy, and uncounted numbers who claim to be following Christ, virtually take the position that salvation is partly by faith in Christ’s death on calvary and partly by human effort. {FW 12.5}

As the early Seventh-day Adventists saw the claims of God’s changeless law, legalistic tendencies threatened, and for a time yielded, unprofitable fruit in the experience of many. But the conscientious knowledge of God’s law leads to the putting away of sin and to the living of a holy, sanctified life. This is the setting for these readings on faith and works—readings on the law and the gospel. {FW 13.1}

At almost midpoint of the two decades represented in this pamphlet, the General Conference session of 1888 was held at Minneapolis, Minnesota, preceded by a Ministerial Institute. At these meetings emphasis was given to the basic truths of righteousness by faith. Ellen White characterized it as a revival of truths largely lost sight of. At the conference she herself made no presentation on the subject. The burden of her talks was that those present should keep their hearts open to receive light from God’s word as presented by Elders E. J. Waggoner and A. T. Jones. Reception of this new emphasis was mixed. Some of the hearers accepted it gladly and fully, and some took a neutral stand. Some rejected it. The records are clear that many went from that conference carrying with them a new and glorious experience in Christ Jesus. {FW 13.2}

Through sermons preached in the churches after that conference, including many by Ellen White, and through articles from her pen, Adventists generally were led to a clearer understanding and acceptance of righteousness by faith. Many who at first rejected the concept presented at Minneapolis were led to accept. {FW 13.3}

The basic truths involved in the doctrine of righteousness by faith are so simple that no exhaustive E. G. White book is called for to expound them. The theme permeates many of her books, with choice illustrations cropping out here and there. She did publish a pamphlet in 1893 entitled “Justified by Faith.” This appears in the fifty-page section of Selected Messages, book one, entitled “Christ our Righteousness.” We recommend the reading of the entire section. {FW 13.4}

The experience of dwelling in the warmth of the acceptance of Christ’s righteousness may be enjoyed today and lost tomorrow by carelessness or presumption. It is a personal experience of simple acceptance and trust and can be somewhat fragile. It may become blurred through contention over fine theological points. Ellen White observed: {FW 14.1}

Many commit the error of trying to define minutely the fine points of distinction between justification and sanctification. Into the definitions of these two terms they often bring their own ideas and speculations. Why try to be more minute than is inspiration on the vital question of righteousness by faith? Why try to work out every minute point, as if the salvation of the soul depended upon all having exactly your understanding of this matter? All cannot see in the same line of vision (Manuscript 21, 1891; also in Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary, Vol. 6, p. 1072). {FW 14.2}

That the several approaches to the truths herein presented by the messenger of the Lord will keep the vital subject of righteousness by faith clear, balanced, and uncomplicated is the hope of the Publishers and {FW 14.3}

The Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate

Washington,

December 7, 1978.

top

Gospel Workers 1915

Gospel Workers 1915 This revised and enlarged edition of “Gospel Workers” needs but few words of introduction. The first edition, issued in 1892, found a place in nearly every Seventh-day Adventist home. It has become a highly prized handbook of counsel and instruction to ministers and to all other missionary workers connected with this movement. {GW 8.1}

Since the publication of the first edition the ever-active pen of the author has produced much of vital interest to this people. The work on this book was completed after the author had closed her active life work as a writer and speaker. It represents, therefore, a compilation from her complete writings. It is the ripened fruit of the life of one whom God has greatly blessed as His “messenger,” to the glory of His name and the upbuilding of this movement from its beginning. The value and importance of this book will therefore be appreciated. {GW 8.2}

It is our earnest prayer that the Holy Spirit who indited these messages of counsel may be present to impress the instruction upon the hearts of all who read it. {GW 8.3}

The Publishers.

top

Gospel Workers 1892

Gospel Workers 1892 As setting forth the scope and design of this work, it would perhaps be more appropriate to call the attention of the reader to the table of contents than to the few words that may be written by way of preface. If the reader will glance over that portion of the book, he will see at once the important field of thought to which the mind is led, and the wide range of practical truths on which instruction is given. {GW92 v.1}

1. The minister and the missionary are particularly mentioned, but what is written is also for the “gospel worker” in general. And how many does this embrace? All who have partaken of the blessings of the gospel should seek to make known its benefits to others. The instruction of this work is therefore for all. {GW92 v.2}

2. It is not sent out that its instructions may be put into practice by way of experiment; for these principles have been tried and tested, many have studied the truths herein set forth, have listened to these words of instruction, and have tried to follow the counsel given. And the results have always been most happy, and the fruits good. Such persons have called for the matter of this book to be set forth in this form, for their own further study and for the good of others. A compliance with this desire is one reason why this work now appears. {GW92 v.3}

In order to bring the book within desired limits, it has been necessary to omit parts of articles taken from the “Testimonies.” All such omissions are marked by periods(…). Quotations taken from the “Testimonies” are credited to volume and page; and for convenience, all other selections, whether from unpublished manuscript or other sources, except in the chapters of fragments, are credited Ms. {GW92 vi.1}

3. The publishers therefore send it forth, commending it to the attention and earnest, diligent study of all, with the full assurance that as its instruction shall be put into practice, it will prove a source of perennial benefit and blessing to the cause of the master, in the earth. {GW92 vi.2}

Publishers.

top

Heaven

Heaven Throughout the centuries the promise of Jesus in John 14:2, 3 has filled the hearts of Christians with hope: “In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself, that where I am, there ye may be also.” In the darkest moments of despair, disappointment, despondency, or defeat, the hope of living with Jesus in heaven has brightened the day, cleared away the clouds, and lifted the spirits. {Hvn 5.1}

Heaven, what will it be like? Words are inadequate to describe it, but the Holy Scriptures give us glimpses of the glorious future. There all will be harmony, peace, love, and unity. All will be purity, holiness, and blessedness. Gone will be sorrow, crying, and pain. Best of all, death will be no more.{Hvn 5.2}

“There we shall know even as also we are known. There the loves and sympathies that God has planted in the soul will find truest and sweetest exercise. The pure communion With holy beings, the harmonious social life with the blessed angels and with the faithful ones of all ages, the sacred fellowship that binds together ‘the whole family in heaven and earth’—all are among the experiences of the hereafter.” Education, 306. {Hvn 5.3}

We look forward with joyous anticipation to the day when Jesus will return to earth, not as a Man of sorrows but as King of kings and Lord of lords. In that day the dead in Christ will rise first, then his followers who are alive will be “changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye” (1 Corinthians 15:51, 52), and together this redeemed company, now immortal, will travel through time and space to the paradise of God, to heaven itself. {Hvn 6.1}

This book provides glorious pictures of the future life both in heaven and on the new earth. It enables one to hear by faith the thrilling music sung by angels and the redeemed. It excites one with the prospect of engaging in fascinating occupations and enterprises. As you sense the wonder and reality of the future life, may you determine to be among the citizens of heaven, and live forever in that land “where we never grow old.” {Hvn 6.2}

Board of Trustees of the

Ellen G. White Estate.

Let us consider most earnestly the blessed hereafter. Let our faith pierce through every cloud of darkness and behold Him who died for the sins of the world. He has opened the gates of paradise to all who receive and believe on Him. To them He gives power to become the sons and daughters of God. Let the afflictions which pain us so grievously become instructive lessons, teaching us to press forward toward the mark of the prize of our high calling in Christ. Let us be encouraged by the thought that the Lord is soon to come. Let this hope gladden our hearts…. {Hvn 8.1}

We are homeward bound. He who loved us so much as to die for us hath builded for us a city. The New Jerusalem is our place of rest. There will be no sadness in the city of God. No wail of sorrow, no dirge of crushed hopes and buried affections, will ever more be heard. Soon the garments of heaviness will be changed for the wedding garment. Soon we shall witness the coronation of our King. Those whose lives have been hidden with Christ, those who on this earth have fought the good fight of faith, will shine forth with the Redeemer’s glory in the kingdom of God.—Testimonies for the Church 9:286, 287. {Hvn 8.2}

top

From Heaven With Love

In the heart of all people is an inexpressible longing for something they do not naturally possess. This longing, implanted by a merciful God, has been perverted by Satan. He makes people believe that this deep hunger may be satisfied by pleasure, wealth, ease, fame, or power. But those who have been thus deceived by him find that all these things leave the soul unsatisfied. {HLv 5.1}

God designs, however, that this longing shall lead to the One who alone is able to satisfy it. The desire is of Him that it may lead to Him, the fullness and fulfillment of that desire. That fullness is found in Jesus Christ, the Son of the Eternal God. Haggai calls Him “the Desire of all nations,” and we may well call Him “the Desire of all ages,” God’s Son, sent from heaven with love. {HLv 5.2}

This book sets forth Jesus Christ as the One in whom the deep yearnings of every heart may be satisfied. It is not, however, the purpose of this work to provide a harmony of the Gospels or to set forth in strictly chronological order the important events and wonderful lessons of the life of Christ. Its purpose is to present the love of God as revealed in His Son, the divine beauty of the life of Christ. {HLv 5.3}

In the following pages the author opens before the reader undreamed-of riches from the life of Jesus. New and glorious light flashes forth from many familiar passages of Scripture. Jesus Christ is revealed as the Fullness of the Godhead, the infinitely merciful Saviour of sinners, the Sun of Righteousness, the merciful High Priest, mankind’s compelling Example, the Healer of all human maladies and diseases, the tender, compassionate Friend, the Prince of Peace, the Coming King, the culmination and fruition of the desires and hopes of all the ages. {HLv 5.4}

We send forth this book with the prayer that the Holy Spirit will make its words, words of life to millions whose longings and desires are yet unsatisfied. {HLv 6.1}

The Publishers.

top

Help in Daily Living

Help in Daily Living The four chapters which follow comprise the closing section of the popular and widely read Ministry of Healing. They have provided workable, down-to-earth, everyday guidance which has helped thousands to live successful Christian lives. To make these practical counsels available for convenient reading and rereading they are now published in this compact form. Each chapter is a veritable mine of rich gems, worthy of recounting again and again as you face the practical realities of getting along with yourself, with others, and with God. The author was a realistic Christian of rich experience with the Savior, and one ever alert to opportunities to render encouragement and help to those about her. Recognizing that true happiness is found only as we give, she viewed every Christian-layman, medical practitioner, and gospel laborer-as a “worker” interested in the welfare of others, and referred to such as “workers.” Carry this booklet with you. Read a portion as you have a free moment, and memorize some of the gems. Ponder the words and put them into practice. Life will become richer and more meaningful to you. {HDL 5.1}

Board of Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate

top

From Here to Forever

From Here to Forever To millions of people, life seems both meaningless and absurd. Science, technology, even philosophy and theology, have pictured human beings as mere creatures of chance. Yet, consciously or not, men and women find it difficult to accept a purposeless existence. Violence, protests and rebellion, experimentation with drugs—these are, in many cases, the irrational expressions of people struggling with their appalling lostness. Like orphans they cry out from their loneliness and despair, “Who am I? Who were my parents? Why did they give me up? How can I find them?” {HF 5.1}

Many turn to science for answers, tuning our great radio telescopes in on the heartbeat of the stars, as if to ask, Is there anyone out there who knows me? Who cares for me? But science has no answer. Science is set up to ask questions: How is an atom constructed? How is it split? How do our minds work? How is the universe constructed? {HF 5.2}

It cannot tell us why there is an atom, why human beings exist, why there is a universe at all. Nor can it answer those unique questions that concern thinking people: {HF 5.3}

If there is meaning and justice in the universe, why do the innocent suffer with the guilty? {HF 5.4}

Is there life after death? Does the human personality live on? {HF 5.5}

Do today’s Christian churches really speak for God? What is truth? {HF 5.6}

What is the future of the world? Will it end with the whimper of a child struggling for a last breath in polluted atmosphere, or with the bang of atomic hell unleashed from cherry-red ICBM nose cones? Or will humans—who in recorded history never have demonstrated the ability to control their own basic selfishness—suddenly succeed in banishing evil, war, poverty and even death? {HF 5.7}

This book gives the answers, and they are reassuring. Life does have meaning! We are not alone in the universe. Someone out there cares! Someone, indeed, who has involved Himself in human history, who Himself joined our race, so that we could get through to Him and He to us; Someone whose strong hand has been over this planet and who will guide it back to peace—and soon. {HF 6.1}

But long years ago a persuasive cosmic being determined to seize control of our world and thwart God’s plan for the happiness of His earthly family. In graphic language—indeed, multiplied thousands have called it inspired language—the author of this book tears the curtain from the dim unknown and fearlessly exposes the strategies of this powerful but unseen personality whose hand is stretched out to grasp the sovereignty of our world. On the human scene pagan princes and religious establishments alike are exposed as guilty parties in the conspiracy. {HF 6.2}

Only in an age of religious freedom could this book be printed and widely circulated, for it cuts hard across some of the most powerful Establishments of our day. It tells why a Reformation was needed, and why it was halted; the sad story of apostate churches, of persecuting alliances, of an emerging coalition of church and state that will yet play its inglorious part before the great controversy between evil and good is ended. And in this conflict every human being is a participant. {HF 6.3}

Here the author writes of things not yet existing in her day. She speaks with an honesty that disturbs and startles. The issues of the controversy are so great and the stakes so high that somebody had to voice these words of warning and enlightenment. {HF 6.4}

No reader who turns the pages of this book will put it down without wondering whether it was more than chance that led him to discover it. {HF 6.5}

The Publishers.

top

Historical Sketches of the Foreign Missions of the Seventh Day Adventists

Historical Sketches Dear Brethren and Sisters,

I am indeed thankful for this privilege of meeting with those who are laboring to spread the light of truth in the various countries of Europe. It is a grand, a noble work, and one which should call forth every energy of the being. As laborers for God, we need a more sacred nearness to him, and a closer fellowship with one another, that our prayers and efforts may not be hindered. We must not expect in our own strength to meet and press through the moral darkness that is in the world but we must perseveringly labor for that strength which is found alone in Jesus. He loves us, and those who labor in his spirit will realize his assistance in all their efforts. It is impossible, even with the strong arguments of truth, to reach the hearts of men, unless there is, united with these arguments, a divine power. {HS 119.1}

A machine may be perfect in all its parts, and yet there be much friction and wear in its movements; but apply oil, and it performs its work quietly and well. So with us. It is necessary to have the oil of grace in our hearts, in order to prevent the friction that may arise between us and those for whom we labor. Then, having not only the arguments of truth but the oil of grace, we can bear the message with power. Prejudice will be broken down, and a great work will be accomplished. “Without me.” says Christ, “ye can do nothing.” The branch cannot bear fruit except it abide in the vine; neither can we except we abide in Christ. {HS 119.2}

If the love of Jesus is cherished in the heart, it will be seen in the labors; the will and the manners will be brought under the moulding influence of the Holy Spirit. In the prayer of Christ just before his crucifixion, he said, “And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.” The teacher of the people must be an example to the flock of God in all meekness, patience, forbearance, and love. He is, in a special sense, a living epistle, “known and read of all men.”How important, then, that the sanctifying power of the truth be seen in his character. {HS 119.3}

The minister of God must first drink of the living fountain himself if he would firmly and intelligently lead others to that fountain. If he would present those for whom he labors, perfect in Christ, he must himself be perfect. Divine power alone will reach and melt the sinner’s heart, and bring him, a penitent, to Christ. Neither Luther, Melancthon, Wesley, Whitefield, nor any other great reformer and teacher, could of himself have gained such access to hearts as to accomplish the work that these men accomplished. But God spoke through them. Men felt the influence of a superior power, and involuntarily yielded to it. {HS 119.4}

God calls upon those who are lifting up the standard of truth before others to themselves exemplify its precepts in their daily life. Such a course would charm into believing many who have intrenched themselves behind the breast-works of infidelity. The influence of a true Christian character is like a cheering ray of sunlight that pierces to the remotest corner the darkness into which it is allowed to enter. The light emanating from the example of the Christian minister should not be fitful and uncertain, like the flash of a meteor, but it should have the calm, steady radiance of the heavenly stars.{HS 120.1}

The true minister of Christ should be encircled by an atmosphere of spiritual light, because he is connected with the world of light, and walks with Christ, who is the light of the world. Arguments may be resisted, persuasion and entreaty may be scorned, the most eloquent appeals, supported by the rigor of logic, may be disregarded; but a living character of righteousness, a daily piety in the walks of life, an anxiety for the sinner wherever found, the spirit of truth burning in the heart, beaming from the countenance, and breathing from the lips in every word, constitute a sermon which is hard to resist or to set aside, and which makes the strongholds of Satan tremble. Ministers who walk with God are clad with the panoply of heaven, and victory will attend their efforts. {HS 120.2}

Those who are engaged in the great and solemn work of warning the world, should not only have an individual experience in the things of God, but they should cultivate love for one another, and should labor to be of one mind, of one judgment, to see eye to eye. The absence of this love greatly pleases our wily foe. He is the author of envy, jealousy, hatred, and dissension; and he rejoices to see these vile weeds choke out love, that tender plant of heavenly growth. {HS 120.3}

It does not please God to have his servants censure, criticise, and condemn one another. He has given them a special work, that of standing in defense of truth. They are his workmen; all should respect them, and they should respect one another. In the army, officers are required to respect their fellow-officers, and the privates soon learn the lesson. When the leaders of the people in the Christian warfare are kind and forbearing, and manifest a special love and regard for their co-laborers, they teach others to do the same. {HS 120.4}

The reputation of a fellow-laborer is to be sacredly guarded. If one sees faults in another, he is not to magnify them before others, and make them grievous sins. They may be errors of judgment, that God will give divine grace to overcome. If he had seen that angels, who are perfect, would have done the work for the fallen race better than men, he would have committed it to them. But instead of this he sent the needed assistance by poor, weak, erring mortals, who, having like infirmities as their fellow-men, are best prepared to help them. {HS 120.5}

There was Peter, who denied his Lord. After he had fallen and been converted, Jesus said to him, “Feed my lambs.” Before Peter’s feet slipped, he had not the spirit of meekness required to feed the lambs; but after he became sensible of his own weakness, he knew just how to teach the erring and fallen; he could come close to their side in tender sympathy, and could help them. {HS 121.1}

In beginning missionary work in new fields, a great mistake is often made in not calling into exercise all the talents that might be employed in the work. Sometimes those who have excellent ability make great mistakes when they begin to work; but are they to be dropped because of this? No, indeed. Let them be patiently, perseveringly educated and trained, and in nine cases out of ten they will become useful workers. {HS 121.2}

My brethren in the ministry, I entreat of you to be just as kind and forbearing toward those who are new in the faith, as you wanted others to be toward you when you first came to the knowledge of the truth. In meekness and love teach them to bear responsibilities, and to labor for others. Jesus loves them just as much as he does you, and is just as willing to help them if they will learn to trust in him. If you see imperfections in them, do not discourage them and drive them from the truth by manifesting an overbearing, critical spirit. This is not the spirit of Christ. What does God say? “Come now, and let us reason together.” He does not say, You are defective, and I will have nothing to do with you. “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land.” {HS 121.3}

Wednesday morning, September 16.

top

Last Day Events

Last Day Events Seventh-day Adventists believe they have been especially called of God to proclaim the good news of Christ’s soon coming to a confused and dying world. “Great pains,” Ellen White wrote, “should be taken to keep this subject before the people” (Fundamentals of Christian Education, 336). In her book The Great Controversy between Christ and Satan, she graphically outlined the grand and dreadful events of the future. There is no other book like it. Maranatha, a 1976 book compiled from her writings, also deals with the fulfillment of last-day Bible prophecies. {LDE 7.1}

As a further effort to “keep this subject before the people,” we have prepared the present volume, Last Day Events. Many of the citations in this book have been drawn from previously published Ellen White sources, but a fair percentage of the materials have never before been published. While we have not included all of Ellen White’s statements on earth’s closing events, we have endeavored to include the most significant ones. {LDE 7.2}

At the close of each excerpt, we have provided a source credit as well as the date when the passage was written, or a date when it was published during Ellen White’s lifetime. We also have included a few footnotes, where we have thought that additional information or explanations would be helpful. {LDE 7.3}

We have attempted to present Ellen White’s teachings on end-time events in a logical arrangement. However, we do not claim that we have listed all future events in the exact order of their occurrence. In a matter of such great importance as the experience of God’s people in the days ahead, when everyone will have to stand alone, “as though there were not another person in the world” (The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 7:983), it is essential that all Christians have their own convictions, based upon their own study and their own personal relationship with the Lord. {LDE 7.4}

Ellen white declares that “our little world is the lesson book of the universe” (The Desire of Ages, 19), and that the invisible world is watching “with inexpressible interest” (Prophets and Kings, 148) the closing scenes of this world’s history. May we all endeavor to catch something of the significance of earth’s climactic events as we view them in their relation to the great controversy between good and evil. And may we share with others the glorious truth that Jesus is coming soon. {LDE 8.1}

The Trustees of the

Ellen G. White Estate

top

Letters to Young Lovers

Letters to young lovers Have you ever wondered what it would be like to receive a letter from a prophet? Would you have the courage to open the envelope and read its contents? {LYL 6.1}

Throughout this book are letters written under the inspiration of God and addressed to young people to help them make the right choices relating to their courtship and marriage. {LYL 6.2}

Some background material relating to the circumstances and persons involved has been introduced by the compilers. This appears on a page preceding each letter. Some lengthy letters have been abridged without deletion marks indicated; names have been changed. Additional counsels, some taken from letters, have been included in the various chapters. {LYL 6.3}

At no time in life is the right kind of counsel so important as when two young people are contemplating marriage. Since the Lord loves you and wants you to have eternal life and a happy home, perhaps the reading of just one of these letters will help you to have both. {LYL 6.4}

We invite you to “open the envelope” and read what the Lord has said to others like yourself. {LYL 6.5}

Ellen G. White Estate

Washington, DC 2001

top

Life Sketches of James White and Ellen G White 1880

Life Sketches 1880 At the age of nine years an accident happened to me which was to affect my whole life. In company with my twin sister and one of our school-mates, I was crossing a common in the city of Portland, Maine, when a girl about thirteen years of age, also a member of our school, becoming angry at some trifle, followed us, threatening to strike us. Our parents had taught us never to contend with any one, but if we were in danger of being abused or injured, to hasten home at once. We were doing this with all speed, but the girl followed us as rapidly, with a stone in her hand. I turned my head to see how far she was behind me, and as I did so, she threw the stone and it hit me on the nose. A blinding, stunning sensation overpowered me, and I fell senseless. {LS80 131.1}

“When consciousness again returned, I found myself in a merchant’s store; my garments were covered with blood which was pouring from my nose and streaming over the floor. A kind stranger offered to take me home in his carriage, but I, not realizing my weakness told him that I preferred to walk home rather than soil his carriage with blood. Those present were not aware that my injury was so serious and allowed me to have my own way; but after walking only a few rods I grew faint and dizzy. My twin sister and my school-mate carried me home. {LS80 131.2}

“I have no recollection of anything further for some time after the accident. My mother said that I noticed nothing but lay in a stupor for three weeks; no one but herself thought it possible for me to recover. For some reason she felt that I would live. A kind neighbor, who had been very much.interested in my behalf, at one time thought me to be dying. She wished to purchase a burial robe for me, but my mother said, ‘Not yet,’ for something told her that I would not die. {LS80 131.3}

“When I again aroused to consciousness, it seemed to me that I had been asleep. I did not remember the accident and was ignorant of the cause of my illness. As I began to gain a little strength, my curiosity was aroused by overhearing those who came to visit me say: ‘What a pity! ‘I should not have known her,’ etc. I asked for a looking-glass, and upon gazing into it, was shocked at the change in my appearance. Every feature of my face seemed changed. The bones of my nose had been broken which caused this disfigurement. {LS80 132.1}

“The idea of carrying my misfortune through life was insupportable. I could see no pleasure in my existence. I did not wish to live, and yet dared not die for I was unprepared. Friends often visited my parents and looked with pity upon me, and advised them to prosecute the father of the girl who had, as they said, ruined me. But my mother was for peace; she said that if such a course could bring me back my health and natural looks would be something gained, but as this was impossible, it was best not to make enemies by following such advice. {LS80 132.2}

“Physicians thought that a silver wire might be put in my nose to hold it in shape. This would have been very painful, and they feared it would be of little use, as I had lost so much blood and sustained such a nervous shock that my recovery was very doubtful. Even if I revived it was their opinion I could live but a short time. I was reduced almost to a skeleton. {LS80 132.3}

“At this time I began to pray the Lord to prepare me for death. When Christian friends visited the family, they would ask my mother if she had talked to me about dying. I overheard this and it roused me. I desired to become a Christian and prayed earnestly for the forgiveness of my sins. I felt a peace of mind resulting, and loved every one, feeling desirous that all should have their sins forgiven and love Jesus as I did. {LS80 132.4}

top

Life Sketches 1888

Life Sketches 1888 “At the age of nine years an accident happened to me which was to affect my whole life. In company with my twin sister and one of our school-mates I was crossing a common in the city of Portland, Maine, when a girl about thirteen years of age, also a member of our school, becoming angry at some trifle, followed us, threatening to strike us. Our parents had taught us never to contend with any one, but if we were in danger of being abused or injured, to hasten home at once. We were doing this with all speed, but the girl followed us as rapidly, with a stone in her hand. I turned my head to see how far she was behind me, and as I did so, she threw the stone and it hit me on the nose. A blinding, stunning sensation overpowered me, and I fell senseless. {LS88 131.1}

“I have no recollection of anything further for some time after the accident. My mother said that I noticed nothing but lay in a stupor for three weeks; no one but herself thought it possible for me to recover. For some reason she felt that I would live. A kind neighbor, who had been very much interested in my behalf, at one time thought me to be dying. She wished to purchase a burial robe for me, but my mother said, ‘Not yet,’ for something told her that I would not die. {LS88 131.3}

“When I again aroused to consciousness, it seemed to me that I had been asleep. I did not remember the accident and was ignorant of the cause of my illness. As I began to gain a little strength, my curiosity was aroused by overhearing those who came to visit me say: ‘What a pity!’ ‘I should not have known her,’ etc. I asked for a looking-glass, and upon gazing into it, was shocked at the change in my appearance. Every feature of my face seemed changed. The bones of my nose had been broken, which caused this disfigurement. {LS88 132.1}

“The idea of carrying my misfortune through life was insupportable. I could see no pleasure in my existence. I did not wish to live, and yet feared to die, for I was unprepared. Friends often visited my parents and looked with pity upon me, and advised them to prosecute the father of the girl who had, as they said, ruined me. But my mother was for peace; she said that if such a course could bring me back my health and natural looks there would be something gained, but as this was impossible, it was best not to make enemies by following such advice. {LS88 132.2}

“Physicians thought that a silver wire might be put in my nose to hold it in shape. This would have been very painful, and they feared it would be of little use, as I had lost so much blood and sustained such a nervous shock that my recovery was very doubtful. Even if I revived, it was their opinion I could live but a short time. I was reduced almost to a skeleton. {LS88 132.3}

“I well remember one night in winter when the snow was on the ground, the heavens were lighted up, the sky looked red and angry, and seemed to open and shut, while the snow looked like blood. The neighbors were very much frightened. Mother took me out of bed in her arms and carried me to the window. I was happy; I thought Jesus was coming, and I longed to see him. My heart was full, I clapped my hands for joy, and thought my sufferings were ended. But I was disappointed; the singular appearance faded away from the heavens, and the next morning the sun arose the same as usual. {LS88 133.1}

“I gained strength very slowly. As I became able to join in play with my young friends, I was forced to learn the bitter lesson that one’s personal appearance makes a difference in the treatment they receive from the majority of their companions. At the time of my misfortune, my father was absent in Georgia. When he returned he embraced my brother and sisters and then inquired for me. I, timidly shrinking back, was pointed out by my mother, but my own father did not recognize me. It was hard for him to believe that I was his little Ellen, whom he had left only a few months before a healthy, happy child. This cut my feelings deeply, but I tried to appear cheerful though my heart seemed breaking. {LS88 133.2}

“Many times in those childish days, I was made to feel my misfortune keenly. My feelings were unusually sensitive and caused me great unhappiness. Often with wounded pride, mortified and wretched in spirit, have I sought a lonely place and gloomily contemplated the trials I was daily doomed to bear. {LS88 133.3}

“The relief of tears was denied me. I could not weep readily as could my twin sister, so, though my heart was heavy and ached as if it were breaking, I could not shed a tear. I often felt that it would greatly relieve me to weep away my overcharged feelings. Sometimes the kindly sympathy of friends banished my gloom and removed, for a time, the leaden weight that oppressed my heart. How vain and empty seemed the pleasures of earth to me then! How changeable the friendships of my young companions yet these little school-mates were not unlike a majority of the great world’s people. A pretty face, a handsome dress attracts them, but let misfortune take these away and the fragile friendship grows cold or is broken. But when I turned to my Saviour, he comforted me. I sought the Lord earnestly in my trouble and received consolation, believed that Jesus loved even me. {LS88 134.1}

“My health seemed to be completely shattered. For two years I could not breathe through my nose, and was able to attend school but little. It seemed impossible for me to study and retain what I learned. The same girl who was the cause of my misfortune, was appointed monitor by our teacher, and it was among her duties to assist me in my writing and other lessons. She always seemed sincerely sorry for the great injury she had done me, although I was careful not to remind her of it. She was tender and patient with me, and seemed sad and thoughtful as she saw me laboring, under serious disadvantages, to get an education. {LS88 134.2}

“My nervous system was prostrated, and my hand trembled so that I made but little progress in writing and could get no farther than the simple copies in coarse hand. As I endeavored to bend my mind to my studies, the letters on the page would run together, great drops of perspiration would stand upon my brow, and a faintness and giddiness would seize me. I had a bad cough, and my whole system seemed debilitated. My teachers advised me to leave school and not pursue my studies further till my health would warrant it. It was the hardest struggle of my young life to yield to my feebleness, and decide that I must give up my studies and relinquish the cherished hope of acquiring an education. {LS88 134.3}

“My ambition to become a scholar had been very great, and when I pondered over my disappointed hopes, and the thought that I was to be an invalid for life, despair seized me. The future stretched out before me dark and cheerless, without one ray of light. I was unreconciled to my lot, and at times murmured against the providence of God in thus afflicting me. I concealed my trouble feelings from my family and friends, fearing that they could not understand me. This was a mistaken course. Had I opened my mind to my mother, she might have instructed, soothed, and encouraged me. {LS88 135.1}

“After I had struggled with this unreconciled spirit for days the tempter came under a new guise and increased my distress by condemning me for having allowed such rebellious thoughts to take possession of my mind. My conscience was perplexed, and I knew no way to extricate myself from the labyrinth in which I was wandering. {LS88 135.2}

“The happy confidence in the Saviour’s love that I had enjoyed during my illness, was gone. I had lost the blessed consciousness that I was a child of God, and felt that the hopes of my heart had deceived me. It was my determination not to again put confidence in my feelings, until I knew for a certainty that the Lord had pardoned my sins. {LS88 135.3}

“At times my sense of guilt and responsibility to God lay so heavy upon my soul, that I could not sleep but lay awake for hours, thinking of my lost condition and what was best for me to do. The consequences of my unfortunate accident again assumed gigantic proportions in my mind. I seemed to be cut off from all chance of earthly happiness, and doomed to continual disappointment and mortification. Even the tender sympathy of my friends pained me, for my pride rebelled against being in a condition to excite their pity. My prospect of worldly enjoyment was blighted, and heaven seemed closed against me. {LS88 135.4}

“I had the highest reverence for Christians and ministers of the gospel, but religion seemed too holy and sacred for me to obtain. An inconceivable anguish bore me down until it seemed impossible for me to longer live beneath the burden. I locked my secret agony within my heart, and did not seek the advice of experienced Christians as I should have done. {LS88 136.1}

“No one conversed with me on the subject of my soul’s salvation, and no one prayed with me. I felt that Christians were so far removed from me, so much nobler and purer than myself, that I dared not approach them on the subject that engrossed my thoughts, and was ashamed to reveal the lost and wretched condition of my heart. {LS88 136.2}

top

Life Sketches EGW

Life Sketches EGW The story of the early Christian experience and public labors of Mrs. Ellen G. White was first printed in the year 1860, in a little volume of three hundred pages, entitled, “My Christian Experience, Views, and Labors, in Connection With the Rise and Progress of the Third Angel’s Message.” {LS 5.1}

This narrative of her life and labors to 1860, was amplified by her, and was republished in 1880 as a part of a larger work, entitled, “Life Sketches of James White and Ellen G. White.” This, as well as the earlier autobiography, has long been out of print. {LS 5.2}

In the present volume will be found, as told in her own language, a brief story of her childhood days, her conversion, and her early Christian experiences in connection with the great Second Advent movement of 1840 to 1844. In a vivid way she tells of the sorrows and joys of her youthful ministry in the years that followed. She pictures the trials, the struggles, and the successes that attended the labors of a few earnest souls from whose endeavors sprang the churches that afterward united to form the Seventh-day Adventist denomination. {LS 5.3}

The story of her more extended travels and labors in connection with her husband, Elder James White, she briefly relates from the time of their marriage in 1846 to his death in 1881. {LS 5.4}

With chapter forty-two, on page 255, her life-story is continued by C. C. Crisler, who, with the assistance of her son, W. C. White, and D. E. Robinson, has completed the sketch. {LS 6.1}

In the closing chapters many interesting incidents regarding travels and labors have been passed over briefly, in order that place might be found for the quotation of some of her most inspiring and instructive utterances regarding the development of Christian experience, and the duty laid upon every follower of Christ to be a true disciple of Him who gave His life for the salvation of the world. The final pages give an account of her last sickness, and of the funeral services. {LS 6.2}

Of Mrs. White it may assuredly be said, “she hath done what she could.” Hers was a life filled with inspiration for all engaged in soul-winning service. {LS 6.3}

Publishers.

top

Manual for Canvassers

Manual for Canvassers The canvassing work, properly conducted, is missionary work of the highest order, and it is as good and successful a method as can be employed for placing before the people the important truths for this time. The importance of the work of the ministry is unmistakable; this is one of God’s means for enlightening the world. But He has other means also. He uses the power of the press in printing papers and books containing the messages of truth. These are essential in the carrying forward of the gospel. Many who are hungry for the bread of life have not the privilege of hearing the word from God’s delegated preachers. For this reason it is essential that our publications be widely circulated. The sheets that come from the groaning press to be prepared as tracts and bound up as books are to go forth to all parts of the earth. Thus the message will go where the living preacher can not go, and the attention of many will be called to the important events connected with the closing scenes of this world’s history. {MC 5.1}

God has ordained the canvassing work as a means of presenting before the people the light contained in our books; and canvassers should be impressed with the importance of bringing before the world as fast as possible the books necessary for their spiritual education and enlightenment. This is the very work the Lord desires His people to do at this time. All who consecrate themselves to God to work as canvassers are assisting to give the last message of warning to the world. We can not too highly estimate this work; for were it not for the efforts of the canvasser, many would never hear the warning. {MC 5.2}

It is true that some who buy the books will lay them on the shelf or place them on the parlor table, and seldom look at them. Still God has a care for His truth, and the time will come when these books will be sought for and read. Sickness or misfortune may enter the home, and through the truth contained in these books God sends to troubled hearts peace and hope and rest. His love is revealed to them, and they understand the preciousness of the forgiveness of their sins. Thus the Lord cooperates with His self-denying workers. {MC 6.1}

There are many, who, because of prejudice, will never know the truth unless it is brought to their homes. The canvasser may find these souls and minister to them. There is a line of work in house-to-house labor which he can accomplish more successfully than others. He can become acquainted with the people and understand their true necessities; he can pray with them, and can point them to the Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin of the world. Thus the way will be opened for the special message for this time to find access to their hearts. {MC 6.2}

Much responsibility rests upon the canvasser. He should go to his work prepared to explain the Scriptures. If he puts his trust in the Lord as he travels from place to place, angels of God will be round about Him, giving him words to speak that will bring light and hope and courage to many souls.{MC 7.1}

Let the canvasser remember that he has an opportunity to sow beside all waters. Let him remember, as he sells the books which give a knowledge of the truth, that he is doing the work of God, and that every talent is to be used to the glory of His name. God will be with every one who seeks to understand the truth that he may set it before others in clear lines. God has spoken plainly and clearly: “The Spirit and the bride say, Come; and let him that heareth say, Come.” Revelation 22:17. We are to make no delay in giving instruction to those who need it, that they may be brought to a knowledge of the truth as it is in Jesus. {MC 7.2}

The lost sheep of God’s fold are scattered in every place, and the work that should be done for them is being neglected. From the light given me, I know that where there is one canvasser in the field, there should be one hundred. Canvassers should be encouraged to take hold of this work, not to canvass for story-books, but to bring before the world the books containing truth essential for this time. {MC 7.3}

Let canvassers go forth with the word of the Lord, remembering that those who obey the commandments, and teach others to obey them, will be rewarded by seeing souls converted; and one soul truly converted will bring others to Christ. Thus the work will advance into new territory. {MC 7.4}

The time has come when a large work should be done by the canvassers. The world is asleep, and as watchmen they are to ring the warning bell to awake the sleepers to their danger. The churches know not the time of their visitation. Often they can best learn the truth through the efforts of the canvasser. Those who go forth in the name of the Lord are His messengers to give to the multitude who are in darkness and error the glad tidings of salvation through Christ in obeying the law of God. {MC 8.1}

I have been instructed that even where the people hear the message from the living preacher, the canvasser should carry on his work in cooperation with the minister; for, though the minister may faithfully present the message, the people are not able to retain it all. The printed page is therefore essential, not only in awakening them to the importance of the truth for this time, but in rooting and grounding them in the truth, and establishing them against deceptive error. Papers and books are the Lord’s means of keeping the message for this time continually before the people. In enlightening and confirming souls in the truth, the publications will do a far greater work than can be accomplished by the ministry of the word alone. The silent messengers that are placed in the homes of the people through the efforts of the canvasser, will strengthen the gospel ministry in every way; for the Holy Spirit will impress minds as they read the books, just as He impresses the minds of those who listen to the preaching of the word. The same ministry of angels attends the books that contain the truth as attends the work of the minister. {MC 8.2}

top

Messages to Young People

Messages to Young People In the olden days, when Jerusalem was to be rebuilt, the prophet, in vision, heard one heavenly messenger saying to another, “Run, speak to this young man.” And so, in these days, the young men and young women of the Advent movement have been given an important part to act in the closing drama of earth’s history. {MYP 7.1}

“The Lord has appointed the youth to be his helping hand.”—Testimonies for the Church 7:64. {MYP 7.2}

“With such an army of workers as our youth, rightly trained, might furnish, how soon the message of a crucified, risen, and soon-coming Saviour might be carried to the whole world!”—“Education,” page 271. {MYP 7.3}

Such messages as these have been coming to the young people of this movement, through the spirit of prophecy, from the very beginning of our work. The Lord’s chosen instrument for the manifestation of this gift, Mrs. Ellen G. White, was a girl of only seventeen when she began her work. She knew the struggles of childhood and youth with the powers of darkness, and she knew the life of victory in Christ. Many messages of instruction, sympathy, reproof, and encouragement have come from her pen, addressed directly to the young people. And these messages, always directing the minds of the youth to Christ and to his word as the only source of strength in building noble Christian manhood and womanhood, have done much to foster the spirit of consecration that has characterized so many of our young people. {MYP 7.4}

It was in 1892 and 1893 that messages were given, suggesting that our young people should be organized into bands and societies for Christian work. From these suggestions has developed the Young People’s Society of Missionary Volunteers, which has proved to be such a lifting and holding power in the lives of the Advent youth all around the world. {MYP 7.5}

While much that Sister White has written for our young people has been published in her books, many articles that appeared in the Youth’s Instructor and in other places have not been preserved in permanent form. These instructions are a precious heritage, and should be in the hands of all our young people of today. The General Conference Missionary Volunteer Department has, therefore, gone over all that she has written in our periodicals from the beginning of her work, and has made selections of matter pertaining to young people and young people’s problems. While it has not always been possible to preserve the entire article, care has been exercised to make such selections as would give clearly the author’s ideas on the subject treated. To make a well-balanced book of instruction, we have also included much material already in book form, but not widely distributed to the young people. {MYP 8.1}

The work of gathering and arranging the articles comprising this volume was entered into unitedly by the Trustees of the Ellen G. White Publications and the Secretaries of the Missionary Volunteer Department. Through the painstaking efforts of the Southern Publishing Association, this counsel is sent forth in this attractive form. It is hoped that the interest of our young people in this book will lead them to a careful study of all the messages that have come to the remnant church through the spirit of prophecy. {MYP 8.2}

It is our most earnest prayer that these messages may be a great strength to the young people of the advent movement all round the world, in perfecting Christian character, and in giving new impetus toward the completion of our great task—“The Advent message to all the world in this generation. {MYP 8.3}

M. E. Kern, Secretary of General Conference Missionary Volunteer Department.

top

Ministry to the Cities

Ministries to the Cities Psalm 48 is often viewed as the city dweller’s twenty-third psalm. The Lord is “greatly to be praised in the city of our God” (verse 1, NKJV). It is God’s presence in the city that makes it beautiful in its loftiness, “the joy of the whole earth, … the city of the great King” (verse 2, NKJV). That God could so identify with an earthly city should alert us to see the potential of the cities of today through God’s eyes. {MTC 9.1}

Cities, though, have often been arrayed against God. Such cities were dominant when the Bible was written. Jesus, Moses, David, Daniel, and most of the other Bible prophets had to deal with cities, some of which were huge for that day. Nineveh was “an exceedingly great city, a three-day journey in extent” (Jonah 3:3, NKJV), having “more than one hundred and twenty thousand persons” (Jonah 4:11, NKJV). Babylon had about 10 miles (16 kilometers) of walls surrounding a major populace and monumental buildings that included one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. New Testament Ephesus had street lighting along its main artery, the famed Arcadiane. Rome, Alexandria, Antioch, Athens, Corinth, Susa, and Thebes were among the great cities of Bible times. {MTC 9.2}

Paul was Christianity’s premier evangelist to the major cities of the Roman Empire. Peter, Philip, Apollos, and other Christian leaders evangelized the cities as well. Those accustomed to thinking of cities as places of evil should remember that in vision John saw God’s ultimate intentions for humanity as a city of incomparable glory and joy. {MTC 9.3}

When Jesus walked the earth, He “went about all the cities and villages,” teaching, preaching, and healing. The crowds moved Him deeply: “When He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were … like sheep having no shepherd” (Matthew 9:35, 36, NKJV). Today most of the world’s population lives in cities. Does Jesus care for them any less than He did for those in the cities 2,000 years ago? It is no wonder that Ellen G. White was given so much counsel on the city to equip the church for comprehensive urban evangelism and ministry. Yet her instruction on city work is less well known than her appeals for locating in more rural settings. The brief compilation Country Living (1946) has brought well-deserved attention to those appeals. As a complement to that collection, the current volume, Ministry to the Cities, is designed to help readers understand God’s plan for doing ministry in the city. Prepared in the offices of the Ellen G. White Estate, it draws not only from the articles, books, and pamphlets of Ellen G. White, but also from her letters and manuscripts. It is not an exhaustive compilation of her counsel on the cities, but as a representative collection it is highly informative. It covers many areas of instruction Ellen White received for the church and its outreach to the world’s cities. To aid the reader, years are given for the statements included in this volume. For letters and manuscripts, the year indicates the time of writing; for other sources, it is the time of first publication in the stated form. Citations to Testimonies for the Church, volumes 1-5, reflect the year of their earlier publication as Testimony pamphlets. {MTC 9.4}

Many decades have passed since Ellen White wrote the last of her counsels. In some respects the conditions that we face today differ from those she addressed. The reader should remember that time, location, and other factors must be considered in laying plans for today’s work. Conditions may change, the methods for dealing with them may vary, but the principles behind the counsels remain the same. These principles should inform and guide our efforts in meeting today’s challenges. {MTC 10.1}

As Christ’s second coming approaches, Ellen White’s words take on new urgency: “The work in the cities is the essential work for this time. When the cities are worked as God would have them, the result will be the setting in operation of a mighty movement such as we have not yet witnessed” (Medical Ministry, 304). It is our hope and prayer that Ministry to the Cities may help readers become more committed to implementing the counsels we have received and more effective in reaching the cities with Christ’s last-day message. {MTC 10.2}

—The Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate
Silver Spring, Maryland

top

A New Life

A New Life The name of Jesus has today become a part of the witnessing vocabulary of many thousands of young and old alike. The second coming of Christ, being born again, what Jesus means to us here and now, have become topics for everyday conversation. Songs of religious experience are competing with those about romance. Revival has happened before, and has accomplished startling results. But today, as never before, it’s happening among youth. {NL 2.1}

On many college and university campuses—even those not particularly noted for religious connections—the name of Jesus is openly discussed in a new, positive way. Youth from comfortable homes, from the poor, the drug scene, from the well educated, have been moved to accept Christ in large numbers. Thousands have sensed the miraculous experience of being converted. And Seventh-day Adventist youth are experiencing revival too. But now what? Where do we go from here? {NL 2.2}

Being born again, justified, converted—whatever we choose to call it—is the beginning. But what about the days and weeks and months of growing up into Christ? What about that lifetime experience we sometimes call sanctification? {NL 2.3}

The word of God and the counsels of Ellen White lead us to the conclusion that we are justified by faith and accepting Christ, but we are sanctifiedby faith and obedience. The truly born-again Christian not only talks about, but lives a life that testifies that he is, in fact, a follower of the Lord Jesus Christ. {NL 2.4}

The way to eternal life is not easy. After all, it is called “strait” in the Bible. We battle enemies outside ourselves as well as sinful tendencies and weaknesses within. There are plenty of detours too. And of course there is always the broad way, with its lurid appeal. Counterfeits are introduced by Satan to confuse and discourage us. But, thank God, there are clear directions to show us the way to life eternal. {NL 3.1}

The following questions are typical of those being asked today. How can we explain the power attending popular revival movements in which no attempt is made to honor God’s law? What about the tongues movement in some protestant and catholic churches? Are healing miracles, which accent some of the revivals of our time, real? Can God work miracles through those who proclaim Jesus’ pardon for sins and yet teach others to ignore the Ten Commandments as unnecessary or impossible? {NL 3.2}

It is obvious from a study of history that not all revivals are God-inspired. Counterfeits have appeared every time there has been the genuine. The Bible tells us that Satan can and does perform miracles. He would, if possible, deceive the very elect. We will not always be able to trust what we see and hear and feel. {NL 3.3}

It is not the purpose of this book to pass judgment on the popular revivals of today. Who can doubt that there are genuine conversions at some of these meetings? In fact, we will go a step further and suggest that genuine healing may result from the exercise of faith in God’s word. In some cases this may be in spite of the evangelist, not necessarily because of him. It is the purpose of this book, rather, to consider certain criteria that help one to distinguish between the true and the false. {NL 3.4}

In one of her earliest visions, seventeen-year-old Ellen Harmon (White) was given an unusual message. It was February, 1845. When Christ had not returned to this earth as expected a few months earlier, the disappointed Adventists were divided and confused. Through Bible study some of them found an explanation for this disappointment. Visions given to Ellen Harmon helped to confirm their conclusions. They discovered Bible truths that had largely been ignored while their attention had been focused on preparation for Christ’s return. But the great majority of Adventists rejected all such study or explanation. {NL 3.5}

In this vision of 1845 Ellen saw the little loyal group kneeling before God’s throne in prayer. Most of them arose and followed Jesus by faith as his work moved into the most holy place. They received the holy spirit, and there “was light, power, and much love, joy, and peace.”—Early Writings, 55.{NL 4.1}

But the group which remained bowed before the throne continued to pray there, even though Christ had left. Satan appeared to take Christ’s place at the throne, answering their prayers. Ellen saw this group look up, not knowing to whom they prayed, asking for the Holy Spirit. She described what she saw in vision this way: “Satan would then breathe upon them an unholy influence; in it there was light and much power, but no sweet love, joy, and peace. Satan’s object was to keep them deceived and to draw back and deceive God’s children.” (See Early Writings, 54-56, for the brief account.) {NL 4.2}

The experience of these two groups of Adventists in 1845 reminds us that there can be a genuine and a counterfeit experience—even among those who profess to be sincere. Although God desires that each of us should have a genuine born-again experience followed by a life of happy Christian fulfillment, Satan endeavors to convince us that there are short cuts—easier ways to get it. It is obvious that both can’t be right. {NL 4.3}

The Seventh-day Adventist church was born in difficult and exciting times. Most of those who participated in its beginnings were young yet deeply dedicated to a study of the word and eager to witness for their faith. In those formative years of the Church often there were deeply spiritual and emotional gatherings of Adventists. Some of the experiences these members had gave evidence of the leading of God’s Spirit, whereas others were obviously of another spirit. {NL 5.1}

In this setting it was clear that they needed to “try the spirits” to see whether they were from God. Ellen White also gave clear and positive counsel. From this counsel articles were selected that form this small book. A careful study of its pages will provide the reader with timeless principles on the genuine and the counterfeit in religious experience. {NL 5.2}

For more than eighty years Ellen White’s much-loved book Steps to Christ has been a best seller, with an estimated 16 million copies distributed in a hundred languages. Its appeal for commitment to Christ has been accepted by young and old. A New Life joins it as a companion book offering further guidance toward a life of genuine revival and reformation. {NL 5.3}

In these last moments of earth’s sinful history, times are difficult again—and also exciting. Surely God’s Holy Spirit is ready to give us the power to finish our work for others and the work necessary for ourselves. Can it be that you will be one through whom God will do something special? May your careful study help you to be both eager and ready to meet your Lord when He returns. {NL 5.4}

Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate

top

Pastoral Ministry

Pastoral Ministry For over half a century Ellen White worked shoulder to shoulder with ministers of the gospel, and shared with them inspired counsel. She held a high view of their calling, as is clear from statements such as the following: “The gospel minister is engaged in a very solemn, sacred work” (EV 184); “The minister stands as God’s mouthpiece to the people, and in thought, in word, in act, he is to represent his Lord” (Gospel Workers, 20). {PaM 13.1}

From the rich treasury of her writings, the compilers of this book have brought together a selection of inspired counsels that apply most directly to the life and work of the local church pastor. Research was done by the General Conference Ministerial Association using the CD-ROM, 1990 edition, of The Published Ellen G. White Writings. It was discovered that Mrs. White used some derivative of the word Clergy 114 times, Minister 10,762 times,Pastor 385 times, Preacher 735 times, and Shepherd 1,540 times. Research focused especially on these quotes. The goal was to be complete, but not exhaustive; that is, to include material on every area of pastoral ministry, but not to quote every statement she made on each. Thus the principles are set forth, but not repeated unnecessarily. {PaM 13.2} Ellen G White Download

Quotations usually include full paragraphs. If a paragraph is interrupted and continued later, this is indicated. In each case, the source is given, so the reader may search out and study the quotation in its original context. As a rule, quotation marks are not used around selections from the inspired writings, inasmuch as all text not in bold face, enclosed in brackets, or otherwise noted, is from Ellen White. Subheadings have been supplied by the compilers, and appear in bold type. In general, these include words or phrases borrowed from the quotations they introduce. {PaM 13.3} Ellen G White Download

A large portion of Mrs. White’s writings are anecdotal; that is, they are accounts of events that happened in her life, the life of another person, or the history of the church. Principles are set forth, but often indirectly. To find these principle requires more effort on the part of the reader than would be necessary if the writings were straightforward essays. However, this style makes interesting reading, and makes clear the fact that Ellen White’s work for the church was a hands-on work. {PaM 13.4}

Readers should look for the central principles contained in her counsel, and then apply those principles in a practical way in their own time and culture. She herself wrote, “regarding the testimonies, nothing is ignored; nothing is cast aside; but time and place must be considered” (1 SM 57). Thus, her counsels regarding camp meetings apply most directly to evangelistic meetings today, for in her day at least half of those who attended the typical Adventist camp meeting were not Seventh-day Adventists. {PaM 13.5}

Compilations of Mrs. White’s writings are helpful, for they offer a convenient way to see quickly what she has said on a variety of subjects. The goal in producing compilations is to represent her thought accurately and without bias. Thus, in most cases, before any selection of material is made, the full range of her writings on a given topic is brought together. This method has been followed in preparing this book. Where Ellen White has said much, much has been included. Where she has said little, little has been included. {PaM 14.1} Ellen G White Download

The White Estate acknowledges with appreciation the work of the staff of the General Conference Ministerial Association in producing this valuable compilation. It is the earnest prayer both of the Ministerial Association and of the White Estate that as you read this book you may receive a rich blessing. May your Christian experience deepen and your ministry be strengthened as you study from the early chapters, which deal with the pastor’s personal relationship with Christ, to the final chapter, which summarizes lessons from the ministry of Jesus, the model Pastor. {PaM 14.2}

Board of Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate, Inc.

top

Prayer

Prayer The Scriptures admonish us to “pray without ceasing.” This does not mean that we are to spend all of our time on our knees in formal prayer. It does mean that we must live and serve our Lord in the atmosphere of prayer. {Pr 1.1}

Prayer is the channel of communication between our souls and God. God speaks to us through His word; we respond to Him through our prayers, and He always listens to us. We cannot weary or burden Him by our frequent heart to heart communications. {Pr 1.2} Ellen G White Download

We have come to serious times. Events in our world call upon every follower of Christ to be totally in earnest in our relationship with God. To strengthen this relationship and satisfy our emotional and spiritual needs, we must learn the power of prayer. We must plead with the Lord, like the disciples of old, saying, “Lord, teach us to pray.” {Pr 1.3}

That God is willing and ready to hear and to respond to our heartfelt prayers under all circumstances is profoundly reassuring. He is a loving Father who is interested both when things are going well and when the vicissitudes of life deal us devastating, tough, and terrible blows. When we feel like crying out, “God, where are You?” It is good to know that He is just a prayer away. {Pr 1.4}

One writer has said, “More things are wrought by prayer than this world dreams of.” It is also true of the church. “A revival of true Godliness among us is the greatest and most urgent of all our needs. To seek this should be our first work” (Selected Messages 1:121). God will do things for us when we pray that He will not do if we do not pray (The Great Controversy, 525). We acknowledge that we need the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. But this can be accomplished only as we pray individually and collectively. When God’s people pray earnestly, sincerely, individually, and collectively, God will answer. Great things will happen in and among God’s people. And the world will feel the impact as the Holy Spirit comes to equip and empower His people. {Pr 1.5}

We believe this book will find a ready reception among people of all backgrounds. As we read the selections from Ellen G. White on the vital subject of prayer, we will find our hearts strangely and warmly stirred. These messages will hit home to our souls. Conviction on many points expressed will find lodgment in our hearts, evoking an echoing response to measure up to God’s call to a deeper and richer prayer life. {Pr 1.6}

“Our Heavenly Father waits to bestow upon us the fullness of His blessing. It is our privilege to drink largely at the fountain of boundless love. What a wonder it is that we pray so little. God is ready and willing to hear the sincere prayer of the humblest of His children…. Why should the sons and daughters of God be reluctant to pray, when prayer is the key in the hand of faith to unlock heaven’s storehouse where are treasured the boundless resources of omnipotence?” (Steps to Christ, 94, 95). {Pr 1.7}

Board of Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate

top

The Publishing Ministry Ellen G White Download

The Publishing Ministry Since the beginning of Adventist publishing work in 1849, billions of copies of our books and magazines have been distributed. For the most part these publications have been placed in the homes of judgment-bound men and women by literature evangelists and missionary-minded lay persons.{PM 5.1} Ellen G White Download

At this writing nearly twenty thousand colporteurs are in service throughout the world, but this number is far from adequate to meet the need. God calls for message-filled books, magazines, and tracts to be scattered everywhere like the leaves of autumn. As church members unite with literature evangelists in spreading the good news, the task will be accomplished. {PM 5.2}

Ellen White declared: {PM 5.3}

“The publications sent forth from our printing houses are to prepare a people to meet God. Throughout the world they are to do the same work that was done by John the Baptist for the Jewish nation. By startling messages of warning, God’s prophet awakened men from worldly dreaming. Through him God called backsliding Israel to repentance. By his presentation of truth he exposed popular delusions. In contrast with the false theories of his time, truth in his teaching stood forth as an eternal certainty. “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” was John’s message. Matthew 3:2. This same message, through the publications from our printing houses, is to be given to the world today…. {PM 5.4}

“In a large degree through our publishing is to be accomplished the work of that other angel [of Revelation 18] who comes down from heaven with great power and who lightens the earth with his glory.”—Testimonies for the Church 7:139, 140. {PM 5.5}

In the year in which these admonitions were given (1902), a pocket-sized book of seventy-three pages, Manual for Canvassers, provided literature evangelists with Ellen White’s counsels concerning book distribution. It was made up of materials drawn together, under the direction of the author, from the Testimonies and other sources. In 1920 this little book was enlarged and issued as Colporteur Evangelist. {PM 5.6} Ellen G White Download

With the development of more comprehensive indexes to the voluminous writings of Ellen White, it became possible to expand and enrich this manual. The present enlarged guide to literature evangelists was published in 1953 under the title Colporteur Ministry, a work of 176 pages. With subject matter conveniently arranged in topical order, it serves well, but as the name implies, its counsels are confined almost entirely to the work of the colporteur. {PM 5.7}

Meanwhile, Ellen White’s counsels to authors were drawn together and published under the title Counsels to Writers and Editors. Initially issued in 1939 in a limited edition, this volume became available generally as a standard E. G. White book in 1946. {PM 5.8}

But several areas of vital concern to the publishing ministry were not treated in either of these two specialized volumes. One such matter was the establishment, operation, and management of publishing houses. The present volume covers this area and also includes counsels on the publishing work as a whole. {PM 5.9} Ellen G White Download

The White Estate staff has been joined by the personnel of the General Conference Publishing Department in a wide search in all E. G. White sources, published and unpublished, for materials to develop the present volume. The counsels selected lay out quite clearly heaven’s design for this vital arm of the church. That The Publishing Ministry may be a useful guide to all who are called to proclaim the glad tidings of salvation through the printed page is the sincere wish of the {PM 5.10}

Board of Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate

Washington, D. C.,

January 1, 1983.

top

The Retirement Years

The Retirement Years Eventually all of us reach the age when we must slow down a bit and turn over our work to younger hands and hearts. When that time comes, because of changing emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, some of us may need to secure help and counsel from experienced clergy, medical practitioners, and gerontologists. Fortunately, such help is abundant in the world today. Hundreds of helpful books, magazines, and lecture series are available for people fifty and above, and for retirement clubs now springing up around the world. {RY 7.1}

The presses of the Seventh-day Adventist church have prepared several volumes aimed at senior readership, and all of them are good, but never before have the resources and help contained in the writings of Ellen G. White been brought together in a book aimed especially at the needs of senior citizens. {RY 7.2}

In the present volume Ellen White offers many inspired and inspiring answers to questions raised by golden-agers. These gems of thought have been gleaned from her letters, manuscripts, books, and periodical articles, many of which were written after she was 65—the 23 years from 1892-1915. {RY 7.3}

Ellen White lived life to the full until she was 87. At the age of 64, when most people are approaching retirement, she was serving in Australia as counselor and missionary, along with other stalwart pioneers of the church, to help gain a foothold for the Lord’s work on that island continent. {RY 7.4} Ellen G White Download

In her newly built home on the campus of the School for Christian Workers (now Avondale College) she wrote her absorbing biography of Jesus’ life on earth, The Desire of Ages. When she was not writing, she was preaching in the churches, meeting with conference committees, and offering counsel. When she urged, “build a college after the Lord’s pattern,” Australasian Missionary College arose. Again, when she counseled, “bring to birth a representative sanitarium in the suburbs of Sydney,” a medical institution was built. In the creation of these institutions, church leaders revealed their faith in the inspired directions of the prophetic gift. {RY 8.1}

At the same time there poured forth from her facile pen a steady stream of inspirational articles and letters of counsel that found their way to church editors, leaders, and laymen, not only in Australia but in North America, Europe, and South America. {RY 8.2}

During the last fifteen years of her life (1900-1915) Mrs. White was back in the United States, living in her newly-acquired “Elmshaven” home near St. Helena, California. While there she ardently hoped to enjoy a little of the ease and respite of retirement. But alas, the unique place that she occupied in the church as the Lord’s special messenger made her the frequent and unrelenting object of demands from God’s people for counsel and direction. {RY 8.3} Ellen G White Download

The servant of the Lord found it difficult to refuse these invitations, which included preaching appointments at camp meetings, conference sessions, and local churches. She journeyed eastward across the North American continent to speak at the 1909 General Conference session in Takoma Park when she was 82 years old. {RY 8.4}

And during the “Elmshaven” years nearly a dozen of her best books were published—Education; The Ministry of Healing; volumes 6, 7, 8, and 9 of the Testimonies; The Acts of the Apostles; Counsels to Teachers, Parents, and Students; Gospel Workers; Life Sketches; and finally (posthumously),Prophets and Kings. {RY 9.1}

Ellen White did not believe in “retirement by rust.” To her, retirement was “by wear and tear.” But she was not a hard taskmaster; rather, a mentor graced with an understanding heart and the merciful attitudes that she had gained by intimate acquaintance with a kind Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ. For example, she counseled a workaholic preacher in his sunset years to be temperate in his labors, for he was killing himself by overwork. She encouraged him to grasp the thought that he had earned the privilege to relax, to ripen for heaven, and to enjoy some of the restful and peaceful moments of a happy retirement. {RY 9.2}

As Trustees it is our prayer that this collection of letters, articles, and messages from the pen of God’s devoted servant will be a practical and cherished source of wisdom and guidance to people of retirement years, as well as to those of preretirement times who wish to grasp more fully the statement of Christ: “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:10). {RY 9.3}

Board of Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate

top

The Sanctified Life Ellen G White Download

The Sanctified Life Under the general title of “Sanctification” a series of articles from Ellen G. White appeared in the early issues of the Review and Herald for 1881. Writing from a deep experience in the things of God and from a mind and heart illuminated by the Holy Spirit, Mrs. White carefully examined the elements of true sanctification and contrasted these with various unsound, but popular, theories on the subject. {SL 1.1}

These articles were published together as a pamphlet in January, 1889. Bearing the title Bible Sanctification, it appeared as number one of the Bible Students’ Library. {SL 1.2} Ellen G White Download

In 1937, with the addition of one paragraph from Prophets and Kings, this material was reissued under the title The Sanctified Life to make the present volume. In this form and in many printings the little book has enriched thousands of lives. {SL 1.3}

In new format, but with no change in textual matter, this deeply spiritual and long-lived book is reissued for still wider distribution. For the convenience of the reader scripture and subject indexes have been added. {SL 1.4}

This present printing is recognized in the Comprehensive Index to the Writings of Ellen G. White and in the references to this work found in The Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary. {SL 1.5}

The Trustees of the Ellen G. White Publications

Silver Spring, Maryland,

March, 2006.

top

A Sketch of the Christian Experience and Views of Ellen G White

A Sketch of the Christian Experience We are well aware that many honest seekers after truth and Bible holiness are prejudiced against visions. Two great causes have created this prejudice. First, fanaticism, accompanied by false visions and exercises, has existed more or less, almost everywhere. This has led many of the sincere to doubt anything of the kind. Second, the exhibition of mesmerism, &C., and what is commonly called the “mysterious rappings,” are perfectly calculated to deceive, and create unbelief relative to the gifts and operations of the Spirit of God. {ExV 2.1}

But God is unchangeable. His work through Moses in the presence of Pharaoh was perfect, notwithstanding “Jannes and Jambres” were permitted to perform miracles by the power of Satan, that resembled the miracles wrought by Moses. The counterfeit also appeared in the days of the apostles, yet the gifts of the Spirit were manifested in the followers of Christ. And it is not the purpose of God to leave his people in this age of almost unbounded deception, without the gifts and manifestations of his Spirit. {ExV 2.2} Ellen G White Download

The design of a counterfeit is to imitate an existing reality. Therefore the present manifestation of the spirit of error is proof that God manifests Himself to His children by the power of the Holy Spirit, and that He is about to fulfil His word gloriously. {ExV 2.3}

“And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams, &C.” Acts 2:17; Joel 2:28. {ExV 2.4} Ellen G White Download

As for mesmerism we have ever considered it dangerous, therefore have had nothing to do with it. We never even saw a person in a mesmeric sleep, and know nothing by experience of the art. {ExV 2.5}

We send out this little work with the hope that it will comfort the saints. {ExV 2.6}

James White.

Saratoga Springs, N.Y.,

August, 1851.

top

Sketches from the Life of Paul

sketches from the Life of Paul All who have read the life of Christ as presented in volumes two and three of “The Great Controversy,” will welcome another book by the same writer treating in a similar manner upon the life and labors of the apostle Paul. Among the many valuable works upon the life of Paul, this book occupies a field peculiarly its own. The historical narrative is traced down in a clear and connected manner, from the time of Paul’s first dealings with the church as a persecutor, until he was “offered up” as a willing sacrifice for the cause which he had learned to love more than his own life. Besides this, from his labors and sufferings, and from the instruction which he gave to the churches under his care, practical moral lessons are drawn for the church of today. This is the distinctive feature of the book, and is that which makes it particularly valuable. {LP 8.1}

The writer of this book, having received especial help from the Spirit of God, is able to throw light upon the teachings of Paul and their application to our own time, as no other authors are prepared to do. She has not suffered herself to be drawn aside to discuss theories, or to indulge in speculation. No extraneous matter is introduced. Consequently much that is contained in other books, which is interesting to the curious, and has a certain value, but which is after all little more than theory, finds no place in this work. {LP 8.2}

Of course in a book of this size the vast amount of instruction contained in Paul’s epistles could be considered only in part. Some of these are not referred to, others are passed by with a simple mention, and none of them are fully canvassed. Enough of them are mentioned, however, to enable the reader to enter into the spirit which actuated the great apostle. And if the perusal of this volume shall lead the reader to lay hold upon the hope which sustained Paul in his labors and trials, and shall help him to fight the good fight of faith, the object of its publication will be accomplished. {LP 8.3}

Publishers

top

A Solemn Appeal

A Solemn Appeal It is the special work of Satan in these last days to take possession of the minds of youth, to corrupt their thoughts, and inflame their passions, knowing that by thus doing he can lead them to self-pollution, and then all the noble faculties of the mind will become debased, and he can control them to suit his own purposes. All are free moral agents; and as such they must bring their thoughts to run in the right channel. Their meditations should be of that nature which will elevate their minds, and make Jesus and Heaven the subjects of their thoughts. Here is a wide field in which the mind can safely range. If Satan seeks to divert the mind from this to low and sensual things, bring it back again, and place it on eternal things; and when the Lord sees the determined effort made to retain only pure thoughts, he will attract the mind, like the magnet, and purify the thoughts, and enable them to cleanse themselves from every secret sin. “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5. The first work of those who would reform is, to purify the imagination. If the mind is led out in a vicious direction, it must be restrained to dwell only upon pure and elevated subjects. When tempted to yield to a corrupt imagination, then flee to the throne of grace, and pray for strength from Heaven. In the strength of God the imagination can be disciplined to dwell upon things which are pure and heavenly. {SA 75.2} Ellen G White Download

top

The Southern Work

The Southern Work The 1890’s was the decade of repeated appeals from the pen of Ellen G. White to the church, urging its evangelistic forces to enter the great harvest field of the South. First appeared the far-reaching Testimony to Church Leaders in 1891, headed “Our Duty to the Colored People.” This document was circulated in manuscript form and then printed in a leaflet. It was this that stirred the missionary zeal of Ellen White’s son James Edson White, and led him to launch evangelistic and educational work among the neglected people of the South. In doing this he built a missionary boat christened The Morning Star, which provided residence, chapel, schoolroom, and printing office. Evangelistic work was begun at Vicksburg, Mississippi, in January, 1895. {SWk 5.1}

Ten articles written by Ellen G. White for publication in the Review and Herald soon supplemented the basic appeal of 1891. These were published in 1895 and 1896 while Mrs. White was living in Australia. {SWk 5.2}

An important counsel meeting in Australia in November 1895 in which Ellen White participated yielded further counsels and cautions from the messenger of the Lord, and this was followed from time to time by messages of encouragement and instruction. {SWk 5.3} Ellen G White Download

Elder J. E. White’s responsibilities were double. He had a thriving work on his hands as he plied his missionary boat along the rivers of the South, and he labored constantly to replenish and augment his forces by encouraging more families to come in from the North. These recruits also had to be instructed as to how to work in this special field of labor. {SWk 5.4}

As one means to accomplish this, Edson White decided to publish in an inexpensive booklet the basic materials that his mother had written on the work in the South. It consisted of: The appeal of 1891, the Review articles, and some letters of counsel. The type was set and the printing was done in his little Morning Star printshop in the summer of 1898. He titled the booklet The Southern Work. It was pocket sized, stapled together, and bound with a blue or green linen cloth. Its 115 pages made a booklet nearly a quarter of an inch thick. {SWk 5.5}

As time went on and the work in the South developed, Ellen white continued to write counsels meeting special problems as they arose. J. E. White drew some of these together about the year 1901 in a sort of supplement, but paged to follow the body of materials in The Southern Work. This was at first distributed as a separate document of 32 pages without cover. In time the supplement was bound with the parent document, making a booklet of 147 pages. This booklet has been very precious to all interested in the work in the South. {SWk 6.1} Ellen G White Download

In 1902 Ellen White published Testimonies for the Church, Volume Seven. In the heart of this she embodied a 26-page section concerning the needs of the Southern field and giving counsel as to the conduct of the work in that great field. See pages 220-245. This volume was followed in two years by Testimonies, Volume Eight, with references to the work in the South on pages 34, 59-61, 91, 137, 150, and 205. Repeatedly the messenger of the Lord presented this important work to the church. {SWk 6.2}

It is encouraging to note that these repeated admonitions and appeals did not fall on deaf ears. The work began to move ahead with increasing momentum. This in turn brought questions as to the procedures on the conduct of the work in the South. Ellen White ever kept before the brethren in the clearest of terms that all mankind were bound together in a close brotherhood. She likewise observed that the circumstances were such that if the Church was to fulfill its mission in reaching all peoples and classes, customs and prejudices existing in certain areas could not be ignored and that great prudence was called for. This and the urgency of the work were the keynotes of the counsels presented in 1909 by Ellen White in a full section ofTestimonies, Volume Nine. See “Among the Colored People,” pages 199-226. The careful reader will observe that the course outlined here was one that was to be followed to the best advantage “until the Lord shows us a better way” (Testimonies for the Church 9:207). {SWk 6.3}

As to the long-out-of-print Southern Work, there has been an earnest request for its republication. Here reprinted, it now makes available a body of Spirit of Prophecy counsels of particular historical interest. This was the material that stirred the church to an understanding of its duty, clearly enunciated great basic principles, and led to the beginning of a work that was to grow and prosper. These counsels should be reread with an awareness of the conditions existing in the 1890’s—the time of writing. The nation was separated from slavery by only 25 or 30 years. The plight of the negro was deplorable. The church needed at that time to be chastened for its neglect of this important part of the Lord’s great vineyard. And it was these matters that were clearly depicted in the articles that comprise this historic document, The Southern Work. {SWk 6.4}

The informed reader is well acquainted with the great strides that have been made by the race so misused and sadly neglected, and he knows, too, that the church, stirred to action, increasingly accepted the challenge to missionary witness so urgently placed before it. The result is that in the United States we have proportionately more members among the colored people than among the caucasians. Competent negro personnel fill positions of responsibility and trust in the institutions and organizations of the church from the local pastor and church-school teacher to its General Conference staff. {SWk 7.1}

It is in the interests of making available the more complete record and thus fill in the historical backgrounds that The Southern Work is made available in this convenient and inexpensive reprint form. All that appears in the first printing of The Southern Work in 1898 and the combined work of 1901 is presented here. {SWk 7.2}

In the interests of accuracy the materials have been carefully checked with the original sources. One Review and Herald article, apparently overlooked by J. E. White, has been added, and one chapter has been moved to its proper chronological position within the booklet. At a few points explanatory notes giving the historical settings have been inserted. The table of contents yields helpful information as to the sources of the various items included and their relation to the original work. To the right of each chapter title will be found in parentheses the page number as it appears in the earlier printing. Pains have been taken to make this reprint an accurate, informative, and helpful document. {SWk 7.3} Ellen G White Download

The Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate

Washington, D.C.,

March 22, 1966.

top

From Splendor to Shadow

From Splenor to Shadow Does history have meaning? Does human life have lasting significance? Is God involved in events upon earth? {SS 5.1}

To these questions the author of this book answers Yes. Then, with deep insight into providential workings, she draws the curtain aside and reveals a philosophy of history by which past events take on eternal significance. Here is her philosophy: {SS 5.2}

“The strength of nations and of individuals is not found in the opportunities and facilities that appear to make them invincible; it is not found in their boasted greatness. That which alone can make them great or strong is the power and purpose of God. They themselves by their attitude toward His purpose decide their own destiny.” {SS 5.3}

“Human histories relate man’s achievements, his victories in battle, his success in climbing to worldly greatness. God’s history describes man as heaven views him.” {SS 5.4}

This volume opens with the account of Solomon’s glorious reign over Israel. Here is traced the history of a favored and chosen people, torn between allegiance to God and to the gods of the nations about them. And here is seen vividly, through a crucial period of this world’s history, the dramatic evidences of the raging conflict between Christ and Satan for the hearts of men and women. {SS 5.5}

This book abounds in fascinating character studies—the wise Solomon, who did not permit wisdom to keep him from transgression; Jeroboam, the self-serving man of policy; Elijah, the mighty and fearless prophet; Elisha, the prophet of peace and healing; Ahaz, the fearful and wicked king; Hezekiah, the loyal and good-hearted ruler; Daniel, beloved prophet and statesman; Jeremiah, the courageous prophet of sorrow; Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, prophets of the restoration. And beyond them all rises God’s only-begotten Son, the coming King, the Lamb of God, in all His glory. {SS 5.6}

Under the title Prophets and Kings, this book has been circulated worldwide and has been translated into many languages. It is now presented in this condensed edition with the hope that it may reach an even larger audience. {SS 6.1}

It is our belief that this volume, with its rich lessons of faith in God and the stories of His providence in the lives of men and women of Old Testament times, will enlighten the minds and deepen the religious experience of all who read its pages. {SS 6.2}

The Publishers.

top

Steps to Christ Ellen G White Download

Few books attain a distribution reckoned in millions or exert so great an influence in the uplifting of humanity as has Steps to Christ. In countless editions, this little volume has been printed in more than seventy languages, bringing inspiration to hundreds of thousands of men and women throughout the world, even those who dwell in the remote corners of the earth. From the appearance of the first edition in 1892, the publishers have been called upon to add printing to printing to meet the immediate and sustained demand from the reading public. {SC 5.1}

The author of this work, Ellen G. White (1827-1915), was a religious speaker and writer, well known on three continents. Born near Portland, Maine, she spent her early life in the New England States, and then her travels and labors led her to the rapidly expanding central and western areas of the United States. The years 1885 to 1887 she devoted to work in the leading countries of Europe, where she often addressed large audiences, and continued her writing. Subsequently she spent nine active years in Australia and New Zealand. From her pen have come forty-five volumes, large and small, in the fields of theology, education, health, and the home, and practical Christianity, several with a distribution exceeding the million-copy mark. Of these, Steps to Christ is the most popular and widely read. {SC 5.2}

The title of the book tells its mission. It points the reader to Jesus Christ as the only one who is able to meet the needs of the soul. It directs the feet of the doubting and halting to the pathway of peace. It leads the seeker after righteousness and wholeness of character, step by step, along the way of Christian living, to that experience where he can know the fullness of blessing which is found in the complete surrender of self. It reveals to him the secret of victory as it unfolds in simplicity the saving grace and the keeping power of the great Friend of all mankind. {SC 5.3}

This edition marks a forward step in standardizing the paging of the book in forthcoming English-language printings. With no change in the text, but with a format, spelling, and capitalization in keeping with the times, this little compendium of devotion will continue on its mission, but now in such form, regardless of the size of the type or page, as to conform to the new Index to the writings of Ellen G. White. {SC 6.1}

Jacob of old, when oppressed with the fear that his sin had cut him off from God, lay down to rest, and “he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven.” The connection between earth and heaven was thus revealed to him, and words of comfort and hope were spoken to the wanderer by Him who stood at the top of the shadowy stairs. That the heavenly vision may be repeated to many as they read this story of the way of life, is the sincere wish of the publishers, and— {SC 6.2}

The Trustees of the Ellen G. White Publications

top

The Story of Jesus

The story of Jesus The influence of the earthly life of Jesus our Saviour appears on every feature of nature, in every phase of human experience, in every fact of life. We can never fully realize how deep is the impression, how widespread is the influence, of the life of Jesus of Nazareth. Every blessing of every kind comes to us through that connection between heaven and earth which was formed when the Lord of glory espoused the cause of a world lost in sin.{SJ 12.1}

The infinite pathos of that story has inspired the pen of the learned and the tongue of the eloquent. But it is best told in childlike language. The wonderful spectacle needs no human coloring. Its glory surpasses the art of men. It shines brightest in its own luster. {SJ 12.2}

In these pages no effort is made toward artificial embellishment. The plain story, as told by one who is moved by a deep sense of the infinite proportions of the subject, has been put into the language of the young. In its simplicity not only does it speak to the hearts of the young, but it meets the desire expressed by us all in the familiar song— {SJ 12.3}

“Tell me the story simply, as to a little child.”

May it be received in the same simplicity and purity of faith.

George C. Tenney.

top

The Story of Redemption

The Story of Redemption Does history have meaning? Does human life have lasting significance? Is God involved in events upon earth? {SS 5.1} Ellen G White Download

“Human histories relate man’s achievements, his victories in battle, his success in climbing to worldly greatness. God’s history describes man as heaven views him.” {SS 5.4}

The Publishers.

top

Supplement to the Christian Experience

Supplement to the Christian Experience The Lord has shown me that gospel order has been too much neglected and feared. That formality should be shunned; but in so doing, order should not be neglected. There is order in heaven. There was order in the church when Christ was upon earth; and after his departure, order was strictly observed among his apostles. And now in these last days, while God is bringing his children into the unity of the faith, there is more real need of order than ever before. For as God is uniting his children, Satan and his evil angels are very busy to prevent this unity, and to destroy it. Therefore men will be hurried into the field; men without wisdom, lacking judgment, perhaps not ruling well their own house, and not having order or government over the very few that God has given them charge of at home; yet they feel capable of having charge of the flock. They make many wrong moves, and all the messengers are thought, by those unacquainted with our faith, to be like these self-sent men; and the cause of God is reproached, and the truth shunned by many unbelievers, who would otherwise be candid, and anxious to inquire, Are these things so? {ExV54 15.1}

Men, I saw, whose lives are not holy, who are unqualified to teach the present truth, enter the field without being acknowledged by the church or brethren generally, and confusion and disunion is the result. Some have a theory of the truth and can dwell upon argument, but lack spirituality, judgment and experience, and they fail in many things which is very necessary for one to possess before they can teach the present truth to others. Others have not the argument; but because a few brethren hear them pray well, and give an exciting exhortation now and then, press them into the field, to engage in a work that God has not qualified them for, and when they have not sufficient experience and judgment for the work. Spiritual pride comes in, and they are lifted up, and act under the deception of thinking that they are laborers. They do not know themselves. They lack sound judgment and patient reasoning. Talk boastingly of themselves, and assert many things which they cannot prove from the Word. God knoweth this, therefore he does not call such to labor in these perilous times. And brethren should be careful and not push out those into the field whom God has not called. {ExV54 15.2}

top

Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing Ellen G White Download

Hundreds of thousands of copies of Thoughts from the Mount of Blessing have been printed and distributed in nearly a score of languages since it was first published in 1896. In English-reading countries several editions with identical textual content but with variations in format and pagination have been widely distributed. To eliminate confusion in the use of the volume in reference work, a standard page has been adopted which will serve as the basis of present and subsequent printings. {MB v.1}

In several former editions, in an endeavor to achieve a certain format, selections from verses of poetry were, with the consent of the author, inserted by the publishers in a number of places throughout the text. In this edition, only poetry selected and made a part of the text by the author herself is retained. The addition of both scripture and subject indexes makes this volume more useful. {MB v.2} Ellen G White Download

That the lessons drawn from the teachings of the master herein set forth may continue to enlighten, encourage, and bless mankind, is the sincere wish of the publishers and {MB v.3}

The Trustees of the

Ellen G. White Publications.

Washington, D.C.

June 22, 1955.

top

From Trials to Triumph

The book of Acts was written by “the beloved physician,” Luke, a Gentile convert. In the book God clearly indicates that the church in every age shall experience the presence of the same Spirit who came with power at Pentecost and fanned the gospel message into flame. {TT 5.1}

The abruptness with which Acts ends deliberately suggests that the thrilling narrative is unfinished. The acts recorded in this remarkable book are in the truest sense the acts of the Spirit. At Pentecost the praying disciples were filled with the Spirit and preached the gospel with power. When the church suffered intensely at the hands of Roman and Jewish persecutors, it was the Spirit who sustained the believers and kept them from error. {TT 5.2} Ellen G White Download

The future will witness a bestowal of spiritual power exceeding that of Pentecost. The work of the gospel is not to close with a lesser display of the Holy Spirit’s power than marked its beginning. {TT 5.3}

It is our hope and prayer that you, the reader, may participate in this reenactment of the glorious scenes of the early church and be preserved from the subtle counterfeits of the enemy of souls. {TT 5.4}

The Publishers.

top

True Revival

True Revival Why this book on revival and its fruitage? Many today have a hunger for something more than just “playing church” and going through the motions of the Christian life. They want a genuine experience with Christ—for themselves and for the church. {TR 7.1}

In these pages you will find Ellen G. White addressing these longings, pointing the way to that deeper experience and warning of some pitfalls along the way. She shows that God is calling those who say they are followers of Jesus Christ to forsake the ways of the world and to recommit their lives to Him. It is time for a genuine revival and reformation in God’s church. There is a work to be done, a world to be warned of its coming end. {TR 7.2}

This can happen only under the power of God’s Spirit, and God’s Spirit cannot be given to those who profess to be His people until they know by experience what repentance and reformation is. Ellen G. White wrote, “The Spirit and power of God will be poured out upon His children” (True Revival, 19). But it is the responsibility of His children to seek this gift. According to Ellen White, “the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the church is looked forward to as in the future; but it is the privilege of the church to have it now. Seek for it, pray for it, believe for it. We must have it, and Heaven is waiting to bestow it” (Evangelism, 701). {TR 7.3}

Being born again, justified, converted—this is the beginning. But what about growing up into Christ? What about that lifetime experience we sometimes call sanctification? Truly born-again Christians not only talk about Christ but live lives that testify that they are, in fact, followers of the Lord Jesus Christ. Revival is being born again; reformation is living a life of obedience through the power of the Holy Spirit, the Spirit that “Heaven is waiting to bestow.” {TR 7.4}

The Spirit-filled life results not only in personal victory over sin but also in a fresh desire and ability to share the Christian life and hope with others. Filled with the power of the Holy Spirit, God’s faithful ones will proclaim the final message that will prepare a people for the Lord’s return. Satan will do everything in his power to stop it. He will try to convince us that there are shortcuts—easier ways to have the fellowship with God that leads to an empowered Christian life. He will introduce counterfeits for the power of the Spirit—counterfeits so deceptive that if God’s people do not maintain a deep, living relationship with Him, based on the Word of God, they will be deceived. This book will, among other things, help the reader to distinguish between the true and the false. {TR 8.1}

For more than 100 years Ellen White’s much-loved book Steps to Christ has been a best seller. Young and old have accepted its appeal for commitment to Christ. For many, True Revival: The Church’s Greatest Need will serve as a companion book, offering further guidance toward a life of genuine revival and renewal. Chapters 2-8 are taken from the little book A New Life (originally published as Revival and Beyond), and chapters 1, 9, and 10 are taken from several chapters on revival and reformation in Selected Messages, book 1, pages 121-152. {TR 8.2}

In these closing moments of earth’s sinful history, surely God’s Holy Spirit is ready to give us the power to finish our work for others and the work necessary for ourselves. Can it be that you will be one through whom God will do something special? May this book help you to experience the revival and reformation that will prepare you for the latter rain and the soon return of our Lord. {TR 8.3}

The Trustees of the Ellen G. White Estate

top

The Truth About Angels

The Truth About Angels This book deals with a subject of worldwide interest. In unprecedented numbers, television programs feature purported accounts of angel involvement in human affairs. Tabloid newspapers publish stories about numerous reported sightings of extraterrestrial visitors. Bookstores display shelf after shelf of volumes dealing with the supernatural, and sales are brisk. In every land people are asking questions such as, if angels actually exist, who are they? Are they the spirits of the dead? Are they friendly or hostile? Can they communicate with us? {TA 4.1}

Most answers given by “authorities” do not satisfy the sincere seeker for truth. Many of the answers represent mere speculation. Some are purposely sensational. Others are based on false interpretations of scripture. {TA 4.2}

By contrast, the present volume is filled with inspired information. It offers answers grounded firmly in the word of God. It not only sets forth the truth about angels, but, we believe, will lead the reader into a deeper spiritual experience. {TA 4.3} Ellen G White Download

The first chapter provides a general overview of the existence and activities of beings in the unseen world. The second chapter illustrates a few of the numerous ways in which angels are involved in the personal lives of human beings. Beginning with Chapter 3, the book sets forth in historical sequence a galaxy of events and experiences in which angels have been major players. It begins with the rebellion of Lucifer in heaven before the creation of this world and concludes with the role of angels in the great hereafter. {TA 4.4} Ellen G White Download

This volume is a priceless resource book, but it is much more than that; it is a book that lifts the veil between the seen and the unseen world. It reveals angel involvement in events that secular historians recorded but could not explain, and gives the reader the feeling that he or she is an eyewitness of these events—an exciting experience indeed! {TA 5.1}

We believe that this book will be prized by seekers of truth all over the world, that it will help them recognize counterfeit manifestations of spirits, and that in their daily walk with God it will lead them to seek and enjoy the fellowship of holy angels. {TA 5.2}

The Trustees of the

Ellen G. White Estate, Inc.

Silver Spring, Maryland 20904

top

The Voice in Speech and Song Ellen G White Download

The Voice in Speach and Song Ellen White’s formal education ended when she was only nine years old, so she never had the privilege of studying under the speech or voice professionals of her day. Nevertheless, taught by the Lord, she became one of America’s outstanding women preachers. For more than 70 years, long before the days of microphones and public address systems, she spoke to large audiences of up to 20,000 people. {VSS 5.1}

Always ready to speak, especially on the subject of temperance, she declared, “When asked to speak on temperance, I have never hesitated” (MS. 31, 1911). Once she met the competition of Barnum’s Circus in Battle Creek, Michigan, with a 90-minute temperance lecture delivered to 5,000 eager listeners. She spoke in a city hall in Haverhill, Massachusetts; in a prison in Salem, Oregon; on an improvised platform composed of beer tables in Norway; and at open-air meetings and in churches, halls, and tents on three continents. She was in constant demand as a camp meeting speaker. Ellen White was a powerful evangelist. {VSS 5.2}

Were it not for her books, Ellen White no doubt would be best remembered today for her pulpit ministry. But she did more than preach; she wrote—prolifically. Some 70 books currently carry her byline. Nearly all have sold in the tens of thousands, some even in the millions. The present work joins this long line of best sellers. It will be welcomed by ministers, teachers, musicians, and all others who are especially concerned with the use of the voice. {VSS 5.3} Ellen G White Download

The counsels published here are God-given; they are trustworthy and reliable. This volume is sent forth with the prayer that it will bring a blessing to all who seek to improve their voice talent for the glory of God and the benefit of humanity. {VSS 6.1}

The Trustees of the
Ellen G. White Estate

top

Welfare Ministry Ellen G White Download

Welfare Ministry presents spirit of prophecy instruction in the delicate work of reaching hearts and winning souls through neighborly kindness. This is a type of soul-winning ministry with which many Seventh-day Adventists are but casually acquainted—yet a work ordained of God as the most appropriate means of bringing Christ and Christianity to the attention of the peoples of the world. It is a work that promises rich rewards. {WM 9.1} Ellen G White Download

Not only by concise, well-worded precept has the author set before us this type of ministry, but through the years, although busy with her home duties and her responsibilities as the messenger of the Lord, she often unwittingly set an example as her heart was drawn out to the needy about her. The autobiographical record of the unselfish ministry of Ellen G. White as a welfare worker, drawn from her diary and letters, as found in the appendix of this volume, will be perused with eager interest and well might be read before the counsels found in the body of the text are studied. Be that as it may, the reader will soon observe that the welfare ministry to which the church is summoned is not merely a community service but a kind of loving ministry and soul-winning endeavor—the highest type of welfare evangelism. {WM 9.2} Ellen G White Download

In the assembling of Spirit of Prophecy counsels relating to this important field of endeavor, excerpts have been drawn from the vast reservoir of precious instruction penned through seven decades. They have been gathered not only from currently available published books but also from the thousands of E. G. White articles which were prepared for the journals of the denomination, the special testimonies issued in pamphlet form, and the E. G. White manuscript files. Selected as they are from these various sources written at different times, they inevitably bring the reader over the same path he has traversed before, to emphasize some important point vital to a full development of the subject. Such repetition, though reduced to a minimum, cannot be avoided entirely in such a compilation as this, for the compilers are limited in their work to the selecting of the subject matter and the arranging of it in its logical sequence, supplying only the headings. {WM 9.3} Ellen G White Download

It has been difficult and well-nigh impossible to bring within the covers of one book the vast amount of instruction Ellen G. White has given concerning this particular kind of work, and which might rightly appear in a volume bearing the title Welfare Ministry. It is not a simple matter to select the material and draw the line between the neighborly visit and the missionary call, nor to separate the work of noble Seventh-day Adventist women in its broader aspects from the more well-defined task undertaken with solely missionary objectives. To the child of God these blend together in the varied activities of daily life. {WM 10.1}

Attention is here called to certain terms occurring frequently in this volume such as “medical missionary work” and “Christian help work.” It should be noted that a careful study of the Ellen G. White writings reveals that the phrase “medical missionary work” is employed by the author to include professional services of consecrated doctors and nurses, and that its significance also reaches far beyond these bounds to include all acts of mercy and disinterested kindness. “Christian help work” is also a term more commonly employed by Seventh-day Adventists in their earlier years than now and refers to the type of work described in this volume. Writing as she did in different continents, the author in her reference to money at times speaks of dollars and at other times of pounds and shillings. {WM 10.2} Ellen G White Download

It is urged that the reader study the instruction in its proper setting, to discover the basic principles involved in each case. For instance, a study of the counsels regarding “Church suppers” will reveal that although we are warned against utilizing the appeal to indulged appetite and love of pleasure as a means of raising church funds, yet it is the privilege of Church groups to engage in the preparation and sale of healthful food if the work is properly conducted and done in an appropriate place. {WM 11.1}

Except in a very few cases where a sentence or two may clearly enunciate a principle, the compilers have endeavored to include sufficient of the context of each excerpt to assure the reader of the proper use of the selected statement. In each case the date of writing or of first publication is indicated in connection with the notation of the source from which the statement is drawn. {WM 11.2}

This document has been prepared in the office of the Ellen G. White publications by the Trustees, who carry the responsibility of the care and publication of the E. G. White writings. The work has been done in full harmony with Mrs. White’s instruction to these Trustees in providing “for the printing of compilations from my manuscripts,” for they contain, she said, “instruction that the Lord has given me for his people.” {WM 11.3}

That this volume of instruction addressed to Seventh-day Adventists—laity and ministry alike—may encourage the church to take advantage of theopportunities in neighborhood ministry; that its instruction may guide in intelligent, conscientious, loving service; and that through its guidance there may be an abundant harvest of souls in the kingdom of God is the sincere wish of the Publishers and {WM 11.4}

The Trustees of theEllen G. White Publications.

Washington, D.C.,

September 10, 1951.

top

A Word to the Little Flock Ellen G White Download

A Word to the Little Flock Seventh-day Adventist workers will welcome the appearance of this facsimile reproduction of A Word to the “Little Flock.” This remarkable document, issued during the critical four-year period between the great disappointment of October 22, 1844, and the memorable Sabbath conferences of 1848, gives an insight into the experience and thinking of our pioneers in their earnest efforts to discover their position and work and to ascertain what the future held for the believers and the world. {WLF 9.1}

While this pamphlet, issued in May, 1847, contains statements signed by three early workers, James White, Ellen G. White, and Joseph Bates, it is primarily a James White publication devoted to the setting forth of his views of unfulfilled prophecy. At that time there were probably not more than one hundred Sabbathkeeping Adventists in the United States. As a youthful minister of twenty-five, he worked almost alone in setting forth the views he had, up to that time, formulated. This was nearly a year before the first of the five Sabbath conferences convened, at which time those whom we today revere as our spiritual forefathers met together and with open minds and hearts searched the word of God to better understand its truths. {WLF 9.2} Ellen G White Download

With a full understanding of the historic setting of A Word to the “Little Flock”, the reader will not be disturbed by finding that in a few instances positions set forth by Elder White on some points were modified by him in later years, as more mature and joint study revealed clearer views. This document presents a picture primarily of one worker’s attempt to cheer and aid those about him through a dissemination of light which was beginning to unfold. To one familiar with the many contemporary voices that were heard advocating discordant views and extreme positions, the clarity of reasoning and the essential correctness of perspective and purity of teaching of these articles are remarkable. {WLF 9.3} Ellen G White Download

Also of interest in this early publication are the three communications written by Mrs. E. G. White, depicting the experiences yet before the people of God. Two of these, being presentations of important visions, have been largely reprinted again and again in the E. G. White books. That some words, phrases, and sentences which appeared in these early accounts were left out by Mrs. White in later printings has been a source of concern to some. For a brief account of the first printing of these visions and a discussion of the omissions, together with Mrs. White’s explanation, the reader is directed to the appendix. [See Words of the Adventist Pioneers, under James White, for the complete text of this work, including the appendix]. {WLF 9.4}

That the reissuance of A Word to the “Little Flock” in this form, identical with its original publication, may lead to a better understanding of the experience of the founders of the message, and that it may satisfy the frequently expressed desire to have at hand for careful study, the initial E. G. White visions as first printed, is the sincere wish of the Publishers and the {WLF 9.5}

Trustees of the Ellen G. White Publications.

top

Beginning of the End

This volume is an adaptation of From Eternity Past, the 1983 condensed edition of Ellen G. White’s classic, Patriarchs and Prophets. The condensed volume included all the stories and major applications in the original book. Moreover, except for supplying a word here or there for a smooth transition, it rigidly retained Mrs. White’s own words. The Beginning of the End has taken a step beyond that. It has substituted some modern words, expressions, and sentence constructions for twenty-first century readers. But it is not a paraphrase. It follows From Eternity Past sentence by sentence and maintains the force of Mrs. White’s writing. It is hoped that new readers will thus develop a taste for Mrs. White’s writings and will be led to read and enjoy the original books, though written in the style of an earlier time. {BOE 5.1}

Except where noted, Scripture passages have been quoted from the New King James Version. It closely parallels the King James Version that Mrs. White usually used, but many people today find that they can read it more easily. {BOE 5.2}

The Beginning of the End is rich in insight into the Bible stories of origins—the origin of sin, of this world, of the plan of salvation, and of the people of God. It makes the treasures of Patriarchs and Prophets accessible to more people. In this way it helps to make more widely known the beginning of “the great controversy” story that Mrs. White told so compellingly in the five-volume “Conflict of the Ages” series of books. That many more readers may experience the life-changing power of these books and their presentation of Bible themes is the hope and prayer of {BOE 5.3}

The Trustees of
The Ellen G. White Estate