EGW Writings1 John 3
Ellen G. White · Page 3 of 4
Read 1 John 3 in the Bible1 John 3:2-3
Faith and Works
Chapter 18—Man May Be As Pure in His Sphere As God Is in His
FW 115.1
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is” (1 John 3:2). The heritage of the people of God is discerned through faith in the Word of God. “This is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent” (John 17:3).FW 115.3
Those who are looking for the revelation of Christ in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory, as King of kings and Lord of lords, in life and character will seek to represent Him to the world. “And every man that hath this hope in Him purifieth himself, even as He is pure” (1 John 3:3). They will hate sin and iniquity, even as Christ hated sin. They will keep the commandments of God, as Christ kept His Father’s commandments. They will realize that it is not enough to acquiesce in the doctrines of truth, but that the truth must be applied to the heart, practiced in the life, in order that the followers of Christ may be one with Him, and that men may be as pure in their sphere as God is in His sphere.Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
A Moral Power
CT 429.2
The Bible contains instruction regarding the character God’s children must possess. “Blessed are the pure in heart,” it declares, “for they shall see God.” Matthew 5:8. “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.” Hebrews 12:14. “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” 1 John 3:2, 3.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 103, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 103, 1893, par. 11
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him;” (in the glory of His perfected character) “for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” [1 John 3:2, 3.] As God is pure and holy in His sphere, so fallen man, through faith in Jesus Christ, can be pure and holy in his sphere.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 33, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 33, 1896, par. 11
But what kind of company will you choose, the weakest characters, the uneducated, undisciplined, or will you choose to rank in Christ’s army? Would you not rather choose to be a child of God than a servant of Satan and sin, having your name registered as the enemy of God? “Now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be, but we know that when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is, and every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” [1 John 3:2, 3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 221, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 221, 1903, par. 10
Christ’s true followers are made complete in Him, because He gives them of His Spirit. The blessed hope of seeing Christ as He is and being like Him, working in mind and heart like a quickening power, cleanses away impurity and depravity. “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be; but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is. And every man that hath this hope in him”—the hope of seeing Christ as He is—“purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” [1 John 3:2, 3.]Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Christian Deportment and Influence
GW92 421.1
If we are true to the promptings of the Spirit of God, we shall go from grace to grace, and from glory to glory, until we have received the finishing touch of immortality. “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” [1 John 3:2, 3.] Can any earthly promotion confer honor equal to this,—to be sons of God, children of the heavenly King, members of the royal family? Man may be ambitious of the honor that his finite fellow-man may bestow; but what will it avail? The nobility of earth are but men; they die, and return to dust; and there is no lasting satisfaction in their praise and honor. But the honor that comes from God is lasting. To be heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ, is to be entitled to unsearchable riches,—treasures of such value that in comparison with them the gold and silver, the gems and precious stones of earth, sink into insignificance. Through Christ we are offered joy unspeakable, an eternal weight of glory. “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit.” [1 Corinthians 2:9, 10.]In Heavenly Places
The Sure Anchor of Faith, April 30
HP 127.1
Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. 1 John 3:2, 3.Lift Him Up
The Finishing Touch of Immortality, December 28
LHU 376.1
Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. 1 John 3:2, 3.Manuscript Releases, vol. 3 [Nos. 162-209]
Diary, Tramelan, Switzerland, May 22, 1886
3MR 232.1
Although your company is small, you can be consoled by the words of the apostle, “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.” 1 John 3:2. And we should not forget the enjoinder, “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” 1 John 3:3.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 10, 1879
3LtMs, Lt 10, 1879, par. 4
Your path, my dear brother, seems beset with difficulties and perplexities. One sorrow after another sweeps over your soul, but you must trust and believe that your heavenly Father doth not willingly afflict or grieve the children of men. The Christian who loves his heavenly Father may not discern, by outward providence or visible signs, any heavenly favor above that given those with little or no consecration. Often he is sorely afflicted, distressed, perplexed, and hedged in on every side. Appearances seem to be against him. John understood the situation when he exclaimed, “It doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” 1 John 3:2, 3.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 49, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 49, 1886, par. 8
Although your company is small, you can be consoled by the words of the apostle, “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.” 1 John 3:2. And we should not forget the enjoinder, “And every man that hath this hope in Him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” 1 John 3:3.1 John 3:2-4
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 16, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 16, 1892, par. 2
I thought perhaps I might have left the impression on your mind that I did not appreciate the church in this place, but I do; that is why I am here in Adelaide. There are many precious souls in the church. They have their defects and weaknesses, but the Lord does not forsake them for this, He loves them still. The church militant is not the church triumphant. “It doth not yet appear what we shall be; but we know that when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” [1 John 3:2, 3.] (As God is pure in His sphere, so may the believing, trusting child of God be <pure> in his sphere.) “He that abideth in me and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit.” [John 15:5.] We have precious truth, and we want to enjoy it and be sanctified through the truth.7LtMs, Lt 16, 1892, par. 9
If it were not possible for us to be commandment-keepers, then why does He make the obedience to His commandments the proof that we love Him? (Verse 14) reads, “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.]1 John 3:2-13
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 40, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 40, 1890, par. 37
It is utterly impossible for man to sanctify and purify and bless himself. God alone is our helper. Grace will be imparted to every soul who sincerely desires it. We must put away from us our selfishness and become righteous—not by merit, but by grace. “Now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be,” but when He who is our life, shall appear, then shall we appear with Him in glory. [1 John 3:2; Colossians 3:4.]6LtMs, Ms 40, 1890, par. 41
Believers have been accused, misrepresented, and hated for Christ’s sake. They have passed through much tribulation. They have learned by experience, “Marvel not if the world hate you.” [1 John 3:13.] They cannot understand your motives. Christian character is something their eyes are too blind to discern, their touch too coarse to handle. Their soul powers are too much perverted to esteem the living heavenly light that shines into the Christian’s mind and heart. This light is unknown to the world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 40a, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 40a, 1890, par. 45
It is utterly impossible for man to sanctify, purify, and bless himself. God alone is our helper. His grace, through the everlasting covenant symbolized by the rainbow about His throne, will be imparted to every soul who sincerely desires it. We must put away our selfishness and become righteous, not by dead works but through the merits of the grace of Christ. The apostle exclaims, “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be, but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” [1 John 3:2, 3.] “When he who is your life shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.” [Colossians 3:4.]6LtMs, Ms 40a, 1890, par. 47
The world cannot discern the unseen, inner life that is woven with the life of God and represented as hid with Christ in God. In all ages believers have been accused, misrepresented, and hated for Christ’s sake. They have passed through much tribulation. They have learned by experience the meaning of the words of Christ when He said, “Marvel not if the world hate you.” [1 John 3:13.] The world cannot understand the Christian’s motives. A Christlike character is something that the eye of the worldling is too blind to discern, his touch too coarse to handle, his spiritual powers too much perverted to esteem. The living, heavenly light that shines into the Christian’s mind and heart is unknown to the unbeliever.1 John 3:2-24
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 67, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 67, 1895, par. 12
The lesson book, the Bible, contains the instruction of the character they must have—the moral excellence of character which must be cultivated, which God and heaven require. “Blessed are the pure in heart; for they shall see God.” [Matthew 5:8.] “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.” [Hebrews 12:14.] “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be, but we know that when he shall appear, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.” “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law; for sin is the transgression of the law. And we know that he was manifested to take away sin, and in him is no sin.” [1 John 3:2-5.]10LtMs, Lt 67, 1895, par. 14
Christ came in the form of humanity to live the law of God. He was the Word of life. He came to be the gospel of salvation to the world, and to fulfill every specification of the law. Jesus is the Word, the guidebook, which must be received and obeyed in every particular. How necessary that this mine of truth be explored, and the precious treasures of truth be discovered and secured as rich jewels. The incarnation of Christ, His divinity, His atonement, His wonderful life in heaven as our Advocate, the office of the Holy Spirit—all those living, vital themes of Christianity are revealed from Genesis to Revelation. The golden links of truth form a chain of evangelical truth, and the first and staple link is found in the great teachings of Christ Jesus. Why, then, should not the Scriptures be ennobled and exalted in every school in our land? How little children are educated to study the Bible as the Word of God, and feed upon its truths, which are the flesh and blood of the Son of God! “Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood” (that is, continue to receive the words of Christ, and practice them) “hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.” [John 6:53-56.] “And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.” [1 John 3:24.]1 John 3:3
Conflict and Courage
Pure in Heart and Life, December 19
CC 359.1
And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. 1 John 3:3.Reflecting Christ
Treasures of Divine Grace at Our Disposal, October 17
RC 304.1
Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure, 1 John 3:3.Sons and Daughters of God
That We Are Purified as Christ Is Pure, January 4
SD 10.1
And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. 1 John 3:3.Supplement to the Christian Experience and Views of Ellen G. White
To the Saints Scattered Abroad
ExV54 27.2
“What manner of persons” ought those to be “in all holy conversation and godliness,” who profess to be “looking for, and hasting unto the day of God?” 2 Peter 3:11. “Every man that hath this hope in him, purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” 1 John 3:3. But it is evident that many who bear the advent name, study more to decorate their bodies, and appear well in the eyes of the world, than they do the word of God, to learn how they may be approved of him.The Review and Herald
June 10, 1852
RH June 10, 1852, par. 5
“What manner of persons” ought those to be “in all holy conversation and godliness,” who profess to be “looking for, and hasting unto the day of God?” 2 Peter 3:11. “Every man that hath this hope in him, purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” 1 John 3:3. But it is evident that many who bear the advent name, study more to decorate their bodies, and appear well in the eyes of the world, than they do the word of God, to learn how they may be approved of him.From Trials to Triumph
Chapter 55—John’s Secret of True Sanctification
TT 294.2
In his letters, John wrote, “Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” “He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.” 1 John 3:3; 2:6. As God is holy in His sphere, so fallen man, through faith in Christ, is to be holy in his sphere.Homeward Bound
An Example of True Sanctification, March 30
HB 107.1
Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.—1 John 3:3.HB 107.4
John was a teacher of holiness, and in his letters to the church he laid down unerring rules for the conduct of Christians. “Every man that hath this hope in him,” he wrote, “purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” “He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.” (1 John 3:3; 2:6.) He taught that Christians must be pure in heart and life. Never should they be satisfied with an empty profession. As God is holy in His sphere, so fallen human beings, through faith in Christ, are to be holy in their sphere.With God at Dawn
The Transforming Power of Truth, June 25
WGD 178.1
And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. 1 John 3:3.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 31, 1875
2LtMs, Lt 31, 1875, par. 7
The light is shining forth upon the fourth commandment; God is opening the understanding of many to see that they have been breaking the Lord’s Sabbath. “And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament” (Revelation 11:19), calling, as it were, the attention of the people to the law of God covered by the mercy seat. The angels are represented as all looking reverentially into the law. God has made us the repositories of His law. What a responsibility is ours to form characters in harmony with the law of God! We are drawing nearer and still nearer the solemn event of our Lord’s appearing, “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” 1 John 3:3.Early Writings
Hope of the Church
EW 108.2
Many of these professed Christians dress, talk, and act like the world, and the only thing by which they may be known is their profession. Though they profess to be looking for Christ, their conversation is not in heaven, but on worldly things. “What manner of persons” ought those to be “in all holy conversation and godliness,” who profess to be “looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God.” 2 Peter 3:11, 12. “Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” 1 John 3:3. But it is evident that many who bear the name of Adventist study more to decorate their bodies and to appear well in the eyes of the world than they do to learn from the Word of God how they may be approved of Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 19a, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 19a, 1890, par. 11
Even though the men and women at the head of our missions are in character as pure as fine gold, they need constant connection with God in order to keep themselves pure and to know how to manage the youth discreetly, so that all shall keep their thoughts untainted, uncorrupted. Let the lessons be of an elevated, ennobling character that the mind may be filled with pure and noble thoughts. “Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he (God) is pure.” [1 John 3:3.] As God is pure in His sphere, so man is to be pure in his. And he will be pure if Christ is formed within, the hope of glory; for he will imitate Christ’s life and reflect His character.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 27, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 27, 1893, par. 6
“He that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” [1 John 3:3.] True faith is a working element; it works by love and purifies the soul from earthliness. The sincere lovers of truth will make constant, earnest, persevering endeavors to subdue every baser element of their nature; they will value their own souls as Christ has revealed that He values them in giving His own life to ransom them. And as they place a right estimate upon their own souls, they will value the souls of all for whom Christ has died. They will be of that number who counted not their lives dear unto themselves, that they might finish their course with joy.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 74, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 74, 1896, par. 27
The evils of fashionable society have a tendency to corrupt, but every true follower of Christ, every one who has “This hope” in Him, will purify himself even as He is pure, so that not a taint of defilement will be found in his thoughts or upon his lips, in his heart or in his character. [1 John 3:3.] There must be a coming up to a higher, holier standard. A decided warfare should be waged against the evils, not only in the world, but also among those who claim to believe the truth for this time. These evils, if not put away, will result in spiritual death. The Lord bids us, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] There must be a waking up. Concentrated effort must be put forth, that will tell powerfully against every form of evil.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 6, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 6, 1899, par. 28
It is the duty of all believers to turn away from beholding Satan. Then they will not reflect his character in their words, in a peevish spirit, in evil thinking or evil speaking of their brethren. Those who have an abiding Christ will do none of these things. God has forbidden us to cherish any such thoughts or feelings. All have the privilege of catching the divine rays of light from Christ if they will look unto Him. The greater their need, the more open will be the way to Christ. They may seek His face, and flash back the light of the glory of God. To them that have no might, He increaseth strength. All who live Christ’s character will be like Him. “Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” [1 John 3:3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 53, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 53, 1902, par. 12
“Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep; let your laughter be turned into mourning, and your joy into heaviness.” [James 4:9.] It is right to be cheerful and joyful. But words of jesting and joking, of lightness and trifling, show that the profession of Christianity is not genuine. The hearts of those who speak such words need to be purified. They need to show genuine sorrow for sin. What virtue is there in the religion that leads to the words, “Christ has pardoned my sins, and there is no need for me to resist temptation”? John declares, “He that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” [1 John 3:3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 301, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 301, 1904, par. 25
Let us relate ourselves to God in self-denying, self-sacrificing obedience. Faith in Christ always leads to willing, cheerful obedience. He died to redeem us from all iniquity and to purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. There is to be perfect conformity, in thought, word, and deed, to the will of God. Heaven is for those only who have purified their souls through obedience to the truth. It is a place where unsullied purity alone can dwell. “Every man that hath this hope in Him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” [1 John 3:3.]God’s Amazing Grace
Hearts Made Pure, August 12
AG 232.1
And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. 1 John 3:3.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 172, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 172, 1906, par. 7
“And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” [1 John 3:3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 146, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 146, 1906, par. 67
Now, you think of that. We can look upon Him. “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” [1 John 3:3.] Now, that is what can be done. Will we come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty? The powers of darkness are very great, but God and His angels are round the righteous, and they can make the impression. I do not expect to make the impression on your heart. I have no special eloquence, but I have a determination that I will exalt my Saviour, I will honor Him.Jesus, Name Above All Names
Infinite Purity, December 1
JNN 353.1
And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure.—1 John 3:3Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]
Mr No. 730—Righteousness By Faith
9MR 214.2
Wherever the man is who is a child of God, he must live no idle life. He is not in a region where peace is an abounding element; where no heart throbs, no passions urges itself for demonstration. Satan lives; Satan works. “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure” (1 John 3:3)....Manuscript Releases, vol. 10 [Nos. 771-850]
MR No. 816—Nearness and Delay of the Second Advent
10MR 280.1
How Early Advent Believers Reacted to the Delay in Christ’s Coming—The light is shining forth upon the fourth commandment; God is opening the understanding of many to see that they have been breaking the Lord’s Sabbath. “And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in His temple the ark of His testament” (Revelation 11:9), calling, as it were, the attention of the people to the law of God covered by the mercy seat; and the angels are represented as all looking reverentially into that law. God has made us the repositories of His law. What a responsibility is ours to form characters in harmony with the law of God! We are drawing nearer and still nearer the solemn event of our Lord’s appearing, “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure” (1 John 3:3).Our Father Cares
We Are Purified as Christ Is Pure, January 2
OFC 13.1
And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. 1 John 3:3.Reflecting Christ
Sanctification Is the Result of Lifelong Obedience, March 8
RC 81.2
John was a teacher of holiness, and in his letters to the church he laid down unerring rules for the conduct of Christians. “Every man that hath this hope in him,” he wrote, “purifieth himself, even as he is pure” (1 John 3:3).... He taught that the Christian must be pure in heart and life. Never should he be satisfied with an empty profession. As God is holy in His sphere, so fallen man, through faith in Christ, is to be holy in his sphere....1 John 3:3-6
Our High Calling
Pathway to Purity, May 16
OHC 142.1
And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. 1 John 3:3.OHC 142.2
Does this text mean that the human agent can remove one stain of sin from his soul? No. Then what does it mean to purify himself? It means to look upon the Lord’s great moral standard of righteousness, the holy law of God, and see that he is a sinner in the light of that law. “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin.” 1 John 3:4, 5. It is through faith in Jesus Christ that ... the human agent is purified and cleansed.... “Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not.” Verse 6. God has power to keep the soul that is in Christ.... A mere profession of godliness is worthless. It is he that abideth in Christ that is a Christian....1 John 3:3-8
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 1e, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 1e, 1890, par. 5
Righteousness of Christ imputed to men means holiness, uprightness, purity. Unless Christ’s righteousness was imputed to us, we could not have acceptable repentance. The righteousness dwelling in us by faith consists of love, forbearance, meekness, and all the Christian virtues. Here the righteousness of Christ is laid hold of and becomes a part of our being. All who have this righteousness will work the works of God. “Verily, verily I say unto you, he that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also and greater works than these shall he do because I go unto my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask anything in my name, I will do it. If ye love me, keep my commandments.” [John 14:12-15.] “Little children, let no man deceive you: He that doeth righteousness is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil.” [1 John 3:7, 8.]6LtMs, Lt 1e, 1890, par. 9
“Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself even as he is pure.” [1 John 3:3.] Any hope aside and separate from purity and righteousness is a snare of Satan’s sophistry and fatal delusions. Jesus came to our world and graciously stands inviting us to come unto Him and learn of Him. Believe in Him, and as we come, He grafts us into His life and into His character. Our drawing nigh to Christ is faith, and the grafting process is adoption; and by this mutual act we become sons of God and joint heirs with Christ, partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.1 John 3:3-10
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 30, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 30, 1895, par. 15
“And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil: for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. ... In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.” [1 John 3:3-8, 10.]1 John 3:3-18
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 13, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 13, 1893, par. 41
When you truly repent of sin, you will not be satisfied to acknowledge simply that you are sinful and let the matter rest there. Do you intend to remain sinful while life shall last? Do you mean to violate your conscience? Do you mean to do evil always? What does the Lord say to those who have had light, and yet have failed to live in accordance with it? “Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.” “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” [Verses 17, 10.] There is a repentance of sin that needeth not to be repented of. “And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” [1 John 3:3.]8LtMs, Lt 13, 1893, par. 42
Does this text mean that the human agent can remove one stain of sin from his soul? No. Then what does it mean to purify himself? It means to look upon the Lord’s great moral standard of righteousness, the holy law of God, and see that he is a sinner in the light of that law. “Whoso committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law, and ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins, and in him is no sin.” [Verses 4, 5.] It is through faith in Jesus Christ that the truth is accepted in the heart, and the human agent is purified and cleansed.8LtMs, Lt 13, 1893, par. 43
Jesus was “wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.” [Isaiah 53:5.] Is it possible to be healed, while knowingly committing sin? No, it is genuine faith that says, I know that I have committed sin, but that Jesus has pardoned my sin, and hereafter I will resist temptation in and through His might. “Every man hath this hope in him (abiding in him) purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” [1 John 3:3.] He has an abiding principle in the soul that enables him to overcome temptation. “Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not.” [Verse 6.] God has power to keep the soul that is in Christ [when that soul] is under temptation.8LtMs, Lt 13, 1893, par. 44
“Whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him.” [Verse 6.] That is, every one who is a true believer is sanctified through the truth in life and character. “Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth (not professeth to do) righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.” [Verse 7.] “Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin ... because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil.” Now mark where the distinction is made: “Whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.” [Verses 9, 10.] “My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.” [Verse 18.]8LtMs, Lt 13, 1893, par. 45
A mere profession of godliness is worthless. It is he that abideth in Christ that is a Christian. “For every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” [Verse 3.] In every clime, in every nation, our youth should co-operate with God. The only way a person can be pure is to become like-minded with God. How can we know God? By studying His Word. “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.] Unless the mind of God becomes the mind of man, every effort to purify himself will be useless, for it is impossible to elevate man except through a knowledge of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 101, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 101, 1893, par. 4
Is that genuine faith that says, “I know that I am commiting sins, but Jesus Christ hath pardoned my sins,” and when they are tempted they do not resist the temptation, but sin just the same as before? Is there any virtue in that man’s religion? “He that hath this hope in him”—abiding principle in the soul—“purifieth himself even as He is pure. ... Whosoever abideth in Him sinneth not.” [1 John 3:3, 6.] Here is the power of God to keep the soul in Christ under temptation, “Whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither know him.” [Verse 6.] That is, every human agent that claims to believe the truth, if the truth is in his heart, it sanctifies the life and character.8LtMs, Lt 101, 1893, par. 5
“Little children let no man deceive you: He that doeth (not professeth) righteousness, even he is righteous.” “Whosoever is born of God, doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil.” Now mark the distinction, “Whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.” “My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.” [Verses 7, 9, 10, 18.]8LtMs, Lt 101, 1893, par. 6
All the profession made of being children of God is valueless unless you are abiding in Christ. “Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” [Verse 3.] Our youth in every clime, in every nation, can cooperate with God. The only means of purifying man is to make him like-minded with God. How can he know God? By studying His Word. “And this is life eternal that they might know thee the only true God and Jesus Christ whom thou has sent.” [John 17:3.] Unless the mind of God becomes the mind of man, every effort made to purify and uplift him will be vain. To elevate man without belief and knowledge of God is impossible. The outward gloss may be put on, as Jesus described the Pharisees as whited sepulchers, but within are dead men’s bones. There may be outward polish, but inward corruption. All is deformity in the eyes of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 69, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 69, 1897, par. 13
“Little children, let no man deceive you, he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. ... In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother. For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous.” [1 John 3:3-7, 10-12.]12LtMs, Lt 69, 1897, par. 15
Every man that is saved will have lived a Christian life, doing God service. It will be by putting His Word into the daily life. “Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whose hath this world’s goods, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue, but in deed and in truth.” [1 John 3:16-18.] In pure well-being, and actual well-doing, you may become a new man, wiser, happier, and blessed in Christ Jesus. You may show your life to be transformed into a pure life. “That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.” [Philippians 2:15.]1 John 3:3-24
The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 55—Transformed by Grace
AA 559.2
John was a teacher of holiness, and in his letters to the church he laid down unerring rules for the conduct of Christians. “Every man that hath this hope in him,” he wrote, “purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” “He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.” 1 John 3:3; 2:6. He taught that the Christian must be pure in heart and life. Never should he be satisfied with an empty profession. As God is holy in His sphere, so fallen man, through faith in Christ, is to be holy in his sphere.AA 562.3
There are those who profess holiness, who declare that they are wholly the Lord’s, who claim a right to the promises of God, while refusing to render obedience to His commandments. These transgressors of the law claim everything that is promised to the children of God; but this is presumption on their part, for John tells us that true love for God will be revealed in obedience to all His commandments. It is not enough to believe the theory of truth, to make a profession of faith in Christ, to believe that Jesus is no impostor, and that the religion of the Bible is no cunningly devised fable. “He that saith, I know Him, and keepeth not His commandments,” John wrote, “is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth His word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in Him.” “He that keepeth His commandments dwelleth in Him, and He in him.” 1 John 2:4, 5; 3:24.AA 563.1
John did not teach that salvation was to be earned by obedience; but that obedience was the fruit of faith and love. “Ye know that He was manifested to take away our sins,” he said, “and in Him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in Him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen Him, neither known Him.” 1 John 3:5, 6. If we abide in Christ, if the love of God dwells in the heart, our feelings, our thoughts, our actions, will be in harmony with the will of God. The sanctified heart is in harmony with the precepts of God’s law.1 John 3:4
Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
The Work to Be Done for Our Children
CT 169.1
Teach the youth that sin in any line is defined in the Scriptures as “transgression of the law.” 1 John 3:4.... Teach them in simple language that they must be obedient to their parents and give their hearts to God. Jesus Christ is waiting to accept and bless them if they will only come to Him and ask Him to pardon all their transgressions and take away their sins. And when they ask Him to pardon all their transgressions they must believe that He does it.Reflecting Christ
The New Covenant Promise, February 23
RC 68.4
The beloved disciple, who listened to the words of Jesus on the mount, writing long afterward under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, speaks of the law as of perpetual obligation. He says that “sin is the transgression of the law” and that “whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law” (1 John 3:4). He makes it plain that the law to which he refers is “an old commandment which ye had from the beginning” (chap. 2:7). He is speaking of the law that existed at the creation and was reiterated upon Mount Sinai....Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 27—The Character of the Law of God
1SM 219.1
“By the law is the knowledge of sin” (Romans 3:20); for “sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4). It is through the law that men are convicted of sin; and they must feel themselves sinners, exposed to the wrath of God, before they will realize their need of a Saviour. Satan is continually at work to lessen man’s estimate of the grievous character of sin. And those who trample the law of God under their feet are doing the work of the great deceiver; for they are rejecting the only rule by which they can define sin, and bring it home to the conscience of the transgressor.Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 48—The Divine Standard
1SM 320.1
The commandments of God are comprehensive and far reaching; in a few words they unfold the whole duty of man. “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength.... Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself” (Mark 12:30, 31). In these words the length and breadth, the depth and height, of the law of God is comprehended; for Paul declares, “Love is the fulfilling of the law” (Romans 13:10). The only definition we find in the Bible for sin is that “sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4). The Word of God declares, “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). “There is none that doeth good, no, not one” (Romans 3:12). Many are deceived concerning the condition of their hearts. They do not realize that the natural heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked. They wrap themselves about with their own righteousness, and are satisfied in reaching their own human standard of character; but how fatally they fail when they do not reach the divine standard, and of themselves they cannot meet the requirements of God.That I May Know Him
The Mystery of Sin, January 9
TMK 15.2
It is impossible to explain the origin of sin so as to give a reason for its existence. Yet enough may be understood concerning both the origin and the final disposition of sin, to make fully manifest the justice and benevolence of God in all His dealings with evil. Nothing is more plainly taught in Scripture than that God was in no wise responsible for the entrance of sin.... Sin is an intruder, for whose presence no reason can be given. It is mysterious, unaccountable; to excuse it, is to defend it. Could excuse for it be found, or cause be shown for its existence, it would cease to be sin. Our only definition of sin is that given in the word of God; it is “the transgression of the law;” (1 John 3:4) it is the outworking of a principle at war with the great law of love which is the foundation of the divine government.19The Great Controversy, 492, 493.The Faith I Live By
The Gospel for Both Dispensations, March 23
FLB 88.2
Since the fall of Adam, it has been the fashion of the world to sin, and it is for our interest to know what sin is. John declares: “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.” 1 John 3:4.93The Youth’s Instructor, October 20, 1898.The Faith I Live By
When Rebaptism Is Appropriate, May 22
FLB 148.2
There are many at the present day who have unwittingly violated one of the precepts of God’s law. When the understanding is enlightened, and the claims of the fourth commandment are urged upon the conscience, they see themselves sinners in the sight of God. “Sin is the transgression of the law” and he that shall “offend in one point, he is guilty of all.” 1 John 3:4; James 2:10.Faith and Works
What Sin Is
FW 31.2
The soul must first be convicted of sin before the sinner will feel a desire to come to Christ. “Sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4). “I had not known sin, but by the law” (Romans 7:7). When the commandment came home to Saul’s conscience, sin revived, and he died. He saw himself condemned by the law of God. The sinner cannot be convinced of his guilt unless he understands what constitutes sin. It is impossible for an individual to experience Bible sanctification while he holds that if he believes in Christ it is immaterial whether he obeys God’s law or disobeys it.The Voice in Speech and Song
Chapter 59—The Way of Salvation
VSS 342.1
Obedience to Parents and to God—Teach the youth that sin in any line is defined in the Scriptures as “transgression of the law.” 1 John 3:4.... Teach them in simple language that they must be obedient to their parents and give their hearts to God.—Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students, 169.Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.”—Matthew 5:17.
MB 48.2
The beloved disciple, who listened to the words of Jesus on the mount, writing long afterward under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, speaks of the law as of perpetual obligation. He says that “sin is the transgression of the law” and that “whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law.” 1 John 3:4. He makes it plain that the law to which he refers is “an old commandment which ye had from the beginning.” 1 John 2:7. He is speaking of the law that existed at the creation and was reiterated upon Mount Sinai.A New Life (Revival and Beyond)
Alienated and Reconciled—How Does It Happen?
NL 12.1
The first step in reconciliation to God is the conviction of sin. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” “By the law is the knowledge of sin” (1 John 3:4; Romans 3:20). In order to see his guilt, the sinner must test his character by God’s great standard of righteousness. It is a mirror which shows the perfection of a righteous character and enables him to discern the defects in his own.The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Chapter 112—Diary Entry—Christ Our Righteousness
1888 893.3
The apostle John, in his first epistle, gives the definition of sin, He declares: “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4).The Bible Echo
August 5, 1895
BEcho August 5, 1895, par. 4
We as Seventh-day Adventists have no apology to make to the world for daring to stand for the right. Christ says to His people, “Ye are the light of the world.” They are set as light-bearers on the way to heaven. They are to reflect to the world the light shining upon them from Christ. Their life, character, and teaching should be such that through them the world will get a right conception of Christ and of His service. They are here to lead men from the condemnation of sin to loyalty to God. And what is sin? Let the word of God answer: “Sin is the transgression of the law,” 1 John 3:4.The Signs of the Times
January 8, 1894
ST January 8, 1894, par. 5
The fall of Adam was a terrible thing, and the consequences of his sin so fraught with evil that language cannot portray it. By his disobedience of the divine law, the world was thrown into disorder and rebellion. Because of his disobedience, man was under the penalty of breaking the law, doomed to death. The only definition given in the word of God as to what is sin, is found in 1 John 3:4: “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law; for sin is the transgression of the law.” The law of God is that standard by which character is to be measured in the judgment. Do those who are contending that the first day of the week should be observed instead of the day commanded by Jehovah, understand what they are doing? Do they realize that they are leading men to trample upon one of the precepts of Jehovah?From Here to Forever
Conviction of Sin
HF 288.3
The first step in reconciliation to God is the conviction of sin. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” “By the law is the knowledge of sin.” 1 John 3:4; Romans 3:20. In order to see his guilt, the sinner must test his character by God’s mirror which shows the perfection of a righteous character and enables him to discern the defects in his own.True Revival
Alienated and Reconciled—How Does It Happen?
TR 21.2
The first step in reconciliation to God is the conviction of sin. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” “By the law is the knowledge of sin” (1 John 3:4; Romans 3:20). In order to see his guilt, the sinner must test his character by God’s great standard of righteousness. It is a mirror which shows the perfection of a righteous character and enables him to discern the defects in his own.The Great Hope (Condensed)
Conviction of Sin
GrH_c 26.1
The first step in reconciliation to God is the conviction of sin. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” “By the law is the knowledge of sin.” 1 John 3:4; Romans 3:20. In order to see his guilt, the sinner must test his character by God’s mirror which shows the perfection of a righteous character and enables him to discern the defects in his own.Faith and Works
The Fate of Transgressors
FW 117.2
A terrible doom awaits the sinner, and therefore it is necessary that we know what sin is, in order that we may escape from its power. John says, “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law; for sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4). Here we have the true definition of sin; it is “the transgression of the law.” How often the sinner is urged to leave his sins, and come to Jesus; but has the messenger who would lead him to Christ clearly pointed out the way? Has he clearly pointed out the fact that “sin is the transgression of the law,” and that he must repent and forsake the breaking of God’s commandments? ...Homeward Bound
The New Birth, March 26
HB 103.5
The first step in reconciliation to God is the conviction of sin. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” “By the law is the knowledge of sin.” (1 John 3:4; Romans 3:20.) In order to see their guilt, sinners must test their character by God’s great standard of righteousness. It is a mirror which shows the perfection of a righteous character and enables them to discern the defects in their own.—The Great Controversy, 466, 467.Homeward Bound
God’s Law Is Eternal, June 8
HB 181.3
The beloved disciple, who listened to the words of Jesus on the mount, writing long afterward under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, speaks of the law as of perpetual obligation. He says that “sin is the transgression of the law” and that “whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law.” (1 John 3:4.) He makes it plain that the law to which he refers is “an old commandment which ye had from the beginning.” (1 John 2:7.) He is speaking of the law that existed at the creation and was reiterated upon Mount Sinai.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 5, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 5, 1885, par. 4
God demands of us that we build a character that will stand the close test of the judgment. We will not have His protection in the time when the flood comes if at that time it is found that we have wasted the hours of probation granted us now to build characters for eternity. For the character which we now build is not only for time, but for eternity. Those that are set forth in this parable as building on the sand are they that feel that they are all right. They come right up before the Lord and say, I have done this, I have done that. “Many will say unto Me in that day, Lord, have we not prophesied in Thy name, and in Thy name cast out devils, and in Thy name done many wonderful works?” But this goes for nothing to the Lord. “Then will I profess unto them, I never knew you, depart from Me, ye workers of iniquity.” [Matthew 7:22, 23.] What is iniquity? Sin. And what is sin? Sin, says the beloved John, is the transgression of the law. [1 John 3:4.] Here is a class that are transgressing the law of God, and at the same time they come to Him, boasting of what they have done, expecting His favor. And it is this class that is here represented as building on the sand. They have erected a standard of their own. What is a perfect standard of character? The only standard ever given to man is the law of God, His holy commandments. If we have been building upon this rock, it will stand the test. If we have been erecting a standard of our own, and claim by that standard that we are perfect and that we have reached perfect righteousness and holiness, we shall know in the day of God. No one will claim that he is perfect and holy, if he trembles before the exalted standard of God. Is it safe to do this, and cast aside the immutable [law] of God, and then to claim to be holy?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 23, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 23, 1885, par. 23
Can we wonder that under the ministry of those who make void the law of God and trample it under their feet the world is corrupted, that religion is defiled, that sin runs riot? Can we not see that where there is no law there is no sin, for sin is the transgression of the law? First (John 3:4) gives the only definition in the Bible of sin—“Sin is the transgression of the law.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 89, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 89, 1886, par. 9
But the position taken by the largest number in the Christian world is that because Christ died the royal law of God is no longer in force. This was true of the law of types and shadows, but His laws are as enduring as His own throne. We cannot say otherwise than the Christian world is in a fatal deception on Satan’s side, warring against the government of God just as Satan is doing. Unless they repent of sin, which the Scripture declares is the transgression of the law [1 John 3:4], they will stand no higher in the day of final judgment than the sinners who did not claim to be children of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 21, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 21, 1891, par. 15
The apostle John, in his first epistle, gives the definition of sin. He declares: “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 33, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 33, 1893, par. 12
And yet ministers will advocate that we have no law, and misinterpret the precious Scriptures, wresting them to their own destruction. Christ’s death on Calvary’s cross which exalts the law and makes it honorable, testifying to its immutability, is through the lies of Satan presented to the people that Christ’s death on the Cross abolished the law. O, what fallacy, that Christ died to immortalize sin. The only definition of sin is “transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.] Therefore, if the law is dead, Satan has had his way, hell has triumphed, and sin, the transgression of the law, has become universal. O, what an awakening there will be ere long, when the transgressor shall meet the great Law Giver over His broken law. What bewitching delusions Satan can manufacture and palm off on the world as truth to be obeyed in order to be saved.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 2, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 2, 1893, par. 18
The only interpretation of sin is “the transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.] [When the sinner says,] “I have broken it,” he looks up to [the] cross of Calvary, and rolls it off on the very foot of the cross. What is it? Why mercy and truth have met together and righteousness and peace have kissed each other. O, praise Him with your voice! Let things animate and inanimate praise God! Satan says, You are a sinner. And the individual looks up to the cross and says, It is because I have sinned against God. Are you saved? You can come to Jesus, and He will save you. He is drawing you to look and live. Look to [the] Lamb of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 110, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 110, 1893, par. 3
The power who did this sacrilegious work is named of God “the man of sin.” [2 Thessalonians 2:3.] 1 John 3:4: “Whosoever commiteth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. ... Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed (the words of God) remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 20, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 20, 1894, par. 23
Every soul that believes in Jesus Christ as his personal Saviour, what then? Then the love flows from the heart of God to his heart. What does that heart do then? It turns to serve God and keep His commandments lest they will be found as Adam and Eve were after their transgression. We cannot afford that. We cannot afford to sin. Sin is an expensive business. The wages of sin is death. And what is sin? “Sin is the transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.] That is the only definition of sin in the Bible. We do not want to be found sinners.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 43, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 43, 1894, par. 17
Well, what is sin? Every minister in our land is obliged to tell him, if they are true shepherds, what sin is. John says, “Sin is the transgression of the law,” and the Word of God declares that where there is no [law], there is no transgression. [1 John 3:4; Romans 4:15.] God wants every one of us to have a living connection with Jesus Christ, and if we have a living connection with Him we shall be saved, “for God so loved the world that he gave.” Now you see He did not love the world because He gave, “He so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not”—oh, that word is of immense value, “should not perish, but have everlasting life”—a life that measures with the life of God, and runs parallel with the life of Jehovah. [John 3:16.] Can we ask more than this as our reward of obedience? Well then, what are we to do? We say, I believe in Him; I accept Him as my Saviour.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 56, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 56, 1894, par. 5
Christ came to our world to die for the sins of the world, to testify to every son and daughter of Adam the immutability of the law of God, and to proclaim the holy indignation of God against sin which is “the transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.] The law of God is the standard of perfection of character. After the fall of our first parents, it was written upon stone by the finger of God and given to man. The law of God was broken by the transgression of the inhabitants of the earth, and Christ alone could be a propitiation for our sins. The guiltless suffered for the guilty. The wrath of God against sin fell upon the Substitute who was innocent of any disloyalty. But He suffered at the hands of man imbued by the spirit of demons. The people became agents of the enemy and through them, God allowed the prince of hell to bruise His only beloved Son, and the words were fulfilled, “Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow.” [Zechariah 13:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 34, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 34, 1896, par. 2
Jesus Christ is the Restorer. The apostate, Satan, is the destroyer. Here is the conflict between the Prince of life and the prince of this world, the power of darkness. How can we doubt this when our Lord and Saviour left the courts of heaven, laid aside His royal robe and His royal crown, and clothed His divinity with humanity, that He might stand as the substitute and surety for men, bearing their guilt and their sin. He intended that a greater work should be done in behalf of man than we have yet seen. He did not intend that such large numbers should choose to stand under the banner of Satan and be enrolled as rebels against the government of God. He has no pleasure in the death of the wicked. The world’s Redeemer did not design that His purchased inheritance should live and die in their sins. What, then, is the matter? Why are so few reached and saved? It is because so many of those who profess to be Christians are working in the same lines as the great apostate. They let Satan devise and plan for them. He makes them apostates, disloyal to God, because rebels against His precepts and His laws. This brings severe, taxing labor upon the true Christian. He must convince the transgressor that he is a sinner, because “sin is the transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]
MR No. 735—Preparing for Heaven
9MR 249.1
Christ, Not the Law, Saves us—But now we want to present to you the words of Christ, how He taught His disciples to preach repentance and remission of sin. And we read that Paul went from house to house teaching the people. He says, “I have not failed to preach to them ‘repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ’” (see Acts 20:21). Now this is the work we are to do, and we want to have this testimony borne everywhere. You need not talk about getting along without any law, and yet know what sin is. The only definition of sin given in the Bible is: “Sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4). But you must repent toward God. And why? Because you have broken His law. And then you must have faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. We see there is nothing in [the] law to save us, but Christ has become man’s substitute and surety. He has worked out man’s redemption. Then what must man do? He must repent, because he has broken God’s holy law. It is just as necessary that we should keep that law as it was for Adam and Eve to keep that law in Eden....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 141a, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 141a, 1897, par. 27
What is sin? “Sin is the transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.] In acting out his principles, the man of sin “exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshiped, so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself to be God.” [2 Thessalonians 2:4.] So the prophet writes of Satan, “How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! How art thou cut down to the earth which did weaken the nations. For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God. ... I will be like the Most High. Yea, thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit. They that look upon thee shall narrowly look upon thee, and consider thee, saying, Is this the man that made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms?” [Isaiah 14:12-16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 104, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 104, 1897, par. 6
Teach the youth that sin in any line is defined in the Scriptures as “transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.] Sin originated with the first great apostate. He was a disobedient subject. He led the family of heaven into disobedience, and he and all who were united with him were cast out of the Paradise of God. Teach the children in simple language that they must be obedient to their parents and give their hearts to God. Jesus Christ is waiting to accept and bless them if they will only come to Him and ask Him to pardon all their transgressions and take away their sins. And when they ask Him to pardon all their transgression, they must believe that He will do it.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 27, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 27, 1899, par. 1
The Lord has taken infinite pains to teach men by giving them His law. This law is to govern the world. It demands perfect obedience from rich and poor, high and low. Its divine requirement is that we love God supremely and our neighbor as ourselves. Its principles are binding upon the angels and upon all human intelligences. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.] This is the only definition of sin. Without the law there can be no transgression. “By the law is the knowledge of sin.” [Romans 3:20.] The standard of righteousness is exceeding broad, prohibiting every evil thing.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 59, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 59, 1899, par. 12
John has given us the definition of sin: “Whosoever committeth sin,” he declares, “transgresseth also the law.” [1 John 3:4.] And this was after the crucifixion of Christ, when, we are told, the law was abolished. When type met antitype in the death of Christ, sacrificial offerings ceased; the ceremonial law was done away. But by the crucifixion of Christ the law of ten commandments was established. Let us compare our lives and characters with this great moral standard, God’s just and holy law; for it is the standard by which we shall be judged in the last great day. Looking into this great mirror we should carefully examine our thoughts and works.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 83, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 83, 1899, par. 3
God imparts His power to those who believe in the One who gave His life for the life of the world. Through His appointed agencies He is convincing the world of sin—“the transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.] Christ is glorified as the One who exalted the law and made it honorable in that He permitted not the law to be changed to save man from perishing, but instead gave Himself as a sacrifice for sin, that by suffering the penalty of the broken law in His own body, He might reconcile God to man and man to God. God’s law stands firm, unimpeached by Satan, pure, changeless, perfect, immutable—the great moral standard for every created intelligence.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 38, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 38, 1899, par. 18
The Lord works and His servants work, watching for souls as they that must give an account. The promised Spirit comes from God, who gives the increase. God sends His servants to a place, and they must work with all their united energies to present the Word in its simplicity. The conscience is enlightened. A sense of sin is felt. The explanation of sin is given as John has given it, “Sin is the transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.] Most earnest work is to be done in every place where camp meetings are held. There are now in Brisbane, as the result of the camp meeting and the gathering-in work, about forty believers and others are being added to the number.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 90, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 90, 1900, par. 13
To all who engage heart and soul in this work, Christ says, “I am with you in this work to guide, comfort, sanctify, and sustain you. I will render you successful in awakening the attention of men to a purpose. Your success will be of the Lord in convincing and convicting men of what constitutes sin, that they shall believe in Me, and know that all sin is the transgression of the law of God. Your work is to preach, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.” “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” [1 John 3:4.] “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. ... If a man love me he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me.” [John 14:21, 23, 24.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 98, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 98, 1900, par. 9
What is sin? “The transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.] God denounces Babylon, “because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.” [Revelation 14:8.] This means that she has disregarded the only commandment which points out the true God, and has torn down the Sabbath, God’s memorial of creation.Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]
MR No. 747—Christ Our Righteousness
9MR 296.3
The apostle John, in his first Epistle, gives the definition of sin. He declares: “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law” (1 John 3:4).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 143, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, par. 9
The world’s Redeemer declares, “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” [John 15:10.] “I counsel thee,” saith the True Witness, “to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear.” [Revelation 3:18.] Christ’s righteousness will not cover the unrighteousness of any one. “All unrighteousness is sin,” and “sin is the transgression of the law” [1 John 5:17; 3:4], therefore, those who are breaking the law of God and teaching others to break it will not be covered with the garments of Christ’s righteousness. He came not to save men in their sins, but from their sins. ...Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 1, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 1, 1902, par. 1
The rebellion against God’s law was begun by Satan in heaven. By this rebellion sin was brought into existence. There is only one definition of sin. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 51, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 51, 1902, par. 7
In the clear light of the Word of God, we may read plainly the meaning of sin. John declares that sin is “the transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.] Paul tells us that he had not known sin but by the law. When the commandment came home to his conscience, he saw sin in its true character, and he died to sin to live unto Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 8, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 8, 1902, par. 20
Concerning such teachers Peter writes: “While they promise liberty, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.” [2 Peter 2:19.] What is the freedom promised to those who become transgressors of the law? It is a freedom to commit sin; for John tells us, “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 38, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 38, 1906, par. 16
Here is where the man of sin finds his place in prophecy. What is sin? The Lord defines it as “the transgression of the law” [1 John 3:4]—the law of Him who holds the life of every human being in His hands and by whom every one will be judged according to his works. Hereafter, when the Lord shall come in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory, every man will know who God is. Those who have trampled upon His law will then realize the sinfulness of sin.Jesus, Name Above All Names
Giver of the Law, August 4
JNN 230.4
The beloved disciple, who listened to the words of Jesus on the mount, writing long afterward under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, speaks of the law as of perpetual obligation. He says that “sin is the transgression of the law” and that “whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law” (1 John 3:4). He makes it plain that the law to which he refers is “an old commandment which ye had from the beginning” (1 John 2:7). He is speaking of the law that existed at the creation and was reiterated upon Mount Sinai.—Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing, 47, 48.Our High Calling
Blending the Law and Gospel, May 15
OHC 141.3
What is to bring the sinner to the knowledge of his sins unless he knows what sin is? The only definition of sin in the Word of God is given us in 1 John 3:4. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” The sinner must be made to feel that he is a transgressor. Christ dying upon the cross of Calvary is drawing his attention. Why did Christ die? Because it was the only means for man to be saved.... He took upon Himself our sins that He might impute His righteousness to all who believe in Him.... The goodness and the love of God lead the sinner to repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. The awakened sinner ... is pointed to the law he has transgressed. It calls to him to repent, yet there is no saving quality in law to pardon the transgression of law, and his case seems hopeless. But the law draws him to Christ. However deep are his sins of transgression, the blood of Jesus Christ can cleanse him from all sin....1 John 3:4-5
Reflecting Christ
True Charity Will Not Compromise With Evil, February 21
RC 66.1
Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. 1 John 3:4, 5.The Faith I Live By
Clothed in His Righteousness, April 17
FLB 113.3
This robe, woven in the loom of heaven, has in it not one thread of human devising. Christ in His humanity wrought out a perfect character, and this character He offers to impart to us. “All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.” Isaiah 64:6. Everything that we of ourselves can do is defiled by sin. But the Son of God “was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin.” Sin is defined to be “the transgression of the law.” 1 John 3:5, 4. But Christ was obedient to every requirement of the law....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 88, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 88, 1898, par. 13
Those who claim to preach Christ, while they declare that the law of God is abrogated, do not preach the truth. Had not God’s law been unchangeable, Christ need not have suffered on Calvary. He died that the transgressor of the law might be pardoned and return to his loyalty. He took human nature upon Himself, and suffered for us, that we might have another trial, that we might be given opportunity to leave the banner of rebellion and stand under the banner of the Prince of light. And He declared, “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” [John 15:10.] In Him is no sin. “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law, for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sin, and in him is no sin.” [1 John 3:4, 5.] Christ’s sacrifice would have converted the world to truth if false teachers had not upheld false doctrines, making it appear a virtue to trample on the law of Jehovah.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 162, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 162, 1899, par. 17
“Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law; for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins, and in him is no sin.” [1 John 3:4, 5.] Christ never violated the smallest precept of the law; therefore in Him there is no sin. For this reason He could become the Sin-bearer of the race. He was not overcome by the temptations of the enemy. He discerned the true character of Satan and stripped from him his disguise of an angel of light. He denounced every abominable practice in the land. It was this that awakened against Him the hatred of the whole synagogue of Satan.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 134, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 134, 1899, par. 30
How great was the sacrifice made by God to bring man back to his loyalty to heaven. All unrighteousness is sin. John writes, “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And we know that he was manifested to take away our sins, in whom was no sin.” [1 John 3:4, 5.] When we contemplate the remedy God has provided for the sins of the human race, we shall discern what might have been done, but which has not been done because of unbelief.1 John 3:4-6
The Great Controversy
Chapter 27—Modern Revivals
GC 467.3
The first step in reconciliation to God is the conviction of sin. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” “By the law is the knowledge of sin.” 1 John 3:4; Romans 3:20. In order to see his guilt, the sinner must test his character by God’s great standard of righteousness. It is a mirror which shows the perfection of a righteous character and enables him to discern the defects in his own.GC 472.3
Let none deceive themselves with the belief that they can become holy while willfully violating one of God’s requirements. The commission of a known sin silences the witnessing voice of the Spirit and separates the soul from God. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” And “whosoever sinneth [transgresseth the law] hath not seen Him, neither known Him.” 1 John 3:6. Though John in his epistles dwells so fully upon love, yet he does not hesitate to reveal the true character of that class who claim to be sanctified while living in transgression of the law of God. “He that saith, I know Him, and keepeth not His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth His word, in him verily is the love of God perfected.” 1 John 2:4, 5. Here is the test of every man’s profession. We cannot accord holiness to any man without bringing him to the measurement of God’s only standard of holiness in heaven and in earth. If men feel no weight of the moral law, if they belittle and make light of God’s precepts, if they break one of the least of these commandments, and teach men so, they shall be of no esteem in the sight of Heaven, and we may know that their claims are without foundation.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 27—Modern Revivals
GC88 467.2
The first step in reconciliation to God, is the conviction of sin. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” “By the law is the knowledge of sin.” [1 John 3:4; Romans 3:20.] In order to see his guilt, the sinner must test his character by God’s great standard of righteousness. It is a mirror which shows the perfection of a righteous character, and enables him to discern the defects in his own.GC88 472.3
Let none deceive themselves with the belief that they can become holy while willfully violating one of God’s requirements. The commission of a known sin silences the witnessing voice of the Spirit, and separates the soul from God. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” And “whosoever sinneth [transgresseth the law] hath not seen him, neither known him.” [1 John 3:6.] Though John in his epistles dwells so fully upon love, yet he does not hesitate to reveal the true character of that class who claim to be sanctified while living in transgression of the law of God. “He that saith, I know Him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected.” [1 John 2:4, 5.] Here is the test of every man’s profession. We cannot accord holiness to any man without bringing him to the measurement of God’s only standard of holiness in Heaven and in earth. If men feel no weight of the moral law, if they belittle and make light of God’s precepts, if they break one of the least of these commandments, and teach men so, they shall be of no esteem in the sight of Heaven, and we may know that their claims are without foundation.The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4
Chapter 22—Modern Revivals
4SP 297.3
The law of God is an agent in every genuine conversion. There can be no true repentance without conviction of sin. The Scriptures declare that “sin is the transgression of the law,” [1 John 3:4.] and that “by the law is the knowledge of sin.” [Romans 3:20.] In order to see his guilt, the sinner must test his character by God’s great standard of righteousness. To discover his defects, he must look into the mirror of the divine statutes. But while the law reveals his sins, it provides no remedy. The gospel of Christ alone can offer pardon. In order to stand forgiven, the sinner must exercise repentance toward God, whose law has been transgressed, and faith in Christ, his atoning sacrifice. Without true repentance, there can be no true conversion. Many are deceived here, and too often their entire experience proves to be a deception. This is why so many who are joined to the church have never been joined to Christ.4SP 299.2
It is only when the law of God is set aside, and men have no standard of right, no means to detect sin, that erring mortals can claim perfect holiness. But let none deceive themselves with the belief that God will accept and bless them while they are willfully violating one of his requirements. The commission of a known sin silences the witnessing voice of the Spirit, and separates the soul from God. Jesus cannot abide in the heart that disregards the divine law. God will honor those only who honor him. “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law; for sin is the transgression of the law.” “Whosoever abideth in Him sinneth not; whosoever sinneth [transgresseth the law] hath not seen him, neither known him.” [1 John 3:4, 6.] Though John in his epistles treats so fully upon love, yet he does not hesitate to reveal the true character of that class who claim to be sanctified while living in transgression of the law of God: “He that saith, I know Him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” [1 John 2:4.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 31, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 31, 1886, par. 5
What is sin? John defines it in these words, “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law; for sin is the transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.] Obedience to the law is the standard held up before us. There is no reason why we should be transgressors. We may be Christians in every sense of the word. By constant prayer we are to bring Christ into our lives. From Him we are to receive the grace that will enable us to overcome. Only by receiving this grace can we go on from strength to strength and gain a fitness for eternal life. We shall have conflicts and temptations to meet, and we are to meet them in the Spirit of Christ. The Saviour says, “My grace is sufficient.” [2 Corinthians 12:9.]4LtMs, Ms 31, 1886, par. 8
It should be our highest aim in life to get ready for heaven. Sanctification is not the work of a moment, but of a lifetime. The sinner must repent of his sin and come to Jesus for pardon. The promise is, “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” [1 John 1:9.] “We know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him is no sin.” “Whosoever abideth in Him sinneth not.” [1 John 3:5, 6.] Many are deceived on this point. Their minds are confused, and they do not know what sin is. But they can know, by studying the Word of God.Our Father Cares
True Followers Obey God’s Law, November 4
OFC 320.1
Sin is the transgression of the law. 1 John 3:4.OFC 320.4
The commission of a known sin silences the witnessing voice of the Spirit and separates the soul from God. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” And “whosoever sinneth [transgresseth the law] hath not seen him, neither known him” (1 John 3:6). Though John in his Epistles dwells so fully upon love, yet he does not hesitate to reveal the true character of that class who claim to be sanctified while living in transgression of the law of God. “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected” (chap. 2:4, 5).Reflecting Christ
True Followers Obey God’s Law, February 4
RC 49.1
Sin is the transgression of the law. 1 John 3:4.RC 49.4
The commission of a known sin silences the witnessing voice of the Spirit and separates the soul from God. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” And “whosoever sinneth [transgresseth the law] hath not seen him, neither known him” (1 John 3:6). Though John in his Epistles dwells so fully upon love, yet he does not hesitate to reveal the true character of that class who claim to be sanctified while living in transgression of the law of God. “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected” (chap. 2:4, 5).Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1539—Christ’s Sacrifice Testifies to Permanence of God’s Law
21MR 194.4
What is the justice of God? It is the holiness of God in relation to sin. Christ bore the sins of the world in man’s behalf that the sinner might have another trial, with all the divine opportunities and advantages which God has provided in man’s behalf. “Whosoever committeth sin,” says John, “transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that He was manifested to take away our sins; and in Him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in Him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen Him, neither known Him” [1 John 3:4-6].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 145, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 145, 1897, par. 9
The transgression of God’s law in a single instance, in the smallest particular, is sin. And the non-execution of the penalty of that sin would be a crime in the divine administration. God is a Judge, the avenger of justice, which is the habitation and foundation of His throne. He cannot dispense with His law, He cannot do away with its smallest item in order to meet and pardon sin. The rectitude and justice and moral excellence of the law must be maintained and vindicated before the heavenly universe and the worlds unfallen. What is the justice of God? It is the holiness of God in relation to sin. Christ bore the sins of the world in man’s behalf, that the sinner might have another trial, with all the divine opportunities and advantages which God has provided in man’s behalf. “Whosoever committeth sin,” says John, “transgresseth also the law; for sin is the transgression of the law. And we know that he was manifest to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him.” [1 John 3:4-6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 139, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 139, 1898, par. 44
Christ our Redeemer gave Himself for us, that He might deliver us from the curse of sin. Sin is defined as “the transgression of the law.” We read, “Whoso committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And we know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him: neither known him.” [1 John 3:4-6.]1 John 3:4-7
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 55, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 55, 1895, par. 21
It is evident what power and spirit stirs up the people to such intense bitterness against the holy law of God. Certainly it is not the spirit of Jesus who declared Himself to be the Lord of the Sabbath day. It certainly could not be the representative of the Lord Jesus who declared, “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father’s commandments, and abide in His love.” John 15:10; 1 John 3:4, 5, 7.1 John 3:4-8
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 143, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 143, 1897, par. 10
The enmity referred to in the prophecy in Eden was not to be confined merely to Satan and the Prince of life. It was to be universal. Satan and his angels were to feel the enmity of all mankind. “I will put enmity,” said God, “between thee and the woman, between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.” [Genesis 3:15.] The seed of Satan is wicked men, who resist the Spirit of God, and who call the law, as did their father the devil, a yoke of bondage. “Sin is transgression of the law,” said Christ. “He that committeth sin is of the devil.” [1 John 3:4, 8.]To Be Like Jesus
Genuine Sanctification Involves Obedience, February 28
BLJ 67.4
The New Testament has not changed the law of God. The sacredness of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment is as firmly established as the throne of Jehovah. John writes: “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth [transgresseth the law] hath not seen him, neither known him” (1 John 3:4-6).BLJ 67.5
We are authorized to hold in the same estimation as did the beloved disciple those who claim to abide in Christ, to be sanctified, while living in transgression of God’s law. He met with just such a class as we have to meet. He said, “Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning” (Verses 7, 8). Here the apostle speaks in plain terms, as he deemed the subject demanded.The Sanctified Life
God Has Not Changed
SL 68.2
The New Testament has not changed the law of God. The sacredness of the Sabbath of the fourth commandment is as firmly established as the throne of Jehovah. John writes: “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth [transgresseth the law] hath not seen him, neither known him” (1 John 3:4-6). We are authorized to hold in the same estimation as did the beloved disciple those who claim to abide in Christ, to be sanctified, while living in transgression of God’s law. He met with just such a class as we have to meet. He said, “Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning” (verses 7, 8). Here the apostle speaks in plain terms, as he deemed the subject demanded.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 33, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 33, 1900, par. 27
“Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law, for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not; whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.” [1 John 3:4-8.]1 John 3:4-10
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 120, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 120, 1903, par. 4
“This then is the message which we have heard of Him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth; but if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” [Verses 5-7.] It speaks of that which every soul may experience. What is sin? John tells us in plain, decided language. “Sin is the transgression of the law.” “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law; for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that He was manifested to take away our sins; and in Him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in Him sinneth not; whosoever sinneth hath not seen Him, neither known Him. Little children, let no man deceive you; he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.” [1 John 3:4-8.]18LtMs, Ms 120, 1903, par. 11
“He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the work of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for His seed remaineth in him; and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.” [1 John 3:8, 9.]18LtMs, Ms 120, 1903, par. 14
“Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for His seed remaineth in him; and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil; whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.” [Verses 9, 10.]1 John 3:4-12
The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
The Visit to Washington, D C. Diary, December 19 to [30], 1890
1888 780.2
What is to bring the sinner to the knowledge of his sins unless he knows what sin is? The only definition of sin in the Word of God is given us in 1 John 3:4: “Sin is the transgression of the law.” The sinner must be made to feel that he is a transgressor. Christ dying upon the cross of Calvary is drawing his attention. Why did Christ die? Because it was the only means for man to be saved. He became our substitute and surety. He took upon Himself our sins that He might impute His own righteousness to all who believe in Him. The love of Jesus Christ displayed for man in the sufferings He endured on the cross of Calvary is a mystery even to the angelic host of heaven. Amazing love of the Father to give His Son to die to ransom the sinner! Oh, what love, what inexpressible love!1888 782.2
Some feel relieved after they have stamped down the righteous, holy law of Jehovah, as one minister described: “I feel better after giving the old law a run, and after denouncing it as a yoke of bondage. I pronounce it a bloody old law, dead and buried, and undeserving of a gravestone.” Is not this the very way Cain felt when he brought a sacrifice to God without the shedding of blood? He was so provoked with Abel that he could not tolerate him, because Abel did not accept his reasoning but followed the injunction of God. He mingled with his offering the blood of the victim representing the efficacious offering, the real person of Christ, as a Lamb without blemish. “Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother’s righteous.” 1 John 3:12.1 John 3:4-16
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 34, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 34, 1894, par. 18
“Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.” [1 John 3:16.] Our faith continually bears fruit testifying to its divine character in the intercourse of our daily home life. From morning until night husband and wife, father and mother, brothers and sisters, are to keep the pattern of the holy character of Christ in view, continually praying, “Be thou my pattern.” Hear the exhortation given in the Word of God, “Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it.” [Ephesians 5:25.]9LtMs, Lt 34, 1894, par. 42
In this day, children are called upon to listen to discourses that make void the law of God, and parents and children practice the principle that where there is no law, there is no transgression. But the only definition of sin that is given in the Guide Book is that “sin is the transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.] Many with mental capabilities who profess to love God [but] who have been in doubt, accept the words from their teachers who declare that the law of God is done away and that we have no law. These people practice the precepts of their teachers, and follow the example of their ministers.1 John 3:4-23
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 108, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 108, 1899, par. 24
“He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer; and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him. Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoso hath this world’s goods, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?” [1 John 3:10-12, 4-17.]14LtMs, Ms 108, 1899, par. 25
Take this question to your own hearts, and answer it as if before the Judge of all the earth. A reformation must take place in every church, in every institution. “Let us not love in word, neither in tongue, but in deed and in truth. And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God. And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment.” [Verses 18-23.]1 John 3:4-24
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 106, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 106, 1897, par. 17
By dying on the cross Christ gave His life as an offering for sin, that through His power man might turn from his sins, become converted, and be a laborer together with God. Greater love than this can never be shown. More could not be done than has been done to demonstrate the immutability of the law of God. Christ did not die to abolish the law or to detract in the slightest degree from its influence or power. He died to exalt the law and make it honorable. Full of goodness, compassion, and love, He hated only one thing—sin, “the transgression of the law.” [1 John 3:4.] In the very act of dying to save that which was lost, Christ reached the perfect standard of obedience as our Substitute and Surety. His death exemplified the curse of sin.12LtMs, Ms 106, 1897, par. 20
If we obey the commandments of God, we receive our emancipation from sin. “Whatsoever we ask of Him, we receive, because we keep His commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. And this is his commandment, That we believe on the name of His Son Jesus Christ, and love one another as He gave us commandment. And he that keepeth His commandments dwelleth in Him, and he in Him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which He hath given us.” [1 John 3:22-24.]Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 24—Without a Wedding Garment
COL 311.4
This robe, woven in the loom of heaven, has in it not one thread of human devising. Christ in His humanity wrought out a perfect character, and this character He offers to impart to us. “All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.” Isaiah 64:6. Everything that we of ourselves can do is defiled by sin. But the Son of God “was manifested to take away our sins; and in Him is no sin.” Sin is defined to be “the transgression of the law.” 1 John 3:5, 4. But Christ was obedient to every requirement of the law. He said of Himself, “I delight to do Thy will, O My God; yea, Thy law is within My heart.” Psalm 40:8. When on earth, He said to His disciples, “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” John 15:10. By His perfect obedience He has made it possible for every human being to obey God’s commandments. When we submit ourselves to Christ, the heart is united with His heart, the will is merged in His will, the mind becomes one with His mind, the thoughts are brought into captivity to Him; we live His life. This is what it means to be clothed with the garment of His righteousness. Then as the Lord looks upon us He sees, not the fig-leaf garment, not the nakedness and deformity of sin, but His own robe of righteousness, which is perfect obedience to the law of Jehovah.COL 312.3
It is not enough for us to believe that Jesus is not an impostor, and that the religion of the Bible is no cunningly devised fable. We may believe that the name of Jesus is the only name under heaven whereby man may be saved, and yet we may not through faith make Him our personal Saviour. It is not enough to believe the theory of truth. It is not enough to make a profession of faith in Christ and have our names registered on the church roll. “He that keepeth His commandments dwelleth in Him, and He in him. And hereby we know that He abideth in us, by the Spirit which He hath given us.” “Hereby we do know that we know Him if we keep His commandments.” 1 John 3:24; 1 John 2:3. This is the genuine evidence of conversion. Whatever our profession, it amounts to nothing unless Christ is revealed in works of righteousness.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 1, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 1, 1897, par. 31
The law that controls God’s kingdom gives no encouragement to those who continue in transgression and sin. “Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law, for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins, and in him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not; whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning.” [1 John 3:4-8.]12LtMs, Ms 1, 1897, par. 33
Old Testament history agrees perfectly with the New. After light has come to us through the Scripture, we are inexcusable if we do not walk in the light, for an unseen influence is drawing the soul to obedience, that it may bear witness to the truth. “He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him; and he cannot sin; because he is born of God. ... And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment. And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.” [1 John 3:8, 9, 22-24.]1 John 3:5
Maranatha
White Raiment Required, March 11
Mar 78.3
The white robe of innocence was worn by our first parents when they were placed by God in holy Eden.... But when sin entered, they severed their connection with God, and the light that had encircled them departed.... Nothing can man devise to supply the place of his lost robe of innocence.... Only the covering which Christ Himself has provided can make us meet to appear in God’s presence. This covering, the robe of His own righteousness, Christ will put upon every repenting, believing soul.... This robe, woven in the loom of heaven, has in it not one thread of human devising. Christ in His humanity wrought out a perfect character, and this character He offers to impart to us. “All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.” Isaiah 64:6. Everything that we of ourselves can do is defiled by sin. But the Son of God “was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin.” 1 John 3:5....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 44, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 44, 1897, par. 17
“For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh; how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.” [Hebrews 9:13-15.] “And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin.” [1 John 3:5.] “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” [2 Corinthians 5:21.]Jesus, Name Above All Names
Just One, October 9
JNN 298.1
And you know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him there is no sin.—1 John 3:51 John 3:5-6
Reflecting Christ
Obedience, the Fruit of Faith, September 17
RC 274.3
We do not earn salvation by our obedience, for salvation is the free gift of God, to be received by faith. But obedience is the fruit of faith. “Ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not” (chap. 3:5, 6). Here is the true test. If we abide in Christ, if the love of God dwells in us, our feelings, our thoughts, our purposes, our actions, will be in harmony with the will of God as expressed in the precepts of His holy law. “Little children, let no man deceive you; he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous” (verse 7). Righteousness is defined by the standard of God’s holy law, as expressed in the ten precepts given on Sinai.Homeward Bound
Obedience Is the Fruit of Love, June 12
HB 185.4
John did not teach that salvation was to be earned by obedience; but that obedience was the fruit of faith and love. “Ye know that He was manifested to take away our sins,” he said, “and in Him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in Him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen Him, neither known Him.” (1 John 3:5, 6.) If we abide in Christ, if the love of God dwells in the heart, our feelings, our thoughts, our actions, will be in harmony with the will of God. The sanctified heart is in harmony with the precepts of God’s law.1 John 3:5-7
Steps to Christ
Chapter 7—The Test of Discipleship
SC 61.1
We do not earn salvation by our obedience; for salvation is the free gift of God, to be received by faith. But obedience is the fruit of faith. “Ye know that He was manifested to take away our sins; and in Him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in Him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen Him, neither known Him.” 1 John 3:5, 6. Here is the true test. If we abide in Christ, if the love of God dwells in us, our feelings, our thoughts, our purposes, our actions, will be in harmony with the will of God as expressed in the precepts of His holy law. “Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous.” 1 John 3:7. Righteousness is defined by the standard of God’s holy law, as expressed in the ten precepts given on Sinai.1 John 3:5-24
From Trials to Triumph
True Sanctification Is a Lifework
TT 295.4
There are those who profess holiness, who claim a right to the promises of God, while refusing to obey His commandments. But this is presumption. True love for God will be revealed in obedience to all His commandments: “He that saith, I know Him, and keepeth not His commandments is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” “He that keepeth His commandments dwelleth in Him, and He in him.” 1 John 2:4; 3:24.TT 296.1
John did not teach that salvation is to be earned by obedience; but obedience is the fruit of faith and love. “Ye know that He was manifested to take away our sins; and in Him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in Him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen Him, neither known Him.” 1 John 3:5, 6. If we abide in Christ, our feelings, our thoughts, our actions, will be in harmony with the will of God. The sanctified heart is in harmony with the precepts of God’s law.1 John 3:6
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 151, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 151, 1897, par. 15
“Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.” [Revelation 16:15.] “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” [2 Corinthians 5:10.] “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” [Verse 17.] We will not then retain our old, sinful habits and practices, for we are cleansed, we are sanctified, as vessels unto honor. “Whosoever abideth in him, sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.” [1 John 3:6.]Sons and Daughters of God
We Are Kept From Sinning, October 17
SD 297.1
Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not. 1 John 3:6.The Faith I Live By
The Sons and Daughters of God, May 4
FLB 130.2
It is through faith in Jesus Christ that the truth is accepted in the heart, and the human agent is purified and cleansed.... He has an abiding principle in the soul, that enables him to overcome temptation. “Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not.” 1 John 3:6. God has power to keep the soul that is in Christ who is under temptation....Homeward Bound
No Sinful Act Without Consent, November 6
HB 339.1
Whoever abides in Him does not sin.—1 John 3:6.1 John 3:6-7
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 151a, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 151a, 1897, par. 15
“Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.” Revelation 16:15. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ: that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” 2 Corinthians 5:10. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” Verse 17. We will not then retain our old sinful habits and practices. We are cleansed; we are sanctified as vessels unto honor. “Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous.” 1 John 3:6, 7.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 65, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 65, 1898, par. 46
Not one sin has yet been blotted out from the book of God only through the faith of the believer who holds the beginning of his confidence firm unto the end. We may have hope in anticipation of the full and entire atonement made; for this is efficacious if sin is put away. John declares: “Whoever abideth in him sinneth not. Whoso sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you. He that doeth righteousness is righteous.” [1 John 3:6, 7.]1 John 3:6-10
Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]
MR No. 1388—Increase Your Talents; Render Service to God by Witnessing; Laodicean Condition of Church
19MR 176.2
“He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him” [1 John 2:4]. This includes all who claim to have a knowledge of God, and to keep His commandments, but who do not manifest this by good works. They will receive according to their deeds. “Whosoever abideth in Him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen Him, neither known Him” [1 John 3:6]. This is addressed to all church members, including the members of the Seventh-day Adventist churches. “Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for His seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother” [1 John 3:7-10].Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 35, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 35, 1898, par. 19
“He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” [1 John 2:4.] This includes all who claim to have a knowledge of God, and to keep His commandments, but who do not manifest this by good works. They will receive according to their deeds. “Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not; whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him.” [1 John 3:6.] This is addressed to all church members, including the members of the Seventh-day Adventist Churches. “Little children, let no man deceive you; he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the work of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him, and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil; whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother.” [Verses 7-10.]1 John 3:6-24
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 108, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 108, 1898, par. 8
And the disciple John says, “Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. ... In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother. For this is the message which ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. And wherefore slew he him? Because his own works were evil and his brother’s righteous.” [1 John 3:6, 7, 10-12.]13LtMs, Ms 108, 1898, par. 9
This whole chapter contains lessons that teachers would do well to learn. “Whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because (we claim to keep the commandments? no, because) we keep his commandments, and do those things which are pleasing in his sight. And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment. And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.” [Verses 22-24.]1 John 3:7
Reflecting Christ
Truth Must Be Practiced in the Life, February 14
RC 59.1
Let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. 1 John 3:7.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 238, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 238, 1899, par. 12
Will you, my children, receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit daily? What others may do, what others may say, what others may think of you, will not change the thoughts of God toward you. “He that doeth righteousness is righteous,” and the opinion of man will not change his character. [1 John 3:7.] You have, my dear children, a heaven before you to win, and Christ gave His own life that you might obtain the heavenly peace and rest and love of Jesus. Only keep looking unto Jesus, who loves you, who is the One you are to love, the One you are to talk about, the One who is the Author and Finisher of your faith. Edson, Jesus loves you. Emma, Jesus loves you, and the Lord Jesus takes no man’s measurement of character for you. You are to behold Jesus and reflect His image in your words, keep His love in your thoughts. Invite the heavenly Guest to abide with you.1 John 3:8
The Desire of Ages
Chapter 27—“Thou Canst Make Me Clean”
DA 270.2
Jesus came to “destroy the works of the devil.” “In Him was life,” and He says, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” He is “a quickening spirit.” 1 John 3:8; John 1:4; 10:10; 1 Corinthians 15:45. And He still has the same life-giving power as when on earth He healed the sick, and spoke forgiveness to the sinner. He “forgiveth all thine iniquities,” He “healeth all thy diseases.” Psalm 103:3.From Heaven With Love
Chapter 27—The First Leper to Be Cleansed by Christ
HLv 175.3
Jesus still has the same life-giving power as when on earth He healed the sick and spoke forgiveness to the sinner. He “forgiveth all thine iniquities”; He “healeth all thy diseases.” Psalm 103:3; see 1 John 3:8; John 1:4-10; 10:10; 1 Corinthians 15:45.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 110, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 110, 1897, par. 5
“He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning.” Satan is referred to as the originator of sin. “For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.” [1 John 3:8.] Satan’s first manifest defeat was his failure to overcome Christ in the wilderness of temptation. Here the Prince of life gained a victory in behalf of the human race, and all heaven rejoiced at the defeat of the enemy.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 107, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 107, 1897, par. 17
John bears testimony of Christ, saying, “For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.” [1 John 3:8.] In the simplest language John sets before us true practical godliness. This simplicity does not show shallowness; it shows depth. John is speaking to real men and women, and the Holy Spirit directed him to write so that he might bring them in contact with a real, living God. He shows us what God is doing, and what man must do to meet God’s requirements.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Lt 133, 1897
12LtMs, Lt 133, 1897, par. 4
Shame, temptation, and sin will bring their sure result. But God has provided agencies to meet these things. God can break the spell of evil and infatuation. He would have you trust and be patient. “For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.” [1 John 3:8.]Jesus, Name Above All Names
Healer of the Soul, March 21
JNN 89.3
Jesus came to “destroy the works of the devil.” “In Him was life,” and He says, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” He is “a quickening spirit” (1 John 3:8; John 1:4; 10:10; 1 Corinthians 15:45). And He still has the same life-giving power as when on earth He healed the sick, and spoke forgiveness to the sinner....1 John 3:9
Manuscript Releases, vol. 14 [Nos. 1081-1135]
Rejecting the Light
14MR 131.1
This is the testimony that must go throughout the length and breadth of the world. It presents the law and the gospel, binding up the two in a perfect whole. (See Romans 5, and 1 John 3:9 to the close of the chapter.) These precious scriptures will be impressed upon every heart that is opened to receive them. “The entrance of Thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple”—those who are contrite in heart. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” These have not a mere nominal faith, a theory of truth, a legal religion, but they believe to a purpose, appropriating to themselves the richest gifts of God. They plead for the gift, that they may give to others. They can say, “Of His fullness have all we received, and grace for grace.”Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers
The Message of Justification by Faith
TM 94.1
This is the testimony that must go throughout the length and breadth of the world. It presents the law and the gospel, binding up the two in a perfect whole. (See Romans 5 and 1 John 3:9 to the close of the chapter.) These precious scriptures will be impressed upon every heart that is opened to receive them. “The entrance of Thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple”—those who are contrite in heart. “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” These have not a mere nominal faith, a theory of truth, a legal religion, but they believe to a purpose, appropriating to themselves the richest gifts of God. They plead for the gift, that they may give to others. They can say, “Of His fullness have all we received, and grace for grace.”Special Testimony to Battle Creek Church
The Richest Gifts of God
PH154 38.1
This is the testimony that must go throughout the length and breadth of the world. It presents the law and the gospel, binding up the two in a perfect whole. (See Romans 5, and 1 John 3:9 to the close of the chapter.) These precious scriptures will be impressed upon every heart that is opened to receive them. “The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple,”—those who are contrite in heart. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” These have not a mere nominal faith, a theory of truth, a legal religion, but they believe to a purpose, appropriating to themselves the richest gifts of God. They plead for the gift, that they may give to others. They can say, “Of his fullness have all we received, and grace for grace.”EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
1 John 3:2
Sons and Daughters of God
That When Christ Appears We Shall Be Like Him, January 3
SD 9.1
Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 1 John 3:2.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9
Chapter 37—The Reward of Earnest Effort
9T 285.1
“If any man’s work abide, ... he shall receive a reward.” 1 Corinthians 3:14. Glorious will be the reward bestowed when the faithful workers gather about the throne of God and of the Lamb. When John in his mortal state beheld the glory of God, he fell as one dead; he was not able to endure the sight. But when the children of God shall have put on immortality, they will “see Him as He is.” 1 John 3:2. They will stand before the throne, accepted in the Beloved. All their sins have been blotted out, all their transgressions borne away. Now they can look upon the undimmed glory of the throne of God. They have been partakers with Christ in His sufferings, they have been workers together with Him in the plan of redemption, and they are partakers with Him in the joy of seeing souls saved in the kingdom of God, there to praise God through all eternity.That I May Know Him
“We Shall Be Like Him,” February 24
TMK 61.1
Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 1 John 3:2.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 11—The Baptism
DA 113.2
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.” 1 John 3:2. Our Redeemer has opened the way so that the most sinful, the most needy, the most oppressed and despised, may find access to the Father. All may have a home in the mansions which Jesus has gone to prepare. “These things saith He that is holy, He that is true, He that hath the key of David, He that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; ... behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it.” Revelation 3:7, 8.Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“When ye pray, say, Our Father.”—Luke 11:2.
MB 104.4
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God.” “And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may be also glorified together.” “It doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.” 1 John 3:2; Romans 8:17.Ye Shall Receive Power
Brotherly Love, March 20
YRP 88.2
When the Holy Spirit moves upon human minds, all petty complaints and accusations between man and his fellow man will be put away. The bright beams of the Sun of righteousness will shine into the chambers of the mind and heart. In our worship of God there will be no distinction between rich and poor, white and black. All prejudice will be melted away. When we approach God, it will be as one brotherhood. We are pilgrims and strangers, bound for a better country, even a heavenly. There all pride, all accusation, all self-deception, will forever have an end. Every mask will be laid aside, and we shall “see him as he is” (1 John 3:2). There our songs will catch the inspiring theme, and praise and thanksgiving will go up to God.—The Review and Herald, October 24, 1899.Ye Shall Receive Power
Christlikeness, March 31
YRP 99.1
Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 1 John 3:2.Testimony Treasures, vol. 3
The Reward of Earnest Effort
3TT 432.1
“If any man’s work abide, ... he shall receive a reward.” 1 Corinthians 3:14. Glorious will be the reward bestowed when the faithful workers gather about the throne of God and of the Lamb. When John in his mortal state beheld the glory of God, he fell as one dead; he was not able to endure the sight. But when the children of God shall have put on immortality, they will “see Him as He is.” 1 John 3:2. They will stand before the throne, accepted in the Beloved. All their sins have been blotted out, all their transgressions borne away. Now they can look upon the undimmed glory of the throne of God. They have been partakers with Christ in His sufferings, they have been workers together with Him in the plan of redemption, and they are partakers with Him in the joy of seeing souls saved in the kingdom of God, there to praise God through all eternity.Testimony Treasures, vol. 1
Responsibility of Church Membership
1TT 443.2
The advancement of the church is retarded by the wrong course of its members. Uniting with the church, although an important and necessary act, does not make one a Christian nor ensure salvation. We cannot secure a title to heaven by having our names enrolled upon the church book while our hearts are alienated from Christ. We should be His faithful representatives on earth, working in unison with Him. “Beloved, now are we the sons of God.” 1 John 3:2. We should keep in mind this holy relationship and do nothing to bring dishonor upon our Father’s cause.From Trials to Triumph
John Learned His Lessons Well
TT 286.2
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.” 1 John 3:2.Counsels for the Church
The Reward of the Faithful
CCh 359.1
“It doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.” 1 John 3:2.From Eternity Past
Chapter 4—The Plan of Redemption Is Unveiled
EP 31.4
God was to be manifest in Christ, “reconciling the world unto Himself.” 2 Corinthians 5:19. Man had become so degraded by sin that it was impossible in himself to come into harmony with Him whose nature is purity and goodness. But Christ could impart divine power to unite with human effort. Thus by repentance toward God and faith in Christ, the fallen children of Adam might once more become “sons of God.” 1 John 3:2.Homeward Bound
The Bible’s Central Theme, January 16
HB 31.1
Beloved, now we are the children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.—1 John 3:2.Radiant Religion
They Will Receive a Glorious Reward, December 3
RRe 339.3
Glorious will be the reward bestowed when the faithful workers gather about the throne of God and of the Lamb. When John in his mortal state beheld the glory of God, he fell as one dead; he was not able to endure the sight. But when the children of God shall have put on immortality, they will “see Him as He is.” 1 John 3:2. They will stand before the throne, accepted in the Beloved. All their sins have been blotted out, all their transgressions borne away. Now they can look upon the undimmed glory of the throne of God. They have been partakers with Christ in His sufferings, they have been workers together with Him in the plan of redemption, and they are partakers with Him in the joy of seeing souls saved in the kingdom of God, there to praise God through all eternity.—Testimonies for the Church 9:285.Radiant Religion
We Shall Be Like Him, December 20
RRe 356.1
Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is. 1 John 3:2.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 7, 1886
4LtMs, Lt 7, 1886, par. 35
The knowledge, the fear, and the love of God are its fountain head. We have peace with God through Jesus Christ. The adding of grace to grace daily will restore the image of God to man. It is our lifework to answer the prayer of Christ; to be one as He was one with the Father; to sanctify our souls through obedience to the truth; then our example will have a sanctifying influence upon all who are around us. “It doth not yet appear what we shall be, but when He shall appear, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.” [1 John 3:2.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 48, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 48, 1886, par. 8
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.” 1 John 3:2. But in order to be accepted of God as sons and daughters, we must come out from the world and be separated from them and stand under the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel. God has claims upon every one of us, and in order to comply with them there must be a separation. We do not choose to be singular from the rest of the world, but we must be in order to be obedient. This world is not our home. We are pilgrims and strangers. We should not be building our hopes on this world, but we should be looking forward to the kingdom of heaven. There are great charms for the Christian.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 38, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 38, 1892, par. 11
I hope you will both be of good courage; never look on the dark side or talk doubts. Whatever your circumstances, whatever your trials, whatever your adversities, you know just where to flee for refuge. As the watchful shepherd, Jesus labors for His sheep and lambs. He bids His flock draw near, and He will lead them to green pastures, to living streams of water to quench their thirst and refresh their spirits. “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” [1 John 3:2.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 6, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 6, 1892, par. 25
To the worldly-wise, those who love and obey God may seem humble and common place. They are constantly tested and proved. Trials and disappointments and infirmities encompass them. But the Lord God of Israel, who looks to the heart, and reads what is therein, inquires, “What is the chaff to the wheat?” [Jeremiah 23:28.] “It doth not yet appear what we shall be, but when he shall appear we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” [1 John 3:2.]Education
Chapter 35—The School of the Hereafter
Ed 309.2
“It doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.” 1 John 3:2.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 110, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 110, 1893, par. 12
Oh, what joy we experience in the service of God! What peace, what contentment and rest! Members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King! “It doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” 1 John 3:2. With such a hope, such a relationship, with all the great and precious possibilities, should not our faith grasp much more than it does? Should we not be inspired with hope and courage that will not fail nor be discouraged under any difficulties?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 14, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 14, 1893, par. 20
“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” [1 John 3:2.] We want the truth of heavenly origin. Christ said, “Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his Lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you.” [John 15:20.] We are children of the heavenly King.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 24, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 24, 1898, par. 19
Then all pride, all accusing, all self-deception, will have an end. Every mask will be laid aside, and we shall “see him as he is.” [1 John 3:2.] We shall have nothing to conceal.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 54, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 54, 1905, par. 16
God grant that we may be wide-awake to this awful evil. May He help us to labor with all our power to save men and women and youth from this effort of the enemy to ensnare them. We do not take into the church those who use liquor or tobacco. We cannot admit such ones. But we can try to help them to overcome. We can tell them that by giving up these harmful practices, they will make their families and themselves happier. Those whose hearts are filled with the Spirit of God will feel no need for stimulants. “He is high, and lifted up, and His train fills the heavens.” [See Isaiah 6:1.] Those who are overcomers here will one day see Him as He is; for we read, “We know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.” [1 John 3:2.] They will sing the song of redemption in the heavenly courts.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 41, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 41, 1905, par. 10
Christ declared, “The words that I have spoken unto you, the same will judge every man in the last great day.” [John 12:48.] Happy are those whose faith is founded on the sure Rock, who have riveted their souls to the Rock of Ages. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, those who are found waiting for Him will appear with Him in glory. “It doth not yet appear what we shall be; but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.” [1 John 3:2.]The Three Angels’ Messages
“Rejoice over her, O heaven, and you holy apostles and prophets, for God has avenged you on her”
3AM 156.2
A song of triumph fills all heaven—When the children of God shall have put on immortality, they will “see Him as He is.” 1 John 3:2. They will stand before the throne, accepted in the Beloved. All their sins have been blotted out, all their transgressions borne away. Now they can look upon the undimmed glory of the throne of God. They have been partakers with Christ in His sufferings, they have been workers together with Him in the plan of redemption, and they are partakers with Him in the joy of seeing souls saved in the kingdom of God, there to praise God through all eternity....God’s Amazing Grace
Sons of God, November 29
AG 341.1
Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 1 John 3:2.God’s Amazing Grace
What a Reward! December 13
AG 355.2
Glorious will be the reward bestowed when the faithful workers gather about the throne of God and of the Lamb. When John in his mortal state beheld the glory of God, he fell as one dead; he was not able to endure the sight. But when the children of God shall have put on immortality, they will “see him as he is” (1 John 3:2). They will stand before the throne, accepted in the Beloved. All their sins have been blotted out, all their transgressions borne away. Now they can look upon the undimmed glory of the throne of God. They have been partakers with Christ in His sufferings, they have been workers together with Him in the plan of redemption, and they are partakers with Him in the joy of seeing souls saved in the kingdom of God, there to praise God through all eternity....Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Personal Experience
GW92 373.2
To have fellowship with the Father and his Son Jesus Christ, is to be ennobled and elevated, and made a partaker of joys unspeakable and full of glory. Food, clothing, station, and wealth may have their value, but to have a connection with God and to be a partaker of his divine nature, is of priceless value. Our life should be hid with Christ in God; and although it “doth not yet appear what we shall be,” “when Christ, who is our life, shall appear,” “we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” [1 John 3:2; Colossians 3:4.] The princely dignity of the Christian character will shine forth as the sun, and the beams of light from the face of Christ will be shed upon those who have purified themselves even as he is pure. The privilege of becoming sons of God is cheaply purchased, even at the sacrifice of everything we possess, be it life itself.—Testimonies for the Church 4:357.