EGW Writings1 John 4
Ellen G. White · Page 1 of 2
Read 1 John 4 in the Bible1 John 4:1-2
Ellen G. White in Europe 1885-1887
One of the first in Europe
EGWE 58.3
Bourdeau confessed that after this experience*The first physical phenomena associated with Ellen White’s open visions during the forty years of her ministry constituted convincing evidence to many of her contemporaries that her visions were genuine and not a hoax or a trick of the devil. But neither Mrs. White nor her contemporaries who believed she was a true messenger of God held that these extraordinary manifestations were fundamental tests of her validity as a prophet. They were evidences among other evidences. Since Satan could presumably counterfeit the physical phenomena, there would have to be more basic tests. These tests are defined in the following scriptures: Matthew 7:15-20; Isaiah 8:20; Jeremiah 28:9; 1 John 4:1, 2. Careful students agree that Mrs. White’s life and work measured up to these Biblical standards. he was never again inclined to doubt the divine origin of Mrs. White’s visions. During the European Council soon to follow, Bourdeau’s confidence would be put to a severe test, but it would not be shaken. And it never was.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 190, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 190, 1905, par. 4
We have a great and wonderful work to do. The will of God must become the will of the human agent. I speak to the members of our churches. Are you converted? Do you profess to be children of God? If so, have you turned from all your idols? “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God, because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God; Every spirit that confesseth that Christ is come in the flesh is of God.” [1 John 4:1, 2.] The confession is revealed in the character. Words merely are not sufficient. Nothing but the light of the Word of God, shining forth from the converted soul in good works, constitutes men Christ’s disciples. “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.] Nothing but the light of heaven, reflected from the lives of Christ’s followers, can save souls.1 John 4:1-3
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 335, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 335, 1905, par. 8
We are certainly living amidst the perils of the last days. We need now that grace which God shall give to the ones striving lawfully for every victory possible. If we rescue souls that have been helping Dr. Kellogg to stand where he now stands, we will need the power of a living Christ to go with us in our work. One must say with John, “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God; because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God; and every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God; and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.” [1 John 4:1-3.]1 John 4:1-5
Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White
Christ’s Office Magnified
CET 246.2
“Believe not every spirit,” Writes the Apostle John, “But try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: and every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God.” 1 John 4:1-3.CET 246.3
False prophets do not exalt Christ. They rather draw attention to themselves. “Speaking perverse things,” they “draw away disciples” after themselves. Acts 20:30. To accomplish this, they teach in a manner to please the carnal mind of those who in their hearts “say to the seers, see not; and to the prophets, prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things.” Isaiah 30:10. These alleged prophets or teachers are “of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.” 1 John 4:5.1 John 4:1-21
The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 54—A Faithful Witness
AA 546.1
After the ascension of Christ, John stands forth as a faithful, earnest laborer for the Master. With the other disciples he enjoyed the outpouring of the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, and with fresh zeal and power he continued to speak to the people the words of life, seeking to lead their thoughts to the Unseen. He was a powerful preacher, fervent, and deeply in earnest. In beautiful language and with a musical voice he told of the words and works of Christ, speaking in a way that impressed the hearts of those who heard him. The simplicity of his words, the sublime power of the truths he uttered, and the fervor that characterized his teachings, gave him access to all classes.AA 546.2
The apostle’s life was in harmony with his teachings. The love for Christ which glowed in his heart led him to put forth earnest, untiring labor for his fellow men, especially for his brethren in the Christian church.AA 547.1
Christ had bidden the first disciples love one another as He had loved them. Thus they were to bear testimony to the world that Christ was formed within, the hope of glory. “A new commandment I give unto you,” He had said, “That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” John 13:34. At the time when these words were spoken, the disciples could not understand them; but after they had witnessed the sufferings of Christ, after His crucifixion and resurrection, and ascension to heaven, and after the Holy Spirit had rested on them at Pentecost, they had a clearer conception of the love of God and of the nature of that love which they must have for one another. Then John could say to his fellow disciples:AA 547.2
“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.”AA 547.3
After the descent of the Holy Spirit, when the disciples went forth to proclaim a living Saviour, their one desire was the salvation of souls. They rejoiced in the sweetness of communion with saints. They were tender, thoughtful, self-denying, willing to make any sacrifice for the truth’s sake. In their daily association with one another, they revealed the love that Christ had enjoined upon them. By unselfish words and deeds they strove to kindle this love in other hearts.AA 547.4
Such a love the believers were ever to cherish. They were to go forward in willing obedience to the new commandment. So closely were they to be united with Christ that they would be enabled to fulfill all His requirements. Their lives were to magnify the power of a Saviour who could justify them by His righteousness.AA 548.1
But gradually a change came. The believers began to look for defects in others. Dwelling upon mistakes, giving place to unkind criticism, they lost sight of the Saviour and His love. They became more strict in regard to outward ceremonies, more particular about the theory than the practice of the faith. In their zeal to condemn others, they overlooked their own errors. They lost the brotherly love that Christ had enjoined, and, saddest of all, they were unconscious of their loss. They did not realize that happiness and joy were going out of their lives and that, having shut the love of God out of their hearts, they would soon walk in darkness.AA 548.2
John, realizing that brotherly love was waning in the church, urged upon believers the constant need of this love. His letters to the church are full of this thought. “Beloved, let us love one another,” he writes; “for love is of God; and everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent His only-begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.”AA 548.3
Of the special sense in which this love should be manifested by believers, the apostle writes: “A new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in Him and in you: because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth. He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him. But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes.” “This is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.” “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.”AA 549.1
It is not the opposition of the world that most endangers the church of Christ. It is the evil cherished in the hearts of believers that works their most grievous disaster and most surely retards the progress of God’s cause. There is no surer way of weakening spirituality than by cherishing envy, suspicion, faultfinding, and evil surmising. On the other hand, the strongest witness that God has sent His Son into the world is the existence of harmony and union among men of varied dispositions who form His church. This witness it is the privilege of the followers of Christ to bear. But in order to do this, they must place themselves under Christ’s command. Their characters must be conformed to His character and their wills to His will.AA 550.1
“A new commandment I give unto you,” Christ said, “That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” John 13:34. What a wonderful statement; but, oh, how poorly practiced! In the church of God today brotherly love is sadly lacking. Many who profess to love the Saviour do not love one another. Unbelievers are watching to see if the faith of professed Christians is exerting a sanctifying influence upon their lives; and they are quick to discern the defects in character, the inconsistencies in action. Let Christians not make it possible for the enemy to point to them and say, Behold how these people, standing under the banner of Christ, hate one another. Christians are all members of one family, all children of the same heavenly Father, with the same blessed hope of immortality. Very close and tender should be the tie that binds them together.AA 550.2
Divine love makes its most touching appeals to the heart when it calls upon us to manifest the same tender compassion that Christ manifested. That man only who has unselfish love for his brother has true love for God. The true Christian will not willingly permit the soul in peril and need to go unwarned, uncared for. He will not hold himself aloof from the erring, leaving them to plunge farther into unhappiness and discouragement or to fall on Satan’s battleground.AA 550.3
Those who have never experienced the tender, winning love of Christ cannot lead others to the fountain of life. His love in the heart is a constraining power, which leads men to reveal Him in the conversation, in the tender, pitiful spirit, in the uplifting of the lives of those with whom they associate. Christian workers who succeed in their efforts must know Christ; and in order to know Him, they must know His love. In heaven their fitness as workers is measured by their ability to love as Christ loved and to work as He worked.AA 551.1
“Let us not love in word,” the apostle writes, “but in deed and in truth.” The completeness of Christian character is attained when the impulse to help and bless others springs constantly from within. It is the atmosphere of this love surrounding the soul of the believer that makes him a savor of life unto life and enables God to bless his work.AA 551.2
Supreme love for God and unselfish love for one another—this is the best gift that our heavenly Father can bestow. This love is not an impulse, but a divine principle, a permanent power. The unconsecrated heart cannot originate or produce it. Only in the heart where Jesus reigns is it found. “We love Him, because He first loved us.” In the heart renewed by divine grace, love is the ruling principle of action. It modifies the character, governs the impulses, controls the passions, and ennobles the affections. This love, cherished in the soul, sweetens the life and sheds a refining influence on all around.AA 551.3
John strove to lead the believers to understand the exalted privileges that would come to them through the exercise of the spirit of love. This redeeming power, filling the heart, would control every other motive and raise its possessors above the corrupting influences of the world. And as this love was allowed full sway and became the motive power in the life, their trust and confidence in God and His dealing with them would be complete. They could then come to Him in full confidence of faith, knowing that they would receive from Him everything needful for their present and eternal good. “Herein is our love made perfect,” he wrote, “that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as He is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear.” “And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us: and if we know that He hear us, ... we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him.”AA 552.1
“And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: and He is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” The conditions of obtaining mercy from God are simple and reasonable. The Lord does not require us to do some grievous thing in order to gain forgiveness. We need not make long and wearisome pilgrimages, or perform painful penances, to commend our souls to the God of heaven or to expiate our transgression. He that “confesseth and forsaketh” his sin “shall have mercy.” Proverbs 28:13.AA 552.2
In the courts above, Christ is pleading for His church—pleading for those for whom He has paid the redemption price of His blood. Centuries, ages, can never lessen the efficacy of His atoning sacrifice. Neither life nor death, height nor depth, can separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus; not because we hold Him so firmly, but because He holds us so fast. If our salvation depended on our own efforts, we could not be saved; but it depends on the One who is behind all the promises. Our grasp on Him may seem feeble, but His love is that of an elder brother; so long as we maintain our union with Him, no one can pluck us out of His hand.AA 553.1
As the years went by and the number of believers grew, John labored with increasing fidelity and earnestness for his brethren. The times were full of peril for the church. Satanic delusions existed everywhere. By misrepresentation and falsehood the emissaries of Satan sought to arouse opposition against the doctrines of Christ, and in consequence dissensions and heresies were imperiling the church. Some who professed Christ claimed that His love released them from obedience to the law of God. On the other hand, many taught that it was necessary to observe the Jewish customs and ceremonies; that a mere observance of the law, without faith in the blood of Christ, was sufficient for salvation. Some held that Christ was a good man, but denied His divinity. Some who pretended to be true to the cause of God were deceivers, and in practice they denied Christ and His gospel. Living themselves in transgression, they were bringing heresies into the church. Thus many were being led into the mazes of skepticism and delusion.AA 554.1
John was filled with sadness as he saw these poisonous errors creeping into the church. He saw the dangers to which the church was exposed, and he met the emergency with promptness and decision. The epistles of John breathe the spirit of love. It seems as if he wrote with a pen dipped in love. But when he came in contact with those who were breaking the law of God, yet claiming that they were living without sin, he did not hesitate to warn them of their fearful deception.AA 554.2
Writing to a helper in the gospel work, a woman of good repute and wide influence, he said: “Many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him Godspeed: for he that biddeth him Godspeed is partaker of his evil deeds.”AA 554.3
We are authorized to hold in the same estimation as did the beloved disciple those who claim to abide in Christ while living in transgression of God’s law. There exist in these last days evils similar to those that threatened the prosperity of the early church; and the teachings of the apostle John on these points should be carefully heeded. “You must have charity,” is the cry heard everywhere, especially from those who profess sanctification. But true charity is too pure to cover an unconfessed sin. While we are to love the souls for whom Christ died, we are to make no compromise with evil. We are not to unite with the rebellious and call this charity. God requires His people in this age of the world to stand for the right as unflinchingly as did John in opposition to soul-destroying errors.AA 555.1
The apostle teaches that while we should manifest Christian courtesy we are authorized to deal in plain terms with sin and sinners; that this is not inconsistent with true charity. “Whosoever committeth sin,” he writes, “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.”AA 555.2
As a witness for Christ, John entered into no controversy, no wearisome contention. He declared what he knew, what he had seen and heard. He had been intimately associated with Christ, had listened to His teachings, had witnessed His mighty miracles. Few could see the beauties of Christ’s character as John saw them. For him the darkness had passed away; on him the true light was shining. His testimony in regard to the Saviour’s life and death was clear and forcible. Out of the abundance of a heart overflowing with love for the Saviour he spoke; and no power could stay his words.AA 555.3
“That which was from the beginning,” he declared, “which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; ... that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ.”AA 556.1
So may every true believer be able, through his own experience, to “set to his seal that God is true.” John 3:33. He can bear witness to that which he has seen and heard and felt of the power of Christ.From Trials to Triumph
Chapter 54—John, Faithful Witness for Christ
TT 287.1
With the other disciples John enjoyed the outpouring of the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, and with fresh power he continued to speak to the people the words of life. He was a powerful preacher, fervent, and deeply in earnest. In beautiful language and with a musical voice he told of Christ in a way that impressed hearts. The sublime power of the truths he uttered and the fervor that characterized his teachings gave him access to all classes. His life was in harmony with his teachings.TT 287.2
Christ had bidden the disciples to love one another as He had loved them. “A new commandment I give unto you,” He had said, “that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” John 13:34. After they had witnessed the sufferings of Christ, and after the Holy Spirit had rested on them at Pentecost, they had a clearer concept of the nature of that love which they must have for one another. Then John could say: “By this we know love, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.”TT 287.3
After Pentecost, when the disciples went forth to proclaim a living Saviour, they rejoiced in the sweetness of communion with saints. They were tender, thoughtful, self-denying, revealing the love that Christ had enjoined on them. By unselfish words and deeds they strove to kindle this love in other hearts.TT 288.1
Such love the believers were ever to cherish. Their lives were to magnify a Saviour who could justify them by His righteousness.TT 288.2
But gradually a change came. Dwelling upon mistakes, giving place to unkind criticism, the believers lost sight of the Saviour and His love. They became more particular about the theory than the practice of the faith. They lost brotherly love, and, saddest of all, were unconscious of their loss. They did not realize that happiness and joy were going out of their lives and that they would soon walk in darkness.TT 288.3
John realized that brotherly love was waning in the church. “Beloved, let us love one another,” he writes, “for love is of God, and he who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God; for God is love. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent His only Son into the world, so that we might live through Him. In this is love, not that we loved God but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the expiation of our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.”TT 288.4
“Any one who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him. By this we know love, that He laid down His life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.”TT 288.5
It is not the opposition of the world that most endangers the church. It is the evil cherished in the hearts of believers that works their most grievous disaster, and most surely retards God’s cause. There is no surer way of weakening spirituality than by cherishing envy, fault-finding, and evil-surmising. The strongest witness that God has sent His Son into the world is the existence of harmony and union among people of varied dispositions who form His church. But in order to bear this witness, their characters must be conformed to Christ’s character, and their wills to His will.TT 289.1
In the church today, many who profess to love the Saviour do not love one another. Unbelievers are watching to see if the faith of professed Christians is exerting a sanctifying influence on their lives. Let not Christians make it possible for the enemy to say, These people hate one another. Very close and tender should be the tie that binds together all the children of the same heavenly Father.TT 289.2
Divine love calls upon us to manifest the same compassion that Christ manifested. The true Christian will not willingly permit a soul in peril and need to go unwarned, uncared for. He will not hold himself aloof, leaving the erring to plunge farther into unhappiness and discouragement.TT 289.3
Those who have never experienced the tender love of Christ cannot lead others to the fountain of life. Christ’s love in the heart leads men to reveal Him in conversation, in a pitiful spirit, in uplifting lives. In heaven the fitness of Christian workers is measured by their ability to love as Christ loved.TT 289.5
Supreme love for God and unselfish love for one another—this is the best gift our heavenly Father can bestow. This love is not an impulse, but a divine principle. Only in the heart where Jesus reigns is it found. “We love, because He first loved us.” Love modifies the character, governs the impulses and passions, and ennobles the affections. This love sweetens the life and sheds a refining influence on all around.TT 289.6
John strove to lead the believers to understand that this love, filling the heart, would control every other motive and raise its possessors above the corrupting influences of the world. As this love became the motive power in the life, their trust and confidence in God would be complete. They could know that they would receive from Him everything needful for their present and eternal good. “In this is love perfected,” John writes, “that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as He is so are we in this world. There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear.” “If we ask anything according to His will He hears us. And if we know that He hears us ..., we know that we have obtained the requests made of Him.”TT 290.1
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” The Lord does not require us to do some grievous thing in order to gain forgiveness. We need not make long, wearisome pilgrimages or perform painful penances to expiate our transgression. He that “confesseth and forsaketh” his sin “shall have mercy.” Proverbs 28:13.TT 290.2
In the courts above, Christ is pleading for His church—those for whom He paid the redemption price of His blood. Neither life nor death can separate us from the love of God, not because we hold Him so firmly, but because He holds us so fast. If our salvation depended on our own efforts, we could not be saved; but it depends on the One who is behind all the promises. Our grasp on Him may seem feeble, but so long as we maintain our union with Him, no one can pluck us out of His hand.TT 290.3
As the years went by and the number of believers grew, John labored with increasing fidelity and earnestness. Satanic delusions existed everywhere. By misrepresentation and falsehood, emissaries of Satan sought to arouse opposition against the doctrines of Christ, and in consequence dissensions and heresies were imperiling the church. Some who professed Christ claimed that His love released them from obedience to the law of God. On the other hand, many taught that a mere observance of the law, without faith in the blood of Christ, was sufficient for salvation. Some held that Christ was a good man, but denied His divinity. Some, living in transgression, were bringing heresies into the church. Many were being led into skepticism and delusion.TT 291.1
John was sad to see these poisonous errors creeping into the church, and he met the emergency with promptness and decision. His letters breathe the spirit of love, as if he wrote with a pen dipped in love, but when he came in contact with those who were breaking the law of God, yet claiming to live without sin, he did not hesitate to warn them of their fearful deception.TT 291.2
Writing to a woman of wide influence, he said: “Many deceivers have gone out into the world, men who will not acknowledge the coming of Jesus Christ in the flesh; such a one is the deceiver and the antichrist... . He who abides in the doctrine has both the Father and the Son. If any one comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into the house or give him any greeting; for he who greets him shares his wicked work.”TT 291.3
There exist in these last days evils similar to those that threatened the early church. “You must have love,” is the cry heard everywhere, especially from those who profess sanctification. But true love is too pure to cover unconfessed sin. While we are to love souls, we are to make no compromise with evil. We are not to unite with the rebellious, and call this love. God requires His people to stand for the right as unflinchingly as did John in opposition to soul-destroying errors.TT 291.4
The apostle teaches that we are to deal in plain terms with sin and sinners; this is not inconsistent with true love. “Every one who commits sin,” he writes, “is guilty of lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. You know that He appeared to take away sins, and in Him there is no sin. No one who abides in Him sins; no one who sins has either seen Him or known Him.”TT 292.1
As a witness for Christ, John entered into no wearisome contention. He declared what he knew. He had been intimately associated with Christ and had witnessed His miracles. For him the darkness had passed away; the true Light was shining. Out of the abundance of a heart overflowing with love for the Saviour he spoke; and no power could stay his words.TT 292.2
“That which was from the beginning,” he declared, “which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon and touched with our hands, concerning the word of life ... we proclaim also to you.”TT 292.3
So may every true believer be able to bear witness to that which he has seen and heard and felt of the power of Christ.From Trials to Triumph
A Tragic Change Comes Into the Early Church
TT 289.4
“Let us not love in word or speech,” the apostle writes, “but in deed and in truth.” Completeness of character is attained when the impulse to help others springs constantly from within. It is this love that makes the believer “a savor of life unto life” and enables God to bless his work. 2 Corinthians 2:16.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 34, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 34, 1901, par. 2
When John was old and grey-headed he was given a message to bear to the persecuted churches. Read and appreciate the first epistle of John. Study the principles presented. From the lips of the aged disciple there constantly fell words which magnified the Saviour as he related his experience in connection with Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 56, 1905
Takoma Park, Maryland
May 16, 1905
This manuscript is published in entirety in RH 07/13/1905, 07/20/1905. +NoteOne or more typed copies of this document contain additional Ellen White handwritten interlineations which may be viewed at the main office of the Ellen G. White Estate.
20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 1
(Talk given by Mrs. E. G. White at the General Conference, May 16, 1905.)20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 2
“That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled of the word of life; (for the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;) that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ.” [1 John 1:1-3.]20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 3
There are those who are always seeking for something new. If they understood aright, they would realize that the newness that they need is that which comes from a daily growth in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Let us keep firm and unshaken our faith in the message that God has given us for these last days. The world is fast becoming as it was in the days of Noah. Christ declared that this would be the sign of the end—men would be eating and drinking, planting and building, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day of the coming of the Son of man. His words mean far more than we have yet seen. Do not the events that have taken place show this?20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 4
“And truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ.” [Verse 3.] All through the Scriptures, the Father and the Son are spoken of as two distinct personages. You will hear men endeavoring to make the Son of God a nonentity. He and the Father are one, but they are two personages. Wrong sentiments regarding this are coming in, and we shall all have to meet them.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 5
“And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.” [Verse 4.] If we would apply the precious truth of God to our own individual cases, we would find such blessing, such consolation, that we would be ashamed to murmur and complain. Some have educated their tongues to utter complaints, and they lose many precious blessings that come with the exercise of patience.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 6
“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.” [Verse 5.] “God is light.” How are His disciples to declare it? Not with their lips merely, but in their lives. They themselves are to be “the light of the world.” “Let your light so shine before men,” Christ said, “that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” [Matthew 5:14, 16.]20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 7
“If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth.” [1 John 1:6.] Every church member is to walk worthily of the high calling to which he has been chosen, having gained a living experience in the things of God. There is no need for us always to be babies in religious things. We are to grow up to the full stature of men and women in Christ.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 8
“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. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.” [Verses 7, 8.]20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 9
We may pray for sanctification, but whether or not we get it depends on whether we walk in the light, reflecting light to those around us. My brethren and sisters, the salvation of your souls depends upon the course that you pursue. If you fail of gaining eternal life, it will be because you have failed to keep the commandments of God. From the Word of God there shines light sufficient to guide us along every step of the way to heaven, and those who lose the way will be without excuse.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 10
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His word is not in us.” [Verses 9, 10.]20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 11
In this world we are exposed to the temptations of the enemy, and because we do not depend on God as we should, we are continually sinning. There are those who, when they make mistakes, stand out in stubbornness, saying that they have not sinned, and refusing to confess. Those who say, “I never confess,” will never see the kingdom of heaven unless they do confess. Read the prayer of confession that Daniel offered. He was called a man greatly beloved of God, and yet he confessed that he as well as the people had sinned.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 12
Those who make no acknowledgment of sin, those who refuse to confess because they think it would hurt their position and influence, will never be cleansed from unrighteousness unless they make a decided change in their attitude. We need the spirit of confession right here in this meeting. It would be surprising if none of those present had anything to confess. Brethren and sisters, will you not take the stumbling blocks out of the way, and clear the King’s highway, that he may enter in among us? Then we shall see the salvation of God, and the glory of the Lord will be revealed.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 13
“My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. And He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” [1 John 2:1, 2.] “As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” [John 1:12.] When we thus unite with Christ, we are gaining an experience that will be of more value to us than gold or silver or precious stones.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 14
“And hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. 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; hereby know we that we are in Him. He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.” [1 John 2:3-6.]20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 15
We are to lift the cross, and follow the steps of Christ. Those who lift the cross will find that as they do this, the cross will lift them, giving them fortitude and courage, and pointing them to the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 16
“Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning. Again a new commandment I write unto you, which thing is true in Him and in you; because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth.” [Verses 7, 8.]20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 17
We can have something fresh to think of all the time. We have held communion with God as we have tried to understand the high privilege of being one with Christ. I am so thankful for the Word of God. I thank the Lord with heart and soul and voice. We have no need to be led astray. We have no need to seek for something new and strange from the lips of human beings. We have a science that is above all human science. Many will grasp false science, teaching it as truth. But we need not be led astray. God wants us to cherish the truth in the simplicity in which we have received it from Christ. “He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him. But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes.” [Verses 9-11.]20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 18
We are not to watch for an opportunity to find fault if a brother does not speak exactly as we wish him to speak. Perhaps God does not want him to speak as you want him to. His words may cut you to the quick, but even then you are not at liberty to find fault. The talent of speech was given to us that we might speak, not words of faultfinding, but words of counsel, words of encouragement, words of reproof. Because we are not to find fault, this does not mean that we are to pass by things that are wrong, without saying a word. If you see one doing wrong, go right to him, and tell him his fault in the way outlined in the Scriptures. In the meekness of Christ, tell him the truth, and you may save his soul from death. But if you gloss over mistakes, leaving those who have made them to think they have done nothing wrong, you must share in the punishment, because you were unfaithful to your trust.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 19
If we desire to see the King in His beauty, we must behave worthily. We must outgrow our childishness. When provocation comes, let us be silent. There are times when silence is eloquence. We are to reveal the patience and kindness and forbearance that will make us worthy to be called sons and daughters of God. We are to trust and believe Him and rely upon Him. We are to follow in Christ’s steps. “If any man will come after Me,” He says, “Let him deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me.” [Matthew 16:24.] “So shall he be My disciple.” [See John 15:8.] It may be a heavy cross to keep silent when you ought to. It may be a painful discipline; but let me assure you that silence does much more to overcome evil than a storm of angry words.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 20
Here in this world we are to learn what we must be in order to have a place in the heavenly courts. We are to learn the lessons that Christ desires to teach us, that we may be prepared to be taken to the higher school in the courts above, where the Saviour will lead us by the river of life, explaining to us many things that here we could not comprehend, and teaching us of the mysteries of God. There we shall see the glory of God as we have never seen it here. We get but a glimpse of the glory now because we do not follow on to know the Lord.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 21
John writes, “And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month; and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.” [Revelation 22:1, 2.]20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 22
Talk it, pray it, sing it, and remember that you must eat of the leaves of the tree of life here in this world, if you would know the healing power of the grace of God. When words are spoken that temp you to feel provoked, ask the Lord Jesus to give you a taste of the healing brought by the tree of life. Get your mind on some subject of eternal interest, and it will be easy for you to keep still when you ought to keep still and to speak when you ought to speak.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 23
“I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for His name’s sake. I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known Him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one.” [1 John 2:12, 13.] Are you not glad, young men, that this word of encouragement has been spoken to you? Oh, what a grand work is this—to overcome the folly and wickedness that prevails in our world. Young men, God will watch over you, and will give you strength, if you will put on every piece of the armor and be ready to resist the tempter when he seeks to lead you astray. We are striving for heaven, for a life that measures with the life of God. Keep your eyes fixed on the author and finisher of our faith.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 24
“I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.” [Verse 14.]20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 25
“Because ye are strong.” [Verse 14.] Do not spend your time reading magazines and novels. Read your Bible. You have many temptations to meet and overcome. You have a great truth to proclaim. Only by a constant study of the Word of God can you gain the strength needed for this work. Put novel-reading out of your lives. You have none too much time in which to gain an understanding of what saith the Scriptures. The Lord wants the young men in His cause to stand where they are worthy of being trusted with sacred responsibilities.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 26
Do not encourage any appetite for stimulants. Eat only plain, simple, wholesome food, and thank God constantly for the principles of health reform. In all things be true and upright, and you will gain precious victories.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 27
Remember that you cannot overcome the wicked one unless you have on every piece of the armor. Do not be turned away from the truth by supposition or sophistry. If you once allow Satan to tamper with your mind, you will find that it is not an easy matter to break away from him. But if you confess your sins before God, and take hold of Him power, sophistry will have no power over you.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 28
“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” [Verse 15.] There is a great work before us. There are cities to be warned. If you go forth into the work accompanied by the grace of God, success will attend your efforts. The power of heaven will be with you. The righteousness of Christ will go before you, and the glory of God will be your rearward. Let us thank God that provision has been [made] for every emergency. We can take hold of Christ’s righteousness, pleading with Him to cleanse us from all iniquity.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 29
“For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof; but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever.” [Verses 16, 17.] He has carried on a faithful warfare against the enemy. He has built himself up in “the most holy faith.” [Jude 20.]20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 30
“Little children, it is the last time; and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time. They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us; but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.” [1 John 2:18, 19.]20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 31
Brethren and sisters, at all hazards we must hold fast to the truth. I am so glad that it is not yet too late for wrongs to be righted. I am so grateful for all the precious promises given us, that we may have courage and hope, and that we may stand firm on the platform of eternal truth.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 32
There is one thing that I want to ask those assembled at this conference to do: pray earnestly for the blessing of the Lord. I am glad to know that you are having early morning meetings. These meetings are of the highest value. Every time you come together at one of these meetings, lay your hearts open before God, and do not be afraid that your experience will be spoiled if you make confession. Take the stumbling blocks out of the way. May God give us light that will clear away everything which would prevent us from having that love for one another which we should have.20LtMs, Ms 56, 1905, par. 33
I want you to pray that God will give me strength; for I have received instruction from the Lord, and I want to give it to you. And pray also for yourselves. We want to see the glory of God at this meeting. May He help you to press to the light.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Ms 113, 1909
24LtMs, Ms 113, 1909, par. 20
Read and understand the First Epistle of John. The figures used to illustrate his subject were of a character [the people] could comprehend. Christ’s Object Lessons is easily comprehended, and yet is of the highest order. “Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time. They went out from us, but they were not of us: for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out, that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us. But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no lie is of the truth.” 1 John 2:18-21.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 11, 1910
25LtMs, Ms 11, 1910, par. 7
In the night seasons I seem to be repeating to my brethren in responsible positions words from the First Epistle of John:Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Lt 48, 1910
25LtMs, Lt 48, 1910, par. 15
In the second and third chapters of Second Peter, and in the First Epistle of John, we read of men who caused much trouble in the early church. Let all be on their guard; for similar conditions must be met today.1 John 4:2
Counsels for the Church
The Testimonies and the Reader
CCh 29.9
The true prophet will confess that Jesus Christ is come in theflesh, that God was incarnate in human flesh. 1 John 4:2.1 John 4:4
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)
Ms 45, 1908
23LtMs, Ms 45, 1908, par. 24
If you have not taken hold to try to bring the light of truth to those that are in darkness, will you not begin this work at once? Try to win souls to Christ, and let the light of His countenance be expressed in you. Let it shine forth in meekness and lowliness of heart. The truth will be opposed by the world, but “greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.” [1 John 4:4.]1 John 4:4-5
Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1
Chapter 59—Power of Example
1T 285.8
1 John 4:4, 5: “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world. They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.”Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers
The Two Classes
TM 270.3
There are only two classes in our world: those who are obedient to Jesus Christ, who seek the Master to do His will, and work for the attainment of the salvation of their own souls and the soul of everyone who is associated with them who names the name of Christ; and the children of disobedience. There are but two classes in our world. Then listen to the words of One who knows: “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world. They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.” 1 John 4:4, 5. Souls are being deluded. The fear and love of God have not a controlling power. The world is their master, and they chase after its delusive, flattering mirage. Listen to One who gave His life for the world, “that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” He spake as never man spake. The whole of John 15 contains a most important lesson. Read it; obey it. Again, hear the voice of God, “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.”Spiritual Gifts, vol. 4b
Power of Example
4bSG 76.4
1 John 4:4, 5. “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world; therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.”Special Testimonies for Ministers and Workers—No. 6
Meetings at St. Helena, Cal
SpTA06 8.1
The world is the chief enemy of religion. The satanic forces are constantly at work through the world, and those who are professed Christians, yet associated with the world in close fellowship, are so much one in spirit, aims, and principles of working, that they cannot discern between him who serveth God and him who serveth the world. The enemy works constantly to push the world to the front, to be looked upon as superior to those who believe in Jesus, and who seek to be doers of his word. Words of praise and flattery from worldlings are received as sweet morsels, but the judgment of those who love this sort of food is in accordance with the weakness which they show in this direction. Their spiritual life is composed of just the kind of material they feed upon. Their Christian experience is largely dependent on flattery and human appreciation. The fear and love of God are not interwoven in their experience. How pitiable and sad to see men who have known something of the Spirit of God, fall so completely into the arms of the world, as to be swayed and influenced by its voice, and depend upon its favors for strength and success! How manifestly such are alienated from Christ, how full of self-confidence, how full of vaunting, of vanity, and how short-sighted in regard to spiritually! How little true discernment have they to distinguish between him who is a child of God, an heir of the kingdom, and him who is a child of the wicked one, who is a child of disobedience, and an enemy of God! There are only two classes in our world: Those who are obedient to Jesus Christ, who seek the Master, to do his will, and work for the attainment of the salvation of their own souls, and the soul of every one who is associated with them, who names the name of Christ; and the children of disobedience. There are but two classes in our world. Then listen to the words of One who knows: “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.” 1 John 4:4, 5. Souls are being deluded. The fear and love of God have not a controlling power. The world is their master, and they chase after its delusive, flattering mirage. Listen to One who gave his life for the world, “that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” He spake as never man spake. The whole of John 15 contains a most important lesson. Read it; obey it. Again, hear the voice of God, “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.”The Review and Herald
June 25, 1861
RH June 25, 1861, par. 39
1 John 4:4, 5: “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.”The Review and Herald
July 1, 1875
RH July 5, 1875, par. 13
1 John 4:4, 5: “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. They are of the world; therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.”Testimony for the Church — No. 7
Power of Example
T07 44.1
1 John 4:4, 5. “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. They are of the world; therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 39, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 39, 1891, par. 15
Two classes in our world—then listen to the words of One who knows, “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.” 1 John 4:4, 5. Souls are being deluded. The fear and love of God have not a controlling power. The world is their Master, and they chase after its delusive, flattering mirage. Listen to One who gave His life for the world, “that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] He spake as never man spake. The whole of (John 15) contains the most important lesson. Read it; obey it. Again, hear the voice of God, “Ye cannot serve God and Mammon.” [Matthew 6:24.]1 John 4:6-21
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 221, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 221, 1903, par. 6
“There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear; because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love Him, because He first loved us. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar; for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment we have from Him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.” [1 John 4:10-21.]18LtMs, Lt 221, 1903, par. 8
The false sentiments that prevail today are of the world; they belong to the world; they are worldly in spirit and character. The apostle declared, “We are of God; he that knoweth God heareth us.” [Verse 6.] The teaching of the apostles is not to be set aside. Men are not to feel at liberty to speak disrespectfully of these teachings because they do not agree with all that they set forth. Those who teach the truth for this time must understand the Scriptures, that they may give the right interpretation of the Scriptures, exalting the principles of the truth and in life and character revealing the spirit of the truth. God works with such ones as they speak of the life and miracles of His Son.1 John 4:7
Lift Him Up
Brothers to Sinners and Saints, March 9
LHU 82.1
Every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 1 John 4:7.LHU 82.3
All who have been born into the heavenly family are in a special sense the brethren of our Lord. The love of Christ binds together the members of His family, and wherever that love is made manifest there the divine relationship is revealed. “Every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God” (1 John 4:7).This Day With God
Love Fulfills the Law, December 22
TDG 365.2
The attribute that Christ appreciates most in man is charity (love) out of a pure heart. This is the fruit borne upon the Christian tree. “Every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God” (1 John 4:7). The Lord Jesus has said, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another” (John 13:34, 35).Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.”—Matthew 5:9.
MB 28.2
And “blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.” The spirit of peace is evidence of their connection with heaven. The sweet savor of Christ surrounds them. The fragrance of the life, the loveliness of the character, reveal to the world the fact that they are children of God. Men take knowledge of them that they have been with Jesus. “Everyone that loveth is born of God.” “If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His;” but “as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” 1 John 4:7; Romans 8:9, 14.From Heaven With Love
Chapter 70—Christ Identifies With the Poor and Suffering
HLv 429.3
In all who suffer for My name, said Jesus, you are to recognize Me. As you would minister to Me, so you are to minister to them. All who have been born into the heavenly family are in a special sense the brethren of our Lord. The love of Christ binds together the members of His family. “Everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” 1 John 4:7.Homeward Bound
Words of Approval, October 22
HB 323.2
All who have been born into the heavenly family are in a special sense the brothers and sisters of our Lord. The love of Christ binds together the members of His family, and wherever that love is made manifest there the divine relationship is revealed. “Everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” (1 John 4:7.)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 49, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 49, 1890, par. 11
The word seemed to reach hearts, and when the social meeting was in session many spoke right to the point. A physician, Dr. Smith, has taken his stand upon the truth and is ardent in faith. He is a popular man and of excellent repute. He bore a decided testimony. He said when the text was read—Christ’s commission to His disciples—the words thrilled him through and through. He expressed, as did several, thankfulness to God that He had sent Sister White to them to speak to them the truth. I tried to present the character of Christ as a teacher. He made the truth to appear in its exalted, holy character. He ever exalted the moral law as the elevated standard of righteousness. He dwelt much upon the relation human beings bear to God and to each other. “Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God: and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” [1 John 4:7.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 16, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 16, 1892, par. 1
The attribute that Christ appreciates most in man is charity (love) out of a pure heart. This is the fruit borne upon the Christian tree. “Every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” [1 John 4:7.] The Lord Jesus has said, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” [John 13:34, 35.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 68, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 68, 1896, par. 11
“A new commandment I give unto you,” said Christ, “that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples.” [John 13:34, 35.] “This is my commandment, That ye love one another as I have loved you.” [John 15:12.] “Beloved,” writes John, “let us love one another; for love is of God, and he that loveth is born of God.” [1 John 4:7.]Lift Him Up
Disciples of the Heavenly Teacher, June 3
LHU 168.7
It is contrition and faith and love that enable the soul to receive wisdom from heaven. Faith working by love is the key of knowledge, and everyone that loveth “knoweth God” (1 John 4:7)....My Life Today
Love Heals Many Wounds, June 24
ML 179.1
Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 1 John 4:7.Our Father Cares
Love Heals Many Wounds, February 14
OFC 56.1
Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 1 John 4:7.Our High Calling
The Outflow of Love, June 18
OHC 175.1
Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 1 John 4:7.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 14—“We Have Found the Messias”
DA 139.3
It is contrition and faith and love that enable the soul to receive wisdom from heaven. Faith working by love is the key of knowledge, and everyone that loveth “knoweth God.” 1 John 4:7.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 70—“The Least of These My Brethren”
DA 638.1
All who have been born into the heavenly family are in a special sense the brethren of our Lord. The love of Christ binds together the members of His family, and wherever that love is made manifest there the divine relationship is revealed. “Everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” 1 John 4:7.1 John 4:7-8
Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]
Warnings Against Jealousy and Misjudging; A Defense of Dr. Kellogg
12MR 374.3
You have made grave charges against me in your letter sent to me at this place, but as yet I do not see their justice. I wrote to you from Switzerland in the fear of God. I was doing a work in this matter that was not pleasant to me, but I felt it my duty to do this work. If my letter caused so great consequences to you as five months’ illness, I shall not be held accountable for it; for if you had received it in the right spirit, it would have had no such results. I wrote in the anguish of my soul in regard to the course you pursued in the [1886] General Conference [session] two years since. The Lord was not pleased with that meeting. Your spirit, my brother, was not right. The manner in which you treated the case of Dr. Waggoner was perhaps after your own order, but not after God’s order. The course you took was not excusable, even if his views were questionable. We must not crowd and push one another because others do not see just as we see. We must treat others with Christlike courtesy, even if they differ with us. Matthew 5:43-48; 1 John 2:9-11; 3:16-18; 1 John 4:7, 8.The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Warnings Against Jealousy and Misjudging; A Defense of Dr. Kellogg
1888 96.3
You have made grave charges against me in your letter sent to me at this place, but as yet I do not see their justice. I wrote to you from Switzerland in the fear of God. I was doing a work in this matter that was not pleasant to me, but I felt it my duty to do this work. If my letter caused so great consequences to you as five months’ illness, I shall not be held accountable for it; for if you had received it in the right spirit, it would have had no such results. I wrote in the anguish of my soul in regard to the course you pursued in the [1886] General Conference [Session] two years since. The Lord was not pleased with that meeting. Your spirit, my brother, was not right. The manner in which you treated the case of Dr. Waggoner was perhaps after your own order, but not after God’s order. The course you took was not excusable, even if his views were questionable. We must not crowd and push one another because others do not see just as we see. We must treat others with Christ-like courtesy, even if they differ with us. Matthew 5:43-48; 1 John 2:9-11; 3:16-18; 1 John 4:7, 8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 21, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 21, 1888, par. 25
You have made grave charges against me in your letter sent to me at this place, but as yet I do not see their justice. I wrote to you from Switzerland in the fear of God. I was doing a work in this matter that was not pleasant to me, but I felt it my duty to do this work. If my letter caused so grave consequences to you as five months illness, I shall not be held accountable for it; for if you had received it in the right spirit, it would have had no such results. I wrote in the anguish of my soul in regard to the course you pursued in the General Conference [Session] two years since. The Lord was not pleased with that meeting. Your spirit, my brother, was not right. The matter in which you treated the case of Dr. Waggoner was perhaps after your own order, but not after God’s order. The course you took was not excusable, even if his views were questionable. We must not crowd and push one another because others do not see just as we see. We must treat others with Christ-like courtesy, even if they differ with us. Matthew 5:43-48; 1 John 2:9-11; 3:16-18; 4:7, 8.1 John 4:7-11
Counsels for the Church
Union With Christ and One Another Our Only Safety
CCh 44.2
The apostle John realized that brotherly love was waning in the church, and he dwelt particularly upon this point. Up to the day of his death he urged upon believers the constant exercise of love for one another. His letters to the churches are filled with this thought. “Beloved, let us love one another,” he writes; for love is of God.... God sent His only-begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.... Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” 1 John 4:7-11.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8
Chapter 38—One with Christ in God
8T 241.4
The apostle John realized that brotherly love was waning in the church, and he dwelt particularly upon this point. Up to the day of his death he urged upon believers the constant exercise of love for one another. His letters to the churches are filled with this thought. “Beloved, let us love one another,” he writes; for love is of God.... God sent His only-begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.... Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” 1 John 4:7-11.Testimony Treasures, vol. 3
Our Only Safety
3TT 245.3
The apostle John realized that brotherly love was waning in the church, and he dwelt particularly upon this point. Up to the day of his death he urged upon believers the constant exercise of love for one another. His letters to the churches are filled with this thought. “Beloved, let us love one another,” he writes; “for love is of God. ... God sent His only-begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. ... Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” 1 John 4:7-11.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 143, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 143, 1903, par. 9
The apostle John realized that brotherly love was waning in the church, and he dwelt particularly upon this point. Up to the day of his death, he urged upon believers the constant exercise of love for one another. His letters to the churches were interwoven with this thought. “Beloved, let us love one another,” he wrote; “for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. ... God sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. ... Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” [1 John 4:7, 9, 11.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 149, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 149, 1903, par. 12
The apostle John realized that brotherly love was waning in the church, and he dwelt particularly upon this point. Up to the day of his death, he urged upon believers the constant exercise of love for one another. His letters to the churches are filled with this thought. “Beloved, let us love one another,” he wrote; “for love is of God. ... God sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. ... Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” [1 John 4:7, 9, 11.]1 John 4:7-12
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 108, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 108, 1898, par. 10
This is the genuine evidence of true conversion. Whatever our profession may be, it amounts to nothing unless Christ is revealed in the actions, in works of righteousness. “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” [1 John 4:7-11.]13LtMs, Ms 108, 1898, par. 12
“No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.” [Verse 12.] This is the result of an experimental knowledge of Christ. The truth admitted into the heart will be seen in the sanctification of the receiver. There will be a continual growth in grace, a preparedness to accomplish that work which God has appointed us; we shall answer the purpose for which we were redeemed.Counsels on Health
Helping Those Who Need Help
CH 309.1
There is need that institutions be established in different places, that men and women may be set at work to do their best in the fear of God. No one should lose sight of his mission and work. Everyone should aim to carry forward to a successful issue the work placed in his hands. All our institutions should keep this in mind and strive for success; but at the same time let them remember that their success will increase in proportion as they exercise disinterested liberality, sharing their abundance with institutions that are struggling for a foothold. Our prosperous institutions should help those institutions that God has said should live and prosper, but which are still struggling for an existence. There is among us a very limited amount of real, unselfish love. The Lord says: “Everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.” “If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and His love is perfected in us.” 1 John 4:7, 8, 12. It is not pleasing to God to see man looking only upon his own things, closing his eyes to the interests of others.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8
Helping Those Who Need Help
8T 137.2
There is need that institutions be established in different places, that men and women may be set at work to do their best in the fear of God. No one should lose sight of his mission and work. Everyone should aim to carry forward to a successful issue the work placed in his hands. All our institutions should keep this in mind and strive for success; but at the same time let them remember that their success will increase in proportion as they exercise disinterested liberality, sharing their abundance with institutions that are struggling for a foothold. Our prosperous institutions should help those institutions that God has said should live and prosper, but which are still struggling for an existence. There is among us a very limited amount of real, unselfish love. The Lord says: “Everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.” “If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and His love is perfected in us.” 1 John 4:7, 8, 12. It is not pleasing to God to see man looking only upon his own things, closing his eyes to the interests of others.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 18, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 18, 1890, par. 18
Our prosperous institutions should care for those which God has said should live and prosper and which are yet struggling for an existence. There is a very limited supply of real true love among us. The Lord says, “Every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not, knoweth not God, for God is love ... If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.” [1 John 4:7, 8, 12.] It is not pleasing to God to see every man looking upon his own things and closing his eyes to the interests of others.1 John 4:7-14
Manuscript Releases, vol. 18 [Nos. 1301-1359]
MR No. 1311—An Appeal To Be Converted Fully to Christ, Enjoy His Love, and Be a Help to Others
18MR 81.1
I want to see Sister Sanderson standing on vantage ground as one who has spiritual dominion over the powers of darkness. Cultivate love. [1 John 4:7-14; 5:2-5, quoted.]1 John 4:7-16
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 8a, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 8a, 1888, par. 15
“Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. ... Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. ... God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God and God in him.” [1 John 4:7-16.]The Desire of Ages
Chapter 85—By the Sea Once More
DA 816.4
John lived to be very aged. He witnessed the destruction of Jerusalem, and the ruin of the stately temple,—a symbol of the final ruin of the world. To his latest days John closely followed his Lord. The burden of his testimony to the churches was, “Beloved, let us love one another;” “he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in God, and God in him.” 1 John 4:7, 16.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 86, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 86, 1895, par. 29
“Every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. ... If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. ... God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.” [1 John 4:7, 12, 16.] The entire law is fulfilled in him who loves God with all his heart, and his neighbor as himself. This is “glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” [Luke 2:14.] O, it is not weakness to have a tender, <humble,> sympathetic, pitying heart. Of this no one should be ashamed as if it were a weakness. It is strength derived from Christ.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 115a, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 115a, 1897, par. 14
You are to be careful not to set aside the wisdom of God. Truth and righteousness will always prevail. Others, Elder Corliss, as well as yourself have a dispensation of the gospel committed to them. What attributes are the most prized and most sought for in man by our Redeemer—He who was crucified to save and uplift mankind?—charity, purity, and fidelity. “Everyone that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. ... If we love one another God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. ... God is love, and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God and God in him.” [1 John 4:7, 12, 16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 104, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 104, 1898, par. 25
That which is most prized by the world’s Redeemer, most sought for in His representatives, is purity and charity that suffereth long and is kind. “Every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” [1 John 4:7.] This is sanctified knowledge. If we love one another as Christ has loved us, His love is perfected in us. “He that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in God, and God in him.” [Verse 16.] The coldness and lack of sympathy that has come into our ranks is not of God. It is of the wicked one. How few really believe that the law of God is comprehended and fulfilled by him who loves God supremely and his neighbor as himself. This is indeed honoring God in the highest, and bringing peace on earth good will toward men.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 39, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 39, 1901, par. 11
The time may come when it will not be safe to use milk. But if the cows are healthy and the milk thoroughly cooked, there is no necessity of creating a time of trouble beforehand. Let no one feel that he must bear a message as to what our people shall place on their tables in every particular. Those who take an extreme position will in the end see that the results are not what they thought they would be. The Lord will lead us by His own right hand, if we will be led. Love and purity—these are the fruits borne upon a good tree. “Every one that loveth is born of God and knoweth God.” [1 John 4:7.]16LtMs, Lt 39, 1901, par. 12
I was instructed to say to those in the Indiana Conference who had been so strenuous upon the subject of health reform, urging their ideas and views upon others, that God had not given them their message. I told them that if they would soften and subdue their inherited and cultivated tendencies, in which there is a large amount of stubbornness, they would see that they need to be converted. “If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. ... God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.” [Verses 12, 16.] The entire law is fulfilled by him who loves God with all the heart and his neighbor as himself. Peace on earth and good will toward men,—this is glory to God in the highest. The gospel will be satisfied when this great object is achieved.1 John 4:7-17
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 13a, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 13a, 1891, par. 35
The attributes which Christ appreciates most in man is charity out of a pure heart. This is the fruit borne upon the Christian tree. “Every one that loveth is born of God and knoweth God.” [1 John 4:7.] The Lord Jesus has said, “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples if ye have love one for another.” [John 13:34, 35.]7LtMs, Ms 13a, 1891, par. 36
When enshrouded in the cloudy pillar He spake to the children of Israel through Moses: “Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart. Thou shalt not in any wise rebuke thy neighbor and not suffer sin upon him. Thou shalt not avenge, or bear any grudge upon thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. I am the Lord.” [Leviticus 19:17, 18.] “These things I command you that ye love one another.” [John 15:17.] 1 John 2:9-11; 4:17.1 John 4:7-18
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 41, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 41, 1890, par. 24
When we have done all in our power, with humble, contrite hearts, to scatter the dense darkness of error and doubt and unbelief, irrespective whether it is for our personal advantage or not, then it may be said of us, “Ye are laborers together with God.” [1 Corinthians 3:9.] For of ourselves we can do nothing. Then we may rest in God’s assurance—be one with Christ in God. We cannot in truth evidence that we love our brother unless we love him as Christ loved us. We must, as children of God, arm ourselves and give the evidence we love our brother and our neighbor as ourselves. When we let our works bear evidence that we love our brother as Christ has loved us, and exercise toward him the meekness and gentleness of Christ, we will not be jealous—as was Cain—but we will bring the best offering, the symbol of the Lamb slain. “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” 1 John 4:7. What language is this! How full and far-reaching! “God is love.” v. 8.6LtMs, Ms 41, 1890, par. 27
“He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.” [Verse 8.] Oh, why are we so careless as to let selfishness and enmity and little grievances, little misunderstandings, separate the very ones who are bought with a price to be one as Christ is one with the Father? The world’s Redeemer prayed that His disciples might be one as He was one with the Father. Are we working with this prayer, to be one with Christ, one with one another?6LtMs, Ms 41, 1890, par. 29
“In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and His love is perfected in us.” “And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear.” 1 John 4:9-12, 16-18.1 John 4:7-19
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 123, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 123, 1901, par. 6
I want to see Sister Sanderson standing on vantage ground as one who has spiritual dominion over the powers of darkness. Cultivate love. “Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.” [1 John 4:7-14.]16LtMs, Lt 123, 1901, par. 7
“Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as he is, so are we in this world. ... We love him, because he first loved us.” [Verses 15-17, 19.]1 John 4:7-20
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Ms 58, 1896
11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, par. 9
The love of Christ binds together all the members of His family, and wherever that love is made manifest, there the divine relationship is revealed; for “every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” 1 John 4:7.11LtMs, Ms 58, 1896, par. 20
When in answer to the inquiry, “What shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” Jesus bade the rich young man, “Sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, ... and come and follow me,” (Mark 10:17-22; Matthew 19:16-21), He was but presenting that which, in the conversation with His disciples, He declared to be the great test at the final judgment. For the spirit of love and self-sacrifice is the touchstone of the character. “He that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?” 1 John 4:20.Reflecting Christ
Love Was That of a Repentant Sinner, March 19
RC 92.1
Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 1 John 4:7.RC 92.4
John’s love for his Master was not a mere human friendship, but it was the love of a repentant sinner, who felt that he had been redeemed by the precious blood of Christ. He esteemed it the highest honor to work and suffer in the service of his Lord. His love for Jesus led him to love all for whom Christ died. His religion was of a practical character. He reasoned that love to God would be manifested in love to His children. “We love him, because he first loved us. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?” (1 John 4:19, 20). The apostle’s life was in harmony with his teachings.1 John 4:7-21
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 82, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 82, 1898, par. 27
“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? My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth.” “And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us. If a brother say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar; for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God, love his brother also.” [1 John 3:16-18; 4:16-21.]13LtMs, Ms 82, 1898, par. 28
“Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God: for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God for us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.” [Verses 7-12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 77, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 77, 1893, par. 23
“Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and His love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in Him, and He in us, because He hath given us of His Spirit.” [1 John 4:7-13.]8LtMs, Lt 77, 1893, par. 24
“If any man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar; for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from Him, that he who loveth God will love his brother also.” [Verses 20, 21.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 46, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 46, 1894, par. 1
“Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God, and every one that loveth is born of God and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwells in us, and his love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit. ... And we know the love that God hath to us. God is love, and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.” [1 John 4:7-13, 16, 17.] (See further, 1 John 4:18-21.)Conflict and Courage
“Love One Another,” December 17
CC 357.1
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. 1 John 4:10, 11.CC 357.2
After the ascension of Christ, John stands forth as a faithful, earnest laborer for the Master.... The love for Christ which glowed in his heart led him to put forth earnest, untiring labor for his fellow men, especially for his brethren in the Christian church.CC 357.3
Christ had bidden the first disciples love one another as He had loved them.... After the descent of the Holy Spirit, when the disciples went forth to proclaim a living Saviour, their one desire was the salvation of souls. They rejoiced in the sweetness of communion with saints. They were tender, thoughtful, self-denying, willing to make any sacrifice for the truth’s sake. In their daily association with one another, they revealed the love that Christ had enjoined upon them....CC 357.4
But gradually a change came. The believers began to look for defects in others.... They lost sight of the Saviour and His love.... John, realizing that brotherly love was waning in the church, urged upon believers the constant need of this love.... It is not the opposition of the world that most endangers the church of Christ. It is the evil cherished in the hearts of believers that works their most grievous disaster and most surely retards the progress of God’s cause. There is no surer way of weakening spirituality than by cherishing envy, suspicion, faultfinding, and evil surmising. On the other hand, the strongest witness that God has sent His Son into the world is the existence of harmony and union among men of varied dispositions who form His church....CC 357.5
Unbelievers are watching to see if the faith of professed Christians is exerting a sanctifying influence upon their lives; and they are quick to discern the defects in character, the inconsistencies in action.... Christians are all members of one family, all children of the same heavenly Father, with the same blessed hope of immortality. Very close and tender should be the tie that binds them together.... “Let us not love in word,” the apostle writes, “but in deed and in truth.” 33Ibid., 546-551.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 391, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 391, 1906, par. 15
And how do you suppose God looks upon this matter? I know that your spirit will have to change decidedly before you can stand acquitted before God of your assumptions and your hatred. I present to you the scriptures: 1 John 2:7-11; chap. 3:11-15; chap. 4:7, 16-21.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 78, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 78, 1901, par. 11
“Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. ... If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar; for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.” [1 John 4:7, 8, 20, 21.]1 John 4:8
Christian Education
Chapter 7—The Schools of the Prophets
CE 67.1
The impress of Deity, manifest in the pages of revelation, is seen upon the lofty mountains, the fruitful valleys, the broad, deep ocean. The things of nature speak to man of his Creator’s love. He has linked us to himself by unnumbered tokens in heaven and in earth. This world is not all sorrow and misery. “God is love,” [1 John 4:8.] is written upon every opening bud, upon the petals of every flower, and upon every spire of grass. Though the curse of sin has caused the earth to bring forth thorns and thistles, there are flowers upon the thistles, and the thorns are hidden by roses. All things in nature testify to the tender, fatherly care of our God, and to his desire to make his children happy. His prohibitions and injunctions are not intended merely to display his authority, but in all that he does, he has the well-being of his children in view. He does not require them to give up anything that it would be for their best interest to retain.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 67, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 67, 1894, par. 32
It is the privilege of the Christian to present evidences to the world that the Lord cares for and loves those who believe in Christ as their personal Saviour. God loves the followers of Christ as He loves His only begotten Son. To present this fact to the world will be a power in winning souls to Christ. Will the churches arouse? Will they receive the truth in its purity and loveliness? Truth is love; “God is Love.” [1 John 4:8.] If this had not been the case, we must all have perished.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 92, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 92, 1895, par. 34
“God is love” [1 John 4:8] is written upon every soul who will receive the superscription. Jesus, the Majesty of heaven will unite all souls to Himself who will permit Him to bind them to His great heart of infinite love. Jesus teaches us that God is an ever present “I AM.” [Exodus 3:14.] It is by cordially believing that we maintain our allegiance to God. Jesus said, “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:14, 15.] Again He said, “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.” “I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever, and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.” [John 10:11; 6:51.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 36, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 36, 1897, par. 3
Those who represent God the Father as unloving, ready to break forth on His sinful creatures in vindictive wrath, do not speak the truth. In His prayer to His Father, Christ said, “O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee; but I have known thee.” [John 17:25.] The world has measured God by their own finite measurement. They have misjudged and misinterpreted His truth and righteousness. But Christ could say, “I have known thee, for I have been in the secret chambers of the Most High.” If the world had been admitted into the counsels of God, they would have one, and only one, testimony to bear, and that is, “God is love.” [1 John 4:8.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 22, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 22, 1897, par. 9
Those who are divested of selfishness will love God supremely and their neighbors as themselves. “He that loveth not, knoweth not God.” [1 John 4:8.] It was love for God that made Christ say, “I delight to do thy will, O my God.” [Psalm 40:8.] “My meat is to do the will of him that sent me.” [John 4:34.] Talk, Pharisaism, and self-praise is abundant; but this will never win souls to Christ. Pure, sanctified love, expressed by Christ’s lifework, is as sacred perfume. Like an opened bottle of perfume, it fills the whole house with fragrance. Eloquence, an extended knowledge of the truth, outward devotion, rare talents, if mingled with sacred, humble love, will become as fragrant as the opened box of ointment. But gifts alone, ability alone, the choicest endowments alone, cannot take the place of love.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 133, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 133, 1899, par. 24
“But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected; hereby know we that we are in him. ... A new commandment I give unto you, which thing is true in him and in you, because the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth. He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him. But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness, and knoweth not whither he goeth, because that darkness hath blinded his eyes.” [1 John 4:8; 2:3-5, 8-11.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 21, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 21, 1900, par. 1
True love is not merely a sentiment or an emotion. It is a living principle, a principle that is manifest in action. True love, wherever it exists, will control the life. Thus it is with the love of God. “God is love” [1 John 4:8], and in all His works, in all His dealings with mankind, His character is revealed.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 156, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 156, 1900, par. 6
What is the Bible interpretation of God? “God is love.” [1 John 4:8.] By giving Christ to our world, God manifested His love for mankind. “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] Yes, “everlasting life.” This is the love which is the fulfilling of the law. Only he whose heart is filled with compassion for fallen man, who loves to a purpose, showing his love by the performance of Christlike deeds, will be able to endure the seeing of Him who is invisible. He only who loves his fellow men to a purpose can know God. He who loves not those for whom the Father has done so much, knows not God. This is the reason there is so little genuine vitality in our churches. Theology is valueless unless it is saturated with the love of Christ.Christ’s Object Lessons
Chapter 16—“Lost, and Is Found”
COL 211.2
Though you will not join in the greeting to the lost, the joy will go on, the restored one will have his place by the Father’s side and in the Father’s work. He that is forgiven much, the same loves much. But you will be in the darkness without. For “he that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.” 1 John 4:8.Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 47—The Truth as It Is in Jesus
1SM 311.1
In giving His only-begotten Son to die for sinners, God has manifested to fallen man love that is without a parallel. We have full faith in the scripture that says, “God is love” (1 John 4:8); and yet many have shamefully perverted this word, and have fallen into dangerous error because of a false interpretation of its meaning. God’s holy law is the only standard by which we can estimate divine affection. If we do not accept the law of God as our standard, we set up a standard of our own. God has given us precious promises of His love, but we are not to ascribe to Jehovah a tenderness that will lead Him to pass over guilt and wink at iniquity.The Faith I Live By
God Is Love, February 22
FLB 59.1
He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. 1 John 4:8.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 45, 1892
7LtMs, Ms 45, 1892, par. 1
“God is love.” [1 John 4:8.] He showed us that He loved us by giving His well-beloved Son to die for our sins. The angels wondered at God’s love when they saw that He “so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish (come to nothing) but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] Jesus said, “The Father himself loveth you.” [John 16:27.] God loves us, not because He gave His Son for us, but He loves us so much that He gave His well-beloved Son, so that we might believe in His tender love toward us. God gave His Son to suffer with us and for us, but in the pain that Christ suffered in the Garden of Gethsemane and on the cross of Calvary, the great God, the Father of all, the Heart of unmeasured love, suffered also, and in Christ paid the price of our salvation.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 12, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 12, 1893, par. 28
While Christ is our officiating priest in the heavenly sanctuary, we may have faith in Jesus Christ. We may repent of our sins, “Ye believe in God, believe also in me.” [John 14:1.] Every provision has been made for every necessity of our moral and spiritual nature. Truth in Jesus Christ reveals to us “God is love” and that He careth for us. [1 John 4:8; 1 Peter 5:7.] “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth those who fear him.” [Psalm 103:13.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 98, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 98, 1893, par. 24
Love is the agency through which God works to draw the heart to Him. It is the power by which He expels sin from the soul. In every department of life this principle must be the controlling power. In every enterprise of mercy this alone can give efficiency; the finite must unite with the infinite; and “God is love.” [1 John 4:8.]1 John 4:8-13
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 57, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 57, 1895, par. 49
“He that loveth not, knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because God sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and His love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in Him, and He in us, because He hath given us of His Spirit.” [1 John 4:8-13.]1 John 4:8-16
The General Conference Bulletin
December 1, 1895
GCB December 1, 1895, Art. A, par. 22
By the elder son were represented those unrepenting Jews of Christ’s day, and also those Pharisees in every age, who look with contempt upon the publicans and sinners. This class consists of those who do not go to great excesses in vice, and because of this they are filled with self-righteousness. Jesus met these cavilers on their own ground. Like the elder son in the parable, they had enjoyed special privileges from God; but while they claimed to be sons in God’s house, they had the spirit of an hireling. They did not know and believe the love that God hath to us. 1 John 4:16. They were working, not from love, but from hope of reward. In their eyes, God was an exacting taskmaster; for they made him out to be altogether such a one as themselves. They saw Christ inviting the publicans and sinners to come as children to the father’s house, to receive freely the rich gift of his grace,—the gift which the rabbis hoped to secure only by toil and penance,—and they were offended. In their apparently zealous service, they had been working for self, not seeking to save the lost. The prodigal’s return, which filled the father’s heart with joy, only stirred them to jealousy.GCB December 1, 1895, Art. A, par. 26
Though you will not join in greeting to the lost, the rejoicing will go on, the restored one will have his place by the Father’s side, and in the Father’s work. He that is forgiven much, the same loveth much. But you will be in the darkness without. For “he that loveth not, knoweth not God; for God is love.” 1 John 4:8.1 John 4:8-21
Manuscript Releases, vol. 15 [Nos. 1136-1185]
MR No. 1180—Put Away Differences; Love One Another; Proclaim the Truth
15MR 300.2
[1 John 3:16, 18, 19, 23; 4:8-13, 20, 21, quoted.] I have quoted only a few passages, but the Bible abounds in just such lessons. If it is not possible to love God unless we love our brother, the case will certainly go against us in the courts of heaven if we do not cherish Christlike love for one another. The Word is very explicit.The Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Put Away Differences; Love One Another; Proclaim the Truth
[1 John 3:16, 18, 19, 23; 4:8-13, 20, 21, quoted.]
1 John 4:9
In Heavenly Places
The Most Exalted Theme, January 8
HP 14.1
In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. 1 John 4:9.Sons and Daughters of God
He Manifests His Love Toward Us, January 12
SD 18.1
In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. 1 John 4:9.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 41, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 41, 1893, par. 1
I have read your letter with much interest, and will try to help you. “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect,” as our heavenly Father is perfect in His sphere. [Matthew 5:48.] So also those for whom Christ has given His own life that they may not hopelessly perish. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] In this expressed love we are to believe for our individual selves, and live that belief, not in your own strength but trusting in the efficiency and righteousness of Christ. “In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.” 1 John 4:9.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 50, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 50, 1896, par. 3
“In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.” (1 John 4:9), “who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began; but is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath ... brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” 2 Timothy 1:9, 10. The Lord wills not that any soul should perish. His mercies are without number; and He will not leave His purchased possession, that He has given His own life to ransom, to become the sport of Satan’s temptations. All heaven is given to those who believe in Jesus Christ as their present, personal Saviour. And no soul can dishonor God more than by claiming to believe the truth, and yet wearing the garments of mourning as though orphans.1 John 4:10
Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students
Expelling Students
CT 268.2
When, in consequence of transgression, Adam and Eve were cut off from all hope, when justice demanded the death of the sinner, Christ gave Himself as a sacrifice. “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” 1 John 4:10; Isaiah 53:6.Reflecting Christ
The Repentant Sinner Accepted in Christ, March 2
RC 75.3
The intercession of Christ in our behalf is that of presenting His divine merits in the offering of Himself to the Father as our substitute and surety; for He ascended up on high to make an atonement for our transgressions.... “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 4:10). “He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them” (Hebrews 7:25).Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 19—What to Preach and Not to Preach
1SM 155.2
Laborers in the cause of truth should present the righteousness of Christ, not as new light, but as precious light that has for a time been lost sight of by the people. We are to accept of Christ as our personal Saviour, and He imputes unto us the righteousness of God in Christ. Let us repeat and make prominent the truth that John has portrayed, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 4:10).Selected Messages Book 1
Chapter 61—Christ the Center of the Message
1SM 383.2
A veil has seemed to be before the eyes of many who have labored in the cause, so that when they presented the law, they have not had views of Jesus, and have not proclaimed the fact that, where sin abounded, grace doth much more abound. It is at the cross of Calvary that mercy and truth meet together, where righteousness and peace kiss each other. The sinner must ever look toward Calvary; and with the simple faith of a little child, he must rest in the merits of Christ, accepting His righteousness and believing in His mercy. Laborers in the cause of truth should present the righteousness of Christ, not as new light but as precious light that has for a time been lost sight of by the people. We are to accept Christ as our personal Saviour, and He imputes unto us the righteousness of God in Christ. Let us repeat and make prominent the truth that John has portrayed: “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 4:10).Sons and Daughters of God
That God Sent His Son to Die That We Might Live, January 5
SD 11.1
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 1 John 4:10.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7
Power Given the Apostles
7T 31.2
On the Day of Pentecost the Infinite One revealed Himself in power to the church. By His Holy Spirit He descended from the heights of heaven as a rushing, mighty wind, to the room in which the disciples were assembled. It was as if for ages this influence had been held in restraint, and now heaven rejoiced in being able to pour upon the church the riches of the Spirit’s power. And, under the influence of the Spirit, words of penitence and confession were mingled with songs of praise for sins forgiven. Words of thanksgiving and of prophecy were heard. All heaven bent low to behold and to adore the wisdom of matchless, incomprehensible Love. Lost in wonder, the apostles and disciples exclaimed: “Herein is love.” 1 John 4:10. They grasped the imparted gift. And what followed? Thousands were converted in a day. The sword of the Spirit, newly edged with power and bathed in the lightnings of heaven, cut its way through unbelief.Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers
Be God’s Men
TM 455.3
The means is provided, and no one will have any excuse for sin. If you fail of overcoming, there are reasons for this. Ye will not obey God’s revealed will; ye will not pray; ye will not strive; ye will not fight evil habits and unholy thoughts. Are ye stronger than God? Can ye, dare ye, contend with the Eternal? If you are not proof against God’s judgments, proof against His vengeance, then go on no longer in your own evil ways. Arise and make a stand against Satan. Be doing something, and do it now. Repent now, confess, forsake. A day of fire and storm is about to burst on our world. Conform your life to the simple prescriptions of the word of God. Seek the aid of God’s Spirit by prayer, by watching thereunto, and ye will come off more than conquerors through Him who hath loved us. Read 1 John 4:10.That I May Know Him
Calvary—God’s Crowning Work, March 4
TMK 69.1
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 1 John 4:10.The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 31—The Message Heeded
AA 333.3
In the contemplation of Christ we linger on the shore of a love that is measureless. We endeavor to tell of this love, and language fails us. We consider His life on earth, His sacrifice for us, His work in heaven as our advocate, and the mansions He is preparing for those who love Him, and we can only exclaim, O the height and depth of the love of Christ! “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” 1 John 4:10; 3:1.The Upward Look
Christ’s Death Brings Life, July 28
UL 223.1
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 1 John 4:10.Notebook Leaflets from the Elmshaven Library, vol. 2
Righteousness and Love of Christ
2NL 153.3
Laborers in the cause of truth should present the righteousness of Christ, not as new light, but as precious light that has for a time been lost sight of by the people. We are to accept of Christ as our personal Saviour, and He imputes unto us the righteousness of God in Christ. Let us repeat and make prominent the truth that John has portrayed, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” 1 John 4:10.Faith and Works
Chapter 16—Accepted in Christ
FW 105.3
The intercession of Christ in our behalf is that of presenting His divine merits in the offering of Himself to the Father as our substitute and surety; for He ascended up on high to make an atonement for our transgressions. “If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and He is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:1, 2). “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 4:10). “He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them” (Hebrews 7:25).The Review and Herald
January 13, 1903
RH January 13, 1903, par. 7
On the day of Pentecost the Infinite One revealed himself in power to the church. By his Holy Spirit he descended from the heights of heaven as a rushing, mighty wind, to the room in which the disciples were assembled. It was as if for ages this influence had been held in restraint, and now heaven rejoiced in being able to pour upon the church the riches of the Spirit’s power. And, under the influence of the Spirit, words of penitence and confession were mingled with songs of praise for sins forgiven. Words of thanksgiving and of prophecy were heard. All heaven bent low to behold and to adore the wisdom of matchless, incomprehensible Love. Lost in wonder, the apostles and disciples exclaimed, “Herein is love.” 1 John 4:10. They grasped the imparted gift. And what followed?—Thousands were converted in a day. The sword of the Spirit, newly edged with power, and bathed in the lightnings of heaven, cut its way through unbelief.From Trials to Triumph
The Cross Accomplishes True Conversion
TT 176.4
In the contemplation of Christ, we linger on the shore of a love that is measureless. We tell of it, but language fails us. “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” 1 John 4:10.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 22, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 22, 1890, par. 6
Notwithstanding this terrible lesson, men had no sooner begun to multiply once more than rebellion and vice became widespread. Satan seemed to have taken control of the world. The time came that a change must be made or the image of God would be wholly obliterated from the hearts of the beings He had created. All heaven watched the movements of God with intense interest. Would He once more manifest His wrath? Would He destroy the world by fire? The angels thought that the time had come to strike the blow of justice, when, lo, to their wondering vision was unveiled the plan of salvation. Wonder, O heavens, and be astonished, O earth! God sent His only begotten Son into the world to save the world! Amazing grace! “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” [1 John 4:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 75, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 75, 1890, par. 8
The tongue needs to be educated and disciplined and trained to talk of the glories of heaven, the matchless love of Jesus Christ. Angels of heaven are working constantly to answer the prayer of Christ to His Father that His disciples may be one, as He is one with the Father. And when a new church is formed, angels of God are sent from heaven to lovingly bend over them and send rays of light to the hearts of all who have surrendered their will to God’s will, their ways to God’s ways; and when they see harmony and love binding heart to heart in the faith and love of Jesus Christ, they exclaim “‘Herein is love,’ the Father hath sent His Son to be the Saviour of the world.” [1 John 4:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 32, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 32, 1890, par. 5
When a new church is formed angels of God are sent from heaven to lovingly impart to them the spirit and power of the grace of God and send rays of light to the hearts of all who have surrendered their wills to God’s will, their ways to God’s ways. And when they see harmony and love binding heart to heart in the faith and love of Jesus Christ in the bonds of Christian union, they exclaim, “Herein is love.” [1 John 4:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 97, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 97, 1892, par. 3
Redemption is an everlasting monument reared for eternity, to prove the interest which the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit have for every believing soul. Upon that monument of Calvary is inscribed, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” [1 John 4:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 45, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 45, 1892, par. 10
“Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; to declare, I say at this time his righteousness; that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. ... Do we then make void the law through faith (in Jesus Christ our righteousness)? God forbid; yea, we establish the law.” [Romans 3:24-26, 31.] “And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. And hereby we know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.” “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” [1 John 2:2-4; 4:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 50, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 50, 1893, par. 16
When all hope was excluded from Adam and Eve in consequence of transgression and sin, when justice demanded the death of the sinner, Christ gave Himself to be a sacrifice for the sin of the world. The world was under condemnation. Christ became substitute and surety for man. He would give His life for the world, which is represented as the one lost sheep that had strayed from the fold, whose guilt as well as helplessness was charged against them and stood in the way, hindering their return. “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son to be a propitiation for our sins.” [1 John 4:10.] “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.” [Isaiah 53:6.] Every son and daughter of God, if they have an abiding Saviour, will act out Christ. Every soul that has not an abiding Saviour will reveal the same in un-Christlikeness in character. Love is not cherished and put in exercise. “Lift Him up, the risen Saviour,” in our words, in our conversation, in our dealing with the erring.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 84, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 84, 1894, par. 3
Laborers in the cause of truth should present the righteousness of Christ, not as new light, but as precious light that has for a time been lost sight of by the people. We are to accept of Christ as our personal Saviour, and He imputes unto us the righteousness of God in Christ. Let us repeat and make prominent the truth that John has portrayed: “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” [1 John 4:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 21, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 21, 1895, par. 2
“Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” [1 John 4:10.] Here is language that expresses His mind toward a corrupt and idolatrous people: “How shall I give thee up, Ephraim? how shall I deliver thee, Israel? how shall I make thee as Admah? how shall I set thee as Zeboim? Mine heart is turned in me, my repentings are kindled together.” [Hosea 11:8.] Must He give up the people for whom such a provision had been made, even His only begotten Son, the express image of Himself? God permitted His Son to be delivered up for our offenses. He Himself assumes toward the Sin Bearer the character of a judge, divesting Himself of the endearing qualities of a father.God’s Amazing Grace
Founded on Righteousness, March 6
AG 73.4
We are to accept of Christ as our personal Saviour, and He imputes unto us the righteousness of God in Christ.... “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 4:10).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)
Ms 141a, 1897
12LtMs, Ms 141a, 1897, par. 22
But “God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] God might have sent His Son to condemn the world, but He sent Him to save. The Redeemer came to save, not to destroy. No words can describe the effect of His movement on the heavenly angels. They would only exclaim in wonder and admiration, “Herein is love.” [1 John 4:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 160, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 160, 1898, par. 16
The promise of the Saviour was a star of hope to our first parents. An invincible deliverer was given them, on the Eden ground. “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us.” [1 John 4:10.] The Lord delivered up His Son, the perfect image of Himself, to save us from death. Herein God commandeth His love toward us, placing it in the most attractive light, that it might be seen by the heavenly universe, by the worlds unfallen and by the fallen world, that the Just suffered for the unjust. “He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him freely give us all things.” [Romans 8:32.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 166, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 166, 1898, par. 27
The heavenly intelligences were prepared for a fearful manifestation of almighty power. Every move was watched with intense anxiety. The exercise of justice was expected. The angels looked for God to punish the inhabitants of the earth. But God said, I will send My Son. Perhaps they will reverence Him. “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] Amazing grace! Christ came not to condemn the world, but to save the world. “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” [1 John 4:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 160a, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 160a, 1898, par. 17
The promise of a Saviour was a star of hope to our first parents. On the Eden ground an invincible deliverer was promised them. “Herein is love, not that we loved him, but that he loved us.” [1 John 4:10.] The Lord delivered up His Son, the perfect image of Himself, that He might save us from death. In this God commended His love toward us, placing it in the most attractive light, that it might be seen by the heavenly universe, by the worlds unfallen and the fallen world, that the Just suffered for the unjust. “He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him for us all, how shall he not with him freely give us all things.” [Romans 8:32.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 176, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 176, 1899, par. 8
Human love is weak and changeable, but God’s love is full and deep and unchangeable. Why then are our souls not aglow as we contemplate this love? Why do we close our eyes to it? God, who command the light to shine out of darkness, will shine into the hearts of all who believe, to give the light of the knowledge of His glory in the face of Jesus Christ. “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” [1 John 4:10.] O, what amazing love. Language cannot measure it. It is without a parallel. “He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?” [Romans 8:32.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 59, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 59, 1899, par. 17
Godly sorrow will always be the result of a realization of our frailties and depravities. Our faith in the atoning sacrifice will be based on the sacred promise of full and complete pardon from Christ. The message of mercy which Christ brought from the Father to man was meant for the ears of the world: “I, if I be lifted up,” Christ said, “will draw all men unto me.” [John 12:32.] Everlasting life has been purchased for man at an infinite cost. “God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] In this matchless gift Christ embraces the world with an atmosphere of grace. All who choose to inhale this life-giving atmosphere will have eternal life. The sinner who consents to be drawn can say, “Herein is love.” [1 John 4:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 94, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 94, 1899, par. 46
According to justice and retribution God might have placed in the hands of His angelic ministers the vials of His wrath, to be poured out upon a rebellious world, to punish the inhabitants for their treatment of the Prince of heaven. But He did not do this. “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” [1 John 4:10.] Isaiah tells us who and what our Redeemer is: “Unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” [Isaiah 9:6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 79, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 79, 1900, par. 28
Although for ages sin has been accumulating, although through falsehood and artifice Satan has cast the black shadow of his interpretation upon the Word of God, yet the Father’s mercy and love have not ceased to flow earthward in rich currents. If human beings would open the windows of the soul heavenward, in appreciation of the divine gifts, a flood of healing virtues would pour in, leading men to exclaim, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and gave his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” [1 John 4:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 66, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 66, 1901, par. 12
The love of God is without computation. “Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” “And not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” [1 John 3:1; 4:10; 2:2.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 27, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 27, 1901, par. 5
I feel very thankful to the Lord that He has helped me to do His work here in California. He has given me a message to bear to the people, and I have seen His salvation. Would that every one could rightly estimate the precious gift our heavenly Father has made to our world. The disciples felt that they could not express the love of Christ. They could only say, “Herein is love.” [1 John 4:10.] The entire universe gives expression to this love and to God’s unbounded benevolence.God’s Amazing Grace
The Father’s Immeasurable Sacrifice, June 17
AG 176.1
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 1 John 4:10.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 48, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, par. 15
There are many souls to be brought to a saving knowledge of the truth. Sinners are far from the Father’s house, perishing with hunger. Do you ask, How does God regard those dead in trespasses and sins? I point you to Calvary! “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” “And not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” [1 John 4:10; 2:2.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 45, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 45, 1901, par. 8
There are many souls to be brought to a saving knowledge of the truth. The prodigal is far from his father’s house, perishing with hunger. He is to be the object of our compassion. Do you ask, How does God regard those who are perishing in their sins? I point you to Calvary! “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins,” “and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” [1 John 4:10; 2:2.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 174, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 174, 1902, par. 25
Who can comprehend the love that God has shown in sending Christ to save perishing souls. I am conscious that language is far too feeble to depict this love. And our minds cannot take it in. It is impossible even for the angels fully to comprehend it. As they think of the sacrifice that Christ has made, and see how completely He identifies His interests with those of His blood-bought heritage, and how tenderly He deals with the tried and tempted, they exclaim in amazement, “Herein is love.” [1 John 4:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 62, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 62, 1902, par. 13
On the day of Pentecost the Infinite One revealed Himself in power to the church. By His Holy Spirit, He descended from the heights of heaven as a rushing mighty wind to the room in which the disciples were assembled. Words of penitence and confession of sin were mingled with songs of praise for sins forgiven. Words of thanksgiving and of prophecy were heard. All Heaven was bending low to behold and adore the wisdom of matchless, incomprehensible Love. The apostles and disciples were lost in wonder, and exclaimed, “Herein is Love!” [1 John 4:10.] They grasped the imparted gift. Their hearts were surcharged with a benevolence so full, so deep, so far-reaching, that it impelled them to go to the ends of the earth, testifying, God forbid that we should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. They were filled with an intense longing to add to the church of such as should be saved. They called on the believers to arouse and do their part, that all nations might hear the truth and the earth be filled with the glory of the Lord.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 72, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 72, 1902, par. 18
“Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed on us, that we might be called the sons of God.” [1 John 3:1.] “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins;” “and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.” [1 John 4:10; 2:2.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 287, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 287, 1904, par. 8
I present these precious words to you as truth. “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” [John 3:16.] By sin man separated himself from God, but the stream of divine benevolence never ceased to flow earthward, increasing in volume with successive ages. And when the fulness of time had come, Deity poured forth the healing flood of heavenly grace in one great gift of love. “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” [1 John 4:10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 144, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 144, 1907, par. 14
The apostles studied the prophecies relating to the Messiah, and as they watched each step in the unfolding of this great and wonderful Benevolence, they accepted Christ as the Sent of God. They became partakers of His divine love and witnesses to the fallen world that “herein is love; not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and gave His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” [1 John 4:10.]Jesus, Name Above All Names
Great Center of Attraction, April 29
JNN 129.3
A veil has seemed to be before the eyes of many who have labored in the cause, so that when they presented the law, they have not had views of Jesus, and have not proclaimed the fact that, where sin abounded, grace doth much more abound. It is at the cross of Calvary that mercy and truth meet together, where righteousness and peace kiss each other. The sinner must ever look toward Calvary; and with the simple faith of a little child, he must rest in the merits of Christ, accepting His righteousness and believing in His mercy. Laborers in the cause of truth should present the righteousness of Christ, not as new light but as precious light that has for a time been lost sight of by the people. We are to accept Christ as our personal Saviour, and He imputes unto us the righteousness of God in Christ. Let us repeat and make prominent the truth that John has portrayed: “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 4:10).The Sin of Licentiousness
The Sin of Licentiousness
PH077 37.3
The means is provided, and no one will have any excuse for sin. If you fail of overcoming, there are reasons for this. Ye will not obey God’s revealed will; ye will not pray; ye will not strive; ye will not fight evil habits and unholy thoughts. Are ye stronger than God? Can ye, dare ye, contend with the Eternal? If you are not proof against God’s judgments, proof against his vengeance, then go on no longer in your own evil ways. Arise and make a stand against Satan. Be doing something, and do it now. Repent now, confess, forsake. A day of fire and storm is about to burst on our world. Conform your life to the simple prescriptions*The original publication had the spelling “perscriptions.” of the word of God. Seek the aid of God’s Spirit by prayer, by watching thereunto, and ye will come off more than conquerors through Him who hath loved us. Read 1 John 4:10.Lift Him Up
Estimate of a Lost Sheep, July 12
LHU 207.1
Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us. 1 John 4:10.Manuscript Releases, vol. 1 [Nos. 19-96]
Open the Windows of the Soul Heavenward
1MR 388.3
Although for ages sin has been accumulating, although through falsehood and artifice Satan has cast the black shadow of his interpretation upon the Word of God, yet the Father’s mercy and love have not ceased to flow earthward in rich currents. If human beings would open the windows of the soul heavenward, in appreciation of the divine gifts, a flood of healing virtues would pour in, leading men to exclaim, “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and gave His Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 4:10).Our Father Cares
The Repentant Sinner Accepted in Christ, November 6
OFC 322.3
The intercession of Christ in our behalf is that of presenting His divine merits in the offering of Himself to the Father as our substitute and surety; for He ascended up on high to make an atonement for our transgressions.... “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins” (1 John 4:10). “He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them” (Hebrews 7:25).EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
1 John 4:1
Conflict and Courage
Perils Within and Without, December 18
CC 358.1
Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 1 John 4:1.From Here to Forever
Lifting the Veil on the Future
HF 9.2
The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the Word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested. Says the apostle John, “Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1. And Isaiah declares, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 12, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 12, 1890, par. 75
“Take heed, therefore, how ye hear,” is an admonition of Christ. [Luke 8:18.] We are to hear for the sake of learning the truth, that we may walk in it. And again: “Take heed what ye hear.” [Mark 4:24.] Examine closely, “prove all things,” “believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.” [1 Thessalonians 5:21; 1 John 4:1.] This is the counsel of God; shall we heed it? A man may hear and acknowledge the whole truth, and yet know nothing of personal piety and true experimental religion. He may explain the way of salvation to others, and yet himself be a castaway.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 9, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 9, 1898, par. 28
“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 him by the Spirit which he hath given us. Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they be of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” [1 John 3:23, 24; 4:1.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 104, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, par. 21
The public schools in the cities are full of Sodomitish children. In the name of the Lord, search the camp most diligently. “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” [1 Thessalonians 5:21.] God says, “Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God.” [1 John 4:1.] We are not asked to accept without proof every one who claims to be a Seventh-day Adventist. In the name of the Lord we are to detect error and unrighteousness. By earnest inquiry we should learn from fathers and mothers what their children are in character.Counsels for the Church
To Point Men to the Bible
CCh 92.2
The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested. Says the apostle John, “Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1. And Isaiah declares, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.118The Great Controversy vii.Lift Him Up
The Glory of a Divine Power, April 14
LHU 118.5
The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the Word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested. Says the apostle John, “Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1). And Isaiah declares, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20)....Maranatha
Spiritualism’s Role in Deception, June 7
Mar 166.1
Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 1 John 4:1.Selected Messages Book 2
A Message to J. M. Garmire
2SM 79.2
“Take heed, therefore, how ye hear” (Luke 8:18), is an admonition of Christ. We are to hear for the sake of learning the truth, that we may walk in it. And again: “Take heed what ye hear” (Mark 4:24). Examine closely, “prove all things” (1 Thessalonians 5:21), “believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1). This is the counsel of God; shall we heed it?—Letter 12, 1890.The Great Controversy
Introduction
GC vii.3
The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested. Says the apostle John, “Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1. And Isaiah declares, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Author’s Preface
GC88 e.1
The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the Word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested. Says the apostle John, “Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God; because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1. And Isaiah declares, “To the law and to the testimony; if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.Ye Shall Receive Power
Not Trusting in Impressions, April 23
YRP 122.4
The Spirit was not given—nor can it ever be bestowed—to supersede the Bible; for the Scriptures explicitly state that the Word of God is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested. Says the apostle John, “Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1). And Isaiah declares, “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them” (Isaiah 8:20).Ellen G. White: The Early Years: 1827-1862 (vol. 1)
Early Arguments for the Spirit of Prophecy
1BIO 77.2
“Try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1. “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20. “If the thing follow not, nor come to pass, that is the thing which the Lord hath not spoken.” Deuteronomy 18:22.—Ibid.