EGW Writings1 Thessalonians 5

Maranatha

Close of Probation Passes Unnoticed, September 13

Mar 264.1

But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. 1 Thessalonians 5:1, 2.

The Upward Look

As a Thief in the Night, December 17

UL 365.1

But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. 1 Thessalonians 5:1, 2.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 143, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 143, 1901, par. 75

The time is now approaching when God will vindicate His honor and bring this unrighteousness to an end. Of this time the apostle Paul speaks when he says: “But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child, and they shall not escape.” [1 Thessalonians 5:1-3.] When the attractions of the horse race are all-absorbing; when the excitement of the cricket match runs high; when the fascination of the gambling hall is strong; when parties are indulging in luxurious feasts, and revelry is at its height; when all are forgetful of God and of eternity, and “Peace and safety” is the cry that is heard, “then sudden destruction” will come upon men, “and they shall not escape.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 94, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 94, 1903, par. 48

“Of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.” [1 Thessalonians 5:1-6.]

The Review and Herald

January 19, 1905

RH January 19, 1905, par. 2

On Thursday morning I spoke to the students in the college chapel. A goodly number of the College View church-members were present, and I was led to present to them the exhortation given by the apostle to those who know that the day of the Lord is near at hand. Please read 1 Thessalonians 5:1-7. The apostle continues, “Let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breast-plate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 49, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 49, 1893, par. 3

There are ways that the time of the students can be employed that their young zeal and youthful ardor can be used to glorify God. Thus was it in the school of the prophets. All their powers were trained and consecrated to service. Here is education that we shall need in the day of trial coming upon us as a thief in the night, stealing unawares. 1 Thessalonians 5:1-9; 2 Peter 3:10-14; Revelation 3:2-4. Ephesians 6:10-18; Philippians 2:12-16; Titus 2:6-8, 11-15. I write you, referring to these scriptures. [I] have not time to write them out in full.

Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3

Spiritual Gifts

3SG 18.2

Chapter 5:1-4. “But of the times and seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For, when they shall say, peace and safety, then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child, and they shall not escape. But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.” The day of the Lord is the day of “sudden destruction.” It is the day of wrath which is in theOld and New Testaments associated with the second advent of Christ. This day is not in the past, hence the language is not applicable to the Christians of past generations. The Christians of the last generation—the very men and women who are to be living on the earth when the day of the Lord comes—are here addressed. Hence all true Adventists will regard themselves as the “brethren” Paul addresses, and his language especially applicable to the present time. He continues in this chapter without change, setting forth practical duties applicable to those who are watching for the approach of the day of the Lord, and in verses 19-21, says, “Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” Here are three very important injunctions.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Introduction

PP 28.1

Another portion of Scripture evidently written with reference to the last days, brings the same fact plainly to view. 1 Thessalonians 5. The apostle opens the chapter with these words: “But of the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.” In Verse 4 he adds, “But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.” Then he gives them sundry admonitions in view of that event, among which are these (verses 19-21): “Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” And in verse 23 he prays that these very ones who were thus to have to do with “prophesyings” may be preserved blameless unto the coming of the Lord.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 25—The Thessalonian Letters

AA 255.1

The arrival of Silas and Timothy from Macedonia, during Paul’s sojourn in Corinth, had greatly cheered the apostle. They brought him “good tidings” of the “faith and charity” of those who had accepted the truth during the first visit of the gospel messengers to Thessalonica. Paul’s heart went out in tender sympathy toward these believers, who, in the midst of trial and adversity, had remained true to God. He longed to visit them in person, but as this was not then possible, he wrote to them.

AA 255.2

In this letter to the church at Thessalonica the apostle expresses his gratitude to God for the joyful news of their increase of faith. “Brethren,” he wrote, “we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith: for now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord. For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God; night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?”

AA 256.1

“We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers; remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father.”

AA 256.2

Many of the believers in Thessalonica had “turned ... from idols to serve the living and true God.” They had “received the word in much affliction;” and their hearts were filled with “joy of the Holy Ghost.” The apostle declared that in their faithfulness in following the Lord they were “ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.” These words of commendation were not unmerited; “for from you,” he wrote, “sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to Godward is spread abroad.”

AA 256.3

The Thessalonian believers were true missionaries. Their hearts burned with zeal for their Saviour, who had delivered them from fear of “the wrath to come.” Through the grace of Christ a marvelous transformation had taken place in their lives, and the word of the Lord, as spoken through them, was accompanied with power. Hearts were won by the truths presented, and souls were added to the number of believers.

AA 256.4

In this first epistle, Paul referred to his manner of labor among the Thessalonians. He declared that he had not sought to win converts through deception or guile. “As we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts. For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloak of covetousness; God is witness: nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ. But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children: so being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.”

AA 257.1

“Ye are witnesses, and God also,” the apostle continued, “how holily and justly and unblamably we behaved ourselves among you that believe: as ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children, that ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto His kingdom and glory.

AA 257.2

“For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.” “What is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? For ye are our glory and joy.”

AA 257.3

In his first epistle to the Thessalonian believers, Paul endeavored to instruct them regarding the true state of the dead. He spoke of those who die as being asleep—in a state of unconsciousness: “I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him.... For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.”

AA 258.1

The Thessalonians had eagerly grasped the idea that Christ was coming to change the faithful who were alive, and to take them to Himself. They had carefully guarded the lives of their friends, lest they should die and lose the blessing which they looked forward to receiving at the coming of their Lord. But one after another their loved ones had been taken from them, and with anguish the Thessalonians had looked for the last time upon the faces of their dead, hardly daring to hope to meet them in a future life.

AA 258.2

As Paul’s epistle was opened and read, great joy and consolation was brought to the church by the words revealing the true state of the dead. Paul showed that those living when Christ should come would not go to meet their Lord in advance of those who had fallen asleep in Jesus. The voice of the Archangel and the trump of God would reach the sleeping ones, and the dead in Christ should rise first, before the touch of immortality should be given to the living. “Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.”

AA 259.1

The hope and joy that this assurance brought to the young church at Thessalonica can scarcely be appreciated by us. They believed and cherished the letter sent to them by their father in the gospel, and their hearts went out in love to him. He had told them these things before; but at that time their minds were striving to grasp doctrines that seemed new and strange, and it is not surprising that the force of some points had not been vividly impressed on their minds. But they were hungering for truth, and Paul’s epistle gave them new hope and strength, and a firmer faith in, and a deeper affection for, the One who through His death had brought life and immortality to light.

AA 259.2

Now they rejoiced in the knowledge that their believing friends would be raised from the grave to live forever in the kingdom of God. The darkness that had enshrouded the resting place of the dead was dispelled. A new splendor crowned the Christian faith, and they saw a new glory in the life, death, and resurrection of Christ.

AA 259.3

“Even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him,” Paul wrote. Many interpret this passage to mean that the sleeping ones will be brought with Christ from heaven; but Paul meant that as Christ was raised from the dead, so God will call the sleeping saints from their graves and take them with Him to heaven. Precious consolation! glorious hope! not only to the church of Thessalonica, but to all Christians wherever they may be.

AA 259.4

While laboring at Thessalonica, Paul had so fully covered the subject of the signs of the times, showing what events would occur prior to the revelation of the Son of man in the clouds of heaven, that he did not think it necessary to write at length regarding this subject. He, however, pointedly referred to his former teachings. “Of the times and the seasons,” he said, “ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them.”

AA 260.1

There are in the world today many who close their eyes to the evidences that Christ has given to warn men of His coming. They seek to quiet all apprehension, while at the same time the signs of the end are rapidly fulfilling, and the world is hastening to the time when the Son of man shall be revealed in the clouds of heaven. Paul teaches that it is sinful to be indifferent to the signs which are to precede the second coming of Christ. Those guilty of this neglect he calls children of the night and of darkness. He encourages the vigilant and watchful with these words: “But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.”

AA 260.2

Especially important to the church in our time are the teachings of the apostle upon this point. To those living so near the great consummation, the words of Paul should come with telling force: “Let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for a helmet, the hope of salvation. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him.”

AA 261.1

The watchful Christian is a working Christian, seeking zealously to do all in his power for the advancement of the gospel. As love for his Redeemer increases, so also does love for his fellow men. He has severe trials, as had his Master; but he does not allow affliction to sour his temper or destroy his peace of mind. He knows that trial, if well borne, will refine and purify him, and bring him into closer fellowship with Christ. Those who are partakers of Christ’s sufferings will also be partakers of His consolation and at last sharers of His glory.

AA 261.2

“We beseech you, brethren,” Paul continued in his letter to the Thessalonians, “to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.”

AA 261.3

The Thessalonian believers were greatly annoyed by men coming among them with fanatical ideas and doctrines. Some were “disorderly, working not at all, but ... busy-bodies.” The church had been properly organized, and officers had been appointed to act as ministers and deacons. But there were some, self-willed and impetuous, who refused to be subordinate to those who held positions of authority in the church. They claimed not only the right of private judgment, but that of publicly urging their views upon the church. In view of this, Paul called the attention of the Thessalonians to the respect and deference due to those who had been chosen to occupy positions of authority in the church.

AA 262.1

In his anxiety that the believers at Thessalonica should walk in the fear of God, the apostle pleaded with them to reveal practical godliness in the daily life. “We beseech you, brethren,” he wrote, “and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more. For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication.” “For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.”

AA 262.2

The apostle felt that he was to a large extent responsible for the spiritual welfare of those converted under his labors. His desire for them was that they might increase in a knowledge of the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom He had sent. Often in his ministry he would meet with little companies of men and women who loved Jesus, and bow with them in prayer, asking God to teach them how to maintain a living connection with Him. Often he took counsel with them as to the best methods of giving to others the light of gospel truth. And often, when separated from those for whom he had thus labored, he pleaded with God to keep them from evil and help them to be earnest, active missionaries.

AA 262.3

One of the strongest evidences of true conversion is love to God and man. Those who accept Jesus as their Redeemer have a deep, sincere love for others of like precious faith. Thus it was with the believers at Thessalonica. “As touching brotherly love,” the apostle wrote, “ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more; and that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you; that ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.”

AA 263.1

“The Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: to the end He may stablish your hearts unblamable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints.”

AA 263.2

“Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feeble-minded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

AA 263.3

The apostle cautioned the Thessalonians not to despise the gift of prophecy, and in the words, “Quench not the Spirit; despise not prophesyings; prove all things; hold fast that which is good,” he enjoined a careful discrimination in distinguishing the false from the true. He besought them to “abstain from all appearance of evil;” and closed his letter with the prayer that God would sanctify them wholly, that in “Spirit and soul and body” they might “be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He that calleth you,” he added, “who also will do it.”

AA 264.1

The instruction that Paul sent the Thessalonians in his first epistle regarding the second coming of Christ, was in perfect harmony with his former teaching. Yet his words were misapprehended by some of the Thessalonian brethren. They understood him to express the hope that he himself would live to witness the Saviour’s advent. This belief served to increase their enthusiasm and excitement. Those who had previously neglected their responsibilities and duties, now became more persistent in urging their erroneous views.

AA 264.2

In his second letter Paul sought to correct their misunderstanding of his teaching and to set before them his true position. He again expressed his confidence in their integrity, and his gratitude that their faith was strong, and that their love abounded for one another and for the cause of their Master. He told them that he presented them to other churches as an example of the patient, persevering faith that bravely withstands persecution and tribulation, and he carried their minds forward to the time of the second coming of Christ, when the people of God shall rest from all their cares and perplexities.

AA 264.3

“We ourselves,” he wrote, “glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure: ... and to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of His power.... Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness, and the work of faith with power: that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

AA 265.1

But before the coming of Christ, important developments in the religious world, foretold in prophecy, were to take place. The apostle declared: “Be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshiped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.”

AA 265.2

Paul’s words were not to be misinterpreted. It was not to be taught that he, by special revelation, had warned the Thessalonians of the immediate coming of Christ. Such a position would cause confusion of faith; for disappointment often leads to unbelief. The apostle therefore cautioned the brethren to receive no such message as coming from him, and he proceeded to emphasize the fact that the papal power, so clearly described by the prophet Daniel, was yet to rise and wage war against God’s people. Until this power should have performed its deadly and blasphemous work, it would be in vain for the church to look for the coming of their Lord. “Remember ye not,” Paul inquired, “that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?”

AA 266.1

Terrible were the trials that were to beset the true church. Even at the time when the apostle was writing, the “mystery of iniquity” had already begun to work. The developments that were to take place in the future were to be “after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish.”

AA 266.2

Especially solemn is the apostle’s statement regarding those who should refuse to receive “the love of the truth.” “For this cause,” he declared of all who should deliberately reject the messages of truth, “God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” Men cannot with impunity reject the warnings that God in mercy sends them. From those who persist in turning from these warnings, God withdraws His Spirit, leaving them to the deceptions that they love.

AA 266.3

Thus Paul outlined the baleful work of that power of evil which was to continue through long centuries of darkness and persecution before the second coming of Christ. The Thessalonian believers had hoped for immediate deliverance; now they were admonished to take up bravely and in the fear of God the work before them. The apostle charged them not to neglect their duties or resign themselves to idle waiting. After their glowing anticipations of immediate deliverance the round of daily life and the opposition that they must meet would appear doubly forbidding. He therefore exhorted them to steadfastness in the faith:

AA 267.1

“Stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. Now our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.” “The Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil. And we have confidence in the Lord touching you, that ye both do and will do the things which we command you. And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.”

AA 267.2

The work of the believers had been given them by God. By their faithful adherence to the truth they were to give to others the light which they had received. The apostle bade them not to become weary in well-doing, and pointed them to his own example of diligence in temporal matters while laboring with untiring zeal in the cause of Christ. He reproved those who had given themselves up to sloth and aimless excitement, and directed that “with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.” He also enjoined upon the church to separate from their fellowship anyone who should persist in disregarding the instruction given by God’s ministers. “Yet,” he added, “count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.”

AA 268.1

This epistle also Paul concluded with a prayer that amidst life’s toils and trials the peace of God and the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ might be their consolation and support.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 36, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 36, 1902, par. 8

Like Enoch, we should earnestly proclaim the message of Christ’s second coming. “The day of the Lord,” the Scriptures declare, cometh “as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, ... and they shall not escape.” [1 Thessalonians 5:2, 3.] In these words is emphasized the importance of being constantly prepared for this great event. “But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye (those who in the light of the Scriptures are brethren) are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love (these attributes are always united); and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with Him. Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.” [Verses 4-13.] The whole of the fifth chapter of first Thessalonians should be read and heeded. Carried into practice, this Scripture would bring about a great change in the lives of those who now are inspired by the spirit that works in the children of disobedience. This chapter should receive more attention, and should be read in every church before, as well as during, seasons of prayer. Concerning his first letter to the Thessalonian church Paul wrote, “I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren.” [Verse 27.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 27, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 27, 1905, par. 4

I shall call things by the right name. For Christ’s sake, for your own soul’s sake, and for the sake of those who would cheapen themselves to respond to your expressions of love, I send you this warning. I ask you to read and study the fifth chapter of First Thessalonians.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 62, 1911

25LtMs, Ms 62, 1911, par. 6

Mark the epistles of Paul, the apostle to the Thessalonians, and the epistles to Timothy.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Ms 160, 1904

19LtMs, Ms 160, 1904, par. 1

1 Thessalonians 5:1-5. Will we remember all this? Will we bear that in mind, what is the will and mind of God concerning us, that we are in the light all the time? Shall we take our position as those that are taught of God, that God does not hide His counsel from us?

19LtMs, Ms 160, 1904, par. 2

Verses 6-11. Now that is our position. We are not to be in a position to watch the defects of those that are around us. In doing that we place ourselves upon the judgment seat, and we are judging. This is not our proper place.

19LtMs, Ms 160, 1904, par. 35

Now here I read in the chapter that I opened before you, 1 Thessalonians 5:8, 9. He has not appointed you to wrath. He does not want you to be where His wrath shall come upon you. He wants you to be where, for your own beauty and loveliness of character you can reflect His divine image.

19LtMs, Ms 160, 1904, par. 36

Verses 9-11. Remember you are together now. You are going to be together in this school. “Comfort yourselves together.” Work on the principles of the Bible, “and edify one another, even as also ye do.”

19LtMs, Ms 160, 1904, par. 37

Verse 12. Now that is the command that our Lord Jesus Christ has given us through His own workman.

19LtMs, Ms 160, 1904, par. 38

Verses 14-18. How much politeness do you show to God? You are very polite to one another. But I ask you, for the blessings of God that He bestows upon you, how much thanksgiving and praise and glorifying God do you give Him? Once it was so that when we would get into a meeting and the blessing of God would come upon us, you would hear, “Praise God, Glory be to God.” That is what you would hear. It has to be old-fashioned, but God help us to revive it. Whoso offereth praise glorifieth God. That is the word.

19LtMs, Ms 160, 1904, par. 39

Now you are to know them which labor among you. Verse 13. You have to have that peace. That is the word, and you must have it.

19LtMs, Ms 160, 1904, par. 40

Verses 14, 15. Why shouldn’t you? “Let your light so shine ... in heaven.” [Matthew 5:16.] There is something that they see.

19LtMs, Ms 160, 1904, par. 41

[1 Thessalonians 5] Verse 18. If we should hear now and then when a sermon is being preached, and our hearts are touched, if we should hear a “Thank the Lord,” if we should hear, “Praise the Lord,” do you suppose any would think that fanaticism is coming upon us? I think they would think the old-fashioned religion had come. That is what I think.

19LtMs, Ms 160, 1904, par. 42

Verses 19-26. Now here is a practice that was in those days when they met: The brethren greeted the brethren with a holy kiss, and the sisters greeted the sisters with a holy kiss.

Selected Messages Book 3

The 1888 Edition of The Great Controversy

3SM 113.4

Experience of Ellen White While Writing The Great Controversy—I was moved by the Spirit of the Lord to write that book, and while working upon it, I felt a great burden upon my soul. I knew that time was short, that the scenes which are soon to crowd upon us would at the last come very suddenly and swiftly, as represented in the words of Scripture: “The day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night” (1 Thessalonians 5:2).

Selected Messages Book 3

Chapter 57—The Last Great Struggle

3SM 413.1

I was moved by the Spirit of the Lord to write that book [The Great Controversy].... I knew that time was short, and that the scenes which are soon to crowd upon us would at the last come very suddenly and swiftly, as represented in the words of Scripture, “The day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night” (1 Thessalonians 5:2).

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 268, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 268, 1903, par. 12

We are living in a very solemn period of this earth’s history. We know not the exact time of our Lord’s coming. But whether it be this year, or next year, or in several years, Christ has told us that He will come as a thief in the night. He says unto all, “Watch.” [1 Thessalonians 5:2; Matthew 24:42, 43.] To very, very many, He will come in such an hour as they think not. At the time of His coming, men will be asking, “Where is the promise of His coming?” [2 Peter 3:4.] The signs of the last days are thickening around us. The wickedness of the wicked is increasing.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 1, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 1, 1890, par. 2

I was moved by the Spirit of the Lord to write that book, and while working upon it, I felt a great burden upon my soul. I knew that time was short, that the scenes which are soon to crowd upon us would at the last come very suddenly and swiftly, as represented in the words of the Scripture: “The day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.” [1 Thessalonians 5:2.]

6LtMs, Lt 1, 1890, par. 10

I groaned in spirit, for I knew from the conversation I had had, that my brethren in positions of trust at the office of publication had no sense of the real perils which are soon to break upon us. While many are, in spirit and action, saying, “Peace and safety,” sudden destruction will come upon them. [Verse 3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 15b, 1886

4LtMs, Ms 15b, 1886, par. 12

Behold I come as a thief. Just when the world has been rocked to sleep by the peace and safety cry of the professed watchman, just when the scoffer is uttering his bold challenge, Where is the promise of His coming; when everything in our world is busy activity immersed in selfish ambition for gain, Jesus comes as a thief in the night. Watch therefore for the solemn events predicted. The believing, watching ones are addressed, “Yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night, for when they shall cry, Peace and safety, then sudden destruction cometh upon them and they shall not escape.” [1 Thessalonians 5:2, 3.]

The Great Controversy

Chapter 1—The Destruction of Jerusalem

GC 37.2

Let men beware lest they neglect the lesson conveyed to them in the words of Christ. As He warned His disciples of Jerusalem’s destruction, giving them a sign of the approaching ruin, that they might make their escape; so He has warned the world of the day of final destruction and has given them tokens of its approach, that all who will may flee from the wrath to come. Jesus declares: “There shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations.” Luke 21:25; Matthew 24:29; Mark 13:24-26; Revelation 6:12-17. Those who behold these harbingers of His coming are to “know that it is near, even at the doors.” Matthew 24:33. “Watch ye therefore,” are His words of admonition. Mark 13:35. They that heed the warning shall not be left in darkness, that that day should overtake them unawares. But to them that will not watch, “the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.” 1 Thessalonians 5:2-5.

GC 38.1

The world is no more ready to credit the message for this time than were the Jews to receive the Saviour’s warning concerning Jerusalem. Come when it may, the day of God will come unawares to the ungodly. When life is going on in its unvarying round; when men are absorbed in pleasure, in business, in traffic, in money-making; when religious leaders are magnifying the world’s progress and enlightenment, and the people are lulled in a false security—then, as the midnight thief steals within the unguarded dwelling, so shall sudden destruction come upon the careless and ungodly, “and they shall not escape.” Verse 3.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 20—A Great Religious Awakening

GC 371.1

Paul speaks of a class to whom the Lord’s appearing will come unawares. “The day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, ... and they shall not escape.” But he adds, to those who have given heed to the Saviour’s warning: “Ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.” 1 Thessalonians 5:2-5.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 1—Destruction of Jerusalem

GC88 38.1

Let men beware lest they neglect the lesson conveyed to them in the words of Christ. As he warned his disciples of Jerusalem’s destruction, giving them a sign of the approaching ruin, that they might make their escape, so he has warned the world of the day of final destruction, and has given them tokens of its approach, that all who will may flee from the wrath to come. Jesus declares, “There shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations.” [Luke 21:25; Matthew 24:29; Mark 13:24-26; Revelation 6:12-17.] Those who behold these harbingers of his coming are to “know that it is near, even at the doors.” [Matthew 24:33.] “Watch ye therefore,” [Mark 13:35.] are his words of admonition. They that heed the warning shall not be left in darkness, that that day should overtake them unawares. But to them that will not watch, “the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.” [1 Thessalonians 5:2-5.]

GC88 38.2

The world is no more ready to credit the message for this time than were the Jews to receive the Saviour’s warning concerning Jerusalem. Come when it may, the day of God will come unawares to the ungodly. When life is going on in its unvarying round; when men are absorbed in pleasure, in business, in traffic, in money-making; when religious leaders are magnifying the world’s progress and enlightenment, and the people are lulled in a false security,—then, as the midnight thief steals within the unguarded dwelling, so shall sudden destruction come upon the careless and ungodly, “and they shall not escape.” [1 Thessalonians 5:2-5.]

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 20—A Great Religious Awakening

GC88 371.1

Paul speaks of a class to whom the Lord’s appearing will come unawares. “The day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, ... and they shall not escape.” But he adds, to those who have given heed to the Saviour’s warning, “Ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day; we are not of the night, nor of darkness.” [1 Thessalonians 5:2-5.]

From Here to Forever

Portents of Disaster

HF 26.2

The world is no more ready to credit the message for this time than were the Jews to receive the Saviour’s warning concerning Jerusalem. Come when it may, the day of God will come unawares to the ungodly. When life is going on in its unvarying round; when men are absorbed in pleasure, in business, in money-making; when religious leaders are magnifying the world’s progress, and people are lulled in a false security—then, as the midnight thief steals within the unguarded dwelling, so shall sudden destruction come upon the careless and ungodly, “and they shall not escape.” See 1 Thessalonians 5:2-5.

From Here to Forever

The Message Opposed

HF 231.2

Paul speaks of those who have heeded the Saviour’s warning: “Ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day.” 1 Thessalonians 5:2-5.

The Great Hope (Condensed)

Danger of Resisting the Gospel Call

GrH_c 40.5

The world is no more ready to credit the message for this time than were the Jews to receive the Saviour’s warning concerning Jerusalem. Come when it may, the day of God will come unawares to the ungodly. When life is going on in its unvarying round; when men are absorbed in pleasure, in business, in money-making; when religious leaders are magnifying the world’s progress, and people are lulled in a false security—then, as the midnight thief steals within the unguarded dwelling, so shall sudden destruction come upon the careless and ungodly, “and they shall not escape.” See 1 Thessalonians 5:2-5.

The Three Angels’ Messages

Historical setting

3AM 47.1

Paul speaks of a class to whom the Lord’s appearing will come unawares. “The day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, ... and they shall not escape.” But he adds, to those who have given heed to the Saviour’s warning: “Ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.” 1 Thessalonians 5:2-5.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 10 [Nos. 771-850]

MR No. 847—Counsels Concerning the Second Coming

10MR 387.1

The Lord is coming. “Let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.” “Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day.” “Yourselves know perfectly [should you arouse from your spiritual stupor] that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.” (1 Thessalonians 5:6, 5, 2.) Oh, that the church in Battle Creek would know that the day of the Lord is right upon them! He will come in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. Will any of us wish to be sleeping when the Lord comes?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 29, 1882

3LtMs, Lt 29, 1882, par. 13

Many professors of the truth are sleeping the sleep of death. “Let us not sleep,” says the apostle, “as do others.” 1 Thessalonians 5:6. What is spiritual sleep? It is spiritual insensibility, and even those who have been the best of workers for Christ fall into slumber sometimes through lack of being watchful and guarding of themselves. Once the thought that some help could be rendered to sinners would awaken a response in the heart, there would be earnest action.

3LtMs, Lt 29, 1882, par. 15

The Lord is coming. “Let us not sleep, as do others; but watch and be sober.” “Ye are all children of light, and the children of the day.” “Yourselves know perfectly (should you arouse from your spiritual stupor) that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.” 1 Thessalonians 5:6, 5, 2. Oh, that the church in Battle Creek would know that the day of the Lord is right upon them! He will come in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. Will any of us wish to be sleeping when the Lord comes?

Lift Him Up

Steadfast Unto the End, December 7

LHU 355.2

Looking down through the ages to the close of time, Peter was inspired to outline conditions that would exist in the world just prior to the second coming of Christ. “There shall come in the last days scoffers,” he wrote, “walking after their own lusts, and saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.” But “when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them” (1 Thessalonians 5:3). Not all, however, would be ensnared by the enemy’s devices. As the end of all things earthly should approach, there would be faithful ones able to discern the signs of the times.... There would be a remnant who would endure to the end.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 69—On the Mount of Olives

DA 635.2

“If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” Revelation 3:3. The advent of Christ will surprise the false teachers. They are saying, “Peace and safety.” Like the priests and teachers before the fall of Jerusalem, they look for the church to enjoy earthly prosperity and glory. The signs of the times they interpret as foreshadowing this. But what saith the word of Inspiration? “Sudden destruction cometh upon them.” 1 Thessalonians 5:3. Upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth, upon all who make this world their home, the day of God will come as a snare. It comes to them as a prowling thief.

The Faith I Live By

The Criers of Peace, December 2

FLB 342.1

For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. 1 Thessalonians 5:3.

The Story of Jesus

Chapter 31—A Day of Judgment

SJ 181.9

“When they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them; ... and they shall not escape.” 1 Thessalonians 5:3.

From Eternity Past

When Probation Closes

EP 60.1

When religious teachers are pointing forward to ages of peace and prosperity, and the world are absorbed in their planting and building, feasting and merrymaking, rejecting God’s warnings and mocking His messengers—then it is that “sudden destruction cometh upon them, ... and they shall not escape.” 1 Thessalonians 5:3.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 1, 1875

2LtMs, Lt 1, 1875, par. 8

Men are demanded in these times who will not betray the truth, who will [not] yield to any guide but God. The trumpet must give a certain sound, clear and sharp. The sound of warning and alarm must be given. God has a message designed to arouse the people, and words of solemn importance must be spoken in no hesitating manner. The time of night must be sounded. The cry must be lifted, “The morning cometh, and also the night.” [Isaiah 21:12.] Clear and distinct the truth must come to the people in the Spirit and power of God that the church and the world may be aroused from their carnal slumbers. Men must be led to inquire with solemn interest, “What shall I do to be saved?” [Acts 16:30.] False, unfaithful shepherds are crying “Peace and safety” to soothe the consciences of those who need to be alarmed for their souls’ sake. The voice and pen of God’s faithful servants must be employed, that those who are at ease may be aroused with the warning, “For when they shall cry, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] None will escape, save those who watch and keep their garments white.

2LtMs, Lt 1, 1875, par. 20

Satan is inventing every device possible that the people who know the truth may be lulled into fatal security while he summons evil men and evil angels to carry on his schemes in secrecy. But all who seek God with their whole heart will be aroused. Those who love God with their whole soul will keep the commandments of God and have the faith of Jesus. Some are inclined to think that too great a stir is being made, but in their position of ease they say to the people, “Peace and safety” when sudden destruction is about to fall upon the world. [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] I tremble as I think of the words that have been spoken to me concerning those who do not act in accordance with the truth for this time. Said my Guide, “Those who do not arouse will be passed by, and God will move upon men who will respond to His call, and carry His work forward and upward. God calls [the] watchmen and the privates connected with His army to strengthen the outposts, to guard the fort.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Ms 5, 1876

3LtMs, Ms 5, 1876, par. 17

When ministers, farmers, merchants, lawyers, great men, and professedly good men shall cry, Peace and safety, sudden destruction cometh. [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] Luke reports the words of Christ, that the day of God comes as a snare—the figure of an animal prowling in the woods for prey—and lo, suddenly he is entrapped in the concealed snare of the fowler. [Chapter 21:35.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Ms 18, 1888

5LtMs, Ms 18, 1888, par. 20

I call upon you as Christ’s ambassadors, to take your feet out of the path they are now in, for it is not the path of duty or of safety. Repent before God that you have not been faithful watchmen, standing unitedly in the work for the salvation of souls. Tell the people the time of night. Tell the faithful and true that the morning cometh; tell the slothful and ease-loving and those who are working on the enemy’s side, that the night cometh. Years have been lost, but will you now awake? Will those in responsible positions take in the situation, or will they, by their indifference and inactivity, say to the people, “Peace and safety”? [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] May God help every one to come up to the help of the Lord now. The watchmen have been asleep, but may God grant that they may not sleep the sleep of death. Let all who are standing upon the walls of Zion give the trumpet a certain sound.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 4, 1889

6LtMs, Lt 4, 1889, par. 76

The world is a second Sodom, the end is right upon us, and is it reasonable to think that there is no message to make ready a people to stand in the day of God’s preparation? Why is there so little eyesight, so little deep, earnest, heartfelt labor? Why is there so much pulling back? Why is there such a continual cry of “Peace and safety” [1 Thessalonians 5:3], and no going forward in obedience to the Lord’s command? Is the third angel’s message to go out in darkness or to lighten the whole earth with its glory? Is the light of God’s spirit to be quenched and the church to be left as destitute of the grace of Christ as the hills of Gilboa were of dew and rain? Certainly all must admit that it is time that a vivifying, heavenly influence should be brought to bear upon our churches. It is time that unbelief, pride, love of supremacy, evil-surmising, depreciation of the work of others, licentiousness, and hypocrisy should go out of our ranks.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 19 [Nos. 1360-1419]

MR No. 1415—Counsels Concerning Sanitarium Work; Importance of Personal Holiness

19MR 371.5

All who profess to be the children of God need now to realize that we are living in perilous times. The end of all things is near at hand. The signs are rapidly fulfilling, yet it would seem that but few realize that the day of the Lord is coming swiftly, silently, as a thief in the night. Many are saying, Peace and safety [1 Thessalonians 5:3]. Unless they are watching and waiting for their Lord, they will be taken as a snare [Ezekiel 12:13; 17:20].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 132, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 132, 1893, par. 14

It is a time when, I believe, the Spirit of God is being withdrawn from the world and there are casualties, disasters, loss of life by floods, by fire, by rail, by earthquakes in divers places. There is so much of this death by plagues and disease of every kind that people are not impressed but go on the same as ever with amusements of every description. A power from beneath is moving in these things, and Satan is full of devices to keep the minds so full of pleasure that the day of God will come upon them as a thief in the night. While from the pulpits of the land are heard “peace and safety. Lo, all things remain as they were from the beginning,” sudden destruction cometh upon them and they shall not escape. [1 Thessalonians 5:3; 2 Peter 3:4.] Oh that souls would heed the warning and be saved!

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 84, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 84, 1893, par. 41

When the warnings are given in this age, as in the days of Noah, they will say, It is impossible. “Ah Lord God! They say of me, Doth he not speak parables?” Ezekiel 20:49. But when the world is absorbed in its pleasure loving, its amusements, its gains, its traffic, its moneymaking, its dishonest practices, when it is as Sodom steeped in its iniquity, luxury, extravagance, wine-drinking and reveling, robbing the poor of sustenance, and when the Christian world are lulled in a blind, deluded slumber of security, when ministers are crying, “Peace and safety,” then sudden destruction cometh upon them. [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] As a snare shall it come upon all who dwell on the earth. As in the days of Noah, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. They will be eating and drinking, planting and building, till the day overtakes them as a thief.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 64a, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 64a, 1895, par. 10

Come when it may, the advent of Christ will surprise the false teachers, who are saying, Peace and safety; all things continue as they were from the beginning. Thus saith the Word of inspiration, “Sudden destruction cometh upon them.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] The day of God shall come as a snare upon all who dwell upon the face of the whole earth. It comes to them as a prowling thief. “If the good man of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up.” [Matthew 24:43.] Habitual watching is our only safety. We must be ever ready, that that day may not overtake us as a thief.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 57, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 57, 1895, par. 4

These men are saying in their hearts, “My Lord delayeth his coming;” and the thought is not only expressed in action but in words. “Be not deceived in regard to Christ’s speedy appearing,” these false guides are saying. “Peace and safety. The time is not yet. All things continue as they were from the beginning.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3; 2 Peter 3:4.] They are denying the truth in their spirit, in their works, and in their words. They come under the denunciation of Christ: “But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My lord delayeth His coming; and shall begin to smite his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; the lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, and shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” [Matthew 24:48-51.] See also Luke 8:12, 13; Matthew 11:23-25.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 47, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 47, 1895, par. 6

But there is a day that God hath appointed for the close of this earth’s history. “This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” [Verse 14.] Prophecy is fast fulfilling. More, much more, should be said about these tremendously important subjects. The day is at hand when the destiny of every soul will be fixed forever. This day of the Lord hastens on apace. The false watchmen are raising the cry, “All is well”; but the day of God is rapidly approaching. Its footsteps are so muffled that it does not arouse the world from the deathlike slumber into which it has fallen. While the watchmen cry, “Peace and safety,” “sudden destruction cometh upon them,” “and they shall not escape,” “for as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3; Luke 21:35.] It overtakes the pleasure-lover and the sinful man as a thief in the night. When all is apparently secure, and men retire to contented rest, then the prowling, stealthy, midnight thief steals upon his prey. When it is too late to prevent the evil, it is discovered that some door or window was not secured. “Be ye also ready, for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” [Matthew 24:44.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 10a, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 10a, 1895, par. 7

While the watchmen cry, “Peace and safety,” “sudden destruction cometh upon them,” “and they shall not escape”; “for as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3; Luke 21:35.] It overtakes the pleasure-lover and sinful man as a thief in the night. When all is apparently secure, and men retire to contented rest, then the prowling, stealthy, midnight thief steals upon his prey. When it is too late to prevent the evil, it is discovered that some door or window was not secured. “Be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” [Matthew 24:44.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 168, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 168, 1896, par. 3

Those not of our faith were in attendance all through the meeting. After the first meeting, they came with their Bibles and answered the questions with the rest. I generally spoke once in the day. Unbelievers say they knew more about what the Scriptures contained, and they were highly pleased. Several families were on the point of decision, but then came a preacher, Walker, and he presented things in such a light that the people, being ignorant of our faith, believed his statements; and as we could not remove one argument and did not try or wish to—that is the cross—this wicked shepherd worked with his might until many who were exceedingly troubled began to settle down in the “peace and safety” cry. [1 Thessalonians 5:3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 19a, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 19a, 1897, par. 13

The message preceding the public ministry of the Son of God was, Repent, publicans; repent, Pharisees and Sadducees, “for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” [Matthew 3:2.] Our message is not to be one of “peace and safety.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] As a people who believe in Christ’s soon appearing, we have a work to do, a message to bear—“Prepare to meet thy God.” [Amos 4:12.] We are to lift up the standard, and bear the third angel’s message—the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 123, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 123, 1897, par. 23

O that all might consider before it is everlastingly too late that there are limits to the mercy and forbearance of God! There are those, who by their impenitence under the beams of light that have shone upon them, are very near the line where the forbearance of God is exhausted. In mind and heart they are saying, “My Lord delayeth his coming,” and they eat and drink with the drunken. [Matthew 24:48, 49.] But God declares of such that “sudden destruction cometh upon them,” “and they shall not escape.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3.]

Maranatha

Presumptuous, Careless Delay, January 26

Mar 34.3

“If therefore thou shalt not watch, I will come on thee as a thief, and thou shalt not know what hour I will come upon thee.” Revelation 3:3. The advent of Christ will surprise the false teachers. They are saying, “Peace and safety.” Like the priests and teachers before the fall of Jerusalem, they look for the church to enjoy earthly prosperity and glory. The signs of the times they interpret as foreshadowing this. But what saith the word of Inspiration? “Sudden destruction cometh upon them.” 1 Thessalonians 5:3. Upon all who dwell on the face of the whole earth, upon all who make this world their home, the day of God will come as a snare....

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 183, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 183, 1897, par. 2

O that all might consider before it is everlastingly too late that there are limits to the mercy and forbearance of God! There are those who, by their impenitence under the beams of light that have shone upon them, are very near the line where the forbearance of God is exhausted. In mind and heart they are saying, “The Lord delayeth his coming,” and they are eating and drinking with the drunken. [Matthew 24:48, 49.] But God declares of such that “swift destruction cometh upon them,” “and they shall not escape.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 17, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 17, 1897, par. 11

The Lord is coming speedily, yet notwithstanding His professed people read the signs of the times—of famines, of thousands being swept away by earthquakes and floods, by fire, by calamities by sea and land, by plagues, by war and bloodshed—the love of self so deadens spiritual senses, that the day of the Lord will come upon them as a thief in the night, and He declares, “They shall not escape.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] The Lord is to judge both quick and dead at His appearing in His kingdom. Will these stand in their pride and self-glorification before that tribunal, when the judgment will sit, and the books will be opened, and every man shall be judged according as his works have been?

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 92, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 92, 1897, par. 9

There never will be a time in the history of the church when God’s worker can fold his hands and be at ease, saying, “All is peace and safety.” [See 1 Thessalonians 5:3.] Then it is that sudden destruction cometh. Everything may move forward amid apparent prosperity; but Satan is wide awake, and is studying and counselling with his evil angels another mode of attack where he can be successful. The contest will wax more and more fierce on the part of Satan, for he is moved by a power from beneath.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Ms 44, 1897

12LtMs, Ms 44, 1897, par. 12

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth give I unto you.” [John 14:27.] The world in its busy activity will try to give us peace. Its cry is, “Peace and safety,” but no dependence is to be placed in its alluring representations. [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] The spirit of truth the world cannot receive, because it seeth Him not neither knoweth Him. “There is no peace, saith my God, for the wicked.” [Isaiah 57:21.] Jesus Christ is the Prince of peace. And from Him alone comes that true peace which the world can neither give nor take away.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 4, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 4, 1898, par. 4

All who have the mind of Christ will live the law of God. They will feed upon Christ, and become partakers of the divine nature. They will stand as God’s living sentinels for the truth. It is not a trifling matter for those who have the light of truth to be noncommittal, for the sentiments of their heart to be expressed in the words, “My lord delayeth his coming.” [Matthew 24:48.] The influence of the “peace and safety” sentiment is in our very midst. [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] An atmosphere surrounds us that will lead us off our guard. A worldly, malarious influence prevails to soothe those who would be stirred by the message of truth to stand as faithful sentinels at the post of duty. Truth must be expressed in our lives. The light must shine brightly or we will cause others to stumble and fall.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 240, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 240, 1902, par. 4

The hearts of the leading men are not right with God. Elder Daniells and Brother E. R. Palmer are walking like blind men. [They] have been having strong feelings in a wrong direction. They were not moved by the Holy Spirit. They do not understand the condition of the men in the Office. If they understood the undercurrent of influence, if they saw all things clearly, they would not be engaged in doing the work they have been doing. If every soul at work in the Office had turned their eyes to Jesus Christ and brought their mind and their will into harmony with Christ, then all things would be different, but they would not accept the Testimonies. They would not become contrite and humble their hearts to give up their own ways for God’s ways. The most important period of this earth’s history is now, just now, upon us. We may be assured that these words of Christ are a sure word of prophecy: “When they shall say peace and safety, sudden destruction cometh upon them”—and they shall not escape. “For in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh”—and they shall not escape. [1 Thessalonians 5:3; Matthew 24:44.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 159, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 159, 1903, par. 17

At this time, when wickedness is at its height, ministers of the gospel are crying, “Peace and safety.” Upon the minds of those who are thus set at rest, “sudden destruction cometh.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] Unprepared, they shall not escape. Christ will not come with a still, small voice when He comes to bring hope and peace and joy to those who have proved faithful. In the day of His coming, the last great trumpet is heard, and there is a terrible shaking of earth and heaven. The whole earth, from the loftiest mountains to the deepest mines, will hear. Everything will be penetrated by fire. The tainted atmosphere will be cleansed by fire. The fire having fulfilled its mission, the dead that have been laid away in the grave will come forth—some to the resurrection of life, to be caught up to meet their Lord in the air; and some to behold the coming of Him whom they have despised, and whom they now recognize as the judge of all the earth.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Ms 32, 1903

18LtMs, Ms 32, 1903, par. 9

God has not changed toward His faithful servants who are keeping their garments spotless. But many are crying, “Peace and safety,” while sudden destruction is coming upon them. [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] Unless there is thorough repentance, unless men humble their hearts by confession, and receive the truth as it is in Jesus, they will never enter heaven. When purification shall take place in our ranks, we shall no longer rest at ease and boast of being rich and increased with goods and in need of nothing.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 257, 1904

19LtMs, Lt 257, 1904, par. 22

At this time, when wickedness is at its height, ministers of the gospel are crying, “Peace and safety.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] Upon those whose minds are thus set at rest, sudden destruction cometh. Unprepared, they shall not escape.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Ms 184, 1905

20LtMs, Ms 184, 1905, par. 22

At this time, when wickedness is at its height, ministers of the gospel are crying, “Peace and safety.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] Upon those whose minds are thus set at rest, sudden destruction cometh. Unprepared, they shall not escape.

Maranatha

A Little Time of Peace, September 8

Mar 259.1

For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. 1 Thessalonians 5:3.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 90, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 90, 1907, par. 6

In San Francisco, plans are being laid to build larger and more costly buildings than have ever stood in that city. Though several earthquake shocks have been felt, these warnings are being disregarded by many. “We will have,” say they, “such buildings as we have never had before, larger and more magnificent.” Christ says, “When they shall say, Peace and safety, then sudden destruction cometh upon them, ... and they shall not escape.” [1 Thessalonians 5:3.] Every kind of wickedness continues to be practiced in San Francisco, and Oakland is fast becoming a undesirable to place in which to live. The record of dishonesty and conniving and vileness that has resulted from the investigation into the cases of men holding official positions, and which has been opened before all through the courts, should certainly open blind eyes and lead us to inquire, Whom can we trust? Where can we find men of honor? As these evils are being revealed, even the worldling can see that corruption is filling the earth as it did in the time of Noah, and for which God had then to destroy the world by a flood. But instead of calling these men to repentance, the revelations are turning the office holders one against another, and they are exposing to the world every species of crime in the lives of judges and jurors and senators alike. Satan is at work to corrupt with his deceiving policies the rulers and the people. This work will be carried on from city to city until the guilt of the whole world will be manifest, and it will be plainly seen why God permits His judgments to fall on the earth. They will come because of the pride of heart, the falsehood, the dishonesty, the profanity that is manifest. The Lord will come out of His place to punish the earth for her iniquity; the earth shall disclose her blood and shall no more cover her slain.

Maranatha

The Peace and Safety Cry, September 9

Mar 260.3

“The day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.” 2 Peter 3:10. When the reasoning of philosophy has banished the fear of God’s judgments; when religious teachers are pointing forward to long ages of peace and prosperity, and the world are absorbed in their rounds of business and pleasure, planting and building, feasting and merrymaking, rejecting God’s warnings and mocking His messengers—then it is that sudden destruction cometh upon them, and they shall not escape. 1 Thessalonians 5:3.26Patriarchs and Prophets, 104.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 7—The Flood

PP 103.3

When great and wise men had proved to their satisfaction that it was impossible for the world to be destroyed by water, when the fears of the people were quieted, when all regarded Noah’s prophecy as a delusion, and looked upon him as a fanatic—then it was that God’s time had come. “The fountains of the great deep” were “broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened,” and the scoffers were overwhelmed in the waters of the Flood. With all their boasted philosophy, men found too late that their wisdom was foolishness, that the Lawgiver is greater than the laws of nature, and that Omnipotence is at no loss for means to accomplish His purposes. “As it was in the days of Noah,” “even thus shall it be in the days when the Son of man is revealed.” Luke 17:26, 30. “The day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.” 2 Peter 3:10. When the reasoning of philosophy has banished the fear of God’s judgments; when religious teachers are pointing forward to long ages of peace and prosperity, and the world are absorbed in their rounds of business and pleasure, planting and building, feasting and merrymaking, rejecting God’s warnings and mocking His messengers—then it is that sudden destruction cometh upon them, and they shall not escape. 1 Thessalonians 5:3.

Peter’s Counsel to Parents

World conditions prior to Christ’s second coming

PCP 60.2

Looking down through the ages to the close of time, Peter was inspired to outline conditions that would exist in the world just prior to the second coming of Christ. “There shall come in the last days scoffers,” he wrote, “walking after their own lusts, and saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.” But “when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them.” 1 Thessalonians 5:3. Not all, however, would be ensnared by the enemy’s devices. As the end of all things earthly should approach, there would be faithful ones able to discern the signs of the times. While a large number of professing believers would deny their faith by their works, there would be a remnant who would endure to the end.

Selected Messages Book 2

Chapter 15—Admonition Will Be Heard

2SM 150.5

The message preceding the public ministry of the Son of God was, Repent, publicans; repent, Pharisees and Sadducees, “for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2). Our message is not to be one of “peace and safety” (1 Thessalonians 5:3). As a people who believe in Christ’s soon appearing, we have a work to do, a message to bear—“Prepare to meet thy God” (Amos 4:12). We are to lift up the standard, and bear the third angel’s message—the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 52—Steadfast Unto the End

AA 535.2

Looking down through the ages to the close of time, Peter was inspired to outline conditions that would exist in the world just prior to the second coming of Christ. “There shall come in the last days scoffers,” he wrote, “walking after their own lusts, and saying, Where is the promise of His coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.” But “when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them.” 1 Thessalonians 5:3. Not all, however, would be ensnared by the enemy’s devices. As the end of all things earthly should approach, there would be faithful ones able to discern the signs of the times. While a large number of professing believers would deny their faith by their works, there would be a remnant who would endure to the end.

Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White

Chapter 32—Preparing for the Judgment

CET 190.3

It is now that we must keep ourselves and our children unspotted from the world. It is now that we must wash our robes of character and make them white in the blood of the Lamb. It is now that we must overcome pride, passion, and spiritual slothfulness. It is now that we must awake, and make determined effort for symmetry of character. “Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.” Hebrews 4:7. We are in a most trying position, waiting, watching for our Lord’s appearing. The world is in darkness. “But ye, brethren,” says Paul, “are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.” 1 Thessalonians 5:4. It is ever God’s purpose to bring light out of darkness, joy out of sorrow, and rest out of weariness, for the waiting, longing soul.

Maranatha

Future Events Come in Order, September 7

Mar 258.1

But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. 1 Thessalonians 5:4.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6

The Third Angel’s Message in our Schools

6T 129.1

We are living in the closing scenes of these perilous times. The Lord foresaw the unbelief that now prevails respecting His coming; and again and again He has given warning in His word that this event will be unexpected. The great day will come as a snare “on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.” Luke 21:35. But there are two classes. To one the apostle gives these encouraging words: “Ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.” 1 Thessalonians 5:4. Some will be ready when the Bridegroom comes, and will go in with Him to the marriage. How precious is this thought to those who are waiting and watching for His appearing! Christ “loved the church, and gave Himself for it; that He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, that He might present it to Himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.” Ephesians 5:25-27. Those whom God loves enjoy this favor because they are lovely in character.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Living Faith Needed

2TT 70.3

It is now that we must keep ourselves and our children unspotted from the world. It is now that we must wash our robes of character and make them white in the blood of the Lamb. It is now that we must overcome pride, passion, and spiritual slothfulness. It is now that we must awake and make determined effort for symmetry of character. “Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.” Hebrews 3:7, 8, 15. We are in a most trying position, waiting, watching for our Lord’s appearing. The world is in darkness. “But ye, brethren,” says Paul, “are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.” 1 Thessalonians 5:4. It is ever God’s purpose to bring light out of darkness, joy out of sorrow, and rest out of weariness for the waiting, longing soul.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 14, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 14, 1895, par. 6

“But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.” [1 Thessalonians 5:4.] The day of Christ’s coming was kept before the disciples for their encouragement and warning. “Be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh.” [Matthew 24:44.] All heaven is engaged in preparing a place for the true believers in Christ. There are many who claim to believe, but who do not give evidence of their faith by a pure and upright life and holy character. They have not accepted Christ as their personal Saviour. They have not that faith that is demonstrated by works, a faith that is sure and abiding, a faith that works by love, and purifies the soul. Genuine faith comprehends much; it transforms the soul and purifies the whole man.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 17—Heralds of the Morning

GC 315.3

It is “unto them that look for Him” that Christ is to “appear the second time without sin unto salvation.” Hebrews 9:28. Like the tidings of the Saviour’s birth, the message of the second advent was not committed to the religious leaders of the people. They had failed to preserve their connection with God, and had refused light from heaven; therefore they were not of the number described by the apostle Paul: “But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.” 1 Thessalonians 5:4, 5.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 17—Heralds of the Morning

GC88 315.1

It is “unto them that look for him” that Christ is to “appear the second time, without sin unto salvation.” [Hebrews 9:28.] Like the tidings of the Saviour’s birth, the message of the second advent was not committed to the religious leaders of the people. They had failed to preserve their connection with God, and had refused light from Heaven; therefore they were not of the number described by the apostle Paul: “But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day; we are not of the night, nor of darkness.” [1 Thessalonians 5:4, 5.]

The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4

Chapter 12—God Honors the Humble

4SP 199.3

The angel represented in prophecy as delivering this message, symbolizes a class of faithful men, who, obedient to the promptings of God’s Spirit and the teachings of his word, proclaim this warning to the inhabitants of earth. This message was not to be committed to the religious leaders of the people. They had failed to preserve their connection with God, and had refused the light from Heaven; therefore they were not of the number described by the apostle Paul: “But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day; we are not of the night nor of darkness.” [1 Thessalonians 5:4, 5.]

From Here to Forever

A Message Given by Humble Men

HF 196.3

It is “unto them that look for him” that Christ is to “appear the second time without sin unto salvation.” Hebrews 9:28. Like the tidings of the Saviour’s birth, the message of the second advent was not committed to the religious leaders of the people. They had refused light from heaven; therefore they were not of the number described by the apostle Paul: “But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.” 1 Thessalonians 5:4, 5.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Ms 39, 1899

14LtMs, Ms 39, 1899, par. 12

There is no real standard of righteousness apart from the law of God. By obedience to this law the intellect is cultivated, the conscience enlightened and made sensitive. Righteousness exalteth a nation. People need an intelligent knowledge of God’s law. The words of the Bible and the Bible alone should be echoed from the pulpits of our land. God speaks in his word, and fulfills this word in the world. We need now to seek to understand the movements of God’s providence. Said Paul, “Ye brethren are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are the children of light and the children of the day. We are not of the night, nor of darkness.” [1 Thessalonians 5:4, 5.]

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 23—“The Kingdom of God Is at Hand”

DA 235.3

“But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.” While we are not to know the hour of our Lord’s return, we may know when it is near. “Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.” 1 Thessalonians 5:4-6.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Ms 6, 1895

10LtMs, Ms 6, 1895, par. 12

Do not live a life of uncertainty. “But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day. We are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. ... Let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.” [1 Thessalonians 5:4-6, 8.]

Christ Triumphant

God Calls Us to Be Children of the Light, November 17

CTr 328.1

Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. 1 Thessalonians 5:5.

Counsels for the Church

Preparing to Meet Christ

CCh 9.4

It is God’s purpose that his people shall be informed and enlightened, knowing and understanding not only the times in which they live but also what is yet to come. “Surely the Lord will do nothing, but he revealeth his secrets unto his servants the prophets.” Amos 3:7. This contrasts God’s people, “the children of light,” 1 Thessalonians 5:5, with the people of the world.

This Day With God

Shining Christians, November 3

TDG 316.1

Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. 1 Thessalonians 5:5.

From the Heart

Lights Shining in Darkness, October 19

FH 304.1

You are all sons of light and sons of the day. 1 Thessalonians 5:5.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 19, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 19, 1898, par. 12

There should be far keener perception on the part of God’s people. Every talent should be brought into exercise that we may obtain a title to the immortal inheritance. “Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them. For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light.” [Ephesians 5:6-8.] “Ye are all the children of light and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep as do others; but let us watch and be sober.” [1 Thessalonians 5:5, 6.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 6a, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 6a, 1890, par. 83

Paul, under the influence of inspiration, has spoken, “We are all the children of light and the children of the day; we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore, let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. For they that sleep, sleep in the night; and they that be drunken, are drunken in the night. But let us who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.” [1 Thessalonians 5:5-8.] “But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: that the aged may be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; that they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their husbands, that the word of the Lord be not blasphemed. Young men likewise exhort to be sober-minded, in all things showing themselves to be a pattern of good works: in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech, that can not be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say to you.” [Titus 2:1-8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Lt 74, 1896

11LtMs, Lt 74, 1896, par. 46

The apostle Paul under the influence of inspiration has spoken to us: “Ye are all the children of the light and of the day: we are not of the night nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep as do others; but let us watch and be sober. For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. But let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and for an helmet the hope of salvation.” [1 Thessalonians 5:5-8.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 116, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 116, 1898, par. 6

The Lord give you all understanding, is my prayer, that you who are laborers together with God may not give the impression by an appearance of ill health that you have mistaken your vocation. Unless human agents use wisdom in the exercise of brain, bone, and muscle, and treat themselves as under the jurisdiction of God, as God’s property, as God’s husbandry, as God’s building, they will make grievous mistakes, and lie down in an untimely grave. “Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.” [1 Thessalonians 5:5, 6.] A disordered stomach means a disordered mind.

13LtMs, Lt 116, 1898, par. 7

I would say to each student, You need to take yourself in hand, and let no one whip up your tired nerves and muscles to meet their individual measurement. You are God’s workmanship, and under a full sense of your accountability to God, you are to treat yourself aright. Give yourself proper time to sleep. They who sleep give nature time to build up and repair the weary waste of the organism. “Let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.” [Verses 8-10.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)

Lt 249, 1903

18LtMs, Lt 249, 1903, par. 6

“Ye are the children of the light and of the day. We are not of the night, nor of darkness.” [1 Thessalonians 5:5.] Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. The trouble with us is that we do not press on in the way illuminated by the Sun of righteousness. In order to walk in this way, we must receive strength from the Life-giver. As we move forward in obedience to Christ’s commands, His light shines on our way, and His strength sustains us. Thus we go forward from strength to strength, from grace to grace, by obedience becoming more and more Christlike.

18LtMs, Lt 249, 1903, par. 13

“We exhort you, brethren, ... comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves and to all men. Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is He that calleth you, who also will do it.” [Verses 8-24.]

God’s Amazing Grace

Watch! November 20

AG 332.5

Warning, admonition, promise, all are for us, upon whom the ends of the world are come. “Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober” (1 Thessalonians 5:6).... Watch against the stealthy approach of the enemy, watch against old habits and natural inclinations, lest they assert themselves; force them back, and watch. Watch the thoughts, watch the plans, lest they become self-centered. Watch over the souls whom Christ has purchased with His own blood. Watch for opportunities to do them good.39Testimonies for the Church 6:410.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6

Chapter 51—Preparation for the Final Crisis

6T 410.1

Warning, admonition, promise, all are for us, upon whom the ends of the world are come. “Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.” 1 Thessalonians 5:6.

The Faith I Live By

Safety in Vigilance, November 8

FLB 318.1

Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. 1 Thessalonians 5:6.

From Heaven With Love

Prophet Daniel Foretold Christ’s Ministry

HLv 149.2

The Jews misinterpreted the Word of God and knew not the time of their visitation. The years of the ministry of Christ and His apostles they spent in plotting the destruction of the Lord’s messengers. Earthly ambitions absorbed them. So today the kingdom of this world absorbs men’s thoughts, and they take no note of the rapidly fulfilling prophecies and the tokens of the swift-coming kingdom of God. While we are not to know the hour of our Lord’s return, we may know when it is near. “Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.” 1 Thessalonians 5:6.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)

Ms 41, 1910

25LtMs, Ms 41, 1910, par. 3

We need now to set ourselves in order. Cautions and warnings have been given us, bidding us watch and pray, lest we enter into temptation. “Let us who are of the day be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and for an helmet the hope of salvation.” [1 Thessalonians 5:8.] “Gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” [1 Peter 1:13.] “Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked, and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.” [Ephesians 6:14-17.] These words are given to the church as an assurance and encouragement. We are not left without hope. Let us consider the responsibility resting upon us to educate ourselves in faith. We are individually to co-operate with God in the work of making our characters Christlike. We cannot possibly live in the Spirit and do the work of God without special help from above.

This Day With God

All Truth Radiates From Christ, November 11

TDG 324.5

“Let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breast-plate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do” (1 Thessalonians 5:8-11).—Letter 249, November 11, 1903, to P. T. Magan and E. A. Sutherland, educators leading out in the establishing of Emmanuel Missionary College.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Ms 48, 1901

16LtMs, Ms 48, 1901, par. 6

Think of the work the Redeemer has accomplished in our behalf. Behold the cross of Calvary erected to save us from eternal death. Above it, as though traced in characters of gold, shine the words, “For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ.” [1 Thessalonians 5:9.] Then shall we not offer Him praise and thanksgiving, in word and deed? He gives us talents to be employed in His service. We should gratefully return to Him a faithful tithe, with gifts and offerings, saying, “Of thine own we freely give thee.” [See 1 Chronicles 29:14.] This we should do that His work in all parts of the vineyard may be sustained, that His name may be glorified by the memorials established for Him in every place.

Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]

MR No. 863—Christian Unity

11MR 50.2

The Word of God clearly points out our duty. We are to cultivate kindness and forbearance and love. We are to represent Christ in character. Evil speaking, accusing, and faultfinding, misrepresenting our brethren because our own individual ideas are not considered as of the highest value, can find no place in a Christian’s life. By our conduct we show what our influence and the principles we hold are worth. If self is our center, self will be seen in all we do. If Christ is our center, we shall bear His likeness. [1 Thessalonians 5:9-15 quoted.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 39, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 39, 1896, par. 18

“For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves. Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. See that none render evil for evil; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.” [1 Thessalonians 5:9-15.]

Manuscript Releases, vol. 5 [Nos. 260-346]

MR No. 324—The Church and Its Mission

5MR 296.2

I was referred to Hebrews 13:17: “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account.” 1 Thessalonians 5:12, 13: “And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake.” Matthew 18:15-18: “Moreover, if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Lt 5, 1863

1LtMs, Lt 5, 1863, par. 5

I was referred to Hebrews 13:17. “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account.” 1 Thessalonians 5:12, 13. “And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake.” Matthew 18:15-18. “Moreover, if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 14, 1891

7LtMs, Lt 14, 1891, par. 8

In the night season I was brought into a meeting where you seemed to be in much depression of soul. The Spirit of the Lord came into the meeting, and my guide addressed words to different ones who were present. He said, “We beseech you brethren to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly for their works’ sake. And be at peace among yourselves.” [1 Thessalonians 5:12, 13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Ms 96, 1893

8LtMs, Ms 96, 1893, par. 16

Those whom God has appointed are workers together with God and they are to be respected and honored and loved. “Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.” [1 Corinthians 4:1.] “And we beseech you, brethren, to know them that labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake.” [1 Thessalonians 5:12, 13.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 94, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 94, 1898, par. 28

God’s ministers are to be respected, honored, loved. “And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake, and be at peace among yourselves.” “Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in word and doctrine.” [1 Thessalonians 5:12, 13; 1 Timothy 5:17.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 60, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 60, 1898, par. 40

All who name the name of Christ are to show that they are under the control of Christ. God calls upon you in the church at North Fitzroy to make an entire dedication of yourself to Christ. You are cautioned to make no reservation. If you desire pardon and peace and the grace of Christ, you must make an unconditional surrender. Submit to Christ’s terms. Consent to all His regulations and plans, saying, “I will follow thee, my Saviour, whereso’er my lot shall be; where thou goest, I will follow; by thy grace I’ll follow thee.” It is not for those who claim to be Christians to retain as many indulgences and make as many sacrifices as will harmonize with their ideas, tastes, and plans. “We beseech you, brethren,” Paul writes, “to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their works’ sake. And be at peace among yourselves. Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them which are unruly, comfort the feeble minded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.” [1 Thessalonians 5:12-14.]

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Our Day of Privilege

2TT 191.2

When death claims one of our number, what are our memories of the treatment he has received? Are the pictures upon memory’s walls pleasant to reflect upon? Are they memories of kind words spoken, of sympathy given at the right time? Have his brethren turned away the evil surmisings of indiscreet meddlers? Have they vindicated his cause? Have they been faithful to the inspired injunction: “Comfort the feebleminded, support the weak”? 1 Thessalonians 5:14. “Behold, thou hast instructed many, and thou hast strengthened the weak hands.” Job 4:3. “Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees. Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not.” Isaiah 35:3, 4.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 121, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 121, 1898, par. 8

I entreated, I plead with the people to set their hearts in order before the camp meeting. We are living amid the perils of the last days, and we must gather up and appreciate every ray of light. Our testimony must be plain, truthful, and searching. But it must not reveal in any degree a censorious, faultfinding spirit, for everything of this order does not sweeten, but sours and ruins the religious experience. Satan can do the faultfinding for the whole world. We may grieve, but must never fret. We can sorrow, but we will not scold. I know the battle is often severe. We cannot avoid the injunction, “Warn them that are unruly; comfort the feebleminded; support the weak; be patient toward all men.” [1 Thessalonians 5:14.]

Homeward Bound

Our Influence Is Vital, July 19

HB 224.1

See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.—1 Thessalonians 5:15.

Radiant Religion

God Bids Us Rejoice Always, January 1

RRe 3.1

Rejoice evermore. 1 Thessalonians 5:16.

Reflecting Christ

“Be Filled With all the Fulness of God,” July 20

RC 215.5

Through Jesus the fallen sons of Adam become “sons of God.” “Both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren” (Hebrews 2:11). The Christian’s life should be one of faith, of victory, and joy in God.... Truly spoke God’s servant Nehemiah: “The joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). And Paul says: “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice” (Philippians 4:4). “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)....

The Faith I Live By

Faith Is the Victory, April 30

FLB 126.2

The Christian’s life should be one of faith, of victory, and joy in God. “Whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” Truly spake God’s servant Nehemiah, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10. And Paul says: “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” Philippians 4:4. “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks....” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.110The Great Controversy, 477, 478.

This Day With God

Never Talk Discouragement, August 13

TDG 234.1

Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.

A New Life (Revival and Beyond)

No Longer Condemned

NL 19.2

Through Jesus the fallen sons of Adam become “sons of God.” “Both He that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause He is not ashamed to call them brethren” (Hebrews 2:11). The Christian’s life should be one of faith, of victory, and joy in God. “Whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith” (1 John 5:4). Truly spoke God’s servant Nehemiah: “The joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). And Paul says: “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (Philippians 4:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

True Revival

No Longer Condemned

TR 27.3

Through Jesus the fallen sons of Adam become “sons of God.” “Both He that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause He is not ashamed to call them brethren” (Hebrews 2:11). The Christian’s life should be one of faith, of victory, and joy in God. “Whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith” (1 John 5:4). Truly spoke God’s servant Nehemiah: “The joy of the Lord is your strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). And Paul says: “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (Philippians 4:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

The Great Hope (Condensed)

Direct Access to God

GrH_c 29.7

Through Jesus the fallen sons of Adam become “sons of God.” “He is not ashamed to call them brethren.” The Christian’s life should be one of faith, victory, and joy in God. “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Hebrews 2:11; Nehemiah 8:10; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.

The Great Controversy

Chapter 27—Modern Revivals

GC 469.2

True sanctification is a Bible doctrine. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonian church, declares: “This is the will of God, even your sanctification.” And he prays: “The very God of peace sanctify you wholly.” 1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:23. The Bible clearly teaches what sanctification is and how it is to be attained. The Saviour prayed for His disciples: “Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth.” John 17:17. And Paul teaches that believers are to be “sanctified by the Holy Ghost.” Romans 15:16. What is the work of the Holy Spirit? Jesus told His disciples: “When He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth.” John 16:13. And the psalmist says: “Thy law is the truth.” By the word and the Spirit of God are opened to men the great principles of righteousness embodied in His law. And since the law of God is “holy, and just, and good,” a transcript of the divine perfection, it follows that a character formed by obedience to that law will be holy. Christ is a perfect example of such a character. He says: “I have kept My Father’s commandments.” “I do always those things that please Him.” John 15:10; 8:29. The followers of Christ are to become like Him—by the grace of God to form characters in harmony with the principles of His holy law. This is Bible sanctification.

GC 473.2

The sanctification set forth in the Scriptures embraces the entire being—spirit, soul, and body. Paul prayed for the Thessalonians that their “whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 5:23. Again he writes to believers: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God.” Romans 12:1. In the time of ancient Israel every offering brought as a sacrifice to God was carefully examined. If any defect was discovered in the animal presented, it was refused; for God had commanded that the offering be “without blemish.” So Christians are bidden to present their bodies, “a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God.” In order to do this, all their powers must be preserved in the best possible condition. Every practice that weakens physical or mental strength unfits man for the service of his Creator. And will God be pleased with anything less than the best we can offer? Said Christ: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart.” Those who do love God with all the heart will desire to give Him the best service of their life, and they will be constantly seeking to bring every power of their being into harmony with the laws that will promote their ability to do His will. They will not, by the indulgence of appetite or passion, enfeeble or defile the offering which they present to their heavenly Father.

GC 477.3

Through Jesus the fallen sons of Adam become “sons of God.” “Both He that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one: for which cause He is not ashamed to call them brethren.” Hebrews 2:11. The Christian’s life should be one of faith, of victory, and joy in God. “Whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” 1 John 5:4. Truly spoke God’s servant Nehemiah: “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10. And Paul says: “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Philippians 4:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.

The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)

Chapter 27—Modern Revivals

GC88 469.1

True sanctification is a Bible doctrine. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonian church, declares, “This is the will of God, even your sanctification.” And he prays, “The very God of peace sanctify you wholly.” [1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:23.] The Bible clearly teaches what sanctification is, and how it is to be attained. The Saviour prayed for his disciples, “Sanctify them through thy truth; thy Word is truth.” [John 17:17, 19.] And Paul teaches that believers are to be “sanctified by the Holy Ghost.” [Romans 15:16.] What is the work of the Holy Spirit? Jesus told his disciples, “When he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth.” [John 16:13.] And the psalmist says, “Thy law is the truth.” By the Word and the Spirit of God are opened to men the great principles of righteousness embodied in his law. And since the law of God is “holy, and just, and good,” a transcript of the divine perfection, it follows that a character formed by obedience to that law will be holy. Christ is a perfect example of such a character. He says, “I have kept my Father’s commandments.” “I do always those things that please him.” [John 15:10; 8:29.] The followers of Christ are to become like him,—by the grace of God, to form characters in harmony with the principles of his holy law. This is Bible sanctification.

GC88 473.2

The sanctification set forth in the Scriptures embraces the entire being,—spirit, soul, and body. Paul prayed for the Thessalonians, that their “whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [1 Thessalonians 5:23.] Again he writes to believers, “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God.” [Romans 12:1.] In the time of ancient Israel, every offering brought as a sacrifice to God was carefully examined. If any defect was discovered in the animal presented, it was refused; for God had commanded that the offering be “without blemish.” So Christians are bidden to present their bodies, “a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God.” In order to do this, all their powers must be preserved in the best possible condition. Every practice that weakens physical or mental strength unfits man for the service of his Creator. And will God be pleased with anything less than the best we can offer? Said Christ, “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart.” Those who do love God with all the heart, will desire to give him the best service of their life, and they will be constantly seeking to bring every power of their being into harmony with the laws that will promote their ability to do his will. They will not, by the indulgence of appetite or passion, enfeeble or defile the offering which they present to their heavenly Father.

GC88 477.3

Through Jesus the fallen sons of Adam become “sons of God.” “Both he that sanctifieth and they that are sanctified are all of one; for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren.” [Hebrews 2:11.] The Christian’s life should be one of faith, of victory, and joy in God. “Whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world; and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” [1 John 5:4.] Truly spake God’s servant Nehemiah, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” [Nehemiah 8:10.] And says Paul: “Rejoice in the Lord alway; and again I say, Rejoice.” “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” [Philippians 4:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.]

From Here to Forever

Biblical Sanctification

HF 292.2

Sanctification embraces the entire being—spirit, soul, and body. See 1 Thessalonians 5:23. Christians are bidden to present their bodies, “a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God.” Romans 12:1. Every practice that weakens physical or mental strength unfits man for the service of his Creator. Those who love God with all their heart will constantly seek to bring every power of their being into harmony with the laws that promote their ability to do His will. They will not by indulgence of appetite or passion enfeeble or defile the offering they present to their heavenly Father.

HF 294.2

Through Jesus the fallen sons of Adam become “sons of God.” “He is not ashamed to call them brethren.” The Christian’s life should be one of faith, victory, and joy in God. “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” “Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” Hebrews 2:11; Nehemiah 8:10; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.

Counsels for the Church

Morning and Evening Worship

CCh 152.3

The idea that prayer is not essential is one of Satan’s most successful devices to ruin souls. Prayer is communion with God, the Fountain of wisdom, the Source of strength, and peace, and happiness. Jesus prayed to the Father “with strong crying and tears.” Paul exhorts believers to “pray without ceasing,” in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, making known their requests to God. “Pray one for another,” James says. “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” Hebrews 5:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; James 5:16.

In Heavenly Places

The Spirit of Submission, March 23

HP 89.1

Pray without ceasing. 1 Thessalonians 5:17.

In Heavenly Places

Prayer in the Home, March 24

HP 90.5

Jesus prayed to the Father with strong crying and tears. Paul exhorts believers to “pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). “In every thing, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God” (Philippians 4:6).... God has a right to command our devotions; His authority is sacred and unquestionable. We are under obligation to pray because He requires it; and in obeying His requirements we shall receive a gracious and precious reward....

Maranatha

The Breath of the Soul, March 18

Mar 85.1

Pray without ceasing. 1 Thessalonians 5:17.

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7

Chapter 9—Family Worship

7T 42.3

The idea that prayer is not essential is one of Satan’s most successful devices to ruin souls. Prayer is communion with God, the Fountain of wisdom, the Source of strength, and peace, and happiness. Jesus prayed to the Father “with strong crying and tears.” Paul exhorts believers to “pray without ceasing,” in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, making known their requests to God. “Pray one for another,” James says. “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” Hebrews 5:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; James 5:16.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 3

Family Worship

3TT 91.3

The idea that prayer is not essential is one of Satan’s most successful devices to ruin souls. Prayer is communion with God, the Fountain of wisdom, the Source of strength, and peace, and happiness. Jesus prayed to the Father “with strong crying and tears.” Paul exhorts believers to “pray without ceasing,” in everything, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, making known their requests to God. “Pray one for another,” James says. “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” Hebrews 5:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; James 5:16.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 36, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 36, 1890, par. 20

I speak decidedly of the necessity of heeding the words of Christ, “Watch unto prayer.” “Pray without ceasing” [1 Peter 4:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:17], lest the increase of worldly entanglements should so engross the mind as to exclude true godliness from the soul. Oh, how Satan has exulted to see the power he has obtained over our brethren in such a time of peril as the present. Some with the presentation of the hopes of gaining will embark in scheme after scheme, speculation after speculation, and wrap themselves about with entanglement after entanglement until the power of temptation presses stronger and the fortress of the soul is broken down. Godliness is crowded out, the talents entrusted of God buried, as represented by the unfaithful servant who was entrusted with one talent whom the Lord judges and casts out as unworthy of confidence and trust.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 37, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 37, 1896, par. 1

“Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” [Mark 8:34.] Those who will do this willingly, because it is the right thing to do, dispensing with everything unnecessary; those who will study the life of Christ, and pray with heart, and soul, and voice, in the family circle, when walking the streets, when engaged in business, always bearing in mind the exhortations the Lord has given, “Pray without ceasing;” “continuing instant in prayer.” “Watch unto prayer,” will have a divine Companion with them who will lead them in paths of safety. [1 Thessalonians 5:17; Romans 12:12; 1 Peter 4:7.] Let not your thoughts be diverted from the point; but saying, “I will follow thee, my Saviour,” make your words true.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 45, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 45, 1897, par. 27

Every movement made to draw nigh to God meets with a response from that God who hears and answers prayer. The working of the Holy Spirit produces an inward change of the heart corresponding with the necessities of the soul. The time of temptation, when men are led from right to wrong, is when they feel confidence in their own smartness and capabilities. Different kinds of temptations will suggest themselves as circumstances arise around us and impressions are continually made to mold the decisions according to these circumstances. The heart will rise in self-gratulation and pride. Self will rise up to resist that which presents itself in word or thought. Combativeness is the trait of the character, and resistance is awakened into life. Discontent, peevishness, evil surmisings, uncharitable thoughts, and censure are aroused. The apostle exhorts us, “Be instant in prayer.” [Romans 12:12.] This is the charge of one who knew all the assaults of the enemy. “Pray without ceasing.” [1 Thessalonians 5:17.] “Watch unto prayer.” [1 Peter 4:7.] Ephesians 4:1-7.

Homeward Bound

The Science of Prayer, May 3

HB 144.1

Pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks.—1 Thessalonians 5:17, 18.

Our High Calling

Rejoice! November 16

OHC 326.4

“In every thing give thanks” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) for the keeping power of God through Jesus Christ.... At the moment when you are offering your prayer for help you may not feel all the joy and blessing that you would like to feel, but if you believe that Christ will hear and answer your petition, the peace of Christ will come....

The Ministry of Healing

Sing Praises

MH 255.5

“In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18. This command is an assurance that even the things which appear to be against us will work for our good. God would not bid us be thankful for that which would do us harm.

Ye Shall Receive Power

Thankfulness, March 16

YRP 84.1

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18.

The Review and Herald

June 2, 1910

RH June 2, 1910, par. 11

“In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18. This command is an assurance that even the things which appear to be against us will work for our good. God would not bid us be thankful for that which would do us harm.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)

Ms 8, 1885

4LtMs, Ms 8, 1885, par. 8

Let the light of truth shine forth in your life. Do you say, How shall I let it shine? If before you accepted the truth, you were impatient and fretful, let your life now show to those around you that the truth has had a sanctifying influence upon your heart and character, that instead of being fretful and impatient, you are now cheerful and uncomplaining. Thus you reveal Christ to the world. If, after accepting the truth, you are sad and gloomy, cast down by discouragement, you give evidence that you do not enjoy the peace of God; you are misrepresenting Him by giving others a false impression regarding the religion of Christ. How can you rise above this depression and unbelief? “In everything give thanks” [1 Thessalonians 5:18] for the keeping power of God through Jesus Christ, and the peace of God will rest upon you. If you believe that Jesus will do just as He has said He would, the peace that passeth all understanding will rest upon you. At the moment when you are offering your prayer for help, you may not feel all the joy and blessing that you would like to feel; but if you believe that Christ will hear and answer your petition, the peace of Christ will come. If you rely upon His Word, the promise will be fulfilled, as surely as the throne of God exists.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Lt 10, 1894

9LtMs, Lt 10, 1894, par. 9

“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” [1 Thessalonians 5:18.] In this giving of thanks you are continually to realize that God will work in your behalf, that those things which appear to be against you shall work for your good. You are to see the good in everything. God would not bid you be thankful for things that would do you harm.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 358, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 358, 1907, par. 10

Our faith is to be expressed in thanksgiving. “Whoso offereth praise glorifieth God.” [Psalm 50:23.] “In everything give thanks.” [1 Thessalonians 5:18.] “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name.” [Psalm 103:1.] Let expressions of praise flow forth from human lips. We are to rejoice in the Lord more than we have done. Let not the heart remain cold and dull and unimpressive.

Early Writings

Introduction

EW 141.1

“Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:19-21.

Spiritual Gifts, vol. 1

Spiritual Gifts

1SG 14.1

1 Thessalonians 5:19-21. “Quench not the spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.”

The Faith I Live By

Prove All Things, October 17

FLB 296.1

Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. 1 Thessalonians 5:19-21.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 105, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 105, 1893, par. 26

God would have you both make thorough work for eternity. If you expect the heavenly intelligences to help you, you must both decide to co-operate with them. My brother, you know what this comprehends, for you have trained yourself to exercise firmness and determination in business matters. Bring this firmness and determination into the work of correcting your own defects. The Author of your salvation knows the weak points in your character, and if you are determined to resist the enemy, He will raise up a standard for you. See that you refuse not the God who sends you this warning. “Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” [1 Thessalonians 5:19-21.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 65, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 65, 1898, par. 4

O, why will not men awaken to the situation! God’s work is being lowered in the dust by such a course of action. Says the apostle: “Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things: hold fast that which is good; abstain from all appearance of evil.” [1 Thessalonians 5:19-22.] There is a spirit at work in Battle Creek which is revealing itself as the spirit which works in the children of disobedience. God has been dishonored. How much deeper He will permit Satan to lead those whom he has taken captive at his will, to humble His people who have not followed the divine counsel, we know not, but I would speak to you the truth as it has been presented to me.

Christian Experience and Teachings of Ellen G. White

Tested by the Word

CET 244.1

Because of the fanaticism resulting from the work of men falsely claiming to be taught of God, many good people regard with grave suspicion or even disbelief the claim of anyone to divine revelation. But the searcher after truth must guard equally against deception by false prophets or teachers, and a failure to recognize the true. “Despise not prophesyings,” writes the apostle. “Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21.

Counsels for the Church

The Testimonies and the Reader

CCh 29.2

From the outset of her work, responsible leaders examined her work to assure themselves that the manifestation of the gift of prophecy was genuine. The apostle Paul admonishes, “Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21. The Bible tests of a prophet were brought to bear on Mrs. White’s work, and this is as she would have it, for she wrote:

Ellen G. White: The Early Years: 1827-1862 (vol. 1)

James White on the Prophetic Gift

1BIO 130.1

He then added a word of admonition: “I hope that all who may read it will take the wise and safe course pointed out to us by the following passages of Scripture. ‘Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good’ [1 Thessalonians 5:20, 21]. ‘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].”—A Word to the Little Flock, 13, 14.

Maranatha

Prove All Things, May 27

Mar 155.4

“Take heed therefore how ye hear” (Luke 8:18), is an admonition of Christ.... Examine closely, “prove all things” (1 Thessalonians 5:21).... This is the counsel of God; shall we heed it? 42Selected Messages 2:75-79.

Our Father Cares

Prove All Things, December 10

OFC 356.4

“Take heed therefore how ye hear” (Luke 8:18), is an admonition of Christ.... Examine closely, “prove all things” (1 Thessalonians 5:21).... This is the counsel of God; shall we heed it? 10Maranatha, 155.

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.

This Day With God

Making Your Trial Balance, March 25

TDG 93.1

Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. 1 Thessalonians 5:21.

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 12 (1897)

Lt 65, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 65, 1897, par. 22

Here is a man, subject to Satan’s temptations, with strong and weak points of character. Can his word transform you, or can your word transform him? It is written, “Prove all things: hold fast that which is good.” [1 Thessalonians 5:21.] Assumption is not worth a straw, for it can be made to favor one’s own selfish ideas. To believe every spirit is to reach the place where we believe that nothing is trustworthy.

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 on Health

A Lesson From Solomon’s Fall

CH 582.2

In the battle with inward corruptions and outward temptations, even the wise and powerful Solomon was vanquished. It is not safe to permit the least departure from the strictest integrity. “Abstain from all appearance of evil.” 1 Thessalonians 5:22. When a woman relates her family troubles, or complains of her husband, to another man, she violates her marriage vows; she dishonors her husband and breaks down the wall erected to preserve the sanctity of the marriage relation; she throws wide open the door and invites Satan to enter with his insidious temptations. This is just as Satan would have it. If a woman comes to a Christian brother with a tale of her woes, her disappointments and trials, he should ever advise her, if she must confide her troubles to someone, to select sisters for her confidants, and then there will be no appearance of evil, whereby the cause of God may suffer reproach.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

The Church and the World

2TT 245.1

In the battle with inward corruptions and outward temptations, even the wise and powerful Solomon was vanquished. It is not safe to permit the least departure from the strictest integrity. “Abstain from all appearance of evil.” 1 Thessalonians 5:22. When a woman relates her family troubles, or complains of her husband, to another man, she violates her marriage vows; she dishonors her husband and breaks down the wall erected to preserve the sanctity of the marriage relation; she throws wide open the door and invites Satan to enter with his insidious temptations. This is just as Satan would have it. If a woman comes to a Christian brother with a tale of her woes, her disappointments and trials, he should ever advise her, if she must confide her troubles to someone, to select sisters for her confidants, and then there will be no appearance of evil whereby the cause of God may suffer reproach.—1869, Testimonies for the Church 2:306.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 1

Its Fruitage

1TT 111.1

A faithful record is kept of the acts of the children of men. Nothing can be concealed from the eye of the high and holy One. Some take a course directly opposed to the law of God, and then, to cover up their sinful course, they profess to be consecrated to God. This profession of holiness does not make itself manifest in their daily lives. It does not have a tendency to elevate their minds, and lead them to “abstain from all appearance of evil.” 1 Thessalonians 5:22. We are made a spectacle unto the world, to angels, and to men. Our faith is blasphemed in consequence of the crooked course of the carnally minded. They profess a part of the truth, which gives them influence, while they have no union with those who believe and are united upon the whole truth. What has been Elder K’s influence? What have been the fruits of his labors? How many have been brought out and established upon present truth? ...

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 29, 1872

2LtMs, Lt 29, 1872, par. 44

[One page is missing here.] ... In this case the sinner is a minister of the gospel, and a professed follower of Jesus Christ, the woman bearing the name of a Christian sister. Notwithstanding the apostle’s warning was before them, “Abstain from all appearance of evil” [1 Thessalonians 5:22], yet they persisted in pursuing a course unbecoming Christians. Your familiarities with one another have been abominable—an abomination in the sight of a holy God. Said the angel, pointing to Elder Cornell, “Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? Thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal? Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? Thou that abhorest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege? Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonorest thou God!” Romans 2:21-23.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 29a, 1872

2LtMs, Lt 29a, 1872, par. 46

In this case the sinner is a minister of the gospel and a professed follower of Jesus Christ, the woman bearing the name of a Christian sister. Notwithstanding the apostle’s warning was before them, “Abstain from all appearance of evil” [1 Thessalonians 5:22], yet they persisted in pursuing a course unbecoming Christians. Your familiarities with one another have been an abomination in the sight of God. Said the angel, pointing to Elder Cornell, “Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? Thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal? Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? Thou that abhorest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege? Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonorest thou God?” Romans 2:21-23.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Lt 24, 1890

6LtMs, Lt 24, 1890, par. 26

Lovesick sentimentalism should be kept out of our institutions; they are not the place to show special preferences for young ladies, no place for improper advances on the part of young ladies toward young men. Our institutions are to stand much higher than they have ever yet stood. There are those who fancy that their strength is firm, that their mountain standeth sure and cannot be moved. Such are in constant peril, for they are careless. They give occasion, by their familiarity, for their good to be evil spoken of. They do not heed the words of warning, “Abstain from all appearance of evil.” [1 Thessalonians 5:22.] And when they are cautioned and warned, they are impatient, and refuse the warnings given. They are in danger from themselves, and do not know it.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 19a, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 19a, 1890, par. 4

There should be connected with the mission married persons who will conduct themselves with strictest propriety. But the danger in Ohio is not alone from youth, but from married men and women who should build up the walls of modesty and virtue about themselves, so that women will not allure men, and men will not allure women from strict propriety. “Abstain from even the appearance of evil.” [1 Thessalonians 5:22.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)

Lt 128, 1905

20LtMs, Lt 128, 1905, par. 9

The report that went out concerning you surely was a false one; but it is high time that greater care be exercised. “Abstain from all appearance of evil.” [1 Thessalonians 5:22.] The publication of such falsehood as went forth concerning this matter will bring no credit to the ones who gave publicity to it; but our physicians must work in such a manner that those who wish to make up such reports will be given no opportunity.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)

Ms 35, 1902

17LtMs, Ms 35, 1902, par. 12

Sons and daughters of God, you must remember that Christ has redeemed soul, body, and spirit, in order that the human agent need no longer continue in the world’s sinful course, but that the entire being might be sanctified. “Abstain from all appearance of evil. And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [1 Thessalonians 5:22, 23.]

Supplement to the Christian Experience and Views of Ellen G. White

Faithfulness

ExV54 38.1

The holy salutation mentioned in the gospel of Jesus Christ as taught by the apostle Paul, should ever be regarded in its true character. It is a holy kiss. It should be regarded as a sign of fellowship to Christian friends, when parting, and meeting again after a separation for weeks or months. In 1 Thessalonians 5:26, Paul says:—“Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss.” And in the same chapter he says:—“Abstain from all appearance of evil.” Verse 22. There can be no appearance of evil when the holy kiss is given at a proper time and place.

Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene

Chapter 4—Relation of Diet to Health and Morals

CTBH 54.1

When Paul wrote, “And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly,” [1 Thessalonians 5:23.] he did not exhort his brethren to aim at a standard which it was impossible for them to reach; he did not pray that they might have blessings which it was not the will of God to give. He knew that all who would be fitted to meet Christ in peace, must possess a pure and holy character.

My Life Today

Wholly Sanctified: Body, Soul, and Spirit, September 1

ML 248.1

The very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thessalonians 5:23.

ML 248.2

The sanctification set forth in the Sacred Scriptures has to do with the entire being—spirit, soul, and body. Here is the true idea of entire consecration. Paul prays that the church at Thessalonica may enjoy this great blessing. “The very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thessalonians 5:23....

Reflecting Christ

God’s Law Is the Standard of Character, February 3

RC 48.3

True sanctification is a Bible doctrine. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Thessalonian church, declares: “This is the will of God, even your sanctification.” And he prays: “The very God of peace sanctify you wholly” (1 Thessalonians 4:3; 5:23). The Bible clearly teaches what sanctification is and how it is to be attained. The Saviour prayed for His disciples: “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth” (John 17:17). And Paul teaches that believers are to be “sanctified by the Holy Ghost” (Romans 15:16).

Reflecting Christ

Sanctification Embraces the Entire Being, March 11

RC 84.1

And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thessalonians 5:23.

That I May Know Him

Marks of True Sanctification, June 8

TMK 165.1

And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thessalonians 5:23.