EGW Writings1 Timothy 5

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Lt 6, 1856

1LtMs, Lt 6, 1856, par. 16

Said the Angel, “God’s children are as the apple of His eye, and when you touch them to hurt them you touch the apple of God’s eye.” [Zechariah 2:8.] Said the Angel, “The oil and the wine have been hurt. Hurt not the oil and the wine.” [Revelation 6:6.] Said the Angel, “Rebuke not an elder, but entreat him as a father.” [1 Timothy 5:1.] This, I saw, did not mean preachers, but aged men, those that are fathers in experience. This has been overlooked in Brother Kellogg’s case. He has been treated more like a disobedient child than a father.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)

Ms 44, 1894

9LtMs, Ms 44, 1894, par. 7

“Rebuke not an elder (man older than yourself), but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren, the elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity. Honor widows that are widows indeed.” [1 Timothy 5:1-3.] “Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned.” [1 Timothy 1:5.] “Charity (love) suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth.” [1 Corinthians 13:4-6.]

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.

This Day With God

Practice Run for Heaven, October 6

TDG 288.1

Learn first to shew piety at home. 1 Timothy 5:4.

Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing

“If thy right hand causeth thee to stumble, cut it off, and cast it from thee.”—Matthew 5:30, R. V.

MB 61.2

God is the fountain of life, and we can have life only as we are in communion with Him. Separated from God, existence may be ours for a little time, but we do not possess life. “She that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth.” 1 Timothy 5:6. Only through the surrender of our will to God is it possible for Him to impart life to us. Only by receiving His life through self-surrender is it possible, said Jesus, for these hidden sins, which I have pointed out, to be overcome. It is possible that you may bury them in your hearts and conceal them from human eyes, but how will you stand in God’s presence?

Radiant Religion

They Kill Vital Connections with God, August 15

RRe 229.1

She that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth. 1 Timothy 5:6.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Duty to Labor

2TT 46.2

The religion you profess makes it as much your duty to employ your time during the six working days as to attend church on the Sabbath. You are not diligent in business. You let hours, days, and even weeks pass without accomplishing anything. The very best sermon you could preach to the world would be to show a decided reformation in your life, and provide for your own family. Says the apostle: “If any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.” 1 Timothy 5:8.

Daughters of God

Appendix A—At Simon’s House

DG 239.1

Christ recounted the opportunities Simon had had to show his love for his Lord, and his appreciation of what had been done for him. Plainly, yet with delicate politeness, Christ assured His disciples that His heart is grieved when His children neglect to express their gratitude to Him by words and deeds of love. Some may think that this scripture is no longer of force, but it is. Writing of those women who were to be honored, Paul said, “If she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints’ feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work” [1 Timothy 5:10].

Early Writings

Faithfulness in Social Meeting

EW 117.1

There is no example given in the Word for brethren to wash sisters’ feet; [See Appendix.] but there is an example for sisters to wash the feet of brethren. Mary washed the feet of Jesus with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head. (See also 1 Timothy 5:10.) I saw that the Lord had moved upon sisters to wash the feet of brethren and that it was according to gospel order. All should move understandingly and not make the washing of feet a tedious ceremony.

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

Faithfulness

ExV54 37.2

There is no example given in the Word for brethren to wash sisters’ feet; but there is an example for sisters to wash the feet of brethren. Mary washed the feet of Jesus with her tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. Also see 1 Timothy 5:10. I saw that the Lord had moved upon sisters to wash the feet of brethren, and that it was according to gospel order. All should move understandingly, and not make the washing of feet a tedious ceremony.

The Desire of Ages

Chapter 62—The Feast at Simon’s House

DA 564.4

Christ values acts of heartfelt courtesy. When anyone did Him a favor, with heavenly politeness He blessed the actor. He did not refuse the simplest flower plucked by the hand of a child, and offered to Him in love. He accepted the offerings of children, and blessed the givers, inscribing their names in the book of life. In the Scriptures, Mary’s anointing of Jesus is mentioned as distinguishing her from the other Marys. Acts of love and reverence for Jesus are an evidence of faith in Him as the Son of God. And the Holy Spirit mentions, as evidences of woman’s loyalty to Christ: “If she have washed the saints’ feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.” 1 Timothy 5:10.

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.]

Counsels on Stewardship

Paul’s Recognition of the System

CS 70.3

It was to this plan for the support of the ministry that Paul referred when he said, “Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.” And later, in writing to Timothy, the apostle said, “The laborer is worthy of his reward.” 1 Timothy 5:18.—The Acts of the Apostles, 335, 336.

The Acts of the Apostles

Chapter 32—A Liberal Church

AA 336.2

It was to this plan for the support of the ministry that Paul referred when he said, “Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.” And later, in writing to Timothy, the apostle said, “The laborer is worthy of his reward.” 1 Timothy 5:18.

From Trials to Triumph

Chapter 32—The Joy of Liberal Giving

TT 178.1

Paul referred to this plan for the support of the ministry when he said, “Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.” “The laborer is worthy of his reward.” 1 Timothy 5:18.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)

Ms 1, 1896

11LtMs, Ms 1, 1896, par. 13

Every minister must have a margin to work upon, that he may have something with which to lead out in good enterprises, building churches and advancing the cause of God in every line, pushing the work with zeal, and laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. “For I the Lord love judgment, I hate robbery for burnt offerings.” [Isaiah 61:8.] And He tells us, “Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn.” [1 Timothy 5:18.] This is a figure of those who work under the eye of God to advance His cause in lifting the minds of men from the contemplation of earthly things to heaven. These God loves, and He would have men respect their rights.

Patriarchs and Prophets

Chapter 33—From Sinai to Kadesh

PP 386.1

The Bible specially teaches us to beware of lightly bringing accusation against those whom God has called to act as His ambassadors. The apostle Peter, describing a class who are abandoned sinners, says, “Presumptuous are they, self-willed, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. Whereas angels, which are greater in power and might, bring not railing accusation against them before the Lord.” 2 Peter 2:10, 11. And Paul, in his instruction for those who are placed over the church, says, “Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.” 1 Timothy 5:19. He who has placed upon men the heavy responsibility of leaders and teachers of His people will hold the people accountable for the manner in which they treat His servants. We are to honor those whom God has honored. The judgment visited upon Miriam should be a rebuke to all who yield to jealousy, and murmur against those upon whom God lays the burden of His work.

From Eternity Past

Sin of Jealousy

EP 269.3

The Bible teaches us to beware of lightly bringing accusation against those whom God has called to act as His ambassadors. “Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.” 1 Timothy 5:19. He who has placed upon men the responsibility of leaders and teachers of His people will hold the people accountable for the manner in which they treat His servants. The judgment visited upon Miriam should be a rebuke to all who yield to jealousy and murmur against those upon whom God lays the burden of His work.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)

Lt 48, 1907

22LtMs, Lt 48, 1907, par. 27

“Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.” [1 Timothy 5:19.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)

Lt 12, 1893

8LtMs, Lt 12, 1893, par. 34

The dying testimony of Paul, to his son in the gospel (Timothy), was, “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.” 2 Timothy 4:1-4. (1 Timothy 5:19): “Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses. Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear. I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.” [Verses 19-21.]

Testimonies for the Church, vol. 2

Chapter 1—Sketch of Experience

2T 15.2

My husband then stated that he should understand that these words of our Lord had reference to cases of personal trespass, and could not be applied in the case of this sister. She had not trespassed against Sister White. But that which had been reproved publicly was public wrongs which threatened the prosperity of the church and the cause. Here, said my husband, is a text applicable to the case: 1 Timothy 5:20 : “Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.”

Testimony for the Church — No. 15

Sketch of Experience

T15 7.1

My husband then stated that he should understand that these words of our Lord had reference to cases of personal trespass, and could not be applied in the case of his wife. She had not trespassed against Sister White. But that which had been reproved publicly, was public wrongs which threatened the prosperity of the church and the cause. Here, said my husband, is a text applicable to the case. 1 Timothy 5:20. “Them that sin, rebuke before all, that others also may fear.”

The Voice in Speech and Song

Chapter 60—Practical Godliness

VSS 346.2

The minister is not to indulge in the relation of anecdotes, but he is to preach the Word. “Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear. I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality” [1 Timothy 5:20, 21]. “Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” [1 Timothy 4:12]. “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” [2 Timothy 2:15].

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)

Lt 3, 1892

7LtMs, Lt 3, 1892, par. 26

The minister is not to indulge in the relation of anecdotes, but he is to preach the Word. “Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear. I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe those things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.” [1 Timothy 5:20, 21.] “Be thou an example of the believers in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” [1 Timothy 4:12.] “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” [2 Timothy 2:15.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Ms 56, 1898

13LtMs, Ms 56, 1898, par. 55

Is there not as great need at this time for warnings and reproof as at any period of this earth’s history? And warnings will come, discovering the hidden things of darkness. “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” [2 Timothy 3:16, 17.] There are individuals who require plain words of reproof, and the apostle says, “Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.” [1 Timothy 5:20.]

13LtMs, Ms 56, 1898, par. 56

There are times when private reproof has no effect. The Lord knows better than human beings the needs of His people. He does not consult man’s imperfect judgment as to how he shall work in bringing reproof to his people. The charge of Paul is, “I charge thee before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, that thou observe these things, without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure. ... Some men’s sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment: and some men they follow after. Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid.” [Verses 21, 22, 24, 25.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 1a, 1890

6LtMs, Ms 1a, 1890, par. 39

Will Elder Daniels please make his statements, telling wherein Sister White contradicts her own teachings? I know that he stated that I drank tea, and invited him to drink it, saying it was good for him. Not only myself, but the members of my family, know this to be an untruth. What other things he has stated I cannot determine. But what if some one did use these things contrary to the light of health reform? Is it not best to follow the Bible teaching upon temperance and the light given in testimony? Do you not remember that we have an individual accountability? We do not make articles of diet a test question, but we do try to educate the intellect and to arouse the moral sensibility to take hold of health reform in an intelligent manner, as Paul presents it in Romans 13:8-14; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; 1 Timothy 3:8-12. Are not the qualifications which he says are essential in the deacon equally essential in the elder of the church? The deacons were church officers. (2 Corinthians 6:4): “But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses.” (1 Timothy 5:22): “Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.” Here is a matter that is worthy of consideration. In the 21st verse the solemn charge is given: “I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.” These (verses, 21 and 22), need to be carefully and prayerfully considered. Sin should be rebuked. Whatever opposition and trial might come to the elder of the church because of his faithfulness, he should not swerve from true principles.

Counsels for the Church

Election and Ordination of Local Church Officers

CCh 247.3

The Apostle Paul writes to Titus: “Set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: if any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God.” Titus 1:5-7. Lay hands suddenly on no man.” 1 Timothy 5:22.

Testimony Treasures, vol. 2

Selection of Leaders

2TT 261.1

Said the inspired apostle: “Lay hands suddenly on no man.” 1 Timothy 5:22. In some of our churches the work of organizing and of ordaining elders has been premature; the Bible rule has been disregarded, and consequently grievous trouble has been brought upon the church. There should not be so great haste in electing leaders as to ordain men who are in no way fitted for the responsible work—men who need to be converted, elevated, ennobled, and refined before they can serve the cause of God in any capacity.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Ms 1, 1878

3LtMs, Ms 1, 1878, par. 28

Said the inspired apostle, “Lay hands suddenly on no man.” [1 Timothy 5:22.] In Ligonier the work of organizing and ordaining elders was premature; the Bible rule was disregarded, and consequently a grievous trouble was brought upon the church. There should not be so great haste in electing leaders as to ordain men who are in no way fitted for the responsible work—men who need to be converted, elevated, ennobled, and refined, before they can serve the cause of God in any capacity. The gospel net gathers both good and bad. It takes time for character to be developed, there must be time to learn what men really are. The family of one suggested for office should be considered. Are they in subjection? Can the man rule his own house with honor? What character have his children? Will they do honor to the father’s influences? If he has no tact, wisdom, or power of godliness at home, in managing his own little family, it is safe to conclude that the same defects will be carried into the church, and the same unsanctified management will be seen there. It will be far better to criticize the man before he is put into office than after; better to pray and counsel before taking the decisive step, than to labor to correct the consequences of a wrong move.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Ms 1, 1880

3LtMs, Ms 1, 1880, par. 42

“Lay hands,” said the inspired apostle, “suddenly on no man.” [1 Timothy 5:22.] Do not be in such haste to manufacture leaders, ordaining men that have never been tested or proved. Let the church be conducted in this manner: alternating with several, one leading one week and choosing another for the next week or two, thus keeping individuals at work in the church. After a suitable trial, select by the voice of the church someone to be the acknowledged leader, for never more than a year at a time. Then elect again a new one, or the same one if he has been a blessing to the church.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 12 (1897)

Lt 145, 1897

12LtMs, Lt 145, 1897, par. 20

To know what constitutes purity of mind, soul, and body is the highest class of education. Paul the apostle sums up in his letter to Timothy the attainments possible for him, by saying, “Keep thyself pure.” [1 Timothy 5:22.] Impurity of thought or action will never be seen in the child of God. The body is represented as the temple of the Holy Spirit. Every encouragement and the richest blessings are held up before the overcomers of evil practices, but the most fearful penalties are laid upon those who profane the body and defile the soul.

Counsels to Parents, Teachers, and Students

Association With Others

CT 103.1

To know what constitutes purity of mind, soul, and body is an important part of education. Paul summed up the attainments possible for Timothy by saying, “Keep thyself pure.” 1 Timothy 5:22. Impurity of thought, word, or action will not be indulged by the child of God. Every encouragement and the richest blessings are held up before the overcomers of evil practices, but the most fearful penalties are laid upon those who profane the body and defile the soul.

Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)

Examination for the Ministry

GW92 132.1

Those who are about to enter upon the sacred work of teaching Bible truth to the world, should be carefully examined by faithful, experienced persons. [See also P. 122.] After they have had some experience, there is still another work to be done for them; they should be presented before the Lord in earnest prayer that he would indicate by his Holy Spirit if they are acceptable to him. The apostle says, “Lay hands suddenly on no man.” [1 Timothy 5:22.] In the days of the apostles, the ministers of God did not dare to rely upon their own judgment in selecting or accepting men to take the solemn and sacred position of mouth-piece for God. They selected the men whom their judgment would accept, and then they placed them before the Lord to see if he would accept them to go forth as his representatives. No less than this should be done now.

Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)

Examination for the Ministry

GW 438.1

Those who are about to enter upon the sacred work of teaching Bible truth to the world, should be carefully examined by faithful, experienced persons. After they have had some experience, there is still another work to be done for them: they should be presented before the Lord in earnest prayer, that He may indicate by His Holy Spirit whether they are acceptable to Him. The apostle says, “Lay hands suddenly on no man.” [1 Timothy 5:22.] In the days of the apostles, the ministers of God did not dare to rely upon their own judgment in selecting or accepting men to take the solemn and sacred position of mouthpiece for God. They chose the men whom their judgment accepted, and then placed them before the Lord to see if He would accept them to go forth as His representatives. No less than this should be done now.

In Heavenly Places

The Battle for Purity, July 7

HP 195.1

Keep thyself pure. 1 Timothy 5:22.

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

MR No. 343—Local Elders of the Church

5MR 447.2

Are not the qualifications which he says are essential in the deacon, equally essential in the elder of the church? The deacons were church officers. 2 Corinthians 6:4: “But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses.” 1 Timothy 5:22: “Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partakers of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure.” Here is a matter that is worthy of consideration. In the twenty-first verse the solemn charge is given: “I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.” These verses, 21 and 22, need to be carefully and prayerfully considered. Sin should be rebuked. Whatever opposition and trial might come to the elder of the church because of his faithfulness, he should not swerve from true principles.—Manuscript 1a, 1890. (“A Consecrated Ministry,” February 13, 1890.)

Manuscript Releases, vol. 12 [Nos. 921-999]

MR No. 983—Counsel on Solving Church Difficulties

12MR 284.3

“Lay hands,” said the inspired apostle,“suddenly on no man” [1 Timothy 5:22]. Do not be in such haste to manufacture leaders, ordaining men that have never been tested or proved. Let the church be conducted in this manner: alternating with several, one leading one week and choosing another for the next week or two, thus keeping individuals at work in the church; and after a suitable trial select by the voice of the church someone to be the acknowledged leader, for never more than a year at a time; then elect again a new one, or the same one if he has been a blessing to the church.

Maranatha

Overcoming Bad Habits, August 9

Mar 229.1

Keep thyself pure. 1 Timothy 5:22.

Elder Daniels and the Fresno Church

Elder Daniels and the Fresno Church

PH028 17.2

Will Elder Daniels please make his statements, telling wherein Sister White contradicts her own teachings? I know that he stated that I drank tea, and invited him to drink it, saying it was good for him. Not only myself, but the members of my family, know this to be an untruth. What other things he has stated I cannot determine. But what if someone did use these things contrary to the light of health reform, is it not best to follow the Bible teaching upon temperance, and the light given in testimony? Do you not remember that we have an individual accountability? We do not make articles of diet a test question, but we do try to educate the intellect, and to arouse the moral sensibility to take hold of health reform in an intelligent manner, as Paul presents it in Romans 13:8-14; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; 1 Timothy 3:8-12. Are not the qualifications which he says are essential in the deacon, equally essential in the elder of the church? The deacons were church officers (2 Corinthians 6:4): “But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses;” (1 Timothy 5:22): “Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins; keep thyself pure.” Here is a matter that is worthy of consideration. In the twenty-first verse the solemn charge is given: “I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.” These verses, twenty-one and twenty-two, need to be carefully and prayerfully considered. Sin should be rebuked. Whatever opposition and trial might come to the elder of the church because of his faithfulness, he should not swerve from true principles. Sins should not, because of unsanctified preferences and sympathy, be lightly regarded in one man which would be condemned in another. This matter is one of great importance. If he trusts responsibilities to one whose habits and practices he knows to be wrong, he shows that his own principles are not sound, that his motives are questionable. By this very act he sanctions the errors and sins of the man he has commended and appointed to the sacred office of caring for the flock of God. Unless he is guarded by heavenly wisdom, he will place himself in a position where he will feel it necessary to sustain the man with whom he has united his influence; and God will hold him responsible for his brother’s unfaithfulness in office, and for the harm which will result to the church. He must keep himself pure by refusing to mingle with any unholy influence.

Spiritual Gifts, vol. 3

Spiritual Gifts

3SG 27.3

1. The sick were not always healed by faith in Paul’s day. He says, 2 Timothy 4:20, “Trophimus have I left at Miletum sick.” Again he says to Timothy, 1 Timothy 5:23, “Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities.” God could have answered the prayers of his servant Paul, and raised up Trophimus, andhealed Timothy’s infirmities, if this had been best. We conclude that God has not designed in any age of the church to manifest His power so far that there should be no sick among Christians. But in cases where it would be for the good of the afflicted, and for His own glory, He has manifested His power, and will manifest it.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)

Lt 17, 1895

10LtMs, Lt 17, 1895, par. 15

When you expressed your desire for Fannie to move her things into my tent and become a member of my family, I knew that you did not know what you were talking about. The idea was inconsistent; but I felt that I must keep quiet, or I would speak very strongly. Then you stated plainly that you wanted Fannie to help in the cooking, “for your stomach’s sake” [1 Timothy 5:23], because you liked her cooking, and enjoyed the food she prepared. I said to myself, Poor, foolish, selfish man. You demonstrated what had been laid before me in clear lines, that you were selfish, and would work in any way to accomplish your ends.

Maranatha

The Investigative Judgment, August 31

Mar 251.1

Some men’s sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after. 1 Timothy 5:24.

The Faith I Live By

A Prior Judgment, July 26

FLB 213.1

Some men’s sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after. 1 Timothy 5:24.

The Ellen G. White Letters and Manuscripts: Volume 1

Ms 2, 1852

That desire was with the people to dethrone their kings, but it would not be accomplished, for kings would reign until Christ begins to reign. Said she, I saw away off there in Europe just as things were moving to accomplish their desires, there would appear to be a slacking up once or twice. This would serve to harden the hearts of the wicked, but the work would not settle down, only appear to; for the minds of the rulers were as intent in sustaining themselves, as were the minds of the people to get the ascendancy.10

Adventist pioneer ministers disagreed on how this passage should be understood. This is not surprising, given its intermittent and almost cryptic character. J. N. Loughborough wrote in 1916 that Ellen White was referring in part to the revolutions that swept through central Europe in 1848 but that died down within a short space of time. “There was,” he wrote, “one slacking up after the revolution of 1848. In the present war, beginning in 1914, is manifest on a still larger scale the determination to overthrow kings and rulers. … The testimony seems to indicate a second slacking up before the final conflict of the nations shall come.” Alonzo T. Jones, on the other hand, speaking before the General Conference session in 1893, interpreted these statements in terms of future persecution by state-church alliances in Europe and America.

The Ellen G. White Letters and Manuscripts: Volume 1

Ms 1, 1852

The sins of Israel must go to judgment beforehand.4

Based on 1 Timothy 5:24. See Ms 2, 1852 (Mar. 14), note 11.

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)

Lt 130, 1898

13LtMs, Lt 130, 1898, par. 20

As these things were spoken, I saw that some turned sadly away, and mingled with the scoffers. Others with tears, all broken in heart, were making confessions to those whom they had bruised and wounded. They did not think of maintaining their own dignity, but asked at every step, What must I do to be saved? The answer was, “Repent, and be converted, that your sins may go beforehand to judgment, and be blotted out.” [See Acts 3:19; 1 Timothy 5:24.] Words were spoken to greatly rebuke all spiritual pride, for this God will not tolerate. It is inconsistent with His Word and with our profession of faith. “Seek ye the Lord,” all ye who are ministers of His. Seek Him “while he may be found; call ye upon him while he is near. Let the wicked forsake his way and the unrighteous man his thoughts, and let him return to the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him, and to our God; for He will abundantly pardon.” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]

Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 23 (1908)

Ms 115, 1908

23LtMs, Ms 115, 1908, par. 66

“As these words were spoken, I saw that some turned sadly away and mingled with the scoffers. Others, with tears, all broken in heart, made confession to those whom they had bruised and wounded. They did not think of maintaining their own dignity, but asked at every step, ‘What must I do to be saved?’ [Acts 16:30.] The answer was, ‘Repent, and be converted, that your sins may go beforehand to judgment, and be blotted out.’ [See Acts 3:19; 1 Timothy 5:24.] Words were spoken which rebuked spiritual pride. This God will not tolerate. It is inconsistent with His Word and with our profession of faith. Seek the Lord, all ye who are ministers of Him. Seek Him while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near. ‘Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.’” [Isaiah 55:6, 7.]

This Day With God

God’s Constant Appeal, September 26

TDG 278.1

The good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid. 1 Timothy 5:25.