EGW Writings2 Corinthians 6
Ellen G. White · Page 1 of 3
Read 2 Corinthians 6 in the Bible2 Corinthians 6:1-2
Ye Shall Receive Power
Now Is the Time for Repentance, January 29
YRP 37.1
We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) 2 Corinthians 6:1, 2.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 13, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 13, 1895, par. 19
Upon the decisions reached in that day depends the future, eternal interest of every soul. We shall have unspeakable joy, or unutterable woe and misery, the horrors of despair. O, how Jesus will love to recompense every true worker! Every faithfully performed duty will receive His blessing. It is then that He pronounces the benediction, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Thou hast been faithful over a few things; I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” [Matthew 25:21.] What is the joy of our Lord? “For the joy that was set before him” He “endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” [Hebrews 12:2.] “We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that you receive not the grace of God in vain. (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in a day of salvation have I succored thee: Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)” [2 Corinthians 6:1, 2.] Truth, precious truth, is not to be hidden in our hearts. “A city set on a hill cannot be hid.” [Matthew 5:14.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 130, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 130, 1901, par. 6
Now cannot we see the obligations every soul is under who has decided to take the name of Christian, to set ourselves to the exalted possibility of answering the character of excellence in humanity, that we shall reveal Christ’s character in our works, showing that we are appointed His chosen representatives to an apostate world? “We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succored thee: behold, NOW is the accepted time; behold, NOW is the day of salvation)” 2 Corinthians 6:1, 2. Bear in mind the NOW is ever and ever the eternal NOW. There is no tomorrow that is ours. This whole chapter from the first verse to the last is of great importance. These conditions are scarcely thought of as principles that in no case should be neglected.2 Corinthians 6:1-4
The Ministry of Healing
The Source of Healing
MH 116.3
Those who find that they are unfitted for medical work should choose some other employment. Those who are well adapted to care for the sick, but whose education and medical qualifications are limited, would do well to take up the humbler parts of the work, ministering faithfully as nurses. By patient service under skillful physicians they may be constantly learning, and by improving every opportunity to acquire knowledge they may in time become fully qualified for the work of a physician. Let the younger physicians, “as workers together with Him [the Chief Physician], ... receive not the grace of God in vain, ... giving no offense in anything, that the ministry [of the sick] be not blamed: but in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God.” 2 Corinthians 6:1-4.2 Corinthians 6:1-8
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 25a, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 25a, 1895, par. 22
Genuine conversion brings the soul into living connection with Christ and makes the individual a channel of light to the world. If the person is a minister, he may, through the grace given to him of God, say to his flock, “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” [1 Corinthians 11:1.] (See 2 Corinthians 6:1-8.) The apostle Paul exhorted Timothy, a youthful minister, “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.] And Peter exhorts, (See 1 Peter 5:2-11.)2 Corinthians 6:1-10
Radiant Religion
His Workers Possess All Things of Eternal Value, April 10
RRe 102.2
As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things. 2 Corinthians 6:1, 10.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 24, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 24, 1905, par. 10
“We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. ... Giving no offense in anything, that the ministry be not blamed. In all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in affliction, in necessities, in distresses.” We shall not always have an easy time. If we obey the truth we shall have the favor of God, but we shall suffer the opposition of the enemy. “In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings; by pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, and yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; as sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing, as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.” [2 Corinthians 6:1, 3-10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 174, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 174, 1899, par. 17
“Giving no offence in anything, that the ministry be not blamed; but in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings; by pureness, by knowledge, by long-suffering, by the Holy Ghost, ... by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left. By honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, and yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; as sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.” [2 Corinthians 6:1-10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 56, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 56, 1902, par. 52
“We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For He saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) Giving no offense in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed: but in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings; by pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; as sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.” [2 Corinthians 6:1-10.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 12, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 12, 1905, par. 21
“We then as workers together with Him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For He saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succored thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) Giving no offense in anything, that the ministry be not blamed; but in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fasting; by pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; as sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.” [2 Corinthians 6:1-10.]2 Corinthians 6:1-13
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 187, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 187, 1901, par. 8
I am instructed to tell you that God loves you, and He would have you express your love to Him. He does not want your brethren to suppose that no one can work with you, because they can, and the can must be in you. You must believe that God is working with you and put away your own ideas and work with your brethren. Unite with them all you possibly can. When you feel tired, stop work till you are rested. Let us all do our best cheerfully and lovingly and patiently and hopefully. Read these words: 2 Corinthians 6:1-13. Do not become weary so that your strength shall become sickly. God wants to make you His mouthpiece, to speak through you to others. Then be sure that you do not stand in your own light. Hide yourself in Jesus, and give courage and hope to the souls of others.2 Corinthians 6:1-17
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 59, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 59, 1902, par. 30
The time has now come when the faultfinders, the unthankful, and the unholy will make a final decision. If they are saved at last, they must now be converted. They must heed the message, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.]17LtMs, Ms 59, 1902, par. 44
“We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. ... Giving no offense in anything, that the ministry be not blamed; but in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings; by pureness, by knowledge, by the Holy Ghost, in love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left.” [2 Corinthians 6:1, 3-7.]2 Corinthians 6:1-18
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 4, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 4, 1898, par. 1
Our work is to watch and wait and pray. Search the Scriptures. Christ has given you warning not to mingle with the world. We are to come out from among them and be separate, and touch not the unclean thing; “and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you; and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] Whatever the opinions you may entertain in regard to casting your vote in political questions, you are not to proclaim it by pen or voice. Our people need to be silent upon questions which have no relation to the third angel’s message. If ever a people needed to draw nigh to God, it is Seventh-day Adventists. There have been wonderful devices and plans made. A burning desire has taken hold of men or women to proclaim something, or bind up with something; they do not know what. But the silence of Christ upon many subjects was true eloquence.13LtMs, Lt 4, 1898, par. 28
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness, and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? For ye are the temple of the living God: as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them: and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing: and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-18.] Please read the entire chapter.13LtMs, Lt 4, 1898, par. 29
“Having these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” [2 Corinthians 7:1.] The office of the ministry is a sacred office. “We then as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. ... Giving no offense in anything, that the ministry be not blamed.” [2 Corinthians 6:1, 3.] Read this Scripture carefully and may the Spirit of God reveal to you the necessity of meeting a higher standard. We need to watch and pray and purify our hearts through the grace given us by Jesus Christ.13LtMs, Lt 4, 1898, par. 31
The Lord is not in the alliances that are being formed with political movements. They are bound to bring confusion and great entanglement. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean thing.” [Verse 17.]13LtMs, Lt 4, 1898, par. 33
He who breaks one precept of the commandments of God is a transgressor of the whole law. Keep your voting to yourself. Do not feel it your duty to urge every one to do as you do. That one rotten plank is in every platform. Men trample under their feet the holy law of Jehovah. “What communion hath light with darkness? ... Or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?” [Verses 14, 15.] I tell you in the name of the Lord, You cannot bind up Christ with Belial. The elements will never mingle. The Lord tells His people the conditions of their prosperity and the continuance of His favors and blessings. There must be no intercourse with idolaters. It was a violation of this contract on the part of the Jewish nation that led to their overthrow. No man can possibly serve two masters. He cannot enter into partnership with Christ and with Belial.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 18, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 18, 1905, par. 18
“What agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.” [2 Corinthians 6:16.] The church is to be the temple of the living God. The whole church is addressed in the words: “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [Verses 17, 18.]20LtMs, Ms 18, 1905, par. 19
“We then as workers together with God beseech you that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. ... Giving no offense in anything, that the ministry be not blamed; but in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings; by pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, and yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.” [Verses 1, 3-10.]20LtMs, Ms 18, 1905, par. 20
These words show what timbers are to be used in the building of character. As co-workers with Christ we are to heed the instruction given. God has said, “Ye are the temple of the living God.” “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean.” Separate yourselves from the proud and world-loving. God desires His people to stand where He can supply them with the grace that they need in their character building. He calls upon them to come out from among those who are placing unsound timbers in their characters and gives them the promise, “I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters.” [Verses 16-18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 24 (1909)
Lt 84, 1909
24LtMs, Lt 84, 1909, par. 3
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:1-10, 14-18.]24LtMs, Lt 84, 1909, par. 5
The question is asked, What is the higher education? There is no education higher than that contained in the principles laid down in the words I have read to you from this sixth chapter of Second Corinthians. Let our students study diligently to comprehend this. Through His own chosen messengers God has given us light and instruction as to what constitutes the higher education. There is no higher education to be gained than that which was given to the early disciples, and which is given to us through the Word. May the Holy Spirit of God impress your minds with the truth that there is nothing in all the world in the line of education that is so exalted as the instruction contained in the chapters to which I have referred. Let us advance just as far as the Word will take us. Let us work intelligently for this higher education. Let our righteousness be the sign of our understanding of the will of God committed to us through His messengers.The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 31—The Message Heeded
AA 323.1
From Ephesus Paul set forth on another missionary tour, during which he hoped to visit once more the scenes of his former labors in Europe. Tarrying for a time at Troas, “to preach Christ’s gospel,” he found some who were ready to listen to his message. “A door was opened unto me of the Lord,” he afterward declared of his labors in this place. But successful as were his efforts at Troas, he could not remain there long. “The care of all the churches,” and particularly of the church at Corinth, rested heavily on his heart. He had hoped to meet Titus at Troas and to learn from him how the words of counsel and reproof sent to the Corinthian brethren had been received, but in this he was disappointed. “I had no rest in my spirit,” he wrote concerning this experience, “because I found not Titus my brother.” He therefore left Troas and crossed over to Macedonia, where, at Philippi he met Timothy.AA 324.1
During this time of anxiety concerning the church at Corinth, Paul hoped for the best; yet at times feelings of deep sadness would sweep over his soul, lest his counsels and admonitions might be misunderstood. “Our flesh had no rest,” he afterward wrote, “but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears. Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus.”AA 324.2
This faithful messenger brought the cheering news that a wonderful change had taken place among the Corinthian believers. Many had accepted the instruction contained in Paul’s letter and had repented of their sins. Their lives were no longer a reproach to Christianity, but exerted a powerful influence in favor of practical godliness.AA 324.3
Filled with joy, the apostle sent another letter to the Corinthian believers, expressing his gladness of heart because of the good work wrought in them: “Though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent.” When tortured by the fear that his words would be despised, he had sometimes regretted that he had written so decidedly and severely. “Now I rejoice,” he continued, “not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing. For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of.” That repentance which is produced by the influence of divine grace upon the heart will lead to confession and forsaking of sin. Such were the fruits which the apostle declared had been seen in the lives of the Corinthian believers. “What carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal.”AA 325.1
For some time Paul had been carrying a burden of soul for the churches—a burden so heavy that he could scarcely endure it. False teachers had sought to destroy his influence among the believers and to urge their own doctrines in the place of gospel truth. The perplexities and discouragements with which Paul was surrounded are revealed in the words, “We were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life.”AA 325.2
But now one cause of anxiety was removed. At the tidings of the acceptance of his letter to the Corinthians, Paul broke forth into words of rejoicing: “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. And our hope of you is steadfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation.”AA 325.3
In expressing his joy over their reconversion and their growth in grace, Paul ascribed to God all the praise for this transformation of heart and life. “Thanks be unto God,“ he exclaimed, “which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savor of His knowledge by us in every place. For we are unto God a sweet savor of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish.” It was the custom of the day for a general victorious in warfare to bring with him on his return a train of captives. On such occasions incense bearers were appointed, and as the army marched triumphantly home, the fragrant odor was to the captives appointed to die, a savor of death, showing that they were nearing the time of their execution; but to those of the prisoners who had found favor with their captors, and whose lives were to be spared, it was a savor of life, in that it showed them that their freedom was near.AA 326.1
Paul was now full of faith and hope. He felt that Satan was not to triumph over the work of God in Corinth, and in words of praise he poured forth the gratitude of his heart. He and his fellow laborers would celebrate their victory over the enemies of Christ and the truth, by going forth with new zeal to extend the knowledge of the Saviour. Like incense the fragrance of the gospel was to be diffused throughout the world. To those who should accept Christ, the message would be a savor of life unto life; but to those who should persist in unbelief, a savor of death unto death.AA 326.2
Realizing the overwhelming magnitude of the work, Paul exclaimed, “Who is sufficient for these things?” Who is able to preach Christ in such a way that His enemies shall have no just cause to despise the messenger or the message that he bears? Paul desired to impress upon believers the solemn responsibility of the gospel ministry. Faithfulness in preaching the word, united with a pure, consistent life, can alone make the efforts of ministers acceptable to God and profitable to souls. Ministers of our day, burdened with a sense of the greatness of the work, may well exclaim with the apostle, “Who is sufficient for these things?”AA 327.1
There were those who had charged Paul with self-commendation in writing his former letter. The apostle now referred to this by asking the members of the church if they thus judged his motives. “Do we begin again to commend ourselves?” he inquired; “or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?” Believers moving to a new place often carried with them letters of commendation from the church with which they had formerly been united; but the leading workers, the founders of these churches, had no need of such commendation. The Corinthian believers, who had been led from the worship of idols to the faith of the gospel, were themselves all the recommendation that Paul needed. Their reception of the truth, and the reformation wrought in their lives, bore eloquent testimony to the faithfulness of his labors and to his authority to counsel, reprove, and exhort as a minister of Christ.AA 327.2
Paul regarded the Corinthian brethren as his testimonial. “Ye are our epistle,” he said, “written in our hearts, known and read of all men: forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.”AA 328.1
The conversion of sinners and their sanctification through the truth is the strongest proof a minister can have that God has called him to the ministry. The evidence of his apostleship is written upon the hearts of those converted, and is witnessed to by their renewed lives. Christ is formed within, the hope of glory. A minister is greatly strengthened by these seals of his ministry.AA 328.2
Today the ministers of Christ should have the same witness as that which the Corinthian church bore to Paul’s labors. But though in this age there are many preachers, there is a great scarcity of able, holy ministers—men filled with the love that dwelt in the heart of Christ. Pride, self-confidence, love of the world, faultfinding, bitterness, envy, are the fruit borne by many who profess the religion of Christ. Their lives, in sharp contrast to the life of the Saviour, often bear sad testimony to the character of the ministerial labor under which they were converted.AA 328.3
A man can have no greater honor than to be accepted by God as an able minister of the gospel. But those whom the Lord blesses with power and success in His work do not boast. They acknowledge their entire dependence on Him, realizing that of themselves they have no power. With Paul they say, “Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think anything as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament.”AA 328.4
A true minister does the work of the Master. He feels the importance of his work, realizing that he sustains to the church and to the world a relation similar to that which Christ sustained. He works untiringly to lead sinners to a nobler, higher life, that they may obtain the reward of the overcomer. His lips are touched with a live coal from the altar, and he uplifts Jesus as the sinner’s only hope. Those who hear him know that he has drawn near to God in fervent, effectual prayer. The Holy Spirit has rested upon him, his soul has felt the vital, heavenly fire, and he is able to compare spiritual things with spiritual. Power is given him to tear down the strongholds of Satan. Hearts are broken by his presentation of the love of God, and many are led to inquire, “What must I do to be saved?”AA 329.1
“Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; but have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God. But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: in whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”AA 330.1
Thus the apostle magnified the grace and mercy of God, shown in the sacred trust committed to him as a minister of Christ. By God’s abundant mercy he and his brethren had been sustained in difficulty, affliction, and danger. They had not modeled their faith and teaching to suit the desires of their hearers, nor kept back truths essential to salvation in order to make their teaching more attractive. They had presented the truth with simplicity and clearness, praying for the conviction and conversion of souls. And they had endeavored to bring their conduct into harmony with their teaching, that the truth presented might commend itself to every man’s conscience.AA 330.2
“We have this treasure,” the apostle continued, “in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.” God could have proclaimed His truth through sinless angels, but this is not His plan. He chooses human beings, men compassed with infirmity, as instruments in the working out of His designs. The priceless treasure is placed in earthen vessels. Through men His blessings are to be conveyed to the world. Through them His glory is to shine forth into the darkness of sin. In loving ministry they are to meet the sinful and the needy, and lead them to the cross. And in all their work they are to ascribe glory, honor, and praise to Him who is above all and over all.AA 330.3
Referring to his own experience, Paul showed that in choosing the service of Christ he had not been prompted by selfish motives, for his pathway had been beset by trial and temptation. “We are troubled on every side,” he wrote, “yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.”AA 331.1
Paul reminded his brethren that as Christ’s messengers he and his fellow laborers were continually in peril. The hardships they endured were wearing away their strength. “We which live,” he wrote, “are alway delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. So then death worketh in us, but life in you.” Suffering physically through privation and toil, these ministers of Christ were conforming to His death. But that which was working death in them was bringing spiritual life and health to the Corinthians, who by a belief in the truth were being made partakers of life eternal. In view of this, the followers of Jesus were to be careful not to increase, by neglect and disaffection, the burdens and trials of the laborers.AA 331.2
“We having the same spirit of faith,” Paul continued, “according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak.” Fully convinced of the reality of the truth entrusted to him, nothing could induce Paul to handle the word of God deceitfully or to conceal the convictions of his soul. He would not purchase wealth, honor, or pleasure by conformity to the opinions of the world. Though in constant danger of martyrdom for the faith that he had preached to the Corinthians, he was not intimidated, for he knew that He who had died and risen again would raise him from the grave and present him to the Father.AA 332.1
“All things are for your sakes,” he said, “that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.” Not for self-aggrandizement did the apostles preach the gospel. It was the hope of saving souls that led them to devote their lives to this work. And it was this hope that kept them from ceasing their efforts because of threatened danger or actual suffering.AA 332.2
“For which cause,” Paul declared, “we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.” Paul felt the power of the enemy; but though his physical strength was declining, yet faithfully and unflinchingly he declared the gospel of Christ. Clad in the whole armor of God, this hero of the cross pressed forward in the conflict. His voice of cheer proclaimed him triumphant in the combat. Fixing his gaze on the reward of the faithful, he exclaimed in tones of victory, “Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.”AA 332.3
Very earnest and touching is the apostle’s appeal that his Corinthian brethren consider anew the matchless love of their Redeemer. “Ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,” he wrote, “that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.” You know the height from which He stooped, the depth of humiliation to which He descended. Having once entered upon the path of self-denial and sacrifice, he turned not aside until He had given His life. There was no rest for Him between the throne and the cross.AA 333.1
Point after point Paul lingered over, in order that those who should read his epistle might fully comprehend the wonderful condescension of the Saviour in their behalf. Presenting Christ as He was when equal with God and with Him receiving the homage of the angels, the apostle traced His course until He had reached the lowest depths of humiliation. Paul was convinced that if they could be brought to comprehend the amazing sacrifice made by the Majesty of heaven, all selfishness would be banished from their lives. He showed how the Son of God had laid aside His glory, voluntarily subjecting Himself to the conditions of human nature, and then had humbled Himself as a servant, becoming obedient unto death, “even the death of the cross” (Philippians 2:8), that He might lift fallen man from degradation to hope and joy and heaven.AA 333.2
When we study the divine character in the light of the cross we see mercy, tenderness, and forgiveness blended with equity and justice. We see in the midst of the throne One bearing in hands and feet and side the marks of the suffering endured to reconcile man to God. We see a Father, infinite, dwelling in light unapproachable, yet receiving us to Himself through the merits of His Son. The cloud of vengeance that threatened only misery and despair, in the light reflected from the cross reveals the writing of God: Live, sinner, live! ye penitent, believing souls, live! I have paid a ransom.AA 333.3
In the contemplation of Christ we linger on the shore of a love that is measureless. We endeavor to tell of this love, and language fails us. We consider His life on earth, His sacrifice for us, His work in heaven as our advocate, and the mansions He is preparing for those who love Him, and we can only exclaim, O the height and depth of the love of Christ! “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” 1 John 4:10; 3:1.AA 334.1
In every true disciple this love, like sacred fire, burns on the altar of the heart. It was on the earth that the love of God was revealed through Christ. It is on the earth that His children are to reflect this love through blameless lives. Thus sinners will be led to the cross to behold the Lamb of God.Loma Linda Messages
E. G. White to Teachers in Union College, May 7, 1909 (B. 84, 1909)
LLM 405.3
The question is asked, What is the higher education? There is no education higher than that contained in the principles laid down in the words that I have read to you from the sixth chapter of Second Corinthians. Let our students study diligently to comprehend this. Through His own chosen messengers God has given us light and instruction as to what constitutes the higher education. There is no higher education to be gained than that which was given to the early disciples, and which is given to us through the word. May the Holy Spirit of God impress your minds with the truth that there is nothing in all the world in the line of education that is so exalted as the instruction contained in the chapters to which I have referred. Let us advance just as far as the word will take us. Let us work intelligently for this higher education. Let our righteousness be the sign of our understanding of the will of God committed to us through His messengers.From Trials to Triumph
Chapter 31—Corinth Accepts Paul’s Counsel
TT 171.1
The “anxiety for all the churches,” and particularly for the church at Corinth, rested heavily on Paul’s heart. He had hoped to meet Titus at Troas and learn from him how the counsel and reproof sent to the Corinthian brethren had been received, but in this he was disappointed. “My mind could not rest,” he wrote, “because I did not find my brother Titus there.” He therefore left Troas and crossed over to Macedonia, where, at Philippi, he met Timothy.TT 171.2
At times feelings of deep sadness swept over Paul’s soul, lest his admonitions to the church at Corinth might be misunderstood. He afterward wrote, “We were afflicted at every turn—fighting without and fear within. But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus.”TT 171.3
This faithful messenger brought the cheering news that a wonderful change had taken place among the Corinthian believers. Many had accepted the instruction in Paul’s letter and had repented. Their lives were no longer a reproach to Christianity.TT 171.4
Filled with joy, the apostle sent another letter, expressing his gladness of heart: “Even if I made you sorry with my letter, I do not regret it (though I did regret it).” He had sometimes regretted that he had written so severely. “I rejoice,” he continued, “not because you were grieved, but because you were grieved into repenting... . For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation and brings no regret.” Repentance produced by divine grace will lead to confession and forsaking of sin.TT 172.1
Paul had been carrying a heavy burden of soul for the churches. False teachers had sought to urge their own doctrines in the place of gospel truth. The discouragements which surrounded Paul are revealed in the words, “We were so utterly, unbearably crushed that we despaired of life itself.”TT 172.2
But now one cause of anxiety was removed. Paul broke forth into rejoicing: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God... . Our hope for you is unshaken; for we know that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in our comfort.”TT 172.3
Paul ascribed to God all the praise for their reconversion and transformation of heart and life: “Thanks be to God,” he exclaimed, “who in Christ always leads us in triumph, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of Him everywhere. For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.” A general victorious in war brought with him on his return a train of captives. Incense bearers were appointed, and as the army marched triumphantly home, the fragrant odor was to the captives appointed to die, an aroma of death, showing that they were nearing the time of their execution; but to the prisoners whose lives were to be spared, it was an aroma of life—it showed that their freedom was near.TT 172.4
Paul now felt that Satan was not to triumph in Corinth. He and his fellow laborers would celebrate their victory by going forth with new zeal to diffuse, like incense, the fragrance of the gospel throughout the world. To those who should accept Christ, the message would be an aroma of life, but to those who should persist in unbelief, an aroma of death.TT 173.1
Realizing the overwhelming magnitude of the work, Paul exclaimed, “Who is sufficient for these things?” Who is able to preach Christ in such a way that His enemies shall have no just cause to despise the messenger or the message? Faithfulness in preaching the Word, united with a pure, consistent life, can alone make the efforts of ministers acceptable to God.TT 173.2
There were those who had charged Paul with self-commendation in writing his former letter. “Are we beginning to commend ourselves again?” he inquired; “or do we need, as some do, letters of recommendation to you, or from you?” Believers moving to a new place often carried letters of commendation from the church, but the founders of these churches had no need of such commendation. The Corinthian believers, led from the worship of idols to the gospel, were themselves all the recommendation Paul needed. The reformation in their lives bore eloquent testimony to his labor and authority as a minister of Christ.TT 173.3
“You yourselves are our letter of recommendation, written on your hearts, to be known and read by all men; and you show that you are a letter from Christ delivered by us, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts.”TT 173.4
The conversion of sinners and their sanctification through the truth is the strongest proof a minister can have that God has called him. The evidence of his apostleship is written on the hearts of those converted, and is witnessed to by their renewed lives. A minister is greatly strengthened by these seals of his ministry.TT 173.5
Though in this age there are many preachers, there is a great scarcity of able, holy ministers, men filled with the love that dwelt in the heart of Christ. Pride, self-confidence, love of the world, fault-finding, are the fruit borne by many whose lives bear sad testimony to the character of the ministerial labor under which they were “converted.”TT 174.1
A man can have no greater honor than to be accepted by God as a minister of the gospel. But those whom the Lord blesses with power and success acknowledge their entire dependence on Him. Of themselves they have no power. With Paul they say, “Not that we are competent of ourselves to claim anything as coming from us; our competence is from God, who has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant.” A true minister realizes that he sustains to the church and to the world a relation similar to that which Christ sustained. He works untiringly to lead sinners to a nobler, higher life. He uplifts Jesus as the sinner’s only hope. Those who hear him know that he has drawn near to God in fervent, effectual prayer. The Holy Spirit has rested on him. His soul has felt the vital, heavenly fire. Hearts are broken by his presentation of the love of God, and many are led to inquire, “What must I do to be saved?”TT 174.2
“For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For it is the God who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.”TT 174.3
Thus the apostle magnified the grace and mercy of God. He and his brethren had been sustained in affliction and danger. They had not kept back truth in order to make their teaching attractive. And they had brought their conduct into harmony with their teaching, that truth might commend itself to every man’s conscience.TT 174.4
“We have this treasure in earthen vessels,” the apostle continued, “to show that the transcendent power belongs to God and not to us.” It was not God’s plan to proclaim His truth through sinless angels. The priceless treasure is placed in earthen vessels, human beings. Through them His glory is to shine forth. They are to meet the sinful and the needy and lead them to the cross.TT 175.1
Paul showed that in choosing the service of Christ he had not been prompted by selfish motives. “We are afflicted in every way,” he wrote, “but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies.”TT 175.2
As Christ’s messengers he and his fellow laborers were continually in peril. “While we live,” he wrote, “we are always being given up to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus may be manifested in our mortal flesh.” Through privation and toil, these ministers were conforming to Christ’s death, but that which was working death in them was bringing life to the Corinthians. In view of this, the followers of Jesus were not to increase the burdens and trials of the laborers.TT 175.3
Nothing could induce Paul to conceal the conviction of his soul. He would not purchase wealth or pleasure by conformity to the opinions of the world. Though in constant danger of martyrdom, he was not intimidated; for he knew that He who had died and risen again would raise him from the grave and present him to the Father.TT 175.4
Not for self-aggrandizement did the apostles preach the gospel. The hope of saving souls kept them from ceasing their efforts because of danger or suffering.TT 175.5
“So we do not lose heart,” Paul declared. “Though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed every day.” Though his physical strength was declining, yet unflinchingly he declared the gospel. This hero of the cross pressed forward in the conflict. “We look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen; for the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.”TT 176.1
The apostle appealed to his Corinthian brethren to consider anew the matchless love of their Redeemer: “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He became poor, so that by His poverty you might become rich.” You know the height from which He stooped, the depth of humiliation to which He descended. There was no rest for Him between the throne and the cross. Point after point Paul lingered over, that those who read his letter might comprehend the condescension of the Saviour.TT 176.3
When we study the divine character in the light of the cross, we see mercy and forgiveness blended with equity and justice. We see in the midst of the throne One bearing in hands and feet and side the marks of suffering endured to reconcile man to God. We see a Father receiving us to Himself through the merits of His Son. The cloud of vengeance that threatened misery and despair, in the light reflected from the cross reveals the writing of God: Penitent, believing soul, live! I have paid a ransom.TT 176.5
It was on earth that the love of God was revealed through Christ. It is on earth that His children are to reflect this love through blameless lives.From Trials to Triumph
The Cross Accomplishes True Conversion
TT 176.2
The apostle traced Christ’s course until He had reached the depths of humiliation. Paul was convinced that if they could comprehend the amazing sacrifice made by the Majesty of heaven, all selfishness would be banished from their lives. The Son of God had humbled Himself as a servant, becoming obedient unto death, “even death on a cross” (Philippians 2:8, RSV), that He might lift fallen man from degradation.TT 176.4
In the contemplation of Christ, we linger on the shore of a love that is measureless. We tell of it, but language fails us. “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” 1 John 4:10.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 58, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 58, 1900, par. 2
These words were written by the apostle Paul in the second epistle to the Corinthians. Some had charged Paul with self-commendation in his former epistle. Paul refers to this matter in putting the question to them if they thus judge his motives. Did he or his fellow laborers need any recommendation or testimony to their Christian character? Men had come in among them with letters of commendation from other churches, but the leading workers, the founders of these churches, the apostles of Christ, had no need of these epistles of recommendation. The Corinthians who had been brought from the worship of idols to the faith of the gospel were themselves all the epistle needed. The truth which had been brought home to their heart, the reformation seen in their lives in response to the labors of the apostle, was a testimony speaking to all nations, tongues and peoples. The Corinthian Christians were living epistles, known and read of all men.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 96, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 96, 1900, par. 14
All who believe the truth are to be united in faith and hope and patience and love. Then there will be strength. There is to be no one-man power set up in our work to rule God’s heritage. We must now stand with a united front. Every element will be stirred to bring in confusion, teaching errors that will not stand. Read Second Corinthians; talk about it, make it plain.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 6, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 6, 1902, par. 40
Read and study the sixth chapter of second Corinthians. The Lord desires every servant of His to be under the sanctification of the Holy Spirit. “What concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said. I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [Verses 15-18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 256, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 256, 1904, par. 4
The whole center and circumference of your orbit, with few exceptions, is self. Like the whirlwind you draw in everything within reach. I am pained to the heart. You grasp every advantage which you cling to and retain. You are spiritually deceived, heart, spirit, soul, and flesh and bones. Selfishness reigns. Read 2 Corinthians 6. Oh I beg of you, fall on the Rock and be broken. I know that there is yet hope for you, and I must say, humble your heart before God. Do not defer surrendering your whole heart, soul, strength, and mind to the undoing of that which you have done. Do not defer the surrender of the heart, broken because you put your Saviour to shame—I have something to say on that point, but not yet. John, how could you make your heart so wayward when the Lord Jesus was offering you His blessing, as at Berrien Springs?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 25 (1910 - 1915)
Ms 61, 1911
25LtMs, Ms 61, 1911, par. 3
Parents, you are educators. “For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 4:5. Ministers of the gospel have a sacred responsibility to represent the character of Christ in their home government. Read 2 Corinthians 4. Read—and understand this chapter. Fathers and mothers are to realize that they are under rule to God. We have no excuse if we neglect to obey the Word. The Word of God is our educator. This entire chapter is to be studied and practiced. Chapters 5 and 6 are also to be cherished.25LtMs, Ms 61, 1911, par. 4
“We then as workers together with Him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For He saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succored thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)” 2 Corinthians 6:1, 2.25LtMs, Ms 61, 1911, par. 6
“Giving no offence in anything, that the ministry be not blamed: but in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses.” 2 Corinthians 6:3, 4. Every word of this chapter is to be carried into life action. What encouragement is this whole chapter, and of what great consequence to all who have a genuine sense of this gospel message! If every family would practice these precious instructions, they would be a safeguard against falling into the errors against which our churches are warned. The Lord would have these precious warnings given. Let them be heeded.25LtMs, Ms 61, 1911, par. 17
“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.” 2 Corinthians 5:10. Read this whole chapter. Read (chapter 6), and pray over your children. “We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.” Verse 1. Father and mothers, you take the responsibility of bringing children into the world. Will you consider it is not for you to work in vain? “We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.” Read the whole chapter. Now this takes in Christian experience. Here is large encouragement. Here are the graces we are to receive if we comply with the conditions. Fathers, mothers, if you are not converted, will you measure your advantages if you will comply with the conditions?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 95, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 95, 1895, par. 1
Although I have not heard from you since my letter to you, yet I will write to you, my brother, again. My mind has been drawn out to you and yours. These words I have from the Lord: “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing, and I will receive you, and will be a father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] It is essential, my brother, that you obey this injunction. You are aware that you have been losing ground; you have not been gaining in spiritual knowledge and spiritual strength. Your faith has not become firm, your hope is not as an anchor cast within the veil, that it can hold you. But when your trust and faith in your Saviour shall grow, then you will become a stalwart Christian.10LtMs, Lt 95, 1895, par. 2
Hang your helpless soul upon Jesus. “As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name.” [John 1:12.] Bear in mind that the power is of God. Of His fullness have all we received, and grace for grace. The Lord has a work for you to do when you will grow up into Him, your living Head. Now, do not voluntarily place yourself in the company of unbelievers who are not under the control of the Spirit of God. Place yourself where there is light, where you will receive strength. Jesus loves you, and He will be your sufficiency and will strengthen your weak faith. “We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that you receive not the grace of God in vain. (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succored thee. Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)” [2 Corinthians 6:1, 2.]10LtMs, Lt 95, 1895, par. 3
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” [Verses 14-16.] My brother, place yourself under the most favorable influence, and walk in the light as Christ is in the light. It is essential for you that you grow in faith; believe that Christ is your personal Saviour, and do not doubt your Lord.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 23, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 23, 1903, par. 16
“We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For He saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee.)” [2 Corinthians 6:1, 2.]18LtMs, Lt 23, 1903, par. 18
“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. Giving no offense in anything, that the ministry be not blamed.” [Verses 2, 3.] Remember that when you speak words that disparage one another, the ministry is blamed. The lack of power in the church is charged to the ministry, when often it is directly chargeable to the members, because they do not mix faith with their hearing of the Word.18LtMs, Lt 23, 1903, par. 19
The ministers are to be men of faith, men who give expression to the pure love of God. And the members are to give no offense in anything, “that the ministry be not blamed.” [Verse 3.] No unkind dealing or harsh words are to find a place in their experience.18LtMs, Lt 23, 1903, par. 20
“In all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings.” [Verses 4, 5.] We should be preparing for these things; for they will come. Those who share in Christ’s glory must share in His sufferings.18LtMs, Lt 23, 1903, par. 21
“By pureness, by knowledge, by long-suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, and yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; as sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing all things.” [Verses 6-10.]18LtMs, Lt 23, 1903, par. 23
May the Lord lead every minister and every lay member to turn to Him with full purpose of heart and make diligent work for repentance. Thus only can they obtain the sanctification of the Spirit. How true are the words of Paul: “Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.” [Verse 12.] Many complain of others because their own hearts are not in unity with the Spirit of God. When self is crucified, Christ will take possession of the soul-temple.18LtMs, Lt 23, 1903, par. 24
“Now for a recompense in the same, (I speak as unto my children,) be ye also enlarged.” [Verse 13.] It is narrow, contracted spiritual devising that causes dearth of soul.18LtMs, Lt 23, 1903, par. 25
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? and what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? ... for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [Verses 14-18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 29, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 29, 1903, par. 17
“We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For He saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee.)” [2 Corinthians 6:1, 2.]18LtMs, Lt 29, 1903, par. 19
“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. Giving no offense in anything, that the ministry be not blamed.” [Verses 2, 3.] Remember that when you speak words that disparage one another, the ministry is blamed. The lack of power in the church is charged to the ministry, when often it is directly chargeable to the members, because they do not mix faith with their hearing of the Word.18LtMs, Lt 29, 1903, par. 20
The ministers are to be men of faith, men who give expression to the pure love of God. And the members are to give no offense in anything, “that the ministry be not blamed.” [Verse 3.] No unkind dealing or harsh words are to find a place in their experience.18LtMs, Lt 29, 1903, par. 21
“In all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, ... in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings.” [Verses 4, 5.] We should be preparing for these things; for they will come. Those who share in Christ’s glory must share in His sufferings.18LtMs, Lt 29, 1903, par. 22
“By pureness, by knowledge, by long-suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, and yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; as sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing all things.” [Verses 6-10.]18LtMs, Lt 29, 1903, par. 24
May the Lord lead every minister and every lay member to turn to Him with full purpose of heart and make diligent work for repentance. Thus only can they obtain the sanctification of the Spirit. How true are the words of Paul: “Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.” [Verse 12.] Many complain of others because their own hearts are not in unity with the Spirit of God. When self is crucified, Christ will take possession of the soul temple.18LtMs, Lt 29, 1903, par. 25
“Now for a recompense in the same, (I speak as unto my children,) Be ye also enlarged.” [Verse 13.] It is narrow, contracted spiritual devising that causes dearth of soul.18LtMs, Lt 29, 1903, par. 26
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? and what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? ... for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [Verses 14-18.]2 Corinthians 6:2
In Heavenly Places
Probation’s Closing Hour, December 5
HP 346.1
For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee; behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2.HP 346.5
Christ is ready to set us free from sin, but He does not force the will, and if by persistent transgression the will itself is wholly bent on evil, and we do not desire to be set free, if we will not accept His grace, what more can He do? We have destroyed ourselves by our determined rejection of His love. “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” “Today if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts” (2 Corinthians 6:2; Hebrews 3:7, 8).8Steps to Christ, 34.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 40, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 40, 1895, par. 7
There are many feeding upon chaff, who need to search the Scriptures for themselves, that they may see their lives as they appear to God—full of lightness and trifling. If these self-deceived souls could be made aware of their real ignorance, and could see the love of God and the relation in which they stand toward Him, they would not close their eyes in sleep till they stood before the mercy seat, pleading for pardon before it is too late. “Now is the accepted time, now is the day of salvation.” [2 Corinthians 6:2.] There are but few sands left in the hour glass of time. Patience and mercy have alike been presumed upon, and if sinners would break the snare of Satan, they must lose no time.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Lt 123, 1895
10LtMs, Lt 123, 1895, par. 4
When the invitation was given to come forward he did not move. I went to him and invited him to make his decision then, for “Now is the accepted time; now is the day of salvation.” [2 Corinthians 6:2.] He didn’t come forward but bowed then and there on his knees, which I know was a surrender to God. Oh, the Lord came near unto us, and His Holy Spirit in rich measure flowed into our hearts. I think the ministers have had as great a revival as any at this meeting. They have gained an experience that there must be most thorough plowing, that the fallow ground of the heart shall be broken up.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 33, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 33, 1899, par. 22
Come to Christ with your whole heart. Realize the sin of prevarication and untruthfulness. See yourselves hopeless, sinful, and polluted. See that Christ is your offering, your righteousness. His righteousness will outweigh all the demands of justice. Accept Him as your personal Saviour, and you will not be found wanting when the Lord shall come. “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold now is the day of salvation.” [2 Corinthians 6:2.] There is pardon for all who repent.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 55, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 55, 1902, par. 8
Why should not the younger men and women form a Christian-endeavor society, for the purpose of encouraging one another to make an unqualified, instantaneous renunciation of every unchristlike, questionable habit, and to take a firm stand to be true to their obligations to God? “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” [2 Corinthians 6:2.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Ms 31, 1907
22LtMs, Ms 31, 1907, par. 12
“Now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” [2 Corinthians 6:2.] Let every family seek the Lord in earnest prayer for help to do the work of God. Let them overcome the habits of hasty speech and the desire to blame others. Let them study to be kind and courteous in the home, to form habits of thoughtfulness and care.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 22 (1907)
Lt 298, 1907
22LtMs, Lt 298, 1907, par. 7
At the close of your meetings, opportunity should be given for those who wish to bear testimony for God. A call should be made for the careless and indifferent to give themselves to Christ. “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” [2 Corinthians 6:2.] The sweet influence of the Holy Spirit will convict and convert souls. We have earnest work to do, and time is very short. Soon the wails of a world’s sorrow will be heard in the cry, “The harvest is past, the summer is ended; and we are not saved.” [Jeremiah 8:20.] Now is the time to make our calling and election sure. Thousands of souls can be reached by simple, humble methods of labor. The Lord has a work for men as well as women to do. Through those who are meek and lowly in heart, He will speak words that will rescue souls that are perishing.Maranatha
“In These Hours of Probation,” August 1
Mar 221.1
I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2.Our Father Cares
“In These Hours of Probation,” December 17
OFC 363.1
I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2.Steps to Christ
Chapter 3—Repentance
SC 34.2
Christ is ready to set us free from sin, but He does not force the will; and if by persistent transgression the will itself is wholly bent on evil, and we do not desire to be set free, if we will not accept His grace, what more can He do? We have destroyed ourselves by our determined rejection of His love. “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” “Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.” 2 Corinthians 6:2; Hebrews 3:7, 8.The Faith I Live By
Now Is God’s Time, June 22
FLB 179.1
For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2.The Upward Look
Today Is the Day of Salvation, February 4
UL 49.1
For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2.Thoughts From the Mount of Blessing
“It fell not; for it was founded upon the rock.”—Matthew 7:25, R. V.
MB 151.2
But today mercy pleads with the sinner. “As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die?” Ezekiel 33:11. The voice that speaks to the impenitent today is the voice of Him who in heart anguish exclaimed as He beheld the city of His love: “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killeth the prophets, and stoneth them that are sent unto her! how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her own brood under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.” Luke 13:34, 35 , R.V. In Jerusalem, Jesus beheld a symbol of the world that had rejected and despised His grace. He was weeping, O stubborn heart, for you! Even when Jesus’ tears were shed upon the mount, Jerusalem might yet have repented, and escaped her doom. For a little space the Gift of heaven still waited her acceptance. So, O heart, to you Christ is still speaking in accents of love: “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me.” “Now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” Revelation 3:20; 2 Corinthians 6:2.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 117, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 117, 1894, par. 3
The people to whom these woes were addressed had been privileged to have great light; but the light had been unimproved. If heavenly messages are disregarded, if the love of God is unheeded, the sin of men is the greater. This is the great sin of the world that light has come into the world, and that men have chosen darkness rather than light. The Spirit of God has been constantly drawing the hearts of men; but as light has shown upon their path, Satan has falsely represented the truth, and has presented error in an attractive light. The truth has been unpopular, for it has not been easy to deny self, to lift the cross and follow Jesus. When conviction comes to the mind, the Holy Spirit is striving, and calling upon men saying, “Behold now is the day of salvation. Harden not your hearts.” [2 Corinthians 6:2; Hebrews 3:8.]2 Corinthians 6:2-10
Manuscript Releases, vol. 1 [Nos. 19-96]
Thoughts on Daniel and the Revelation
1MR 64.4
“(For He saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) Giving no offence in anything, that the ministry be not blamed: But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings; By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true; As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things” (2 Corinthians 6:2-10).2 Corinthians 6:3
Homeward Bound
Offensive to Others, July 28
HB 233.1
We give no offense in anything.—2 Corinthians 6:3.2 Corinthians 6:3-4
The Review and Herald
August 19, 1862
RH August 19, 1862, Art. A, par. 14
2 Corinthians 6:3, 4: “Giving no offense in anything, that the ministry be not blamed; but in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses.”2 Corinthians 6:3-7
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 108, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 108, 1899, par. 16
Our great need is to walk in the light as Christ is in the light, “giving no offense in anything, that the ministry be not blamed; but in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings; by pureness, by knowledge, by long-suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left.” [2 Corinthians 6:3-7.]2 Corinthians 6:3-10
The Acts of the Apostles
Chapter 34—A Consecrated Ministry
AA 369.1
Paul’s writings show that the gospel minister should be an example of the truths that he teaches, “giving no offense in anything, that the ministry be not blamed.” Of his own work he has left us a picture in his letter to the Corinthian believers: “In all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings; by pureness, by knowledge, by long suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; as sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich.” 2 Corinthians 6:3, 4-10.Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)
Paul, The Apostle to the Gentiles
GW 60.2
Paul’s writings show that the gospel minister should be an example of the truths that he teaches, “giving no offense in anything, that the ministry be not blamed.” [2 Corinthians 6:3.] To Titus he wrote, “Young men likewise exhort to be sober-minded. In all things showing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you.” [Titus 2:6-8.]GW 60.3
Of his own work he has left us a picture in his letter to the Corinthian believers: “In all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings; by pureness, by knowledge, by long-suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left, by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; as sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich.” [2 Corinthians 6:4-10.]2 Corinthians 6:4
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.)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.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.2 Corinthians 6:4-10
From Trials to Triumph
The Peril of Side Businesses
TT 193.4
This high attainment all can reach who put themselves under the control of the great Teacher. The minister who shuts himself in with the Lord may be assured that he will receive that which will be to his hearers a savor of life unto life. Of his own work Paul has left us a picture in his letter to the Corinthian believers: “As servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: through great endurance, in afflictions, hardships, calamities, beatings, imprisonments, tumults, labors, watching, hunger, ... in honor and dishonor, in ill repute and good repute. We are treated as impostors, and yet are true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold we live; as punished, and yet not killed; as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich.” 2 Corinthians 6:4-10, RSV.2 Corinthians 6:7
God’s Amazing Grace
Power to Shake the World, September 24
AG 275.1
By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left. 2 Corinthians 6:7.Our High Calling
Victory Over Every Foe, June 15
OHC 172.1
By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left. 2 Corinthians 6:7.That I May Know Him
Soldiers of Christ, May 26
TMK 152.1
By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left. 2 Corinthians 6:7.2 Corinthians 6:10
Education
Paul, Joyful in Service
Ed 68.1
“Being reviled,” he said, “we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it: being defamed, we entreat;” “as sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.” 1 Corinthians 4:12, 13; 2 Corinthians 6:10.Gospel Workers (1892/1893 ed.)
Courage in the Lord
GW92 442.2
Brethren, if the eye be single, you will have well-balanced minds, and in principle you will be firm as a rock. You will remember that the eye of God is upon you, overseeing your labor; and you will move on from strength to strength, from grace to grace, gathering rays of light to reflect upon the pathway of others. Be strong in the grace of Christ, and let your hearts be filled with love to God and to one another. Remember that if you are partakers of the sufferings of Christ, you shall be also of the consolation. Though sorrowful, you may be “alway rejoicing.” [2 Corinthians 6:10.] Brethren, have courage in the Lord.The Story of Redemption
An Adaptable Worker
SR 313.3
“Being reviled,” he said, “we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it: being defamed, we intreat”; “as sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.” 1 Corinthians 4:12, 13; 2 Corinthians 6:10.2 Corinthians 6:14
A Call To Stand Apart
Chapter 13—Relationships
CSA 48.3
Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 2 Corinthians 6:14.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Ms 103, 1893
8LtMs, Ms 103, 1893, par. 23
Knowledge is needed in regard to the proper bestowal of the affections. Young men and women have been taught to regard early marriages as wise. Some who claim to believe in Jesus Christ and to be loyal to God’s commandments are attracted by unbelievers. They seem to forget that God has said, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?” [2 Corinthians 6:14.]Conflict and Courage
Compromise, May 5
CC 131.1
Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? 2 Corinthians 6:14.Our High Calling
Guard Your Affections, September 8
OHC 257.1
Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 2 Corinthians 6:14.The Faith I Live By
Sunshine or Shadows? September 9
FLB 258.1
Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness. 2 Corinthians 6:14.The Upward Look
False Sanctification, August 5
UL 231.1
Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 2 Corinthians 6:14.2 Corinthians 6:14-15
Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)
Our Attitude in Regard to Politics
GW 392.2
What are we to do, then?—Let political questions alone. “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?” [2 Corinthians 6:14, 15.] What can there be in common between these parties? There can be no fellowship, no communion.2 Corinthians 6:14-16
Manuscript Releases, vol. 10 [Nos. 771-850]
MR No. 814—Marriage and the Christian Home
10MR 190.2
We read in God’s Word: [2 Corinthians 6:14-16 quoted]. If we follow Christ, His Holy Spirit will work and speak through us and we will be living epistles, known and read of all men. [2 Corinthians 7:1: Leviticus 26:11, 12: and 1 Corinthians 3:16, 17 quoted.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 17, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 17, 1896, par. 2
We read in God’s Word: “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God has said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-16.]2 Corinthians 6:14-17
Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
Partnership with Unbelievers
2TT 181.2
It will require a continual struggle to resist the worldly influence and example of his ungodly associate. He has great difficulties to meet; for he has placed himself on the enemy’s ground. The only safe course is to give heed to the inspired injunction: “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?” “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.” 2 Corinthians 6:14, 17.2 Corinthians 6:14-18
From Eternity Past
Chapter 15—Isaac’s Marriage: The Happiest in the Bible
EP 111.1
He who has entered marriage while unconverted is by his conversion placed under stronger obligation to be faithful to his companion, however they may differ in religious faith. Yet the claims of God should be placed above every earthly relationship, even though trials and persecution result. The spirit of love and fidelity may win the unbelieving one. But marriage with the ungodly is forbidden in the Bible. “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers.” 2 Corinthians 6:14, 18.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 3, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 3, 1885, par. 5
Redemption was purchased for us at an infinite cost, and its reality and its magnitude we should keep ever before us. Man has a continual battle with his own heart, with the world, the flesh, and the devil, that are constantly seeking to interpose between him and his God. The only safe course for the followers of Christ is to give heed to the inspired injunction, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? or what communion hath light with darkness?” [2 Corinthians 6:14.] “Come out from among them and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean, and I will receive you.” [Verse 17.]4LtMs, Ms 3, 1885, par. 21
God calls upon His people to come out from the world and to be separate. “For what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Beliel? Or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? For ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” “Having these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 28, 1888
5LtMs, Lt 28, 1888, par. 19
Christ requires separation from the world. God’s warnings were ever given to oppose such a course as you have been taking. He says, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness?” [2 Corinthians 6:14.] “Be ye not unequally yoked together,” letting unbelievers into your secrets; for all alliances that give undue influence to those who do not love God over those who profess His name must be strictly avoided.5LtMs, Lt 28, 1888, par. 20
All combinations with unbelievers that bind as a yoke must be broken. These words apply not only to making a marriage covenant with an unbeliever, but to the making of all unions where the worldly element can have a prevailing influence over believers. For “what concord hath Christ with Belial? Or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [Verses 15-18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 104, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 104, 1894, par. 5
“Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean and I will receive you and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] What a promise is this. But let us not lose sight of the fact that it is based upon obedience to the command, “Come out from among them.” God calls upon you to separate from the world. You not to follow its practices, nor conform to it in your course of action in any respect. “Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable and perfect will of God.” [Romans 12:2.]9LtMs, Ms 104, 1894, par. 6
God calls for separation from the world. Will you obey? Will you come out from among them, and remain separate and distinct from them? “What fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness, and what communion hath light with darkness.” [2 Corinthians 6:14.] You cannot mingle with worldlings and partake of their spirit and be at the same time a child of God. The Creator of the universe addresses you as an affectionate Father. If you separate from the world in your affections and remain free from its contamination, escaping the corruption that is in the world through lust, God will be your Father. He will adopt you into his family, and make you his heir. In place of the world, he will give you for a life of obedience, the kingdom under the whole heavens. He will give you an eternal weight of glory and a life that is as enduring as eternity.Conflict and Courage
Choosing a Wife, February 20
CC 57.5
No one who fears God can without danger connect himself with one who fears Him not. “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” (Amos 3:3). The happiness and prosperity of the marriage relation depends upon the unity of the parties; but between the believer and the unbeliever there is a radical difference of tastes, inclinations, and purposes. They are serving two masters, between whom there can be no concord. However pure and correct one’s principles may be, the influence of an unbelieving companion will have a tendency to lead away from God.... The Lord’s direction is, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers” (2 Corinthians 6:14, 17, 18).42Patriarchs and Prophets, 171-175.Patriarchs and Prophets
Chapter 15—The Marriage of Isaac
PP 175.1
He who has entered the marriage relation while unconverted, is by his conversion placed under stronger obligation to be faithful to his companion, however widely they may differ in regard to religious faith; yet the claims of God should be placed above every earthly relationship, even though trials and persecution may be the result. With the spirit of love and meekness, this fidelity may have an influence to win the unbelieving one. But the marriage of Christians with the ungodly is forbidden in the Bible. The Lord’s direction is, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers.” 2 Corinthians 6:14, 17, 18.Testimonies on Sexual Behavior, Adultery, and Divorce
Chapter 1—Important Facts and Principles
TSB 17.2
No one who fears God can without danger connect himself with one who fears Him not. “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” (Amos 3:3). The happiness and prosperity of the marriage relation depend upon the unity of the parties; but between the believer and the unbeliever there is a radical difference of tastes, inclinations, and purposes. They are serving two masters, between whom there can be no concord. However pure and correct one’s principles may be, the influence of an unbelieving companion will have a tendency to lead away from God.... The marriage of Christians with the ungodly is forbidden in the Bible. The Lord’s direction is, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers.” 2 Corinthians 6:14, 17, 18.—Patriarchs and Prophets, 174, 175.In Heavenly Places
Severed From Earthly Things, June 11
HP 169.2
Many professed Christians are well represented by the vine that is trailing upon the ground and entwining its tendrils about the roots and rubbish that lie in its path. To all such the message comes, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:17, 18).HP 169.3
There are conditions to meet if we would be blessed and honored by God. We are to separate from the world and refuse to touch those things that will separate our affections from God. God has the first and highest claims upon His people. Set your affections upon Him and upon heavenly things. Your tendrils must be severed from everything earthly. You are exhorted to touch not the unclean thing, for in touching this you will yourself become unclean. It is impossible for you to unite with those who are corrupt, and still remain pure. “What fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial?” (verses 14, 15). God and Christ and the heavenly host would have man know that if he unites with the corrupt, he will become corrupt....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Ms 1, 1869
2LtMs, Ms 1, 1869, par. 6
There are many who may well be represented by the vine that is trailing upon the ground, and entwining its tendrils about the roots and rubbish that lie in its path. To all such the message comes, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean; and I will receive you and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] There are conditions to meet if we would be blessed and honored and exalted by God. It is separation from the world, a refusal to touch those things which would separate our affections from God. God has the first and highest claim upon you. Set your affections upon Him and heavenly things. Your tendrils must be severed from everything earthly. You are exhorted to touch not the unclean thing; for in doing this, you will yourself become unclean. It is impossible for you to unite with those who are corrupt and still remain pure. “What fellowship hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial?” [Verses 14, 15.] God and Christ and the heavenly host would have man know that if he unites with the corrupt, he will become corrupt. If we are found mingling with the world, we shall share the fate of the world.2LtMs, Ms 1, 1869, par. 18
The command is given us, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] It is not for you to say, I have nothing to do with my neighbor; he is buried in the world; I am not his keeper. For this very reason you should have something to say to him. The light given you, you should not hide under a bushel. You are not to keep it for yourself alone. This is entirely contrary to the will of God. Let your light shine before men, is the command. Will you let it shine—by your words, your deeds? It may be understood that you believe the Sabbath, that you believe in the Lord’s soon return; but what good will that do your neighbor unless you carry this belief into your daily life? You may talk of being a follower of Christ, but this will not benefit those around you unless you imitate the great Example. It is not merely by reading or writing that you battle for your faith, but by showing your good works, by leading sinners to the Lamb of God. Your profession may be as high as heaven, but it will not save you or your fellow men unless you are a Christian. Your example will go farther toward enlightening the world than all your profession. We want the living preacher carried out in the living example. In this way your light will shine, and others seeing your good works will glorify your Father which is in heaven.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 39, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 39, 1891, par. 16
Let not God’s people in any of our institutions sign a truce with the enemy of God and man. The position of the church to the world is not to come down to their ideas and accept their opinions, their suggestions, but to heed the words of Christ through His servant. Paul says, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?” [2 Corinthians 6:14, 15.] This means in a special sense marriage with unbelievers, but it covers more ground than this. It means our instrumentalities ordained of God, in our institutions for health, in our colleges, in our publishing houses.7LtMs, Ms 39, 1891, par. 17
The matter is placed before us in the correct light. The question is asked, “And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them, and I will be their God and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing.” (What does this mean—the suggestions, the evil workings in the children of disobedience? You are not in any case to become contaminated with the spirit or influence of unbelievers. Be afraid of uniting, or binding up in bundles with them. Be afraid of communicating the works connected with the Lord’s cause to those who have no part with God, or sympathy with those who love the truth of God.) “And I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters saith the Lord Almighty.” [Verses 16-18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 95, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 95, 1899, par. 5
What are we to do then? Let political questions alone. “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?” [2 Corinthians 6:14, 15.] What can there be in common between these parties? There can be no fellowship, no communion. The word fellowship means participation, partnership.14LtMs, Lt 95, 1899, par. 19
Great blindness is upon the churches, and the Lord says to His people, “What agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God: as God hath said, I will dwell in them and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:16-18.]14LtMs, Lt 95, 1899, par. 28
God calls to His people saying, “Come out from among them and be ye separate.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] He asks that the love which He has shown for them may be reciprocated and revealed by willing obedience to His commandments. His children are to separate themselves from politics, from any alliance with unbelievers. They are not to link their interests with the interests of the world. “Give proof of your allegiance of me,” He says, “by standing as my chosen heritage, as a people zealous of good works. Do not take part in political strife. Separate from the world, and refrain from bringing into the church or school ideas that will lead to contention or disorder.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 18, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 18, 1899, par. 1
I have a few words to say to you. You are not walking in the way cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in. You are presented to me as in great spiritual danger. You are walking away from Christ. I am so sorry, for this means the loss of your own soul and the precious souls under your influence. Let us hear what the Lord says: “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.]14LtMs, Lt 18, 1899, par. 2
The words of inspiration come from the lips of Paul: “Be not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? For ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” [Verses 14-16.] “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and of the spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord.” [2 Corinthians 7:1.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 123, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 123, 1900, par. 9
Is it right for those who claim to be children of God to retain their worldly habits and practices, clinging to the worldly pleasures so congenial to their natural inclinations and desires? Let them not think that thus they can convert the world. There are obstacles to this kind of witness-bearing. The Scriptures bear decided testimony against this world-loving attitude. What is the call? “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.]15LtMs, Lt 123, 1900, par. 10
“Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” [2 Corinthians 7:1.] “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-16.]15LtMs, Lt 123, 1900, par. 11
At this time, under the warnings and appeals of the first, second, and third angels’ messages, there comes a most solemn message to the mixed multitudes in the churches, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate.” This reaches every alliance, every secret society, all who have bound themselves together by oaths and penalties. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean thing.” [Verse 17.] God calls for faithful men and women to be in the world but not of the world. The redeemed, believing people of Christ, who are worthy to claim kinship, with Him, will demonstrate their relationship by being true witnesses to the truth for this time. They will show that they are sons and daughters of the heavenly King by their modesty in apparel, by their words and actions. They will wear the pilgrim’s dress and manifest the pilgrim’s spirit, witnessing a good confession.Letters to Young Lovers
Can Two Walk Together Except They Be Agreed?
LYL 83.4
The apostle Paul sends down the note of warning along the line to this time. “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” (2 Corinthians 6:14-18).Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
The Commands of God
2TT 121.1
In the New Testament are similar prohibitions concerning the marriage of Christians with the ungodly. The apostle Paul, in his first letter to the Corinthians, declares: “The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 7:39. Again, in his second epistle, he writes: “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:14-18.Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
Church Schools
2TT 454.1
The word of God comes to us at this time: “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:14-18. Where are your children? Are you educating them to discern and to escape the corruptions that are in the world through lust? Are you seeking to save their souls, or are you by your neglect aiding in their destruction?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 7, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 7, 1885, par. 1
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness, and what communion hath light with darkness, and what concord hath Christ with Belial? Or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall by My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-18.]4LtMs, Ms 7, 1885, par. 7
“Come out from among them, and be ye separate.” [Verse 17.] Will we hear the voice of God and obey, or shall we make half-way work of the matter and try to serve God and mammon at the same time? Christ has placed before us the conditions of eternal life. “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God,” He says, “with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself.” “This do, and thou shalt live.” [Luke 10:27, 28.] The servants who will hear from the lips of Christ, “Well done, good and faithful servants” [Matthew 25:23], will be heroic ministers of righteousness, though they may never preach a discourse from the pulpit. Loyal to a sense of God’s claims upon them, and jealous of the honor of their Captain, they will minister to the souls who are the purchase of His blood. They will see the necessity of carrying into their work a willing mind, an earnest spirit, and a hearty, unselfish zeal. They will not study how best they can preserve their own dignity, but by their care and thoughtfulness they win the hearts of those whom they serve. On every hand the agents of Satan will induce us to sin. But the soul who wills to love and fear God will be as firm as a rock to his heaven-inspired purpose. Like Daniel, he will refuse to be moved from his convictions of duty.4LtMs, Ms 7, 1885, par. 9
There is earnest work before each one of us. Right thoughts, pure and holy purposes will not come to us naturally. These we must strive for in our institutions, our publishing houses and colleges especially. Pure and holy principles should take root. If our institutions are what God designed they should be, they will not pattern after any other in the land. They will stand as peculiar, governed and controlled by the Bible standard. They will not come into harmony with the principles of the world in order to gain patronage. No motives will have sufficient force to move them from the straight line of duty. Those who are under the control of the Spirit of God will not seek their own pleasure or amusement. If Christ presides in the hearts of the members of His church, they will answer to the call, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] “Partake not of her sin.” [Revelation 18:4.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 4a, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 4a, 1885, par. 1
The Lord is soon to come. Perilous times are before us, and never was there a period when the exhortation of the Apostle—(2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1)—was more appropriate than now. “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and My daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.”4LtMs, Ms 4a, 1885, par. 10
If Jesus presides in the sanitarium, there will be a greater and more distinct separation from the world. Pleasure cannot entice from the way of justice. They will answer the injunction, Come out from among them and be separate, touching not the unclean, and in no wise partaking of sin. They will aim to reach the high pure, noble, elevated standard erected by our Lord Jesus Christ. The world, in its practices and ways and manners, will have no attractions to entice from duty. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] Will we hear the voice of God and obey? or will we make half-way work in the matter, trying to serve God and mammon at the same time?4LtMs, Ms 4a, 1885, par. 15
I have been shown that there exists a lamentable ignorance in regard to the guile that lurks in the human heart, which constantly inclines to self-indulgence, to pride, to self-importance, to love of self-exaltation, to seek the praise of men. The solemnity of living is not understood. Souls are lulled to sleep in the cradle of carnal security and discern not the signs of the times and the dangers that beset their path. They do not seek heavenly enlightenment day by day, that they may be guided into all truth and may have clear discernment to pass unscathed through the intricate mazes of falsehood, deception, and iniquity which exist in intense activity everywhere around us, within us. They go stumbling blindly along, not taking in the words of inspiration, “What concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God.” Then the conditions are plainly laid before us: “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:15-18.]4LtMs, Ms 4a, 1885, par. 17
The most powerful appeals may be made and the solemn realities of eternity, the danger of losing the soul, be set before them in consequence of disregarding the express injunction of Jehovah, and they heed it not. They resent the message given them with, “You are too particular, too critical.” The Bible presents the authority and claims of Jehovah, His righteous indignation, because of the careless inattention of those whom Christ came, through infinite sacrifice, to redeem, but they are not moved by the messages of warning. The terrors of the Lord will not have any permanent effect upon them to lead them to heed the warning to “come out from among them and be separate, and touch not the unclean.” [Verse 17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 2, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 2, 1885, par. 1
“Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.]4LtMs, Ms 2, 1885, par. 3
Now just before this the exhortation is given, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Beliel? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? For ye are the temple of the living God; as God has said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.” Then comes the text, “Come out from among them and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [Verses 14-18.]4LtMs, Ms 2, 1885, par. 6
These institutions which are placed here in our midst are one inducement and one constant appeal to the churches here to keep themselves in the love of God. Here is a place for youth, that they may come as students to receive an education in the sciences. But is this the end of their work? If it is, they could just as well go to the colleges anywhere in our land, but it is not the end of the matter. It is an instrument of God, and each individual connected with the college should be so interested in the training and discipline and education that the youth should develop into men who fear God, should be women who have a hold on God, that they shall not be those who wish to study to make themselves attractive to fascinate the students to them, but to present Jesus, to present the power of truth, to have this power inwrought into their very being, interwoven in their minds and in their experience, to control the mind and the soul that their character may come out spotless before God, and what then? They will have the look of saints, which is righteousness. They will stand before the throne of God with the white linen on, the white linen of the saints. The great mistake which we have to correct in such a large church is this nominal morality. You may be afraid of it, for it rests in every such church to an alarming extent. “Come out,” says the apostle. Whom is he addressing? He is addressing those who claim to be children of God, and if ever these words were applicable, they are to this church. “Come out from among them.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] It is for you to be afraid of breaking down the barriers which preserve vital holiness in your institutions and in your churches. It is for you to present the living Saviour before the people, to present Him in your college, in your publishing house, and to present Him in your sanitarium.4LtMs, Ms 2, 1885, par. 15
“I will be a Father unto you,” and what next? “and ye shall be sons and daughters of the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:18.] What, will you be members of the Lord in heaven, children of the heavenly King? Now you who think you will preserve your dignity, you who are aspiring for distinction, and you who are struggling and making every effort for your life to conform just as nigh to the world as you can, in order to obtain distinction, and in order that you may have a name and that you may have esteem, those who have no love for God, let me tell you that you are making a great mistake. He says, “I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters.” Then what if we are on the side of the Infinite One, what if we are on the side of Jesus Christ, what if we shall have no influence? He says, “If the world hate you, you may know that it hated Me before it hated you.” [John 15:18.]4LtMs, Ms 2, 1885, par. 17
There’s a time coming when names are to be blotted out of the book of life, names once written there; but He says unto them also, if you overcome, I will not blot out your names out of the book of life. [Revelation 3:5.] Here men and women play the game of life. Satan is wrestling for the soul, and the temptations are to assimilate to the world, to be like it, to be just as near like it as possible. Christ says, Come out from among them and be ye separate. [2 Corinthians 6:17.] It is the passions of the world that lead the world to think: “I have just as good a character as they have, and just as good a religion as they have. I don’t see that the religion that they profess does any more for them than mine does for me, and I think I stand just as good a chance as they do.” But suppose you place yourself on the elevated platform of eternal truth. The lawyer came to Christ and said, “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” The Master says to him, “What says the law?” “Well,” says [one,] “thou shalt love the Lord thy God with just one quarter of your heart, and the rest you may give to your own inclinations. Just one quarter, one half, two thirds”—did He say that? Why, “thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind and with all thy strength, and thy neighbor as thyself. ... This do and thou shalt live.” [Luke 10:25-28.]4LtMs, Ms 2, 1885, par. 21
Is that not the best way to find that strength which you need? forget yourself? As you forget yourself, you forget a thousand weaknesses, you ride right over those difficulties. You master them because there is work to be done for the Master; and in doing that work for the Master, you forget self, you get your mind away from yourself; and in doing this, your soul becomes strong. You know that the triumphs are for you because you have complied with the conditions, you have tested the Master. I proved the Master when I came on this journey. I proved the Master when I stepped aboard the cars. I said I would start, and as soon as I placed myself in the position to carry out the work and will of the Master—as I thought it was—I had sufficient strength for the day, and it has been given right along as I needed it. You feel the need of it, and you do not think you can do anything. Go to work for Jesus, and you will find that the grace of Christ will be imparted unto you. We won’t need to compromise with the lovers of mammon. “What agreement hath the temple of God with idols?” [2 Corinthians 6:16.] If you have idols, let Jesus, let faith come in. What we want is a deeper work in our hearts. There are many who will never enter the pearly portals. Life has been a mistake, and it would have been better if they never had been born. It is a great responsibility to live; it is not a trifling matter. Day by day the record is going to heaven. Life is sacred to some duty, and we are not here to please ourselves. Christ did not seek to please Himself, to seek for supremacy.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Lt 1, 1887
5LtMs, Lt 1, 1887, par. 6
The apostle Paul sends down the note of warning along the line to this time. “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 56, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 56, 1891, par. 7
I would commence the work of reformation where the leavening of evil commences. I would weed out, whatever their position and education, those who are not rooted and grounded in the truth. The fact that there is [an] unconverted element there makes the necessity greater on your part to be circumspect as an experienced Christian. “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers” has a bearing on the ones employed in treating the sick. 2 Corinthians 6:14-18.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Lt 21, 1894
9LtMs, Lt 21, 1894, par. 3
How quickly was the heart fired with unholy ambition for extravagant display, in the furnishing of the house, in the robing of your person, and all this at the expense of holy principles. “What fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? Or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? For ye are the temple of the living God.” God has given me a message for you: “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 53, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 53, 1894, par. 1
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols; for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk with them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-18.]9LtMs, Ms 53, 1894, par. 2
The Lord’s injunction, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers” [Verse 14], refers not only to the marriage of Christians with the ungodly, but to all alliances in which the parties are brought into intimate association, and in which there is need of harmony in spirit and action. The Lord gave special direction to Israel to keep themselves distinct from idolaters. They were not to intermarry with the heathen nor to form any confederacy with them: “Take heed to thyself, lest thou make a covenant with the inhabitants of the land whither thou goest, lest it be a snare in the midst of thee: but ye shall destroy their altars, break their images, and cut down their groves: for thou shalt worship no other God: for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.” [Exodus 34:12-14.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 11 [Nos. 851-920]
MR No. 909—Attending and Acting in Theatrical Performances
11MR 334.1
We had some conversation in reference to your accompanying your daughters to the theater. Last night I was commissioned to speak to you, saying, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate” (2 Corinthians 6:17). [2 Corinthians 6:14-18 quoted.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 58, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 58, 1898, par. 20
We have a special work to do in educating and training our children that they may not, either in attending school or in association with others, mingle with the children of unbelievers. Boys and girls should not be often together. The Lord calls for decided separation. And yet every effort is to be made by the servants of God to seek to save perishing souls. All that can be done should be done, yet the Lord says, “Come out from among them and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing, and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.]13LtMs, Lt 58, 1898, par. 21
The apostle Paul says: “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? or what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them: and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [Verses 14-18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 58a, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 58a, 1898, par. 1
We had some conversation in reference to your accompanying your daughters to the theater. Last night I was commissioned to speak to you, saying, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate.” “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? or what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God: as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing, and I will receive you, and will be Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-18.]13LtMs, Lt 58a, 1898, par. 24
All who are enrolled as citizens of the heavenly country are required that their behavior shall be such as the Gospel of Christ can approve. And it is our privilege to claim the rights and privileges of subjects of the kingdom of heaven. But to every one who accepts Christ as his personal Saviour, He says, “Come out from among them [the world] and be ye separate.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] We are to conform to the Lord’s requirements and not disgrace our citizenship before the angels of heaven or before men. We are to render to God cheerful service. Christ does not speak to those who are no more to wrestle with temptation, who are not in any danger of being drawn away from Christ and overcome by the wiles of Satan, when He says: “Let your conversation be as becometh the gospel of Christ.” [Philippians 1:27.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 143, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 143, 1899, par. 28
“Wherefore, come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing: and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-18.] “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” [2 Corinthians 7:1.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 107, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 107, 1901, par. 26
“Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 104, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 104, 1901, par. 14
A warning is given us: “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 155, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 155, 1903, par. 2
In the second epistle to the Thessalonians [Corinthians] we read: “Be not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 40, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 40, 1903, par. 1
I have wished so much that I might have an opportunity to talk with you. Could I see you, I should say to you what I have been saying to you recently in the visions of the night. You were apparently undecided as to what you would do in the future. I asked, “Why are you perplexed?” You replied, “I am perplexed in regard to what is the best course for me to pursue.” Then One who has authority stepped up to you and said: “You are not your own. You have been bought with a price. Your time, your talents, every jot of your influence is the Lord’s. You are His servant. Your part is to do His bidding and learn daily of Him. You are not to set up in business for yourself. This is not the Lord’s plan. You are not to unite with unbelievers in medical work. Neither is this the Lord’s plan. His word to you is: ‘Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.’” [2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 244, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 244, 1903, par. 2
In the second epistle to the Corinthians we read: “Be not unequally yoked together with unbelievers; for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God: as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-18.]Selected Messages Book 2
Chapter 13—Should Christians Be Members of Secret Societies?
2SM 121.1
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:14-18).2SM 121.2
The Lord’s injunction, “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers” (2 Corinthians 6:14), refers not only to the marriage of Christians with the ungodly, but to all alliances in which the parties are brought into intimate association, and in which there is need of harmony in spirit and action. The Lord gave special direction to Israel to keep themselves distinct from idolaters. They were not to intermarry with the heathen nor form any confederacy with them: “Take heed to thyself, lest thou make a covenant with the inhabitants of the land whither thou goest, lest it be for a snare in the midst of thee: but ye shall destroy their altars, break their images, and cut down their groves: for thou shalt worship no other god: for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God” (Exodus 34:12-14).2SM 140.1
Those who stand under the bloodstained banner of Prince Immanuel cannot be united with the Free Masons or with any secret organization. The seal of the living God will not be placed upon anyone who maintains such a connection after the light of truth has shone upon his pathway. Christ is not divided, and Christians cannot serve God and mammon. The Lord says, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:17, 18).—Letter 21, 1893.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 69, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 69, 1906, par. 15
God, in His infinite wisdom, ever bases His precepts upon conditions that are altogether sufficient for perfect obedience. Great encouragement is given. “I will dwell in you, and walk in you, and will be your God,” He declares. [See 2 Corinthians 6:16.] The keeping of His law is presented as our reasonable service.21LtMs, Ms 69, 1906, par. 19
“Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh, and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” [2 Corinthians 6:14-18; 7:1.]Testimonies for the Church, vol. 8
Words of Warning
8T 223.4
“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters.” 2 Corinthians 6:14-18.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6
Separation from the World
6T 195.2
The word of God comes to us at this time: “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? and what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:14-18. Where are your children? Are you educating them to discern and to escape the corruptions that are in the world through lust? Are you seeking to save their souls, or are you by your neglect aiding in their destruction?The Ministry of Healing
Learning by Imparting
MH 404.4
“Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ...And touch not the unclean; ...
And I will receive you,
And will be a Father unto you,
And ye shall be My sons and daughters,
Saith the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:14-18.
EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
2 Corinthians 6:1
Conflict and Courage
Two Hands for God, March 31
CC 96.1
We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. 2 Corinthians 6:1.The Review and Herald
November 11, 1909
RH November 11, 1909, par. 2
I will read 2 Corinthians, the sixth chapter (2 Corinthians 6:1):Testimony for the Church — No. 10
Communications to Eld. M. Hull
T10 40.2
“I saw that ministers who labored in word and doctrine have a great work before them, and a heavy responsibility rests upon them. I saw that when they labor they do not come close enough to hearts. Their work is too general, and often too scattered. Their labor must be concentrated to the very ones they are laboring for. When they are preaching in the desk, their work is only commenced. They must then live out their preaching, ever guard themselves, that they bring not a reproach upon the cause of God. They should illustrate by example the life of Christ. 1 Corinthians 3:9. ‘For we are laborers together with God.’ 2 Corinthians 6:1. ‘We then as workers together with him beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.’ The minister’s work is not done when he leaves the desk. He should not then throw off the burden and occupy his mind with reading or writing unless it is actually necessary; but should follow up his public labors by private efforts—laboring personally for souls whenever an opportunity presents—conversing around the fireside, beseeching and entreating souls in Christ’s stead to be reconciled to God. Our work here is soon to close, ‘and every man will receive his own reward according to his own labor.’With God at Dawn
We Are Co-workers with Him, October 2
WGD 277.1
We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. 2 Corinthians 6:1.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 18a, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 18a, 1891, par. 7
“We then as workers together with him, beseech you that you receive not the grace of God in vain.” [2 Corinthians 6:1.] “And you hath He quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sin; wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience.” “But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ (by grace are ye saved;) and hath raised us up together and hath made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” [Ephesians 2:1, 2, 4-6.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 49, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 49, 1898, par. 48
“We then as workers together with him, beseech you also that you receive not the grace of God in vain.” [2 Corinthians 6:1.] “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you, both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings, that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world: holding forth the word of life, that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain.” [Philippians 2:12-16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 199, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 199, 1899, par. 20
“We then, as workers together with him, beseech you that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.” [2 Corinthians 6:1.] Those who, while claiming to believe the truth are not decidedly transformed in character, serve the devil with far more power and far more influence than if they had never heard the truth. “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and of the spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of the Lord.” [2 Corinthians 7:1.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 386, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 386, 1904, par. 1
I have this morning spoken in the church to a large audience from the first, second, and third chapters of Revelation. I had a message for the people and it was an earnest warning to prepare to meet their Lord in the clouds of heaven, for He cometh with power and great glory. I tried to present before them the indifference of many in reference to the signs foretold by Christ, giving the evidence that the end of the world is right upon us. Were it not possible for us to advance and receive the grace of God so that its effects upon us would be saving day by day, and the blessing of God bestowed be our strength, the apostle would not speak so decidedly and say, “We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.” 2 Corinthians 6:1. “The grace of God” is the price of watchfulness, and prayer in faith brings to every soul the blessing, rich and precious, through the gift of the Holy Spirit.God’s Amazing Grace
Your Royal Birth, February 27
AG 66.1
We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. 2 Corinthians 6:1.Lift Him Up
In Harmony With Christ, September 26
LHU 283.1
We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. 2 Corinthians 6:1.Manuscript Releases, vol. 16 [Nos. 1186-1235]
MR No. 1213—Each Follower of Christ is Called to Work; All are to Copy Christ, the Pattern; Harmony to Prevail
16MR 189.3
Now, cannot we see the obligation every soul is under who has decided to take the name of Christian, to set ourselves to the exalted possibility of answering the character of excellence in humanity that we shall reveal Christ’s character in our works, showing that we are appointed His chosen representatives to an apostate world? “We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (For He saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succored thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation)” (2 Corinthians 6:1).Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1507—The State of the Work in Australia; Ministers and Church Members to Work for Souls; Influence of Parents; The Need for Health Reform
21MR 38.3
“We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain” [2 Corinthians 6:1]. “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings: that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; holding forth the word of life that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain” [Philippians 2:12-16].Maranatha
When God Makes Up Deficiencies, April 17
Mar 115.1
We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. 2 Corinthians 6:1.Reflecting Christ
Every Member May Render Service, July 7
RC 202.1
As God’s fellow workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain. 2 Corinthians 6:1, N.I.V.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 1
Chapter 79—Communications to Elder Hull
1T 432.1
I saw that ministers who labor in word and doctrine have a great work before them; a heavy responsibility rests upon them. In their labor they do not come close enough to hearts. Their work is too general, and often too scattered. Their labor must be concentrated to the very ones for whom they are laboring. When they preach from the desk, they only commence their work. They must then live out their preaching, ever guarding themselves, that they bring not a reproach upon the cause of God. They should illustrate by example the life of Christ. 1 Corinthians 3:9: “For we are laborers together with God.” 2 Corinthians 6:1: “We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.” The minister’s work is not done when he leaves the desk. He should not then throw off the burden and occupy his mind with reading or writing unless this is actually necessary. He should follow up his public labors by private efforts, laboring personally for souls whenever an opportunity presents, conversing around the fireside, beseeching and entreating souls in Christ’s stead to be reconciled to God. Our work here is soon to close, “and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labor.”The Review and Herald
January 19, 1864
RH January 19, 1864, par. 15
“I saw that ministers who labored in word and doctrine have a great work before them, and a heavy responsibility rests upon them. I saw that when they labor they do not come close enough to hearts. Their work is too general, and often too scattered. Their labor must be concentrated to the very ones they are laboring for. When they are preaching in the desk, their work is only commenced. They must then live out their preaching, ever guard themselves, that they bring not a reproach upon the cause of God. They should illustrate by example the life of Christ. 1 Corinthians 3:9. ‘For we are laborers together with God.’ 2 Corinthians 6:1. ‘We then as workers together with him beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.’ The minister’s work is not done when he leaves the desk. He should not then throw off the burden and occupy his mind with reading or writing, unless it is actually necessary; but should follow up his public labors by private efforts—laboring personally for souls whenever an opportunity presents—conversing around the fireside, beseeching and entreating souls in Christ’s stead to be reconciled to God. Our work here is soon to close, ‘and every man will receive his own reward according to his own labor.’