EGW Writings2 Corinthians 6
Ellen G. White · Page 2 of 3
Read 2 Corinthians 6 in the Bible2 Corinthians 6:15
This Day With God
Don’t Shun the Cross, October 12
TDG 294.1
And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 2 Corinthians 6:15.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 8c, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 8c, 1891, par. 8
The Lord is at work in a variety of ways to bind His people together. Through heavenly and human agencies He is at work that His professed followers may all become partakers of the Divine nature, that His church may be brought up to the highest standard of Christian excellence. God has made the line of demarkation between the church and the world very distinct, and He designs that it shall be discerned and practiced. The Lord Jesus has not spoken at random when He says there can be no union between Christ and Belial [2 Corinthians 6:15], and yet there is danger that the worldly element will be permitted, as it has already done, to have a molding influence at the Health Retreat. If this is permitted an element will be encouraged and developed that will be full of the subtilty of Satan, and the more intelligent the irreligious workers, the more and greater is the evil to those who are associated with them.2 Corinthians 6:15-16
Patriarchs and Prophets
Chapter 54—Samson
PP 563.2
How many are pursuing the same course as did Samson! How often marriages are formed between the godly and the ungodly, because inclination governs in the selection of husband or wife! The parties do not ask counsel of God, nor have His glory in view. Christianity ought to have a controlling influence upon the marriage relation, but it is too often the case that the motives which lead to this union are not in keeping with Christian principles. Satan is constantly seeking to strengthen his power over the people of God by inducing them to enter into alliance with his subjects; and in order to accomplish this he endeavors to arouse unsanctified passions in the heart. But the Lord has in His word plainly instructed His people not to unite themselves with those who have not His love abiding in them. “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?” 2 Corinthians 6:15, 16.From Eternity Past
Samson’s Strength Depends on Faithfulness to God
EP 406.1
But the Lord has instructed His people not to unite with those who have not His love abiding in them: “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?” 2 Corinthians 6:15, 16.2 Corinthians 6:16
Counsels on Health
Teach With Wisdom
CH 479.1
Those who teach the principles of health reform should be intelligent in regard to disease and its causes, understanding that every action of the human agent should be in perfect harmony with the laws of life. The light God has given on health reform is for our salvation and the salvation of the world. Men and women should be informed in regard to the human habitation, fitted up by our Creator as His dwelling place and over which He desires us to be faithful stewards. “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.Reflecting Christ
We Abide in Christ by a Living Faith, October 23
RC 310.1
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 6:16.Sons and Daughters of God
God’s Temple Is to Receive Constant Care, November 3
SD 314.1
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.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 7
Chapter 27—Educate the People
7T 136.1
Those who teach the principles of health reform should be intelligent in regard to disease and its causes, understanding that every action of the human agent should be in perfect harmony with the laws of life. The light God has given on health reform is for our salvation and the salvation of the world. Men and women should be informed in regard to the human habitation, fitted up by our Creator as His dwelling place, and over which He desires us to be faithful stewards. “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.Testimony Studies on Diet and Foods
Chapter 24—How to Present the Principles of Health Reform
TSDF 105.8
Those who teach the principles of health reform should be intelligent in regard to disease and its causes, understanding that every action of the human agent should be in perfect harmony with the laws of life. The light God has given on health reform is for our salvation and the salvation of the world. Men and women should be informed in regard to the human habitation, fitted up by our Creator as His dwelling-place, and over which He desires us to be faithful stewards. “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.Testimony Studies on Diet and Foods
Chapter 26—Instruction to be Given on Health Topics
TSDF 117.9
Those who teach the principles of health reform should be intelligent in regard to disease and its causes, understanding that every action of the human agent should be in perfect harmony with the laws of life. The light God has given on health reform is for our salvation and the salvation of the world. Men and women should be informed in regard to the human habitation, fitted up by our Creator as His dwelling-place, and over which He desires us to be faithful stewards. “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 Desire of Ages
Chapter 16—In His Temple
DA 161.2
“Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.” 1 Corinthians 3:16, 17. No man can of himself cast out the evil throng that have taken possession of the heart. Only Christ can cleanse the soul temple. But He will not force an entrance. He comes not into the heart as to the temple of old; but He says, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him.” Revelation 3:20. He will come, not for one day merely; for He says, “I will dwell in them, and walk in them; ... and they shall be My people.” “He will subdue our iniquities; and Thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.” 2 Corinthians 6:16; Micah 7:19. His presence will cleanse and sanctify the soul, so that it may be a holy temple unto the Lord, and “an habitation of God through the Spirit.” Ephesians 2:21, 22.The Desire of Ages
Chapter 31—The Sermon on the Mount
DA 311.4
The ideal of Christian character is Christlikeness. As the Son of man was perfect in His life, so His followers are to be perfect in their life. Jesus was in all things made like unto His brethren. He became flesh, even as we are. He was hungry and thirsty and weary. He was sustained by food and refreshed by sleep. He shared the lot of man; yet He was the blameless Son of God. He was God in the flesh. His character is to be ours. The Lord says of those who believe in Him, “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 Faith I Live By
The Spirit in the Soul Temple, July 4
FLB 191.4
No man can of himself cast out the evil throng that have taken possession of the heart. Only Christ can cleanse the soul temple. But He will not force an entrance. He comes not into the heart as to the temple of old; but He says, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him.” Revelation 3:20. He will come, not for one day merely; for He says, “I will dwell in them, and walk in them; ... and they shall be my people.” 2 Corinthians 6:16.... His presence will cleanse and sanctify the soul, so that it may be a holy temple unto the Lord, and “an habitation of God through the Spirit.” Ephesians 2:22.8The Desire of Ages, 161, 162.The Ministry of Healing
Teaching Health Principles
MH 146.2
“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.Ye Shall Receive Power
A Temple for the Spirit, February 3
YRP 42.2
A power above and outside of man is to work upon him, that solid timbers may be brought into his character building. In the inner sanctuary of the soul the presence of God is to abide. “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 6:16). “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are” (1 Corinthians 3:16, 17)....Education
Chapter 30—Faith and Prayer
Ed 258.4
It was in the mount with God that Moses beheld the pattern of that wonderful building which was to be the abiding place of His glory. It is in the mount with God—in the secret place of communion—that we are to contemplate His glorious ideal for humanity. Thus we shall be enabled so to fashion our character building that to us may be fulfilled His promise, “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.Counsels on Diet and Foods
Part 2—How to Present the Principles of Health Reform
CD 461.1
Those who teach the principles of health reform should be intelligent in regard to disease and its causes, understanding that every action of the human agent should be in perfect harmony with the laws of life. The light God has given on health reform is for our salvation and the salvation of the world. Men and women should be informed in regard to the human habitation, fitted up by our Creator as His dwelling place and over which He desires us to be faithful stewards. “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 Health Food Ministry
Educate the People
HFM 36.1
Those who teach the principles of health reform should be intelligent in regard to disease and its causes, understanding that every action of the human agent should be in perfect harmony with the laws of life. The light God has given on health reform is for our salvation and the salvation of the world. Men and women should be informed in regard to the human habitation, fitted up by our Creator as His dwelling place, and over which He desires us to be faithful stewards. “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 Ellen G. White 1888 Materials
Danger of False Ideas on Justification by Faith
1888 818.4
“Ye are God’s husbandry.” 1 Corinthians 3:9. The heart is to be worked, subdued, ploughed, harrowed, seeded to bring forth its harvest to God in good works. “Ye are God’s building.” You cannot build yourself. There is a Power outside of yourself that must do the building of the church, putting brick upon brick, always cooperating with the faculties and powers given of God to man. The Redeemer must find a home in His building. God works and man works. There needs to be a continual taking in of the gifts of God, in order that there may be as free a giving out of these gifts. It is a continual receiving and then restoring. The Lord has provided that the soul shall receive nourishment from Him, to be given out again in the working out of His purposes. In order that there be an outflowing, there must be an income of divinity to humanity. “I will dwell in them, and walk in them.” 2 Corinthians 6:16.Homeward Bound
No Excuse for Sinning, March 6
HB 83.4
The ideal of Christian character is Christlikeness. As the Son of man was perfect in His life, so His followers are to be perfect in their life. Jesus was in all things made like unto His brethren. He became flesh, even as we are. He was hungry and thirsty and weary. He was sustained by food and refreshed by sleep. He shared the lot of humanity; yet He was the blameless Son of God. He was God in the flesh. His character is to be ours. The Lord says of those who believe in Him, “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.)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 41, 1877
3LtMs, Lt 41, 1877, par. 3
Never would this shipwreck of your faith have occurred had you been humble and teachable. You are self-conceited, wilful, and obstinate. Pride of heart has gained such mastery over you that you are weakness itself. Headstrong and unteachable, you were left to yourself and have stumbled and fallen. You were never wholly on the side of God. You were ever trying to serve two masters. “What agreement hath the temple of God with idols?” 2 Corinthians 6:16. You are stumbling on to perdition, trampling the blood of the crucified Redeemer under your feet.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 5, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 5, 1886, par. 12
We are to grow up to the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus, and we are thus growing up a precious temple unto the Lord. He says, “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.] What we want, my brethren and sisters, is religion. What we want is the Spirit of God in our souls. We want our faces set constantly heavenward. And when we see that sin in us is striving for the mastery, then we must strive.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 19, 1888
5LtMs, Ms 19, 1888, par. 15
There must be a greater striving among us to overcome every failure and sin and to stand right before God. There are many who might have been far in advance of what they now are had they had this faith. God wants us to be standing upon the platform of eternal truth and in such a position that our lives will preach to the world that they must love God and keep His commandments if they would ever enter heaven. We must grow up to the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus if we would become living temples unto the Lord. And He says, “I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be by people.” [2 Corinthians 6:16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Ms 36, 1890
6LtMs, Ms 36, 1890, par. 25
“Ye are God’s husbandry.” 1 Corinthians 3:9. The heart is to be worked, subdued, ploughed, harrowed, seeded to bring forth its harvest to God in doing works. “Ye are God’s building.” You cannot build yourself. There is a Power outside of yourself that must do the building of the church, putting brick upon brick, always cooperating with the faculties and powers given of God to man. The Redeemer must find a home in His building. God works and man works. There needs to be a continual taking in of the gifts of God, in order that there may be as free a giving out of these gifts. It is a continual receiving and then restoring. The Lord has provided that the soul shall receive nourishment from Him, to be given out again in the working out of His purposes. In order that there be an outflowing, there must be an income of divinity to humanity. “I will dwell in them, and walk in them.” 2 Corinthians 6:16.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 15, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 15, 1892, par. 22
Are we Christians in deed and in truth, or are we such in name only? Christians are growing up, a holy temple unto the Lord. But “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.] This represents a constant growth in Christian character, growth in spiritual mindedness.Faith and Works
God Works, and Man Works
FW 26.2
“Ye are God’s husbandry” (1 Corinthians 3:9). The heart is to be worked, subdued, plowed, harrowed, seeded, to bring forth its harvest to God in good works. “Ye are God’s building.” You cannot build yourself. There is a Power outside of yourself that must do the building of the church, putting brick upon brick, always cooperating with the faculties and powers given of God to man. The Redeemer must find a home in His building. God works and man works. There needs to be a continual taking in of the gifts of God, in order that there may be as free a giving out of these gifts. It is a continual receiving and then restoring. The Lord has provided that the soul shall receive nourishment from Him, to be given out again in the working out of His purposes. In order that there be an outflowing, there must be an income of divinity to humanity. “I will dwell in them, and walk in them” (2 Corinthians 6:16).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 48, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 48, 1895, par. 7
Christ stands at the head of humanity as our substitute and surety, to represent God to men; and through His life-giving nature causes a stream of vital and spiritual power to flow earthward. The Sun of Righteousness, He desires to shine into the chambers of the mind, purifying and elevating the soul, cleansing the soul temple, that He may abide therein, and control the affections and emotions, bringing the entire being into conformity to the divine will. “Ye are the temple of the living God, as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.” [2 Corinthians 6:16.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 11 (1896)
Lt 40, 1896
11LtMs, Lt 40, 1896, par. 4
These thoughts have a controlling power upon the whole character. I want to impress upon your mind that you have a divine companion with you, if you will, always. “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 6:16.] As the mind dwells upon Christ, the character is molded after the divine similitude. The thoughts are pervaded with a sense of His goodness, His love. We contemplate His character, and thus He is in all our thoughts. His love encloses us.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 189, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 189, 1899, par. 15
Let there be no neglect to train the physical with the mental powers. You are God’s property, bought with a price. Nothing must be neglected which will keep the physical powers in healthfulness. “Ye are the temple of the living God.” [2 Corinthians 6:16.] The powers of endurance, of adaptation to varied circumstances should be considered. Periods of rest should be taken. Your diet will have much to do with your clear comprehension of the work. By overloading the stomach you create indigestion and cause a condition of things that is anything but agreeable. There is far greater danger of overeating than of undereating. Eating to repletion destroys the appetite for wholesome food. A craving for something that is not wholesome is created, and the appetite is perverted.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 68, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 68, 1899, par. 10
Everything that pertains to the human structure should be spoken of as God’s property. He made it, and will care for it. “Ye are the temple of the living God,” He says. [2 Corinthians 6:16.] “Ye are not your own, for ye are bought with a price.” Therefore the solemn injunction is given, “Glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.] In no case should women nurses give treatment or massage or packs to men, or men to women. Let everything in the bathroom be done decently and in order.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 185, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 185, 1899, par. 47
All these things make their impression. Conversation will sometimes arise. Words will be spoken that will open a flood of light to the patient as to methods of caring for the body, the temple of God. There must be the greatest care to preserve decency and strict purity in conversation and in every action. A small, crowded bathroom leaves impressions on the mind of cheapness and commonness, which should not be. Everything that pertains to the human structure should be spoken of, if at all, as God’s property. He made it and He will care for the body. “Ye are the temple of the living God.” 2 Corinthians 6:16. You are not your own. “Ye are bought with a price;” therefore the solemn injunction is given, “Glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” 1 Corinthians 6:20.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 84, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 84, 1899, par. 10
It is not enough that those who know the truth merely have a knowledge of it. They are to walk and work in love, conforming themselves to the law of God. The Lord declares, I will put my laws in their minds, and write them in their hearts. God is the mighty all-powerful agency in this work of transformation. The writing of the law of God in the heart is accomplished by the Holy Spirit. Divine relationship is to be renewed between God and man. “I will be their God,” He says, “and they shall be my people.” [2 Corinthians 6:16.] Sin will not be harbored. In the refining furnace all dross will be consumed. Saith God, “There is no attribute of My nature that I will not freely give in order that man may reflect My image.” When we place ourselves in this relation to God, we can represent Christ. Only a spiritual people can shine as lights in the world. God’s people are to be a peculiar people, zealous of good works. “This people have I formed for myself,” God says; “thou shalt show forth my praise.” [Isaiah 43:21.] We may have the Lord as our sun and shield, and our exceeding great reward.Gospel Workers (1915 ed.)
Secret Prayer
GW 254.1
Family prayer and public prayer have their place; but it is secret communion with God that sustains the soul-life. It was in the mount with God that Moses beheld the pattern of that wonderful building which was to be the abiding-place of His glory. It is in the mount with God—the secret place of communion—that we are to contemplate His glorious ideal for humanity. Thus we shall be enabled so to fashion our character-building that to us may be fulfilled the promise, “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.]In Heavenly Places
The Secret of Spiritual Power, March 17
HP 83.6
Family prayer and public prayer have their place, but it is secret communion with God that sustains the soul-life. It was in the mount with God that Moses beheld the pattern of that wonderful building which was to be the abiding-place of His glory. It is in the mount with God—the secret place of communion—that we are to contemplate His glorious ideal for humanity. Thus we shall be enabled so to fashion our character-building that to us may be fulfilled the promise, “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).32Gospel Workers, 254.In Heavenly Places
Pressing Against the Current, September 13
HP 263.5
We are to grow up to the full stature of men and women in Christ Jesus, and we are thus growing up a precious temple unto the Lord. He says, “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).... What we want is the Spirit of God in our souls. We want our faces set constantly heavenward. And when we see that sin in us is striving for the mastery, then we must strive....Lift Him Up
Beholding Christ, June 21
LHU 186.1
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.Prayer
Chapter 6—The Prayer Of Faith
Pr 57.5
It was in the mount with God that Moses beheld the pattern of that wonderful building which was to be the abiding place of His glory. It is in the mount with God—in the secret place of communion—that we are to contemplate His glorious ideal for humanity. Thus we shall be enabled so to fashion our character building that to us may be fulfilled His promise, “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.Prayer
Chapter 32—Faith and Prayer
Pr 318.7
It was in the mount with God that Moses beheld the pattern of that wonderful building which was to be the abiding place of His glory. It is in the mount with God—in the secret place of communion—that we are to contemplate His glorious ideal for humanity. Thus we shall be enabled so to fashion our character building that to us may be fulfilled His promise, “I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.” 2 Corinthians 6:16.2 Corinthians 6:16-18
Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 88, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 88, 1894, par. 1
“For ye are the temples 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 be a father unto you ... 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 6:16-7:1.] What large and comprehensive promises God has given us in His Word. Because of the great goodness of God to us, we can say with Paul, “I am a debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise.” [Romans 1:14.]2 Corinthians 6:17
Christ Triumphant
In the World But Not of It, February 25
CTr 62.1
Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. 2 Corinthians 6:17.Manuscript Releases, vol. 1 [Nos. 19-96]
MR No. 55—The Spirit that Should Characterize the Work of Seventh-day Adventist Physicians
1MR 204.2
The Christian physician has no right to follow the custom of the world, to shape his action to obtain the patronage or praise of the ungodly. He should not accept exorbitant wages for his professional services, for the reward is awaiting the faithful and true. He has no more right to minister to others requiring a large remuneration than has the minister of the gospel a right to set his labors at a high money value, but only in accordance with consistency and mercy and the value of his work. It is manifest that unless Christianity is planted in the heart, it will not control the life. The profession of faith is of no more value than the spirit and the life testify that it is of a genuine character. Cleansing the outside of the cup has never succeeded in elevating the soul, making it pure and heavenly. The truth of God is of value to the receiver, only as it is permitted to have a restraining influence upon his spirit and practice. There is no snare so subtle, so constant, and fraught with such peril to the professed follower of Christ, as conformity to the world. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate” (2 Corinthians 6:17), is the call of God.Maranatha
Work the Cities From Outposts, June 25
Mar 184.1
Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. 2 Corinthians 6:17.Our High Calling
You Must Choose Your Company, September 9
OHC 258.1
Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. 2 Corinthians 6:17.Patriarchs and Prophets
Chapter 41—Apostasy at the Jordan
PP 458.2
It was by associating with idolaters and joining in their festivities that the Hebrews were led to transgress God’s law and bring His judgments upon the nation. So now it is by leading the followers of Christ to associate with the ungodly and unite in their amusements that Satan is most successful in alluring them into sin. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean.” 2 Corinthians 6:17. God requires of His people now as great a distinction from the world, in customs, habits, and principles, as He required of Israel anciently. If they faithfully follow the teachings of His word, this distinction will exist; it cannot be otherwise. The warnings given to the Hebrews against assimilating with the heathen were not more direct or explicit than are those forbidding Christians to conform to the spirit and customs of the ungodly. Christ speaks to us, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” 1 John 2:15. “The friendship of the world is enmity with God; whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4. The followers of Christ are to separate themselves from sinners, choosing their society only when there is opportunity to do them good. We cannot be too decided in shunning the company of those who exert an influence to draw us away from God. While we pray, “Lead us not into temptation,” we are to shun temptation, so far as possible.Selected Messages Book 2
Chapter 45—A Call to Country Living
2SM 354.2
The angels of mercy hurried Lot and his wife and daughters by taking hold of their hands. Had Lot hastened as the Lord desired him to, his wife would not have become a pillar of salt. Lot had too much of a lingering spirit. Let us not be like him. The same voice that warned Lot to leave Sodom bids us, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean” (2 Corinthians 6:17). Those who obey this warning will find a refuge. Let every man be wide awake for himself, and try to save his family. Let him gird himself for the work. God will reveal from point to point what to do next.That I May Know Him
Daily Self-denial, November 3
TMK 313.5
God is able to make all grace abound toward you. We have no right to claim the promises of God till we comply with the conditions revealed in His Word. “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). Will you do it? 4Manuscript 6, 1878.The Faith I Live By
Separated From the World, August 3
FLB 221.2
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.” 2 Corinthians 6:17. Your tendrils must be severed from everything earthly.... It is impossible for you to unite with those who are corrupt, and still remain pure.10SDA Bible Commentary 6:1102.The Upward Look
God Stoops to Listen, January 9
UL 23.2
When man has taken the lines in his own hands to guide and drive, he will be rewarded, for the work of God will reveal terrible mistakes. Reason becomes blinded, even with the greatness of light, unless that agency is under the yoke of Christ. Every day some plan will be devised when Satan thinks he can lend a hand to sow his tares among the wheat. Vice is not to be commingled with virtue, and the cry may have to go forth in no measured tones, even now while missionary work is being done, “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). God is now working for His people, but how many do not recognize the work of God from a strange work.The Upward Look
No Middle Path to Paradise, October 23
UL 310.1
Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. 2 Corinthians 6:17.Conflict and Courage
That Last Night, February 16
CC 53.5
The same voice that warned Lot to leave Sodom bids us, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean” (2 Corinthians 6:17). Those who obey this warning will find a refuge.36Selected Messages 2:354.From the Heart
Come and Be Separate, May 15
FH 147.1
Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you. 2 Corinthians 6:17.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Ms 2, 1879
3LtMs, Ms 2, 1879, par. 9
I call upon you who would fear God and work righteousness, to consider the things I have written. The Lord calls upon you to reform. God is able to make all grace abound toward you. But we have no right to claim the promises of God till we comply with the conditions revealed in His Word. “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. Will you do it? God calls for you to set things in order in that office. Let all enter into a covenant with the Most High, to serve Him with the whole heart the undivided affections. His promises have never failed, and they never will fail. You must come up to the high standard of God and make decided reforms.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Ms 6, 1878
3LtMs, Ms 6, 1878, par. 41
God is able to make all grace abound toward you. We have no right to claim the promises of God till we comply with the conditions revealed in His Word. “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. Will you do it? God calls for you to set things in order in that office. Let all enter into a covenant with the Most High to serve Him with the whole heart, the undivided affections. His promises have never failed, and they never will fail. You must come up to the high standard of God and make decided reforms.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 33, 1882
3LtMs, Lt 33, 1882, par. 10
We are living in the last days. Dangers are thickening around us. It is easy in the world to live after the world’s opinions. There are prejudices and wrongs in society which no Christian can sanction or countenance. But those who profess present truth are not all what they profess. They are ministers who are blind leaders of the blind. They are constantly seeking to meet the demands of the world. You must say they conform to certain fashionable usages. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord. Touch not the unclean [thing]; and I will receive you.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] Our ministers are being deceived. They are not all representatives of Christ. They are so chilled with their own backslidings, so changed by worldly maxims that self is most prominent. Conscience is an inconvenient affair and they break over its admonitions.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 84, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 84, 1886, par. 10
Says Paul, I die daily. [1 Corinthians 15:31.] Our natural inclination would be to be like the world, but there is the invitation, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] There is a reformation that we are to make. We are to be as clay in the hands of the potter. We are to be molded and fashioned, and we are to take on the very fashion and mold that God would have us. We are not to take on our own mold, but we must be working to please the God of heaven, working to regain the moral standard. God wants to fit us for a home in His kingdom, and this is the time of our preparation. It is a time of character building, that we may have the right mold of character. God will do His part, angels will do their part, and we are to understand that all heaven is interested in our salvation.Conflict and Courage
What an Epitaph! July 5
CC 192.1
Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord. 2 Corinthians 6:17.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Lt 14, 1885
4LtMs, Lt 14, 1885, par. 11
I have no liberty to call names; but your own consciences must convict you that the picture of the tree bearing no fruit to the glory of God means you. Now this church have not all been working for unity, for elevation, for purity; and yet we would not say, erase their names from the church books. But earnest effort should be put forth to show them what they must do to be saved. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean; and I will receive you.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 16a, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 16a, 1885, par. 16
Today is the holy Sabbath. I feel depressed with the heat, but decide to speak to the people assembled in the Tabernacle. The auditorium is crowded, the galleries are full. I spoke with much freedom from the words, “Come out from among them and be ye separate and touch not the unclean and I will receive you,” etc. [2 Corinthians 6:17.] Many of the patients from the sanitarium were present. I spoke one hour and a half. In the afternoon we had a good representation at our social meeting. I spoke again about forty minutes. Many excellent testimonies were borne.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 48, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 48, 1886, par. 7
It is impossible for man to enter the gate of the city, trampling on God’s law. Yet how few there are who pay any regard to God’s requirements. This is in fulfilment of that which the apostle said, that in the last days iniquity would abound, and the love of many wax cold. [Matthew 24:12.] Is it not time that the law of God was vindicated? and shall we be swift to trample upon it because everybody else does? The message says, “Come out from among them;” and the God of heaven will accept us if we come to Him in obedience. [2 Corinthians 6:17.] We must not think that we are belittling ourselves in taking our position on the side of Christ, for this is the only way by which we can be elevated and refined and become members of the royal heavenly family. There must be a line of demarcation between those that keep the commandments of God and those that do not.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 40, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 40, 1886, par. 12
It is our privilege to be co-workers with Christ. It is a great blessing to be thus connected with the Majesty of heaven. We are commanded to come out from the world; and if we comply, the promise is that He will be a Father unto us. [2 Corinthians 6:17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)
Ms 29, 1887
5LtMs, Ms 29, 1887, par. 30
I spoke again to our brethren and sisters upon health reform, taking up the subjects of pure air, pure water, a clean, sweet atmosphere in our houses and in the stables where cattle are kept, and the health-destroying habits of women in compressing the waist. I had great freedom in speaking, and we hope that good will be done. My text was, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean thing: and I will receive you,” etc. [2 Corinthians 6:17.]Counsels on Health
Adherence to Principle
CH 288.1
All heaven is interested in the salvation of man, and is ready to pour upon him her beneficent gifts, if he will comply with the conditions Christ has made: “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean.” 2 Corinthians 6:17.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)
Lt 41, 1890
6LtMs, Lt 41, 1890, par. 20
The Christian physician has no right to follow the custom of the world, to shape his action to obtain the patronage or praise of the ungodly. He should not accept exorbitant wages for his professional services, for the reward is awaiting the faithful and true. He has no more right to minister to others requiring a large remuneration to others than has the minister of the gospel a right to set his labors at a high money value, but only in accordance with consistency and mercy and the value of his work. It is manifest that unless Christianity is planted in the heart, it will not control the life. The profession of faith is of no more value than the spirit and the life testify that it is of a genuine character. Cleansing the outside of the cup has never succeeded in elevating the soul, making it pure and heavenly. The truth of God is of value to the receiver only as it is permitted to have a restraining influence upon his spirit and practice. There is no snare so subtle, so constant, and fraught with such peril to the professed follower of Christ, as conformity to the world. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate,” is the call of God. [2 Corinthians 6:17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Ms 27, 1891
7LtMs, Ms 27, 1891, par. 26
“Come out from among them and be ye separate,” says the Lord; and again, “Cleanse yourselves.” [2 Corinthians 6:17; James 4:8.] But how are we to know that we have impurity? The law of God shows this. The first four commandments point out duty to God, and the last six allow no selfishness toward our fellow men. When I see that I fail, I flee to the Stronghold. I know that He pardons sins of ignorance. Jesus is a sin-pardoning Saviour. Jesus kept His Father’s commandments, and He says, Blessed are they that do; they shall enter in.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 16e, 1892
7LtMs, Lt 16e, 1892, par. 36
The words of God are: “Come out from the world, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] The words of the great deceiver are, You will greatly augment your influence if you confederate with the world; your usefulness in receiving of their knowledge will be greatly increased; your popularity by connection with them will be made larger; therefore, you can do a much larger work.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 7 (1891-1892)
Lt 9, 1891
7LtMs, Lt 9, 1891, par. 11
The world is sensual, supremely so, and worldlings will follow their own customs and practices. But the Lord speaks to His people: “Come out from among them, and be ye separate.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world.” [1 John 2:15.] “Set your affection on things above.” [Colossians 3:2.] Keep the cross ever in view, for it is the perpetual memorial of a nobler world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 8 (1893)
Lt 17, 1893
8LtMs, Lt 17, 1893, par. 12
You are robbing God every hour that you live to please your inclination. If God has given you health, intellect, prosperity in any line, be careful and do not prostitute these gifts of the great Giver to your own spiritual detriment. “Come out from among them and be ye separate.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] Here is a voice speaking to you. Will you take heed? Will you have special carefulness in the formation of friendships, in the choice of companions? Unless you do use caution, you will, through indiscretion, imperil the highest interests of your soul. Do not consider that you need no warning, for dangers are thickening around every youth and every soul that lives.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 9 (1894)
Ms 48, 1894
9LtMs, Ms 48, 1894, par. 9
Young Christians, you that claim to be followers of Jesus Christ, can be a powerful influence for good upon the younger ones. But when you take your position as a Christian, you may heretofore have been to all the concerts where you come right into connection with those whose love is only for sport, only to enjoy their own folly, you may say, and levity, and cheapness, now it is the association of these things which will affect your character. You cannot possibly enter into these things and obtain and retain solidity of character. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith God, and touch not”—you are not to place yourself where the temptations of the enemy, by your associations, shall affect your soul. [2 Corinthians 6:17.]Counsels on Health
Hold the Truth in Its Purity
CH 291.1
“Come out from among them, and be ye separate.” 2 Corinthians 6:17. Shall we hear the voice of God and obey, or shall we make halfway work of the matter and try to serve God and mammon? There is earnest work before each one of us. Right thoughts, pure and holy purposes, do not come to us naturally. We shall have to strive for them. In all our institutions, our publishing houses and colleges and sanitariums, pure and holy principles must take root. If our institutions are what God designs they should be, those connected with them will not pattern after worldly institutions. 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.” “Be not partakers of her sins.” Revelation 18:4.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 56, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 56, 1899, par. 25
Christ accepts no divided service. His followers are to shine as lights in the world. “Come out of the world, and be ye separate,” is the message which comes sounding down along the line to our time. [2 Corinthians 6:17.] Love not the world, neither the things of the world. Set your affections on things above, and not on things below. Those who heed this message will find that Christ’s yoke is easy and His burden light.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Ms 24, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 24, 1900, par. 19
The instruction I have for our physicians is that they must study the Word of God with earnestness and diligence. God says, “Come out. ... and be separate, and touch not the unclean.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] Obey this Word, at whatever cost to social position, worldly honor, or earthly wealth. Trust in the Lord. Walk in all humility of mind before Him. Holding by faith to His Word, you may go forward.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 141, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 141, 1900, par. 14
I could not sleep past two o’clock this morning. During the night season I was in council. I was pleading with some families to avail themselves of God’s appointed means and get away from the cities to save their children. Some were loitering, making no determined efforts. The angels of mercy hurried Lot and his wife and daughters by taking hold of their hands. Had Lot hastened as the Lord desired him to do, his wife would not have become a pillar of salt. Lot had too much of a lingering spirit. Let us not be like him. The same voice that warned Lot to leave Sodom bids us, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] Those who obey this warning will find a refuge. Let every man be wide awake for himself, and try to save his family. Let him gird himself for the work. God will reveal from point to point what to do next.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 108, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 108, 1901, par. 14
Treat Brother Shireman with the tenderness with which you would wish to be treated were you in his place. Remember that workmen for God will spring up in many places. He who forsakes all that he has in order to advance the work of God is doing that which must be done. Every weight, every besetting sin, must be laid aside. God’s watchmen are to lift up the voice, saying, The morning cometh, and also the night. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean thing.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] “Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord.” [Isaiah 52:11.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 85, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 85, 1901, par. 4
Every opportunity, every advantage, every privilege, has been given to us to gain a rich Christian experience; but we do not learn everything all at once. There must be a growth. Many, having learned a little in school, think they are ready to graduate. They think they know about all that is worth knowing. We are not to think that as soon as we are baptized we are ready to graduate from the school of Christ. When we have accepted Christ, and in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit have pledged ourselves to serve God, the Father, Christ, and the Holy Spirit—the three dignitaries and powers of heaven—pledge themselves that every facility shall be given to us if we carry out our baptismal vows to “come out from among them, and be ... separate, ... and touch not the unclean thing.” When we are true to our vows, He says, “I will receive you.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.]Counsels on Health
Preservation of Health
CH 589.1
The instruction I have for our physicians is that they must study the word of God with earnestness and diligence. God says, “Come out, ... and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean.” 2 Corinthians 6:17. Obey this word, at whatever cost to social position, worldly honor, or earthly wealth. Trust in the Lord. Walk in all humility of mind before Him. Holding by faith to His word, you may go forward.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 84, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 84, 1901, par. 27
“Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing;”—and why?—“and I will receive you.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] If you have the proper qualifications of character, Christ will receive you. Realize that you are God’s property. “Ye are not your own” to make a disposition of yourselves as you please. “Ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.” [1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 145, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 145, 1902, par. 7
This is a wonderful age in which we are living. God is beholding the deplorable state of society. He requires those who believe His gospel to come out from the world. “Be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 71, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 71, 1903, par. 19
The wicked are being bound up in bundles, bound up in trusts, in unions, in confederacies. Let us have nothing to do with these organizations. God is our Ruler, our Governor, and He calls us to come out from the world and be separate. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] If we refuse to do this, if we continue to link up with the world, and to look at every matter from a worldly standpoint, we shall become like the world. When worldly policy and worldly ideas govern our transactions, we cannot stand on the high and holy platform of eternal truth.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 106, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 106, 1905, par. 34
I am instructed to say that we must do all we possibly can for these deceived ones. Their minds must be freed from the delusions of the enemy; and if we fail in our efforts to save these erring ones, we must “come out from among them” and be separate. [2 Corinthians 6:17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 117, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 117, 1906, par. 8
As we see the corruptions in the world, let us heed the call, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] Let us cling to the precious Saviour. As those who are preparing for His coming, let the outward life honor God. We can not shut our eyes to the souls all around us who are perishing in their sins.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 144, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 144, 1906, par. 12
Now may the Lord so soften and subdue our hearts that we may see the great and matchless worth that Christ is to us, that He has given us assurance of a life that measures with the life of God. It is not like the life that we have here. There is no pain, no sorrow, but it is a life of the highest dignity. And it will take a great deal for any of us to study His Word and to understand it in all its bearings. It is doing the Word. It is living the Word. It is coming out from the world, and being separate, and touching not the unclean things. “Come out from among them. Come out,” said Christ; and He is the Bread of life. [2 Corinthians 6:17.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 11, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 11, 1906, par. 3
Why do we not so prepare our hearts that we will take the promise, and, through the operation of the Holy Spirit, receive Christ as an ever-abiding power, to be our sufficiency, our acknowledged power for maintaining our strength, that we may reveal to friend and foe that we have an abiding Christ? It is the privilege of every one to exert an influence, individually, as one who has received Christ and who believes in Him. My brother, my sister, yield your whole mind and soul and body to the Lord. Rest in the arms of your compassionate Saviour. You need not rush hither and thither to obtain relief from human agencies. Christ is nigh, inviting you, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.” [Matthew 11:28-30.] Let no one hear from your lips words of complaint or of judging. The Lord has not placed any of us on the judgment seat. Simply come to Jesus. Lay your burdens at His feet. “I will receive you,” He declares; “I will give you rest.” [2 Corinthians 6:17; Matthew 11:28.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Ms 21, 1906
21LtMs, Ms 21, 1906, par. 17
There will have to be a second conversion in the hearts of some of our leading medical fraternity, and a cutting away from the men who are trying to guide the medical ship into the harbor, else they themselves will never reach the haven of rest. Christ calls, Come out from among them, and be ye separate. [2 Corinthians 6:17.]21LtMs, Ms 21, 1906, par. 20
The fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah contains instruction for today. “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sin.” [Verse 1.] God does not accept Dr. Kellogg as His laborer, unless he will now break with Satan. The work would not have been hindered, as it has been for the past several years, if Dr. Kellogg were a converted man. “Come,” I call, “come ye out and be separate from him and his associates whom he has leavened.” I am now giving the message God has given me, to give to all who claim to believe the truth, “Come ye out from among them, and be separate,” else their sin in justifying wrongs and framing deceits will continue to be the ruin of souls. [2 Corinthians 6:17.] We cannot afford to be on the wrong side. We cannot afford to cover the truth with scientific problems. We urge that decided changes be made and no more stumbling blocks be placed before the feet of the people of God. Let every soul put on the gospel shoes. Let every soul pray and work, placing their feet upon the foundation Christ laid in giving His life for the life of the world.Last Day Events
Chapter 8—The Cities
LDE 116.2
The wicked are being bound up in bundles, bound up in trusts, in unions, in confederacies. Let us have nothing to do with these organizations. God is our Ruler, our Governor, and He calls us to come out from the world and be separate. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing” [2 Corinthians 6:17]. If we refuse to do this, if we continue to link up with the world and to look at every matter from a worldly standpoint, we shall become like the world. When worldly policy and worldly ideas govern our transactions we cannot stand on the high and holy platform of eternal truth.—The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 4:1142 (1903).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 21 (1906)
Lt 158, 1906
21LtMs, Lt 158, 1906, par. 2
Be assured that the call is for our people to locate miles away from the large cities. One look at San Francisco as it is today would speak to your intelligent minds, showing you the necessity of getting out of the cities. Do not establish institutions in the cities, but seek a rural location. The call is, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] The very atmosphere of the city is polluted. Let your schools be established away from the cities, where agricultural and other industries can be carried on.Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]
MR No. 735—Preparing for Heaven
9MR 259.2
Growth in Grace—Says Paul, “I die daily” (1 Corinthians 15:31). Our natural inclination would be to be like the world, but there is the invitation, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate” (2 Corinthians 6:17). There is a reformation that we are to make. We are to be as clay in the hands of the potter. We are to be molded and fashioned, and we are to take on the very fashion and mold that God would have us. We are not to take on our own mold, but we must be working to please the God of heaven, working to regain the moral standard. God wants to fit us for a home in His kingdom and this is the time of our preparation. It is a time of character building, that we may have the right mold of character. God will do His part, angels will do their part, and we are to understand that all heaven is interested in our salvation....2 Corinthians 6:17-18
Reflecting Christ
We Are to Reveal the Principles of Heaven, May 5
RC 139.1
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.RC 139.4
To those who comply with the conditions, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean,” God’s promise is, “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 the privilege and duty of every Christian to have a rich and abundant experience in the things of God. “I am the light of the world,” said Jesus. “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12). “The path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day” (Proverbs 4:18). Every step of faith and obedience brings the soul into closer connection with the Light of the world, in whom there is “no darkness at all.” The bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness shine upon the servants of God, and they are to reflect His rays. As the stars tell us that there is a great light in heaven with whose glory they are made bright, so Christians are to make it manifest that there is a God on the throne of the universe whose character is worthy of praise and imitation. The graces of His Spirit, the purity and holiness of His character, will be manifest in His witnesses.—The Great Controversy, 475, 476.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 10 (1895)
Ms 16, 1895
10LtMs, Ms 16, 1895, par. 18
We are to do what we can to be saved. The Lord says, “Come out from among them, and be separate.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] The world may scorn you; they may talk if you do not come up to their line; they may even imprison you. So they did to John the Baptist. Because he reproved Herod in his sin, they cast him into prison and took his life. One after another, the servants of God have been witnesses for Him, and have signed their witness with their blood. But whatever their enemies did to their bodies, they could not destroy their souls. They persecuted John and Stephen, James and the other apostles. They could immure them in prison walls, but they could not take away their hope or eternal life.10LtMs, Ms 16, 1895, par. 22
Obey God, even at the loss of all things. Come out from among them, and be separate. God will receive you and be a Father unto you. He says, Ye shall be sons and daughters of the Lord Almighty. [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] I would rather be a child of God than to have the honor of worldly kingdoms. Jesus can give us rest which kings and princes do not possess. I want to become acquainted with Him. “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent.” [John 17:3.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 68, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 68, 1899, par. 13
This is my anxiety for you. The windows of the soul are not closed earthward against the malarious atmosphere deleterious to piety; they are not opened heavenward to the rays of the Sun of Righteousness. What is the matter with the people who have had great light and great opportunities? They are world-bound, they do not obey God’s direct command, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing.” [2 Corinthians 6:17.] To what does this refer? To all spiritual defects in character and practice, to every window opened earthward, which looks out upon the world, allowing its habits, its customs, its pride of appearance, its extravagant use of the Lord’s entrusted capital, to lead the human agent to gratify unsanctified ambition. The sinful lust of selfishness, this is the unclean thing. This worldly element hides Jesus from the view.14LtMs, Lt 68, 1899, par. 14
The Lord will not prosper any such self-glorification. Everything pertaining to selfishness and self-love is condemned by God. “Come out from among them,” is the call, “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.] This is the Word of the Lord. But worldly customs and worldly practices are preventing men and women from growing in grace and in the knowledge of the only true God and Jesus Christ whom He hath sent. The Lord is not served, the Lord is not worshipped, the Lord is not glorified, by a divided, half and half life.Christian Education
Chapter 21—Parental Responsibility
CE 179.1
I intreat Christian mothers to realize their responsibility, and to live, not to please themselves, but to glorify God. Christ pleased not himself, but took upon him the form of a servant. He left the royal courts, and clothed his divinity with humanity, that by his own example he might teach us how we may be exalted to the position of sons and daughters in the royal family, children of the heavenly King. But what are the conditions upon which we may obtain this great blessing?—“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.]In Heavenly Places
Children of the Heavenly King, December 13
HP 354.2
The invitation is, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... 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). Oh, what an exaltation is this—to be members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King! To have the Saviour of the universe, the King over all kings, know us by name, and to be heirs of God to the immortal inheritance, the eternal substance! This is our privilege; will we have the prize? Will we fight the battles of the Lord? Will we press the battle to the gate? Will we be victorious? I have decided that I must have heaven, and I want you to have it....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 76, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 76, 1898, par. 32
My brother, God lays open the way whereby you may come out from the world and be separate. Touch not the unclean thing, and He has given you His pledged word: “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.] What greater exaltation can you desire than to become a member of the royal family, a child of the heavenly King, and heir of God and joint heir with Jesus Christ to an everlasting inheritance? Will you come? Will you respond to the invitation of Christ? You have much pride of heart. The Lord help you to cut away this pride. The holy oil from the heavenly messengers will communicate to you the richest blessings that heaven can bestow.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 79, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 79, 1898, par. 10
The Word from God is, “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.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] These words were given to the Lord’s watchmen, “Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from thence, touch no unclean thing; go ye out of the midst of her; be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the Lord. For ye shall not go out with haste, nor go by flight: for the Lord will go before you; and the God of Israel will be your rereward.” [Isaiah 52:11, 12.] As the chosen of God, we are called upon to have His Spirit vitalizing our whole being. Then the precious principles in the Word of God will not be clouded before our eyes, but will be clear and distinct, upon high and holy ground.13LtMs, Lt 79, 1898, par. 11
God would have your principles pure, elevated, ennobling. We are under distinct obligation to God, and we are to be a peculiar and holy people, distinguished by moral purity. Our acknowledgment by God as His adopted children, as His sons and daughters, depends upon our coming out from the world and being separate. Paul was inspired. He spoke as an inspired man, and the promise was given to him to be given to us as coming directly from God, “I will be a Father unto you.” [2 Corinthians 6:18.] God is our Father, a tender parent, solicitous for His spiritual children. He is pledged to be the protector, counsellor, guide, and friend of all who are obedient to Him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 121, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 121, 1898, par. 35
Dare to be a Daniel. Dare to stand alone. Thus, as did Moses, you will endure the seeing of Him who is invisible. But a cowardly and silent reserve before evil associates, while you listen to their devices, makes you one with them. “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 God Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 66, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 66, 1898, par. 27
“Come out from among them,” God says, “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.] We all need a Father with whom to consult. The Holy Spirit has been refused by men who are puffed up with vain conceit and believe themselves capable of managing wonderful responsibilities. The men who have chosen to be a light unto His people have acted as if their lamps, lighted from the divine altar, had gone out.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Lt 136a, 1898
13LtMs, Lt 136a, 1898, par. 14
The world has become the seat of sin, and a mass of pollution. The position of all believers is to be, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean, and I (your Owner) will receive you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] The conquering work is done through faith. No little matters are to divert the mind. We must have that faith that works by love and purifies the soul.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 13 (1898)
Ms 4, 1898
13LtMs, Ms 4, 1898, par. 6
The voice of God speaks to His people, saying, “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.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] Those who are watching and waiting for the appearing of Christ in clouds of heaven will not be mingling with the world in pleasure societies and gatherings merely for their own amusement. As faithful watchmen they will be found proclaiming, “The morning cometh, and also the night.” [Isaiah 21:12.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 172, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 172, 1899, par. 18
Our joy is in our Redeemer. He covers us with His righteousness. We are distinguished from the world because God has placed His seal upon us. “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.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] The Lord requires all who connect with Him to set a right example before unbelievers. “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. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.” [2 Corinthians 4:6, 7.]Life Sketches of Ellen G. White
Consecration, Courage, Confidence
LS 292.3
“Will we break the stony heart? Will we travel the thorny path that Jesus trod all the way from the manger to the cross? We see the tracks of blood. Shall the pride of the world come in? Shall we seek to make the world our standard? or shall we come out from among them? The invitation is, ‘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.’ 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 169, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 169, 1899, par. 5
The Lord says, “Come out from among them and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean; and I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] You cannot heed the counsel of friends and acquaintances. You must stand free in God. Look your calling fairly and squarely in the face. Take up your work courageously. Hang your helpless souls on Jesus. Gird up the loins of your minds. Put on the armor of righteousness every day.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Lt 77, 1899
14LtMs, Lt 77, 1899, par. 8
This recognition of God is of the highest value to every human being. All who love and serve Him are very precious in His sight. He would have them stand where they are worthy representatives of the truth as it is in Jesus. The whole of the Wessels family have been bought with a price, a gift of as much greater value and magnitude than gold, silver, and precious stones as it is possible for us to conceive. Yet as a family, gold and silver have an influence over them, an influence which has hindered their spiritual advancement. God says to every member of that family, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate (from the world), 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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)
Ms 198, 1899
14LtMs, Ms 198, 1899, par. 30
In Daniel we read, “But the saints of the most High God shall take the kingdom, and possess the kingdom forever.” “Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.” [Daniel 7:18; 12:10.] We are not, as a people, to take part in politics. “Come out from among them and be ye separate and touch not the unclean and I will receive you. I will be a Father unto you and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 13, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 13, 1900, par. 2
If you will follow on to know the Lord, you will know that His going forth is prepared as the morning. If the Lord has given you skill and understanding, it is that you may glorify His name. The message we are called to bear is, “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.] If ever there was a necessity for God’s people to come out and be separate, so that there shall be no mingling of the obedient with the disobedient, it is now. Truth is sacred, pure, and unadulterated. It must be kept so.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 51, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 51, 1900, par. 28
My brother, God will not give prosperity to any one who link themselves up with wicked men in order to gain strength and influence, for by so doing they dishonor Him. The Lord calls for genuine piety. He gives the warning, “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.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] “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)
Ms 27a, 1900
15LtMs, Ms 27a, 1900, par. 8
Those who are baptized in the threefold name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, at the very entrance of their Christian life declare publicly that they have accepted the invitation, “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.] “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.] “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.” [Colossians 3:1.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 109, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 109, 1900, par. 16
“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.] This is the representation we are ever to keep before the people in the work we are called to do. Call upon the people who shall hear the truth which is brought to them at a great sacrifice. Show them that obligations are mutual. Let them help in the work. If God is ready to do so great [a] work in their behalf, why should they not surrender their hearts to God and work in His lines?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 162, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 162, 1900, par. 13
“Come out 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.] The farther young men and young women keep away from the corrupted and corrupting elements in this world, the better and safer will be their future experience. Medical missionary workers should be cleansed, refined, purified, and elevated. They should stand upon the platform of eternal truth. But I have been instructed that the truth has not been made to appear in its true bearing. The result that is worked out tends to corrupt minds; the sacred is not distinguished from the common.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 15 (1900)
Lt 79, 1900
15LtMs, Lt 79, 1900, par. 20
To us the invitation is given, “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 God Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] Thus God has declared His covenant of obedience.Lift Him Up
The Ordinance of Baptism, October 15
LHU 302.4
Baptism is a most solemn renunciation of the world. Those who are baptized in the threefold name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit ... declare publicly that they have forsaken the service of Satan and have become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. They have obeyed the command: “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean thing.” And to them is fulfilled the promise: “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)....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Ms 11, 1901
16LtMs, Ms 11, 1901, par. 6
When you accept Christ, you are in one sense cut away from the world. You are dead to its ambitions, dead to its greed for advantage over your brethren and neighbors. God 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.] This is the pledge of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit made to you if you will keep your baptismal vow, and touch not the unclean thing. You are to turn aside from all that would pervert the pure, sacred principles of truth. You are to enter into no intrigue. Sharp practice, with believer or unbeliever, is an offence in God’s sight. It is a sin which places those who commit it in connection with the father of all sin.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)
Lt 52, 1901
16LtMs, Lt 52, 1901, par. 16
My dear brother and sister, remember that our various endowments are so many talents, entrusted to us, not to hide in the world, but to use to benefit and bless the world. God expects us, by constant use, to multiply the talents He has given us. Will you both take hold of this work in earnest? Dr. Caro, God will use you when you first use Him as your forgiving Saviour, when you glorify God and not man. No man can serve two masters. “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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 116, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 116, 1902, par. 23
After you begin to keep the commandments, some of your former friends will say, “How foolish you are to be so singular, so different from the world!” But has not God said, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean thing”? “I will receive you,” He declares, “and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] Is not this assurance enough to satisfy you? What more do you want? Do you feel afraid that if you keep the Sabbath, some one else will know it? Are you fearful that you may demean yourself by connecting with the God of heaven? I do not feel this way; and I desire to tell everybody that I am not ashamed to obey the Lord and to be His child. I desire all to know that I am connected with a people who are in harmony with God, who believe His Word, and who serve Him with undivided affections—a people who keep His commandments and live.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Lt 180, 1902
17LtMs, Lt 180, 1902, par. 26
My whole heart is drawn out after you with a desire to see you separate from the societies with which you have connected yourself. By uniting with these societies you bind yourself up in the same bundle with all kinds of characters. The Lord is mercifully inviting you to turn from these associations and to become acquainted with Him. “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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 26, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 26, 1902, par. 48
Will the church learn wisdom? We are individually making our history. Those who feel at liberty to work according to their own wisdom thus show that they are not trustworthy. Many have been converted and baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Coming into the church by the ordinance of baptism, every soul by this act pledges himself to remain dead to the world and no longer follow worldly methods and practices. God calls upon all who have named the name of Christ to come out from the world and be separate. “Touch not the unclean thing;” He says, “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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 230, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 230, 1902, par. 39
They are sleeping in Jesus; and in the morning of the resurrection they will come forth, and we shall meet again, where? In the royal family. Christ says, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate; ... and touch not the unclean thing.” The inspiration of God gives this, “And I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] Well, then what? Why, we are children of the heavenly King; we are members of the royal family. We are to sing the heavenly songs in the kingdom of glory.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 159, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 159, 1902, par. 6
Today the Lord tells man what to do to save his soul, promising to co-operate with him as he obeys. He says to us, “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.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 17 (1902)
Ms 118, 1902
17LtMs, Ms 118, 1902, par. 12
The Lord speaks, saying: “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.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] This is His promise. Will we comply with the conditions?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 80, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 80, 1903, par. 17
If we give ourselves to the One who gave His life for us, He will take us into relationship with Himself as His children. His life will be our life. “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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 17, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 17, 1903, par. 10
“I have given them thy word, and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.” [Verse 14.] We are not to follow the customs and practices of the world. “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.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]
MR No. 598—Study Materials in SDA Schools
8MR 283.2
Teachers must be qualified to be ministers of righteousness. Their pathway must be kept free from any hindrance, in order that students may find in the school which they attend, a city of refuge. They should help those whom they are educating to disconnect from worldly influences and worldly associations, teaching them to obey the word of God, “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.) What honor and exaltation is here given to humanity. Shall we not obey this invitation with grateful hearts?—Manuscript 20, 1895, 1-4. (“True Education,” November 10, 1895.)Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 196, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 196, 1903, par. 21
Every soul is precious in the sight of God. But little time is left us in which to prepare for the eternal world. Waste not one moment. Separate yourselves from the world. “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” (who?) “the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] Bring your rebellion against God to an end, and return to allegiance to your Ruler.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 134, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 134, 1903, par. 1
In vision I saw two armies in terrible conflict. One army was led by banners bearing the world’s insignia; the other was led by the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel. Standard after standard was left to trail in the dust as company after company from the Lord’s army joined the foe; and tribe after tribe from the ranks of the enemy united with the commandment-keeping people of God. An angel flying in the midst of heaven put the standards of Emmanuel into many hands, while a mighty general cried with a loud voice, “Come into line. Let those who are loyal to the commandments of God and the testimony of Christ now take their position. 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. Let all who will come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty.” [See Revelation 12:17; 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18; Judges 5:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 169, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 169, 1903, par. 16
“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.] If ever this message needed to be given it is now. Let us stand firm for principle. God has not given us into the hand of Dr. Kellogg, to be managed by him.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 132, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 132, 1903, par. 12
Today God’s word to His people is: “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.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] “Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” [1 Peter 2:9.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 81, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 81, 1903, par. 6
God said to us, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean thing; and I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] Under this command we were denominated, and the signature of God is upon us, unless, indeed, some prefer the signature of the world to the signature of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 44, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 44, 1903, par. 34
It is for our present and eternal good to bear aloft the banner on which is inscribed, “The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.” [Revelation 14:12.] Those who do this exert a strong influence on the side of right. But a halfhearted confession of faith will never rebuke unbelievers for their transgression of God’s law. God 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.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 142, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 142, 1903, par. 25
My heart is drawn out in love for every soul. I tremble when I think of how many there are who are doing no service for the Master. Their one thought is to please themselves. How many souls they might have been the means of saving if they had believed in Jesus as their personal Saviour! They know the truth, but they cling to their sins as if they were precious jewels with which they could not part. Unless they turn from their idols, placing the service of Christ before all else, they will lose eternal life. O that they would heed the command, “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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Lt 239, 1903
18LtMs, Lt 239, 1903, par. 10
Again, I saw two armies in terrible conflict. One army was led by banners bearing the world’s insignia; the other was led by the bloodstained banner of Prince Emmanuel. Standard after standard was left to trail in the dust as company after company from the Lord’s army joined the foe; and tribe after tribe from the ranks of the enemy united with the commandment-keeping people of God. An angel flying in the midst of heaven put the standards of Emmanuel into many hands, while a mighty general cried with a loud voice, “Come into line. Let those who are loyal to the commandments of God and the testimony of Christ now take their position. 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. Let all who will come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty.” [See Revelation 12:17; 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18; Judges 5:23.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 18 (1903)
Ms 203, 1903
18LtMs, Ms 203, 1903, par. 7
The Lord God of heaven, who so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that you should not perish but have everlasting life, will make you His only on condition that you shall come out from the world 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.] Should you stand before the Judge of the quick and the dead and reveal your loyalty [when] you do not keep the commands of God but the precepts of men, there is not the designation that God will acknowledge you as His peculiar people, a holy nation. [Christ will say,] “How came you into the marriage supper of the Lamb, disregarding the robe of righteousness I purchased for you with the price of My own blood?” [See Matthew 22:12.] As He addressed leaders [He said], “Have you given these sentiments of disregard to those you were educating and training? You have [shown] in all your manners that you considered your own clothing good enough to enter the heavenly courts. Your case is far worse than those who refused to come at all. Because of your speech, your spirit, you have brought to the foundation hay, wood, and stubble, material that will not stand the test of the day of God but will be consumed.”Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 61, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 61, 1904, par. 4
God says, “Say to My people, It is not for want of opportunities and privileges, not because there is no means of knowing My will, that sinners perish. They perish because of their unwillingness to come out from the world, and be separate from selfish practices, dealing with justice and mercy.” Every soul will be judged by the knowledge that has come to him. Those who turn from the presentation of truth and righteousness, refusing to follow God’s way, and taking their own way, will reap as they have sown. Saith the Lord, “Come out from among them, you that profess to know the truth, yet accept the world’s ways, and mingle the leaven of unrighteousness with your pretentious righteousness. Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean, and I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 8 [Nos. 526-663]
MR No. 642—Christians to Reflect God’s Character
8MR 406.2
Many seem to think that they must beg pardon of all the world for being a Christian. John did not regard it so. He says, “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” (1 John 3:1.) The Christian does not take a step down to a low level; he is constantly progressing forward, and the religion of Jesus Christ never degrades the receiver. It refines his taste; it sanctifies his judgment. Why should it not, when he is in connection with a pure and holy God, and the power which is invested in God He imparts to His sons and daughters. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord.... 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.) Here is the promise that we shall become members of the royal family, that we shall be children of the heavenly king....Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Lt 171, 1904
19LtMs, Lt 171, 1904, par. 10
You ought to be walking in the light and liberty of a child of God, having your conscience purged from sin. Cast yourself upon the mercy of the Saviour. He offers you a treasure of infinite value. “Come out from among them,” God says, “and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing, and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)
Ms 30, 1904
19LtMs, Ms 30, 1904, par. 29
We are not to place ourselves in the society of the pleasure-loving and worldly, who have no love for the truth. Such association will paralyze the spiritual perceptions. “Wherefore come ye out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Ms 191, 1905
20LtMs, Ms 191, 1905, par. 20
Have you been baptized in these names? These three highest powers in heaven are pledged to you if you have died unto sin, been buried with Christ in baptism, and rise, to live just the same life you did before? No,—in newness of life. These powers are pledged and they will never fail one of you. You can just as surely and utterly rely upon these powers when you are downcast. And when you are oppressed, you may remember that pledge—the three highest powers of heaven—that you need not obey the world; you need not follow their fashions; you need not be corrupted with their society. Come right out from the world. “Be ye separate and touch not the unclean thing, and I will receive you. I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] Are you not glad of that? Have we not reason to rejoice? We certainly have. [Matthew 28] Verse 20.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 320, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 320, 1905, par. 23
“Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean thing, and I will be a father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] The course you have taken in making worldly lawyers your right arm testifies that you have not made the Lord your leader. You have forsaken the true God. How can you expect to prosper in carrying out schemes instigated by Satan. You have made a very bad showing before the world.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 20 (1905)
Lt 115, 1905
20LtMs, Lt 115, 1905, par. 16
“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.] This invitation will be accepted by those who are burdened for souls. They will become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King.Manuscript Releases, vol. 5 [Nos. 260-346]
MR No. 290—Billiards and the Billiard Hall
5MR 125.2
Angels of God are all around us. You do not discern them with your human vision. Satan and his angels are here in this house today. Oh, we want to know these things, and fear and tremble, and to think much more of the power of the angels of God that are watching over and guarding us than we have done hitherto. We want to place ourselves under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel. We do not want to be serving Baal. We do not want to be giving ourselves up to the powers of darkness. Angels of God are commissioned from heaven to guard the children of men, and yet they draw away from their restraining influences and go where they can have communication with the evil angels; and then the evil angels fasten impressions in their minds that they will never get rid of so long as they live, just as going to the theater, billiard hall, and all such places lead them from the path of God to stand under the black banner of the prince of darkness. Oh, that we might all obey the injunction of the apostle. (Read 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.)Manuscript Releases, vol. 5 [Nos. 260-346]
MR No. 318—The Christian Pathway
5MR 261.2
The command is “Come out from among them, ... and I will receive you, ... and ye shall be My sons and daughters” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18]. What greater honor could be conferred upon mortal man? This life is filled with anguish and sorrow, but the promise is eternal life, a life without sorrow. This is a precious boon, and how earnest we should be to enter heaven! God has given us a moral standard, and we need not make any mistake, for the rule is laid down, and it is here that we must fit up for eternal life. And it is only through obedience that we obtain it. But we have this to encourage us, that Jesus knows our weakness and He will assist us to gain heaven, and we must believe the truth and remember that we are taken into the workshop to be fitted to join the heavenly family and to connect with the heavenly choir. Then let all sin be put away, and let us bring heaven into our lives. If we let Christ rule in our hearts we shall have heaven below, and thus be fitted up for a heaven above.Manuscript Releases, vol. 9 [Nos. 664-770]
MR No. 710—SDA’s and Politics
9MR 128.2
The Lord would have us represent Christ, and show to the world His attractive character. We may have joy in the Lord if we will hear His commandments. If we indeed have our citizenship above, and a title to an immortal inheritance, an eternal substance, then let us have that faith that works by love and purifies the soul from every spiritual defilement. If our citizenship is above, what right have we to be engaging in political strifes? We are not called to any such service. “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). What more could we ask? We shall be members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ to an immortal inheritance. We shall have the crown of life that fadeth not away....9MR 130.1
This command [2 Corinthians 6:17] is just as valid today as when God gave it to Moses to give to the children of Israel. The sins against which ancient Israel were warned have led modern Israel into byways and forbidden paths. The professed people of God have made those who are trampling under foot His commandments their counselors.Manuscript Releases, vol. 17 [Nos. 1236-1300]
MR No. 1272—Bible Principles to Govern SDA Institutions; Conscience Accountable to God Alone; Unconverted Men Controlling Councils and Boards
17MR 229.3
“Come out from among them,” God says, “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]. We all need a Father with whom to consult. The Holy Spirit has been refused by men who are puffed up with vain conceit and believe themselves capable of managing wonderful responsibilities. The men who have chosen to be a light unto His people have acted as if their lamps, lighted from the divine altar, had gone out.Manuscript Releases, vol. 20 [Nos. 1420-1500]
MR No. 1482—Appeal for Complete Consecration, Including Breaking With Secret Societies
20MR 286.5
Could a child of God, an heir of heaven, be found in such society? The men who drink wine prepare the way for further excess. The tobacco devotee worships an idol, and the Lord speaks—listen, for He speaks to you—“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 saith the Lord Almighty” (2 Corinthians 6:17, 18). All the enjoyment you can have in this riotous mirth and in the conversation of these men, unfits you for the study of the Scriptures, for the hour of devotion, for the service of God. What if you should behold Jesus, the world’s Redeemer, in the midst of you—as He certainly is—would there not be a fainting of heart, even with you and your associates?Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene
Chapter 8—Parental Responsibility
CTBH 78.1
I entreat Christian mothers to realize their responsibility, and to live, not to please themselves, but to glorify God. Christ pleased not himself, but took upon him the form of a servant. He left the royal courts, and clothed his divinity with humanity, that by his own example he might teach us how we may be exalted to the position of sons and daughters in the royal family, children of the heavenly King. But what are the conditions upon which we may obtain this great blessing?—“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.]Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1506—Stay Away From Political Strife; The Fruit of True Conversion
21MR 25.3
If our citizenship is above, what right have we to be engaging in political strife? We are not called to any such service. “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]. What more could we ask? We shall be members of the royal family, children of a heavenly King, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ to an immortal inheritance. We shall have the crown of life that fadeth not away.Manuscript Releases, vol. 21 [Nos. 1501-1598]
MR No. 1546—How Shall We Celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas?
21MR 222.1
“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.Maranatha
Moral Independence, February 8
Mar 47.1
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.Prophets and Kings
Chapter 3—Pride of Prosperity
PK 59.2
Solomon was endued with wonderful wisdom, but the world drew him away from God. Men today are no stronger than he; they are as prone to yield to the influences that caused his downfall. As God warned Solomon of his danger, so today He warns His children not to imperil their souls by affinity with the world. “Come out from among them,” He pleads, “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.Selected Messages Book 2
Chapter 39—Counsel on Voting
2SM 336.1
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....Sons and Daughters of God
We Are His Sons and Daughters, January 8
SD 14.1
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.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9
Chapter 1—The Last Crisis
9T 17.2
God’s word to His people is: “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.” “Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18; 1 Peter 2:9. God’s people are to be distinguished as a people who serve Him fully, wholeheartedly, taking no honor to themselves, and remembering that by a most solemn covenant they have bound themselves to serve the Lord and Him only.Testimonies for the Church, vol. 6
Meaning of the Ordinance
6T 91.3
Baptism is a most solemn renunciation of the world. Those who are baptized in the threefold name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, at the very entrance of their Christian life declare publicly that they have forsaken the service of Satan and have become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. They have obeyed the command: “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean thing.” And to them is fulfilled the promise: “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.That I May Know Him
Light for Those Who Love Light, July 30
TMK 217.4
Those who have the mind of Christ will “walk even as he walked.” They will live out the law of God, will feed upon Christ, be partakers of the divine nature, and stand as living sentinels for truth. In integrity of heart they will voice the cry, “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)....That I May Know Him
The Condition of Sonship, October 31
TMK 310.1
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.The Faith I Live By
Born of Water and the Spirit, May 19
FLB 145.4
Christ has made baptism the sign of entrance to His spiritual kingdom. He has made this a positive condition with which all must comply who wish to be acknowledged as under the authority of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Before man can find a home in the church, before passing the threshold of God’s spiritual kingdom, he is to receive the impress of the divine name, “The Lord our Righteousness.”Jeremiah 23:6 Those who are baptized in the threefold name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, at the very entrance of their Christian life declare publicly that they have forsaken the service of Satan and have become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. They have obeyed the command: “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean thing.” And to them is fulfilled the promise: “I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters.” 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.62Testimonies for the Church 6:91.The Great Controversy
Chapter 27—Modern Revivals
GC 475.3
To those who comply with the conditions, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean,” God’s promise is, “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 the privilege and the duty of every Christian to have a rich and abundant experience in the things of God. “I am the light of the world,” said Jesus. “He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” John 8:12. “The path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.” Proverbs 4:18. Every step of faith and obedience brings the soul into closer connection with the Light of the world, in whom there “is no darkness at all.” The bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness shine upon the servants of God, and they are to reflect His rays. As the stars tell us that there is a great light in heaven with whose glory they are made bright, so Christians are to make it manifest that there is a God on the throne of the universe whose character is worthy of praise and imitation. The graces of His Spirit, the purity and holiness of His character, will be manifest in His witnesses.The Great Controversy (1888 ed.)
Chapter 27—Modern Revivals
GC88 475.3
To those who comply with the conditions, Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean, God’s promise is, “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 the privilege and the duty of every Christian to have a rich and abundant experience in the things of God. “I am the light of the world,” said Jesus. “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” [John 8:12.] “The path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.” [Proverbs 4:18.] Every step of faith and obedience brings the soul into closer connection with the Light of the world, in whom “there is no darkness at all.” The bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness shine upon the servants of God, and they are to reflect his rays. As the stars tell us that there is a great light in Heaven with whose glory they are made bright, so Christians are to make it manifest that there is a God on the throne of the universe whose character is worthy of praise and imitation. The graces of his Spirit, the purity and holiness of his character, will be manifest in his witnesses.The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4
Chapter 22—Modern Revivals
4SP 304.2
The world is given up to self-indulgence. The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life, control the masses of the people. But Christ’s followers have a holier calling. “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.]The Truth About Angels
Angels Guard Us
TA 15.1
Angels of God are all around us.... Oh, we want to know these things, and fear and tremble, and to think much more of the power of the angels of God that are watching over and guarding us than we have done hitherto.... Angels of God are commissioned from heaven to guard the children of men, and yet they draw away from their restraining influences and go where they can have communication with the evil angels.... Oh, that we might all obey the injunction of the apostle (read 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18).—5MR 125.The Upward Look
Take Christ at His Word, May 10
UL 144.7
To us the invitation is given, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... 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). Thus God has declared His covenant of obedience.—Letter 79, May 10, 1900, to a gracious businessman and his Adventist wife.Counsels for the Church
Chapter 52—Baptism
CCh 295.3
Baptism is a most solemn renunciation of the world. Those who are baptized in the threefold name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, at the very entrance of their Christian life declare publicly that they have forsaken the service of Satan and have become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. They have obeyed the command: “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean thing.” And to them is fulfilled the promise: “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.To Be Like Jesus
Training Children a Sacred Responsibility, July 9
BLJ 203.1
“Come out from among them, and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you.” “I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18, NKJV.Ye Shall Receive Power
Victory on the Battlefield, December 17
YRP 360.2
The Christian has duties to do in the world, and God holds him responsible for their faithful performance. He is not to confine himself in monastic walls, nor to avoid all association with worldlings. It is true that his principles will be put to the severest test, and he will be pained by what his eyes see and his ears hear. But he must not, by becoming familiar with these sights and sounds, learn to love them. By association with the world, we incline to catch the spirit of the world, and to adopt their customs, tastes, and preferences. But we are commanded, “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).A New Life (Revival and Beyond)
A Changed Life
NL 18.3
To those who comply with the conditions, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean,” God’s promise is, “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 the privilege and the duty of every Christian to have a rich and abundant experience in the things of God.... The bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness shine upon the servants of God, and they are to reflect His rays. As the stars tell us that there is a great light in heaven with whose glory they are made bright, so Christians are to make it manifest that there is a God on the throne of the universe whose character is worthy of praise and imitation. The graces of His Spirit, the purity and holiness of His character, will be manifest in His witnesses....Notebook Leaflets from the Elmshaven Library, vol. 1
Call to Come Out
1NL 52.4
God’s word to His people is: “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.” 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.... God’s people are to be distinguished as a people who serve Him fully, wholeheartedly, taking no honor to themselves, and remembering that by a most solemn covenant they have bound themselves to serve the Lord, and Him only.—Testimonies for the Church 9:17.Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 1, 1869
2SAT 2.2
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 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].Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 1, 1890
2SAT 68.2
We want to place ourselves under the blood-stained banner of Prince Emmanuel. We do not want to be serving Baal. We do not want to be giving ourselves up to the powers of darkness. Angels of God are commissioned from heaven to guard the children of men, and yet they draw away from their restraining influences and go where they can have communication with the evil angels. And then the evil angels fasten impressions in their minds that they will never get rid of so long as they live, just as going to the theater, billiard hall, and all such places lead them from the path of God to stand under the black banner of the prince of darkness. Oh, that we might all obey the injunction of the apostle (read 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18).2SAT 68.4
Burn the magical books; burn every last one of them; burn everything—yes, consume it—that will suffer a connection between you and the powers of darkness. “Come out from among them, and be separate, and touch not the unclean thing, and I will receive you” [2 Corinthians 6:17]. This is what we should want to do. We want to bow in reverence to the God of heaven.Sermons and Talks, vol. 2
Manuscript 80, 1903
2SAT 231.2
If we give ourselves to the One who gave His life for us, He will take us into relationship with Himself as His children. His life will be our life. “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].Testimony Treasures, vol. 2
Baptism
2TT 389.3
Baptism is a most solemn renunciation of the world. Those who are baptized in the threefold name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, at the very entrance of their Christian life declare publicly that they have forsaken the service of Satan and have become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. They have obeyed the command: “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean thing.” And to them is fulfilled the promise: “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.Testimony Treasures, vol. 3
A Faithful Few
3TT 286.3
A Chosen Generation. God’s word to His people is: “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.” “Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18; 1 Peter 2:9. God’s people are to be distinguished as a people who serve Him fully, wholeheartedly, taking no honor to themselves, and remembering that by a most solemn covenant they have bound themselves to serve the Lord and Him only.From Here to Forever
Biblical Sanctification
HF 293.2
“The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” (1 John 2:16) control the masses. But Christ’s followers have a holier calling. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean.” To those who comply with the conditions, God’s promise is, “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.Counsels on Health
Temperance in All Things
CH 51.1
Our faith requires us to elevate the standard of reform, and take advance steps. The condition of our acceptance with God is a practical separation from the world. The Lord calls upon us as a people, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate,” “and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.” The world may despise you because you do not meet their standard, engage in their dissipating amusements, and follow their pernicious ways; but the God of heaven promises to receive you, and to be a Father unto you. “Ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.From Splendor to Shadow
Attractive Women Prove a Snare
SS 30.2
Men today are no stronger than Solomon; they are as prone to yield to the influences that caused his downfall. God today warns His children not to imperil their souls by affinity with the world. “Come out from among them,” He pleads, “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.True Revival
A Changed Life
TR 27.1
To those who comply with the conditions, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean,” God’s promise is, “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 the privilege and the duty of every Christian to have a rich and abundant experience in the things of God. ...The bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness shine upon the servants of God, and they are to reflect His rays. As the stars tell us that there is a great light in heaven with whose glory they are made bright, so Christians are to make it manifest that there is a God on the throne of the universe whose character is worthy of praise and imitation. The graces of His Spirit, the purity and holiness of His character, will be manifest in His witnesses. ...The Great Hope (Condensed)
Biblical Sanctification
GrH_c 29.3
“The lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life” (1 John 2:16) control the masses. But Christ’s followers have a holier calling. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean.” To those who comply with the conditions, God’s promise is, “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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)
Lt 10, 1866
1LtMs, Lt 10, 1866, par. 1
You have professed to believe the truth but your heart has not been sanctified through the truth. Your heart has been proud. You have been in friendship with the world and at enmity with God. You have not complied with the conditions in the Word of God. “Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate; ... 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.] Pride is an abomination in the sight of God. The friendship of the world is enmity with God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Ms 5, 1875
2LtMs, Ms 5, 1875, par. 15
I entreat Christian mothers to realize their responsibility and to live, not to please themselves, but to glorify God. Christ pleased not Himself, but took upon Him the form of a servant. He left the royal courts, and clothed His divinity with humanity, that by His own example He might teach us how we may be exalted to the position of sons and daughters in the royal family, children of the heavenly King. But what are the conditions upon which we may obtain this great blessing?—“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.]Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)
Lt 8, 1873
2LtMs, Lt 8, 1873, par. 14
It is altogether too great a loss to be strangers to the blessing and smiles of God. When we consider the abundant promises of God, how can we hesitate to comply with the conditions He has made which, if we accept, will give us claims to those broad, deep, and abundant blessings promised? “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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 6, 1877
3LtMs, Lt 6, 1877, par. 11
We want you to share this honor. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, and touch not the unclean; and I will receive you. I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] This calls for separation from the world on the condition of being children of God.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 35a, 1877
3LtMs, Lt 35a, 1877, par. 7
Because the world does this is no evidence. We are exhorted to come out from the world and be 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 6:17, 18. “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore shall be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4. Christ declares Himself to be the light of the world. “All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehendeth it not. ... He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own, and His own received Him not.” John 1:3-5, 10, 11. As the world knew not Christ, neither will they know His followers. It is in no way safe to make the world’s faith our faith, the world’s practice our example. “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not.” 1 John 3:1.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 21, 1882
3LtMs, Lt 21, 1882, par. 12
When we comply with the conditions specified in the Word of God—“Come out from among them and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean”—then we are acknowledged as sons and daughters of God. [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] The principles of His righteous, moral government never change; therefore the same measure of guilt will receive the same measure of punishment. If His people have not obeyed His requirements, they stand condemned according to their delinquencies.Evangelism
Baptism and Church Membership
Ev 307.2
Baptism is a most solemn renunciation of the world. Those who are baptized in the threefold name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, at the very entrance of their Christian life declare publicly that they have forsaken the service of Satan, and have become members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King. They have obeyed the command, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, ... and touch not the unclean thing.” And to them is fulfilled the promise, “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.—Testimonies For The Church 6:91 (1900).Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Lt 1, 1882
3LtMs, Lt 1, 1882, par. 60
They love their own way and opinions. They do not want their aspirations and ambition to be broken in upon, and thus they gain a new experience. They love self-indulgence, pride, and lust for worldly gain. Time is not changing things for the better, but for the worse. The pure, truth-loving, God-fearing ones can no more unite, mingle, and be buried up with the corrupt and godless, than in the days of Christ, or the great apostle, when he exclaimed, “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.” 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)
Ms 8, 1880
3LtMs, Ms 8, 1880, par. 1
“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.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 38, 1886
4LtMs, Ms 38, 1886, par. 14
The command is, “Come out from among them, ... and I will receive you, ... and ye shall be My sons and daughters.” 2 Corinthians 6:17, 18. What greater honor could be conferred upon mortal man? This life is filled with anguish and sorrow, but the promise is eternal life, a life without sorrow. This is a precious boon, and how earnest we should be to enter heaven! God has given us a moral standard and we need not make any mistake, for the rule is laid down, and it is here that we must fit up for eternal life. And it is only through obedience that we obtain it. But we have this to encourage us, that Jesus knows our weakness and He will assist us to gain heaven, and we must believe the truth and remember that we are taken into the workshop to be fitted to join the heavenly family and to connect with the heavenly choir. Then let all sin be put away, and let us bring heaven into our lives. If we let Christ rule in our hearts we shall have a heaven below, and thus be fitted up for heaven above.Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 24, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 24, 1885, par. 14
I said, Jesus stands at the door of your heart, knocking, my sister, inviting you to let Him in. Will you hear His voice? Will you open the door? Will you welcome Jesus? Will you renounce self? Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean, and I will receive you. I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My child, saith the Lord of hosts. [2 Corinthians 6:17, 18.] Jesus came to save sinners, not to destroy them. He says, “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” [Luke 5:32.] You who are sick need a physician, and Jesus, the great and all-successful Physician, has come to heal the sinsick soul. Let Him do His soul-saving work for your soul. “Wilt thou be made whole?” He is saying to you. [John 5:6.] What answer have you to give?Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 4 (1883 - 1886)
Ms 9, 1885
4LtMs, Ms 9, 1885, par. 4
If the mind is filled with thoughts of God and heaven, there will not be room for the things of this world. But if you are seeking for the pleasures of this life, your mind becomes engrossed with transitory things, and heaven is forgotten. Between the children of God and worldlings there is a clear line of demarcation. “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” [Matthew 6:24.] “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.]EGW Writings — Ellen G. White. Ellen G. White Estate · all rights reserved
2 Corinthians 6:14-18
The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 4
Chapter 15—The Second Angel’s Message
4SP 239.2
“But what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness?” “And what concord hath Christ with Belial?” “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, 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.]Counsels to Physicians and Medical Students
Counsels to Physicians and Medical Students
PH167 1.1
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 6:14-18—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 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.” This is the important work before us, to separate ourselves in spirit and in practice from the world, if we would comply with the conditions to become sons and daughters of God. The Apostle urges home the advantages thus presented, that we should lay hold of them as special blessings. “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.” Here is earnest work for every one of us; right thoughts, pure and holy purposes, will not come to us naturally; they must be sought for and encouraged.Testimonies to the Church Regarding our Youth Going to Battle Creek to Obtain An Education
Words of Warning
SpTB06 21.2
“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.